an assemblage of several actions, forms, and circumstances, serving to render a thing more magnificent and solemn.

In 1646, M. Ponce published a history of ancient ceremonies, tracing the rise, growth, and introduction of each rite into the church, and its gradual advancement to superstition therein. Many of them were borrowed from Judaism; but more seemingly from Paganism. Dr Middleton has given a fine discourse on the conformity between the Pagan and Popish ceremonies, which he exemplifies in the use of incense, holy water, lamps, and candles, before the shrines of saints, votive gifts or offerings round the shrines of the deceased, &c. In effect, the altars, images, crosses, processions, miracles, and legends; nay, even the very hierarchy, pontificate, religious orders, &c., of the present Romans, he shows, are all copied from their heathen ancestors.—We have an ample and magnificent account of the religious ceremonies and customs of all nations in the world, represented in figures designed by Picart, with historical explanations, and many curious dissertations.

Master of the CEREMONIES, an officer instituted by King James I., for the more honourable reception of ambassadors and strangers of quality. He wears about his neck a chain of gold, with a medal under the crown of Great Britain, having on one side an emblem of peace, with this motto, Beati pacifici; and on the other, an emblem of war, with Dieu et mon droit; his salary is 300l. per annum.

Assistant Master of the CEREMONIES, is to execute the employment in all points, whensoever the master of the ceremonies is absent. His salary is 14l. 13s. 4d. per annum.

Marshal of the CEREMONIES, is their officer, being subordinate to them both. His salary is 100l. per annum.