LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Doctors of Divinity Snt,—With the greatest diffidence one questions Professor Hodgson's reply to Mr. Hugh Ross Williamson's letter. In that reply there surely is implied that some examination is made into the intellectual attain- ments of those who apply for these degrees, and that an applicant's scholarly learning is substantiated by some kind of objective evidence, such as published books, contributions to learned journals or, at the least, weighty and informing utterances spoken in public tending to the increase of learning. The phrases "well qualified on grounds of learn- ing" and "concerned to maintain the standard of the degree" do seem to suggest this. It may indeed be so, and, if it is, the minds of those who imagine these degrees are given as rewards for reaching high ecclesiastical office, or for pastoral fidelity or administrative efficiency therein, rather than on the ground of intellectual eminence—which may be thought the only proper ground—will be set at rest. The professor also fails to meet Mr. Williamson's point as to publication.—
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