sitteth down in the chair; and all the linage place themselves against
the wall, both at his back and upon the return of the half-pace, in
order of their years without difference of sex; and stand upon their
feet. When he is set; the room being always full of company, but well
kept and without disorder; after some pause, there cometh in from the
lower end of the room, a taratan (which is as much as an herald) and
on either side of him two young lads; whereof one carrieth a scroll of
their shining yellow parchment; and the other a cluster of grapes of
gold, with a long foot or stalk. The herald and children are clothed
with mantles of sea-water green satin; but the herald's mantle is
streamed with gold, and hath a train.

Then the herald with three curtesies, or rather inclinations, cometh
up as far as the half-pace; and there first taketh into his hand the
scroll. This scroll is the king's charter, containing gifts of
revenew, and many privileges, exemptions, and points of honour,
granted to the Father of the Family; and is ever styled and directed,
To such do one our well beloved friend and creditor: which is a title
proper only to this case. For they say the king is debtor to no man,
but for propagation of his subjects. The seal set to the king's
charter is the king's image, imbossed or moulded in gold; and though
such charters be expedited of course, and as of right, yet they are
varied by discretion, according to the number and dignity of the
family. This charter the herald readeth aloud; and while it is read,
the father or Tirsan standeth up supported by two of his sons, such as
he chooseth. Then the herald mounteth the half-pace and delivereth
the charter into his hand: and with that there is an acclamation by
all that are present in their language, which is thus much: Happy are
the people of Bensalem.