MGR. BENSON AT PADLEY

ISIR,-In answer to the query of H. J. Kellord I am able to reply that the late Mgr. R. H. Benson did preach at Padley. It was in consequence of that visit that he wrote the novel "Come Rack, Come Rope."
I remember that sermon very well, because at the conclusion of it the preacher was so exhausted that he by on the ground to cool down, and recover his energy. The Guild of Ransom took over the conduct of the annual pilgrimage from about the turn of the century, and continued under the leadership of beloved Fr. Fletcher and Mgr. Filmer, as long as the chapel remained a barn and cattle byre. After its purchase and restoration by the late Mgr. Payne, V.G.. the diocesan authorities became responsible for the annual pilgrimage.
H. A. Hunt (Canon).
Holy Cross, Whitwick, Coalville, Leics.