As a relative newcomer(and by the way,thanks to everybody for the warm and genial welcome that I've received),I'll first of all start off by describing my technique,and then see about any further suggestions and/or advice from the rest of the gang.
As I wear what is known as "...a short,boxed beard...",I start by lathering my cheeks with a wet cloth well lubricated by Dove facial soap.This is done twice.Then I lather and rinse twice with Williams shaving soap in a mug,using a badger hair brush.This gets things very soft,and then I use one of Grandpa's straight razors.I find it best if all of the soap(s) is off,so that i can see the edges.
So,would using an oil as the first step eliminate the need for lathering?