Page 1298 - Belgrave Diaries(N)_Neat

1296
1296
1940

Fort. A lot of horses out of condition, lame etc. Rather hot & sticky. Diving boats returned. Stuart Worthy
& Italian Airways called, he contacted me about buying pearls. Meeting at Agency, SNO, discussed making
a ... at Jidda. Found the SNO sensible & businesslike.

Sunday 24th September

Shs A & S came in & we discussed various matters including question of the amount to be given to Brit Govt
as a war donation, decided on 4 lakhs which is 30,000 (pounds) & I suggested this assuming that we get that
sum from oil concession. Bridge at Lipps.

Monday 25th September

Fort. A large number of men for recruitment but almost all of them are useless, got two men out of about
fifty candidates. Went to the Palace & discussed the gift to the British Govt, Shs A & S were there.
Decided, as we had before, to give 30,000

which in my opinion was a very good sum. The old man would have given more - being quite unconcerned
by the needs of his own administration, but we all said that this amount was suitable. Busy morning, saw
various people. Sent letter to Agency re the gift. Drove round in the afternoon, sea road, hospital etc. Dined
with Steeles, Geoffrey was there, no others. A pleasant evening. Cool at the Fort.

Tuesday 26th September

Office. Also at the Agency for some time. Busy morning, saw DG, Byard & others. Letter from HH re
30,000 gift to Brit Govt was delivered. Drove to Portuguese Fort. It is looking more ruinous than it did a
few years ago. Dinner with HH at the Palace, quite a pleasant affair, then to SPs house for drinks. A
somewhat chilly atmosphere, he & HW don't hit it off - both having made up their minds to dislike each
other before they met.

Wednesday 27th September