I think he persuaded them, too, that there never could be another Rector equal to Mr.Andrewes.But in reality I believe he was himself more acceptable.
He was much less able, but also less eccentric and reserved.

He was nearer to the mental calibre of his flock, and not above entering into parish gossip after a discreet fashion.

He was not less zealous than his predecessor.
When Aunt Maria came to visit us she gladly renewed acquaintance with Mr.Clerke, who was a great favourite of hers.

I think she imagined that he was presented to Dacrefield on the strength of her approval.
She used to say to me, "You know Reginald, I always told your father that Mr.Clerke was a most spiritual preacher." But after seeing him as Rector of Dacrefield, she added, "He's getting much too 'high.' Quite like that extraordinary creature you had here before.

But it's always the way with young men." Uncle Ascott did not publicly undertake Mr.Clerke's defence, but he told me: "I don't pretend to understand these matters as Maria does, but I can tell you I never liked any of our London parsons as I like Clerke.
There's something I respect beyond anything in the feeling he has for your late Rector.