208 REPORT OF THE MEETINGS FOR 1900 



the tapestry had been suspended. This apartment derived 

 much of its light from a large protruding window which 

 overlooked the courtyard. It would appear to have been 

 similar in character, though superior in size, to the oriel 

 window in the Chapel at Prudhoe. The walls of this 

 chamber were of stone colour, relieved by white mouldings 

 and pendent spandrils, while the ceiling was adorned by 

 the arms of the Percies. 



There are few sights more pleasing than that which the 

 principal staircase affords. In breadth it measures 12 feet, 

 each step being formed by one solid block of stone, which 

 was specially procured from the forest quarry at Rothbury. 



On a level with the Grand Staircase is the Guard Chamber, 

 which is constructed so as to form an arcade. It is square ; 

 and while the flooring is wholly composed of small variegated 

 marbles, the ceiling is relieved by m.eans of flowers and 

 foliage, and in the centre of these is a beautiful shield, 

 bearing the arms of the Percies, and the motto " Esperance 

 en Dieu." The frieze is deep and is divided into panels, 

 upon the four principal of which are cleverly portrayed 

 scenes illustrative of the chief incidents in the ancient 

 ballad of "Ye Hunting in ye Cheviot." These are the 

 work of Herr Gotzenburgh, and comprise the Departure, 

 Repose, and Death of Douglas, and Death of Percy. 



