The Henson Journals

[182]

Thursday, April 3rd, 1930.

The Times reports that Mr Justice Bennett, in default of appearance by the defendant made an order that the Bishop of Birmingham should admit & license to the benefice of St Aidan's, Small House, Birmingham, the Rev. G.D. Simmonds, who had been presented by the plaintiffs as patrons of the benefice. It is stated that the Bishop will issue a statement.

Christopher Birney came to lunch. He has decided to stay in England, & prepare for Holy Orders.

Mr H.B. Vaisey K.C. sends me a pamphlet "Establishment, a Plea for its Continuance". He makes much of the argument that the Church would be just as much subject to the State after Disestablishmt as it is now. But surely this is a gross fallacy.

Pattinson and I motored to New Seaham, where I confirmed 102 persons. The old lay–reader, aged 91 was in the Choir, & very anxious to attract my notice. It was, on the whole, a satisfactory confirmation. A hurricane was blowing all the time, and the temperature fell. We were back in the Castle by 9.15 p.m.

---