[172] The following are the royal supporters, as given in Sandford’s Genealogical History: Richard II, two angels; Henry IV, swan and antelope; Henry V, lion and antelope; Henry VI, two antelopes; Edward IV, lion and bull; Edward V, lion and hind; Richard III, two boars; Henry VII, dragon and greyhound; Henry VIII, lion and dragon; Edward VI, lion-guardant crowned and dragon; Mary, eagle and lion; Elizabeth, as Edward VI; James I, &c. lion and unicorn, as at present.
[173] According to Nisbet, the earliest royal supporters of England were two angels. The transition from one angel to two, and from two angels to two quadrupeds is very natural.
[174] C. S. Gilbert’s Cornwall, pl. 3.
[175] Ormerod’s Cheshire.
[176] Archæologia, vol. xxx.
[177] Hone’s Table Book.
[178] In the above sketch I have ventured to supply the head which in the original is wanting.
[179] Montagu, Guide, p. 48.
[180] The coat-armour of a great family was of too sacred a character to be used as the personal ornament or distinction of their retainers, the private herald only excepted; and it was long ere this functionary was allowed to invest himself in his master’s armorials.
[181] Vide Chapter IX.