Honor rediviuus [sic] or An analysis of honor and armory. by Matt: Carter Esq.

The Orders of Knighthood in most places of Christendome, and in particular first of the Order of St. George in England.

[illustration]

The Creation Robe of a Knight of y^e Garter

AS to Knighthood in generall, enough hath been already discoursed in the first part of this Treatise. I come now, to speak of the severall Otders, and especially those that are called Soveraign: amongst which I must needs esteem that of the Garter, or St. George in England to be as Noble as any in the World; not from that epidemick humor of most Writers, because it is of my own Nation; but for the excellency of it self: especially, in that according to the Articles of its foundation, none are to be admitted to the Honor, but such as are Peers of the Realm.

For the first occasion of the erecting these So∣veraign Orders of Knighthood, above the more common, was, that as all Honors were insti∣tuted for the reward and encouragement of de∣serving persons, so these for persons of more eminence, or more excellent merit, to receive a character that might in a higher nature

than ordinary blazon their merit to the world.

And that Order or fraternity must needs be esteemed of greatest honor, where the King shall submit himselfe to the badge of it.

This Order of the Garter we find to be in∣stituted by Edward the third, after a return from the Warrs against the French and Scots, with eminent victories. The occasion Sir Willi∣am Segar says was but slight; alluding as I con∣ceive to the story of the King's taking up the Countesse of Salisburies Garter; Which he wearing on his own leg, caused a jealousie in the Queen. And from thence received the mot∣to life, Hony soit qui mal y pens, Evill to him that evill imagines.

But I am of opinion that this humor arose from the French stories only, who would be apt enough to endeavour an abatement of the honor of it, lest its glory should appear too illustrious in the eye of the World; and out-shine or eclipse their then blazing Star.

And that we may a little examine the truth, let us observe the ridiculousnesse of the co∣herence of these merry scandalizers. First they differ in their time, as shall appear anon; then concerning the Lady, they take notice of to make up the pretty Romance, the mistake is very great and plain; for in some places they say it was the Queen's Garter, and if so, what needed then the Motto? But most common∣ly they say, it was the Countesse of Salisburies';

whom they name sometimes Alice, and some∣times Joan; when her name was Katherine, and Mistris, and after wife to the Black Prince Son of the said King, as is well observed in Heylyn's History of St. George.

By which, Froysart's error must appear very perspicuous, who was the first and most eminent Author of this mighty fable.

Mounsier Favin in his Theater of Honor, quotes Froysart, and Polydore Virgil, for the like account. But I am apt to collect another reason from Mr. Selden's discourse (an autho∣rity that I think needs no Apology) and to think Edward the third, being to engage a field, gave St. George for the word, (long time be∣fore, the Patron-Saint of England) in which battail he gained a great victory; which was about the year 1349. and at his return in the year one thousand three hundred and fifty, established thisOrder to the honor of St George, which agrees with the black Book of Windsor that Chronologizes it on the three and twenty∣eth day of April in the year one thousand three hundred and fifty, being the three and twenty∣eth of that King's Reign.

And I understand not, but that the addition of the Gartet might be after added to the En∣signes of the Order: for the firstEnsign together with the Robes was the Crosse of Saint George, yet in use amongst them.

And some do adde that the Garter was from a Martiall rise also, as that a leather-garter

upon the left leg was a mark given to some of the eminent Commanders with promise of en∣riching it on those that performed honorably in the charge.

For the account of the time according to other Authors, it is left disputable. Mr. Sel∣den takes notice of some of the French Authors, that affirm it to be erected in Anno 1344. yet after his victories; as in the relations of the same Froysart, and Thomas of Walsingam: And Polydore Virgil, (to whom Favin subscribes) will have it in An. 1347. Yet in another place he sets it down in the year one thousand three hundred and forty four. Oportet mendacem me∣morem esse.

And one other observation I collect from some of these Authors; that the Order was established before either of these passages; on∣ly as a Seminary to draw other Knights of the world into these parts; which caused the French King to do the like the same year of another Order by way of prevention; this is averred by some. Which is, I conceive by other circumstances, a mistake upon a Just or Turn∣ment proclaimed by the said King Edward (about the year one thousand three hundred forty and four) in all places beyond the Seas, to be held at Windsor; about which time he caused to be built a very large round table for the entertaining of such Princes and Persons of great quality, as should repair thither; when the Earl of Salisbury was so bruised at

the Justing, that he dyed. At the news of which meeting; the French King sodainly after did the like, to obstruct the concourse of great soldiers and honorable Personages that this would have produced.

The patron of this order is St. George; who suffered Martyrdome at Nicomedia, and was buryed at Lydda in Capadocia according to Dr. Heylin: but Mr. Selden sayes, he suffered at Lydda, under Diocletian, about the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Christ one hundred and ninty. Whose fame was so great in the world, that many Temples were built to his name, as that of Justinian in Armenia; and in Venice the chief Church for the Grecians; Jo. Eucaitensis built a Monastery to the honor of St. George in the time of Con∣stantine. Into which the Emperors after were wont to make a solemn procession every Saint Georges day. In Carinthia, there is an Order of Knighthood of St. George, in very much esteem. And Eusebius speaks also of another Order of St. George among the Greeks whose Ensign is a red Crosse with this Motto Sub hec signo vinces, begun by Constantiue the Great.

When first it came into this Nation, is by the best Antiquaries left disputed; but that he hath been long honored as Patron-Protector of England, is proved by all, and by Mr. Selden, before the Conquest; The three and twentyeth day of April, being constantly celebrated to his memory.

