Ringing the Changes

In this charming set of reminiscences, the author describes himself as an archaeologist, turning over "abandoned stones" to show us "a forgotten way of life." He takes a nostalgic but realistic look back to an era when travel was by steam train, water was heated by a copper boiler for a weekly bath, and washing a family's clothes was a three-day operation. He relates his story without sentimentality and indeed gives a sobering description of the terrible poverty of some in the nineteen thirties. In the course of describing his adult professional life, having served first in the Navy and then as a rector, the author traces the changes in social and religious life that he has witnessed. This helps us understand how times have moved on and also gives a unique insight into the character of the author who reveals himself to be a warm, modest person with definite but balanced views.