From The Times, 13 Oct 1809, posted with permission of the transcriber, Petra Michinson. Geo. On Sunday se'nnight, a ludicrous circumstance occurred in the Cathedral of Carlisle. The Mayor and Corporation having attended divine service, as is customary before the election of a new Mayor, the church was crowded in every part. When the organ struck up Te Deum, the congregation were surprised at the profound silence observed by the choristers - nothing was to be heard but the rich and impressive tones of that harmonious instrument - no voices accompanied it. Upon enquiring into the cause, it was found that the Gentlemen of the choir had come to an unanimous determination not to sing until their salaries were raised. At present they only receive 3L. 6s. per annum each. Since the reign of HENRY VIII. no augmentation of their pay has taken place, though it is a fact well known, that the revenues of the Church have increased tenfold in value since that time.