And it is no marvail (saith the same Author)

that so warlike a Nation should chuse to them∣selves the name of such a souldier Saint, known by the particular name of Tropheophorus, and of greater eminence in both the Eastern and Western Churches then any other Souldier-Saint.

The Soveraign of this order is the King of England; the number of the Fellowship is twenty six, besides the Soveraign; of which when any of them dye, the place is to be sup∣plyed by another elected by the Soveraign, with the consent of the Fraternity, as it was antiently; chosen and estalled at Windsor: but since it is referred to the entire disposing of the King.

They have many Articles confirmed, to which all that are enstalled subscribe; and have an oath to which they swear that, to their power, during the time they shall be fellows of the Order, they will defend the honor, qua∣rels, rights and Lordships of the Soveraign, and that they will endeavour to preserve the honor of the said Order, and all the Statutes of it without fraud or covin. Quinam perju∣rati?

The Officers of the Order are a Prelate, which is alwayes the Bishop of Winchester; a Chan∣cellor Register, a King of Arms called Garter; and an Usher called the Black Rod, added by Henry the eighth.

Their habit is a Cassock of Crimson Velvet, and a Mantle of Purple Velvet lined with

white Sarcenet, on the left shoulder whereof is an Escutcheon of S. George embroydered with∣in a Garter with the Motto: the Escutcheon is Argent, a plain Crosse Gules.

Above all, about the neck they wear a collar of the Order weighing thirty ounces of Gold Troy weight, composed of Garters and Knots enamel'd, and with Roses red and white; and since the coming in of King James, there hath been an intermixture of Thistles. At this collar hangeth the Image of St. George on horseback, enriched with precious stones.

And about the left leg they wear a Garter enamelled and enriched with gold, pearl, and stones of great value with the same Motto of Hony soit qui mal y pens.

For their ordinary Ensign they wear a blew ribbon over their left shoulder; and another on their left leg; and a Star of silver embroy de∣ry on the same side of their cloak with the Scutcheon of St. George in the Center of it. And sometimes at their Ribbon a George also, and then they wear it about their necks.

Their feast is yearly at Windsor Castle on St. Georges day. In which place upon the foun∣dation of it was a Church erected with Dean and Prebends; as also thirteen poor aged Gen∣tlemen, established to be maintained with sti∣pends by the name of Knights of Windsor: who had appointed to them robes of cloath accor∣ding to the manner of the Order, which were to pray for the Order.

Of the Knights of the Round Table in England.

IT is said by many writers, that the Order of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was inftituted in imitation 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Round Table: but I can give no great assurance of it; only I believe it probable enough; the beginning of them both agreeing also in some kind of Analogy. This of the Round Table, (for so much as is remaining in History) appears to me to have been the most noble in the world, either before or since, for ought yet I can understand. And pity it were the memory of it should perish, as it is almost; being buried in the metamorphosis of ridiculous fables; and by that means only 〈◊〉〈◊〉, with the shadowie reputation of a Romance, in the minds of many, and indeed most men.

It was erected by King Arthur, who reigned in the year of our Redemption 490. and conque∣red Norway, Scotland, and so much of France that he was crowned King of Paris: as both ours and the French annals testifie. Of this King many fabulous things have been writ; but we may collect so much from the more serious, as may assute us that without doubt many noble and (beyond ordinary) heroick acts were

performed by this generous Prince. Which caused the society of this Order to shine with so much the more splendor than the ordinary stars of this sublunary world: insomuch that it is recorded in some Chronologies, that at one time summoning them to a meet∣ing at a place in Wales, called Carlion, or Car∣lignion, there resorted to him ten Kings, thir∣teen Earls, and many Barons, and other per∣sons of great quality that were of the Frater∣nity.

This I have also in Sir William Segar; and in a very antient Chronicle which I have seen my selfe in Manuscript in that Country; which was much the same with the relations I have since met with, of this Order.

And that these Kings were not petty Kings must be understood, since there was at that time no Heptarchy, or Provincial Kings, but all Mo∣narchies, much in the same nature as they have been in our ages.

This King is generally reported by Chrono∣logers (and some of them solid too) to be taken alive from the earth; or at least miracu∣lously disposed of, invisibly: but this is a riddle too great for me to unfold. Many of them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 this fable I conjecture from an Epitaph that Merlin writ on him, Hic jacet Arturus, Rex quondam, Rex{que} futurus. Which very thing to my Judgement must make clear that he was buryed; which is their argument that he was not.

The Order or Fraternity however, was certainly in very great repute in the world, and being only a banquet of Honor could not but whet the emulations of all generous spi∣rits; for none were admitted to it but such as had shewed their merit by some eminent ex∣ploit.

Their place of convention was Winchester; where they had their Round Table, and at the Feast of Pentecost they alwayes met and feasted. So saith Sir William Segar, (in whose Orders of Knighthood the articles of this Order are set down): but others are of another opinion, and tell us that Windsor Castle was the most peculiar place, where a Round Table was erect∣ed for their meeting, being a Castle built by the same King; and the Records of the place shew us as much, though Winchester may sometimes have been the place, according as the time of the Kings being in progresse or keeping his Court accidentally there; as sometimes it was at Carleon; and sometimes in the North.

Knights of St. Andrew in Scotland.

THe Scots ever since the reign of Hungus the Pict have received St. Andrew for their Tutelar-Saint. Who, as it is reported in their

Histories making war on the English, saw in the skie a bright Crosse of St. Andrew; which is in the Shape of the Saltire, and in that battail after gained a very great victory. From which time ever since they flye that Crosse in their Banners. And from thence erected the Or∣der of St. Andrew. But I find nothing in Favin, Aubertus, Mereus, or the Scotch Wri∣ter 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that can satisfie me in what time it began. Only it was refined by James the fifth. Who being honored with the Garter from England, the Toyzon d'or from the Emperor, and St, Michael from France, celebrated the Festivals of them all; and setting up their se∣veral arms with their orders about them, over the gate of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, erected his own also with the order of Saint Andrew in the midst: which Order is ensigned with a Collar of Rue, and Thistles, with a Medal of St. Andrew hanging at it; and this Motto, Nemo me im∣pune 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Of the Golden Fleece in the Empire.

