The institution, laws & ceremonies of the most noble Order of the Garter collected and digested into one body by Elias Ashmole ...

CHAP. V. THE Institution OF THE MOST NOBLE Order Of the Garter. (Book 5)

SECT. I. The several Opinions touching the occasion of its Institution.

EDward King of England and of France, of that name (after the Nor∣man Conquest) the Third, was the first Founder of this most re∣nowned Order of the Garter: And this is not only unanimously at∣tested by our own, and other Historians, but also by good Authori∣ties and Records of the Order it self.

The Historians generally agree in the person of the Founder, but as to the original occasion, that gave beginning to the Order, and the time when it was erected, there is not small difference among them; by reason whereof, the truth of both is left so perplext, that if we had not clearer light from some other means, the world might yet live in ignorance of the verity of either: But that we may set down these two particulars more exactly than hitherto hath been done, and give a more perfect account of a Military Order, whose same hath spread all

over the World, and been conferr'd on the greatest Princes thereof, is our de∣sign in this present Work.

First then, as to the occasion of its Institution, the opinions of Writers (as we said) are various: The vulgar and more general is, That the Garter of Ioane Countess of Salisbury falling casually off, as she danced in a solemn Ball, King Edward hastily stooping, took it up from the ground; whereupon some of his Nobles and Courtiers smiling, as at an amorous action, and he observing their sportive humour, turn'd it off with this reply in French, Honi soit Qui mal y Pense; but withal added in disdain of their laughter, That in a short time, they should see that Garter advanced to so high honor and estimation, as to account them∣selves happy to wear it.

But taking leave to examine this Tradition, we shall only make two or three Remarques, and then refer it to the judgment of others, what credit ought to be given thereto.

First, Sir Iohn Froissart (who only among the Writers of that Age speaks of this Institution) assigns it no such original, as that of the falling of a Ladies Gar∣ter: Nor is there found any thing to that purpose in our other Historians, for the space of two hundred years, till Polydor Virgil took occasion to say some∣thing of it; whose grounds we shall examine immediately. Besides it might be expected, that some Historian among the French (who were so forward to jeer at our King Henry the Fifth's design of invading them, with a return of Tennis Balls) would not have forborn to register some where or other, a scoff at the Ladies Garter; especially in a time when the fury of War had dissolv'd all obli∣gations of friendship and civility, and opened the mouth of slander. Whereto we must add, that there is not the least appearance in the original Statutes of this most noble Order, to countenance the conceit of such a Feminine Institution; no not so much as obliging the Knights-Companions to defend the quarrels of Ladies (as the Rules of some Orders then in being enjoin'd) nor doth the Author of that piece intituled, Institutio clarissimi Ordinis Militaris à prenobili Subligaculo nun∣cupati, written by way of Preface to the Black Book of the Garter, let fall the least touch to that purpose.

As to what Polydor says, it is even thence to be noted, that he himself is not so confident, as to ascertain the person whose Garter it was, but warily de∣clining that, says, it was b 1.1 either the Queens, or the Kings Mistress; and if it were the later, yet doth he with the same caution omit her name and title of dignity, both which hath since been supplied (but on what authority we find not) by some of our modern Historians, who call her c 1.2 Ioane Countess of Salis∣bury; and there is as little reason, why she should be supposed to be Ioane, called also the Fair Maid of Kent (whom Edward the black Prince afterwards married) inasmuch as no Historian takes the least notice, that King Edward the Third ever courted her as a Mistress.

We suppose our learned Selden points at her, when he calls the Lady from whom the Garter slipt, d 1.3 Countess of Kent and Salisbury; but about the time of the Foundation of the Order of the Garter, she in truth was neither: for albeit she was Daughter to Edmund of Woodstock Earl of Kent, and had been sometime the reputed Wife of William Mountagu, second Earl of Salisbury of that Family; yet then she could not properly be accounted Countess of Salisbury, because she was actually Wife to Sir Thomas Holland (one of the first Founders of that Order) and so f 1.4 adjudged to be, by Pope Clement the Sixth, in a controversie depending before him, between Sir Thomas and the Earl: and for this reason not taken no∣tice of either by Brooke or Vincent (in the title of Salisbury) to have been his Wife.

Nor was she yet (though afterwards) Countess of Kent, because her Brother Iohn Earl of Kent at the Institution of this Order, was alive, and died not till anno g 1.5 26. E. 3.

But that there was a Countess of Salisbury, of whom King Edward the Third became greatly enamoured, is reported by h 1.6 Sir Iohn Froissart, after this man∣ner; That this King having relieved a Castle belonging to the Earl of Salisbury, in the North of England, wherein his Countess had been besieged by the Scots (the

Earl himself being at that time Prisoner in France) upon sight of her extraordi∣nary beauty fell in love with her: but she so virtuously demeaned her self towards the King, during his short stay there, that he declined further sollicitation. How∣beit some time after, the King out of desire to see her (saith the same i 1.7 Author) proclaimed a solemn Justs in London, whither this Countess, and many other La∣dies, being invited, came.

Froissart names not the Castle, wherein this Countess lay, when the Scots be∣sieged it, but only gives this note upon it, * 1.8 That the King gave the same Castle to her Husband for his good service past, when he first married her, being then but a Knight.

The name of the place being left thus by him in the dark, those who hitherto sought after it, have but roved at it with uncertain guesses. But upon more di∣ligent search we have hit the mark, and find it was the Castle of | 1.9 Wark upon Tweed in the County of Northumberland, upon the Borders of England towards Scotland, which King Edward had so bestowed upon Sir William Mountague (af∣terwards created Earl of Salisbury) for his life, together with the Mannor, Lands, and Tenements within the Liberty of the said Mannor.

This Castle being grown very ruinous, and the said Sir William undertaking the charge of the repair, (which hapned to be very great) the King thereupon * 1.10 granted the same anew to him for life, by the service of one Knights Fee, the re∣mainder after his death to his Son Iohn, and the Heirs of his body lawfully be∣gotten, to hold by the foresaid service; and if he dyed without such issue, then to the right Heirs of Sir William for ever.

