Hammond of Threshfield

At the parish church of Linton near Grassington is a brass memorial to one Thomas Hammond of Threshfeild Hall (sic). It explains that he died on 24th March, 1685 and that he was buried on 27th March 1686. That seems an awful long time to have a cadaver waiting around before its interment. Some informed readers will know that New Year’s Day was once the 25th March rather 1st of January, which only changed in 1752. Thus, our friend Mr Hammond waited only three days for his burial, not a year. When his spirit arrived on the other side, be that in hades or paradise, the year, month or day mattered not. In eternity, there is no time, no defined measurement of duration or tenure of existence. The duration of the earth’s journey around the sun is not relevant, and neither is the day upon which the nations agree to alter their calendars. It is only Mr Hammond's relationship with Christ that will bear any relevance on events beyond 24th day of March, 1685/6.

Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing,
passing from you and from me;
shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming,
coming for you and for me.

O for the wonderful love he has promised,
promised for you and for me!
Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon,
pardon for you and for me.

-Will Thompson (1880)