The theater of honour and knight-hood. Or A compendious chronicle and historie of the whole Christian vvorld Containing the originall of all monarchies, kingdomes, and estates, with their emperours, kings, princes, and gouernours; their beginnings, continuance, and successions, to this present time. The first institution of armes, emblazons, kings, heralds, and pursuiuants of armes: with all the ancient and moderne military orders of knight-hood in euery kingdome. Of duelloes or single combates ... Likewise of ioustes, tourneyes, and tournaments, and orders belonging to them. Lastly of funerall pompe, for emperours, kings, princes, and meaner persons, with all the rites and ceremonies fitting for them. VVritten in French, by Andrew Fauine, Parisian: and aduocate in the High Court of Parliament. M.DC.XX.

The Orders appointed by King Lewes the Eleuenth: For the Institution of the Order of Saint Michael. CHAP. VI.

* 1.1LEWES, by the Grace of God, King of France: To al•• present, and to come, Greeting. Wee make knowne, that for the most perfect and sincere loue, which Wee beare to the Noble Order and estate of Knighthood, whereof (in most ••∣dent affection) Wee desire the honour and encrease, that ac∣cording to Our heartie wish, the Holy Catholique Faith, the blessed condition of Our Holy Mother the Church, and Posteritie of the publique Weale, might bee kept and main∣tained as they ought to be: Wee, to the glory and praise of God, Our Almightie Creatour, and reuerence due to the glorious Virgine Marie, as also in the honour and reuerence of Saint Michael, the prime and chiefe Knight, who (in Gods quarell) fought against the auncient enemie of Mankinde, and made hi•• fall from Heauen; who hath likewise alwaies kept his place, preserued and desended his Oratorie, named the Mount Saint Michael, without suffering it at any time to be taken, subdued, or brought into the hands of this Kingdomes auncient enemies: And to the end, that all good, high and Noble courages should be incited, and moued the more to vertuous actions.

The first day of August, in the yeare of Grace, One thousand foure hun∣dred three score and nine, and of our Reigne the ninth, in our Castle of A••∣boise. Wee constitute, create, and ordaine, and by these presents doe consti∣tute, create, and ordaine, an Order of Brother-hood, or louing Companie of certaine number of Knights, which Wee will, shall be named, The Order of my Lord Saint Michael the Arch-Angell, in and vnder the Forme, Conditions, Statutes, Orders, and Articles, as hereafter are set downe.

Heere follow the Satutes and Constitutions of the Order.

* 1.21. FIrst of all We haue ordained, and doe ordaine, that in this present Or∣der there shall be sixe and thirtie Knights, Gentlemen of name, and o•• Armes, without reproach: whereof Our Selfe will be one, the chiefe and Soueraigne, during Our life, and after Vs Our Successours Kings of France. The Brethren and Companions of the Order, shall be bound to leaue and for∣sake all other Orders, at their entrance into this, if they be of any other, ••e he a Prince or otherwise: except such Brethren shall be Emperours, Kings, or Dukes, who (with this Order) may beare that whereof they are chiefe; ha∣uing the accord and consent of Vs and Our Successours, and Our Bretheren of the said Order. In like manner, We and Our Successours, Soueraignes of this Or∣der▪ may (if it shall so please Vs) take the Order of any the said Emperours, Kings or Dukes, with Our owne, for the better demonstration of loue one to another, and hope of future good to ensue thereby.

2. And because We desire

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••othing more, then that in this ••resent Order, there should be ••he best, most renowned, ver∣••uous and Noble Knights, ••hereof Wee can receiue ••nowledge, as well in them ••f Our owne Bloud and Li∣••age, as of any other King∣••ome from Ours: Wee, be∣••ng well and duly informed ••f the good Parts, Valour, Wisedome, Vertues, and ••ther commendable qualities, ••n the Knights which are ••eere-under named, and ve∣••ily perswading Our Selfe, ••f their sound loyaltie, hope ••f continuance therein, with ••bsolute perseuerance in all ••onorable and worthie works: ••aue named, and doe name Our Bretheren and Compa∣nions of this Order, whereof We and Our Sucessours, Kings of France will bee Soue∣••aignes, as before is said. To wit:

Our most deare and intirely ••ffected Brother, Charles, Duke of Guienne.

Our most deare and beloued Brother and Cousine, Iohn, Duke of Bourbonnois and Auuergne.

Our beloued Brother and Cousine, Lewes of Luxembourg, Count of Saint Paule, and Constable of France.

Andrew de Laual, Lord of Loheac, and Marshall of France.

Iohn, Count of Sancerre, Lord of Bucil.

Lewes de Beaumont, Lord De la Forest, and Du Plessis.

Messire Lewes d' Estoute-Ville, and Lord de Torcy.

Lewes de Laual, Lord de Chastillon.

Mathewe, Bastard of Bourbon, Count de Roussillon, Admirall of France.

Anthonie de Chabannes, Count de Dammartin, Great Master of the Houshold of France.

Iohn, Bastard D' Armaignac, Count of Comminges, Marshall of France, and Gouer∣nour of Daulphine.

George de la Trimouille, Lord of Craon.

Gilbert de Chabannes, Lord of Curton, and Seneschall of Guienne.

Charles, Lord of Cursol, Seneschall or Steward of Poictou.

Tanneguy du Chastel, Gouernour of Roussillon and Cerdaigne.

And the rest, seruing to perfect and make vp the number of sixe and thirtie; we ••eserue to be placed by election of Vs, and of Our said Bretheren, at the first Chap∣••er and Conuention: according as by Vs, and them aboue named (or the most part of them) shall be aduised in following Conuentions and Chapters.

3. For better knowledge of this Order, and the Knights honoured therewith;* 1.3 We will (for once only) giue to each of the said Knights, A Coller of Gold, made of Scal¦lops,

enterlaced one within another, and doubly banded, fastened on small Ch••∣nets or Mailes of Gold. At the midst of the said Coller, vpon a Rocke shall be an Image of my Lord S. Michael, which must hang downe vpon the breast. Which Coller, we and our Successours Soueraignes, and each Knight of the said Order, shall be bound to weare daily, and openly about his necke: on paine of causing a Masse to be said, and to giue (for Gods sake) to the summe of seauen Sols and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Deniers Tournois: which must (in conscience) be done by the defailant, at all times, and as often as he shall misse of wearing it. Onely in Armies excepted, where it shall suffice to weare the Image of S. Michael, hanging at a small chaine of Gold▪ or at a riband of Silke, which himselfe pleaseth.

* 1.44 And likewise, when the Soueraigne, or any of the said Knights shall iourney thorow the Countrey, or shall be in their houses among their priuate Familie, i•• hunting and other places, where they shall not haue any company, or assembly of men or people of degree: then he or they shall not be so neerely constrained, to weare the great Coller; but onely the said Image, and in such manner as hath bin said.

5 And when it shall so happen, that the Coller hath neede of some repairing; he may not put it into the Goldsmiths hands, except the Knight to whom the Col∣ler belongeth,* 1.5 is not to pay any thing for the amending. Or if he vndertake some long voyage; Or must leaue the Coller for securitie of his person. Which Coller must containe the weight of Two hundred Crownes of Gold, and not vnder, without being enriched with precious Stones, or any thing else. And the Knight may not engage it, nor alienate it vpon any necessitie, for any cause, or in any manner what∣soeuer: but it must alwaies appertaine, and remaine intirely to the said Order.

6 At the entrance whereinto, all Knights thereof shall promise, to abide in loy∣all loue to vs, the Heads and Soueraignes of the said Order, as also one towards another.* 1.6 And we to them will procure and encrease their honour and benefit, for the auoiding of dishonour and damage to any of the Order. If any one heare such matter published, as may redound to the preiudice and detriment of any of the Or∣der: he standeth obliged, to excuse the same in the best manner he can. And if the defamer perseuere still in the publication of those words; then, by the Oath which he hath taken concerning the said Order, he is bound to reueale them to his Breth••en and Fellowes, whatsoeuer was heard spoken against their honour and be∣nefit. And after the said Remonstrance, if the euill speaker persist still in the same, they must signifie those speeches to the Knight, against whom the scandalous words were so openly published.

7 Moreouer, if any practise to offend, hinder or endamage vs, or our Succes∣sours Soueraignes and Heads of the Order,* 1.7 or our Kingdome, vassailes and Sub∣iects; when we, and our Successiue Heads and Soueraignes of the Order, attempt some enterprise in Armes, for defence of the Christian Faith, Reestablishment, or libertie of the Church of God, maintenance of the Crowne of France, the pub∣lique good of our Kingdome, and against our auncient enemies, or any other iust quarrell: In such cases, the said Knights of the Order shall be bound to serue per∣sonally, if they be able to doe it. And such as are impuissant or vnable, shall send reasonable and competent wages; except a lawfull excuse, & euident impeachment, doe pleade on their behalfe to the Soueraigne of the Order.

