ng,) which joins
the counties of Huntingdon and Northampton together. This fair, on
account of its vicinity to the bridge, was called "Brigge Fair," by
which name it is still known. Ashton was called to parliament at
Westminster, but being too infirm to attend, he deputed William
Tresham, (probably one of his monks) to appear for him. He afterwards
took the oaths of allegiance to his sovereign, at Coventry. During his
rule it is stated that 33 monks died in the monastery, and many
festivals were suspended in consequence, there not being a sufficient
number left to perform the ceremonies. This abbot made several
additions to the church; and the building at the east end, according to
Britton, was commenced by him.

Mr. Davys is of opinion that, "though we read of no further additions
being made to the church between the time of Godfrey, (1299), and that
of abbot Ashton, much took place in this interval. Almost all the
windows of the church must have been transformed from their original
character into their present shapes, and those which escaped this
mutilation, as in the transepts and clerestory, were filled with their
present unsuitable tracery, about the conclusion of the fourteenth
century.

"The porch, or chapel, now used as the Chapter Library, standing within
the central arch of the West Front, was probably built soon after this
time. The reason why it was erected will be evident to any one who will
examine the front carefully; for it will be seen that the clustered
column, between the northern and middle arch, leans out to a very great
extent, and were it not for the support it receives from this chapel,
very serious consequences must ensue. The whole front also leans to the
westward, though not so much so as this column. This inclination is
evidently of very early date, and probably took place shortly after the
completion of the front. This chapel was therefore added as a support
to the front; its insertion is, nevertheless, much to be regretted, as
it materially diminishes the beauty of the finest part of the
Cathedral.

"Many alterations, and additions, seems to have taken place in this
abbey, during the time when the decorated style was prevalent in
England; and consequently between the time when the Infirmary Church
was built, and the last-mentioned structure was erected, at the west
end of the church. Of these may be mentioned, the two elegant spires on
the north and south towers of the West Front, and t