The Henson Journals

[139]

Tuesday, December 30th, 1924.

The lines of morality are not like the ideal lines of mathematics. They are broad and deep as well as long. They admit of exceptions: they demand modifications. These exceptions and modifications are not made by the process of logic, but by the rules of prudence. Prudence is not only the first in rank of the virtues political and moral, but she is the director, the regulator, the standard of them all. Metaphysics cannot live without definition; but Prudence is cautious how she defines.

Burke. 'Appeal to the Old Whigs'. iv. 81.

I spent nearly an hour and a half with the dentist: did something more of the Address: read the Greek Testament with Ernest, & walked round the Park in the afternoon. This is a poor record for an unencumbered day.

Lord Muir–Mackenzie sent me a card acknowledging a copy of the Charge – "I have read it with great interest & profit. Like all you write & say it makes one think". Perhaps if one can secure so much as that one's labour is not wholly vain. I sent my annual contribution of £20 to the parochial funds together with a letter to the Vicar. I received a brief letter from William. He seems to be settling down to South African life.

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