HARDING is said to have been a younger son of the King of Denmark, who, according to a custom in his family, went forth into the world to seek his fortune, and attached himself to William Duke of Normandy, who was at that time preparing for the invasion and conquest of England. William rewarded his services with a large grant of lands and property in and around Bristol, where he settled about A.D., 1069, and became Praepositus; an office somewhat resembling the more modern one of Mayor, except that it was a permanent appointment. He resided in Baldwin street, married a lady whose name was Livida, had five sons and three daughters, and died 6th Nov. 1115.