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gious house, previous to the period, when he confiscated all its possessions to his own use. This abbey was frequently favoured with the visits of that monarch. Queen Elizabeth also, among her many progresses, made a journey thither, and continued to reside there during some weeks. A large state apartment in the house yet retains the name of the Queen's Council Chamber. The late Sir Joseph Ayloffe was in possession of a masque, printed by Caxton, which was presented to Henry the Eighth, on his approach to the abbey, with the dramatis personæ of the family who then resided there.

Bisham church, which is situated near the river, contains a very sumptuous monument, erected to the family of the Hobys, to whom the abbey was granted by Edward the Sixth. The bones of the founder are said to have been removed by Maud, his widow, from Cirencester, in consequence of a license granted by Henry the Fifth.

In some points of view the church unites with the mansion house, and produces a very picturesque effect. From the grounds of Mr. Davenport at Marlow, Bisham abbey appears to very great advantage.

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