Our expedition is supposed to leave tomorrow. I’m pleased with the guns that the mysterious Miss Krux has financed so generously. I’m less pleased with the quality of the hats that my hat maker sent to me. The felt is a tad scratchy and I’m worried how the material will hold up when it comes into the inevitable contact with sweat. My valet has ordered some hats from an Australian company which has an excellent reputation for hats that can endure the most daring adventure. One thing’s for sure – I'm not willing to leave London without proper head wear.

July 5, 1919

Eureka! New hat shipment has arrived – excellent quality felt and a rather dashing look. Told Challenger that I’m ready to leave.

A most unwelcome arrival in the Lost World. We were attacked by head-hunters and escaped at the last minute in the balloon. But most of our equipment is lost forever. We had started to load weapons and other equipment, which is certainly a blessing, but I’m very disturbed about the loss of my line of facial care products. No moisturizer, no eye cream. And we are in a hot and humid environment… I’m very worried about the state of my hair. My chamomile essence shampoo has been my trusty companion on every safari since I was 18. What is to be done?

We are now living with Veronica Layton in her Treehouse. An amazing oasis in this wilderness. She is a very resourceful young woman. Her knowledge of the local flora and fauna is a life saver. She showed me a plant that can reduce puffiness under the eyes in a matter of days. Wonderful product! Miss Krux noticed my improved appearance immediately and made a comment that I looked well-rested. Not sure how serious she was as she said it in a very ironic tone. That woman has a very sharp tongue. But also a most enviable creamy complexion. I wonder what her secret is. I bet she has many secrets. And I for one intend to find out a few. Maybe I should hurry – we might not be stuck here that long.

What a week! I was turned into a vampire, poisoned by Challenger to cure me and Miss Krux called me John for the first time. She was about to shoot me, but nonetheless I was kind of touched. Is she warming up to me? I atttribute it to my new conditioner which adds a special shine to my hair that is bound to impress even a woman of fire and steel.

Returned from a trip into the mountains with Marguerite. What an adventure! Facing death took on a whole new meaning when we encountered Osric.

I have been thinking a lot about my hair. The constant fights that we are getting into make me question the hair style I have adopted for so many years. The rather long hair looks stylish and women love to run their fingers through my dark curls (I could swear that while we were in that tent even Marguerite was sorely tempted), but whenever I’m in a fight and I’m not wearing my hat, it is constantly in my eyes. Visual impairment can be life-threatening in the Lost World. But a new hair style is such a major decision and I don’t have the usual team of stylists that helps me solve important coiffure questions. I’m losing a lot of sleep about this matter. Those dark shadows under my eyes are not very becoming. I have to find a solution to the hair problem or I might age prematurely. Just when Marguerite and I are getting closer... I certainly don't want to be found wanting when she compares me to those strapping young Zanga warriors that constantly show up at the Treehouse!

On to Part 2