The Henson Journals

[90]

Monday, June 30th, 1924.

The reunion of clergy whom I have myself ordained in this diocese was carried through without mishap. I celebrated the Holy Communion at 11.30 a.m. and, so far as I could see, everybody communicated. Lunch followed, & was a cheerful meal: then we spent the afternoon in the garden, playing games &c, until tea, after which there was Evensong in the chapel, & I said a few words to the men: after this they went their way. Sykes was the only "official"; & to him I confided the dolorous business of John.

Brereton from the Barnard Castle School arrived in hot haste about 6 p.m. to consult me about a situation which had developed. That unpleasant fellow, Bircham, and his Papist ally Wiseman are making mischief over the appointment of a chaplain. I fear that they have the letter of the scheme on their side.

Then I motored to Durham, and dined with J. G. Wilson to meet the High Sheriff. The company consisted of Sir Hedworth Williamson, Captn Appleby, Judge Greenwall, the Governor of the Prison, Sir Frank Brown, his son, myself, & Wilson. It was a pleasant party enough, but all belonging to that older world, which is passing. I returned to Auckland about 10.15 p.m. For the last time my William motored me over the familiar road we have traversed together so many times. Tomorrow ends our fellowship.

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