Here then is a
complete history of an invention, for which every quarter of the globe
has been ransacked. And, be it remembered, that the pointed arch did
not first display itself in those magnificent proportions, which would
have accompanied it from the beginning, if brought over from foreign
climes in its full perfection; but exactly in that want of proportion,
which was the natural result of the intersection."[10]
[9] Beauties of England, vol. vi. p 110.
[10] The specimens at St. Cross were considered by Dr. Milner
to be the earliest instances of the experiment, but the
Abbey of Clugny, and several other edifices have disputed
its claim to priority.--_The Crypt_, No. 8.
To return to the choir. On each side of the altar is curious and
elegant Gothic spire-work; and traces may be seen of ancient stone
work, all that now remains of the high altar. The wooden altar-screen
is described as "execrable enough"; but sixteen stalls in the choir,
which are referred to the time of Henry VII., are ingeniously
ornamented with "carved figures of illustrious scripture
personages."[11]
[11] These have been engraved by Mr. Carter, for his Specimens
of Ancient Sculpture, together with the Brass in memory
of John de Campden, &c.
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