Hatfield House.
"Hatfield is entitled to high rank among the
Stately Homes of England, whether we consider
its architectural merits, its historical associations,
or the picturesque attractions by which it is
surrounded. Seven centuries have passed since
Hatfield became a place of note ; and the crown,
the mitre, and the coronet have successively held
sway over its destinies. Of its architectural glories, little now remains of a
date anterior to that of James L, in whose reign the
present noble house was built. A part, however, of the
previous palace of Hatfield still exists, interesting as
the home of the Princess Elizabeth, during the reign her
sister, Queen Mary. Nor was her residence here, though
compulsory, a state of imprisonment and oppression, as
some have said ; for it is proved, from various records,
that she met with considerate treatment, and lived in a state befitting her lofty rank and
queenly prospects, till, on the death of Mary, she proceeded
hence to take possession of the throne of England."
Extract from "The Stately Homes of England" (Open Library)
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