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nor yet in that which follows, thus resembling the once pretty woman,
who objects to having any wrinkles. The mirror is ever a scapegoat, yet
its truths cannot be contested. To portray exactly, constitutes the duty
of a historian. The King-at-Arms, turning to Gwynplaine, said,--
"Be pleased to follow me, my lord." And added, "You will be saluted.
Your lordship, in returning the salute, will be pleased merely to raise
the brim of your hat."
They moved off, in procession, towards a door at the far side of the
room. The Usher of the Black Rod walked in front; then Blue Mantle,
carrying the cushion; then the King-at-Arms; and after him came
Gwynplaine, wearing his hat. The rest, kings-at-arms, heralds, and
pursuivants, remained in the circular room. Gwynplaine, preceded by the
Usher of the Black Rod, and escorted by the King-at-Arms, passed from
room to room, in a direction which it would now be impossible to trace,
the old Houses of Parliament having been pulled down. Amongst others, he
crossed that Gothic state chamber in which took place the last meeting
of James II. and Monmouth, and whose walls witnessed the useless
debasement of the cowardly nephew at the feet of his vindictive uncle.
On the walls of this chamber hung, in chronological order, nine
fell-length portraits of former peers, with their dates--Lord
Nansladron, 1305; Lord Baliol, 1306; Lord Benestede, 1314; Lord
Cantilupe, 1356; Lord Montbegon, 1357; Lord Tibotot, 1373; Lord Zouch of
Codnor, 1615; Lord Bella-Aqua, with no date; Lord Harren and Surrey,
Count of Blois, also without date.
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