TAA i.2.1.97

Dec. 19.

Confered^sic {Conferred} with Mace & Merton in the morning.

Saw the H. C. Lord Allenby and explained to him the situation &

informed him that I intended to adhere to my decision given

verbally to Lacau on the 13^th. He was in sympathy with my action.

I afterwards (11⸳30 am) saw the Min. P. W. D. where I informed

him that after very careful consideration of the matter and Govs'

proposals with my collaborators I was obliged to adhere to my

original decision & to refuse the terms dictated by the Gov.

incorporated in the two letters received last week and that I

also felt obliged to continue the work in the Tomb in accordance

with the powers invested by the original Concession. I offered to

put in writing this refusal in such a manner that it

could be published broadcast and exhr exonerate him in

the eyes of the press. The Min. was not agreeable to this, so

I told him that I would send my answer by letter in normal

manner.

Lunched with Lord Allenby who in conversation told me that

though he was unable to take any action in this matter he was

absolutely in sympathy with my decision. (I think rather

pleased to see the Gov. Eg. Gov. get into trouble).

         20.

Wired Times explaining situation and asking for their full

cooperation in the case of any drastic action on the part of

the Eg. Gov. Mailed correspondence to date upon matter to

Times.

Wrote letter to Eg. Gov. incorporating my refusal.

Received phone message from Tottenham asking me to

withdraw my letter & if not sent not to send it. Reminding

me of consequences Etc. Refused.

Left Cairo for Luxor.

         21.

Arrived Luxor - Gurna - Recommenced work. Mace having already

started in Lab.

         22.

Continued removing first section of roof of shrine.

         23.

"          "          "          "          "          "

[Continued removing first section of roof of shrine.]

         24.

A number of visitors came to Tomb, among them Gen Haking,

Lloyd <Ex.> Gov. of Bombay, and Madame Sorel and party.

Lowered section of roof of shrine ready for placing in case

on Wednesday.

Shew Harkness Store Chamber.