The Henson Journals

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2nd Sunday after Easter, April 26th, 1914. Stratford–on–Avon.

A most glorious spring morning, with cloudless sky brilliant sun, fresh green trees, & birds singing like angels at a festival. I went to church, & received the Holy Communion at 8 a.m.

There was a great congregation at Mattins. The clergy & choir met the Mayor's procession at the West door, & there I shook hands with the Mayor. There was close attention to the sermon, which (if I may judge from sundry observations addressed to me later) seemed to give satisfaction. One incident attracted my notice, as indeed was probably intended. A man sitting near the chancel screen rose, as soon as I had taken my place in the pulpit, and left the church with much display of deliberation. I was informed that he was de Winton's brother! Presumably the poor creature thought he was striking a blow for the "Catholick" church, by being rude to the Dean of Durham!

In the afternoon I motored to Great Comberton (?) [sic] to fetch Peile who was to preach at Evensong. The road lay through beautiful country, rich in blossoming orchards & gardens radiant with flowers. I had tea with Peile & his wife. We motored back to Stratford: & he preached rather a dull sermon at Evensong.

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