8 We in like manner, to expresse the great affection we haue, and doe intend to our Brethren and Companions of the Order, and for the better and more firme preseruing them in a perfect vnion: doe promise, as the like shall our Successours, Chiefes and Soueraignes of the Order, to keepe, defend, support and main∣taine all the said Knights, Officers and Supporters of the Order, and eue∣ry one of them; in all their Estates, Dignities, Preheminences, Prerogatiues,

Countries, Lands, Seigneuries, and other rights. To defend them likewise against all such, as would attempt any thing against them, and to preserue them as our own proper right by our power; yea, and so long, as by right we and they may doe it, like good Heads, Brethren, Companions and Officers of the Order.

9 Moreouer, we will not vndertake any wars, or any high and dangerous bu∣sinesse; without making it knowne to the greater part of our fellow Knights:* 1.8 As willing herein to haue, and vse their best aduise and counsell. Prouided and ex∣cepted neuerthelesse, all hastie matters, and such as require celeritie, the reuealing whereof may be preiudiciall to the said enterprises. And the Knights and Brethren of the Order shall promise and sweare, not to disclose the enterprises of their So∣••eraigne, nor any thing which shall be deliuered in counsell before them: in ac∣••nowledgement of the obligation and faithfulnesse, for the grace and fauour done ••hem by the Soueraign, in not vndertaking, or presuming on any occasion of weight ••nd consequence, without their counsell.

10 In like manner, the Knights our faithfull Subiects and seruants,* 1.9 shall not in∣••ude themselues into any wars, or long voyages, without our leaue and licence, or ••f our Successours Soueraignes of the Order. Not that we will, or intend to hin∣••er or restraine our Knights; but that in Lands which they hold of others, they may ••ter into warre and seruice, in like manner as they had done, before the erection ••f this Order. And likewise, such as are not our Subiects, nor to our Successors, So∣••eraignes of the Order; may serue in Armes, and make voyages at their owne plea∣••re, without making it knowne to vs before; if possibly they may doe so, without ••e preiudice of our seruice and affaires.

11 If any debate or contention shall happen betweene any the Knights, and Of∣••ers of the Orders, in regard of their persons onely, whereby some doubt may arise,* 1.10 ••hat way is best to be taken therein: The case comming to the knowledge of the ••oueraigne, he shall prohibite (by his Letters to the parties) all meanes and matter 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fact. And at the next Chapter, those debates shall be discided by the Soueraign, ••d his Brethren Knights; the parties being heard what they can say, as well on the ••e side, as other. Which parties shall stand bound to make their apparance (or ••duocates for them) to obey such an appointment as thereon is made, giuen by the ••oueraigne and the Knights: Reseruing all right of our high Iustice, and Authority ••oyall, of vs and our Successours. And if any shall presume to outrage, or iniurie ••e bodies of our Knights, or Officers of the Order: all the rest (then present, or ••hich may come to the wrong) shall succour, relieue, and remedie him or them, so ••re as their power will extend.

12 Moreouer,* 1.11 if any one (being no Vassaile nor Subiect to the Soueraigne of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Order) shall offer grieuance, iniurie or violence to euery, or any Knight or Offi∣•• of the Order, and subiect to the Soueraigne, whereof he cannot haue any repa∣••ion by Iustice, and yet the Knight or Officer so wronged, will submit himselfe the ordenance of the Soueraigne, and the other partie maketh refusall: In this ••e, the Soueraigne and Companions of the Order, doe stand bound, to vse all ••our and assistance to their Brother & Companion. And on the behalfe of strange ••ights, as shall submit themselues, and the other partie make refusall; the Soue∣••gne and Companions must giue them such assistance, as in reason and equitie ••y ought to doe.

13 If either at this present, or in time to come, there happen to be Brethren of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Order, not Subiects to vs, or to our Successours, Soueraignes,* 1.12 and it may so ••ne to passe, that we, or our Successours shall be moued to raise or make warre, ••inst a naturall Lord and Brother of the Order, or against their or his Coun∣••y: In this case wee openly declare, that such a Knight or such Knights,

being no Subiects to the Soueraigne; may lawfully defend their naturall Lord and Countrey, without incurring blame, taxation of their honour, or any mispri••i•••• against their chiefe Soueraigne. But if their naturall Soueraigne, shall raise wa•••• against the Soueraigne of the Order, his Kingdome and Subiects, during the time of Constitution and Brotherhood of the Order; they may excuse themselues from ser∣uice. But if their Lord will constraine them; they may doe it, without any forfeit of their Honour: prouided, that the Lord himselfe goe to the warre in person, but not otherwise, and they make the same (before) knowen to the Soueraigne of the Or∣der, vnder their Hand and Seale.

* 1.1314. If it shall so happen, that any of the said Knights doe goe vpon some voi∣age, or seruice in Armes of any Stranger Prince: he is first to aduertise the Soue∣raigne thereof. And if any of the Brethren or Companions of the Order, chaunce to be taken in Warre or Battaile: he stands bound to performe good and loyall be∣hauiour, for sauing the life of his Brother and Companion. If he take him with his owne hand, he must franckly quit him on his faith, and so deliuer him: except the Knight be a chiefe Leader in the warre, by him taken Prisoner. And if his Lord will not consent thereto: the Knight cannot (with his honour) take Armes for him, but may forsake his seruice.

* 1.1415. For the rest, the Bretheren and Knights entertained as hath bee••e said, and on the before remembred conditions: they are to continue so during their liues; except they forfeit, or commit some reproachfull crimes, for which they shall deserue to be depriued and cast off, whereof We purpose to speake more, as here∣after followeth.

* 1.15If it happen that any Knight (which Wee wish may neuer come to passe) shall be conuinced or attainted of Heresie, or errour against the Catholique Faith, for which he hath recei••ed some punishment, or publique penaltie: If he shall be attainted or conuicted of Treason: If he shall depart, or flie on any day of Battaile, be it with his Lord, or with any other, when the Ensignes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 displayed, and readie to fall to handie-stroakes: In any of the three before named cases (to the end, that the Order may remaine pure and vndefamed, accor∣ding as it ought to doe:) We ordaine, that the Knight found to be so cha••∣ged, attainted or conuinced, of all, of two, or any one of them, shall (〈◊〉〈◊〉 iudgement of the Soueraigne,* 1.16 and Companions of the Order) be depriued degraded and throwne out of the Order; after he hath first beene heard, what defences he can alleadge in the cases, if he will stand on his owne clearing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 purgation, and hath beene thereto required, appealed, and sufficiently summo••ned. If likewise he doe commit any foule, enormous or disgracefull act; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 is to be proceeded against by the Soueraigne and Bretheren of the Order, wh•••• shall iudge as before is said; but in any other case, he is not to be depriued 〈◊〉〈◊〉 degraded.* 1.17 But if the Soueraigne doe offer wrong or preiudice, to any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Knights of the Order, for which the partie offended doth admonish t•••• Soueraigne and Bretheren of the Order, to award him reason and iustice 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his due attendance, and yet his right is denied him: In this case, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 before (the other Knights, hauing made declaration of the wrong) the o••••e••¦ded Knight may surrender his Coller, and depart from the Order, with•••••• any blemish or scandall to his honour; and yet notwithstanding, with tak•••• his leaue in as honourable manner, as he can best deuise to doe. Moreouer, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 other causes, and lawfull reasons; he must be ordered by the aduise deter••••¦nation and iudgement of the Soueraigne, and Companions of the Order, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 greate•• part of the company.

* 1.1816. And for taking away of all doubts, errours, scruples and difficul•••••• which may happen concerning prioritie and posterioritie, of Honours, Est•••••• Dignities and Degrees of the said Knights, Bretheren and Companions of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Order, because true and brotherly loue should haue no respect to such thing

We will and ordaine, that a•• well in going, as comming, sitting in the Church or Chapter, at the Table, naming, speaking and writing, and in all other actions, and things whatsoeuer, depending, regarding, and touching the estate of the present Order; the Bretheren and Companions are to hold both manner, place, and or∣der, according as before, or after they had receiued the Coller of Knighthood. And if many will haue it so, that the most Auncient shall hold the prime place on ••he instant day; then the rest are to follow in due order. And as for such, who hereafter are to be rancked in the Order, by election of the Soueraigne, and Bre∣theren of the Order: Wee doe ordaine, that they shall hold place,* 1.19 accor∣ding to the time as they were accepted into the Order. And if there be ma∣••y entred vpon one and the same day: they shall hold place according to ••heir yeares and age, as hath beene said, Except he be an Emperour, King, and Duke, who for the greatnesse of their dignitie, are to haue place in this Order, ••ccording to the time when they receiued the Order; without other respect ••f Nobilitie, Lignage, greatnesse of Commaund, Estates, Offices, Riches, and ••ower.

