Charles R. Charles' the Second, by the Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith etc. To all Our loving Subjects, of what degree, condition, or quality soever, within Our Kingdoms and Dominions, Greeting: Whereas it hath been manifested unto Us, that Our trusty and wellbeloved Elias Ashmole Esq Windesor Herald at Arms, hath for fifteen years passed applied himself to the search and study of things, relating to the Honour of Our most Noble Order of the Garter, and hath at his great charge, and expense of time, now completed a Book, Entitled, The Institution, Laws, and Ceremonies of the said most Noble Order; collected and digested into one Body, and adorned with variety of Sculpture; whose pains therein, as it is greatly to Our satisfaction, so can We no less, for his past industry and future encouragement, in his further progress of these Studies, but express Our good liking and approbation thereof: Know ye therefore, That it is Our Royal Pleasure, and We do by these presents, upon the humble request of the said Elias Ashmole, not only give him leave and licence to Print the said Book, but strictly charge, prohibit, and forbid all our Subjects, to reprint within this Our Kingdom, the said Book in any Volume, or any part thereof, or any Abridgement of the Laws or Ceremonies therein contained, or to copy or counterfeit any the Sculptures or Ingravements belonging thereunto, or to import, buy, vend, utter, or distribute any Copies or Exemplaries of the same, reprinted beyond the Seas, within the term of fifteen years, next ensuing the publishing thereof, without the consent and approbation of the said Elias Ashmole, his Heirs, Executors, or Assigns, as they and every of them so offending, will answer the contrary at their utmost perils: Whereof, aswell the Wardens and Company of Stationers of our City of London, the Farmers, Commissioners, and Officers of Our Customs, as all other Our Officers and Ministers whom it may concern, are to take particular notice, that due obedience be given to this Our Royal Command, herein declared. Given under Our Signet and Sign Manual, at Our Court at Whitehall, the 31. day of March, in the 22. Year of Our Reign, 1670. By his Majesty's Command Arlington. The most High most Excellent and most Mighty Monarch Charles the Second by the Grace of God King of Great Britain France and Ireland Defender of the Faith and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. 〈◊〉 Sherwin sculpsit THE INSTITUTION. Laws & Ceremonies Of the most NOBLE ORDER OF THE GARTER. Collected and digested into one Body BY ELIAS ASHMOLE of the Middle-Temple Esq WINDESOR Herald at Arms. A Work furnished with variety of matter, relating to HONOUR and NOBLESSE. LONDON, Printed by I. Macock, for Nathanael Brook at the Angel in Cornhill, near the Royal Exchange, MDCLXXII. AUGUSTISSIMO POTENTISSIMOQUE MONARCHAE CAROLO TWO D. G. MAGNAE BRITANNIAE FRANCIAE ET HIBERNIAE REGI FIDEI DEFENSORI ET SUPREMO NOBILISSIMI MILITARIS ORDINIS GARTERII HOS ORDINIS COMMENTARIOS HUMILLIME D. D. ELIAS ASHMOLE FECIALIS WINDESOR. PREFACE. IT is not to be attributed only to Custom, but sometimes it's necessary, in order to the Readers greater convenience, that Books are commonly recommended to their perusal, by somewhat prefatory, as Epistles, etc. the use of them being chiefly, to render an account of what they contain, and by a short Antipast, to represent to them, what they are likely to find in the Entertainment of the whole Work. This consideration hath obliged me to a compliance with others, and to acquaint my Reader, what occasioned my engaging upon this Subject, and what I have done therein. As I ever had a great veneration for the most Noble Order of the Garter, so must it needs be imagined, that I was accordingly much concerned, in the late unhappy times, to see the honour of it trampled on, and itself sunk into a very low esteem among us. That re●lection put me upon thoughts, not only of doing something, that might inform the world of the Nobleness of its Institution, and the Glory which in process of time it acquired, both at home and abroad; but also of drawing up, in the nature of a Formulary, both the Legal and Ceremonial part thereof, for the better conduct of such as might be therein afterwards concerned, in case the Eclipse, it then waded under in our Horizon, should prove of so long continuance, as that many occurrences, worthy of knowledge, might come to be in a manner forgotten. Upon the first communication of my design, to the late Reverend Doctor Christopher Wren, Register of the said Order, it received not only his full approbation, but also his ready assistance in the use of the Annals thereof, then in his custody: From those, and other authentic Manuscripts and Autographs, particularly relating to the Order, and a painful and chargeable search of our public Records, I had collected the greatest part of my Materials, before the happy Restauration of his now Majesty the present Sovereign of this most Noble Order; who, being afterwards acquainted with what I had done, was most graciously pleased to countenance it, and encourage me in the prosecution thereof. The Work in general contains an Historical account of the Laws and Ceremonies of the said most Noble Order; but more particularly, its Institution, the manner and order observed in Elections, Investitures, and Installations of Knights, the Holding of Chapters, Celebration of Festivals, the Formality of Proceedings, the Magnificence of Embassies sent with the Habit, to Stranger Kings and Princes; in sum, all other things relative to the Order. In the illustration whereof, I have inserted (where they properly occurred) the most eminent and considerable Cases, which have required and received discu●sion in Chapters, the determinations thereupon becoming Rules and Laws; Whence it may be observed, that the Foundation and Superstructures of the Order, were laid and raised upon the exactest Rules of Honor. And to supply the failer and defects of the Annals, I have been forced to make use of Memorials and Relations, yet such as were taken notice of, and committed to writing, either by some of the Officers of the Order, or those of Arms, during the times of their attendance on the Service of the Order, and consequently of sufficient authority for me to rely on. To usher in those, I have given a Prospect of Knighthood in General, of the several Orders of Knighthood, as also of the Antiquity of the Castle and College of Windesor; and closed all, with the Honours, Martial Employments, and famous Actions, the Matches and Issues of the Founder, and first Knights-Companions, as also a perfect Catalogue of their Successors to this very present. All which are adorned with variety of Sculptures, properly relating to the several parts of the Work: But the following Synopsis of its whole Contexture, and the Heads of the Chapters▪ will excuse a further enlargement here. I shall with submission add, That this noble Subject, having not been (at some times) heedfully looked into, some irregularities have happened, on which I have made the less adnimadversion, in regard it was my desire, by proceeding upon what is purely derived from the Root, to show wherein the right Rule, either Legal or Ceremonial, hath been observed (that it may still be pursued, till thought ●it to be altered) and as little as may be, where broken: to the end also, that a careful distinction may be made between matter of Law, and matter of Fact; lest otherwise, an Error may hereafter come to be vouched for a Precedent. And whereas some passages may seem of little importance, it is to be considered, That the ensuing Discourse, is limited to an account only of certain peculiar Laws and Ceremonies of Honour, wherein sundry minute things (occasionally falling in) are not only pardoned, but also allowable, yea very necessary to be mentioned; in regard they promote their satisfaction, who are more particularly concerned therein. And this will be yet the rather excusable, if another thing, which hath occasioned no small inconvenience, be reflected on: to wit, The omission or negligence of many Writers in setting down Occurrences, merely upon the score of their being then fresh in most men's memories; by which means, Posterity hath not only been deprived of many passages, whereof it would gladly have been informed, but the elaborate disquisitions of both Critics and Antiquaries have proved fruitless, and of little advantage, and the things themselves lie yet buried in obscurity. Lastly, to explicate some few Abbreviations in the Margin, it is to be observed, that where I cite the Annals of the Order, they are thus noted. Lib. N. to be read Liber Niger, Lib. C. Liber Caeruleus, R. Rubeus, and Carol. Carolinus. So also the Collections or Manuscripts of some that have been, or now are Officers of Arms (whose frequent quotations would otherwise have too much swelled the Margin) being thus abbreviated. E. W. G. signify Edwardus Walker Garter, R. C. Cl. Robertus Cook Clarenceux, W. le N. Cl. Willielmus le Neve Clarenceux, W. D. N. Willielmus Dugdale Norroy, A. V. W. Augustinus Vincent Windesor, and G. O. Y. Georgius Owen York. The rest may be easily understood. E. A. THE CONTENTS Of the CHAPTERS. CHAP. I. Of Knighthood in general. Sect. I. Of Virtue and Honor. Page 1. II. The Antiquity of Knighthood. 5. III. Of the Foundation of the Equestrian Order among the Romans. 6. IV. Of the Modern Degrees of Knighthood. 12. V. The Etymology of Eques, Miles, Chevalier, Ritter, and Sir. 17. VI The Ensigns of the Equestrian Order among the Romans. 21. VII. The Ensigns and Ornaments of Knighthood among other Nations. 27. VIII. Qualifications for Knighthood. 31. IX. The various Ceremonies used at the conferring of Knighthood. 36. X. Of the Dignity, Honour, and Renown of Knighthood. 43. CHAP. II. Of the Religious Orders of Knighthood in Christ●ndom. Sect. I. Of ancient Societies, analogous to the Orders of Knighthood. Page 47. II. The Christian Institution of Knightly Orders. 48. III. The Division of Knightly Orders into Religious and Military. 49. IV. Of Ecclesiastical Foundations dependant upon Military Orders. 50. V. A brief account of the Religious Orders of Knighthood. 51. CHAP. III. An Account of the Orders absolutely Military. Sect. I. The Order of Knights of the Round Table. etc. Page 94. II. Of Knights in the West-Indies. 124. III. The Feminine Cavaliers of the Torch in Tortosa. 125. CHAP. IU. Of the Castle, Chappel, and College of Windesor. Sect. I. Of the Castle of Windesor. Page 127. II. Of the Chapel of St. George. 135. III. The Foundation of the College within the Chapel. 152. IV. Of the Dean, Canons, Petty-Canons, Clerks and Choristers. 153. V. Of the Alms-Knights. 158. VI Of other Officers of the College. 166. VII. Of the Endowment of the College. 167. VIII. Of the Privileges of the Chapel and College. 174. CHAP. V. The Institution of the most Noble Order of the Garter. Sect. I. The several Opinions touching the Occasion of its Institution. Page 178. II. The true Cause asserted. 181. III. The Time when the Order was Instituted. 185. IV. Of the Patrons of the Order. 187. V. The Honour and Reputation thereof. 189. CHAP. VI The Statutes and Annals of the Order. Sect. I. Of the Statutes of Institution. Page 190. II. Of th●se other Bodies of Statutes since established. 191. III. Several Endeavours for Reforming the Statutes, since the Reign of King Henry the Eighth. 194. IV. Of the Annals of the Order. 198. CHAP. VII. The Habit and Ensigns of the Order. Sect. I. Of the Garter. Page 202. II. Of the Mantle. 208. III. Of the Surcoat. 211. IV. Of the Hood and Cap. 214. V. The Robes anciently assigned to the Queen and great Ladies. 217. VI Of Collars in general. 218. VII. The Collar of the Order. 220. VIII. Collars of SS. 224. IX. The lesser George. 226. X. When the Habit, or part of it, aught to be worn. 231. CHAP. VIII. The Officers appointed for the Service of the Order. Sect. I. The Prelate's Institution, his Oath, Robe, and Privileges. Page 234. II. The Institution of the Chancellor's Office, his Oath, Robe, Badge, and Pension. 237. III. The Register's Institution, Oath, Mantle, Badge, Privileges, and Pension. 248. IV. Garter's Institution, Oath, Mantle, Ensign, Badge, Privileges, and Pension. 252. V. Institution of the Black Rod's Office, his Oath, Habit, Ensign, Badge, Privileges, and Pension. 256. VI The Payment of the Officers Pensions upon the new Establishment. 258. VII. The Execution of these Offices by Deputies. 260. CHAP. IX. The Election of a Knight into the Order. Sect. I. Of Summons to the Election. Page 262. II. The Place of Assembly. 264. III. The Number of Knights that constitute a Chapter. 265. IV. Dispensation for want of a full Number. 266. V. Of Opening the Chapter. 268. VI That Knights only present in Chapter ought to nominate. 269. VII. Of the Number, Qualifications, and Degrees of the Persons to be nominated. 271. VIII. Of the Scrutiny, and by whom it ought to be taken. 276. IX. The Time when. 278. X. The Manner and Order of it. 279. XI. The Presentation of it to the Sovereign. 283. XII. His Considerations thereupon referring to the Qualification of each Person to be Elected. 284. XIII. Of other Inducements for Election. 290. XIV. That the Sovereign only doth Elect. 291. XV. The Scrutiny ought to be entered among the Annals. 292. XVI. The Scrutiny ought not to be viewed until it be entered. 293. XVII. Of Scrutenies taken, yet no Election made. 294. XVIII. The Penalties inflicted on Knights-Companions, who appear not at an Election. 295. CHAP. X. The Investiture of a Knight-Subject with the Garter and George. Sect. I. The Notice given to a Knight Subject of his Election. 296. II. His Reception into the Chapterhouse. 298. III. The Ceremonies of Investiture with the Garter and George. 299. IV. Of sending the Garter and George to an Elect Knight-Subject. 302. V. The Manner of a Knights Investiture. 308. VI Allowances and Rewards given to Garter for his Service in this Employment. 311. CHAP. XI. Of Preparations for the Personal Installation of a Knight. Sect. I. That Installation gives the Title of Founder. Page 312. II. Of the Time and Place appointed for Installation. 313. III. Of Commissions for Installation. 314. IV. Letters of Summons. 315. V. Warrants for the Livery of the Order. 316. VI The Removal of Achievements and Plates. ibid. VII. Preparations made by the Knight Elect. 334. CHAP. XII. The Personal Installation of a Knight-Subject. I. Of the Cavalcade to Windesor. Page 338. II. The Offering in the Chapel, on the Eve of the Installation. 342. III. The Supper on the Eve. 344. IV. The Order in Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. ibid. V. The Ceremonies performed in the Chapterhouse. 350. VI The Proceeding into the Choir. 352. VII. The Ceremonies of Installation. 354. VIII. The Order observed when two or more Knights are Installed in one day. 360. IX. The Offering of Gold and Silver. 364. X. Of the Grand Dinner at the Installation. ib. XI. Of setting up the Knight's Achievements. 367. CHAP. XIII. The Installation of a Knight Subject by Proxy. Sect. I. The Original Cause of making Proxies. 372. II. Letters of Procuration. Page 373. III. Qualifications of a Proxy. 375. IV. Preparations for Installation. ibid. V. Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. 377. VI Transactions in it. ibid. VII. Proceeding to the Choir. 378. VIII. Ceremonies performed there. ibid. IX. The Grand Dinner. 380. CHAP. XIV. The Signification of Election to Strangers. Sect. I. Within what time, and in what manner Certificate is made of their Election. 381. II. Of Notice given of an Election, before sending the Habit. 384. III. Notice of Election sent with the Habit. ibid. IV. Certificate of Acceptation. 386. V. Of an Election not accepted of. 387. CHAP. XV. The Investiture of Strangers with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. Sect. I. The Time for sending the Habit and Ensigns unlimited. Page 389. II. Preparations made for the Legation. 390. III. The Ceremonies of Investiture. 399. IV. Certificates of having received the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. 432. CHAP. XVI. The Installation of a Stranger by Proxy. Sect. I. Touching the Choice and Nomination of a Proxy. Page 434. II. The Proctor's Qualifications. 437. III. His Letters of Procuration. 439. IV. Of the Proctor's Reception. ibid. V. The Preparations for Installation. 440. VI The Proctor's Cavalcade to Windesor. 441. VII. Supper after his Arrival there. 442. VIII. Of the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. 443. IX. The Ceremonies performed therein. 444. X. Of the Proceeding to the Choir. 447. XI. The Ceremonies of Installation. 448. XII. The Proctor's Offering. 452. XIII. The Dinner. 454. CHAP. XVII. The Duties and Fees Payable by the Knights-Companrons at their Installations. Sect. I. Touching the Fees due to the College of Windesor. Page 455. II. Fees due to the Register, Garter, Black-Rod and Officers of Arms. 458. III. Fees belonging to other of the Sovereign's Servants. 462. IV. Fees payable for Strangers. 463. CHAP. XVIII. Of the Grand Feast of the Order. Sect. I. The Grand Feast appointed to be annually celebrated on St. George's day. Page 467. II. The Anniversary of St. George fixed by the Church unto the 23. of April. 468. III. St. George's day made Festum duplex. 469. IV. The Place for celebrating the Grand Feast, assigned to Windesor-Castle. 471. V. St. George's day kept apart from the Grand Feast, and how then observed. Ibid. VI The Grand Feast neglected by King Edward the Sixth. 473. VII. Removed from Windesor by Queen Elizabeth. 474. VIII. Of Prorogation of the Grand Feast. 475. IX. Of Commissions for Prorogation. 480. X. That the Grand Feast ought to be celebrated once every year. 482. CHAP. XIX. Of Preparations for the Grand Feast of the Order. Sect. I. Of Letters giving notice of the Time and Place. Page 484. II. Of Dispensations for not attending at the Grand Feast. 485. III. Of Commissions of Lieutenancy and Assistance. 487. IV. Warrants for the Removal of Achievements. Ibid. V. Scutcheons of Arms and Stiles. Ibid. VI Of adorning the Chapel. 490. VII. The furnishing of St. George's Hall. 500 VIII. Officers and Servants appointed to attend at the Grand Feast. 502. CHAP. XX. The Order of the Ceremonies on the Eve of the Grand Feast. Sect. I. Of the beginning of the Grand Feast. Page 504. II. Of setting the Proceeding in order. 509. III. Of Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. 516. IV. Of the Opening of the Chapter. 519. V. Transactions in the Chapter held before the first Vespers. 520. VI The Ceremonies relating to the first Vespers. 538. VII. The Supper on the Eve. 544. CHAP. XXI. The Order of the Ceremonies on the Feast Day. Sect. I. The Proceeding to the Chapel in the Morning. Page 547. II. The Proceeding to the second Service. 550. III. Of the Grand Procession. 551. IV. The Order of the second Service. 576. V. The Offering of Gold and Silver. 580. VI The Return to the Presence. 587. VII. Of the Dinner on the Feast Day. 588. VIII. The Ceremonies belonging to the second Vespers. 597. IX. Of the Supper on the Evening of the Feast Day. 598. CHAP. XXII. The Ceremonies observed on the last Day of the Feast. Sect. I. Of Proceeding to the Chapterhouse in the Morning. Page 599. II. Of the Elect Knights Proceeding into the Choir. 600. III. Of the Ceremonies performed at Divine Service. 601. IV. The Diets at some of the Grand Feasts. 602. CHAP. XXIII. The Observation of the Grand Feast by Absent Knights. Sect. I. Absent Knights enjoined to observe the Grand Feast. Page 613. II. More particular Directions for their Observation of it. 614. III. How to be observed in case of Sickness. 616. IV. In what manner the Feast hath been observed by Absent Knights. ibid. V. Dispensation for Absence granted during life. 619. CHAP. XXIV. The Degradation of a Knight-Companion. Sect. I. Of the Degradation of a Knight-Batchellor. Page 620. II. The manner of Degrading a Knight-Companion of the Garter 621. III. Of Restauration into the Order after Degradation. 622. CHAP. XXV. Honours paid to Deceased Knights-Companions. Sect. I. Of the Celebration heretofore of Masses, for defunct Knights-Companions. Page 623. II. Of fixing on the Stalls, Plates of their Arms, and Stiles. 627. III. The Offering of Achievements. 629. IV. Of depositing the deceased Knights Mantles in the Chapterhouse. 636. CHAP. XXVI. Of the Founder, the first Knights-Companions and their Successors. Sect. I. Of what Number they consisted. Page 642. II. A short view of the Founder's Wars. 643. III. Some account of the first 25 Knights-Companions. 670. IV. A Catalogue of their Successors. 708. HONI· SOIT QVI· MAL· Y· PENSE· blazon or coat of arms CHAP. I. OF Knighthood in general. SECT. I. Of Virtue and Honor. IT hath been the Practice of all well-governed Kingdoms and States, Virtue is encouraged by Reward. to encourage Merit by Reward. Merit consists in the performance of some virtuous Action, directed to the Public good. As Virtue is either Military or Civil; so Reward is differently distributed, either by Honour or Profit: to the end, each sort of Virtue may have its proper and suitable Reward. And though in a moral and strict sense, Virtue is to be accounted its own Reward; yet in regard there are very many, who not so much from a virtuous Principle, as to obtain Wealth or Honour, are drawn ofttimes to act meritoriously; therefore it was provided, by the wisest Founders of Empires, and Commonwealths, to take special care, no less for the encouragement of well-doing (by setting up Reward as a Prize, for brave endeavours to aim at, prosecute and carry; and consequently to exalt men according to their merit) then for the punishment of vicious and ignoble actions: insomuch that Socrates justly concluded that City to be best governed, wherein, (a) Br●s. in Plat●●em, l. ●▪ c. ●. the good are cherished, and the bad chastised. Nor doth it a little concern the interest of a Nation, that noble incitements to Virtue be proposed to valiant minds, wherewith being inflamed, they may always shine forth, in some action, worthy themselves: since Rewards are powerful (even to wonder) to excite and stir up the force and vigour of gallant Spirits, to very high degrees of performance; and from the example of our Ancestors, every one is apt to persuade himself, that there is nothing which may not be attempted, and effected by endeavour and manly courage. As touching civil Virtues or Faculties (to wit, justice, Gravity, knowledge in the Laws, and the like) they being Qualifications in order to Magistracy, and Offices of Trust and Credit, and rewardable by the advantages, estimation, and authority accrueing thereby; come not directly within the limits of our present discourse. Honour the reward of milltary Virtue. Virtue (in the opinion of b Epist. 120. Phaleris,) is alone excellent, and all other things but merely Fortune. It's reward and end (saith c Ethic. l. 1. Aristotle) is something excellently good, divine and blessed, according to that of d De situ Orbis. Dionys●us Aser, Virtue immortal honour ever gains. But the proper Reward of military Virtue (which comprehends both Fortitude and Conduct, and of which we only treat) is Honour: e Arist. Ethica. l. 4. Honour is the greatest of exterior goods, and being the object of a nobler ambition, than Wealth or Profit, is therefore the aim of that Virtue, to wit Valour, which springs from a more generous Spirit. For all men of Courage (nay even the Pusillanimous themselves) are in some sort, touched with a sense and desire of Glory and Fame. So that (as is already intimated) of all virtuous Acts, military Prowess, and valiant Achievements, have rendered men capable of the highest Honours and Advancements: they being principally invited, by the allurements of such Rewards, to make the greater discoveries of their Virtue and Fortitude, in the performance of noble Exploits. But that Fame might not lose itself, in a general and unbounded Notion, therefore at length it was thought fit, to reduce Honour into Form and Order, by investing the Person meriting with some particular term, title, or appellation of Excellence; and this is the very source and original of all Nobility, and of all those Dignities and honourable Titles, which being transmitted from the first Atchievers to their Successors, through several Ages, remain at this day in their posterity, as lasting Monuments of the glory of their Ancestors. Among which, Knighthood, as it hath been esteemed the Reward most suitable to worthy and great Virtue, so hath it been accounted the chief and primary Honour among many Nations. Virtue and Honour deified by the Romans, who built them Temples. The Romans had so great an esteem of Honour and Virtue, that they deified them, and dedicated Temples to their Worship; the chief and principal was that which g Liv. l. 27. c. 27. edit. Prancof. ad Moen. 1628. Vide etiam Plutarch. in vita ipsius Marcelli. Marcellus vowed to erect, when he was at Clastidium, in the Gaulick War: (and afterwards built, with the h Idem Plutarch. in vita praef. Marcei. spoils he got in the Wars of Sicily) but the Dedication thereof was hindered by the Priests, who affirmed that one Temple could not be rightly dedicated unto two Deities; and thereupon there was another Chapel built for Virtue, and joined to the fore-end thereof: and albeit Marcellus hastened the erection, yet he lived not to dedicate the same, nevertheless that was afterwards done by his i Guido Panciroll. de 14 Reg. Vrbis Romae. Son. This Temple stood near to the Gate k Topograph. Romae, ex Maliano. c. 73. & 133. Vide p●rr● joh. Rosin. Antiq. Rom. cap. 18. Capena, upon the Appian way, and was rather according to l Vides Virtutis Templum, vides Honoris, à Marco Marcello renovatum, quod multi● ante annis erat bello Lig●stico à Quinto Maximo dedicatum. De Nat. Deor. l. 2. p. 192. edit. Basil. 1534. Cicero, but renewed or re-edified by Marcellus (as his was by the Emperor m Pinu● & Actius Priscus, qui Honoris & Virtutis aedes Imperatori Vespasiano Augusto restituenti pinxerunt. Plin. l. 35. c. 10. sub fine. Vespasian) for that many years before, it had been dedicated by Q. Maximus. In this structure, the Temple of Virtue was contiguous to that of Honour, and so situate, that there was no other passage thereunto, but through the Temple of Virtue; thereby mystically showing and admonishing, That Honour was not to be attained by any other ways then by Virtue; That Virtue was as the Guardian of Honour; and those that undertook any notable Action, n Neminem honorius Tem●lum ingredi 〈◊〉, nisi pri●● Virtutis esset ●ngressus. A●gust. de civet. Dei. unless they carried themselves valiantly, and squared their actions by the Rule of Virtue, could make no entrance into future Honor. And because the Structure of this Temple, and the order of the Buildings may be beheld, we shall here exhibit a Prospect thereof, as it is set forth by o Antiq. Vibi● Splendour. jacobus Laurus. There was another Temple built to Honour, without the Gate p Cic. l. ●. de Legib. p. 288. Collina (which according to q T●p. Rom. Marlian cap. 130. & Alex. Donat. de Vrb● Roma, lib. 3. p. 67. some was called also Salaria) and the reason of its Dedication there, was (as Cicero tells us) the finding of a Plate of Metal in that place, bearing this Inscription, DOMINA HONORIS. About an hundred years after the death of Marcellus, C. Marius consecrated a little Chapel to Honour and Virtue, as appears by this following Inscription, r Videses Inscript. 3 apud jan. Grut. p. 436. C. MARIUS C. F. COS. VII. PR. TR. PL. Q AUGUR, etc. DE MANUBIEIS CIMBRICEIS ET TEUTONICEIS AEDEM HONORI ET VIRTUTI VICTOR FECIT VESTE TRIUMPHALI CALCEIS PUNICIEIS ........ The Symmetry and Proportion of the Columes, and what they supported, were perfected by C. Mucius, as s Lib. 7. Vitruvius informs us, and that according to the exact Rules of Architecture; Moreover it was adorned within and without with Images, most artificial for Sculpture, and beautiful for Painting; t Alex. Donat. de Vrbe Roma, l. 3. p. 256. but the place where this Chapel was erected, is not now certainly known. How Honour and Virtue were represented by the Romans, Their Images variously represented. and after what manner their Images (set up in their Temples) were designed and fashioned, may be seen in some of their Coins, the Ectyps of a few we have placed here, from that large and choice Collection, now in the Cabinet of His Majesty, the present Sovereign of the most noble Order of the Garter: the first represents the heads of Honour and Virtue: where Honour is set forth with a youthful face, crowned with Laurel, having long and curled hair: Virtue, wearing an Helmet, but without any attire, or other ornament. The Face of Honour so shadoweth that of Virtue, that but a little of it appears; and this is observed to have been, not without good reason so designed, inasmuch as u Ant. August. Antiq. Roman. Dialog. 11. p. 36. Edit. Antuerp. anno 1653. Honour is the more illustrious of the two, and where we behold any person outwardly adorned with Honour, we are to judge him inwardly endued with Virtue: forasmuch as Honour is his due, and justly bestowed upon him. Such another representation of the heads of these Deities, may be found in w Tom. 1. p. 221. num. 3. Hubertus Goltzius; and not unlike, but it was upon this account, that Postumus, [TWO] one of the Tyrants in Gallienus his Reign, placed her head behind his own. In the Reverse of the first of these, we see the figures of Italy and Rome drawn at full length; that which represents Italy, seems to deliver a Co●●●●opiae (the Emblem of her Wealth) into the hands of Rome, in acknowledgement of the Peace she thence enjoyed; and Rome, setting her right foot on the Globe of the World, which she had, or hoped to overcome. In a Coin, relating to the Emperor Galba, [III] Honour is exhibited with an Hasta pura (which was a x ad● Aeneid. Spear-staff not armed with Iron) in one hand, and in the other a Cornucopia; and is in the same manner set forth by the Emperor y Tab. 45. Nummi Ducis Croyia●i & Arschot, num. 14. edit. Antuerp. anno 1654. Aurelius Antoninus. But because the Romans placed their chiefest glory in military Virtue; Virtue is designed in the Reverse like an Amazon, wearing an z Virtus fortitudinem roborque designet. Helmet, and her Vest a Solet virtu●is simulacrum depingi succinctum Lucat. ad 10 The baid. girded about her; having an Hasta pura in her left hand, a Parazone, or short Sword in her right, and booted according to the military manner; in which posture and habit, she is likewise represented in some Coins of b Cro●iac. Numis. Tab. 37. num. 22. Hadrianus, Antoninus Pius, and Severus. In a Coin referring to c Idem Tab 28. num. 5. Titus, Honour is set forth after the manner in that of Galba; yet not with a youthful, but a bearded face. How at other times represented, appears among the Coins of Antoninus Pius [IV] being there vested, both in a Toga and Tunica, and holding a Laurel-branch: but in those of d Croyiaca Numis. Tab. 45. num. 13. & 14. Aurelius Antoninus, exhibited sometimes with an Hasta pura, at other times with a Laurel. Galba, we see, joined Honour and Virtue together in one Reverse; to show that by e Comment super Tab. Num. Duc. Croyiaci. p. 38. Virtue he gained his Honours and Imperial Command; the like did f Ae●●. Vic. in 〈◊〉 Vitell. 11. Vitellius. So g Croyiaca Numis. Tab. 64. num. 20. Galerius Maximianus seems to express the attaining of his greatness, by a compact and agreement (as it were) with Virtue, which he signified by joining his hands with hers. Some other difference hath been now and then put in the representation of Virtue, as may be observed in the Ectyps above; for in one of Galba's Coins [V] she is found standing, holding a Parazone, and a little Victory. The same is done in a Coin of h Videsi● Histor. August. i●l●str. per Fr. Angelon. p. 243. Severus, where she is only differenced by a sitting posture. But Commodus [VI] thought fit to arm her completely, bearing a little Victory in her right hand, and holding a Spear and Shield in her left; the like did Severus, Caracalla, and Valerianus. Yet sometimes the Shield was omitted [VII] and the little Victory changed for a Laurel-branch: for so she appears in the Coins of Gordianus tertius [IX] Philippus Arabs, Trajanus Decius, Tetricus, and Claudius Gothicus. In the last place, Virtue is now and then seen armed, as before, holding only a Spear and a Shield; as in the Coins of Alexander Severus, [VIII] and many others. And all of them by these Symbolical devices, pointing at the military Virtue, not only of that most accomplished and famous Roman Nation, but of the Emperors themselves. SECT. II. Of the Antiquity of Knighthood. IN tracing out the beginning and original of Knighthood, Knighthood among the Greeks. though we are not so vain, as to offer at the deriving this degree or order from before the Creation, and say, that Saint Michael the Archangel is premier Chevalier, being so styled in the Preamble to the Statutes of the Order of Monsieur Saint Michael; or Premier Chevalier de l'ordre de Paradis, as he is called in the i Penes Camerar. Scacca●●. Instrument of Election of our King Henry the Eighth, into the said Order of Saint Michael, by the French King Francis the first: Yet may we very well affirm, Knighthood to be near as ancient as Valour and Heroic Virtue; albeit the Ceremonies and Circumstances thereof, have been much varied and transformed in several Ages, and among the several Nations, where this Dignity hath at any time flourished. And therefore with much probability, and some justice, may we derive the Original of military Honour, whence most of our Europeans account it their greatest honour to derive their Original, namely, from Troy. For of how great renown its Knights were of old, namely, Hector, Troilus, Aeneas, Antenor, with many others, for their Knightly deeds; and how great glory they acquired by their military Virtue, may be sufficiently learned from those things, which are recorded in the Histories of them. So among the Greeks, Agamemnon, Menelaus, Peleus, Hercules, Diomedes, Telamonius, Ulysses, Patroclus, and several others, were such, as left behind them, an everlasting Memorial of their Knightly actions; to inflame the young Nobility that was growing up, by the examples of Achilles, and themselves, to the imitation and pursuit of their virtues and valiant enterprises. But lest this may be thought too much to be granted, we shall endeavour to strengthen our conjecture, with some observations out of Homer, by whom we often find the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, used in the same sense, as Fques was afterwards among the Latins, as will appear in these following Verses of his, k Iliad. B. cattle 336. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. 'Mong whom thus Nestor spoke, that honoured Knight. And in many other places of the Iliads (almost all, where he speaks of Nestor) he mentions him by the same Title; which is as much as if he had said, Chevalier Nestor, as in the 108. Verse of the Catalogue of the second Book of the Iliads, and Iliad η ver. 170.181. θ 112.151. ● 52.163. γ 128.157. etc. And that this Title of Knight seems to be of more ancient date among the Grecians, than the Trojan War, may be collected from the same Homer, who bestows it on other brave Heroes, that lived some time before these Wars began: For in the 135. Verse of the aforesaid Catalogue, Phyleus, among the rest of the Greek Commanders (whom he there reckons up) is thus mentioned, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Phylides Son of Phyleus, Heav'n-loved Knight. Likewise to the famous Tydeus, King of AEtolia, Father of Diomedes, he attributes the same Title. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Thy Father Tydeus, that stout Knight, his fire Into thy manly heart I will inspire. In aftertimes the Grecians had among them this Degree and Title, considerable both for reputation and dignity. l In Gen. Dier. l. 2. c. 29. The Knightly Honour (saith Alexander ab Alexandro) always excelled among the Achaians, as being the chiefest charge. Those of m Ibid. Crete also had it in great esteem, as the most principal among them, for its antiquity and dignity. n Herod. in Terpsichore. Herodotus tells us, that among the Chalcedonians (as after among the Romans) Wealth was so much regarded, that those who were rich, bore the title of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, i.e. Equites. And as a testimony, that the ambition of the Equestrian Name was very ancient, o De Milit. Equestri, lib. 5. c. 1. in principio. Hermannus Hugo saith, the Lacedæmonians constituted a second Order of Knights, and that the same Lacedæmonians had an p Ex Strabone, lib. 10. Order of Knights, who had no Horses. Not much unlike some of the Equestrian Order, in succeeding times, among the Romans, who were only honoured with gold Rings, but not with a public Horse, until they actually entered into military Service. SECT. III. Of the Foundation of the Equestrian Order among the Romans. Institution of the Celeres, whence sprung the Equestrian Order. BUt to raise the Structure of Knighthood upon a more substantial Foundation, we shall with greater certainty descend to the Romans; among whom we find, there was from the very infancy of their military glory, an instituted Body and Society of Knights, consisting of a select number; and this is recorded by q Lib. 1. edit. Franc. ad Maenum. 1628. Livy, who (speaking of the time immediately after the Romans and Sabins were united under one Commonwealth) saith, that then there were enrolled Centuriae tres Equitum, three Centuries of Knights. This enrolment was ordained by Romulus, and did follow soon after his division of the City into three Tribes; and the Institution consisted of three hundred in number; for each Tribe was divided into r Claud Salmas. de re milit Rom. c. 20. p. 230. Videses Rosin. Antiq. Rom. l. 10. c. ●. ten parts, which were called Curiae, and every Decuria set forth ten Knights; so that in every Tribe there were ten Decuriae, or one hundred Knights. Moreover, each of these Centuries were particularly distinguished by several Titles; one being called s Livy loco cicato. Ramnenses, another Tatienses, and the third Luceres. A little after, Livy (speaking of Romulus) tells us, t Idem, lib. 1. c. 15. that he appointed these three hundred to attend him as a Lifeguard, both in Peace and War, and called them Celeres; and so called (as some write) u Pl●tarch. in vita Romuli. Videses Dion. Halicarnass. l. 2. p. 86. Edit. Frances. ann● 1586. à celeritate, from their active and dextrous dispatch in martial affairs. But Claudius Salmasius derives Celeres from the Greek word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, which (saith he) among the Aeolians signifies a Horse; and from a Horse, did the ancient Romans derive the Title of Eques; of which more anon. Hereupon not only those of Romulus his institution are by Livy called Equites (as is before noted) but when he speaks of the addition which Tarqvinius Prison's made to those three Centuries, he again calls them w Livy l. 1. c. 36 Centuriae Equitum; and to the twelve Centuries, listed afterwards by Servins Tullus, doth he afford the x Ibid. c. 44. same Title, making frequent use of it, in divers other places, as their common appellation. And because the Celeres or Equites were at first appointed y Halicarnass. eod. lib. & loco cit. to attend Romulus through the City (in the quality aforesaid) armed with Javelins and Spears, are therefore (in the esteem of z Th●. Godwin, Romanae Historiae Anthologia, p. 28. some) placed within the degree of service, and consequently thought inferior to the Equestrian Order; we shall here (to remove this mistake) note, That in their Election, not only Courage and personal Valour was required, but Nobleness of Extraction no less regarded; they being also such as were descended from the best Families in Rome: and this is fully testified by Dionysius Halicarnasseus. a Lib. 2 p. 86. Romulus (saith he) chose three hundred stout and personable men out of the chiefest Families, or (in the words of b Lib. 1. c. 43. Livy) ex primoribus Civitatis. Within a short time after the Institution of the Celere●, Servius Tullus ordained, that those who did succeed in that Body, should be elected ex Censu; to wit, from a considerable and certain valuation of their Estates, entered in the Censors Book, called the Equestrian Cense. This is confirmed by Dionysius (ex Pisone in primo Annalium) c Lib. 4. p. 222. Servius (saith he) chose the number of Knights out of the Citizens who had the greatest Cense, and were of the most noble Families. Wherefore it cannot be denied, that Eques was at this time (which was even in the infancy of the City) a Title, not only of Dignity, but also that the Equites were then chosen from among those Romans, eminent both for Nobleness of Extraction and Estate; Neither were more considerable Qualifications required of any, who were admitted into the Equestrian Order, in the following times. The Roman State was at first constituted (as at this day is the Venetian) of d Rosin. Antiq. Roin. l. 1. c. 17. two degrees only, namely, Patritians and Plebians: For neither the three Centuries, instituted by Romulus, nor their increased number, appointed by Tarqvinius ●riscus, nor those chosen by Servius Tullus from the Cense, and added to the former, were moulded into a peculiar degree, while Rome was governed by Kings; but soon after the Equestrian Order began to be form, and constituted one of the three Orders in the Commonwealth: the Celeres then in being, were the very persons of whom was composed and made up the Body of that Society, which then, & thenceforward, was called Ordo Equester or Equestris, (for both words are found to be indifferently used among the Ancients) from whence it appears, that the Original and Foundation of the Equestrian Order, is plainly deducible from (if not the same with) the Celeres, since all the alteration lay, not in dissolving and taking away, but in making them known by a new Title. Nay so little, or no difference, is put by Salmasius between those of Romulus his Institution, and the Equestrian Order, that speaking of the Celeres, he faith, e De Re Mil. Rom. c. 20. p. 236. The whole Equestrian Order did then consist in them: and Rosinus having shown, that the Ordo Equestris was ranked in the second of the three degrees, positively affirms, f Antiq. Rom. l. 1. c. 17. That in this division those three hundred are to be understood, who had been elected by Romulus, and whom he called Celeres. And now, to the end the Reader may take a short prospect into the Glory of this Equestrian Order, (indeed the flower of the Roman Chivalry) together with some other Dignities annexed unto that Degree, we shall first observe, That the Roman Citizens, The Equestrian Order was the middle Degree. being thus distributed into three degrees, are ranked by a Lib. 26. c. 36. Livy in this Order, Senatus, Equester Ordo, & Plebs: Alexander ab Alexandro (from b Lib▪ 2. Bell. Civil. Appianus) placeth also the Equites in the c Gen. Dier. l. 2. c. 2●. middle, between the Senators and Plebeians: and this is further confirmed by that most noted Elegy, d R●sinus, l. 1. c. 17. Consensu Senatûs, & Equestris Ordinis, Populique Romani, which among the Roman literal Notes by e De Interpret. R●m. Literis. Valerius Probus, is set down after this manner, CON. SEN. E. ORD. P. Q. R. Agreeable hereunto is that of Cicero, f Pr● Cluent. The Knights are next in dignity to the Senatorian Order: The same is affirmed by g Lib. 33. c. 1. in sine. Pliny, and divers h Tiraquel de Nobilit. c. 37. num. 16●. Salmuth. noth Guid. Pancirol. l 1. p. 271. others. And forasmuch as this degree was placed between the Patritians or Senators, and the Plebeians or Common-people, therein it is resembled by the Knightly degree at this day with us, which is ranked between the Nobility and Commonalty. But though the Equestrian Order (ranked as before) was somewhat inferior to that of the Senate, i Alex ab Alex. Gen. Dier. l. 2. c. 29. yet had it the esteem of great authority and power, forasmuch as it was invested with most ample Honours, and almost equal to the Senatorian degree. And k Salmiss. de Re mil. Rom. c. 20 p. 227. from this Order to the height of Nobility (which resided in the Senators) was the way prepared: Hence, being the usual removal, to the Ordo Senatorius, ( l Livy l. 2. c. 1. junius Brutus being the first who supplied the Senate from the Equestrian Order) and upon this ground, the Emperor Alexander Severus (as m In vita ipsius Severi, c. 20 Lampridius reports) did call this Degree, The Seminary or Nursery of Senators, so did * Equites enim illis Principes juventutis, Equiter Seminarium Senatum, inde lecto● in Patrum numerum Consuler, inde Imperatores creant, Liv. l. 42. c. 61. Perseus' King of Macedon long before; and for the very same reason, may we further parallel it with that of Knighthood among us in England, which is the next in dignity to the Baronage, and generally persons of their rank and quality are made choice of to ascend unto that Honor. It was a Constitution as ancient as the Reign of Tiberius the Emperor, that no man should be admitted into the Equestrian Order, nor have given unto him the right of a Gold Ring, n Alex. ab Alexandro loc. cit. Plin. lib. 33. c. 2. in princ. unless he was freeborn, or a Gentleman, and his Father and Grandfather had been so: and indeed for a long time none were elected Knights, but the best sort of Gentlemen, and Persons of noble, nay sometimes Kingly Extraction, as was the illustrious o Maecenas at avis regibus ortus Eques, Matt. lib. 12. Epgr. 4. Maecenas, concerning whom * Lib. 2. c. 88 Vell. Paterculus gives this Character; That he aspired no higher than the Equestrian Order, not out of an incapacity of attaining greater matters, but that he desired them not. Yet at length, through the corruption of times, Plebeians and Freedmen were too frequently received into this Degree; the Equestrian Cense alone, Maecenas Equ● Hetrusco de sanguine Regum, Propert. lib. 3. Eleg. 8. to wit, their attaining to such a degree of Wealth, as reached the valuation of a Knight, was that which gained them this Honour, which Salma●ius thus affirms (in his Exposition of a piece of Polybius) p De Re Mil. Rome c. 21. p. 240. Whomsoever the Censor did elect into the Equestrian Order, he considered nothing in him but the Equestrian Cense; which for the general, will likewise find but too near a parallel among the Knights of this Age. The Knights were Judges at Rome, and Precedents abroad. To add to the lustre of the Equestrian Order, let us next consider, that the civil affairs of the Roman Commonwealth were sometimes put under their management, and the chiefest of the Knights made judges: which Cicero thus confirms: q Secund● de Oratore. Before the Knights, Judges at Rome, the Causes were pleaded and debated. And what esteem was generally set upon their uprightness and justice, Turnebus sets forth, who explicating some Pieces of Cicero (wherein several of their excellent Judgements are reported) saith, r Turneb. in Comment. in O●ati●nem Cicer. pro Caio Rabirio, p. 11. There was then a great opinion of the Virtue of the Roman Knights, from the integrity of their judgements. Nor was there any other cause (as Budaeus notes) wherefore they were called judges, s Ad L. ult. F. de Se●●toribus. Then that the Decuriae of the judges were chosen from amongst those of the Equestrian Order. And though (by assuming this additional dignity) they bore the Title of judges, and not of Knights; (for in those times, t Plin. lib. 33. ●. 1. sub finem. The Title of Knights continued appropriate to the Troops of those who served with Public Horses) yet nevertheless, without all doubt (saith Alexander ab Alexandro) u Gen. Dier. l. 2. c. 29. The judges continued still of the Equestrian Order, and were reckoned among the Knights: for that they used the Gold Ring as Knights, and had the same Ensigns of Honour, and executed the said Offices: Though it was otherwise, where a Knight was elected into the Senate, w Ambr. Calepin. verbo Eques. for then (having assumed the Name of the more noble Order) the Title of his former degree was extinguished, albeit he still retained the Ensigns thereof. x Fl●r. Epitome. Gracchus, (Brother to Tiberius Sempronius Gracchus) being Tribune of the Commons, and studying how to curry favour with the People, concluded it would best be brought about, by abating or clipping the authority of the S●nate: He thereupon preferred (amongst others) a Law▪ that y 〈…〉 〈◊〉 should be chosen out of the Equestrian Order, into the Senate (which then 〈◊〉 but o● three hundred) z 〈…〉 out of design to make the ●otes of the Knights double to thos● of the Senators; by which means, he a 〈…〉 took away from the Senate their authority of ●itting in judgement, and appropriated it to the Equestrian Order. But b In Cap. 〈◊〉. 〈◊〉 notes withal, that this proved a means to corrupt the Knights; between who● and the Senate, there was at that time a good correspondence. For it seems, those who were hereupon chosen into the Senate, did so misbehave themselves in the execution of their powers, at least, so kept under the Senator's authority, that they gave very great distaste unto them; insomuch▪ as not long after by the c Flor. 〈◊〉 l. 70. assistance of M. Lucius Drusus, than Tribune of the People their former prerogative was again translated, from the equestrian Order, to themselves; for he made Legem judiciariam, whereby not only an d God●in. Anthol p. 237. ex C●ce●o. de O●at. 71. equal number of Judges should be elected, out of both Orders, but that e Flor. Epit. lib. 71. all Judgements, should pass, indifferently and equally, by the Senate and Equestrian Order. Hereupon the power of the Knights grew less and less, until it shrunk to nothing; so that at length, the judge's places which they before had executed, became conferrable upon the Publicans. But half a Century of years passed not, ere f Plin. l 33. c. 2. M. Cicero when Consul (which was Anno ab Vrbe Condit● g 〈◊〉. Rom. l 〈…〉. 690) reestablished the Equestrian Order, and reconciled the Senate to it. And h 〈…〉 from hence i Idem Plin. the Knights were (a second time) established the third degree in Rome, and all Acts p●ssed in the n●me of the Senate, 〈◊〉 People of Rome, and the Equestrian Order; the same Pliny giving the reason why the Knights were then so placed after the People, in all public instruments, k 〈…〉. because they were last of all incorporated into the body of the Commonwealth. As to the Dignities and Honours the Ordo ●quesiris enjoyed abroad, we find, that many Provinces were governed m Alex. ab Alex Gen. Die● l 2. c. 29. by some of the Equestrian Order ●lone, instead of Precedents; for in Cappadocia, Egypt, and other Countries, those of the Equestrians Order did for a long time rule; among whom Egypt had this peculiar, and proper to itself, that none of the Senators were admitted to be her Precedents, n Ibid. but only those of the Equestrian Order. Whose Decrees Augustus commanded to be had in like esteem, o Ib. as if the Magistrates of Rome, or Kings, or Consuls, or Praetors, had pronounced them. As a note of Eminence, They were called 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉. to their Names and Honours, they had the Titles of Splendidi and Illustres, bestowed upon them; both which are equivalent to that of Nobiles. For p De Bell●● Civil Opius calls them Splendidi, & Illustres. Tacitus describing the affairs of Claudius, styles them also Illustres. Pliny gives them the Title of q Lib. Epis●ol●. ●. Epist. 1. & 1. Epist. 6. Epist. 25. Splendidi, and so doth r L. 2. D● Finibus. Cicero. There is an inscription near Praeneste which puts it in the superlative, for so Scalig●r reads it, in his Index to janus Gruterus Ins●riptions. s Vid 〈…〉 440. num. 1. A. MUNIO. A. F. MIN. EVARISTO. SPL. E Q. R. PAT. COL. OMNIBUS. HONOUR. NITIDE. FUNCTO. etc. And in the Oration of Caius Claudius the Consul, touching a Sedition raised by Caeso Quintius, they are called t 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Dion. Halica●. nas. l 10 p. 63● And had sea●● in the Theater most sacred Knights. But besides other privileges belonging to the Equestrian Order, whereby it was advanced above the plebeian, there is yet this one to be here remembered, to wit, that of their Se●ts in the Theatre. Of this privilege, the chiefest Author is thought to be julius Caesar, or Au●ustus; that Law being called julia. But it is more probably affirmed by others, that long before them, u Flo●. Epit. l. 99 L. Roscius, being Tribune of the People, brought in a law, that the fourteen next seats (i. e. next to those of the Senators) should be assigned to the Roman Knights; which is further confirmed by w Philipp. 2. Cicero who calls it Roscian Law. And yet far more ancient is it (even in the reign of Tarqvinius Pr●seus) that x L. 1 c. 35. Livy assigns them Seats with the Senators, in the Circus M●ximus, and for the very same use and end; namely, to sit and view the Plays and Shows there exhibited. They had a College. As an Honour to their Society, the Roman Knights had a College belonging to them, called Collegium Equitum; as it appears by an Altar of Stone at Coloigne in Germany, which one of their Order, who bore the title of Moderator of that College (as Scaliger reads it) had dedicated to Hercules, and thus inscribed. y jan. Gruter. Inscr. Rom. p. 44. num. 1. HERCULI JANVARINIUS MODERATE. COL. EQVITUM. D. D. And Temples dedicated to the Equestrian Fortune. We find that in several places there were Temples dedicated to the Goddess Fortune, under the Title of this Order, viz. Equestri Fortunae. That anciently at Rome, was erected z Alex. ab Alex. Gen. Dier. l. 1. c. 13. near the Marble Theatre: but it seems to have been decayed, or at least not visited, in Tiberius his days: for Tacitus taking notice of a Present, which the Roman Knights had vowed to the Equestrian Fortune, for the health of the Empress, saith, a Annal. l. 3. sub finem. Although there were many Temples dedicated to that Goddess in Rome, nevertheless there was none which bore that Name; but there was one found at Antium so called, where she was worshipped under that Title. b Lib. 42. c. 3. Anno V. c. 578. Livy also makes mention of another Temple, consecrated to the Equestrian Fortune by Fulvius Flaccus, Proconsul in Spain: because through the extraordinary Valour of some of the Equestrian Order, under his command, he had obtained a memorable Victory over the Celtiberians. Their Title preserved by Inscriptions and Coins. In the last place let us observe, that as it was the great ambition of the Romans to make use of all means they could invent, to eternize the glory of their Renown: so in particular did the Equites among them, account the Honour of their Order worthy remembrance in their public Marbles; as is most apparent from sundry Inscriptions thereupon, to the end that the Honour of their Dignity might not only spread, but happily be transmitted and revived to future Ages, when themselves should be forgotten, or all other Writings perish. One of which Marbles (though defective in the name of the Person to whom it related, yet complete enough in the memorial of his Dignities) remaineth in a private House at Picenum, or in modern language Sinigaglia, in la Marca dell'Ancona, bearing this Inscription. c Videses Num: 9 apud Gruter. Inscrip. p. 493. P.F.— A. PRIMOPILO. SPECTATAE. VIRTUTIS. EQVESTRIS. ORDINIS. V. PATRIBUS ET PLEBI GRATO. OB GRATAM ADOLESCENTIS INDOLEM. BENE MERITAM SAXUM DEDIT. By this Inscription it further appears, that this Noble Person was not only of the Equestrian Order, but also an Officer of principal credit, namely the Primopilus, or d Vide Rosin. Antiq. Rom. l. 10. c. 7. first Centurion or Captain of the ten Ensigns among the Triarii (who were the chiefest of the four divisions that composed a Legion) and indeed, the very last reserve, and refuge of the whole Army; and consequently, that this Person was the chief Captain of the whole Legion. To this Officers charge was committed the principal Ensign called the Eagle: and that we may understand the greatness of his trust, he was of the General's Council, and, as may be collected from a passage out of e P. Salonius alternis prope annis & Tribunu● militum, & primus Centurio erat, quem nunc Primopili appellant. l. 7. c. 41. Livy, equal, if not of higher Dignity, than the Tribune, though otherwise the Centurion or Captain was subordinate to him. Another Inscription, we conceive, may not improperly be inserted here, which is to be seen at Rome, in the Flaminian way, and is as followeth. f I●scri●●. Gr●●. p. 47●. M. VALERIO. M. F. PAL. AMERIMNIANO'S. VIXIT ANNIS XVII. MENSIB. VIII. DIEBUS DVOBUS. HOR. X M. VALERIUS. M. F. AMERIMNUS. PATER INFELICISSIMUS. FILIO SANCTISSIMO ET PIENTISSIMO FECIT. NATUS EQVES ROMANUS IN VICO JUGARIO. What is herein observable to our purpose, is only out of the words Natus Eques Romanus, which tells us, that this young M. Valerius, for whom the Inscription was made, was born a Roman Knight. And to give light to this phrase, give us leave to borrow the assistance of g Verbo Eq●●●. Calepine (being next at hand) who notes, that the Romans did call those, who were advanced to the Equestrian Dignity, or were descended from some of the Equestrian Order, Knights. And lest this be not clear enough spoken by him, or that the words need further explication, he (in the same place) tells us, that the Latin Writers, in relation to the Knightly Dignity, used three kinds of speech, viz. (1.) Eques [for a Knight.] (2.) Equestris Ordo [for one of the Equestrian Order.] (3.) Equestri loco natus [for one born or descended from an Equestrian Family.] which, whether they do signify the same, or whether they differ, and how far, we (saith he) must consider. For the first, whosoever is called a Knight, the same is, and is called one of the Equestrian Order; and chose, whosoever is, and is said to be of the Equestrian Order, Idem habet Manutius inter Comment. Salustii, his verbis Differunt Eques, Equestris Ordinis, & Equestri loco nature. Eques & Equest●● Ordinis, idem sunt, quod si Equ●● pa●●e na●● est qui nunquam Senator suit, Equ●st● loco natus est; sin natus est Senatore; Equestri loco non recte natus dicitur. is, and is said to be a Knight. But if a Knight is born from a Father, being a Knight, and who never was a Senator, such a one is said to be of Equestrian extraction: but if the same Knight be born of a Father that is a Senator, he is a Knight indeed, but not extracted from an Equestrian Family. And hence it is evident, that M. Valerius the Father (who caused this epitaph to be inscribed) was then no Senator, but a Knight, and of the Equestrian Order, though not noted with that Title in the Inscription; and consequently, that his Son Valerius might therefore justly be said to be Natus Eques Romanus. For when once a man was admitted into the Equestrian Dignity, the appellation of Eques belonged, and was accustomably given to all his male issue, who kept that Title, until they were advanced into the Senate, or degraded for some misdemeanour. And as in Marbles, so in Coins, are there memorials left us, of this ancient Order. h De Viti●●mperat. pag▪ 25▪ Octavius Strada exhibits one of Drusus, the Son of the Emperor Tiberius, by Agrippina; on the one side is the Effigies of this Drusus, thus circumscribed, NERONI CLAUDIO DR VSO GERM. COS. DESIGNAT. And on the reverse is this Inscription (which takes up all the middle of the Coin) EQVESTER ORDO PRINCIPI JWENTUTIS. From whence we learn, that the body of the Equestrian Order did at this time offer their service to Drusus; he having then obtained the appellation of Princeps juventutis. i Imper. Rom. Numism. p. 11● Adolphus Occo sets forth two Coins, the one of Gold, the other of Silver, both which are in all particulars the same with this already discoursed of, and inserts them among those belonging to the Emperor Nero; and so doth Hubertus Goltzius in his k Sub nomi●● Ner●●i●. Thesaurus. We doubt that Strada hath misplaced that Coin abovementioned, in regard we meet with no Inscriptions upon Coins, or other public Monuments, either in Occo, Goltzius, Angelonus, or elsewhere, that gives to Drusus the Son of Tiberius, any other Name or Title, than Drusus Caesar Tiberii Augusti Filius; but to Nero (before he was made Emperor) the names of Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus, are frequently attributed. 'Tis true, the very same names of Nero Claudius Germanicus are all stamped upon the Coins of Drusus, Brother of Tiberius the Emperor; but there the Head is crowned with l Vid. Numism. Imp. Rom. Caroli Ducis Croyiaci & A●schot. Tab. 17. Num. 17. vide etiam Numis. ejusdem ducis Croyiaci per Hemelar. edit. Antuerp. 1627. Tab. 4. Num. 8. Laurel, which Drusus the Son of Tiberius wanted, and the Face made older in all places, than that set forth by Oct. Strada, (which indeed is a perfect juvenile Effigies) nor hath this Drusus the Brother of Tiberius, the Title of Princeps juventutis, any where given to him, but that of Imperator only, added at the end of his Names. m Imp. Rom. Numis. p. 311. Besides these, we are beholding to Occo, for the description, and to n La Historia A●g. p. 217. Fr. Angelonus, for the Ectyp of another Coin, appertaining to Commodus, the Son of Marcus Aurelius Antoninus▪ on whose Reverse is to be seen the aforementioned Inscription, viz. EQVESTER ORDO PRINCIPI IWENTUT. it being stamped when Commodus had the like address made to him from the Equestrian Order, he having then also attained that attribute of Princeps juventutis. And thus have we let in a glimpse of the Equestrian Order, established among the Romans, with its Dignity and Honours, which for many Ages flourished in great glory and reputation; it being the continual care of that famous Nation, to preserve, partly, the Fame of valiant men to posterity, by the memory of their noble Acts; and partly, to stir up the spirits of the younger sort, to the imitation of their Virtue; upon whom the glory of their Ancestors might have such an influence, as to make them eagerly contend for the attainment of a like degree of Honour, by proportionate degrees of Virtue and Noble deeds. All which we have thought requisite to bring in by way of Introduction, to those Knightly Honours, that afterwards succeeded in the world. What we have further to say in this Chapter, shall be to touch upon those degrees of Knighthood, which have been personal, and obtained by Creation only, (after such time as the French Empire took beginning) and are, or may be comprehended, under the modern Title of Equites Aurati, or Milites simpliees, (being indeed all of one nature, albeit they received several denominations, from those various Ensigns of Honour, and Ceremonies of Creation, wherewith the Dignity hath been in several Ages since particularly bestowed) and as this Equestrian Dignity is distinguished from the several Orders of Chivalry instituted in Christendom, whether they be of greater or less note, who have received their Titles as Knights, used together with that of their peculiar Orders, which differenceth them from those we call Milites simplices. In the circumstances of whose Creation, we confess that nothing in the Ordo Equestris among the ancient Romans hath place, though that might well be the ground and original of the Dignity, and one common end in both; namely, the pursuit of military exploits and service in the Wars. SECT. IV. Of the modern Degrees of Knighthood. Knights girt with the military Belt. AND first, concerning those whom some call Monozoni, that is, Knights begirt with the Military Girdle; a custom devolved to the Germans, and Gauls, from ancient time, and from them to later Ages. Our learned Countryman Sir Henry Spelman notes, o Glossar. Ar●haiolog. verbo Miles: That the later Emperors conferred the Dignity of Knighthood with the military Girdle, instead of all other Arms; because that part, more eminent amongst them, girdeth, supporteth, and adorneth the rest. Whence our learned Selden calls this girding, p Titles of Honour. p. 451. the most essential part of the Ceremony. Nor do we find, that among the various Ceremonies belonging to Knighthood, there have been any (to the later ages) that hath continued so constant and frequent in practice, as the endowing with Girdle and Sword: Ornaments indeed most proper to the Knightly Dignity, and marks of Honour and Virtue, with which the Statues and Portraitures of Knights have been adorned after death; is may be seen on divers of their Monuments and Grave-Stones. For as at this day, Knights are in some places styled Equites Aurati, from the golden Spurs, heretofore put on at their Creation; so were they more anciently Cingulo militari donati▪ or (according to the old word used by Bracton) s Ringae enim dic●ntur ex ●o quod R●ne● gyrant & circ●mdant, & inde dicitur ●ccingere Gladio t●o. Bracton de Legibus & Consu●tud. regni Angliae. lib. 1. cap. 8. num. 2. Ringae Gladiis; in regard that when any one was Knighted, he was not (as in this Age) only smitten with the Sword, but invested with Sword and Belt. Nor is this Ceremony wholly lost, since it is retained among those, appointed to be used at the creating our Knights of the Bath; who are to be girt with a Sword and Belt, when they receive the aforesaid Honour, as the old Formulary thus hath it. t Dugdale's Antiq. of Warw. p. ●39. Then shall the King, of his great favour, take the Sword, and gird the Esquire therewith. In the second place (taking leave to rank those following degrees of Knighthood here mentioned, Knight's Bachelors. according to their antiquity, not the precedence they have since gained) the Baccalaurei or Knight's Bachelors, are to be considered; who are also indifferently styled Chevaliers, Milites, Equites Aurati, and Knights. This degree is truly accounted with us, u Primus [Eques Baccalaurcus] apud Britanno● dignitatis omnis Mi●itaris gradus est, Hono●um omnium in Republica basis. l. R. p. 143. the first of all military dignity, and the basis and foundation of all Honours in our Nation; and is certainly derived from if not the same, with that immediately preceding. For as the Ceremony of a gentle touch on the shoulder, with the flat side of the Sword, hath been since used, instead of endowing with the Sword and Belt (especially in times of War, or in haste) as an initiation into the Military Order; so on the contrary, it is not unusual, now adays, for the Prince, at lest Gladio, if not Cingulo donare; for he oftentimes bestows the Sword upon the person whom he Knighteth. The Equites had the Epithet of w Ab ornamentis aureis. Miraeus, Origines Ord. Equestrium, p. ●. jux●a impressionem 16●8. Aurati given them, from the privilege of wearing Gold upon their Swords and Spurs; and the 265 Knights, created upon Hadrians Bridge at Rome, by Frederick the Third, Emperor of Germany, the 18. of March, Anno Dom. 1451. as he proceeded to the Cathedral Church of St. john de Lateran to be crowned, are by x Vitae & Gesta sum. P●ntif. l 2. p. 925. Ciaconius called Equites Aurati; and were indeed no other than Knights Bachelors; such were also the y Platina de vi●●s Ponti●. p. 262. Italian and Germane Knights, created in the same place, by Sigismond the Emperor, on Whitsunday 1432. as he went to the Lateran from the Vatican, where he had received his Crown from Pope Eugenius the Fourth. And here we have an occasion offered, to insert the distinction which Andrew Tiraquel puts between those Knights, who are, and who are not noble before they receive that dignity; allowing the later the Title of Equites Aurati, and to the former that of Milites. a De Nobil. c. ●. sect. 13. For (saith he) it is to be observed, that those whom we in the French Tongue call Chevaliers, were made noble assoon as they attained that dignity, even though they were not such before, yet they were not called Milites, contrary to the position of all Interpreters of the Law: but such as speak properly, have called them Equites Auratos. Which appellation b Lib. Epist. 24. Epist. ●. ad Alb▪ Parisium. Franciscus Philelphius did first of all find out, and Bebellius in his Commentary De abusione linguae, brings many things against the Interpreters, who call those (that are not noble before their Creation) Milites. Somewhat to like purpose would our learned Spelman deduce from the addition of c Gloss. Archaiolog. verbo Eques. Aurati, conceiving it introduced ad distinguendum Equitem ritu honorario institutum, ab inhonorato istiusmodi; and by him made applicable to the Neapolitan Gentlemen, (usually called Cavalieri) who are all styled Equites, though they never have attained the Knightly dignity. Thirdly, Knight's Banerets. concerning the Knight's Banerets, a Title bestowed on such who had so well deserved in the Wars, that they were afterwards permitted to use the Vexillum quadratum, or a square Banner; whence they were truly called Equites Vexillarii, or Chevaliers à Baniere, from the Dutch word d Ibid. verb● Baneret. Banerherr, Lord, or Master of the Banner. Our learned e In Brit. p. 124: Edit. Lond. 1608. Cambden derives the original of this Knightly dignity among us, not higher than the reign of King Edward the Third, and believes him to be the first Institutor thereof, and this honourable Title to be then first devised, in recompense of martial prowess; a recital of which dignity received, is mentioned in a f Pat. 20. E. 3. par. 2. membrana 22. Patent, whereby that King grants to john Coupland, for the maintenance thereof, five hundred pounds per annum out of his Exchequer, to be received by him and his Heirs; and this was for his good service performed, in taking g Speeds Chron. p. 592. David the Second, King of Scots, Prisoner, at the Battle of Nevil's Cross, near Durham. But some few years before the Creation of Sir john Coupland, there is mention also in the Patent Rolls of * 10. E. 3. par● 2. m. 7. Sir Reignald Cobham, and | 13. E. 3. m. 13. Sir William de la Poole, both Banerets: And doubtless the Title and Dignity was much more ancient with us (as well as in h Vide Seld. Tit. of Honour, p. 543. France) for in our perusal of the Accounts of the great Wardrobe, we find such like Robes allowed to several persons made Knights, as were appointed usually for the Creation of Banerets; and this before the reign of King Edward the Third, which implies, that there was then a Degree of Knighthood, so called, amongst us. For instance, i Ex Rotul. Compo●i Tho. Vseflet de an. 20. E. ●. Gerardo de la Bret, ad apparatum suum pro Militia, tanquam pro Baneretto, à Rege suscipienda, etc. viz. ad unam Tunicam, etc. after which is set down the particular Robes, and other Ornaments, appointed for his Creation; and than it follows, Consimilem apparatum habuerant subscripti, viz. Hug. de Courtney. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Rad. de Wylington. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Rad. Daubeney. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. joh. de Willouby. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Edw. straddling. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Rad. Baro de Stafford. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. joh. de Meules. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Will. de Percy. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Gerard de Insula. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Pet. Breton. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Rog. le Strange. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Ernone de Potes. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. joh. de Nevil. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Gerard de Trassyns. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Willect de Ciply. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Mulect de Blekey. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. Disram de Keney. Viz. Singuli eorum tanquam pro Baneretto. In like manner in the preceding year have we met with an account of Robes, given to k Ex Comp. praed. Tho. de Vseflet. james Botiller of Ireland, ad apparatum suum, pro se novo Milite faciendo, tanquam Baneretto; as also to William Montacute, Ebulo le Strange, and others. So also An. 18. E. 2. to Hugo de Points, and Hugo de Plesey; and m Ex Comp. praed. Tho. de Vseflet. Ann. 16. E. 2. to Raymund Durant. And our learned Spelman (in Pellae exitus An. 8. E. 2.) doth find n Gloss. Archai. verbo Banerets. vide etiam 4. part. Instit. p. 6. john de Crumbwell, written with the addition and Title of Baneret. But that this Dignity was yet more ancient in England, is sufficiently apparent from a Writ of King Edward the First, under the Privy Seal, directed to the Clerk of the Wardrobe, to furnish Thomas Bardolf with Robes, such as were usually allowed to a Baneret; he being to receive the honour of Knighthood, at that eminent solemnity, when Edward of Caernarvon, the King's eldest Son, was made Knight; which Writ runs thus. o Ex Brevi R. Ed. 1. penes Rem. Regis in Scacc. Edwardus Dei gratiâ Rex Angliae Dominus Hiberniae & Dux Aquitaniae, Dilecto nobis Radulpho de Stoke, Clerico magnae Garderobae nostrae salutem, Mandaemus vobis, quod dilecto nobis Thomae Bardolf tanquam Baneretto, decentem apparatum, pro se novo Milite faciendo ad festum Pentecostes proximè futurum, in Comitiva Edwardi filii nostri karissimi habere, de dono nostro faciatis. Et nos vobis inde in compoto vestro debitam allocationem habere faciemus. Datum sub privato Sigillo nostro apud Wolveseye tertio die Maii, Anno Regni nostri Tricesimo quarto. This Degree of Honour is p Mills Ca●a●. of Honour p. 80. esteemed the last among the greatest, viz. Nobilium majorum, or the first with those of the second rank, and q Gloss. Archaiol. verbo Baneret. is placed in the middle between the Barons and the other Knights; in which respect, the Baneret may be called r Gloss. Archaiol. verbo Baneret. Vexillarius minor, as if he were the lesser Banner-Bearer, to the end he might be so differenced from the greater, namely, the Baron, to whom properly the right of bearing a square Banner doth appertain. But there are some remarkable differences ●●tween these Knights, and Knights Bachelors; to wit, as to the occasion and circumstances of their Creation; the Baneret being not created, unless at a time when the King's Standard is erected and displayed; besides, s Gloss. Archaiol. verbo Baneret. he bears his own Banner in the field, while the Knight Batchelor follows that which is another's, which evidently shows the Dignity to be of a higher nature; nevertheless, Sir Henry Spelman notes, this not to be dishonourable, since the Emperor t Gloss. Archaiol. verbo Baneret. Maximilian was pleased to serve in the Wars, under the Banner of our King Henry the Eighth, in the Lord Herbert● Hist. of Hen. 8. M S. foe 47. quality of his Soldier, in the Camp before Terwin in France, wearing the Cross of St. George, and receiving the pay of one hundred Crowns a day. This further difference is observed between them, by Andrew Favin, to wit, w In le Theatre d'Honeur l. 1. c. 6. Vexillarius, qui Vassa●●o● suon habeba● el●to Vexillo; & Baccalaureus▪ qui sub alieno vexillo procedebat. Jo. Tilius Commentar. d● reb. Gall. l. 2. p. 180. that the Knight Baneret was he who had so many Gentlemen, his servants, at command, as that he could raise a Banner, and make up a Company of Soldiers to be maintained at his Table, and their wages paid out of his own Purse: But the Knight Bachelor he, who had not servants sufficient to lead to the War, at his own charge, but marched under the Banner of some other. x Idem Favin. loco cit. These two degrees of Honour (saith he) were also distinguished by their Wages, in regard that a Knight Baneret had twenty Sols per diem to dispend, the Knight Batchelor ten, and the Esquire but five; proportionable hereunto is that which Mr. Selden notes out of the Wardrobe accounts, an. 4. E. 2. y Titles of Honour, p. 991. That the Banerets wages by the day was four shillings, the Knights two shillings, and the Esquires one shilling. Next unto the Knight's Banerets, we shall speak of Knights of the Bath; Knights of the Bath. which is a degree that hath the Investiture and Title of a Knight, with an additional denomination, derived from part of the Ceremony of his Creation. It is the most received opinion, that our King Henry the Fourth, first instituted these Knights; and true it is, according to a Chronic. l. 2. p. 24●. Sir john Froisard, He at his Coronation (to add to the lustre and magnificence of it) created b Chronic. l. 2. p. 24●. six and forty of them; making an especial choice of such as he favoured, either out of an inward affection, or consideration of their service or deserts. And as he designed them to attend him in the Ceremonies of his Coronation, then at hand, so did he retain them nearer unto his person; thereby seeming to honour them with a more familiar consociation, than he vouchsafed to the Knight's Bachelors. But if the Ceremonies and circumstances of their Creation be well considered, it will appear that this King did not institute, but rather restore, the ancient manner of making Knights; and consequently, that the Knights of the Bath are in truth no other than Knights Bachelors, that is to say, such as are created with those Ceremonies wherewith Knights Bachelors were formerly created by ecclesiastics; but some of them having been for a long time laid aside with us, were then brought again into use, and made peculiar to the Degree of Knights of the Bath, and since continued to them, upon some solemn and great occasion. At the first view, this Degree looks like a peculiar and distinct Order of Knighthood, and may perhaps (by some) be thought more fit to be spoken of in the third Chapter rather than here: But it cannot properly and justly be so accounted, if we consider, that they have not either Statutes or Laws assigned them, nor are they in case of vacancy supplied; (which are the essentials of distinct Orders) nor do they wear their Robes beyond the time of that occasion upon which they were created; as chiefly the Coronation of Kings and Queens of England, or otherwise the Creation of a Prince of Wales, Duke of York, and the like, whereto also is to be considered, that their Number hath been uncertain, and always at the pleasure of the King. Andrew Favin will have these Knights to be otherwise called En le Theatre d'Honeur l. 5: c. 2. Knights of the Crown, because (saith he) to distinguish them from Esquires, they wear upon their left shoulders an Escutcheon of Black Silk, with three Crowns of Gold embroidered thereon. But this is a great mistake, for it is not found that such, or indeed any other Badge, was at any time (after that manner) used by them, save only a Silk Lace; but the Jewel worn, to be known by, is made of Gold, containing three Crowns, with this Motto, Tria juncta in una, and hanging down under the left arm at a Carnation Ribbon worn cross the body. This leads us to the consideration of another Degree among us here in England, namely, Baronet●. Baronet's, who seem to be allied to Knighthood, by having granted to them the addition of Sir to be set before their Names; but this Title gives not the Dignity of Knighthood, nor can any of them be properly styled Knights, until they be actually knighted. It is a Degree but of a late erection, to wit, in the ninth year of King james, and the grant thereof made only by Letters Patents under the Great Seal of England, a Copy of one of which is transcribed into the d Pag. 8 21. Titles of Honor. This Honour is made hereditary to them, and the Heirs males of their bodies lawfully begotten, for ever; and by a subsequent Decree of the said King, precedence is granted to them before all Banerets, e Rot. Pat. an. 10. jac. pars 10, m. 8. except such as should be made by the King, his Heirs, and Successors, under his or their Standard displayed in an Army royal, in open War, and the King personally present; and next unto and immediately after the younger Sons of Viscounts and Barons. The ground for erecting this Degree (as appears by the Instructions given to the Commissioners appointed to treat about this affair) was partly Martial; for though themselves were not enjoined personal service in the Wars, yet the motive of this Honour was a certain contribution from each Baronet, f Seld Tit. of Hon. p. 827. to maintain thirty Foot Soldiers, for three years in Ireland (after the rate of eight pence a day) for the defence of that Kingdom; and chiefly to secure the Plantation in the Province of Ulster. Their Qualifications were, that at least they should be descended from a Grandfather, on the Father's side, that bore Arms, and had a Revenue of one thousand pounds per annum, of Lands of inheritance in possession, or Lands of old Rents, as good as one thousand pounds a year of improved Lands; or at least two parts of three, to the said value in possession, and the other third part in reversion expectant, upon one life only held in Jointure. The year after the first Patent past, King james was pleased to add some new Privileges and Ornaments to this Degree, namely, g Rot. Pat. 10. jac. pars 10. m. 8. to Knight those Baronet's already made, that were no Knights, as also such as should be afterwards created, and the Heirs males of their bodies, when they attained the age of one and twenty years; that the Baronet's and their Descendants might bear either in Canton, or in an Inescutcheon the Arms of Ulster, and further, to have place in the Armies of the King, and his Heirs and Successors, in the gross, near about the Royal Standard, for defence of the same. Since the Institution of Baronet's in England, there have been made divers in h ●itles of Ho●nor p. 842. Ireland, after the like form. And the Knights of i Heylins' Cos●ogr. printed 1652. l. 1. p. 306. Nova Scotia in the West-Indies, were ordained, in imitation of Baronet's in England, by the said King james, anno Dom. 1622. and upon a like design; to wit, the planting of that Country by Scotch Colonies, and the Degree made likewise hereditary. These later have the privilege to wear an Orange-tawny Ribbon, as a Badge of Honour, to distinguish them from other Knights: and it appears by a k Ex MS. in office. Armour. [L. 2. fol. 23. Letter from Henry Earl of Holland, dated the 29. of june 1627. and directed to the Officers of Arms, that there was some intention to move his then Majesty to declare his pleasure, that all Baronet's and Knight's Bachelors might wear in Ribbons of several colours, some Badge or jewel, to distinguish the one from the other, and both from persons of inferior quality, in such sort as did the Knights of the Baeth; to which end, he desired their opinion, touching the fitness and conveniency thereof. Which Officers, from precedents of the differences and marks set upon Robes belonging to several Degrees of Nobility and Honour, and from the Ensigns and Ornaments of Knighthood, used for distinctions sake, both at home and abroad, being esteemed as peculiar marks of Sovereignty in the Giver, and eminent tokens of Honour in the Receiver; grounded their opinion, that such Ornaments for distinction of those two Degrees, namely of Baronet's and Knight's Bachelors, were no way unfit or inconvenient, either to his said Majesty, or to his Subjects: But it seems, there was nothing further done in this matter. We shall conclude this Section with a general observation, which relates to the conferring of Knightly Honour; That Kings and Princes have in no Age limited themselves, or confined their bestowing of this Dignity to Martialists alone, who profess Arms, and give themselves to the exercise of Military Virtue, as it was in its original Institution, viz. a Military Employment; inasmuch as men of the long Robe, and such as have dedicated themselves to the managery of Civil Affairs, through their great worth and desert in that kind, have so well merited of their Prince and Country, as to be thought worthy to share with those of the short Robe, in having this Honour conferred on them. SECT. V. The Etymology of Eques, Miles, Chevalier, Ritter, and Sir. WE have observed before, 1. Equi●●. that the Grecian Captains had a Title of Honour in their Language, equivalent to the signification of Eques in the Latin, to which a Horse gave the denomination; we shall here further add (it being testified by l Lib. 33. c. 1. sub finem. Pliny) that the Title of Eques, given and appropriate to the Ordo Equestris among the ancient Romans, as a name of Title and Dignity, was at first likewise derived from Equus a Horse; and indeed it is a proper and significant term since among them, they were esteemed Equites, m Demster in Rosin. p. 94. who having a public Horse, did receive the stipend of a Horseman to serve in the Wars: because one part of the Ceremony, whereby this Honour became conferred, was the giving of a Horse, bestowed on them at the Public Charge; of which more anon. In the ancient times (saith n Turneb. animadv. in Rullum: Petri Rami Comment. p. 76. Turnebus) they who received pay, upon the account of a public Horse, were called Equites. And the Legionary Soldiers, which o L. 33. c. 2. Pliny saith were sometimes called Fluxumines, p De re mil. Rom. p. 231. Salmasius calls Fluxutes, and derives the word à flectendis Equisin Gyrum. It is also to be noted, that the word used to denote the Degree of Knighthood, in the several Dialects of other Nations, hath the same derivation, to wit, from a Horse; for in the French, a Knight is called Chevalier; in the Germane, Ridder; in the Italian, Cavagliero; nay even in the ancient British, Morchog; concerning some of which, hear also one of Geoffry Chaucer's Scholars. s Io. Lydgate MS. of the Horse, Sheep, and Go●●. Eques, ab Equo, is said of berry right, And Chevalier, is said of Chebalrie, In which a Rider called is a Knight, Arogoners done also specify, Caballiero through all that party, Is name of worship, and so took his 'ginning, Of Spurs of Gold, and chiefly Riding. And albeit the Latin word Miles, and the English word Knight, had not their derivation from a Horse, as have those before enumerated; nevertheless they are now restrained to a Title of Honour (though heretofore they had other significations) and ordinarily used to express a dubbed Knight. According to the opinion of our learned Spelman, ●. Miles. Miles (in a general sense) is he t Gloss. Archa●● verbo Mile●. who is legally enrolled for the War: which enrolment he also saith was twofold, Honoraria, & Vulgaris. This pertaining to the Foot, or common Soldiers; that to persons more renowned and famous. To the admittance of a Foot Soldier, the bare entrance of his Name upon the Military Tables sufficed; but at the creating of the other, some solemnity was used, for he was adorned with Arms; not of his own choice, but given and granted, upon the account of Honour, from the Prince, and that after a certain kind of ceremonious Pomp. Thus he. But though the word Miles anciently among the Romans, and hitherto in a strict sense, is allowed by all to signify a Foot Soldier, whence Miles, à Militia; yet how this word became usurped, continued in use, and in tract of time naturalised, to signify the same which Eques did, we could no where receive so clear satisfaction, as from the learned Pen of Claudius Salmasius, who in his Treatise De Re Militari Romanorum gives this following account. Pag. 2. It is manifest (saith he) that there was one kind of Military Discipline among the Romans, when their public Affairs were first settled by Kings; another, when in the flower of their Government Liberty was established; another, when the Caesars and Augustus' were Masters of the Empire; and lastly, another, under the Successors of Constantine, when upon the translation of part of the Empire to Constantinople, the Militia was changed from Foot to Horse. For the new Romans of that time being continually engaged against Nations powerful and abounding in Horse, and reposing no further confidence in the Legionary Militia, the rigour of the ancient Discipline being wholly lost, began to exercise and train up only the Horse Militia, deserting that of the Foot, whereof there was hardly any advantage to be made against the innumerable Forces of the Alani, Goths, Vandals, Persians, Saracens, and Sarmatians, which consisted in Horse. In those times the Greeks, who writ aught concerning that part of Military Discipline, which relates to Tactics, taking all things from the Ancients, expressed the Affairs of their own Age (by reason of the alteration of the Militia) in words proper to the ancient Militia. What the former had said of the Foot Soldiery, these later applied the same things in their writings to the Cavalry. And what is more to be admired, the names whereby the ancient Greeks and Latins called the Foot, these transferred to the Horse of their time. Hence 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, which before was said of the Foot Soldier, was by these later Greeks and Constantinopolitans, properly attributed to the Horseman. So also among the Romans of the same Age, the word Miles was no longer said of him that served afoot in the Wars, but began to be properly spoken of the Horseman. Whence it came into vogue (as the same Author concludes) that among the Titles of Nobility, he who had that of Miles bestowed on him (whether in public Monuments and Archives of Courts, or in the private Instruments and Tombs of illustrious Families) was understood to be a Horseman, or Eques, that is of the Equestrian Dignity, or descended from it. Our learned w Tit. of Honour p. 436. Selden also notes the word Miles to be equivocal, and that in the old Feodal Laws of the Empire it signifies a Gentleman, as the word Gentleman is signified in Nobilis: and with us the word hath been frequently and indifferently used, to denote both a Gentleman and a Knight: as for instance, Milites signifieth x Tit. of Honour p. 436. Gentlemen, or great Freeholders of a County, and not dubbed Knights, viz. such who hold by Knights-service from a Lord of a Manor, they being also called z Vide Tit. Hon. cad. pag. Milites or Knights in our Laws, that concern either choice of Coroners, or who are chosen from the several Counties of this Kingdom, to serve in the High Court of Parliament; although they be not advanced into the Degree of Knighthood. That Miles with us hath denoted the dignity of Knighthood (which is indeed the chiefest of Military professions) even in the Saxons times, a Ibid. p. 770. Mr. Selden not only believes, but fortifies his opinion from the authority of several Charters of that Age, wherein this Title is given to sundry persons, as may be b Idem, pag. 771. there seen to satisfaction; observing withal, that the c Et pag. 934. ancientest use of it, in the Germane Empire, as a Title of Honour, that he finds it had, was about the Year of our Lord 1064. but Aubertus Miraeus (in d Apud jurisprud. Heroic. p. 69. Cod. donat. pier.) exhibits an ancient diploma, in which the Title Miles is mentioned, in chartâ Gerardi Cameracensium Episcopi, de anno 1046. since which it is become more frequently used, in all public Instruments written in Latin, and most generally appropriate in our Law, to persons who have received the Order of Knighthood, and to signify the same with Eques and Chevalier, though indeed it may seem less properly to signify a Knight, than that of Eques; in regard Knighthood is by e Ferns Glory of Generosity, p. 108. some called the dignity of Horsemanship, and the tenure of Lands by Knights Fees here in England, is in truth a Horse-service, and the Tenants such as served the King on Horseback in Wars, and Gentlemen at least, if not persons of noble extraction: besides, to note the dignity of this Tenure, it is anciently called f Coke preface ad lib. 3. fo. 3. a. Regale Servicium, because due to and for the King and the Realm. As the Greeks and Romans derived a Title of Honour from Horses of service, 3. Chevalier. and conferred the same upon their men of Arms, so did the French; among whom, the word Chevalier hath the like signification and relation: For at first, it properly signified a Horseman, or 〈◊〉 that rides a Horse; but at length it came to be used among them, more 〈◊〉 to express one, upon whom the Honour of Knighthood had been bestowed. And this clearly appears from Claude Fauchet, a French Writer of good account; who speaking of the original of Knighthood, and the Etymology of the word Chevalier, saith, g Origines de Chevaliers Armoir. & Heraux. f. 1. it is evident that the Chevaliers derive their name from Cheval [a Horse] which (to say truth) is the properest Animal that can be found for War; and which by reason of the swiftness thereof, is by the h Vide Com. Servii ad Virgilii primum Georgicon. Poet ascribed to Neptune, at the contention he had with Pallas for the invention of profitable things. The skilful management of a Horse, hath been heretofore accounted one of the principal marks and properties of a Knight; and so greatly delighted were the active and warlike youths, among the old Gauls (to wit, the ancient Inhabitants of France) with gallant Horses, that no Present could be more acceptable to them. It is evident, that with the nobler sort among us, the Title of Eques or Chevalier hath been esteemed more honourable than Miles (though Miles had before much prevailed in England, even to a general Title and Appellation) which may be proved out of those Records, instanced in the fourth part of the k Pag. ●● Institutes, by which it appears that the Barons in Parliament, who had been Knighted, liked to be called Chevaliers, rather than Milites. And in Writs of Summons they were more usually styled Chevaliers, than by the Titles of their Baronies; or if these were used, nevertheless, that of Chevalier followed at the end of the style. Anno 7. E. 4. all the Barons in Parliament have the addition of Chevaliers, and therefore they subscribed thus— Equites aurati omnes. And about l Seldens Tit. of Honor. p. 746 King Henry the Eighths' Reign, the Custom began, to style all the temporal Barons in their Writs of Summons, Chevaliers; whether they were Knighted or not, which is hitherto continued in practice; all which are considerable proofs of the estimation they had of the Title of Chevalier, above that of Miles. Among the modern Germans, 4. Ridder. the Title of Knight is understood by the word m Corn. Kilian. Dict. Teutonico-Lat. lit. R. Versteg. Antiq. p. 314. Ridder, which in English is the same with Rider or Horseman, and equivalent both to the ancient Title Eques, and the modern Chevalier; and the Order of Knighthood or Equestrian Dignity, is in high Dutch called n Frisius' Dict. Latino-Germ. lit. R. Ritterschafft, in low Dutch, o jurisprudentia Heroica. p. 389. a. Riderschap. As the Germane Ridder or Ritter, is observed by our learned p Tit. Hon. p. 436. Selden, to be the same with Miles (viz. a Gentleman) so the Ghe-slagen Ridder, is interpreted by q Kilianus in lit. R. Eques Auratus, viz. Miles factus, or the dubbed Knight, he being created by the Ceremony of a gentle stroke, or light touch with a naked Sword, upon the shoulder (Ghe-slaeghen, signifying but as percussus) for albeit r The Estate of the Empire, Dialog. 8. in prin●. Lewis du May tells us, that in Germany the Gentlemen to this day, writing in Latin, style themselves Equites; yet no man among them is accounted a s Tit. of Honour▪ loco cit. Ritter or Ridder, in the same sense as Eques Auratus, or Cingulo Militae donatus, denotes it, unless he be actually Knighted. And besides, the said t Eod. Dialog. Lewis du May notes down these manifest differences, between them and the dubbed Knight: as first, that the Knight hath been always more privileged than the Gentleman. 2. That the chance of Birth makes the Gentleman, without his contributing any thing to it; but Worth and Valour raises the Knight to that degree of Honor. 3. Princes and Lords do not seek for the Title of a Gentleman, as they do very earnestly for that of a Knight: And 4. The Gentleman is born so, the Knight comes to be so; that is, a Gentleman begets a Gentleman, but a Knight begets not a Knight. The Saxon word 5. Knight. Cniht (from whence our Knight) is by our learned Countrymen, men, x Gloss. Archa●. verbo Knight. Spelman, y Titles of Honour. p. 769. Selden, and z verbo●niht ●niht. Summoner, rendered a Boy, a Servant, or an Attendant, and also a Soldier. We shall not meddle with the word, as it ba●ely signifies Puer, Puerilis, juvenis, or Puber, as making nought to our purpose; but as it hath signified Servus or Famulus, a Servant or Attendant (being not otherwise used at this day among the Dutch) and also, as it imports the dignity of Knighthood (to which purpose we now commonly use it) it will deserve observation; and this chiefly in the words of Mr. Somner, that painful Inquisitor into the so much neglected, and almost forgotten Saxon Tongue a Saxon. dict. loco cit. 〈◊〉 (saith he) that use of it remaining in our Knights of the Shire; which 〈◊〉 Knights by dignity or place as indeed but few of them are, or need to be, yet are so called, but why? under favour, in regard of that service which is required and performed of them in Parliament, for their several Countries, whose servants for the time they are. But that we may know it was used with us, as an honorary Title and Appellation, shortly after the Conquest, there is an b ●●ter Cod. MS. a Guil. Archiep. Cant. Bibl Oxon. donatos [E. 80. fo. 64. b.] old Manuscript yet extant in Bibliotheca Bodliana, in which the Annals are continued down to King Stephen's Reign, wherein the Annalist having told us, that King William the Conqueror accustomably wore his Crown at the Feasts of Easter, Whitsuntide, and Christmas, he further noteth c ●●ter Cod. MS. a Guil. Archiep. Cant. Bibl Oxon. donatos [E. 80. fo. 64. b.] 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Than were with him all the wealthy (or potent) men throughout England, viz. Arch-Bishops, Bishops, Abbots, Earls, Barons, and Knights. d Antiq. p. 314. Impr. London. 1629. Verstegan is of opinion, that this word began to be made use of among our Ancestors, as a Title of Honour, from such as were admitted for their merit to be Knights to the King; viz. his own Servants and Reteyners, and such as were appointed to ride with or attend on him; to whom our industrious Minshew agrees, the e Verbo Knight. Equites (saith he) which heretofore followed and accompanied the Emperor, are in the Germane Tongue called Knechtes, that is, Servitor's or Ministers. But our learned Cambden is of opinion, that the word Knercht, f Brit. p. 125. was in far more ancient times used and accepted as an honorary Title, and among the old Germans, signified a person armed with Spear and Lance (the Ensigns of their Knighthood) as in after times such were among other Nations, adorned with a Girdle and Belt, who are since called Equites Aurati, and sometimes simply Milites. 6. Sir. In the last place, we think it not amiss to say something here, touching the usual and accustomed English word, with us added to the names of Knights, viz. Sir: We note then, that since Titles and honorary Appellations have been in use, (for anciently no other Appellations were used, but only the persons names) the word Sire in old French was taken to signify Seignieur or Lord; and though in Latin the word Dominus hath been indifferently attributed to all Degrees of Nobility, yet in the Registries of the most noble Order of the Garter, it is used with a distinction. For wherever the Names of any of the Knight's Companions are recorded, if he be a Baron of the Kingdom, it is expressed by Dominus, and his Surname only, added thereunto; as for instance, the Lord Cameux is termed g Lib. N p. 58. Dominus de Cameux, and so others; whereas a Knight Baneret or Batchelor hath his Christian Name adjoined, as Sir john Chandos (who was one of the first Founders of this most noble Order) is styled h Idem p. 30. Dominus johannes Chandos, Sir Walter Palely, another of those Founders, is written, Dominus Gualter●s Palely, and so of others. Now this addition Sir, is properly attributed to the Names of all Knights Banerets, Knights of the Bath, and Bachelor Knights; the words sometimes pronounced at the time when they are dubbed being with this compellation to their Christian Names, Arise Sir john, or Sir Thomas, or whatsoever else is his Christian Name, and therefore is accounted parcel of their stile, as among the French Messire is used in the same nature. But to Knights Baronet's the addition of Sir is i Pat. 9 jac. pars 45. granted by a peculiar clause in their Patents of Creation, to be prefixed to their Christian Names, albeit they be not dubbed Knights. How it came to be first given we cannot find, but Custom from former times hath continued it to ours, upon the Degrees before mentioned, and divers of our old English Writers have bestowed it upon the major Nobility, after they had been received into the Order of Knighthood. Nevertheless, though it be wholly uncertain when it first began to be used with us, yet our learned Selden hath observed it in an k Additions and Amendments t● the Titles of Honor. p. 939. Hebrew Star, of King Edward the First's time. And in the life of Saint Thomas Becket, written also about that Age, we meet with the Title prefixed to the Names of the four Knights (there called Luther Knigths) who slew the said Saint Thomas. l MS. penes Sylam Taylor gen. so. 253. His knights though high i husde this, high stood some still, Hi bethoghte stillelich, to pay the King at will, Hour that most ●rewen wer, bithoghte of one guile, Sir Renaud le uz Ours, and Sir Hew de Morbile, And Sir William Trati, and Sir Richard le Brut. SECT. VI The Ensigns of the Equestrian Order among the Romans. THE Equestrian Order among the ancient Romans was conferred by particular Ceremonies, 1. A Public ●orse. to wit, the donation of a Horse, or giving of a Ring; and these were accounted the two chief and principal Ensigns and Ornaments of that Order, as appears out of m Lib. 33. c. ●. sub finem. Rosin. de Antiq. Rom. l. 1. c. 17. Pliny and other Writers; and both bestowed upon the public account. The giving of the public or military Horse was a far more ancient Ceremony, than that of bestowing the Ring: there being a time when only those who received the public Horse, we●● of the Equestrian Order, and none other; and this was long before the Gold Ring was used, as a mark of this Honor. For it appears out of Livy, that upon Servius his Institution of the Cense, and his inrolling the Knights by it, he forthwith took care to pay them out of the public Treasure, n Livy. l. 1. c. 43. Ten thousand pieces of Brass Money to buy them Horses: and certain Widows were assigned to pay two thousand pieces of like money annually, o Livy. l. 1. c. 43. towards the keeping of them. p De re mil. Rom. p. 239. circa medium. Therefore (saith the learned Salmasius) no other were then enroled in the Equestrian Order, but such as had the Equestrian Cense, and to whom a public Horse was assigned. And this is further evident from this passage in Pliny; q Quod ante● militares Equi nomen dederant, hoc nunc Pecun●ae judices tribuunt. l. 33. c. 1. That the Name (to wit Equites) which was heretofore (saith he) derived from the military Horses, now the judges upon the account of money (viz. the Censors) bestow. But here instead of the word judices, the learned Critic justus Lipsius is rather willing to read r De militia Romana. p. 3●▪ Dialog. 5. Indices (and we find the Letters n and u are frequently mistaken by Transcribers, the one for the other) which indeed seems as well suitable to the meaning, which the whole sentence aims at; for the former part thereof declares, that the Rings were the Notes or Ensigns of the middle (viz. Equestrian) Degree; and then according to Lipsius his correction of the word, the latter part runs thus; that the Name which formerly the military Horses gave, the Notes and Indices of wealth did afterwards (to wit in Pliny's time) bestow. And as the donation of a Horse was the ancienter badge of Knighthood, so were those to whom it was given, s Lips. loc● citato. saith justus Lipsius, most anciently, properly, and alone in times past called Equites. The same Lipsius (reflecting on the twofold Ensigns of Knighthood among the Romans) makes a dichotomy of the Equestrian Order, into t Lips. loc● citato. those who had a public Horse, and others who had none; but only the honour of wearing of a Gold Ring. In succeeding times, when the Custom was received of electing Knights, as well by bestowing of a Gold Ring, as formerly had been used by the single Ceremony of giving a public Horse (yet still to those who had the Equestrian Cense) then was the number of these Knights very much increased; whereupon no public Horses were afterwards assigned, but unto such as were ready to enter into the military service, and to fight in the Legions; and then also to such persons only, who were chosen u Salmas. de ●e mil. Rom. p. 239. out of the Body, Number, and Order of the Knights, to wit, w Ib. p. 240. such as to whom there had not yet any public Horse been assigned, but were only known to be of that Order, by wearing of a Gold Ring. Those therefore to whom the public Horse was then assigned, were thenceforth called Legionary Knights, from being x Et. p. 231. annexed and joined to the Legions by such donation; and likewise to distinguish them from the rest of the Equestrian Order, who had only received the honour of a Gold Ring; though they had not as yet taken upon them any martial employment. Hence we may observe, that all those who were of the Equestrian Order, were not employed in military service, or rather very few, in respect of the whole Body; but only such of them to whom a public Horse was assigned, and had the peculiar Title given them of Legionary Knights, as aforesaid; being chosen from the entire body of the Ordo Equestris, to the end they might forthwith serve in the Legions. Nor was every Citizen, whose wealth could entitle him to the Equestrian Cense, received into the Equestrian Order, for doubtless many concealed the just value of their Estates from the Censor, and so escaped the admission and enrolment; but whosoever were found possessed of such a proportion of Riches and Substance, as would reach the Equestrian Cense, were constrained (if debauchery and viciousness hindered not) to enrol themselves within that Order, and thereby become capable of receiving a public Horse; as is evident from y Lib. 39 cap. 19 Livy, in that which he relateth concerning P. Aebutius, the Son of a Roman Knight, where in favour to him, and recompense of his service, by whose (together with z Lib. 39 cap. 19 Hispalo Fessenia's) means, the abominable Ceremonies, used in the nocturnal Feasts of Bacchus, were first discovered, the Senate decreed, a Lib. 39 cap. 19 that the Consul should mind the Tribunes of the Commons, to prefer a Bill to the people for his exemption from all military service, and notwithstanding to a●ow him his Pension, as if the time of service which the Law required, had been accomplished; and moreover b Lib. 39 cap. 19 to prohibit the Censor from assigning to him a public Horse, or compelling him to serve in the Wars, against his will. By which it is manifest, that the Censor might force any man (in that time) who had the Equestrian Cense, to accept of a Horse, and constrain him to serve out (in the Legions) the time appointed by the Law; otherwise what needed so great endeavour to obtain such a prohibition? Howbeit Salmasius adds, c De re mil. Rom. p. 238. that in the more ancient method of Election, constrain● was not used. This Horse (which first gave name to the Knights, as hath been before noted out of Pliny) was in relation to his service called d Godw. Anthol. Rom. Hist. p. 29 Equus Milita●s, and from the annual allowance to keep him, Equus publicus. And after such time as the Office of Censor was instituted (which was in the e Fastorum Rom. l. 1. vide Liv. l. 4. c. 7. & Rosin. Antiq. Rom. l. 7. c. 10. 310. year after the foundation of the City) this Horse f Idem Rosin. l. 1. c. 10. was bestowed by the Censor (which also is apparent from the case of P. Aebutius, cited by Livy, and mentioned a little before) and not as yet by the Emperors, who (it is true) in succeeding times gave the same, (which ought nevertheless to be distinguished from the Horse that the said Emperors gave among the Praemia militaria, and by and by touched upon) And it was so assigned by the Censors, as they were Judges of manners (as is well observed by g De mil. Rom. p. 33. dial. 5. Lipsius,) for it was part of the Censors duty, h Rosin. l. 7. c. 10. vide etiam Dion. Halicar. l. 4. to observe the lives and manners of every man, even of those who were of the Senatorian and Equestrian Order; and to brand (if they saw cause) any Citizen whatsoever with infamy. And therefore were neither all persons, or those unadvisedly, enrolled for a public Horse, but such only as could endure the test and examination of their reputation and good behaviour, and whose fair conversation and carriage, had given proof of their good and commendable life. Wherefore, as the aforesaid Salmasius observes, Polybius useth in this kind of Election, the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which comes from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, signifying to be in good repute and esteem, and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, which signifies to prove, to examine, to inquire, etc. i De re mil. R. 〈◊〉. p. 238. because they chose from the Equestrian Order, and from all the number of Knights, those of known virtue and of approved life, who might take Horsemans' pay, and serve with public Horses, and be enrolled in the Legions. And as this power in judging of men's manners and behaviour in general, For what cause withdrawn. was placed in the Censors, so also did they of censuring, in particular, the Knight's debaucheries and miscarriages, if they were chargeable with any such, after their Election into the Ord● Equestris; for if they observed any thing in their lives, k Rosin. l. 7. c. 10. contrary to honesty and good report, they took away from them both Horse and Ring, than which a greater disgrace and dishonour could not befall them. The Knights were not only to be circumspect, as to their own demeanour, but also obliged to be careful of their Horses; for if upon the Censors review of the public Horses, any were found poor and lean, or that the Knight kept him not well dressed, and in good order, he who owned him l A. Gell. Noc●es Attica. l. 4. c. 12. was noted for negligence and carelessness; m Lips. de re mil. Rome p. 33. Dial. 5. and if the Censors saw any blemish or impediment in them, they forthwith took them away. But such might be their Crime, that withdrawing the Horse was not thought an agreeable punishment, for we read in Livy, that the Censors did not only take away the public Horses from the Knights who came off safe, after the defeat at Cannae, but n Lib 4. c. 18. they removed them all from their own Tribes, and wholly dis-franchised them. The like did the Emperors, when, in succeeding times, they took upon them to bestow the public Horses, in such manner as the Censors had formerly used; among whom we find, that Augustus (after he had obtained his ten Coadjutors) exercised at one time, several of the powers belonging to the Censors, for o Sueton. in ●l●a Aug. c. 39 be compelled every Knight to give an account of his life, and of those whose manners be approved not, be punished some, and noted others with reproach and infamy, and many with admonition, but after various kinds. So also Caius Caligula, who not only reviewed with some severity, the Musters of the Equestrian Order, but p Idem in vita Caii Cal. c. ●6. openly took from them their Horses, in whom was found any foul reproach or infamy. And those who were less guilty, and culpable but of smaller faults, lost also their dignity, together with their Horses, albeit they avoided that public note of disgrace, which the former underwent, from whom (as it is shown) he openly, and in the face of all took away their Horses; for concerning these, the said Suetonius adds, q Ibid. He only passed over their Names in reading the Roll. Now Rosinus, in laying down the manner and order used in ejecting such Knights, saith it was thus: A r Lib. ●. cap. 1●. recital being made by the Censor of all the Knights, that were enrolled in the Ordo Equestris, those whose names he omitted, s Lib. ●. cap. 1●. were thereby understood to be deprived of that dignity. In the last place, where any of this Order had consumed their Patrimony, and had not an Estate left answerable to the Equestrian Cense, they were reduced to the same condition with those, who (for some great mis-behaviour) were deprived of the public Horse, and Gold Ring, t Rosin. l. ●. c. 17. and cast into the lowest rank and Order, being thenceforth reckoned among the Plebeians. When the Legionary Knights had accomplished the full time of service in the Wars, appointed by the Law, and that the public Horse had not for any crime or mis-demeanour of the Owner (all that while) been taken away from him, than was he delivered back to the Censor; the manner whereof is thus taken notice of by u In vita Pompeit. Plutarch. It was the custom (saith he) with the Knights of Rome, when they had served in the Wars the time appointed by the Law, to bring their Horses into the Forum, before the Duumvirs (who were called Censors) and giving an account under whom, and what Generals, or Captains, they had served, thereupon to be dismissed from further service in the Wars: an example whereof, the same Plutarch relates to have been given by Pompey himself, which was briefly thus. w In vita Pompeit. When the two Censors Gellius and Lentulus had placed themselves in the Forum, to view the Knights that were to appear before them, Pompey came from the farther end thereof, leading his Horse in his hand by the Bridle (all the Ensigns of a Consul being carried before him) and passed by the Bars where the Censors sat, who seeing him so obedient in the observation of the Law, gave him great respect, after which the signior Censor thus examined him. Pompey the Great, I desire you to tell me, whether you have served so long in the Wars as the Law doth enjoin? To which he answered, that he had, and under no other Captain tha● himself; whereupon the Censors rose up from their Seats, and accompanied him home to his House. justus Lipsius x De mil. Rom. p. 35. Dial. 5. exhibits the Reverse of a Coin, which he refers to the Emperor Claudius, as made upon his reviewing of the Legionary Knights, whereon is drawn the Censor sitting in the Forum, and a Knight leading his Horse up to him, and underneath is this word CENSOR inscribed; which since I have not met with in any other Author, who writes concerning the Roman Coins, I though necessary to mention in this place; together with another Roman Coin given us by y Rom. & G●aec. Monumenta p. 165. Hubertus Goltzius. This latter might possibly be stamped by M. Tullius Decula, who was Consul with Cneus Cornelius Dolabella, in the z Fastorum Rom. l. 1. sub finem. 672. year after the foundation of the City. And although on the Reverse the Censor is not to be seen sitting in the Forum, as in the former, yet there is a Figure representing a Knight leading his Horse, and in the very same posture as before, which doubtless was designed by Tullius Decula, to represent the manner of bringing a public Horse to a review before the Censors; and to strengthen this conjecture, there is ensculpted on the other side, the Effigies of Servius Tullus, the six King of Rome. For in regard the Tullian Family is said to be descended from Servius Tullus, in remembrance thereof, his head was stamped thereupon. Yet certainly this was not all, but that as well the Reverse was designed, to perpetuate the memory of the same King's instituting the Cense, and ordaining a public Horse to be given to the Roman Knights, whereon to serve in the Wars. Albeit I am not ignorant that the learned Commentator upon the Duke of Croy's Coins (among which is set forth the very same piece) likes rather to have it represent a Consular Horse, led by a Groom; but he gives neither remark nor observation of the use, custom, or occasion for a Consular Horse to be sole. We shall close our discourse concerning the public Horse, as it was the principal Ensign of the Equestrian Degree, with this observation; That amongst the Roman Inscriptions, collected by the great industry of a Inscript. Antiq. orbis Rom. janus Gruterus, there are several written thus, Equo publico honoratus, Equo publico donatus, ornatus, exornatus, which at first sight may seem to infer, that this public Horse was bestowed as an Ensign of Knighthood, and the person thereby admitted into the Equestrian Dignity. But these expressions ought more rightly to be referred to the praemia militaria, with which the Emperors used to recompense some particular service done, by the honour of such a gift; and therefore we conceive it necessary here to insert that cautionary note, which Salmasius gives in this very case. b De re mil. Rom. p. 240. Wheresoever we read of any that have been honoured or adorned with a Public Horse, it must be understood not of him who served with a public Horse, and really took Horsemans' pay, but of him on whom this honour had been bestowed by the Emperor. From this learned Author we shall add a further observation; that Equus publicus (which doth often occur in old Monuments and Inscriptions) is by a wondrous, but nevertheless an accustomed speech among the Romans, taken for the person himself, c Ibid. qui Equo publico meret, that is, for one of the Equestrian Order, or that served with a public Horse; but qui Equo publico donatus, for one, to whom a public Horse had been given by the Emperor, as an honorary reward. Another Ensign of the Equestrian Order was a Ring: a Ring in Latin is called Annulus, à Circuitu, from the roundness of its figure, whereby the Finger, as with a Crown is encircled; It is also taken diminutively from Annus the year, from its circulating within itself: but the Grecians have derived its name from the Finger, viz. that part of the body whereon it is worn, and called it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. That it hath been very anciently used, is undeniable, seeing the Author of the Book of d C. 41. v. 42. Genesis hath noted Pharaoh to have taken off his Ring (than esteemed one of his Kingly Ensigns) and put it upon Joseph's hand. We shall not need here to exhibit the (even almost innumerable) forms and fashions of Rings, or other their various uses, as little relating to our present purpose: But for as much as the Gold Ring hath been used and taken as an Ensign of the Equestrian Order, and consequently reputed as a Symbol of Honour, among the Romans; as such, it falls within what we design, and therefore we shall here note a few things in relation thereunto. When the custom of wearing Rings began first to be taken up at Rome, pliny affirms, that the ancient Romans wore only the Iron Ring, e Lib 33. c. 1. in princ. it being accounted by them the Ensign of Military Virtue. Nor were then Rings worn by any other, but by those f Lib 33. c. 1. in princ. who had received them upon a public account. This use of Iron Rings continued a great while amongst them, as is manifest from the same Author, who also saith, g Lib 33. c. 1. in princ. that it was a long time ere the Roman Senators did wear any of Gold. And therefore all the while the Senate wore only Iron Rings, it cannot be supposed, that any of the Equestrian Order should wear those of Gold; and consequently in those elder Ages, the Gold Ring was not received, or reputed as an Ensign of their Knightly Degree. Howbeit in process of time, we find Gold Rings were also drawn into use among the Romans; yet when they were so, we observe it was not lawful for men of any Degree to wear them, but only those to whom their use was restrained; as appears from Dion the Historian, who allegeth, h Vide C●l. Rhod Lect. Antiq. 16. c. 12● prope finem, ex Dione. That none of the ancient Romans, except the Senators and Knights, were permitted to wear Gold Rings. And now was it that the Gold Ring became ennobled among them, when assumed by these two Orders, which included all the Roman Nobility. These Rings (saith Isidore) were given at the public charge, i In Originibus. l 19 c. 32. but not without manifest distinction; k In Originibus. l 19 c. 32. for to the Senators Rings were given, set with precious stones to others (to wit the Knights) those made of massy Gold: which were so called (saith Licetus) l De Annul. Antiq. c. 137. because they were not made hollow to receive Gems into them. But more particularly, the Gold Ring was another Ensign of the Equestrian Order; n Plin. l. 33. c. 1. in finem. Annuli planè medium ordinem Plebi & Patribus inseruere. Here Pli●y notes it for the Symbol of the middle Degree, inserted between the Senators and Plebeians, which was that of the o Appian l. 2. the 〈◊〉 Civilibus. Equites, as hath been befor● showed. The Learned Salmasius interpreting a place in Pl●ny, immediately following that before cited, to wit, p L 33. c. 1. sub finem. Quod antea militares Equi nomen dederunt, hoc nunc pecuniae judices tribuunt, saith, that his meaning can be only this, q Salm. de re milit. Rom. p. 239. That all persons who had an Equestrian Cense, that is, an Estate of Equestrian value, did comport themselves as Knights, and (when afterwards they) were elected into that Order (it was) from and by virtue of the Cense alone, r Idem, in fine; & in proxima pag. qui designabuntur Annuli aurei gestamine. whose Ensign was a Gold Ring. Hereupon the Ordo Equestris became conferred by the public Donation and acceptation of a Gold Ring, as formerly was wont to be done by the giving of a Horse. And we also observe, that Tacitus doth use the phrase promiscuously, Equestri dignitate donare, and Annulo honorare, to give the Dignity of Knighthood, and to bestow honour with the gift of a Gold Ring: as where he tells us, s Hist. l. 2. c. 20. that when the Army entreated Vitellius to make Astaticus, his Freedman, a Knight, he repressed their unbeseeming flattery; but soon after (such was the fickleness of his mind) at a private Banquet (which t In vit● Vitelli. c. 12. Suetonius saith was in Suppertime, on the first day of his Empire) he gave him what before he had denied, and honoured him with Gold Rings. Thus we see that at length Slaves were created Knights, and the Ius Annulorum, to wit, the right of wearing a Gold Ring, was given to Freedmen, no less than to Freeborn men. But if it be inquired, why Tacitus here useth the word Annuli● in the plural, Turnebus will give the reason, viz. u Advers. l. 20. c. 2. That some of the Ancients who were more sumptuous and gallant, had two kinds of Rings; to wit, one for Summer, and another for Winter; and I (saith he) should judge those for Winter to have been of greater weight, the other for Summer more light; and he groundeth his opinion upon the first and seventh Satyrs of juvenal, who in the one calls such Rings Aestivos, or Summer Rings, and in the other Semestres, or six months' Rings. Statius showing that mean extraction hindered no man from attaining to Honour, and that Freedmen and Servants (known by wearing of an Iron Ring) had assumed at their manumission the Gold Ring and Equestrian Dignity (whereby they became equal to others of high birth) and left off the use of the Iron Ring, hath these elegant Verses. — w Lib. 3. Sylvar. de Lachr. Hetrusci. Tenuesque nihil minuere parents, Atque idem in Cuneos populusque cum dixit Equestres, Mutavitque genus, laevaeque ignobile ferrum Exuit, & celso natorum aequavit honore. Whereupon, one of his learned * Domitius. Commentators gives an instance in Claudius Etruscus, (whom Vespasian had advanced from the condition of a Freedman, to the Equestrian Order) and notes, that the said Emperor caused him to put off the Iron Ring, which Servants and Freedmen used to wear, and to put on a Gold Ring, the note or mark of Knightly Dignity. Salmasiu● upon the words of Aurelius Victor, cited by julius Capitolinus in the life of Macrinus, viz. donatum Annulis aureis, saith thus, x Hist. Aug. S●riptores. p. 4●3. Freedmen (and such a one was Macrinus) upon whom Gold Rings were bestowed, were thereby made Knights: besides he there citys the abovementioned Verses of Statius, and thence infers, that Claudius Etruscus, the person of whom the Poet spoke, was a Freedman, whose condition the Emperor had so changed, that of a Freedman he became a Knight, and for y Ibid. Iron Rings, such as Freedmen did wear, he gave those of Gold, which were the proper Ensigns of Knights. At length he positively concludes; z Ibid. That whereas Knights were highborn, nevertheless he, who having laid aside his Iron Rings, and put on those of Gold bestowed on him by the Emperor, was equal to them in honour. Agreeable hereunto is that of Freinshemius, a Notis in L. Flor. l. 1. c. 5. the Gold Ring was the proper Ornament of Knights, to the end they that were honoured therewith from the Emperor, should be understood to be taken and received into the Equestrian Order. For the donation of the Gold Ring did bestow upon slaves such Privileges and Immunities, as if they had been freeborn; who being now freed from service, b Salmuth. in Pancirol. Tit. 58. p. 313. ingenuitatis jura consequebantur, did thereby not only obtain the rights of Freeborn men, but increase of Honours; c Alex. ab Alex. in Genial. Dier. l. 2. c. 19 in fine. living in such sort, that they were to bear Magistracy and Honours, and to sustain all Offices of freeborn Citizens, like other Freemen. And more particularly, d Salmuth. Loco cit. were also esteemed to have attained unto the Equestrian Order, or enjoyed the Privileges equal thereunto. And all this merely from the donation and permission of the use of the Gold Ring, upon receiving of which they e Salmuth. Loco cit. left off wearing the Iron Ring, that being then (though not anciently) f Isidor. in Orig l. 19 c. 32. a badge of servitude and slavery; and g Alex. ab Alex loco cit. rejecting their old name also, they assumed that of Knight. It distinguished the Knights from the Senators and Plebeians. But as this noble Symbol, the Gold Ring, was an Ensign of the Equestrian Order, so was it also one of the notes or signs of distinction, to difference them from the two other Degrees, namely, Senatorian and Plebeian. And first, though anciently while the Senators wore plain Gold Rings, we confess the Knight's Rings being plain also, carried not a sufficient distinction; nevertheless after such time as the Senators began to adorn their Rings with Gems and precious Stones, (as is before noted) was the difference evident enough. Secondly, they were also worn to distinguish the Equestrian Order from the Plebeian; and that the Knights used them to that end, is evident from h Plin. l. 33. c. 1. sub fine, Rosin. de Antique Rom. c. 17. Salmuth. in Pancirol. Tit. 58. Salmas. de re mil. Rom. p. 240. Cl. Fauchet. Crigines des Cheval. Armairies & Hepaux. p. 2. many Authors, in regard the Plebeians had permission to wear no other than Rings of Iron. The difference among the Rings of these three Orders is thus observed by Licetus, i De Annulis Antiq. p. 136. Gold Rings set with precious stones were given to the Senators only, plain Rings without stones to the Knights, and Iron Rings to the Plebeians, which the said Author here calls Ferrei Militares, because the aforesaid Degrees at first used the Iron Ring, k Ibid. to show themselves good Soldiers and expert in Arms. But after such time as the Gold Ring was appropriate to the Equestrian Order, the people continued the custom of wearing the Iron Ring only; for albeit they enjoyed the privilege of free birth, yet because they wanted Nobility they might not wear Gold Rings, but rest contented with those of Iron. But at length grew into common use. We are informed by Appian, that one of the Ornaments of a Tribune, was likewise a Gold Ring; the Tribunes (saith he) wore Gold Rings, among the Soldiers, when other inferiors wore those of Iron; and lest it should be doubted that the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 might refer to those of the Equestrian Order; justus Lip●●us clears this place, saying, l De mil. Rom. l. 2. p. 87. that the words of Appian were meant only of the Infantry, in regard the Knights were of equal rank and dignity with the Tribunes. At length, in the middle times of the Empire, it appears that the Foot Soldiers were also allowed the honour of wearing Gold Rings, no less than Knights; for m L. 3 c 25▪ Herodian affirms, that Severus (among other Privileges granted by him to his Soldiers) was the first, of all the Roman Emperors, who permitted them the use of Gold Rings. And afterwards, in times of greater liberty, the use of them grew far more frequent and promiscuous; insomuch (as n In Genial. Dier. l. 2. c. 19 Alexander ab Alexandro noteth) that not only the Roman Soldiers without distinction, but at length the Freedmen, as also Women, and the meanest Slaves, were allowed to wear Gold Rings, which formerly was not lawful. Among the Interpreters of Lucius Florus, we find that Zevecotius upon these words o Lib. 2. c. ●▪ Modii duo Annulorum Carthaginem missi, dignitasque Equestris taxata mensurâ, whereby Florus observes, that from these two measures of Rings, the Carthaginians did judge how many Roman Knights were slain at the Battle of Cannae; we say the said Zevecotius hath this observation; for the dishonour received at this overthrow, unto the time of Severus the Emperor, the use of Gold Rings was not granted in warlike Expeditions, but only to the Tribunes; and to others those of Iron, which exclusion of the Roman Knights, he conceives included in the word caeteris; but what ground he hath for this opinion we know not, since we find no such remark in any ancient Author. For had the Equestrian Order, after the said Battle, been prohibited the use of Gold Rings abroad, until the time of Severus, doubtless Herodian had then mentioned them to have received, not a donation, but restauration of this privilege from Severus; besides, those he speaks of were 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 only the Foot Soldiers, not Knights; moreover it was the donation of a thing 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which they never before enjoyed. And therefore most certain it is, he could not intend the Knights here; since they from ancient time had enjoyed, and (for aught we can find to the contrary) did to this time, and beyond, continue the wearing of Gold Rings abroad, no less than at home. To conclude, that which seems very much to persuade, that the use of Gold Rings was grown promiscuous, long ere these times, to wit, before the Battle of Cannae, is this following passage of Pliny; p Lib. 33▪ cap. 1. That there was a promiscuous use of Gold Rings in the second Punic War; and his reason is this, q Lib. 33▪ cap. 1. If they had not been at that time worn by others, as well as Knights, Hannibal could not have sent those three Measures of Rings to Carthage. But L. Florus, an ancienter Author than Pliny, is clear (in the place above cited) that it was only they of the Equestrian Order, who (by those Measures of Rings) were known to be slain near Cannae, and not any other; and that there were but two Measures of them, not three, as Pliny reporteth; so that Pliny grounding his opinion for the confused or indifferent use of Gold Rings, upon the number of those Measures they are said to fill, which number by an Author more ancient is affirmed to be less; we conceive, this deduction of his hath not weight enough to be relied on. SECT. VII. The Ensigns and Ornaments of Knighthood among other Nations. FRom the Romans we shall pass to other Nations, 1. Shield and Lance. and first to the Germans; among whom, as Tacitus affirms, the Shield and Lance were accounted the grand Badges of Military Honour, or Knighthood, and accordingly given their young Gentlemen that were to be admitted to so honourable a Dignity: r Tacit. de morib. Germ. c. 2. for it was not the custom (saith he) for any one among them to take Arms, before the State had approved him able to manage them; but then in their public Assemblies, some Prince, or the Father, or else a Kinsman of the young man, adorned him with a Shield and Lance (and whom they termed in their Language s Camb. Brit. p. 125. Knecht) to which Tacitus also adds, t Loco cit. That this Investiture was the Gown among them; and the first honour bestowed upon their youth. This also saith u Loco ●uper relat. Cambden, was the first and most simple manner of creating a Knight. This the Lombard's, this the Franks, and this our Countrymen, all descending out of Germany, in old time used: and was to us (in the opinion of the learned w G●ossar. verbo Miles. Sir Henry Spelman) the Foundation of the Knightly Order. Much like that of the ancient Germans, was the custom of making Knights among the old Irish: for either the x Froissard. Hist l. 3. c 63. King, or Father of the young man created him a Knight; and if his Father were dead, than the next of Kin did it; and the manner of creation was thus: y Froissard. Hist l. 3. c 63. A Shield was hung upon a Pole or Stake, fixed in the ground, and a small Lance or Spear (such as the Youth designed to this honour could wield) was given to him, and therewith he ran a Tilt at the Shield, and the more he broke of these Lances, the greater reputation he gained. z In le Theatre d' Hon. l. 1. c. 2. Andrew Favin notes, that the Shield and Lance were the proper Arms appertaining heretofore to a French Knight, and therefore in their Capitularies, called Arma Patria; these, Esquires carried always after their Masters, wheresoever they went, and what occasion soever they were engaged in. And it is an Observation of Cl. Salmasius, in relation to the Nobility and Gentry of France, a De re milit. Rome p. 227. in princ. that at this day all the Ensigns and Marks of Honour, appertaining to persons of highest extraction, are equestrian, and take denomination from the Equestrian Militia: and that the Shields and Scutes (as they are vulgarly called) in which the Arms of the Nobility are expressed, are b Ibid. Equestrian Targets, not Shields or Bucklers of Foot Soldiers. The form of the Equestrian Targets among the Romans, were inclining to an Oval, as may be seen by those cut upon Trajan's Column at Rome; after which Figure, divers of our Nobility and Gentry have of late times also fashioned the Escotcheons, whereon their Arms are born: but the figure of our more ancient Escotcheons, came nearer that description which c Lib 9 circa finem. Livy gives us of the Samnites shields, whose upper parts were broader, and the head of an even height, for defence of the breast and shoulders, but growing narrower and narrower, towards the bottom, finished in a point. 2. Belt. Another Ensign and Ornament of Knightly Honour is the Cingulum militare, or Military Belt, called also Balteus, or Baltheus, which Varro saith is a d L. 18. Rer. hum. Tus●an word, and signifies a Military Girdle. That which the Roman Soldiers wore, was made of e Varro l. 4. de Lingua Lat. Leather, and adorned with Studs or Bosses (from whom it devolved to the Germans and Franks) and is in like manner described by f Theat d' Hon. l. 1. c. 6. Favin, to be made of a large Thong of white Leather, having the ends pure Gold, covered and fastened with Studs of the same metal, to which the Sword was made fast on the left side. With him doth another French Writer concur, saying, that the g Claude Fauchet, en les Origines des Chevaliers, etc. foe 2. Incincture was made of a large Thong of Leather, and was termed Balteus, and by the French a Baudrier, which Favin affirms to be so called of the old French also. h Apud Io. jac. Chisterium in Anast. Childerici Regi●. p. 197. Rudolphus Abbot of St. Trudon in Germany, speaking concerning the finding of the Body of St. Gereon Knight and Martyr, at Colen, in the Monastery of St. Pantaleon, saith that his Military Girdle was found to that time whole and entire, and that it was of black Leather, almost an Ell long: But his Sword was consumed, and only the pommel (of the form of an Egg) almost eaten up with rust, was likewise found at his left side nigh to his Belt. This Ensign of Honour came in time to be richly adorned both with Gold and precious Stones, as Favin also notes i L. 3. c. 1. in another place of his Theatre of Honour, out of St. Gregory Victor Archbishop of Tours: as also that it was not the common wearing Girdle, inasmuch as the French in general used golden Girdles; but that the Knights wore such as were garnished with great Buckles, Studs, and Rings of pure Gold, being of great price and value; to show their dignity and power in Military Commands: and with such a Belt k Mal●sb. de gest Reg. l. 2. c. 6. set with Pearls and precious Stones, was young Athelstan (afterwards one of our Saxon Kings) girded, when he received Knighthood from his Grandfather Alfred. It is to be f●rther noted, that by this Badge of Knighthood, were our Knights anciently known, no less than by their gilt Swords, Spurs, and golden Collars of S●. howbeit it hath not for a long time been used with us, at the creation of a Knight, save only of the Bath; but instead thereof, the dubbing with a naked Sword sufficeth. To this Belt was also added a Sword, 3. Sword. and such a one, as in the esteem of some, was different from the ordinary use, and therefore is by Favin termed l Theat. d'Honneur. l. 1. ●. 6. the Sword of a Knight. In time of Christianity this Sword came to be hallowed with great Ceremony, either by some great Prelate, or other Ecclesiastical Person: the form of the Benediction is to be found in the m Pag. 781. Titles of Honour, and in Favins' n Loco ci●. Theatre of Honor. This among the Ensigns of Knightly Honour hath obtained the principal place and regard; for it is chiefly the Sword with which Knights are now created; and hath become so far ennobled, that the Red Cross assumed by the o Francise, de Rades y Andrada en Chronic. Sanctiago. c. 1. p. 1. b. etc. 4. p. 6. b. videses Historia de los Ordimes Militares per Fr. Car● de Torres. l. 1. p. 9 b. Knights of St. james in Spain for their Badge of Honour, is drawn in the fashion of a Sword. And the Collar of the Order of the Sword and Belt in Sweden is composed of Swords bloody at the point, and encompassed about with Leathern Belts; the manner and order whereof may be seen in the Plate prefixed to the third Chapter ensuing. Another eminent Badge of Knighthood (which succeeded in the place of the Gold Ring) is the Golden Spurs, 4. Spurs. wherewith at the time of their Creation Knights were wont to be adorned; and s Fr. Menen. Delic. Equest. Edit. Colon. Agrip. p. 13. these (a little after the Conquest) were added to the other Ensigns, for more and greater Ornament, and are usually carried by a Nobleman at the Coronation of our Kings, to signify their Knighthood. Those Spurs appointed to be made against Christmas, Anno Domini 1252. and sent to York, to be used there, at the Knighthood of Alexander the Third, King of Scots, were of Silver, t Claus. an. 36. H. 3. m. 30. gilded over, and the Straps curiously wrought of Silk, instead of Leather. They were usually put on after the person had been conducted and presented to the King or Prince, who gave the Honour, beginning with the right Heel; and given to signify, u Theat. d'Honneur. l. 1. c. 6. that the new made Knight should not only declare his valour by his Sword, but also by the management of his Horse; which he should encourage and excite with his Spurs to the carrying on of his valiant designs. Of so great an esteem hath the Knightly Spurs been, that from thence, w Seld. Tit. of Honor. p. 437. Knights Bachelors are generally called in Latin Equites Aur●ti, among the Germans Ritterdess Gulden Sporns, and with us heretofore x Rot. Parl. 3. E. 4. Knights of the Spur. Nay one of the Military Orders was instituted under this Title: and the y Delic. Equest. p. 150 Collar of the Order of the Elephant in Denmark, is (according to z Delic. Equest. p. 150 Franciscus Mennenius) composed of Elephants and Spurs. It was conceived so proper and suitable a Badge of Knighthood, that it has been thought fit to be given for Coat Armour, to some Families here in England, who bear the Surname of Knight: as namely to a Registrum Armour. partiam borealium Angliae, tempore Regis Hen 8. penes Thom. nuper Com. Arundel. & Sur. Knight of Shrewsbury [I.] b Inter Collect. Concess. Knight of Charwelton in the County of Northampton [II.] and c Ibid. Knight of St. Dennis in Hampshire [III]. We further have it certified by the Kings and Heralds of Arms, Anno 10. jac. Regis, among other rights belonging to the Degree of a Knight Baneret, that he d MS. in Offic. Armour. upon the account of his Knighthood, might wear gilded Spurs, as well as a gilt sword: and that they have been accounted an Essential Badge of Knighthood, may be collected from the Ceremony of the degradation of a Knight, where his gilt Spurs are e See the degradation of Sir Andr. Harclay in selden's Titles of Honour, p. 788. first cut off with a Hatchet. 