4 MAY 1929, Page 22

A MEMORY OF F. D. MAURICE [To the Editor of

the SPECTATOR.] Sia,—Frederick Denison Maurice is so much " in the air" just now, that possibly the following little anecdote may interest your readers. Mr. Maurice was not only a most interesting preacher but what is far rarer, a beautiful reader.

One Sunday a lady who was ascending the step of St. Peter's, Vere Street, met the curate, and asked him if Mr. Maurice was preaching. " No," replied the Curate, " I'm . afraid I am." " Oh I " replied the lady, "I'm so glad." The curate looked pleased. " You see," added the lady, " in that case Mr. Maurice will read the Lessons."

What the curate said did not transpire !—I am, Sir, &c.,