26 MAY 1950, Page 18

Bishop Henson's Autobiography SIR, —I think your reviewer of Bishop Henson's

third volume has mis- understood the purport of the book. The Bishop, in a letter to me on December 14th, 1944, said: " I am trying to complete a supplemental volume which would round off my Retrospect, and, perhaps, after the manner of St. Augustine's Retractiones, explain in the light of larger knowledge and longer experience some of the judgments and procedures which have perplexed some of my readers. Retractiones does not mean recantations but re-handling. and it is in that light that I use the word."

With regard to the criticism of the Bishop's personality, your reviewer appears to have been unaware of his deep underlying piety and devotion.

—I am, Sir, yours truly, FRANCIS GARDNER-BROWN. The Cottage, Ford, Wiveliscombe.