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Memoirs of a British Agent
When it was first published in 1932, "Memoirs of a British Agent" achieved bestseller status both in the United States and in Great Britain. R.H. Lockhart's account of the years he spent representing Britain's Foreign Office in Russia is still immensely entertaining and informative today. Lockhart was not an espionage agent; he was a diplomat. He was Britain's Vice-Consul in Moscow, then Acting Consul-General, then official "unofficial" representative to the new Bolshevik regime in Russia, between the years 1912 and 1918.
Lockhart describes his attempts at rubber farming as a young man in Malaysia and the circumstances that led to his seeking a career in the Foreign Office. He was given the post of British Vice-Consul in Moscow shortly after joining the Service.
In these memoirs, Lockhart gives us his insights into Russian culture and politics during the last years of Tzarist rule, the circumstances of Russia's participation in World War I, and Russia's descent into Bolshevism. Lockhart came to love the Russian people and consider Moscow his home while he witnessed the last Tzar unwittingly ensure his own downfall and the succeeding Provisional Government inevitably fail.
He gives an honest account of the errors in British and Allied policies during these precarious years in Russia. We get a close-up view of the eternal rift between diplomatic knowledge and political imperative.
"Memoirs of a British Agent" is a supremely literate and insightful first-hand account of the fascinating and turbulent time in Russia that gave birth to the Soviet Union through the eyes of a foreigner who knew many prominent members of both the Tzarist and Bolshevik regimes personally. Lockhart manages to convey great sympathy for Russians of various ideologies while at the same time speaking bluntly of their shortcomings. Rarely has a book that is so informative been so entertaining. "Memoirs of a British Agent" is a real page-turner.
Lockhart describes his attempts at rubber farming as a young man in Malaysia and the circumstances that led to his seeking a career in the Foreign Office. He was given the post of British Vice-Consul in Moscow shortly after joining the Service.
In these memoirs, Lockhart gives us his insights into Russian culture and politics during the last years of Tzarist rule, the circumstances of Russia's participation in World War I, and Russia's descent into Bolshevism. Lockhart came to love the Russian people and consider Moscow his home while he witnessed the last Tzar unwittingly ensure his own downfall and the succeeding Provisional Government inevitably fail.
He gives an honest account of the errors in British and Allied policies during these precarious years in Russia. We get a close-up view of the eternal rift between diplomatic knowledge and political imperative.
"Memoirs of a British Agent" is a supremely literate and insightful first-hand account of the fascinating and turbulent time in Russia that gave birth to the Soviet Union through the eyes of a foreigner who knew many prominent members of both the Tzarist and Bolshevik regimes personally. Lockhart manages to convey great sympathy for Russians of various ideologies while at the same time speaking bluntly of their shortcomings. Rarely has a book that is so informative been so entertaining. "Memoirs of a British Agent" is a real page-turner.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1932
46 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
R.H. Bruce Lockhart
29 books4 followersR.H. Bruce Lockhart
aka Sir Robert Bruce Lockhart.
aka Sir Robert Bruce Lockhart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 27, 2024
An amazing read. It is so difficult to see how he coped when thrown into the furnace with so little experience. Did the British not read the situation? Was he just cannon fodder?
He took to drinking later in life. No wonder, I'd have took to something far stronger that a glass of whiskey!
He took to drinking later in life. No wonder, I'd have took to something far stronger that a glass of whiskey!
September 18, 2024
I cannot help but imagine, the author’s retelling of his time in Russia is seen as an important historical account.
To start, the book introduces the reader to his early life, which I see as an important foundation when we come to the later chapters describing his role as the senior British diplomat as Russia lurches toward revolution.
I’ve little idea of what makes a diplomat: wit, intelligence, education, broad thinking, a willingness to listen to the other side. The author, more as a result of happenstance, became the man on the spot with British interests being his responsibility. Yet, all along, believing the course being steered was not the best.
My take is a book you read in the snug: a descent enough space with leather sofa and chairs, bookcases on the far wall, a drinks cabinet in the corner to the side of the fire. Take a chair in the far corner and gently work your way into Bruce Lockhart’s life. As the hours pass, throw a few more logs on the fire, pour a drink, and take a seat on the sofa. Before you reach the ending, you’ll feel as though you’re sitting before the fire with the sweat dripping from your brow.
I could not have enjoyed this more.
To start, the book introduces the reader to his early life, which I see as an important foundation when we come to the later chapters describing his role as the senior British diplomat as Russia lurches toward revolution.
I’ve little idea of what makes a diplomat: wit, intelligence, education, broad thinking, a willingness to listen to the other side. The author, more as a result of happenstance, became the man on the spot with British interests being his responsibility. Yet, all along, believing the course being steered was not the best.
My take is a book you read in the snug: a descent enough space with leather sofa and chairs, bookcases on the far wall, a drinks cabinet in the corner to the side of the fire. Take a chair in the far corner and gently work your way into Bruce Lockhart’s life. As the hours pass, throw a few more logs on the fire, pour a drink, and take a seat on the sofa. Before you reach the ending, you’ll feel as though you’re sitting before the fire with the sweat dripping from your brow.
I could not have enjoyed this more.
May 13, 2023
Again, I'm in awe and left wondering how I would have managed in such difficult a circumstance. I think I would have just crumbled.
You hear people talk about being under so much stress and having to juggle with far too many balls: the mortgage, the kids, etc, etc.
I struggle to think what level of stress these chaps, Lockhart and Co, lived with.
Were they a different breed to this that followed?
Mr Peters (a resident here) is a lovely man and I have suspicion (he smiles when I ask) he worked for the government is some capacity. I spend a good many hours in the evenings talking with him. I know he was in Aden when things became contentious (his son told me). He often says, (we talk about the books I read) "Different times back whence. Different people."
I've read Sir Paul Dukes' and Captain Hill's accounts of these events and I think that help me to understand what was happening outside of Mr Lockhart's circle.
I accept that this memoirs where written the event, even so, I do believe this to be an honest account of things.
I lapped this up.
You hear people talk about being under so much stress and having to juggle with far too many balls: the mortgage, the kids, etc, etc.
I struggle to think what level of stress these chaps, Lockhart and Co, lived with.
Were they a different breed to this that followed?
Mr Peters (a resident here) is a lovely man and I have suspicion (he smiles when I ask) he worked for the government is some capacity. I spend a good many hours in the evenings talking with him. I know he was in Aden when things became contentious (his son told me). He often says, (we talk about the books I read) "Different times back whence. Different people."
