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

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The institution, laws & ceremonies of the most noble Order of the Garter collected and digested into one body by Elias Ashmole ...
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Ashmole, Elias, 1617-1692.
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London :: Printed by J. Macock, for Nathanael Brooke ...,
1672.
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"The institution, laws & ceremonies of the most noble Order of the Garter collected and digested into one body by Elias Ashmole ..." In the digital collection Early English Books Online. https://name.umdl.umich.edu/A26024.0001.001. University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. Accessed April 27, 2025.

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CHAP. II. OF THE Religious Orders OF KNIGHTHOOD in CHRISTENDOM. (Book 2)

SECT. I. Of ancient Societies analogous to the Orders of Knighthood.

ALthough the Orders remembred in this and the next Chapter, may seem to have had their original from the Equestrian Order among the Romans; nevertheless, we may observe from Stories yet more ancient, some things bearing proportion or resemblance to these modern Societies of Knighthood. And this, though we do not take any great notice of certain old Rabinical Comments, concerning the Anakim, or Sons of Anak, who (according to a 1.1 Bouldouchius) were a Society of valiant men, imagined to have been so called, not from Anak, as being the name of any person, but as they were Torquati, Knights, endowed with a Chain or Collar, Anak signifying as much as Torquis; and the Order there∣of to have been instituted at the building of the City of Hebron, which City was before called b 1.2 Kiriath Arba, i. c. the City of Arba; who is said to have been the c 1.3 Father of Anak, namely the Father or first Institutor of Anak, or the Order of the Collar.

What will such, as are apt to give way to ingenious Fictions and Conceits, fancy of the Argonauts, who went in quest of the Golden Fleece (a Catalogue of whom you have in Apollonius Rhodius, Orpheus, and Valerius Flaccus) but that they were a Company of Grecian Knights (the principal whereof were Castor and Pol∣lux, Telamon, Orpheus, Hercules, and Hylas) who entring into a most honorable Fraternity, or Association, made an Expedition to Colchi, under Iason their su∣pream?

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What of the Argolic Youths, that hunted the Caledonian Boar; but a So∣ciety of Knights combin'd under Meleager their head or chief? Much like to which, of later times, were those Martial Followers of Charles the Great (first Em∣peror of the Western Franks) in his Expedition against the Saracens that invaded Aquitain, who (especially the chief of them, Orlando) are so renowned by that excellent Poem of Lodovico Ariasto; as also those that accompanied Godfrey of Bulloign, to the Conquest of Ierusalem, celebrated by that Heroic Poet Torquato Tasso, in his Ierusalem Liberata: both which Stories are true in the main, how∣ever flourisht over and interlac'd with Fancy and Fiction.

SECT. II. The Christian Institution of Knightly Orders.

BUT waving further instances of this nature, we shall touch upon the occa∣sion of founding Societies and Orders of Knighthood, in the times of Christia∣nity. The grounds of their Erection were several and different (though all termi∣nated in one common end) among which the principal were these that follow.

First, a perfect and sincere love to Honor, and a regard had to the prudent ma∣nagement and continual advancement of Military Affairs; and therein chiefly to excite and promote Virtue, and to confer on it a sutable Reward.

Such was the Design of King Arthur of Britain; who e 1.4 being wonderfully de∣lighted with the valiant emulation and military experience of gallant and worthy men (in whose policy, strength, and industry he might confidently and safely rely, if need required, in all urgent and hazardous enterprizes) enjoined such as had especially signalized themselves by their Martial Actions, a freedom and familiari∣ty, not only with one another, but even with himself: And further, to honor and reward their valour and desert; he formed himself and them into a Body and Fel∣lowship, which he stiled Knights of the Round Table.

Upon which account also the Military Orders of the Oak in Navarr, the Gennet in France, the Crown Royal among the Frizons, the Dove in Castile, and the Bear in Switzerland, took their beginning: and hitherto may be referr'd the foundation of the most Noble Order of the Garter, as shall appear anon.

Secondly, it is not altogether from our purpose, that the generality of Romances, and several modern and heroic Poems (some of which are before remembred) make such frequent metion of Knights Errant, riding up and down to encounter Pagans; for another famous cause of erecting Knightly Orders, sprung from this oc∣casion, namely, the Incursions and Robberies of the Saracens and Barbarians: to repel the violence and cruelty whereof, to vindicate the oppressed, redeem the injured and enslaved, to give entertainment and relief to Pilgrims and Stran∣gers, were part of the Duties to which the Knights Hospitallers, Templers, and those of Saint Iames in Gallicia, stood engaged by their first foundation.

A third reason was to fight in defence of the Christian Faith, against Pagans and Infidels, to propagate the Christian Territories, and to promote the service of the Catholick Church; which was the chief cause why the Orders last men∣tioned were instituted, as also those other of the Holy Sepulchre, Calatrava, Al∣cantara, St. Saviour of Mount Royal, our Lady of Montesa, of Christ in Portugal, and the Sword-Bearers in Livonia.

And indeed, these were the main inducements that engaged them, and many other Orders of Knighthood (instituted in the Christian world) to do famous things in the cause of Religion: So that their holy zeal may be said to have very far contributed to the propagation and advancement of the Christian Profession; since generally the Knights of these Orders have employ'd themselves in the ser∣vice of God, and spent their blood in the defence of his Faith, against Saracens, Turks, and Vnbelievers.

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Lastly, when Soveraign Princes found themselves imbroiled in Wars or dan∣gerous Factions, a fourth reason of erecting such Orders, was, that they might by such a Tye (as the Combination of many valiant Knights into a Fraternity) restore Peace, quiet all Jealousies, unite Affections, and secure unto themselves the alliance of lasting friendship and powerful assistance, both for their own, and their Countries safety and defence. Hereupon do the Orders of the Dragon in Hungary, of the Ermin, as also the Knot in Naples, and of St. Michael in France, seem to have been erected.

And to what end were the Badges of such several Orders devised, but to be di∣stributed as Pledges of remembrance, that thereby the sincerity of their love who had united themselves into a Brotherhood (if at any time it should grow cold) might be quickned and renewed, and their Friendship increased and established? So that though humane occurences might occasion a distance between them, as to their persons, yet were these Ornaments as so many Remembrances of the Faith and Oath whereby they were contracted into one Body; and consequently of the harmony of minds and affections that ought to be among them.

SECT. III. The division of Knightly Orders into Religious and Military.

HAving thus briefly toucht upon some general grounds and causes, for in∣stituting Orders of Knighthood in Christendom; before we proceed to a par∣ticular account of the Orders themselves, it will be further necessary to acquaint our Reader, that the Knights of these Orders have been more especially divided into two kinds, namely, Religious or Ecclesiastical, and Military or Secular; which division we shall likewise follow in this place, beginning with the Religious, for the same reasons, that in all Degrees of Honor, which are esteemed of an equal rank, the Ecclesiastick hath been allowed to precede the Temporal.

But we find, that there hath risen much dispute among the Canonists, touching several of those which we are to marshal under the title of Religious (or as gene∣rally they are called f 1.5 Cruciseri) to wit, whether they be truly and properly Re∣ligious or not. The Arguments on both sides are numerous, and therefore we shall refer such as are desirous of a particular satisfaction in the case, to a late Treatise, written by g 1.6 Andreas Mendo, a Iesuit, who hath judiciously contracted the Arguments, and cited the several Authors both of the Affirmative and Nega∣tive part; thinking it enough here, to give this following short account thereof.

Those Knights who have taken upon them the three solemn and substantial Vows of Religion, namely Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience, (that is, (1.) h 1.7 Not to hold or possess any thing properly or peculiarly their own, nor to dispose thereof, but with the licence or allowance of the Master,* 1.8 or Chief of the Order. (2.) To keep themselves single, chaste, and undefiled with Women. And (3.) to submit to the commands of their Ma∣ster, and to the Rules and Statutes of their Order) they are (we say) without contradiction i 1.9 truly and properly ac∣counted Religious, and have been numbred among Religious and Ecclesiastical persons, and consequently in spiritual concerns, exempt from all spiritual, or other Jurisdictions (except the Masters or Prelates of their own Order) as are the Knights of St. Iohn of Ierusalem.

But such of these as have permission to contract marriage, and are either married or may marry, and do prosess Con∣jugal Chastity, viz. k 1.10to enjoy only their own Wives; are not by some, simply and absolutely, called or esteemed Re∣ligious,

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but l 1.11 secundum quid, and improperly; of which sort are those of the Orders of St. Iames,* 1.12 Calatrava, Alcan∣tara, and Montesa, in Spain, and many others. Neverthe∣less, m 1.13others conceive these aswel truly Religious, seeing they vow Conjugal (though not strict and absolute) Cha∣stity; and this is the opinion of most.

And in truth, the Vow of severe Chastity is not in this case wholly discharg∣ed, but only dispensed with; and that of Conjugal imposed instead thereof. For the Popes never changed or abolished the religious state of Knights, but only di∣spensed with them as to Marriage; whilst in other things they made no alteration, but lest them whole and entire.

And therefore, since we observe those Knights, who vow absolute Chastity, and those who profess Conjugal, have alike received their approbation from the Papal See, and that some Knights have not been accounted n 1.14 Religious, before such time, and until their rule of living hath been confirm'd to them from thence (as is noted by those of St. Lazarus) after which Confirmation, all that enter in∣to any Order, are subject to the particular Rule, so approved of, unless for good cause, they be o 1.15 dispensed with: For these reasons we shall place both under the Title of Religious or Ecclesiastical Knights, in the following Discourse.

SECT. IV. Of Ecclesiastical Foundations dependant upon Military Orders.

BUT the Institutions of those Orders, purely Military, were after a while thought too weak to continue long, if not sustained by Religion and Piety, and too defective, without adjoining Ecclesiastical persons thereunto. Therefore the Founders, considering, that in all Councils and Affairs, there should be a concur∣rence of Divine assistance and Military industry, began to dedicate them princi∣pally to the Honor and Worship of God, or to our Saviour, or to the blessed Vir∣gin, or some other of the Saints; thereby to gain no less the protection and fa∣vour of the Divine goodness, on the behalf of the Founders, and Knights Compa∣nions of such Orders in general, than its especial assistance in their Councils, Af∣fairs, or particular Enterprises: And this they supposed more easily obtainable by the interposition of men eminent for their sincerity, piety, humility, and de∣votion, set apart and appointed to say Prayers, sing Psalms, and perform other Ecclesiastical Duties (the efficacy of Religion, consisting in the Offices of the Priests) for the glory, fidelity, peace, and safety of their Kingdoms and Subjects, and the good success of their Military Undertakings.

Hereupon some of them, at their first Institutions, joined sacred Orders to their Militia, and made provision for Ecclesiastical persons, whose assigned Duty was to undertake the spiritual warfare, and spend their time in Divine Offices and Devotions at home, in their several Foundations, for the prosperity of those un∣dertakings, wherein the Knights Companions themselves were engaged abroad, ei∣ther as to the defence of Christian Religion, their Prince, or Country.

Hence was it, that ourr 1.16King Edward the Third, at the first Institution of the most Noble Order of the Garter, appointed, within the Chappel of Saint George at Wyndesor, s 1.17 thirteen secular Canons, and thirteen Vicars, there to attend the cele∣bration of Divine Offices. In like manner did t 1.18 Amadis the Sixth, Earl of Savoy, who, when he had instituted the Order of the Collar (since called of the Annun∣ciade) founded also the Chartreuse of Pierre Chastle in Bugey, wherein were enter∣tain'd u 1.19 fifteen Priests, and they obliged to celebrate, every day, fifteen Masses.

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[illustration]
THE Severall ENSIGNES of the RELIGIOVS ORDERS of KNIGHTHOOD mentioned in the second Chapter▪

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[illustration]

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Upon the same account were erected certain w 1.20 foundations of Divine Service, in the Ducal Chappel of Dion, in the Dutchy of Burgundy, by Philip Duke of Burgundy, Founder of the Order of the Golden Fleece; and likewise in the Church of le Mont. S. Michel in Normandy, did x 1.21 Lewis the Eleventh of France, ordain to be celebrated the Divine Service, and other Ecclesiastical Ceremonies, re∣lating to the foundation of the Order of Saint Michael, by him instituted.

SECT. V. A brief account of the Religious Orders of Knighthood.

NOw come we to deliver a short account of the Religious or Sacred Orders of Knighthood, to which shall succeed those that are purely and compleatly Military; in both which we shall principally take notice (1.) Of the Time of their Institution, (2.) By whom founded, and (3.) The Habit, and Ensigns, be∣stowed upon each of them; proceeding according to the antiquity of each Or∣der's Foundation, as we can best discover it, and allowing their Precedency here, for that cause rather than any other.

But forasmuch as the Institutions of some of these Orders of Knighthood, are en∣deavoured to be made more ancient than there is good ground to believe; we have therefore thought it needless (having for the most part confin'd our Dis∣course to the three particulars now mentioned) to engage our Pen too far, where 'tis almost impossible to set the Chronological part right, and may very possibly give an occasion of Offence.

We have taken in all the Orders that we could meet with, though some were obscure, and but short-liv'd, and others, for other reasons, may be thought in∣considerable; judging them worthy of a place here, with the most famous and known, seeing once they had such in the Register of Honor.

Lastly, where the occasion is inserted, whence (as is affirmed) some of them took their Original, and this lookt upon as fabulous and romantick: We must inform our Reader, that we take not upon us to justifie all that is spoken to this point; but suppose we have dealt fairly and candidly with him, in placing our Authorities in the Margent, and there lest them to be considered of, where we hope they will be of strength, at least sufficient to support the Text, and justifie our integrity.

The Order of the Knights of the Holy Spulchre in Ierusalem. (1.)

This Order of Knighthood, though not so ancient as some would make it (who refer the Original to a 1.22 St. Iames Bishop of Ierusalem, to b 1.23 Con∣stantine the Great, and to c 1.24 Charles the Great) nor so late as d 1.25 others would have it, who say this Order was founded in the year of our Lord 1110. yet is it accounted the most ancient of all those Orders which took beginning in the Ho∣ly Land; and as a judicious Divine of our Nation reports, was instituted in the year e 1.26 1099. at such time as the Temple of Ierusalem was regained from the Saracens: which account perhaps he ground∣ed upon the date given to the ancient Statutes of this Order, established at Ieru∣salem on f 1.27 New-years-day in the year aforesaid, and published by Mennenius.

As to the person by whom this Order was founded, he refers it to g 1.28 Philip King of France, but h 1.29 Andrew Favin will have it to be Baldwin the First, King of Ie∣rusalem: For there having been (while the Saracens possest that City) certain

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Canons regular of the Order of St. Augustine, to whom they permitted the Cu∣stody of the Holy Sepulchre of our Lord, and whose Convent adjoined thereunto; These i 1.30 Canons (saith he) did King Baldwin make men of Arms, and Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, and ordained that they should nevertheless retain their k 1.31 White Habit, and on the breast thereof bear his own Arms, which were, l 1.32 Argent, a Cross Potent Or, between four Crossetts of the same, commonly called the Ierusa∣lem Cross. Their Great Master was the Patriarch of Ierusalem, who had power granted from the Founder, to confer the Order, and to receive the three Vows, of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience.

The chief Duty whereunto these Knights were obliged by their profession, was to guard m 1.33 the Holy Sepulchre, the custody whereof was peculiarly commit∣ted to them, * 1.34 to ight against the Saracens and Infidels with all their power; to relieve and protect Pilgrims; to redeem Christian Captives; to hear Mass every day; to recite the hours of the Cross, and to bear the five | 1.35 red Crosses, in memory of the five wounds of our Saviour. They had their Rule confirm'd to them by n 1.36 Pope Innocent the Third.

When the Christians were driven out of the Holy Land, these Knights retired into Europe, and seated themselves at o 1.37 Perugia in Italy, after which, by consent and permission of the Soldan, the p 1.38 custody of the Holy Sepulchre was committed to the Franciscan Fryars. The Knights then in being, retained yet their white Habit, but changed their ancient Arms to a q 1.39 double red Cross.

By the r 1.40 Bull of Pope Innocent the Eighth, dated the 28. of March 1484. they, and all their Goods were annexed and incorporated, to the Knights Hospitalars of St. Iohn of Ierusalem, then remaining in the Isle of Rhodes, (since more com∣monly known by the Title of Knights of Malta) as being under the same Vow and Rule.

But it was not long e're his Successor s 1.41 Pope Alexander the Sixth, anno 1496. transferr'd to the Papal See, all power of conferring this Order of Knighthood, publishing himself and his Successors to be the Great Masters thereof. He further t 1.42 empowred the Guardian of the Holy Sepulchre (his Vicar-general) to bestow the same upon Pilgrims and Travellers to the Holy Land; the Formulary for receiv∣ing of which, is set down at large by u 1.43 Mennenius, and w 1.44 Favin.

Afterwards, Philip the Second, King of Spain, used his endeavours to restore this Order in some of his Dominions, to which end, several of these Knights assembled in the Church of St. Catharine at Hochstraten in Brabant (in Cameracensi Diocesi) and by their Diploma, dated the 26. of March 1558. (exhibited by x 1.45 Mennenius) elected the said King, Grand Master of the Order; but this design took no effect.

Of latter times, there was another attempt to the like purpose, made by y 1.46 Charles Gonzgo of Cleve, Duke of Nevers, in the year 1615. and this also, up∣on the application of the Great Master of Malta, to Lewis the Thirteenth of France, came to nothing.

The Order of Hospitalars of St. Iohn Baptist in Ierusalem. (2.)

Before the Latin Christians had taken the City of Ierusalem from the Saracens, certain a 1.47 Christian Merchants of the Kingdom of Naples, who traded into Syria, and the Holy Land, with Commodities most acceptable, because most rare and strange, to the Inhabitants of those Countries, obtained leave from the Caliph of Aegypt, who then had the Dominion thereof, to b 1.48 erect a small and convenient House, for the entertainment of themselves and their Country-men, which they built before the Patriarchal Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Ierusalem; together with as small an Oratory, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

* 1.49To them repaired certain c 1.50 Canons of the Order of St. Augustine, conducted by an Abbot from Naples, who in a short time built another Oratory, in honor of St. Mary Magdalen: that of the Virgin Mary being appointed for the entertain∣ment

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of Men, and that other of St. Mary Magdalen, for the reception of Women. And not long after, to wit, in the year of our Lord d 1.51 1048. they restored the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

But the confluence of Pilgrims and Travellers, growing very great, and these places already built, too narrow for their reception, they e 1.52 erected a large Hospital in that very place f 1.53 where our Sa∣viour celebrated the last Supper with his Disciples, for the better entertainment of Strangers, that travelled thither upon the account of Devotion; (who for want of a place to lodge in, did usually, in the night time, fall into the hands of the Saracens, that g 1.54 rob'd and murder'd them) as also to re∣lieve and cure the diseased among them. So that at length, in regard of their great Charity, and friendly Hospitality, as also for that these religious persons took St. Iohn Baptist for their Patron (to the honor of whose Name, a Chappel or Oratory was built there also) they obtained the Title of h 1.55 Brethren Hospitalars, of St. Iohn Baptist of Ierusalem. But some are of opinion, that this Hospital was dedicated to the memory of i 1.56 St. Iohn of Cyprus, who in the Reign of Phocas the Emperor, was Bishop of Alexandria, and so charitable and liberal in bestowing Alms,* 1.57 that he obtained the name of Iohannes Eleemosynarius.

Calvisius in his Chronology sets down the Institution of this Order, to be in the year 1092. Others refer it to the year k 1.58 1099. when one Gerard, a Native of the Province of l 1.59 Tholouse, and a man of holy life and piety, came to Ierusalem, in the time of Godfrey of Bouillon, and out of zeal upon sight of the pla∣ces trodden by the feet of our Saviour, and sprinkled with his blood, built this Hospital (which became the first and chief Seat of this an∣cient Order) and devoutly ministred to the necessities of the poor. After a while he m 1.60 adjoined to himself some honest and religious men, and received the regu∣lar Habit of Black, wearing on the outside thereof a White Cross.

King n 1.61 Baldwin the First, conferr'd on them large Priviledges and Franchises, permitting them to manage Arms, as did the Canons Regulars, Guardians of the Holy Sepulchre, and anno o 1.62 1104. instituted them to be Knights. So that they, who before were pious and liberal towards Pilgrims and diseased persons, be∣came at length the examples of true and Christian generosity: Their * 1.63 duty now engaging them personally to fight against the Saraens and Insidels, in de∣fence of the Christian Faith.

