236 A TOPOGRAPHICAL 



The situation of Okeover-hall is peculiarly delightful, with a 

 lawn in front, and flourishing trees on the eminences ; the Dove and 

 its fertile banks in view ; and a neat Gothic church within a few 

 yards of the principal entrance. 



The exterior of the Church, which is built of stone, is truly pic- 

 turesque and agreeable. Its Gothic east window, with ivy climb- 

 ing on each side ; its wall, with neat battlements, and the roof 

 covered with lead ; and its handsome square tower, with four pin- 

 nacles, and a light vane rising in the centre, present a variety of 

 pleasing objects. The interior harmonizes with its exterior, com- 

 bining convenience with elegance. It is small ; the pews and read- 

 ing desk are painted ; the communion-table is of marble ; and an 

 organ, adorned with carved wood in mahogany, harmonizes with 

 the simplicity of the whole. 



There are two monuments of the Okeover family in the chan- 

 cel ; the inscription on one of them is partly defaced, but the other 

 bears the date of 1524. 



On a mural monument of white marble, an angel is represented 

 as extinguishing the torch of life with the left hand, while the 

 left arm rests upon an urn. The right hand holds a serpent, in a 

 circle, with the tail in the mouth, emblematic of eternity ; under- 

 neath is the following inscription : 



" Sacred to the memory of MARY, the wife of LEAK OKEOVER, Esq. near 

 40 years the daughter of John Nicholls, Esq. She left this life Jan. 30, 1764, 

 aged 63 years. 



So clear a reason, so refin'd a sense, 



Such virtue, such religious confidence ; 



Manners so easy, and a mind so even, 



On earth must needs anticipate a heaven ! 

 Her husband soon followed, Jan. 31, 1765, aged 60 years. 



Thrice happy pair ! in mutual love so tied, 



Whom death but for a moment could divide ! 



Knowing this world is not our proper home, 



Their wish was for that happier world to come." 



There is another mural monument of white marble, behind the 

 reading desk. It represents an urn, with the crest of the family 

 above it, the arms below, and the following inscription : 



" Sacred to the remains of E. W. OKEOVER, Esq. who died 30th of June, 

 1793, in the 41st year of his age. He knew no happiness equal to that of con- 

 ferring it upon others ; and the many good qualities of his heart, will never be 

 forgotten, and can only be estimated by those who were best acquainted with 

 him." 



The church is dedicated to All Saints. 