I've read Sir Paul Dukes' and Captain Hill's accounts of these events and I think that help me to understand what was happening outside of Mr Lockhart's circle.
I accept that this memoirs where written the event, even so, I do believe this to be an honest account of things.
I lapped this up.
April 3, 2023
First published in 1934; the style of writing, I feel we must accept, is influenced by the times. This is the author's account of events. Of course, to start, we touch on his early years. But, ... as we know from the clue in the title, the author's focus is his time away: a young man off on a jolly venture, furthering the British cause, improving ties with our foreign relations.
Finding himself with a ring-side seat to the Russian Revolution, he doth not stay too young for too long. I must say, I admire the young man for his endeavours and his desire to do what was the right thing, whenever possible.
I find myself often wondering how I would have coped when wearing the shoes of such 'proper people'. I refer of course to those such as, Sir Robert H. Bruce Lockhart, Sir Paul Dukes, Captain George Hill.
This, I will say once more, I feel privileged to have read. A thrilling account, full of breathtaking events and real-life suspense.
I tip my hat to the man.
Finding himself with a ring-side seat to the Russian Revolution, he doth not stay too young for too long. I must say, I admire the young man for his endeavours and his desire to do what was the right thing, whenever possible.
I find myself often wondering how I would have coped when wearing the shoes of such 'proper people'. I refer of course to those such as, Sir Robert H. Bruce Lockhart, Sir Paul Dukes, Captain George Hill.
This, I will say once more, I feel privileged to have read. A thrilling account, full of breathtaking events and real-life suspense.
I tip my hat to the man.
April 9, 2023
Having read, and thoroughly enjoyed Sir Paul Dukes' and Captain George Hill's works on this, Britain's involvement in Russia during the days of revolution, I was drawn to this.
Although Britain, in hindsight, may be judged not too kindly on some decisions, this does show, as do the two works previously mentioned, that those from our shores did try and at great cost in some cases, without agenda to help the Russian people.
A most enjoyable read.
And necessary.
Times have changed, as have those that sit in our high-offices. As the tensions in that part of our world increase and so too the dilemmas, I do hope we can at least learn from what these books teach.
Although Britain, in hindsight, may be judged not too kindly on some decisions, this does show, as do the two works previously mentioned, that those from our shores did try and at great cost in some cases, without agenda to help the Russian people.
A most enjoyable read.
And necessary.
Times have changed, as have those that sit in our high-offices. As the tensions in that part of our world increase and so too the dilemmas, I do hope we can at least learn from what these books teach.
July 30, 2023
If you want an insider's view of the Russian Revolution and some psychological insights into some of the major players- this is a good place to go. Not only that, but also some perceptive insights into the Russian soul. On the negative side, the story seems to drag at times.
February 9, 2020
hilarious, personable, human description of the British Civil Service in the 1900s and the Bolshevik revolution in Russia
February 24, 2016
I can't recall that I've ever read an autobiography or memoir as gripping and entertaining as this one.
Yes indeed. I'd rank this as the #1 most adventurous memoir I've ever encountered. It beats out Beryl Markham's 'West With the Night'; shoves aside anything by Hemingway; and even eclipses 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom' by TE Lawrence. It's an extraordinarily fun and entertaining read.
The story covers so many episodes of European history and culture --yanks the cover back on so many diplomatic imbroglios--reveals so many persons large/small who played a part in the 'Great Game' of those days--yet at all times, remains a ripping yarn, a page-turner, charming and fun and engaging. I wouldn't have thought it could be done.
This Lockhart fellow...what a grand guy. His story is astounding. An often hilarious mixture of good luck, clean living, hot-headed doggedness, and good-natured boyish charisma put this bloke--at merely 28 yrs old--in a position to steer British policy among those Russkie devils.
Would there were more men like this around in today's world. What a saga! Epic. Homeric.
Yes indeed. I'd rank this as the #1 most adventurous memoir I've ever encountered. It beats out Beryl Markham's 'West With the Night'; shoves aside anything by Hemingway; and even eclipses 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom' by TE Lawrence. It's an extraordinarily fun and entertaining read.
The story covers so many episodes of European history and culture --yanks the cover back on so many diplomatic imbroglios--reveals so many persons large/small who played a part in the 'Great Game' of those days--yet at all times, remains a ripping yarn, a page-turner, charming and fun and engaging. I wouldn't have thought it could be done.
This Lockhart fellow...what a grand guy. His story is astounding. An often hilarious mixture of good luck, clean living, hot-headed doggedness, and good-natured boyish charisma put this bloke--at merely 28 yrs old--in a position to steer British policy among those Russkie devils.
Would there were more men like this around in today's world. What a saga! Epic. Homeric.
August 6, 2023
Enjoyed reading this memoir of the author's mission in Moscow during the early months of the Bolshevik revolution. Can't really add anything to the many excellent reviews of the book that have already been submitted.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the author writes quite a bit about his meetings with important persons and the political intrigues taking place in Moscow, he never really gives away any trade secrets or reveals anything that the British Foreign Office wouldn't want revealed. So... lots of superficial smoke, mirrors and diplomatic maneuvering in this one, but no secrets or significant revelations.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the author writes quite a bit about his meetings with important persons and the political intrigues taking place in Moscow, he never really gives away any trade secrets or reveals anything that the British Foreign Office wouldn't want revealed. So... lots of superficial smoke, mirrors and diplomatic maneuvering in this one, but no secrets or significant revelations.
May 24, 2025
I am so glad I came across this. I'm in a revolutionary Russia phase just now and books recommended on Goodreads brought me to this.
Young, and he was, Lockhart was there as an official representative of British interests, though he was close to and most aware of those that were there to recruit spies: Paul Dukes, George Hill, Sidney Reilly, and others. Before this, I'd not thought too much of those that work in diplomacy: 'dreary for those on the lower rungs and lavish for those at the top'. Was this time peerless in British diplomatic history. A time when the room was occupied by nothing but the brave and the honourable.
This is an engaging read.
Young, and he was, Lockhart was there as an official representative of British interests, though he was close to and most aware of those that were there to recruit spies: Paul Dukes, George Hill, Sidney Reilly, and others. Before this, I'd not thought too much of those that work in diplomacy: 'dreary for those on the lower rungs and lavish for those at the top'. Was this time peerless in British diplomatic history. A time when the room was occupied by nothing but the brave and the honourable.