Though then it should be admitted, that this Countess of Salisbury was the Kings Mistress, yet must it be noted, that she was Wife to William Mountague, created Earl of Salisbury, k 1.11 anno 11. E. 3. Mother to William the before men∣tioned second Earl, that her Christian name was l 1.12 Katherine, not Alice, as Frois∣sart, nor Ioane, as others call her, and Daughter to William Lord Granston, a Nobleman of Burgundy; and that she died m 1.13 anno 28. Ed. 3. and lies buried at n 1.14 Bysham Abbey in Berkeshire.

But that the whole story may appear, no otherwise than indeed it is, a Fable; we shall here insert the opinion of a late learned Writer, who hath taken no small pains to satisfie himself and the world in this particular.

* 1.15 This (saith Doctor Heylin) I take to be a vain and idle Romance, derogatory both to the Founder and the Order; first published by Polydor Virgil, a Stranger to the Affairs of England, and by him taken upon no better ground, than o 1.16 Fama vulgi, the tradition of the common people, too trifling a foundation to so great a building, common bruit being so infamous an Historian, that wise men neither re∣port after it, nor give credit to any thing they receive from it. And yet hath it so fallen out, that many learned men, for want of reflection, have incautelously swallowed and run away with this vulgar error; whereupon it hath come by de∣grees to the vogue it is now in.

Of the same spinning with the former, is another Tradition, and no less un∣certain; q 1.17 That the Queen being departed from King Edward's presence to her own Lodgings, he following her soon after, hapned to espy a Blue Garter lying on the ground (thought to have slipt from her Leg as she went along) whilst some of his Attendants passed by it, as disdaining to stoop at such a trifle; but he knowing the Owner, commanded it to be taken up and given to him, at the re∣ceipt whereof, he said, r 1.18 You make but small account of this Garter, but within few Months, I will cause the best of you all to reverence the like.

And some think that the Motto of the Garter was the s 1.19 Queens answer; when the King asked her, what men would conjecture of her, upon losing her Garter in such a manner.

But both these Relations are remote from truth, and of little credit; never∣theless, they give us opportunity to note here, That it hath thus fared with other Orders of Soveraign Foundation; and an Amorous instead of Honorable Ac∣count of their Institution, hath by some been untruly rendred.

For instance, that of the Annunciade, Instituted some few years after this of

the ennobled Garter; concerning which, though Andrew Favin hath given it an amorous original, yet have we (in the t 1.20 third Chapter) from better authori∣ties, cleared his mistaken account thereof.

Nor hath it hapned otherwise with the Order of the Golden Fleece, even that also hath met with the same fate; and the Institution reported to have risen from an effeminate ground: for it is said, that its u 1.21 Founder entring one morning into the Chamber of a most beautiful Lady of Bruges (generally esteemed his Mistress) found upon her w 1.22 Toilet, a Fleece of low Country Wooll; whence some of his Followers taking occasion of sport, as at a thing unusually seen in a Ladies Chamber, he (as is reported of King Edward the Third, upon such another oc∣casion) vowed that such as made it the subject of their derision, should never be honored with a Collar of the Order thereof, which he intended to establish, to express the love he bore that Lady.

There is a third opinion, grounded on a Relation having an aspect to time before King Edward the Third's Institution, which is reported of King x 1.23 Richard the First, and is this; that while his Forces were employed against Cyprus and Acon, and extreamly tired out with the tediousness of the Siege, He, by the as∣sistance and mediation of St. George (as imagined) was inspired with fresh courage, and bethought himself of a new device, which was, to tye about the legs of a chosen number of Knights, a Leathern Thong or Garter (for such had he then at hand) whereby being put in mind of the future glory that should accrue to them, with assu∣rance of worthy rewards if they overcame, they might be ronzed up to the behaving themselves gallantly and stoutly in the Wars, much after the manner of the ancient Romans, among whom were various Crowns, with which for several causes, Soldi∣ers were adorned; to the end that by those encouragements, all sluggishness being sha∣ken off, the virtue and fortitude of their minds might spring up and appear more re∣solute and vigorous.

It further continues in the same Preface, That after a long interval of time, and divers Victories obtained by him, the said King returning into his Country, deter∣mined with himself, to institute and setle this most noble Order of St. George, on whose patronage the English so much relied.

But admit this (though we are to note, it is only a Relation put down in the Preface of the Black Book, but not any part of the Annals of the Order, nor can it plead higher antiquity than the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, because writ∣ten a little after the time he reformed and explained the Statutes of the Garter) all this we say admitted, and that King Richard the First did make use of this devise in the Holy Land, as a signal or distinction of a party going out upon some warlike exploit: yet that he thence took occasion to frame a distinct Order of Knighthood afterwards, there is not the least mention, nor any ground to ima∣gine. So that all the advantage can be made of it is, that (as y 1.24 Doctor Heylin affirms) we may warrantably be perswaded, this occasion much heightned the re∣putation of that Saint among the English, by which means in process of time, the most heroick Order of the Garter came to be dedicated to him; and not that it any way contributed to the Institution of it.

SECT. II. The true Cause asserted.

THus far of the conjectures of others, concerning the Institution of this most noble Order; now come we to unfold the true occasion thereof.

We affirm then, that King Edward the Third had no reflection, either upon a Ladies Garter, or King Richard's Leathern Thong, when he first designed the Institution, but that it did proceed from a much more noble cause; to wit,

that this King being a person of a most absolute and accomplisht virtue, gave himself up to a prudent management of Military Affairs; and being ingaged in War for the recovery of his right to the Kingdom of France, in the prosecution of which enterprise, he had great use of the stoutest and most famous Martia∣lists of that Age, did thereupon first design (as being invited thereto by its an∣cient same) the restauration of King Arthur's Round Table, which he exhibited with magnificent Hastiludes and general Justs, to invite hither the gallant and active spirits from abroad: and upon discovery of their courage and ability in the exercise of Arms, to draw them to his party, and oblige them to himself.

And conceiving no place more fit than a 1.25 Windesor, upon b 1.26 Newyears-day, anno 1344. he issued out his Royal Letters of Protection for the safe coming and return of Forreign Knights, their Servants and what belonged to them, that were desirous to try their valour at the solemn Justs, by him appointed to be held there, on c 1.27 Munday after the Feast of St. Hillary next following (which that year happened on the 19. of Ianuary) and these Letters of safe conduct conti∣nued in force until the d 1.28 Octaves of the Purification of our blessed Lady ensuing, being in the 18. year of his Reign.

