Page:The Seven Pillars of Wisdom (1926).djvu/15

 Half-way through the labour of an index to this book I recalled the practice of my ten years’ study of history; and realised I had never used the index of a book fit to read. Who would insult his “Decline and Fall,” by consulting it just upon a specific point?

I am aware that my achievement as a writer falls short of every conception of the readable: but surely not so far as to make it my duty, like a Stubbs, to save readers the pain of an unnecessary page. The contents seem to me adequately finger-posted by this synopsis.

INTRODUCTION

THE FOUNDATIONS OF ARAB REVOLT

Some Englishmen, of whom Kitchener was chief, believed that a rebellion of Arabs against Turks would enable England, while fighting Germany, simultaneously to defeat her ally Turkey. Their knowledge of the nature and power and country of the Arabic-speaking peoples made them think that the issue of such a rebellion would be happy: and indicated its character and method. So they allowed it to begin, having obtained formal assurances of help for it from the British Government. Yet none the less the rebellion of the Sherif of Mecca came to most as a surprise, and found the Allies unready. It aroused mixed feelings and made strong friends and enemies, amid whose clashing jealousies its affairs began to miscarry.

Chapter 1.—The strained mentality of rebellion (3) which infected me (4) and still, a year afterwards, prevents my judgement (6). Chapter 2.—Arabia and the Arabs (7) emigrations, immigrations, and the current of tribal movements (9) sessile or nomad (10). Chapter 3.—The uncompromising Semite (12) religious invention (13) his prophets (13) his creeds (14) his fanaticism (17). Chapter 4.—Arab decay (19) nationalism (20) secret societies (21). Chapter 5.—Sherifs of Mecca (24) the Holy War (25) thoughts of rebellion (26) Feisal and Jemal (27) Enver (28) the revolt (29). Chapter 6.—The decay of Turkish imperialism (30) a new factor required (32) Clayton's Arab Bureau (32) Mesopotamia (34). Chapter 7—The McMahon negotiations (37) his difficulties with his colleagues (37) my private difficulties (39) an escape (40).

VII