This is an engaging read.
July 12, 2021
Incredible true story of a young British diplomat embroiled in the October revolution in Russia
Ironically, I only found out about this book after reading his excellent book on single malt Scotch whisky (written in 1951, but still totally relevant), and reading a brief biography blurb on him on Amazon:
"Robert Bruce Lockhart (1887-1970) had an extraordinarily varied life and is widely believed to be the inspiration for James Bond. Primarily a diplomat, he held posts in the Foreign Office serving in Russia during WW1 where he was accused of plotting to assassinate Lenin and imprisoned in the Kremlin until exchanged for Litvinov. He then served in Czechoslovakia and worked in the late 20s for Beaverbrook Newspapers until he took up writing full time. He returned to the FO in WW2 were he was Director-General of Political Warfare. He returned successfully to writing after the war and had a prolific output until he died in 1970."
Having read that, who could possibly resist finding out more about this larger-than-life character. His story of growing up a privileged child of the monied class in Scotland, spending his childhood at Balmenach Distillery which was founded by his grandfather, and then being sent off to Malaya to make his fortune in the booming rubber business, learning the language and culture there, playing football, and getting into a steamy and scandalous love affair with a local girl of aristocratic birth. This would establish his M.O. of immersion in foreign culture and languages, building political relationships with powerful people, and getting into romantic affairs with exotic women.
After a nasty and nearly fatal bout with malaria, which ends his Malaya adventure, he returns to Scotland and finds himself at a loss what to do next, but due to some pressure from his father and matriarchal grandmother, he decided to sit the exam for the foreign service despite being a lot older than the other candidates and not nearly as prepared academically. Some of his adventures during the oral exams actually provide some of the most entertaining episodes of the whole book - this man was ingenious in getting out of situations with a quick wit and instinct for charming others. No wonder he may have inspired the debonair British super spy and playboy James Bond.
Anyway, when he is assigned to Moscow in 1912 in the closing days of the dysfunctional Tsarist regime and its decadent aristocrats, the story enters its most interesting phase, as he again immerses himself in the turbulent world of western diplomatists and Russian political groups, a treacherous sea of conflicting factions, mainly the Bolsheviks, Russian Liberals, Left Social-Revolutionaries, counter-revolutionaries, Communists, etc. He navigates these waters with remarkable skill, managing to makes deep relationships with a huge number of Russians and other foreign diplomats, politicians, aristocrats, and so forth. He seems able to schmooze and drink till the early hours, charm various ladies, and not lose his head at the same time.
Once the October Revolution happens, led by Lenin and Trotsky, his position becomes more precarious as he has formed strong relationships with many Bolsheviks, but the British and other Allied governments are very wary of this socialist revolution, and are obsessed with keeping Russia fighting on the Eastern front to divert German troops from the all-important Western front. So an intricate game of diplomatic chess emerges as Lockhart is used by the British as the "unofficial" negotiator with the Bolsheviks, separate from their office diplomats as they are still unsure whether to recognize the Bolsheviks or hope to overthrow them through intervention. This make it almost impossible for Lockhart to keep a consistent approach when different branches of his own govt are at odds on how to deal with the Russia issue.
Events get more intense as different Russian factions start to fight internally, with assassinations of various figures on both sides, culminating on the near-assassination of Lenin himself, and Lockhart being implicated in the plot. It's an amazing sequence of things to happen to one young man as he is caught up in powerful historical forces and lives through incredible moments of history in the making, but still maintains a strong sense of justice, diplomatic savvy, and sense of adventure. Larger than life, it's an incredible story told exceedingly well, and exposes us to the attitudes of a British "agent" a century ago in a turbulent period of European history.
Ironically, I only found out about this book after reading his excellent book on single malt Scotch whisky (written in 1951, but still totally relevant), and reading a brief biography blurb on him on Amazon:
"Robert Bruce Lockhart (1887-1970) had an extraordinarily varied life and is widely believed to be the inspiration for James Bond. Primarily a diplomat, he held posts in the Foreign Office serving in Russia during WW1 where he was accused of plotting to assassinate Lenin and imprisoned in the Kremlin until exchanged for Litvinov. He then served in Czechoslovakia and worked in the late 20s for Beaverbrook Newspapers until he took up writing full time. He returned to the FO in WW2 were he was Director-General of Political Warfare. He returned successfully to writing after the war and had a prolific output until he died in 1970."
Having read that, who could possibly resist finding out more about this larger-than-life character. His story of growing up a privileged child of the monied class in Scotland, spending his childhood at Balmenach Distillery which was founded by his grandfather, and then being sent off to Malaya to make his fortune in the booming rubber business, learning the language and culture there, playing football, and getting into a steamy and scandalous love affair with a local girl of aristocratic birth. This would establish his M.O. of immersion in foreign culture and languages, building political relationships with powerful people, and getting into romantic affairs with exotic women.
After a nasty and nearly fatal bout with malaria, which ends his Malaya adventure, he returns to Scotland and finds himself at a loss what to do next, but due to some pressure from his father and matriarchal grandmother, he decided to sit the exam for the foreign service despite being a lot older than the other candidates and not nearly as prepared academically. Some of his adventures during the oral exams actually provide some of the most entertaining episodes of the whole book - this man was ingenious in getting out of situations with a quick wit and instinct for charming others. No wonder he may have inspired the debonair British super spy and playboy James Bond.
Anyway, when he is assigned to Moscow in 1912 in the closing days of the dysfunctional Tsarist regime and its decadent aristocrats, the story enters its most interesting phase, as he again immerses himself in the turbulent world of western diplomatists and Russian political groups, a treacherous sea of conflicting factions, mainly the Bolsheviks, Russian Liberals, Left Social-Revolutionaries, counter-revolutionaries, Communists, etc. He navigates these waters with remarkable skill, managing to makes deep relationships with a huge number of Russians and other foreign diplomats, politicians, aristocrats, and so forth. He seems able to schmooze and drink till the early hours, charm various ladies, and not lose his head at the same time.
Once the October Revolution happens, led by Lenin and Trotsky, his position becomes more precarious as he has formed strong relationships with many Bolsheviks, but the British and other Allied governments are very wary of this socialist revolution, and are obsessed with keeping Russia fighting on the Eastern front to divert German troops from the all-important Western front. So an intricate game of diplomatic chess emerges as Lockhart is used by the British as the "unofficial" negotiator with the Bolsheviks, separate from their office diplomats as they are still unsure whether to recognize the Bolsheviks or hope to overthrow them through intervention. This make it almost impossible for Lockhart to keep a consistent approach when different branches of his own govt are at odds on how to deal with the Russia issue.
