an officer at arms, whose business it is to declare war, to proclaim peace, to marshal all the solemnities at the coronation, christening, marriage, and funeral of princes, to blazon and examine coats of arms, &c.

Heralds were formerly held in much greater esteem than they are at present, and were created and christened by the king, who pouring a gold-cup of wine on their head, gave them the herald-name; but this is now done by the earl-marshal. They could not arrive at the dignity of herald without having been seven years pursuing; nor could they quit the office of herald, but to be made king at arms.