An inequality in
the ground, eastward from the transept, in an adjoining orchard, showed
the half-pace into the choir, of which the outline to the north and east
was also defined in the same manner. Upon these slender data we
proceeded, first, to investigate the foundations of the columns towards
the west end; and having ascertained the distance of one from the south
wall, the width of the south aisle, and consequently of the north,
followed of course; another digging immediately to the north ascertained
the width of the middle aisle, and a third, from east to west, gave one
intercolumnation; the length of the nave being already given by the
remains of the transept, the number of columns was now proved. A right
line drawn along the remnant of the south wall, and continued to the
intersection of the nave and transept, proved the length of the latter
on the south side, and, consequently, also on the north. The choir
evidently appeared to have consisted of a presbytery, with two side
aisles, and four other chapels; two to the north, and as many to the
south.
"The site of the choir being determined, it remained to investigate its
contents beneath the surface: accordingly, under the high altar, nothing
appeared but a bed of undisturbed and native sand; but beneath the
second half-pace, immediately leading up to it, were turned up many
broken remains of a painted pavement, consisting of small glazed
floor-tiles, adorned with various devices, and of different forms and
dimensions.
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