These Knights then acknowledged obedience to the Patriarch of Ierusalem, who p 1.64 first approved their Order, but afterwards q 1.65 when their Revenues increased, it begat a neglect of their former religious and humble carriage; and forthwith they laboured with the Pope to be absolved from their obedience to the Patri∣arch, which r 1.66 they obtain'd, though he, and several other Bishops of Palestine, travelled to Rome to oppose them, and manifest the injuries they sustained from the Knights.

This Order had its s 1.67 second approbation and rule of living confirmed from Pope Gelasius the Second, but t 1.68 Andr. Men∣do saith, from Calixtus the Second, anno 1120. and was by Adrian the Fourth u 1.69 received under the protection of the Papal See; being likewise endowed with ample Priviledges, and exemption from payment of Tythes, by succeeding Popes, chiefly by w 1.70 Pius the Fourth.

The Knights of this Order then took the x 1.71 black Habit of Hermits of St. Augustine, and lived under his rule by the grant of Honorius the Second, anno y 1.72 1125. vowing z 1.73 Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity; and on the a 1.74 Breast of this Habit wore, at first, a plain Cross of white Cloth, since changed to one with b 1.75 eight points: but in the c 1.76 time of War they used a Red Cassock, bearing the White Cross upon it.

After the death of Gerard, the Founder of this Hospital,

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having increased in Men and Revenues, elected out of their own Body another Governor or Head, namely, Raimund de Podio, or d 1.77 Poggio a Florentine, who di∣gested and enlarged their Laws and Institutions, and divided the Body of the Order into * 1.78 three Classes, viz. Knights, Servants, and Ecclesiasticks (which hath since received, from the succeeeding Great Masters, many additions.) This Body of Laws was confirmed by Pope e 1.79 Boniface the Ninth, 7. Idus Apr. in the sixth year of his Popedom, the Composers style in it runs thus, f 1.80 Ego Ramundus Dei gratia, servus pauperum Iesu Christi, & Custos Hospitalis Ierusolymitani. But af∣terwards he had the Title of g 1.81 Great Master of the Order given him, which conti∣nued to his Successors, h 1.82 the Adjective [Great] being added to denote his pow∣er and authority; the Government and Administration of the whole Militia, being lodged in him for the time being.

This great Master is a free Lord, he hath at this day the Title of i 1.83 Prince of Mal∣tae and Goza, and had that of Illustrious first given him by Ferdinand the Second, Emperor of Germany: Among sundry great priviledges wherewith he is invest∣ed, he hath power to Seal in Lead, as doth the Pope and Duke of Venice. He ac∣knowledges the Pope for his Head, and the King of Spain for his Patron.

Under this Great Master, there are many of the Knights in several Kingdoms and Provinces, called Priors, some of whom have also the addition of Great; With us in England he was stiled Prior Hospitalis Sancti Iohannis Ierusalem in Ang∣lia, and by that k 1.84 Title was he summoned to the Parliament as a Baron of this Kingdom: At length he became ranked the first Baron, and had place and prece∣dency accordingly above all the Barons of Parliament. There is a Memorandum of making his Oath of Fealty to the King, which I find thus recorded.

| 1.85 Memorandum quod Frater Johannes de Radyngton Prior Hospitalis Sancti Iohannis Ierusalem in Anglia vicesimo tertio die Septembris anno praesenti apud Mansum Fratrum Praedicatorum London. fecit fidelitatem suam Domi∣no Regi debitam coram Consilio dicti Domini Regis ibidem tunc existente, sub hac forma; Jeo sera foial & foie & loialtie portera a nostre Seigneur le Roi Richard & a ses heirs Rois D'engleterre de vie de membre & de terrien honour a vivre & morir contre toutz gentz & diligiament seray entendant as busoignes nostre Seigneur le Roy solonc mon sen & poair & le conseil nostre Seigneur le Roy celera & a lui & a ses maundementz en quantque a moy attient sera obeisant si Dieu moi eide & ses Seintz. Protestando quod hoc non cederet in praejudicium Hospitalis praedicti tempo∣ribus futuris.

This Order grew in time to such greatness in Possessions and Lands, that in the Reign of King Henry the Third, they had in Christendom, no fewer than * 1.86 nineteen thousand Mannors.

When Saladine had taken Ierusalem (after it had been possest eighty nine years by the Christians) these Knights retreated to the City of | 1.87 Acres, called Ptolomais; and that being also taken, they seised upon the l 1.88 Island of Rhodes, and gained the chief City there, m 1.89 18. Calend. Sept. in the year of our Lord 1308. which Pope n Clement the Fifth confirmed to them, and thereupon they began to be called o 1.90 Knights of Rhodes.

At Rhodes they remained 214. years, even until anno p 1.91 1522. when Solyman the Great took the Island by force, and made his publick entry thereinto on q 1.92 Christmas-day, after which they betook themselves to the r 1.93 Island of Malta, which with Tripoli and Goza were granted to them in s 1.94 Fee, by the Emperor Charles the Fifth, the t 1.95 23. of March anno 1530. under the tender of one Fal∣con to the Viceroy of Sicily, upon the 25. day of April yearly, and on con∣dition to acknowledge the King of Spain and Sicily for their Protectors. This Donation was confirmed by * 1.96 Pope Clement the Seventh, on the 9. of May in the same year. In which Isle they yet continue the Bulwark and Fortress of Europe, chiefly to shelter Sicily, and guard the Coasts of Italy: and from this settlement of theirs in this place, they have been ever since called Knights of Malta.

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The Order of Knights Templars. (3.)

About the years a 1.97 1117. b 1.98 1118. c 1.99 1119. or d 1.100 1120. this Or∣der took beginning (Baldwin the Second then reigning in Ierusalem, and e 1.101 Gelasius the Second possessing the Roman Chair) when f 1.102 nine Gentlemen,* 1.103 urged by zealous devotion, passed the Seas to the Holy Land, the chief of which (though the rest are forgotten) wereg 1.104 Hugo de Paganes, and Godfrey de Saint Omer, two Knights of Noble Extraction. The King, because these Knights at first had no habitation, as∣signed to them part of his h 1.105 own Palace, neer the South-gate, adjoining to the Temple of Solomon in Ierusalem; and gave them leave to build a small House of residence, within the inclosure thereof; and hereupon they became called i 1.106 Brothers of the Militia of the Temple, or more ordinarily, in one word, Knights Templars.

And as they began to increase in number (which they did not till after k 1.107 nine years, from their Institution) so their first undertaking and profession (to which they were enjoin∣ed by the Patriarch of Ierusalem) was chiefly to l 1.108 guard the most dangerous High-ways about Ierusalem; whereupon they became safe con∣ductors to Pilgrims and Travellers (who came to visit the holy places in that Ci∣ty) both in coming thither, and returning thence, against the violence and robbe∣ries of the Saracens; which charitable service made them acceptable to all, and for which they obtained of the m 1.109 Patriarch and Bishops, remission of their sins.

But they were yet so poor, that for the first nine years, they liv'd upon the n 1.110 Alms of others, and wore such Clothes, as good men, for Charities sake bestowed on them: They also rode two on one Horse; in memory of which primitive poverty, there was engraved on the Seal of their Order, the Figure of two of their Knights riding upon one Horse; which is exactly represented in p 1.111 Math. Paris.

At the q 1.112 Council held at Troyes in Champaigne, anno 1127. they had certain Rules assigned to them, drawn up by * 1.113 St. Bernard, Abbot of Clairuaux (a r 1.114 French Gentleman, Lord of Fontaines, a Village and Castle distant about half a mile from Dion) by the appointment of Pope Honorius the Second, and Stephen Patri∣arch of Ierusalem; in the s 1.115 presence of which Patriarch, they made their Vows of Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity, and to live under the rule of t 1.116 Canons Regu∣lar of St. Augustine. They were also enjoined to wear a White Habit, to which (but not till the time of Eugenius the Third) they assumed the u 1.117 Red Cross, and of the * 1.118 same form that the Knights Hospitallers of St. Iohn of Ierusalem wore, (though | 1.119 Favin saith it was a Patriarchal Cross) and sewed it n the left shoulder of their Mantles, to distinguish them from the Knights of other Orders in the Holy Land. And thus as by their hite Habit their innocency was notified, so by the Red Cross, their resolution to spend their blood in defence of the Christian Faith.

These Knights, with those other of the Holy Sepulhre, Hospitallers, and Teuo∣nicks, were the principal Columns which supported the Kingdom of Ierusalem, for a long time; and therefore their valiant encounters with the Infidels, and for∣wardness to sacrifice their lives, for the honor of God, and defence of the Holy Land, ought to be had in everlasting remembrance. But w 1.120 when Riches in∣creast, and their Revenues were augmented, they grew proud, and withdrew themselves from the obedience of the Patriarch of Ierusalem, to join with the Pope.

So that at last, upon x 1.121 Friday after the Feast-day of St. Denys, in the year of our Lord 1307. all the Knights of this Order in France, were (in one and the same hour) seized on and imprisoned, by the command of Philip le Bel, King of

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France, with the consent of Pope Clement the Fifth, being y 1.122 charged with most infamous and damnable Crimes; the Articles confessed are set down by z 1.123 Andr. Favin. But in England their apprehension was on a 1.124 Wednesday next after the Feast of Epiphany,* 1.125 in the first year of the Reign of our King Edward the Second. Shortly after, a * 1.126 solemn examinati∣on of their Crimes (upon the Articles exhibited against them) was by the special Commission of the said Pope, com∣mitted to William de Grenesfeild Arch-Bishop of York, and Ralph Baldock Bishop of London, in the presence of the ac∣cused Templars, who sufficiently answered all the objections. Howbeit they were afterwards convicted in a Council held at London, and all their Lands and Goods seized into the Kings hands. Upon this, the aforesaid Arch-Bishop very greatly commiserating the sad state and condition of the Templars, within his Diocess, thus left destitute of maintenance, most charitably disposed of them in several Monasteries under his Jurisdiction, where they were provided for during their lives.

b 1.127 Two years after, many of these Knights were burnt in France, nay some of the Bones of Iohn de la Tur (who had been long buried) were taken up, and in like manner burnt.

Upon c 1.128 Munday Sennight after Easter, anno 1312. in the second Session of the Council, called at d 1.129 Vienna in Daulphine the year before, this Order was by Pa∣pal Authority condemned, and perpetually dissolved; and in March of the fol∣lowing year, the last Great Master, Iaques de la Maule, a Bourgundian, e 1.130 burnt at Paris.

Their f 1.131 Lands, Possessions, and Goods, by a Decree of the said Pope, dated at g 1.132 Vienna 6. Non. Maii, in the seventh year of his Papacy, were annexed to the Knights Hospitallers of St. Iohn of Ierusalem (except those within the Kingdoms of h 1.133 Castile, Arragon, Portugal, and Majorca, which were reserved to the disposition of the Roman See) i 1.134 because they had constantly hazarded their lives in the de∣fence of the Christian Faith, and continually suffered great dangers, and undergone vast expences in transmarine parts, as also for k 1.135 five years before, with exceeding great charge, and signal valor, had maintain'd the Isle of Rhodes against the Turkish power. Thus fell this Noble Order, no less famous for Martial Atchievements in the East, than l 1.136 their wealthy Possessions in the West. For, according to Doctor Heylins account, they enjoyed no less than m 1.137 16000 Lordships in Europe; and a Spanish Author tells us, their Revenue was n 1.138 two Millions annually, and had in possession 40000 Com∣manderies. Which gave occasion to many sober men to judge, that their Wealth was their greatest crime. And there are several Authors remembred by o 1.139 Alfonsus Ciaconius, who are of opinion, they were falsly accused, and by suborn∣ed Witnesses, meerly pon the ambition and covetous design of Philip King of France, who gaped after their Lands, but nevertheless the mor∣sel fell beside his mouth.

The Statutes of this Order are recorded by p 1.140 Favin.

Knights of the Order of St. Lazarus. (4.)

We are here to note, that this Order was at the first Institution only a Frater∣nity of Religious Monks, not Ecclesiastick Knights, whose Weapons in the Chri∣stian warfare were Prayers and Tears, not the Military Sword. And albeit the time is uncertain, when they first began to be an Order of Knighthood, yet it cannot be presumed to be before the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, took upon

Page 57

them that Military profession, since to them is generally attributed the beginning of that Custom, for Ecclesiasticks to make use of Arms in defence and propaga∣tion of the Christian Religion; nor was there indeed occasion administred for it, until the Christian Princes set on foot the Holy War in Palestine.

This Order then is accounted the most ancient of all others in Christendom, (which occasioned Pope Pius the Fifth, in two Bulls given in the year 1572. to stile it q 1.141 Antiquissimum Charitatis & Militiae Christi Ordinem) but that (as hath been said) must be understood as an Order of Monks, and before they were made Ecclesiastick Knights: The Original of such their foundation, being by r 1.142 St. Gre∣gory Nazianzen, attributed to St. Basil, about the years s 1.143 360. or 370. or between both, viz. anno t 1.144 366. about the time of Iulian surnamed the Apostate.

The first Institution of this Order was upon a most charitable account; namely, to take care of persons infected with incurable Leprosie (a Disease frequent in the Eastern Countries) by which Malady they became separated, even from the con∣versation and society of men.

And albeit, through the Incursion of Barbarians and Saracens, and the injury of time, this Order lay, as it were, extinguished, for a great while; yet was it re∣vived when the Latin Princes joined together in a holy League, to expel the Sa∣racens out of the Holy Land; and a famous u 1.145 Hospital was then erected in Ierusa∣lem, under the Title of St. Lazarus, for the reception and entertainment of Le∣pers. For in that time the Monks of this Order added Martial Discipline to their knowledge in Physick, and became very skilful both at their Weapons, and in feats of Arms; insomuch as their services against the Infidels, begat a great esteem and value with w 1.146 Baldwin the Second, King of Ierusalem, and some of his Suc∣cessors, and other Princes enumerated by x 1.147 Aubertus Miraeus; in which Age this Order flourished with great lustre, under the Government of a Great Master.

In the year of our Lordy 1.148 1120. Pope z 1.149 Innocent the Third, and after him Honorius the Third, granted very great pri∣viledges to this Order, and received it under the protection of the Papal See. The Knights wore a * 1.150 Green Cross ancient∣ly plain, afterwards of eight points, and Pope Gregory the Ninth prescribed the form of creating their Great Master.

About the year a 1.151 1150 they made their Vows of Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity, before William Patriarch of Ierusalem, and submitted themselves to the Rule of St. Benedict; receiving his black habit: But b 1.152 seven years after, Pope Alexander the Fourth, commanded them to observe the Rule of St. Aug. and ap∣proved the donation of the Emperor Frederick, who had given great Revenues in Calabria, Apulia, and Sicily, to this Order. c 1.153 Nicholas the Third exempted them from payment of Tythes, and several of the succeeding Popes indulged them with divers priviledges.

These Knights were so admired and favoured by d 1.154 St. Lewis of France, that he brought twelve of them with him out of Palestine, and placed them at e 1.155 Boigny, in the Diocess of Orleans, where he established a Colledge, anno Domini 1154. which (as Favin affirms) was acknowledged for the f 1.156 chief Seat of this Order in Europe.

In process of time the dignity of this Order sunk, being g 1.157 suppressed by Pope In∣nocent the Eighth, who h 1.158 united it to the Order of Hospitalars at Rhodes, by virtue of his Bull, dated anno 1490. and all the goods which they possessed in France, were carried away thither; so that shortly after the memory of this Order, as well in Italy as France was wholly obscured.

Nevertheless Pope i 1.159 Pius the Fourth, did again restore and re-establish the same, by his Bull dated at Rome anno 1565. confirming all former Priviledges, and granting many new; he also ordained Rules and Statutes, both for the Election of their Great Master, and reformation and better Government of the Order. Moreover he made k 1.160 Don Ianot de Chastillon, a Gentleman of Millan (his Kinsman) Great Master thereof.

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The Priviledges of this Order were afterwards enlarged by l 1.161 Pius the Fifth, in the year 1567. who permitted them to take one Wife only, to wit, a Virgin, not a Widow.

Lastly, Pope m 1.162 Gregory the Thirteenth, anno 1572. bestowed the Great Master∣ship of this Order, upon Emanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy and his Successors, Dukes of his Line; and prescribed to them the Cistertian Rule. Furthermore, he ordained, n 1.163 that all Commanderies of this Order, under all Christian Princes, should be left freely to the said Duke and his Successors; and accordingly he had the Investiture and Collation of the Commanderies in Spain, and Italy: But Henry the Fourth of France hindered the effecting thereof in his Kingdom, con∣ceiving the right of Great Mastership appertained to him, in regard the chief Seat of this Order in Europe, was (according to Favin) within his Kingdom.

Knights of the Teutonick Order, or of Prusia. (5.)

In the time of the Holy War, a a 1.164 wealthy Gentleman of Germany, who dwelt at Ierusalem, commiserating the condition of his Countrymen coming thither upon Devotion, and not understanding the Language, or knowing where to in∣habit; made his House a receptacle for these Pilgrims, where they received lodg∣ing and entertainment. Afterwards, gaining Authority and Licence from the Patriarch, he erected a Chappel neer unto this Hospital, and b 1.165 dedicated it to the honor of the blessed Virgin Mary, whence they had also the Title of c 1.166 Mari∣an Knights.

To him d 1.167 associated other German Gentlemen, who contributing to maintain this charitable work thus begun, and in short time, encreasing in Number, Piety, Wealth, and Esteem (though yet they had no rule of living assigned) gave them∣selves to the e 1.168 professions, both of the Knights Hospitalars, and Templars; imi∣tating the later in their military Employments, and emulating the former in their acts of Piety and Charity: albeit the year, wherein they first assumed Arms, and entred into a Society, we do not find remembred.

But afterwards, to wit, in the year of our Lord * 1.169 1190 (or f 1.170 1191.) they elected their first Master, namely Henry Walpott, and on the 22. of February in the following year, (upon the request of Frederick the Emperor) re∣ceived confirmation of their Order, from the Bull of Pope g 1.171 Celestine the Third, being the first year of his Papacy, under the Title of h 1.172 Knights Teutonicks, or Dutch Knights of the Hospital of St. Mary the Virgin; vowing Poverty, Obedience, and Cha∣stity,: He also prescribed to them the Rule of St. Augu∣stine.

Their Statutes were composed by the Model of the Knights Hospitalars, and of the Knights Templars; among which one Article was, that none but i 1.173 Germans should be admitted into this Order. But to difference them from those Orders, their Habit was ordained to be a k 1.174 White Mantle, on the breast whereof a plain black Cross (but some l 1.175 others make it a black Cross, voided with a Cross Potence) for their Ensign.

In the year when this Order received Confirmation from the Papal See, there m 1.176 joined to them some rich Citizens of Breme and Lubeck; by whose united Con∣tributions another n 1.177 Hospital was erected in the City of Acon.

But after that City was o 1.178 taken by Saladine, one Hermannus then Master, and the remaining Knights removed into Germany: on whom the Emperor Frederick the Second, anno 1229. and Pope Honorius the Third, bestowed the Province of Prussia (or as some say q 1.179 Conrade Duke of Massovia anno 1226.) where having con∣quer'd that Nation, and reduced it from Paganism to Christianity, they built the

Page 59

City of Mary-burgh; and there r 1.180 anno 1340. fixed the chief Seat and Resid 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of their Great Master.

This Country they enjoyed, till the year s 1.181 1525. that Albertus Brandenburg, the last Great Master, made solemn renunciation of the Order, and became Feuda∣tory to Sigismund the First, King of Poland, who raised Prussia into a Dukedom and created this Albert first Duke thereof. The Conditions upon his Surrender, and the Ceremony of his Investiture into this new Dukedom, are set down in the t 1.182 Theatre of Honor.

Some of the Knights disrelishing this Action, did afterward elect another u 1.183 Great Master, namely Albert Wolfang, and leaving Prussia, seated themselves in Ger∣many, where they now reside, though of no great account; only the w 1.184 younger Sons of the German Princes, being for the most part received into this Order, give the greatest reputation thereunto.

