side-chapel. The window embodies the Royal Arms of Scotland, the arms of the Hereditary Keeper of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, symbolism of the Holyrood Abbey's founding legend, and insignia of the High Constables themselves. Structure The number of High Constables sits at 30 (though this number has fluctuated historically). The High Constables themselves are appointed by the Bailie of Holyroodhouse. The Moderator is the head of the body, except for when they are undertaking duties as Guard of Honour (at which point it is the Captain of the Guard). The office of Vice Moderator was introduced in 1862, to be occupied by the retired Moderator. The role of Surgeon ranks after that of Secretary. Between 1869 and 1871 the office of Custodier of the Batons was created. Honorary membership has occasionally been awarded, though infrequently. Often to previous High Constables (1861, 1890 and 1901). Occasionally honorary membership was given to the Lord Provost of Edinburgh. The original home of the constables was the guardroom, until it was replaced in 1857. The home of the constables today is the Abbey Courthouse, which was restored in 1958 along with the old prison (refurbished into the Baillie's office). Today Today the High Constables parade whenever the Sovereign, or the Lord High Commissioner of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, is in residence. They form part of the Royal Household in Scotland. They provide a guard of honour for the King and his guests at the Palace, and at state functions such as banquets and garden parties. Also present at the Palace of Holyroodhouse for such events is the Doorward Guard of Partisans, who comprised the personal retainers of the Lord High Constable of Scotland, responsible for the Sovereign's safety while in Edinburgh, and the Royal Company of Archers, a ceremonial unit that serves as the King's bodyguard in Scotland. Uniform In 1910 King George V proposed for the High Constables a uniform of blue cloth with silver buttons and a distinctive blue hat turned up at one side. Their ceremonial uniform today reflects the original and includes a blue velvet suit, a hat and a thin sword in a black leather scabbard. See also Yeomen Warders References 16th-century establishments in Scotland British ceremonial units Bodyguards Positions within the British Royal Household Ceremonial officers in the United Kingdom Scottish ceremonial units