THis Order of the Toyzon d'Or was institu∣ted by Philip Duke of Burgundy, an. 1429. upon his expedition to the Holy Land, in me∣mory of Gideon, who with three hundred men

fought against, and overthrew, a mighty Army of the Midianites, as Favin is of opinion. Which perchance may be true: he marching upon a great enterprise with a smal Army, might do it to raise courage and emulation in his Commanders.

The Patron is St. Andrew, the Soveraign the Dukes of Burgundy: the number twenty four, besides the Soveraign, all of Noble blood. Their habit is a Cassock of Crimson Velvet, and over it a Mantle of the same, lined with white; which openeth on the right fide, and is turned upon the left over the shoulder, embroy∣dered round about with a bordure of flames, fusils, and fleeces; and a Hood of Crimson Velvet on their heads.

The Collar of the Order is of gold, wrought with flames, fusils, and fleeces; which they are bound to wear alwayes, upon a penalty. The power of making new is in the Soveraign only.

And who ever enters into it renounces all other orders of Knighthood, unlesse the Sove∣raigns be Emperors, Kings, or free Princes.

To the order belongs a Chancellor, a Trea∣surer, Register, and a King of Armes called Toyzon Dor.

At the Collar hangs a golden Fleece. And formerly there was an Impresse peculiar to it; which was an instrument to strike fire, with his Motto, Ante ferit, quàm flamma micet.

The Emperor Charles the fifth, being after∣wards Soveraign as Duke of Burgundy, did much increase the Order.

The severall Orders of Knighthood in France.

Knights of the Star.

THis order I find of very great eminence in France, called the Star of the Sea; and sometimes also of the Virgin Mary. It was in∣stituted by King Robert, an. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And himself, and succeding Kings were of the Fraternity. Their Ensigne was a Star; which they wore was their Hoods, or Caps. But this Order in time grew so common, and distributed so im∣meritorioufly, that Charles the seventh (as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at it) commanded every Yeoman of his Guard to wear a Star in like manner; which the Knights seeing, presently left it off, and so the Order fell.

Knights of St. Michael.

JN the stead of the Knighthood of the Star the same King Charles erected the order of of St. Michael as some suppose: but more truly Lewis the eleventh at Amboys an. 1469. upon the occasion of a Vision (as their Historians relate) of the Archangel's appearance on Orleans Bridge as their Tutelar against the English. At which time the famous Amazon, Joan of France, lived, who did many Heroick exployts, leading an Army her self in the field against the English. For which the English after ha∣ving vanquisht her (much to our disparage∣ment I think) in revenge caused her to be burnt for a Witch in the Market-place of Or∣leans: in which place is since a Conduit erect∣ed to her memory.

This order of Monsieur St. Michael Arch∣angel is of thirty six Knights, and a Soveraign, which is the King. The Cognisance of the Order is a Collar of gold made of cockle-shels and knots, with the Image of St. Michael pendant at it, which Collar ought to weigh two hundred Crowns in gold, and not above nor under.

For the wearing of this Collar there was a very strict article; as that, Every man that did not wear it every day was to cause a masse to

be said, and to pay seaven shillings six pence Turnoys of forfeiture: except in Arms, and then they were permitted to wear only the Image of the Angel on a chain or ribbon: the Motto of the order is, Immensi tremor Oceani.

To this order is established a Herald called Mon. St. Michael, a Treasurer, a Chancellor, and a Register. Their habit according to the constitution of Henry the second of France was, his doublet, hose, shooes, scabbard, hat-band, and feather, all white; a Surcoat with sleeves, of cloth of silver; over it a Mantle of the same turned up over the left shoulder, and tyed over the right, embroydered with a bordure like the Collar. Over his shoulder lay a hood of cloth of silver spreading over his back, the tippet hanging down before, and over all the Collar.

Knights of the Holy Ghost, or St. Esprit.

TO this order of St. Michael did Henry the third, in honor of Whit-Sunday, (on which day he was chosen King of Poland) institute the order of Chivaleir du benoist sante Esprit: Joyning both this and the other into one, an. 1578. as they continue to this day.

In this discourse of this order by Monsieur Favin, is set down the Oathes, Ceremonies, Pensions, Accompts, and all the duties: all which should I insert would be too 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for my intention. The manner of their procession to Court, and many other particulars, is set down concerning them in Sir William Segar.

Their robe is like that of St. Michael; only of black Velvet embroydered all about with gold and silver of Flowers-de-lysse, and knots of gold between sundry cyphers of silver, and flames of gold, seamed: garnished also with a Mantle of green cloth of silver, wrought over with the same manner of embroydery with the Mantle both lined with Orange coloured Sat∣tin. The great Mantle they wear turned up over the left shoulder, and open on the right: their hose and doublet white, and black bonnets with white plumes; the Collar over all, wrought in the same manner as the embroydery. They have a crosse hanging at it, with a Dove in the Center of it, as in another place shall be de∣scribed.

Of the Order of the Gennet.

