Extract from the Register of the Diocese, relating to the oaths taken for service under the Bishop of Toronto. Possibly handwritten by Reverend John Smithurst.
Place: Guelph [Ontario]
From: A.N. Bethune, Archdeacon of York; Arthur Palmer, Rector of Guelph & Rural Dean; F.L. Osler, Rector of Ancaster cum Dundas & Rural Dean
To: Bishop of Toronto
Delivery: unknown
Details: 4pp (secretarial copy)
Notes: A copy of the report submitted by Bethune, Palmer, and Osler on their inquiry into John Smithurst’s absence from his missionary post at Elora in the county of Wellington in the diocese of Toronto. John Strachan, Bishop of Toronto, requested these men investigate the allegation that Reverend Smithurst abandoned his post without permission. Churchwardens William Reynolds and J.S. Crossman in Elora confirmed that Rev. Smithurst had been largely absent since the end of April, sometimes remaining only a week at a time. The Churchwardens said Rev. Smithurst was unable “to read or preach in a tone of voice audible to all the members of his congregation; but admitted that his bodily health was on the whole vigorous.” Andrew Geddes confirmed the frequent absence of Rev. Smithurst, who is said to have taken up residence in the township of Minto. The report recommends the Bishop demand Rev. Smithurst's resignation.
Bethune, Alexander NeilPlace: Lea Hurst, Minto [Ontario]
From: John Smithurst
To: The C.W, Pewholders and other members of the St. Johns Ch Elora
Details: 4pp
Notes: This document is the rough draft of Reverend Smithurst’s letter of thanks to his congregation for their expression of kindness as he leaves Elora. Addressed to the Church Wardens, Pewholders, and congregation at large of St. John's in Elora, he cites the loss of his voice as one of the reasons for leaving. In a postscript, he says that the bishop [John Strachan] has offered him a compromise on the issue of wages still owing. By accepting this compromise, Smithurst wishes to protect the Church from scandal.
Smithurst, JohnDate: January 1863, Epiphany
Place: Paris, C.W. [Canada West]
From: Adam Townley
To: The Honble and Right Reverend The Lord Bishop of Toronto
Details: 4 pp
Notes: The rough draft of a letter written by Reverend Townley to John Strachan, Bishop of Toronto. In the letter, Rev. Townley respectfully asks for a promotion.
Townley, Adam