Papers of Sir Cecil Beaton

Received Beaton's letter this morning. Understands that Miss Crockett has also received a cable. Will go into the matter thoroughly. Beaton's pictures were lost on the plane which never arrived. Expects Beaton will have received her letters by now. Batisfords expect the first advance copies of the two albums this week. Has asked them to mail 3 copies of each to Beaton. The Princess Elizabeth pictures have been a great success. The house Beaton was after is no good as it can only be let furnished for a whole year. Asks if it would be a good idea to try and get Dale Cottage for 6 months. Has been buying eggs as often as possible and Beaton's mother has agreed to pickle them for winter. Has also got 2 bottles of whisky for the store cupboard. A parcel arrived for Beaton this morning. They are all childishly looking forward to their first parcels from him. It was a joy to visit Swan Lake and see the first signs of spring, but they left in a blizzard and the snow has been falling ever since. Miss Crockett has told her what has been happening with the photographs. They are checking with the Post Office but are doubtful of ever finding them. Beaton is in a very strong position to claim high damages, but no compensation can make up for the annoyance of the whole thing. Is glad Vogue has agreed to pay Beaton's fare. Begs Beaton not to spend lots of money and would like "good, large, fat cheques" to be sent over each month. Adored "Under the Counter" and laughed themselves sick. The weather is bitterly cold.