British archaeologist, soldier, adventurer, and writer (1888–1935) immortalized in the epic 1962 screen biography Lawrence of Arabia. He attained international renown for his role as British liaison in the Arab Revolt of 1916–1918, which he recounted in his best-selling memoir Seven Pillars of Wisdom. He joined Royal Tank Corps in 1923 under name of T. E. Shaw (an assumed name he used during a short period of time in his military career), transferred to the RAF in 1925. He was discharged in 1935 and was killed shortly after in a motorcycling accident. ALS signed “T. E. Shaw,” one page, 6.75 x 9, March 8, 1930. Lawrence of Arabia (using his Air Force alias “Shaw” for anonymity) pens a gorgeous full one-page ALS with prophetic content. In full: “You probably know that after putting you to all that trouble Dixon decided to stay in Singapore. Things are like that, sometimes. I am most sorry to have bothered you without cause. Otherwise I cannot say anything, about myself or others. Mount Batten–R.A.F.-ing all day and trying to translate Greek the first half of the night–that’s life for me since I saw you. Perhaps in summer it will be better. This Greek will bring in some money, and a millionaire has lent the camp a speed boat: also there is still a marvellous bike rusting for me in the garage here… yes, decidedly the summer holds hope. Amongst its hopes must be the chance of finding you and Lady Malcolm not yet gone to Scotland! Yours sincerely (and regretfully: see Para 1) T.E. Shaw.” Then in blue pencil, the date of the letter is circled, and this footnote is added: “Held up for months looking for your address! TES.” In fine condition, with a couple of very light bends. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