There were some other Military Orders of lesser note instituted in the Holy Land, under the first Latin Kings of Ierusalem, in imitation or rather emulation of those more famous Orders before remembred, of which there now remains on∣ly an obscure memorial: and seeing their Histories are all defective, as to the year of Institution, we think best to muster them up here in the following order.

The Order of the Knights of Mount-Joy. (6.)

THese Knights were so called from a a 1.185 Castle in the Holy Land, where this Order was Instituted, built on the point of a Mountain, b 1.186 not far from Ie∣rusalem, whence the Pilgrims first viewed the Holy City, and where these Knights lay in Garrison.

They were employed in Military Services, for defence of that Casile and the Ho∣ly Land, against the Saracens and Pagans; and received for their Habit, c 1.187 Red short Mantles, and a White Star, with five rayes issuing out of it, fixt upon their breasts. d 1.188Others say, the Habit of this Order was White, and the Badge thereof an Octogonal Cross Red (but this might haply be after they left the Holy Land, and settled in Spain.) They vowed e 1.189 Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience, and ob∣served the Rule of St. f 1.190 Basil.

Pope g 1.191 Alexander the Third, by his Bull approved this Order, and changed their Rule to that of St. Augustine, in the year of our Lord 1180. In this Bull (remain∣ing in the Archives of the Order of Calatrava) is mention made of several h 1.192 Towns and Castles, which these Knights held in the Holy Land, as also what they possest in Spain.

After the loss of the Holy Land, these Knights retired into Spain, and fought against the Moors, and according to the several names of the places, where they resided, were they denominated, though the general Title was of i 1.193 Mount-Ioy. In Catalonia and Valentia, they were called k 1.194 Equites de Mongoia (which is the same with Mount-Ioy) but in Castile l 1.195 Knights of Monfrac, from a Castle so called in that Kingdom, it being their chief place of residence; and after m 1.196 when this Order was fallen into great decay, it was given unto n 1.197 Don Gonçalionez, Master of the Order of Calatrava, by King Ferdinand the Saint, in the year of our Lord 1221. by o 1.198 whose consent they were afterwards incorporated into the Order of Calatrava. Moreover in the Instrument, by which Alphonso the Ninth, King of Castile, gave the Lands to this Order, which the Knights took from the Moors, the Donation saith thus, p 1.199 To you Don Rodrigo Gonçalez Master of Monfrac, of the Order of Mount-Ioy. They were also called (saith q 1.200 Favin) Equites de Truxillo, or de Tru∣gillo, from a City of that name, where they sometime resided; but this will ap∣pear by and by, to be a distinct Order, united afterward to the Knights of Alcan∣tara.

Page 60

Knights of St. John of Acon, or Acres. (7.)

Under the Patronage of this Saint was this Order erected, but the Original, as to time, uncertain. The Knights thereof r 1.201 exercised all Duties of Charity to∣wards those who went on Pilgrimage, to visit the Holy Land; and assumed the exercise of Arms, in imitation of the Knights Hospitalars, whence they became ranked amongst the Religious or Sacred Orders: They followed the Rule of St. Augustine, and according to s 1.202 Favin had a black Habit assigned them, upon which they wore a White Cross Pattee.

After the City of Acon was taken, they removed into Spain, and flourished in that Kingdom, in the Reign of t 1.203 Alfonsus the Astrologer, King of Castile, about which time, Pope u 1.204 Alexander the Fourth approved the Order, under the con∣joined Title of St. Thomas and St. Iohn of Acon. This King gave unto them by his Will, all the Furniture of his House, and very much Money, but afterward they by little and lit∣tle decayed, until at length they were w 1.205 united with the Knights Hospitalars.

The Ensign of their Order (saith x 1.206 Ios. Micheli Marquez) was a Red Cross (y 1.207 like to that of the Order of Montesa) in the middle whereof stood the Figures of St. Iohn, and St. Thomas, which differs from what Favin hath before assigned; but perhaps the colour of the Cross was changed to Red, after their coming into Spain.

Knights of St. Thomas. (8.)

There was another Order which (as may be collected from * 1.208 Mennenius, and a 1.209 Ios. Micheli) was distinct from the former, bearing the Title of St. Thomas; but b 1.210 A. Mendo supposeth, they were rather some of those which joined themselves to the Knights Hospitalars; and the rather, because they wore the same Habit with the Knights of St. Iohn of Acon; they also made the same Professions, fol∣lowed the same Rule, observed the same Constitutions, and were approved and confirmed by Pope Alexander the Fourth and Fifth, and Iohn the 22. Their Badge was a | 1.211 Saltire gules, yet Micheli makes it the same with that of St. Iohn of Acon, wanting the Figures in the middle. But c 1.212 Andr. Favin reports (though we meet with nothing in our English Histories to back him) that this Order was Instituted by our King Richard the First, after the surprisal of Acon, and that these Knights were of the English Nation; who wore a White Habit, and a Red Cross, charged in the middle with a White Escallop: and lastly, that they had for their Patron, St. Thomas Becket.

This gives us occasion to remember here, that we have some more Honor of this kind done our Nation by Strangers (if it can be called an Honor, to report those things of us, which want ground and authority from our own Histories and Chronicles to support them) viz. d 1.213 That Henry of England (which by the note of time afterwards mentioned, must be understood of our King Henry the Second) vi∣siting the Holy places in Ierusalem (but we find not that he was ever there) be∣ing moved with a pious zeal, by the example of the Knights of the Sepulchre, Instituted the Order of Iesus Christ of the holy Sepulchre in England, in the year of our Lord 1174. giving to the Knights thereof the same Rules, as had those of the Holy Sepulchre in Ierusalem; which Order (saith the same Author) was con∣firm'd by Pope Alexander the Third, under the Rule of St. Basil. Howbeit after the Christians were driven out of the Holy Land, the Knights of this Order were joined to the Knights Hospitalars.

But we give the less credit to this formal account, because we find no mention

Page 61

made thereof in any of our English Writers or Records: Perhaps the Relator mistook them for the Canons regular (but not Knights) of the Holy Sepulchre, who about that time lived amongst us, and of whom the e 1.214 Antiquities of Warwick-shire give some account.

Knights of St. Blase. (9.)

These were called also Knights f 1.215 de Sancta Maria, and founded under the g 1.216 Rule of St. Basil. They were h 1.217 Officers and Servants to the Kings of Arme∣nia, and had assigned them for their Habit Skie-colour, with a Cross gold, worn before their breasts. Others say a i 1.218 Red Cross, and in the middle thereof the Pi∣cture of St. Blase their Patron.

This Order was at the k 1.219 height, when the Armenian Kings, of the House of Lu∣zignam, kept their Court in the City of Acon.

l 1.220 Knights of the Martyrs in Palestine. (10.)

By the pious affection of some m 1.221 Noblemen, there was erected in the Holy Land an Hospital dedicated to the holy Martyrs St. Cosmas, and St. Damianus; where all acts of charity were exercised towards sick strangers. Their professi∣on also obliged them to other works of mercy towards the poor, to redeem Captives taken by the Saracens, and to bury the dead.

These Knights followed the n 1.222 Rule of St. Basil, which was confirmed to them by Pope Iohn the 22. They wore for the Badge of their Order, a o 1.223 Red Cross; and in the middle thereof, within a Circle, the Figures of the Saints Cosmas and Damianus were described.

p 1.224 Mennenius informs us, that Hieron. Romanus had seen some of these Knights wearing for their chief Ensign a Red Cross; and professing the Rule of St. Augu∣stine; which perhaps was so changed when they retired into Europe.

Knights of St. Katharine at Mount Sinai. (11.)

This Order received its Institution, saith q 1.225 Ios. Micheli, in the Year of our Lord 1063. under the Title and Patronage of St. Katharine, whose body is reported to be deposited in r 1.226 Mount Sinai, and the high Altar in the Church of the Monastery, there (dedicated to her name) erected neer to the place where she was interred.

The end for which these Knights were at first Instituted, and the sum of their profession, was to s 1.227 guard and keep safe the Sepulchre of St. Katharine, to secure the ways for Travellers, to defend and protect the Graecian Pilgrims, who came thi∣ther for devotions sake, and to relieve and entertain them with convenient Ho∣spitality.

Their Habit was t 1.228 White, and they lived under the Rule of St. Basil the Great; making their Vows of conjugal chastity and obedience to the Abbot of this Mo∣nastery, who was their Superiour or Master.

But u 1.229 when those Countries fell into the hands of the Turks, the Knights of this Order were ill entreated and driven away, and the Order it self almost abolished. Nevertheless, some shadow thereof does still continue; for such as travel to visit the Holy Sepulchre at Ierusalem, do now and then likewise pass to this Monastery at Mount Sinai; where (in imitation of the Padre Guardian of Ierusalem) the w 1.230 principal of the Monks of this Convent, makes them Knights of the Order of St. Katharine; the Ceremony being performed upon her Sepulchre or Tomb; and the same Questions and Formulary are here used, as are accustomed at the Holy Se∣pulchre in Ierusalem.

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These Knights do now wear z 1.231 upon the left side of their White Habit, the Cross of Ierusalem, and Instrument of St. Katharines Martyrdom, which I have caused to be engraven, after the form of that Badge bestowed up∣on y 1.232 Andr. Favin, by Mesiere Claude Daubray, a Knight both of the Holy Sepulchre, and of St. Katharine: but according to others, the z 1.233 middle of the Wheel is pierced with a Sword.

The Order of Knights of St. Anthony in Aethiopia. (12.)

a 1.234 Shortly after the death of St. Anthony the Hermite, (which fell out about the years of our Lord 357. or 358.) many of his Disciples remaining in Thebais (a Country bordering upon Aethiopia) followed the Example, Rule, and manner of life which he had left them: and both they and their Successors lived for some time in great austerity and solitariness in the Desart, and therefore called Ancho∣rites, until they were at length reduced to a more convenient and rational life, by submitting to the monastical Rule of St. Basil, and cohabiting in Monasteries, but still under the Title and Habit of St. Anthony.

It is said, that about the year of our Lord b 1.235 370. Iohn Emperor of Aethiopia (commonly called Prester Iohn) erected these Monks into a Religious Order of Knighthood, under the Title and c 1.236 Protection of St. Anthony, Patron of his Empire; and bestowed upon them great Revenues and many Priviledges. And being thus instituted Knights, they received the aforesaid d 1.237 Rule of St. Basil, and submitted to his Constitutions. The Habit of the Order is e 1.238 Black, and the Cross, Blue; much like the form of the Latine Letter T, but not like either the Samaritan or Hebrew Letter Tau, (which f 1.239 some say is like a Cross) for the fashion and shape of either hath no likeness or similitude to a Cross at all, as hath been observed by the Learned g 1.240 Ioseph Scaliger.

The chief Seat of this Order is in the Isle of h 1.241 Meroe, where the Abbots both spiritual and temporal have their residence; but in other parts of Aethiopia they have a very great number of Convents and Monasteries, and not less than two Mil∣lions of annual Revenue.

The i 1.242 eldest Sons of Noblemen and Gentlemen cannot be admitted into this Or∣der, but the second Sons may; and if a man have three Sons, he is bound to as∣sign one of them to be of the Order; from which Law none are exempt but Phy∣sicians.

The effect of the Vow and Profession which these Knights make, is to observe k 1.243 conjugal chastity, to dye in defence of the Christian Faith, to guard the Con∣fines of the Empire, to yield obedience to their natural Laws, and their Superi∣ors, and to go to War, whensoever and wheresoever they are commanded. More∣over they take an Oath before the spiritual Abbot, l 1.244 not to fight in Wars between Christians, nor to receive any holy Orders, or to marry without express License first obtained.

There are in this Order, two sorts of Knights; the m 1.245 one employed in the Wars, the other being old, are exempted from Military services, and retire themselves under the Title and Profession of Monks, to the Abbies where first they took their Habit. Of these there can be no more but five and twenty in one Abbey (albeit while they remain Military Knights they have no certain number) out of whom the most ancient in the Habit is chosen Abbot, by the voices of his Fel∣lows, and called the Spiritual Abbot.

The n 1.246 Novices are taken in about sixteen or seventeen years of age, and imploy∣ed nine years in the Wars; to wit, three years in the Garrisons about the Red Sea, against the Arabian Pirats; other three years in the Isle of Meroe, against the incursions of the Turks; and the last three years upon the Borders of Borno, a neighbour Kingdom of the Moors.

These o 1.247 nine years being compleated, they obtain Letters from their last Cap∣tain, testifying the fulfilling those years in the Wars, with honor and worthiness;

Page 63

wherewith the great Abbot being made acquainted, he directs his Letters to the Abbot, where they are to receive their Habit, to give them admittance accord∣ingly. But in case the Certificate of life and services be not sufficient (which sel∣dom happens) their admission is prolonged to a further time.

When they come to be admitted into their Abbey, they are introduced in their military Habit, of which being disrobed, and the religious Habit put on, to wit, a p 1.248 Black Gown reaching down to the ground, lined with Blue (described to be a Garment made with many Plaits in the neck, and large sleeves, such as the Basilians wear) having a Blue Cross fixed to the Breast, and over that a Black Cowle, they then are led to the Church, and before the Altar make their Profession.

q 1.249 Philip the Seventh of that Name, Son to the Founder, very much encreased their Lands and Priviledges; and gave command that the Badge of the Blue Cross should be bordered with Gold, which is observed at this day.

Such as are inquisitive after a further Account of this Order in Aethiopia, may receive it from the afore-cited Author Ios. Micheli Marquez, who is very large and particular upon this Subject.

In r 1.250 Italy, France, and Spain, there are a sort of Monks that from s 1.251 some have the Title of Knights of St. Anthony; these were commanded to observe the Rule of t 1.252 St. Augustine by Pope Boniface the Eighth, and appointed to wear a plain Blue Cross like that in Aethiopia; the Principals of these (according to u 1.253 Favin) wear a double St. Anthonies Cross of Blue Satin, the one above the other, but the rest of them, only a single Cross.

Their chief Seat is at w 1.254 Vienna in Daulphine, of which place the General of the Order beareth the Title of Abbot, the Monastery there having been erected into an x 1.255 Abbey, by the said Pope Boniface, anno 1297. in honor of St. Anthony, whose y 1.256 body is reported to have been translated thither from Constantinople: and all other places, built in honor of his name, were made subject to this Abbot by Pope z 1.257 Clement the Seventh, anno 1523. b 1.258 Aub. Miraeus takes notice of this Order, calling it the Order of Hospitalars of St. Anthony, and to have taken beginning in France, in the year 1121. from one Gaston, a Nobleman of Vienna. But c 1.259 Baro∣nius saith it was in the year 1095. that this Gaston with his Son Gerin, taking eight other persons to them, instituted this Order; who before they took upon them the Habit of Religion, assumed to themselves, the Letter Thau, for the Badge or Ensign of their Order. Yet d 1.260 Alfonsus Ciaconius, makes this Order more ancient, affirming that Gaston and Guind (whom Baronius calls Gerin) instituted it before the year of our Lord 1092.

The Order of the Constantinian Angelick Knights of St. George, in Greece, but now in Italy. (13.)

We shall be somewhat large in the account of this Order, because we have met with little of it besides what is delivered by Ioseph Micheli Marquez a Spanish Wri∣ter, in his Tesoro Militar de Cavalleria (from whom And. Mendo hath collected all he saith of it) as also for that it appears he was Vice-Chancellor thereof, which makes us presume, he might be enabled to give a fuller and more particular account of it to the world than others; and to say truth, the History of it, set down by him, is large enough.

Nor do we call in question the authority of his attestations, from the time of Angelus Flavius Comnenus, and the Confirmation given this Order by Pope Leo the First, under the Rule of St. Basil, which perhaps should be understood, as they were Monks, rather than Knights.

But our Author not content with an original of that Age, which if granted to him, will make this Institution elder than either the Knights of the Sepulchre, Ho∣spitalars, or Templars, and consequently high enough, to be one of the first milita∣ry Orders in Christendom; must needs derive a formal Institution, Rules, and Laws from Constantine the Great, and vouch for it an Inscription (not mentioned

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by any other) in the Capitol at Rome. From which account of his, though it ap∣pears little better than a fabulous story, grounded, at best, upon some uncertain Tradition, and in several things smelling of novelty, we shall nevertheless ex∣tract what is most material to our purpose.

This ancient, and (as our Author calls it) the e 1.261 first Military Order in Christen∣dom, took beginning from the Emperor Constantine the Great, and from him was entituled, the Military Order of Constantine the Emperor.

It was called also f 1.262 Angelical, because the Cross with this Inscription, In hoc signo vinces, was shewed from Heaven to that Emperor by an Angel; and thence, they of the Family descended from him (among whom were the Great Masters of the Order) took the name de Angelis.

As to the description of this Cross and the form thereof, g 1.263 Eusebius may be con∣sulted, who in the Life of Constantine, not only affirms, that this Emperor him∣self vouched the truth of this Miracle to him with an Oath, but * 1.264 describes the Figure thereof, which the Emperor gave i 1.265 directions to be made of Gold and precious Stones, according to the Pattern he had seen in the Skie, and thence-forward caused the | 1.266 Figure of this Cross to be carried before his Army, instead of the golden Standard, formerly used, and to be engraven upon the Armour of the Legionary Soldiers.

He also reports, that upon k 1.267 Constantines triumphal entrance into Rome, after his Victory over Maxentius, he erected many Crosses with Inscriptions, to indear the Sign thereof, into all mens affections; and amongst the rest, commanded his own Statue to be placed in the chiefest part of the City, holding a Banner of the Cross with the following Inscription, engraven below it.

HOC SALVTARI SIGNO, VERO FOR TITVDINIS INDICIO, CIVITATEM VESTRAM TYRANNIDIS JVGO LIBERAVI. ET S.P.Q.R. IN LIBERTATEM VINDICANS, PRISTIN AE AMPLITVDINI, ET SPLENDORI RESTITVI.

This Order had also the Epithet l 1.268 Golden adjoin'd, because, that instead of the Collar of Gold, which the ancient Emperors his Predecessors used to give in re∣ward of Virtue, and military Service, this Emperor gave a Collar of Gold, com∣posed of these three Characters A x Ω, at which was fastned a Cross, like that which appeared to him, and thereunto the Image of St. George; to confirm which (saith our Author) there is to be seen (but we much doubt) in the Capitol at Rome, a Marble, whereon are armed Knights engraven, and an Inscription speaking thus,

Constantine the Great, Emperor, after he was cleansed of his Leprosie, by the means of sacred Baptism; thus created Golden Knights, with the Cross for defence of the Christian name.

He further informs us, that m 1.269 Constantine elected fifty illustrious Grandees of his Empire, to be Knights of this Order, to whom he gave the Standard of the Labarum and likewise a Collar of Gold, to which the Figure of the Labarum, and a Cross were dependant, together with several Constitutions and Laws; and that he instituted this Order, with the n 1.270 consent and approbation of Pope Sylvester.

As also, that it was confirmed by Pope o 1.271 Leo the First, whose Bull for assigning to the Knights thereof, the Rule of St. Basil, dated the 20. of Iuly anno Domini 456. (Prince Alexius Angelus being then Great Master) he transcribes at large.

That it received further confirmation and approbation, from the Popes p 1.272 Iulius the Third, Calixtus the Third, Pius the Second, Sixtus the Fourth, Innocent the Eighth, Paul the Third, Sixtus the Fifth, Clement the Eighth, Pius the Fifth, Gre∣gory the Fifteenth, and Vrban the Eighth. And whilst it flourished in Greece, was confirmed and augmented with large Priviledges by divers succeeding Grecian Emperors, namely Leo the First, Isaac Angelus anno Dom. 1191. whose q 1.273 Diploma this Author also gives us, dated the 13. of Sept. in the year aforesaid, and of his

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Empire the Seventh, by Michael Paleologus anno 1294. by r 1.274 Isaac Angelus anno 1295. and lastly, by Ferdinand the Second, Emperor of Germany, at Ratisbone, anno 1630. who recommended to his Catholique Majesty, the restauration of this Order, because those who had been Great Masters thereof, were allied to him, and of the Family of Angelus Flavius Comnenus; which recommendation was sent to that King, by the then Great Master Don Iohn Andrea Angelo Flavio Comneno.

The Great Masters of this Order, have their chief Seat and Convent now at s 1.275 Bri∣anno, a Town nigh to Venice, the Dignity yet continuing in the Line of Angelo Flavio Comneno; howbeit among the Priviledges granted by the Emperor Isaac Angelus, one is, t 1.276 That if the Family of Angelus Flavius Comnenus should be extinguished, the Collared Knights may elect from among themselves a Great Master.

