The Henson Journals

[123]

1st Sunday after Epiphany, January 13th, 1918.

1259th day

The post brought me a very kindly worded letter from Mr Walter Long, which was the more welcome since he may fairly be regarded as an excellent example of the country gentleman, a class of some importance in the diocese of Hereford. Dr Mackarness writes civilly from Oxford:–

"I have just received a circular inviting my signature to a protest to the Abp. of Canterbury against your forthcoming consecration to the See of Hereford. I have no intention of signing it."

It is evident that the enemy is busily at work, but, perhaps, the fact that a petition to the Archbishop is being signed argues a consciousness that nothing effective can be done at my Confirmation. The "Spectator" has some justly severe observations on the circulation of a leaflet in the diocese of Hereford inviting prayer against my consecration, & suggesting the collect for St Matthias' Day as a suitable prayer! I suppose there will be many petitions signed in the churches today after appropriate discourses!

Cruickshank re–appeared after a month's absence. He came to see me, and read most of the letters from bishops which have come to me. He had not realized the possible developments of the agitation against my Consecration. We discussed the chances of the appointment to this Deanery. Headlam and Hobhouse appear to be the two likeliest candidates, & of these the last is said to lead. But I incline to think that Headlam would make the better Dean. He would stand up for the Foundation against these Church Reformers, & make a good fight.

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