THis by the Annals of France is reckoned the first Order that ever was instituted in that Country. But I have not given it the first place, because it is now extinguished, and

its essence only remaining in the Chronolo∣gie of Fame. It was ordained by Charles cal∣led the Tyrant, before his usurpation called Charles Martell Seneschall, or High Steward of France. Who in a battel against the Moores, gaining a Victory, had, amongst many other spoyls, a great number of Genets skins, and some of the beasts; In memory of which victo∣ry he instituted this Order, about the year of our Lord 726. The number was 16. to whom he gave Collars of gold made of a triple chain enterwoven with enameld red Roses, at the end whereof hung a Gennet of gold enamelled black and red, upon a Terrasse or bank of flowers fairly enamel'd: This continued till King Robert, and then the Star of the Sea e∣clipsed it.

These Knights saith Aubertus Meraeus, had other Ensignes appropriated also, as a Ring af∣ter the manner of the Romans; and certain habits for the body.

About which time, or not long after, Char∣lemain created another Order called of the Crown Royall: but that was not so much in esteem, being only for a reward of service in Friezland, the Governour of the Country ha∣ving the power of creating the Knights.

Knights of the Broomeflower; And also of the Ship.

LEwis the ninth in his time instituted two Orders of Knighthood; one called of the Broomeflower in the Cod, and the other of the Ship, called also of the Crescent, or half Moon.

The first he instituted at his Coronation, and it continued till the end of the reign of Charls the fifth, and extinguished with his life. The collar of the Order was composed of Cods of Broomeflowers intermixed with Lozanges en∣amelled with flowers-de-lysse; and at it, hung a Crosse formy flory, with this Motto; Exaltat humiles.

The other of the Ship he erected upon the occasion of the second voyage into Egypt, to encourage the Nobility that went with him. The collar of the Order was enterlaced with double Scallops, and double Crescents inter∣woven with a meddal hanging at it, with a Ship enamelled under sayl.

This King Lewis returning from his voyage against the Turks, an. 1554 brought home with him a Troop of Knights, called of St. Lazarus, to whom he gave large possessions: But afterwards, this Order fell again, and their revenues were given to the Knights

of Malta: untill the time of Henry the fourth who instituted that of Mount-Carmel, and re∣vived that of St. Lazarus.

There are many other ancient Knighthoods recorded in France, but as they were of lesse esteem, so are they also out of date; and I shall only name them, most of which were more private Orders, and had subjects for their So∣veraigns: There was of the Porcupine: Of the Thistle of Bourbon: of the Croissant of Anjou: of the Ermin of Britagne. Of which examin Monsieur Favin his Theatre of Honor.

There was also an order of the Dog and Cock, appropriated to the family of Monmoren∣cy, and another of de la dame blanke al' escue verd; or the order of the Fair Lady of the green Field; instituted by Jean de Boucicaut Marshal of France under Charles the sixth, who were sworn unto divers Articles, as that they should assist all Ladies, and Gentlewomen wronged in their honors or fortunes, answer challenges of Armes, supply one anothers necessary ab∣sence, that if any Lady or Gentlewoman, re∣quired aid of any of them, and after any Knight or Esquire should challenge him, he should first right the Lady; and then perform the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or if a chalenge preceded such other accident, it was at their pleasure which to undertake first; and many more such, which would be too tedious for this place. They are at large in Mauchaut Sieur de Roman ville his history of Boucicat.

Of Military Orders in Spain.

Of the Order of the Lilly.

THis Order was erected in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by Garcia the sixth, of the name surnamed Naiera, in honor of the Virgin Mary; and upon a miracle so great as might make this Lilly one of the primest flowers in her little garden. The substance of it this: The King having been ve∣ry sick; in the extremity of his disease sent to St. Saviour de Leyra, and other places of devotion, that prayers and interercessions might be made for his recovery; In which time was discovered in the City of Naiera, (where or∣dinarily he kept Court) the Image of the Virgin Mary issuing out of a Lilly, holding her Son berwixt her arms. And suddenly af∣ter the discovery of this, the King recovered his health; and many other miracles were done on diseased people in that place, as sup∣posed by vertue of the Virgin Mother; whom they tearmed the Lilly of the Vallyes. In ho∣nor whereof the said King erected this Order, and made himself Soveraign of it, and his Sucessors after him. These Knights did wear

on their breasts a Lilly embroydered in silver; and on festivall dayes a double chain of gold in∣terlaced with letters M, after the manner of the Gotish letter; with an Oval meddal hanging at it with a Lilly enamelled.

Knights of San Jago, or St. James.

THis was erected by the resolution of Gen∣tlemen, being either Barons, or men of great quality, that (jupon the conquering of their Country by the Arabians) retired into the Mountains of Asturia; and residing there made an engagement of War against the Moors; agreeing upon religious Rules of Knighthood, yet reserving to themselves li∣berty of marriage: but this Order Favin speaks to be erected by Alphonso the ninth, an. 1158. and that it was confirmed in 1175, by Pope Alexander the third,

Their Governor is called great Master, their feast is on All-Saints day; when they meet in very great magnificence, having very great re∣venues: their Ensign a red Crosse shaped like a Sword, with an Escollop's shell on it, in imita∣tion of the badge of the Pilgrims that go to Jerusalem, and to the Sepulchre of St. James the Apostle.

Now the great Master of this Order hath alwayes neer him thirteen Knights where ever he goes for his aid, and Councill; and so all the other Orders in Spain.

Of the Order of Calatrava.

THis was begun an. 1158. in imitation of that of St. Jago, by Don Sanctio the third, King of Toledo, and it takes it name from the place of its establishment: their habit is a black garment, and on the breast thereof a red Crosse; they have many great priviledges, and possessi∣ons in Spain, the form of their Crosse is set down in the end of this discourse; which if we will believe Monsieur Favin, and Aubertus Maereus, is quite another then that which Sir William Segar describes.

