After the offertory, a carpet was spread on the steps before the altar,
the alms-knights, pursuivants, and heralds stationing themselves on
either side of it. The Garter then descended from his seat, and waving
his rod, the knights-companions descended likewise, but remained
before their stalls. The black-rod next descended, and proceeding
towards the altar, a groom of the wardrobe brought him a small carpet
of cloth of gold, and a cushion of the same stuff, which were placed on
the larger carpet, the cushion being set on the head of the steps.
Taking a large gilt bason to receive the offerings, the prelate stationed
himself with one of the prebends in the midst of the altar. The king
then rose from his stall, and making a reverence as before, proceeded
to the altar, attended by the Garter, register, and chancellor, together
with the Duke of Richmond bearing the sword; and having reached the
upper step, prostrated himself on the cushion, while the black-rod
bending the knee delivered a chain of gold, intended afterwards to be
redeemed, to the Duke of Suffolk, who was appointed to make the royal
offering, and who placed it in the bason held by the prelate.
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