At the time appointed, he provided a great e 1.29 Supper to begin the Solemnity, and then Ordained, that this Festival should be annually held there at f 1.30 Whitson∣tide; and immediately after these first Martial Exercises were over (to the end better accommodation might be provided for the Knights that should afterwards come thither) he caused to be impress g 1.31 Carpenters, Masons, and Carriages, for erecting a particular building in the Castle, and therein placed a Table of h 1.32 two hundred foot diameter, where the Knights should have their entertainment of diet at his expence of i 1.33 100 l. a week, to which building he gave the name of the Round Table. By this means he associated to himself, from most parts beyond Seas, the prime spirits for martial valour, and gain'd the opportunity of ingag∣ing them on his side in the ensuing War.

And, as at these solemn conventions, and great assemblies, the days were spent in exercising all kind of noble feats of Arms, Justs, and Turnaments; so were a great part of the nights consumed in publick Balls, and dancing with the La∣dies, which attended the Queen thither; and perhaps it was hence conjectur'd, that at some of these Balls, the Queen's Gartër, or the Garter of Katherine Coun∣tess of Salisbury might slip off, and that King Edward's stooping to take it up, might beget smiles in the by-standers; and afterwards, when the King had mo∣delled his intended Order, a Garter appearing for its chief Ensign, might add something to the conjecture: But that any such accident became the princi∣pal cause of erecting the Order, and that the Founder's particular design therein was to advance the honor of that Garter so accidentally taken up, is only a groundless imagination, and hath been already disproved.

And though King Edward so far advanced the honor of a Garter, as that the Order did derive its k 1.34 title and denomination from it; yet is it most evident, that he founded this most famous Order, not to give reputation to or perpetuate an esseminate occasion, but l 1.35 to adorn Martial Virtue, with Honors, Rewards, and Splendor: to m 1.36 increase Virtue and Valour in the hearts of his Nobility: or as An∣drew du Chesne saith, n 1.37 to honor military Virtue with some glorious favours and re∣wards; that so true Nobility (as is noted in the Preface to the Black Book of the Order) after long and hazardous adventures, should not enviously be deprived of that honor which it hath really deserved; and that active and hardy Youth might not want a spur, in the profession of Virtue, which is to be esteemed glorious and eternal.

Upon these grounds no doubt does our learned Selden affirm, that o 1.38 this Order was raised chiefly out of the Round Table of that time (the Knights thereof being the flower of that Age) as out of a Seminary.

It is further observable, from the current of the Histories of those times, that the p 1.39 French King, Philip de Valoys, in emulation of these martial associations at Windesor, practised the like at his Court in France, for he set up a Round Table, and invited the Knights and valiant men of Arms out of Italy and Almaine thi∣ther, lest they should repair to our King Edward the Third. Which meeting

with success, proved a Countermine to King Edward's main design, who there∣by finding, that his entertainment of Stranger Knights, upon the account of re∣viving King Arthur's Round Table, was too general, nor did sufficiently oblige them to him, but being free and at liberty, did after their departure take what side they pleased in the following Wars; he at length resolved upon a design, more particular and select, and such as might oblige and tie those whom he thought fit to make his Associates, in a firm Bond of Friendship and Honor.

And having given forth his q 1.40 own Garter for the signal of a Battel that sped fortunately, (which with r 1.41 du Chesne we conceive to be that of Crescy, fought almost three years after his seting up the Round Table at Windesor; rather than with the Author of the s 1.42 Nouveau Theatre de Monde, that of Poicters, which hap∣ned above seven years after the Foundation of the Order, and whereat King Ed∣ward was not present) the Victory (we say) being happily gained, he thence took occasion to Institute this Order, and gave the Garter (assumed by him for the Symbol of Vnity and Society) preheminence among the Ensigns of it, whence that select number, whom he incorporated into a Fraternity, are frequently stiled Equites Aureae Periscelidis, and vulgarly, Knights of the Garter.

By this Symbol he design'd to t 1.43 bind the Knights or Fellows of it, severally unto one another, and all of them joyntly to Himself, as Soveraign of the Order. And accordingly (saith an industrious Historian) this did not only serve as a u 1.44 vehe∣ment incentive to Honor and martial Virtue, but also a golden Bond of unity and internal society: it being most just, that those whom equal virtue and fortitude of mind, had joined together, no Fortune should separate or estrange, by occa∣sion of any accident or difference.

Whereunto may be added this further consideration; how neerly the Princely Garter (which ennobleth the Order) as it is framed with a Buckle to fasten it close to the Leg, doth resemble the w 1.45 Bond of most inward Society; and can be called nothing more aptly, than a x 1.46 Badge of Vnity and Concord.

By this Garter y 1.47 the Knights-Companions are admonished, religiously, sincerely, friendly, faithfully, and dextrously, to go through whatsoever they undertake, but not to undertake or attempt any thing, contrary to the Oath, and Statutes of the Order, neither to frustrate the rights of peace and friendship, vilisie the Law of Arms, or to proceed in any thing further than Faith or Compact, or the Bond of Friendship will admit.

And much to this purpose, they who will take the pains to read the a 1.48 Catechismus Ordinis Equitum Pericelidis Anglicanae, will find the Author [F. Mondonus] Sym∣bolically to descant upon the chief Ensigns of the Order.

Moreover b 1.49 Salmuthus, out of Stephanus Frocatulus notes, that in the bind∣ing of the Leg with this enobled Ensign, there was given this honorable Ca∣veat and Exhortation; That the Knights should not cowardly (by running away from Battel) betray the valour and renown which is ingrafted in Constancy and Magnanimity.

Nay, so exactly did the Founder sute the whole Habit unto the signification of this Princely Ensign, that he Ordained His, and the Knight-Companions Robes and Ornaments to be all alike, both for materials and fashion; thereby inti∣mating, c 1.50 That they ought to conserve brotherly love among themselves. And lest at any time there should fall out the least breach of Amity, the great Collar of the Order (ordained to be of equal weight, and composed of a like number of small Links and Knots) was so made, in d 1.51 witness of the like Bond of Faith, Peace, and Amity, strictly to be observed among them. In fine, all things relating to the Or∣der, were so designed and appointed, e 1.52 That every one might plainly perceive, how much these things tended to the maintaining of Amity and Concord.

