One author[21] calls it _concilium principum, sacerdotum, et reliqui populi._ And for the election of an archbishop, the Saxon Chronicle says, That he commanded by letters all bishops, abbots, and thanes to meet him at Gloucester _ad procerum conventum_.
Lastly, some affirm these assemblies to have been an imitation of the three estates in Normandy.

I am very sensible how much time and pains have been employed by several learned men to search out the original of Parliaments in England, wherein I doubt they have little satisfied others or themselves.

I know likewise that to engage in the same enquiry, would neither suit my abilities nor my subject.

It may be sufficient for my purpose, if I be able to give some little light into this matter, for the curiosity of those who are less informed.
[Footnote 20: Brompton.

[D.S.]] [Footnote 21: Polydore Virgil.