" Such were the
sumptuous surroundings in which "children of the chapel" were wont
sometimes to perform their office.
An element of distinction enjoyed by peer and prelate was not likely to
be absent from the first estate of the realm; and, in point of fact, the
phrase "children of the chapel," so far as it is known, is more commonly
associated with the King's court than any of the castles or episcopal
palaces of the land. Certain of the King's "Gentlemen of the Chapel"
seem to have received payment in money, including extraordinary fees,
and provided for themselves, whilst others had board and lodging. The
following table, though less complete than the Northumberland accounts,
throws light on the rate of requital:
_L s. d._
Master of the children, for his wages
and board wages 30 0 0
Gospeller, for wages, 13 6 8
Epistoler, " " 13 6 8
Verger, " " 20 0 0
Yeomen of the Vestry {10 0 0
{10 0 0
Children of the Chapel, ten 56 13 4
Another ordinance states that "The Gentlemen of the Chapell, Gospeller,
Episteller, and Sergeant of the Vestry shall have from the last day of
March forward for their board wages, everie of them, 10_d.
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