The Henson Journals

[2]

October 24th, 1919.

I worked at a sermon on marriage, and was interrupted by Lilley. Dr Harris from Colwall lunched with me. He wants to get near one of the great libraries in order to complete his work on N.T. criticism. I called on James, & said that I hoped he wd train one of his sons to the ecclesiastical business, so that the clergy might have someone to deal with in his absence. Bannister called to see me. Then I went through a considerable pile of correspondence with Wynne–Willson. Ella returned rather to my surprise.

The "Hereford Times" contains more hostile letters. One writer reminds me that "Hereford has not yet quite become reconciled to D. Henson's appointment". Others, harp on the string that as Mr Lloyd George nominated me to the bishoprick, I must have preached at his instigation and in his interest! As proof positive, it is pointed out that I actually made use of the word "anarchy", which the Prime Minister also used in his letter on the strike! These are difficult times for bishops; & the new Socialism is even less tolerant of independence in preachers than the old democracy.

[3] [symbol]

October 24th, 1919.

Dear Mr Harrison,

It gave me real pleasure to receive your letter, and to know that you approved my sermon. I have to thank you for a bundle of copies of your admirable "Appeal". I have taken measures to secure their distribution in the right quarters. The War has not helped the cause of theological liberty. Indeed the recrudescence of very crude superstitions, and some bigotries which five years ago seemed moribund, are very depressing. But I do my best, and with the better heart when I know that veterans like yourself can understand & sympathize with my efforts.

Believe me. Yours sincerely

H. H. Hereford

Frederic Harrison Esq

[4]

To the Editor of Nash's Weekly.

October 25th, 1919.

Dear Sir,

You shall have the Article in about 3 weeks' time, and I shall be glad enough to accept the honorarium you are good enough to name. The very heavy taxes are immersing Bishops in an Apostolical poverty more wholesome for their souls than for their banking accounts!

Yours v. faithfully

H. H. Hereford

Eveleigh Nash Esq

I worked at the Marriage Sermon all the morning, and finished it. In the afternoon I walked with Bannister. The Archdeacon brought me the regrettable news that Green–Price, the Rector of Pembridge had died. I wrote to his widow. Canon Simpson arrived for the week–end. He has come to preach for the Bible Society, and to address a meeting.

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