Lion, Tiger, Bear | 245 Lawrence were both friends with Middle East explorer Gertrude Bell, another girlhood hero of mine. She set up the Baghdad Museum after the last war, clever lassie. I didnt know all that. Parkes-Jackson told me the Kahnnhar said that the peoples of the desert, especially the ones here in Mesopotamia, are the protectors of vast knowledge, wisdom, and cosmic treasures known or unknown. A people, culture, and land to be conquered only at great cost if at all. He sighed. I agree, Lawrence was a fellow radical. He knew in the end it wasnt a desert war to be won, but an Aladdins Cave to protect, and ultimately possess. We must take to heart his twenty-seven points for British officers in the desert. Have you read his book The Seven Pillars of Wisdom? Long while back. Pretty sturdy reading. Had to read it three times before I got the gist. He was keen on palmy cosmopolitan Damascus as a pillar. Didnt work well. She took a last bite of her dinner. Crikes, Ive had enough Bully Beef and beans to turn the stomach of a shire horse. Be honest. Do you think were out here chasing only shadows and legends? Bea looked to Alice and Gwafa by the fire. I dunno, time will tell. Well find something of value, even if its only a lone Jerry in a tent rubbing a lamp in hopes of female companionship soon to be materialized. Speaking of, I see Queen Hatshepsup is drawing a bow at her target, the chase is on. I heard that, you incorrigible wastrel, said Alice. Gwafa came up. I will take the first watch. Bernie rolled into his tent and farted audibly. Wake me at two for my turn. Hold on. Any wolves knocking about? asked Bea with concern, warming up to Alice. You just had to mention that, she said, unholstering her service revolver.