separate range of buildings, were the king’s and the queen’s apartments.[76] But notwithstanding this preparation for visitors, and these indirect invitations, it would seem, on the authority of Matthew Paris, that some of the earlier “monarchs came too often, or at least with too cumbrous suites.” The princely state which the Abbots maintained in their style of living, in their table and retinue, partook much more of regal splendour than of religious restriction. The scene, as exhibited on a festal day in the Abbey, is thus effectively sketched by Mrs. Ann Radcliffe:-- ... The stately walls, with tapestry richly dight, Of the <g>Abbot’s</g> banquet-hall, where, as on throne, He sat at the high dais, like prince alone, Save when a Royal guest came here, Or papal Legate claimed a chair. Here marble platforms, flight o’er flight, Slow rising through the long-lined view, Showed tables spread at different height, Where each for different rank he knew. And, with pleased glance adown the hall, Saw Bishops in their far-sought palle, The Abbey’s noble Seneschal; Barons and Earls in gold array, And warrior knights in harness gray. There was the Prior’s delegated sway; The grave Archdeacon sat below, And the hundred Monks in row and row, Not robed in dismal sable they Upon a high and festal day, But all in capes most costly and most gay. There too the Abbey Marshal shone; And there, beside the Abbot’s throne, Chaplain of honour from the Pope alone.” The battles, of which the immediate vicinity of St. Albans has been the theatre, are familiar to every reader of history.[77] In connection with our immediate subject, however, we may briefly advert to them as melancholy contrasts to that peace and religious tranquillity which were supposed to be the cherished inmates of this magnificent sanctuary. [Sidenote: The first { battle. { 1455. { ]