The Roadmender (3) - The Resting Place

Margaret had expressed a desire to be buried in Shermanbury churchyard but for some reason this proved impractical and Ashurst, a few miles away over the fields, was chosen. Although Margaret may not have known St.James church at Ashurst it seems unlikely this choice would have disappointed. The church lies hidden away half a mile off the Steyning to Partridge Green road along a winding narrow lane.

At the back of the quiet churchyard, set somewhat apart, stands a simple wooden cross marking Margaret’s resting place. It bears  a quotation, chosen by Mary Dowson, her literary executor, from Julian of Norwich’s “Revelations of Divine Love”.  This volume had been a final gift from Margaret to Mary. The inscription reads:-
“LO, HOW I LOVED THEE”.



The dedication carved into hardwood panels in  distinctive Arts & Crafts style lettering reads:-

R I P
MARGARET FAIRLESS DOWSON
AGED 33
DIED AUG.2  1901


It is now in an advanced state of weathering and, before long it seems, time will take its inevitable toll . . . . .

The Roadmender (4) - 91 Cheyne Walk.