In further reference to the Institution and perpetual establishment of this Or∣der, the foresaid King, f 1.53 calling together the Earls, Barons, and principal Knights of his Kingdom, freely and obligingly declared his mind to them, concerning this Affair: To which g 1.54 all of them being well inclined, entertained the motion with equal joy and applause; considering it would prove a very great advancement to Piety, Nobility, and Virtue, and likewise an excellent expedient for the uniting,

not only his Natives one with another, but all Forreigners with them in the Bonds of Amity and Peace.

And 'tis very improbable, that this prudent Founder should summon his Nobles, solemnly to consult about so high and noble an advancement of an Order, had it taken its first rise from so slight an occasion, as the accidental dropping of a Gar∣ter from a Ladies Leg. On the contrary it is manifest from Froissart, that the declaration which the King made to them of his intention and design (when they were assembled) appeared h 1.55 a matter very honorable, and (as hath been alledged) such as contributed to the improvement of Love and Amity among themselves; which we see this Historian assigns to be the only cause, why they joyfully consented to his proposal.

Now to make the Bond and Tye of Love and Friendship yet more close and obliging, the King caused those who were (or should be) of the Order, to be called i 1.56 Fellows, Associates, Colleagues, Brethren, and Knights-Companions, and the Order it self k 1.57 a Society, Fellowship, Colledge of Knights, and Knight-Companionship; and their l 1.58 Habit and Ornaments to be all alike, as to Fashion and Materials: and to no other end, but to represent how they ought to be m 1.59 united in all chances of Fortune, Copartners both in Peace and War, assistant to one another in all serious and dangerous transactions, and through the whole course of their lives, faithful and friendly one towards another.

But besides these Authorities, we have met with some other testimonies, much to the same effect; namely, that this most noble Order of the Garter was first instituted, ton 1.60 fortifie the confidence of the King, the Kingdom, and Martial Virtue: that is to say, to strengthen the faith of the subjects towards them, and for their greater security.

The French Orator, who made the Harangue at the investiture of Henry Prince of Orange, seems to account the denomination of this Order, by the stile of the Garter, to be very significant, and only for this reason; o 1.61 because it carries with it a Bond or Tye of Fellowship, and a Symbol of Amity and Friendship between Princes, being Companions of the same Order.

In the last place, if we look back upon the Statutes of Institution, as also those that have succeeded, we shall find the Injunctions wholly Military, and so are the words of Admonition, appointed to be pronounced, at the putting on the Ensigns of the Order: and the ground of the Institution (in the Preamble to King Henry the Eighth's Exemplar) is said to be, p 1.62 For the honor of God, and exaltation of the Catholick Faith, joined both with Piety and Charity; in establish∣ing a q 1.63 Colledge of religious men, to pray for the prosperity of the Soveraign of the Order, and the Knights-Companions, and to perform other holy duties; as also r 1.64 Ordaining sustentation for a company of Alms-Knights, who have not otherwise wherewith to live. But not one word relating to any obligation or ingagement, on behalf of the Feminine Sex.

And whereas King Edward the Third had set on foot a Title to the Kingdom of France, and in right thereof assumed its Arms; he from the u 1.65 Colour of them, caused the Garter of the Order to be made Blue, and the circumscription Gold. And it may, without any straining, be inferr'd from the Motto [honi soit qui mal y pense] w 1.66 that he retorted shame and defiance upon him, that should dare to think ill of so just an enterprise, as he had undertaken for the reco∣very of his lawful right to that Crown; and that the magnanimity of those Knights, whom he had chosen into this Order was such, as would inable them to maintain that Quarrel, against all who durst think ill of it. Consonant to this is the conjecture of x 1.67 Harpsfield, that this Apothegme was designed to put the Knights-Companions in mind, not to admit any thing in the actions of their lives, or among their thoughts, unbeseeming themselves and their honor.

And here we have a sitting opportunity to inform our Reader, that the Age we speak of did exceedingly abound with Impreses Motto's, and Devises, of which the Rolls of the great Wardrobe will afford variety; and particularly that King Edward the Third (upon almost every occasion) was much inclined thereto, so far, as that his Apparel, Plate, Beds, Houshold-furniture, shields, even the very Harness of his

Horses, and the like, were not without them; many of which, for any man now to descant upon, would be an endless and fruitless attempt, seeing the occasion of their invention, and the circumstances thereupon depending, are irreco∣verably lost.

Add to which, that others by reason of their brevity, seem insignificant, in re∣gard it is to be imagined, that something was purposely omitted, and left to be understood, which cannot now be rightly supplied, so as to arrive at the mind of the Inventor. Of this number may well be this Motto, y 1.68 It is as it is, being embroidered upon a Dublet, made for the King of white Linen Cloth, having about the sleeves and skirt a border of green Cloth, wrought over with golden Clouds and Vines.

But there are others, which seem more easie to be understood, as is that daring and inviting Motto of this King, wrought upon his Surcoat and Shield, pro∣vided to be used at a Turnament

z 1.69 Hay bay the wythe Swan, By Gods Soul I am thy man.

We further observe, that although David Brus King of Scotland was a Prisoner in the Tower of London, yet such was the nobleness of this King, that he sometimes permitted him the use and exercise of Arms; for against a a 1.70 Hastilude kept at Windesor, he had a b 1.71 Harness made of Blue Velvet (at King Edward's charge) whereon was embroidered a Pale of Red Velvet, and beneath a White Rose. And that it was the custom then to have the Arms of a Knight, set upon his Horse-Harness, to distinguish him from others, appears by those eight Harnesses, which the King gave (and were among the preparations made for the Hastilude ap∣pointed at Canterbury, anno 22. Ed. 3.) of Indian Silk, beaten with the Arms of Sir Stephen Cosyngton Knight, of the Prince, of the Earls of Lancaster, and Suf∣folk, of Sir Iohn Grey, Sir Iohn de Beauchamp, Sir Robert Maule, Sir Iohn Chan∣dos, and Sir Roger de Beauchamp: four of these Martialists being shortly after chosen among the first Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order of the Garter.

SECT. III. The Time when the Order was Instituted.

IN what year of the Reign of King Edward the Third, the Order of the Gar∣ter received Institution, cannot certainly be deduced from our Historians, for the difference among them in this point is very wide.