Knights of Alcantara.

THese also derive their denomination from the place of their institution, and living under the same orders with those of Ca∣latrava, doe wear the same fashioned Crosse, only the Colour is green

They have a very glorious Church at Alcan∣tara in Castiglia upon the river Tago, endowed

with rich possessions, where their great meet∣ings are.

These were first of the order of St. Julian, called the order of the Pear-tree, Ferainando the second King of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Gallicia, being the first great Master. 1176.

Knights of the Band.

SIR William Segar attributes the originall of this Ordsr to Alphonso King of Spain, an. 1268. But Favin sets it down in an. 1330. from the testimony of Don Antonio de Gueva∣ra, Bishop of Mondognedo; But by the same person Alphonso the eleventh, of which Order (that it might receive the more reputation) he enrolled himselfe and his Son. And yet (as Fa∣vin sayes) None were to be admitted but younger brothers, and mean Gentlemen of poor and slender sufficiency, who must have been ten years followers of the Court; or at the least had fought three times against the Moors.

They wear a red Scarfe or Ribon, crosse the left shoulder, like our Knights of the Bath, the breadth of three inches. Their articles are too many to be inserted here. Sir William Segar and Favin have them at large.

D' Avis in Portugal.

THere was an Order in Portugal, erected in the year 1147. called D' Avis, by Alphon∣so the first, who were seatrd in the City Ebora, and so called from the Virgin Mary, being Pa∣tronesse of the City. They had a great Master, and were called Fratres, and the place of their convention was called Frieria. Their Ensign is the same Crosse with Calatrava vert, and in the centre of it a Pear-tree.

Of the Order of Jesus Christ.

SInce, in the year 1320. was erected another Order of more esteem amongst the Portu∣gals called of Jesus Christ, by Dionysius King of that Country, and nephew to Alphonso the tenth of Castile; to which Order was given much of the revenue of the Knights Templars, that lay in that Countrey, the Kings of Portu∣gal are ever the Soveraigns of the Order to this day: The Ensign of the Order is a red crosse surmounted or intersected with another white, on a black vestment; and they have many privi∣ledges, and Articles amongst them.

Of this order was Don Pantaleon, (Brother to the Portugal Embassadour) who was beheaded at Tower-Hill, July 10. 1654.

Knights of Montesia.

THis order was much about the time of those of Calatrava and received their name from the place of their residence in Va∣lentia, and do wear for their Ensign a plain crosse Gules.

This order was established in the year 1317. and had much of the revenue of the Knights Templars also, setled on them.

Knights of Redemption:

THese Knights called of Redemption, were erected by James King of Aragon, upon the conquering the Islands of Majorica, in the year 1212. Their Articles are many, but the chief is, they are to redeem prisoners; from whence their title is derived: their habit is a white garment, with a black crosse; and their Governour is alwayes resident at Barcco, na.

D'Espuella D' Orada, or, Of the Goldeu Spnr.

THere is another Order in Spain, of far more honor called 〈◊〉〈◊〉 D' Espuella D' Orada. Which was created with much cere∣mony; as bathing (like our Knights of the Bath), then being laid on a rich bed, after brought to the Chappel or Church, where he performs his Vigils, confesses, and supplicates for power to observe the duty belonging to the order; then his gold spurs are put on, and a sword girt about him, and the sword being drawn, is delivered into his right hand; in which posture standing, he takes an Oath, never to refuse to dye in defence of his Law, King, and Country. And then receiving a kisse from all the rest of the order, in testimony of the amity betwixt them, he is compleat.

Other orders there are there, as that of Ca∣valeri Armadi, Cavaleri 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Alarde, and some more antient; as the Order os the Dove or Ho∣ly Ghost in Castile; of St. Saviour of Mont Re∣al in Aragon; but these are either out of date, or of low reputation.

Knights of the Annun∣tiation.

THis Order, saith Sir William Segar, was erected about the same time with that of St. Michael, but how I shall engage my faith to this article I know not; for I find much un∣certainty in the relation, the institution of St. Michael being in an. 1469. according to his own account; and of the Annuntiation, an. 1434. Besides, there is a greater error yet, in computation; for Monsieur Favin, (who hath some reason in this case to be understood, aud hath been esteemed authentick) affirms it to be by Amedis the fifth, called also the Green, or Verd: whom he Chronologizes to live in an. 1355. which makes a vast difference: and again Aubertus Maereus, in his Symbola Equest. Ordinum gives the honor of its birth to Amedis the sixth, Earl of 〈◊〉〈◊〉: by which I must con∣fesse so great an uncertainty appears, as affrights me from any conclusion; but that by their general 〈◊〉〈◊〉, defacto, I am assured such an Order was. And that in memory of Amedis the fifth, who most couragiously defended Rhodes against the Turks, where he took the bearing of Gules a plain crosse Argent, which the Dukes of Savoy have continued till this day.

This order was first called of the snares of love, from the receiving from his Lady the favour of a bracelet made of her hair in∣to love-knots, and it was constantly celebrated on St. Maurices day, who is Patron-Saint of Savoy.

He composed it to consist of fifteen Knights, comprehending himself a chief Master.

The place of their celebration is the Church of Pietra, in the Castle of Bellies; unto which at the institution of this Order was given cer∣tain lands for the maintenance of fifteen Chap∣lains: and continually every Knight at his death gives to the Church an hundred Flo∣rins.

And one other Article was, that at the fune∣ral of every Knight ceremoniously performed at the Castle of Pietra, every Knight of the order should wear black; (whereas their mourn∣ing was a white Gown) and leave off the Col∣lar for certain dayes: and that at the enterment of the Soveraign, every Knight according to their seniority in order should offer up his Col∣lar.

