The Henson Journals
Thu 15 November 1900 to Wed 21 November 1900
Volume 14, Pages 414 to 416
[414]
Thursday, November 15th, 1900.
The morning post brought me a very kindly–expressed letter from Mr Talbot. He undertakes to inquire into 'this strange & unexplained delay': & promises every assistance in his power to me as Rector. For the rest I worried through the day wearily enough. I am the worst waiter in the world. Mr Talbot speaks thus of my new position:–
'You have indeed a great place to fill, probably (short of the highest) there are none greater in the English Church – with the double duty of ministering to an important congregation (with a few really poor people) & of taking part in the conduct of the Abbey, for which I see you share my enthusiasm'.
Lewis sent me a kind letter.
[415]
On Friday, the 16th Nov:, I travelled to Oxford in the same carriage with the Rector of Exeter, & Mrs Jackson.
On Saturday, the 17th, the official announcement of my appointment appeared. Harry Ramsey stayed in college with me from Saturday to Monday.
On the 23rd Sun: after Trinity, Nov: 18th, I dined in Hall at Trinity with the President, & afterwards spoke to the undergraduates about their Mission in Stratford.
On Monday, Nov. 19th, came to town, & went at once to Westminster; called on Armitage Robinson, and had an interview with Robins, the sole surviving curate.
On Tuesday, Nov. 20th went to Evensong at the Abbey, called on Mr Hunt, the Rector's Churchwarden, had tea with the Dean, & more talk with the curate. On these three days I received 115 letters of congratulation & answered them all.
On Wednesday, Nov. 21st, I received a cutting from the 'Daily News' of yesterday, containing a long & not unfriendly review of "Church Problems". I received a dozen more letters of congratulation, wh. brings up the number to 127.
[416]
O God, the Holy Ghost, most blessed Comforter of Christian Souls, look with compassion on me at this time. I am so miserably bound by sin & infirmity that I almost despair of myself. Vain exultation uplifts me at success, however undeserved, I dare to rejoice at the burden of new duties. Have mercy on me, & visit my heart with Thy cleansing, consecrating graces. Give me humility and submission to Thy Will. Purify my motives, chasten & restrain my ambitions, quicken my conscience, direct my understanding, kindle my heart. Come to me for guidance & dedication. I give myself up to Thy government from this hour.
Come, Holy Ghost, my soul inspire.