On the ceiling there is a painting of Saint George fighting the dragon. To royal remains, royal piety. Whoever you are who look upon this funerary monument think upon the changes of human fortune. Great in prosperity, greater in adversity, James II, King of England loosened the signs of hardship and sad destiny by a pious and quiet death in this city September 16, 1701. Some of the more noble parts of his body are here preserved hidden.
Death wears away all things.
But the glory of his faith and character remain forever. You too, All Highest God, bid reign with you an unlucky king whom a royal host received. Subsequently he made an annual retreat there. Queen Mary of Modena visted the abbey in May 1696. The thirteenth century guest house is the only ancient building.