Among the many Prerogatives granted to this Order, by the Imperial Privi∣ledges and Papal Bulls, we shall mention a few, by which may be understood, something of the grandeur thereof; to wit, that the Great Masters are u 1.277 Commensa∣les Pontificum, and have the priviledge of sitting at the Table with the Pope, by whom they are defended and supported, as Benefactors to the Church, and Foun∣ders of the Lateran Cathedral in Rome. They are persons of great note and au∣thority, in that they are subject to no Prince, and therefore have the power of coining Money. They give titles of Counts, Princes, and such others, and of Reverend to their own Fraternity. They have also the faculty of restoring to Honors, of legitimating Bastards, of giving Degrees with the Title of Doctors, creating Poet Laureats, and making publick Notaries.

This Order is under the protection of the w 1.278 Blessed Virgin, and patronage of St. George, the titulary Saint and Guardian of military men in general, and of these Knights in particular, who profess obedience, and conjugal Chastity.

The Formulary prescribed for entrance into the Order, the manner of receiving the Habit, taking the Oath, the benediction of the Mantle, Cross, and Sword, the admittance of the Knights, Priests, and Novices, are at large laid down by this x 1.279 Author.

The Habit of this Angelick Order is a 1.280 White, on the left side whereof is sewed a b 1.281 Red or Crimson Velvet Cross Flory, in the middle is the Labarum imbroider∣ed after the form of the Letter X, with the Letters A upon the one arm of the Cross, and Ω on the other: the sides are wrought with Gold and Silk, but the Labarum all with Gold.

Amongst these Knights there are three Degrees, the c 1.282 first are called Collared, or Grand Crosses; these wear a Collar, formed of Labarums, whereat depends the Figure of the Cross, and St. George: The second are the Knights, and these wear the Cross as is above described: The third are Servants, and they bear the Cross, only wanting the upper arm of it, and the Labarum.

The Priests wear the like Cross with the Knights.

The d 1.283 Grand Priorates and Promotions, or Commanderies, belonging to this Or∣der, shew how great it hath been, and how far its jurisdiction extended; since to them were joined very great Revenues and Rents which the Knights of this Or∣der held, and they were these (saith mine Author) though I suppose divers of them are miswritten. The grand e 1.284 Priorates of Mistra, and of Bosnia, of Cappado∣cia, Calcide, Napoles, Antiochia, Constantinople, Ierusalem, Natolia, Iulia Caesaria, and the Priories of Barlada, Scione, Anfiboli, Damascus, Mileto, Pergamo, Sinope, Ephesus, Argo, Odeseo, Egena, Nicepoli, Corinthus, Nicomedia, Apollonia, Erapoli, Engada, together with several Baliato's or Baliwicks.

The f 1.285 Bulls and Priviledges are to be seen in the Constitutions of the Order, published by the eloquent and learned Knight Majolini Bisachioni, grand Prior of Bosnia, Earl of Galicia, great Chancellor and Administrator of the Order; as also in Malvezzi, and other Authors, Knights of this Order.

To conclude, this Author gives a g 1.286 Catalogue of the Names of 34 Great Masters (whom he affirms were all true descendants of the Family of Angelus Flavius Com∣nenus) beginning with Constantine the Great, but between him and Alexius Ange∣lus Flavius (whom he reckons to be the third Great Master, and who was he that drew all the Knights into a Fraternity) is doubtless a very great Chasme: As to

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others, either the chain of succession is broken in several places, or the Order hath suffered some discontinuance.

Knights of the Order of St. James in Galicia. (14.)

There were several Orders of Knighthood, to which the Spanish piety gave a being, protection, and support, and amongst them that of St. Iames the Apostle, (commonly called Sanctiago) was the first and principal.

There are some a 1.287 Spanish Writers (reckoned up by Franciscus Mennenius) that say this Order took beginning in the time of Don Ramiro King of Leon, who be∣gan his Reign in the year of our Lord b 1.288 821. and at the Battel of Clavijo, or Clavi∣gio, anno c 1.289 826. (or as some say anno d 1.290 837.) against the Moors, did by the assi∣stance of St. Iames the Apostle (said to have then appeared upon a e 1.291 white Horse, bearing a Banner with a Red Cross upon it) gain a mighty Victory over an innumerable mul∣titude of them; whereupon in all Battels thenceforth his f 1.292 patronage was implor'd.

That this was the occasion of the Orders Foundation, is not believed or approved of by all, as may be collected from Iohannes Mariana, Franc. Alphon. Venerius, and others of that Country, some of them placing the Institution thereof about the year 1160, and some others up∣on a clear mistake, confounding the time of Institution, with that Confirmation, by Pope Alexander the Third, anno 1175. in which the first rule of living is pre∣scribed to the Knights of this Order.

But though there be no certainty, that this Order was instituted, in memory of the appearance of St. Iames, after the manner before related, and in the Reign of Don Ramiro; yet, that there was a Fraternity or Military Order in Spain under that Title, at least h 1.293 145 years before Pope Alexander gave his Confirmation, (though how much elder is hitherto not known) is a thing out of all dispute. For it evidently appears, from the original Priviledge granted to the i 1.294 Nuns of the Monastery of St. Esprit in Salamanca, dated the 15. of Nov. anno Dom. 1030. under the royal hand of Don Fernando the First, who began his Reign anno Dom. 1017. and is therein stiled King of Castile, Leon, Galicia, Portugal, and Lord of Biscay (for in his time were the Kingdoms of Castile and Leon first united) that there was then in being a Fraternity and Order of Knights or Comendadores, as also a Superior, bearing the Title of k 1.295 Master and Governor thereof, and that these Knights had then also Castles, Lands, Rents, and Possessions to support them; for of all these is there express mention made in that Grant.

Moreover in an ancient l 1.296 Original of a very old Letter, written long before they received any Rule or Form of Religion, and pen'd in corrupt and barba∣rous Latine, which contains certain Rules and Orders to be observed by them, as also mulcts and forfeitures, for neglects and offences therein set down; they are called m 1.297 Brothers of the Fraternity of St. Iames.

And albeit the Knights of this Order did at n 1.298 first dispose themselves to virtuous courses, and valiantly encountred the Moors, Enemies to the Cross of Christ, that being the chief end of their Foundation; yet in tract of time, they fell from the honor of their first Institution, and grew so strangely debauch'd, and gave so great occa∣sion of scandal, that the Order was thereby so much pervert∣ed, as it could scarce be accounted an Order.

But afterwards the Knights (being by the divine goodness reclaimed) grew desirous to be reduced to a better life, and to submit themselves to regularity and order, and upon o 1.299 Cardinal Iacintha's arrival in Spain, and their application to him, he (as much as in him lay) first confirmed their Order, in the year of our Lord p 1.300 1170, under the Rule of St. Augustine, and upon his return to Rome, q 1.301 Fer∣nando de Fuente Encalada, and others, Knights and Canons of this Order, attended

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him thither, whom he presented to Pope Alexander the Third, and from him obtained approbation and confirmation. He also received this Order under the protection of the Papal See, r 1.302 prescribed to these Knights, the Rule and manner of living, the form of holding Chapters, of electing their Master, of the Trezes, and thirteen Comendadores of Houses, nd of the Visitors; In brief, this Bull gives them very large Priviledges, is fitted with xceeding good Precepts and Laws, both for Government and Conservation of the Order, and bears date the 13. of Iuly anno Dom. 1175. which hapned in the beginning of the Reigns of Don Alonso the Ninth, King of Castile, of Don Fernando the Second, King of Leon, and Don Alonso the Second, King of Aragon. And hereupon (saith s 1.303 Francisc. de Rades y Andrada) do some of the Chronicles of Spain, call this an Institution (which was indeed but a Restauration) because the Knights of that time were the first that en∣tred into the Vow of Obedience, poverty of Spirit, and Conjugal Chastity; wherein consisted the substance of this Religious Order.

It being observed out of the Confirmation, that Pope t 1.304 Alexander the Third, had (among other things) granted to these Knights, the Monastery of Saint u 1.305 Loyo, situate in Galicia near Sanctiago, and that the Prior and Canons thereof, (being w 1.306 Ca∣nons Regulars of St. Augustine) were thereby incorporated to the Knights of this Order; it is thence concluded, that this Order was rather founded in the Kingdom of Galicia than Leon.

And though it appears by King Don Fernando's Priviledges to the Monastery of St. Esprit, that there was in ancient time, a Master of this Order, yet is no notice taken either of him, or any of his Successors, till after Pope Alexanders Confir∣mation, and then Don Pedro Fernandez de Fuente Encalada (Encalada being a place in the Diocess of x 1.307 Astorga) is reckoned the y 1.308 first, in the Catalogue of Masters.

At the beginning, the Knights of this Order were imployed z 1.309 to assist the Canons Re∣gular of Saint Loyo, who had built Hospitals (the first of which was that of St. Mark in the Suburbs of Leon) for the relief of Pilgrims who daily resorted from all parts to visit the shrine of St. Iames of Compostella; and to guard the high ways, frequented by the concourse of them, against the insolencies of the Moors, and Robbers of Spain.

The Ensign of this Order, is a a 1.310 Cross, (which the Knights wore upon their b 1.311 Breasts) finishing like the blade of a Sword, the Hilt crosleted, and fashioned af∣ter the ancient manner; whereupon it was called c 1.312 La Orden de Sanctiago de la Espada, as also d 1.313 Ordo militaris Sancti Iacobi Ensigeri, à qualitate insignium. And the reason why this Ensign is always painted Red, rather than any other colour; is thus given by e 1.314 Don Rodrigo Ximenes, Arch-Bishop of Toledo.

Rubet ensis sanguine Arabum.

But these Knights assumed not only the Sword in form of a Cross, but also the Symbol of St. Iames, which though it cannot be directly determined (saith f 1.315 Ra∣des y Andrada) what it is, yet it seems to be the Escallop shell: For that the g 1.316 Escal∣lop is generally among the Spaniards taken for the Badge of St. Iames, and worn by Pilgrims, in their Voyages to his Sepulchre at Compostella (the * 1.317 place where his body was found about the year of Christ 800.) the day of whose Translation is the h 1.318 30. of December. And in all the ancient Seals of the Order, as well of the Masters, as of the Convent, there is to be seen an i 1.319 Escallop shell, placed under the handle of the Sword, at the closing thereof to the Hilt.

But it seems the honor of the Escallop is such,* 1.320 that the use thereof is not permitted to all; for by a Bull of Pope Alex∣ander the Fourth, among other things, it is ordained, that k 1.321 none of this Order shall wear the Escallop shell for Ensign, but such Knights, Priests, and Nuns as are nobly descended.

In the year of our Lord 1560. King Philip the Second l 1.322 de∣clared, that the Knights of this Order might wear an Escallop shell (hanging in a Chain of Gold, not a Ribbon or Cordon) made of Gold or Silver, as big as a piece of Eight, but not of Chrystal, or any Stone of what kind soever; and wearing this, they were permitted the use of a Coat, without

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the Badge of the Order, nevertheless their upper Robe or Mantle, was not to be worn without it.

The Habit of these Knights is a m 1.323 White Mantle of Cloth or Serge, close before, on the breast whereof is set a Cross of Cloth or Sattin, in the form before de∣scribed. The Figure of which Habit, adorning a Knight of this Order, is to be seen in n 1.324 Iurisprudentia Heroica. This C••••••s made of o 1.325 Silk or Cloth, they are obliged to wear upon their Garments, Coats, or Cloaks, though they use Crosses of Gold likewise.

When the Moors were driven out of Spain, the principal end for which this Or∣der with those of Calatrava and Alcantara, were instituted, ceased; and there∣upon it came to be considered, how the Administration of these Orders might be placed in the Crown of Castile.

Upon the s 1.326 death therefore of Don Rodrigo Manrique (elected Master at Vcles in Castile, Competitor to Don Alonso de Cardenas, elected Master at Leon) Queen Isabella came to the Covent of Vcles (whither Don Alonso had drawn a considerable power, to force his Election there also) and commanded to assemble all the Knights of this Order, that then were thereabouts) upon whose appearance she told them, t 1.327 That in regard the Knights of this Order, had many Fortresses upon the Frontires, for which reason her Predecessors had in former times taken the Administration of this Order upon themselves, and given it to their Sons; upon great deliberation therefore was it thought fit, that the King Don Fernando her Husband should now be Administrator; and intimating, that a desire was sent to the Pope for a Grant thereof, she commanded them to surcease in their Election, to which all the Trezes submitted.

u 1.328 Afterwards, the King had the Mastership of this Order, under the Title of Administrator granted him by the Pope, nevertheless finding that Don Alonso de Cardenas had been very faithful to him, and greatly deserving, he waved the Papal Grant, and gave leave for a new Election; whereupon Don Alonso was elect∣ed a second time, in the year 1477.

But w 1.329 anno Dom. 1499. the Mastership of this Order becoming again vacant, by the death of this Don Alonso, King Ferdinando and Isabella obtained another Bull from Pope Alexander the Sixth, to hold the Administration thereof during their lives: After their death, Charles the Fifth succeeding, obtained a x 1.330 Grant from Pope Adrian the Sixth, whereby the perpetuity of the Mastership (together with those others of Calatrava and Alcantara) became annexed to the Crowns of Castile and Leon, and thereunto in most ample manner were transferred all Rights, &c. which the Masters of those Orders did formerly enjoy or exercise. Since which time the Kings of Spain have enjoyed the Administration of this Order, and car∣ried that title and stile in the Inscription upon the Great Seal thereof, which holds the y 1.331 Royal Arms of Spain, upon a Cross that filleth all the Shield, with a Sword at each of the four Corners.

Philip the Third, King of Spain, called a Chapter of this Order in Madrid, the 16. of April, anno 1600. which ended the 30. of November following. In which it was ordained, that the Book Intituled La Regla y Establecimientos de la Cavalle∣riae de Santiago del Espadae, &c. should be printed. This Book contains the Instituti∣ons, whereby the Knights of the Order are to be governed, together with all the Statutes, Laws, Rules, and Ceremonies, appertaining thereunto, and now in use; and at this Chapter, many of the former Laws were abolished, others amended, and some new added.

The Order of Knights of St. Saviour in Aragon. (15.)

About the year of our Lord a 1.332 1118. was this Order erected by Don Alphonso (called Emperor of Spain, King of Navarr, Aragon, Leon, Castile, and Toledo) who chose out of those Spanish and French Nobility, that assisted him in his Wars against the Moors, a certain number whereof he formed this Society; and to

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the end he might be the better enabled to drive the Moors out of Saragosa, and the whole Territory of Aragon, he engaged them by this Honor, to pursue the War against them to the utmost of their power.

b 1.333 Favin seems to place the Institution of this Order to the year 1120. but c 1.334 that was the year of King Alphonso's great Expedition against the Moors, whom he vanquished and destroyed, and for which Victory he had the Title of Conqueror given to him: besides, these Knights were Instituted upon design to engage with this King in that War; of whose assistance he had not so great need, as to give Institution to them, if he had before overcome the Moors.

Some may possibly take this Order to be rather Military than Religious: but if it be considered, that these Knights d 1.335 succeeded the Templars in Montreall, being by King Alphonso established in that place, and had a Rule of living somewhat conformable to the Knights Templars (save only the priviledge to marry) which Rule e 1.336 Io. Mariana (a Spanish Author of very great credit) saith expresly was the Cistertian, and for that f 1.337 Ios. Mich. Marquez (another Spanish Writer) informs 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that they profest conjugal Chastity and Obedience, and were obliged to sup∣port the holy Church and Christian Faith against the Moors, we need not scruple to place them in the ranks of Religious Knights.

Their Habit was a h 1.338 White Mantle, on the breast whereof they wore a Red Cross Ancree, but i 1.339 A. Mendo saith, it was the Figure of our Saviour.

At length the like Fate attended this Order, as did the Knights of St. Iames, Al∣cantara, and Calatrava; for the Moors being driven out of Spain, and the chief end for which they were instituted ceasing, their rich Commanderies were at length united to the Crown.

The Order of Knights d'Avis in Portugal. (16.)

a 1.340 Don Alphonso Henriquez first King of Portugal, took from the Moors (in the year of our Lord b 1.341 1147.) the City of Evora, and to strengthen this Garrison, he sent thither several gallant Commanders, who assumed the Title of c 1.342 Knights of St. Mary of Evora, as well from putting themselves under the protection of our blessed Lady, as from the place where they were first seated. Their first Great Ma∣ster was Don Fernando de Monteiro.

Not long after, they came to be called d 1.343 Knights d' Avis, from a Castle of that name, situate on the Frontires of Portugal, which being conquered from the Moors, by the said King Don Alphonso, he gave it to e 1.344 Fernando de Yannes, Master of Evora, in the year 1161. (but f 1.345 Fr. de Rades saith it was 1181.) to which Castle, he and his Brethren forthwith transplanted themselves from Evora.

This Order was confirmed by Pope g 1.346 Innocent the Third, anno 1204. in the Reign of Sancho the First, Son to King Don Alphonso, under the h 1.347 Rule of St. Be∣nedict, and therefore in some Papal Bulls, the Order is called of i 1.348 St. Benedict d' Avis, but k 1.349 others say, this Order had con∣firmation anno Dom. 1162. by a power which the Bishop of Hostia, Legat in Spain, for Pope Alexander the Third, gave to Io. Zerita Abbot of St. Io. Tarroca. The Knights profess l 1.350 Conjugal Chastity and Obedience.

In the year of Christ 1213. m 1.351 Don Rodrigo Garcez de Assa, then seventh Master of Calatrava, gave to the Great Ma∣ster and Brethren Knights d' Avis, their two Fortresses in Evora, and some other lands possessed by them in the King∣dom of Portugal, upon which Donation they submitted them∣selves to the Rule, Statutes, Visitation, and Correction of the Order of Calatrava, and their Successors; but in the time of n 1.352 Don Iohn of Portugal (natural Son of Pe∣dro the Eighth, King of Portugal) seventh Great Master d' Avis (after he had gained the Victory of Aljubarrato, against Don Iohn the First of Castile) he com∣manded this Order, to cast off their acknowledgments to that of Calatrava, which

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they thereupon did; and afterwards o 1.353 refused to receive Don Gonsalo Nunez de Guzman Master of Calatrava, who went to visit them. Hereupon the Order of Calatrava complained to the Council of Basil, who decreed that this Order d' Avis should continue subject to that of Calatrava, and receive their Visits and Refor∣mation, to which purpose a Bull issued, which yet remains preserved in the Archives of Calatrava, but the Portugueses never submitted to it, albeit those of Calatrava, to preserve their preheminence, have still nominated Visitors. Nay afterwards, p 1.354 when that Crown fell into the hands of Philip the Second King of Spain, this Order d' Avis did nevertheless remain governed according to the Statutes of Portugal, nor did the Council of the other three Orders of Castile, take upon them to proceed in any Cause where this Order was concern'd.

The Badge of this Order is a Green Cross Flory, q 1.355 such as the Knights of Alcan∣tara wear, and said to be given them by r 1.356 Don Pedro, but before they used the s 1.357 like Cross with those of the Order of Calatrava, two Birds being added at the foot thereof, in allusion to the later name given to this Order; as appears from the ancient Seal.

The Royal Council of Portugal make examination of the Extraction of such as are to be admitted into this Order, that is of the Fathers and Grand-fathers Gen∣tility, both of the Fathers and Mothers side. The manner of giving the Habit, and making profession, is agreeable to that of the Knights of Calatrava.

The Order of Knights of the Wing of St. Michael in Portugal. (17.)

m 1.358 Don Alphonso Henriquez King of Portugal, (in whose Reign the Order d' Avi was instituted) being very much opprest by Albara the Moor, King of Sevil, raised an Army to free his Country; and being ready to give Battel, he com∣manded all his Soldiers in a devout manner to address themselves to their particu∣lar Saints, for the obtaining of good success: himself imploring St. Michael the Archangel, to whom he was greatly devoted.

When the Battels were joined, n 1.359 St. Michael the Archangel, appeared on the Kings right side, and fought against the Moors; whence followed a very great and notable Victory over them.