Our most learned Selden would have it, to be in the c 1.72 18. year of the Founder's Reign, and relies chiefly upon the authority of d 1.73 Sir Iohn Froissart, who lived neer that time (for he wrote his History in the Reign of King Richard the Second) But since Mr. Selden does acknowledge him guilty of a mistake in the number of the first Knights-Companions (and a gross one in∣deed it is) by making them no fewer than forty; why might he not likewise erre in this point, namely the Time? and as unwarily confound the year of its Ere∣ction, with that wherein the Founder renewed the Order of the Round Table? Windesor being the place for holding the grand celebration of both.

For should we admit, that during some part of the great Solemnity held in this Kings 18. year, the accident of the Ladies Garter slipping off happen'd; and that the King taking it up declared, he would make it highly renowned: what other inference can be made, but that he had then only an intention or resolu∣tion at most, to do somewhat afterwards, not that there was an Erection or Order actually Instituted at that time.

Besides, if the King had been desirous to fall upon the establishment of the Order, immediately upon the said accident, yet may it well be supposed, that the jollity of the season, and remaining part of the Feast, was too busie a time to admit of much consultation tending thereunto; at least serious enough to mould a design, so compleat and substantial, as it appears to have been, even at first; whether we consider the substance of the Statutes of Institution, or variety of the matter, and so fully, judiciously, and warily contrived, as little of that subject could be found worth the adding in many years after.

To these, if we join the authority of Fabian, he is plain, e 1.74 that though the King design'd the Institution at the end of the Festival (which he placeth between Can∣dlemas and Lent in the 19. not 18. year of this King) yet was it not then (saith he) but afterwards established by him.

As to the testimony given by the f 1.75 Author of Les grandes Chroniques de Bri∣taigne, &c. who likewise alledgeth, that the Institution of the Order, was in the 18. year of the King: We suppose his best authority was also taken from Frois∣sart, supposing him (as Mr. Selden doth) the more to be relied upon, because he wrote so near that time.

But 'tis a fault too frequent among Historians, to run away with what they find spoken by those from whom they collect (especially if such have gained any good opinion or credit in the world) though perhaps erroneous; without making a sufficient enquiry, either into the probability or truth of the thing. And for an instance of some unwariness in collecting, we may trace the now mentioned Author in another passage, relating to this matter, where he tells us it was the day of g 1.76 St. Gregory (instead of St. George) whereon the Grand Feast of the Order was ordained to be solemnized.

We now see that Froissart, and with him Mr. Selden, place the beginning of this Order to the 18. year of King Edward's Reign; with whom agrees Thomas Cooper in his h 1.77 Epitomy of Chronicles. And yet the same Mr. Selden, in i 1.78 another place, notes, that it took beginning in the 24. year of the said King, and our industrious Stow (with whom l 1.79 Lilly, m 1.80 Speed, and n 1.81 Segar agree) tells us, that the first Feast of the Order was celebrated in the year of our Lord 1350. which an∣swers to the said four and twentieth year of King Edward the Third.

But o 1.82 Polydore Virgile in the series of his History, placeth it after Henry Earl of Derby was created Duke of Lancaster, and Ralph Lord Stafford, Earl of Stafford, which hapned in p 1.83 March, anno 25. E. 3.

Thus it appears, that our Historians took little heed to transmit the true time of so famous an Institution to posterity (and their neglect perhaps was the cause why our judicious Cambden became silent herein) yet how this Chronological note slipt all their Pens, is much to be wondred at: We must therefore have recourse to some other proofs, whence our Reader may receive better satisfaction.

Admitting then, that the erecting this Order entered into King Edward's thoughts, at some of those grand Assemblies of the Round Table, held after the French King had set up the like, yet was it not brought to any maturity, till af∣ter his glorious Triumphs over the French and Scots, in the Battels of Crescy and Nevils Cross (in which both the French and Scotch Armies were utterly van∣quished, and David King of Scots taken Prisoner) and until King Edward had Calais surrendred to him, as will now be manifest.

Among the Rolls of the great Wardrobe, we have met with one which con∣tains the Accounts of all the Kings Liveries, from Michaelmas, anno 21. E. 3. to the 31. of Ianuary in the 23. year of the same King: In this Roll are divers things mentioned to be adorned with Garters, which were provided against the first grand Feast of St. George, and among the rest are the Robes for the Sove∣raign of the Order; namely his r 1.84 Mantle, Surcoat, and Hood, as also a s 1.85 Bed of Blue Taffaty adorned with embroidered Garters, containing the Motto, Honi soit qui mal y pense. There were then likewise made for the Soveraign t 1.86 three Harnesses, whereof two were of White Velvet, wrought over with Garters de blu & diaspriz, per totum compedinem cum Woodhouses, and the third de Velvetto Ynde, cont. Lappekin quisseux, & caligas, wrought over likewise with Garters.

Had this Roll been divided into years, or had there been other notes thereup∣on, to have distinguished whether these particulars were made and provided at the beginning of his 22. year against the Feast-day of St. George ensuing, or else towards the later end of that year, against the same Feast-day anno 23. E. 3. we might have been thereby guided with more certainty, as to the right and true year of the Institution.

However, we may thence safely conclude, that this Order was not founded in the 18. year of King Edward the Third, according to Froissart, and his Follow∣ers; because we here find, that the Soveraign's Robes were not made until the 22. year of his Reign at the soonest, perhaps not till the beginning of the 23.

But to put all out of further doubt, the u 1.87 Founder's Statutes fix the time of Institution to his 23. year; so do the w 1.88 Statutes of King Henry the Fifth, and the x 1.89 Preface to the Black Book; the same also is attest∣ed by y 1.90 Leland, and affirmed by z 1.91 Mills, and * 1.92 Doctor Heylin.

To conclude, when this famous King had resolved upon the day and place for keeping the first grand Feast of this most noble Order, which he designed to exhibit with as much glory as could be imagined, a 1.93 He sent his Heralds in∣to Germany, France, Scotland, Burgundy, Hainault, Flan∣ders, and Brabant, to invite all Knights and Esquires who were willing to meet at that grand Solemnity (with assurance to every one of safe conduct and Li∣berty for fifteen days, both before and after the same) to shew their Military Prowess and Valour, in all kind of Martial Feats, and other Publick Exer∣cises, there to be held, proper to the place and occasion.

According to which Invitation, there came over at the appointed time, sun∣dry Knights and other brave Martialisis, out of desire to signalize their va∣lour; and what made the Solemnity more glorious, King Edward's Queen, at∣tended with b 1.94 three hundred of the fairest Ladies, adorned with all imaginable gallantry were there likewise present.

