T. E. Lawrence Correspondence – Page 214

Doughty. Though I have put myself out of action so far as politics and ordinary living are concerned, yet of course I am at your disposal as far as possible for anything you need: and I can probably get leave for a few days if ever you want to see me particularly, as I have not asked for any leaves for my own purposes. So if there is anything urgent please write or wire to [14 Barton Street | Westminister.] It will reach me within three days. Philby is in London, and has, I expect, been to see you. I have looked at his book, but not yet read it. I'm afraid it won't be an improvement on the last book of Arabian travel: but that is much your fault for giving us all too high a standard. It is better of Philby to have done to publish it: I can't bring myself to the point. I wonder if Abdulla will screw himself up to the point of visiting Eastbourne. He is comfort-loving and feeble in decision, but wishes always to be agreable. My regards to Mrs. Doughty and the family. Please tell them I will hope to creep down in six weeks' time or so, unless something unusual happens meanwhile. Yours sincerely, T. E. Lawrence. Of the present ministry, three or four are fellows of All Souls, and most of the others friends of mine. The Duke of Devonshire, and Lord Salisbury, and Derby, and ... may be glad to serve you in any way you wished. Please don't delay to let me know if, or when, anything comes to your mind. You are a public character, and can make any claim you like on the public. That's one of the privileges of greatness. E.L.