PUNCH’S ESSENCE OF PARLIAMENT.

Time – Tuesday, 24th January, 1860. Scene – The Palace of Westminster. On the rising of the curtain is discovered the interior of the House of Lords, crowded with spectators. In the C. the Throne, on which is scated Queen Victoria, suberbly robed in silver tissue with a a train of crimson velvet lined with ermine, a magnificent stomacher of diamonds completely concealing the front of brilliants. Prince Albert in F.M. costume and leaning on his sword, L. Princesses Alice and Helena ob woolsack, C. with their Royal backs to the spectator. Foreign Ambassadors in masquerade costumes, L. Peeresses splendidly dressed, but without crinoline, all down the R. side of the House; distinguished lady spectators, similarly attired, all down the L. A thin margin of Peers, in robes, in front of the ladies. Speaker of the Commons, with several Ministers and a crowd of Members at the bar, facing the Throne. Near the Throne, and on each side, Great Officers of State with the Crown, the Cap of Maintenance, the Sword of State, the Grand Marshal’s baton, and the Great Seal (the latter in mourning for the demise of its namesake the Talking Fish), soldiers, trumpeters, bouffettiers, pages, heralds, and the Duke of Cambridge.

Back to February, 04 <<< — >>> Next to The Queen.