On the first stage, so that it could be seen from all parts of the choir, was the feretrum or reliquary of St. Marcel. This chief shrine had on its side shrines of less importance, while, in the background to the north, was the small altar of the Trinity, on which was placed the reliquary of Notre Dame, containing portions of the dress and other relics of the mother of Christ. A few fine tombs were also in the sanctuary, and not far away was a bronze statue of Eudes de Sully. An illustration, partly conjectural, of the choir and sanctuary in the condition which I have attempted to describe from Viollet-le-Duc’s _Dictionnaire_, is reproduced here. It will be seen that while the furniture and ornament of this part of the church is sufficiently splendid, it is nevertheless simple. There would be ample space for the due performance of the great ceremonials which constantly took place. Such was the appearance of the choir and sanctuary until Louis XIV., in fulfilment of the vow of Louis XIII., who had dedicated himself and his kingdom to the Virgin, began his transformation. [Illustration: _Photo_] [_Ed. Hautecœur, Paris._ GRILLE AT ENTRANCE OF CHOIR.] The =Choir= is raised above the body of the church by three steps, and on the right and left hand is enclosed by a low _grille_ in wrought iron with gilding. This rests on a stone foundation, and is terminated towards the centre by two massive columns, on which are hung the gates, which are of very beautiful design, representing conventionalised foliage and flowers. At the top of the gate, in the centre, is a foliated cross. The two bays on the south side of the choir nearest the entrance have the same arrangement of a small pointed window with a rose window beneath it, as exists in the side of the transept immediately adjacent. The remaining windows are in the altered and enlarged form, and the triforium of the choir is similar to, though of earlier date than, that which runs round the nave. [Illustration: _Photo_] [_Ed. Hautecœur, Paris._ THE CHOIR, LOOKING WEST.]