5. Collar. In the last place, although the use of wearing Collars of Gold hath been most ancient, and one of the usual causes for which they were bestowed, was to honour Military Virtue; and though among the Romans, the Collar gave a Surname to one of their chiefest Families, and consequently became of much esteem among them: yet do we no where find it reckoned among the Ensigns of their Equestrian Order: But among some other Nations it was accounted a Badge and Mark of Knighthood. f De Antiqu●rum Torquibu● p. 37. john Schefser, from a passage out of g ●. varior. c. 10. Pancirollus, which tells us that Golden Collars were reckoned among the Ornaments, worn by the Roman Precedents of Provinces, would likewise have it an Ensign of h Scheffer de Antiq. Torq. p. 38. Knightly Dignity among the Germans, affirming withal, i Scheffer de Antiq. Torq. p. 38. that the more ancient Statues and Images of their Knights, were adorned with Collars. He also notes, as a thing observable, k Ibid. p. 42. that this custom of bestowing Collars upon Martialists, was very much practised by the Germans, especially as to their Knights; and that in ancient times, such as were in repute for their gallantry and valour, were adorned therewith. It may be safely presumed, that Collars were Badges of Knighthood among the ancient Gauls, since they were bestowed upon valiant men, and such as had rendered themselves conspicuous by acts of Prowess and Chivalry, as a worthy recompense of their Virtue: and from Pliny it appears, that the ancient Gauls were wont to wear them in Fight, for as the said Schefser notes upon m Gallos' cum auro pugnare solitos, Torquatus indicio est. Plin. l. 33. c. 1. his words, no other thing can be understood by the word Auro than Torques. The like may be said of the ancient n Scheff. Syntag. p. 56, 57, & 5●. Britan's, Danes, and Goths, among whom it was customary to wear them, as denoting such as were remarkable for their valour. But in later times, it was the peculiar Fashion of Knights among us, to wear Golden Collars, composed of SS, or other various works; so that those Monuments are known to belong to Knights, on whose Portraitures such Ornaments are now found. To conclude, we must acknowledge that this noble Ensign hath been likewise honoured with a particular and high estimation among the Founders of Military Orders, since it is manifest from o Catalogue des Chevaliers de l'Ordre du Collier de Savoy dict. de l'anonciade. Francis Capre, that the Order of Savoy was at first called, The Order of the Collar, and not by the Title of the p Catalogue des Chevaliers de l'Ordre du Collier de Savoy dict. de l'anonciade. Anunciade, until the year 1518. as will more amply appear by and by. So that if we sum up the principal Ensigns of Knighthood, ancient, and modern, we shall find them to have been, or are, a Horse, Gold Ring, Shield, and Lance, a Belt and Sword, gilt spurs, and a Gold Chain or Collar. But from these have later Ages, more especially, selected the Belt, or golden Girdle, Sword, Collar, Spurs, and Rings; 〈◊〉 which we find innumerated, and particularly called the Ornaments and Ensigns appertaining to Knighthood, in some Imperial Diplomas, and wherewith the Emperor is therein said to have adorned and invested his new created Knight, according to Custom; as for instance, that of Rodolph the Second, granted to Sir Robert Shirley, and dated at Prague, the second of june 1610. of which a fuller account may be taken in q Pa●t. 2. l. 10. p. 1806. Purchas his Pilgrimage, where the Imperial Instrument (containing also the creating of him an Earl Palatine of the Empire, and bestowing sundry Privileges and Prerogatives therewith, worthy of knowing) is translated verbatim. The Author of the jurisprudentia Heroica has afforded an Example in this kind, in another Diploma of the same Emperors, made to r Pag. 403. Sir Charles Rillehe, dated at Vienna the eleventh of February, anno 1594. And there is a privilege usually granted in these Diplomas, that the Knights shall in all Exercises, Actions, and Enterprises, use and wear Chains, Swords, Spurs, Robes, Trappings, and whatsoever Furniture else belonging to Horses, either all Gold or gilt. The Trappings here mentioned put us in mind of a passage in s Lib. 33. c. 1. circa medium. Pliny, whence it may be conjectured, that Horse-Trappings were sometime heretofore accounted part of the Ensigns of a Roman Knight; for, having told us that one Flavius a man of mean birth, had ingratiated himself with the Commons, by publishing the Mystery of the whole course of days, pleadable and not pleadable, which his Master Appius Claudius Caecus had discovered to him; he adds, that a Bill passed by general consent, to create him Aedilis Curulis, together with Q. Anicius, without any regard had to those other, who, being nobly born, had likewise stood for that Dignity: And that at the same time he was also made Tribunus Plebis, at which the whole Senate took such offence, that they laid aside their Rings, and some thought (but were mistaken) that the Knights did the like, nay believed further, that they left off their Horse-Trappings, as if from them the name of Knight had been bestowed; and consequently the Phalerae, no less than the Annuli, or Equi, were accounted Badges of the Equestrian Order, after they were drawn into fashion and use. However we may suppose, that the public Horse, if at first, was not afterwards given naked; but with such accoutrements and furniture, as were both for use and ornament in War: the fashion whereof may be observed among those Sculptures upon Trajan's Column at Rome, a Draught whereof was first made by julio Romano, then set forth by Franciscus Villamena; and last of all, after a long and retchless neglect (these Plates being thrown by, and well-nigh spoiled with rust and carelessness) were happily brought to light and repaired, by the care and expense of my noble Friend, accomplished with great variety of useful and ingenious knowledge, john Evelyn Esquire, during his residence at Rome. SECT. VIII. Qualifications for Knighthood. AS touching the Qualifications which formerly made persons capable of this Honour of Knighthood, the principal and most remarkable were these three, Merit, Birth, and Estate. In the right distribution of this Honour and Dignity, 1. Merit▪ Merit has been by all allowed to challenge a principal share; and the deserving judged fittest to be preferred, before those who wanted that Qualification. Among the Romans, no Soldier was denied or envied his part in the Prizes of Honour or Recompense, to wit, that sort of Crown, or such other of the Military Rewards which their valour had deserved; and not only their Emperors, but all other Princes found the advantage of conferring benefits on the meritorious, in being thereby best served: For those who have showed themselves inclined to noble and valiant Actions, having once tasted the sweet of Reward, are generally so encouraged, as no danger hath seemed too great to attempt, no enterprise so difficult but might be made feasible. But of this subject there is so much spoke, and to be met with almost every where, that we need not add more. As to the second Qualification, 2. Birth. namely, Birth; there was so great c●re taken, that (saith w In le Theatre d' Hon. l. 1. c. 1. Andrew Favin) to prevent the admittance of any, not of eminent and generous Extraction, into this Dignity; of the Ordinances made concerning the Order of Knighthood, the first Article is, That the parties who enter thereinto, ought first to make it appear they be Gentlemen of three paternal descents; and that the Arms they bear have been born by their Fathers, Grandfathers, and great-Grandfathers. It was also the Law of the Empire, That no man should be capable of this Dignity, but he that was descended from one, who was Miles (which Mr. Selden interprets not by Knight, but Gentleman, or Nobilis) as appears by the Constitution of Frederick the Second, elected Emperor anno 1212. and mentioned in the x Pag. 436. Titles of Honour; and perhaps there was an Eye had to this Law, in the Sentences upon the following Cases. Nor hath it been (by some) accounted sufficient, that the person Knighted should be a Gentleman by the Father's side, unless he were so also by the Mothers, at least she was to be a Freewoman, and not a Servant: y Io. Tilius Comment. de Rebus Gallicis l. 2. p. 181. vide Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 23. for if she were a Servant or Bondwoman, though the Father were a Gentleman, the Children were still ranked within the Degree of Servitude, and z In Servum autem non cadit Equestris Diguitas. Ib. counted incapable of the Knightly Dignity. Heretofore the conferring of Knighthood was not restrained to the Sovereign power, as now it is; but that the greater Subjects did sometime make Knights: But where the honour hath been given by such, to those who were Vassals to another, the bestowing thereof was accounted illegal, and they that took upon them to give it, were liable to censure; because by this action they took another's Villain or Bondman from him, which was a manifest wrong, and ought not to be done. As in the case of the two Sons of a Io. Tilius Comment. p. 182. Philip de Bourbon, one whereof was Knighted by the Earl of Flanders, the other by the Earl of Nevers: Whereupon by an Order dated on All-Saints day, Anno Domini 1279. and another at Whitsuntide following, both the said Earls were fined, and the two Brethren condemned to pay one thousand pounds apiece; though by the King's grace and favour they kept their Knighthoods. And to show that this Law was elsewhere observed more strictly, and the breach thereof liable to more severe sentences, those among the b Mennen. Delic. Equestr. p. 25. Arragonians that descended from Knights in a direct line by the Father's side (which were called Infançones, and accounted Gentlemen, whether legitimate or illegitimate) were capable of being Knights, and no other: c Mennen. Delic. Equestr. p. 25. So that if one, not an Infançon, were promoted to Knighthood, by a Rico Hombre (which seems to be a higher Degree of Nobility) both the Rico Hombre was to lose the Honour he had, and the person whom he pretended to promote, remained still a Villain or Plebeian. But it was otherwise where a Nobleman Knighted his own Vassal, as in the case reported by d Io. Tilius Comment. de Reb. Gallicis. l. 2. p. 181. Philip de Beau-manoir in his Customary of the Year 1283. where the Son of a Gentleman and a Woman-Servant, was Knighted by him, whose Servant the Woman was: and his condition being afterwards discovered, the Nobleman would have challenged him for his Slave, but in regard his Knightly Dignity had vindicated him from servitude and vassalage (though his Lord was deceived in conferring the Honour) he was adjudged to remain free and a Knight; which he could not have done, if any other but his Lord had Knighted him: for which this reason is there given, e Io. Tilius Comment. de Reb. Gallicis. l. 2. p. 181. because no other person had sufficient power to infranchise him. 3. Estate. The third and last of those Qualifications, which we have thought fit to take notice of here, is that of Estate or Wealth, which serves to support the Dignity of Knighthood: for we find that in all Times and Countries, when men were grown wealthy, they thereby (as by Merit or Birth) became capable of Honours. Thus Wealth was so much regarded among the Chalcedonians, as f Lib. 5. Herodotus tells us, that those who were rich, bore the name of Knights. It was g Arnobius, adversus Gentes. lib. 4. Estate that entitled a man to this Honour among the Romans: for the Censor (as hath been before observed out of h L. 9 c. 19 Livy) might compel any Citizen, who had an Estate equal to the Equestrian Cense, to enter into the Equestrian Order, and this old Roman Cense consisted of i Plin. l. 33. c. 1. vide porro Bernegger in Sueton. in Caesar. c. 33. 400000 Sesterces, which according to our learned Seldens computation amounts to k Titles of Honour. p. 438. 3025. l. of our Money. And as anciently in old Rome, so not long after the Conquest here in England (as l Brit. p. 126. Cambden observes) were Knights dignified for their wealth, and state of living. For they who had a Knight's Fee, to wit (saith he) six hundred and fourscore Acres of Land, might claim as their right the Ornaments and Badges of Knighthood. But by the way it appears from m Tit. of Honor. p. 691. Mr. Selden, that not any certain number, or extent of Acres made a Knight's Fee: and by several Writs directed to the Sheriff's of all Counties in England, to make Proclamation for receiving the Honour of Knighthood, in the Reigns of Hen. 3. & Ed. 1. as also by the Act de Militibus, anno 1. Ed. 2. it appears that the Census Militis, or valuation of the Estate of a Knight, was measured by Twenty pounds' Land by the year (and sometimes more) and this was counted the most reasonable way of Estimation, because one Acre might be more or less in value th●n another. And the Parallel yet held as to the matter of enforcement and compulsion, to take this Honour; for by an ancient Prerogative, several of our Kings, have at their pleasures compelled such persons who held a whole Knight's Fee, or so much Land, whose annual value, as aforesaid, answered thereto, to take this Dignity upon them; and to that purpose sent forth their Mandates in Writs, directed to the Sheriffs of each County, to make Proclamation, n Claus. de anno 9 H. 3. membr. 24. dors●, & Claus. 1. E. 2. membr. 25. dorso. That all those, within their several Bailiwicks, who were of full age, and had one whole Knights Fee, and were not Knighted, should appear before the King (on a certain day, in the Writ set down) ready fitted and prepared to receive the Honour of Knighthood. Sometimes these Writs included, both such as were possessed of Lands worth o Qui habeant 20 l. librata● terra, vel Feodum unius militis integrum valens 20 l. per annum. Claus. 37. H. 3. in. 25. dorso. Twenty pounds per annum, and such as held a whole Knight's Fee, valued at that annual sum: but the yearly value set by the King was not always certain, for sometimes we find it to be p Stow's Abr. p. 290. an. 40. H. 3. Camb. Brit. p. 126. fifteen pounds, than q Claus. 28. H. 3. m. 12. dorso. twenty pounds, at other times r Claus. 5. E. 3. pars 1. m. 12. thirty pounds, than s Rot. Parl. 20. E. 1. Claus. 17. E. 2. m. 8. & 19 E 2. m. 16. dorso. Claus. 7. E. 3 pars 1. m. 22. dorso. Brevia R●gis an. 2. R. 2. pars 1. & par. 2. Pat. 15. E. 3. pars 1. m. 15. dorso. & Claus. 12. H. 4. m. 10. dorso. forty pounds, and sometimes t Claus. 9 E. 2. m. 13 dorso. de decreto Parl. fifty pounds. Anno 40. Hen. 3. u Speeds Chron. p. 533. The Sheriffs in England were amerced, because they had not distrained all those who had such Estates in Land, as the Law limited to take the Order of Knighthood, or otherwise to pay their Fines; and we observe the Command in the King's Writ to be now and then accompanied with much severity, in case the Sheriff should be negligent in the discharge of his duty, or connive with any for lucre of a Bribe; as appears in that directed to the Sheriff of Northamptonshire, the words whereof are. w Claus. 28. H. 3. m. 12. dorso. Rex Vicecom. Northt. salutem. Praecipimus tibi quod sicut teipsum & omnia tua diligis, omnes illos in Rallivatua, qui habeant viginti libratas terrae distringas, quod se Milites faciendos, citra Nativitatem Sancti Iohannis Baptistae proximè futur. Sciturus pro certo, quod si pro munere, vel aliqua occasione, aliquam relaxationem eis feceris, vel aliquem respectum dederis, Nos ita graviter ad te capiemus, quod omnibus diebus vitae tuae te senties esse gravatum. T. R. apud Wyndesor decimo quarto die Aprilis. Where, upon appearance, after such Proclamation, a reasonable or lawful excuse hath been alleged, as x Pat. an. 20. E. 3. pars 2. m. 29. old age, * Pat. 15. E. 3. p. 1. m. 16. irrecoverable weakness, y Pat. 7. E. 3. pars 2. m. 30. loss of Limbs, being z Claus. 25. H. 3. pars 1. m. 7. dorso. in holy Orders, or the like, whereby the Body was wholly disabled to perform personal service; there, the allegations have been admitted by the King, the persons acquitted, and by Letters Patents exempted from taking this Military Order during life. But there were many other causes and reasons which usually obtained a suspension for some certain time, (besides those set down in the Act of Parliament Anno 1. E. 2.) as where a man was at present greatly a Claus. an. 36. H. 3. m 23. indebted, or bound to attend some necessary employment, as a b Communia de Term. Mich. 9 H. 6. Ro●. 14. dorso. Sergeant at Law in the Common Pleas Court, for which nevertheless, the party suing for such favour, paid a Fine, and therefore in some Writs we have seen a clause added, to give intimation, that (where any reasonable cause could be made appear, at the time of Knighthood, to impede the receiving of the Order) the person might be admitted to make c Quod sin● ad Nos, etc. parati, ad capiendum Arma militaria, vel ad sinem nobiscum faciendum pro respectu habendo de milicia sua. Fine for the respite thereof. Yet was not this Fine constant or certain, but estimated and set according to the nature of the excuse, or length of time given: for instance, Robert de Menevil of Northumberland, having obtained respite for two years, was set at d Orig. 51. H 3. m. 6. five Marks, and Peter Founden at e Ib. m. ●. forty eight Shillings and eight Pence, for three years' respite; but john de Drokensford paid f Orig. 7. E. 3▪ ten Pounds for a suspension of his Knighthood, only for the same time. And in these cases the Kings Writ usually issued to the Sheriff, with command to g Claus 35. H. 3. m 2. dorso, & Claus. 36. H. 3. m 23. permit the person to have that respite, and to forbear taking any distress, till the time compounded for should be expired, and if, nevertheless, the person happened to be impleaded for not having received Knighthood, the King's Letters Patents (granting him the time of respite being produced) have been h Placita corona in Com. Derb. coram I de Vallibus, etc. anno 9 E. 1. allowed. If any person had been distrained by the Sheriff, and a return thereof made to the King, and did not appear at the time and place, in the Writ nominated, to receive the Honour of Knighthood; in such case we sometimes find that a Writ hath issued, giving command to the Sheriff, forthwith to i Orig. de anno 51. H 3. m. 4. seize all his Lands and Tenements into the King's hands, and answer the profits thereof into the Exchequer. The Fines and Amerciaments set upon such contempt, seem to have been arbitrary, and the Court swayed, according as the nature of the default appeared: William the Son of Gilbert de Alton, paid k Communia Fines, etc. Term. Mich. 9 E. 3.20.2. Ebor. twenty shillings for not appearing and receiving Knighthood, according to the command of the King's Proclamation; Thomas Pauncefoot paid l Com. de Term. Hill. 14. H. 4. Somerset. four Nobles, john de Lodbroke m Communia de Term. Mich. 56. H. 3. incipiente 57 Warr. forty shillings, the n Commun. de Term. Mich 33. E. 3.23.3 dorso. like Fine was set upon Simon de Bradeney and Thomas Trivet, both of Somersetshire, and john de Neirvote in the County of Bucks; and lastly, William Lassels paid o Communia de Term. Pasch. 31. E. 3. fines, & Rot. 2. Ebor. four pounds, for that he had not received Knighthood before Michaelmas, Anno 30. E. 3. and for obtaining respite for three years from thence. But albeit in the promiscuous course of bestowing of Knighthood, where the men of Wealth and Estate (whether otherwise worthy or not) became dignified, yet was not the gate of Honour then shut against those, who wanting Riches sought her out, by the paths of Virtue and Merit: For where men of low Fortunes deserved well of their Country, and that for their good services the King had judged them worthy of Honour; He was accordingly pleased to bestow such annual Pension, or Lands upon them, as He esteemed sufficient to maintain that degree of Dignity (whatsoever it was) so conferred. And this is agreeable to the judgement of the Author of the Division du Monde, who saith, That the Honour of Knighthood is not to be given to any person who hath not a considerable Estate; unless sufficient means to support the Honour of that Order be also given with it. Hence it is, that the Kings of England have allowed Pensions (and frequent mention of them is made in the Rolls) sometimes during pleasure, and then again during the lives of those on whom they have thought fit to confer the Honour, for their better support: as for instance, King Edward the Third granted by Letters Patents p Pat. 33. E. 3. pars prima. m. 22. forty Pounds per annum, out of his Exchequer, to john atte Lee, Queen Isabella's Steward; in auxilium status sui manutenendi, first during pleasure, and afterwards for his life. But the case is more remarkable of Sir Nele Loring (who afterwards attained the Honour to be one of the first Founders of the most noble Order of the Garter) for whose valiant performances, in the Naval Fight against the French at Sluice, the King conferred the Dignity of Knighthood upon him, and immediately after granted to him and his Heirs Males q Communia de Term. Tri●. 15. E. 3. twenty Pounds per annum, that he might better maintain that Honour, until he could settle on him and them, so much in value of Lands, or yearly Rents in Fee. And here the following Grant made by King Richard the Second to Sir john Walssh, of forty Marks per annum for life, to support that Dignity of Knighthood he had given him, may very well be inserted. * Pat. 8. R. 2. pars prima m. 8. Rex omnibus ad quos, etc. salutem. Sciatis quod cum nos pro eo quod dilectus & fidelis noster Johannes Walssh, nuper in praesentia nostra pro defension su● multum strenue fecit, prout satis est notorium, ipsum Ordinem Militarem suscipere facerimus, & Ordinem illum ei de manibus nostris dederimus, & eum penes nos ipsos retinuerimus: Et quia ipse sufficienter non habet unde Onus cum honore valeat supportare, Dedimus & Concessimus ei Quadraginta Marcas per annum, ad terminum vitae suae, percipiend. per manus Vicecomitis nostri Lincolniensis qui pro tempore fuerit, de exitibus balivae suae, ad terminos Paschae & Sancti Michaelis, per aequales portiones. In cujus, etc. Teste R. apud Westminst. quinto die Decembris. The Kings of England, upon the same account, did usually bestow like annual rewards on such whose merit raised them to the Degree of Baneret; and in the Letters Patents, whereby such Pensions are granted, we observe it usually expressed, ad manutenendum statum Baneretti, or words to the like effect. Hereupon King Edward the Third gave to Sir Reginald Cobb●m r Pat. 10. E 3. part. 2. m. 9 four hundred Marks per annum, during his life, to be paid him out of the Exchequer; afterwards the s Pat. 11. E 3. pars 1. Manor of Tippenham, in Buckinghamshire, for life; and a * Pat. 14. E. 3. p. 1. m. 23. Mill under Oxford Castle, with a Meadow there, called King's Mead. We find moreover, that Thomas de Rokeley, who in the service of this King had received the Degree of Baneret, had t Claus. 20. ●. 3. pars 2. two hundred Marks per annum granted unto him, pro sustentatione sua, during life. To Sir john lisle (one other of the Founders of the said most noble Order) u Pat. 29. E. 3. pars prima m. 29. ut ipse statum Baneretti (which the King had before conferred on him) melius manutenere possit, he gave two hundred pounds a year during life; and upon Roger de Swynerton Baneret, He bestowed for life pro statu suo manutenendo, all the y Pat. 8. E. 3. pars prima. m. ● Manors, Lands, etc. which, lying in the Counties of Stafford and Chester, came to the King's hands, by the forfeiture of Hugh le Despenser, as likewise the Manor of Barew in the County Palatine of Chester, to him and his Heirs. And it is worthy of note, that some times such like Grants have been made by the consent of Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament; for so were the z Claus. 30. H. 6. m 21. two hundred Marks per annum given to Geoffry le Scroop Baneret, in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth. Thus far we have spoken of the Qualifications, which capacitate him, who receives the Degree of Knighthood; it will not now be amiss to touch upon one particular relating to the Person, who confers this Honour, before we leave this Section. It hath been thought by divers, that no man can make a Knight unless himself be first Knighted, and because that some have not given this Honour before they received it, they thence would imply, that no man aught: for so a Math. Westminst. anno 1306. Prince Edward of Carnarvan, having been first Knighted by his Father, King Edward the First, forthwith Knighted a great number more in Westminster Abbey. So Anno 20. E. 3. the King being landed at Hogs in Normandy, Knighted b Stow's Chron. foe 377. Edward his eldest Son, and immediately the said Prince made Mortimer, Monteacute, Ros, and others, Knights. And c Ibid. foe 1000 King Edward the Sixth, being Knighted by the ●arl of Hertford, in the Tower of London, assoon as the Ceremony was over, Knighted Henry Hoblethorn Lord Mayor of London, with the same Sword, wherewith himself received this Military Honor. But it is apparent enough, that they who never were, and others who never could be Knights, have conferred this Dignity; and we are to understand that necessity and custom hath in this case the force of a Law; for anciently Bishops and Priests made Knights, so also do the Popes, and some Commonwealths, nay Women, in whom the supreme Power is vested, may, and have done the like, witness our Queens, Mary and Elizabeth, and we find it to be the ancient Law in Spain, d L. 11. tit. 2●. partida 2. That the King or his Son and Heir, though they be no Knights, may nevertheless make Knights, by reason that they possess the Kingdom, and are therefore the Head and Chief of Chivalry, and consequently all the power thereof, is closed up and contained in the King's command. To conclude, in all the instances and examples, where the creation of a Knight hath been performed, either with Ceremony, or by Diploma (of which we shall speak in the next Section) it may be observed, that the Dignity was always given by, and received from the hands of another Person, except only the Kings of Spain, who e Io jac. Chifflet. in suis luminibus novi● praerogativis, ad vindicias Hispanias, Lumine 13. p. 395. time out of mind have made themselves Knights, and this by virtue of an old f Lex Suprarbriensis. Law written in the Aragonian Tongue, as Ambrose Morales reports, which saith thus: g In Chron Hispan. l. 13. c. 2. The whole night preceding the Ceremony (viz. of Knighting) the King shall watch in the Church, in the morning he shall hear Mass, and offer both Purple, and some of his Money, and after he shall receive the Sacrament: And when they are going to raise him, he shall ascend upon his Shield, the Noblemen holding and supporting him: Then shall all cry with a loud voice three times, Real, Real, Real: This done, he shall command to scatter more of his Money, to the quantity of one hundred shillings among the People; and to show that no man upon earth hath any power over him, he shall gird himself with the Sword, made after the form of a Cross, and that day can no other man be Knighted. One Example of this ancient Rite is remembered by the said h In suis Lumin. p. 397. Chiffletius, at the Coronation of King Ferdinando the Third, who took from the high Altar the regal Sword, and with his own hand girt himself therewith; to the end being so girded, he might show himself openly to the People, and declare, that he received the power of Governing and making War from none but God alone, and that he owed not his Kingdoms to the gift of any mortal man. And it seems this manner of Knighting was a thing of such remark, that it was sometime taken notice of and entered for a memorable note of time; as for instance in the Teste of a i Anno 1220 facta Charta apud Segoviam quinto Kal. Febr. Era 1258. anno regni mei tertio, quo ego memoratus Rex Ferdinandus, in Monasterio Sanctae Mariae Regalis de Burgos, manu propriâ me accinxi cingulo militari. Charter, which this Don Ferdinando made to the Monastery of De solos alvos, in the third year of his Reign, and is reported by the said Chiffletius, out of Colmenars History of Segovia, c. 20. as also by another Charter, wherein the k Seldens Tit. of Honor. p. 577. Knighting Prince Edward eldest Son to our King Henry the Third, by Alphonso King of Castille, at Bruges anno Domini 1255. is remembered after the same manner. SECT. IX. The various Ceremonies used at the conferring of Knighthood. BEsides the donation of the beforementioned honorary Ensigns, there were several Ceremonies and Formalities, begun to be used in the middle Ages, at the investiture of Knights; some of which we shall here set down by way of Instance. 1. Girding with the Sword and Belt. The most ancient of these, is the investing of the Knight with a Belt and Sword; and this was performed, either by putting the Belt lose over the shoulder, or girding it close about the waste: the Bend in Armoury represents the one, and the Fess the other. Of this kind of Honour we have spoken l Sect. 4. before. The first Christian Kings and Princes (saith m Theatre d' Honneur l. 1. c. 6. Favin) at the giving of the Cingulum militare, kissed the new Knight on the left cheek, and used these words, In the honour of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, I make you a Knight. And this was called Osculum pacis, the kiss of Favour or Brotherhood. Some think this to be the same with the Accollade, or Ceremony of embracing, which was performed by Charles the Great, n Aym●nius de ges●is Francor. l. 5. c. 17. who (before his expedition against the Hungarians) Knighted his Son Lewis the debonair, at the City of Ratisbone; for upon the girding him with the Military Belt and Sword, he gave him the Accollade, that is, he embraced him, (though it be rendered for kissing by the o L. 1. c. 6. p. 51. Translator of Favin) and this was the first time we observe the Ceremony of the Accollade to have been used. It was in the time of the same Emperor that the way of Knighting by the Colaphum, or giving a blow on the Ear was used, in sign of sustaining future hardships and indurances; which is thought to have been derived from the manner of manumission of a Slave among the Romans, where p Rosin. Antiq. l 1. c. 20. first the Praetor gently struck him on the head with the Vindicta, a Rod so called, after which the Lictor did the like, and moreover struck him on the Face and Back with his hand, in token of full liberty and freedom. This Custom was retained long after both in q Theat. d'Honneur, l. 1. c. 6. Germany and France (much like the r Seld. Tit. of Honor. p. 577. Pescosada, or blow on the neck, given in Spain at the Creation of the Cavalleroes de Espuela d' orada, or Knights of the Golden Spur) as appears from a clause, in the Instrument of the Frizons Enfranchisement to this effect. s Mennerius de Deliciis Equestribus. p. 7. That the ●otestate or Governor of the Country should gird the Sword about him, who was to be Knighted, and then give him a Box on the Ear with his hand, with which Ceremony he was made a Knight, he also gave him special charge and command, that thenceforth he should go armed after the manner of Knights of the sacred Empire, or of the Kingdom of France. It is also said this Emperor ordained, t jos. Micheli, Marquez en le Tesoro military. fo. 16. ●. that no King should succeed to the Empire, if he were not Knighted, as aforesaid, before his Coronation. And there is an eminent example of this formality in u Delic. Equest. p. 8. William Earl of Holland, who when he came to be chosen King of the Romans, Anno Domini 1247. preparation was first made to create him Knight, w Delic. Equest. p. 8. according to the custom of other Christian Emperors (before they were admitted to take upon them the Imperial Diadem) to which purpose he was presented by john King of Bohemia before Petrus Capucius Cardinal of St. George, the Pope's Legate, whom the King besought on the behalf of this elected Esquire (for so Earl William was yet called) that he might have the Oath of his profession administered unto him, and be inscribed into the Military College: which he having taken, the King of Bohemia gave him the blow on the Ea●, and then pronounced the words of signification, x Tesoro Military. fo. 17. after which 〈◊〉 girt with the Sword. The Ceremony at large is to be found in selden's Titles of Honor. pag. 442▪ 443. and 444. as also in jurisprudentia Heroica. p. 400.401. In the time of the Saxons here in England, 2. Watching and Bathing. Knights received their Institution at the hands of great Prelates or Abbots; it being the opinion of our Ancestors, that nothing so happily succeeded, as that which was performed by religious persons; in the accomplishing of which solemnity they were very punctual, by adding divers religious Ceremonies, as Watching, Fasting, Bathing, Consecrating of the Sword, and the like: and how solemnly these things were observed, will appear in that famous Constitution, mentioned by y Ingulp●. Hist. inter Rerum Anglic. Scripto●es. London. excus. anno 1●96 fo. 512. ●. Ingulphus (speaking of Heward Lord of Brune, in Lincolnshire, who coming into England from ●landers (where he had lived in exile) with a considerable assistance, and force of his Friends and Followers to recover his Father's possessions; received the Honour of Knighthood from Brand, Abbot of Saint Edmunds-bury) which being thence transcribed by our learned a Titles of Hon. p. 780. Selden, b Brit. 125. Cambden, and c Antiq. of War●. p. 531. Mr. Dugdale, upon a like occasion, we here omit it. Shortly after the Conquest, the Custom of receiving Knighthood from religious persons began to be restrained here in England, insomuch that at a Synod held at Westminster in the year of our Lord 1102. viz. anno tertio Hen. primi it was among other things ordained, d Concil. Brit. Tom. 2. p. 22. Ne abbots ●aciunt Milites; by which word abbots, we suppose is understood all sorts of spiritual persons. However, the religious Ceremonies for the most part continued, especially the Vigils and Bathe; an eminent example whereof, we have not long after in the time of King Edward the First, who to adorn the splendour of his Court, and augment the glory of his intended Expedition into Scotland, di●● at Whitsuntide in the four and thirtieth year of his Reign, begirt Edward of Carnarvan his eldest Son, with the Military Belt, and this young Prince, immediately, at the high Altar in Westminster Abbey, conferred the same Honour upon near three hundred Gentlemen, the Sons of Earls, Barons, and Knights. The Habit, Equipage, Attendants, and Ceremonies of which grand solemnity, being already transcribed at large, out of Matthew of Westminster, both by e Tit. of Honor. p. 776. Mr. Selden and Mr. f Brit. p. 127. Cambden, we shall thereunto refer our Reader. But in regard their Author tells us, that the number of these Knights were about g Pag. 458. ed. Lond. anno 1570. three hundred, and the old Annals of Ireland, cited by h Loco cit. Mr. Selden, add one hundred ●ore, which was further wide of the mark; we will here out of a respect to truth, and the memory of those Noble persons, with such as are descended from them, take occasion to give a perfect Catalogue of their Names, which amount to no more than 267. Only first, we shall take notice, because that part of the Ceremony, namely, Bathing, is not remembered by Matthew of Westminster, that it is not only employed in the solemnity of the Vigils then held, but we find in the Accounts of the great Wardrobe, for the aforesaid year, among the Robes and other Ornaments appointed to be prepared for the young Prince, that there were six Ell● of Cloth delivered out for the covering of his Bath. The religious Ceremonies of Bathing, Watching, and offering up the Sword at the high Altar, are retained amongst us at this day, but restrained only to that peculiar Degree of Knighthood, which from hence hath the denomination of Knights of the Bath. The Names of all the Knights made at Whitsuntide, anno 34. E. 1. i Ex Rot. Compot. Io. de Drokensford Custodis mag. Gardrobae Regis, penes Rememorat. R. in Sca●cario remanentibus. DOminus Edwardus Princeps Walliae. johannes de Warenna. Edmundus de Arundel. Thomas de Greilly. johannes de la Ware. Thomas de Ferers. Bartholomeus de Enfeud. johannes de Mowbray. Alanus Plokenet. Aungerus filius Henrici. Gilbertus' de Clare filius Domini Thomae de Clare. Edmundus de Cornubia. johannes de Frivill. Willielmus de Freigne. Amaricus de Fossad. Fulcius filius Warini. Walterus de Hugeford. Stephanus de Burghash. jacobus de Nortwoode. Humpfridus de Waldene. Rogerus de Chaundos. johannes de Deen. Willielmus de la Zouche. Ricardus Lovel. Rogerus de Mortuomari. Walterus Hakelut. Rogerus de Ransou. Galfridus de Seye. Richardus Porteseie. Egidius de Breheus. Walterus de Mollesworth. Rethericus de Ispania. Petrus de Gavaston. Thomas de Verdon. Humfridus de Bassingbourn. Nicholaus Kryell. Robertus filius Roberti filii Pagani. johannes de Harecourt. johannes filius Domini johannis de Sulleye. Willielmus Tracy. Hugo filius Domini Hugonis le Despenser. Willielmus de Huntingfeud. Thomas Bardolp. Nicholaus Malemeyns. Robertus de Scales. Willielmus Trussel. johannes de Hants. Willielmus de Monteacute. Thomas de Multon. Walterus de Montgomeri. Rogerus filius Domini Rogeri de Mortuomari. Eustachius de Whyteneye. johannes Mautravers. Thomas de Veer filius Comitis Oxoniensis. Thomas de Lodelawe. Willielmus de Bernyngham. Griffinus filius Griffini de la Pole. Willielmus de Lodelawe. Philippus de Courtenay. Vrianus de Sancto Petro. Warinus de Bassingburn. johannes le Blount Major London. johannes Denre. johannes de Insula. Thomas de Lucy. Radulphus de Botetourte. Hugo de Mailly. Radulphus de Kamoys. Petrus filius Domini Petri de Malolacu. Edmundus de Willington. Robertus de Kendale. Henricus de Den. johannes de Nevil. Rogerus de Ingelfeld. Hugo Braboef. johannes de Weston. johannes filius Warini. Thomas de Ponynges. johannes de Foxley. johannes de Walkingham. Willielmus de Harden. Radulphus de Weden. johannes de Meryeth. Radulphus de Rolleston. johannes de Manduit. Thomas de Boiville. Willielmus Corbet. Willielmus Brabason. Georgius de Thornetone. johannes de la Penne. johannes de Bykebyry. Willielmus de Cosyngton. Radulphus Bagot. Willielmus de Bassinges. Andrea's de Sakeville. Nicholaus Pershots. Morganus ap Mereduk. Vmfridus de Boune. Walterus de Skydemore. johannes Chaundos. Walterus de Derlyngham. Walterus de Stirkelonde. johannes de Clyndon. Ingelramus Belet. Laurentius de Hollebeche. johannes de Stauntone. johannes de Wachesham. johannes de la Mare. Hugo Howel. Willielmus de Menymrate Socius Amenrey de Fossad. Willielmus Pyrot socius Stephani de Burways. johannes Sauvage. Philippus de Vyreley. Robertus Lovel. Adam Walran. johannes de Penbrug. Rogerus Pychard. Henricus le Moigne. Robertus de L●cy. johannes de Boillaunde. johannes de Guyse. Willielmus Motoun. Rogerus Waleys. Philippus le Lou. johannes de Hinton. johannes de Twyford. Richardus de Breheus. Stephanus de Cobbeham. johannes de Haulo. Thomas de Sanwico. johannes de Mounteney. Robertus le Conestable. johannes Marteyn. johannes de Bello Campo. Robertus de Ros. Radulphus Basset. Petrus de Gristle. Thomas Malorie. Richardus de Sculton. Willielmus de Haundesacre. johannes de Thouthorp. Walterus de Romeseye. johannes de Ruda. Petrus de Bosoun. Nicholaus de Geneville. johannes de Knoville. johannes de Lacy. Willielmus Bernak. Richardus Daniel. Robertus de Wygkham. Robertus Achard. Willielmus de Herppeden. jacobus de Lambourne. johannes Mauncel. Robertus de Wyvill. Philippus le Rous. johannes Comyn. johannes de Somery. johannes de Lungevill. johannes de Harpefeld. Egidius de Astele. johannes de Boivill. Henricus filius Conanis. Rogerus de Burton. johannes de Multon. Godefridus de Meaux. johannes de Plescic. Edmundus de Plescis. Willielmus de Hollande. Henricus de Rypsford. Thomas de Zedefen. johannes de Lyngeyne. Rogerus de Bavent. Galfridus de Colevill. johannes filius johannis Mautravers. johannes Conquest. Willielmus de Stopham. Radulphus de Dryby. Thomas de Grey. Robertus de la Mare. Thomas Corbet. johannes de Heryk. Robertus de Hoo. johannes de Lacy. Willielmus de Manneby. johannes de Mortone. Gerardus de Aillesford. Gilbertus' de Aton. Ricardus de Berley. johannes de Neubourgh. johannes de la Poille. Robertus filius Guidonis. Hugo Hose. Willielmus de Goldington. Walterus filius Domini I. de Insulâ. Thomas de Brompton. Willielmus de Wrotesle. Richardus Huwys. Robertus de Hildyard. johannes de Kyrkeby. Thomas de Leukenore. Petrus de Evercy. Warinus de Scartil. Gerardus de Vfflet. Petrus de Burgate. Robertus de Fandon. Willielmus de Saustone. johannes Mauleverer. Willielmus de Lucy. Rogerus de Chedle. Hugo de Dulton. johannes de Haveryngton. Rogerus de Somervile. Adam de Walton. Nicholaus de Sheldon. Willielmus de Weilonde. Walterus de Fau●umberg. Nicholaus de Rye. Rogerus de Grymeston. Henricus de Erdyngton. Willielmus Dautrie. johannes de Launey. johannes de Ryson. Henricus Beausun. Rogerus filius Domini Thomae Corbet. Hugo de Pykeworth. Baldewinus de Colne. Robertus de Scale. Henricus de Biry. Richardus de Bermyngham. Walterus le Pour. Thomas de Bechum. Walterus filius Humfridi. Edmundus Pecche. johannes de Treiagu. Richardus Foliot. Richardus de Echebaston. Robertus de Godemauston. Adam de Everingham. johannes de Wassingbourn. Adam de Wanerville. Willielmus de Somercotes. Thomas filius Domini T. de Chaworth. Radulphus de Kele. Petrus de Lekeburne. Hugo filius Henrici. johannes de Salsbiri. Richardus de ●yvers. johannes filius Iohan●is de Wegetone. johannes le Rous. Georgius du Chastel. Willielmus de la Motefacto. Willielmus de Bayons. Willielmus Marmyon. Willielmus Rosel. johannes de Langeton. Willielmus Littebon. johannes de Pabenham. Thomas Mordac. jacobus de Norton. johannes de Belhous. Brankaleo de Boulogne. johannes Pykard. Walterus de Kyngeshevede. Robertus de Watervill. Rogerus de Kerdeston. johannes de Daventre. These Religious Ceremonies were not alone observed here in England, by the Saxons and Normans; but also by the k Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 6. c. 14. French, Spaniards, and other Nations abroad. Concerning the first of these jean du Tillet, a French Writer in his Memoirs saith, l Lib. 2. f. 277. a vide Io. Tili●● Comment. de reb. Gall. l. ●. p. 180. That the old French, being observers of Forms and Ceremonies, in most of their actions, brought in many Customs to be observed at the making of Knights, enjoining them before the Solemnities, to Watch, Bath, and do other things, to teach them, that upon their taking of this Order, it did behoove them to be pure of heart and mind, and of virtuous inclinations, valiantly to suffer for virtues sake, all manner of pains and necessities, to be circumspect in word and deed, and above all to observe Faith and Truth. And much to the same effect, but more particularly to the Ceremonies used, m In le Theatre d' Hon. l. 1. c. 6. Favin tells us, That the proof of Nobility being made (after the manner which a little before he sets down) the Esquire prepared himself to receive the Order of Knighthood, watching the night before in the Church or Chappel, with devout Prayers and Meditation: When morning came, he entered into his Bath, to wash and make clean his whole Body, whereby he was given to know and understand, that in all his following life time, he ought to be neat and clean, as well of Body as Soul, honest in his Manners, and behaviour of life, wholly disposed to embrace Virtue, and to use in all his actions, Modesty, Providence, and Wisdom. And that the like religious Ceremonies were heretofore (about the time of Alphonsus the Tenth) observed in Spain at the Creation of Knights, whether they were Cavelleros de Espuela d' Orada, or Armadas (which are no other than our Equites Aurati, or Knights Bachelors) may be seen in the n Pag. 576. Titles of Honour, our learned Selden having collected and transcribed thither the manner of such Creation, from the Spanish Partidas; and is briefly thus. The Person that was to be Knighted was Bathed on the Evening, and presently laid in Bed, then clothed in rich Robes, and led to the Church, to perform his Vigils; that being over, and Mass heard, his Spurs were put on, and his Sword girt unto him, then drawn out, and put into his right hand; whereupon the Oath was forthwith administered to him, which taken, he that bestowed the Dignity, gave him una Pescoçade, a blow or stroke on the neck, saying, God assist you in the performance of that which you have promised. 3. Taking an Oath. To the aforesaid Ceremonies of creating a Knight, an Oath was for the most part adjoined, which drew its original from the Military Oath, imposed anciently upon the Roman Soldiers, several particulars of which are collected by * Honour Military and Civil. l. 1. c. 5. Sir William Segar, sometime Garter, principal King of Arms. This Oath or vow of Profession o Theat. d'Hon. neur. l. 1. c. 6. Favin observes to have been at all times, and in all places, continually uniform and alike; and to the same purpose citys a passage out of Saint Hierom, relating to Nepotianus, who had the Military Belt bestowed upon him, to the end, That he should relieve and protect Widows, Fatherless, the oppressed and miserable, and these particulars, together with the defence of the Church of God, made up afterwards the substance of the general Vow, which for a Knight to observe and keep, and to perform all that belongs to the Order of Knighthood, was (as p Titles of Honour. p. 851. Mr. Selden observes) esteemed as meritorious, as to do all that a Monk, Friar, or Canon regular should. In the aforesaid Example of William Earl of Holland, it is particularly mentioned, that at the request of the King of Bohemia, he might have the Vow of his profession administered; whereupon the Cardinal Petrus Capucius, gave him admonition, what a Knight ought to be, in an Acrostic, according to the Etymology of his name Miles, thus, q Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 9 Magnanimus in adversitate, Ingenuus in consanguinitate, Largifluus in honestate, Egregius in curalitate, & Strenuus in virili probitate. Among the religious Ceremonies of making a Knight (called sometimes consecrare Militem) set down by Mr. Selden, Favin, and Petrus Blessensis, there is particular mention made of consecrating the Sword, offering it at the Altar, and receiving it again from thence; which manner of reception from the Altar, was an implicit kind of taking an Oath, as may be deduced from the said Petrus Blessensis, who saith, r Epist. 94. That Candidates in his time received their Swords from the Altar, that they might profess themselves the Sons of the Church, and that they received the Sword, to the honour of the Priesthood, defence of the poor, punishment of Malefactors, and deliverance of their Country. Lastly, at the institution of those Christian Orders of Knighthood, erected for the defence of the Holy-Land (which we shall in the next Chapter discourse of) the Knights entered into a solemn Vow and Oath, chiefly to propagate, and sight in defence of the Christian Faith, and to repel the violence and cruelties of Pagans and Saracens. In fine, among the various Ceremonies performed at the admission of Knights, in all the several Orders and Societies of Knighthood, whether Religious or Secular, which have been erected; there are none esteemed greater, or aught more solemnly to be observed, than the taking of an Oath. It was in the times of Peace and great leisure, 4. Dubbing with a Sword. that the beforementioned solemn and tedious Ceremonies, used at the making of Knights, were observed; whether by great Princes in their own Courts, or by ecclesiastics in the Church: but much otherwise in times of War, or on a day of Battle, where the hurry and throng of Affairs, gave not time for so long and troublesome Ceremonies: And therefore, aswell s Instances in both are to be found in jurisprudentia Heroica. p. 391.392.393 & 394 before the joining of Battle, as after Victory obtained (the t Io. Tilius Commentar. de Rebus Gall. l. 2. p. 181. one to encourage and stir up the Valour and Virtue of gallant men to overcome, or if they died in fight, to give their bodies the Honour of Knightly Innterment: the other to reward the eminent prowess, and valiant performances of those that happened to survive) it was usual for the Prince or General, in the Field and sight of the whole Army, to give those whom he thought fit to advance to the Honour of Knighthood (they humbly kneeling before him) a u Flecti genu ante Principem Candidatu●, ab ●oque leniter nudo Ense in humero percutitur; addit. ● verbis solenni more concep●is. Aub. Miraeus, Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 1. Vide Saunder. in Fland. illustrate. Tom. 1. p. 12. stroke with a naked Sword, flat-wise upon their shoulders, or else to touch their heads or shoulders lightly as aforesaid, without any other Ceremony, except pronouncing the w Si● Eques in nomine Dei, & postea addit, Surge Eques, or as in French Su● vel soi● Chevalier a● nom de Dieu. words of Creation, which latter kind of Ceremony is used in Europe at this day, it supplying all the rest: and this we commonly call Dubbing, the old English word used for creating of a Knight. As touching those Ceremonies, used at the making of a Knight in Scotland, which are chiefly dubbing with a Sword, and putting on ●●urs, together with the particulars which the Knight's Oath contains, see our learned Seldens x P. 850.851▪ Titles of Honour, they being for substance, much the same, with what the Knights of former Ages either swore or professed. The Benediction of a new Knight, at the time of his Creation by the Pope, or those, whose power in this particular is derivative from him, as it is set down in the Pontificale Romanum, may be found there; or in the said y P. 445. Titles of Honour, whither it is transcribed. But there is another manner of creating of Knights abroad, 5. Bestowing of Royal Codicils. namely, by Royal Codicils, or Letters Patents (these the Spaniards call Privilegios de Cavelleria) and thereupon such Knights are entitled, z Quo● à suo diplomate (quod suae dignita●● fidem facit) Codicillares appellare ●otes▪ Vinc. Lupan●● de Magistrate▪ Francorum. l. 1. Equites Codicillares; and this without any actual Ceremony or Solemnity; for the Codicils were chiefly designed, to supply the ordinary way of Dubbing, to those who dwelled in remote Countries, yet under the Dominion of the Prince that bestowed the Honor. In these Instruments, the Emperor or King is said thereby, to make and create them Knights, willing and intending that thenceforward they should be held and reputed for such; and moreover grants, that they shall, in all their acts and affairs, enjoy all the Rights, Liberties, and Franchises, accustomably due to all other Knights, throughout all his Dominions, aswell also in the same form and manner, as if the person had been actually Knighted by his own hand. Of this manner of Creation, two Precedents are exhibited by the Author of the a Pag. 395. jurisprudentia Heroica, the one granted by Philip the Fourth King of Spain, to Sir Philip Ryckewaert, Councillor of his Council of Brabant, dated at Madrid the twenty seventh of October 1663. and the other by the present King, namely, Charles the First, and Mary Anne Queen Regent, to b Pag. 394▪ Leon jean de Pape, Councillor also, and Advocate of the Exchequer, of his said Council of Brabant, dated likewise at Madrid the sixteenth day of December Anno Domini 1665. These Royal Codicils have sometimes (though very rarely) extended so far, as to make this Knightly Degree hereditary, which being unknown among us, in the Dignity of Knighthood (though that of Baronet comes something near it) a few Examples may be worth mentioning. We have met with two of these Diplomas in the time of Charles the Fifth, Emperor of Germany, whereby this Dignity or the Degree of Knight of the Roman Empire (as therein it is called) is granted by him (20. Nou. 1553.) to c jurispr. Heroica. p. 64. Sir Stephen Prats of Barcelon, and made to reach to his posterity, which then, or afterwards, should be born. As also another of the same Emperors, made to d Pag. 410. Lucas de Broyart, the twenty fourth day of September 1540 that extends much farther, to wit, not only to himself and Children, born or to be born, their Successors and Heirs, and the Successors and Heirs of their Children, born in lawful Matrimony, and carrying the Surname of Broyart; but also to all those who should marry any of the Daughters of the said Luke, or the Daughters of his Sons, their Successors or Heirs. There are besides Examples of Grants in this nature, which take in the Collateral Lines, as in that ancient Diploma, which Sir Edward bish Knight, Clarenceux King of Arms, hath transferred to his e Pag. 24. Notes upon Vpton, where it appears, that Raymond Viscount of Turine, anno 1219. granted to Rodolph de Bessa, that he and his Nephews (Sons to his Brother Ademar) and their Successors should be Knights, and enjoy all the Privileges and Honours of Knights: This is the ancientest that I have met with of this sort; to which there is another in that place adjoined, whereby Maximilian the Emperor granted the Dignity of Knighthood to f Pag. 25. Thomas Salernitana, Precedent of the Council of Naples, and to his seven Brothers therein named, and their Sons born or to be born, and their Male descendants in infinitum. But there is one Example of greater rarity, in relation to the creating of Knights, than any yet remembered, viz. by the bare signification of a Kingly Letter, without using either any of the aforementioned Ceremonies, or granting Letters Patents under Seal to that purpose. Of which kind the Author of the jurisprudentia Heroica, gives an instance worthy taking notice of: where g Pag. 28. Philip the Fourth King of Spain, the fifteenth of january 1633. conferred upon all the Captains that had behaved themselves valiantly in the defence of Mastricht (then lately besieged by the Hollanders) and remained faithful to the Spanish interest, to wit, h Pag. 28. to those of them that were Gentlemen, the title of Knights; and to others that of Gentlemen. Having thus briefly showed the various forms of Creation of Knights Bachelors, if any be further desirous to know, what were the ancient Rites and Ceremonies, used at the making of Knights Banerets among us, the Example of Sir john Chandos, in the Reign of King Edward the Third, will give sufficient information, which being at large recorded by i Chron. l 1. c. 137. Sir john Froisard, and from him by k Brit. p. 124. Cambden, and l Tit. of Honor. p. 790. & 791. Selden, it will be needless to transcribe them hither. With what Ceremony also the Duke of Burgundy made the Seigneur de Sans Baneret in Flanders, is reported by m En le Theatre d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 12. Andrew Favin. But in later times it appears, that he that was advanced to this Honour in the Field, n Videsi● Camb. Bri●. loc. cit. Seld. Tit. of Honour. p 790. Gloss. Spelm. in verbo Baneret. vide e●iam Coke 4. part of Institu●es. p. 6. & lib. E. in office. Armour. fo. 89. went between two signior Knights, with Trumpets before them, the Herald's carrying a long Banner called a Penon, with his Arms painted thereon; and so was brought unto the King or his Lieutenant, who bidding him good success, commanded the end or tip of the Banner to be cut off, that of an oblong it might become a square, like the Banner of a Baron: this done, he returned back to his Tent, conducted as before. In the last place, there are many and various Ceremonies performed at the Creation of a Knight of the Bath, as appears by the Formulary thereof in old French, inserted by Sir Edward bish, among his o Pag. 21. Notes upon Vpton, and in English by William Dugdale Esquire, Norroy King of Arms, into his p Pag. 531. Antiquities of Warwickshire; to which we refer our Reader for a full view, as we do in all other like Cases, where things at large may be readily had, purposely to avoid the swelling of this discourse, beyond what is necessary. We shall therefore close with this observation, that the Knights of the Bath, made by the present Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, to attend him at his Coronation, were created with the principal of all those Ceremonies noted in this Section, and appointed to Knights Bachelors, both in former and later times, which to complete their Honour, were jointly united and placed upon them: for they Watched and Bathed, they took an Oath, they were girded with a Sword and Belt, and lastly Dubbed by the King, with the Sword of State. SECT. X. Of the Dignity, Honour, and Renown of Knighthood. BEfore we conclude this Chapter, it will be necessary to subjoin something concerning the Dignity, Honour, and Renown appropriate to the Knightly Order; whereunto, though enough might be said to fill a Volume, yet to avoid tediousness, we shall touch only upon the principal and most material. Of all Virtues those that have gained the highest honour and repute, are the Military, hereupon saith q De Privilege mil. p. 6. G. Acacius Evenkelius, a Noble modern Writer; It is not without great reason, that in all renowned and famous Commonwealths, which ever were, great honours and profits have been proposed to military persons, and in consequence we hear of several Prerogatives, Privileges, and proper Rights granted to them, above other men; yea it will appear, not only living, but also after death, having died for the Commonwealth, they are still honoured, in a high degree, and ever to be honoured. And to the great honour of Baldwinus Pulchrobarbus, Earl of Flanders, it is remembered, r Saunder. in Flandr. illust. Tom. 1. p. 12. that he conferred many Prerogatives upon the Knightly Dignity. But of all the Titles of Honour, Knighthood (being a Degree above common Honour) must be acknowledged the first and most principal, derived from the field and military services; whose very Name and Title (as s Delic. Equest. p. 1. Mennenius affirms) seemed to include somewhat of magnificence, beyond what he was able to express, and something more excellent than Nobility itself; and which, as it were, mounting the Royal Throne, becomes the assertor of civil Nobility, and sits as Judge at the Tribunal thereof. Our learned t Brit. pag. 126. Cambden notes from some of our Law Books, that Knight is a Name of Dignity, but Baron is not so: and he there adds the reason, u Brit. pag. 126. For if heretofore a Baron had not received the Order of Knighthood, he was written simply, and plainly, by his Christian Name, and the Name of his Family, without any addition, but that of Dominus; which term is as much attributed to a Knight: But the Title of Knight seems to be an adjunct of Honour, since Kings, Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, and Barons have coveted the Dignity, together with the Name. And to this the aforesaid Mennenius (for the greater Honour) observes, that in ancient Charters, the w Dell●. Equest. p. 17. Titles and Names of Knights may be seen to be set before Barons. x Saunder. in Fland. illustrate. loco cit. The Degree of Knighthood is of so great splendour and fame, that it bestows Gentility, not only upon a man meanly born, but also upon his descendants, and very much increaseth the honour of those who are well descended. 'Tis a Maxim laid down by a learned Civilian, y Andr. Tiraquel. de Nobilitate. c. 8. f. 43. That Knighthood ennobles, inasmuch, that whosoever is a Knight, it necessarily follows, that he is also a Gentleman. For where a King gives the Dignity to an ignoble person, whose merit he would thereby recompense; z Florentin. de Therriat. de la Noblesse civil p. 188. He is understood to have conferred whatsoever is requisite, for the completing of that which he bestows. And therefore in some instances a Sect. 8. before, where though this Honour had been conferred on Vassals, no way capable thereof, and for which both the Givers and Receivers were put to Fine, the Knights were esteemed so ennobled by the action, as to be adjudged fit to keep, and retain the Dignity, and to remain free from Vassalage and Servitude. Hereto also agrees the Common Law of England, which saith, b Glanvil. l. 5. c. ●. Bra●●. l. 4. f. 198. ●. If a Villain be made a Knight, he is thereby immediately enfranchised, and consequently accounted a Gentleman: And this is the same with the Roman La●, where the donation of a Gold Ring (the Symbol of Knighthood) to a slave, ennobled him with all the Privileges, belonging to one Freeborn, as hath been c Sect. 6. before observed. It is manifest of what reputation and esteem the Equestrian Dignity among the Romans, was with Maecenas, who though his descent was d Maecenas atavis edite Regibus. Hor. Carm. l. 1. Ode 1. great and high, and though the e Tunc Vrb●s Custodiis Praepositus. C. Maecenas, Equestri, ac splendido genere natus vir. Vellcius Patere. l. 2. c. 88 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Dion. l. 55. Custody of the City, was for a long time committed to him by Augustus, whose f Salmuth. Notis ad Panciroll. de Novis repertis. p. 315. Chancellor he also was, and that he lived his chief Favourite; yet would he not rise beyond that Dignity, but g 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. died a Companion of that noble Order: Augustus' bellis civilibus Cilnium Maecenatem, Equestris Ordinis cunctis a●ud Romam, & Italiam Praeposuit. Tacit. l. 6. in princ. and is by Horace called h Maecenas Equitum decus. l. 3. Ode 16. Maecenas Caesarianus Eques. Matt. lib. 10. Epigr. 73. the honour and glory of the Roman Knights. In later Ages it hath been accounted so full, and so complete an Honour, that men were not so often advanced from Knighthood, as from a meaner degree, to higher Titles and Dignities; and that those of the chiefest quality and rank, even Kings and Princes, have been so far from taking it to be a diminution to their Honour, that such of them, as were invested with this Order, took it as an accession thereunto, their other Titles showing more their Dominion and Power, this their Valour and Courage, as may be properly instanced in i Otho. Frisingensis. l. 1. c. 32. Geysa King of Hungary, who waging War with the Austrians, was by the Bishops (when he came into the field) Armis accinctus, girded with Arms, that is Knighted; and in like manner, Leopold Marquis of Austria, Ottacher Duke of Stiria, and Frederick Duke of Austria and Stiria, so also Godfrey Duke of Brabant (with Henry his Son) solemnly received the Order of Knighthood, before his Expedition to Jerusalem. So m Hier. Blancus in Hist. rerum Hispanic. Peter King of Arragon, was girt with the Military Girdle, from Pope Innocent the Third anno Domini 1204. the Emperor n Lamb. Sch●fnaburg. in Chronico. Henry the Third, was made Knight by the Bishop of Breme, and our o Malm●b. de gest. Regum. l. 4. p. 67. b. Edi●. Lond. 1596. William Rufus by Lanfranke Archbishop of Canterbury. But to proceed yet a little farther in Examples of this nature, Kings themselves have been Knighted, not only by inferior Princes, but sometimes by their own Subjects, as Lewis the Eleventh of France, at his Coronation, by p Renat. Chopin de domanio Fran. l. 3. ti●. 26. Sect. 13. ● Marthe de la Mason de France l. 1. p. 6●0. Philip le bon, Duke of Burgundy. Francis the First, immediately after the memorable Fight at Marignan, near Milan, by q Perrus Terrai●●ius Baiardi Dominus. jurisprudentia Heroica. p. 386. vide Mezeray Hist. de Franc. p 390. & Io. Tilius Commentarior, de reb. Gall. l. 2. p. 181. Peter Baiarde: Of our own Nation, King Edward the Third, by * Sir Rich. Bakers Chronic. p. 127. Edit. 1665. Henry Earl of Lancaster, King Henry the six, by his Uncle r Lib. N. p. 79. john Duke of Bedford; King Henry the Seventh, by the Earl of t Baker's Chronic. p. 321. Arundel, and lastly, King Edward the Sixth by u Stews Annals p. 1000 Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, afterwards created Duke of Somerset. And though it is commonly said, w Append. Monstraleti apud Chop. de domanio Franc. l. 4. tit. 26. Art. 13. p. 574. That all the Sons of the French King are Knights, assoon as they receive their Baptism; nevertheless * Glossar. verbo Miles. Sir Henry Spelman (from Goropus) seems to contradict this opinion, by informing us; that they were not judged worthy of the Kingdom, unless they had been first solemnly admitted into the Knightly Order. And we elsewhere find, that the x Hier. Blancus. Royal Heirs of Arragon were suspended from the Crown of that Kingdom, until they had received the Honour of Knighthood. To this purpose, the usage and fashion of the time shortly after the Norman Conquest is considerable, when our young Princes were sent over to neighbouring Kings, that from them they might receive this Honour; Thus was our y Rog. Hoved. annal. p. 280. b. Edit. Land. 1596. vide I. Lesleus de Reb. gest. Scot l. 6. p. 223. Edit. Rom. 1578. 4ᵒ. Henry the Second, sent to David King of Scots, and Knighted by him in Carlisle, and z Math. Paris. Hist. Anglicana. p. 890. Edit. Lond. 1640. Walsingh. in Ipodigma Neustriae. anno 1254. Edward the First, at the Age of fifteen years, to Alphonsus the Eleventh King of Castille, for the same Dignity. In like manner did Foreign Princes repair hither to receive the Honour from our Kings; as a Anno 6. Hen. 7. vide Rog. Hoved. p. 281. Malcolne King of Scotland, and b Math. Paris. p. 231. Alexander Son of William King of Scotland, Knighted by our King john, anno Domini 1212. So was c Ib. p. 829. Alexander the Third, by our King Henry the Third, on Christmas day at York anno 1252. and d Stow's Abreu. p. 290. Magnus' King of the Isle of Man, by the same King. All which sufficiently demonstrate the great Renown of Knighthood, and the honour and esteem which was ever had for that Order. The estimation of Knighthood may be yet further manifest from divers expressions, in that part of an Edict (transcribed by e Tit. of Honour p. 445. Mr. Selden, out of Goldastus) which Conrade King of the Romans sent to those of Palermo, to give them notice he had received the Order of Knighthood; which he did after this manner, f Tit. of Honour p. 445. That although he ought not to want the Ensigns and Tokens of Military Honour, considering the nobleness of his Birth, and greatness of his Dignity (he at that time swaying two Sceptres) yet because he had not as then received the Military Girdle (established by venerable Antiquity) he did choose to adorn himself therewith in that Month of August (wherein the said Edict passed) to the end, that from thence the ●lower of his victorious years might put on the Ensigns of greater valour, and the excellency of this new Militia renew the lustre of original Nobility. What peculiar respects Knights have had paid them in our own Nation, Mr. Selden hath collected from our legal proceedings, and set down in his Titles of Honour, pag. 783, 784, 785, and 786. In the close of this Chapter, Declarations of Knighthood we think fit to insert a few memorial of that additional favour (in augmentation of the Knightly Honour) which some of our Kings have pleased to afford those Strangers, on whom they have conferred the Dignity of Knighthood; and to make it more known and public, given Declarations thereof under the Great Seal of England (where the person so honoured made suit for the same) whereby they have declared and attested, that willingly, and of their own accord, they have given and conferred on them the Degree, Honour, and Title of a Knight, as due to their Virtues and Merits; to the end, that those persons should be esteemed and ranked in the place and number of Knights, aswell among their own Subjects, as in their own Countries, and also by all persons elsewhere; no less than themselves should esteem any other honourable and worthy men, adorned with the like Honour from other Kings and Princes. The first that we have met with in this kind, was given by King Henry the Eighth, to Sir Gregory de Caalis, born of a Noble Family in Rome, on whom in consideration of his Virtues and Merits, the King had bestowed the Honour of Knighthood; as may be collected from a g Billa signata an. 11. H. 8. Warrant directed to the Cardinal Archbishop of York his Chancellor, to make out Letters Patents under the Great Seal, as well of the said Order of Knighthood, as of the Grant of an annual Pension, of two hundred Crowns of Gold per Annum, during his life; for the better and more honourable maintenance of that Dignity. His late Majesty of ever blessed memory, King Charles the First, having Knighted Sir james Cats, Doctor of Law, Syndick of Dort, and Ambassador extraordinary to his said Majesty from the State's General of the United Provinces; was also pleased (26º jan. 1627.) to give him a h Ex R●●. pe●es W. Hutchinson gen. An● 1641. Declaration thereof, under the Great Seal of England, to notify his being such, not only with us here, but in his own Country, and elsewhere. And sometimes there hath passed in these Letters Testimonial, a kind of Ennoblement to their Posterity (where that hath been before wanting to the Family) which the King in regard of the Knights great Virtue and Merits, hath thereby raised into that Degree, Title, and Dignity of Gentleman; as may be seen by those i Ex R●●. pe●es W. Hutchinson gen. An● 1641. Letters Patents, granted to Sir Lewis Van Alteren, eldest Son to Simon Van Alteren, Lord of Iaer●velt, and Councillor in the Court of Admiralty of Amsterdam, dated the twenty ninth of january anno, 4. Car. 1. The like k Ex R●●. pe●es W. Hutchinson gen. An● 1641. Letters Patents of Declaration of Knighthood and Ennoblement of Posterity, were shortly after (viz. 26. Feb. following) given to Sir Peter Pau, Son of Sir Adrian Pau, Lord of Hemsted, and then extraordinary Ambassador from the aforesaid State's General. But in some others, this declarative Clause, of having bestowed the Dignity of Knighthood, hath been much more contracted, then in the Precedent before remembered, and the testimony of donation only, and that briefly expressed: as in those Letters Patents made forth to Sir l Ex R●●. pe●es W. Hutchinson gen. An● 1641. Aloysus Contareni, Leaguer Ambassador for the State of Venice, to King Charles the First, 20. july 1629. as also to Sir m Ex R●●. pe●es W. Hutchinson gen. An● 1641. Peter Paul Rubens, Secretary to the King of Spain, and one of the Privy Council in Flanders, 15. December 1630. to both of whom he thereby also gave augmentation of Arms. With these before mentioned, may be here also inserted a few Examples, testifying the Creation of a Knight from abroad; such like Royal Declarations being oftentimes granted by the Emperors of Germany, and other Foreign Princes, to the Knights they have Created, both for the same reason, and upon the like ground, as is before noted. Such was that Imperial Diploma of Rodulph the Second, Emperor of Germany, given at his Court at Prague, the second of june 1610. whereby he declared to have n See the Diploma at large in Purchas Pilgrimage part. 2. l. 10. p. 1806. created and ordained Sir Robert Shirley (our Countryman) a true and lawful Knight, to have received him into the State, Degree, and Honour of Knighthood, to have girt him with the Sword of Valour, and adorned and invested him with the Robes, Ensigns, and all other Arms and Ornaments, appertaining to the Order of Knighthood, according to the Imperial Custom: Decreeing moreover, by his said Imperial Authority, that for the future he should be esteemed, reputed, named, and honoured for a true and lawful Knight, without let or contradiction, and might use, possess, and enjoy all whatsoever Honours, Prerogatives, Ensigns, Privileges, Freedoms, Favours, and Liberties, which the rest of his Knights, the Knights of the Roman Empire, as also the Knights of S. john of Jerusalem used, possessed, and enjoyed, in what manner soever; either of right or custom, none whatsoever forbidding the contrary. There is transcribed into the o Pag. 403. jurisprudentia Heroica, a like Diploma at large, and almost in the same words, granted to Sir Charles Bellehe by the same Emperor; in which it is also testified, that p Pag. 405▪ he had by the stroke of his Sword, and Imperial word, made, created, nominated, and constituted him a Knight, and invested him with the Ensigns of the Equestrian Order, and other Ornaments appertaining thereto; and by virtue and force thereof, did decree unto him the Honours, Ensigns, and Privileges, which other Knights did use, possess, and enjoy, without any impediment or contradiction. Lastly, the Diploma of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, made to Sir Henry St. George Knight, late Richmond Herald at Arms, when he was employed to carry the Ensigns of the most Noble Order of the Garter to that King (and transcribed by q See the Titles of Honor. p. 459. Mr. Selden) is worthy of mention here: Wherein his Creation into the Dignity of Knighthood, is testified to have been solemnly performed in the view of the whole Army, and thereby is given and conferred upon him all Honours, Privileges, Immunities, Liberties, Rights, Preeminences, and Ensigns whatsoever, which at any time, according to the Custom of any Place, had been granted to this Order of Knighthood; so that he might publicly use, possess and enjoy the same, in the presence of all men, and among all Emperors, Kings, etc. without any prohibition, either in word or deed. And moreover, this King, as a greater testimony of his favour, did thereby grant unto the said Sir Henry, an augmentation of the Royal Arms of Sweden, to be born and used by him and his descendants. Certificates of Knighthood. Something like the Royal Declarations before remembered, are those Attestations and Certificates of Knighthood, made, as occasion requires, instead of Codicils, by some of the Kings, and Heralds of Arms in Flanders, for manifestation and truth, no less than perpetual memory of the Creation, and the Honour thereby accrueing to them, and their descendants, who have actually received the Dignity of Knighthood, to the end they might be acknowledged and reputed for Knights, and enjoy and use the Honours, Privileges, and Prerogatives, due to that Degree, with other Knights. Two such Declarations are set down in the r Pag. 397. & ●98. jurisprudentia Heroica, the one made on the behalf of Sir Hierom Sandelin (Knighted at the solemn entrance and inauguration of Philip then Prince of Spain into Antwerp) the twelfth day of September in the year 1549. and subsigned by jean de Arroyo, Claude Marion, and Gerard de Marbais, Heralds of Arms to the said Prince; the other by Sir Anthony Beaulincourt Knight, Toison d'or, Principal King of Arms, Henry de la Tour, Brabant, Estienne de Morez, Haynau, Claude-Marion, Bourgoigne, jean de Demedrano, and Pier de Vernois, also Kings of Arms to Philip the Second, King of Castille and England, for Sir Roland Longin, who was Knighted by the said King at Antwerp, the twenty third day of january, Anno Domini 1555. where a Chapter was then held, for the Election of Knights into the Order of the Golden Fleece. CHAP. II. OF THE Religious Orders OF KNIGHTHOOD in CHRISTENDOM. SECT. I. Of ancient Societies analogous to the Orders of Knighthood. ALthough the Orders remembered 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 De Ecclesia ●nte Legem. l. 2. c. 8. p. 207. Edit. Paris. 