[John Sugden, Bishop of Selsey.] Two Autograph Letters Signed ('John Sugden Bishop of Selsey. | (in the Ref. Ep. Ch.)') to Herbert Pentin

Both items in good condition, on lightly-aged paper. Both addressed to 'My dear Mr Penton'. ONE (18 July 1891): 4pp., 8vo. He begins by explaining the American origins of the Reformed Episcopal Church. 'I am not sure that I grasp your meaning as to "whether there is a full Episcopate in England". I may however say that there is an ample supply of Bishops properly consecrated and duly qualified to perpetuate the Episcopate in an orderly manner.' After discussing 'dress' he continues: 'The little Bishop of Selsey is "used". I generally sign Ecclesl. documents thus, and my Correspondents so designate me at their pleasure.' He discusses the diocese of Selsey, and differences between his and the established church: 'Happily we are Free and not under state control.' He concludes in the hope that 'no differences of polity, discipline or even opinion (where opinion does not contradict the great verities of the divine Word) will estrange those who love our Blessed Lord'. TWO (24 July 1891): He was pleased to read Pentin's reference in his last letter 'to the Rev. W. H. Stent a most worthy man and one of good abilities, a faithful minister of Christ. He was in my Jurisdiction and joined the Estabd Ch. in which I hope & pray that he may be blest & made a blessing.' The letter continues with references to 'Sherren of Weymouth', ecclesiastical dress, the 'Coadjutor Bishop', Dr Gregg, 'Episcopal Autographs'. 'I do not regard the Ref. Ep. Ch. as a Schism. Schism, as I understand it, is a rent or factious division within a Church, [...]'. He is 'sorry to hear just now that Bp. G. is under a cloud'. 'When the jurisdiction of Selsey was allotted to me, I did not change my usual signature, and my Bank account is still in my family name. It is however fit and proper that a Bishop should be sescribed by his See ("sedes"). It may interest you to know that at theh close of next month I terminate the 15th. year of my Episcopate, a voluntary, & perfectly unremunerated office.'