In view of the forthcoming Lambeth Conference Mrs, Dorothy Gardiner's
careful Story of Lambeth Palace (Constable, 15s.) should find many readers. It has an attractive preface by the late Archbishop, who encouraged the author to write the book. The theme is extensive, for from the late twelfth century, when Hubert Walter acquired the Manor by exchange with the See of Rochester, Lambeth has played a great part in the history of England. Mrs. Gardiner gives the history of the buildings and laments the ill fate that
enabled Blore just a century ago to destroy •lu of the old palace and erect a new house for the Primate in what Sir Walter Scott described as " the best Gothic taste," Happily, the chapel, Lollards' and Morton's 'Towers and other old portions of the vast fabric were spared. They kept great state in the old days. Crantner was accused of being niggardly but it was found that he provided three well stocked tables for himself, his almoner and his steward. On the other hand he tried to " moderate the fare of Bishops' tables," allotting for an Archbishop six kinds of flesh and for a Bishop not more than five. An Archbishop might eat three part ridges or six blackbirds, at a sitting, but it Bishop must he content with two partridges or four blackbirds—presumably baked in a pie. Under the Comminnvealth Laud's home was used as it prison, and many of the occupants died there. The book is well illustrated and pleasantly written.
Previous page