SECT. IV. Of the Patrons of the Order.

KIng Edward the Third, upon his Instituting this Princely Colledge, of a select number of Knights, did (according to the custom and opinion of that Age) make choice of several Patrons to this his most noble Order; under whose protection Himself and all the Knights-Companions, together with the Af∣fairs of the Order, might be defended, conserved, and governed.

The first and chiefest Patron that he elected for this end, was the c 1.95 holy Tri∣nity, which, though indeed it be the Creator and Governor of all things, yet ne∣vertheless was in a more especial manner invocated to the aid and assistance of this Order.

Nor was it in those times accounted any derogation to God, or his divine worship, but rather on the contrary a great addition thereunto, that what he is alone the giver of, should be desired and implored, by their means, through whom he is well pleased to be sought unto: Upon which consideration this re∣ligious and pious King, being singularly affected to the d 1.96 blessed Virgin Mary, though she was accounted the general Mediatrix and Protectress to all men and upon all occasions, yet did he more peculiarly intitle her to the Patronage of this most noble Order.

And no less was King Edward the Fourth in a special manner devoted towards

the same blessed Virgin; insomuch as he thought it necessary, that some additio∣nal Ceremonies within the Order, should be observed by Himself and the Knights-Companions to her peculiar honor: and thereupon Ordained, e 1.97 That on her five Solemnities, the Knights-Companions should annually (as was wont and accustom∣ed, at the yearly Feast of St. George) wear the peculiar Habit of the Order, as long as Divine Service was celebrating (unless they had sufficient cause of excuse) bear∣ing on the right shoulder of their Robes, a golden figure of the Virgin Mary, and further, that they should go in the same manner and Habit upon all the Sundays throughout the year: and lastly, that on the same days for ever, they should say five Pater Nosters, with as many Ave Maria's.

Thirdly, f 1.98 Saint George of Cappadocia, a most choice Champion of Christ, and famous Martyr, was also chosen one of the Patrons to this Order; and that g 1.99 not so much because in his life, he was a Candidate of the Christian Faith, a real Professor, and a sincere Defendor thereof, or for that he was an armed Soldier or Knight of Christ; but much more because in those Wars, which were waged by Christians, against the Infidels, he by several appearances shewed his presence, as a most certain encourager and assistant to the Christians; the relations of some of which Visions may be seen at large h 1.100 elsewhere.

There is no need we should in this Work engage at all, in asserting the History of Saint George, against those who will neither allow him either a place in Hea∣ven, or a being in the Church; since that is both learnedly and judiciously main∣tained to our hand, out of the venerable Records of Antiquity and Church-Hi∣story, by the elaborate endeavours of the late reverend Divine, Dr. Peter Heylin, in a particular i 1.101 Tract.

The like pains we are eased of, in avouching and assuring him to be the special Patron, Protector, Defendor, and Advocate of this Realm of England, and mani∣festing in what veneration he hath been held abroad, especially among the Ea∣stern Churches; by the Pen of our most learned k 1.102 Selden. To whose testimo∣nies we shall only add, that this Title of l 1.103 Patron to our Na∣tion is given to St. George by the Founder of this most noble Order, in a Patent granted to the Deans and Canons of the Chappels of St. Stephen at Westminster, and St. George at Windesor, which dischargeth them from payment of Tenths (for the Churches appropriate to those Chappels) that were or should be given by the Clergie to Him and his Successors: As also by m 1.104 King Henry the Eighth, in the Preamble of his Statutes: Nay further, that he was likewise called our Nati∣ons Patron, in relation to the n 1.105 Spiritual Militia of this Kingdom.

And though in general he is stiled, the o 1.106 Principal Patron of the Affairs of Christendom, and a Tutelar Guardian of mi∣litary men; yet among all Christians the English did the best, and in England the Founder of this most noble Order, in making particular choice of such a p 1.107 Captain and Patron, under whose conduct to fight, to wit, a Captain so approved and tryed by such high testimonies as he had given. In particular relation to whom, the Knights-Companions had bestowed on them, the title of Equites Geor∣giani, St. George's Knights; and the Order it self came to be stiled, Ordo divi Sancti Georgii, the Order of St. George.

It is worthy of observation that du Chesne (a French Writer) acknowledges, q 1.108 it was by the special Invocation of St. George, that King Edward the Third gained the battel of Crescy, which afterward calling to mind, he founded (saith he) to his honor, a Chappel within the Castle of Windesor. But if we may go higher, and credit our r 1.109 Harding, it seems King Arthur paid St. George particular honors, for he advanced his Picture in one of his Banners: and this was about 200 years after his Martyrdom, and very early for a Country so remote from Capadocia, to have him in so great estimation.

Lastly, The Founder added to these a fourth Patron, whose Name himself bore,

namely, t 1.110 Saint Edward the Confessor, sometime King of England, and his Pre∣decessor, by which choice the Patronage of the Order belongs also to him. And we find he was wont to be invocated by this noble Founder (as well as Saint George) at such time as he found himself in any great streight; of which a memorable instance is recorded by u 1.111 Thomas Walsingham, who reports that at a Skirmish neer Calice, anno Dom. 1349. King Edward in great heat of anger and grief, drew out his Sword, and most passionately cried out, Ha Saint Edward, Ha Saint George, which his Soldiers hearing, ran presently unto him, and rushing vio∣lently upon the Enemy, put many of them to the Sword.

But in further declaration of electing all these for Patrons to the Order, we find them ranked together, in the w 1.112 Preamble of the Char∣ter of Foundation of Windesor Colledge, granted by King Edward the Third; though in the Preamble to his Statutes of the Order, and to King Henry the Fifth's Sta∣tutes, Saint Edward the Confessor is omitted; nevertheless, in the Preamble to Henry the Eighth's Statutes, he is there remembred with the rest.

SECT. V. The Honor and Reputation thereof.

BEfore we leave this Chapter, we shall note some few things touching the Ho∣nor and Reputation of this most noble Order; and that, either as comparing it with other Orders of Soveraign Foundation, or else in relation to it self.

First then, let what our learned Selden affirms be observed, viz. That this Order of the Garter hath x 1.113 precedency of antiquity, before the eldest rank of honor of that kind any where established.

