CHAPTER IX.
The Stanhope Family It is now three months since Dr.Proudie began his reign, and changes have already been effected in the diocese which show at least the energy of an active mind.

Among other things absentee clergymen have been favoured with hints much too strong to be overlooked.

Poor dear old Bishop Grantly had on this matter been too lenient, and the archdeacon had never been inclined to be severe with those who were absent on reputable pretences, and who provided for their duties in a liberal way.
Among the greatest of the diocesan sinners in this respect was Dr.
Vesey Stanhope.

Years had now passed since he had done a day's duty, and yet there was no reason against his doing duty except a want of inclination on his own part.

He held a prebendal stall in the diocese, one of the best residences in the close, and the two large rectories of Crabtree Canonicorum and Stogpingum.