126 ATHELHAMPTON HALL. 



work and carving in this room was executed by Mr. Parsons, of 

 Dewlish. Notice the arms of Jane Seymour in the south 

 window. Through the archway in this room we enter the oak 

 parlour. Eight years ago this was the back entrance and 

 scullery. The wainscoting in this room was made from the 

 old oak beams which in nearly every case we had to remove on 

 account of the ends having rotted. 



We now pass up the principal staircase, which was put up by 

 Mr. Wood, and constructed by the local carpenter, in place of the 

 original circular stone one. I have not yet touched it. On the 

 first floor you will see the state bedchamber with its original 

 panelling of the time of Henry VII. Notice the curious carved 

 panels in the frieze, the beautiful carved Ham Hill stone mantle- 

 piece, at one time covered over, the oratory, and the washing 

 closet. Retracing our steps and recrossing the great hall we 

 next enter the north wing. The first room, called the king's 

 ante-room, is wainscoted in original panelling of a beautiful 

 dark colour. Notice the original painted glass in the window, 

 and the low stone archway, at one time admitting to the cellars. 

 You will see the sides have been cut away to allow barrels to 

 pass through. Over this cellar there was formerly the "solar" 

 or ladies' with-drawing room. Traces of the window overlooking 

 the dais in the hall are still visible. 



We next enter the great parlour, a beautifully-proportioned 

 room, with a large eight-light mullioned window, divided by a 

 transom, at one end. This room, though somewhat overcrowded 

 with furniture, is at present untouched in the way of decoration. 

 You will see a portion of a dress worn by Queer. Elizabeth. 



We now ascend the " King's Way," a most interesting stone 

 and oak spiral staircase. The blocks of solid oak which form 

 the upper portion terminate in a newel post, and do not rest on 

 each other as they do in a somewhat similar staircase in the 

 gatehouse at Wolfeton House, Dorchester. From the half- 

 landing of this stair, or "way," we enter the long gallery or 

 library. This interior I took upon myself to more or less create ; 

 formerly it was divided into three rooms, with a communicating 



