The Henson Journals

[12]

Friday, June 4th, 1920.

I received a letter from Linton Smith, the Suffragan Bishop of Warrington, informing me that Hereford had been offered to him, & making a series of inquiries. I replied to this letter without delay. Also, a letter from Ernest came with some characteristic reflections. He adds: "You will get a warm welcome from the laity; and if ever you feel inclined to vilipend Ll.G., remember that now (as before) he held out like a man." This means, I presume, that their Graces were hostile.

The Archdeacon came in, and I had to tell him of my approaching departure. He professed considerable regret. After lunch I walked with the Dean.

Ella and I motored to Withington, where I dedicated a Memorial Cross, and gave an address to the parishioners. The fineness of the weather, & the beauty of the village, with its fine tower & spire showing above the trees, made the scene very beautiful. We gave old Mr Lea & his bicycle a lift home to Lugwardine, where we walked round the Vicarage garden, & were laden with flowers. We were back in the Palace in good time for dinner. These functions have a rather hollow feeling now that I know myself to be as it were coming before the people under false pretences! However I must reconcile myself to this state of involuntary hypocrisy for some days yet, possibly for some weeks!

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