Page:An Historical Essay on the Livery Companies of London.djvu/20

 of London sent all the same number of Companies, consisting together of 1,500 men, to be mustered in Greenwich Park before the Queen, 800 whereof were pikemen in high armour, 400 harquebusers in coats of mail and helmets, and 200 halberdiers in German rivets. These troops were attended by twenty-eight whifflers, richly dressed, and led by the twelve principal Wardens of the aforesaid Corporations, well mounted, and dressed in black velvet, with six ensigns in white satin, faced with black sarsnet and rich scarves.

The Companies, from their wealth and abundant entertainments, became sources of attraction to those who loved the good things of life.

The Election Feasts in the Halls were especially grand, and were partaken of by Royalty and by the first nobility. These Feasts took place after the ceremonies, when the newly-elected Master and Wardens were "crowned with garlands on their heads." Then followed the "Loving Cup," as is still the custom; next the Minstrels and Players.

Various were the delicacies stored above the Salt at the Feasts, including the "Mighty Baron," "Frumentie with Venison," "Brawn Fat," Swan, "Boar," Conger, and Sea Hog.

The Salt or Salt Cellar was a large piece of plate forming a division between the upper and lower parts of the Table. To be seated above the Salt was a mark of honor, and our ancestors seem often to have placed persons below it in order to mortify them.

During the Feasts the Halls were "aromatized" with a precious Indian wood.

Mention has been made of the introduction of females to the Membership of the Companies. They appear also to have enjoyed the festivities at which they were allowed to be present. The Grocer's ordinances in 1348 show that the "brethren" could introduce their fair acquaintance on paying for their admission.