Assoon therefore as the King was returned home, he o 1.360 Instituted this Order of Knighthood, in the year of our Lord 1171. (but p 1.361 Mendo placeth the Institution earlier, to wit, in the year 1165. and q 1.362 Miraeus the year after) which he called the r 1.363 Order of St. Michaels Wing: These Knights had for the Badge of their Order a s 1.364 Red Sword crost with Flowers de lis, and this Motto, Quis ut Deus? but more agreeable to the Name of the Order is that Badge assigned by Mendo, to wit, t 1.365 a Purple Wing, irradiated with beams of Gold.

They were of the u 1.366 Cistertian Order, and followed the Rule of St. Benedict. The manner of their w 1.367 Investiture was the same as is used in the Order d' Avis. Their Obligation was chiefly to x 1.368 defend the Christian Religion, to secure the Borders of the Country against the inrodes of the Moors, and to relieve the Widows and the Fatherless.

This Order is now grown out of use, but the Mastership thereof hath since re∣mained with the Kings of Portugal.

Knights of St. Gereon. (18.)

This Order was instituted by y 1.369 Frederick Barbarossa the Emperor (others say by Frederick the Second) and consisted only of Gentlemen of the German Nation, who followed the Rule of St. Augustine, and wore a White Habit, whereon was sewed a z 1.370 Black Patriarchal Cross set on a little green Hill.

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The Order of St. Julian de Pereyro, or of Alcantara. (19.)

This Order of Knighthood hath assumed two appellations, upon what occasion we shall here shew.

The first and ancient Title was of a 1.371 St. Iulian de Pereyro, because at a Town so called in the Kingdom of Leon, in the b 1.372 Diocess of Cividad Rodrigo, upon a small branch of the River Coa, a Monastery was built for these Knights by the favour of Don Fernando the Second, King of Leon and Galicia, who in his Diploma of Priviledges granted thereunto, dated in December the Aera of Caesar 1214. (which agrees with the year of our Lord 1176.) stiled himself Protector of this Frater∣nity and Society of Knights.

An approbation thereof was obtained from Pope c 1.373 Alexander the Third, the following year being the 18. of his Popedom, at the supplication of Don Gomez Fernandez, therein called Prior; but Pope Lucius the Third (confirming this Order anno Dom. 1183.) stiled him Master of Pereyro.

This Bull of Pope Alexander the Third makes not any mention of the Habit, these Knights of St. Iulian should wear, nor is it known what it was, more than that they used a d 1.374 secular Habit, modest and grave, and the Ecclesiasticks a cleri∣cal Habit: Only to make a difference of these Knights from other Seculars, and the Clergy from other Ecclesiasticks, they wore a * 1.375 shred of Cloth, and a Sca∣pulary.

Nor doth the said Bull take notice of the Rule they were obliged to observe, but by several other Bulls it appears, that from the beginning of this Orders Foundation, it was of the e 1.376 Cistertian Order, and the Knights thereof observed the Rule of St. Benedict, moderated and limited as it was convenient for the exer∣cise of Arms against the Moors, for which end it was instituted.

The ancient Badge of this Order was a f 1.377 Pear-tree vert, assumed in allusion to the Name of the Order.

The occasion of altering the first appellation, was upon changing their place of habitation: For when g 1.378 Don Alphonso the Ninth, King of Leon, had taken from the Moors, Alcantara, a Town in Castile, anno Dom. 1213. he afterwards gave it to Don Martin Fernandez de Quintana, the twelfth Great Master of the Order of Calatrava, which Town * 1.379 anno 1218. (with the consent of the said King) was given to Don Nunno Fernandez, the third Master of St. Iulian de Pereyro, and his Fellows, as well Knights as Ecclesiasticks; and to the end there might follow an union of these Societies, (in like manner as was between Calatrava and the Order d' Avis in Portugal, some few years before) they consented to become subject to the Order of Calatrava, under the agreement and conditions following.

h 1.380 First, that the Master and Convent of Pereyro should receive with all obedi∣ence the Visitation which the Master of Calatrava should make according to the Cistertian Order.

That they should not be obliged to receive a Monk for their Prior, against their consent and will, but rather when they were to chuse one, it should be of their own House, or of that of Calatrava, or of any other Houses, Daughters to Calatrava, provided he were not a Monk.

That the Master and Convent of Calatrava should give to the Master of Pe∣reyro the Town of Alcantara, and all its Possessions, with all their Charters and Priviledges, and all the moveable Goods which they held in the Kingdom of Leon, as well by royal gift, as any other way.

That when it should happen, that the Master of Calatrava should dye, or be removed, the Master of Pereyro should be called to the Election of the future Master.

Lastly, that the Master of Calatrava should not have power to give away any thing belonging to Pereyro, without consent of the Master and Convent

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thereof; and in case he did, then the King of Leon should have power to va∣cate such Donation.

These Conditions and Capitulations were made, en Cividad de Rodrigo, the 16. of Iuly anno Dom. 1218. and confirmed by King Don Alphonso, and the Ma∣sters of both Orders.

Hereupon the Convent of St. Iulian, transferred their Seat from Pereyro to Al∣cantara, and Don Diego Sanchio the fourth Master of Pereyro, assumed the Title of Master of Pereyro and Alcantara, i 1.381 which Title his Successors held until the Church of St. Iulian de Pereyro was made an Encomienda; and thenceforward, the Ma∣sters used only the Title of Alcantara, and the Fraternity in like manner relin∣quishing their ancient Name, were afterwards called k 1.382 Knights of Alcantara, from this their new place of abode. And whereas the Masters of Pereyro did formerly bear for the Ensign of the Order a Pear-tree only, they after this Union l 1.383 added two Travas to the Pear-tree.

But albeit this Order of Alcantara, was by this agreement, put under the subje∣ction of that of Calatrava, and accordingly visited and corrected by them; yet nevertheless, they have since pretended to be m 1.384 freed therefrom, for that the Ma∣sters of Calatrava broke the agreement made between them, by not admitting the Master of Pereyro to the Election of their Master, as was contained in their Ar∣ticles.

Whereupon this Order of Alcantara obtained a Bull from Pope n 1.385 Iulius the Se∣cond, by which they pretend to be freed from that ancient subjection: Though this Bull was given without knowledge of any cause, or making any necessary mention of the subjection. And therefore o 1.386 notwithstanding this Bull, the Order of Calatrava doth still in all general Chapters, nominate Visitors of their own Order to visit that of Alcantara, as well as that of Montesia, according to their ancient Capitulations; but they of Alcantara make always their protestation against it, and so this matter rests still undecided.

After this pretension of being exempted from obedience to the Order of Calatra∣va, p 1.387 Benedict the Thirteenth (one of the Anti-Popes) changed their Badge into a Cross Flory vert, in the year of our Lord 1411. and this they wore upon the left shoulder of their Scapulary, for the Badge of their Order.

The Examination of the Candidates, and in what manner they receive the Habit; is related at full by q 1.388 Ioseph Micheli Marquez.

The Catholick Kings Don Fernando and Donna Isabella, having about three years before obtained the Administration of the Order of Calatrava for their lives, had an eye also upon this of Alcantara; and therefore r 1.389 endeavoured, that at the first time the Mastership thereof should fall vacant, to gain it likewise, with the like Title of Administrator; to avoid several inconveniences that had hap∣ned to the Crown of Castile, when the Master of Alcantara did confederate with the King of Portugal.

Hereupon s 1.390 in the year of our Lord 1492. they made their address to Pope Inno∣cent the Eighth, that he would reserve to himself the provision of the supreme Dignity of this Order, whensoever it became vacant, either by the death or re∣nunciation of the then Master, Don Iohn de Cuniga; or after any other manner.

Upon this address the Pope did t 1.391 accordingly reserve the disposing thereof as was desired, and then gave it in Administration to the said Kings; that they two should govern this Order under that Title, until such time as his Holiness should provide a Master.

A little after Pope Innocent dyed, and Alexander the Sixth succeeded, who at the like supplication of these Kings, u 1.392 confirmed and of new granted, what his Predecessor had granted them before. Upon which (anno 1494.) they treated with Don Iohn de Cuniga, for the renunciation of his Mastership, yet with condi∣tion to reserve to himself all the Rents of the Masters Table, that he held in that part of Serena, to which he consented. Whereupon he resigned and surrendred his Dignity of Master of this Order into the hands of the Pope, which the Bishop of Valencia received by Commission back from him, and gave the Possession thereof in administration to the said Catholick Kings. After

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w 1.393 this manner it was that these Kings succeeded in the Administration of the Ma∣stership of Alcantara, in the year of our Lord 1494. which they held during their lives.

But it was not long e're Pope Adrian the Sixth, annexed this Mastership, to∣gether with those other of St. Iames and Calatrava, to the Royal Crown of Castile, for ever, as hath been before observed.

Knights of Trugillo or Truxillo in Spain. (20.)

n 1.394 Ioseph Micheli Marquez professeth, that it had been his great endeavour, to sa∣tisfie himself about the Foundation of this Order; notwithstanding which, nei∣ther by information from the Natives of the City of Trugillo (a Town situate in Estremadura in Spain) nor otherwise from History, could he understand when, or by whom it was erected.

Evident it is, these Knights were in being in the year of our Lord 1227. though it be unknown how long before they had their beginning: But because it is found in some slight memorials of the Order of Alcantara, That o 1.395 Don Arias Perez Gal∣lego, elected Master of that Order, in the year before mentioned, took Trugillo from the Moors, and there placed a Fraternity or Brotherhood of Knights and Priests, who lived after the manner of a Convent; therefore it is presumed, that they were no other than of the Order of Alcantara.

Now it is certain, that there was a Convent and Order of the Fraternity of Trugillo; but it is not so certain, that these were of Alcantara. It rather seems to be the opinion of q 1.396 Fr. Rades y Andrada that these had been some other, and a distinct Order of Knighthood by it self; which he collects from a Donation of Lands, that King Don Alonso the Ninth gave them some years after (viz. in the Aera of Caesar 1233.) of the Towns of Trugillo, Sancta Cruz, Zuferola, Canaba, and Albala: in which it appears, that several years before the time of Don Arias there were r 1.397 Bro∣thers or Knights of Trugillo.

It is not unlikely therefore, that this Order might be incorporated into that of St. Iulian de Pereyro, and by this means the Order of Alcantara pretend these Towns to be theirs, which in the Reign of King Don Alonso the Ninth, of Castile, and King Don Fernando of Leon, were taken by force of Arms from the Moors, and given to the Fraternity of Knights who kept their Convent in Trugillo.

t 1.398 Hieronymus Romanus saith, that these Knights were of noble descent, and that no man was admitted into this Order, unless he first made proof of his Genti∣lity. But there is not any Writer that gives an account what was the Ensign or Badge of their Order. It is guessed by u 1.399 Marquez, that their Institution obliged them to be neer the person of the King, and upon every martial Expedition, that he undertook, to attend him armed and well provided; maintaining always two Horses and Servants to be in readiness such for services.

The Order of Knights of Calatrava in Castile. (21.)

This ancient Order of Knighthood, was instituted in Castile, and took a 1.400 beginning under the Reign of Don Sanchio the Third, and b 1.401 appellation from the Castle Calatrava, being a Frontire both of Castile and Toledo; which Castle the c 1.402 Moors took upon their Victory over Don Rodrigo King of Spain, anno Dom. 714.

The word is compounded of Cala, signifying in Arabick d 1.403 a Castle, and of the Spanish word Travas, which signifies Manacles, Gives, or Irons, to fasten about the feet and wrists of Captives;* 1.404 for with such as these the Moors lockt up and fettered the Christians, whom they held Prisoners in that Castle.

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After its recovery from the Moors (who had held it above 400 years) it was gi∣ven by e 1.405 Don Alphonso, surnamed the Emperor of Spain, to the Knights Templars (of whose virtue that Age had a great opinion) to be made a Bulwark against the Inrodes of the Moors, being the very f 1.406 Key into the Kingdom of Toledo; but they no way able to hold it, withdrew their Garrison; and what with the Knights Tem∣plars deserting it, and the approach of the Moors, all others were disheartned from accepting the place, although the foresaid King g 1.407 Sanchio (Son of Don Alphonso the Emperor) had caused it to be proclaimed at his Court, that whosoe∣ver would take upon them the defence thereof, to them he would freely give it, and to their Heirs for ever.

At length one Don Raymond (native h 1.408 of Barcelona) formerly a Knight of great renown, then Abbot of the Monastery of St. Mary de Fitero (of the Cistertian Order) in the Kingdom of Navarr (by the advice of Diego Velasquez, of the same Order, being then at Court) accepted of the Kings proffer, and took upon him the fortifying and maintaining this Castle; and hereupon the i 1.409 King made his Charter of Donation, dated at Almason in Ianuary, in the Aera of Caesar 1196. (to wit of Christ 1158.) whereby he gave to God, to the blessed Virgin Mary, to the Congregation of Cistertians, and to Don Raymond, and all his Brethren, as well present as future, the Village called Calatrava, with all its Bounds and Territories, (particularly described in the Grant) to possess and enjoy by right of inheritance for ever.

This Don Raymond (after he had received possession according to the tenor of the Charter) together with his Associates, and other k 1.410 assistance from Castile and Toledo, fell to fortifying of the Castle; and hence arose the Order of Knights of Calatrava, l 1.411 instituted by King Don Sanchio in the year of our Lord 1158. in the Town of Calatrava, and therefore called at first m 1.412 Militia de Calatrava: the foresaid Don Raymond and Don Velasquez, being the first movers of this excellent work; of whom the former is in another place called also a n 1.413 joint Founder with King Sanchio.

After this o 1.414 Don Raymond considering the richness and fertility of the Soil, re∣turned to his Monastery, and from its neighbouring Countries drew 20000 men, with their Families and Goods, to plant in and about Calatrava; which so greatly strengthened the Country, that the Moors durst never after attempt besieging of the Castle.

This Order was approved by Pope p 1.415 Alexander the Third, the 25. of Septem∣ber, anno Dom. 1164. under the Discipline of the Cistertian Order. It was con∣firmed afterwards by Pope r 1.416 Innocent the Third, in the year 1199. and at length grew on, till it gained exceeding great reputation in Spain.

At the first Institution, the Knights wore their Robes and Scapulars, of a s 1.417 White Colour (t 1.418 Sansovin, and u 1.419 Genebrand saith Black) as did the Cistertian Monks; and on the breast thereof a plain Red Cross, but Pope Benedict the Thirteenth, anno 1396. dispensed with that Monastick Habit, and assigned them a w 1.420 Cross Flory: So anciently they were prohibited Marriage, yet Paul the Third permitted them x 1.421 one Wife, but not a second.

a 1.422 After the death of the last Master Don Lopez de Padilla, anno 1487. Don Diego Garcia de Castillo (being the Commendador Major) caused a general Chapter to be summoned in the Convent of Calatrava, for the Election of another Master; in which there fell out great contest among the Electors, and the chief that stood, was the said Commendador Major, and Don Alonso Pacheco, Commendador de Villa Franca.

Upon notice of this, the Catholick Kings, Don Ferdinando and Donna Isabella, sent to the Convent a Knight of their Court, with a Bull from Pope Innocent the Eighth, wherein he declared that he had reserved to himself the providing of a Master; and therewith b 1.423 required them not to proceed in the Election, until his further Commands were made known: in obedience to which the Election ceased.

Afterwards (c 1.424 anno Dom. 1489.) the d 1.425 Pope gave the Mastership of this Order in Administration to King Don Ferdinando during life; but he did not give it

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with the Title of Master, e 1.426 because the King had never received the Habit of this Order, neither was he capable of it, being a married man; but f 1.427 chiefly be∣cause the King then endeavoured to obtain the other two Masterships of St. Iames and Alcantara, and he could not hold them all three with the Title of Master.

g 1.428 King Don Ferdinando and Isabella his Wife governed this Order with the Title of Administrators very worthily, and reformed the stare thereof; visiting it by the Abbot of Claravalle of the Cistertian Order, then called Don Pedro, who came on that imployment with a Commission from Pope Innocent (at the desire of the said Kings) and of the general Chapter, in the year of our Lord 1491.

Upon the death of King Don Ferdinando (anno 1516.) the h 1.429 Chapter of this Order met at Guadalupe, with intention to elect a new Master, of which Cardinal Adrian having notice (who then governed the Kingdoms) first sent, then went to the Electors, to desire they would not proceed, because the Pope had given the Administration of the Order to Prince Charles (afterwards Emperor by the name of Charles the Fifth) but they seemed unwilling to depart, before they had made an Election, and thereupon i 1.430 elected that Prince, Master, or Administrator of their Order, which was afterwards confirmed by Pope Leo the Tenth.

But it seemed much for the interest of the Crowns of Castile and Leon to have the Mastership or Administration of this Order, and those other of St. Iames, and Alcantara for life, made perpetual, and annexed to them for ever; hereupon, great suit was made to the Pope by the Emperor for obtaining thereof: and among the inducements some of them were these.

k 1.431 That great alteration often hapned in those Kingdoms upon the Election of these Masters, to the damage of persons of all sorts relating to those Orders.

That in regard the Masters were so powerful in those Kingdoms, they several times, gave aid and assistance to particular Factions that arose; so that Civil War often followed.

That the Peace and Quiet since the Administration was in the hands of the King, much exceeded that which was in the times of the Masters. These and other things being considered of, Pope l 1.432 Adrian the Sixth granted the Emperors desire, and annexed the Mastership of these three Orders perpetually to the Crowns of Castile and Leon.

The form of admittance into this Order, and manner of their profession, is set down at large by m 1.433 Marquez.

The Order of the Holy Ghost in Saxia, at Rome. (22.)

They are called by a 1.434 Marquez, the Brothers of the Hospital of the Holy Ghost; who though not invested with Sword and Spurs, as other Knights be, are ne∣vertheless reckoned among the Military Orders, because bound to bring Certifi∣cate of their Gentility, before they can be accepted or admitted.

Their chief Seat is the sumptuous Hospital of the Holy Ghost, founded neer the Church of St. Mary in Saxia by the River Tyber in Rome (a place so called from the b 1.435 Saxons, a People of Germany, who anciently inhabited there) by Pope c 1.436 In∣nocent the Third, in the year of our Lord 1198. or d 1.437 1201. But it appears by e 1.438 ano∣ther of this Popes Bulls, dated anno 1204. for uniting of the Hospital of the Holy Ghost at Montpelier in France, unto this at Rome, that the ancient Foundation was at Montpelier, though in process of time this other became the principal.

They of this Fraternity profess f 1.439 Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience, as also the service of the Poor; living under the Rule of St. Augustine, and have a Praeceptor or Master.

The Ensign of this Order, is a g 1.440 White Patriarchal Cross, with twelve points, sewed to their Breast, and on the left side of their Black Mantle.

The manner of giving the Habit, and making their Profession, is recorded by h 1.441 Ios. Mich. Marquez.

In this Hospital care is taken for the i 1.442 nursing and bringing up exposed Children,

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the curing of all manner of Infirmities, entertainment of Strangers for three days with meat and lodging, relieving the Poor, and other works of the like kind.

The k 1.443 Revenue belonging thereto, is about 24000 Duckets every day; it having great Commanderies in Italy, Sicily, Spain, France, Burgundy, Germany, and elsewhere.

The Order of St. George d' Alfama. (23.)

We are informed from * 1.444 Sylvester Maurolico, that there was an Order of Knights called the Order of St. George d' Alfama, instituted in the year of our Lord 1201. in a Town of that name situate in the Diocess of Tortosa, which afterwards in the year 1363. received approbation from the Papal See, but we find no other men∣tion thereof, save that it was united to the Order of our Lady of Montesa, anno Dom. 1399.

The Order of Knights of Christ in Livonia, or of the l 1.445 Sword-Bearers. (24.)

In the year of our Lord m 1.446 1186. one Meinardus a holy and devout man, began to preach the Gospel in Livonia, and erected the Bishoprick of Riga. But this good man and his Successors met with great difficulties and opposition, in the propaga∣tion of Christianity, until the year 1200. about which time many of that Coun∣try embraced the Christian Faith; and one n 1.447 Albert, being then Bishop of Li∣vonia, instituted this Order, in imitation of the Knights Teutonicks, with design to extirpate Idolatry, and propagate the Christian Religion in those Territories, as the other had undertaken to do in Prussia.

