nova eclesia omnium sanctorum de Hastynges. The stoup in the porch, the font, the picina and sedelia are of the same period. The circular doorway arch of the porch is also perpendicular work. The tracery of the windows has been taken out, with the exception of that of the east window of the north aisle, which remains in its original state, and has some fragments also of the old stained glass. The way in which the arches of the nave rise from the capitals deserves notice. They do not spring immediately from the capitals, but the piers are continued above these a little, only increased in thickness, and the arches spring from them. At the east end of the south aisle there is an opening into a stone staircase, which is contained within a butress(sic) of unusual width, and which formerly led to a rood loft. The tower has a groined roof, with remains of painting on it. The bell opening has figures of animals intermixed with foliage running round it. The groins spring from ornamented corbels. This is altogether in the most perfect state of any part of the church. A general restoration of the whole is needed, and the removal of the present pews and galleries. [This was more recently done].
The above reply to "Junius" by "E. M." [Edward Marshall] appeared in the Hastings News in 1856, and to which was subjoined a translation of the probate of Mechynges's will to which he referred, and which also appeared in the 2nd vol. of the British Arch. Journal. It was as follows:- "In the name of God, Amen. In the twenty-fourth day of the month of November, in the year of Our Lord one thousand four hundred and thirty six, I, Richard Mechynge, of sound mind and good memory, make my will in this manner. First, I bequeath my soul to the omnipotent God and the blessed Mary, his mother, and all the saints; my body to be buried in the new [nona or nova] church of All Saintes of Hastinges. Also I leave to the shrine of St. Richard, of Chichester, sixpence. Also, I bequeath to the construction of a certain window situated in the south side (fabrice cujusd? fenestre existent) of the said church of All Saints twenty-six shillings and eight-pence. Also I leave to the Sacristan and others my trumpeters twelve pence (aliis pulsant classicum meum duodecem denar). Also, I leave (to the clerk) to the parish of All Saints twelve pence. Also I leave to William White, to pray for me and my benefactors twenty shillings. Also I leave to Thomas Vere thirteen shillings and fourpence. Also I leave to each of my children twelve pence. Of this will I appoint my executors – Jan, my wife, Robert Woller and Thomas Vere, that they -
