The Henson Journals

[95]

8th Sunday after Trinity, July 21st, 1918.

1448th day

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I preached in Holy Trinity with effort and pain, but without a collar, my throat being swathed in a kind of stock, composed of pocket–handkerchief &c. secured by "safety pins". I must have looked rather a terrifying guy, not to say even an episcopal scare–crow!

We lunched with the Moores, with whom was the Bishop of Birmingham. His Lordship was in a physically dilapidated state. He gave an ill account of his lawless clergy, some of whom wd appear to be introducing "Benediction". The doctor was rather alarming about this abominable evil in my neck, which he now describes as a carbuncle, and suggests may require surgical treatment. Besides the personal inconvenience there is the dislocation of my engagements for the next month. He says this indicates that I have "run down" badly, & been working for some while past under condition. It is, I suppose, the aftermath of all the bother since the outbreak a "Catholick" hostilities!

The only consolation is the news from France, which continues to be good. Foch's stroke has compelled the Germans to withdraw across the Marne; & he claims besides 20,000 prisoners, and about 400 guns. It is evident that the Americans, young, keen men, are having a notable effect in a campaign in which all the other armies are "stale" and largely middle–aged. The effect in Germany itself can hardly be unimportant, & may even be critical.

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