Events get more intense as different Russian factions start to fight internally, with assassinations of various figures on both sides, culminating on the near-assassination of Lenin himself, and Lockhart being implicated in the plot. It's an amazing sequence of things to happen to one young man as he is caught up in powerful historical forces and lives through incredible moments of history in the making, but still maintains a strong sense of justice, diplomatic savvy, and sense of adventure. Larger than life, it's an incredible story told exceedingly well, and exposes us to the attitudes of a British "agent" a century ago in a turbulent period of European history.
March 31, 2025
I took my time with this. I read it twice. Full of intrigue and life on the edge. I should imagine this is what can be called living in a world of high-stakes poker.
I can fully understand the need for more than one stiff whiskey to help you through the day.
I can fully understand the need for more than one stiff whiskey to help you through the day.
Read
October 2, 2014Whew. Even though I knew that the author was alive when he wrote this memoir, that last section was gripping; subsequent to the attack on Lenin's life, the repercussions were fast and grim. It was, according to Lockhart, Lenin himself who in recovery was able to say, "Stop the Terror."
In prison, Lockhart briefly meets the woman who shot Lenin. It's a fascinating scene. This book deftly presents the POV of an outsider who becomes almost an insider as the events of the Revolution unfold. He is always an Englishman with an early twentieth century English view, but his sympathy for, and understanding of, the various revolutionaries furnishes a glimpse into a volatile period.
Part of his early twentieth century view is his language about Jews. He is not an anti-Semite in his own view--at one point he admits that he is reading a history of the Jews, I think to try to understand their place in European culture--yet every Jewish person he meets gets Jew attached as a modifier. A French financier, a Russian Financier, an American financier, a Jew financier, though the financier in question could have come from any of those countries. . . I think he saw Jews as a separate nation. It is those little awarenesses that serve as a reminder that casual, unexamined anti-Semitism was not at all new, and was not very well thought out, except rarely, like George Eliot in Daniel Deronda, and I think Lockhart was slowly trying to go there. I'll have to look at further writings to find out how his thought evolved.
Anyway, his meetings with Lenin and Trotsy, and why the latter turned on him (giving us a glimpse of this complex man's evolution) made fascinating reading. I can see why this was a runaway bestseller when it came out in 1933 . . . when no one saw the hammer about to come down.
Speaking of hammers, Stalin makes one memorable appearance.
In prison, Lockhart briefly meets the woman who shot Lenin. It's a fascinating scene. This book deftly presents the POV of an outsider who becomes almost an insider as the events of the Revolution unfold. He is always an Englishman with an early twentieth century English view, but his sympathy for, and understanding of, the various revolutionaries furnishes a glimpse into a volatile period.
Part of his early twentieth century view is his language about Jews. He is not an anti-Semite in his own view--at one point he admits that he is reading a history of the Jews, I think to try to understand their place in European culture--yet every Jewish person he meets gets Jew attached as a modifier. A French financier, a Russian Financier, an American financier, a Jew financier, though the financier in question could have come from any of those countries. . . I think he saw Jews as a separate nation. It is those little awarenesses that serve as a reminder that casual, unexamined anti-Semitism was not at all new, and was not very well thought out, except rarely, like George Eliot in Daniel Deronda, and I think Lockhart was slowly trying to go there. I'll have to look at further writings to find out how his thought evolved.
Anyway, his meetings with Lenin and Trotsy, and why the latter turned on him (giving us a glimpse of this complex man's evolution) made fascinating reading. I can see why this was a runaway bestseller when it came out in 1933 . . . when no one saw the hammer about to come down.
Speaking of hammers, Stalin makes one memorable appearance.
September 11, 2024
Wow! If you ever want to snatch a peek at diplomacy in a crisis, look here.
Did someone mention, "Keep Calm and Carry On."? Before piping up, maybe, they read this.
I believe the stress of it all (they call it PTSD nowadays) got to him a little later down the line: hit the bottle and became a little less remarkable.
He was more than a mite remarkable in 1918.
I shall read of those he has made mention of.
Did someone mention, "Keep Calm and Carry On."? Before piping up, maybe, they read this.
I believe the stress of it all (they call it PTSD nowadays) got to him a little later down the line: hit the bottle and became a little less remarkable.
He was more than a mite remarkable in 1918.
I shall read of those he has made mention of.
September 8, 2025
Thoroughly pleased I chose to read this after reading of some of the more active field agents (spies) working for Britain at the time.
Lockhart had to hold the fort, keep Britain's position on level terms with the revolutionaries. It's fascinating to read of diplomatic life and how the pretence of staying friends was maintained. Things didn't go as well as he had hoped; for which, he cannot be blamed.
An exciting read.
Lockhart had to hold the fort, keep Britain's position on level terms with the revolutionaries. It's fascinating to read of diplomatic life and how the pretence of staying friends was maintained. Things didn't go as well as he had hoped; for which, he cannot be blamed.
An exciting read.
February 23, 2021
Книжка 1937 года издания была некогда подрезана в библиотеке для пассажиров т/х «Александр Пушкин» (там она была ни к чему), и вот сейчас настал момент ее наконец прочесть. Самое время. Читается она безотрывно — как роман-пикареска и роман взросления шотландского обалдуя, оказавшегося в самой гуще истории (недаром часть про собственно взаимодействие Локхарта с большевиками называется «История изнутри»), написана восхитительно — с этими вот чарующими британскими маннеризмами сенсационной прозы столетней давности и легкой иронией.
На русском существует, но что там внутри — бог знает: издавал ее известный клуб убийц букв — РИА Новости — в начале 90-х, а переводил кто-то, назвавший автора «Локкартом».
На русском существует, но что там внутри — бог знает: издавал ее известный клуб убийц букв — РИА Новости — в начале 90-х, а переводил кто-то, назвавший автора «Локкартом».
September 28, 2024
I don't know if I can say, this is worth reading for an understanding of what happened or why it happened.
It is a glimpse of what people did, how much they tried, how committed they became. What comes from this is how desperate people (the foreign diplomats) felt for the people of Russia. Everyone was at risk of being caught up in the violence: Captain Francis Cromie, a British Diplomat, was shot dead whilst defending the British Embassy from the secret police (Cheka), yet, it seems to me, within that risk people cared and did what they could.
