Chesel was the Anglo-Saxon for pebble, and Kiesel is the German for the same. The Chesil Beach, near Weymouth, is a remarkable bank of shingle joining Portland Bill to the mainland.
Somerset House, in the Strand: the palace of the Protector Somerset has been pulled down, and public offices erected on its site.
Northumberland House, now demolished, has given its name to Northumberland Avenue, near Charing Cross.
Southwark ... many Inns: in particular the Tabard, where Chaucer's pilgrims assembled.
mediæval: living in the middle ages, that is, some time before about 1500 A.D.
ironmongers in their Lane: that is, Ironmonger Lane, turning out of Cheapside.
[30. WHITTINGTON. PART I.]
Mercer: a merchant who sells silken or woollen goods.
executors: those who are appointed to carry out the last will and testament of a dead man.