Sunday, April 18, 1920

On our way to church we had a delightful walk along the Thames embankment. Some of us went to hear Dr. Jowett in his own pulpit at Westminster Chapel. It was an inspiring discourse. More than a hundred of our delegates were present, and out of compliment, sang the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” He made reference to Water St. Mission in New York. Dr. Jowett quoted the apologists for drink in England as saying - “Americans can imbibe the radiance of their shining, sparkling skies; but here in England, the wheels move more slowly in this rainy, misty, cloudy weather, unless lubricated by drink.” Perhaps the universal practice of daily hours for drinking tea may have the same object.

In the afternoon, we had our first taste of a real London Fog. At 3 o’clock we attended a special service in Westminster Abbey and went back for the evening service where seats were reserved for us near the Poet’s Corner. The Bishop of Croydon preached what was said to be the first total abstinence sermon ever delivered in the Abbey. He said England would build on America’s shoulders and commended the American Commonwealth for what it had done, and said he believed God had led us on. Afterwards, when we took his hand, he said, he had been working for a Temperance England for fifty years.

We can make no attempt to describe Westminster Abbey, the most treasured possession of the nation. It was the one thing in London we most wanted to see. We understand now, what is meant by the “Gray towers of London.” A report that the great fabric of the Abbey is rotting has caused much excitement among the English and they are asking for $750 000 to save it from decay. King George was one of the earliest subscribers with $5000. and Queen Mary with $2050.