He prescribed to the Knights the Cistertian Rule and Habit, namely, a long White Mantle and Black Hood, on the breast was sewed the Figure of a o 1.448 Red Sword, or rather p 1.449 two Red Swords, crossing one another in form of a Saltire, whence they had the Title q 1.450 Ensiferi, vel r 1.451 Gladiferi Fratres, or Brethren Sword-Bearers.

This Order had their s 1.452 Statutes something like those of the Knights Templars, and the Knights thereof took on them the t 1.453 Vow both of Obedience and Chastity.

Pope u 1.454 Innocent the Third gave approbation and confirmation to this Order, which became fully Instituted in the year of our Lord 1203.

And w 1.455 because they could not of themselves accomplish the end for which they were instituted, they in the year x 1.456 1237. or 1239. united to the Teutonick Order, and submitted to their Rule and Habit, by whose help and assistance, they af∣terwards overcame the Idolatrous Livonians, and brought them to submit to the Christian Faith: thenceforward the y 1.457 Great Master of Livonia acknowledged him of Prussia for his Superior; and so continued until z 1.458 Walter de Pletemberg their Great Master, contemporary with Albert of Brandenburg, Great Master of Prussia, separated this Order from its obedience to the Teutonick.

Finally, in the year 1561. Gothard de Ketler, the last Great Master of this Order, following the example of Albert Great Master of Prussia, became a Subject to the Crown of Poland; for on the * 1.459 5. of March in the year aforesaid, he (in the Ca∣stle of Riga) surrendred to the use of King Sigismund the Second (surnamed Au∣gustus) all the Lands belonging to this Order, together with his Cross, the Seal of the Order, the Charters and Grants of several Popes and Emperors, which concern'd the same; the Keys of the City and Castle of Riga, the Office of Great Master, the rights of Coynage, and all the Powers and Priviledges appertaining to it; receiving back again from Radzevill the Kings Commissioner, the Duke∣dom of Curland to him and his Heirs for ever.

In this manner this Order became extinguisht, after it had flourished 357 years.

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The Knights of Jesus Christ, in Italy and France, or Brothers of the Militia of St. Dominick. (25.)

St. Dominick (descended of the a 1.460 Family of the Guzmans in Spain) was b 1.461 Foun∣der of this Order, which he instituted in the year * 1.462 1206. principally to fight against the Albigenses then called Hereticks, and the Knights thereof were stiled Fratres de Militia B. Dominici.

He prescribed to them a c 1.463 White Habit, and for the Badge of their Order a Cross Flory quarterly Sable and Argent, to be worn upon their Breasts.

Pope e 1.464 Innocent the Third approved of this Order * 1.465 anno Dom. 1215. under the Rule of the said St. Dominick, and gave priviledge, that the Knights from among themselves should elect a Master. They professed Obedience and conjugal Chastity.

The work being done for which these Knights were in∣stituted, they laid aside their Arms, and devoted themselves wholly to the f 1.466 spiritual warfare.

Afterwards there were Widows and Virgins joined to this Order, and thereupon they became called Fratres seu Sorores de Paenitentia B. Dominici; whose Rule was approved by Pope g 1.467 Innocent the Sixth, about the year of our Lord 1360.

The Order of Knights of St. Mary de Merced in Aragon. (26.)

a 1.468 Iames the First of Aragon surnamed the Invincible (who conquered from the Moors the Kingdom of Murcia, Valentia, and the Baliares) was sometime Priso∣ner to Simon Earl of Montfort in France, where he suffered much hardship and many troubles; and being throughly moved with the insufferable miseries the Christians indured, under the slavery of the Moors; made a Vow to the blessed Virgin, that when he should be delivered from his Captivity, he would endeavour the redemption of such Christians as the Moors had made Captives. Thus far his Vow: but it extended not to the b 1.469 erecting of an Order, which should oblige the Companions thereof, to engage in that affair, as some would have it.

This King being freed from his Imprisonment, laid up great sums of money to be imployed in performance of his Vow; and afterwards by the advice and counsel of Raymond de Penafort his Confessor (a Dominican Friar) and of Pedro Nolasco, a noble Cavalier, (c 1.470 descended from the ancient Family of Nolasco in France, resident at a Town called les Saintas Pucelles, in the Diocess of St. Paul, under the Arch-Bishop of Arles) he d 1.471 founded an Order of Knights, in the City of Barcelona, called La Nueva Merced, so named (saith our Author) by the blessed Virgin, who in a Vision e 1.472 appeared to this King, and to Raymond and Nolasco one night, in one and the same hour, directing the whole Institution, and giving it that Name, because of the mercy and liberty which the Christian Captives should receive by this means.

But it appears by the Bulls of Popes f 1.473 Gregory the Ninth, and g 1.474 Alexander the Fourth, as also by a Charter made by Don Pedro King of Aragon, dated the eleventh of Ianuary, anno 1358. to have been likewise called Ordo beatae Eulaliae from h 1.475 St. Eulalia the Virgin and Martyr, buried at Barcelona, in the Church there dedicated to her name.

There are various opinions concerning the year wherein this Order was foun∣ded; but it is with certainty determined to have been anno Dom. i 1.476 1218. on the Feast-day of St. Laurence the Martyr in August (on which day annually the commemoration of the Foundation of this Order is commanded to be celebrated

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by thek 1.477 Bull of Pope Clement the Eighth) in the fifth year of the Reign of this King Iames; as is manifest from several authentick testimonies, collected and alledged by Alphonsus Remon, in his l 1.478 History of this Order.

The end of its Institution, and the Profession and Obligation of the Knights, was in effect the same with that vowed by King Iames in his Captivity, to wit, to gather Alms, and to go in person to redeem Christian Slaves, who either by Piracy, the chance of War, or other sad accident, had fallen into the hands of the Moors. This work prospered so well, that m 1.479 Pedro Nolasco (being first sent into the Kingdom of Valentia, to make redemption of Captives) redeemed four hun∣dred within the space of six years after the Foundation of the Order.

This Pedro Nolasco was by the Founder constituted the first General or Head of the Order; but as concerning the person that gave the Habit to him, there are these three opinions.

First, That it was by the hands of King Iames the Founder. Secondly, That Rerengario Pallovasino, Bishop of Barcelona gave it. Thirdly, That he received it from Raymond de Penafort; all which ourn 1.480 Author sets down, but there deter∣mines nothing; only seems inclinable to the first opinion, as most rational, be∣cause the King was Founder, and was so called by the blessed Virgin in the Vision, and for that the Order it self was at first composed meerly ofo 1.481 Laymen, and whol∣ly military, and so declared by the Popesp 1.482 Boniface the Eighth, and Clement the Fifth: Besides their Laws are in favour of those that are of this opinion, and ex∣clude out of this Act, judicially Kingly, all Ecclesiastical ones, and by the same reason the Bishop: for saith the Canon of their Law, q 1.483 A Priest ought not to make Knights. But afterwards r 1.484 in another place, he absolutely concludes, that the King himself gave the Habit to Nolasco, from the evidence he exhibits out of a Letter which King Don Pedro the Fourth sent to Pope Innocent the Sixth.

Such a like Habit as was given to Nolasco, was also prescribed to the first Knights, viz. a Coat and Scapular of a s 1.485 common sort of coarse White Cloth. Their Coat was garnished with Cordons and Ribbons, wherewith they fastned it about their necks, and from the upper end thereof issued a Cap that covered half their head. The Monks wore theirt 1.486 Coats and Scapulars reaching down to their feet (but those of the Knights were much u 1.487 shorter) and the form of their Coat (or rather Mantle) and Cap, was the same as they now wear.

When the Government of the Order became both spiritual and temporal, as well the w 1.488 Knights as Monks, were commanded by order of Chapter to keep the manner and form of their Habit apart, according to the intention of the first appointment.

In the time, and upon request of Gulielmo de Bas, the second General of this Order, x 1.489 King Iames the Founder, by his Diploma, dated at Saragosa the 15. of Iuly anno 1251. granted unto him, and all the Fraternity of the Order, That they should wear upon their Scapulars any 1.490 Escotcheon of z 1.491 Aragon, viz. Or, four Pales Gules, and above that, the b 1.492 White Cross of the Church of Barcelona, in a Red Field; which two Coats being joined together, per Fess, in one shield, were so born for sometime, but afterwards came to be encompassed with a Border. The c 1.493 Knights wore their Escotcheon of Arms, sixt on their Scapulars, but the Monks on their Mantles, and both before upon their Breasts.

The Founder by his d 1.494 Diploma dated at Valentia the 14. of March, anno Dom. 1254. granted particular Priviledges to the Order, which he e 1.495 confirmed by ano∣ther royal Instrument, dated at Lirida the third of March, anno 1275.

Besides these Royal Grants, this Order received approbation from the Papal See, namely, from Pope f 1.496 Gregory the Ninth, in the eighth year of his Papacy (on the day of St. Anthony the Abbot) who prescribed to the Master and Fraternity the Rule of St. Augustine. It was afterwards confirmed by g 1.497 Alexander the Fourth, as appears by a Bull of his, wherein he granted them several Indulgences, and dated at Naples the 10. of April in the first year of his Papacy. These Knights professed h 1.498 con∣jugal Chastity, and Obedience to their Superiors.

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In time this Order also, which was at first solely under the Government of Knights, came to be as well Spiritual as Temporal, and at length fell into the power of the Monks and Priests.

For, the Knights and Priests falling at variance about the election of a General of their Order, (upon the death ofk 1.499 Arnoldo Rosiniol, their seventh General, who died anno 1317.) the Knights having chosen Berengario Hostales, and the Priests Raimundo Alberto, they appealed to the Pope (Iohn the 22. then holding the Chair) who it seems the 17. of November, in the year aforesaid, declared,l 1.500 That (the Order seeming inclinable to be governed after the manner of Monks) he thought it convenient for them to have a Master General, which should be a Priest, and that for the future no Lay-man should be elected General; and so determined the controversie on the behalf of the Priests.

This Judgment gave the Knights so great discontent, that m 1.501 one of them, being Kinsman to the Governor of the new erected Order of Montesa, offered to bring over to that Society, all the Knights of Merced, being then threescore in number, which being accepted of, he did so, and from henceforth they became incorpo∣rated with the Knights of Montesa: So that ever since, the whole Fraternity have been only Priests, and no Lay or Military person among them, and therefore n 1.502 Andr. Mendo reckons this Order among those that are extinct. The Master Ge∣neral is also a Priest, and hath his residence at Barcelona, by the Decrees of Popes Clement the Fifth, and Iohn the 22.

p 1.503 Raymond de Penasort, the Founder's Confessor (called also Raymond of Barce∣lona, because it was the place of his Birth) who had a powerful hand in the Insti∣tution of this Order, and q 1.504 devised the Statutes, lived neer to the age of an hun∣dred years; he was r 1.505 canonized for a Saint, and the s 1.506 7. of Ianuary appointed for his Anniversary, by the t 1.507 Bull of Pope Clement the Eighth.

On the 12. of Iuly, anno 1664. the approbation of the Colledge passed, for making the 29. of Ianuary, the Anniversary of Petro Nolasco Confessor, the other great assister, and first General of the Order. The Office appointed for that day, may be seen in the Missale Romamum, printed lately at Paris, in the large Volume.

This way of Canonizing holy men by the Popes, is said to have been first used by u 1.508 Leo the Third, anno Dom. 803. who then solemnly Canonized Suibert Bishop of Werden.

To conclude, the charitable and pious work, for which this Order was erected, hath been carried on from the time of its Institution, and managed by the Frater∣nity thereof, with all religious care and faithfulness; very great sums of Money being yearly collected and put into their hands, for that use and purpose, in man∣ner following. They send their Agents yearly abroad, chiefly to Algiers and Fess, to return them an account of the age, quality, and number of those who are in Captivity; and upon consideration had thereof, order them to contract for their redemption: the general course being to ransom the religious persons first, next the Laiety; and among them the young, and such as appear most likely to do service before others.

Few dye in Spain, who bequeath not some Legacy to this Order, which great∣ly encreafeth its Revenue: and here, though she was no Benefactress to this Order, nor left her Legacy to be disposed of by that Fraternity, most deservedly may be recorded, of our Nation, the illustrious Lady Alice Dutchess Dudley, created into that Dignity by his late Majesty, of ever blessed memory, King Charles the First, by w 1.509 Letters Patents under the Great Seal of England, bearing date at Oxford the 23. of May, in the twentieth year of his Reign; who dyed the 22. day of Ianuary in the year of our Lord 1668/9. being the 90. year of her age, and bequeathed by her last Will and Testament, one hundred pounds per annum for ever, to be im∣ployed for redemption of Captives of the English Nation.

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Knights of the Rosary in Toledo. (27.)

a 1.510 Roderick Arch-Bishop of Toledo in Spain, seeing the Country sore oppressed by the Moors, called the Nobless of the City together, and propounded the great necessity of their appearance and assistance in its defence, and extirpation of the Moors; whereto they being unanimously inclined, he gave beginning to this Or∣der of the Rosary, into which entred many of the Nobless.

This Order had Statutes, which chiefly obliged them to the defence of the Ca∣tholick Religion, to fight against the Moors, and to say continually a Rosary of our blessed Lady: Our Author finds not that it had been approved by any of the Popes, but conceives the Arch-Bishop, being Metropolitan of Spain, was of suffi∣cient power to give it approbation; besides, he framed the Statutes for the Knights, and prescribed to them the Rule of living, to wit, that of St. Dominick.

The b 1.511 Ensign of this Order was the Figure of our Lady of the Rosary, upon a Cross Flory, quarterly Argent and Sable.

Knights of St. Mary the Glorious in Italy. (28.)

The Author of this Institution, was d 1.512 Bartolemeo de Vincenza, of the Order of Friers Preachers or Dominicans, afterwards made Bishop of that City, a man that did much both in word and example: and the end he chiefly design'd, was to procure peace to the Cities of Italy,* 1.513 then much disquieted by Civil Wars, among the Princes thereof.

This Order received Institution anno Dom. e 1.514 1233. a year famous and renown∣ed in that Age, for very great piety, and therefore called f 1.515 generalis devotionis Annus. It was approved and confirmed by g 1.516 Pope Vrban the Fourth, anno 1262. and the h 1.517 Rule of St. Dominick prescribed to the Knights, who are obliged i 1.518 to take into their care and protection Widows and Orphans, and use their endeavour to beget concord among such as are at variance.

The Habit is a k 1.519 White Tunick or Cassock, and a Mantle of Russet Colour; but there is some difference among those that mention the Badge, l 1.520 Sansovin and m 1.521 Mau∣rolico say, they wore before their breasts a purple Cross patee, bordered with Gold; n 1.522 Gothofridus saith, it is a purple Cross patee, with two Stars in chief; but o 1.523 Marquez gives it an Octogonal Cross, like that of Malta, and four Stars, to wit, one at every side thereof.

The p 1.524 manner of giving the Habit, and making Profession, is with the Ceremony used by the Knights of Malta. The Knights profess q 1.525 Obedience to their Great Master, and con∣jugal Chastity, but are r 1.526 forbid to wear Spurs or Bridles of Gold. They are commonly called Cavaleri de Madona, and reside at Bolonia, Modena, and other Cities of Italy: and because they have no Monasteries, but dwell in their own Houses, together with their Wives and Children, at ease and in plenty, they were called s 1.527 Fratres Gau∣dentes, or t 1.528 Hilares.

The Order of Knights of St. James in Portugal. (29.)

We have not met with any who make mention of this Order as distinct from that of St. Iames in Galicia, save only I. Mich. Marquez, but such as rather take it to have been sometime a member thereof; and that the Knights of St. Iames in Galicia, who had anciently Commanderies in Portugal, were only exempted from

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obedience and subjection to their Great Master, and not received upon the ac∣count of a new Institution, for so much doth Andrew Favin affirm; but Ios. Micheli, from Portugal, Writers, reports the contrary, and gives this further account of the Order, to wit a 1.529 That the troubles the Moors gave daily to Portugal, and the great zeal of their Kings, seeing their Subjects so exceedingly opprest by them, was such, that they endeavoured by all means to cut off those mischiefs, and to secure and quiet the Consines of their Kingdom.

Among whom King Don Denys the Sixth, moved with a like tender regard towards his People, did in the year of our Lord b 1.530 1310. institute this Order of St. Iames, under whose protection he became victorious in divers Battels against the Moors, and at length quieted his Kingdom, by the assistance of these Knights. And it was not long after the Institution, e're this Order flourished, through the favour of those Priviledges bestowed on it by the Founder.

It received approbation first, from Pope c 1.531 Nicholas the Fourth, after from Pope Celestine the Fifth, and again from other of his Successors.

The Knights profess conjugal Chastity, Hospitality and Obedience, and none are admitted before they make proof of their Gentility by blood.

The Ensign of this Order is a d 1.532 Red Sword, formed like that of St. Iames in Galicia, the Habit White: only the difference between them lies in a little Twist of Gold, which these of Portugal draw about their Sword.

At the Town of e 1.533 Alcasar de Sul, was the principal Convent of this Order first seated, afterward removed to Palmela, where it yet continues: and whiles Por∣tugal remained under the Crown of Spain, and the Administration of this Order under that King, it was no less illustrious, than whilst their own Kings go∣verned.

The Statutes f 1.534 are much the same with those of St. Iames in Galicia, so also is the manner of giving the Habit, Benediction, and Profession.

The Order of our Lady, and of St. George of Montesa in Valentia. (30.)

This Order did g 1.535 succeed into the Lands and Possessions of the Knights Tem∣plars in Valentia, as the Knights Hospitalars did into those of the Templars in France, Italy, and other places. For h 1.536 after the Templars were dissolved, Iames the Se∣cond, King of Aragon and Valentia, refused to grant their Revenues (lying in his Kingdom) to the Order of St. Iohn of Ierusalem, as other Princes had done; ne∣vertheless within few years sent an Embassy to Pope Iohn the 22. to give him his reasons why he did not.

These the Pope considering of, as also that the Moors were very neer to Ara∣gon, gave way that these Revenues of the exauterated Templars should be appli∣ed to the Convent of Montesa, where had been placed both Knights and Friars of the Order of Calatrava.

Hereupon this King, in the year of our Lord k 1.537 1317. Instituted this Order, in the City of Valentia (l 1.538 nevertheless subject to that of Calatrava, as a member there∣of) and made choice of the Town of Montesa, to give the Knights both name and habitation: whom he obliged to defend his Kingdoms, against the incursi∣ons of the Moors.

Their m 1.539 Colledge (dedicated to the honor of St. George) was built in the fol∣lowing year by the Pope at Montesa, at the instance of King Iames, n 1.540 Culielmus de Eril, a valiant Soldier being constituted the first Master in the Convent of St Mary and St. George.

Theo 1.541 Statutes of the Order (almost the same with those of Calatrava) were confirmed by the said Pope Iohn, who gave to these Knights thp 1.542 Cistertian Rule. They vowed conjugal Chastity, and the manner of their Investiture is as in the Order of Calatrava.

Their Habit is q 1.543 White, and the Badge of the Order a r 1.544 plain Red Cross, that is, the Cross of St. George, s 1.545 Patron of the Kingdoms of Navarr and

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Aragon. This Cross was worn upon the breast, by a priviledge granted to the Knights from Pope Benedict the Thirteenth.

To this Order of Montesa was incorporated that oft 1.546St. George d' Alfama, anno Dom. 1399. which union received confirmation from the Council of Constance.

A Catalogue of the Masters are recorded by u 1.547 Io. Micheli; which great Office continues to this time in the King of Spain; so doth the Revenue of thirteen Commanderies belonging thereunto, amounting to 23000 Duckets per annum.

The Order of Knights of Christ in Portugal. (31.)

As the Knights of Montesa sprung from the ruine of the Knights Templars in Valentia, so did this Order of Christ (or of the a 1.548Warfare of Christ) succeed them in the Kingdom of Portugal. For the Knights Templars having been very ser∣viceable to the Kings of Portugal, in their Wars against the Moors, the Kings gave unto them divers Lands and Revenues, which when their Order came to be dis∣solved, and their Estates confiscate, King b 1.549 Don Denys, surnamed Perioca, sent to Pope Iohn the 22. (then at Avignion) to desire that the Knights Templars Lands might not be disposed of, out of his Kingdom; which though he did not readily grant, yet he gave way for the King, to render him he reasons of his request.

