The Henson Journals

[91]

4th Sunday after Trinity, July 1st, 1917.

1063rd day

A most beautiful morning, bright and fresh. If only this cloud of carnage were lifted from our lives, how happy we might still be! But now it seems a base thing to be at home in security, while the young are being sent to the shambles abroad. Usquequo, Domine [for how long Lord]? My letter on "The Clergy & Military Service" appears in the "Spectator", where it is accompanied by three other letters, of which two are from Chaplains strongly supporting my view of the question, and one, which is anonymous, sets forth the "priestly" view. I cannot believe that the latter can be other than repulsive to most healthy–minded Englishmen.

I celebrated at 8 a.m. Service very restful and yet moving. After breakfast, we motored to West Hartlepool, and I preached in S. Paul's church to a large congregation. After lunch George brought me the form of apprenticeship which had been sent to his father. It seemed to need an amendment, so I decided to return it myself to Lawrence Holt. I attended Evensong, and afterwards motored to Bearpark, & preached in the parish church. Edgar Dobbie went with me. I gave him "Redgauntlet" as a douceur for carrying my bag. The High Sheriff, Cyril Liddell, came to dinner: & afterwards Meade–Falkner came in. He is rather depressing about the War, of which indeed he says that he can see no probable end for years to come. I walked with these good people as far as the gate, & saw them safely out of the College.

---