Curious Customs in Parliament

During the reign of King John (1199), the king agreed to settle the difficulty with Philip II. of France, respecting the Duchy of Normandy, by single combat.

John, the Earl of Ulster, was the English champion; and, as soon as he appeared on the field of combat, his adversary put spurs to his horse, and fled, leaving him master of the field.

King John asked the earl what his reward should be. He replied, "Titles and lands I want not; of these I have enough: but, in remembrance of this day, I beg the boon for myself and successors, to remain covered in the presence of your Majesty and all other sovereigns of this realm." The request was granted, and has never been revoked, which accounts for the odd custom in Parliament of members wearing their hats. During the reign of Elizabeth (1558) an act of Parliament was passed forbidding the exportation of wool; and as a memorial of the event, and to impress the people with the national importance of it, as well as to keep constantly in their minds this source of national wealth, sacks of wool were placed in the House of Lords, on which the Judges sat.

The Lord Chancellor, who presides over the House of Lords, still sits upon a sack of wool, over which is thrown a red cloth. To be appointed "High Chancellor" of England is even now "to be appointed to the wool-sack."