Every Knight was sworn to wear this order dayly, and to accept of no other.

And that no person stained with reproach or dishonor should be admitted: or if found so after, to be degraded.

Of these past Knighthoods, these four, of the Garter in England; the Toyzon in Burgndy;

St. Michael, and of St. Esprit in France; and this of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Savoy, are the most honorable, and yet in being.

Of the Knights Templars.

THis Order as it hath been most famous in the world (though now extinct) I think ought to be preserved with an honora∣ble memory. It was erected in a pious de∣sign, perpetrated with a glorious fame; though extinguished in an ignoble and injust strata∣gem, of the Devil, the Pope, and the King of France.

Its first rise was from an accident of cer∣tain Gentlemen meeting in the Holy Land, (some say nine) an. 1117. Who hearing of the great disturbance of the Country by the in∣cursion of Turks and swarmings of Pickaroons, engaged a confederacy, with the hazzard of their lives to suppresse them. Which reso∣lution being known was so approved of by the Patriarch, that he commanded accommoda∣tion for them in the Temple neer the Sepul∣chre. And the King of Jerusalem appointed them all appertinencies for so religious an en∣terprize. From whence they received the name of Knights-Templars. And thus going on with much resolution and courage; many Christians came in to thrir assistance, and

many brave exploits were performed by them: Insomuch that in nine years time they had erected such a structure of honor, as set all the world at gaze, and establisht their Countrey in a happy peace. For a reward whereof, Pope Honorius, at the suit of the Patriarchof Jerusa∣lem, prescribed unto them a peculiar Order of life; and distinguished their order by wearing a white Garment, and Pope Eugenius ad∣ded a red Crosse; after which prosperity they elected a Head whom they called Great Ma∣ster.

Yet not long after this, Jerusalem and a great part of the Countrey was lost for want of supply from other parts of Christendome. How∣ever they still made war upon the Turks for 120. years, and added new breath to the Trump of Fame, purchasing large revenues to the Or∣der in most Kingdoms of Europe, being the exercise of love in all Christian Princes, and of emulation in every Heroick spirit: Insomuch that Vitriacus gives this character of them: they were, saith he, Leones in bello, agni man∣sueti in domo, in expeditione milites asperi, in Ecclesia vel ut Eremitae & Monachi; inimicis Christi duri & feroces, Christianis autem be∣nigni & mites, &c.

But this great glory could not shine for ever, without an eclipse; nor such favorites of fortune live without envy, as well as emu∣lation; and their fall was so much the more sodain and violent, by how much their fame

was higher. For in England, France, and al∣most all parts of Christendome, was it at an in∣stant (as it were) and in one very day, by sen∣tence of Pope Clement the first, (to satisfie the the base avarice of Philip de Beau the Roy of France) totally disolved and supprest.

The pretence was upon certain Articles ex∣hibited against them; which have been by all the world, almost not only adjudged false, but ridiculous. As that they used Pagan ceremo∣nies in the election of their great Master: that they lost the Holy Land, (when they alone en∣deavoured to preserve it): that they held some Heretical opinions: that they worshipped an Image apparelled in a mans skin: and that they drunk mans blood to confirm their oath of Con∣federacy.

When indeed itwas most certain, that the crime for which they suffered was their vast wealth; and their fidelity to the Patriarch, whom they owned before the Pope: cause suf∣ficient to set the one to solicite, and the other to grant, a monstrous doom, which they suf∣fered under; for what will not pride and ava∣rice do?

The Great Master himselfe and sixty others of the Order were commited to the mercy of fire in Paris at one time, and the rest persecu∣ted, if not executed, in most places; all of them dying without any acknowledgement of any one allegation, and with the same Christian and heroick spirits they had lived in,

and by the account of Favin (a French writer and one I think in this not too impartial) there was, at twice after, one hundred or above burn∣ed to death in Paris, all dying with innocence in their mouths; and in the same place many after.

But as such notorious evils are ever the Ush∣ers of God's infinite judgements, it was not far off here: for the two Knights imployed in the accusation, were one hanged, and the other slain, in a short time after.

How the Revenues prospered in the hands of the new possessors, I know not; or the possessors in the enjoyment of them; but I believe like those of Church lands in this Nation: And the account of stories and tra∣ditions I have seen and heard in particular of it, makes me with confidence say, Very unfortu∣nately.

Many of their Territories and Castles in some places were given to an order of Knight∣hood called the Joannites, Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, and particularly in Eng∣land, who were after Knights of Rhodes, and lastly of Malta, being conferred by Act of Parliament, (how taken from them I cannot say), and in Vienna by order of a great Coun∣cel.

Of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Rhodes, and Malta.

SOme have been of opinion that this Or∣der was originally from the time of the Holy War, an. 1099. When, by the conduct of one called Peter the Hermit, Robert Duke of Normandy, Son to William the Conqueror, God∣frey Duke of Lorrain, and some other Noble persons, Jerusalem was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Sara∣cens; being called Knights of St. John Baptist and of Jerusalem. But it is more certainly related, that certain 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Christians going to visit the Holy Sepulchre, obtained leave of the Caliph of Egypt, to build a little Cottage to live in by it: paying a due tri∣bute for their liberty as for their own resi∣dence, and for the entertaining such as should adventure to joyne with them in their devout life; which, Monsieur Favin relates to be Neo∣politans. After this, their number so encrea∣sed that they built another to entertain wo∣men, more large and stately; and enlarged their Oratory; and another for men in the nature of a Colledge or Hospital, where they established a Rector or Master, and from the

great charity among them, their religious life, and good deeds to Pilgrims, they were called brethren Hospitallers of St. John Baptist of Je∣rusalem.

