The Henson Journals
Sun 7 July 1929
Volume 48, Pages 188 to 189
[188]
6th Sunday after Trinity, July 7th, 1929.
THANKSGIVING FOR THE KING'S RECOVERY
A calm, over–clouded morning and warm, of doubtful omen. Before getting up I finished the 3rd volume of Mackinnon's book. The conference at Marburg in October 1529 – just 4 centuries ago – showed Luther at his worst.
I celebrated the Holy Communion in the Chapel at 8 a.m. There were 15 communicants including Lord Chelmsford, Miss Headlam, William & his newly–confirmed wife, Rufus, Elland & his wife & son. The Gospel, with its message. "If thy brother hath ought against thee" connected itself inevitably with Hodgson. I don't think it would be true to say that he has ought against me, for his attack was causeless, & such injury as it may do me in the public mind in quarters where there is no knowledge of the facts may be considerable, but so far as I am concerned, must remain unredressed. It would be intolerable for me, the Bishop, to embark on a public discussion with him.
[189]
We all motored to Durham for the Thanksgiving service, which was numerously attended. I made all possible effort to make myself audible, but I fear without complete success. The Mayor and Corporation were present, and the boys of the School, but, term being over, the students of the University were absent. On the whole I thought the service was well–arranged, impressive, and (so far as could be felt and seen) edifying. Afterwards we all went to Ramside, and lunched with the Pembertons. Both the girls, Penelope and Betty, were there, and Penelope's child, Charles, a pretty little cheerful boy of 3½.
Kenneth came to tea, & afterwards went with Lionel and me to S. Ignatius, Sunderland, where I preached at Evensong in place of the Bishop of Oxford, who had been required to preach in his own Cathedral at the Thanksgiving Service. There was a large congregation, and a hearty service. My sermon was listened to attentively. After service I had a few words with an Ordination candidate of whom Baily spoke in terms of warm commendation. We returned to Auckland Castle on the conclusion of the service.