n character from
the three in the choir, which are like those in the nave. The two
piers of Purbeck marble are circular, and about them are grouped four
detached shafts of the same material. They are united only at the base
and by the abacus above the capitals, which are beautifully carved
(see page 16). The main arches in the two bays are not pointed, but
round, like those in the nave and choir; but, unlike the latter, they
have deeply cut mouldings in three orders. The triforium arcade above,
on the north and south sides, has moulded and carved details of a
similar character. Some of the beautifully carved figure-work still
remains in the spandrels between the subsidiary pointed arches. But
the most beautiful piece of design in all this work is in the arches
of the triforium passage across the east wall, above the entrance to
the lady-chapel.

[Illustration: THE PRESBYTERY OR RETRO-CHOIR, LOOKING NORTH-EAST.]

It should be noticed that the sub-arches in the triforium here are
pointed, not round, as in the case of those in the same position
westward of this portion. And the support to these arches in the
centre, is a group of shafts instead of only one column. The
clerestory, however, offers a greater contrast to the earlier work in
that the central arch, as well as the side ones, is lifted up much
higher, the detached columns being lengthened to obtain the
alteration. Each arch also, at this level, is now pointed.

S. Richard's shrine occupied the bay in the presbytery immediately
behind the High Altar. It stood upon a platform which was approached
on its eastern side by steps, and was enclosed by iron grilles. The
platform was removed at the time of the general restoration in
1861-1867, and upon it used to stand also the tombs of Bishop Day and
Bishop Christopherson or Curteys.

The #Lady-Chapel#, as its walls and vaulting clearly show, was once
completely decorated with designs in colour. The windows now are the
only parts that indicate an attempt to renew this portion of its
earlier condition. The new reredos is of alabaster, and was designed
by Messrs Carpenter & Ingelow.

The #North Choir Aisle# contains some monuments which are referred
to separately. The now unused chapel at its eastern end was dedicated
to S. Catharine.

The #Library# is approached through a doorway in this aisle. There
is a chamber above in which was the library of pre-Reformation days.
The present library formed the chapel of S. John