17.* 1.20 Each Knight (at his entertainment into the Fellowship) shall pay to the Treasurer of the Order, fortie Crownes of Gold, or the value of them: to con∣••ert them into Iewels, Vestements and Ornaments, for Diuine Seruice of the Col∣••edge.

18. Moreouer, euery one of the Order shall stand obliged, to giue vnto the Treasurer,* 1.21 when any Knight deceaseth (and he shall haue tydings of his death) ••oney, for the singing of twentie Masses, and sixe Crownes of Gold, to giue in ••lmes for the deceased Knights of the Order. Which money the Treasurer shall ••mploy, as is said in the place of the Foundation what is to be done, and in other ••laces beside. And he is to hold the Chapters and Conuentions, according (as by ••he Soueraigne and Bretheren of the Order) he shall be aduised.

19 And for the singuler Confidence and Deuotion,* 1.22 which Wee beare to ••e Lord Saint Michael, the first and chiefe Knight, who fought in Gods qua∣••ell, and who defendeth alwaies his Place and Oratorie, from being subdued ••y auncient enemies to the Crowne of France, making it inuincible, and vnder ••hose name and title, this present Order hath beene founded and instituted: We ••aue ordained, that all Diuine Seruices, and other Ecclesiasticall Ceremonies, ••or the well performance of foundations, intended to be done by Vs, and also by ••ur Successours, Soueraignes of the Order, or the Bretheren Knights and Com∣••••nions thereof; shall be celebrated and performed at the place, and in the ••hurch of Mount Saint Michael, which We elect and make choice of, as well for ••••fecting the fore-named things, and all other beside, as shall hereafter be de∣••ared

20. Be it enacted and ordained,* 1.23 that in the Quier of the Church there shall 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Seates, whereon to seat the Soueraigne, and Knights of the Order there assem∣••ed. Ouer the Seates, fixed to the Wall, shall (first of all, aboue the Soueraignes ••at) be placed the Escutcheon of his Armes, with his Helmet and Creast. And 〈◊〉〈◊〉 consequently, of each of the other Knights, keeping the order of preference, ••hereof before We haue made mention.

21. For the benefit, honour and exaltation of the Order,* 1.24 We ordaine to haue a ••hancellour. And because the Office is great, and requireth the attendance of some ••otable person: We will and ordaine, that no one shall execute the place, except 〈◊〉〈◊〉 haue beene first constituted in the Ecclesiasticall Prelacie. As Arch-Bishop, Bi∣••op, or some notable dignitie in a Cathedrall or Colledgiate Church: At the least a ••octour in Diuinitie, or decreed to be one, or (not failing) to be a Licentiate in ••e of the said Faculties.

* 1.2522. The Chancellour is to haue the keeping of the Seale, which shall be made and appointed for the Order: wherewith the Chancellour shall not Seale any Le••∣ters, conerning the honor of any Knight, without the expresse ordenation of the Soueraigne, and sixe Companions of the Order, who must be present, and sub∣scribe to the signing of the Letters. And the Chancellour shall haue charge to pro∣pound, and deliuer the speeches, at well as Chapters, as in other places, of matters touching the Order, the benefit and augmentation thereof, at all times as neede shall require, and the Soueraigne shall please to appoint.

* 1.2623. It shall also be the Chancellours charge, to enquire at the Chapters, of such Knights as are there, the order, estate and gouernement of each of them, being absent from the said Chapter. The opinions and depositions of the Knights shall be recited, being reuealed as matter of fact, and to take conclusion at the same Chapter. Which is so ordered, as tending to the end of praise and commendati∣on, or correction, paine and punishment, which the Chancellour shall speake and pronounce, on the Knight whom the case shall touch and concerne.

24. Of the Order there must be a Register or Pregnotarie, who is to keepe two Bookes of Parchment,* 1.27 in each whereof must be set downe and engrossed, the foun∣dation of this present Order, with the Statutes, Causes and Ordenances therei•• contained. In the beginning of which Bookes, shall be inserted an Historie, con∣cerning the representation of the Soueraigne, and of the fifteene Knights, first e∣lected, named and called to be of the Order. Those Bookes are to be chained; vnto, and in the Quiere of the said Church, wherein shall be the Foundation; and the other in the Chapter-House, before the Seate of the Soueraigne. But the Books must be fast lockt vp in two Coffers for the purpose, whereof the Treasurer of the Order shall keepe the Keyes. Nor are they to be opened or seene, but at the Chap∣ters and Assemblies, or by appointment of the Soueraigne, as neede shall require. And the Register shall be bound to set downe in writing, the honorable actions, and commendable performances in prowesse, as well of the Soueraigne, as of the Knights; whereof he is to be informed by the Herauld of the Order. Moreouer, the Register must be bound, to shew and report the draughts of those writings, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the following Chapters: to be seene, corrected, and after engrossed, as also read with the prime Copie of the subsequent worke.

* 1.2825. Moreouer, the Register shall write in another Booke, the Iniunctions, Conclusions and Acts of the ordenary Chapters; the faults committed by the Knights of the Order, for which they are to be blamed and reproued in the Chap∣ter. Also what corrections, punishments and paines hath bin ordained and enioy∣ned them: Their contumacies and defaults, when they haue not appeared, obeyed, or duely made knowne their essoines and excuses.

26. We will moreouer, and constantly ordaine, that there shall be a Treasurer in the said Order,* 1.29 who shall haue the keeping of the Charters, Priuiledges, Let∣ters, Commands, Writings and Enstructions concerning the foundation, appun••∣nances and dependances of the said Order. He shall likewise haue the custodie of all the Iewels, Reliques, Ornaments and Vestements of the Church, the Tapistri•••• and Librarie belonging to the Order. Also, hee is to keepe the Mantles and Cloakes of the Knights, seruing for the State and Ceremonie: which (at the Chap∣ters and Assemblies) he shall deliuer to the Knights, and afterward receiue and keep them, vntill another Chapter. But the habits of the Officers, shall continue and re∣maine with them, to vse at their owne will.

* 1.3027. After the death or priuation of any of the said Knights, the Treasurer shal•• cause to be taken thence, the Shield of Armes, Helmet and Crest of the Knigh•• deceased, or displaced from the roome which he held, to put them in some other place of the Church. Whereinto likewise hee shall conuaye all the Escutch••o••••

Armes and Helmets of the said Knights dead or depriued, in this manner: the de∣ceased on the one side, and the depriued on another, and lay therewith the causes of their depriuation: to make knowne in liuing memory perpetually, both their names and their deedes. And when another Knight shall be appointed for the place of the deceased or depriued: his Shield, Helmet and Crest shall be hung and ••eated in the said Church beneath, and directly before the Seate which was appoin∣ted for the new chosen Knight, there to be seene, and so ordained.

28. It shall be for the Treasurer,* 1.31 to make a Receipt of the Foundation and En∣dowments of the said Order, as also the emoluments and beneficiall gifts thereto belonging: He shall pay the Buildings, Pensions, and ordenarie charges, accor∣ding as was ordained from the foundation. He is likewise to dispose all the missi∣ons, all conuenable and necessary payments, for businesse of the Order; by com∣mand of the Soueraigne, or his Committees: And of all he is to render a good and faithfull account yearely, at the ordenarie Chapter, before the Soueraigne, his Committies, or such as he shall please to depute, or whosoeuer shall sit as Chancel∣lour of the Order. And of all Gifts, Legacies, Augmentations and Benefits, which haue bin giuen and bestowed on the Order: The Treasurer shall cause a Booke to be made, wherein he shall write (with the Inuentorie of Iewels, Orna∣ments and Reliques) a further manifestation (for publique ostension) by Inuento∣••ie at euery Chapter, and shall set downe by name or Sir-name, such as haue bin the Doners of any thing. Whereof he must make declaration at the Chapters, in memorie of the Benefactors, to the end, that prayer may be made to God for them, and for giuing daily example of the like well doing, on behalfe of the Or∣der. Moreouer, the Treasurer shall cause to be made two Bookes of the Charters,* 1.32 Priuiledges, Foundations, Acquests, Augmentations, Letters and Enstructions of the said Order; which are to be colationed and examined by the Originals; that ••ecourse may be made to them, if the other should be lost, or any way else mis∣carie.

29. In the Order there shall be another Officer, named the Herauld, King of Armes, called Mont S. Michaell, who must be a man wise, and of good fame,* 1.33 skil∣full and expert for the Office; to whom must be giuen a rich embroidered Coate, ••o serue for the said Order, which he is to wea••e during his life time. And he be∣ing dead, his heires shall stand obliged, to render the same to the Treasurer of the Order: except it shall happen to be lost in any Voyage, or honorable action, in which cases, his heires shall stand clearely acquitted. But if the Herauld doe re∣turne home aliue; the Soueraigne of the Order shall then cause another to be made for him, euery way answerable to the other. And the said Herauld, King of Armes, shall haue One thousand and two hundred pounds Pension, which is to be paid him yearely, and euery one of the Knights shall giue him halfe a Marke of Sil∣uer, at euery Chapter ordenarily. And the said Herauld, King of Armes,* 1.34 shall be charged to carrie, or cause to be carried, the Letters of the Soueraigne to the Bre∣thren of the Order, at their Elections, when choise shall be made of them, as also to returne their answeres; and generally to performe all necessary messages and meete seruices, which by the Soueraigne and Officers of the Order shall be ordai∣ned. He stands bound also, to enquire of the prowesse, high-deedes and honora∣ble actions, as well of the Soueraigne, as the other Knights of the Order; whereof he shall make true report to the Register, to haue them duely set downe, according as formerly hath bin said.

