The Henson Journals

[147]

Wednesday, August 13th, 1924.

A wet morning, but soon improving, though clouded and threatening all day long. I wrote my letters, and read through the "Copec" Report on 'Christianity and War' – a very pacifist production.

Bainton, the purblind parson, came to lunch. I counselled him to seek work in another diocese, as my brutal prejudice against blind parsons was insurmountable. He seems intelligent and well–informed, but his infirmity is but too apparent. After lunch, Ernest and I walked round the Park. On my return to the House I wrote several letters. I offered the living of Westgate in Weardale which Greenway is vacating, to Perry, the Rector of St James', Gateshead, but, as the endowment is about £50 less than that which he at present enjoys, I doubt whether he will accept my offer. The shortage of clergy is brought home uncomfortably at this holiday season, when arrangements have to be made for the absence of the incumbents. In the old days these were easily made with neighbours, but now strangers must be hired, & the available hirelings are often enough disreputable. Pember writes to inquire about Collier, the curate of S. Margt's Durham, who was formerly a Bible–clerk of All Souls. There is a college living vacant, which Collier might fill. I wrote in terms of favourable recommendation, but I shall be sorry to lose him from the diocese.

[148]

Mr John Thomas Scott,

6 Quality Row,

Shotton Colliery,

Co Durham

Sir,

I hope you will excuse me in taking the liberty of writing to you. I beg to offer my services as Hangman; my age is 29: I have served in the Navy 3 years during the war as a first class Stoker. I have a particular fancy for the position as Hangman. I hope you will consider my application, & give me a chance as a vacancy occurs. Enclosed please find references.

I have been at the above Colliery for 22 years. From here you can get any particulars you may require.

Thanking you.

I remain,

Yours truly

J. T. Scott.

The enclosed reference declares that Mr Scott is "civil, courteous, and obliging', 'always honest and straightforward in all his dealings', a man who 'placed in any position of trust will give satisfaction to those who placed him there'.

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