The Henson Journals

[68]

Tuesday, June 25th, 1918.

1422nd day

I had my hair cut, & then walked into the City & called at St Paul's Deanery, but to no purpose as Ralph was out, and Kitty was taking a day in bed. I lunched at the Athenaeum with Newbolt, and then walked to Westminster for the Church & State Committee. The Bishop of Manchester moved an amendment in favour of the Baptismal Franchise. There was much discussion, and the debate was adjourned. The Bishop of Oxford spoke strongly against, the Bishop of Norwich as strongly for. Temple & Parmoor were also on that side. It was "pretty" to see Gore & his strenuous neophyte Temple on opposite sides. I dined with the Baker–Wilbrahams at 76 Elm Hill Gardens, S.W.10. As I emerged from South Kensington I was seized upon by Dr Troutbeck, who was just getting off by the train eastwards. At dinner were a brother of mine hostess in khaki, Miss Rhoda Williams, a daughter of the redoubtable baronet & an ardent advocate of "Life & Liberty", Mr & Mrs Oldham, Mr Parry, a son of the old bishop of Dover, who confirmed me, and Joyce Baker–Wilbraham. We had a very free & friendly talk about ecclesiastical matters. Mr Parry said that he had met me in Rome in 1886, when Headlam & I were there, & that he had asked Headlam who was the wonderful schoolboy he had with him, & had been greatly amazed when he heard that I was a Fellow of All Souls! On my way back to Suffolk Street, Lang got into the carriage, & travelled with me for the length of two stations. I looked in at the Club, but there were no telegrams.

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