In a convenient position a
platform had been erected for the express accommodation of the fairer
portion of the spectators. As the time for the performance of the
ceremony drew nigh all the neighbouring approaches to the spot were
densely crowded; every window within sight of the ground had its full
share of occupants, and daring spirits had even ventured to take up
their position on the surrounding walls and house-tops.
"A few minutes after four the sounds of distant music intimated the
approach of Sir Samuel Bignold (the Mayor) and his friends, and,
after the lapse of another second or so, his worship appeared in
sight, accompanied by H. Birkbeck, Esq. (the Sheriff of the city),
the Duke of Wellington, the Earl of Orford, Sir Fitzroy Kelly, M.P.,
Sir J. P. Boileau, Bart., Edmond Wodehouse, Esq., M.P., S. M. Peto,
Esq., M.P., the Rev. E. Sidney, most of the members of the city
magistracy and corporation, several county magistrates, a large
number of influential county gentlemen and citizens, J. R. Staff,
Esq. (the Town Clerk), Mr. E. E. Benest (the City Surveyor), the
Corporation officers bearing the city regalia, &c.
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