Temple stands on
one side and I on the other; but this does not impair my respect
for a man who is ready to "lose the world for an idea"--even though
that idea be erroneous and Impracticable.
To "lose the world" may seem too strong a phrase for the occasion,
but it is not in substance inappropriate. Mr. Temple has all the
qualifications which in our Established Church lead on to fortune.
He has inherited the penetrating intelligence and the moral fervour
which in all vicissitudes of office and opinion made his father
one of the conspicuous figures of English life. Among dons he was
esteemed a philosopher, but his philosophy did not prevent him
from being an eminently practical Head Master. He is a vigorous
worker, a powerful preacher, and the diligent rector of an important
parish. Of such stuff are Bishops made. There is no shame in the
wish to be a Bishop, or even an Archbishop, as we may see by the
biographies of such prelates as Wilberforce and Tait and Magee,
and in the actual history of some good men now sitting on Episcopal
thrones. But Mr. Temple has proved himself a man capable of ideals,
and has given that irrefragable proof of sincerity which is afforded
by the voluntary surrender of an exceptionally favoured position.
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