January 1929

The RAF decides to bring Lawrence back from India. On 8 January he flies to Lahore, and four days later boards the SS Rajputana for England. During the voyage he finishes three more Books of the Odyssey.

February 1929

Lawrence is taken off the ship at Plymouth in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid the press. He spends much of his month's leave in London, while the storm of publicity gradually subsides. 

March 1929

Lawrence completes the purchase of Clouds Hill. On 8 March he arrives at RAF Cattewater near Plymouth, his new posting. He had first met the Commanding Officer, Sydney Smith, during the Cairo Conference, and the two are already friends. Lawrence's clerical duties include working as Sydney Smith's personal assistant during the organisation of the 1929 Schneider Trophy seaplane contest.

September 1929

The Schneider Trophy event takes place at Calshot. In recognition of their hard work, Lawrence and Sydney Smith are presented with a Biscayne Baby speedboat, soon renamed The Biscuit. However, the press spot Lawrence at Calshot and he is again in the public eye, Furious, the Government minister responsible for the Air Force orders him to avoid all publicity, and to keep away from some of his more famous friends.

October 1929

Lawrence has seven weeks' leave, most of which he spends in London working on the Odyssey.