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This stool was covered with crimson velvet, on which fleurs de lis
were designed in gilt nails.
The great door, which had been closed, was reopened; and a voice
announced,--
"The faithful Commons of England."
It was the Usher of the Black Rod announcing the other half of
Parliament.
The lords put on their hats.
The members of the House of Commons entered, preceded by their Speaker,
all with uncovered heads.
They stopped at the bar. They were in their ordinary garb; for the most
part dressed in black, and wearing swords. The Speaker, the Right
Honourable John Smith, an esquire, member for the borough of Andover,
got up on the stool which was at the centre of the bar. The Speaker of
the Commons wore a robe of black satin, with large hanging sleeves,
embroidered before and behind with brandenburgs of gold, and a wig
smaller than that of the Lord Chancellor. He was majestic, but inferior.
The Commons, both Speaker and members, stood waiting with uncovered
heads, before the peers, who were seated, with their hats on.
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