Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Continued and heavy showers. Visited William Holland; not in.

Mr White, Inspector of Nuisances called about the pond. He wanted to see Adkins who is away from home to day.

The Misses Lamb of Burdrop, sisters of Arthur Lamb called on me at the beginning of the week and said they were very sorry to hear that their brother had behaved so ill about the pond; that the plan adopted by the R.S.A. on the recommendation of myself and the Inspector ought to have been carried out. They wished I had sent a “paper” round the parish for the signatures of those approving of the plan. They thought a majority would have signed it.

They gave me 10/- for the funds of the Brass Band, which I paid to the Treasurer in the Practice room this evening.

Visited Thomas Wilks, Widow Bond, David Hone senior.

Whit Sunday.

William Webb came to visit his parents last night and was at Church this morning in his soldier’s uniform. His father seems very well satisfied with his account of himself.

Attended Choir Practice this evening.

Whit Monday. Divine Service at 9.15.

Rain from 9.30 am all day.

Whit Tuesday. Divine Service at 9.15.

Visited Ainge senior, Thomas Lively, John Horsman.

Administered Holy Communion to Thomas Wilks, his wife and his son Frank.

Mr Ommanney called and saw the pond.

Received letter from Dr Hole telling me of his resignation of Trinity Church, Cape Town and of his having been asked to allow himself to be nominated as Bishop of Natal in succession to Bishop Colenso. Owing to the legal difficulties between the Church of England in South Africa and the South African Church, which is in full communion with the former but declines to accept those decisions of the Courts at home which are binding on the Churchof England, the Archbishop and Bishops have already declined to consecrate to the See of Natal vacant by the death of Dr Colenso. Hole has replied that he will not allow himself to be nominated, but that if the Church Council choose to nominate him and obtain the promise of the Archbishop of Canterbury etc to consecrate him, he will consider it an indication of God’s will that he should accept the charge. I think he has answered wisely. He says they will leave for England in July next.

Attended Board of Guardians at Banbury.

Called on Canon Payne on my way back. he opened the door to me, so he is much better than he was.

He purpose starting on his usual summer yachting cruise next Wednesday.