I must say, I feel rather proud of what 'we' did - tried to do - when all about was collapsing into a pit of despair.
I'm most glad I read this.
It is a glimpse of what people did, how much they tried, how committed they became. What comes from this is how desperate people (the foreign diplomats) felt for the people of Russia. Everyone was at risk of being caught up in the violence: Captain Francis Cromie, a British Diplomat, was shot dead whilst defending the British Embassy from the secret police (Cheka), yet, it seems to me, within that risk people cared and did what they could.
I must say, I feel rather proud of what 'we' did - tried to do - when all about was collapsing into a pit of despair.
I'm most glad I read this.
April 15, 2023
A finely written account. from a man who trod a fine line.
A great insight into the delicate nature of things in a most troubled led time.
A necessary addition, I would say, for those wishing to understand exactly how matters did proceed, an understanding that, I would say, you'll need more than one history book to attain.
This is from the horses mouth.
A great insight into the delicate nature of things in a most troubled led time.
A necessary addition, I would say, for those wishing to understand exactly how matters did proceed, an understanding that, I would say, you'll need more than one history book to attain.
This is from the horses mouth.
November 12, 2020
If you're expecting a spy thriller, this isn't it! The term 'agent' is used in the sense of an agent of the British government, in other words a diplomat. In this case the British vice-consul to Moscow, which Lockhart became in 1912. In fact Lockhart points out how unimpressed he is with the concept of organised intelligence, and is a little dismissive of Sidney Reilly, who appears twice in a minor capacity. Lockhart advocates diplomacy as the means for addressing international situations.
The book gives a very readable account of events in Russia before and during WW1, especially in the crucial period of 1917-18. The focus of the book is firmly on Lockhart and his experiences against the backdrop of European affairs. As a result the women in his life appear to be almost incidental. Amai, the Malay woman he seduces while a young man on a rubber plantation, and Moura, his Russian lover, appear essentially only as they affect the plot. Even his wife Jean appears only when she is incidental to the plot. They became estranged, though this is not mentioned in the book, which is possibly why he is so candid about his affair with and love for Moura, whereas his references to his wife, even to their marriage, are almost perfunctory.
You have to take a book though on what it is, not what you think it should be. It's not an in-depth autobiography, but rather Lockhart's reminiscences about his career up until his leaving Russia, thus avoiding sentence of death. It's informed by his seemingly compulsive habit of keeping a diary, and this gives a level of authenticity. He presents a number of characters and situations vividly. Whether he is accurate in his portrayals I suppose hinges on the inevitable partiality we all have when going purely on the basis of our own experiences. But certainly his evocations of life in Russia from 1912 to 1918 are extremely vivid and make for a seriously entertaining read.
The book gives a very readable account of events in Russia before and during WW1, especially in the crucial period of 1917-18. The focus of the book is firmly on Lockhart and his experiences against the backdrop of European affairs. As a result the women in his life appear to be almost incidental. Amai, the Malay woman he seduces while a young man on a rubber plantation, and Moura, his Russian lover, appear essentially only as they affect the plot. Even his wife Jean appears only when she is incidental to the plot. They became estranged, though this is not mentioned in the book, which is possibly why he is so candid about his affair with and love for Moura, whereas his references to his wife, even to their marriage, are almost perfunctory.
You have to take a book though on what it is, not what you think it should be. It's not an in-depth autobiography, but rather Lockhart's reminiscences about his career up until his leaving Russia, thus avoiding sentence of death. It's informed by his seemingly compulsive habit of keeping a diary, and this gives a level of authenticity. He presents a number of characters and situations vividly. Whether he is accurate in his portrayals I suppose hinges on the inevitable partiality we all have when going purely on the basis of our own experiences. But certainly his evocations of life in Russia from 1912 to 1918 are extremely vivid and make for a seriously entertaining read.
May 30, 2017
Among the most interesting memoirs I have read in recent memory. In a previous (and recently written) book I read I learned that Lockhart of a British Intelligence agent in addition to being the Moscow Consul General and that many of the "friends" he mentions in this book were also agents. It makes for a fascinating backstory to the memoir.
Lockhart was a young son of the gentry with all the opportunities but a late budding ambition. The story of his interplay with his family is as interesting as his story of being at the epicenter of things as the Russian tsarist state imploded and inevitably led to revolution.
Perhaps the greatest pleasure in the book, though, is the beautiful prose that Lockhart puts to paper. He paints verbal pictures and you are transported to his location. He has a taste for beautiful things and he writes of them with almost a passion. It's the kind of book you want to read in total silence and let it transport you away to where he was.
Lockhart was a young son of the gentry with all the opportunities but a late budding ambition. The story of his interplay with his family is as interesting as his story of being at the epicenter of things as the Russian tsarist state imploded and inevitably led to revolution.
Perhaps the greatest pleasure in the book, though, is the beautiful prose that Lockhart puts to paper. He paints verbal pictures and you are transported to his location. He has a taste for beautiful things and he writes of them with almost a passion. It's the kind of book you want to read in total silence and let it transport you away to where he was.
September 23, 2024
A quite incredible story. I've never considered the importance of diplomatic representation during difficult, changing times. In this instance, Mr Lockhart was most aware of the murderous, vengeful, stance of the incoming power and as aware of the risks faced by those he was there to represent (ultimately be responsible for). With all that was happening and it becomes clear, Mr Lockhart was conscious of British spies operating in the country at the time.
I doubt Mr Lockhart is trying whitewash the truth in his memoir and what comes across for me is the tremendous weight this young man shouldered.
I doubt Mr Lockhart is trying whitewash the truth in his memoir and what comes across for me is the tremendous weight this young man shouldered.
May 26, 2025
Robert (I've allowed myself to refer to him as, 'Rob') was thrown in at the deep end. Didn't he do well in such harrowing times for such young and inexperienced diplomat. He does deserve far more credit for his efforts. He was partial to a drink (can you blame him) and he had an eye for the girls (I'd have been smitten). He was a lovely man, with a caring heart and loyal to his post.
July 30, 2025
I had to read this twice; there is so much in this. What struck me is how much responsibility he shouldered and how little available support there was. I know nothing of the dip corp and even less of life 100 years ago. How old must you be and how much time must you serve to seen as a senior diplomat?
