Papers of Sir Cecil Beaton

These spasmodic mails keep her "breathless with letter-thirst" for weeks. Beaton's letter arrived first. Was delighted to read about the revival of his play and of his short stories. Eleni walked in while she was reading it, with a "ton" of possessions of all kinds. As Eleni was the first of them to go to the war, great excitement greeted her. Discusses the news she brought. Is sitting up in bed enjoying this "orgy of news". They have all had ghastly colds. Princess Nicholas "does not believe in illnesses nor in fighting them". Prince Paul went out shooting and they all went out to meet him. He is looking much better even though he has so much unpleasantness to deal with. They have had a lot of Poles through with "ghastly" details of what is going on. Princess Olga has been appointed head of all Red Cross organisations, which is a colossal job. They were all delighted with the photos but she particularly loved some which were not chosen. It would be nice to have more proofs sent out here. They are all on the lookout for "Sketch" and "Tatler". Will be staying here until Monday 6th. Saw 3 small snaps of Beaton's of the Queen, who had sent them herself to Prince Paul. One is "not allowed to write private letters to private friends thro' 'The Bag'", but Princess Olga demanded that she do it for her sake. Will trust that it reaches Ashcombe quickly, as she has no London address for him. Asks Beaton about their friends. Feels sad to be leaving here so soon. Must get up for lunch now.