The cathedral itself was next visited. It is on the other side of the
River Avon, and is not a large structure, but is in good repair within
and without. It is built of red sandstone, and has no grounds about it,
but is situated in the midst of a populous neighborhood. It was founded
in the time of King Stephen, who was born A. D. 1100, and died
in 1154. It is 175 feet long, 128 feet wide, and has a large, solid,
clumsy tower, 140 feet high. Here, as usual, we were entertained by
the three-o'clock service. As an inducement to stay, we were informed
by the verger that a new anthem was to be performed. We remained in
chairs near the door, and were soon greeted with the usual imposing
procession,--the verger with his elevated mace, followed by the robed
choir of twelve men and boys, the two canons, and the bishop. With much
order and becoming dignity they took their places before an audience
of twelve persons. The service was intoned, making an unintelligent
jumble of echoes and indistinct sounds, to us annoying in the extreme.
We venture to say: "We think it don't pay." At the risk of being dealt
with as were some of old for making a similar remark, we are inclined
to ask, "Why was this waste of ointment made?" There are some monuments
of interest in the cathedral, but none of great renown.