Today, I think the Foreign Sec might find himself in a court or in the very least facing an employment tribunal having thrown a young man with little more than a stiff upper lip into a wolves den.
Today, I think the Foreign Sec might find himself in a court or in the very least facing an employment tribunal having thrown a young man with little more than a stiff upper lip into a wolves den.
May 12, 2021
The memoirs of Bruce Lockhart, a British Agent based in Moscow from 1912 - 1918 are astounding given the nature of the times and the monumental upheavals being faced in the course of WW1, the collapse of Tzarist Russia and the Bolshevik Revolution. What is astounding is the author’s gripping account of his activities as the British Consul in Moscow and the very Victorian manner of understating the significance of events and associated emotions. This I found useful as it provided an account unencumbered with too many personal views and hype.
However, given the gravity of the history unfolding around him, I felt the book could have made a stronger impact if the author had shared more of his real emotions as well as those around him. If one was not aware of the history, it would be easy to mistake this as ‘challenging’ political environment as opposed to the world changing events beginning with the bloodshed of World War 1, the collapse of dynastic rule of the Tzar and the terror and deprivation of the Russian Revolution.
On the whole this book was very well written, Lockhart really can write and this is far from a dreary recollection of ones diary. Obviously he chose to limit his account to his consulate activities and for reasons of security did not mention his obvious role in supporting secret service actions which were clearly aimed at damaging the Bolsheviks in order to allow for Allied intervention and restoring a more palatable regime. I guess the secret is in the title of the book.
However, given the gravity of the history unfolding around him, I felt the book could have made a stronger impact if the author had shared more of his real emotions as well as those around him. If one was not aware of the history, it would be easy to mistake this as ‘challenging’ political environment as opposed to the world changing events beginning with the bloodshed of World War 1, the collapse of dynastic rule of the Tzar and the terror and deprivation of the Russian Revolution.
On the whole this book was very well written, Lockhart really can write and this is far from a dreary recollection of ones diary. Obviously he chose to limit his account to his consulate activities and for reasons of security did not mention his obvious role in supporting secret service actions which were clearly aimed at damaging the Bolsheviks in order to allow for Allied intervention and restoring a more palatable regime. I guess the secret is in the title of the book.
April 21, 2022
Reading 'Go Spy the Land' led me to this.
I am convinced these memoirs represent an honest and most candid record of events and on occasions I was left aghast. The government was, I accept, stuck between a rock and a hard-place, post the October revolution; asked to return to Moscow, because he knew the lie of the land better than anyone, young Lockhart was not given any favour by the Whitehall mandarins; the term 'hung out to dry' comes to mind. His take on what most likely would come-of-it-all was invariably spot-on, yet still he was maligned by those in London.
This was a revelation for me and underlines his courage shown throughout this most darkest of Europe's days.
The first 50 pages are devoted to his early life and the path that took him to Moscow in January 1912. From there I became engrossed in his telling, which became ever more thrilling as he went on.
A true insight into the political, social, criminal and personal machinations of that time; it offers a wisdom, ignored by many, and shows how a common agreement on where the revolution would lead may have forestalled the rise of an evil that gave Stalin his place in history.
This is a clear and precise record and will not tax the reader. I recommend this to anyone who has an interest in how the Soviet Union came to be.
I am convinced these memoirs represent an honest and most candid record of events and on occasions I was left aghast. The government was, I accept, stuck between a rock and a hard-place, post the October revolution; asked to return to Moscow, because he knew the lie of the land better than anyone, young Lockhart was not given any favour by the Whitehall mandarins; the term 'hung out to dry' comes to mind. His take on what most likely would come-of-it-all was invariably spot-on, yet still he was maligned by those in London.
This was a revelation for me and underlines his courage shown throughout this most darkest of Europe's days.
The first 50 pages are devoted to his early life and the path that took him to Moscow in January 1912. From there I became engrossed in his telling, which became ever more thrilling as he went on.
A true insight into the political, social, criminal and personal machinations of that time; it offers a wisdom, ignored by many, and shows how a common agreement on where the revolution would lead may have forestalled the rise of an evil that gave Stalin his place in history.
This is a clear and precise record and will not tax the reader. I recommend this to anyone who has an interest in how the Soviet Union came to be.
April 21, 2022
This is my second reading; the first took place toward the end of the previous century. Other works that relate to this, I also read during those years and will now re-read.
Caught up in the Russian Revolution, Vice-Consul (Acting Consul-General, Moscow) Lockhart was an inexperienced young-man, too young, far too young, to be left to represent British interests during such turbulent times: spying was afoot, there is mention of Captain Hill, Sidney Reilly and other brave souls.
This is a much needed, TRUE, first-hand account of what went on and why things happened as they did; and, I believe far more relevant than any history book. Essential reading reading for those who wish to understand the roots of the red-terror.
What came from these days was prophesied by Lockhart and wrought grave consequences on Europe, if not the entire world, for many years to come.
Lockhart's family were not poor, but certainly were not 'of means': not members of the right club: not from the best of stock.
It is possible to believe that Lockhart was hung out to dry. the question that I ask is, where were the bold and brave, time-served stalwarts of foreign affairs and why didn't they step-up?
Caught up in the Russian Revolution, Vice-Consul (Acting Consul-General, Moscow) Lockhart was an inexperienced young-man, too young, far too young, to be left to represent British interests during such turbulent times: spying was afoot, there is mention of Captain Hill, Sidney Reilly and other brave souls.
This is a much needed, TRUE, first-hand account of what went on and why things happened as they did; and, I believe far more relevant than any history book. Essential reading reading for those who wish to understand the roots of the red-terror.
What came from these days was prophesied by Lockhart and wrought grave consequences on Europe, if not the entire world, for many years to come.
Lockhart's family were not poor, but certainly were not 'of means': not members of the right club: not from the best of stock.
It is possible to believe that Lockhart was hung out to dry. the question that I ask is, where were the bold and brave, time-served stalwarts of foreign affairs and why didn't they step-up?
May 12, 2021
3.75/5
Pretty good. Covers Lockhart’s early life in Malaya, prewar Russia (1912-14), WW1 era Russia and 1918 Bolshevik rule. Well written. Good for insight into what Russia was like in those periods. I was hoping for more in the way of spies and espionage but Lockhart takes the line that he didn’t have anything to do with Lenin being shot. It was interesting in that Lockhart was on the anti-Allied Intervention POV until fairly late on. It was good for the personalities of the Bolshevik leaders as well. Doesn’t have anything on the actual October Revolution as Lockhart wasn’t in Russia at the time (forced home over an affair with a Jewish woman) and only returned a few months later. Wasn’t too interested in the issues/drama with another Russian girlfriend though.