1630. 4ᵒ. 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 thereof to have been instituted at the building of the City of Hebron, which City was before called b joshua. c. 14▪ v. 15. Kiriath Arba, i. c. the City of Arba; who is said to have been the c c. 15. v. 13. 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 Pollux, Telamonius, Orpheus, Hercules, and Hylas) who entering into a most honourable Fraternity, or Association, made an Expedition to Colchi, under jason their supreme? What of the Argolic Youths, that hunted the Caledonian Boar; but a Society of Knights combined under Meleager their head or chief? Much like to which, of later times, were those Martial Followers of Charles the Great (first Emperor 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 jerusalem, celebrated by that Heroic Poet Torquato Tasso, in his jerusalem Liberata: both which Stories are true in the main, however flourished over and interlaced with Fancy and Fiction. SECT. II. The Christian Institution of Knightly Orders. BUT waving further instances of this nature, we shall touch upon the occasion of founding Societies and Orders of Knighthood, in the times of Christianity. The grounds of their Erection were several and different (though all terminated in one common end) among which the principal were these that follow. First, a perfect and sincere love to Honour, and a regard had to the prudent management and continual advancement of Military Affairs; and therein chiefly to excite and promote Virtue, and to confer on it a suitable Reward. Such was the Design of King Arthur of Britain; who e Praefatio ad Lib. Nigrum. being wonderfully delighted 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 erterprises) enjoined such as had especially signalised themselves by their Martial Actions, a freedom and familiarity, not only with one another, but even with himself: And further, to honour and reward their valour and desert; he form himself and them into a Body and Fellowship, which he styled Knights of the Round Table. Upon which account also the Military Orders of the Oak in Navarr, the Jennet in France, the Crown Royal among the Frizons, the Dove in Castille, and the Bear in Switzerland, took their beginning: and hitherto may be referred 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 remembered) make such frequent mention of Knights Errand, riding up and down to encounter Pagans; for another famous cause of erecting Knightly Orders, sprung from this occasion, 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 Strangers, were part of the Duties to which the Knights Hospitallers, Templars, and those of Saint james 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 Catholic Church; which was the chief cause why the Orders last mentioned were instituted, as also those other of the Holy Sepulchre, Calatrava, Alcantara, 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 employed themselves in the service of God, and spent their blood in the defence of his Faith, against Saracens, Turks, and unbelievers. Lastly, when Sovereign Princes found themselves imbroiled in Wars or dangerous Factions, a fourth reason of erecting such Orders, was, that they might by such a Tie (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 Country's safety and defence. Hereupon do the Orders of the Dragon in Hungary, of the Ermine, 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 distributed 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 quickened 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 touched upon some general grounds and causes, for instituting Orders of Knighthood in Christendom; before we proceed to a particular 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 Honour, which are esteemed of an equal rank, the Ecclesiastic 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 generally they are called f à Crucis insigni. Cruciseri) to wit, whether they be truly and properly Religious 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 De Ordin. Military. Disquis. 2. Quest. 2. sect. 2. & 3. Edit. Lugduni. 1668. Andreas Mendoza, a jesuit, who hath judiciously contracted the Arguments, and cited the several Authors both of the Affirmative and Negative 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 Obedientia prast and a Magistro, nibil proprii tenendum, a●que Castitas quantum s●eri potest tenenda. Pantal. de Ord. Joannit. reb. gest. l. 1. p. 19 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, Vide etiam la Regla y ●●tablecimientos de la Cavaller●a de Santiago de Espada fo. 65. a. or Chief of the Order. (2.) To keep themselves single, chaste, and undefiled with Women. And (3.) to submit to the commands of their Master, and to the Rules and Statutes of their Order) they are (we say) without contradiction i Mich. Anton. Frances de Eccles. Cathedralib. l. 5. n. 248. truly and properly accounted Religious, and have been numbered 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. john of jerusalem. But such of these as have permission to contract marriage, and are either married or may marry, and do profess Conjugal Chastity, viz. k La Castidid conjugal ●a de ser, que con sola su m●ger, & convengan. La Regla de Santiago. f. 65. a. to enjoy only their own Wives; are not by some, simply and absolutely, called or esteemed Religious, but l S. Thomas. 2.2. Q. 184. Art. 4. respons. ad tertium. secundum quid, and improperly; of which sort are those of the Orders of St. james, Vide M. A. Frances de Eccles. Cathedralib. loco citato. Calatrava, Alcantara, and Montesa, in Spain, and many others. Nevertheless, m Flau. Cherubinus Compend. Bullar. Tom. 3. p. 50. Constit. 41. Scholar 2. & Tom. 1. p. 7. Const. 5. Scholar 2. others conceive these aswel truly Religious, seeing they vow Conjugal (though not strict and absolute) Chastity; and this is the opinion of most. And in truth, the Vow of severe Chastity is not in this case wholly discharged, 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 dispensed 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 Ibid. Tom. 1. p. 21. Co●st. 1. Scholar 2. Religious, before such time, and until their rule of living hath been confirmed to them from thence (as is noted by those of St. Lazarus) after which Confirmation, all that enter into any Order, are subject to the particular Rule, so approved of, unless for good cause, they be o Si in votis aliquis est laxatus, id ex Ponti●icis dispensatione dimanat, qui potuit Religionis verae naturam conservare adhuc post praestitam dispensationem. Andr. Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 2. Quest. 2. sect. 2. n. 44. 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 concurrence of Divine assistance and Military industry, began to dedicate them principally to the Honour and Worship of God, or to our Saviour, or to the blessed Virgin, or some other of the Saints; thereby to gain no less the protection and favour of the Divine goodness, on the behalf of the Founders, and Knights Companions of such Orders in general, than its especial assistance in their Councils, Affairs, or particular Enterprises: And this they supposed more easily obtainable by the interposition of men eminent for their sincerity, piety, humility, and devotion, 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 Undertake. 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 undertake, wherein the Knights Companions themselves were engaged abroad, either as to the defence of Christian Religion, their Prince, or Country. THE Several ENSIGNS of the RELIGIOUS ORDERS of KNIGHTHOOD mentioned in the second Chapter▪ 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 completely 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, bestowed upon each of them; proceeding according to the antiquity of each Order 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 endeavoured to be made more ancient than there is good ground to believe; we have therefore thought it needless (having for the most part confined our Discourse 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-lived, and others, for other reasons, may be thought inconsiderable; 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 looked upon as fabulous and romantic: We must inform our Reader, that we take not upon us to justify all that is spoken to this point; but suppose we have dealt fairly and candidly with him, in placing our Authorities in the Margin, and there lest them to be considered of, where we hope they will be of strength, at least sufficient to support the Text, and justify our integrity. The Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre in jerusalem. (1.) This Order of Knighthood, though not so ancient as some would make it (who refer the Original to a Barth●l. de Saligniaco in ●●inerari● su● terrae sanctae. St. james Bishop of jerusalem, to b jos. Micheli Marquez in Tesoro Militar● de Cavalliera. fol. 14. b. & fol. 15. a. Constantine the Great, and to c Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 197. Charles' the Great) nor so late as d Andr. Mend●, de Ord. Milit. Dis. 1● Quest. 2. Sect. 3. n. 22. 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 Holy Land; and as a judicious Divine of our Nation reports, was instituted in the year e Heylins' C●smogr. l. 3 p. 109. 1099. at such time as the Temple of jerusalem was regained from the Saracens: which account perhaps he grounded upon the date given to the ancient Statutes of this Order, established at jerusalem on f Delicia● Equ●strium. p. 213. 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 Cosmogr. loc. cit. Philip King of France, but h En le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 9 c. 4. Andrew Favin will have it to be Baldwin the First, King of jerusalem: For there having been (while the Saracens possessed that City) certain Canons regular of the Order of St. Augustine, to whom they permitted the Custody of the Holy Sepulchre of our Lord, and whose Convent adjoined thereunto; These i Theat. d'Hon. loco cit. 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 Theat. d'Hon. loco cit. White Habit, and on the breast thereof bear his own Arms, which were, l Carol Seg●ing in Tresor. Heraldique pag. 115 Seb. Pet. Sanctus in Tess. Gentilit. pag. 260. vide St. Marthe's. Argent, a Cross Potent Or, between four Crossetts of the same, commonly called the jerusalem Cross. Their Great Master was the Patriarch of jerusalem, 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 jos. Micheli Tesoro Military. de Cavaliers. f●l. 15. a the Holy Sepulchre, the custody whereof was peculiarly committed to them, * Mennen in Delic. Equest. p. 42. 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 | Mennen in Delic. Equest. p. 42. red Crosses, in memory of the five wounds of our Saviour. They had their Rule confirmed to them by n I Lud Gothofrid. in Archontol. Cosm. l. 3. p. 1. Andr. Asendo, loc. supra cit. Pope Innocent the Third. When the Christians were driven out of the Holy Land, these Knights retired into Europe, and seated themselves at o Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. reb. gest. p. 95. Perugia in Italy, after which, by consent and permission of the Sultan, the p Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. reb. gest. p. 95. custody of the Holy Sepulchre was committed to the Franciscan Friars. The Knights then in being, retained yet their white Habit, but changed their ancient Arms to a q Sansovin. Origine de Cavalier. f. 22. a. Aubert. Miraeus, Orig. Ord. E●uest. p. 46. jux●a impres. 1638 double red Cross. By the r Favin. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 4. Mennen Delic. Equest. I●s. Mich. Tesoro Milit. locis cit. Sylvest. Maurolico in Mare Oceano, de ●utte le Religioni del Mundo. p. 232. Bull of Pope Innocent the Eighth, dated the 28. of March 1484. they, and all their Goods were annexed and incorporated, to the Knight's Hospitalars of St. john of jerusalem, then remaining in the Isle of Rhodes, (since more commonly known by the Title of Knights of Malta) as being under the same Vow and Rule. But it was not long ere his Successor s Favin. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 4. Mennen Delic. Equest. I●s. Mich. Tesoro Milit. locis cit. Sylvest. Maurolico in Mare Oceano, de ●utte le Religioni del Mundo. p. 232. Pope Alexander the Sixth, anno 1496. transferred 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 Favin. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 4. Mennen Delic. Equest. I●s. Mich. Tesoro Milit. locis cit. Sylvest. Maurolico in Mare Oceano, de ●utte le Religioni del Mundo. p. 232. empowered the Guardian of the Holy Sepulchre (his Vicar-general) to bestow the same upon Pilgrims and Travellers to the Holy Land; the Formulary for receiving of which, is set down at large by u Delic. Equest. p. 43. Mennenius, and w Thea●. d' Honneur. loc. citato. 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 Delic. Equest. p. 214. 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 Favin. Theat. d'Hon. l. 9 c. 4. Charles Gonz●go of Cleve, Duke of Nevers, in the year 1615. and this also, upon the application of the Great Master of Malta, to Lewis the Thirteenth of France, came to nothing. The Order of Hospitalars of St. john Baptist in jerusalem. (2.) Before the Latin Christians had taken the City of jerusalem from the Saracens, certain a Monast. Anglican. Tom. 2. p. 497. ex Hist. Antiochenal. 18. c. 3. & 4. Pantaleon, de joannitarum rebus gestis l. 1. p. 3. Sylu. Mourolico in Mare Oceano Religionum. p. 121. 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 Egypt, who then had the Dominion thereof, to b Monast. Anglican. Tom. 2. p. 497. ex Hist. Antiochenal. 18. c. 3. & 4. Pantaleon, de joannitarum rebus gestis l. 1. p. 3. Sylu. Mourolico in Mare Oceano Religionum. p. 121. erect a small and convenient House, for the entertainment of themselves and their Countrymen, which they built before the Patriarchal Church of the Holy Sepulchre in jerusalem; together with as small an Oratory, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Alf. Cincon. de vita & gestis Paschal. 2. l. 1. p. 357. Roma 1601. To them repaired certain c Monast. Anglican. Tom. 2. p. 497. ex Hist. Antiochenal. 18. c. 3. & 4. Pantaleon, de joannitarum rebus gestis l. 1. p. 3. Sylu. Mourolico in Mare Oceano Religionum. p. 121. Canons of the Order of St. Augustine, conducted by an Abbot from Naples, who in a short time built another Oratory, in honour of St. Mary Magdalen: that of the Virgin Mary being appointed for the entertainment 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 Monast. Anglican. Tom. 2. p. 497. ex Hist. Antiochenal. 18. c. 3. & 4. Pantaleon, de joannitarum rebus gestis l. 1. p. 3. Sylu. Mourolico in Mare Oceano Religionum. p. 121. 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 Cassan. Catalogue. gloria mundi, pars 9 Consid. 4. erected a large Hospital in that very place f Caenavi● Dominus cum Apostolis, & nunc ibi domus illa, à qua incepi● Ordo, qui di●itur Hospitalariorum. Abulensis in Comment, Epist. D. Hieronymi ad Paulam. c. 7. where our Saviour celebrated the last Supper with his Disciples, for the better entertainment of Strangers, that traveled 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 Pantal. de Ord. joannit. etc. l. 1. p. 4. robbed and murdered them) as also to relieve 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. john Baptist for their Patron (to the honour of whose Name, a Chapel or Oratory was built there also) they obtained the Title of h Andr. Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 9 c. 5. Brethren Hospitalars, of St. john Baptist of jerusalem. But some are of opinion, that this Hospital was dedicated to the memory of i Pantaleon loco citato. St. john of Cyprus, who in the Reign of Phocas the Emperor, was Bishop of Alexandria, and so charitable and liberal in bestowing Alms, A. Mirtus Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 3. that he obtained the name of johannes 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 Sansovin. Orig. de Cavalieri. fo. 13. a. Gio. Pietro de Crescenzi Presid. Roman●: parte 3. l. 1. p. 496. 1099. when one Gerard, a Native of the Province of l A. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quest. 3. n. 108▪ Tholouse, and a man of holy life and piety, came to jerusalem, in the time of Godfrey of Bovillon, and out of zeal upon sight of the places trodden by the feet of our Saviour, and sprinkled with his blood, built this Hospital (which became the first and chief Seat of this ancient Order) and devoutly ministered to the necessities of the poor. After a while he m Vitriac. apud Miraeum. adjoined to himself some honest and religious men, and received the regular Habit of Black, wearing on the outside thereof a White Cross. King n Favin. en. le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 9 c. 5. Baldwin the First, conferred on them large Privileges and Franchises, permitting them to manage Arms, as did the Canons Regulars, Guardians of the Holy Sepulchre, and anno o Favin. en. le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 9 c. 5. 1104. instituted them to be Knights. So that they, who before were pious and liberal towards Pilgrims and diseased persons, became at length the examples of true and Christian generosity: Their * Cassan. Catalogue. glor. mundi, pars 9 Consid. 4. f. 1●2 & pars 5. Consid. 64. duty now engaging them personally to fight against the Sara●ens and Insidels, in defence of the Christian Faith. These Knights then acknowledged obedience to the Patriarch of jerusalem, who p Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. l. 1. p. 19 first approved their Order, but afterwards q Monast. Anglic. Tom. 2. p. 499. 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 Patriarch, which r Hospitalarii praevenientes, per dona maxima totam Curiam (Romanam) corruperunt, sic qu●d Patriarcha, ipso insecto negotio, ad patriam suam rediit. Ib. they obtained, though he, and several other Bishops of Palestine, traveled to Rome to oppose them, and manifest the injuries they sustained from the Knights. This Order had its s Mennen. Delicae Equest. p. 69. second approbation and rule of living confirmed from Pope Gelasius the Second, but t De Ordin. milit. loco nuper cit. Andr. Mendoza saith, from Calixtus the Second, anno 1120. and was by Adrian the Fourth u Flau. Cherubin. Compend. B●llar. Tom. 1. p. 6. Const. 2. received under the protection of the Papal See; being likewise endowed with ample Privileges, and exemption from payment of Tithes, by succeeding Popes, chiefly by w Tom. 2. p. 3. Const. 9 Pius the Fourth. The Knights of this Order then took the x Pantal. de Ord. joannit. l. 1. p. 18. black Habit of Hermits of St. Augustine, and lived under his rule by the grant of Honorius the Second, anno y A. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. loc. cit. 1125. vowing z Pantaleon. l. 1. p. 18. Aub. Miraeus. p. 7. Ciacon de vita Paschal. 2. l. 1. p. 357. Cassan. Catalogue. glor. mundi, pars 9 Consid. 4. Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity; and on the a Item omnes Fratres, Crucem in honorem. Dei, & ejusdem Sanctae Crucis, in Cappis & Mantellis secum different ante pectus. Regula Ord. Joan Jerusal. Art. 29. Vide Monast. Anglican. Tom. 2. p. 497. Breast of this Habit wore, at first, a plain Cross of white Cloth, since changed to one with b Cruz. blanca de ocha puntas, abit● negro. El. Conde de Lanserote en Noblez● del Andalusia. l. 1. c. ●2. eight points: but in the c Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. loc. cit. time of War they used a Red Cassock, bearing the White Cross upon it. After the death of Gerard, the Founder of this Hospital, having increased in Men and Revenues, elected out of their own Body another Governor or Head, namely, Raimund de Podio, or d Sansovin, Orig. de Cavalieri. f. 13. a. Poggio a Florentine, who digested and enlarged their Laws and Institutions, and divided the Body of the Order into * Phil. Briet. Annal. Mundi, pars 3. Tom. 2. p. 2●. three Classes, viz. Knights, Servants, and ecclesiastics (which hath since received, from the succeeeding Great Masters, many additions.) This Body of Laws was confirmed by Pope e Monast. Anglican. Tom. 2. p. 493. Boniface the Ninth, 7. Idus Apr. in the sixth year of his Popedom, the Composers style in it runs thus, f Ibid. Ego Ramundus Dei gratia, servus pauperum jesu Christi, & Custos Hospitalis jerusolymitani. But afterwards he had the Title of g Mennen. Deliciae Equest. p. 69. Great Master of the Order given him, which continued to his Successors, h Cassan. Catalogue. glor. Mundi, pars 9 Consid. 4. the Adjective [Great] being added to denote his power 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 Gottofridus. Archont. Cosmic. l. 3. p. 70. Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. l. 12. p. 381. Prince of Maltae and Goza, and had that of Illustrious first given him by Ferdinand the Second, Emperor of Germany: Among sundry great privileges wherewith he is invested, he hath power to Seal in Lead, as doth the Pope and Duke of Venice. He acknowledges 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 styled Prior Hospitalis Sancti johannis jerusalem in Anglia, and by that k Claus. 49. H. 3 m. 11. Dorso in Schedulia. 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 precedency 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. | Claus. 6. R. 2. pars 1. m. ●9. Dorso. Memorandum quod Frater Johannes de Radyngton Prior Hospitalis Sancti johannis jerusalem in Anglia vicesimo tertio die Septembris anno praesenti apud Mansum Fratrum Praedicatorum London. fecit fidelitatem suam Domino Regi debitam coram Consilio dicti Domini Regis ibidem tunc existente, sub hac forma; Jeo sera foial & foie & loyalty portera a nostre Seigneur le Roi Richard & a says heirs Rois D'engleterre de vie de member & de terrien honour a viure & morir contre toutz gentzes & 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 temporibus 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 * Math. Paris. Hist. Anglic. p. 615. sub anno 1244. Edit. London, 1640. nineteen thousand Manors. When Saladine had taken jerusalem (after it had been possessed eighty nine years by the Christians) these Knights retreated to the City of | Favin. l. 9 c. 5 Acres, called Ptolomais; and that being also taken, they seized upon the l Pant. de Ord. joannit. l. 4. p. 97. Island of Rhodes, and gained the chief City there, m Lib. 7. p. 200. Sansovin. f. 13. & 14. Miraeus, p. 7. 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 Cassan. Catalogue. glor. Mun●i. pars 9 Consid. 4. Knights of Rhodes. At Rhodes they remained 214. years, even until anno p Turkish Hist. p. 600. 1522. when Solyman the Great took the Island by force, and made his public entry thereinto on q Turkish Hist. p. 600. Christmas-day, after which they betook themselves to the r Pantaleon, loc. cit. Island of Malta, which with Tripoli and Goza were granted to them in s Flau. Cherubin Compend. Bullar. Tom. 2. p. 4. Const. 9 schol. 1. vide etiam Pantal. de Ord. joannit. l. 7. p. 212.213. Fee, by the Emperor Charles the Fifth, the t Flau. Cherubin Compend. Bullar. Tom. 2. p. 4. Const. 9 schol. 1. vide etiam Pantal. de Ord. joannit. l. 7. p. 212.213. 23. of March anno 1530. under the tender of one Falcon to the Viceroy of Sicily, upon the 25. day of April yearly, and on condition to acknowledge the King of Spain and Sicily for their Protectors. This Donation was confirmed by * Flau. Cherubin Compend. Bullar. Tom. 2. p. 4. Const. 9 schol. 1. vide etiam Pantal. de Ord. joannit. l. 7. p. 212.213. 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. The Order of Knights Templars. (3.) About the years a Cassan. Catalogue. gloria mundi. pars 9 Consid. 5. 1117. b Ex Chron. Rogeri de Wendover. Math. Paris. Hist. Angl. p. 67. Histor. Anglic. Script. Edit. Lond. 1653. Col. 1●●8. 1118. c Andr. Favin. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 7. 1119. or d Monast. Anglic. Tom. 2. p. 517. Ex Histor. Antiochena. l. 12. c. 7. 1120. this Order took beginning (Baldwin the Second then reigning in jerusalem, and e Platina in vita Gelas. 2. p. 166. Al●. Ciacon, in vita praed. Gelasii, l. 1. p. 385. Gelasius the Second possessing the Roman Chair) when f Cassan. in Catal. glor. mun. loc. cit. Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. l. 1. p. 23. S. Maurolico in Mare Oceano Religionum. p. 216. nine Gentlemen, Aub. Mirtus Orig. Ord. Eq. p. 11. urged by zealous devotion, passed the Seas to the Holy Land, the chief of which (though the rest are forgotten) were g Sansovin. Origine de Cavalierie. fo. 17. b. Me●n. Delic. Equest. p. 75 Francis. de Radez de Andrada (by mistake) calls him Don Hugo de Campanes. Chron. de Calatrava. f. 3. b. Hugo de Pagans, and Godfrey de Saint Omer, two Knights of Noble Extraction. The King, because these Knights at first had no habitation, assigned to them part of his h Pantal. de Ord joannit. loc. citato. own Palace, near the South-gate, adjoining to the Temple of Solomon in jerusalem; and gave them leave to build a small House of residence, within the enclosure thereof; and hereupon they became called i Fratres militiae Templi. Cassan. loc. cit. 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 Mennen. ut supra. Mir●●s. p. 13. nine years, from their Institution) so their first undertaking and profession (to which they were enjoined by the Patriarch of jerusalem) was chiefly to l Fl. Cherub. Comp. Bull. Tom. 1. p. 3●. Const. 1. Scholar 2. S. Maurolico, loc. cit. guard the most dangerous Highways about jerusalem; whereupon they became safe conductors to Pilgrims and Travellers (who came to visit the holy places in that City) both in coming thither, and returning thence, against the violence and robberies of the Saracens; which charitable service made them acceptable to all, and for which they obtained of the m Gottosred. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 4. S●ows abbrev. p. 281. Patriarch and Bishops, remission of their sins. But they were yet so poor, that for the first nine years, they lived upon the n Monast. Ang. Tom 2. p. 518. Alms of others, and wore such Clothes, as good men, for Charity's sake bestowed on them: They also road 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 Ad Calcem Adversarium. vide Antiq. War. p. ●04. Math. Paris. At the q Math. Paris. Hist. Angl. p. 6●. Phil. B●ietii Anal. mundi. pars 3. Tom. 2. p. 30. Council held at Troy's in Champagne, anno 1127. they had certain Rules assigned to them, drawn up by * Andr. Favin. en le Theat. d' Honn. l. 9 c. 8. Monn. p. 230. St. Bernard, Abbot of Clairuaux (a r Ib. l. 6. ●. 14. & l. 9 c. 7. 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 Patriarch of jerusalem; in the s Ib. l. 6. ●. 14. & l. 9 c. 7. presence of which Patriarch, they made their Vows of Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity, and to live under the rule of t Ex Chronic. Rog. de Wendover. Canons Regular 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 Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 76. F. Cherub. Compend. Bull. Tom. 1. p. 37. Consid. 1. Scholar 2. Math. Paris loco supra citato. Red Cross, and of the * Dugdales' Antiq. of Warwick sh. p. 705. & 707. same form that the Knights Hospitallers of St. john of jerusalem wore, (though | Lib. 9 c. 7. 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 Sepulchre, Hospitallers, and Teu●onicks, were the principal Columns which supported the Kingdom of jerusalem, for a long time; and therefore their valiant encounters with the Infidels, and forwardness to sacrifice their lives, for the honour of God, and defence of the Holy Land, aught to be had in everlasting remembrance. But w Ad tantam rerum opulentiam devenerunt, ut silia ditata, matrem suffocare, & supergredi videretur. Hist. Anglic. Script. antiq. Col. 1008. when Riches increased, and their Revenues were augmented, they grew proud, and withdrew themselves from the obedience of the Patriarch of jerusalem, to join with the Pope. So that at last, upon x Fav. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 7. 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 France, with the consent of Pope Clement the Fifth, being y Alf. Ciacon lib. 1. p. 674. de vita Clem. 5. Fl Cherub. Comp. Bull. Tom. 1. p. 37. Const. 3. Scholar 3. Pantaleon. de Ord. joannit. l. 3. p. 94. charged with most infamous and damnable Crimes; the Articles confessed are set down by z ●oco cit. p. 404. Andr. Favin. But in England their apprehension was on a Hist. Anglic. Script. antiq. fol. 2494. & 2531. Wednesday next after the Feast of Epiphany, 4. Idus januarii. Ibid. Col. 1730. litera dominicali G. Luna currente per 17 die Mercurii proxime post festum Epiphan. Ib. Col. 2494. in the first year of the Reign of our King Edward the Second. Shortly after, a * Ibid. Quamvis in multis essent accusa●i, nihil tamen inventum est, quod de jure videretur s●atum illorum anullare. Ibid. solemn examination of their Crimes (upon the Articles exhibited against them) was by the special Commission of the said Pope, committed to William de Grenesfeild Archbishop of York, and Ralph Baldock Bishop of London, in the presence of the accused 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 King's hands. Upon this, the aforesaid Archbishop very greatly commiserating the sad state and condition of the Templars, within his Diocese, 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 An. Favin. loco cit. 3. Apr. vide Histor. Anglic Script. praef. Col. 1730 Two years after, many of these Knights were burnt in France, nay some of the Bones of john de la Tur (who had been long buried) were taken up, and in like manner burnt. Upon c An. Favin. loco cit. 3. Apr. vide Histor. Anglic Script. praef. Col. 1730 Monday Seven-night after Easter, anno 1312. in the second Session of the Council, called at d Fl. Cherub. Comp. Bull. Tom. 1. p. 37. Const. 3. Tho. Walsingham. p. 72. n. 40. vide etiam Chron. Io. Brompton inter Script. praef. Col. 1008. & Hen. Knighton. Col. 2382. Vienna in Dauphin the year before, this Order was by Papal Authority condemned, and perpetually dissolved; and in March of the following year, the last Great Master, jaques de la Maule, a Bourgundian, e Favin. loc. cit. burnt at Paris. Their f Pantal. de Ord. joannit. l. 3. p. 95. Cassan in Catalogue. glor. mundi. pars 9 Consid. 5. Platina in vita Clem 5. Lands, Possessions, and Goods, by a Decree of the said Pope, dated at g Claus. 7. E. 2. Dors. m. 11. Vienna 6. Non. Maii, in the seventh year of his Papacy, were annexed to the Knights Hospitallers of St. john of jerusalem (except those within the Kingdoms of h Fl. Cherub. Comp. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 37. Const. 3. Castille, Arragon, Portugal, and Majorca, which were reserved to the disposition of the Roman See) i Ibid. because they had constantly hazarded their lives in the defence of the Christian Faith, and continually suffered great dangers, and undergone vast expenses in transmarine parts, as also for k Alf. Ciacon. in vita Clem. 5. Tom. 2. p. 674. five years before, with exceeding great charge, and signal valour, had maintained the Isle of Rhodes against the Turkish power. Thus fell this Noble Order, no less famous for Martial Achievements in the East, than l Possessiones, tam citra, quam ultra mare, adeo immensas habere dicuntur, ut jam non sit in orbe Christian● provincia, quae eis bonorum suorum portionem non contulerit, & Regiis hodie divitiis praestantiores existunt. Math. Paris. Hist. Anglic. p. 67. their wealthy Possessions in the West. For, according to Doctor Heylins' account, they enjoyed no less than m Cosmogr. l. 3. p. 110. 16000 Lordships in Europe; and a Spanish Author tells us, their Revenue was n Andr. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quest. 2. sect. 6. n. 27. two Millions annually, and had in possession 40000 Commanderies. Which gave occasion to many sober men to judge, that their Wealth was their greatest crime. And there are several Authors remembered by o In loc. citato. vide etiam Sylvest. Maurolico in Oceano Religionum. p. 218. Alfonsus Ciaconius, who are of opinion, they were falsely accused, and by suborned Witnesses, merely ●pon the ambition and covetous design of Philip King of France, who gaped after their Lands, but nevertheless the morsel fell beside his mouth. The Statutes of this Order are recorded by p En le Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 8. Favin. Knights of the Order of St. Lazarus. (4.) We are here to note, that this Order was at the first Institution only a Fraternity of Religious Monks, not Ecclesiastic Knights, whose Weapons in the Christian 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 them that Military profession, since to them is generally attributed the beginning of that Custom, for ecclesiastics to make use of Arms in defence and propagation of the Christian Religion; nor was there indeed occasion administered for it, until the Christian Princes set on foot the Holy War in Palestine. This Order than 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 Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 9 ●. 9 Antiquissimum Charitatis & Militiae Christi Ordinem) but that (as hath been said) must be understood as an Order of Monks, and before they were made Ecclesiastic Knights: The Original of such their foundation, being by r Serm. 25. in laudem S. Basilii. ●lav. Cherubin. Comp. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 42. Const. 28. Scholar 1. vide etiam Histor Gene●●●g de la Maison de Savoy, par Sam. Gui●henon l. 1. p. 114. Edit. Lyon. 1660. St. Gregory Nazianzen, attributed to St. Basil, about the years s jos. Mich. en Tesoro Milit. de Caval f 48. b 360. or 370. or between both, viz. anno t S. Maurolico in Oceano Religionum. p. 207 366. about the time of julian surnamed the Apostate. The first Institution of this Order was upon a most charitable account; namely, to take care of persons infected with incurable Leprosy (a Disease frequent in the Eastern Countries) by which Malady they became separated, even from the conversation 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 revived when the Latin Princes joined together in a holy League, to expel the Saracens out of the Holy Land; and a famous u Mennen. Deliciae Equest. p. 50. Hospital was then erected in jerusalem, under the Title of St. Lazarus, for the reception and entertainment of Lepers. For in that time the Monks of this Order added Martial Discipline to their knowledge in Physic, 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 Mennen. Deliciae Equest. p. 50. Baldwin the Second, King of jerusalem, and some of his Successors, and other Princes enumerated by x In Orig. Ord. E●u●st. p. 48. Aubertus Miraeus; in which Age this Order flourished with great lustre, under the Government of a Great Master. In the year of our Lord y Tesoro Military. de Caval. l●c. cit. 1120. Pope z Fl. Cherub. Comp. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 28. Const. 95. videses Sam. G●ichenon, in Hist. Geneal. de la Maison de Savoy. p. 113. & 114. Innocent the Third, and after him Honorius the Third, granted very great privileges to this Order, and received it under the protection of the Papal See. The Knights wore a * Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 52. Green Cross anciently plain, afterwards of eight points, and Pope Gregory the Ninth prescribed the form of creating their Great Master. About the year a Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 9 c. 9 1150 they made their Vows of Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity, before William Patriarch of jerusalem, and submitted themselves to the Rule of St. Benedict; receiving his black habit: But b Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. ●uaest. 2. Sect. 15. seven years after, Pope Alexander the Fourth, commanded them to observe the Rule of St. Aug. and approved the donation of the Emperor Frederick, who had given great Revenues in Calabria, Apulia, and Sicily, to this Order. c Compend. Bull. loc. citato. Nicholas the Third exempted them from payment of Tithes, and several of the succeeding Popes indulged them with divers privileges. These Knights were so admired and favoured by d Fav. ●heat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 9 vide Mennen. p. 51. & Miraeus p. 48 St. Lewis of France, that he brought twelve of them with him out of Palestine, and placed them at e Fav. ●heat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 9 vide Mennen. p. 51. & Miraeus p. 48 Boigny, in the Diocese of Orleans, where he established a College, anno Domini 1154. which (as Favin affirms) was acknowledged for the f Fav. ●heat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 9 vide Mennen. p. 51. & Miraeus p. 48 chief Seat of this Order in Europe. In process of time the dignity of this Order sunk, being g Compend. Bullar. Tom. 2. p. 29. Const. 95. Scholar 1. suppressed by Pope Innocent the Eighth, who h Favin. loc. cit. men. ●p. 52. 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 Compend. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 28. Constitut. 95. Pius the Fourth, did again restore and re-establish the same, by his Bull dated at Rome anno 1565. confirming all former Privileges, 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 Samuel Guichenon in Hist. Genealog. de la Maison de Savoy. l. 1. p. 114. ex Thu●●●. Don janot de Chastillon, a Gentleman of Milan (his Kinsman) Great Master thereof. The Privileges of this Order were afterwards enlarged by l Compend. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 42. Constitut. 28. 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 Histor. de Mons. de Thou. Tom. 2. l. 38. p. 876. Gregory the Thirteenth, anno 1572. bestowed the Great Mastership 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 Favin. l. 8. c. 6. vide l. 3. c. 10. 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, conceiving 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 Cassan. in Catalogue. glor. mundi pars 9 Consid. 6. Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. l. 1. p. 13. Sansovin. Origine de Cavalieri. f 20. b. wealthy Gentleman of Germany, who dwelled at jerusalem, commiserating the condition of his Countrymen coming thither upon Devotion, and not understanding the Language, or knowing where to inhabit; made his House a receptacle for these Pilgrims, where they received lodging and entertainment. Afterwards, gaining Authority and Licence from the Patriarch, he erected a Chapel near unto this Hospital, and b Segar's Honour Milit. & Civil l. 2. p. 105. dedicated it to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, whence they had also the Title of c Equites Mariani Mennen. p. 78. Marian Knights. To him d And. Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 12. associated other Germane Gentlemen, who contributing to maintain this charitable work thus begun, and in short time, increasing in Number, Piety, Wealth, and Esteem (though yet they had no rule of living assigned) gave themselves to the e Catalogue. glor. mundi. Ord. joannit. locis cit. Aub. Miraeus Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 10. professions, both of the Knight's Hospitalars, and Templars; imitating 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 entered into a Society, we do not find remembered. But afterwards, to wit, in the year of our Lord * Favin. loc. cit. 1190 (or f Pontanus in rerum Danicarum Historia. pag. 284. 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) received confirmation of their Order, from the Bull of Pope g Aub. Miraeus Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 8. Celestine the Third, being the first year of his Papacy, under the Title of h Nomen Pontifex Militum beatae Mariae Virginis domus The autonicorum dedit, Barhamque alere jussit. Pantaleon. de Ord. Joannit. l. 2. p. 58. Knights teutonics, or Dutch Knights of the Hospital of St. Marry the Virgin; vowing Poverty, Obedience, and Chastity,: He also prescribed to them the Rule of St. Augustine. Their Statutes were composed by the Model of the Knight's Hospitalars, and of the Knight's Templars; among which one Article was, that none but i Cassanaeus, loc. citato. Germans should be admitted into this Order. But to difference them from those Orders, their Habit was ordained to be a k Pantal. l. 1. p. 23. & l. 2. p. 58. White Mantle, on the breast whereof a plain black Cross (but some l Segar. loc. cit. Crux nigra, cum limbo argenteo in veste candida, & Magistro Ordinis, Crux nigra, cum alia Cruce aurea eam intersecante. Mendoza de Ord. Mil. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 9 n. 32. 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 Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 12. joined to them some rich Citizens of Breme and Lubeck; by whose united Contributions another n Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 12. Hospital was erected in the City of Acon. But after that City was o Pantal. de Ord. joannit. l. 3. p. 74. Cassan. loc. cit. taken by Saladine, one Hermannus than 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 Chronic. Chronicorum. p. 7. Miraeus ex lib. Ordinis Prussiae Conrade Duke of Massovia anno 1226.) where having conquered that Nation, and reduced it from Paganism to Christianity, they built the City of Mary-burgh; and there r Heyl Cosm●gr. l ... p. 180. anno 1340. fixed the chief Seat and Reside 〈◊〉 of their Great Master. This Country they enjoyed, till the year s Fav. Theat. d' 〈◊〉 l. 7 c. 12 vid● Menn. D●●●c. squesy. 8●. 82. & ●3. 1525. that Albertus Brandenburg, the last Great Master, made solemn renunciation of the Order, and became Feudatory to Sigismond 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 Fav. Theat. d' 〈◊〉 l. 7 c. 12 vide Menn. D●●●c. squesy. 8●. 82. & ●3. Theatre of Honor. Some of the Knights disrelishing this Action, did afterward elect another u Fav. Theat. d' 〈◊〉 l. 7 c. 12 vide Menn. D●●●c. squesy. 8●. 82. & ●3. Great Master, namely Albert Wolfang, and leaving Prussia, seated themselves in Germany, where they now reside, though of no great account; only the w Fav. Theat. d' 〈◊〉 l. 7 c. 12 vide Menn. D●●●c. squesy. 8●. 82. & ●3. younger Sons of the Germane 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 jerusalem, in imitation or rather emulation of those more famous Orders before remembered, of which there now remains only 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 Andr. Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 9 c. 11. Castle in the Holy Land, where this Order was Instituted, built on the point of a Mountain, b Fr de Rades y Andrada en Chron. de Calatra●a f 38 a. not far from jerusalem, 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 Holy Land, against the Saracens and Pagans; and received for their Habit, c Favin, loc. cit. Red short Mantles, and a White Star, with five rays issuing out of it, fixed upon their breasts. d I●s. Micheli en Tesoro milit. de Cavaliers. f. 36. b. Others 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 And Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. ●. Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience, and observed the Rule of St. f Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. loc. cit. Basil. Pope g Mennen. de Delic. Equest. p 86. 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 (remaining in the Archives of the Order of Calatrava) is mention made of several h Vide Fr. Rades y Andrada loc. citato. Towns and Castles, which these Knights held in the Holy Land, as also what they possessed 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 Equites de Monte Gaudio. Mountioy. In Catalonia and Valentia, they were called k Mennen. loc. cit. Equites de Mongoia (which is the same with Mountioy) but in Castille l Mennen. loc. cit. Knights of Monfrac, from a Castle so called in that Kingdom, it being their chief place of residence; and after m Fr. de Rades. loc. cit. when this Order was fallen into great decay, it was given unto n Fr. de Rades. loc. cit. Don Gonçalionez, Master of the Order of Calatrava, by King Ferdinand the Saint, in the year of our Lord 1221. by o And. Mendo. loc. praecitato. whose consent they were afterwards incorporated into the Order of Calatrava. Moreover in the Instrument, by which Alphonso the Ninth, King of Castille, gave the Lands to this Order, which the Knights took from the Moors, the Donation saith thus, p Maestre de Monfrac de la Orden de Monte Gaudio. Fr de Rades loc. cit. To you Don Rodrigo Gonçalez Master of Monfrac, of the Order of Mountioy. They were also called (saith q En le Thea● d' Honneur. loc. cit. Favin) Equites de Truxillo, or de Trugillo, from a City of that name, where they sometime resided; but this will appear by and by, to be a distinct Order, united afterward to the Knights of Alcantara. 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 jos. Micheli en Tesoro milit. de Cavaliers. f. 61. a. Gothofrid. Archont. Cosmica. l. 3 p. 5. exercised all Duties of Charity towards those who went on Pilgrimage, to visit the Holy Land; and assumed the exercise of Arms, in imitation of the Knight's Hospitalars, whence they became ranked amongst the Religious or Sacred Orders: They followed the Rule of St. Augustine, and according to s In le Theatre d' Honneur. l. 9 c 11. 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 Tesoro mil. de Cavall. f. 61. ex Hieron. Romano. Alfonsus the ginger, King of Castille, about which time, Pope u Mennen. Deliciae Equest. p. 84. A. Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Q. 2. Sect. 23. Alexander the Fourth approved the Order, under the conjoined Title of St. Thomas and St. john 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 little decayed, until at length they were w A. Mendoza, loc. cit. united with the Knight's Hospitalars. The Ensign of their Order (saith x La Insignia era una Cruz colorada lisa, y en medio sand juan, y santo Tomas. Tesoro military. de Cavall. loc. cit. jos. Micheli Marquez) was a Red Cross ( y And. Mendoza, loco nuper cit. like to that of the Order of Montesa) in the middle whereof stood the Figures of St. john, 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 * Delic. Equest. p. 84. Mennenius, and a Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. fol. 61. b. jos. Micheli) was distinct from the former, bearing the Title of St. Thomas; but b De Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Q. 2. sect. 24. A. Mendoza supposeth, they were rather some of those which joined themselves to the Knight's Hospitalars; and the rather, because they wore the same Habit with the Knights of St. john of Acon; they also made the same Professions, followed the same Rule, observed the same Constitutions, and were approved and confirmed by Pope Alexander the Fourth and Fifth, and john the 22. Their Badge was a | Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 263. Saltire gules, yet Micheli makes it the same with that of St. john of Acon, wanting the Figures in the middle. But c Theat. d' Honneur, l. 9 c. 11. 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 Honour of this kind done our Nation by Strangers (if it can be called an Honour, to report those things of us, which want ground and authority from our own Histories and Chronicles to support them) viz. d jos. Micheli en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 35. b. That Henry of England (which by the note of time afterwards mentioned, must be understood of our King Henry the Second) visiting the Holy places in jerusalem (but we find not that he was ever there) being moved with a pious zeal, by the example of the Knights of the Sepulchre, Instituted the Order of jesus 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 jerusalem; which Order (saith the same Author) was confirmed 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 Knight's Hospitalars. But we give the less credit to this formal account, because we find no mention 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 Pag. 362. Antiquities of Warwickshire give some account. Knights of St. Blaze. (9) These were called also Knights f Mennen. Deliciae Equest. p. 84 de Sancta Maria, and founded under the g jos. Mich. Tesoro milit. de Cavaliers. fo. 77. b. Rule of St. Basil. They were h Fav. Theat. d'Hon. l. 9 c. 11 Officers and Servants to the Kings of Armenia, and had assigned them for their Habit Skie-colour, with a Cross gold, worn before their breasts. Others say a i Tesoro milit. de Caval. loc. cit. Red Cross, and in the middle thereof the Picture of St. Blaze their Patron. This Order was at the k Fav. loc. cit. height, when the Armenian Kings, of the House of Luzignam, kept their Court in the City of Acon. Knights l Cavalleros' de los Martyrs en Palestina y jerusalem. Tesoro milit. de Cavall f. 53. a. Ordo Poentten●iae SS. Martyrum. Mennen. p. 84. Knights of the Martyrs in Palestine. (10.) By the pious affection of some m Ibid. vide etiam And. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. 17. 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 profession 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 Ibid. vide etiam And. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. 17. Rule of St. Basil, which was confirmed to them by Pope john the 22. They wore for the Badge of their Order, a o Mendoza ut supra. Red Cross; and in the middle thereof, within a Circle, the Figures of the Saints Cosmas and Damianus were described. p Delic. Equest. p. 84.85. 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. Augustine; which perhaps was so changed when they retired into Europe. Knights of St. Katherine at Mount Sinai. (11.) This Order received its Institution, saith q In Tesoro milit. de Cavaliers. f. 18. b. jos. Micheli, in the Year of our Lord 1063. under the Title and Patronage of St. Katherine, whose body is reported to be deposited in r Favin. Theat. d'Hon. l. 9 c. 10 Mount Sinai, and the high Altar in the Church of the Monastery, there (dedicated to her name) erected near 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 A. Mend● de Ord. Milit. Dis●. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. 5. guard and keep safe the Sepulchre of St. Katherine, to secure the ways for Travellers, to defend and protect the Grecian Pilgrims, who came thither for devotions sake, and to relieve and entertain them with convenient Hospitality. Their Habit was t A Miraeus in Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 56. 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 Monastery, who was their Superior or Master. But u Mendoza▪ ●oc. cit. when those Countries fell into the hands of the Turks, the Knights of this Order were ill entreated and driven away, and the Order itself almost abolished. Nevertheless, some shadow thereof does still continue; for such as travel to visit the Holy Sepulchre at jerusalem, do now and then likewise pass to this Monastery at Mount Sinai; where (in imitation of the Padre Guardian of jerusalem) the w Favin, loc. sup●● c●tato. principal of the Monks of this Convent, makes them Knights of the Order of St. Katherine; the Ceremony being performed upon her Sepulchre or Tomb; and the same Questions and Formulary are here used, as are accustomed at the Holy Sepulchre in jerusalem. These Knights do now wear z Favin. loc. supra citato. upon the left side of their White Habit, the Cross of jerusalem, and Instrument of St. Katherine's Martyrdom, which I have caused to be engraven, after the form of that Badge bestowed upon y Favin. loc. supra citato. Andr. Favin, by Mesiere Claude Daubray, a Knight both of the Holy Sepulchre, and of St. Katherine: but according to others, the z Et in mediam rubei coloris Rotam Gladio transfixo pro insignibus praeferre. Mennen. p. 49. Ac in pectore almidium Rotae rubrae, quam Ensis intersecabat. Mendoza loco praecitato. middle of the Wheel is pierced with a Sword. The Order of Knights of St. Anthony in Aethiopia. (12.) a MS. penes joh. Knight Ar. Principal. Chirurg. Reg. Car. Secund. vide etiam jos. Micheli in Tes. milit. de Caval. f. 9 b. & Mendoza Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. a. n. 20. Shortly after the death of St. Anthony the Hermit, (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 Desert, and therefore called Anchorites, 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 MS. penes joh. Knight Ar. Principal. Chirurg. Reg. Car. Secund. vide etiam jos. Micheli in Tes. milit. de Caval. f. 9 b. & Mendoza Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. a. n. 20. 370. john Emperor of Aethiopia (commonly called Prester john) erected these Monks into a Religious Order of Knighthood, under the Title and c Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 177. Protection of St. Anthony, Patron of his Empire; and bestowed upon them great Revenues and many Privileges. And being thus instituted Knights, they received the aforesaid d jos. Micheli Tes. Milit. de Caval. fol. 10.20. Rule of St. Basil, and submitted to his Constitutions. The Habit of the Order is e jos. Micheli Tes. Milit. de Caval. fol. 10. a. Black, and the Cross, Blue; much like the form of the Latin Letter T, but not like either the Samaritan or Hebrew Letter Tau, (which f St. Origen. St. Hierom. 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 Animadv. in Chron. Euseb. p. 109. joseph Scaliger. The chief Seat of this Order is in the Isle of h Ex MS. penes eund. Io. Knight, & Tesoro milit. de Cavall. 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 Millions of annual Revenue. The i Ex MS. penes eund. Io. Knight, & Tesoro milit. de Cavall. eldest Sons of Noblemen and Gentlemen cannot be admitted into this Order, but the second Sons may; and if a man have three Sons, he is bound to assign one of them to be of the Order; from which Law none are exempt but Physicians. The effect of the Vow and Profession which these Knights make, is to observe k Ex MS. penes eund. Io. Knight, & Tesoro milit. de Cavall. conjugal chastity, to die in defence of the Christian Faith, to guard the Confines of the Empire, to yield obedience to their natural Laws, and their Superiors, and to go to War, whensoever and wheresoever they are commanded. Moreover they take an Oath before the spiritual Abbot, l Tesoro milit. de Cavall. fol. 11. a. not to fight in Wars between Christians, nor to receive any holy Orders, or to marry without express Licence first obtained. There are in this Order, two sorts of Knights; the m Ibid. fol. 10. a. 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 Abbeys 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 Fellows, and called the Spiritual Abbot. The n Ibid. fol. 10. a. Novices are taken in about sixteen or seventeen years of age, and employed nine years in the Wars; to wit, three years in the Garrisons about the Red Sea, against the Arabian Pirates; 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 Ibid. fol. 10. a. nine years being completed, they obtain Letters from their last Captain, testifying the fulfilling those years in the Wars, with honour and worthiness; 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 accordingly. But in case the Certificate of life and services be not sufficient (which seldom 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 Ibid. foe 11. a. 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 Fol. 10. b. Philip the Seventh of that Name, Son to the Founder, very much increased their Lands and Privileges; 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 aforecited Author jos. Micheli Marquez, who is very large and particular upon this Subject. In r Fol. 14. b. Italy, France, and Spain, there are a sort of Monks that from s Et quamvis gladio minim● accingantur, Equitum tamen numero censentur. Mennen. p. 176. some have the Title of Knights of St. Anthony; these were commanded to observe the Rule of t Fl. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar. Tom. 1 p. 35 Const. 5. 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 Inle Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 1. Favin) wear a double St. Anthony's Cross of Blue Satin, the one above the other, but the rest of them, only a single Cross. Their chief Seat is at w Inle Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 1. Vienna in Dauphin, of which place the General of the Order beareth the Title of Abbot, the Monastery there having been erected into an x Comp. Bullar. loco cit. Abbey, by the said Pope Boniface, anno 1297. in honour of St. Anthony, whose y Baron. Annal. Eccl. Tom. 11. Col. mihi 642: sub anno 1084. body is reported to have been translated thither from Constantinople: and all other places, built in honour of his name, were made subject to this Abbot by Pope z Compend. Bull. Tom. 1. p. 107. Cons. 2. Clement the Seventh, anno 1523. b In Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 45. 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 Annal. Eccles. Tom. 11. col. 694. sub anno 1095. Baronius 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 Thou, for the Badge or Ensign of their Order. Yet d In vita Urbin 2. l. 1. p. 355 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 Angelic 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 joseph Micheli Marquez a Spanish Writer, in his Tesoro Military de Cavaliers (from whom And. Mendoza hath collected all he saith of it) as also for that it appears he was Vicechancellor 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, Hospitalars, or Templars, and consequently high enough, to be one of the first military Orders in Christendom; must needs derive a formal Institution, Rules, and Laws from Constantine the Great, and vouch for it an Inscription (not mentioned by any other) in the Capitol at Rome. From which account of his, though it appears little better than a fabulous story, grounded, at best, upon some uncertain Tradition, and in several things smelling of novelty, we shall nevertheless extract what is most material to our purpose. This ancient, and (as our Author calls it) the e In Tesoro Milit. de Caval. fol. 1. b. Vide etiam Crescenzi del suo Presidio Romano. part. 3. l. 1. first Military Order in Christendom, took beginning from the Emperor Constantine the Great, and from him was entitled, the Military Order of Constantine the Emperor. It was called also f Fol. 2. b. Angelical, because the Cross with this Inscription, In hoc signo vinces, was showed 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 Lib. 1. c. 22. Eusebius may be consulted, who in the Life of Constantine, not only affirms, that this Emperor himself vouched the truth of this Miracle to him with an Oath, but * Cap. 25. describes the Figure thereof, which the Emperor gave i Cap. 24. directions to be made of Gold and precious Stones, according to the Pattern he had seen in the Sky, and thenceforward caused the | Lib. 4. c. 21. 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 Lib. 1 c. 33. Constantine's triumphal entrance into Rome, after his Victory over Maxentius, he erected many Crosses with Inscriptions, to endear the Sign thereof, into all men's 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 SALUTARI SIGNO, VERO FOR TITUDINIS INDICIO, CIVITATEM VESTRAM TYRANNIDIS JUGO LIBERAVI. ET S.P.Q.R. IN LIBERTATEM VINDICANS, PRISTIN A AMPLITUDINI, ET SPLENDORI RESTITVI. This Order had also the Epithet l jos. Micheli Marquez en Tesoro mil. de Caval fol. 3. Golden adjoined, because, that instead of the Collar of Gold, which the ancient Emperors his Predecessors used to give in reward of Virtue, and military Service, this Emperor gave a Collar of Gold, composed of these three Characters A x Ω, at which was fastened 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 Leprosy, 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 Fol. 79. b. 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 Fol. 2. b. consent and approbation of Pope Sylvester. As also, that it was confirmed by Pope o Fol. 4. Leo the First, whose Bull for assigning to the Knights thereof, the Rule of St. Basil, dated the 20. of july anno Domini 456. (Prince Alexius Angelus being then Great Master) he transcribes at large. That it received further confirmation and approbation, from the Pope's p Fol. 3. a. julius 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, Gregory the Fifteenth, and Vrban the Eighth. And whilst it flourished in Greece, was confirmed and augmented with large Privileges by divers succeeding Grecian Emperors, namely Leo the First, Isaac Angelus anno Dom. 1191. whose q Fol. 80. a. Diploma this Author also gives us, dated the 13. of Sept. in the year aforesaid, and of his Empire the Seventh, by Michael Paleologus anno 1294. by r Fol. 3. b. Isaac Angelus anno 1295. and lastly, by Ferdinand the Second, Emperor of Germany, at Ratisbone, anno 1630. who recommended to his Catholic 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 john Andrea Angelo Flavio Comneno. The Great Masters of this Order, have their chief Seat and Convent now at s Fol. 3. b. Brianno, a Town nigh to Venice, the Dignity yet continuing in the Line of Angelo Flavio Comneno; howbeit among the Privileges granted by the Emperor Isaac Angelus, one is, t Fol. 80. b. 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 Privileges 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 Fol. 3. b. Commensales Pontificum, and have the privilege of sitting at the Table with the Pope, by whom they are defended and supported, as Benefactors to the Church, and Founders of the Lateran Cathedral in Rome. They are persons of great note and authority, 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 Honours, of legitimating Bastards, of giving Degrees with the Title of Doctors, creating Poet Laureates, and making public Notaries. This Order is under the protection of the w Fol. 6. a. 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 à fol. 3. usque ad 10. Author. The Habit of this Angelic Order is a Fol. 3 b. & Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 1. n. 17. White, on the left side whereof is sewed a b Fol. 3 b. & Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 1. n. 17. Red or Crimson Velvet Cross Flory, in the middle is the Labarum embroidered 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 Tesor. milit. de Cavall. fol. 3. b. first are called Collared, or Grand Crosses; these wear a Collar, form 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 Ibid. f. 80. Grand Priorates and Promotions, or Commanderies, belonging to this Order, show 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 Order held, and they were these (saith mine Author) though I suppose divers of them are miswritten. The grand e Fol. 82. Priorates of Mistra, and of Bosnia, of Cappadocia, Calcide, Napoles, Antiochia, Constantinople, jerusalem, Anatolia, julia 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 Baliatoes or Baliwicks. The f Fol. 82. Bulls and Privileges 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 Fol. 80. Catalogue of the Names of 34 Great Masters (whom he affirms were all true descendants of the Family of Angelus Flavius Comnenus) beginning with Constantine the Great, but between him and Alexius Angelus 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 Chasm: As to 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. james the Apostle, (commonly called Sanctiago) was the first and principal. There are some a Lucas Tuden●is. Io. Vasaeus. Diegus Valera: Ant. Morales. vide Flau. Cherub. in Scholar ad Constitut. 30. Gregor. 13. Scholar 2. Spanish Writers (reckoned up by Franciscus Mennenius) that say this Order took beginning in the time of Don Ramiro King of Leon, who began his Reign in the year of our Lord b Francisc. de Rades y Andrada en Chronic. Sanctiago. fo. 4. b. & foe 5. 821. and at the Battle of Clavijo, or Clavigio, anno c Heyl. Cosmog. l. 1. p. 220. 826. (or as some say anno d S. Maurolico in Oceano Religion. p. 209. 837.) against the Moors, did by the assistance of St. james the Apostle (said to have then appeared upon a e Sober une Cavallo blanco, y con una Cruz colorada por senna. Rades in Chronic. hujus Ordin. fol. 5. a. white Horse, bearing a Banner with a Red Cross upon it) gain a mighty Victory over an innumerable multitude of them; whereupon in all Battles thenceforth his f Sanctiago Sanctiago. Ibid. patronage was implored. That this was the occasion of the Orders Foundation, is not believed or approved of by all, as may be collected from johannes Mariana, Franc. Alphon. Venerius, and others of that Country, some of them placing the Institution thereof about the year 1160, and some others upon 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 prescribed to the Knights of this Order. But though there be no certainty, that this Order was instituted, in memory of the appearance of St. james, 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 La Regla y establecimientos de la Cavalleria de Sanctiago del Espada. 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 Privilege granted to the i Ibid. fol. 3. b. vide Fr. de Rades en Chron. Sanctiago, fol. 3. b. Nuns of the Monastery of St. Esprit in Salamanca, dated the 15. of Nou. anno Dom. 1030. under the royal hand of Don Fernando the First, who began his Reign anno Dom. 1017. and is therein styled King of Castille, Leon, Galicia, Portugal, and Lord of Biscay (for in his time were the Kingdoms of Castille 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 El Maestre y Governador de la Orden. Ibid. 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 Quae adhuc asservatur in archivo de Veles. Original of a very old Letter, written long before they received any Rule or Form of Religion, and penned in corrupt and barbarous Latin, 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 Confrades de la Confradia de Sancte jacobo. Rades en Chron. Sanctiago. f. 5. a. videses Fr. Caro de Torres en Histor. de las Ord. milit. fo. 1. b. Brothers of the Fraternity of St. james. And albeit the Knights of this Order did at n Franc. de Rades y Andrada, en Chron. de Sanctiago. fo. 4. b. first dispose themselves to virtuous courses, and valiantly encountered 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 honour of their first Institution, and grew so strangely debauched, and gave so great occasion of scandal, that the Order was thereby so much perverted, 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 La Regla y establecimientos de la Cavalleria de Sanctiago. fo. 5. b. 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 Alfon. Ciacon. in vita Alex. 3. l. 1. p. 469. 1170, under the Rule of St. Augustine, and upon his return to Rome, q La Regla, etc. loc. cit. Fernando de Fuente Encalada, and others, Knights and Canons of this Order, attended 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 La Regla de Sanctiago f. 9 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 Privileges, is fitted with ●xceeding good Precepts and Laws, both for Government and Conservation of the Order, and bears date the 13. of july anno Dom. 1175. which happened in the beginning of the Reigns of Don Alonso the Ninth, King of Castille, of Don Fernando the Second, King of Leon, and Don Alonso the Second, King of Arragon. And hereupon (saith s En Chron. Sanctiago, loco ●rad. 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 entered 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 La Regla y Establec. de Sanctiago. fo. 1. b. & f. ●. b. Alexander the Third, had (among other things) granted to these Knights, the Monastery of Saint u Lodium. Loyo, situate in Galicia near Sanctiago, and that the Prior and Canons thereof, (being w Fr. de Rades en Chronic. Sanctiago fol. 6. b. vide Cassan. in Catalogue, gloriae mundi part 9 Consid. 7. Marian. de reb. Hispan. l. 11. c. 13. Canons 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 Privileges 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 Alexander's Confirmation, and then Don Pedro Fernandez de Fuente Encalada (Encalada being a place in the Diocese of x Idem de Rades fo. 6. a. & 11. b. Item Fr. Caro de Torres in Histor. de las Ordin. militares. f. 10. b. Astorga) is reckoned the y La Regla de Sanctiago. fol. 16. b. first, in the Catalogue of Masters. At the beginning, the Knights of this Order were employed z Aub. Miraeus de Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 23. Favin. in le Theat. d'Honneur. l. 6. c. 5. to assist the Canon's Regular 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. james of Compostella; and to guard the high ways, frequented by the concourse of them, against the insolences of the Moors, and Robbers of Spain. The Ensign of this Order, is a a Chronic. de Sanctiago p. 1. b. & p. 6. b. Su Senal es la Espada Roxa, que el ●ulgo Llama Lagar●●. Lancerote en Nobleza del Andaluzia. l. 1. c. 32. Cross, (which the Knights wore upon their b Chronic. de Sanctiago p. 1. b. & p. 6. b. Su Senal es la Espada Roxa, que el ●ulgo Llama Lagar●●. Lancerote en Nobleza del Andaluzia. l. 1. c. 32. Breasts) finishing like the blade of a Sword, the Hilt crosleted, and fashioned after the ancient manner; whereupon it was called c Historia de las Ordines Militares. per Fr. Caro de Torres. l. 1. p. 9 b. La Orden de Sanctiago de la Espada, as also d Compend. Bull. Tom. 1. p. 7. Const. 