The time chosen in the Fifth Plate is when the priest is
elevating the Host in sight of the kneeling congregation, the
page attending with his mass-book and little bell as sacristan ;
an office usudly filled by one of the choristers. As it was
harvest-time, when even the choristers were absent from their
sacred duty, taking advantage of the season, it will be observed
that the persons assembled are only the sick and lame, or
women and little children incapable of work.