Secondly, The Statutes of Foundation were so judiciously devised and con∣trived; and framed upon such solid grounds of Honor and Nobleness, that they afterwards became a Precedent to other Orders, particularly those two of the Golden Fleece, and of Monsieur Saint Michael; as may be readily seen, by any that will take the pains to compare them.

Thirdly, It hath begot no small honor to the Order, that the number of the first Knights-Companions, were never yet increased, but as there were five and twenty of them elected at the Institution, they, with the Soveraign of the Order, made up that y 1.114 Number, which at no time hitherto hath been exceeded, ut pre∣tium faciat raritas, saith z 1.115 Heylin, lest being else communicated to many, it might at last become despicable. For it is manifest enough, that an invasion in this particular, hath like an undiscerned Rock, split several other Military Orders into contempt and ruine: nothing so much abasing the worth of Glory and Ho∣nor (which are to be desired by all, yet granted to few) than when made common, and given indifferently without choice and merit, to persons of mean condition: as may be sufficiently instanced in the Order of the a 1.116 Star in France, un∣der the Reign of Charles the Seventh, and the now declining Order of b 1.117 St. Michael.

Fourthly, It hath been honored with the Companion∣ship of divers c 1.118 Emperors, Kings, and Soveraign Princes of Christendom, who reputed it among their greatest honors, to be chosen and admitted thereinto; insomuch as some of them have with impatience courted the honor of Election. For we find remaining upon this Registry of Honor, eight Em∣perors of Germany, three Kings of Spain, five French Kings, two Kings of Scot∣land, five Kings of Denmark, five Kings of Portugal, two Kings of Sweden, one King of Poland, one King of Aragon, two Kings of Naples, besides sundry

Dukes and other Free Princes, as one Duke of Gelderland, one Duke of Holland, two Dukes of Burgundy, two Dukes of Brunswick, one Duke of Milan, two Dukes of Vrbin, one Duke of Ferrara, one Duke of Savoy, two Dukes of Holstien, one Duke of Saxony, and one Duke of Wertemberg, seven Counts Palatines of the Rhyne, four Princes of Orange, and one Marquess of Brandenburgh.

Fifthly, It entitles those Knights and Noblemen, whose virtue hath raised them to this degree of honor, to be Companions and Fellows with Emperors and Kings; a Prerogative of an high nature, and a reward for greatest merits.

In the last place, we shall close up all with the Elogie given to this most noble Order, by our learned Selden; d 1.119 That it exceeds in Majesty, Honor, and Fame, all Chivalrous Orders in the world.

Notes

• b 1.1

  Angl. Histor. l. 19. p. 379.
• c 1.2

  Cambd. Brit. in Aurebat. p. 208. Speed••punc; Chron. p. 588. Bakers Chron. p. 139. Edit. Lond. 1665. Fullers Holy State. p. 349.
• d 1.3

  Titles of Ho∣nor, p. 793.
• f 1.4

  Ex lib. in Os∣sic. principal. Cantuar. vocat. Islip, f. 178. a. See Heylins Hist. of St. George, part 3. c. 2. sect. 7. Edit. 1633. where the Case is Re∣ported.
• g 1.5

  Escaet. de an. 26 E. 3 n 54.
• h 1.6

  Chronic. l. 1. c. 78.
• i 1.7

  Ibid. c. 90.
• * 1.8

  Ibid. c. 76.
• | 1.9

  Pat. ••. E. 3. p. 2. m. 24.
• * 1.10

  Ibid.
• k 1.11

  Rotul. Cart. 11. E. 3. memb. 26. num. 54.
• l 1.12

  Escaet. bun∣del. anno 9. E. 3. n. 4.
• m 1.13

  Escaet. anno 28. E. 3. n. 39.
• n 1.14

  Ex Gollect. Iac. Strange∣man.
• * 1.15

  Cosmography, l. 1. p. 287. Edit. 1652.
• o 1.16

  Et Fama vulgi talis. Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19. p. 379.
• q 1.17

  Andr. du Chesne Hi∣stoire generale d'Angleterre, d' Escosse, & d' Irlande. p. 670.
• r 1.18

  Andr. du Chesne Hi∣stoire generale d'Angleterre, d'Escosse, & d'Irlande. p. 670.
• s 1.19

  Ibidem.
• t 1.20

  Sect. 1. pa••. 10••. & 109.
• u 1.21

  Favin, in le Theatre d' Hon∣neur, l. 4. c. 5.
• w 1.22

  Toilet, or Toilette, call∣ed also Tavay∣oile, is a large Napkin, or cloth, usually laid over Wo∣mens dresses, and other Clothes after they are spred on a Table.
• x 1.23

  Lib. N. p. 13. in prooemio.
• y 1.24

  Hist. of St. George, part 3. c. 1. sect. 6.
• a 1.25

  Tho. Walsingh. sub. anno 1344. apud Lond. 1579.
• b 1.26

  Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2.
• c 1.27

  Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2.
• d 1.28

  Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2.
• e 1.29

  Ex vet. MS. Chro∣nic. penes Ra∣nul. Pigott Ar.
• f 1.30

  Ex vet. MS. Chro∣nic. penes Ra∣nul. Pigott Ar.
• g 1.31

  Pat. 18. E. 3. p. 1. m. 39. Dorso & p. 2. m. 39.
• h 1.32

  Walsingh. ut supra.
• i 1.33

  Walsingh. ut supra.
• k 1.34

  Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19. p. 378.
• l 1.35

  Ut militarem virtutem ho∣noribus, prae∣miis at{que} splen∣dore decora∣ret. Cambden in Attrebat. p. 207.
• m 1.36

  Heyl. Cos∣mogr. l. 1. p. 287.
• n 1.37

  Ed. 3. desi∣reux d' hono∣rer la Vertu militarie de quel{que} faveur & recompence glorieux, &c. Hist. general. D angleterre, &c. p. 670.
• o 1.38

  Tit. Hon. p. 794.
• p 1.39

  Tho. Walsingh. loco citato. Sam. Daniell. History f. 233. Speed's Chron. p. 587.
• q 1.40

