The Henson Journals

[10]

4th Sunday after Easter, April 28th, 1918.

1364th day

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A brilliantly fine day, after the morning mists had been dispelled by the sun, but a bitter easterly wind blowing all the while, and withering everything. I preached in Free St George's at 11 a.m. There was a considerable congregation, and very attentive. Mine hostess expressed more than once her appreciation of the sermon. Old Mr Barbour of Bonskeid was in the vestry, & reminded me of my visit in 1890 with Raleigh. Also, Mr & Mrs Geddes, the Minister at Largs, who had met me at Fairlie. In the afternoon mine host took me for walk, and then Sir Richard Lodge came to tea, and talked pleasantly. At 6.30 p.m. I preached in S. Cuthbert's to a great congregation. Fisher and another minister conducted the service. I was particularly struck by the singing, which was not only very "hearty", but, unless I was mistaken, deliberately intentioned. At both services I wore my Convocation robes, and at both I took the impression that these good Presbyterians are gratified at my doing so! We have travelled far from the days of Jenny Geddes. My sermon in the morning took 33 minutes in delivery, and in the evening I think the sermon was slightly longer. But on both occasions he congregations were very attentive, & showed no sign of being bored. Willie Murray left a note for me. I telephoned to the New Club to tell him that I would be leaving Edinburgh tomorrow by the 10 o'clock express. Mine host talked interestingly about his experiences as a Professor in Tokio.

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