OS1/34/55/35
| List of names as written | Various modes of spelling | Authorities for spelling | Situation | Description remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remains of HOSPITAL [continued] | 005 | [Continued from page 34] these the central dome and its columnar shafts are distinguished by their Symmetry and Simple grandeur and the key of the vault itself in the central dome being formed of an open horizontal arch or rather complete circle at right angles with the arches of the vault and sustained merely by their mutual and equal pressure 30 feet above the level of the floor the effect is peculiarly striking and elegant. In each end of the transept is a beautiful Gothic window formed by arched divisions and tracery of Stone work part of which has yielded to the dilapidations of time. Owing to the marshy nature of the ground the whole structure seems to have been built on strong piles of oak driven deeply into the yielding soil and thus forming a perfectly secure foundation. Portions of these piles have been occasionally dug up in excavating graves and found to be not only firm and entire but even of a hardness and compact consistency little short of black marble such has been the effect of the antiseptic qualities of the morass together with the pressure which they have so long sustained. A portion of the ground formerly enclosed within the moat Still bears the name of "The Knights' Garden," although it has long been cultivated by the plough alone and yielded no other produce than that common to the adjacent fields. Notwithstanding the entire disappearance of the nave the larger portion of the original there are no records or even tradition of its having been demolished by any sudden burst of popular violence. From any such fate it may have been preserved by its falling entire into the hands of Sir James Sandilands who could have no interest in its destruction and whose influence with the Reformers would be sufficient for its preservation. But as Calder House very soon became the chief residence of the Lords of Torphichen it was [Continued on page 36] |
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[page] 35Transcribers who have contributed to this page.
Moira L- Moderator, Jeanette
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