And though here is no mention of any Ecclesiasticks, that joined themselves in the Proceeding; yet it cannot be supposed, that as part of the Divine Service was to be performed, but that some of the Chaplains and Priests were included. And we meet with one Instance, where the Priests not only went in the Grand Procession, but had a Place assigned in it; where the Gentlemen of the Sovereign’s Chappel, and Choir of Windsor, now go.
But it must be confessed, that the Records of the Order are very defective in this particular, relating to the Grand Procession, and speak of it only in general, or at most, take notice but of some of those Degrees that attend in it; and this but of late Time neither: Among which, 23 Eliz. it is said; They all proceeded in Order, as the Custom was; the Sovereign following in the Rear of the Procession.
As to Place and Precedency, it is in every respect the same, as in the Sovereign’s Proceeding to the Chappel, on the Eve of the Grand Feast; only here are some Persons added, which go not in that; Namely, the Gentlemen and Choiristers of the Sovereign’s Chappel at White-Hall; and the Petty-Canons, Vicars, and Choiristers of Windsor: The whole Order is as follows.
The Morning Service having proceeded to the second Lesson, and the Prelate conducted by the Serjeant of the Vestry from the Altar to his Seat;
The Alms-Knights rise from their Seats, and pass to the middle of the Choir; and after their accustomed Reverences, go up to the sides of the Altar.
Next, in like manner, the Officers of Arms pass up.
Hereupon Garter rises from his Seat, and makes his usual Reverences; then waving his Rod, summons the Junior Knights to descend.
Whilst they and the rest of the Knights-Companions are leaving their Stalls, with usual Reverences; the Gentlemen of the Chappel, Petty-Canons, and Vicars of Windsor, put on Copes, and make themselves ready to proceed.
Then the Knights-Companions being all come down, stand each under his proper Stall.
Then the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register rise, and stand before their Forms.