30. These foure Officers of the Order, as namely the Chancellour, Pregno∣tary or Register, Treasurer, and Herauld, their persons, goods and liuelihoods,* 1.35 their Seruants and Families, must and shall remaine (in regard of their said Offices) so long as they liue, and their Successours in the said Offices perpetually, in the protection and safeguard of the Soueraigne of the Order. And if any iniury, force, violence and shame be offered to them, either that it hath apparantly bin done by

the Soueraigne, or any Knight of the Order, or other Subiect: And they will sub∣mit themselues to the Soueraigne; he and the Companions of the Order may re∣ceiue and doe reason to them. But if the Partie will not consent: In this case, the Soueraigne and Companions doe stand engaged, to beare out, and fauour the said Officers; so long as they can doe it, for the better keeping of right and equitie.

* 1.3631. Moreouer we doe ordaine, that the day of Saint Michael, which is the last day in the Moneth of September; shall be held as a solemne Festiuall, with the Chapter and generall Assembly of our Soueraigne, as also the Brethren and Com∣panions, Knights of the Order. And that from thence forward, the Assembly shall be made yearely: except there shall happen any other great or important affaires in the Kingdome, for which (according to the aduise and opinion of the Soueraigne, with the greater part of the Knights) it shall be thought fit, to prolong and delay the Chapter, for one or two yeares after, or otherwise, according as the time and place shall be aduised for the best. At which Feasts, Assemblies and Chap∣ters,* 1.37 the Soueraigne is to make knowne vnto them, the time, and place conuenient in limitation, and they all shall stand obliged to appeare there. But we further or∣daine, that if by reason of sicknesse, imprisonment, perill in warre, dangers on the wayes, or other reasonable causes, the said Soueraigne, or any of the Brethren Knights, cannot come thither in person, and appeare at the Chapter, Feast or As∣sembly: He or they (then) are to send (by an honest Attourney) his excuse, ac∣cording to the condition of his person, to know, whether the Soueraigne, or a De∣putie doe sit there for him, and the Brethren in his assistance. There shall hee tell the causes of their excuse and absence, and performe such other Offi∣ces, as the Soueraigne and Brethren should doe, if they were there in person present.

* 1.3832. Vpon the Vigile of the Feast of S. Michael, all the Knights of the Order being come to the place appointed for Assembly, shall goe and present themselues to the Soueraigne in his Pallace or House of being, before the houres of Euen∣song; where he is to welcome them kindely and honorably, as to such a meeting ap∣pertaineth. On which day of the Vigile, the Soueraigne and Brethren of the Or∣der, shall depart together from the Pallace, or lodging of the Soueraigne, appa∣relled in their Cloakes of white Damaske, hanging downe so low as to the ground, their Capes or Collers, and round about embroidered with pure Gold: bordered also with Scallops of Gold, bestowed richly in Lacets vpon the same embroiderie, their Cloakes likewise being furred with Ermines. On their heads, or about their neckes (which is best liking to them) they shall weare Chaperons of Crimosine Vel∣uet all along the Cornet,* 1.39 and of the same fashion and length. Which Cloakes and Chapperons, the Soueraigne & Knights are to make at their owne cost and charge••▪ And in this manner they shall goe to the Church in order, two and two together, the Soueraigne going alone by himselfe, and last of all. Each man shall betake him∣selfe to his Seate, and hauing heard Diuine Seruice, must returne againe to the Soue∣raignes Pallace, in the same order as before is said: the Officers of the Order going formost before the Knights, according to their estate and degrees. Which Officers are to be attired in long Robes of Chamlet, or white Silke Furred with Mineuer, and Hoods of Scarlet; and on the morrow, with Roabes and Hoods of the same.

33. On the morrow (being the Feast day of S. Michael) in the morning, the Soueraigne and Companions of the Order,* 1.40 in such habiliments and cloathing as before hath bin said, shall goe to the Church, and at the Offertorie of high Masse (solemnely celebrated) shall by the Soueraigne, and each of the said Bre∣thren, or Deputies for them in their absence, be offered a piece of Gold; in forme and value answerable to the deuotion of the Knight the Offerer. The Seruice being accomplished, they are to returne to the Pallace of the

••oueraigne in the same Order; where he is to welcome them to his Table, and feast ••hem honorably, or else cause them to be so entertained, by his Commissioners ••hereto deputed.

34. This day, at the houre of Euening Prayer, the Soueraigne and Compani∣••ns of the Order, shall depart from the Pallace of the Soueraigne,* 1.41 attired in their Cloakes of blacke Cloth, and Hoods of the same (except that belonging to the So∣••eraigne, which is to be of Scarlet or Violet) and goe to heare Euen song for the ••ead. And on the morrow after the Feast, Masse for the dead, attired in the same ••anner: At the Offering whereof, the Soueraigne and Knights there present (as ••lso the deputies for the absent) shall offer a great Waxe-Candle, containing a ••ound of Waxe in weight, adorned with the Armes belonging to the Offerer.* 1.42 And during the time of this Offertorie, shall be read by the Register, a Roule of ••he names and Sir-names, as also the titles of the Soueraignes and Knights de∣••eased of the said Order: for the soules of whom, and for others likewise departed, ••e which celebrateth the Masse, shall say at the ending of the Offering, De Profundis, ••nd Prayers for the dead.

35. On the next day after the Feast, the Soueraigne and Knights of the Order,* 1.43 ••ttired in such garments as best pleaseth themselues, shall goe to the Church, to heare the Masse celebrated of our Lady; and the same day, the Soueraigne and Brethren of the Order, may begin their Chapter, in such place as shall be by their Soueraigne appointed. But the Elections and Collections, are to be done at the Chapter-house in the Church, where the Seruice hath bin performed, if there shall be such a conuenient Assembly or Chapter. If not, in such place as shall be liking to the Soueraigne, and where the Knights must haue their white Cloakes or Man∣tles; and where it shall be enioyned (by the Chancellour of the Ordenance) to all the Knights present, and Atturnies or Deputies for the absent, as also the Officers of the Order; to keepe the Councels of the Chapter secret, especially, the corre∣ctions imposed on the Brethren of the Order, without disclosing or reuealing any thing; but what the Deputies of the absent, may report and deliuer to their Mai∣sters, which onely may touch or appertaine vnto them.

36. In the said Chapter, the Chancellour may relate in generall,* 1.44 what he think∣eth fitting should be made knowne; and he is also to perswade, either for correcti∣on, or extirpation of vices, and perseuerance for the encreasing of vertues, in all them that are of the Order: to the end, that they may labour, and giue example of good and commendable life, to all other Knights and Noble-men, which shall at∣taine to the knowledge of them. By the same Chancellour is to be enioyned (in name of the Order) to the last man seated, that he is to depart from the Chapter, and giue attendance without the roome, vntill such time as he shall be called for entrance. In the meane while, the Soueraigne, or his Deputie, or else the Chan∣cellour (in name of the Soueraigne) shall demand (by way of Faith and Oath so∣lemnely) of all the Brethren, and namely of the Soueraigne himselfe, and then of euery one perticularly, beginning at the last to the first: whether they doe know, or haue heard reported by any person worthy of beliefe that their said Brother and Companion, dismissed from the Chapter, hath done, spoken, or committed any thing, which may be censured contrary to the Statutes, Points, Perticulers and Or∣denances of the Order, by meanes whereof, the said Order might be defamed, or any way misprised and reproued.

37. And if it doe appeare, by report of the Bretheren of the Order, that the said partie hath committed any vicious act or offence, contrary to the honour,* 1.45 de∣uoire and estate of Nobilitie and Knighthood, or some other case, that may im∣port and challenge depriuation; the same shall be related to him by the Soueraigne or his Deputie, or by the Chancellour, from point to point effectually, admonish∣ing a due correction of such imperfections, and such manner of life; that those

blames, imputations and defamatorie language, ill agreeing and suting with a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of so great and Noble condition, may for euer cease, and that thenceforward, the Companions of the Order may heare better report of him. As concerning the punishments and inflictions; the Soueraigne and Brethren are to iudge of them, according as they shall deeme necessary and conuenient: whereunto the said p••r∣tie must be obedient, and endure those paines and punishments appointed for him▪ As (in like manner) is to be exercised and inflicted on any of the Knights prese••••, or Deputies for the absent, being offenders, euen so farre forth, as to the Chiefe and Soueraigne of the said Order.

