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guildinge of the Cittye Armes in the Town Hall under the Deske 
before the Mayors Seate 00-05-00.” 
Although several Bath traders issued Tokens earlier than the 
‘City Authorities, for convenience I give precedence to the City 
pieces. 
Picture a meeting of the Chamber in the Hall, on the morning 
of Monday the 26th of March 16%); the air is chill for it is early, 
being just nine-o-clock, and for warmth a coal fire from the City’s 
own “cole-workes” at Paulton or Hallatrow is merrily blazing. 
Gowned in scarlet, John Biggs, the portly host of the 
“*Unicorne” in Broad Street (present No. 8, Northgate St.) occupies 
his seat as Mayor, the Justices and the Aldermen also in scarlet 
gowns are seated near him. One of the Bailiffs, ‘“ Willim 
Russell,” being absent, the Mayor has probably decided how the 
fine of 6s. 8d. incurred by the absentee shall be expended. 
The other Officials and the majority of the Councillors are 
present, robed (but questionably in scarlet), for the meeting is an 
important one, as only on or near the various quarter days can 
certain Civic business be transacted. 
Matters relative to City property having been discussed and 
arranged, a matter has now to be dealt with that may arouse 
opposition as affecting the private interests of some members of 
the Chamber. 
Tokens are being put forth by many Cities throughout the 
country, and why should the Chamber of Bath not do the same 
when profit may be secured ? The Mayor has accordingly had 
some farthing tokens prepared and these he now submits, and 
if the Chamber will sanction his action the farthings can be 
issued at once. After consideration the question is voted on and 
by a large majority the Chamber authorizes the issue of the 
Bath farthing tokens bearing date 1659, and with this resolve the 
meeting closes. 
The question of the Arms then authorized for use upon the 
‘Tokens being of importance, I give the roll of the Members 
