Gwynne spent the first week of August in London beginning to come to terms with his new appointment. He then returned to France to set up his office. The principal chaplain, the Reverend Dr J. Simms, had his office in Hesdin whilst Gwynne's office was to be in St Omer, about forty kilometres away. He then began the round of visits to chaplains and to military headquarters that was to occupy much of his time. He also noted the visits he received. Anglican chaplains paid regular calls on him. He also recorded visits by bishops and other leaders of the Church of England. At the end of the month, he returned to London for a meeting at the WO about the new Anglican Consultative Committee on Chaplains. There are a number of references to the war at sea.

1 August

Had a quiet Sunday with Dick, including a blessed time at the Holy Communion. Dick1 preached very helpful sermon on, ‘Who shall show us any good? Lift then thy countenance upon us.’ After lunch Dick and I strolled down to Mawbyns and saw the Cassons, Henry Wilson and Percy. I preached in the Evening on, ‘The Burden of the Lord’, and how religion had become a burden to so many, a burden of love. After supper Dick and I had a delightful stroll in the Park.

2 August

Said my prayers in the Park before breakfast and had a blessed time. Howell came in his small car and took me to Dunmow. By the 10.17 train. Saw C.G. and MacPherson* at the War Office and took the latter to the Club and gave him lunch after getting all the information I wanted for the work in France. Helped the C.G. to write his letter to Brade about the proposed staff. Walked through S. James’ Park for exercise and wrote a few letters before dinner with the C.G. at 7.30.

Took a turn in the Park before dinner in the rain. Had a talk with Allen Edwards and the Bishop of Newcastle in the Club and after prayer went to my room.

Howell told me this morning that National Service was in the air and that Carson was dining with ‘K’ tonight to talk it over. May God guide them in their Councils.