5. Scholar 1. videses Ciacon. de vit. Pontif. l. 1. p. 469. Ordo militaris Sancti jacobi Ensigeri, à qualitate insignium. And the reason why this Ensign is always painted Red, rather than any other colour; is thus given by e En sum Chronica. l. 17. Don Rodrigo Ximenes, Archbishop 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. james, which though it cannot be directly determined (saith f En Chronic. de Sanctiago. fo. 6. b. Rades y Andrada) what it is, yet it seems to be the Escallop shell: For that the g Venerea, quae in Hispania pro Tessera D. jacobi semper est habita. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 97. Escallop is generally among the Spaniards taken for the Badge of St. james, and worn by Pilgrims, in their Voyages to his Sepulchre at Compostella (the * Io. Mariana de reb. Hispan. l. 7. c. 10. pag. 328. place where his body was found about the year of Christ 800.) the day of whose Translation is the h La Regla de Sanctiago. fo. 72. b. 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 Fr. de Rades en Chron. de Sanctiago. fol. 7. a. Escallop shell, placed under the handle of the Sword, at the closing thereof to the Hilt. But it seems the honour of the Escallop is such, Las Veneros son insignial del Apostol. Lancerote. loc. cit. that the use thereof is not permitted to all; for by a Bull of Pope Alexander the Fourth, among other things, it is ordained, that k Fr. de Rades en Chron. de Sanctiago. fol. 7. a. 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 La Regla de Sanctiago. fo. 74. b. declared, 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 Crystal, or any Stone of what kind soever; and wearing this, they were permitted the use of a Coat, without 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 Ibid. f. 72. b. vide ettam Fr. de Rades, in Chronic. hujus Ordinis. f. 6. b. White Mantle of Cloth or Serge, close before, on the breast whereof is set a Cross of Cloth or Satin, in the form before described. The Figure of which Habit, adorning a Knight of this Order, is to be seen in n Pag. 521. jurisprudentia Heroica. This C●●●s made of o Regla de Sanctiago. loc. cit. & f. 74. a. 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 Order with those of Calatrava and Alcantara, were instituted, ceased; and thereupon it came to be considered, how the Administration of these Orders might be placed in the Crown of Castille. Upon the s Fr. de Rades y Andrada en so Chronic. Sanctiago. fo. 69. a. death therefore of Don Rodrigo Manrique (elected Master at Vcles in Castille, Competitor to Don Alonso de Cardenas, elected Master at Leon) Queen Isabel 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 Fol. 69. b. That in regard the Knights of this Order, had many Fortresses upon the Frontiers, 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 Fol. 70. a. 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 elected a second time, in the year 1477. But w Fol. 73. a. anno Dom. 1499. the Mastership of this Order becoming again vacant, by the death of this Don Alonso, King Ferdinando and Isabel 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 Quae Bulla incipit, Dum intra nostrae mentis arcana, etc. Et est prima inter Constitutiones Adriani 6. expeditaque suit anno 1522. & affertur in jurisprudentia Heroica. p. 514. 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 Castille and Leon, and thereunto in most ample manner were transferred all Rights, etc. 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 carried that title and stile in the Inscription upon the Great Seal thereof, which holds the y Fr. de Rades en Chronic. de Sanctiago. fo. 10. b. 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 Entitled La Regla y Establecimientos de la Cavalleriae de Santiago del Espadae, etc. should be printed. This Book contains the Institutions, 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 Arragon. (15.) About the year of our Lord a Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 85 1118. was this Order erected by Don Alphonso (called Emperor of Spain, King of Navarr, Arragon, Leon, Castille, 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 form this Society; and to the end he might be the better enabled to drive the Moors out of Saragosa, and the whole Territory of Arragon, he engaged them by this Honour, to pursue the War against them to the utmost of their power. b Theat. d'Honneur. l. 6. c. 14. Favin seems to place the Institution of this Order to the year 1120. but c jos. Mich. Marquez en so Tesoro Mi●it. de Cavall. f. 24. b. 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 Favin. loco nuper cit. succeeded the Templars in Montreall, being by King Alphonso established in that place, and had a Rule of living somewhat conformable to the Knight's Templars (save only the privilege to marry) which Rule e De 〈…〉 cit. Io. Mariana (a Spanish Author of very great credit) saith expressly was the Cistertian, and for that f 〈…〉 cit. jos. Mich. Marquez (another Spanish Writer) informs 〈◊〉 that they professed conjugal Chastity and Obedience, and were obliged to support 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 〈…〉 White Mantle, on the breast whereof they wore a Red Cross Ancree, but i 〈…〉 A. Mendoza saith, it was the Figure of our Saviour. At length the like Fate attended this Order, as did the Knights of St. james, Alcantara, 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'aviss in Portugal. (16.) a Fran. de Rades y Andrada en so Chronic. de Calatrava. f. 32. b El Conde de Lancero●e en Nobleza del Andaluzia l. 1. c. 32. vide etiam Rodrig. Lusitan. Tom. 1. Quest. Regul. Quest. 6. Art. 6. in principio. Don Alphonso Henriquez first King of Portugal, took from the Moors (in the year of our Lord b Fran. de Rades y Andrada en so Chronic. de Calatrava. f. 32. b El Conde de Lancerose en Nobleza del Andaluzia l. 1. c. 32. vide etiam Rodrig. Lusitan. Tom. 1. Quest. Regul. Quest. 6. Art. 6. in principio. 1147.) the City of Evora, and to strengthen this Garrison, he sent thither several gallant Commanders, who assumed the Title of c Cavalleros' de Evora. Rades ut supra. 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 Master was Don Fernando de Monteiro. Not long after, they came to be called d Ibidem etiam à fol. 32. b. Knights d' Avis, from a Castle of that name, situate on the Frontiers of Portugal, which being conquered from the Moors, by the said King Don Alphonso, he gave it to e Favin. Theat. d'Honn. l. 6. c. 18. Fernando de Yannes, Master of Evora, in the year 1161. (but f Loc. cit. 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 Flau. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar. Innocent the Third, anno 1204. in the Reign of Sancho the First, Son to King Don Alphonso, under the h Tom. 2. p. 90. Constitut. 32. Innoc. 3. Scholar 2. Rule of St. Benedict, and therefore in some Papal Bulls, the Order is called of i Ibid. Tom. 3. p. 45. Const. 24. St. Benedict d' Avis, but k Ant. Brandon Lusitan. Monarch. par● 3. l. 11. c. 1. others say, this Order had confirmation anno Dom. 1162. by a power which the Bishop of Hostia, Legate in Spain, for Pope Alexander the Third, gave to Io. Zerita Abbot of St. Io. Tarroca. The Knights profess l jos. M. Marquez en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 25. Conjugal Chastity and Obedience. In the year of Christ 1213. m Fr. de Rades in Chronic. de Calatrava. f. 32. b. & jos. Micheli. f. 25. b. vide Favin. in Theat. d'Hon. l. 6. c. 18. Don Rodrigo Garcez de Assa, than seventh Master of Calatrava, gave to the Great Master and Brethren Knights d' Avis, their two Fortresses in Evora, and some other lands possessed by them in the Kingdom of Portugal, upon which Donation they submitted themselves to the Rule, Statutes, Visitation, and Correction of the Order of Calatrava, and their Successors; but in the time of n Fr. de Rades in Chronic. de Calatrava. f. 32. b. & jos. Micheli. f. 25. b. vide Favin. in Theat. d'Hon. l. 6. c. 18. Don john of Portugal (natural Son of Pedro the Eighth, King of Portugal) seventh Great Master d' Avis (after he had gained the Victory of Aljubarrato, against Don john the First of Castille) he commanded this Order, to cast off their acknowledgements to that of Calatrava, which they thereupon did; and afterwards o Fr. de Rades in Chronic. de Calatrava. f. 32. b. & jos. Micheli. f. 25. b. vide Favin. in Theat. d' Hon. l. 6. c. 18. 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 Reformation, to which purpose a Bull issued, which yet remains preserved in the Archives of Calatrava, but the Portuguese never submitted to it, albeit those of Calatrava, to preserve their pre-eminence, have still nominated Visitors. Nay afterwards, p Fr. Cares de Tores en la Histor. de las Ordines mil●t. f. 83. b. 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 Castille, take upon them to proceed in any Cause where this Order was concerned. The Badge of this Order is a Green Cross Flory, q Lancerote en Nobleza del Andaluzia. l. 1. c. 32. such as the Knights of Alcantara wear, and said to be given them by r Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. fo. 25. b. Don Pedro, but before they used the s Rades en Chron. de Calatrava loco supra cit. 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 Grandfather's Gentility, both of the Fathers and Mother's 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 jos. Mich. Marquez en Tesoro Military. f. 35. a vide Ant. Brandon en la 3. part de la Monarch Lusitan. l. 11. c. 22. Don Alphonso Henriquez King of Portugal, (in whose Reign the Order d' Avi● was instituted) being very much oppressed by Albara the Moor, King of Sevil, raised an Army to free his Country; and being ready to give Battle, he commanded all his Soldiers in a devout manner to address themselves to their particular Saints, for the obtaining of good success: himself imploring St. Michael the Archangel, to whom he was greatly devoted. When the Battles were joined, n jos. Mich. Marquez en Tesoro Military. f. 35. a vide Ant. Brandon en la 3. part de la Monarch Lusitan. l. 11. c. 22. St. Michael the Archangel, appeared on the King's 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 jos. Mich. Marquez en Tesoro Military. f. 35. a vide Ant. Brandon en la 3. part de la Monarch Lusitan. l. 11. c. 22. Instituted this Order of Knighthood, in the year of our Lord 1171. (but p De Ordin. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 4. n. 97. Mendoza placeth the Institution earlier, to wit, in the year 1165. and q Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 38. Miraeus the year after) which he called the r Del Ala de san Miguel. Tes. Milit. de Cavaliers. Order of St. Michael's Wing: These Knights had for the Badge of their Order a s Del Ala de san Miguel. Tes. Milit. de Cavaliers. Red Sword crossed with Flowers de lis, and this Motto, Quis ut Deus? but more agreeable to the Name of the Order is that Badge assigned by Mendoza, to wit, t Insigne erat Ala (qua S. Michael ornatus depingitur) purpurea, intermicantibus radiis cureis. Mend. loc. cit. a Purple Wing, irradiated with beams of Gold. They were of the u Mendoza ut supra. Cistertian Order, and followed the Rule of St. Benedict. The manner of their w Tes. Milit. de Cavall. p. 35. a. Investiture was the same as is used in the Order d' Avis. Their Obligation was chiefly to x Tes. Milit. de Cavall. p. 35. a. defend the Christian Religion, to secure the Borders of the Country against the inroads 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 remained with the Kings of Portugal. Knights of St. Gereon. (18.) This Order was instituted by y Favin. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 11 Frederick Barbarossa the Emperor (others say by Frederick the Second) and consisted only of Gentlemen of the Germane Nation, who followed the Rule of St. Augustine, and wore a White Habit, whereon was sewed a z Menn. Delic. Equest. p. 263. Black Patriarchal Cross set on a little green Hill. 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 show. The first and ancient Title was of a Fr. de Radis y Andrada in so Chronic. de Alcantara, fo. 1. a. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 102. Favin. in le Theat. d' Honn. l. 6. c. 5. St. julian de Pereyro, because at a Town so called in the Kingdom of Leon, in the b Fr. Caro de Torres en Histor. de las Ord. milit. f. 51. b. Diocese 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 Privileges granted thereunto, dated in December the Aera of Caesar 1214. (which agrees with the year of our Lord 1176.) styled himself Protector of this Fraternity and Society of Knights. An approbation thereof was obtained from Pope c Rades en Chronic. de Alcantara. fo. 2. a. 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.) styled him Master of Pereyro. This Bull of Pope Alexander the Third makes not any mention of the Habit, these Knights of St. julian should wear, nor is it known what it was, more than that they used a d Ibid. f. 2. b. & f. 6. b. secular Habit, modest and grave, and the ecclesiastics a clerical Habit: Only to make a difference of these Knights from other Seculars, and the Clergy from other ecclesiastics, they wore a * Chias de pano. Ibid. shred of Cloth, and a Scapulary. 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 A. Miraeus, Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 31. Fr. Caro de Torres, loc. cit. & inf. 52. b. Cistertian Order, and the Knights thereof observed the Rule of St. Benedict, moderated and limited as it was convenient for the exercise of Arms against the Moors, for which end it was instituted. The ancient Badge of this Order was a f VnPeral verde, Lancerote l. 1. c. 23. 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 Fr. de Rade● en Chronic de Alcantara, fol. 5. a. Don Alphonso the Ninth, King of Leon, had taken from the Moors, Alcantara, a Town in Castille, anno Dom. 1213. he afterwards gave it to Don Martin Fernandez de Quintana, the twelfth Great Master of the Order of Calatrava, which Town * Idem de Rades en Chronic. de Calatrava. f. 33. b. anno 1218. (with the consent of the said King) was given to Don Nunno Fernandez, the third Master of St. julian de Pereyro, and his Fellows, as well Knights as ecclesiastics; 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 Ibid. f 33. b. & f. 34. a. First, that the Master and Convent of Pereyro should receive with all obedience 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 choose 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 Pereyro the Town of Alcantara, and all its Possessions, with all their Charters and Privileges, and all the movable 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 die, 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 thereof; and in case he did, than the King of Leon should have power to vacate such Donation. These Conditions and Capitulations were made, en Cividad de Rodrigo, the 16. of july anno Dom. 1218. and confirmed by King Don Alphonso, and the Masters of both Orders. Hereupon the Convent of St. julian, transferred their Seat from Pereyro to Alcantara, and Don Diego Sanchio the fourth Master of Pereyro, assumed the Title of Master of Pereyro and Alcantara, i Rades Chronic. Alcantara. f. 8. a. which Title his Successors held until the Church of St. julian de Pereyro was made an Encomienda; and thenceforward, the Masters used only the Title of Alcantara, and the Fraternity in like manner relinquishing their ancient Name, were afterwards called k Flau. Cherubin. in Compend. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 105. Constit. 44. Scholar 1. vide Sansovin. Orig. de Caval. f. 22. 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 Fr. de Rades en Chronic. de Alcantara. f. 6. b. added two Travas to the Pear-tree. But albeit this Order of Alcantara, was by this agreement, put under the subjection of that of Calatrava, and accordingly visited and corrected by them; yet nevertheless, they have since pretended to be m Ibid. in Chronic. f. 7. a. freed therefrom, for that the Masters 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 Articles. Whereupon this Order of Alcantara obtained a Bull from Pope n Ibid. in Chronic. f. 7. a. julius the Second, 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 Ibid. in Chronic. f. 7. a. 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 pretention of being exempted from obedience to the Order of Calatrava, p Io. Mariana de reb. Hisp. l. 12. c. 3. p. 569. Portano la Croce verde. Sansovin. fol. 21. b. 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 Tesoro milit. de Cavall. fol. 22. a. joseph Micheli Marquez. The Catholic Kings Don Fernando and Donna Isabel, 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 Fr. Rades en Chron. de Alcantara fo. 54. b. vide Fr. de Torres in Hist. de las Ord. milit. f. 83. 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 happened to the Crown of Castille, when the Master of Alcantara did confederate with the King of Portugal. Hereupon s Fr. Rades en Chron. de Alcantara fo. 14. b. vide Fr. de Torres in Hist. de las Ord. milit. f. 83. in the year of our Lord 1492. they made their address to Pope Innocent 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 renunciation of the then Master, Don john de Cuniga; or after any other manner. Upon this address the Pope did t Fr. Rades en Chron. de Alcantara fo. 54. b. vide Fr. de Torres in Hist. de las Ord. milit. f. 83. 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 died, and Alexander the Sixth succeeded, who at the like supplication of these Kings, u Iò. Fo. 55. a. confirmed and of new granted, what his Predecessor had granted them before. Upon which (anno 1494.) they treated with Don john de Cuniga, for the renunciation of his Mastership, yet with condition to reserve to himself all the Rents of the Master's Table, that he held in that part of Serena, to which he consented. Whereupon he resigned and surrendered 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 Catholic Kings. After w Fol. 55. b. this manner it was that these Kings succeeded in the Administration of the Mastership of Alcantara, in the year of our Lord 1494. which they held during their lives. But it was not long ere Pope Adrian the Sixth, annexed this Mastership, together with those other of St. james and Calatrava, to the Royal Crown of Castille, for ever, as hath been before observed. Knights of Trugillo or Truxillo in Spain. (20.) n En Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 73. a. joseph Micheli Marquez professeth, that it had been his great endeavour, to satisfy himself about the Foundation of this Order; notwithstanding which, neither 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 memorial of the Order of Alcantara, That o Fr. Rades y Andrada en Chron. de Alcantara. f. 9 a. Don Arias Perez Gallego, 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 Ibid. Vide Hieron. Romanum in Republica sua. Fr. Rades y Andrada that these had been some other, and a distinct Order of Knighthood by itself; 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 Freyle Trugillensis. Brothers or Knights of Trugillo. It is not unlikely therefore, that this Order might be incorporated into that of St. julian 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 Castille, 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 Apud Marquez. 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 Gentility. But there is not any Writer that gives an account what was the Ensign or Badge of their Order. It is guessed by u Loc. cit. Marquez, that their Institution obliged them to be near 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 Castille. (21.) This ancient Order of Knighthood, was instituted in Castille, and took a En Conde de Lancerote in Nobleza del Andaluzia l. 1. c. 32. beginning under the Reign of Don Sanchio the Third, and b En Conde de Lancerote in Nobleza del Andaluzia l. 1. c. 32. appellation from the Castle Calatrava, being a Frontier both of Castille and Toledo; which Castle the c Fr. de Rades y Andrada en Chronic: de Calatrava. fol. 2. a. Moors took upon their Victory over Don Rodrigo King of Spain, anno Dom. 714. The word is compounded of Cala, signifying in Arabic d Lancerote en Nobleza del Andaluzia loc. cit. a Castle, and of the Spanish word Travas, which signifies Manacles, Gives, or Irons, to fasten about the feet and wrists of Captives; Favin, in le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 10 for with such as these the Moors locked up and fettered the Christians, whom they held Prisoners in that Castle. After its recovery from the Moors (who had held it above 400 years) it was given by e Rades y Andrada, foe 3. b. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 99 Don Alphonso, surnamed the Emperor of Spain, to the Knight's Templars (of whose virtue that Age had a great opinion) to be made a Bulwark against the Inroads of the Moors, being the very f Ibid. in Chronic foe 5. a. Key into the Kingdom of Toledo; but they no way able to hold it, withdrew their Garrison; and what with the Knight's Templars deserting it, and the approach of the Moors, all others were disheartened from accepting the place, although the foresaid King g Ibid. f. 4. b. Sanchio (Son of Don Alphonso the Emperor) had caused it to be proclaimed at his Court, that whosoever 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 Ibid. f. 8. b. Io. Mariana de reb. Hispania. l. 11. c. 6. of Barcelona) formerly a Knight of great renown, than Abbot of the Monastery of St. Marry 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 King's proffer, and took upon him the fortifying and maintaining this Castle; and hereupon the i De Rades en Chron. f. 5. Io. Mariana loc. cit. King made his Charter of Donation, dated at Almason in january, 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 Idem de Rades, f. 6. b. Io. Mariana, ut supra. assistance from Castille and Toledo, fell to fortifying of the Castle; and hence arose the Order of Knights of Calatrava, l Instituyola el dicho Rey Don Sancho. Rades f. 6. b. vide Lancerote, l. 1. c. 32. instituted by King Don Sanchio in the year of our Lord 1158. in the Town of Calatrava, and therefore called at first m De Rades. loc. cit. 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 Ibid. f. 8. b. joint Founder with King Sanchio. After this o Fol. 6. b. vide Mennen. p. 100 & Favin. l. 6. c. 10. Don Raymond considering the richness and fertility of the Soil, returned 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 Idem de Rades, foe 13. b. Alexander the Third, the 25. of September, anno Dom. 1164. under the Discipline of the Cistertian Order. It was confirmed afterwards by Pope r Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 10. 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 Aub. Miraeus, Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 30. Favin. Theat. d' Houn. l. 6. c. 10. White Colour ( t Vanno vestiti de Nero, & partano la Croce rosa nel petto. f. 21. d. Sansovin, and u Chron. p. 614. 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 Monastic Habit, and assigned them a w Aub. Miraeus Orig. loc. cit. Cross Flory: So anciently they were prohibited Marriage, yet Paul the Third permitted them x Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 101. one Wife, but not a second. a Fr. de Rades en Chron. de Calatr. f. 82. b. 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 Catholic Kings, Don Ferdinando and Donna Isabel, 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 Ibid. f. 83. a. required them not to proceed in the Election, until his further Commands were made known: in obedience to which the Election ceased. Afterwards ( c Mennen. & Favin. locis supracitatis. anno Dom. 1489.) the d Rades, fol. ●3. b. Pope gave the Mastership of this Order in Administration to King Don Ferdinando during life; but he did not give it with the Title of Master, e Ibid. because the King had never received the Habit of this Order, neither was he capable of it, being a married man; but f Ibid. chiefly because the King then endeavoured to obtain the other two Mastership's of St. james and Alcantara, and he could not hold them all three with the Title of Master. g Ibid. King Don Ferdinando and Isabel his Wife governed this Order with the Title of Administrators very worthily, and reform the stare thereof; visiting it by the Abbot of Claravalle of the Cistertian Order, then called Don Pedro, who came on that employment 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 Ibid. f. 84. l. 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, than 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 〈…〉 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 Castille and Leon to have the Mastership or Administration of this Order, and those other of St. james, 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 〈…〉 That great alteration often happened 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 〈…〉 Adrian the Sixth granted the Emperor's desire, and annexed the Mastership of these three Orders perpetually to the Crowns of Castille and Leon. The form of admittance into this Order, and manner of their profession, is set down at large by m Tesoro Milit. de Cavall fo. 28. etc. Marquez. The Order of the Holy Ghost in Saxia, at Rome. (22.) They are called by a En Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. f. 61. b. Marquez, the Brothers of the Hospital of the Holy Ghost; who though not invested with Sword and Spurs, as other Knights be, are nevertheless reckoned among the Military Orders, because bound to bring Certificate of their Gentility, before they can be accepted or admitted. Their chief Seat is the sumptuous Hospital of the Holy Ghost, founded near the Church of St. Mary in Saxia by the River Tiber in Rome (a place so called from the b F. Lud. Gothosrid. Archont. Cosmica. l. 3. p. 51. Saxons, a People of Germany, who anciently inhabited there) by Pope c Platina in ejusd. Papa vita. Innocent the Third, in the year of our Lord 1198. or d S. Maurolico in Oceano Religionum. p. 233. 1201. But it appears by e A. Miraeus Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 43. another of this Pope's 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 Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. loc. supra cit. 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 La Insignia es une Cruz blanca Patriarcal, y los bracos Otogonodos. Ibid. 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 Ibid. fol. 62. jos. Mich. Marquez. In this Hospital care is taken for the i S. Maurolico, p. 234. nursing and bringing up exposed Children, 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 Ibid. Revenue belonging thereto, is about 24000 Ducats 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 * In Mare Oceano di tutte le Religioni del Mundo. p. 229. 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 Diocese of Tortosa, which afterwards in the year 1363. received approbation from the Papal See, but we find no other mention 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 Portglave and Sword. Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 2. p. 168. Sword-Bearers. (24.) In the year of our Lord m Munster. Chron. Vnivers. l. 3 p. 423. de Germania. 1186. one Meinardus a holy and devout man, began to preach the Gospel in Livonia, and erected the Bishopric of Riga. But this good man and his Successors met with great difficulties and opposition, in the propagation of Christianity, until the year 1200. about which time many of that Country embraced the Christian Faith; and one n Ibid. l. 3. p. 785. & 786. the Ge●m. Mennen. Deliciae Equest. p. 89. Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 7. c. 14. p. 272. Albert, being then Bishop of Livonia, instituted this Order, in imitation of the Knights teutonics, 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 Functius in Chronolog. sua. Red Sword, or rather p Aut verius binos Gladios formae Crucis decussatim positae rubescentes. Mennen. p. 89. videses Mendoza Disq. 1. Quest. 2. sect 14 two Red Swords, crossing one another in form of a Saltire, whence they had the Title q Munster. l. 3. p. 423. & 785. the German. Ensiferi, vel r Ibid. l. 3. p. 778. Gladiferi Fratres, or Brethren Sword-Bearers. This Order had their s Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. f. 52. b. Statutes something like those of the Knight's Templars, and the Knights thereof took on them the t Favin. & Mennen. in locis praed. Vow both of Obedience and Chastity. Pope u I. Lud. Gothofrid. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 5. Innocent the Third gave approbation and confirmation to this Order, which became fully Instituted in the year of our Lord 1203. And w Munst. Chron. l. 3. p. 423. & 778. because they could not of themselves accomplish the end for which they were instituted, they in the year x Functius Chron. ut supra. 1237. or 1239. united to the Teutonick Order, and submitted to their Rule and Habit, by whose help and assistance, they afterwards overcame the Idolatrous Livonians, and brought them to submit to the Christian Faith: thenceforward the y Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 2. p. 168. Great Master of Livonia acknowledged him of Prussia for his Superior; and so continued until z Mennen. de Delic. Equest. p. 91. 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 * Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 2. p. 169. 5. of March in the year aforesaid, he (in the Castle of Riga) surrendered to the use of King Sigismond the Second (surnamed Augustus) 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 concerned the same; the Keys of the City and Castle of Riga, the Office of Great Master, the rights of Coinage, and all the Powers and Privileges appertaining to it; receiving back again from Radzevill the King's Commissioner, the Dukedom of Curland to him and his Heirs for ever. In this manner this Order became extinguished, after it had flourished 357 years. The Knights of Jesus Christ, in Italy and France, or Brothers of the Militia of St. Dominick. (25.) St. Dominick (descended of the a Nich. janssenius in vita ipsius S. Dominici Edit. Antuerp. 1622. p. 1. Family of the Guzman's in Spain) was b Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 8. Founder of this Order, which he instituted in the year * Briet. An●al. Mundi pars 3. Tom. 2. p. 93. 1206. principally to fight against the Albigenses then called Heretics, and the Knights thereof were styled Fratres de Militia B. Dominici. He prescribed to them a c Habitus erat albus, & insigne Crux partìm nigra, partìm alba liliata; qua nune Ministri Tribunalium Sancta Fidei utuntur. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quzst. 2. Sect. 13. White Habit, and for the Badge of their Order a Cross Flory quarterly Sable and Argent, to be worn upon their Breasts. Pope e jos. Mich. Marquez in Tes. Milit. f. 47. b. Innocent the Third approved of this Order * Briet. Annal. Mundi pars 3. Tom. 2. p. 101. anno Dom. 1215. under the Rule of the said St. Dominick, and gave privilege, 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 instituted, they laid aside their Arms, and devoted themselves wholly to the f A. Miraeus, p. 46. 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 Mennen. p. 106. Innocent the Sixth, about the year of our Lord 1360. The Order of Knights of St. Marry de Merced in Arragon. (26.) a Alonso Remon. Historia General de la Orden de la Merced; l. 1. c. 4 f. 10. vide etiam Marquez en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 58. a. & Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 107. james the First of Arragon surnamed the Invincible (who conquered from the Moors the Kingdom of Murcia, Valentia, and the Baliares) was sometime Prisoner 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 endured, 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 Alon. Remon. in Histor. praed. l. 1. f. 11. a. 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 employed 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 Ibidem l. 2. c. 1. f. 37. descended from the ancient Family of Nolasco in France, resident at a Town called les Saintas Pucelles, in the Diocese of St. Paul, under the Archbishop of Arles) he d Ibid. l. 1. c. 6. p. 17. Fl. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar Tom. 1. p. 15 Constitut. 9 Scholar 2. 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 Ibid. l. 1. c. 6. p. 17. Fl. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar Tom. 1. p. 15 Constitut. 9 Scholar 2. 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 Pope's f Alon. Remon. l. 1. c. 8. f. 21. b. Gregory the Ninth, and g Lib 2. c. 18. f. 84. b. Alexander the Fourth, as also by a Charter made by Don Pedro King of Arragon, dated the eleventh of january, anno 1358. to have been likewise called Ordo beatae Eulaliae from h Ibid. l. 9 c. 5. f. 426. 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 founded; but it is with certainty determined to have been anno Dom. i Lib. 1. c. 8. p. vide Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. ●8. a. 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 by the k Compend. Ballar. Tem. 3. p. 21. Const. 68 Bull of Pope Clement the Eighth) in the fifth year of the Reign of this King james; as is manifest from several authentic testimonies, collected and alleged by Alphonsus Remon, in his l Alon Remon. l. 1. c. 8. 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 james 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 Lib. 2. c. 8. f. 54. b. Pedro Nolasco (being first sent into the Kingdom of Valentia, to make redemption of Captives) redeemed four hundred 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 james the Founder. Secondly, That Rerengario Pallovasino, Bishop of Barcelona gave it. Thirdly, That he received it from Raymond de Penafort; all which our n Lib. 1. c. 10. fo. 29. b. Author sets down, but there determines nothing; only seems inclinable to the first opinion, as most rational, because the King was Founder, and was so called by the blessed Virgin in the Vision, and for that the Order itself was at first composed merely of o Lib. 5. c. 6. f. 238. b. Laymen, and wholly military, and so declared by the Pope's p Lib. 7. c. 8. f. 328. b. Boniface the Eighth, and Clement the Fifth: Besides their Laws are in favour of those that are of this opinion, and exclude out of this Act, judicially Kingly, all Ecclesiastical ones, and by the same reason the Bishop: for saith the Canon of their Law, q Otto si el Clerigo un home de religion, non tuvieron que podrian sazer Cavalleros. l. 11. tit. 21. partida 2. A Priest ought not to make Knights. But afterwards r Alon. Remon. l. 5. c. 6. f. 237. b. & f. 238. 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 Ib. f. 236. Sansov. f. 21. b. common sort of corpse White Cloth. Their Coat was garnished with cordon's and Ribbons, wherewith they fastened it about their necks, and from the upper end thereof issued a Cap that covered half their head. The Monks wore their t Ib. f. 236. Sansov. f. 21. b. Coats and Scapulars reaching down to their feet (but those of the Knights were much u Ib. f. 236. Sansov. f. 21. b. 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 Ib. f. 236. Sansov. f. 21. b. 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 See the Diploma in Alon. Remon. l. 1. c. 12. fol. 177. b. Scut●m cum Cr●ce alba in Campo rube●, in part superiori, cum insigniis Regni Aragonis in inferiori. F. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar. Tom. 1. p. 34. Constit. 6. Scholar 2. King james the Founder, by his Diploma, dated at Saragosa the 15. of july anno 1251. granted unto him, and all the Fraternity of the Order, That they should wear upon their Scapulars an y See the Diploma in Alon. Remon. l. 1. c. 12. fol. 177. b. Scut●m cum Cr●ce alba in Campo rube●, in part superiori, cum insigniis Regni Aragonis in inferiori. F. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar. Tom. 1. p. 34. Constit. 6. Scholar 2. Escotcheon of z See the Diploma in Alon. Remon. l. 1. c. 12. fol. 177. b. Scut●m cum Cr●ce alba in Campo rube●, in part superiori, cum insigniis Regni Aragonis in inferiori. F. Cherub. in Compend. Bullar. Tom. 1. p. 34. Constit. 6. Scholar 2. Arragon, viz. Or, four Pales Gules, and above that, the b Remon. hïstor. General hujus Ord. l. 1. c. 9 f. 29. 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 Lib. 5 c. 6 f. 236. Knights wore their Escotcheon of Arms, sixth on their Scapulars, but the Monks on their Mantles, and both before upon their Breasts. The Founder by his d Lib. 4. c. 12. f. 179. Diploma dated at Valentia the 14. of March, anno Dom. 1254. granted particular Privileges to the Order, which he e Lib. 4. c. 12. f. 179. confirmed by another 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 Lib. 1. c. 8. f. 22. b. vide Ciacon. in vita hujus Pon●if. l. 1. p. 558. 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 Alon. Remon. l. 2. c. 18. fol. 84. b. 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 Marquez en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 58. a. conjugal Chastity, and Obedience to their Superiors. 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 of k Alon. Remon. l. 6. c. 20. f. 312. 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 (john the 22. then holding the Chair) who it seems the 17. of November, in the year aforesaid, declared, l Lib. 7. c. 7. f. 328. b. 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 Layman should be elected General; and so determined the controversy on the behalf of the Priests. This Judgement gave the Knights so great discontent, that m Lib. 6. c. 20. f. 313. 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 incorporated 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 De Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 4 n 99 Andr. Mendoza reckons this Order among those that are extinct. The Master General is also a Priest, and hath his residence at Barcelona, by the Decrees of Pope's Clement the Fifth, and john the 22. p Remon en Hist. de la Merced. l. 1. c. 5. f. 15. b. etc. 8. f. 25. Raymond de Penasort, the Founder's Confessor (called also Raymond of Barcelona, because it was the place of his Birth) who had a powerful hand in the Institution of this Order, and q Fr. Cherub. Comp. Bullar. Tom. 3. p. 24. & 25. Constit. 77. devised the Statutes, lived near to the age of an hundred years; he was r Fr. Cherub. Comp. Bullar. Tom. 3. p. 24. & 25. Constit. 77. canonised for a Saint, and the s Fr. Cherub. Comp. Bullar. Tom. 3. p. 24. & 25. Constit. 77. 7. of january appointed for his Anniversary, by the t Expedita suit 3. Kal. Mail, anno 1601. Bull of Pope Clement the Eighth. On the 12. of july, anno 1664. the approbation of the College passed, for making the 29. of january, 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 Canonising holy men by the Popes, is said to have been first used by u Compend. Bull. Tom. 3. p. 25. Const. 77. Scbol. 1. Bellarmine de Sanct. Beatis. l. 1. c. 8. Leo the Third, anno Dom. 803. who then solemnly Canonised 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 Fraternity 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 manner 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 greatly 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 Duchess Dudley, created into that Dignity by his late Majesty, of ever blessed memory, King Charles the First, by w See a Copy of the Patent entered in the Earl Marshal's Book in the Office of Arms. fol. 80. Letters Patents under the Great Seal of England, bearing date at Oxford the 23. of May, in the twentieth year of his Reign; who died the 22. day of january 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 employed for redemption of Captives of the English Nation. Knights of the Rosary in Toledo. (27.) a jos. Mich. Marquez Tes. Milit. de Cavall. f. 58. b. Roderick Archbishop 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 Order of the Rosary, into which entered many of the Nobless. This Order had Statutes, which chiefly obliged them to the defence of the Catholic 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 Archbishop, being Metropolitan of Spain, was of sufficient 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 Tessera fuit effigies B. Mariae del Rosario, & infra ipsam Cruz alba, & nigra; instar ejus, quam gestant Ministri Tribunalium Sanctae Fidei. Mendoza Disq. 1. Quaest 4. Sect. 100 Ensign of this Order was the Figure of our Lady of the Rosary, upon a Cross Flory, quarterly Argent and Sable. Knights of St. Marry the Glorious in Italy. (28.) The Author of this Institution, was d Carol. Sigonius de regno Italiae. l. 17. p. 45. Bartolemeo de Vincenza, of the Order of Friar's Preachers or Dominicans, afterwards made Bishop of that City, a man that did much both in word and example: and the end he chiefly designed, was to procure peace to the Cities of Italy, Sylu. Maurolico in Oceano Religionum. p. 232. then much disquieted by Civil Wars, among the Princes thereof. This Order received Institution anno Dom. e jos. M. Marquez en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 37. b. 1233. a year famous and renowned in that Age, for very great piety, and therefore called f Brietii annal Mandi, pars 3. Tom. 2. p. 118 generalis devotionis Annus. It was approved and confirmed by g Sigon. in regno Italiae. l. 19 p. 97. Pope Vrban the Fourth, anno 1262. and the h Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 1. Rule of St. Dominick prescribed to the Knights, who are obliged i Sigonius & Marquez, locis cit. 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 Gothofrid. in Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 7. White Tunick or Cassock, and a Mantle of Russet Colour; but there is some difference among those that mention the Badge, l Orig. de Cavaleri. f. 22. Sansovin and m In Mare Oceano Relig. p. 232. Maurolico say, they wore before their breasts a purple Cross patee, bordered with Gold; n Loco cit. Gothofridus saith, it is a purple Cross patee, with two Stars in chief; but o Loco supra cit. Marquez gives it an Octogonal Cross, like that of Malta, and four Stars, to wit, one at every side thereof. The p Marquez in Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. fol. 38. b. manner of giving the Habit, and making Profession, is with the Ceremony used by the Knights of Malta. The Knights profess q Ibid. f. 37. b. Obedience to their Great Master, and conjugal Chastity, but are r S. Maurolico, loco cit. forbid to wear Spurs or Bridles of Gold. They are commonly called Cavaleri de Madonna, 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 Menenn. Delic. Equest. p. 111. Fratres Gaudentes, or t Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 7. 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. james 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. james in Galicia, who had anciently Commanderies in Portugal, were only exempted from obedience and subjection to their Great Master, and not received upon the account of a new Institution, for so much doth Andrew Favin affirm; but jos. Micheli, from Portugal, Writers, reports the contrary, and gives this further account of the Order, to wit a En so Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 48. a. That the troubles the Moors gave daily to Portugal, and the great zeal of their Kings, seeing their Subjects so exceedingly oppressed by them, was such, that they endeavoured by all means to cut off those mischiefs, and to secure and quiet the Confines 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 En so Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 48. a. 1310. institute this Order of St. james, under whose protection he became victorious in divers Battles against the Moors, and at length quieted his Kingdom, by the assistance of these Knights. And it was not long after the Institution, ere this Order flourished, through the favour of those Privileges bestowed on it by the Founder. It received approbation first, from Pope c En so Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 48. a. 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 Ibid. Red Sword, form like that of St. james 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 Ibid. Alcazar de Sul, was the principal Convent of this Order first seated, afterward removed to Palmela, where it yet continues: and whiles Portugal 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 governed. The Statutes f Ibid. are much the same with those of St. james 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 Menen. Delic. Equest. p. 112. succeed into the Lands and Possessions of the Knight's Templars in Valentia, as the Knight's Hospitalars did into those of the Templars in France, Italy, and other places. For h Tes. milit. de Caval. f. ●2. a. after the Templars were dissolved, james the Second, King of Arragon and Valentia, refused to grant their Revenues (lying in his Kingdom) to the Order of St. john of jerusalem, as other Princes had done; nevertheless within few years sent an Embassy to Pope john the 22. to give him his reasons why he did not. These the Pope considering of, as also that the Moors were very near to Arragon, gave way that these Revenues of the exauterated Templars should be applied 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 Io. Mariana de reb. Hisp. l. 15. c. 16. vide Fr. de Rades y Andrada en Chron. de Calarava. f. 49. b. 1317. Instituted this Order, in the City of Valentia ( l Idem de Rades. nevertheless subject to that of Calatrava, as a member thereof) 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 incursions of the Moors. Their m Ibidem. College (dedicated to the honour of St. George) was built in the following year by the Pope at Montesa, at the instance of King james, n Menenn. p. 113. Culielmus de Eril, a valiant Soldier being constituted the first Master in the Convent of St Mary and St. George. The o Favin. en le T●eat. d'Honneur. l. 6 c. 15. Statutes of the Order (almost the same with those of Calatrava) were confirmed by the said Pope john, who gave to these Knight's th● p Sansov. Orig. de Cavalieri. f 21 b. Cistertian Rule. They vowed conjugal Chastity, and the manner of their Investiture is as in the Order of Calatrava. Their Habit is q So●●●vin ut supra. & Goth●frid. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 7. White, and the Badge of the Order a r Una Crux Llana Roxa, Lancerote l. 1. c. 32. plain Red Cross, that is, the Cross of St. George, s Favin l. 6. c. 16. Patron of the Kingdoms of Navarr and Arragon. This Cross was worn upon the breast, by a privilege granted to the Knights from Pope Benedict the Thirteenth. To this Order of Montesa was incorporated that of t Silu. Mauroli●o in Mare Oceano Relig. p. 2●9. St. George d' Alfama, anno Dom. 1399. which union received confirmation from the Council of Constance. A Catalogue of the Masters are recorded by u En Tesoro milit. de Caval. loc. cit. 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 Ducats per annum. The Order of Knights of Christ in Portugal. (31.) As the Knights of Montesa sprung from the ruin of the Knight's Templars in Valentia, so did this Order of Christ (or of the a Alex. Ross his continuation of Sir W. Raleigh's Hist. sub sinem. Warfare of Christ) succeed them in the Kingdom of Portugal. For the Knight's Templars having been very serviceable 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 dissolved, and their Estates confiscate, King b jos. Micheli en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 63. b. Pantaleon de Ord. joannit. reb. gest. l. 1. p. 95. Mennen. p. 114. Don Denys, surnamed Perioca, sent to Pope john the 22. (then at Avignion) to desire that the Knight's 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 Ambassadors 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 forasmuch 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 honour of God, and the exaltation of the Catholic Faith, under the Title of the Military Order of our Lord jesus 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. Privileges and Indulgences, formerly granted to their Great Master and Knights. Aegidius Martinius. In which respect he nominated Don Gil. Martinez, for their first Master, because he was a Knight professed, and Master of the Order of St. Benedict d' Avis; and appointed for their Visitor, the Abbot of Alcobaza, of the Cistertian Order. This c Ibid. f. 64. ●. Abbot or his Lieutenant in succession was empowered to receive of the Master of this Order, in the name of the Pope and Church of Rome, the Oath of fidelity; 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 obliged 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, than 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 Platina in vitae job. 25. p. 220. Goods and Possessions formerly belonging to the Knight's Templars, within the Kingdom of Portugal, were hereupon granted unto this Order, and the Knights thereof particularly obliged to make War against the e Gothofrid. Archont. Cosmica. l. 3. p. 7. Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 1. p. 244. Moors in Baetica, next neighbour to Portugal. They had appointed to them for their chief Seat, f Io Mariana. l. 15. c. 16. Tesoro milit. de Cav. f. 63. b. In Sylvensi Diaecesi. Castro Marin, where their first Convent was erected, but afterwards it was removed into the City of Tomar. They went clothed in g Favin. l. 6. c. 8. ●ide jurisprud. Heroi●. p. 563. & A. Mendo. Dis●. 1. Quaest 11. n. 196. Black, wearing upon their breasts a Cross Pat●e of Red Silk, and upon that another of White. This Order (as that d'aviss) became at length annexed to the Crown of Portugal; whose Kings have ever since taken upon them the title of perpetual Administrators 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 jesus 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 design (exceeding all other Religious Orders of Knighthood, except those of the Knights of St. john of jerusalem, 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 Ex vet. MS. in Bibliotheca Arundeliana. f. 1.2.3. Forasmuch as by reason of the three deadly sins, which began to reign among the Christians, namely, Pride, Covetousness, and Luxury, God permitted the Saracens, Enemies of the Faith, to overcome jerusalem 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-conquest of jerusalem, and the Holy places, the overthrow and confusion of the Enemies of the Faith, this Order was erected. There are b Ibidem. sol. 3. a. twenty causes reckoned up by this Author, for the necessity of Instituting 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 example 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 Catholic Faith, among the people of the East. 6. For resisting of those that were disturbers of the Catholic Faith; as Heretics, Tyrants, and Schismatics. 7. That the rents and divisions of the Church through Italy, might by the passage of this holy Order be healed and reunited, under one universal Shepherd of Souls. 8. c Fol. 4. 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 attend them in all things. 9 To serve as a Lifeguard, for the defence of the two King's persons, and a forlorn hope, to give example and encouragement to the whole Army. 10. That those Volunteers that served in the Army, being without head, and not under Rule (if they should venture extravagantly and rashly into the Battle without 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. 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 Enemy's actions) the two Kings might be informed of the secrets of the Enemies Camp. 15. d Fol. 5. That if a Treaty should happen to be between the two Kings and the Enemy, the Prince of the Chivalry 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 Enemy's Territories, certain of the Chivalry ought humbly to visit the Host, to be watchful 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 rumours or tales should be spread in the Army of the Catholic Kings, with design to raise dissensions or debates; the Prince of the Chivalry in person, or any of his grand Officers for him (according to the dignity of the persons at odds) should labour to the utmost of their power to take up the Controversy, 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 Chivalry 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 Chivalry; they might so long as they behaved themselves well, be nobly and handsomely provided for. 20. That if either of the Kings should be hindered from passing into the Holy Land, about the performance of any Vow or Obligation from their Forefathers, the Chivalry might be ready at a speedy warning to perform whatsoever was committed to their charge, in behalf of the Kings. e Fol. 16. b. And although this Order was principally dedicated to the honour of our blessed Saviour, yet saith our Author, the blessed Virgin Mary was looked upon as a principal Mediatress and Advocate of this holy Chivalry; representing the passion of her Son, and also guarding and defending the Cavaliers, against the Enemies of the Faith, as a Mother doth a Child. g Pol. 19 b. As to the Government of this Order, it is to be noted, that in the principal Convent of the holy Chivalry, all things of public concernment were to be debated by five authentic Councils in the presence of the Prince. The first was to be called the Quotidian Council, consisting of four and twenty Councillors. The second was the Particular, or Singular Council, consisting of about forty persons, to wit, four and twenty grand Councillors, eight Executors 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 authentic Officers, and a certain number of Brothers, valiant and sage persons, amounting in all to the abovesaid number. The fourth Council was to be called the General Chapter, and held every year; consisting of all the abovenamed Officers, with the Precedents and Deputies of Provinces. The fifth Council was the Universal Chapter, to be held from four to six years; consisting of a thousand Knights of the Chivalry, by which Universal Chapter, any of the Chivalry, or grand Officers were to be reform, or, if occasion required, punished according to the Statutes of the Chivalry. The principal Officer of the Chivalry, was the Grand justiciary, to whom belonged the Judgement of all the criminal Affairs, and the disposal of all chief Offices and Places. 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 Convent to all sorts of persons. h Fol. 20. ●. In the principal City, as also in every City and Castle belonging to the Chivalry, 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 Order, who should be called the Senator of the General Chapter, and four and twenty discreet persons of the Chivalry 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 Universal Chapter; and with him twelve Father's Conscript, 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 Chivalry, courageous and of holy life, who should be called the Ten i Fol. 20. b. Executors of justice, 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 Chivalry, 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 Chivalry, devout and good men, who should be called the Charitable Commissaries of the— whose Office it was to provide for the Widows and Orphans, 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 Fol. 21. b. Also the Chivalry were to have for their sustentation, the possession of Cities, Castles, Fortresses, Gold, Silver, and all kind of moveables, as God should bestow 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 Chivalry, 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 Chivalry, were to observe Justice, both Civil and Criminal, rendering to every one according to his deserts, whether reward or punishment. l Fol. 22. ●. Also the Prince of the Chivalry was to summon the principal Convent, at the Castle of the principal City; where he should assemble the Precedent of the City and of the Convent, and three or four other Precedents, each having under them four and twenty Knights, and four and twenty Brothers of the Chivalry, with fifty Sergeants, 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 marvellous 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 Chivalry, should attend upon the sick and infirm, m Fol. 2●. b. still employing themselves in the holy work of Charity, which also was to be the business 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 baptising of the Sons and Daughters of the Knights. Also there was appointed to belong to the principal Convent, a large and 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 near the Church, and enclosed 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 upon Pilgrimage. Also in the said Castle there were to be distinct lodgings and habitations for the grand Officers of the Chivalry, as well Natives as Foreigners, for the Knight's Companions, and Sergeants of the Chivalry, and for their Wives. Also there were to be in the said Castle, Wine-Cellars, Granges, Granaries, Stables for Horses and cattle, Easements, Mills, Cisterns, Baths, and all other necessaries for the Chivalry. n Fol. 23. a. 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 Chivalry were to dine on Festival days: The second, where the Canons should daily sit at meat with the Foreign Prelates and Clerks, and also all the Knights and Brothers of the Chivalry 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 Chivalry of the Passion of jesus Christ, was to be established according to the intention of the holy Rule; that is to say, representing in its Vestments the Passion of jesus. The Knights were appointed to wear a handsome cloth Coat, of a civil colour, reaching down half way the leg, which should be called the principal Coat of the Chivalry; 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 Chaperons or Caps, representing the blood of jesus Christ, and over the principal Coat o Fol. 23. b. 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 between 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 openings of the Mantle, only the Cross upon the Prince his Mantle was to be edged 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 Sergeants; that of the Knights was to be a little more solemn, and more clearly representing the Passion of the holy Jesus, than either that of the Brothers or Sergeants; 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 Ibid. The Arms of the holy Chivalry 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 middle 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, representing 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 shaped, and of a resplendent golden colour, representing the glory of jesus 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. Habits and Ensigns belonging to the Order of the Passion of Jesus' Christ. f Fol. 24. a. Every Knight was to have his Esquire armed at all points, and a little Valet to carry his Lance 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 Chivalry should be able to allow. Also each Brother of the Chivalry 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 fight men; and in times of peace, one or two according to the Chevalry's ability of allowance. The number of Knights of the Holy Chivalry, was a thousand; or a thousand, one hundred, or thereabouts. The Order of the * Cavalleros' Bricianos en Suecia. Io. Micheli Marquez en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. p. 57 b. Brician Knights in Sweden. (33.) a Ibid. jos. Micheli Marquez from Marcus Ant. Vianus, in his Description of Sweden, informs us, that a holy and famous Queen of that Kingdom, (whom b De Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 20. Andr. Mendoza saith, was St. | Should not the Knights than be rather called of St. Bridget. Bridget) being very zealous for the honour of our Saviour jesus 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 possessed the Roman Chair, and gave to the Knights the Rule of St. Augustine, beside St. Bridget died the * Io. Bapt. Ricciolus Chronolog. reformat. Tom. 4. Index 2. p. 208. 23. of july 1373. The sum of their Profession was to defend Christian Religion against Heretics, 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 exceedingly flourished. The chief Ensign of this Order, was c Cruz Octogona, abaxo una lingua de suego colorada. Tes. milit. loco cit. Tessara Cruz Caerulea ad instar Militensis, sub qua lingua ignea jacet. Mend. loc. cit. a Blue Octogonal Cross, and under it a Tongue of Fire, this being accounted the Symbol of Love and Charity; in regard 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 Sam. Guichenon in le Histor. Genealog. de la royal Mason. de Savoy. l. 1. p. 113. Crescenzi Presid. Rom. par. 3. l. 1. Order of Knights Hermits of St. Maurice, had their beginning upon the retreat of Amadis the Eighth, Duke of Savoy, into the desert of Ripaille, near the Lake of Geneva, and was bestowed by him, in the year of our Lord f Sam. Guichenon in le Histor. Genealog. de la royal Mason. de Savoy. l. 1. p. 113. Crescenzi Presid. Rom. par. 3. l. 1. 1434. on those ten Knights of his Court, who had retired with him thither; as well to preserve the memory of St. Maurice, honoured as titular Patron of Savoy, for many Ages past, as of his Lance (some say g Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 54. Sword) and Ring, the essential Symbols 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 honour and veneration: and are as a pledge of Dominion, delivered to them with great solemnity, 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 Alfon. Clacon. l. 2. p. 910. 5. of November, 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 Guichenon en mesme Hist. Genealog. de la Maison de Savoy. l. 6. p. 322. sixth day of April, anno 1449. to whom succeeded Nicholas the Fourth, and immediately he k Ibid. p. 333. retired again to his solitude in Ripaille, where he died the l Ibid. p. 333. seventh of january anno 1451. and lies buried in the m Ciacon. l. 2. p. 916. Cathedral Church of Lausanna. 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 Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 6. 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 Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 6. a White Cross Pommette of Taffeta or Cloth; but the Cross which the Master or Chief of the Order wore, was made of Gold, or rich Embroidery. This p Guichenon. Hist. Genealog. l. 1. p. 114. 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 Thirteenth, 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 In Origin. Ordinum Equestrium p. 51.52 53. vide porro Guichenon. l. 6. p. 524. & Cherub. in Compend. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 80. Constitut. 6. 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 Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 1. 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 Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 1. White Cross Form. The Order of Knights of St. George in Austria and Carinthia. (36.) a Lib. 3. de rebus Viennens. Wolfangus Lazius informs us, that Frederick the Third, Emperor of Germany ( b Gotofrid. Archont. Cosmica. l. 3. p. 13. others that Rudolphus of Hapsburgh, first raiser of the House of Austria) instituted this Order of Knights of St. George, in the year of our Lord 1470. chiefly to c Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 3. 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 Trophies and Ensigns of Victory from their Enemies. The d Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 3. Great Master of this Order was advanced to the Title and Honour of a Prince, and for a Seat and Residence to him and his Successors, the Castle of e Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 3. 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 Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 3. a plain Red Cross. Their g A. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 27. Habit is White, they profess h A. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 27. conjugal Chastity, and Obedience to their Master, and have the i A. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quest. 2. Sect. 27. Emperors for their Protectors. But there is mention made by k In Delic. Equest. p. 173. Fr. Mennenius (from Bernardus Luceburgius, in his Book De Ordinibus Militaribus) as also by l Origin. Ord. Equest. p 47. Alb. Miraeus, of an Order of Knights of St. George (which m Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. f. 59 b. jos. Micheli calls Cavalleros de San jorge en Alemania) erected 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 Ibid. f. 60. a. 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 Menn. Delic. Equest. p. 173. A. Miraeus, loco cit. Red Cross, with a Crown of Gold on the top of it. We observe elsewhere, that this Order runs under the Title of p jurisprudent. Heroica. p. 373 Crowned Knights, and is said to have been instituted among the q jurisprudent. Heroica. p. 373 Austrians, by the said Emperor Maximilian, anno 1494. in which respect the r jurisprudent. Heroica. p. 373 Knights, after they have served 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. jos. Micheli writeth, that this Emperor M●ximilian joining in Battle with these Knights against the Turks, obtained a notable Victory; and that the s Y confessavan los Turcos, que un Cavallero solo a Cavallero, Idem Micheli p. 60. Turks confessed, 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 fly and leave the Field. The Order of Knights of St. George at Rome. (37.) a Mennen. apud juceburgium, in lib. de Armorum military. Mysterius. Vide Favin. in le 〈◊〉 d' 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 Alexander the Sixth, anno Dom. 1498. Instituted the Knights of St. George, who wore a b Mennen. apud juceburgium, in lib. de Armorum military. Mysterius. Vide Favin. in le 〈◊〉 d' 〈◊〉 Cross of Gold, entowred with a circle of the same, made in the form of a Crown. But * E●losoro milit. de Cavall. f. 62. 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 dwelled at Ravenna, and were obliged to secure the Confines of the Adriatic Sea from Pirates. 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 Favin, loco naper cit. Pope Leo the Tenth, anno 1520. Instituted this Order to fight against the Turks, and to guard and defend the Seacoasts. The number of these Knights at first was d Alph. Ciacon. in vit. Pont. l. 2. p. 1070. 400. They wore the Image of St. Peter within an Oval of Gold, hanging at a Gold Chain: This Order was e A. Mendoza de Ord. Mil. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 26. n. 53. confirmed by Paul the Third. Knights of St. Paul at Rome. (39) They were Instituted by Pope f A. Miraeus Orig. Equest. p. 84. Paul the Third, anno 1540 and while he sat in the Papal Chair (which was about ten years after) he made g Palliot en la science des Armoiries. p. 5041 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 Menn. de Delic. Equest. p. 779. 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 increased to the number of 535. i Ciacon. de vit. Pontif. l. ●. p. 1179. Ciaconius styles them Imperiales, but they were more usually called Commensales. k Tesoro mil. de Caval. p. 74. b. jos. 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 Emperor's Spurs; they were also employed near his Person, in the quality of a Lifeguard. This Pope endowed them very considerably, and gave them l Favin, lib. 8. c. 1. precedence before the Knights of the Empire, and of Malta, because they were his Courtiers, and had the care and charge of carrying the Pope's Chair on their shoulders, at such times as he went abroad in public. m De Orig. Equest. p. 84. Miraeus saith, the Ensign of this Order is the Figure of St. Ambrose, hanging at a Chain of Gold about their necks; ●ut n Tesoro mil. de Caval. loco cit. Marquez will have it a Cross of Cloth of Gold, of eight points, like that of Malta, and a little Spur linked 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 Scipio Ammirato in Istorie Florent. pars 2. p. 531. Sansovin Orig. de Cavaller. f. 92. b. Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 7. Cosmo de Medicis, second Duke of Florence (created afterwards first Great Duke of Tuscany) in b Scipio Ammirato in Istorie Florent. pars 2. p. 531. Sansovin Orig. de Cavaller. f. 92. b. Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 7. honour of St. Stephen, Pope and Martyr (of that name the Ninth) Patron and Protector of the City of Florence, to c Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 184. Histoire de Mons. de Thou. Tom. 2. l. 26. p. 203. revive and continue the memory of that fortunate Battle at Marciano, at which, overthrowing the assertors of Liberty, he laid the foundation of his grandeur. This Battle was fought on the sixth of August, being the Feast-day of the said St. Stephen. Pope Pius the Fourth d Statut dell' Ord. de Cavalier. S. Steffan. p. 6. edit. in Firenza 1620. approved and confirmed this Order, under the Rule of e Ibid. p. 8. St. Benedict (his Bull to that effect, being dated at Rome the first of February next following the Institution) which was afterwards enlarged with many Privileges, by another Bull of the said f Pag. 14. Pope Pius, as also by the Bulls of g Pag. 39.44. & 52. Sixtus the Fifth, and h Pag. 62. Paul the Fifth. The Institution of these Knights much resembles those of the Knights of Malta, and was erected in * Histoire de Monsieur de Thou. loco cit. imitation of that Order; they having the same Privileges granted unto them. They vow i Scip. Ammirato, loco nuper relato. Chastity, but conjugal (for they have liberty to marry) Charity in relieving their neighbour and afflicted, and Obedience 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 settled at Pisa, where the Founder k Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 185. 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 Galleys, wherein the Knights of this Order are to serve, either in checking the Inroads of the Turkish Pirates, or setting forth a Navy on any other Expedition, if occasion require it. But since, it hath been transferred to l Heylins' Cosmogr. l 1. p. 113 Cosmopoli, in the Isle of Ilva; a place where the Founder, it seems, designed and intended it to have been first settled; for which A. Miraeus citys 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 Crux rubra cum Limbo aureo. And. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quest. 2. Sect. 19 n. 44. Cross (like that of Malta) of Red or Crimson Satin, bordered with Gold. This o Favin. in le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 7. 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 Favin. in le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 7. Priests wear the Cross of Red Taffeta without a border; and the Servants the Cross of St. Anthony only. The Statutes and Constitutions were reform by Ferdinand Great Duke of Tuscany, 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 solicitation of Emanuel Philibert Duke of Savoy, restored and instituted anew the Order of St. Lazarus, as also the Order of St. Maurice, anno 1572. and constituted this Duke Grand Master of both; shortly after, by his Bull dated the s Guichenon in Hist. Geneal. de la Maison de Savoy. l. 6. p. 526. & Compend. Bull. Tom. 2. p. 81. Gonst. 