Hereupon King Denys sent his Embassadors to the Pope, in the year 1316. not only to back his desire, but withal to declare to his Holiness the great vexations and evils, the neighbouring Moors in Algarves did to his Kingdom. And foras∣much as the Town of Castro Marin was a Frontler of the Enemy, and the site thereof very commodious for the building of a Fort to resist them, he farther moved the Pope for Licence, that an Order of Knights might be Instituted in that Town, and withal offered to him the Rents and Jurisdiction thereof, and all Dominion over it.

This request being thought just, and the remedy so necessary, the Pope did afterwards (namely in the year of our Lord 1319.) give Foundation to this new Order, dedicating it to the honor of God, and the exaltation of the Catholick Faith, under the Title of the Military Order of our Lord Iesus Christ, because of the miraculous apparition, which this King had seen of Christ crucified, when he went out to fight against the Moors.

He further commanded, that the Knights of this Order should observe the same Rule, with those of the Order of Calatrava, which was Cistertian, and enjoy the same. Piviledges and Indulgences, formerly granted to their Great Master and Knights.* 1.550 In which respect he nominated Don Gil. Martinez, for their first Master, because he was a Knight profest, and Master of the Order of St. Bene∣dict d' Avis; and appointed for their Visitor, the Abbot of Alcobaza, of the Ci∣stertian Order.

This c 1.551 Abbot or his Lieutenant in succession was impowred to receive of the Master of this Order, in the name of the Pope and Church of Rome, the Oath of fide∣lity; it being directed to be taken in the presence of the Kings of Portugal, before he should enter upon the administration of his Mastership, and the King was ob∣liged to receive this Oath within ten days, after the Master should tender it to him, and in case the King did not in that time receive it from the Master, then he might take on him the administration of his Office without it: and further that each Knight before his admittance should take the same Oath of Fidelity, before the Master of this Order.

All the d 1.552 Goods and Possessions formerly belonging to the Knights Templars, within the Kingdom of Portugal, were hereupon granted unto this Order, and the Knights thereof particularly obliged to make War against thee 1.553Moors in Baetica, next neighbour to Portugal. They had appointed to them for their chief Seat, f 1.554 Castro Marin, where their first Convent was erected, but afterwards it was re∣moved into the City of Tomar.

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They went clothed in g 1.555Black, wearing upon their breasts a Cross Pate of Red Silk, and upon that another of White.

This Order (as that d'Avis) became at length annexed to the Crown of Portu∣gal; whose Kings have ever since taken upon them the title of perpetual Admi∣nistrators of both.

The Order of Knights of the Passion of Jesus Christ. (32.)

Some years after the Institution of the precedent Order, and towards the latter end of the thirteenth Century, there was erected a religious Order of Knighthood, by Charles King of France, and our King Richard the Second, which bore the Title of the Order of the Passion of Iesus Christ. And though we do not find any further progress thereof, after it had received its Foundation, yet considering the grounds whereon it was instituted, and the nobleness and largeness of the de∣sign (exceeding all other Religious Orders of Knighthood, except those of the Knights of St. Iohn of Ierusalem, and Knights Templars) as also because one of our English Kings was a Co-founder thereof; we conceived it worthy our pains to make an extract, particularly relating to the causes why it was erected, the frame of its Constitution, its principal Structures, and the Habit and Ensigns thereof, out of an old French Manuscript, written by Philip de Maisiere Chancellor of Cyprus, wherein it is thus prefaced.

a 1.556 Forasmuch as by reason of the three deadly sins, which began to reign among the Christians, namely, Pride, Covetousness, and Luxury, God permitted the Sara∣cens, Enemies of the Faith, to overcome Ierusalem and the Holy Land, to the shame and disgrace of Christendom; therefore to renew the memory of the Passion of Christ, thereby to extirpate those deadly sins, and to make way for the re-con∣quest of Ierusalem, and the Holy places, the overthrow and confusion of the Ene∣mies of the Faith, this Order was erected.

There are b 1.557twenty causes reckoned up by this Author, for the necessity of In∣stituting this Order of the Passion.

  • 1. To stir up the Soldiery to amendment of life, by the example of so new and solemn a devotion.
  • 2. To renew the memory of the Passion of Christ among Christians, by the ex∣ample of this holy Order.
  • 3. For the speedy sending of relief and succour to the Christians of the East, that stood in great need of it.
  • 4. For the regaining of the Holy Land, out of the hands of the Enemies of the Faith.
  • 5. For the propagation of the holy Catholick Faith, among the people of the East.
  • 6. For resisting of those that were disturbers of the Catholick Faith; as Here∣ticks, Tyrants, and Schismaticks.
  • 7. That the rents and divisions of the Church through Italy, might by the pas∣sage of this holy Order be healed and reunited, under one universal Shepherd of Souls.
  • 8. c 1.558 That when the Kings of France and England should arrive in the Continent, this Order might go before them, as a valiant precursor, to make way for, and at∣tend them in all things.
  • 9. To serve as a Life-Guard, for the defence of the two Kings persons, and a forlorn hope, to give example and encouragement to the whole Army.
  • 10. That those Voluntiers that served in the Army, being without head, and not under Rule (if they should venture extravagantly and rashly into the Battel with∣out Guide) might be regulated by the Cavaliers of this holy Order.
  • 11. That if the Victory should at any time incline to the adverse party, these Cavaliers, by reason of their expertness in the feats of Arms, might serve for a reserve to recover the declining Fortune of the day, and to rescue the dead and wounded out of the hands of the Enemy.
  • ...

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  • 12. That if at any time either of the two Kings should be left destitute of a Guard to their persons, they might be attended by some of the most valiant of this Order.
  • 13. That if any Towns or Fortresses taken by either of the two Kings, should be found dangerous and difficult to be kept; that such should be committed to the Cavaliers of this Order, who were to be ready to undergo all kind of dangers and difficulties.
  • 14. That by the vigilance and industry of these Cavaliers (if they should be set as Spies upon the Enemies actions) the two Kings might be informed of the secrets of the Enemies Camp.
  • 15. d 1.559 That if a Treaty should happen to be between the two Kings and the Ene∣my, the Prince of the Chevalry in person, or some of his chosen Cavaliers in his stead, should labour indefatigably in this affair, especially either of the Kings so commanding.
  • 16. That if either of the Kings should be at any Siege, within the Enemies Territories, certain of the Chevalry ought humbly to visit the Host, to be watch∣ful over it, and to guard it by night from the attempts and Spies of the Enemy, or of false brethren.
  • 17. That if any false rumors or tales should be spred in the Army of the Ca∣tholick Kings, with design to raise dissentions or debates; the Prince of the Che∣valry in person, or any of his grand Officers for him (according to the dig∣nity of the persons at odds) should labour to the utmost of their power to take up the Controversie, and bring the persons to a reconciliation.
  • 18. That if any of the Christians of the West, should have any obligation to take upon them a passage into the Holy Land, a certain number of the Che∣valry might be ready to accompany them to the performance of their Vows or Obligations.
  • 19. That if any of the younger Sons or Brothers of Noblemen, having little or no portions of their own, should be willing to serve in the Chevalry; they might so long as they behaved themselves well, be nobly and handsomely provided for.
  • 20. That if either of the Kings should be hindred from passing into the Holy Land, about the performance of any Vow or Obligation from their Forefathers, the Chevalry might be ready at a speedy warning to perform whatsoever was committed to their charge, in behalf of the Kings.

e 1.560 And although this Order was principally dedicated to the honor of our blessed Saviour, yet saith our Author, the blessed Virgin Mary was lookt upon as a principal Mediatress and Advocate of this holy Chevalry; representing the pas∣sion of her Son, and also guarding and defending the Cavaliers, against the Ene∣mies of the Faith, as a Mother doth a Child.

g 1.561 As to the Government of this Order, it is to be noted, that in the principal Convent of the holy Chevalry, all things of publick concernment were to be de∣bated by five authentick Councils in the presence of the Prince.

The first was to be called the Quotidian Council, consisting of four and twenty Councellors. The second was the Particular, or Singular Council, consisting of about forty persons, to wit, four and twenty grand Councellors, eight Execu∣tors of Justice, four Commissaries of Trespasses, and three or four Doctors of Divinity and Law. The third the Grand Council, consisting of fourscore persons, viz. forty such as were mentioned in the second Council, and other authentick Officers, and a certain number of Brothers, valiant and sage persons, amount∣ing in all to the abovesaid number. The fourth Council was to be called the General Chapter, and held every year; consisting of all the above-named Of∣ficers, with the Presidents and Deputies of Provinces. The fifth Council was the Vniversal Chapter, to be held from four to six years; consisting of a thousand Knights of the Chevalry, by which Universal Chapter, any of the Chevalry, or grand Officers were to be reformed, or, if occasion required, punished according to the Statutes of the Chevalry.

The principal Officer of the Chevalry, was the Grand Iusticiary, to whom belonged the Judgment of all the criminal Affairs, and the disposal of all chief Offices and Places.

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The next chief Officer was called the Grand Bailiff; that is to say, only in the principal Convent, to administer Justice both Civil and Criminal in that Con∣vent to all sorts of persons.

h 1.562In the principal City, as also in every City and Castle belonging to the Che∣valry, one of the Order was to be chosen to administer all sorts of Justice in that place; who was to go under the name of Potestate.

Also in the General Chapter, there was to be chosen every year one of the Or∣der, who should be called the Senator of the General Chapter, and four and twenty discreet persons of the Chevalry with him, who should hold a general Chapter, or principal Convent, upon any Expedition of War.

In the Universal Chapter, there was to be chosen one of the Order, who should be called Dictator of the Vniversal Chapter; and with him twelve Fathers Con∣script, with twelve Coadjutors, who should hold an universal Chapter, from four years to six.

Also in the principal Convent, there were to be chosen ten of the Chevalry, couragious and of holy life, who should be called the Teni 1.563 Executors of Iustice, which should be decreed by the Grand Justiciary upon the persons of the chief Officers being delinquent; they were also to be called the Conservators of the holy Rule of the Chevalry, and also to be assistant to the grand Advocate, and the grand Protectors and Promoters of Divine Charity.

Also in the principal Convent there were to be chosen four of the Chevalry, devout and good men, who should be called the Charitable Commissaries of the — whose Office it was to provide for the Widows and Or∣phans, committed to their care.

And whereas this Order was made up of eight several Languages, there was to be always appointed in the principal Convent, eight Notaries using the Habit of the Brothers, and also for every language a several Notary, and so the like in the Convents of other Regions and Cities.

Also, to the end the Knights of this Order might live according to the Rules of the Order, in the perfection of their Estates and Degree, they were to bind themselves by Oath to three things, viz. Obedience to their Sovereigns, poverty of Spirit, and conjugal Chastity.

k 1.564 Also the Chevalry were to have for their sustentation, the possession of Cities, Castles, Fortresses, Gold, Silver, and all kind of moveables, as God should be∣stow upon them; nevertheless all to be in common among them, that they might the better intend the exercise of their Arms and other Duties.

Also to the end that any of the Chevalry, having possessions in the West, might not return thither, to the personal enjoyment of them, thereby leaving the duties that belonged to their Order in the East; such possesions were appointed to be managed by certain Merchants and honest Citizens, deputed to that purpose.

Also the holy Chevalry, were to observe Justice, both Civil and Criminal, ren∣dring to every one according to his deserts, whether reward or punishment.

l 1.565 Also the Prince of the Chevalry was to summon the principal Convent, at the Castle of the principal City; where he should assemble the President of the City and of the Convent, and three or four other Presidents, each having under them four and twenty Knights, and four and twenty Brothers of the Chevalry, with fifty Serjeants, so as to make up in the whole, with Officers and others, to the number of about 500 or 600 Combatants to be ready upon all occasions.

Moreover there was to belong to the principal Convent, a Church of so marve∣lous a structure, that the like hath not been seen or known: it was designed to be 50 Cubits in breadth, without any Pillars, 100 Cubits long, and in height 25.

Also in the Castle and principal Convent, there was to be an Hospital, in which the Widows of the holy Chevalry, should attend upon the sick and infirm, m 1.566 still imploying themselves in the holy work of Charity, which also was to be the bu∣siness of the Prince, the Grand Officers and all the Knights.

Also there should belong to the Convent a Baptistery or Font, round, large, and curiously made for the baptizing of the Sons and Daughters of the Knights.

Also there was appointed to belong to the principal Convent, a large and

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stately Palace, with a great Hall, and large Consistories, to contain the Prince and Council with their Retinue, and for a habitation for the Prince, with his Princess and Family.

Also in the Convent there was to be a Cloister, for the Canons and Clerks, large and delightful, and a great Hall with Galleries; which habitation should be neer the Church, and inclosed with high Walls.

Also there was to belong to the said Castle a very fair Palace, to entertain the Princes of the West, when at any time they came that way, either to Wa, or up∣on Pilgrimage.

Also in the said Castle there were to be distinct lodgings and habitations for the grand Officers of the Chevalry, as well Natives as Foreigners, for the Knights Companions, and Serjeants of the Chevalry, and for their Wives.

Also there were to be in the said Castle, Wine-Cellars, Granges, Granaries, Stables for Horses and Cattel, Easements, Mills, Cisterns, Baths, and all other necessaries for the Chevalry.

n 1.567 Also in the principal Convent there were to be three chief Halls; first the great Hall of the Prince, where he and all the Knights and Brothers of the Chevalry were to dine on Festival days: The second, where the Canons should daily sit at meat with the Forreign Prelates and Clerks, and also all the Knights and Brothers of the Chevalry that were unmarried: The third, for the grand Commandor of the Horse to eat in, and with him all the lesser Officers of the principal Convent, all the Valets of the Horse, and the Servitors belonging to the said Commandor.

The Habit of the holy Chevalry of the Passion of Iesus Christ, was to be esta∣blisht according to the intention of the holy Rule; that is to say, representing in its Vestments the Passion of Iesus.

The Knights were appointed to wear a handsom cloth Coat, of a civil colour, reaching down half way the leg, which should be called the principal Coat of the Chevalry; this was to be girt with a large Girdle of Silk or Leather, two fingers broad, the Buckle round, of black Horn, as also the Tongue and the garnishing of the holes were to be of Tin. They should also wear Red Chape∣rons or Caps, representing the blood of Iesus Christ, and over the principal Coat o 1.568 a Mantle of white Cloth or Serge, which Mantle from the shoulders downward, was to be open on both sides along the arms; and in that part be∣tween the two openings before the breast, there was to be a Cross of Cloth or Serge, two fingers broad; this Cross was to proceed in traverse as far as the open∣ings of the Mantle, only the Cross upon the Prince his Mantle was to be edg'd round about with a Gold Fringe, half an Inch broad, or thereabout: Some small difference also there was to be between the Habits of the Knights, the Brothers and the Serjeants; that of the Knights was to be a little more solemn, and more cleerly representing the Passion of the holy Jesus, than either that of the Brothers or Serjeants; but the Habit of them all was to be White, only in the Cross, and in the shape there was to be some difference.

p 1.569 The Arms of the holy Chevalry were these, the field of the Banner (following the description in the Constitution) was to be White, in the midst of it a Red Cross four fingers broad, or thereabouts, extending along the field: in the mid∣dle of the Cross there was to be a compass with four rounds and four little angles between the rounds, this compass was to be filled with a black colour, represent∣ing the agony and passion of our Lord, which compass in the middle of the Cross was to be four inches about, and within it an Agnus Dei, well shapt, and of a re∣splendent golden colour, representing the glory of Iesus after his resurrection: the Cross and Compass was to be edged about with a bordure of Gold, one finger broad, or a little less, and about the sides there was to be a little red bordure of the breadth of half a finger.

There was also to belong to this holy Chevalry, another singular and solemn Banner, yet not to be born, but at great Battels, and in times of extraordi∣nary danger and difficulty. The Cross and Agnus Dei, was to be born by the Prince armed, the armed Chevaliers and the Brothers, upon their great White Gippos or loose Coats, both before and behind; excepting that in lieu of the

Page [unnumbered]

[illustration]
Habits and Ensignes belonging to the Order of the Passion of Ihesus Christ.

Page [unnumbered]

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Gold bordure about the Cross, the Brothers were to have a bordure of black Silk.

f 1.570 Every Knight was to have his Esquire armed at all points, and a little Valet to carry his Launce and Helmet, beside another bigger Valet habited in a loose Coat, to carry his Mail, and a third on foot, to lead his Sumpter. For any warlike Expedition, he was to have his five Horses and four Servants, and in all times of peace, two or three Horses, according as the means of the Chevalry should be able to allow.

Also each Brother of the Chevalry was to have toward warlike Expeditions three Horses or four, according as his merits and abilities were, and three Servants, whereof one or two were to be fighting men; and in times of peace, one or two according to the Chevalry's ability of allowance.

The number of Knights of the Holy Chevalry, was a thousand; or a thousand, one hundred, or thereabouts.

The Order of the * 1.571 Brician Knights in Sweden. (33.)

a 1.572 Ios. Micheli Marquez from Marcus Ant. Vianus, in his Description of Sweden, in∣forms us, that a holy and famous Queen of that Kingdom, (whom b 1.573 Andr. Mendo saith, was St. | 1.574 Bridget) being very zealous for the honor of our Saviour Iesus Christ, Instituted this Order in the year of our Lord 1396. which we rather think is mistaken for 1366. because he saith it was approved by Pope Vrban the Fifth, who then possest the Roman Chair, and gave to the Knights the Rule of St. Augu∣stine, beside St. Bridget dyed the * 1.575 23. of Iuly 1373.

The sum of their Profession was to defend Christian Religion against Hereticks, to secure the Confines of that Kingdom, to bury the dead, to succour the Widows and Fatherless, and to keep up Hospitality; to which end the Queen endowed this Order with large Possessions; so that during her Reign, it exceed∣ingly flourished.

The chief Ensign of this Order, was c 1.576 a Blue Octogonal Cross, and under it a Tongue of Fire, this being accounted the Symbol of Love and Charity; in re∣gard they were to be zealous in defence of the holy Faith, and in maintaining the Statutes of the Order.

The manner observed at the Investiture of the Knights, as also the Benedictions and Professions, were the same with those of Malta.

But one thing is observable in this Order above others, that after admission thereinto all were advanced according to their seniority: so that there was a possibility for the junior Knight to arrive at the dignity of Master of the Order.

The Order of Knights of St. Maurice in Savoy. (34.)

The e 1.577 Order of Knights Hermits of St. Maurice, had their beginning upon the retreat of Amadis the Eighth, Duke of Savoy, into the desart of Ripaille, neer the Lake of Geneva, and was bestowed by him, in the year of our Lord f 1.578 1434. on those ten Knights of his Court, who had retired with him thither; as well to preserve the memory of St. Maurice, honored as titular Patron of Savoy, for ma∣ny Ages past, as of his Launce (some say g 1.579 Sword) and Ring, the essential Sym∣bols of Knighthood, passing from hand to hand, from the Kings of Burgoigne to the Princes of Savoy; by whom they have been preserved, with great honor and veneration: and are as a pledge of Dominion, delivered to them with great so∣lemnity, at their Inauguration.

Nine years after the Institution of this Order, the Founder was prevailed with, to accept of the Popedom, after the deposition of Pope Eugenius the Fourth: and the Council of Basil sitting, he was elected Pope, the h 1.580 5. of No∣vember,

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anno 1439. by the name of Felix the Fifth: Nine years after he freely resigned the Chair, the Instrument of Renunciation, bearing date at Lausanna, the i 1.581 sixth day of April, anno 1449. to whom succeeded Nicholas the Fourth, and immediately he k 1.582 retired again to his solitude in Ripaille, where he dyed the l 1.583 se∣venth of Ianuary anno 1451. and lies buried in the m 1.584 Cathedral Church of Lau∣sanna.

This Order of St. Maurice was made subject to the Rule of St. Augustine: and the Knights had assigned them for their Habit, a n 1.585 Grey or Ash-colour Gown and Chaperon, a Vest of the same, girded with a golden Girdle, the Chaperon and Sleeves faced with Red Chamlet, and on the breast of the Mantle o 1.586 a White Cross Pommette of Taffaty or Cloth; but the Cross which the Master or Chief of the Order wore, was made of Gold, or rich Embrodery.

