The Henson Journals

[139]

Thursday, February 22nd, 1923.

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I revised finally the Article, & then sent it to Harold Cox with an explanatory letter. Then I wrote to the Archbishop of Canterbury on the question of procedure in the House of Bishops.

After lunch Clayton and I motored into Durham, where I had an interview with Jones, and Trotman (an Ordination candidate). Colonel Bowes came to see me about the affairs of C.F.B. I had tea with the Cruickshanks, & then returned to Auckland.

My decision in Jones's case was more merciful than defensible: but the pig–headed fellow doesn't realize the magnitude of the catastrophe in which his folly is plunging him. I gave him a month's grace. If he behaves himself, and obeys his Vicar: then he may continue in the parish. If, however, he fails to do so, he must not only be given the statutory notice, but his licence must be revoked. I wonder how far Jones is representative of the younger Anglo–Catholics.

He exhibits a blending of Socialism and Socerdotalism, which is sufficiently arresting. The first contributes a complete contempt of authority; the last contributes an enormous arrogance. He repudiates all subordination: and claims a personal infallibility. And he is a very ignorant and inexperienced young man, emerging from a narrow home and a Nonconformist milieu. The weakness of his Vicar has completed the mischief which these ill circumstances have fostered.

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