Seven Pillars of Wisdom · Chapter
LXXI explained
Lawrence assembles a new bodyguard of recruits and sets out from Akaba, facing delays caused by Farraj and Daud's prank on the governor's camel.
What happens
Lawrence assembles a new bodyguard of recruits and sets out from Akaba, facing delays caused by Farraj and Daud's prank on the governor's camel. The party travels through the stunning landscapes of Rumm and Hafira, with Lawrence reflecting on the beauty of the desert and the challenges of managing his diverse group.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Endurance
The chapter details the physical hardships of the march, including saddle-soreness, hunger, and the strain of managing camels and men.
Culture and Otherness
Lawrence's interactions with his diverse bodyguard—including Bedouin, Haurani, and runaway slaves—highlight cultural differences and the blending of backgrounds.
Characters to notice
- T.E. Lawrence
Narrates the chapter, assembles a new bodyguard, and leads the march from Akaba through Rumm and Hafira.
- Farraj
One of Lawrence's bodyguards; dyes the governor's camel red and blue as a prank, causing a delay.
- Daud
Farraj's accomplice in the camel-dyeing prank; both are imprisoned briefly by Sheikh Yusuf.
- George Lloyd
Travels with Lawrence on a thoroughbred camel lent by Feisal; shares meals and conversation.
- Sheikh Yusuf
Governor of Akaba; imprisons Farraj and Daud for dyeing his camel, later releases them at Lawrence's request.
- Rahail
A Haurani lad in Lawrence's bodyguard, described as lusty and conceited, kept continent by overwork.
Key passages
“Starting was as difficult as ever. For my bodyguard I took six recruits.”
Setting out was always hard; I selected six new men for my personal guard.
Lawrence begins the chapter by emphasizing the recurring difficulty of starting a new march.
“Farraj and Daud were capable and merry on the road, which they loved as all the lithe Ageyl loved it; but in camp their excess of spirit led them continually into dear affairs.”
Farraj and Daud were skilled and cheerful travelers, like all the agile Ageyl, but their high spirits often got them into trouble in camp.
Describes the dual nature of Farraj and Daud's behavior—useful on the march but mischievous in camp.
“Air and light were so wonderful that we wandered without thinking in the least of tomorrow. Indeed, had I not Lloyd to talk to? The world became very good.”
The beautiful air and light made us wander carelessly, and with Lloyd's company, the world felt wonderful.
Lawrence reflects on the idyllic quality of the journey, enhanced by Lloyd's companionship.