To begin impatiently is the worst mistake a writer can make

The duty of a historian is simply to understand and then convey that understanding, no more than that.

I think it's outrageous if a historian has a 'leading thought' because it means they will select their material according to their thesis

The great help of being in the Army is to understand why are the armies clever in what they describe as emotional intelligence, making soldiers come to terms with the death of comrades by certain rituals.

I just love the days when you come out of the archives with half a dozen excellent descriptions or poignant accounts of personal experiences.

I just write the sort of book that I would enjoy reading myself, a book that is both scholarly and recreates the experience of people at that time.

I joined the Army in 1965 and served with the 11th Hussars, which I loved. The regiment was so relaxed - a salute was more like a friendly wave.