Item 1 - Autograph letter signed to Beaton, from Renishaw Hall, near Sheffield.

Hates writing long letters, but is obliged to do so after reading the recent reviews of Beaton's and Quennell's book, "Time Exposure". Was outraged with Beaton at first and told Quennell so, but begins to believe that Beaton is not to blame for the "malice" of the title and photographs and the "hypocritical moralizing malice" of the text. Believes Beaton would not have allowed this to happen if he had emphasised a few things. Criticises Beaton for changing the names of people such as Lady Ottoline to those of American "socialites" and publishing a private nickname for Sitwell's father. Feels he would not have done this if he had understood their import. Asks him to remember all he has done for him over the years. Requests he publish a statement to say that no disrespect was intended and that the photos were published without the permission of those involved. Explains what he means by "malice" in the pictures. The book is "an ugly sort of throwing overboard". Has always liked Beaton and thought that he had a "warm heart" as well as "considerable gifts". Hopes that he will take this letter as a sign of these feelings.