And upon the Conquest of the Ciry, they had great Franchises granted them, and large revenues, with liberty to mannage armes, and were instituted to be Knights of St. John, An. 1164. And for their distinction they wore a black garment, with a white ankerd Crosse, with eight points; but in War they wore a red Coat of Arms with the same white Crosse See the example of the Crosses at the end of this discourse.

After their successe in the Holy War grew very famous, and that they had done very great exploits, almost over all Palestine; in the year 1308, they wonne the City of Rhodes from the Turks. And as valiantly maintained it against them afterwards, who four times 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it in vain; and the fifth time also was O taman himself repulsed, with the losse of 40000 Mahometans. But being constantly op∣pressed, and not encouraged with any reliefe from the Christians of other parts, after three moneths siege they lost it, and ever since have remained in Malta.

Into this Order no man was admitted but he was first to approve himself a Gentleman before the Rector. The Son of a Moore was not to be admitted, nor of a Jew or Mahome∣tan, though the Son of a Prince, and a Christi∣an

himselfe: and they were sworn to fight for the Christian faith, to do Justice, defend the op∣pressed, relieve the poor, persecute the Ma∣hometans, live vertuously, and protect Widows and Orphans.

Of Knights Teutonicks.

THis order of the Teutonici was founded by an Almain, who remaining in Jerusalem, after the taking of it, gave great and liberal en∣tertainment to all Christians that came to him, and in a short time had drawn such a resort; that from thence arose a Fraternity that bound themselves under certain Articles, and elect∣ed a great Master or Governor; every man of that association, apparelling himself in white with a black crosse pattee voyded with a crosse patonce. Which Fraternity afterwards grew a very great Order; and purchased a noble fame: But Jerufalem being taken by the Turks again, they removed, and pitcht their settle∣ment in Ptolemaida; and that being also taken by the Saracens, they retired to Germany; and engaging a War against the Prusians, they got great victories, and having the Em∣perours Grant for enjoying what by the sword they wonne, with expence of some blood, they purchased great revenues in Prusia: and

built many illustrious 〈◊〉〈◊〉, with Churches, and some Cathedrals, establishing Bishops to them, whom they enjoyned to wear the habit of the Order: this was about the year 1220. Fre∣derick the second, being then Emperor.

The chief Church appropriate to this Order is Marcenburg. The Knights besides their large possessions are Lords of Livonia, and they have a Governour, which they still call the Great Master.

Knights of St. Sepulcher.

THis was antiently an honorable Knight∣hood, but it is since extinguisht, and no∣thing but the memory of it remaining, and that inclusively in those of Malta. The En∣sign of the Order is yet extant amongst them, as a relique of antiquity; which is a double Crosse, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as it were, two conjoyned Gules, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Segar relates: But Favin speakes 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as that their Crosse was a Crosse 〈◊〉〈◊〉, in each Canton of the same a small Crosse plain; being the same as the armes of the Kings of Jerusalem: and from this origi∣nall that Godfrey of Bullein gave great goods to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, especially in his last Will and Testa∣ment; by which also he ordained that him∣self, and the successors Kings of Jerusalem, should be buryed in their Cathedrall Church,

which was joyning to the Sepulchre; that their Patriarch should have the Prerogative of crown∣ing them. And Baldwin his immediate succes∣sor establisht them an Order of Knighthood, (being before put regular Chanons) appointing the Patriarch of Jerusalem their Great Master: Thus Favin relates.

Knights of St. Mary.

THese were a religious Order, erected by certain Gentlemen of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Ma∣dona; for which they obtained a licence of Pope Urban, but with mony only, calling themselves Knights of St. Mary, but were commonly called Cavaleri de Madona; and indeed pro∣perly enough, for whereas they professed to fight against Infidels, they lived allwayes at home in peace, plenty, and ease, for which they gained the heroick character of Fratres gaudenti, or good-fellow Brethren.

Their habit was very rich, and on it they wore a Crosse, like that of St. John of Jerusalem.

Knights of St. Lazaro.

THe Knights of St. Lazaro challenge a great antiquity, so high as St. Basil; They had great possessions, and honorable reputation; but, like the Knights Templars, were suddenly eclipsed, and had as absolutely been smother∣ed in the Funeral croud of obscured honor, had not Pope Pius Quartus a little revived them.

This Order does own obedience to a great Master also, and are engaged to the obser∣vance of many Articles; especially they are to be of lawful birth, and Gentlemen by dou∣ble descent, and of Christian parents; to wear a green Crosse in the manner of a Crosse Pattee fimbriated, as Sir William Segar describes; but Aubertus Maereus otherwise, as is exemplified hereafter.

Of the Knights of the Bear, called also of St. Gall.

IN the year 1213. the Emperour Frederick the second, going in Pilgrimage to the Abbey of St. Gall, gave great priviledges in

acknowledgment of their assistance in pulling down the Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and establishing him. Whereupon also he established an Order of Knighthood, called of the Bear; which Knights were yearely to meet at the Abbey of St. Gall, on the 16. of October; where all new Knights were to receive the order from the Abbot.

This Order he called of the Bear in honor of St. Ursus that was martyred at Soleure. Un∣to this Order he gave a collar and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of gold, at which hung a figure of a Bear ena∣melled Sable.

Of the Order of the Ele∣phant.

IN Denmark is a Military order, called of the Elephant, and also of the blessed Vir∣gin Mary: who have for their Collar a chain of gold interwoven with Elephants and Spurs, and at it hangeth a meddal of the Virgin Mary, encompassed about with Rayes of the Sun; at the neather part whereof hangeth ano∣ther circle enclosing three nayles, which 〈◊〉〈◊〉 term Symbola omnia Christianae 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Who was the Founder is left 〈◊〉〈◊〉: the Ele∣phants are figured with Castles on theis backs, which some doe suppose to be the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or designment of Christernus. 4.

