The Henson Journals

[32]

Friday, October 26th, 1923.

Ralph seemed to think there was something subtle and even sinister about the Archbishop's suggesting that I should address to him a request for explanation. To me, on the contrary, it appeared the most simple and indeed obvious of arrangements, when once I had told him that in my judgement explanation was required, & he had admitted the fact.

The lady, I think her name was Murray, who attacked me after dinner on the subject of "Birth control" appears to be a fanatical missionary of that Gospel. I was not very responsive to her ardour, for the subject is hateful, and these enthusiasts ignore altogether every aspect but the physical & social. That morality itself is concerned does not enter their heads.

Lord S. drove me to King's Cross where I caught the 10 o'clock train for Darlington, where William met me with the car. I found the proofs of my booklet "In defence of the English Church" had arrived. These I corrected & returned.

The Prime Minister himself announced in clear terms his belief in protection, and his intention to make that his policy. America will join a Conference if requested to do so by all the allies. Mr Baldwin makes an earnest appeal to M. Poincaré not to refuse to come into line.

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