This p 1.587 Order continued not long after the death of the Founder. But Duke Emanuel Philibert to renew the devotion, which his Predecessors always bore to St. Maurice, restored the same, and obtained a Bull from Pope Gregory the Thir∣teenth, dated the 17. of October 1572. for erecting and instituting thereof, under the Cistertian Rule, and the perpetual protection of the Duke of Savoy, its Grand Master; which Bull is set forth by q 1.588 Albertus Miraeus, who thence collects that this Order was then first Instituted, and not by Count Amadis the Eighth, as is before noted.

Knights of the Holy Ghost at Rome. (35.)

This Order was Instituted by Pope r 1.589 Paul the Second, anno Dom. 1468. under the Title of Brethren of the Hospital of the Holy Ghost: The Knights wore upon their Habits a s 1.590 White Cross Forme.

The Order of Knights of St. George in Austria and Carinthia. (36.)

a 1.591 Wolfangus Lazius informs us, that Frederick the Third, Emperor of Germany (b 1.592 others that Rudolphus of Hapsburgh, first raiser of the House of Austria) insti∣tuted this Order of Knights of St. George, in the year of our Lord 1470. chiefly to c 1.593 guard the Frontiers of Germany, Hungary, Austria, Stiria, Carinthia, and to suppress the insolency of the Turks, by whose Incursions the Marches of these Countries were (about that time) miserably wasted: since which, these Knights have so gallantly behaved themselves, that they have often born away great Tro∣phies and Ensigns of Victory from their Enemies.

The d 1.594 Great Master of this Order was advanced to the Title and Honor of a Prince, and for a Seat and Residence to him and his Successors, the Castle of e 1.595 Mildstad in the Dukedom of Carinthia was appointed, where also was founded a Cathedral Church of Canons, under the Rule of St. Augustine.

The Knights bear for the Ensign of their Order the Arms of St. George, viz. f 1.596 a plain Red Cross. Their g 1.597 Habit is White, they profess h 1.598 conjugal Chastity, and Obe∣dience to their Master, and have the i 1.599 Emperors for their Protectors.

But there is mention made by k 1.600 Fr. Mennenius (from Bernardus Luceburgius, in his Book De Ordinibus Militaribus) as also by l 1.601 Alb. Miraeus, of an Order of Knights of St. George (which m 1.602 Ios. Micheli calls Cavalleros de San Iorge en Alemania) erect∣ed by Maximilian the Emperor, upon the like design with the former, he being greatly devoted to that Patron of all military Professors.

This Order was confirmed by n 1.603 Pope Alexander the Sixth, under the same Rule and Profession as the other, having the Emperors also their Protectors, though it be not much extended. The Knights elect their Master from among themselves, and the Ensigns of the Order is a o 1.604 Red Cross, with a Crown of Gold on the top of it.

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We observe elsewhere, that this Order runs under the Title of p 1.605 Crowned Knights, and is said to have been instituted among the q 1.606 Austrians, by the said Em∣peror Maximilian, anno 1494. in which respect the r 1.607 Knights, after they have serv∣ed their Prince for a year, do enjoy a peculiar right (which is transmitted to their Heirs) of adorning their Shields and Helms with a Crown.

Ios. Micheli writeth, that this Emperor Mximilian joining in Battel with these Knights against the Turks, obtained a notable Victory; and that the s 1.608 Turks con∣fest, that a man on Horseback (supposed to be St. George, Patron of this Order) put them into so great fear, that they longed for the hour to flye and leave the Field.

The Order of Knights of St. George at Rome. (37.)

a 1.609 Alexander the Sixth, anno Dom. 1498. Instituted the Knights of St. George, who wore a b 1.610 Cross of Gold, entowred with a circle of the same, made in the form of a Crown.

But * 1.611 Micheli saith, that the Order of St. George, which had the foresaid Cross for Ensign assigned to it, was instituted by Pope Paul the Third, at whose death it became extinct, and that the Knights of this Order dwelt at Ravenna, and were obliged to secure the Confines of the Adriatic Sea from Pyrats. But that the Order, which Pope Alexander the Sixth erected, had for Ensign the Figure of St. George hanging at a Collar.

Knights of St. Peter at Rome. (38.)

c 1.612 Pope Leo the Tenth, anno 1520. Instituted this Order to fight against the Turks, and to guard and defend the Sea-Coasts. The number of these Knights at first was d 1.613 400.

They wore the Image of St. Peter within an Oval of Gold, hanging at a Gold Chain: This Order was e 1.614 confirmed by Paul the Third.

Knights of St. Paul at Rome. (39.)

They were Instituted by Pope f 1.615 Paul the Third, anno 1540. and while he sat in the Papal Chair (which was about ten years after) he made g 1.616 200 of these Knights.

The Ensign of this Order is the Image of St. Paul, hanging at a Chain of Gold.

The Order of Knights called Pios at Rome. (40.)

In the year of our Lord h 1.617 1560. Pope Pius the Fourth, erected this Order, and gave to the Knights thereof the Title of Pios. He created of them at first 375. but they encreased to the number of 535. i 1.618 Ciaconius stiles them Imperiales, but they were more usually called Commensales.

k 1.619 Ios. Micheli Marquez calls them Knights of the Golden Spur in Italy, and not getting any certain knowledge of the original of this Order, under that Title, he is content to believe a Relation of some of the Roman Courtiers, who told him that it took beginning in the time of Constantine the Great, and that the Knights had their Title from the nature of their Office, which was to take off the Emperors Spurs; they were also employed neer his Person, in the quality of a Life-Guard.

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This Pope endowed them very considerably, and gave them l 1.620 precedence be∣fore the Knights of the Empire, and of Malta, because they were his Courtiers, and had the care and charge of carrying the Popes Chair on their shoulders, at such times as he went abroad in publick.

m 1.621 Miraeus saith, the Ensign of this Order is the Figure of St. Ambrose, hanging at a Chain of Gold about their necks; ut n 1.622 Marquez will have it a Cross of Cloth of Gold, of eight points, like that of Malta, and a little Spur linkt to the foot of it.

The Order of Knights of St. Stephen at Florence. (41.)

This Order was founded in the year of our Lord 1561. by a 1.623 Cosmo de Medicis, second Duke of Florence (created afterwards first Great Duke of Tuscany) in b 1.624 ho∣nor of St. Stephen, Pope and Martyr (of that name the Ninth) Patron and Prote∣ctor of the City of Florence, to c 1.625 revive and continue the memory of that fortu∣nate Battel at Marciano, at which, overthrowing the assertors of Liberty, he laid the foundation of his grandeur. This Battel was fought on the sixth of August, being the Feast-day of the said St. Stephen.

Pope Pius the Fourth d 1.626 approved and confirmed this Order, under the Rule of e 1.627 St. Benedict (his Bull to that effect, be∣ing dated at Rome the first of February next following the Institution) which was afterwards enlarged with many Pri∣viledges, by another Bull of the said f 1.628 Pope Pius, as also by the Bulls of g 1.629 Sixtus the Fifth, and h 1.630 Paul the Fifth.

The Institution of these Knights much resembles those of the Knights of Malta, and was erected in * 1.631 imitation of that Order; they having the same Priviledges granted unto them. They vow i 1.632 Chastity, but conjugal (for they have li∣berty to marry) Charity in relieving their neighbour and afflicted, and Obedi∣ence to the Commands of their Grand Master: which Dignity was vested in the Founder, and descends to his Successors, Great Dukes of Tuscany.

The principal Seat of this Order was setled at Pisa, where the Founder k 1.633 built a Church and a Convent, designing it for a Nursery, to breed up persons skilful in Maritime Affairs; that City having a commodious Haven for the Gallies, wherein the Knights of this Order are to serve, either in checking the Inrodes of the Turkish Pirats, or seting forth a Navy on any other Expedition, if occasion require it. But since, it hath been transferr'd to l 1.634 Cosmopoli, in the Isle of Ilva; a place where the Founder, it seems, designed and intended it to have been first setled; for which A. Miraeus cites Onuphrius Panvinius.

The Habit of this Order, is a long Mantle of White Chamlet, beautified with Red Trimming, and on the left part of the breast a n 1.635 Cross (like that of Mal∣ta) of Red or Crimson Satin, bordered with Gold. This o 1.636 Cross is daily worn by the Knights on their Cloaks, as also on their military Garments, and about their necks in a Ribbon on Festival days.

Moreover this Order (like that of Maltà) consists of Knights, Priests, and Servants; the p 1.637 Priests wear the Cross of Red Taffaty without a border; and the Servants the Cross of St. Anthony only.

The Statutes and Constitutions were reformed by Ferdinand Great Duke of Tus∣cany, Son to the Founder, and approved in a Chapter of the Order, anno 1590. and since printed at Florence, anno 1628.

The Order of Knights of St. Maurice, and St. Lazarus in Savoy. (42.)

Pope Gregory the Thirteenth, having at the sollicitation of Emanuel Philibert Duke of Savoy, restored and instituted anew the Order of St. Lazarus, as also

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the Order of St. Maurice, anno 1572. and constituted this Duke Grand Master of both; shortly after, by his Bull dated the s 1.638 13. of November in the same year, he united the Order of St. Lazarus to that of St. Maurice, for their greater honor: and thereby ordained, that this new Institution should be thenceforth called the Order of St. Maurice and St. Lazarus. He also constituted the said Duke and his Successors Dukes of Savoy, Grand Masters thereof; and obliged them to furnish out two Gallies, for the service of the Papal See, to be imployed against Pyrats.

Upon this Union (permission being given by the last mentioned Bull, to as∣sume a new Habit) the Knights of this Order had assigned them a t 1.639 Gown of Crim∣son Tabby, with wide sleeves, a long train, and edg'd about with White Taffaty, as also a Cordon, having a Tassel of White and Green, fixed to the Collar thereof.

The Badge of this Order is agreeable to the form engraved in the Plate set be∣fore this Chapter, to wit, the u 1.640 Green Cross of St. Lazarus, charged in the heart with the White Cross of St. Maurice, which the Knights wear either in a Gold Chain or Silk Ribbon, the Colour being at their own choice. This double Cross was granted to be the Ensign of this new Order, by another w 1.641 Bull of the said Pope Gre∣gory, given at Rome the 15. of Ianuary 1573.

In which year, to wit, in the Month of x 1.642 April, Duke Emanuel, in pursuance of this Union and new Foundation, assembled all the Knights, in the City of Nice; where meeting, he was by them received and acknowledged for their Grand Master, and took the Oath, recorded by y 1.643 Sam. Guichenon.

Afterwards this Duke did erect z 1.644 two fair Houses or Convents, for the Knights of this new Order to inhabit in, the one at Nice, and the other at Turin; and with the Popes approbation, bestowed all the Lands and Revenues formerly belong∣ing to the Order of St. Lazarus (lying within his Territories) upon them.

So that at this day, both the Orders of St. Lazarus and St. Maurice, being unit∣ed, rest under the Patronage of one Grand Master, and chief of the Order, namely the Duke of Savoy; whose title used in all Affairs, relating to this new instituted Order, is as followeth.

* 1.645 Totius Religionis & Militiae Sanctorum Mauritii & Lazari, Betleem, Nazareth, Hierosolymitan, Ordinis Sancti Augustini, Conventuum, Hospitalium, Domorum, Prae∣ceptoriarum at{que} piorum locorum omnium, citra & ultra Mare, cis & trans Alpes, per universum Orbem, Humilis & Generalis Magnus Magister.

Knights of Loretto. (43.)

t 1.646 Sixtus Quintus instituted this Order, anno Dom. u 1.647 1587. but w 1.648 Ios. Micheli placeth it in the year before; for which he erected the Church of our Lady at Loretto into a Cathedral and a Bishops See: and gave the Knights for Ensign the Image of our Lady of Loretto, hung in a golden Chain.

The x 1.649 splendor of this Order continued but a while, yet is it not quite extin∣guished.

The Order of Knights of the blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel. (44.)

Though the Grand Mastership of St. Lazarus, and the Commanderies thereun∣to belonging, lying within the Dominions of all Christian Princes, were con∣ferr'd upon Emanuel Philebert Duke of Savoy, by Pope Gregory the Thirteenth (as hath been * 1.650 before remembred) yet the Duke did not gain the investiture of the Commanderies lying in France, being opposed by King Henry the Third; whereupon a 1.651 some Knights of that Order, refusing to join with their Fellows, un∣der the obedience of the Duke, maintained themselves in that Kingdom, until the Reign of King Henry the Fourth; who being desirous to have a b 1.652 new Order

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of Knighthood instituted, under the Rule and denomination of the blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, applied himself to Pope Paul the Fifth for that purpose.

Hereupon the Pope (the c 1.653 7. of February 1608.) confirmed the same, and pre∣scribed several things necessary to the Institution, according to the mind of the King, ordaining also Pensions to the Great Master and Knights of this Order, out of certain Ecclesiastical Benefices, in several places, within the Kingdom of France.

After this the d 1.654 Commanderies and Hospitals of St. Lazarus, lying in France, were disposed of likewise for the support of the Knights of this new Order; and the Knights of St. Lazarus that remained in that Kingdom, were joined to these of the new Institution; thus they became acknowledged to be one Body, under two Titles, which we find inscribed round the Seal of their Order, viz. e 1.655 Sigillum Ordinis & Militiae beatae Mariae Virginis de Monte Carmeli, & Sancti Lazari in Hierusalem.

So that at this time, we find the Order of St. Lazarus to be divided between two other Societies; namely the Order of St. Maurice in Savoy, and of St. Mary of Mount Carmel in France.

This Order consists of f 1.656 one hundred choice Gentlemen of France, and all ap∣pointed to attend on the Kings person, upon every warlike Expedition. They vow g 1.657 Obedience and Chastity, and profess to fight against the Enemies of the Roman Church. The Feast of their Patroness is annually celebrated on the h 1.658 16. of Iuly. Their first Master was Philibert Nerestang, sometimes one of the i 1.659 Knights of St. Lazarus, a valiant Gentleman, and famous in all military Discipline; for which cause he was thought worthy to be prefer'd to this Dignity, and according∣ly nominated by Henry the Fourth, in April 1608. The 30. of October following he took the Oath as Great Master, and of Fidelity to the French King.

The Badge of this Order is a Cross of eight points, of k 1.660 Tawney Velvet or Satin (but some say of a l 1.661 Violet colour) with a white Bordure, sewed on the left side of their Cloaks, and the Image of the Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, placed in the mid∣dle within a Rundle encompassed with beams or rays of Gold, all wrought in cu∣rious Imbrodery: besides this, the Knights wear about their necks, in a Tawny Silk Ribbon, the like m 1.662 Cross of Gold, but the Image of the said Virgin is enameled on both sides.

The Statutes of this Order are exhibited by n 1.663 A. Favin, and the o 1.664 solemn Rites used at the investiture of these Knights, are much after the manner of those of Malta.

Knights of the Order of the most glorious Virgin Mary of Rome. (45.)

It was but of late years, viz. a 1.665 1618. that three Brethren of Spella in Italy, name∣ly Pedro, Iohn Baptista, and Bernardo, surnamed Petrignanoes, invented this Order of Knighthood, to which was given the Rule of St. Francis d' Assise, and whereof the Pope and his Successors are Great Masters.

b 1.666 Paul the Fifth approved this Order, and gave these Knights the Palace of St. Iohn de Laterane, for their Convent, the City and Port of Civita Vechia, to make their Arsenal of Gallies; as also an Island adjacent to that Port, together with the Government of his Gallies.

The cause of its Institution, was for the c 1.667 exaltation of the Roman Church, and to repress the insolence of the Turks, roving on the Mediterranean Sea.

In this Institution there are d 1.668 three kinds of Knights, who are differenced by their Habits: The first are Knights Gentlemen Laicks, who wear a Mantle of White double Taffaty, having great sleeves and a long train, the Cordons of White Silk, with Knots and Tassels of White and Blue Silk; the second are Knights Gentlemen Priests, and beneficed, who wear the like Mantle, but something shorter; and both these wear about their necks in a Blue Ribbon, a Cross of Gold, enameled Blue: The third are Knights Chaplains, or Servants of Arms, and their Mantle is of White

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Serge, with strait long sleeves, reaching down to the ground, and Cordons of Blue Silk.

All these Degrees wear on the e 1.669 left side of their Mantles, the Cross of the Or∣der, as is here described; to wit, of Blue Satin embrodered with Silver, and bor∣dered with Gold; in the middle is a round Circle, wherein is this Motto, In hoc Signo vincam, and within that is composed a Cipher of the Letters M and S, (the initial Letters of Sancta Maria) crowned with a Chaplet of Flowers, and Stars of Gold set over the Chaplet; from the round Circle issue twelve rays, or beams of Silver, representing the twelve Apostles: the finishings of the Cross are fashioned like Flowers de Lis, and at the end of each Flower is a Star, set to signifie the four Evangelists.

The Statutes and Rules of this Order are recorded by Andrew Favin in his f 1.670 Thea∣ter of Honor.

The Order of the Annunciade and St. Michael the Arch-Angel, or of the Christian Militia in Moravia. (46.)

In the year of our Lord h 1.671 1618. Charles Gonzaga Duke of Maniua and Nevers, together with Adolph Count of Altham, his Brother, and Iohn Baptist Petrig∣nan Sfortia, did contrive the Institution of ths Order; and to extend and am∣plifie the same, divided the World amongst them. For Duke Charles took the North and West parts, his Brother the Eastern part, and to the other was given the South; where, in their own persons they were bound to found Convents, and invest Knights: And in prosecution of this design, we find, that Duke Charles be∣gan his Institution of this Order under the i 1.672 Rule of St. Francis, in the Monastery of the Capuchins in Olmuntz, the Metropolis of Moravia, on k 1.673 Saturday the 17. of November, in the foresaid year; and dedicated the same to the honor of the blessed Virgin, and St. Michael: But what th other two did in the Eastern or Southern parts of the world, we have not heard.

Ioh. Ludov. Gothofridus gives this Title to the Order, to wit, l 1.674 Ordo Equilum Mi∣litiae Christianae. Philip Brietius calls it m 1.675 Conceptionis Ordo. Andr. Mendo, n 1.676 Mi∣litia Virginis Annuntiatae, and the Knights thereof are called by Ios. Micheli Mar∣quez, o 1.677 Cavalleros de la Anunciada, y San Miguel Archangel en Mantua.

This Order was afterwards (viz. the * 1.678 8. of March 1619.) received at Vienna, by many Princes of divers Countries, whose names, together with the Statutes of the Order, are set down by the said Gothofridus, in the p 1.679 work above cited. I was approved by Pope q 1.680 Paul the Fifth, and the r 1.681 6. of February 1624. it received confirmation from Pope Urban the Eighth.

From the preamble of the Statutes of this Order, it appears, that it had for its Basis, the s 1.682 two chief Precepts of the Divine Law, to wit, to love God with our whole hearts, and with all our souls, and our Neighbour as our selves; and the end of its Institution, was to establish Peace and Concord between Christian Prin∣ces and their Subjects, to release Captives, and to deliver the oppressed out of the hands of the Infidels.

The t 1.683 Habit assigned to the Knights was White; upon which they wore a long White Mantle, and over that a shorter of Blue Silk, their Buskins were of Blue, and their Caps of Black Silk.

They bore u 1.684 two Crosses for the Ensign of this Order, the one of Gold of eight points enamel'd Blue, on the one side thereof was the Figure of the blessed Virgin, bearing our Saviour in her arms, and on the other the Portraicture of St. Michael, treading the Dragon under his Feet: This they wore about their necks in a Blue Ribbon.

The other w 1.685 Cross was made of Blue Silk and Gold, in the middle whereof was the Image of the blessed Virgin, surrounded with rays of the Sun, holding Christ in her left arm, and a Scepter in her right hand, crowned with 12 Stars, a Crescent

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placed under her feet; all which were encompassed with the Cord of St. Francis, and the four angles of the Cross, cast forth four golden flames. This Cross was embrodered on the left side of their white Mantles.

Touching the x 1.686 great Collar of this Order, it was composed of fifteen Cords of St. Francis, joined together with as many Stars; at the lower part whereof hung, at three Chainets, the golden Cross above described.

But it seems, that in the height and glory of this Order, there grew some y 1.687 diffe∣rence between the Founders, insomuch that in a short time it became ruined thereby; as if that notable Comet, which appeared within four days after it was instituted, shewed its sudden splendor and decay: which occasioned Brietius to say of it, z 1.688 That the Mahumetans, for whose destruction it was instituted, heard only the name and report of it.

Notes

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