Books

With 16 full plate illustrations (including frontispiece) and folding map at rear. Laid in is a 2-page summary -*-of Travels in Arabia Deserta by Charles M. Doughty with testimonials and an order form, plus a small 4-page publisher's insert (125 x 85 mm.) Advertising the same book plus others on the last leaf. Publisher's cloth, had and tail of spine worn, crease on the top board; hinges starting, otherwise a lovely uncut and partially unopened copy. First edition. Written as the abridged version of Seven pillars, this text recounts the highlights of Lawrence's experiences in the British Intelligence Forces during the Arab Revolt of 1916-18. Famously, Lawrence lost his briefcase containing the original manuscript for Seven pillars of wisdom and had to rewrite it from memory. A thrilling tale of intrigue and war, Lawrence's detailed prose carries one on an epic tale through war-torn desert landscapes, introducing the reader to a colorful cast of characters along the way. Lawrence (1888-1935), also known as Lawrence of Arabia, is one of the most famous figures in English history. A British intelligence and RAF officer, Lawrence "was awarded the DSO for his masterful direction and command of Arab forces in an encounter at Tafilah" in 1918 and invited by Winston Churchill "to join the new Middle East department." Despite being born to an illegitimate union, Lawrence grew up in a comfortable and pious home, where he nurtured his scholastic inclinations. While studying history at Jesus College in Oxford he developed an interest in medieval warfare and archaeology. This led him to excavations in Syria for the British Museum, which wetted his interest in the Arabic culture, and paved the way for his famous diplomatic and military exploits in the Middle East. Lawrence was also an author "deeply concerned with posterity" and actively promoted his war-hero reputation during his lifetime. While some of the more fantastical moments in his stories are known to be exaggerated, they nonetheless make for an exciting read. �.