On the north are four:
1. Aldersgate, as some think from alder trees; as others, from
Aldericius, a Saxon.
2. Cripplegate, from a hospital for the lame.
3. Moorgate, from a neighbouring morass, now converted into a
field, first opened by Francetius {1} the mayor, A.D. 1414.
4. And Bishopsgate, from some bishop: this the German merchants of
the Hans society were obliged by compact to keep in repair, and in
times of danger to defend. They were in possession of a key to open
or shut it, so that upon occasion they could come in, or go out, by
night or by day.
There is only one to the east:
Aldgate, that is, Oldgate, from its antiquity; though others think
it to have been named Elbegate.
Several people believe that there were formerly two gates (besides
that to the bridge) towards the Thames.
1. Billingsgate, now a cothon, or artificial port, for the
reception of ships.
2. Dourgate, VULGO Dowgate, I.E., Water-gate.
The cathedral of St. Paul was founded by Ethelbert, King of the
Saxons, and being from time to time re-edified, increased to
vastness and magnificence, and in revenue so much, that it affords a
plentiful support to a bishop, dean, and precentor, treasurer, four
archdeacons, twenty-nine prebendaries, and many others. The roof of
this church, as of most others in England, with the adjoining
steeple, is covered with lead.