Pretty good. Covers Lockhart’s early life in Malaya, prewar Russia (1912-14), WW1 era Russia and 1918 Bolshevik rule. Well written. Good for insight into what Russia was like in those periods. I was hoping for more in the way of spies and espionage but Lockhart takes the line that he didn’t have anything to do with Lenin being shot. It was interesting in that Lockhart was on the anti-Allied Intervention POV until fairly late on. It was good for the personalities of the Bolshevik leaders as well. Doesn’t have anything on the actual October Revolution as Lockhart wasn’t in Russia at the time (forced home over an affair with a Jewish woman) and only returned a few months later. Wasn’t too interested in the issues/drama with another Russian girlfriend though.
January 31, 2012
A fascinating account of a British diplomat's life and work during the Russian revolution. It proved to be a very enjoyable read and added a significant amount of character to the historical milestones of the period. It was a strange thing to read the personal recollections of British diplomat from his encounters with great figures such as Lenin and Trotsky.
March 16, 2016
Sir Robert Hamilton Bruce Lockhart was a devoted Scot who boasted that his line went back to Robert the Bruce and there was not a drop of English blood in his veins. He was a charmer, a serial philanderer, a British diplomat, and a spy who was posted to Moscow during the Bolshevik Revolution. His 1932 book Memoirs of a British Agent: Being an Account of the Author’s Early Life in Many Lands And Of His Official Mission to Moscow in 1918 was a hot ticket in its day and still finds happy readers.
This memoir is a study of British class and culture in the early 20th century as well as a story of a keen observer who was at the center of one of the 20th century's historic upheavals. Perhaps the closest memoir in its class (British, early 20th century, and entertaining even today) is Winston Churchill’s My Early Years (see review), a book with more humor but less sturm und drung.
Lockhart, born in 1887, began his career in the Foreign Service in 1911 after failing as a rubber plantation owner in Malaya. While in the East he acquired a mistress who, as the ward of a Sultan, was a princess. The relationship led to scandal even though he converted to “Mohammedanism.” When he was carted out of Malaya in 1910 with extreme malaria, she was left to suffer eternally for her love; they never met again.
Casting about for something to do, Lockhart took the almost-abusive Foreign Service exams, acing them even while drunk at his oral examination. His language skills, his experience abroad, and his intelligence soon led to his posting in 1912 as British Vice-Consul in Moscow, soon to be the center of a world-changing civil war. The Romanovs were still in place and Lockhart stayed until after the Tsar’s 1917 abdication to represent British interests even as the war with Germany continued and the Whites and Reds engaged in civil war.
His observations on life as an Englishman in Moscow before and during the revolution are generally amusing. He enjoyed the Russians—their partying, their generally gay outlook on life, their ability to navigate a rule-laden bureaucracy— wildly violating the spirit of a rule while adhering to its letter. His assessment of the Russian aristocracy was that while there was more integrity than widely thought, ineptness was deep in the Russian soul. Of Russians in general he remarks,
The 1914 onset of WWI began with encouraging news of Russian victories on the Eastern Front. But over time, as the aristocrats played in St. Petersburgh and Moscow while Russian peasants died by the many thousands, the tide turned. Lockhart dates the end of Tsarist Russia’s chance for success to the moments when the Tsar dissolved the Duma and fired his commanding general, proclaiming himself the de jure commander of the Russian army and indirectly making the intransigent Tsarina the de facto military commander. Not only did this reduce the competence of the Russian military, it also placed the Tsar front and center as the target of direct blame for military failures.
Lockhart, serving as (acting) British Consul for years, got to know all of the prominent Russians and he drops names shamelessly. Most of those names are meaningless now, but several stand out: One, Alexander Kerensky, was the first Socialist leader in the revolution’s early stage. Kerensky was a “White” Russian, as opposed to the Bolshevik “Red” Russians led by Lenin and Trotsky. Of Kerensky and of the revolution he says,
Lockhart’s description of developments after the Tsar’s March, 1917 abdication are particularly interesting. A civil war between the Reds and Whites grew while the Whites resisted any peace with Germany and the Reds sought peace. The British Home Office interpreted the Bolshevik negotiations with Germany as a sign of Bolshevik pro-German sympathies, discounting Lockhart’s view that it was simple war-weariness. As a result, Britain threw its support to the Whites and the Allies tried to support them with ill-fated 1918 invasions of Russia in the north (the Brits through the port of Archangel) and in the east (the Japanese through the Siberian city of Vladivostock). These failed efforts ultimately led the Bolsheviks to end their courtship of the Allies and left the Reds forever mistrustful of Britain and the U.S. Throughout these historic events Lockhart came to know both Lenin and Trotsky well, and his tiny British mission in Moscow served as a moderate though little heard Allied voice until the final schism between the Allies and Russia.
Lockhart writes in the very formal style of his time, a style both antiquated and charming—there was once a time when words really mattered! Much of the book is about the normal life of a diplomat—the schmoozing, the parties, the polite intelligence-gathering. But Lockhart’s wry humor makes even this interesting—of Price Lvoff, a Russian minister, he says: “a man of great charm, he would have made an excellent chairman of the London County Council;” of Trotsky: “He strikes me as a man who would willingly die fighting for Russia provided there was a big enough audience to see him do it.”
Lockhart’s insights into the Russian character and its role at a time of national and international upheaval make this a book worth reading—as it has been for eighty years.
Four stars.
This memoir is a study of British class and culture in the early 20th century as well as a story of a keen observer who was at the center of one of the 20th century's historic upheavals. Perhaps the closest memoir in its class (British, early 20th century, and entertaining even today) is Winston Churchill’s My Early Years (see review), a book with more humor but less sturm und drung.
Lockhart, born in 1887, began his career in the Foreign Service in 1911 after failing as a rubber plantation owner in Malaya. While in the East he acquired a mistress who, as the ward of a Sultan, was a princess. The relationship led to scandal even though he converted to “Mohammedanism.” When he was carted out of Malaya in 1910 with extreme malaria, she was left to suffer eternally for her love; they never met again.
