The Henson Journals

[106]

Wednesday, March 19th, 1919.

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The weather remained unpityingly hostile all day, nothing but rain. Confirmation candidates came to church in the most uncomfortable circumstances. We motored to Dorrington where, in a squalid 19th century church, I confirmed 24 candidates. The Vicar, Revd E. F. Wayne, was appointed 28 years ago. After lunch we motored to Cound, where I confirmed 26 candidates. The parson, Revd F. H. Bolingbroke, carried my pastoral staff. The Church (S. Peter's) has a modern chancel, & northern aisle. Its distinction is a fine set of 15th century pews. There is also a Jacobean pulpit, & some medieval tiles. The font is ancient & there is an old alms–chest, probably 17th century.Mr Fielden went off to London to confer over the Labour difficulties, which have a very threatening aspect. It seems probable that the first consequence of the War will be to precipitate a conflict of interests within the country, which may easily attain the dimension & acquire the character of civil war. There are forces behind the Labour demands which no reasons can satisfy, & no patriotism can condone. The only question is whether they are dominant.

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