* 1.4638. Ouer and beside, for diuers reasons before specified, and to the end, that the said louing Companie and Fraternitie, may be the better kept and maintained in equalitie, because reason requireth, that from them which are greatest, should pro∣ceede the best example: It is our will, that the issue and examen may as well be made of the Soueraigne, as any of the other, and that paine and punishment may likewise follow, by aduise of the Brethren of the Order, if it doe so come to passe.

39. And if the Knight which stood dismissed from the rest, be found (by testi∣monie of the Brethren) to be of good and commendable life, bending his care and endeauour, to high actions of Chiualrie and Nobilitie; recitall must be made there∣of (according to the Soueraignes aduise, assisted with the Companions) by the Chancellour,* 1.47 for the more honour of his vertue, with further exhortation, and en∣couragement, for his continuall perseuerance therein, the more worthily to attaine the due recompence of his praise-full paines. Because it may serue as a good exam∣ple to other, for their well doing in like manner: the same hauing bin formerly done by the other Knights, of whom remaineth the like good and commendable report.

40. If in the Chapter time, the Soueraigne shall be enformed, that any of the Brethren hath committed some such crime, as may deserue priuation, according to the Statutes of the Order:* 1.48 If the Knight be there present, the Soueraigne shall cause the case to be propounded, with relation of the crime in question; to heare the parties defences, and what he can say for himselfe, for his excuse and discharge, whereupon, right is to be done him by the Soueraigne and Brethren, or else by the greater part of them. And if there be no Chapter kept for sitting, then the Soueraigne is to be aduertised, that he may make it knowne by Letters fast clo∣sed, or Patents sealed with the Seale of the Order, which he is to send by the Herald Mont S. Michael (or some other) to the Knight meriting blame, and charged with the case. Enioyning him, to appeare in person at the next Chapter, to be proceeded withall in the matter according to reason. And if the time, for the said Chapter be short in regard of the distance of place, and the dwelling of the Knight thus charged; the assignation must be deferred till the Chapter following; and then (whether the Knight come or no) he is to be proceeded against, notwithstanding his absence.

41 And if it be found, that the Knight hath committed an ignominious offence, and worthy depriuation of the Order: By the Soueraigne & Brethren of the Order, or by the greater part of them; he shall be taken, depriued and expelled, as before hath bin said.* 1.49 And to auoide all scandale, blame and obloquie to the Order, by reason of his transgression: He shall be prohibited, neuer more to weare the Coller of the said Order, nor any other like thereto. Moreouer, he shall be enioyned, vpon the Oathes by him taken; to deliuer the said Coller into the hands of the Soueraign, or else to the Treasurer of the Order. And if (vpon the sentence) the Knight were not present; Letters Patents shall be sent vnto him, sealed with the Seale of the Or∣der: Containing the priuation, sentence, condemnation, interdiction, inhibitions, commandments, and matters aboue named. And if the Knight being so sufficiently summoned, shall refuse to render, or send back the Coller; the Soueraign (if the party be his Subiect) may compell him thereto by the course of Iustice. And being not his Subiect; yet he may proceede according to reason, & as he shall think it most conue∣nient, by the aduise & counsel of his Brethren, who are Cōpanions of the said Order.

* 1.5042 When any one of the Brethren of the Order, shall decease & depart out of this life; his Heires shall stand obliged (within three moneths at the furthest) to send the

Coller of the deceased Knight to the Treasurer of the Order. Which Heires recei∣••ing the Scedule and acquittance of the said Treasurer; shall thereby be acquitted ••nd discharged, but not otherwise.

43 And if any of the Companions, either in war, or such a like honorable acti∣••n, or in pursuite of some noble occasion, shall be taken prisoner,* 1.51 & (by that meanes) ••he Coller be taken from him: The Soueraigne of the Order (in such a case) stands ••bliged to bestow another on him. But if otherwise the Knight shall chance to loose 〈◊〉〈◊〉; he must be bound, to cause another to be made at his owne cost and charge, and ••o weare it within three Months after, or sooner, if possibly it can be done.

44. When a place is vacant, by decease of any Brother of the Order, or otherwise;* 1.52 ••lection is to be made of another Knight (endued with those conditions before re∣membred) by the greater number of voices, both of the Soueraigne and Brethren of ••he Order. Who must giue in their Scedules fast closed, and which are to be re∣••eiued by the Chancellour at the Chapter, in a Basin of Siluer. In which Election ••nd all other things, conclusions, and deliberations concerning the said Order) the ••oyce of the Soueraigne must haue place, and shall stand accounted for two, but ••o more. Except there are two to be elected, who must haue so many voyces the ••ne as the other. In which case, the Chancellour, hauing collected the voyces ••y Billets or Tickets, from the Electours in equall number; shall declare to the So∣••eraigne that equalitie of Suffrages. And then the Soueraigne (out of his owne ab∣••olute authoritie) may pronounce and giue his third voice, to which of the two him ••keth best. Or if this way like him not, he may renounce the Election, and then must be giuen in new Scedules as before, to the end, that the Election may be the ••ore iust, and least scrupulous, the Scedules of the absent being (neuerthelesse) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fu••l force. Whereupon, and in this respect, the Soueraigne and Brethren of ••he Order, for their more iust proceeding in the businesse, shall sweare, entring ••to the Chapter; to make this Election, without any regard to loue, hatred, fa∣••our, friendship, kinred, or any other occasion, that m••y remoue the iudgement ••f men, from loyall and true aduise or counsell, and to be free from suspition in the ••llection. Which Oath shall be made on the Soueraignes hand, by all the Knights one ••ter another, beginning at the lowest to the highest.

45 And for proceeding in the act of Election,* 1.53 after that the Herauld of Mont S. Michael shall haue signified to the Soueraigne, the decease of any of the Knights of ••he Order, according as by his Office he standeth bounden to doe: the Soueraigne 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to signifie the same to all his Companions. Aduising them, that they must all ap∣••ea••e at the next Chapter, with full disposition and preparation, for election of ano∣••her Knight, in place of him that is deceased. And if the time shall seeme too short, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the iudgement and opinion of the Soueraigne; the said Election may be defer∣••ed and respited to another following. And if by accident, or reasonable excuse, ••ome of the Knights sent for, cannot be there present; they may (for that time) haue ••ntertainment and acceptation by their deputies, bringing their electiue Scedules, ••osed and sealed with their Seales.

46 Be it knowne likewise, that before proceeding to the Election (which is to ••e done in due time, and place of the ordenary Chapter,* 1.54 and not otherwise) by the ••learke or Register of the Order, must be publiquely read, such matter as he former∣•• reported by the Herauld, concerning the high deedes & deseruings of the Knight ••eaceased, according to his true commendation and praise.

47 All the Scedules and voices receiued, and comparison made of them by the ••hancellor; he is then to pronounce the number of them.* 1.55 Then the Soueraign or his ••eputie or Committee, shall take the most voices, and name him of whom they ••ue made choice, saying. Thus, by greater part of voices of the Electours, being ••ow present in this Chapter, and by the Scedules of such as are absent: Our Bro∣••er and Companion N. is elected into this Order. Which Election so made, shall ••e Registred and set downe by the Register, in a Booke seruing expresly for that ••urpose.

48. If the Knight made choice of by this Election be not then and there pre∣••nt: the Soueraigne writes his Letters to him, sealed with the Seale of the Order; ••nding them by the Herauld King of Armes, or else some other, signifying to him

this his Election.* 1.56 Requiring him louingly, to accept and receiue graciously, his calling and entrance into the Order: the Statutes and Ordinances whereof, toge∣ther with the said Letters, shall be sent him double, that thereon he may take aduise, for making it better knowne to him, whether the said Election and association in the Order, may be acceptable to him, or no. Which prouing so, he is to come to the Soueraigne, at the day contained and assigned in the said Letters, to take his Oathes, and receiue the Order and Coller, with other things thereto appertaining. More∣ouer, the said Knight thus elected, must hereupon make knowne his meaning and intent to the bringer, and make certificate also accordingly, to the Soueraigne by his Letters.

* 1.5749. If it shall so happen, that the Knight thus made choice of, be a Potent Lord, or such a person in degree, as may haue, or hath great businesses, affaires, or farre of voyages, which may be his hinderance and impeachment, for appearing in person before the Soueraigne, at such limited time as he is required and appointed to doe. In such a case, if it seeme expedient to the Soueraigne, he may giue to the Herauld, or him that carrieth the Letters of the Orders-Ordinances; a Coller of the same Order, that, after such time as the Knight elected, shall haue accepted the Election (and not before) he may deliuer it as from the Soueraigne, that the Knight may re∣turne his Letters of acceptation of the Coller, to the bringer thereof, who is ••o deliuer them to the Soueraigne. In, and by which Letters, the Knight must make promise, to come (if possibly he may) to the next Chapter, or some other subse∣quent, to the Soueraigne, to sweare the points and constitutions of the Order, and performe all such duties as he standeth bound to doe, according as his other Bre∣thren and Companions of the said Order haue done.

