63 obtaining information in regard to current affairs we are at present represented by a promoted Arab clerk. I am far from denying the many excellent qualities which this man possesses, but at the same time it is obvious that he must suffer from the normal deficiencies of his origin and training. The temptations placed in his way are enormous and it would be unreasonable optimism to expect him to resist them indefinitely. At the same time it is not surprising that he should be universally disliked on the Coast (this is not his fault but the direct result of his birth). And finally I believe that in a place like the Trucial Coast the prestige of the British Empire can only be successfully maintained by an European official. On this point it is interesting to observe that His Highness the Shaikh of Bahrain expressed identically the same opinion to his advisor in conversation recently. I am prepared to elaborate this argument if necessary but for the present I think it is sufficient to confine myself to a statement of opinion which I know to be share by competent observers. 8. I am afraid the picture I have painted is non too bright and that the proposals which I have made in rough outline involve some little expenditure. But if it is accepted that the Air route and the potential oil resources of the Coast are of real importance, then it is necessary to visualise a clearer policy - and some expenditure on insurance.” 8 How was Sharjah to receive a Political Resident, filled with anger and hate by his deputy towards the Rulers and their subjects especially that there was a state of fury against the English and the project to grant Palestine to the Jews?! There was much talk in people’s gatherings and by preachers in the mosques to expose the scams of the British occupation and warn the Arabs against the establishment of a Jewish State in Palestine. On 18 November 1938, one of the men of the Sheikh of Sharjah gave a speech in a mosque in Dubai about Palestine. It is said that he had accused the British of insulting the Muslims and aiding the Jews. He requested from the Muslims in the emirates to contribute to aiding the poor and needy in Palestine. He collected 280 Rupees in donations. 8 Ibid., pp.90−93 SHARJAH AND PALESTINE
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