Page:Over fen and wold; (IA overfenwold00hissiala).pdf/177

 *

with fine old stained glass, on a bit of which we discerned the date 1515. The bench-ends are good. As well as these we had pointed out to us in its original position the pre-Reformation altar-stone, distinguished by the usual five crosses upon it. At one side of the altar was an ancient "cope-chair, in this the priest sat down, his cope covering the chair, and from it he blessed the congregation. There were formerly two of these chairs, but one was stolen"! Then we were shown a rare old wooden alms-box of the fifteenth century; this was bound round with iron.

In the quaint old audit room over the hall, where we went next, painted on a wooden panel set in the centre end of the wall we found the following ancient inscription, commencing in Latin and ending in English:—

Haec Domus Eleemosynaria fundata Fuit a Guilielmo Browne Anno Don̄i 1495. Anno Regio Henrici VII Decimo

This structure new contains twelve habitations Which shall remain for future generations For old and poore, for weake and men unhealthy. This blessed house was founded not for wealthy. Hee that endowed for aye and this house builded. By this good act hath to sinne pardon yielded. The honour of the country and this towne Alas now dead his name was William Browne. Be it an house of prayer and to diuine Duties devoted else not called mine.

Ten old men and two old women are boarded and cared for here, we learnt; the women having to act