50 This Knight elected, being come before the Soueraigne; at his comming and presentation, he shall deliuer these, or the like speeches.

The words to be vsed by the Knight at his apparance before the Soueraigne.

SIr, or, My most gracious Lord (if he be of the Blood) I haue obserued by these Letters, that of Royall Grace in you, and Loue in the most honorable Brethren and Companions, of the worthy and Noble Order of my Lord Saint Michael; I haue bin, and am elected 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that Order and Companie, whereby I hold my selfe to be very highly honored. I haue re∣uerently receiued, and made acceptation thereof, and doe most hartily thanke you, ye••, s•• much as in me possibly remaineth▪ for so great Grace and fauour: tendering mine obedience, and seruice-able duetie in the said Order, so much as in me lyeth to doe.

* 2.1Whereto shall be answered by the Soueraigne; that the renowne of his ver∣tues, incited both him, and the Brethren of the Order, to receiue and embrace hi•• as their Companion: not doubting, but that he will perseuere in his vertues, an•• augment the honor of God, to the praise and commendation of the Order; taking the Oath as followeth.

The forme of the Oath giuen to the Knight.

YOu shall sweare, that to your loyall power, you shall assist, guard, maintaine and def•••••• the eminencie, rights and greatnesse of the Crowne of France; of the Maiestie Royal, and authoritie of the Soueraigne, and of his successiue Soueraignes, so long as you liue, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 shall be of the said Order, you shall imploy your selfe to your vttermost power, to main∣taine the said Order, and Honour thereof; taking what paines you can, to augment 〈◊〉〈◊〉 without suffering it to decay or diminish, so long as your strength may remedie and sup∣port it.

* 3.151. And if it shall so come to passe (which God forefend) that in you there shall be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 some such fault, whereby (according to the Statues of the Order) you are to be depriued, s••••¦moned and required, to redeliuer backe the Coller: In such case, you must send it to the S••∣raigne, or the Treasurer of the Order, without euer-more (after the said Summoning) ••••¦ring the said Coller. And all penalties, paines and corrections, which (in meaner 〈◊〉〈◊〉

may be censured and appointed to you: you are to vndergoe and beare patiently, without rancour, spleene or hatred (for, or in that respect) in you, either against the Soueraigne, Bre∣thren, or any Officers of the said Order.

52 You must, ouer and beside all this, duely appeare at the Chapters and Assemblies of the Order: Or else you must send thither (according to the Statutes and Orde∣nances thereof) your sufficient Deputie or Atturney. As testifying thereby, your obe∣dience to the Soueraigne, and to his Deputies or Committees, in all things reasona∣ble, concerning the dutie and affaires of the Order; and your owne loyall power, for ac∣complishing all the Statutes, Points, Articles and Ordenances, which you haue seene and read in writing, and shall hereafter heare read vnto you. To them you shall promise and sweare, as well generally, as perticulerly, and to each Point you are to take an especiall Oath. All these things, as you are a Knight of the Order, you must sweare and promise on the So∣ueraignes hand: by your Faith, Oath and Honor, and on the Crosse and holy Gospels of our Lord.

53 This being done, the elected Knight shall kneele reuerently before the Soue∣raigne, who shall take the Coller of the Order, and put it about his necke, vttering these or the like words, or causing them to be spoken by some other.

The Order receiueth you as a louing Companion, and in signe thereof,* 3.2 giueth you this Coller. God grant that you may long weare it, to his praise and seruice, and ex∣altation of his holy Church, encrease and honour of the Order, and your owne well de∣seruings and good fame: In the name of the Father, and of the Sonne, and of the Holy Ghost. Whereto the Knight shall answere: So be it, Amen; And God giue me his Grace to doe it.

Afterward, the Knight of the first Seate, he being then present; shall leade or conduct the new made Knight to the Soueraigne, sitting in his Seate.* 3.3 Who shall kisse him in token of perpetuall loue; and so doe all the Knights there present, euery one following another in place and order:

54 But if the Knight shall excuse himselfe from accepting the Election:* 3.4 the So∣ueraigne is to make it knowne to the Brethren of the Order: sending them com∣mand and order, to make themselues ready in due preparation, for the election of an∣other, at such time, and in such manner as thereto belongeth.

55 The Knights heretofore named, and all other entring into the Order; shall take their Oathes in the forme and manner formerly set downe.

56 And when the Office of the Chancellor of the Order shal happen to be vacant;* 3.5 Election is to be made by the Soueraigne and Brethren of the Order, in manner before related, concerning a noate-worthie man, and of such condition and quali∣tie as hath bin obserued. And if the new-chosen Chancellour (after Election) shall excuse himselfe from it; it is to be committed to another, vntill such time, as the Soueraigne and Brethren shall be otherwise prouided, according to reason, and by the wayes before remembred.

57 The Chancellour elected, who hath made acceptation of the Office; shall on the Soueraignes hand, or his Deputie or Committee, take his Oath, part where∣of followeth.

That he shall appeare in person, at all Chapters and Assemblies or meetings of the Order.* 3.6 If hee chance to be sicke, or some allowable cause be his hinderance; hee is (in such a case) by his Letters bounden to aduertise the Soueraigne thereof, who in his absence (for that time) may commit the discharge of the Office, to some Noble and worthie man, such as him∣selfe shall please to make choice of.

58 That he shall not seale (with the Seale of the Order) any Letters,* 3.7 touching the Ho∣nour of the Knights, but by the command of the Soueraigne, and then being present, sixe Knights of the Order, at the least. And aboue all, not to Seale any Letters, for summoning any Knight to deliuer vp his Coller; without the Soueraignes expresse command, & know∣ledge of the Companions of the Order. Nor so neither, except the conclusion be agreed on in a full Chapter, and generall assembly of the Order.

59 That neither for loue, feare, hatred, fauour or affection, hee shall forbeare to speake any thing, and deliuer faithfully (yea euen to his vttermost power) what hee is to

propound in the said Chapters and Assemblies. But all those things to bee vttered loyally, whereof hee hath receiued charge from the Soueraigne. And those conclusions agreed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Chapter, concerning penalties and corrections of the Knights,, or otherwise, he shall deliuer as thereto appertaineth, and as it is ordained for him, in the Chapter of the Order euery yeare. Hee is also (if possibly hee may) as formerly hath beene said, to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 present at hearing the accounts of the Treasurer: And to keepe secret the Counsels of the Order; and (in briefe) to exercise his Office well and truely.

* 3.860. And when the Office of the Register or Pregnotarie of the Order shall bee va∣cant: then by the Soueraigne in person, and eight Knights of the Order, at the lea••••, shall another Register bee elected, of such condition as formerly is expressed. The Election of him is to bee made at the Chapter, or any other day at the Soueraign•• pleasure: vpon whose hand, or of his Deputie, the Register shall take his Oath, i•• forme following.

* 3.9That truely and diligently (to his vttermost power) hee shall set downe in writing, and Register the high and commendable actions of the Knights of the Order, according as hee shall be instructed by the Herauld: And shall faithfully obserue in writing, the paines, pe∣nalties and corrections, appointed to Knights delinquents in the Chapters; the Acts where∣of are to remaine registred. Performing his duty loyally in his writings, and keeping the Counsels of the Order as he ought to doe.

61. Election is to be made of a Treasurer, when the Office shall fall vacant, accor∣ding as of t•••• R••gister: and the Treasurer is to bee sworne in manner following.

* 3.10That he shall faithfulle keepe▪ conserue and gouerne (to his vttermost power) the Iewels, Moueables, Re••ts, Reuennues, and all the goods of the Order, as they shall come to his hands, without distribution of any thing, except to such vses as they are to be applyed, and by ap∣pointment of the Soueraigne. That he shall faithfully distribute to men of the Church, such things as are allowed to them for diuine Seruice. Also to Officers for exercise of th•••• charges, and to other persons, according as the Soueraigne shall ordaine. And in these nego∣tiations, he must vse all diligence, without omitting any thing, trifling or delaying; re••∣dring a good and faithfull account, as well of the rents and reuennues belonging to the Or∣der, as of the Gifts, Legacies, and Largesses that haue beene bestowed, without retaining or concealing any thing; exercising (in all these perticularities) his Office duely, truely, and so much as in him lieth.

62 Concerning the proceeding, commanded to be vsed in the Election of the He∣rauld, named Mont-Saint-Michael; it shall be done in the same manner, as is formerly related of the Register and Treasurer; And his Oath is after this manner.

