|
|
Officers and Garrison
Previous page: The Castle of London
OFFICERS AND GARRISON
The ancient offices of Constable and Lieutenant of the Tower are posts of honour held by distinguished soldiers.
The Resident Governor is known as the Major of the Tower. Under him is a special body of men - veterans of meritorious service - called the Yeoman Warders, who wear a picturesque Tudor costume.
They are also members extraordinary of the Queen's Body Guard of the Yeomen of the Guard. Usually the garrison consists of a battalion of the Foot Guards. Guard mounting, which takes place on Tower Green, is a touch of stately pageantry.
Every night the Tower is closed with an old-time ceremony called the Queen's Keys, and thereafter none can enter or leave the Tower without the password. As of old, the password is furnished to the Lord Mayor, subscribed by the Sign Manual of the Queen.
Next page: The Fortified Walls
|
|
|
