The historic gold plate was therefore arranged on the retable with something of the effect of show pieces at Mappin and Webb's.

Peter noticed three flagons, and between them two patens of great size.

A smaller pair for use stood on the credence-table.

The gold chalice and paten, veiled, stood on the altar-table itself, and above them, behind, rose the cross and two vases of hot-house lilies.
Suggesting one of the great shields of beaten gold that King Solomon had made for the Temple of Jerusalem, an alms-dish stood on edge, and leant against the retable to the right of the veiled chalice.

Peter found himself marvelling at its size, but was recalled to his position when it became necessary to kneel for the Confession.
The service followed its accustomed course, and throughout the whole of it Peter was conscious of his chaotic sermon.