* 3.11That he shall diligenily enquire, of the high deedes and valiancies, of the Knights of the Order; and, without fauour, hatred, loue, iniurie, profit, or any other affection, make true report to the Register, of them, that they may be set downe in a Chronicle and Register, as he ought to doe. Any Knight deceasing, he shall make it knowne speedily to the Soueraigne, duely deliuering such messages as he shall be charged withall. He shall be obedient to the Soueraigne, Brethren and Officers of the Order, in all reasonable ma••ers and occasions: And shall keepe secret whatsoeuer ought to be concealed in the Order. And in briefe; in all things whatsoeuer, he shall faithfully and diligently doe his duetie, to hi•• vttermost power.

63 When it shall so happen, that by the death of the Soueraigne, his Successour shall be in minoritie and vnder age, and thereby vncapable of managing, disposing and ordering the affaires of the Order: We doe ordaine, that in such cases, the Brethren and Companions of the Order shall make a meeting. At which time, by opinion of the greater part and number of voyces; they shall elect one among them, to preside, order and manage the affaires of the Order, in stead and place of the others minoritie, and at his charges; vntill he shall be of yeares to receiue Knighthood. And to that e∣lected person, we will and ordaine, that (during the said time) obedience shall be giuen, in those things concerning the Orders affaires, in like manner as to the Soueraigne.

64 And in regard that this present Order is a Fraternitie, Brotherhood and louing Companie, whereunto the Brethren submit themselues freely, promising and swea••ing to hold and keepe inuiolably, all the Lawes and Constitutions there∣of: Wee doe ordaine, establish and determine, that the said Order shall t••ke

••owledge, and be as a Court Soueraigne, in cases which concerne, and may ••uch the Brethren, Companions and Officers thereto belonging. And that all ••mmons, Seines, Corrections, Punishments, Priuations, Appointments, Sen∣••ces, Iudgements, Arrests, matters past, done and decreed by the said Order, in ••ses which may or shall concerne any of the Brethren, Knights, and Officers there∣•• belonging, shall be executorie, auaileable, and as absolutely allowed, as in a ••ourt Soueraigne; without any hinderance or impeachment, or hauing recourse ••sewhere) by Complaint, Supplication or Appeale, or otherwise in any kinde ••hatsoeuer.

65 All the said Points, Conditions, Articles, Ordenances, Constitutions and ••ases before remembred, and euery one of them: Wee, for Vs,* 3.12 our Heires and ••uccessours, Kings of France, Heads and Soueraignes of this our present Order, ••••d louing Companie of my Lord Saint Michael, doe promise to hold, keepe and ••tirely accomplish inuiolably, euen to the vttermost of our power, from this in∣••ant houre, and for euer. But alwayes reseruing to our selfe, and to our Succes∣••ours, Heads and Soueraignes of the Order; that if in the said Articles, there shall ••ppeare any difficultie, obscuritie or doubt: To vs, and our Successours shall ap∣••ertaine the Declaration, Solution, Determination, Interpretation and clearing ••ereof. And it shall remaine in Vs, to adde thereto, resolue clearely, diminish or ••hange any of them, with the aduise and counsell of our Brethren,* 3.13 according as we ••hall thinke good.

66 Excepting this, concerning the Articles of the number, and conditions of ••he Knights, allowed to be of the Order.

67 That such as are accepted into this Order; shall not be capable of receiuing ••ny other.

68 That of the amitie, which the Soueraigne and his Companions ought to haue ••o each other.

69 That concerning the seruice, which the Knights are obliged to yeelde to the Soueraigne.

70 And that, wherein the Soueraigne promiseth, to defend and keepe the Com∣••anions and Officers of the Order, in their Estates, Dignities and Seigneuries.

71 The Article of the Order, for going, comming, seating, and other things con∣••erning the Precedencie of the Knights.

72 That of new Election, when any place shall happen to be voide; where the Soueraigne shall haue his two voyces.

73 The Article of receiuing the Knight elected, and other, making mention of the Oathes, which the Knights and Officers are to take, in the cases before ••elated.

74 Which Articles formerly excepted; we will haue to remaine firme and in∣••ire: Without, either by vs, or our Successours Soueraignes of the Order,* 3.14 making ••ny variation, restriction, or any alteration.

And wee will, that the examination of these presents, giuen vnder our Royall Seale, and Seale of the Order: credence shall be giuen thereto, as to the Originall.

And to the end, that it remaine a matter firme and stable for euer: We haue cau∣sed our Seale to be put to these presents.

Giuen in our Castell of Amboise, the first day of August, One thousand foure hundred threescore and nine: And of our Reigne the ninth.

The great Seale of this Order, hath engrauen on it, the figure of S. Michael;* 3.15 as in the Ouale forme, which hangeth at the great Coller: And the lesse Seale hath three Floures de Luces entoured with the Order.

The great Coller of the Order,* 3.16 is composed of double Scallop-shels of Gold (as ••n that of the Order of the Shippe) fastened with round Points of blacke Silke, hauing ••ong Tagges of Gold, enterwouen in the forme of Loue-knots. At the end of this Coller, hangeth vpon the brest, an Ouale of Gold, hauing a small rising hillocke cu∣••iously enamelled in it; whereon standeth the Image of S. Michael, treading the Dragon vnder his feete.

* 3.17King Frances first of the name, at the first Chapter of the said Order, which he held after his Sacring, in September, One thousand fiue hundred and sixteene▪ did change those Points into double Cordeliers of Gold: As well in regard of himselfe, being named Frances; as to conserue the memorie of Queene Anne of Bretaigne, Mother to his wife Queene Claudia, who had thereto earnestly moued and entreated him.

* 3.18King Henry the second, their Sonne, being come to the Crowne; at the first Chapter of the said Order of Saint Michael, which he held in the Citie of Ly••••, wherein he made his entrance, in the yeare One thousand fiue hundred fortie and eight, ordained: That the Knights of this Order should alwayes after, weare Cloaks of Cloth of Siluer, embrodered about with his deuise; to wit, three Crescents of Siluer, enter-wouen with Trophees, Quiuers and Turkish Bowes, semed▪ and can∣tonned with Tongues and flames of Fire. The Mantelet or Chapperon was of Crimosine Veluet, couered with the same embroderie, and the Order of S. Mi∣chael aboue.

* 3.19He appointed also, that the Chancellour of the Order, should weare his Cloacke of White Veluet, and the Chapperon of Crimosine Veluet. The Prouost and Maister of the Ceremonies; the Treasurer, Register and Vsher, or King of Armes belonging to the said Order: are to haue their Cloakes of White Sattin, and their Chapperons of Crimosine Sattin, and thereon a chaine of Gold, at the end whereof, vpon the breast, hangeth a Scallop of Gold onely. And in this man∣ner, was the solemnitie performed of the Order, in the Cathedrall Church of Saint Iohn in Lyons, on the Eeuen and day of Saint Michael at Eeuensong, and a high Masse. The King of Armes, Herauld or Vsher of this Order, is called by the name of Mont-Saint-Michael.

I haue seene many of those great Clarkes of Cloth of Siluer, appertaining to that Order. And namely two, in the Chappell of the Dukes of Bourgongne, at Di••, which those Gentlemen of the Noble House of Vienna in Bourgongne, gaue there free∣ly, to serue for Coapes in the Church, & whereon are the Armes of the said House, De Gueulles al Aigle d••Or, ou d'Argent.

To make relation here, of the Chapters, Names, Sirnames, Armes and quali∣ties of the Knights of the said Order; would require the containdure of an whole Volume; from the yeare of the Institution vnto this present, it being yet still on foote. Wherefore, as in the first Chapter, is fully and largely contained the maine maximes, by the Statutes of the Order: So will wee finish this our dis∣course with the last Chapter, solemnely held and celebrated by King Charles, ninth of the name, in the Church of Paris, on the Eeuen and day of Saint Michael, in September. Anno One thousand fiue hundred threescore and twelue.

The solemne holding of the Order, in the Church of Paris, by King Charles, ninth of the name. Anno 1572.

ALL the preparations being fully effected, the King being come into the Queene of the Church; tooke his place on the right hand, vnder a goodly State of Cloath of Gold Frized. Two paces beneath, and on the same side, were sea∣ted Monsieur Henry Alexander of France, Duke of Aniou, Brother to the King and his Successour for the Crowne.* 3.20 The Duke of Montpensier, The Duke of Ne••••rs, The Duke of Guize, The Marshall de Tauanes, The Prince Daulphine, La Chappelle aux Vrsins, Rubempre, And Villequier the yonger.

* 3.21At the other side of the Quire, and on the left hand, was another Canopie o•• State of Cloath of Gold, vnder which sate not any person, but onely were pla∣ced Tables of Armes.

Of Kings of Spaine, Of Denmarke, And Of Sweden.

And beneath the Chaires reserued for them, as Knights and fellow Brethren o•• the Order, were seated, The King of Nauarre, afterward King of France, Henry

fourth of the name. Monsieur Frances Hercules de France, brother to the King, Duke of Brabant and of Alencon, The Duke of d Vsez. The Prince of Conde. De Sansac. De Losses. De Chauigny. De Rets. And De Villequier the elder.