  Cambd. in Attreb. p. 207.
• r 1.41

  Hist. Generale d' Angleterre, &c. p. 670.
• s 1.42

  Tom. 2. p. 1407. Edit. Paris. 1661.
• t 1.43

  Heylin's Cos∣mogr. loco su∣pra cit.
• u 1.44

  Speed. Chron. p. 588.
• w 1.45

  Cambd. in Attrebat. p. 208.
• x 1.46

  Cambd. in Attrebat. p. 208.
• y 1.47

  Lib. N. in proaemio.
• a 1.48

  Edit. Colon. Agripp. anno 1631.
• b 1.49

  Notis Guid. Panciroll. de Rebus deper∣dit. p. 170.
• c 1.50

  Lib. N. p. 16. in pro∣aemio.
• d 1.51

  Lib. N. p. 16. in pro∣aemio.
• e 1.52

  Ibid. p. 1••. Froissart's Chron. l. 1. c. 101.
• f 1.53

  Ibid. p. 1••. Froissart's Chron. l. 1. c. 101.
• g 1.54

  Ibid.
• h 1.55

  Loco cit.
• i 1.56

  Lib. N. p. 15.
• k 1.57

  Lib. N. p. 15.
• l 1.58

  Lib. N. p. 15.
• m 1.59

  Lib. N. p. 15.
• n 1.60

  Caii Antiq. l. 2. c. 217.
• o 1.61

  MS. in Officio Armor. [L. 18.] circa medium.
• p 1.62

  Article 1.
• q 1.63

  Art. 13.
• r 1.64

  Art. 16.
• u 1.65

  Ex Collect. praef. Will. le Neve.
• w 1.66

  Ex Collect. praef. Will. le Neve.
• x 1.67

  Hist Anglic. Escles. p. 507.
• y 1.68

  Rotul. Libe▪ rat. Draper. Offic. mag. Gardrob. ann. 21. & 12. E. 3. membr. 11. pe∣nes Rememo∣rat. Regis.
• z 1.69

  Ibidem.
• a 1.70

  Ibid.
• b 1.71

  Ibid.
• c 1.72

  Tules of Hon, p. 793.
• d 1.73

  L. 1. c. 100.
• e 1.74

  Chronic. f. 219.
• f 1.75

  Apud Selden, p. 794.
• g 1.76

  Ibid.
• h 1.77

  Third part fol. 240. b. Edit. Lond. 1560.
• i 1.78

  Notes upon Polialb. Song 15.
• l 1.79

  Angl. Reg. Chron. p. 44.
• m 1.80

  Chron. p. 588.
• n 1.81

  Hon. Mil. & Civil. p. 69.
• o 1.82

  Angl. Histor. l. 19. p. 378.
• p 1.83

  Pat. 25. E. 3. par. 1. m. 18. Cart. de ann. 25. E. 3. n. 31.
• r 1.84

  Ex Rot. Compot. Io. Coke Cler. mag. Gardrob. penes Rememor. Re∣gis. m. 8.
• s 1.85

  Ex Rot. Compot. Io. Coke Cler. mag. Gardrob. penes Rememor. Re∣gis. m. 8.
• t 1.86

  m. 10.
• u 1.87

  Edwardus tertius Rex Angliae, anno reg. ni sui post Conquestum 23. Ordinavit &c.
• w 1.88

  Edoard apres la conquest D' angleterre l' an de son reigne vingt & trois Ordonne & Estably, &c.
• x 1.89

  Edwardus tertius, anno regni sui 23. cum de Gallis atque Scotis plus semel illustrissime triumphasset, &c. p. 14. in prooemio.
• y 1.90

  Ad Cygn. Cant. verbo Windelesora.
• z 1.91

  Catalog. of Honor, f. 88.
• * 1.92

  History of St. George•• part 3. c. 2. Sect. 5.
• a 1.93

  Lib. N. p: 20. vide etiam Froissart. Chron. l. 1. c. 100. & 102.
• b 1.94

  Ibid.
• c 1.95

  Lib. N. p. 24. in proaemio.
• d 1.96

  Ibid.
• e 1.97

  Ibid. p. 37.
• f 1.98

  Ibid. p. 25.
• g 1.99

  Ibid. p. 25.
• h 1.100

  Heylins Hist. of St. George, part 2. c. 7. sect. 4. & 5. & part 3. c. 1. sect. 6.
• i 1.101

  Hist. of St. George asserted &c. Printed 1633.
• k 1.102

  Titles of Ho∣nor, p. 811.
• l 1.103

  Beatus Georgius invictissimus Christi Athleta, cujus nomen & patrocinia Gens Anglicana veluti Patroni sui singularis, in expeditione presertim Militari invocat & implorat, instinctu divino ut credimus exci∣tati. Pat. de anno 25. E. 3. p. 2. m. 12.
• m 1.104

  The blessed Martyr St. George, Patron of the right noble Realm of England.
• n 1.105

  Sanctus Georgius Martyr, qui totius Militiae Anglicanae Spiritualis est Patronus. Regist. MS. Arundel. Arch. Cant. par. 1. fol. 53. art. 37.
• o 1.106

  Heylins Hist. of St. George, part 2. c. 7. Sect. 1.
• p 1.107

  Ordo est divo Georgio ut Bellatorum praesidi dicatus. Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19. p. 378.
• q 1.108

  Hist••ire ge∣nerale d' An∣glete••re, &c. p. 670.
• r 1.109

  Cap. 72.
• t 1.110

  Lib. N. p. 26.
• u 1.111

  Hist. Angl. p. 159.
• w 1.112

  In honorem omnipotentis Dei, & suae Genetricis Mariae virginis Gloriosae, Sancto∣rum{que} Georgii Martyris & Edwardi Confes∣soris nostris Regiis samptibus focimus, &c Pat. 22. E. 3. par. 2. m. 6.
• x 1.113

  Notes upon Polyalb. Song. 15.
• y 1.114

  E. 3. H. 5. St••. Art. 3. Praef. to H. 8. Stat. Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19. p. 378.
• z 1.115

  Hist. St. George, part 3. c. 2. sect. 5.
• a 1.116

  Andr. Fa∣vin en le Theatre d' Hon∣neur. l. 1. c. 5.
• b 1.117

  Andr. Fa∣vin en le Theatre d' Hon∣neur. l. 1. c. 5.
• c 1.118

  Rex instituit Garterium Ordinem, cui tantus deinde accessit honor, ut maximos quos{que} Reges, non paeniterit in id venire Col∣legium. Polyd. Virg. Angl. Hist. loco supra cit.
• d 1.119

  Notes upon Polyalb. Song 15.