The Henson Journals

[197]

Friday, March 15th, 1918.

1320th day

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Mr Purcell, the Rector of Morville, is an unmarried Irishman, strong to look at & well–built, but with a weak heart, & subject to attacks of neuritis. After breakfast he shewed me his church, which is interesting, a Norman nave & tower. A font possibly pre–Conquest & an archaic chest are noteworthy. I visited the parish school, & talked to the children. Then I went to Aldenham Park, the seat of Lord Acton, now let to Mr Barber–Starkie, & visited the fine library, now empty of books. I was told that the late Lord Acton left his affairs in great confusion, & his estate heavily mortgaged. He would neither pay bills nor answer letters, with calamitous consequences to his successor. Purcell was eloquent on the ill–behaviour of Father Frere & another "Catholick" parson, who stayed in the parish, & scandalized the villagers by not attending Divine service on Sunday. The inn in Morville is said to be comfortable. "Father" Figgis has patronized it, a fact that may certify the victuals! Mrs Barber–Starkie sent me in to Bridgenorth, by the motor. There Clarke–Maxwell shewed me the town, which is extremely picturesque. The view over the Valley of the Severn from the Castle is superb. Charles I is said to have described it as the noblest in his dominions. Baxter's house, a humble but picturesque dwelling, is near S. Leonard's Church. The house where Bishop Percy was born is now used as a soup–kitchen. I confirmed 125 persons, & then returned to Hereford, where I arrived around 8.30 p.m. The journey from Droitwich to Hereford was relieved by the company & conversation of Mr Trevor Lloyd, a 2nd Lieutenant, who lives in these parts, & was going home for a holiday.

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