The King, Princes and Lords of the said Order, were cloathed in white Sattin,* 3.22 the great Cloakes of Siluer, with long traines drailing on the ground; their Chap∣perons of Crimosine Veluet, vpon which hung the great Collers.

Before the Kings Seate was a long Forme or Bench, couered with Cloth of Gold, whereon were seated in one ranke, The Chancellour, Treasurer, Register, Maister of the Ceremonies.

And before them, on two Stooles, couered with Cloath of Gold, sate Mont Saint Michael, King of Armes; And Vsher of the Order▪

All cloathed with long Mantles of white Sattin, and Chapperons of Crimosine Sattin; as had bin ordained by King Henry the second.

At Celebration of the Vigile, and Masse for the Knights deceased;* 3.23 the King did ••hen weare a great Cloake and Chapperon of Violet colour cloath: And the other wore great Cloakes and Chapperons of blacke Serge, yet had the great Order vpon their seuerall Chapperons.

To the Offering, the King went foremost, preceded by the Officers of the Order,* 3.24 ••ccording to their ranke. His Maiestie held in his hand a Candle of white Waxe, ••ontaining a pound in weight: being followed by Monsieur the Duke of Aniou, his ••rother, who presented his Offering.

The King being conducted backe to his Seate, Monsieur d'Aniou, preceded like∣wise by the Officers of the Order, was guided to the Offering.

Next to him, the King of Nauarre.

Followed by the other Princes and Lords, according to their Order, from the ••ight side to the left.

There is yet (to this present) to be seene, the most of the Tables, with the Es∣••utcheons of the Knights of the said Order, called or present at this solemne Chap∣••er, in the Quire of the Church at Paris: in which regard I omit their Blazons, and ••ecause the more part of them may be obserued, in the Great Order of the Holy-••host.

This of S. Michael hath bin continued, and the memorie thereof remaineth to ••his day: because it is worne by the Princes and Lords, retained and named from Chapter to Chapter, for receiuing that of the Holy-Ghost. And this is the reason, why we behold it rounded with the Armes of the Princes of the house of Lorraine, of Ne∣••rs and of Nemoux.

And our Kings do yet honor therewith Princes Strangers. I saw it giuen by King Henry the great (of endlesse memorie) to the Duke of Moldauia, and to the Prince ••is Sonne, depriued of their dignities by the Turkes forces, & withdrawne thence 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Paris, where the King gaue them entertainement. The Prince deceasing there 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the life time of his Father, his seruice was performed at Saint Nicholas des Champs; ••e Funerall Girdle of the Church being charged with his Armes, which were thus ••nblazoned.

De Gueulles a vne Teste de Taureau d'Or, somme d'vne Estoile de mesme, Coronne d'vn ••mnet Ducal d'Or releue pour Cimier d'vne Aigrette, & facon de Houppe d'Argent, en∣••ure de l'Ordre Sainct Michel.

Notes

• * 1.1

  A Copie of the Letters Pa∣tents.
• * 1.2

  The number of Knights 36. the King the chiefe.
• * 1.3

  The Coller of the Order gi∣uen by the King and how to be worne.
• * 1.4

  How & when wearing the great Coller is to be excused.
• * 1.5

  Of what weight in gold the Coller ought to be.
• * 1.6

  For propaga∣tion of loue & amitie in the Order.
• * 1.7

  Against iniu∣rious offending Militarie at∣tempt•• vpon honorable oc∣casions.
• * 1.8

  No warres or danger to be vndertaken without aduise of the knights.
• * 1.9

  A limitation for vndertak∣ing warres or long voyages by any of the Knights.
• * 1.10

  In case of dif∣ference or dis∣content be∣tweene any of the Knights.
• * 1.11

  For iniurie or offence offerd to any knight or Officer.
• * 1.12

  For mouing war against any Knight of the Order.
• * 1.13

  Concerning trauaile, or seruing in War vnder any for∣reigne Prince.
• * 1.14

  Continuance in the Order during life, ex∣cept in cases of foule crimes.
• * 1.15

  In case of er∣rour or heresie and treason.
• * 1.16

  〈…〉〈…〉 be g••iu••n by the Soueraigne and Compa∣nions of the Order.
• * 1.17

  O•• wrong or iniurie by the Soueraigne to any of the Knights.
• * 1.18

  Co••cerning precedencie o•• priori••ie of place in the Order.
• * 1.19

  For such as come into the Order after the prime election.
• * 1.20

  The paiment of euery knight to the Treasu∣rer.
• * 1.21

  Paiment of money to the decease of any knight.
• * 1.22

  For the place and Church of the Mount Saint Michael.
• * 1.23

  Seates in the Church for the Soueraigne and Knights.
• * 1.24

  The Chaun∣cellour of the Order, and what he must be.
• * 1.25

  The Se••le of the Order to be kept by the Chancellour.
• * 1.26

  Of the absence of Knights from meetings and Chapters.
• * 1.27

  Concerning the Register of the Order, and the Bookes by him to be kept
• * 1.28

  Another Book appertaining to the Order.
• * 1.29

  A Treasurer of the Order, and the charges belonging to his Office.
• * 1.30

  Order concer∣ning any Knight decea∣sed or depri∣ued.
• * 1.31

  Concerning the Endow∣ments & other benefits be∣longing to the Order.
• * 1.32

  Bookes of Charters, Pri∣uiledges, &c.
• * 1.33

  The Herauld and King of Armes of the Order called Mont. S. Mi∣chael.
• * 1.34

  The yearely pension and allowance to be paid to the Herauld or King of Armes of the Order.
• * 1.35

  Concerning the foure espe∣ciall Officers of the Order.
• * 1.36

  An Order for especial obser∣uing the Festi∣uall day of S. Michael.
• * 1.37

  For altering or deferring the dayes of meeting.
• * 1.38

  Offices to be done on the Vigile or Fue of S. Michael by the Bre∣thren.
• * 1.39

  The manner of their wea∣ring habits for going to the Church.
• * 1.40

  The Ceremo∣nie to be vsed on the Feast day of S. Mi∣chael.
• * 1.41

  Office for the day at Euening Prayer, and the next day following.
• * 1.42

  The Offering of great Waxe Candles.
• * 1.43

  What is to be done on the morrow after the Feast day.
• * 1.44

  The Office of the Chancel∣lour at the Chapter.
• * 1.45

  For any such as shall offend against the Rules of the Order.
• * 1.46

  For auoiding partialitie or fauourable re∣spect either in Prince or Peers
• * 1.47

  Encourage∣ment to the yonger Bro∣ther of the Order.
• * 1.48

  Concerning complaint of some crime committed, reuealed in the Chapter-time
• * 1.49

  For auoiding of scandale to the Order, after depriua∣tion.
• * 1.50

  For sending back the Col∣ler of a decea∣sed Knight.
• * 1.51

  Losse of the Coller in any honorable action, and in the contrary.
• * 1.52

  For choice of a new Brother when a place is vacan••.
• * 1.53

  For procee∣ding in the act of new Electi∣on.
• * 1.54

  Another ser∣uice before perform••nce of the Election
• * 1.55

  The order ob∣serued in the Election.
• * 1.56

  What is done, if the Knight made coo••ce of is ab••e••t at the Election.
• * 1.57

  Concerning the qualitie of the person e∣lected, and his occasions.
• * 2.1

  The sonne of the Soueraigns answere.
• * 3.1

  Articles with∣in compasse of the Oath.
• * 3.2

  The words of the King to the Knight.
• * 3.3

  The new Knights pre∣senting to the Soueraigne.
• * 3.4

  Of refusing the Election.
• * 3.5

  For vacancie of the Chan∣cellors Office.
• * 3.6

  The Oath of the Chancellor
• * 3.7

  For sealing with the Seale of the Order.
• * 3.8

  Vacancie of the Registers Office, & ele∣ctiō of another
• * 3.9

  The Oath of the Register.
• * 3.10

  The Oath of the Treasurer.
• * 3.11

  The Oath of the Herauld Mont S. Mi∣chael.
• * 3.12

  The Kings ab∣solute confir∣mation of the Order, and all Articles there∣in contained.
• * 3.13

  An especi••ll•• exception, and other of like nature, to per∣ticuler Articles
• * 3.14

  The finall act of full ratifica∣tion▪
• * 3.15

  The great and lesser Seales.
• * 3.16

  Of the great Coller of the Order.
• * 3.17

  Alteration of the points into twisted Cor∣dons of Gold.
• * 3.18

  Alteration of the Cloaks by King Henry the second.
• * 3.19

  Other habits by him likewise appointed.
• * 3.20

  The forme of their sitting.
• * 3.21

  A second State
• * 3.22

  Their Habits.
• * 3.23

  Funerall me∣morie.
• * 3.24

  The Offering.