The Private Diaries of H. Rider Haggard (Excerpt)

by H. Rider Haggard

6th August, 1914

It is very hard to have to sit here taking evidence on canned lobsters and such matters when the Judgement Day of nations has dawned upon the world.

Digby, Canada 9th August, 1914

This morning I put a proposition by wire before Longman (Charles Longman published many of Rider Haggard ‘s books and was a personal friend.) to the effect that I should write a History of the War — of course I mean if we live to see the end of it and are victorious, since in the other event no one would wish to read a history of it. It was an expensive business, as the cable companies have withdrawn all weekend privileges and full “urgent” rates must be charged for everything that is cabled.

St. John, Canada 10th August, 1914

In the evening there arrived a peremptory telegram from H.M ‘s Government recalling us home after we have completed our work in the Maritime Provinces, a week hence. But how are we to get home under present circumstances? No British vessels are advertised to run, and I do not want to be obliged to travel by an American line, which would betray a lack of confidence in our ability to keep the seas open.