New scarlet cushions and drapery had been prepared, with new gilt binding and new fringe.

The old carved oak-wood of the throne, ascending with its numerous grotesque pinnacles half-way up to the roof of the choir, had been washed, and dusted, and rubbed, and it all looked very smart.

Ah! how often sitting there, in happy early days, on those lowly benches in front of the altar, have I whiled away the tedium of a sermon in considering how best I might thread my way up amidst those wooden towers and climb safely to the topmost pinnacle! All Barchester went to hear Mr.Slope; either for that or to gaze at the new bishop.

All the best bonnets of the city were there, and moreover all the best glossy clerical hats.

Not a stall but had its fitting occupant, for though some of the prebendaries might be away in Italy or elsewhere, their places were filled by brethren who flocked into Barchester on the occasion.