The Henson Journals

[29]

Quinquagesima, February 25th, 1906.

I celebrated at 8 a.m. when there were but 14 commts. The day was bitterly cold, though fine: and by consequence there was much coughing in church to my extreme discomfort. I preached twice, and both times to fairly large congregations, but not very profitably.

Smart, Custard's new deputy, came in to supper. He certainly seems superior in mind & interest to the most part of deputies.

I determined, & on the strength of my determination, I announced, that on Saturday afternoons, I would give a series of short addresses on "Fundamental Christianity".

On Monday, Feb. 26th, I went as part of the deputation from Convocation to present the Address to the King at Buckingham Palace. It was an impressive ceremony. Then I attended a Chapter–meeting: then a committee on the Old Westminster memorial in the Bursary: then I went to 66 Oxford Terrace, and read a paper on "Didactic Reserve". 21 members of C.C.C. attended, & there was rather a good debate.

[30]

On Friday, March 2nd, 1906, I received a note from Mr Birrell's inviting me to an interview on the Education Question. He suggested next Tuesday: but that is an impossible day, as I have to go into the City for the "Golden" Lecture. Dr S. Butcher, the new member for Cambridge University, also wrote expressing a desire to see me on the same matter. I invited him to lunch next week.

On Saturday, March 3rd, 1906, at 4 p.m. I gave the first of a series of Addresses on "Fundamental Christianity". The Church appeared to be quite half filled.

Reporters from "The Times" & "Lloyds Weekly" were present, & clamoured for the MS at the close of the Lecture.

---