268 ALTARNON CHURCH. 



continued in one run right through from N. to S. But a report 

 drawn up by the architect to the Ecclesiastical commissioners, in 

 1865, in reference to the repairs for the fabric within the screen, 

 for which (as great tithe-owners), they are responsible, throws 

 some doubt upon this. For in that report it is stated : — "the 

 only indications of earlier work than the first half of the 15th 

 century, are to be seen in the east walls of the chancel proper, 

 in which the jambs of a 13th century window can be discovered 

 on either side of the present opening," There are no traces of 

 any such jambs now, but if they existed then, it would appear 

 that the extreme east end formed the chancel of a 1 3th century 

 church, against which the 1 5th century walls were built ; and 

 upon this hypothesis the absence of bonding may be accounted 

 for by the repairs to side walls of "protruded" chancel being 

 carried out in an unworkmanlike manner, in 1865, when the 

 church was restored — and well restored — during the ministry of 

 the late Mr. Tripp. In the east window is a piece of ancient 

 stained glass said to be a representation of Saint Non ; it might 

 be a representation of anybody ! The piscina in the south chancel 

 aisle is clearly in situ ; this is not the pillared one referred to 

 in the "Notes." 



The Holy table has stood, as shewn, from time immemorial. 

 A mural painting shews the Lord's supper being administered 

 by the celebrant, who stands on the east side of the table — on 

 which are two lighted candles, a chalice ; and two dishes with 

 small loaves — facing west, with a male figure on either side of 

 him, while two figures kneel in front of the table, facing east : 

 an arrangement only possible when the table is clear of the east 

 wall. Another mural painting depicts the crucifixion, the 

 Saviour's side being pierced by the lance of a soldier, whose 

 helmet corresponds with the armour worn circa 1620. This, 

 therefore, may perhaps be considered the date of the paintings 

 in question. 



There is no evidence of any cross screens (parclose) having 

 ever existed, and it may be confidently asserted that prior to its 

 recent restoration (1888), the rood screen had in no way been 

 tampered with, beyond being cut to accommodate modern box- 

 pews, as seen in the accompanying print ; except at the Refor- 

 mation, when, in common with other screens, its groining was 