Of the Order of Mantua.

JN Mantua, some Fryers doe report to be some of the bloud of our Saviour kept, with a piece of the Spunge in which he re∣ceived the Vinegar and Gall. Which Reliques they say, doe daily work extraordinary mira∣cles. In honor of which bloud Vincentio de Gon∣zaga, fourth Duke of Mantua, did institute an Order of Knighthood, calling them Knights of the bloud, of our Saviour Jesus Christ, making himself the Great Master of the Or∣der; which was confirmed by Pope Paul the fifth.

The originall of it was about the year 1608. when he created fifteen Knights, giving them collars composed of Ovals of Gold, some the length one way, others another; in one of which were these words, Domine probâsti; and in the other, flames of fire, flashing about a crucible or melting-pot full of sticks of Gold; and at the same hangeth before another large Oval, where∣in are designed two Angels standing upright, holding a Chalice, and pix, crowned; on the table of it, are seen enamelled 〈◊〉〈◊〉 drops of blood; And about this Oval is this Inscription, Nihil I sto triste recepto.

Knights of St. Stephano.

THis Order was erected in the year 1561. by Cosmo Duke of Florence; ordaining amongst them such articles almost as those of the Order of Malta: their residence is Pisa; where the said Duke erected a Church to the honor of the Order, and is himselfe the Great Master.

Other Orders of Knighthood there are, and have been in the Holy Land, and other parts: As of St Thomas Apostle; St. Kathe∣rine of Mount Sinai: Of the white Eagle in Polonia: Of the Swan in Cleveland: The Bre∣thren Sword-bearers in Livonia: Of St. Blase in Armenia: Of St. John of Acres, and of St. Gerian, which was instituted by Frederick 〈◊〉〈◊〉, to which order none were ad∣mitted but Germaine Gentlemen. But these are all, or most of them, out of date, and not so considerable as to trouble an inge∣nious brain with, in this place. Favin and others have discoursed enough of them, to which (if the reader be desirous of further knowledge) I refer him. There is also ano∣ther Order called of the white Dragon in Germany, erected by the Emperour Sigismond, upon a resolution of extirpating heresie and

schism throughout all his Dominions, who had for their Ensign a white Dragon: and in Swe∣then another, which is called of the Seraphins: who had at their institution appointed them collars of Seraphins heads, intermixed with Crosses. And now, if I have not been too tedi∣ous in this discourse of Knighthood, I have I hope said enough, and conclude with the de∣scription of the severall forms of their Crosses before mentioned.

[illustration]

The first is of St. Esprit, the second, of St. Michael, the third of Calatrava, the fourth of St. John of Jerusalem, the fifth of St. Lazarus

the sixth of the Teutonicks, the seventh of St. Andrew, the eighth of the Sepulchre, the ninth of Christus d' Avis.

And so I take leave of Knighthood: and in the next place only cursorily run through the antiquity of Heralds, and the Inns of Court and Chancery with their foundations; for which last (though not very pertinent to my businesse,) yet I may expect an excuse, since it hath nor yet been any way done.

The End of Knighthood.

Notes

• Heylyn. fol. 325. & 326.
• Seld c. 5. fol. 792.
• Fav. fol. 68. & 70.
• Heylyn. Hist. de St. Geo. cap. 1. fol. 142.
• Cedton. pag. 650.
• De vit. Const. l 1. l. 32.
• Seg. f. 155.
• Heyly n-Hist. de St. Georg. fol. 318.
• Geof. of Mun∣mouth.
• Aubertus Maereus, fol. 145.
• Lesleus, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 9. pa. 193.
• Favin. l. 4. fol. 14.
• Segar.
• Seld. Title of Honor ca. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 p. 55.
• Bodin. de rep. lib. 5. cap. 4.
• Seld. pars: sec. cap 3. fol. 552.
• Favin l. 3. pag. 372.
• Hon. Mil. & Civ. lib. 2. p. 87 88, 89.
• Fav. lib. 3. fol. 312. & Aubert. Meraeus. pag. 62.
• Fol. 63.
• Knights of St. La∣zarus.
• Knights of Mount Carmel.
• Porcu∣pine. Thistle. Croissant. Ermin. Cock and dog. Seld. pag. 554, 555.
• A Book of devoti∣on full of improba∣ble 〈◊〉〈◊〉 licen∣cedby the Church of Rome.
• Fau. l. 6. fol. 11.
• Segar.
• Favin. l. 6. fol. 138.
• Ibid. f. 137
• Aub Mae. foi. 99.
• Segar.
• Favin. l. 6. fol. 142.
• Ibid. fol. 163, 164.
• Aub. Maer. fol. 119.
• Seg.
• Aub. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• Mr. Seld. Title of Honor, fol. 576.
• favin. l. 8. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 310.
• Segar. fol. 66.
• Vid. Aub. Maer. f. 77. & 78.
• Hist. orient. cap. 65. & 66.
• 〈◊〉〈◊〉. fol. 92.
• 7 of Ed. 2.
• Segar. fol. 66, 67.
• Favin. l. 9. fol. 388.
• 〈◊〉〈◊〉. l. 2. ol. 105.
• Ibid fol. 106.
• Favin lib. fol. 381.
• Seg fol. 107.
• Favin. l 7. fol. 273.
• Aub Maer. lib. 2. f. 79
• Ibid. sol. 150.
• Favin. fol. 392.