Casting about for something to do, Lockhart took the almost-abusive Foreign Service exams, acing them even while drunk at his oral examination. His language skills, his experience abroad, and his intelligence soon led to his posting in 1912 as British Vice-Consul in Moscow, soon to be the center of a world-changing civil war. The Romanovs were still in place and Lockhart stayed until after the Tsar’s 1917 abdication to represent British interests even as the war with Germany continued and the Whites and Reds engaged in civil war.
His observations on life as an Englishman in Moscow before and during the revolution are generally amusing. He enjoyed the Russians—their partying, their generally gay outlook on life, their ability to navigate a rule-laden bureaucracy— wildly violating the spirit of a rule while adhering to its letter. His assessment of the Russian aristocracy was that while there was more integrity than widely thought, ineptness was deep in the Russian soul. Of Russians in general he remarks,
For, much as I loved my Russian friends, they were irritating. They were a charming people to know, a hopeless people to work with, and fatalistic as I became, I never quite mastered the nuance of a language in which ‘at once’ means ‘to-morrow’ and ‘to-morrow,’ ‘never.’His contempt increased as you looked up the social ladder, peaking with the Tsar who was both incompetent and dominated by the Tsarina, who was herself dominated by the “Mad Monk,”Grigori Rasputin.
The 1914 onset of WWI began with encouraging news of Russian victories on the Eastern Front. But over time, as the aristocrats played in St. Petersburgh and Moscow while Russian peasants died by the many thousands, the tide turned. Lockhart dates the end of Tsarist Russia’s chance for success to the moments when the Tsar dissolved the Duma and fired his commanding general, proclaiming himself the de jure commander of the Russian army and indirectly making the intransigent Tsarina the de facto military commander. Not only did this reduce the competence of the Russian military, it also placed the Tsar front and center as the target of direct blame for military failures.
Lockhart, serving as (acting) British Consul for years, got to know all of the prominent Russians and he drops names shamelessly. Most of those names are meaningless now, but several stand out: One, Alexander Kerensky, was the first Socialist leader in the revolution’s early stage. Kerensky was a “White” Russian, as opposed to the Bolshevik “Red” Russians led by Lenin and Trotsky. Of Kerensky and of the revolution he says,
What is important to realize is that from the first the revolution was a revolution of the people. From the first moment neither the Duma nor the intelligentsia had any control of the situation. Secondly, the revolution was a revolution for land, bread, and peace—but above all for peace. There was only one way to save Russia from going Bolshevik. That was to allow her to make peace. It was because he would not make peace that Kerensky went under. It was solely because he promised to stop the war that Lenin came to the top.
Lockhart’s description of developments after the Tsar’s March, 1917 abdication are particularly interesting. A civil war between the Reds and Whites grew while the Whites resisted any peace with Germany and the Reds sought peace. The British Home Office interpreted the Bolshevik negotiations with Germany as a sign of Bolshevik pro-German sympathies, discounting Lockhart’s view that it was simple war-weariness. As a result, Britain threw its support to the Whites and the Allies tried to support them with ill-fated 1918 invasions of Russia in the north (the Brits through the port of Archangel) and in the east (the Japanese through the Siberian city of Vladivostock). These failed efforts ultimately led the Bolsheviks to end their courtship of the Allies and left the Reds forever mistrustful of Britain and the U.S. Throughout these historic events Lockhart came to know both Lenin and Trotsky well, and his tiny British mission in Moscow served as a moderate though little heard Allied voice until the final schism between the Allies and Russia.
Lockhart writes in the very formal style of his time, a style both antiquated and charming—there was once a time when words really mattered! Much of the book is about the normal life of a diplomat—the schmoozing, the parties, the polite intelligence-gathering. But Lockhart’s wry humor makes even this interesting—of Price Lvoff, a Russian minister, he says: “a man of great charm, he would have made an excellent chairman of the London County Council;” of Trotsky: “He strikes me as a man who would willingly die fighting for Russia provided there was a big enough audience to see him do it.”
Lockhart’s insights into the Russian character and its role at a time of national and international upheaval make this a book worth reading—as it has been for eighty years.
Four stars.
October 25, 2021
Suvel loetud "Mura" järellainetusena lugesin läbi R.B Lockharti - Mura elu ühe olulise mehe - mälestused ajast enne ja pärast revolutsiooni Venemaal. Sissejuhatuses on ka pisuke eellugu Kagu-Aasiast. Algselt ilmusid need mälestused 1932. aastal ja üsna pea, 1939. aastal ilmus ka tõlge eesti keelde. Selgus, et tegemist on üsna veidra tõlkega. Lugemise käigus hakkasid mingid asjad tunduma veidrad - kui peategelane on Malaisias, siis miks ta ütleb järsku, et ta tundis Indias igatsust üksinduse järgi? Kui ta räägib, et tagasi koju jõudes oli ema ta just vastu võtnud, aga siis järgmiselt lehelt jääb mulje, et ema oli juba surnud ja perekonnapeaks vanaema? Võtsin võrdluseks ingliskeelse e-raamatu kõrvale ja selgus, et eesti keelde on tõlgitud põhimõttel "kui saame aru, siis tõlgime, kui ei saa, siis ütleme umbes või jätame välja". Tulemus on huvitav, aga mitte just alati loogiline. Mõnda aega lugesin kaht raamatut paralleelselt ja lahutasin võrdlemisega meelt, aga siis jäi eestikeelne siiski kõrvale.
Nii palju tõlkest. Raamat ise, originaalis, on põnev lugemine põnevast ajast. Muidugi ei saa sealt Venemaa revolutsiooni kohta teada kõike - mitte kuskilt ei saa. Aga huvitavaid kilde isemoodi nurga alt on seal küllaga. Lockhart on hoogne ja sädelev kirjamees, terase silma ja suurepärase huumorimeelega, nii et lugemine on puhas nauding. Jube tore oleks, kui see raamat nüüd uuesti eesti keelde tõlgitaks.
Nii palju tõlkest. Raamat ise, originaalis, on põnev lugemine põnevast ajast. Muidugi ei saa sealt Venemaa revolutsiooni kohta teada kõike - mitte kuskilt ei saa. Aga huvitavaid kilde isemoodi nurga alt on seal küllaga. Lockhart on hoogne ja sädelev kirjamees, terase silma ja suurepärase huumorimeelega, nii et lugemine on puhas nauding. Jube tore oleks, kui see raamat nüüd uuesti eesti keelde tõlgitaks.
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