16. The Jewel Office.
This office is a strong stone room, in which are kept the crown, ball, and sceptre, used by the kings of England at their coronation, all richly set with jewels; besides other crowns and regal ornaments, and some pieces of curious old plate. The crown worn by the king when he goes in state to the House of Lords, is enriched with an emerald seven inches round, with other gems of great value. Great precautions are taken to secure the regalia, the whole being enclosed within a grate. This was found needful in the days of Charles the Second, after a daring, unprincipled man, named Blood, had attempted to steal the crown and other royal ornaments. Under the form of a clergyman, and pretended friendship to Mr. Edwards, who was keeper of the jewels, he introduced three of his companions, as wicked as himself, and having knocked down and gagged the unsuspecting old man, they concealed the crown and other valuables under their clothes, and were going off with their booty, leaving the keeper, as they supposed, dead, or stunned with their blows, on the floor; but he never lost his senses, and taking advantage of their security, forced out the gag, and calling for assistance, pursued the villains, and recovered the spoil!
In our picture is seen
Fig.
1. The imperial crown of Great Britain.
2. The golden sceptre with the cross.
3. The sceptre with the dove of peace.
4. St. Edward’s staff, carried before the king at his coronation.
5. The golden orb, which is put into the king’s right hand before he is crowned.
6. The king’s coronation ring.
7. The culanna, or pointless sword, being the sword of mercy.
8 and 9. The swords of justice, spiritual and temporal.