It was decided to invite the King and Queen to lay the foundation-stone, as it was the only cathedral likely to be built in this century. The King graciously consented, and fixed the afternoon of July 19th, 1904, for the ceremony, the arrangement being that he was to come down from London in the morning, lunch with the Lord Mayor at the Town Hall, and afterwards lay the foundation-stone; and on the conclusion of the ceremony embark upon the royal yacht in the river to proceed to Cardiff, _en route_ to open the waterworks constructed in South Wales for the supply of Birmingham. The arrangements for the foundation-stone laying required much thought, as my experience has taught me that "functions" are successful only if every detail is well thought out beforehand. Around the foundation-stone a huge amphitheatre of wood was constructed capable of seating 7,000 persons, and in the centre we erected an ornamental dais upon which the King and Queen were received and where they stood during the religious service; and in front of the dais, about thirty feet away, the foundation-stone stood ready for lifting and laying. We also formed a choir of 1,000 voices to take the musical part of the service, led by the band of the Coldstream Guards. The day was beautifully fine and the city splendidly decorated, quite a royal day. Lord Derby and the High Sheriff met their Majesties on their arrival at Lime Street Station, when presentations were made to their Majesties. The King was in the uniform of an Admiral of the Fleet; Lord Derby appeared as Lord-Lieutenant, and uniforms and court dress were worn by the guests. Their Majesties proceeded from the station to the Town Hall, where a very select company was assembled. After luncheon the King knighted the Lord Mayor, who became Sir Robert Hampson. At Lord Derby's request I proceeded to the site to receive their Majesties on their arrival, and afterwards had the honour of presenting the architects and the members of the committee. The service was conducted by the Archbishop of York and the Bishops of Liverpool and Chester. It was grand and majestic, worthy of the occasion. Most of the bishops of the northern province were present in their robes, and also about 300 of the clergy. At the conclusion of the service the King expressed to me his great satisfaction, and the Queen did the same, adding that the music was beautifully rendered. Everything passed off well, but during the service heavy banks of clouds began to gather, and the royal party had scarcely left the site when the rain fell. [Illustration: THE LADY CHAPEL, LIVERPOOL CATHEDRAL.] CONSECRATION OF THE LADY CHAPEL.