Note 440 — PREFACE TO THE EDITION OF 1814 (continued 3)

... the chancel only shewed Some inoffensive marks of earthly state 1814. And vain distinction.... The Chancel only shewed So privileged of yore, without offence To piety, some marks of earthly state And vain distinction, Allowed by ancient privilege; though in sooth With the pure sanctity the place should breathe But ill according. A capacious pew Of sculptured oak stood here, with drapery lined And curtained closely round. Obnoxious less To blame or unavoidable regret, A high fixed hatchment, time-discoloured, told C. Of man's mortality and its own decay. Some vain distinctions, an heraldic shield, In tincture varying as the sun might shine, Imbued its eastern window, and aloft A faded hatchment hung, and one by time C. Yet undiscoloured, marks of earthly state.