The Henson Journals

[76]

Tuesday, December 11th, 1917.

1226th day

I started the day by filling up the new sugar cards for the household. Then I attended the meeting of the economic committee in the Dining room. Colonel Blackitt attended, and made much illuminating comment on our draft report. He brought with him the pay–sheet from his colliery, and showed us that every conceivable circumstance of the miner's work was taken into consideration in the process of determining the wage which he should receive. I had not supposed that so carefully calculated and equitable a system had been established in this county. There can be no doubt that an irrational & almost irremovable suspicion in the minds of the men is the real source of our economic conflicts. The actual grievances could be removed with patience & goodwill. Hadow and Blackitt stayed to lunch. Both of them in different ways expressed regret at my impending departure. The Bishop of Jarrow was very emphatic in his personal regret, but thought I could do no otherwise than go. I attended Evensong in the Cathedral, and then was motored by Mr Robson to Blaydon on the Tyne, where I gave away certificates, and made a speech on education, at the secondary School. The building in which the function took place was low–pitched, and crowded to excess. I think the people were pleased at my coming to them. We returned to Durham by motor, & I was back in the Deanery by 10 p.m.

The "Times" has an announcement that the Bishoprick of Hereford has been offered to the Dean of Durham!

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