Sometimes a whole set of bells bore inscriptions which may be read continuously. An instance is at S. Mary's, Ticehurst, where the bells have--
1. I am she that leads the van, Then follow me now if you can.
2. Then I speak next, I can you tell, So give me rope and ring me well.
3. Now I am third, as I suppose, Mark well now time and fourth close.
4. As I am fourth, I will explain If you'll keep time you'll credit gain.
5. Now I am fifth, as I suppose, Then ring me well and tenor close.
6. This is to show for ages yet to come That by subscription we were cast and hung And Edward Lulham is his name That was the actor of the same.
Northfield bells, Worcestershire, give an account of the contest in the vestry-room which led to the completion of the peal--
2. And 'gainst our casting some did strive.
3. But when a day of meeting there was fixed.
5. It was Wm. Kettle that did contrive To make us six that were but five.
Another bell bears the date and churchwardens' names. At Coventry on a peal of bells, cast in 1774, are the following inscriptions--
1. Though I am but light and small I will be heard above you all.
2. If you have a judicious ear You will own my voice both sweet and clear.
3. Such wondrous power to music given, It elevates the soul to heaven.
4. Whilst thus we join in cheerful sound, May love and loyalty abound.
5. To honour both God and King Our voices shall in concert ring.
7. Ye ringers all that prize Your health and happiness, Be sober, merry, wise, And you'll the same possess.
8. Ye people all who hear me ring Be faithful to your God and King.
9. In wedlock's bands all ye who join With hands your hearts unite: So shall our tuneful tongues combine To laud the nuptial rite.
10. I am and have been called the common bell To ring when fire breaks out to tell.
On the bells of S. Peter's, Nottingham, the appended lines appear:--
Our voices shall with joyful sound Make hills and valleys echo round.
We celebrate th' auspicious morn On which the Son of God was born.
Our voices shall in concert ring To honour God and King.
The bride and groom we greet in holy wedlock join'd, Our sounds are emblems of hearts in love combined.
I toll the funeral knell, I hail the festal day.-- The fleeting hour I tell, I summon all to pray.