7. 13. of November in the same year, he united the Order of St. Lazarus to that of St. Maurice, for their greater honour: 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 Galleys, for the service of the Papal See, to be employed against Pirates. Upon this Union (permission being given by the last mentioned Bull, to assume a new Habit) the Knights of this Order had assigned them a t Ex relatione Come de Monroux hujus Ordinis Cancellar. Gown of Crimson Tabby, with wide sleeves, a long train, and edged about with White Taffeta, 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 before this Chapter, to wit, the u Ex relatione Come de Monroux hujus Ordinis Cancellar. 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 Idem Guichenon. l. 6. p. 529. Bull of the said Pope Gregory, given at Rome the 15. of january 1573. In which year, to wit, in the Month of x Favin. l. 8. c. 6 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 Lib. 6. p. 529. Sam. Guichenon. Afterwards this Duke did erect z Guichenon. l. 1. p. 114. 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 Pope's approbation, bestowed all the Lands and Revenues formerly belonging 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 united, 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. * Ibid. Totius Religionis & Militiae Sanctorum Mauritii & Lazari, Betleem, Nazareth, Hierosolymitan, Ordinis Sancti Augustini, Conventuum, Hospitalium, Domorum, Praeceptoriarum atque piorum locorum omnium, citra & ultra Mare, cis & trans Alps, per universum Orbem, Humilis & Generalis Magnus Magister. Knights of Loretto. (43.) t Ciacon. de vit. Pontif. l. 2. p. 1243. Sixtus Quintus instituted this Order, anno Dom. u Theat. de Hon. l. 8. c. 1. 1587. but w Tes. milit. de Caval. f. 62. a. jos. 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 Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 26. n. 56. splendour of this Order continued but a while, yet is it not quite extinguished. The Order of Knights of the blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel. (44.) Though the Grand Mastership of St. Lazarus, and the Commanderies thereunto belonging, lying within the Dominions of all Christian Princes, were conferred upon Emanuel Philebert Duke of Savoy, by Pope Gregory the Thirteenth (as hath been * Pag. 58. before remembered) yet the Duke did not gain the investiture of the Commanderies lying in France, being opposed by King Henry the Third; whereupon a Favin Theat. d' Honn. l. 9 c. 9 Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 55. some Knights of that Order, refusing to join with their Fellows, under 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 Fl. Cherub. in Compend. Bull. Tom. 3. p. 50. Const. 41. new Order 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 Ibid. 7. of February 1608.) confirmed the same, and prescribed 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 Favin. l. 3. c. 10. vide ●tem Briet. Annal mundi, pars 4. Tom. 2. p. 263 & p. 403. 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 Idem Favin. Ibid. Sigillum Ordinis & Militiae beatae Mariae Virginis de Monte Carmeli, & Sancti Lazari in Jerusalem. 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 Idem Favin. Ibid. one hundred choice Gentlemen of France, and all appointed to attend on the King's person, upon every warlike Expedition. They vow g Compend. Bull. loc. praed. 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 Idem Favin. 16. of july. Their first Master was Philibert Nerestang, sometimes one of the i Mendo. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 21. n. 46. Knights of St. Lazarus, a valiant Gentleman, and famous in all military Discipline; for which cause he was thought worthy to be preferred to this Dignity, and accordingly 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 Favin. ut supra. Tawny Velvet or Satin (but some say of a l Mennen p. 56. Miraeus p. 34. Insigne est Crux violacea simul cum effigy Virgins Mariae deMonte Carmelo intra illam inclusa. Mendoza loco praed. 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 middle within a Rundle encompassed with beams or rays of Gold, all wrought in curious Embroidery: besides this, the Knights wear about their necks, in a Tawny Silk Ribbon, the like m Favin. loco cit. Cross of Gold, but the Image of the said Virgin is enamelled on both sides. The Statutes of this Order are exhibited by n Favin. loco cit. A. Favin, and the o Miraeus, p. 55. 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 Andr. Favin en le Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 2. 1618. that three Brethren of Spella in Italy, namely Pedro, john Baptista, and Bernardo, surnamed Petrignanoes, invented this Order of Knighthood, to which was given the Rule of St. Francis d' Assize, and whereof the Pope and his Successors are Great Masters. b Andr. Favin en le Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 2. Paul the Fifth approved this Order, and gave these Knights the Palace of St. john de Lateran, for their Convent, the City and Port of Civita Vechia, to make their Arsenal of Galleys; as also an Island adjacent to that Port, together with the Government of his Galleys. The cause of its Institution, was for the c Ibid. exaltation of the Roman Church, and to repress the insolence of the Turks, roving on the Mediterranean Sea. In this Institution there are d Ibid. three kinds of Knights, who are differenced by their Habits: The first are Knights Gentlemen Laics, who wear a Mantle of White double Taffeta, having great sleeves and a long train, the cordon's 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, enamelled Blue: The third are Knights Chaplains, or Servants of Arms, and their Mantle is of White Serge, with straight long sleeves, reaching down to the ground, and cordon's of Blue Silk. All these Degrees wear on the e Ibid. left side of their Mantles, the Cross of the Order, as is here described; to wit, of Blue Satin embroidered with Silver, and bordered 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 signify the four Evangelists. The Statutes and Rules of this Order are recorded by Andrew Favin in his f Ibid. Theatre of Honor. The Order of the Annunciade and St. Michael the Archangel, or of the Christian Militia in Moravia. (46.) In the year of our Lord h jos. Micheli Marquez en l● Tesoro milit de Cavalliera. f. 71. a. Miraeus Orig. Ord. Equest. p. 85. 1618. Charles Gonzaga Duke of Maniva and Nevers, together with Adolph Count of Altham, his Brother, and john Baptist Petrignan Sfortia, did contrive the Institution of th●s Order; and to extend and amplify 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 began his Institution of this Order under the i Miraeus. loc● cit. Rule of St. Francis, in the Monastery of the Capuchins in Olmuntz, the Metropolis of Moravia, on k A. Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. ●. 2. Sect. 30. n. 63. Saturday the 17. of November, in the foresaid year; and dedicated the same to the honour 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. joh. Ludou. Gothofridus gives this Title to the Order, to wit, l Archon●. Cousin. l. 3. p. 16. Ordo Equilum Militiae Christianae. Philip Brietius calls it m Annal. mundi pars 4. Tonr. 2. p. 440. Conceptionis Ordo. Andr. Mendoza, n Loco nuper cit. Militia Virgins Annuntiatae, and the Knights thereof are called by jos. Micheli Marquez, o Tesoro mil. de Cavall. f. 71. a. Cavalleros de la Anunciada, y San Miguel Archangel en Mantua. This Order was afterwards (viz. the * Mellis. Hist. par. 4. p. 1189. 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 Lib. 3. p. 15.16.17. work above cited. I● was approved by Pope q Tes. mil. loc. cit. Paul the Fifth, and the r Briet. Annal. mundi loc. cit. 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 Art. 1. 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 ourselves; and the end of its Institution, was to establish Peace and Concord between Christian Princes and their Subjects, to release Captives, and to deliver the oppressed out of the hands of the Infidels. The t Art. 15. 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 Art. 12. two Crosses for the Ensign of this Order, the one of Gold of eight points enamelled Blue, on the one side thereof was the Figure of the blessed Virgin, bearing our Saviour in her arms, and on the other the Portraiture of St. Michael, treading the Dragon under his Feet: This they wore about their necks in a Blue Ribbon. The other w Ibid. 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 Sceptre in her right hand, crowned with 12 Stars, a Crescent 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 embroidered on the left side of their white Mantles. Touching the x Art. 13. 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 Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 71. b. difference 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, showed its sudden splendour and decay: which occasioned Brietius to say of it, z Loco supradicto. That the mahometans, for whose destruction it was instituted, heard only the name and report of it. CHAP. III. A BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE Orders absolutely Military. SECT. I. The Order of Knights of the Round Table. (1.) HAving thus given some account of the Religious Orders of Knighthood, that is, of such whose Knights live under an Ecclesiastic Rule, and according to some Religious Profession or solemn Vows; we shall next proceed to those that are accounted purely and completely Military, among which that of the Knights of the Round Table may (for its Antiquity) challenge the first place. The Several ENSIGNS of the ORDERS absolutely MILITARY, mentioned in the third Chapter The Founder of this most ancient Order, was e Arthurus, militaris disciplinae & Orbicularis Mensae fundator. Geo. Lilius in Chron. Angl. Regum. p. 44. vide Priseum Histor. Brit. Defensi●, edit. Lond. 1573. p. 139. Segar, Honour Milit. & Civil. l. 2. c. 5. Arthur King of Britain, Crowned in the year of our Lord 516. at the age of f Math. Westminst. p. 185. Edit. Lond. 1570. 15 years, concerning whom, though some with unbounded fancies have strained too far, in setting down his famous actions, insomuch, as that what really is true of him can hardly be known; yet all allow him to have been a stout and successful Martialist, of incredible courage and gallantry, the most famous and renowned of all the British Kings, and as g De gestis reg. Anglor. l. 1. p. 4. William of Malmsbury judges, right worthy to have been celebrated by true story, not false Tales; seeing it was he that long upheld his declining Country, and even inspired martial courage into his Countrymen, having overcome the Saxons in h Hen. Huntingd. l. 2. f. 180. Edit. Lond. 1596. I. Anglicus, pars 2. l. 17. f. 89. MS. Polycronicon. l. 5. c. 6. twelve several pitched Battles. I have by me an old Chronicle in Manuscript, Entitled Brute, or the Chronicles of England, beginning at Brute, and ending the sixth year of King Henry the Fifth, wherein it is noted, That after King i Cap. 76. Arthur had conquered divers Countries, he lived in so great renown, that many worthy Knights came from all parts to his Court, as to a Seminary of military Discipline, to give evidence of their valour, in the exercise of Arms. This gave him occasion to select out of these, and his own Subjects, a certain number (some say k jos. Micheli Marquez en Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 52. b. jean Boisseau in le Promptuaire Armorial. 24.) of the most valiant Knights, whom (himself being chief) he united into a Fellowship or Order; and to avoid controversy about priority of place, when they met together at meat, he caused a Round Table to be made, whereat none could be thought to sit higher or lower than another; and thence they were called, Knights of the Round Table. At the upper end of the great Hall in Winchester Castle, I remember to have seen a large Round Table hang against the wall, called King Arthur's Round Table, and affirmed by the Inhabitants (who had taken up the report upon vulgar Tradition) to have been as ancient as that King's time; but it carried no very great show of antiquity to a judicious eye; however it seemed to have been set up, either in the room of one more ancient, or else by some who were persuaded, there was once such an Order of Knights, which had been denominated thence. This old Monument was broken to pieces (being before half ruined through age) by the Parliaments Soldiers, in the beginning of the late unhappy War, because looked upon as a relic of Superstition (as were those little gilded Coffers with Inscriptions, that did preserve the bones of some of the * Cambd. Brit. in Hants. p. 19●. Saxon Kings and Bishops, deposited by Bishop Fox in the top of the Walls on both sides the upper part of the Choir of the Cathedral Church of that City) though guilty of nothing but the crime of reverend Antiquity. Into this noble Society of Knights, were admitted not only l Enderbies' Cambria Triumphans. part 2. p. 199. Britain's, but also Strangers of other Nations, who out of a desire of glory, came over hither, to make proof of their sufficiency in the exercise of Arms with the British Knights; and the general qualifications for Election were, that they should be persons of Nobility and Dignity, renowned for Virtue and Valour, and admirably well skilled in the knowledge and use of Arms. The place where the Founder first Instituted this Order, saith Sir john Froisard, was at * Chron. l. 1. c. 100 Windsor, and those other of note where he and his Knights usually assembled, were m Leland. Assertio Arturi. f. 10. Selden● notes upon Polialb. Song. 4. Carleon in Monmouthshire, Winchester and Camelot in Somersetshire; and the time of the year for their meeting was Whitsuntide. The Articles of their profession are set down by n Honour Milit. & Civil. l. 2. c. 5. Sir William Segar, which are in number twelve; and if any be desirous to read the Names of the first twenty four Knights, he shall not only have them from Monsieur Boisseau in his o In l' Institution de L'ordre de la Iarti●re. Promptuaire Armorial, but of 129 more of this Order, elected in seven following Chapters; nay more than that, the formal blazon of all their Arms: but these particulars may be justly ranked with what is fabulous in King Arthur's story. We read not of any Badge peculiarly assigned to these Knights, though * En Tes. milit. de Cava●●. f., ●2. b. jos. Micheli, in allusion to their Title, takes upon him to give the Figure of a Round Table, furnished with Cloth, Bread, Salt, Knives, Bottle and Bowl, but we have not authority enough to follow him: However it gives us occasion here to acquaint our Reader, that King Arthur himself is reported to bear a Shield called | Hen. Huntingdo●. l. 2. p. 180. Mat●. Westminst. p. 186. Fabians Chron. p. 93. Pridwen, whereon was painted the Image of the blessed Virgin; his Sword and Lance also, were not without their names, for the one it seems was called Caliburn, the other Irone or Rone. It is not remembered by any, that this Order survived its Founder, but rather that it extinguished at his death; for it is related that p Chronic. of Engl. cap. 88 M S. most of those Knights, whom he had drawn from several Countries, and advanced to a Companionship with himself, bore him company in death, and perished in that fatal Battle of Kamblan, or Cambula (now q Cambd. Brit. in Cornwall. Camelsford) in Cornwall; where though he killed Mordred his Enemy upon the place, yet, being sorely wounded, he survived him but a short time, and died in the year of our Lord r Malmesb. antiq. Glaston. videsi● Math. Westminst. p. 192. & Speeds Chron. l. 7 c. 12. f. 334. Anno 542. Inclytus Arthurus obiit & sepultus in Insulâ Avaloniâ in Domino requiescit. Malmesb. antiq. Glaston. 542. It may add some reputation to King Arthur's Round Table, if we here note, that the like Round Table, grew into great estimation and request, shortly after the Norman Conquest, and continued long with us; being ordinarily set up at the grand martial Exercises, called s Hastiludium quod vulgariter Torneamentum dicitur, sed potius Ludus militaris, qui Mensa rotunda dicitur. Math. Paris. p. 846. Hastiludes, Tilts, or Turneaments, permitted by King Stephen, and much encouraged by King t Ex lib. Rubro in Scaccar. fol. 122. b. & ex Registro Priorat. de Dunstaple, f. 8. a. vide Lamb. Peramb. p. 448. Richard the First (for the delight of men inclined to military actions, and increase of their skill in the management of Arms) and for the same end and purpose, as King Arthur made use of it; no less than in memorial and remembrance, that he had erected an Order of Knighthood, denominated therefrom: those times being throughly persuaded of the truth of that story. Besides, it is recorded, that u Tho. Walsingh. sub an. 1280. Roger Mortimer Earl of March, held the celebration of the Round Table (consisting of an hundred Knights, and as many Ladies) with Tilting and Turneaments, at Kenelworth Castle in Warwickshire, anno 7. E. 1. and that King Edward the Third having designed to w Ut Arturi memoriam refricaret. Vincen. Lupani de Magistratib. Francor. l. 1. restore the Honour of the Round Table, held a Just at Windsor, in the x Tho. Walsing. sub an. 1344. 18. year of his Reign (but there is an old Manuscript Chronicle that hath these words, King Edward in his * Cap. 226. nineteenth year first began his Round Table, and ordained the day annually to be kept there at Whitsuntide) and this meeting in truth occasioned the Foundation of the most noble Order of the Garter, as shall be noted by and by. But it was thought fit sometimes, and upon divers accounts, to forbid these kind of Assemblies, upon very great penalties; as in particular y Rot. Pat. de eodem an. m. 3. anno 16. H. 3. at Shrewsbury, when the King went to meet Llewalyn Prince of Wales (called in the Record Prince of Aberfraw and Snowden) and afterwards at Walden, in the z Claus. de e●d. anno m. s. Dors. 36. year of the said Kings Reign, and at many other times. The Order of the Oak in Navarre. (2.) The a jos. Micheli Marquez in Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 16. a. & Hier. Blancus, in Regum Arragon. Serie. Kingdom of Navarre being oppressed by the Moors, the Inhabitants were forced to seek deliverance by Arms, to which end, though they had raised a great Army, yet were they destitute of an experienced Commander; at length, Don Garcia Ximenes, of the blood of the Goths, who had formerly retired from the world, to a solitary and religious life, was persuaded to relinquish the same, and take upon him the Command of the Army. As he was marching out of the City to encounter the Moors (in the year of our Lord b jos. Micheli Marquez in Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 16. a. & Hier. Blancus, in Regum Arragon. Serie. 722.) there appeared to him from the top of an Oak, the sign of the Holy Cross, adored by an infinite number of Angels. Proceeding on, he gave battle to the Moors, and having gained a remarkable Victory, the people elected him their King; and upon this occasion he became the first King of that Country. Some few days after, in thankfulness to God for this great Victory, he c jos. Micheli Marquez in Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 16. a. & Hier. Blancus, in Regum Arragon. Serie. instituted this Order, investing therewith even all the Nobles of his Kingdom; whom he obliged to defend the Christian Faith, and acknowledge Obedience to his Successors Kings of Navarre. He ordained the Habit of the Order to be White, and the Ensign thereof a d Tessera suit haec ipsa Arbour, & supra ●am Crux rubra, instar Crucis de Montesa. Mend● Dis●. 1. Quaest 4. n. 94. plain Red Cross, set on the top of a green Oak (which gave the Title) after the same manner as it appeared to him: but time hath darkened this Order, not only in its heroic actions, but laudable Foundation, since we find no further memorial of it. The Order of the Jennet in France. (3.) To e Favin. Theat. ● Henn. l. 3. c. 1. preserve the memory of that famous Battle fought near Tours, anno Christi 726. (or as Mennenius margins it, about the year 738.) where 385000 Saracens and Moors, together with their General Abdiramo, fell by the conquering Sword of Charles Martel; and to reward those who had behaved themselves valiantly in that action; the said Charles instituted an Order of Knighthood, under the Title of the Jennet. The great f Favin. Theat. ● Henn. l. 3. c. 1. number of rich Jennet Furs (anciently esteemed among them the most excellent, though since the Ermine hath gained a better value) as also of the Creatures themselves alive, taken among the Spoils of that Victory; giving him occasion to bestow that name upon his new erected Order. But g Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 56. others, not improperly, impute the reason of this appellation to a kind of neat shaped Horses; of which not unlikely, a great part of the Founder's Cavalry might consist. The Knights, saith Favin, were h Loco cit. sixteen, whose Collars were made of three Chains of Gold, interwoven or linked with Red Roses, at the end of which Collar hung a Jennet of Gold, Black and Red; sitting on a flowery bank, all enameled with variety of Colour and Art. And in further honour of this Institution, the Founder not only i Sic Mennen. p. 63. renewed the ●se of Gold Rings (so peculiar of old, to the Equestrian Order among the Romans) but caused them, and all other Ornaments of this Order, to be engraven and wrought with the Effigies of a Jennet. This is accounted by k Loco supra cit. Favin, the first Order of Knighthood among the French; which is to be understood of a distinct Order, acknowledged by a particular and peculiar Title; and continued in glory, until the institution of the Order of the Star, ( l Gotofrid. Archont. Cosm●●●. l. 3. p. 3. Heyl. Cosmogy. l. 1. p. 204. some say but till the Reign of St. Lewis) after which time it was laid aside. But though Favin be thus particular, as to the Institution of this Order, and the occasion thereof, the exact number of Knights, and especially in assigning a Collar, with the Ensign hanging at it, suitable to the mode of later times; yet some other of his m Scevol. & Lovis de sain●● Marthe en le Histor. Geneal●g. de la Ma●s●n de France. Tom. 1. c. 13. p. 58. Countrymen, wanting the assurance and authority of ancient Writers to back them, are not confident enough to persuade the world, that there was ever any such. The Order of the Crown Royal among the Frizons. (4.) The erection of this Order is referred to Charles the Great, Son of King Pepin, in the year of Christ n Mart. Ha●con. de rebu● Fris●ae. 802. (which more fully appears in his pragmatical Sanction, then dated at the Lateran Palace in Rome) and instituted out of a design to o Favin en Theat. d' Honneur, l. 3. c. 1. And. Mendoza de Ordin. Military. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 4. honour and reward those among the Frizons, who had behaved themselves valiantly in his Armies, against the Sesnes or ancient Saxons; or as p Tesoro milit. de Cavalle●. f. 16. t. others say, against the Lombard's, in subduing that Kingdom, and to stir up and encourage others to emulate their virtue. This Order was so called, q Favin. loc. cit. from the Ensign appointed to the same, namely an Imperial Crown, embroidered with Gold, which the Knights used to wear upon the breasts of their Habit: and to perpetuate this Militia, he ordained, that the Governor of that Country (whom they then called Potestat) should confer the same upon such as had followed the Armies of France, as well in Italy as Germany, for five years together at their own expense; by which means the Emperor was served at a less charge. The Knights were invested with the Military Belt, and a box on the Ear; of which we have spoken in the r Sect. IX. first Chapter. The Order of the Dog and Cock in France. (5.) The Institution of this Order of the Dog and Cock, is generally attributed to the Family of s Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 57 Seld. Titles of Honor. p. 554. Montmorency in France, and it is more particularly affirmed by Robertus Caenalis, to have been erected by the first Christian of that Family, called Protochristianus & Archibaro, which causeth us to bring in this Order here, near to the Age he lived in; but to say truth, as to the Institution itself, or to the time thereof, there is not any more certain, or more satisfactory account, than that anciently this Family carried a t Idem Menn. p. 58. Dog (the Emblem of fidelity and sincerity) upon their Helmet for a Crest; and that u Ibid. p. 59 Peter Montmorency was a Knight of the Order of the Cock, which Bird was called by the Ancients the Bird of Mars. But some make two distinct Orders of this, and after that of the Dog, they say, another Order, viz. of the w Ita jos. Micheli en Tesoro milit. de Caval. f. 89. b. & A. Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Q. 2. Sect. 31. n. 88 Cock, was also Instituted, whose Collar had the Comb of a Cock pendent thereat, the Motto being Vigiles; howbeit afterwards, both these Orders came to be united, and hereupon the Ensign was then, the Effigies both of a Dog and Cock joined together. x Apud Mennen. p. 58. Moraeus relates, that Burchard Montmorency, appeared at the Court of Philip the First, King of France, attended with many Knights, and all of them (like himself) adorned with Collars of Gold, composed of Stag-heads, whereat hung the Figure of a Dog: whence we may presume, that it had some relation to the more ancient Order, of which this was the Badge or Ensign. The Order of the Thistle in Scotland. (6.) john Lesley Bishop of Ross, reports that a bright a Crux in quam divus Andreas sublatus mortem oppetivit, in Coelo vivis quasi coloribus effecta, quam primum omnibus apparuit. De rebus Gestis Scotor. l. 5 p. 177. Edit. Romae, anno 1578. 4ᵒ. Cross appeared from Heaven, in fashion of that whereon St. Andrew suffered Martyrdom, to Hungus King of the Picts (but b Theat. d' Honneur, l. 5. c. 3. Favin saith to the Scots, whom Achaius King of Scotland sent to his assistance) the night preceding the Battle with Athelstan King of England, (or rather of c G. Buchanan. Rerum Scot l. 5. c. 56. Denmark, to whom King Alured had given the Kingdom of Northumberland) over whom Hungus prevailing, d Atque ut tantae victoriae memoria nulla unquam vetustate deleatur, effigiem Crucis (cui D. ‛ Andreas affixus est) in armis & insignibus efformatam, cum Hostibus congressurus, semper postea gestabat, id quod Scoti omnes in memoriam victoriae à Pictis divi Andreae auxilio reportatae, etiamnum religiosissime observant. Lesleus in loco supra cit. bore the Figure of that Cross at all times after in his Ensigns and Banners: and from this time and occasion hath the like bearing thereof been religiously observed by all succeeding Kings of Scotland. Hence also it is believed (saith e In Delic. Equest. p. 146. Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 1. p. 306. Mennenius) that the Equestrian Order of St. Andrew, vulgarly called of the Thistle, took beginning. To this agrees the relation which I received from Sir Charles Areskin, now Lion, King of Arms in Scotland, through the favour of the Right Honourable the Earl of Lauderdail, who adds, that after this Victory obtained, which was as he saith, anno 819. (but according to f Vbi supr●. George Buchanan, Achains died 9 years before) King Hungius and Achaius (Confederates against Athelstan) went in solemn Procession barefooted, to the Kirk of St. Andrew, to thank God and his Apostle for their Victory, promising that they and their Posterity in time coming, would ever use in their Ensigns the Cross of St. Andrew, whensoever they undertook any warlike Expedition; which custom not only remained among the Picts, but is still among the Scots to this day: And both these Kings, after their solemn Procession, presently instituted an Order, naming it the Order of St. Andrew. But g Theat. d'Honne●● l. 5. c. 3. Andr. Favin reporteth the occasion to be otherwise, to wit, that Achaius King of Scotland, having made that famous League offensive and defensive, with Charlemagne King of France, towards all and against all other Princes (to preserve the memory of which alliance to posterity, the Scotch Lion h Theat. d'Honne●● l. 5. c. 3. assumed before by King Fergus, became then enclosed with a i Theat. d'Honne●● l. 5. c. 3. Treasure of Flowers de Lis) he found himself thereby so strong and mighty, that he took for device the k Theat. d'Honne●● l. 5. c. 3. Thistle and the Rue, which he composed into a l Theat. d'Honne●● l. 5. c. 3. Collar of his Order, and for his Motto Pour ma defence: giving intimation thereby, that he feared not the powers of Foreign Princes, seeing he leaned on the succour and alliance of the French. And though hence may be inferred, that these two Plants, were the united Symbols, but of one Order of Knighthood, yet doth m In Delic. Equest. p. 146. Mennenius divide them into two, making one, whose chief Badge was the Thistle, (whence the Knights were so styled) and the Motto, Nemo me impune lacessit: and another vulgarly called n Ibid. p. 147. Sertum Rutae, or the Garland of Rue, whose Collar was composed of two Branches or Sprigs thereof, or else many of its leaves: Nevertheless, that at both these Collars hung one and the same Jewel, to wit, the Figure of o In cujus patrocinio gens Scotiae acquiescit. Lesleus, l. 5. p. 177. St. Andrew Patron of that Kingdom, bearing before him the Cross of his Martyrdom. But there are some (saith the same p Mennen. ubi nuper. Author) who refer the Institution of the Order of the Thistle, to later times, (albeit the Thistle q Mennen. ubi nuper. from the Reign of A●haius, had been acknowledged for the Badge and Symbol of the Kingdom of Scotland, in like manner as the Rose was of England, the Lily of France, the Pomegranate of Spain, etc.) to wit, in the Reign of r Mennen. ubi nuper. Charles the Seventh of France; when as the League of amity was renewed between those two Kingdoms, and especially for the succour and aid which France then received from Scotland, it being in a time of so extraordinary distress: and, last of all, others place the Foundation yet later, viz. in the year of our Lord s A. Miraeu● d● Orig. Equest. p. 78. 1500. I have done with what can be said as to the Foundation of this Order, and the time thereof; and shall now pass on to some other particulars, relating to the Order itself. The chief and principal Ensign of this Order is a Gold Collar, composed of Thistles, interlinked with anulets of Gold, and pendant thereunto the Image of St. Andrew with his Cross, and this Epigraph, Nemo me impune lacessit: the Figure whereof may be seen in a Picture of james the Fifth King of Scotland, now hanging in his Majesty's Gallery at Whitehall, on several great Seals of that Kingdom, on some Coins and Medals, and lastly among the representations of the Military Ensigns, placed at the beginning of this Chapter. The t Ex relatione praef. C● Areskin mil. time of this Societies meeting, was heretofore very religiously observed and celebrated, upon the Feast day of St. Andrew the Apostle annually, in the Church of the Town dedicated to his name, and in testimony of the high esteem and reverence they bore unto him as their titular Saint and Patron: During the u Ex relatione praef. C● Areskin mil. solemnity of the Feast, the Knights of this Order were habited in rich and costly Apparel, and wore their Parliament Robes, having fixed on their left shoulders, an w Ex relatione praef. C● Areskin mil. azure Rundle, on which was embroidered St. Andrews Cross, environed in Centre with a Crown composed of Flowers de Lis, Or. For the y Ex relatione praef. C● Areskin mil. ordinary and common Ensign, the Knights used a Green Ribbon, whereat hung a Thistle of Gold, crowned with an Imperial Crown, within a Circle of Gold, containing also the foresaid Epigraph; but for more satisfaction, we have caused the Figures of these two to be here exactly represented, from the draughts of them sent me from the beforementioned Sir Charles Areskin. As to the number of the Knights, there is nothing remembered by any Author we have seen, but herein I was supplied by the Right Honourable the Earl of Lauderdale, who assured me he had met with (among his readings) from good authority, a memorial, that this Order consisted of 13 Knights, in allusion to the number of our blessed Saviour, and his twelve Apostles. The Order of Knights of our Lady of the Star in France. (7.) The Institution of this Order is by Andrew Favin derived from a Theat. d' Honneur. l. 3. c. 2. Robert King of France, surnamed the Devout, who, to manifest his particular devotion to the blessed Virgin Mary, and in her honour, gave Being thereunto, in the b Theat. d' Honneur. l. 3. c. 2. Month of August, Anno Domini 1022. The Knights were in number c Theat. d' Honneur. l. 3. c. 2. thirty, comprehending the King of France, the Chief or Sovereign; they had appointed for their Habit, d Theat. d' Honneur. l. 3. c. 2. Mantles of White Damask; their Mantlets and Lining, were of light Carnation Damask, their Surcoats of the same, and on their Mantles, as also on their Surcoats, to wit, upon the left side of the breast, was embroidered a Star, wrought in pure Gold, with five rays or pointed beams. The great Collar ( e Loco dicto. saith he) was form of three round Chains of Gold, much like that of the Order of the Jennet, and united at little distances, with enameled Roses, interchangeably White and Red, at the end whereof hung the Figure of a Star. The f Loco dicto. Ceremonies of the Order began on the day of the Nativity of the blessed Virgin Mary, Patroness thereof, in the year beforementioned. In the g Loco dicto. Reign of Philip de Valois, this Order began to be intermitted by reason of the Wars, nevertheless it was restored by King john his Son, the eighth of September, anno 1356. But albeit Favin hath thus formally set down the Institution of this Order, and assigned it to King Robert, adding moreover Habit, Collar, and other specious circumstances thereunto, yet the h Histor. Genealog. de la Maison de France. Tom. 1. c. 13. p. 58. & 59 Sancte Marthe's (his Countrymen) are not persuaded of the truth thereof, but ingeniously acknowledge, that there is not any thing of it mentioned by their ancient Writers, and coming to speak of the Order in particular, i Histor. Genealog. de la Maison de France. Tom. 1. c. 13. p. 58. & 59 they refer its first Institution (not renovation) so do k Delic. Equest. p. 129. & 130. Mennenius, l Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 71. b. jos. Micheli, and others) to King john Son of Philip de Valois, in the Month of October, anno 1352. in commemoration of that Star which directed the Wisemen, who came from far, to adore the Saviour of the World at his Nativity; the m S. Marthe de la Maison de France & Mennen. locis cit. Figure whereof crowned, King john caused to be embroidered on the Mantle or upper Garment of the Order, as also this Motto, Monstrant Regibus Astra viam. The Seat of this Order (thus instituted by King john) and where the first Ceremonies were kept, was in the noble and ancient House of n Io. Tilly Commentar. de rebus Gall. l. 2. p. 181. Cujus nunc tantùm ruinosa murorum ve●●gi● apparent. Vinc. Lupan. l. 1. d● Magistrate. Fra●c●r. St. Owen, called the Clichy, near St. Denys in France; and by an ancient o Tresor d●s Chart. d● France tit. C●ttez. Beaumond. 52. deed of Exchange of Lands, situate in the Earldom of Alançon, in lieu of the House of St. Owen (made by King john to the Countess of Alançon, and dated at St. Cler de Gomets the 6. day of june 1356.) is the King called p Instituteur de la Congregation miletaire de l'Estoile. Institutor of the military Fraternity of the Star; which sufficiently contradicts the fair-spun relation of Favin, who bestows the honour of Foundation upon King Robert, as before hath been said. To which we may add, that the day assigned by Favin for holding the Chapter of Election of the first Knights, to wit, the eighth of September 1356▪ and at Clichy aforesaid, was (in all probability) too near the day of the Battle of Foicters, (that being but eleven days after) and King john not only then at a great distance from Clichy, but on a * Frois. Chron. l. 1. c. 15●. hasty March to engage the Black Prince, and consequently too little at leisure to enter upon the Formalities of such an Institution. This Order was of no long continuance, for being much q S. Marthe en m●s●e Histor. Genealog. loco citato. videses Seld. T●. of Honor. p. 552. violated and dishonoured (during the confusion of the Civil and Foreign War) by the admission into it of mean and undeserving persons; it gave a fair occasion to King Charles the Seventh to take off the pretence of honour supposed in it, and to extinguish it. Whereupon, in the year r S. Marthe en m●s●e Histor. Genealog. loco citato. videses Seld. T●. of Honor. p. 552. 1455. he contrived the holding of a Chapter, for giving away that Ensign thereof, which himself wore, to the Chevalier du Guet, Captain of the Night-watch in Paris, after whose example the Princes and Lords left the Order, thus disgraced, to the said Captain, and never after wore it. This Story as to the time, though not the manner, doth s Theat. d' Hon. l. 3. c. 2. Favin contradict, and renders his reasons for it: howbeit, upon what occasion soever, the Order became relinquished or dismissed, certain it is, that t Ibid. c. 3. etc. 5. vide Mennen. ubi supra. p. 130. upon (if not some time before) the Foundation of the Order of St. Michael, it grew out of request; as did that of the Jennet upon the erection of the Star. The Order of the Lily in Navarre. (8.) a Andr. Favin. in Theat. de d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 3. Garcius King of Navarre, the six of that name, lying under the extremity of a languishing sickness, sent to divers places of Devotion, to the end, that Prayers might be offered up for the recovery of his health. In which season there happened to be found in the City of Nagera, where he kept his Court, an b Andr. Favin. in Theat. de d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 3. Image of the blessed Virgin Mary, issuing forth of a Lily, and holding her Son between her arms, upon finding of which (if we may credit the story) he immediately recovered, and (to perpetuate his devotion to the said Virgin) c Andr. Favin. in Theat. de d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 3. instituted an Order of Knighthood, in the year of our Lord 1048. which consisted of 38 Knights, drawn out of the ancientest Families in Navarre, Biscay, and old Castille, and Entitled it, the Order of Knights of St. Mary of the Lilly. But jos. Mich. Marquez gives foundation to this Order e ●esor● milit. de C●vall. f. 1●. b. 25 years before Favin, and draws the Institution from another ground. For f ●esor● milit. de C●vall. f. 1●. b. whereas Don Garcias had succeeded his Father, King Zanchy the Fourth, in the Kingdom of Navarre, the Moors made War against him, and he prevailing, made a Feast in honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, at which he instituted this Order, and adorned many Knights with the Ensign thereof, beginning with his Brothers and Sons. Of this Order ( g Mennen. p. 6● esteemed the most illustrious of all Spain) King Garcias h Favin. loco ●itato. ordained himself, and after him his Successors Kings of Navarre, the Chiefs and Sovereigns. The Knights promised at their entrance into this Order, to i Favin. loco ●itato. expose their lives and fortunes in defence of the Christian Faith, conservation of the Crown of Navarre, and expulsion of the Moors. The Badge or Symbol which the Knights wore daily on their breast, was a k Favin. loco ●itato. Lily embroidered in Silver; but on solemn days, a double Chain of Gold, interlaced with the letter M. made after the fashion of a Saxon Capital; at the end whereof did hang a Flower de Lis of Gold, enameled White, bearing the foresaid Letter M. crowned upon the head of its Flower. The Habit was White, wrought all over in Needlework, with White Lilies. But jos. Micheli differs in this also from Favin, for he l Tes. milit. de Cavall. loc. cit. Tessera suit supra Togam albam effigies Annuntiationis Deiparae● intra duo Lilia. A. Mendoza Disq 1. Quaest 4. n. 95. assigns for the Badge, two Branches of Sky-coloured Lilies, one crossing another, and in the middle of them the Figure of the Annunciation of the blessed Virgin, but agrees that the Habit was White. The Order of the Sword in Cyprus. (9) m Andr. Favin. Theat. d' Hon. l. 9 c. 2. Guy of Lusignan, (and according to this Author, King of jerusalem and Cyprus in right of his Wife Sibilla, Sister to Baldwin the Leper) shortly after his setlement in the Isle of Cyprus (which he had bought of Richard the First, King of England, for one hundred thousand Crowns of Gold) Instituted this Order in the year of our Lord 1195. in remembrance of so fortunate a Plantation of 15000 persons, whom he had brought thither. But n De Deli●. Equest. p. 153. Gotofrid. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 11. Mennenius, and some others, are so far from being of this opinion, as to affirm, that neither the name of the Founder, nor the time of this Order Foundation are certainly known; though it be conceived he was one of the Family of Lusignan, who gave beginning unto it. The o Theat. d' Hon. loc. cit. Collar of the Order (called a Collar of Esses by p Vide eum loco praed. Mennenius) was composed (as Favin reports) of round cordon's of White Silk, woven into Love-knots, interlaced with the Letters S and R. Beneath this Collar hung an Oval of Gold, wherein was figured a Sword, the Blade enameled Silver, and the Hilt Gold; and about the Oval was engraven this Motto, Securitas Regni, q Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 87. b. Micheli saith it was, Pro fide servanda; and * Loco cit. Gothofridus, Pro integritate tuendâ. The r Theat. d' Honneur, ut supra. day appointed for holding of the solemn Ceremonies of this Order, was Ascension-day, whereon the Founder gave it (in the Church of St. Sophia the Cathedral of Nicosia in Cyprus) to his Brother Amaury, Constable of jerusalem and Cyprus, and to 300 Barons, which he had established in that his new Kingdom. There were s Tesoro milit. loco relato. eight Kings of Cyprus, of this House of Lusignan, Great Masters or Chiefs of this Order; and t Tesoro milit. loco relato. when the Isle fell into the hands of the Turks, this noble Institution ceased. The Order of the Bear in Switzerland. (10.) The u Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 7. c. 14. vide Miraeum in Orig. Equest. p. 79. Emperor Frederick the Second (in favour of the Abbot of St. Gall in Swaben, and several Noblemen of that Country, who had been active in his assistance for gaining to him the Empire) instituted this Order, in the year of our Lord w Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 7. c. 14. vide Miraeum in Orig. Equest. p. 79. 1213. and bestowed upon the elect Knights Collars of Gold, at the end whereof hung the Figure of a x Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 7. c. 14. vide Miraeum in Orig. Equest. p. 79. Bear, Gold, mounted on an Hillock enameled with Black. He ordained, y Idem Favin. loco nuper cit. that this Honour should be conferred by the Abbot of St. Gall, for the time being, and that on the Anniversary of their Patron St. Gall (a Gentleman of Scotland, and the Apostle of Swaben) being the 16. day of October, the Knights of this Order should assemble at the Abbey; on which day, such Candidates as were z Miraeus. p. 79. designed to receive the Honour, were girded with the military Belt (the Sword being first consecrated at the Altar) and adorned with the Collar of the Order; having kept their Vigils the preceding night, according to the ancient and accustomed manner. But it carried the Title of the * Favin, ut supra. Order of the Bear, in memory of St. Vrsus, of the Theban Legion, who was martyred before the Temple of the Sun, at Soleurre in Switzerland; as also of St. Gall, from the name of the Patron of the place, where it received Institution. This Order continued among the Swissers, till they became a Commonwealth, and then the Castles and strong holds of the Noblemen and Gentry of the Country being dismantled, the use thereof was wholly laid aside. The Order of the Broom Flower in France. (11.) a E● T●eat. d' Honneur, l. 3. c. 3. Saint Lewis King of France (saith Favin) instituted this Order, to honour the Coronation of Margaret his Queen, eldest Daughter of Bereng●rius Count of Provence, anno Dom. 1234. The b E● T●eat. d' Honneur, l. 3. c. 3. Habit appointed for the Knights, were Cassocks of White Damask, and Violet Chaperons; the Collar was composed of Broom Flowers, of the native colours, interlaced with Flowers de Lis, hanging thereat a Cross Florence Gold, to which was added this Inscription, Exaltat humiles, the Founder accounting it the Symbol of humility. As to the c E● T●eat. d' Honneur, l. 3. c. 3. number of the Knights, it was not made certain by the Founder, but wholly depended on the will of the Sovereign. This Order d E● T●eat. d' Honneur, l. 3. c. 3. continued to the death of King Charles the Fifth. Notwithstanding all that Favin thus relates, the e En le Hist. Geneal. de la Maison de France, Tom. 1. p. 58. Saint Marthe's are of opinion (for the reason before noted) that neither this St. Lewis, nor the before mentioned King Robert, nor King Charlemagne, did ever institute any Military Order of Chivalry: And f Delic. Equest. p. 64. Mennenius reports, that Charles the Sixth is said to have been the Founder of the Knights of the Broom Flower: if this be true, the Order will want many years of that antiquity which Favin bestows upon it. g Apud Menn. loco cit. Peter Bellay rather thinks this later Institution not to have been any Order of Knighthood, but a Company of young Esquires, the Sons of Noblemen, who attended King Charle's person as a Lifeguard, or as Esquires of the Body, and were oftentimes employed to interpret the messages of Ambassadors from foreign parts. The Order of the Ship, and double Crescent in France. (12.) h In Delic. Equest. p. 166. Mennenius acknowledgeth, that of old, there was such an Order in France, erected in honour of the great achievements that Nation did by Sea; but by whom it was founded, or at what time, doth not appear from him. Yet i Theat: d' Honn. l. 3. c. 4. Favin is full in both, for he affirms, that the before mentioned St. Lewis, after the Institution of the Broom Flower, erected this likewise: for animating the Nobility of France, by this new prize of honour, to accompany him in his Voyage into Africa, 1269. The k Theat: d' Honn. l. 3. c. 4. Collar was interlaced with double Escallops of Gold, and double Crescents of Silver, interwoven and fastened together with double Gold Chains, at which the Figure of a Ship was pendent in an Oval of Gold. This l Theat: d' Honn. l. 3. c. 4. Order continued in France (after the death of St. Lewis) no longer than those Knights lived, who were admitted thereinto by him: but it was retained by m Theat: d' Honn. l. 3. c. 4. Charles, Brother of the said St. Lewis, and by him settled in Sicily, where it remained in request with his Successors, until the Kings of Arragon gained that Kingdom. Knights of St. James in Holland. (13.) n Orig Ord. Equest. p 81. See Grimstons general History of the Netherlands. p. 66. Albertus Miraeus, from an old Dutch Register, called Register der Ridderscap, or the Register of the Order of Knighthood, informs us, That Florentius Earl of Holland and Zealand, and Lord of Friesland, in the year 1290. bestowed the Ensigns of his Order of St. james, in the Hall of his Palace at the Hague, upon twelve of his principal Nobility, whose names he sets down: among whom, the second in rank, is Lancelot Lord Hamilton, than Ambassador from the King of Scots. The Knights of this Order were invested with a o Ibid. p. 82. Collar of Gold, or military Belt of Silver and gilt; adorned with six Escallops, whereat was appended the Picture of St. james the Apostle. All the p Ibid. p. 82. Knight's Shields (whereon were painted their proper Arms) were delivered to john Paypaert, Herald of Holland, and by him hung up in the great Hall of the Palace, at the Hague, in perpetual memory and testimony of this Institution. Order of the Swan in Cleveland. (14.) If ever there was an Order there, under that Title, it hath been very ancient, and long since laid aside; yet q Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 11. Favin says, the Princes of Cleve have born the Swan for their Order, Devise, Crest, and Supporters, to preserve the memory of the Knight of the Swan, the Romance of whose Adventures he also sets down; and further reports, that r Idem. l. 9 c. 5. Charles Gonzaga of Cleve, Duke of Nivers and Retelois, had it in design to re-establish this Order, peculiar to the House of Cleve. The Knights of Jesus at Rome. (15.) The Popes of Rome, as they are Lords Paramount of St. Peter's Patrimony, are Temporal Princes; upon which account to a Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 1. honour the Nobles, principally of that Territory and others, they have erected and established certain Orders of Knighthood, as well Religious as Military, but all of them Stipendaries to the Papal See: Of the former sort we have spoken before in the last Chapter, but this being esteemed a Military Order, we therefore place it here. It was instituted by Pope b Favin. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 8. c. 1. john the 22. at Avignon in France, anno 1320. and much augmented by Paul the Fifth. The Knights wear for the Badge of this Order, a plain Cross gules, enclosed within a Cross Patee Or, hanging at a Gold Chain. In the Month of january 1668/9. Pope Clement the Ninth, created three of the Ambassadors from the Catholic Cantons in Switzerland, with the accustomed Ceremony; himself putting on their Gold Chains, with the Ensigns appendent, and the Captain of his Guards, girding their Swords about them. Order of the White Eagle in Poland. (16.) The information we have of this Order, is from s Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 6. Favin also, who saith, that Ladislaùs the Fifth, King of Poland, instituted the same, to honour the marriage of his Son Casimire the Great, with Anne Daughter of Gedimir, Duke of Lithuania, in the Month of February, in the year of our Lord 1325. The Ensign hereof was a t Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 6. White Eagle, crowned. The Order of Knights de la Banda in Castille. (17.) This Order of Knights called u Banda, vulgar Hispanorum lingua l●nia es● Io Mariana de reb. Hisp. l. 16. c. 2. de la Banda, was erected by Alphonsus the Eleventh, King of Leon and Castille, in the w Ibid. City of Victoria, anno 1332. (but x In le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 11. Favin from Antonio de Guevara, saith it was in the City of Palencia, anno 1330. and y Orig. de Caval. p. 37. b. Sansovin in Burgos, anno 1368.) For this King considering, that he had to do with many Enemies, could find no better way to secure himself, than by erecting this Order, and constituting himself Master thereof, which he did a little before his Coronation. Shortly after (saith Mennenius) to wit, anno 1332. the Solemnity of this Order was celebrated in the z Mennen. p. 116. City of Burgos, where, on the Eve thereof, in the Monastery of St. Marry Royal, each of the Candidates was conducted by the King to the Altar, and having there laid down his Arms, spent the whole night in watching and Prayer. The next day after Mass, he was invested with a a Io. Mariana, loco supra cit. Red military Belt, or a Ribbon of four fingers broad, which came across the body, over the right shoulder, and so under the left arm; And was the Ensign from whence the Knights took their denomination. This Order was instituted chiefly to honour the Nobility, and therefore at first, none were admitted, but the b Mennen loc● citato. younger Sons of Noblemen (excluding elder Brothers) or persons descended of the most noble Families in Spain; or else Esquires, who had served in the Court or Camp, ten years at the least: and to the end that greater honour might the more inflame them to valiant Exploits, Kings themselves, sometimes, vouchsafed to take the Ensign of this Order upon them. c Mariana, loco cit. It was anciently of very great esteem, but (such is the vicissitude of humane Affairs) at length it grew out of use. The Laws and Constitutions are recorded by d Epist. ad Pe●rum Pimentelium, Com. Beneventanum. Anth. de Guevera (who also gives a Catalogue of the first Knights) e Tesoro milit. de Caval. f. 50. jos. Micheli, f Orig. de Cavalier, p. 38. Sansovin, g Theat. d' Honneur, loco supra cit. Favin, and h Honour Milit. & Civil. lib. 2. cap. 22. Segar; to whom we refer those that are desirous to be informed of them. The Order de la Calza in Venice. (18) From the i Mennen Delic. Equest. p. 118. videsi● Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. 2●. example of the Knights de la Banda in Castille, and about the year 1400. was instituted a Society at Venice, bearing the Title de la Calza, in honour of the Inauguration of Duke Michele Steno. Meeting with but a slender account hereof, among those Authors who have handled Military Orders, and some confounding it with that of St. Mark; I was at length, by the friendship of the deservedly honoured Sir Charles Cotterel Knight, Master of the Ceremonies to his Majesty, furnished with better satisfaction, which he obtained for me from Signóre Pietro Moccinigo, the late Venetian Ambassador, at his Residence here in England; and from Signóre Aberti the present Resident for that State. This Order consisted of a Society of particular Noblemen and Gentlemen, who at their voluntary choice met together, and entered into a Fellowship (among whom, some person of Eminence was elected their Chief) Nevertheless, upon the recommendation of their intention and design to the Council of Ten, who confirmed their Institution, and granted them Privileges. It hath appeared with so much the more reputation to the world, by having had the honour to receive into it several Princes of Italy, especially the Family of Este Dukes of Ferara, of Gonzaga then Marquesses, now Dukes of Mantua, of the Rovere, Vrbino, Mirandula, and others of the most conspicuous Families of that Country, namely, Colonna, Ursini, Sanseverini, Visconti, and others. They were distinguished by wearing a Stocking quartered into different colours, embroidered with gold, and enriched with Jewels, which they at pleasure altered from the right to the left Leg; and in particular it is remembered, that an. 1529. the right Stocking then worn, was half the inside of Scarlet, and half the outside of Purple, and the other half grey, but the left Stocking was all green: and as were the Husband's Stockings, such were the Wives Sleeves in all particulars. On their solemn days, they first went to Church, and at Mass, took an Oath to observe the Articles of their Order. Among other things which this Society (for the honour of the City) was obliged to, splendid and noble Entertainments were part; at which were exhibited Music, Dance, and Theatral Representations: And with such magnificent and sumptuous Divertisements, have they given reception to divers foreign Princes, in particular to Henry the Third of France, when he passed by Venice in his way from Poland to France. They wore for their Habit a Crimson Senators Vest, appearing therein very splendid, and reserved for solemn days; at which times the Foreign Princes, that had been admitted into this Order, appeared clad after the same manner. These Knights had for their Ensign a Sun on a Shield painted in their Banners, which they used also for a Seal; perhaps as a happy Omen and Presage, that the Order (being laid aside about the year 1590. for the excess it was growing into) should like the Sun from under a Cloud, rise again in after times (when better opportunity offered itself) in greater splendour than ever. The Order of St. Mark in Venice. (19) In this Seignory there is another Degree or Dignity of Knighthood, commonly called the Order of St. Mark; and because it is generally reckoned among the Orders of Knighthood, and differs from the Milites Simplices by wearing a peculiar Title, and being invested with a particular Ensign of Honour at their Creation, we have thought good rather to discourse of it here, though the Ceremony of Creation is performed after the manner of Knights Bachelors, viz. by Dubbing with a Sword, and their Title a bare mark of Honour only; being by our Learned Selden affirmed to be, l Additions to the Titles of Honour, p 935. the known Degree of Knighthood given by Supreme Princes, or such as have a like power with them. Besides, we have been informed thence, that those Knights are not governed by any Laws or Statutes, and are without any Revenue or Endowment of Lands: That they are not under any particular obligation or tye, except what is common to them with other Subjects, namely that of Fidelity to the Prince, being in all things else left to their own liberty. To this we add, that the Honour is also bestowed on absent persons, by Letters Patent or Codicils (as is the Knightly Dignity sometimes) among some of which, that to the learned Sir Daniel Heinsius, is given us by m Ibid. Mr. Selden. It had its Title from St. Mark the Evangelist, whose n Plaina in vita Greg. 4. pag. 114. Body was translated to Venice, from Alexandria in Egypt, in the year of our Lord o Alphons. Ciaconius de Vita & Gestis Pontif. l. 1. p. 234. 828. in the time of justinianus Patritius Duke of Venice, ever since which time this Saint hath been assumed and taken for the p Plat. loco nuper cit. titular Angel and Guardian of this noble City, and his Picture very anciently painted upon their Banners and Ensigns; but as to the Institution, it is not certainly determined, when, or by whom, it was first brought in use. The Badge of Honour, wherewith these Knights are adorned, is a Gold Chain, put over their shoulders, at the instant of their Creation, whereat depends a Medal; on the one side is represented the Symbol of St. Mark, to wit, the q Andr. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. 28. Figure of a Lion, having wings, holding in his right Paw a drawn Sword, and in his left a Book, spread open, in which, this Motto, Pax tibi Marce Evangelista men's; on the other, the name of the Duke then living, beautified with a particular Impress; but in the other, he is represented on his Knee, receiving a Standard from the hands of St. Mark: and sometimes this Medal is worn on a Cross enamelled blue. I was further informed from the hand of the noble Signóre Pietro Moccinigo, that the Duke of Venice bestows this Honour, either privately in his Chamber, or publicly in a full College: Some also are made Knights by the Senate, and those of the Venetian Nobility, at least persons of very eminent Quality and Character, who have merited well of this Commonwealth, by some extraordinary piece of service, either at home or abroad, or upon whatever occasion the Senate sees fitting: and for as much as the Senate is a representation of the whole Commonwealth, and that the Creations of these Knights are confirmed by public Decrees; it is taken, that the Knights of their creating are of greater Dignity, than those made by the Duke. When the Creation is in a full College, whether it be by the Senate or the Duke only, the Collar and Medal is bestowed at the public Charge; but when by the Duke privately, then upon his particular expense. These Knights wear the Honour among other Titles of Dignity, as I have seen it inscribed about the Effigies of Sir Daniel Heinsius, thus, DANIEL HEINSIUS D. MARCI EQVES ILLUSTR. HOLLANDIAE ORDINUM HISTORICUS, POLITICUS, ET HISTORIARUM PROFESSOR BIBLIOTHECARIUS ACADEMIAE ET SECRETARIUS. And among those other Titles given to that famous Mathematician and ginger Sir Andrew argol, that of his Knighthood by this Title, is also thus inserted, ANDREAS ARGOLUS D. MARCI EQVES, ET IN CELEBERRIMO LYCEO PATAVINO PROFESSOR MATHEMATICUS. The Order of Seraphins in Sweden. (20.) In the year of our Lord a Favin. in le Theat. d' Honneur. l. 7. c. 10. 1334. Magnus' the Fourth, King of Sweden, in imitation of other Christian Princes, who had established Military Orders, instituted this of the Seraphins, or Seraphic Knights, otherwise surnamed of jesus; in memory of the Siege laid to the Metropolitan City of Vpsala. The Collar of this Order was composed of b Mennen. p. 158. Seraphins and Patriarchal Crosses, the former of Gold, enameled Red, the later also of Gold, but without any enamel: At the end thereof hung the c Gothofrid. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 12. Image of Christ in an Oval. d Loco cit. Favin saith it was this Cipher IHS composed of three Letters, and signifying the name of jesus, and in point four Nails. But e Tessera Gentilitia, p. 637. elsewhere 'tis said to be the Figure of the blessed Virgin Mary, and to make the thing yet more uncertain, f Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 92. b. another tells us, it was a Patriarchal Cross that hung thereat. The Order of the Sword and Military Belt in Sweden. (21.) We find mention made of another Order of Knights in Sweden, called of the g Mennen. p: 159. Archont. Cosm. loco cit. Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 2. Sect. 30. n. 71. Sword and Military Belt, whose Collar consisted of Swords and Belts conjoined (the Symbols of Justice and Love) the Swords somewhat bending towards the point, and so joined point to point, round into a Circle: But by whom or when this Order was instituted, we are not yet informed. The Order of the Knot in Naples. (22.) When h Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 38. b. videses Pand. Collenucius Hist. Neop. l. 5. Angel Constantin. Hist. Neop. l. 6. An. Pacca de Ord. & Societ. military. Lewis King of Hungary designed a War against joan Queen of Naples, he undertook an Expedition into Italy, not so much to deprive her of her Kingdom, as to revenge the death of his Brother Andrew; whom (as 'tis reported) Queen joan, his Wife, had commanded to be strangled. After many troubles and three years of War, they came to an accord, the first of April, anno 1351. and the 26. of May following (with the consent of Pope Clement the Sixth) the Queen, and Lewis Prince of Tarentum, were crowned King and Queen of that Realm; and that same day, in memory of such a happy Peace, and to take away all suspicions and enmities; the Prince instituted this Order of Knights, into which entered threescore and ten of the illustrious Lords in blood of Naples, and some other Strangers. The Habit he appointed was White, and for the Orders chief Ensign, he gave a Knot (the Emblem of Love and Friendship) intermixed with Gold: and as the like Institutions in that Kingdom, commonly ended with the death of their Founders; so this Order expired in a short time. The Order of Knights of the Annunciade in Savoy. (23.) i Fran. Capre en le Catalogue des Chevaliers de l' Ordre du Collier de Savoye, dict. de l'Annonciade, Edit. Turin. 1654. vide etiam Samuel Guichenon Histoir. Genealog. de la royal Maison de Savoy. l. 1. p. 111. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 133. & Sansovin. Orig. de Caval. f. 33. Am the Sixth of that name, Earl of Savoy, surnamed Conte le Verde, instituted this Order under the Title of the k Fran. Capre en le Catalogue des Chevaliers de l' Ordre du Collier de Savoye, dict. de l'Annonciade, Edit. Turin. 1654. vide etiam Samuel Guichenon Histoir. Genealog. de la royal Maison de Savoy. l. 1. p. 111. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 133. & Sansovin. Orig. de Caval. f. 33. Collar, in the year of our Lord l Fran. Capre en le Catalogue des Chevaliers de l' Ordre du Collier de Savoye, dict. de l'Annonciade, Edit. Turin. 1654. vide etiam Samuel Guichenon Histoir. Genealog. de la royal Maison de Savoy. l. 1. p. 111. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 133. & Sansovin. Orig. de Caval. f. 33. 1362. in honour of the 15 m Fran. Capre en le Catalogue des Chevaliers de l' Ordre du Collier de Savoye, dict. de l'Annonciade, Edit. Turin. 1654. vide etiam Samuel Guichenon Histoir. Genealog. de la royal Maison de Savoy. l. 1. p. 111. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 133. & Sansovin. Orig. de Caval. f. 33. Divine Mysteries of the Rosary. n Theat. d' Honneur, l. 8. c. 5. Andrew Favin, on a mistaken ground, calls it the Order of the Snares of Love, in regard (as he allegeth) the Founder had received of his Lady, the favour of a Bracelet, made of the Tresses of her hair, knit or plaited in Love-knots, and that the four Letters, afterward interlaced by the Founder, within such like Love-knots should signify, Frappés, Entrés, Rompés, Tout. But Francis Capre (Councillor and Secretary of State to the present Duke of Savoy) who hath given an account of the o In Advis au Lecteur. Institution, together with the several restaurations of this Order, from the Records thereof (preserved in the Charter-house in Pierre Chastle, appointed at the time of the Foundation, for the Seat of the Order) p In Advis au Lecteur. confutes this error of Favin, and with him several others, who have unwarily swallowed down the same mistake. q Pag. 131. Mennenius and r Pag. 39 Miraeus take not the least notice of its denomination from the Collar, but call it the Order of the Annunciation in Savoy: But it is clear enough from the Founders s Guichenon. Hist. Geneal. de la Maison de Savoy. l. 6. p. 217. last Will and Testament, bearing date the 27. of February, anno 1383. and from what t Locis supra relatis. Capre and Guichenon allege, as also from the u Sansovin. f. 33. Statutes of Am the Eighth, that at the time of the Foundation, it was called the Order of the Collar: under which name it continued, till the time of Charles the Third, surnamed le Bon, Duke of Savoy, when (and not before) it had bestowed on it the Title of the Annunciation, from the Picture of the History of the blessed Virgin Mary, by him first made appendent to the Collar, in the year 1518. The w Capre. Guichen. Sansovin. locis praed. Founder appointed the number of his Knights (reckoning himself the Chief and Sovereign for one) to be fifteen, (among whom we find x Guichenon. l. 2. p. 414. & Capre en le Catalogue. des Cheval. etc. Portoit d'or, a trois Pals d'azur. Sir Richard Musard, an English Gentleman, recorded) agreeable to the number of the before mentioned Divine Mysteries; but in the additional Statutes made by Am the Eighth (first Duke of Savoy) anno 1434. and by Duke Emanuel Philibert, 1568. there is a permission given to augment their number, by adding five to the former fifteen, but the Sovereigns have not always been confined to this number. Besides the Institution of this Order, the Founder erected and founded the y Capre in advis. au Lecteur. Guichenon. l. 6. p. 217. Chartreuse of Pierre Chastle in Bugey, wherein were entertained 15 Priests, and they obliged to celebrate every day 15 Masses, to the honour of the 15 Joys of the blessed Virgin, to the Souls health of him, his Predecessors, and all who had been, were, or should hereafter be Knights of this Order. So that the resemblance of this Institution, with the foundation of this religious house, is some argument, that the Order, as well as the House, were founded upon a religious and pious, not amorous or wanton account. At Pierre Chastle were the Ceremonies observed, and the Chapters held by the Sovereign and Knights, z Guichenon. l. 1. p. 113. & l. 2. p. 791. until the time that Charles Emanuel First of that name, Duke of Savoy, exchanged it, and some other places, for the Marquisate of Saluces, upon the Treaty of Peace concluded at * Idem Guich. 16 p. 548. Lions, 17. jan. 1607. and then the Anniversary of the Feast, and celebrations of the Order (being fixed to the Feast-day of the Annunciation of our Lady) were translated from hence, first to the Church of St. Dominick at Montmeillar, and afterwards by his declaration, dated at Turin | Fr. Capre, ut supra. 3. Dec. following, to the Hermitage of Camaldule, situate upon the Mountain of Turin, vulgarly called l' Eremo Assis, where they were performed, as formerly, at Pierre Chastle. The a Fr. Capre, ut supra. ancient Collar (from which also the Order received its denomination) was made of Gold, about three fingers breadth, as may best be collected from the Founders own Collar, which he b Guichenon. l. 1. p. 112. gave to the religious at Haut●omb, in whose Vestry it is yet preserved. Upon this Collar are engraved these Letters F. E.R.T, represented in ancient barbarous Characters after this manner 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and one Knot (commonly called the Knot of Savoy) at the end of each Fert, which with three other like Knots entwined one within another, made up the circumference depending at the Collar: nevertheless, without any Figure or Image within the Circle. These old Characters (as hath been generally taken and supposed) were the initial Letters of this Epigraph, Fortitudo ejus Rhodum tenet, alluding to the glorious actions of Conte Am le Grand, who gallantly defended the Isle of Rhodes, against the Turks, anno 1310. But the world hath now received more light in this particular, from the industrious pains of Monsieur Guichenon; d In Hist. Genealog praed. l. 1. p. 147. who has very fortunately cleared this so common a mistake from all obscurity. For the Devise of the House of Savoy, consisting in the before noted word, or four Letters, appears to be more ancient, than the time of Conte Am le Grand, in regard that Lewis de Savoy, Baron de Vaud, who died anno Dom. 1301. did always wear this Devise, as appears from some of his Coins, which this Author e Idem ibidem. inserts; and further, the Monument of Thomas de Savoy, the First of that name, Son of Humbert the Third, Conte de Savoy, de Piedmont, & de Maurienne, who died the 20. of january, anno 1233. and lies interred in the Cathedral Church of Aouste, hath (on the Draught of the f Idem. l. 2. p. 251. Monument which Guichenon exhibits) a Dog lying at the feet of his Portraiture, which (on a Collar about his neck) bears this word Fert, without pointing also, or distinguishing of Letters; and is besides a strong proof, that this was but one word. But yet to add more strength to this assertion, he exhibits another convincing Testimony, from a g Lib. 1. p. 141. Brass Coin of the same Earl Thomas, whereon is a bowing Escotcheon, charged with a Cross, and for the Crest, a Lion's head winged, and surmounted with a Peacock's Feather; on the one side of the Crest are these two Letters 'tis, being the initial and final Letters of his Christian name Thomas, and on the other side HI, the first and last Letters of the Surname Humberti, which signifies, Thomas filius Humberti: On the Reverse of this Coin, is to be seen two Knots, of the fashion afore noted, and the word F●rt in the midst. He moreover gives us the Ectype of a h Ib. p. 145. Silver Coin, of Peter de Savoy (who for some time abode in England, in the Reign of King Henry the Third, and built that stately Structure in the Strand, called the Savoy) in which is represented the Devise Fert, in Gothick Characters. From all which it is fully evident, that this word, as also the Knot and Cross were used for the Devise, Badge, and Arms of the House of Savoy, long before Count Am le Grand relieved Rhodes, against the power of the Turks, or the time of the Institution of the Order; though for how long before is not certainly known; nor is the true interpretation of the word left rendered to Posterity. We may here not unfitly add, that though Historians generally report for a truth, that Conte Am le Grand, relinquished the Eagle, the ancient Arms of Savoy, and assumed the Cross of Rhodes, to wit, Gules, a Cross Argent, in memory of the relief he gave to that City; yet doth this particular suffer much contradiction. For it is made clear enough by i Ib. l. 1. p. 126. Guichenon, that some of this Conte's Ancestors, Earls of Savoy, and other Princes of that House, did bear the said Cross for their Arms, long before that famous action at Rhodes: Nevertheless he determines not when it was first so assumed by the House of Savoy, but modestly interposeth his conjecture; k Pag. 127. conceiving, that upon the return of Am the Third, Earl of Savoy, out of the Holy Land, anno Dom. 1147. he might assume the Cross for his Arms (for in the like kind we have several instances in the Arms of Families herein England, when their Ancestors returned home from that Country) as well for the honour he bore to this Pledge of our redemption, as for a memorable Badge of that his Military Expedition. And seeing that in those times Arms were not become hereditary, the Earls of Savoy, did one while bear an Eagle, another while the Cross, until Conte Am le Grand established the later of these in his Family. The ancient Collar had no l Idem Guichenon, l. 1. p. 112. Rose on the Circle of its pendant, or Image either of our blessed Lady, or St. Maurice, as m Fav. Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 5. videses Hierom de Bara, in la blaison des Armoiries p. 44 Marc. Gilb. de Varennes en le Roy d'Armes. p. 595. some relate: but was composed only of the aforesaid word, linked together by a single Knot, and three little Knots in the pendant; until the time of Duke Charles the Third, as may be proved by the ancient Collars of the Sovereigns of this Order, preserved in the Monastery at Hautcombe in Savoy ( n Guichenon in le Hist. Geneal. de la Maison de Savoy l. 6. p. 31. founded by Conte Am the Third, anno 1125.) where most of the Sovereigns are interred, with the Figure of which Collar, Fr. Capre hath encompassed the Arms of all the Knights, from the first foundation, unto the time of Duke Charles the Third; as may be seen in his Catalogue of the Knights of this Order. This ancient Collar is still in use, and daily worn, but now called the o Capre loco supra relato. Guichenon. l. 1. p. 113. little Collar of the Order, being made of Gold, or Silver and gilt, about an inch broad, and of different weight. The Knights wear it about their neck, close to the Collar of their Doublet, in which manner Am the Tenth, Duke of Savoy, is represented, in his Picture at full length, now hanging in the Gallery at Whitehall, to which Collar (within a round form of three Knots) hangs the Figure of the Annunciation. As Duke Charles the Third restored much of its decayed splendour to this Order, so anno p Ibid. 1518. did he introduce another larger Collar, and called it the grea● Collar, so that now the Knights use two Collars, the later being only worn upon days of Ceremony, and Festivals of the Order. This later and larger Collar weighs about 200 Crowns in Gold, and is composed of the word Fert interwoven with Knots, severed with Roses, viz. 15 Roses of Gold, whereof seven are enamell'd with White, and seven with Red, and bordered with two Thorns; as also the Figure of the Annunciation of the blessed Virgin, enameled in various colours, pendant at three Chainets to another Rose, coloured both White and Red. We read not of any peculiar Habit assigned to the Knights of this Order, before the time of Duke Charles the Third, who brought into use the q Ibid. great Mantle of Crimson Velvet, his own being fur'd with Ermines, but the rest of the Knights with Miniver, fringed and bordered with Knots, (to wit, of the fashion of those that adorn the Collar) in fine Gold: Under this Mantle is worn a Surcoat, of white Damask. r Capre. Guichenon. Duke Emanuel Philibert his Son, changed afterwards the colour of the Mantle to Azure, and lined it with White Taffeta, of which Silk he also made the Surcoats. But s Capre. Guichenon. Charles Emanuel altered the Mantle unto an Amaranthus or Purple Colour, seeded with Roses, and Flames, in embroidery of Gold and Silver, bordered throughout with the Symbols of the Order, fringed with Gold, and lined with Cloth of Silver, tissued Blue, which continues hitherto in use: Under which instead of the White Taffeta Surcoat, is now worn a White Satin suit, embroidered with Silk, the Hose gathered upwards, in the fashion of Trousers. Concerning the Statutes of this Order, the most ancient are those of t Capre. Guichenon. l. 1. p. 113. Am the Eighth (for there are none of the Founders extant) made at Chastilion the 30. of May, in the year of our Lord 1410. the original whereof is lodged in the Archives at Turin, which he augmented in the year 1434. and both are printed by u In Origine de Cavall. f. 33. b. & 36. b. Sansovin. Duke Charles' the Third, made new Statutes at Chambery the 11. of Sept. anno 1518. these were enlarged by Duke Emanuel Philibert, anno 1568. and published in the year 1577. The Order of the Thistle of Bourbon in France. (24.) At the solemnity of the a Fav. Theat. d' Honneur. l. 3. c. 12. marriage of Lewis the Second Duke of Bourbon, with Anne Daughter to the Count Dauphin of Auvergne, celebrated in the Town of Arde, on New-year's day 1370. this Duke instituted the Order of Knights of our Lady, otherwise called the Thistle, and the b Ibid. first solemnities thereof were performed at Nostre Dame de Maulins in Bourbonnois, where he founded a College of twelve Canons in honour of the blessed Virgin. The ground of the Institution was c Menn. De●●●. Equest. p. 142. to strengthen this Duke's power and interest, for the aid of Charles Duke of Orleans, and of his two Brothers Philip and john, against the Faction of the House of Burgundy: And by joining of Flowers de Lis and Thistles (the Symbols of hope and courage) emblematically to express the nobleness of his Spirit, against all power of Fortune. He ordained a set number of Knights of this Society, to wit, d Favin. Theat. d' H●n. loc ●i●. 26, therein comprehending himself and Successors Dukes of Bourbon, as Chiefs; and obliged these to wear daily a e Favin. Theat. d' H●n. loc ●i●. Belt or Girdle made of watchet colour Velvet, lined with Crimson Satin, embroidered with Gold, in the midst of which embroidery was curiously wrought the word ESPERANCE. This Girdle was fastened with a Buckle and a Tongue of Gold, bearded and chequered with green enamel, in form like to the head of a Thistle. On the Anniversary of the Festival (namely the day of the Conception of our Lady in December) the Knights wore Cassocks or Surc●ats of Carnation Damask, with wide sleeves, girded with the Girdle before described. The f Favin. Theat. d' H●n. loc ●i●. Mantle of this Order was of Sky-coloured Damask, having broad welt● of Gold embroidered on the Collar, and lined with red Satin; but the Mantlet of green Velvet. The Bonnet was also of green Velvet, at the point of the band hung a sai● Tassel of Crimson Silk and threads of Gold, the lining of Crimson Tassaty, and turned up after the antique manner, whereon they had embroidered the Golden Shield with the word Allen. Whoso considers in this Constitution, the number of Knights, the principal colours of the Mantle, Surcoat and Girdle (with the injunction for wearing thereof) shall plainly see that this Founder took an exact pattern from the Order of the Garter, which he had observed in England, and acquainted himself with its Constitutions, while he was Prisoner in Windsor Castle: for here is little change or alteration, and only a Belt or Girdle made the chief Ensign of this, as the Garter was of that Order. The great i Idem Favi●, l●co praed. Collar was of Gold, of the weight of ten Marks, enameled with Green, opened like Network, which was filled with Flowers de Lis of Gold, and each of them (together with the Letters of the Impress) placed in a Lozenge of red enamel. At the bottom of the Collar, in an Oval of Gold (the Circle whereof was enameled with Green and Red) appeared the Figure of the Patroness, the blessed Virgin Mary, surrounded with rays of the Sun, crowned with twelve Silver Stars, a Crescent of the same under her feet, enameled with Purple and Sky colour, lastly at the end of the Oval depended the head of a Thistle enameled Green, but bearded White. Some little difference is put by k Menn●n. 〈◊〉 Deli●. ●quest. p 14●. others in the fashion and composition of this Collar; namely, that it was made either of Gold or Silver, and framed of Flowers de Lis, and four leaves or Flowers of a Thistle, set in the form of a Cross. The Order of the Dove in Castille, (25.) Was instituted by l jos. Micheli Marquez en la Tesoro Military. de Cavalliera. f. 81. b. And. Mend● de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 4. Sect. ●▪ n. 103. john the First of that name, King of Castille, in the City of Segovia Anno Dom. 1390. (so saith m Delic. Equest. p. 154. Mennenius and n Orig. Equest. p. 73. Miraeus, but o Theat. d' Honneur. l. 6. c. 12. Favin placeth it 1379.) and proposed to his Nobles, as a p Mennenius, loc. cit. reward to encourage them to prosecute the noble acts of his Grandfather King Henry the Second. The q Favin. & Menn. locis nuper cit. Collar of this Order was linked or enchained with the resplendent beams of the Sun, Tessera suit Columba rad●is circumd●●● è Torque dependens, Mendoza loc. cit. both waved and pointed, at which hung a golden Dove enameled White, and r Micheli en Tesoro Milit. de Caval. f. 82. b. encompassed with rays, the Eyes and Beak Red. Herewith the Founder, saith Favin, adorned himself on Whitsonday (yet Mennenius and Miraeus will have it the Feast-day of St. james) and at the Altar of the great Church in Segovia, distributed other the like Collars to his intimate Favourites, together with a Book containing the Statutes of the Order. But he dying the very same year, before the Order had taken sufficient root, it became of small continuance. The Order of the Argonauts of St. Nicholas in Naples. (26.) t Tesoro Military. de Caval, f. 60, vide etiam Pandol. Colenduc. Hist. Neop. l. 5. Aug. Constan. l. 8. Anellum Paca de Ord. & Societ. Military. Charles the Third, King of Naples, instituted this Order, in the year of our Lord 1382. and with the Ensign thereof invested several of the Nobility of that Kingdom; with which as by a Bond, he designed to tie them one to another in a brotherly obligation. The end of its Institution, was to preserve amity among the Nobles, to compose enmities, and suppress seditions; Insomuch, as if any of the Knights of this Order, were at variance one with another, and refused to be reconciled, the Ensigns were then to be taken from him: but u Briet. Annal. mundi. par. 3. Tom. 2. p. 300. some say the ground and cause, was to advance Navigation, which the Neopolitans stood in need of. To which the principal Ensign of this Order seems rather to allude, it being a w 〈◊〉 de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 31. n. 77. Ship floating upon the waters, in the midst of a storm, having this Motto, Non credo tempori. x Tesoro Milit. de Caval. loc. cit. In the Convent of that sumptuous Church, which St. Nicholas Bishop of Smyrna caused to be built, was the grand Feast held, on the Anniversary of that Saint. This King appointed a y Tesoro Milit. de Caval. loc. cit. White Habit for the Knights, and prescribed laudable Constitutions to the Order; but because he settled no Revenue thereupon, the splendour thereof ceased at his death; nevertheless z Tesoro Milit. de Caval. loc. cit. he obtained the end for which it was instituted. Knights of St. Anthony in Hainolt. (27.) a Alb. Miraeus Orig. Equest. p. 80. videses jurisprud. Heroic. p. 390. Albert of Bavaria, Earl of Hainolt, Holland, and Zealand, designing an Expedition against the Turks and Moors, instituted this Order, in the year of our Lord 1382. The Ensign thereof was a golden Collar, wrought after the fashion of an Hermit's Girdle: at which hung a walking Staff, and a little golden Bell. The Order of the Porcupine in France. (28.) b Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 3. c. 11. Monsieur Lewis of France, Duke of Orleans, instituted this Order, in the year 1393. to honour the Baptism of his eldest Son Charles, by Valentina his Wife, Daughter to john Galeas Duke of Milan; and made choice of the Porcupine for his Devise, with this Epigraph Cominus & Eminus; not only out of the high hopes he conceived of this Child, c Ibid. but also to intimate something of revenge against john Duke of Burgundy, his mortal Enemy, no less than self-defence, against all his designs and assaults, of which this Animal is a proper Emblem. d Apud Favin. Paradine, e In Delic. Equest. p. 139. Mennenius, and f Tes. Milit. de Caval. f. 95. b. Micheli, make Charles, the Son of this Monsieur Lewis, the Founder anno Dom. 1430. in imitation or emulation of Philip Duke of Burgundy, Founder of the Order of the Golden Fleece; but g Loc. supra cit. Favin strengthens his foresaid relation, from the authority of one Hennotin de Cleriaux an Herald, who attended the forementioned Christening in his Herald's Coat, and set down an account of the Institution by Monsieur Lewis, together with the names of the Princes, Lords, and Gentlemen, on whom he then bestowed his new erected Order, their number being 25, including the Founder. The h Ibid. Habit assigned to the Knights were Surcoats of Violet Velvet, and over them Mantles of Watchet Velvet, lined with Carnation Satin. The i Ibid. Collar was form of Gold Chains, at the end whereof hung a Porcupine of Gold, upon a little enameled hillock of Grass and Flowers; which k Gotos●id. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 10. Creature was also embroidered on the Knight's Belts. The Order of the Lily in Arragon. (29.) According to m In reb. Arragon. l. 12. c. 3c. vide Miraeum in Orig. Equest. p. 77. Hieronymus Zurita, this Order was instituted by Ferdinand King of Arragon, called the Infant of Antiquera, in the year of our Lord 1403. and dedicated to the honour of the blessed Virgin. The Collar was composed of n P. Palliot in la uraye & parfaite Science des Armoiries. p. 498. Bough-Pots, filled with White Lilies, interlaced with Griffins; and as o Apud Menn. p. 67. Hieronymus Romanus reports, was vulgarly called La Orden de la Terraca oh de las Azucenas, ò jarra de S. Maria, which is as much as to say, The Order of Lilies, or the Vessel of St. Mary. p Theat d'Hon. l. 6. c. 16. Favin gives it under the Title of the Looking-glass of the blessed Virgin Mary in Castille, instituted (as he saith) in honour and memory of a Victory, which this King Ferdinand had obtained in that Kingdom against the Moors, anno 1410. to wit, seven years after the time assigned by Zurita for the foundation. The Founder transplanted this Order with him into Arragon 1413. when he received the Crown of that Kingdom, and where it continued under the Sons of this King, but no longer. The Order of the Dragon overthrown in Hungary. (30.) The Emperor Sigismond, surnamed the q jos. Micheli en Tesore Military. de Cavall. f. 90. b. Glorious (for the many Battles he gained over the barbarous Nations, in defence of the Christian Religion) r Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 7. c. 1. Menn. p. 155. having greatly laboured the peace of the Churches of Hungary and Bohemia, and, by his Travels into England, France, and Spain (to invite those Princes to join with him in that his Enterprise) brought the same to pass by the Council of Constance; out of extreme joy at the accomplishment thereof, instituted this Order, in the year of our Lord 1418. for defence of the Christian Religion, and to s Tesoro milit. de Cavall. loc. cit. crush all Heretics and Schismatics that should arise: which Order in short time became of high esteem, not only throughout Hungary, but Germany also. The Knights wore daily for their Ensign of Honour, a t Favin. loc. cit. Green Cross story, on solemn days a Scarlet Cloak, and on the Mantlet of Green Silk a double Chain of Gold (Micheli saith a Green Ribbon) at the end of which hung a Dragon dead, with broken Wings, in the posture of being overcome (the Symbol of Heresy vanquished) and the whole enameled with variety of Colours proper. But this Order u Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 2. p. 190. continued not long, for it almost expired with the Founder. Peter Beloy, Precedent of Tholouse, affirms he had seen a w Menn. p. 156. Diploma, dated anno 1413. purporting that Basilius Colalba Marquis of Ancona was admitted into this Order, in these very words, Te quem manu propria militiae cingulo & societatis nostrae Draconicae ac Stolae seu amprisiae charissimi fratris nostri Regis Aragoniae insignivimus, etc. Equites Tufini in Bohemia. (13.) We find but a bare mention thereof made by a In Delic. Equest. p. 156. Mennenius, and that it was erected in the Kingdom of Bohemia (or else both in b Micheli. f. 60. b. Bohemia and Austria) but he doth not in the least inform us either of the cause of its Institution, the Badge of the Order, or to what the Title refers. The two first of these particulars jos. Micheli supplies, but as to the third, we cannot give so perfect an account as we would; yet we remember to have read somewhere, that this Order had its name from Toca, a Cap or Coif. The c Micheli Loco praedicto. Archduke's of Austria (saith he) were Founders of this Order, which they instituted to engage their Subjects in the defence of the Christian Religion, and expulsion of the Turks, and those they called Heretics, out of their Dominions: for having about 200 years maintained a War with vast and excessive charge, by erecting this Order, and bestowing upon the Knights thereof all that they gained in War towards their supportation, they very much ea●●d themselves in their Military Expenses; and indeed this proved so great an encouragement to them, that in a few years (performing service wheresoever their Chiefs commanded them to engage) they cleared their Provinces almost of both Turks and Schismatics. The d Micheli Loco praedicto. Ensign of this Order was a plain Green Cross, and the Habit of the Knights Red. This and the following Order (saith the same e Micheli Loco praedicto. Author) were under the Rule of St. Basil, and professed conjugal Chastity and Obedience; but we see not from what ground he alleges this; for if so, then ought we to have placed it among the Religious rather than Military Orders, these being absolute notes and marks thereof. But inasmuch as we f Menn. Delic. Equest. p. 156. elsewhere find, that Albert the Emperor adorned Moses Didacus de Valera in Spain (a Knight of known and approved courage) with the Ensigns of his three Orders, viz. of the Dragon, as he was King of Hungary; of the Tusin, as King of Bohemia; and with the Collar de la Disciplinas, as Duke of Austria, it is hence manifest, they were all complete Military Orders, of which this Emperor was Sovereign or Chief: for no man can be admitted into more than one Orders at a time (if it be of a religious Constitution) and whensoever he obtains leave to change that Order, he cannot be received into another, without relinquishing the former. Ordo Disciplinarum in Austria. (32.) Bohemia (saith g En Tesoro milit. de Caval. f. 59 b. Micheli) finding itself very much endangered by Turks and Heretics, the Kings thereof instituted this Order, to suppress, or at least to keep them under, and to secure the Confines of that Kingdom. But I suppose, this Author means Austria, in regard it appears immediately before to have been conferred by the Dukes of that Country. The Collar of the Order had a h Tessera erat Aquila alba in fidei Symbolum. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. Sect. 31. n. 75. White Eagle hanging thereat. This, and the former Order, together with that of the Dragon in Hungary, are said to have flourished in Germany, in the Reigns of the i Menn. loco pr●d. Emperors, Sigismond and Albert. Ordo de la Scama in Castille. (33.) This Order received Institution from k Idem Menn. p. 117. john the Second, King of Castille, about the year of our Lord l jos. Micheli, f. 38. a. 1420. to persuade and stir up his Nobility to fight against the Moors. For he being overcharged with War, designed this Order chiefly to awaken their courage, for the defence of his and their own Estates: which afterwards upon all occasions they performed so well, and gave so great demonstrations of their Valour, that in a short time the Moors were vanquished. What their symbol or Ensign was, or the reason of the Title de la Scama, happened to be so far worn out, that g Apud Mennen. Hieronymus Romanus (who wrote the life of this King john) professeth he knew not what was meant or intended by it, though he had been very diligent in the search thereof. Yet h En so Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 38. Insigne suiz super togam candidam Crux ex squamis consecta. Mendoza de Ord. milit: Disq. 1. Qu●st. 4. n. 98. jos. Micheli informs us, that their Ensign was a Cross, composed of Scales of Fishes, which does plainly enough demonstrate it to be derived from the Latin word Squama, from whence comes the Spanish word Scama, that signifies the Scale of a Fish. Some that speak of this Order, say i Micheli, loc. cit. nothing as to its beginning, being ignorant of the Founder; but it is generally believed to be Instituted by the foresaid King john, in whose time it flourished; insomuch as there were few of his Nobility, but were also Knights thereof. The k Micheli, loc. cit. duty to which they were obliged, was to defend the Kingdom of Castille against the Moors, and to die in defence of the Christian Faith; besides which, upon every occasion, when the King went out to War, they marched before him. Their l Micheli, loc. cit. Privileges were given them by King john, as also Statutes and Rules to be governed by. Upon whose m Micheli, loc. cit. death the splendour of this Order was eclipsed; as many times it hath fared with other Foundations in the like case: the Successors, wanting the zeal and love for their continuance, equal to that of the Founders for their Institution. The Order of Knights of the Golden Fleece in Flanders. (34.) o Favin, in le Thea●. d' H●n●. l. 4. c. 5. Philip the Second, Duke of Burgundy, of the second and last Line, issuing out of the House of France, surnamed the Good, instituted this Order, under the Title of the Golden Fleece, in memory of the great Revenues he raised by the traffic of Wools with the Low Countries. Some will have it erected in commemoration of valiant p jurisp Heroical p 429. abud joh. Germanum primum Ord●n. Carcellar. Gideon, who with 300 men vanquished a numerous Army of Midianites. Or else (according to others) the Founder followed the example of q Ibid. abud Olivar. ●arranum. vide Men. Delic. Equest. p. 135. & 137. jason, and his Argonauts; whose Expedition to Colchus against Acts, he perhaps might intend to imitate, by a Voyage into Syria against the Turk. Whatsoever the occasion was, 'tis certain (from the preamble of the Statutes of Institution) that this Duke out of the perfect love he bore to the noble estate of Knighthood, founded this Order, to the glory of the Almighty Creator and Redeemer, in reverence of the Virgin Mary, and honour of St. Andrew, the Apostle and Martyr (whom he made Patron thereunto) to the advancement of the holy Faith, the service of the Catholic Church, and promoting of Virtue. For the maintaining and upholding of which, and for the increase of honour and fair renown, no less than the correction of Vice, r Ordin. hujus statuta Aurei Velleris. Art. 31, 32, 33, 34; & 35. several good orders, set down in the Institution, are appointed to be observed, at the Chapter held on the last day of every Annual Feast of the Order. The day of Institution, was the s Praefatio ad eund. Statut. 10. of january, anno Dom. 1429. on which very day the Founder solemnised his Marriage, with Elizabeth, Daughter to john King of Portugal, in the City of Bruges in Flanders. The number of Knights first chosen, were t Art. 18. Mennen. Delic Equest. p. 126, 137 jurisprud. heroica p. 483. 24. beside the Duke, Chief and Supreme, who reserved to himself the nomination of six more at the next Chapter. But Charles the Fifth, anno 1516. increased them to fifty. And though the Founder at first resolved upon the Feast of u Art. ●2. St. Andrew annually, for holding the solemnities of the Order; nevertheless in consideration of the shortness of the days, at that time of the year, and how troublesome it would prove, especially to aged Knights, who lived at great distance, to take a Journey in so cold a season; it was afterwards ordained, that the Grand Feast and General Assembly, should be kept w Ibid. from three years to three years, on the first of May, in such place as the Sovereign of the Order should beforehand give competent notice of. As to the Habit, it was at first ordained, that at the Grand Solemnity, the Knights should wear three different Mantles, to wit, the first day of the Feast, of x Art. 25. & 26. Scarlet Cloth, richly embroidered about the lower end, with Flints struck into sparks of Fire, and Fleeces, with Chaperons of the same; and the same day after Dinner, to proceed to Vespers in y Art. 27. Mantles of Black, and black Chaperons: The day following, the Knights were to hear the grand Mass of our Lady, z Art. 28. clad as should seem good to themselves. But Duke Charles, Son to the Founder, appointed them Mantles of White Damask, for that days Ceremony, and changed their Cloth Mantles into Velvet. The great Collar is composed of c joan. jac. Chefflet. Insign. Gent. Equit. Ord. Veler. Aur. double Fusils, interwoven of equal bigness, in form of the Letter B. with Flint-stones, seeming to strike fire, and sparkles of fire between them, at the end whereof doth hang the resemblance of a Fleece of Gold, enameled in its proper Colours. These d Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 4. c. 5. Fusils are placed back to back, two and two together, thereby representing the Letter B both ways, intending to signify Bourgoigne, they are also intermingled with Flint-stones, in reference to the Arms of the ancient Kings of Bourgoigne; but it was the devise of the Founder to engird them with sparkles and flames of fire. To the Flint, Paradine (in his Heroical Devises) ascribes this Motto, Ante Ferit, quam Flamma micet, and to the Fleece this, Pretium non vile laboris. The jewel is ordinarily worn in a double Chainet or Males of Gold, linked together at convenient distances; between which runs a small Red Ribbon: and so is Philip the Fourth, King of Spain, represente●, wearing his Jewel in a Picture at full length, hanging in his Majesty's Gallery at Whitehall; or otherwise it is worn in a Red Ribbon alone. The Founder ordained e Ord. Statuta. Art. 19 four Officers to attend and serve the Order, after the manner declared in the Ordinances for their Instructions, annexed to the Statutes, namely, a Chancellor, a Treasurer, a Greffier or Register, and a King of Arms, called Toison d' Or. f Saint March. de la Maison de France. Tom. 1. p. 891. Lewis the Eleventh of France refused to accept of this Order, because his Predecessors were not accustomed to receive the Orders of their Subjects; for such were the Dukes of Burgundy accounted, who held that Duchy and other Signories in homage liege to the Crown of France. Albeit the Emperors of Germany are descended from Philip Archduke of Austria, Duke of Burgundy, and Count of Flanders; nevertheless the power of conferring the Order is lodged in the Kings of Spain only, the Title of Head and Sovereign being solemnly resigned by the Emperor Charles the Fifth to his Son King Philip, the g jurisprud. heroica. p. 433. 25. day of October anno Dom. 1556. in the Royal Chapel at his Palace in Bruxelles, and the Collar taken from his neck, and with his own hands put over his said Sons shoulders, in the presence of divers of the Knights, at which Ceremony he used this form of words, h jurisprud. heroica. p. 433. Accipe Fili mi, quem è Collo meo detraho, Tibi praecipuum Aurei Velleris Torquem, quem Philippus Dux Burgundiae cognomine Bonus Atavus noster, Monimentum fidei sacrae Romanae Ecclesiae esse voluit, & hujusce Institutionis ac Legum ejus fac semper memineris. Afterwards, though Philip the Second, King of Spain, invested the Infanta his Daughter Isabel, in the Dominion of the Low Countries, upon the Contract of her marriage with the Archduke Albert of Austria, yet he i Ibid. retained to himself, and Successors, Kings of Spain, and Dukes of Burgundy, the honour of being Chief of this Order, in which Crown it remains to this day. The Statutes (ratified under the Founders Seal the 27. of Nou. 1431.) are printed in the k Pag. 445. jurisprudentia Heroica, together with those other l Pag. 462. additions and alterations which were since made by his Successors. So also are the m Pag. 470. Privileges granted to the Knights by the Founder, his Son Charles, and Maximilian, which received confirmation from King Philip the Second, anno Dom. 1556. The Names of the first n Pag. 483. 24 Knights, and their Successors, to the number of 450. are there also registered, together with a Catalogue of the o Pag. 501. Chancellors, Treasurers, Registers, and Kings of Arms, and lastly a q Pag. 499. Figure of a ●●●ght, vested in the Habit, may be there likewise seen. The Original and Foundation of this Order is written at large in French by William Bishop of Tournay, Abbot of St. Bertin, and second Chancellor to the Order, in a Treatise of his called The Golden Fleece, dedicated to Charles Duke of Burgundy, Son to the Founder, and printed at Troy's, in the year of our Lord 1530. In this Work the Author treats of two manner of Golden Fleeces, viz. first of Jason's Fleece (of which he useth the testimony of Eustathius, to assert it for a true History) and by it represents the noble Virtue of Magnanimity, demonstrating several Virtues appertaining to the state of Nobility. Secondly, of Jacob's Fleece (viz. the particoloured and streaked Fleece) by which he sets forth the Virtue of justice, which Virtue principally appertaining to Kings, Knights, and noble persons, moved the heart of Duke Philip to institute this Order, under it comprehending the Virtues of both the other Fleeces. The Order of St. George at Genoa. (35.) The a Menn. Delic. Equest. p. 118. Republic of Genoa have an Order of Knighthood among them, dedicated to the honour of St. George, their titular Saint and Patron; it was instituted by Frederick the Third, Emperor of Germany, and the Knights thereof are called, b Equites Divi Georgii apud Genuenses. ib. Knights of St. George at Genoa. The Ensign is a plain Cross Gules, and worn by the Knights at a Chain of Gold about their neck. c Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 8. c. 3. The Dukes of Genoa are Chiefs thereof, and in regard their Dignity lasts but two years, the Order is much impaired through the inconstancy and alteration of times. The Order of the Croissant in France. (36.) e Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 3. c. 14. Rene, or Renatus, descended of the second Line of the House of Anjou, King of jerusalem and Sicily, etc. Duke of Anjou, Count of Provence, etc. erected this Order, under the denomination of the Croissant, or half Moon, in the City of Anjou, anno Dom. 1464. But the f Geneal. Hist. de la Maison de France. Tom. 1. p. 824. Saint Marthe's make it 16 years older, by placing the Institution in the year 1448. g Tesoro Milit. de Cavall. f. 54. a. jos. Micheli reports, that Charles King of Sicily▪ and jerusalem was the first Institutor, anno 1268. in the great Church at Messina in Sicily, on the day of St. Lewis King of France; but he by mistake confounds this Order with that of the double Croissant instituted by St. Lewis in France; and after his death retained and settled in Sicily by the said King Charles his Brother. The end wherefore King Rene founded this Order, is noted to be in h Favin, loc, cit. honour of God, support of the Church, and exaltation of Knighthood. Over which he declared himself and his Successors Dukes of Anjou, and Kings of Sicily Chiefs. He also chose i Saint. March. loco cit. St. Maurice, Knight and Martyr, for Patron, and held the first Ceremonies in the k Menn. p. 163. Church of Angiers, dedicated to his name. The l Favin. ut supra. Symbol which the Knights wore on the right side of their Mantle, was a golden Crescent, whereon, in red enamel, was this word L'oz, signifying (in the opinion of Peter Mathieu) L'oz en Croissant, m Heylin's Cosmogr. l. 1. p. 170. whereby they were encouraged to search after the increase of valour and reputation. At this n Favin. loc. dict. Crescent was fastened as many small pieces of Gold, fashioned like Columes and enameled with red, as the Knights had been present in Battles, Sieges of Towns, Cities, or Castles, which gave due intimation to all men, of their valour showed in martial services; for o Ibid. none could be adopted into this Order, unless he had well merited in some of these kinds. The Knights who were 36 in number (but the Saint Marthe's say 50) did wear for the Habit, p Ibid. Mantles of red or Crimson Velvet, and a Mantlet of White, with the lining and Surcoat of the same. The Order of the Ermine in Britagne. (37.) In the year of Christ r Favin. Theat. d' Honn l. 3. c. 17. Menn. p. 160. 1450. Francis the First of that name, Duke of Bretagne, in memory of his s S. Marthe Hist. Genealog. de la Maison de Fr. Tom. 2. p. 583. Grandfather john, surnamed the Conqueror, or else in imitation of other Princes of the blood in France, founded this Order, consisting t Favin. loco praed. of 25 Knights, and thereupon also, new-built his Castle of the Ermine. He ordained the u Favin. loco praed. Habit to be Mantles of White Damask, lined with Carnation, and the Mantlet of the same. The great w Ibid. Collar to be of Gold, composed of Ears of Corn in Saltire, bound above and beneath with two Circles of Gold (in imitation of the Crown of Ceres) hereby noting the care of Husbandry, which the ancient Counts and Dukes of Bretagne had, as also the fertility of that Province; and hence is this Order otherwise called of the Ears of Corn. x Ibid. At the end of this Collar hung the y Generosum incontaminati & sincerissimi animi Exemplar. Menn. p. 161. Must Ponticus, or Ermine, passing over a Turf of Grass, diapered with Flowers, at the edge whereof was embossed this Epigraph in French, A Ma Vie, the devise of his z S. Marthe, loco praed. Grandfather john, by which he made known the greatness of his courage, and rather than fail of his word, that he would undergo any misfortune. This Order took ending, when the Dukedom of Bretagne became * Gotofrid. Archont. Cosmica. l. 3. p. 12. annexed to the Crown of France, by the marriage of Anne Duchess of Bretagne with Charles the Eighth, and he being dead, with Lewis the Twelfth, both French Kings. The Order of the Ermyne in Naples. (38.) a jos. Micheli, Marquez Tesoro milit. de Cavall. f. 93. b vide porro Io. Pontan. de bello Neopol. l. 1. Io. Bitta Carafa. l. 10. Angel. Constant. l. 20. Anelus Paca de Ordinib. & Societ. milit. Ferdinand the First, King of Naples, after the end of the War which he had with john of Lorain, Duke of Calabria, erected this Order, in the year of our Lord 1463. being moved thereunto upon the Treason intended against him, by Marinus Marcianus Duke of Sessa, and Prince of Rosiona, his Brother-in-law; who raising a confederacy against him, intended to kill him, when they should be together, that so he might transfer the Kingdom to the Duke of Calabria. But this Plot being discovered, and the Duke apprehended by the King (his Subjects expecting that he should have executed Justice upon him) he not only forbore it, but having instituted this Order of Chivalry, the first of many that were invested with the Collar thereof, was this his Brother-in-law, (whom he not only pardoned, but also honoured) and besides whom, admitted all the Noblemen of Title in the Kingdom thereinto. The Collar was of Gold intermixed with Mud or Dirt, to which depended an Ermyne, and this Motto, Malo mori, quam faedari. The Order of St. Michael in Naples. (39) b In Orig. Equest. p. 76. Albertus Miraeus makes this King Ferdinand Founder of another Order of Knighthood in Naples, in memory of St. Michael the Archangel, Patron of Apulia. The c Pag. 77. Habit of the Knights was a long White Mantle, embroidered with Ermyns, and the Collar of Gold composed of the Letters O, to which was added for Symbol, this Epigraph, Decorum. This Order is likewise taken notice of by the Author of the d Pag. 390. jurisprudentia Heroica; but perhaps it may be the same with that of the Ermyn; since we observe the Habit hereof is embroidered with Ermyns, and might be otherwise called of St. Michael, if so be it were dedicated to his honour. The Order of Knights of St. Michael in France. (40.) a S. March. de la Maison de France, tom. 1. l. 1. p. 59 & ●. 1. l. 14. p. 656. Item Mennen. p. 168. & Miraeus. p. 641. Lewis the Eleventh of France, considering how much the Factions of the Nobility of his Realm had disordered his Affairs, to the end he might reunite their affections to himself, and confirm the same, by new obligations of Honour, instituted this Order in the year of our Lord 1469. to which he gave the Title of St. Michael, this Archangel being esteemed the b Princeps Imperii Francorum. Gardien & Procteur du Royaume de France. S. Marthe loco supra cit. titular Angel and Protector of the Realm of France; in c Arthur de Monstier, in Neustria pi●. pag▪ 382. reverence of whom the ancient Kings of France were wont to observe the Feast-day of this Saint with great solemnity, and keep an open Court. This King Lewis by the foundational Statutes of the Order (which passed his Royal Assent at Amboise the d Vincent, Lupan. de Magistrate. Francor: lib. 1. first of August in the year aforesaid) ordained, e In Statutis Ord. Art. 1. That the number of Knights should be 36. whereof himself and his Successors were to be Chief: but afterwards the number far exceeded, even to f Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 1. p. 204. 300. The Collar of this Order is composed of g Stat. Ord. Art. 3. Scallop-shells of Gold, joined one with another and double banded, fastened on small Chains or Males of Gold; to the midst thereof is annexed an Oval of Gold, on which a rising hillock, whereon standeth the Picture of St. Michael combating with, and trampling upon the Dragon, all curiously enameled, to which saith * In Delic. Equest. p. 169. Mennenius was adjoined this Epigraph, Immensi tremor. Oceani. The Habit appointed by the Founder, was a h Art. 32. Mantle of White Damask hanging down to the ground, furred with Ermyn, having its Cape embroidered with Gold, and the border of the Robe interwoven with Scallops of Gold, the Chaperon or Hood, with its long Tippet, was made of Crimson Velvet. But afterwards King Henry the Second ordered, i Theat. d'Hon. l. 3. c. 7. That this Mantle should be made of Cloth of Silver, embroidered with three Crescents of Silver, interwoven with Trophies, Quivers, and Turkish Bows, seemed and cantoned with Tongues and Flames of fire: and moreover that the Chaperons of Crimson Velvet, should be covered with the same embroidery. The k Stat. Ord. Art. 31. grand Assembly was by the Sovereign and Knights directed according to the Statutes, to be held as a solemn Festival on Michaelmas day, and the l Art. 19 place appointed for celebration of these pompous Ceremonies, at the Church of m Mons in procella Maris, vel in periculo Maris, aut Mons in Tumba. Ar. Monstier in Neustria pia. p. 371. Mount St. Michael in Normandy, built by St. Autbert, upon St. Michael's appearing to him in a Vision, and liberally endowed by n Idem, p. 375. ●ollo Duke of Normandy and his o Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 1. p. 205. Successors, but afterwards removed to Bois de Vincennes not far from Paris. There is an Herald of Arms appointed to this Order called Monsieur St. Michael, whose duty is to attend the Solemnities thereof, and q Heylin, loco cit. who in most things is precedented by our Garter, King of Arms. Such care and moderation was used by King Henry the Third of France, when he instituted the Order of the Holy Ghost, not only to preserve the honour of this Order in its full splendour (notwithstanding the example of former times, where the rising of a new Order hath commonly proved the setting of the old) but to reform some miscarriages which had crept into it, by bestowing it upon some me●● and undeserving persons; that he not only continued the annual Solemnities thereof, and Election of Knights thereinto; but also declared, that neither r Stat, de l' Ordre du Saint Esprit. Act. 37. Strangers, nor the Natives of France, who before are Knights of any other Order, should enter into that of the Holy Ghost, except those only of St. Michael. The Collar of which Order is thereby made lawful to be worn, with that of the Holy Ghost, and usually represented within it, that being esteemed the more worthy place: And we are told it is now s Present State of France, Edit. Lond. 1671. p. 314. customary for those that are designed to be Knights of the Holy Ghost, to be admitted into the Order of St. Michael the Evening before they receive that Order. Knights of St. Hubert in Gullick. (41.) t Miraeus Orig. Equest p. 82. Item jurisprud. Heroic. p. 390. Gerard Duke of Gullick and Berg (or as the French call them juliers and Mont) Instituted a Military Order in the year of our Lord 1473. in veneration of St. Hubert Bishop of Liege, who died anno 727. The Statutes thereof were written in the Dutch Tongue, whereunto was added a Catalogue of the Knights and their Arms, to the year of our Lord 1487. But further mention of this Order, or what was the Badge thereof, we do not find. The Order of the Elephant in Denmark. (42.) Observing some difference among u Mennenius, Favin. Micheli, Gothofridus, Heylin, & others. Writers touching the Institution, Collar, and Ensign of this Order, I was in doubt what to say, till at length I haply met with better satisfaction from a Letter wrote anno 1537. by Avo Belde Bishop of Arhusen, sometime Chancellor to john King of Denmark and Norway, unto john Fris Chancellor to King Christian the Third, a Copy whereof was most freely communicated to me by Monsieur Cristofle Lindenow Envoye from Christian the Fifth, now King of Denmark, to his sacred Majesty, the present Sovereign of the most noble Order of the Garter. This Letter informs him of the Institution, and some other particulars relating to the Order, to wit, That King Christian the first being at Rome (whither he had traveled upon a religious account) Pope Sixtus the Fourth, among other Honours▪ invested him with this Order, in memory of the Passion of our Lord and Saviour; and withal ordained, that the dignity of Chief and Supreme, should be continued as a successive right to the succeeding Kings of Denmark. This King founded the magnificent Chapel of the three Kings in the Cathedral Church at Roschilt (four Leagues from Copenhagen) where the Knights were obliged to assemble, upon the death of any of their Fraternity. He also admitted thereinto divers Kings, Princes, and noblemans. The chief Ensign of this Order was the Figure of an Elephant, on whose side (within a Rundle) was represented a Crown of Thorns with three Nails, all bloody; in honour and memory of the Passion of our blessed Saviour. The Knights were obliged to the performance of acts of Piety, Alms Deeds, and certain Ceremonies; especially upon those days, on which they wore the Ensigns of the Order: But King john set so high a value upon it, that he wore them on every solemn Festival. He also advanced the honour of this Order to so great esteem, that it became accepted by both our King Henry the Eighth, and james the Fifth King of Scotland, his Sister's Son; with whom the Ensigns thereof, remained as a Pledge and assurance of constant and perpetual friendship; with these he likewise invested divers Ambassadors, Senators, and noble Danes. There is one Ivarus Nicholai Hertholm, a learned Dane (as I am informed) who hath written a particular Treatise of this Elephantine Order, but not yet printed; The scope whereof is to show, that the beforementioned Epistle of the Bishop of Arhusen does not sufficiently make it appear, that it received its first Institution, when Christian the First had those many Honours conferred on him, by Pope Sixtus the Fourth. And that the Badge was an Ensign merely Military, anciently given as a memorial and incitement to the Danish Princes, who took upon them the defence of Christianity against the Moors and Africans. 'Tis greatly presumed that this Book (which we hope may shortly be published) will furnish the world with many choice things relating to the antiquity and honour of the Institution, Ensigns and Ceremonies of this royal Order. Heretofore the Knights wore a Collar of Gold, composed of Elephants and Crosses, fashioned something like Crosses Ancrees (Mennenius calls them w De Delic. Equest. p. 150. Spurs) at which hung the Picture of the Virgin Mary to the middle, holding Christ in her arms, and surrounded with a Glory of Sunbeams: but they have long since laid this Collar aside, and now wear only a Blue Ribbon, at which hangs an Elephant enameled White, adorned with five large Diamonds set in the middle. Those Elephants worn by the Knights in the Reign of Christian the Fourth, had in the same place within a Circle the Letter C, and in the heart thereof the Figure of 4, made to signify Christianus quartus. This Honour hath been most commonly conferred by the Kings of Denmark, on the day of their Coronation, both upon the Nobles and Senators of the Kingdom. It seems Frederick the Third brought into use (in imitation of the most noble Order of the Garter) an embroidered Glory of Silver Pearl, wrought upon the left side of their Cloak or Vest, on which was embroidered two Crowns within a Rundle, bearing his Motto, Deus providebit; for such a one did Count Gulden● low (Ambassador hither from that King) wear at his residing here in England, anno 1669. But we are to note, that the Motto hath changed with the King, for that of the present King is Pietate & justitia; and this the Knights of his Election now wear, in the middle of the Circle. Nevertheless all the Knights created by his Father, are obliged still to continue the former Motto. The Order of the Burgundian Cross at Tunis. (43.) a Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 180. I. Lud. Gotofrid. Archont. Cosm. l. 3. p. 13. Charles the Fifth, Emperor of Germany and King of Spain, after he had restored muleasses, King of Tunis, to his Kingdom (who had been expulsed thence by that famous Pirate Barbarossa) on the day of his victorious entrade into Tunis, with solemn and magnificent Pomp, was apparelled in a Coat which he used to wear in Battle, whereon was embroidered the Burgundian Cross: and being desirous to gain the good respect of all, who had served in that War, was chiefly willing to adorn the Commanders, that had behaved themselves valiantly in the Victory, with some Badge or token of Honour, as a reward: and for this reason did he institute this Order in the year 1535. on * july 22▪ St. Mary Magdalen's day. To this Burgundian Cross he added a Steel striking sparks of fire out of Flint, with this Inscription BARBARIA, to be the Badge or Ensign thereof: And for an additional Ornament, gave a b jos. Michel's. f. 94. b. vide A. Mendoza de Ord. milit. Disq. 1. Qu●st. 4. n. 105. Collar of Gold, whereat hung the said Badge. c Men. Delic. Equest. loco cit. Some say this Order was instituted at ten of the Clock that day, it being also the hour of Mercury, in which respect the Character of that Planet is usually enameled on the one side of the Jewel, as the Burgundian Cross is on the other. But it was of short continuance, for it expired long since. The Order of Knights of the Holy Ghost in France. (44.) This Order received a Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 3. c. 9 vide perro Delic. Equest. p. 187. Institution from the French King, Henry the Third, the first Chapter being held on the last day of the year 1578. The design thereof was chiefly to b S. March. Hist. Geneal. de la Maison. d● France, Tom. 1. l. 1. p. 60. & l. 16. p. 789. unite and tie his Nobility and Prelates more firmly to their natural obedience, as also to c In Statut. hujus Ordin. Art. 12. stir up and encourage them to persevere in the Romish Religion, to illustrate and adorn the state of the Nobility, and to restore its ancient splendour and dignity. It had its denomination from the Holy Ghost (to d Mennen. p. 288. whose power and assistance the Founder usually ascribed all his Actions and Councils, advanced with most glorious and fortunate successes) in e Favin. Theat. d' Honn. l. 3. c. 7. remembrance that he was born on Whitsonday in the year of our Lord 1550. elected to the Crown of Poland on Whitsonday 1573. and lastly came to the Crown of France on Whitsonday 1574. The number of Knights whereof this Order was to consist, is by the Statutes ordained to be one f Art. 40. hundred, besides the Sovereign or Great Master, which Office and Dignity is g Art. 2. inseparable from the Crown of France. A long h Art. 72. Mantle of Black Velvet turned up on the left side, and opened on the right, was also appointed for the Habit of this Order, being at first embroidered round with Gold and Silver, consisting of Flowers de Lis and Knots of Gold, between three sundry Ciphers of Silver; and above the Flowers de Lis and Knots were thickly seeded or powdered Flames of Fire. This great Mantle was garnished with a i Art. 72. Mantlet of Cloth of Silver, covered with embroidery, made after the same fashion as was the great Mantle, excepting only, that instead of Ciphers there were wrought fair Doves of Silver; and both these robes double-lined with Satin of Orange-tawney colour. The great k Favin. loco nuper cit. Collar of the Order (worn over the Mantlet) was at first composed of Flowers de Lis, cantoned or cornered with Flames of Fire, interwoven with three Ciphers, and divers Monogramms of Silver, one was the Letter H, and a Greek Lambda, both double; the first of these belonging to the Kings own name, the other to the Queen his Wife, Madam Lovisa de Lorraine; the other two were reserved in the Kings own mind, but not without l Briet. Annal. Mundi, pars 4. Tom. 2. p. 310. suspicion of referring to some wanton Amours. But these m Fav. Theat. d' Hon. l. 3. c. 9 Ciphers were taken off from the Collar, and the embroidery of the Robes by Henry the Fourth his Successor, and for a mark of his Battles and Victories, Trophies of Arms were interlaced instead thereof, with the Letter H crowned (because it was also the initial Letter to his Christian name) whereout arose flames and sparks of Fire; and for the like reason hath this Letter H been since changed into the Letter n S. Marthe de la Maison de France, Tom. 1. p. 54. L, both by Lewis the Thirteenth, and Lewis the Fourteenth. At this Collar hung a o Bottle. Histor. Relat. p. 40. Cross, artificially wrought and adorned with a rich enamel, in the midst whereof was represented the form of a Dove, in a flying posture, as descending down from Heaven, with full spread Wings: and to the end an Epigraph might not be wanting, some have attributed to it this, p S. March. Tom. 1. l. 1. p. 61. Deuce & Auspice, thereby to signify, that those who wear it, aught to hope for good success in their designs and enterprises, being guided and assisted by the happy conduct of the Holy Ghost. Besides these Ornaments, the Knights wear a q Boitel. loco cit. Black Velvet Cap. adorned with a white Plume; their r Boitel. loco cit. Breeches and Doublets are of Cloth of Silver, and their Shoes White, tied with Roses or Knots of Black Velvet. The Badges ordained to be ordinarily worn, are a s Stat. Ord. Art. 82. Cross of Yellow or Orange colour Velvet, wrought in the fashion of a Malta Cross, fixed on the least side of the Sovereign's breast (but this at pleasure) and the like Cross sewed on the left side of the upper Garments of the Prelates, Commanders, and Officers; except in actions of Arms, and then they are permitted to wear them of Cloth of Silver, or White Velvet; having in the midst thereof a Dove embroidered in Silver, and at the angles or corners, Rays and Flowers de Lis of Silver. Moreover t Art. 83. a Cross of the Order made of Gold, like to the Cross of Malta also, with a Flower de Lis in each angle thereof, was appointed to be worn about their necks in a Blue Ribbon, and to be enameled White about the sides, but not in the middle; such as are Knights, both of the Order of St. Michael and the Holy Ghost, are to bear the Figure of St. Michael on the one side, and of a Dove on the other. The Anniversary of the grand Feast is ordained to be held on the u Art. 71. first day of the new Year, but the first part of the Ceremony begins always on the w Art. 28. last day of the old; the place for celebrating thereof is the Church of x Art. 79. Augustine Friars in Paris. An account of the first Solemnity, as also of some other which have succeeded in the Reign of King Lewis the Thirteenth, are set forth by Monsieur Boitel, in his historical relations of the Pomps and Ceremonies used at the receiving of several Knights into this Order by this King, and Printed at Paris 1620. The Order of the Precious Blood of our Saviour Jesus Christ of Mantua. (45.) a Mennen. in Delic. Equest. p. 192 videses Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 8. c. 8. Miraeum, p. 74. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 29. Vincentio de Gonzago the Fourth Duke of Mantua, and Second of Montferat, instituted this Order, anno Dom. 1608. for defence and propagation of the Christian Religion, and in honour of three drops of blood of our Saviour and Redeemer; as also the more nobly to set forth the Nuptials of his eldest Son Francisco (who succeeded him in his Dukedoms) with Margaret of Savoy, Daughter to Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy, and Catharine of Austria. It was allowed and approved by Pope b Mennen. in Delic. Equest. p. 192 videses Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 8. c. 8. Miraeum, p. 74. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 29. Paul the Fifth, and consisted of 20 Knights; the Founder declared himself Great Master, and after him his Successors Dukes of Mantua and Montferat. The Collar is filled with variety of fancy and design, being c Mennen. in Delic. Equest. p. 192 videses Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 8. c. 8. Miraeum, p. 74. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 29. composed of Ovals of Gold, some extended in length, others in breadth, and interlinkt with small Annulets. On those Ovals in length, is raised in white enamel, these words, Domine Probâsti; on the other in breadth, upon flames of Fire on a Trevet enameled Black, a Crucible Grey, filled with small rods of Gold; he being desirous to intimate by this devise, that they who entered into this Society, should hold inviolable faith, and perpetual concord, in the greatest trials and extremities. At the end of this Collar is pendent a larger Oval of Gold, in which are expressed d Mennen. in Delic. Equest. p. 192 videses Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 8. c. 8. Miraeum, p. 74. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 29. two Angels standing upright, enameled according to life, holding between them a Chalice crowned, in the Table whereof are figured three drops of blood, enameled Red, and round the Oval, Nihil isto triste recepto. On e Mennen. in Delic. Equest. p. 192 videses Favin. in le Theat. d' Hon. l. 8. c. 8. Miraeum, p. 74. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Quaest 2. sect. 29. Whitsonday, in the year 1608. were the first Ceremonies of this Order performed, in the Duke's Chapel of the Palace at Mantua. The Order of Amaranta in Sweden. (46.) This Order of the Knights of Amaranta, was instituted by Christina Queen of Sweden about the year 1645. in honour of a Lady of that name of great beauty, courage, modesty, and charity: The chief Ensign is a Jewel of Gold, composed of two great AA, adorned with Diamonds on both fides, and joined together by reversing one of them, being set within a Circle of Laurel Leaves wreathed about with White, and on the four sides this Motto, Dolce nella memoria; which Jewel the Knights wear, either in a Gold Chain, or a Crimson or Blue Ribbon, as they best like of. The Ceremony used at the Investiture of these Knights with this Ensign, is briefly this. The Queen being seated under her state, the designed Knight is brought up, with usual Reverences, and approaching near the Queen, he knelt before her, than she in a short speech acquaints him with the inducements that invited her to bestow this honour, enumerating his services and merits; to which he makes a return of humble thanks. This done, he takes his Oath, still kneeling and holding his hands between the Queen's hands; the effect whereof is to defend the Queen's person from harm, and the persons of the Brothers of the Order, to promote to his power, Justice, Virtue, and Piety, and to discountenance Vice, Injury, and Wickedness. Having obliged himself to the performance of this Oath, the Queen puts about him (in the manner of a Baudrick) a Crimson Silk Scarf, with the jewel fastened thereto, after which the Knight ariseth and retireth, with all suitable reverence. To an absent Prince or great Personage, whom the Queen intends to honour with this Order; ●he sends the Jewel, accompanied with her Letter, which serves instead of a personal Investiture. Among many others admitted thereinto, were Vladislaus Sigismundus late King of Poland, Carolus Gustavus late King of Sweden, and Adolphus johannes his Brother, also john George Duke of Saxony, the Landgrave of Hesse, several Germane Princes, the Count Montecuculi General of the Horse to the Emperor, Don Antonio Piementelli de Parada Envoye Extraordinary from the King of Spain, as also divers great Lords of the Court of Sweden; and of our Nation, Sir Bulstrode Whiteloke, to whose friendly civility we are obliged for the foregoing Account. SECT. II. Of Knights in the West-Indies. IF after all these we take some prospect of those Martial Honours, bestowed in the West-Indies, which the Europeans commonly call by the Title of Knighthood; as having some resemblance to it from the nature of the Ceremonies, used at the entrance and admittance into that Dignity, and the end for which they were bestowed; we shall find they properly enough deserve mention here. The a Purchas Pilgrimage, part 3. p. 1063. Mexicans gave the first place of Honour to the profession of Arms; and therefore on such as had performed valiant services in Wars, they bestowed great recompense, and gave them sundry Privileges, which none else might enjoy. Valour and Courage were with them the steps by which a man of mean extraction, ascended to high dignity and honour; and therefore the chief of their Nobility commonly sprung from the Camp. Among whom b Ibid. Eagle Knights. Moteçuma set Knighthood in highest splendour, Mexican Knights. ordaining certain Military Orders, with several Badges and Ensigns. The most honourable among the Knights, were those that carried the crown of their Hair tied with a little Red Ribbon, having a rich Plume of Feathers, from which did hang branches and rolls of Feathers upon their shoulders. They carried so many of these rolls, as they had done worthy deeds in War. The King himself was of this Order, as may be seen in Capultepec, where Moteçuma, and his Sons are represented, attired with those kind of Feathers cut in the Rock. There was another Order of Knighthood, Lion & Tiger Knights. which they called of the c Ibid. Lions and Tigers; these Knights being commonly the most valiant, and most noted in the Wars, and always bore with them their Badges and Armouries. Other Knights there were, Grey Knights. as the d Ibid. Grey Knights, not so much respected as the rest, they had their Hair cut round about the ear. They went to the Wars, with Ensigns like the other Knights, yet not armed, but to the Girdle, while the most honourable were armed all over. All Knights might carry Gold and Silver, wear rich Cotton, use painted and gilt Vessels, wear Shoes after their manner; but the common people only earthen Vessels, neither might they carry Shoes, nor attire themselves but in a gross Stuff called Nequen. e Ib. p. 1064. Every Order of these Knights had their Lodging in the Palace, noted with their Ensigns; the first was called the Lodging of the Prince, the second of Eagles, the third of Lions and Tigers, and the fourth of Grey Knights. They of the Province of Cinaola (an Inland part near new Mexico) created their Knights by giving a Bow, Knights of Cinaola. then setting them to encounter a Lion, or some other wild Beast; the death of which was accounted the life of their Gentility. The f Purcha● Pilgrim. part 3. p. 1045. Inguas Lords of Peru, in their solemn Feasts at Cusco, dedicated their Children to Honour, by adorning them with Guarras or Ensigns. They pierced their Ears, whipped them with Slings, anointed their Faces with Blood, and all in sign that they should be true Knights to the Ingua. Those of the g Ib. part 4. p. 1474. blood royal in Peru, Knights of Peru. before they received the Degree of Knighthood, passed through sundry probations, but chiefly they performed some Military Exercises, and managed the Lance, Dart, and other Arms. The manner and order of trial of their skill and courage, was both rigorous and severe; h Ibid. as abstaining from all things for seven days, except a little raw Corn and Water, then being heartened again, their running of Races, afterwards, one day holding out, another besieging a Fort, than Wrestling, Leaping, Shooting, Slinging, throwing the Dart and Lance, exercising in all Weapons of War, and enduring to be beaten on the hands and legs with wands; all these things tending to discover whether they could bear the hard adventures of War, or not; which trials if they could not manfully suffer, they were rejected and denied Knighthood. Next followed the Circumstances and Ceremonies of their Creation, as i Ibid. boaring a hole in the Ears, putting on gallant Shoes, as also Breeches, which before they might not wear, adorning their heads with Flowers, and an Herb that none else might use; and lastly giving an Axe into their hands. All which Mr. Purchas having set down at large, we thought it less needful to be more particular. These Knights are by k In Delic. Equest. p. 196. Mennenius called Oreiones, from the Spanish word Orejas, which signifies flap or loll-eared, and in Latin Auriculares, either from the Leaf which they carried hanging in their Ears, or as jos. Micheli saith, l Tesoro Milit, de Cavall. f. 96. a. for that they were only to negotiate, and treat of great Affairs with the Emperor, and had his ear at all times. To these we shall add the account we have of an Order of Knights in japan, Knights of Japan. entitled m Ibid. f. 7●. Mengoras, part of them are called Bonzoes', living in Fraternities, as do our religious Brotherhoods in Europe. Some of these relate to their Temples, and have the charge of their Idols, and the service appertaining to them; others are Knights and follow the Wars, accepting pay from any Lord that employs them. Of this Order there are found to be about 30000. who in many things bear parallel with the Religious Knights in Europe: They profess Chastity with such severity, that into their Cities no Woman may enter. They have the Rule given them over those Kingdoms which they conquer, and are very rich; some of them having not less than 60000 Ducats per annum Revenue. Every day they make and present five Arrows to the public Armoury, which is a very prudent provision, in regard no man is sensible of the charge; and thereby they find themselves well provided upon all occasions. SECT. III. The Feminine Cavaliers of the Torch in Tortosa. AND now, in close of our Discourse of the Orders of Knighthood, give us leave to bring up the rear, with a memorial relating to Feminine Valour, and of the later Age (for we shall not need to instance in the Amazons of old, whose fame in Arms is so generally known) since some of that Sex, having acquired honour and renown, by their personal courage and valiant exploits; have had bestowed on them the privilege of living after the manner, and in the esteem of Knights. The Example is of the noble Women of Tortosa in Arragon, and recorded by joseph Micheli Marquez, who plainly calls them a Cavalleros' del Passatiempo del Hacha. Tesoro Mil. de Cavall. f. 96. b. Cavalleroes, or Knights; or may I not rather say Cavalleras, seeing I observe the words b jurisp. Heroit. p. 413. Equitissae and Militissae (formed from the Latin Equites and Milites) heretofore applied to Women, and sometimes used to express Madams, or Ladies; though now these Titles are not known. c Tes. Milit. loco. cit. Don Raymond, last Earl of Barcelona (who by an intermarriage with * Hiet. Blancus in Serie Regum Arragon. Petronilla, only Daughter and Heir of King Ramiro the Monk, united that Principality to the Kingdom of Arragon) having, in the year 1149. gained the City of Tortosa from the Moors, they on the 31. of December following, laid a new Siege to that place, for the recovery of it out of the Earls hands. The Inhabitants being at length reduced to great straits, desired relief of the Earl; but he being not in a condition to give them any, they entertained some thoughts of making a surrender. Which the Women hearing of, to prevent the disaster threatening their City, themselves, and Children; put on men's Clothes, and by a resolute sally, forced the Moors to raise the Siege. The Earl, finding himself obliged, by the gallantry of the action, thought ●it to make his acknowledgements thereof, by granting them several Privileges and Immunities; and, to perpetuate the memory of so signal an attempt, d Don Ramon Berenguel ultimus Comes Barchinonae ●arum Foe●ninarum Congregationem, seu quasi militiam formavit, elictam de la Hacha, quia in capite gestabant purpuream Fa●is formam. Mendoza de Ord. Milit. Disq. 1. Q. 4. num. 106. Instituted an Order, somewhat like a Military Order, into which were admitted only those brave Women, deriving the honour to their Descendants, and assigned them for a Badge, a thing like a Friar's Capouche, sharp at the top, after the form of a Torch, and of a crimson colour, to be worn upon their Headclothes. He also ordained, that at all public meetings, the Women should have precedence of the Men; That they should be exempted from all Taxes; and that all the Apparel and Jewels, though of never so great value, left by their dead Husbands, should be their own. These Women (saith our Author) having thus acquired this Honour by their personal Valour, carried themselves after the manner of Military Knights of those days. We may also, not unfitly, bring in here a word or two, of a more general Ornament of Honour, not long since made peculiar to this fair Sex, to wit, that of the Cordon; which some will have to be an e L'Ordre de la Cordeliere, ou du Cordon. Nouveau Theatre du Monde. Tom. 2. p. 1413. Ordo Funigerae vel Funis. Gotosr. Archont. Cesm. l. 3. p. 13. Order, or somewhat equivalent thereto, under that Title. The f Ibid. Institution of it, is attributed to Anne of Britain, Wife to Charles the Eighth of France, who instead of the Military Belt, or Collar, bestowed a Cordon or Lace on several Ladies, admonishing them to live chastely and devoutly, always mindful of the Cords and Bonds of our Saviour jesus Christ; and to engage them to a greater esteem thereof, she surrounded her Escocheon of Arms with the like Cordon. From which Example, it is since drawn into use, that the Arms of unmarried Ladies and Gentlewomen (usually represented on Escocheons made after the form of a Lozenge) are adorned with such a Cordon. But if we look back into ancient times, we may see when Women among the Romans were first thought worthy of enjoying respect and peculiar favours; and in particular, out of a great honour to the Mother of Marcus Coriolanus, the liberty of wearing the Segmenta aurea, or bordures of Gold and Purple on their Garments (the latter of which the Romans raised to an high esteem) was g Caldernius ad Martialem annotat. first permitted to the Roman Matrons, since she had so extraordinarily deserved of that Commonwealth, by h Liv. lib. 2. c. 40. An. Vrbe Conned 264. vide Plutarch. in vita Coriolani. diverting the fury of her Son, and drawing off his Army from before the City, whose ruin he had threatened, upon a just resentment of the Citizen's ingratitude towards him; in memorial of which i Liv. lib. 2. c. 40. An. Vrbe Conned 264. vide Plutarch. in vita Coriolani. preservation, was there also a Temple erected and dedicated to the Female Fortune. On this occasion also, other accessions of honour and respect were decreed to this Sex; namely k Cujacius l. 12. Observat. c. 24. to have place in passing on the way, and the permission of wearing golden Earrings. To all which the Romans willingly condescended for her sake, whose powerful persuasions, and rhetorical tears, had gained them so great a deliverance. CHAP. IU. OF THE Castle, Chappel, AND College OF Windesor. SECT. I. Of the Castle of Windesor. ALthough we intent hereafter (God assisting) to make public a complete History of the Antiquities of the Castle, Chappel, College, and Town of Windesor by itself (towards which we have already made some progress) nevertheless we are obliged to give a brief Account of such of them here, as bear a particular relation to our chief design unfolded in the succeeding Chapters: and more especially, for that the Chapel of St. George is situate in this stately Castle, made highly illustrious by those many pompous Solemnities of the most noble Order of the Garter, exhibited within its Walls. To begin then with the Place; it's ancient name [Wyn●le●ho●a] seems to claim no greater antiquity than of the Saxon times, and as our Learned a In Attrebat. Cambden conjectures, received this denomination from the winding of the shore thereabouts; as did Wandsworth in Surrey, anciently written b Rot. Cart. Antiq tit. CC, num. 2. Windlesworth, and probably for the same reason. The first authentic notice we have of it (for we rely not upon the reports of Geofry of Monmouth, or his Followers) is from that Instrument of Donation, which King Edward the Confessor made thereof, among other Lands, to the Monastery of St. Peter's at Westminster, wherein it is declared, that this King, c Monast. Anglican. Tom. ●. p. 61. for the hope of eternal reward, the remission of all his sins, the sins of his Father, Mother, and all his Ancestors, to the praise of Almighty God, granted as an endowment and perpetual inheritance, to the use of the Monks there, that served God, Wyndleshore, (situate within, yet at the East point of the County of Berks) with all its appurtenances. But it continued not long in their possession, for King William the Conqueror, the first year of his Reign, being greatly enamoured of the pleasant situation of the place, and d Ex praf. Rot. Cartar. antiq. loco citato. for that it seemed exceeding profitable and commodions, because situate so near the Thames, the Wood fit for Game, and many other particulars lying there meet and necessary for Kings, yea a place very convenient for his reception; invited Eadwin the then Abbot and Monks, to accept in exchange for it e Ibid. Wokendune in Ceaford Hundred in the County of Essex, a Mansion called Ferings, with all its Members and Hamlets in Lexedene Hundred in the same County, together with fourteen Sokemen and their Lands, and one Freeholder in Thurestaple Hundred, who held one yard Land, belonging to the said Mansion, with three Houses in Coleceastra; and hereupon was it again returned to the Crown, where it hath ever since remained. The King being thus possessed of Windesor, forthwith built a Castle upon the Hill, which we find by f Bercsta. Terra Radulfi filii Seifridi. Radulfus filius Seifridi tenet de Rege Clivore, pro quinque Hidis, modo pro quatuor Hidis & dimid. Castellum de Wyndesores est in dimidia Hida. doomsday Book, contained half a Hide of Land, and that half Hide is there noted to be parcel of the Manner of Clure. This Castle King Henry the First g Hen. Hunt. foe 217. b. Londini 1596. re-edified, and beautified with many goodly buildings; and to entertain himself with the pleasure thereof, did in the h Hen. Hunt. foe 217. b. Londini 1596. tenth year of his reign, summon all his Nobility thither, where he held his Whitsuntide with great state and magnificence. Shortly after, we find this Castle called i Spelman. Gloss. Archaiolog. verbo Mota. Mota de Windesor, the Fortress of Windesor, as the Tower of London is called Turris de London; both which are so termed in a Charter of Peace between King Stephen and Duke Henry (afterwards King of England, by the Title of Henry the Second) and this word Mota, is here used for what the French call Mote, or k A little Hill, or high place, a Seat for a Fort, or strong House. Motte, being the same with Collis, or Colliculus, and Meta in Latin, viz. a little Hill. Within this Castle was King Edward the Third l Claus. de anno 6. E. 2. membrana 22. Dors. born (whence commonly called Edward of Windesor) and received his Baptism in the old Chapel. The native affection he bore to this place was exceeding great, insomuch as he constituted it the Head and Seat of that most noble Order of the Garter, whereof himself became the most renowned Founder; in honour to which he there also founded the College of the Chapel of St. George, and much enlarged and beautified the Castle: To this work he appointed several Surveyors, whom he assigned to press Hewers of Stone, Carpenters, and such other Artificers, as were thought useful and necessary, so also to provide Stone, Timber, and other materials and Carriages for them; among these Surveyors, we find remembered m Pat. de anno 23. E. 3. pars. 1. m. 10. john Peyntour, n Pat. 24. E. 3. pars 1. m. 23. Richard de Rochel, o Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 2. m. 21. Dorso. William de Hurl, William de Herland, p Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 2. m. 11. Robert de Bernham, and some others. And to the end this great undertaking might be honestly and substantially performed, the King assigned q Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 1. m. 12. john Brocas, Oliver de Bordeaux, and Thomas de Foxle, jointly and severally, with all care and diligence (at least together once a Month) to survey the Workmen and their works, and to encourage such as did their duty competently well, but to compel others that were idle and slothful. He afterwards commissionated r Pat. 27. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. Dorso. Pat. 28. E. 3. p. 1. m. 20. john de Alkeshull, and Walter Palmer to provide Stone, Timber, Led, Iron, and all other necessaries for the work; and to impressed Carriages for their conveyance to Windesor. William de Wyckham (who attained to the Dignity of Bishop of Winchester, and was the second Prelate of the Garter) had a s Pat. 30. E. 3. p. 3. m. 21 Supervisor's or Surveyor's place granted to him by Letters Patents bearing Teste at Westminster the thirtieth of October anno 30. E. 3. He had like powers given him with those Surveyors first abovenamed, and a grant of the same Fee as had been formerly allowed to t Pat. 30. E. 3. p. 3. m. 21 Robert de Bernham, viz. u Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 2. m. 11. One shilling a day, while he stayed at Windesor in his employment, two shillings a day when he went elsewhere about that affair, and three shillings a week for his Clerk: which like allowances had been first of all made to w Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 23. Richard de Rochel. Afterwards he had bestowed upon him the x Pat. 33. E. 3. p. 2. m. 20. chief custody and surveyorship of this Castle, of the Manors of Old and New Windesor, and of several other Castles, Manors, and Houses enumerated in his Letters Patents, with power to appoint and dispose of all Workmen, buy necessaries for Reparation, provide Carpenters, Masons, and other Artificers, Stone, Timber, etc. y Pat. 33. E. 3. p. 2. m. 20. and in those Manors to hold Leets and other Courts, Pleas of Trespass and Misdemeanours, to inquire of the King's liberties, rights, and all things appertaining thereunto. It may be presumed, that about the thirty fourth year of this King's Reign, the most considerable enlargement of the Castle was made, seeing there were then great store of the best Diggers and Hewers of Stone, impressed in London, and out of divers Counties in England, by virtue of z Claus. 34. E. 3. m. 34. Writs, directed to several Sheriffs (dated the 14. of April in that year) with command to send them to Windesor, by the Sunday next after the Feast of St. George at the furthest, there to be employed at the King's Wages, so long as was necessary, viz. London. 40 Essex and Hertford. 40 Wilts. 40 Leycest. and Worcest. 40 Cambridge and Huntingd. 40 Kent. 40 Gloucester. 40 Somerset and Devon. 40 Northampton. 40 Herewith the Sheriffs were commanded to take sufficient security of these Workmen, not to depart from Windesor without the Licence of William de Wyckham (who was appointed to return the same Securities into the Court of Chancery) and all this, under the penalty of one hundred pounds to each respective Sheriff. And because divers of these Workmen, for gain and advantage, had afterwards clandestinely lest Windesor, and were entertained by other persons, upon greater Wages, to the King's great damage, and manifest retarding of his Work, a Claus. 36. E. 3. m. 36. Dorso. Writs were therefore directed to the Sheriffs of London, with command to make Proclamation, to inhibit any person, whether Clerk or Layman, under forfeiture of all they had forfeitable, for employing or retaining any of them, as also to arrest such as had so run away, and commit them to Newgate, and from time to time to return their names into the Chancery. But a great number of them dying of the great Pestilence, other b Ibid. m. 33. Writs issued (30. of March, anno 36. E. 3.) to the Sheriffs of several Counties (not of the former number) That under the penalty of two hundred pounds apiece, they should send to Windesor, able and skilful Masons and Diggers of Stone, to be there on Sunday the Utas of Easter at furthest, to be employed in the Works, namely to the Sheriffs of. York. 60 Derby. 24 Salop. 60 Hereford. 50 Nottingham. 24 Lancaster. 24 Devon. 60 It was the thirty seventh year of this King, or e'er the Buildings were ready for Glazing, and then c Pat. 37. E. 3. pars prima, m. 28. Henry de Stamerne and john Brampton, were employed to buy Glass in all places of the Kingdom, where it was to be sold: to press four and twenty Glasiers, and convey them to London, to work there at the King's Wages; and d Ibid. m. 30. twelve Glasiers for Windesor, to be employed in like manner within the Castle. In this year also, the work went effectually on, as may be guessed from the great store of e Pat. 37. E. 3. p. 1. m. 12. & 29. Workmen pressed for this service, as also Carriages for Stone and Timber, much of the Stone being digged out of the Quarries of f Ib. m. 26. Wellesford, Helwell, and Careby, and the next year, not only in these, but in the Quarries of g Pat. 38. E. 3. p. 1. m. 29. Heseleberg, and Demelby, and the following year out of the Quarry of h Pat. 39 E. 3. p. 1. m. 37. Melton. From hence to the forty third year of this King's Reign, we find Artificers were yearly pressed, and the buildings of the Castle seriously pursued; but after we meet with nothing in that kind mentioned to be done, until the eight and fortieth year, and thence not any thing during his Reign. So that it's to be presumed, this famous piece for magnificence and strength, was for the greatest part finished in his said forty third year, that is to say, the King's Palace, the great Hall of St. George, the Lodgings on the East and South side of the upper Bailie or Ward, the Keep or Tower in the middle Ward, the Chapel of St. George, the Houses for the Custos and Canons in the lower Ward, together with the whole circumference of the Walls, and their several Towers and Gates, as now they stand. In succeeding times, some other additions were made to the buildings within the Castle; in particular, King Henry the Seventh added that stately Fabric, adjoining to the King's Lodgings, in the upper Ward. King i Leland ad Cygneam Cantionem verb. Windlesora. Henry the Eighth new built the great Gate, at the entrance into the lower Ward. King Edward the Sixth began, and Queen k Ex Lib. Compet. penes— Harris nuper de Windesor gen. an. 1660. Mary perfected the bringing of Water from Blackmore Park in Wingfield Parish, into a Fountain of curious workmanship, erected in the middle of the upper Ward, which served all the Castle. Queen Elizabeth made a l Cambden in Atrebat. Terrace Walk on the North-side of the Castle, from whence there is a pleasant prospect down upon Eton College, the Thames, and neighbouring Country. And King Charles the First, an. 1636. built the Gate at the East end of the said Terrace, leading into the Park. Lastly, his now Majesty out of a particular regard to this princely place, hath issued great sums of money in its repair, and furnishing it with a curious and gallant Magazine of Arms; so well ordered and kept, that it is worthy the sight of every Traveller. And here our learned Cambden's elegant Description of this Castle's situation, must not be omitted; m Cambden, loco cit. For from an high Hill (saith he) that riseth with a gentle ascent, it enjoyeth a most delightful prospect round about; Foreright in the Front, it overlooketh a Vale, lying out far and wide, garnished with Cornfields, flourishing with Meadows, d●ckt with Groves on either side, and watered with the most mild and calm River Thames: behind it arise Hills every where, neither rough nor over high, attired as it were with Woods, and even dedicated, as one would say, by Nature to hunting Game. With this let us offer what Sir Iohn Denham's ingenious Muse hath rarely limned out of its situation also and majestic fabric. n Cooper's Hill. Windesor the next (where Mars with Venus dwells, Beauty with strength) above the Valley swells Into my eye, and doth itself present With such an easy and unforced ascent, That no stupendious precipice denies Access, no horror turns away our Eyes: But such a Rise, as doth at once invite A pleasure, and a reverence from our sight. Thy mighty Master's Emblem, in whose face Sat Meekness heightened with Majestic Grace; Such seems thy gentle height, made only proud To be the basis of that pompous load, Than which, a nobler weight no Mountain bears, But Atlas only that supports the Spheres. And now to afford our Reader's Eye, yet more pleasure and satisfaction, than these verbal Descriptions can do his fancy; we shall here insert the exact Draughts of several Views and Prospects of this princely and magnificent Structure. This Castle is under the government of a Constable, whose Office is of great antiquity, honour, and power, but of little profit. The use and signification of the word Constabularius (with others of a near spelling, and like sense, found in Historians) is showed by the learned o Gloss. Archaiolog. verbo Constabularius. Spelman, and particularly applied to the Governor of a Castle, the French call him Chastelan, whom we call Constable of a Castle, but in the Rolls of King John's time (which is as high as we have any) the Governor of this Castle is called Constable, and under that title hath the Office ever since passed. p Ex relatione Bulstrode Whiteloke, Ordinit Amarant. Milit. His Office is mixed, partly Military, and partly Civil; as a Military Officer, pertains to him the sole Command of the place, and of any Garrison placed there, as also of the Magazine of Arms, Stores, and Houses. He is obliged to defend it against all Enemies, whether domestic or foreign, hath the charge of Prisoners brought thither; and is answerable for them, and for all that is in the Castle to the King, under whom he is Captain or Governor there. Prospect of the Castle from the S. E. Prospect of WINDSOR CASTLE. from the North. He hath a Deputy learned in the Law, who is called Steward of the Court of Record, and is Keeper of the Constables Seal of Office, belonging to this Court, with which all things issuing out of it are sealed. This Officer supplies the Constable's places as judge of that Court of Pleas, from whose Judgement the appeal is by Writ of Error returnable in the Kings-Bench, or Common-Pleas at Westminster. The Constable of this Castle is likewise chief Forester and Warden of the Forest of Windesor, which is one hundred and twenty miles in compass: He hath under him one or more Lieutenants at his pleasure, with several other Officers, and hath power to imprison any Trespasser in Vert or Venison, being convicted according to the Law of the Forest, having a Prison in the Castle for that purpose, called the Colehole. This Command of his, is not only great, but full of pleasure (specially to such a one as takes delight in Hunting) for he hath the freedom of using the sports of the Forest when he pleaseth, which none else can do, unless the King's licence, or Constables leave be first obtained. He signs all Warrants to kill Dear (except what the King signs) to fell Timber and Wood He that was Chastelain of this Castle in William the Conqueror's Reign, was q Cambd. in Atrebat. Walter fitz Other, from whom the Honourable Family of Baron's Windesor are descended; and the present Constable is his Highness' Prince Rupert. SECT. II. Of the Chapel of St. George. PRoceed we next to the Chapel of St. George, situate in the lower Ward or Court of this princely Castle, concerning which, we think fit to give our present discourse commencement at the foundation of the College within this Chapel, by King Edward the Third, because it had a peculiar respect to the most noble Order of the Garter; and wave speaking of the first erection thereof by King h Ex lib. N. p. 13. in Pro●emio. See Stow in Ed. 3. Henry the First, who i Pat. ●2. E. 3. p. 2. m. 6. dedicated it to King Edward the Confessor. First therefore, we shall observe, That King Edward the Third, shortly after he had founded the College (of which we shall treat in the next Section) thought it convenient to pull down the old Chapel, and to erect another more large and stately: Hereupon he granted to k Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 2● john de Sponlee the Office of Master of the Stone-hewers, and gave him power to l Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 2● take and press, as well within Liberties as without, so many Masons and other Artificers as were necessary, and to convey them to Windesor, to work at the King's pay, but to arrest and imprison such as should disobey or refuse, until the King took other order; with a command to all Sheriffs, Mayors, Bailiffs, etc. to be assisting to him on the King's behalf. The following year this King assigned m Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 1. m. 10. james de Dorchester, Subconstable of the Castle, to keep a control upon all the Provisions whatsoever, bought for the works of the Chapel, as also on the payments made for the same, and all other things relating thereunto. Together with this Fabric he erected several Houses near adjoining for the Custos and Canons to inhabit in, and afterwards King Henry the Fourth gave to them a n Pat. 10. H. 4. p. 2. m. 13. void place in the Castle called the Wodehawe, nigh to the great Hall, for building of Houses and Chambers for the Vicars, Clerks, Choristers, and the other Ministers, assigned to the service of the Chapel. But King Edward the Fourth (whose inclination to, and kindness for this place was extraordinary) finding upon survey, that the former foundation and walls of the Chapel of St. George were in his time very much decayed and consumed, and esteeming the Fabric not large or stately enough, designed to build one more noble and excellent in its room. To this purpose he constituted Richard Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury, Master and Surveyor of the work. And taking notice, that divers of the o Pat. 15. E. 4. p. 2. m. 17. Officiary Houses, and other irregular Buildings and old Walls stood in his way, and hindered the design he had to enlarge the Structure, gave the Bishop power wholly to remove all such impediments, and to demolish and dig up their Foundations; particularly those ancient Buildings on the East-side of the Chapel, which reached unto the Walls on the North-side of the Castle, where the Towers, commonly called Clure is Tower, and Le Amener is Tower, and Barner is Tower were situated; as also on the Southside of the Chapel, unto the Belfry there, exclusively, and to employ the Stone, Timber, and other materials thereof, upon such Edifices in the Castle, as he should think most convenient. With what diligence and sedulity, and how well the Bishop performed this Office and Employment, appears from the testimony given him by the King in the preamble of that Patent, by which he shortly after constituted him Chancellor of the Garter, to wit, p Pat. 15. E. 4. p. 3. m. 18. That out of mere love towards the Order, he had given himself the leisure, daily to attend the advancement and progress of this goodly Fabric. From the new Foundation thus laid by King Edward the Fourth, arose (like a Phoenix out of its ashes) the elegant and beauteous Structure now standing, enlarged in length at least q Bulla de concessione Episcopo Sar: ad condendum novas Ordinationes. one hundred fathom (whose order and figure, as well on the outside as the several Views from within, are here represented) though it attained not its beauty and perfection, until the Reign of King Henry the Eighth; together with the Dean and Canons Houses, situate on the North-side of the Chapel, and those for the Petty Canons, raised at the West end thereof, in form of a Fetter-lock, (one of King Edward the Fourths Royal Badges) and so vulgarly called. In Henry the Seventh's Reign, Sir Reginald Bray, (one of the Knights-Companions of the Order) became a liberal Benefactor towards finishing the Body of this Chapel, and building the middle Chapel on the South side thereof, still called by his name (where his body lies interred) as is manifest not only from his last r Ex Lib. vocat. Blaymer in Officio Praerogat. Cant. n. 26. Will, but also from his Arms, Crest, and the initial Letters of his Christian and Surname, cut in Stone, and placed in divers parts of the Roof. By s Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. Collegii Windesor. Indenture dated the fifth of june, in the one and twentieth year of this King's Reign, john Hylmer, and William Virtue Free Masons, undertook the vaulting of the Roof of the Choir (that curious and excellent piece of Architecture) for seven hundred pounds, and to finish it by Christmas, anno Dom. 1508. In his Son and Successors reign the t Lib. N. p. 204. Rood-loft and Lantern were erected, with the contributions raised among the Knights-Companions, anno 8. H. 8. Adjoining to the East end of this Chapel was a little Building of Freestone raised by Cardinal Wolsey, called the Tombe-house, in the middle whereof he designed to erect a goodly Monument for King Henry the Eighth, and had well-nigh finished it before he died. But this was demolished in April 1646. by command of the long Parliament, and the Statues and Figures provided to adorn it, being all of Copper gilt, and exceedingly enriched by Art, were taken thence. This place w Ex relatione Dan. Stokes, nuper unius Canon. Coll. de Windesor. King Charles the First, of ever blessed and glorious memory, intended to enlarge, and make fit and capable, not only for the interment of his own royal Body, but also for the Bodies of his Successors Kings of England, had not bad times drawn on, and such, as with much ado, afforded him but an obscure Grave, near the first haut-pace in the Choir of this Chapel, his Head lying over against the eleventh Stall on the Sovereign's side, and in the same Vault, where the Bodies of King Henry the Eighth, and his last Queen yet remain. The Prospect of St. George's Chapel, from the South, The Tomb House. The Groundplot of St. George's Chapel. PROSPECT OF THE INSIDE OF THE CHAPEL 1. The middle Isle, 2 The South Isle, 3 The North Isle, 4 The Pulpit, 5 The Choir Dore, 6 Roof of the N●u●, 7 Roof of the Choir, 8 East Window of the Choir. Fourth, under a large Stone of Tuch, raised within the opposite Arch, at the North side of the Altar, but without Inscription also; having on the outside of his Grave a range of Steel gilt, set to enclose it from the North Isle, cut excellently well in Church-work. Over this Arch hung this King's Coat of Male, gilt, covered over with crimsoit Velvet, and thereon the Arms of France and England quarterly, richly embroidered with Pearl and Gold, interwoven with divers Rubies. This Trophy of honour had ever since his Funeral hung safely over his Grave, but was plundered thence by Captain Fogg the twenty third day of October 1642. (on which day he also robbed the Treasury of the Chapel of all the rich Plate, dedicated to the use of the Altar) yet having met with an exact measure and size of each part thereof, as also of his Banner, both heretofore taken by Sir William le Neve, sometime Clarenceux King of Arms, an exact observator of any thing curious, referring to Arms or Ceremony, we think fit to transmit it thus to posterity. y Ex Collecta●. praes. Will. le Neve. The Coat of Arms was two foot seven inches deep, and below two foot in breadth. Above (the Maunches being extended) in breadth three foot and six inches: whereof the length of each Maunch, was one foot. The breadth of the upper part of the Coat besides the Maunches one foot and a half. The breadth of each Maunch one foot and eight inches. The Arms were embroidered upon Velvet, lined with Satin, and better wrought than they use to work in these days. The Banner which also hung over his Grave, was of Taffeta, and thereon painted quarterly France and England; it had in breadth three foot four inches, besides a Fringe of about an inch broad, and in depth five foot and four inches, besides the Fringe. There were within this Chapel of St. George several Chantries, endowed with Lands, and other Revenues, appointed for the maintenance of Chaplains and Priests, to sing Masses there, for the Souls of their Founders, and their Kindred: As first, z Ex ipso Autogr. in Aer●r. Colleg. Windesor. William of Wickham Bishop of Winchester, gave two hundred Marks for buying of twenty Marks Rend per annum, to sustain a Chaplain to celebrate Mass in this Chapel, for the health of his Soul, the Soul of King Edward the Third, of the said Bishop's Father, Mother, and all his Benefactors: The Covenants between him and the Dean and Chapter for performance thereof, bear date at Windesor the 29. of May, anno 3. H. 8. The a Ex ipso Autogr. in Aera●. praed. 26. of November, anno 18. E. 4. the Feossees of Richard Duke of Gloucester, confirmed and delivered to the Dean and Chapter, the Manors of Bentfieldbury in the County of Essex, Knapton in the County of Norfolk, and Chellesworth in the County of Suffolk; who thereupon granted (among other things) that they and their Successors should cause yearly for ever, a Mass to be daily celebrated in this Chapel, for the good estate of the said Duke, and of Anne his Duchess while they lived, and their souls when dead; as also for the souls of their Parents and Benefactors. b Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. praef. Sir Thomas St. Leger Knight (sometime Husband to Anne Duchess of Exeter, Sister to King Edward the Fourth) founded a Chantry of two Priests, who (in the middle Chapel, situate on the North side of the Church) were ordained to pray for the healthful estate of King Edward the Fourth, and his Queen, and Cicely Duchess of York the King's Mother, while they lived, and for their souls when dead: as also for the Soul of Richard Duke of York, the good estate of the said Sir Thomas, and Richard Bishop of Salisbury, then living, and after their decease for their souls, and the soul of Anne Duchess of Exeter. The Foundation of this Chantry and the Covenants between Sir Thomas St. Leger, and the Dean and College, are dated the 20. of April, anno 22. E. 4. By the c Lib. voca●▪ Denton in Aerar prae●. f. 260. last Will of King Edward the Fourth, a Chantry was ordained to be founded of two Priests, to serve at his Tomb, to whom was appointed an exhibition of twenty Marks yearly apiece. They were called King Edward's Chantry Priests. The d Ibid. f. 241. Chantry of Thomas Passche (one of the Canons of this Chapel) was founded for a Priest to pray daily for his Soul, and the Soul of William Hermer (another of the Canons there) as also for the good estate of Master john Arundel, and Master john Seymer, Canons, and of Master Thomas Brotherton, and their Souls after they should depart this life. e Ibid. There was another Chantry Priest assigned to pray for the Souls of the said Passche and Hermer, and of john Plumer Verger of the Chapel, and Agatha his Wife; which devotion was appointed to be performed at the Altar on the North side of the new Church, and the setlement thereof bears date the 18. of March, anno 9 Hen. 7. The f Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. Colleg. Windesor. first of March anno 12. H. 7. Margaret Countess of Richmond, obtained licence from the King, that she or her Executors might found a Chantry of four Chaplains, to pray for her Soul, the Souls of her Parents and Ancestors, and all faithful Souls departed: This Celebration was to be performed in a place near the East part of the new work of the Chapel. And the g Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. Colleg. Windesor. 18. of july, anno 13. H. 7. the Dean and Canons granted, that the Countess or her Executors, should erect such a Chantry in the Chapel, as is before mentioned. The h Ex libro vocat. Denton. f. 244. Chantry of William Lord Hastings, founded of one Priest to pray for his Soul, the Souls of the Lady Katherine his Widow, and of Edward Lord Hastings his Son, and Mary his Wife after their death: The Chapel wherein this Service was celebrated, is that on the North side of the Choir, about the middle thereof, where the Body of this Lord lies interred. The Ordination is dated the 21. of February anno 18. H. 7. i Ibid. f. 247. On the North side of St. George's Chapel stands a little house, built for the habitation of this Chantry Priest, having over the Door (cut in stone) the Lord Hastings' Arms, surrounded with a Garter. k Ib. f. 233. b. Charles' Somerset Lord Herbert (created afterwards Earl of Worcester) was buried in the South Chappel (dedicated to the Virgin Mary) at the West end of the Church, where he ordained a secular Priest to say Mass every day, and to pray for the Souls of him and his first Wife, Elizabeth the Daughter and Heir of William Herbert Earl of Huntingdon, Lord Herbert of Gower, who also lies there interred. l Ib. f. 237. Adjoining to the House built for the Lord Hastings' Chantry Priest, is another like Building, erected for this Chantry Priest, and over the Door thereof, now to be seen, is the Founder's Arms within a Garter, cut also upon stone. The Foundation of this Chantry is dated the 30. of july anno 21. H. 7. To these we shall add the pious Foundation of the House called the m Ibid. f. 261. & 262. New Commons, erected over against the North Door of the Body of St. George's Chapel, by james Denton one of the Canons of the College (sometimes Dean of Lichfield) anno 11. H. 8. for the lodging and dieting such of the Chantry Priests, Choristers, and stipendiary Priests, who had no certain place within the College, where to hold Commons in, but were constrained daily to eat their Meals in sundry houses of the Town: this House he furnished with proper Utensils for such a use, the whole charge amounting to 489 l. 7 s. 1 d. and for all which the Choristers were desired by him (in the Statutes he ordained for their Rule and Government) to say certain Prayers, when they entered into the Chapel, and after his death, to pray for his, and the Souls of all the faithful departed. In this Chapel of St. George, there were heretofore several Anniverssaries or Obits held and celebrated, some of them as they are entered down in an n In Aerar. Coll. Windesor. Account of Owen Oglethorp Treasurer of the College for the year, commencing the first of October, anno 38. H. 8. and ending the last of September, anno 1. E. 6. inclusive, we will here remember. October. November. 2. Sir Thomas Sentleger Knight. 3. William Bewster Canon. 6. john Wygrym Canon. 5. john Plomer Verger. 8. William Edyngton Bishop of Winchest. 10. john Brydbroke Canon. 9 King Edward the Fourth. 13. Thomas Pashe Canon. 16. Rich. Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury. 20. Robert Vere Earl of Oxford. 22. William Cock Canon. 27. Thomas Beauchamp Earl of Warwick. 29. john Chapman Vicar. Prospect of the Cancellor Screen from the West. PROSPECT OF THE CANCEL from the East. PROSPECT OF THE CHOIR from the West PROSPECT OF THE CHOIR from the East. December. January. 3. Ralph Wyndesor. 3. Katherine Queen of England. 14. john Howden Canon. 8. King Edward the Fourth. 30. Richard Duke of York. 10. Anne Devereux. 31. Tho. Beauford Duke of Exeter. 11. john Chambre Canon. 12. Anne Duchess of Exeter. 14. Geoffry Aston. February. March. 4. Richard Raunds Canon. 1. Richard Smith. 21. William Mugge Custos. 4. Knights of the Garter. 28. Roger Lupton Canon. 5. Walter Devereux. 10. Richard Welles Canon. 19 King Henry the Fourth. 24. Henry Duke of Lancaster. April. May. 3. William Butler Canon. 11. King Henry the Seventh. 5. Geoffry Wren Canon. 21. King Henry the six. 6. King Edward the Fourth. 19 Robert Ravendale Canon. 20. Anne Duchess of Exeter. 21. john Bean and his Wife. June. July. 2. john Stokes Canon. 9 King Edward the Fourth. 7. Anne Queen of England. 12. Anne Duchess of Exeter. 8. Edward the Black Prince. 13. William Harmer Canon. 11. William Ferrys. 16. William Palet Canon. 12. john Vaughan Canon. 17. Henry Deane. 13. William Lord Hastings. 27. john Oxenbrydge Canon. 14. Brothers and Sisters of St. Anthony. 21. King Edward the Third, Founder. 27. Will, Askew Bishop of Salisbury. August. September. 4. Sir Reginald Bray Knight. 5. john Seymor Canon. 8. john Blount. 13. Henry Hanslappe Canon. 10. William Mychell Canon. 14. john Duke of Bedford. 11. Robert Barham Canon. 16. William Bohun Earl of Northampton. 17. Philippe Queen of England, Foundress. 27. William Wykham Bishop of Winchest. 18. Richard Surland Canon. 31. King Henry the Fifth. It was an usual thing in former Ages, especially for those of the Military profession, after they had spent their youth and manhood in the service of their King and Country, to bestow the remainder of their liure in Prayers for both, and the salvation of their own Souls. And therefore to cherish the piety of well disposed Knights-Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, who for devotions' sak● were induced to retire to Windesor, permission was given then by the Statutes of Institution, o Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 31. to make their continual abode there. Nevertheless to maintain themselves out of their own Estates, not at the College charge. This Article is confirmed by the p Art. 32. H. 8. Stat. Art. 35. Statutes of King Henry the Fifth, to which those of King Henry the Eighth add, That the Sovereign should assign them convenient Habitations within the Castle. The q H. 5. Stat. Art. 33. H. 8. Stat. Art. 36. like favour upon like occasion, was afforded to other devout Knights, though not of the Order; but the Lodgings to be such as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions should decree. We no where find, that any of the Knights-Companions made use of the benefit of this Article hitherto: but in another nature and for their better accommodation at the grand Feast of the Order, and other Solemnities held at Windesor; they moved the Sovereign in Chapter there ( r Sir james Palmer's large journal. p. 16. 22. of May anno 14. Car. 1.) That they might have Rooms for Lodgings assigned them, in the great (or upper) Court (which they offered to repair at their own charge) since all the officers of the Order had Lodgings in the Castle, but the Knights-Companions none. This motion was not disliked by the Sovereign, s Exrelatione D. Chr. Wren, nuper Resist. hujus Ordinis. so it might be without exclusion of the Great Officers of State, concerning whom He declared, That he would not have them removed from him at any time; and thereupon it was left to further consideration. SECT. III. The Foundation of the College within the Chapel. KIng Henry the First, as he had erected a Chapel within the Castle, so did he therein found a College for eight Canons, neither endowed nor incorporate, but maintained by an annual Pension out of the King's Exchequer. King Edward the Second founded here a Chantry for q Claus. 6. E. 2. m. 2. Dorso. four Chaplains and two Clerks, to pray for his Soul, and the Souls of all his Progenitors; as likewise a Chapel in the Park of Windesor, under the same Ordination, for four more Chaplains, whom his Son King r Pat. 4. E. 3. p. 1. m. 19 Edward the Third (by the advice of his Council) removed and joined to those other before settled in the Chapel of the Castle, and built s Claus. 11. E. 3. m. 18. habitations for their better accommodation on the South side thereof: all which we shall pass over with this short mention, as not directly relative to our present purpose. But the Foundation that we shall treat of here, King Edward the Third laid by His t Appendix Num. 1. Letters Patent bearing Teste at Westminster on the sixth day of August, anno regni sui 22. that being about three quarters of a year before He instituted the most Noble Order of the Garter: for (being inflamed with the zeal of a pious devotion, and desiring by a good kind of Commerce to exchange earthly for heavenly, and transitory for eternal things) at his own Royal Charge, He new founded the ancient Chapel in honour and to the praise of the omnipotent God, the glorious Virgin Mary, of St. George the Martyr, and St. Edward the Confessor: And by his Kingly authority and as much as in him lay Ordained, that to King Henry's eight Canons there should be added one Custos, fifteen more Canons, and twenty four Alms-Knights, together with other Ministers, all under the Government nevertheless of the Custos: and these to be maintained out of the Revenues wherewith this Chapel was and should be endowed. But, according to the opinion of those times, his Kingly Authority extended not to the instituting therein men of Religion, and other Officers to perform and attend the Service of God; for that lay in the power and disposition of the Pope: And therefore this King, setting forth what he had proffered to do, in reference to the endowment of this Chapel, requested Pope Clement the Sixth to grant to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Bishop of Winchester the authority and power of ordaining and instituting the College, and other things thereunto appertaining. Hereupon this Pope by his u Appendix Num. II. Bull dated at Avignion pridie Calendas Decembris, in the ninth year of his Papacy (which answers to the thirtieth day o● November, Anno Domini 1351.) commending the pious purpose of the King in this affair, granted to the Archbishop and Bishop, and to either of them, full power to Ordain, Institut●, and Appoint in this Chapel, as should seem good to them, a certain number of Canons, Priests, Clerks, Knights, and Officers, continually to attend upon the Service of God, of which Canons and Priests, one should have the Title of Custos, and preside over the rest. On that day twelvemonth the Statutes and Ordinances of the College bear date, being made by x In praefatione ad Colleg. Statut. virtue of the Pope's authority, the King's Command, the Consent of the Bishop of Salisbury (in whose Diocese the Chapel is situate) and of the Dean and Chapter of Salisbury. By which Statutes the Bishop of Winchester, one of the Pope's Delegates (for we find not the Archbishop's name used in them) did Ordain and Institute a College, within the Chapel of St. George, consisting of one Custos, twelve secular Canons, thirteen Priest's or Vicars, four Clerks, fix Choristers, and twenty six Alms-Knights, beside other Officers. And to this Custos and College, by the name of Custos and College of the Freechappel of St. George, within the Castle of Windesor, for the most part, but sometimes of Custos and College of Chaplains, or otherwise of Custos and Chaplains of the same Chapel, were the Donations of Advowsons', and other temporal Endowments, commonly made and granted. SECT. IV. Of the Dean, Canons, Petty-Canons, Clerks, and Choristers. SHortly after the Foundation of the College by the King's Letters Patent, The Dean. to wit, the y Pat. 22. E. 3. p. 3. m. 19 14. of November, anno 22. E. 3. the King constituted john de la Ch●mbre Custos of the Chapel of St. George, but he enjoyed this dignity not above half a year, for the z Pat. 23. E. 3. p. 2. m. 29. 18. of june ensuing, the Letters Patent, for constituting William Mugg Custos, bears Teste: so that in truth john de la Chambr● was the first Custos, though in the * Rot. Parl. 8. H. 6. n. 31. Preamble to the Letters Patent passed under the Great Seal of England, with consent of the Lords and Commons in Parliament, anno 8. H. 6. William Mugg is there said to be the first, and so hath been a Tho. Frith. in suo Custodum sive Decanor. Catalogo. since accounted. But it seems the Catalogue of Custos' and Deans, took commencement at the Institution of the College by Papal (not Kingly) authority, and though William Mugg (in like manner as john de la Chambre) had been constituted Custos above three years before, yet being then again nominated by the King to receive Institution from the Bishop of Winchester upon his ordaining the College, he came to be accounted the first Custos, as being so under that Institution; and consequently john de la Chambre not taken notice of. By this Title of Custos were those that succeeded De la Chambre and Mugg, presented by the King, till the last year of King Henry the Fourth, when Thomas Kingston was the b Ibid. first of them presented by the name of Dean; and his Successor john Arundel observing that divers of the Lands and Endowments of the College, were sometimes granted thereunto by the name of Custos, at other times of Dean and Custos, or lastly of Dean only; and doubting that this variation and diversity of names might beget some damage to the College, especially being both beside and against the form of the Foundation (wherein the Title of Custos was only used) he applied himself by c Rot. Parl. ●ni, 8. H. 6. n. 31. Petition to the Parliament before mentioned; whereupon the King being pleased to provide for the security of the College in this particular, did, with consent of the Lords and Commons, by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of England, grant and declare, That the said john should be Custos sive Decanus for his life, and enjoy all rights thereunto belonging, and for the future, he and every other Custos of the Chapel for the time being should be called d Ibid. Custodes sive Decani, viz. Wardens or Deans of the free Chapel of St. George within the Castle of Windesor; and that the Custos, or Dean and Canons thereof, and their Successors, by the Name of Custos, or Dean and Canons of the said free Chapel, should have and hold to them and their Successors for ever, all Lands, Tenements, Rents, Possessions, & c. ●s also all manner of Liberties, Franchises, Immunities, etc. granted to the College at any time before. So that here was instituted a kind of new Incorporation of this Chapel, by the Title of Custos, or Dean and Canons only, and the whole State of the College, together with its possessions, strengthened and constituted in a manner De novo: at least this was a great step to the complete incorporating them by King Edward the Fourth, when, through the interest of Richard Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury, then also Dean of Windesor, ●●d Chancellor of the most noble Order of the Garter, there was obtained from King Edward the Fourth, Letters Patent bearing Teste at Windesor the 6. of December in the 19 year of his Reign, for e Pat. 19 E. 4. m. 5. incorporating the Custos, or Dean and Canons and their Successors, by the name of Dean and Canons of the free Chapel of St. George within the Castle of Windesor, and that thenceforward they should be one Body Corporate in, thing and name, and have a perpetual Succession. Furthermore, that they and their Successors, should by the same Name, be persons capable in Law, to purchase, receive, and take Lands, Tenements, Rents, Reversions, Services, Liberties, Franchises, and Privileges, or other Possessions whatsoever, to be held and possessed in Fee and Perpetuity: As also to have a Common Seal, for the Affairs and Causes of them and their Successors. And that they and their Successors, by the name of Dean and Canons, etc. might plead and be impleaded, pursue all manner of Causes and Actions, real and mixed, challenge all Franchises and Liberties, and answer and be answered, before any Judges spiritual or temporal. But for the avoiding all further doubts, which might be taken for any occasion or cause, touching the Dean and Canons of this Chapel in their Corporation, Capacity, or Possessions, and for the more surety of them in all their tempora● Endowments; the Letters Patent of Incorporation, were within three years after, passed into an f Vide Rot. Parl. 22. E. 4. n. 11. Act of Parliament, which yet remains in force. Thus much for his Title of Custos and Decanus; we shall next touch upon his Authority and Ecclesiastical jurisdiction: for as he is constituted (both by the g Dat. Avinioniae pridie Cal. Dec. Pontif. sui anno 9 Bull of Pope Clement the Sixth, and the h Praef. ad Coll. Stat. Institution of the College thereupon) Precedent over the rest of the College, to govern, direct, and order them, their Goods and Estates; so is he to i Praef. ad Coll. Stat. exercise all manner of Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction over them, with a reservation of power of Appeal to the Chancellor of England, Visitor of that College. Moreover, k Colleg. Stat. cap. 39 where any of them live inordinately or unpeaceably, he, with the advice of the Chapter (in cases where no particular penalty is appointed to be inflicted) hath power to reprehend or correct at discretion. l Ibid. And in case where discord ariseth among any of them, shall within eight days reconcile the parties, or do justice. Lastly, he hath power (after the third time of admonition) to m Cap. 20. vide eriam Injunct. Io. Archiep. Ehor. Angl. Cancellar. c. 1. & 2. expel from the College, all sowers of Discord, Backbiters, and Whisperers, that are below the Degree of a Canon. And to the end there may be no defect in Government at any time, during his nonresidence, it is provided by the Statutes of the College, n Cap. 49. That when he hath occasion to be absent from thence, above eight days or more, he shall before his departure constitute one of the Canon-Residents (whom he please) for his Deputy, who during his absence (having the Title of Lieutenant) shall in all things exercise and execute his Office: for we are to note, that the said Statutes allow him o Cap. 7. sixty days for nonresidence, the Royal Visitation held anno 1552. enlarged that time to p Ex Collect. G. Evans modo unius Canonic. hujus Colleg. lib. B. f. 74. a. one hundred and ten days, and the Lord Chancellor Hyde gave him liberty of q Ex Collect. G. Evans modo unius Canonic. hujus Colleg. lib. B. f. 74. a. six week's absence, to attend the affairs of his Deanery of Wolverhampton. But in the r Colleg. Statut. cap. 50. vacancy of the Custos, whatever power or authority belongs unto him, the same is then devolved upon the Chapter of the College; which Chapter ought within two days after the vacancy known, to elect one of the Resident-Canons, under the Title of Precedent, to govern the College and direct all affairs relating thereunto, until there be provided another Custos. Canons. Leaving the Custos thus settled under the Title of Decanus (which later he is only known by at this day) we are now to speak of the Canons, whose number by the Letters Patent of Foundation, were appointed to be four and twenty, including the Custos; but upon Institution of the College, by the Bishop of Winchester, there was then ordained (as hath been noted) one Custos, twelve Secular-Canons, and thirteen Priests or Vicars, in all twenty six; being the very number before ordained by the Statutes of Institution of the Order of the Garter, and answerable to the just number of the Knights-Companions of that most noble Order. And for a further distinction between these Canons-Secular, and the Priests, the first twelve are in a s Dat. 11. Cal. Oct. an. 1484. Bull of Pope Innocent the Eighth, called Majores Canonici, the other t Lib. N. p. 221. elsewhere Canonici Minores, or Petty Canons. To these twelve Seculars were assigned so many u Colleg. Stat. ●. 2. Prebendships in the Chapel of St. George (as also * Ibid. c. 55. Stalls in the Choir, and Places in the Chapter) together with that, held by the Custos, whence of later times they are frequently called prebend's as well as Canons, and their Dignities Canonships and Prebendships. Every Prebend hath a w Ib. c. 10. vide E. 3. Stat. Art. 4. Sacerdotal power given him by the Statutes of the College, and in regard of this, those Statutes further ordained, That each Canon of the Chapel being a Prebend, if not at that time a Priest, should within a year after he hath enjoyed his Prebendship, be so ordained; otherwise (without further admonition) to be deprived thereof. By the forementioned Bull of Pope Clement the Sixth, there is reserved to the Founder, his Heirs and Successors, the right of presenting the Canons, Priests, Clerks, Alms-Knights, and Ministers belonging to the College; and thereupon we find it noted, that y Praefat. ad Colleg. Stat. he nominated and presented William Mugg, and four other Presbyters to the Bishop of Winchester, to institute them Canons and prebend's, in the Canonships and Prebendships of the Chapel, which the Bishop did accordingly, and then gave the said William Mugg institution to the place of Custos, upon the Founder's nomination and presentation also. Notwithstanding which, it appears by the z Art. 4. Institution of the Garter, that the first Canons were presented to the Custos by the first Founders of the Order, viz. the five and twenty first Knights-Companions, every one of them being permitted by the Sovereign's favour, to present a Canon; yet was it therewithal provided, a Art. 4. That neither the Knights-Companions, who thus first presented, nor any one of their Successors from that time, should present to the vacant Canonships, but the Sovereign only. To which end, in another place, the Custos was obliged when any of the b Ibid. Art. 33. vide e●iam H. 5. Stat. Art. 3●. Canons died (the Sovereign being out of the Kingdom) to signify the same to him by Letter, that so he might appoint whom he thought sit to succeed him. But upon whomsoever these Dignities are conferred, they ought to be c Colleg. Stat: cap. 9 Admitted, Instituted, and Installed, by the Custos (or Dean) or his Lieutenant, to whom (at the time of their Installation) they are to be obliged by Oath, to d Cap. 3 & 48. yield Canonical Obedience, and observe the Statutes of the College, so far as it concerns them. The form of their Admittance is annexed to those Statutes. The principal duty of these e Praefat. ad Stat. Colleg. Canons (so also of the Vicars, Clerks, Alms-Knights, and Ministers of the College) is continually and personally to attend upon the Service of God, in the Chapel of St. George; and upon each days omission of a Canon-Resident, it was Ordained, that he should forfeit his f Colleg. Stat. cap. 11. quotidian distribution, viz. g Ibid. c. 2. twelve pence. Nor do we find any licence of nonresidence, or discontinuance given to any of the Canons by the College Statutes, but only to the h Cap. 7. Custos, and that but for sixty days in the whole year (as is before remembered) howbeit there is mention of Canons-Resident, and non-Resident in the said Statutes; to the non-resident there are great i Cap. 20. defalcations appointed to be made, and good reason for it, because the Resident-Canons bear not only the burden of that duty belonging to the Chapel and College, but the expense of Hospitality and other works of Charity, occasioned from their residing at Windesor. Nevertheless the effect of a favourable indulgence towards the Canons was introduced by degrees, and when Richard Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury, had obtained power by a k Dat. Romae anno 11. call. Aug. 1475. Bull from Sixtus the Fourth, to make new Statutes in the College, he in this particular dispensed with the old ones, and the fifth of March 1478. gave to the Dean and every Canon and their Successors, fourteen days of nonresidence in every Term, to wit, six and fifty days in the year. By the visitation held anno 1552. these days are enlarged to l Ex Colle●●. praefat, G. Evans lib. B. f. 74. fourscore, and the Lord Chancellor Hatton yet further indulged them with m Ibid. two hundred and two days, which liberty the late Lord Chancellor Hyde n Ibid. confirmed; and consequently there remains one hundred sixty and three days in the year, in which the Canons ought to be resident at Windesor. For each Canons great Residence is o Collect. praef. G. Evans, lib. A. f. 143. 21 days, the loser Residence in conjunction with the greater is 163 days; that is 21 of these 163 are to be kept without interruption, and with hospitality according to the Statute. The Canons are particularly obliged, p Colleg. Stat. c. 34. humbly to pray for the prosperity of the Sovereign of the most noble Order of the Garter from time to time being, as also for the * Ord. Stat. in lib. N. Art. 4. happy estate of the Order. q E. 3. Stat. Art. 32. And if any Knight-Companion, or other person, should out of Devotion bestow ten pounds per annum revenue or more in Lands or otherwise, that so he might be made partaker of the Prayers, appointed for the Benefactors of the College, his name was ordained to be inscribed among them, and himself also prayed for; which Article, though King Henry the Fifth confirmed, yet he provided r H. 5. Stat. Art. 34. H. 8. Stat. Art. 37. that neither the Custos or Canons, should thenceforth admit of any such charge upon the College, without the consent of the Sovereign, his Deputy, or the Knights-Companions of the Order. To this let us adjoin the care taken by the Injunctions of the 8. of February an. 4. E. 6. for commemorating the bounty of the Benefactors of this College to Posterity, for there it is enjoined, s Art. 16. That from thenceforth upon the Tuesday, next after the third Sunday in Lent, and on the first Tuesdays in june, September, and December, some one of the College should in a brief Sermon commend the munificence, not only of the Founder, and of King Henry the Eighth, but of all other Noblemen, whose bountifulness had appeared in their pious acts, and set forth how greatly God is to be glorified, who by them had bestowed so many benefits on the College: As also exhort his Auditors to use their gifts to the glory of God, increase of Virtue and Learning, and the pious intent of Benefactors; and lastly, pray the Almighty so to stir up the hearts of the living, to bestow some part of their substance likewise, to the increase of Religion, and setting forth of his glory. Thus far of the Canons Ecclesiastical Duty; but those things which relate to their Civil Obligations are to attend the Sovereign (or his Deputy) and the Knights▪ Companions, at the Grand Feast of St. George, whensoever celebrated at Windesor, as also at the Feasts of Installation; or when the Sovereign upon any other solemn occasion shall come to the Chapel of St. George to offer; or lastly, when any of the Knights-Companions (being on a Journey near the Castle) come thither to offer likewise. As touching their part in the Ceremonies observed upon any of these occasions, we shall hereafter note them down in their proper places; and only mention here the Robe appointed for them to wear at these times over their Ecclesiastical Habit. This by the Statutes of Institution is appointed to be a t Art. 5. vide Hen. 5. Stat. Art. 5. Mantle, and though these mention not the matter whereof it was made (which at this day is Taffeta, of the fashion of the three inferior Officers of the Order) yet they set down the Colour to be u Art. 5. vide Hen. 5. Stat. Art. 5. Murrey, as also that the Arms of St. George should be placed within a Rundle on the w Ord. Stat. in lib. N. Art. 5. right shoulder thereof. Petty Canons. Those, who are now called Petty Canons, have no nominal nor other distinction in the x Pat. 22. E. 3. pars 2. m. 6. Founder's Patent of Foundation, from those other afterwards called Canonici majores, but both go under the Title of Canons only. In the y Praefat. ad Colleg. Stat. Bull of Pope Clement the Sixth (which recites the substance of the Founder's Patent) in reference to the transferring his authority to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Bishop of Winchester, for instituting the College, they are called Presbyteri; and by the said Bishop, in the very words of his z Ibid. Institution, Presbyteri sen Vicarii, but in the a Art. 4. vide H. 5. Stat. Art. 4. Foundational Statutes of the Order of the Garter, are styled Vicarii only. Their Number at the first Institution was b Praef. ad Colleg. Stat. thirteen, and the same number appears to be continued, being taken notice of in all the Exemplars of the Statutes of the Order. Only c Art. 13. King Henry the Eighths English Statutes mention eight Petty Canons, beside thirteen Vicars (but the Latin takes notice only of d Lib. N. p. 221. thirteen Priests, part of them are there called Canonici minores, and other part Vicarii) afterwards the Injunctions of the King's Commissioners dated the 23. of November anno 1. E. 6. appointed e Art. 5. twelve Priests, and they to be called Petty Canons: that is, four to be added to the former eight, mentioned in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, which the said Article directed to be done after this manner, to wit, that at the first avoidance of the next Vicar, his stipend should be equally divided among three of the eldest Vicars, who thereupon were to be called Petty Canons; and when the room of another Vicar became void, than five marks of his stipend should be appointed to the next signior Vicar (who was likewise to be styled Petty Canon) and this direction being observed, the number of twelve Petty Canons became completed. Yet in Queen s Penes Carnevario● Scacc●rii. Elizabeth's Ordinances for the continual charge, the number of Petty Canons thereby provided for, are noted to be thirteen, agreeable to the ancient number of Vicars; but at this day they are but seven, and one of them Sub-chanter. The Vicars at their admission (according to the appointment both of the Statutes of the College, and those of the Order) are bound to be g Colleg. Sta●. cap. 3. E. 3. Stat. Art. 4. H. 5. Stat. Art. 4. Priests, or at least Deacons, from whence they are next to be ordained Priests, to wit, h Ord. Stat. in lib. N. Art. 4. Colleg. Stat. cap. 11. the next time appointed for Ordination. Those Statutes bound them also to i Ord. Stat. in lib. N. Art. 4. Colleg. Stat. cap. 11. continual personal residence, and if absent without a lawful cause, from Matins, they were amerced k Ord. Stat. in lib. N. Art. 4. Colleg. Stat. cap. 11. two pence apiece for each omission, and two pence a time more, if not at every grand Mass, and one penny for their absence from every Canonical hour, the Mass of the Virgin Mary, or for the Defunct. All which forfeitures were to be deducted o●t of their Salary, and divided among those Vicars who gave their attendance in the foresaid Duties. But the l Art. 7. Injunctions anno 1. E. 6. appoint the forfeit of absence from Matins, to be one penny half penny, and from either Procession, Communion, or Even-Song the like Sum, to be paid to the poor men's Box. And not only they, but all other Ministers of the Chapel, if absent from the College above m Colleg. Stat. c. 18. twenty days, without just cause approved of by the Resident Canons, or do behave themselves scandalously in life or conversation, are by the Statutes of the College to be expelled, after the fact proved before the Custos or his Lieutenant; but if any of them absent themselves for less than twenty days, without the like approbation, then to be punished at discretion. Each of these Vicars had at first but the annual Pension of n Ibid. c. 3. eight pounds Sterling, paid after this manner, to wit, every Calendar Month eight shillings for their Diet, and that which then remained at the Quarter's end, went towards furnishing them with other necessaries. Afterwards King Edward the Fourth increased their Pensions to o Ex lib. vocat. Dento●. f. 177. twenty marks apiece. To which Queen Elizabeth in augmentation of their livings (they being then called Petty Canons) added thirteen shillings four pence per annum to each of them, out of the Lands settled on the College by King Edward the Sixth, as appears by the p Penes Came●ar. Scaccarii. Book of Establishment made by her, among the certain disbursments. And now their yearly Pensions are lately increased by the College to q Collect. praef. G. Evans lib. B. f. 85. b. thirty pounds. One of these Petty Canons is chosen from among the rest, to be Sub-Chanter (and usually the same person is the Deans Vicar) to whose duty belongs the cure of Souls, Marrying, Burying, etc. To these Petty Canons it is requisite that we subjoin those, Four Clerks. who after the Foundation of the College by King Edward the Third, were took into the Choir for the service thereof. As first the Quatuor Clerici, remembered in the Preface to the Statutes of the College, whereof r Colleg. Stat. c. 17. one was to be instituted a Deacon, and another a Sub-Deacon, before their admission: and these two were next in designation, and accordingly promoted to the Vicar's places; but for the other two, it was sufficient if they had institution into lesser Orders, in which they were to continue. Each of the two first of these had s Ibid. c. 3. eight Marks yearly Pension, and the two last but six. King Edward the Fourth increased their number to thirteen, and allowed them t Lib. Denton. f. 177. ten pounds per annum apiece. The same number do we find mentioned in u Art. 1●. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes of the Order, and by the w Art. 9 Injunctions 23. Nou. anno 1. E. 6. made by the King's Commissioners, they were increased to fifteen, but here appointed to be Laymen, wearing Surplices in the Choir, each having an allowance of ten pounds annually for his service. In the 23. Article of the Injunctions, of 28. Feb. an. 4. E. 6. a course is prescribed to bring these fifteen Clerks to twenty, but in x Penes Came●ar. Sc●cc. Queen Elizabeth's Establishment, they were again reduced to thirteen, which number is yet continued, (one of them being Organist, hath a double Clerks place, and consequently reckoned for two of the thirteen) and an augmentation to each of two pounds thirteen shillings four pence half penny farthing yearly; which being at first opposed by the Dean and prebend's, they at length (anno 5. Eliz.) consented to allow them forty shillings per annum apiece, not out of the New-lands, but out of other payments, which the Dean and Canons should otherwise yearly receive, and y Ex Collect. praef. G. Evans. lib. B. f. 86. d. anno 1662. increased their annual Pensions to three and twenty pounds apiece. They are tied to be z Injunct. dat. 8. Feb. an. 4. E. 6. present in the Choir at all times of Service, as are the Petty Canons, and under the same forfeitures, a Injunct. dat. 8. Feb. an. 4. E. 6. nor may they, or the Petty Canons go out of Town, without the Dean's or his Lieutenant's licence, nor then neither, above b Injunct. dat. 8. Feb. an. 4. E. 6. three at once, except for very weighty cause, left the Choir should be unfurnished of a convenient number, to perform the daily Service. Choristers. Secondly, There were appointed for the further service of the Choir c Praefat. ad Coll. Statut. six Choristers, and they to be likewise Clerks, or at the time of their admission to have been d Colleg. Stat. c. 3. instituted of the Clerical Order, to each of which was allowed five Marks Sterling, annually, or to the value thereof in common Money. And in like manner as the Deacon and Sub-Deacon were placed in the College, only in addition to the Vicars, and designed to succeed them as vacancies happened, so also were there e Cap. 17. six secular Children, endued with clear and tuneable voices, admitted and designed to succeed the Choristers, when their voices altered. King Edward the Fourth enlarged the number of Choristers to f Lib. Denton. f. 177. thirteen, and allowed them annually six Marks apiece, and though this number was confirmed by g Art. 13. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, yet the h Art. 27. Injunctions dated the 8. of Feb. anno 4. E. 6. reduced them to ten, nevertheless by i Penes Camer. Scacc. Queen Elizabeth's Establishment, the former number of thirteen was restored, and thereby given in augmentation among them all, k Penes Camer. Scacc. three pounds eleven shillings eight pence: Howbeit they were since brought to eight, and their present exhibition is twelve shillings a Month to each. SECT. V. Of the Alms-Knights. PUrsuing the Order of our Discourse, the Alms-Knights come next to be spoken of, wherein to avoid confusion, we shall consider them, first, under the Foundation of King Edward the Third; Secondly, when separated from that, by Act of Parliament; and lastly, as they were established anew by Queen Elizabeth. First then, King Edward the Third, out of the great respect he bore to Military honour (of which himself had gained a large share) and due regard had of valiant men, chiefly such as had behaved themselves bravely in his Wars, yet afterwards happened to fall in decay; took care for their relief and comfortable subsistence in old age, by making room for them within this his Foundation, and uniting them under one Corporation and join Body, with the Custos and Canons; these he called Milites Pauperes, and we vulgarly Poor or Alms-Knights, the ordained number being at first but l Pat. 22. E. 3. pars 2. m. 6. four and twenty, as were the Custos and Canons at the first foundation of the College. But shortly after upon his Instituting the Princely Society of Knights of the most noble Order of the Garter, consisting of six and twenty, there were added two more to the former number (as there was to the first Canons) to make them of like number with the Knights-Companions of that Order; which number of twenty six we after find settled at the Ordination of the College by the m Praef. ad Colleg. Stat. Bishop of Winchester the Pope's Delegate. The charitable intention of the Royal Founder, was to provide for such only, as were truly objects of Charity, and therefore he describes (even in the Instrument of Foundation) what kind of men they should be, to wit, Poor Knights, weak in body, indigent and decayed; and to like effect is their qualification inserted in the Statutes of Institution of the most noble Order of the Garter, viz. n Art. 6 videses Hist. Tho. de la Mare. f. 156. b. such, as through adverse fortune were brought to that extremity, that they had not of their own wherewith to sustain them, or o Ca●●. an. 25. E. 3. n. 14. m. 6. live so gently as became a military condition; but this being thought not enough, the same is repeated (probably for greater caution) in King p Art. 6. Henry the Fifth, and King q Art. 16. Henry the Eighth's Statutes to prevent diverting the Founder's pious intention, and against admittance of such as are otherwise able to live of themselves; which conjecture is not improbable, because we find the r Cap. 6. ancient Statutes of the College Ordained (as also the Orders of s Art. 20. Queen Elizabeth) That in case there should happen to fall to any of the Alms-Knights either Lands or Rents, by succession or any other way, to the yearly value of twenty pounds or more; then such Knight should immediately be removed from the College, and made incapable of receiving any profits or emoluments thence, and another Alms-Knight preferred into his place. Their presentation when first admitted, was by the same hands that presented the first Canons, viz. t E. 3. Stat. Art. 6. Each Knight-Companion of the Order presented his Alms-Knight, nevertheless it was then also Ordered, That from thenceforward, every Election should remain at the disposal of the Sovereign of this most noble Order. To each of these Alms-Knights was appointed for their Habit, a u Ibid. Art. 7. H. 5. Stat. Art. 7. Red Mantle, with a Scutcheon of St. George, but without any Garter, to surround the same. Their Exhibition from the College at first, was w Stat. Colleg. Cap. 5. twelve pence apiece for every day they were at Service in the Chapel, or abode in the College, and forty shillings per annum for other necessaries; it being the like allowance as was appointed to each of the Canon-Residents, which shows the quality and esteem than had of these Alms-Knights. It seems (about the beginning of King Henry the Sixth's Reign) these quotidian distributions, and the forty shillings per annum so assigned them, had been unpaid by reason of some dissensions and quarrels that had risen between the Dean and Canons, and Alms-Knights; but upon complaint to john Archbishop of York, Lord Chancellor of England, Visitor of the College, by the x Art. 36. Injunctions issued upon his Visitation anno 10. H. 6. the Arrears of both were appointed to be forthwith paid without charge, and in case the Treasurer of the College became negligent in future payments, he was to incur the loss of his own Quotidiaus, from the time of his voluntary delay; the same to be divided among the Alms-Knights. Their duty was to attend the Service of God, and pray for the prosperity of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of the Order, to be y Colleg. Stat▪ c. 6. every day present at high Mass, the Masses of the Virgin Mary, as also at Vespers and Compline, from the beginning to the end, except any lawful occasion did impede. But it was Ordained that for z Cap. 5. every days absence from the Chapel, they should be debarred of receiving the twelve pence per diem, and whatsoever was raised from such forfeitures, should be converted to the use of the rest of the Alms-Knights then being in the Castle of Windesor. Notwithstanding which Decree, it appears that the Dean did afterwards take upon him the disposure of these Mulcts at his pleasure, which occasioned the Alms-Knights to complain to Adam Lord Bishop of St. David's, Chancellor of England and Visitor of the College, who among other of his Injunctions a Pat. 2. R. 2, pars prima m. 15. dated the 8. of October anno 2. R. 2. commanded that the Mulcts should be equally distributed among those Alms-Knights, who did attend at Divine Service in the Chapel, as the Statute had enjoined. And besides, the like complaint being made for the Dean's disposing of Donations and other Liberalities of the Knights-Companions, so that the Alms-Knights had no part thereof towards their sustentation, this Chancellor also appointed b Ibid. an equal distribution of them among the Alms-Knights and Canons, until the King and his Council should otherwise determine. These and other differences between the Dean and Canons, and Alms-Knights, grew at length so wide, that they could not be reconciled; insomuch as in the Act of Parliament, anno 22. E. 4. for the Incorporation of the Custos and Canons, by the name of Dean and Canons, the Alms-Knights were not only omitted, but this Clause inserted, c Rot. Parl. anno 22. E. 4. m. 11. That the Dean and Canons, and their Successors, should for evermore be utterly quit and discharged from all manner of Exhibition or Charge of or for any of the said Knights. And this was obtained upon pretence, d Rot. Parl. anno 22. E. 4. m. 11. That the King had greatly increased the number of the Ministers of the Chapel, so that the Revenue was not sufficient to maintain both them and the Alms-Knights, as also e Rot. Parl. anno 22. E. 4. m. 11. that the King had otherwise provided for the Alms-Knights. But we elsewhere find some other cause, and this afterwards alleged by the Dean and Canons in their Answer to the Knights Petition for Repeal of the said Act, to wit, f Collect. praef. G. Evans, lib. A. ad Calcem. That William Omerey and john Kendal, Alms-Knights, laboured much before this Act passed, to be incorporate by themselves, to get Lands settled on them, to be exempt from the obedience and rule of the Dean and Canons, and governed by Ordinances made among themselves. In the second place, this Act being thus obtained, and the Alms-Knights divided from the Body of the College, as also struck off from the benefit of the Quotidians, Portions, and Fees, assigned by the Foundation of King Edward the Third; how they next subsisted doth not fully enough appear: but so soon as King Henry the Seventh came to the Crown, g Ex veteri MS. f. 12. they petitioned the King and Parliament, for repeal of the Act anno 22. E. 4. affirming it was gained without their knowledge, or being called thereunto; to which Petition the Dean and Canons answered, and the Alms-Knights replied, but it seems all they could allege did not induce the Parliament to repeal the Act: but on the contrary the Dean and Canons some years after obtained an h Collect. praef. G. Evans, lib. A. f. 76. Exemplification thereof under the Great Seal, dated 4. Feb. anno 18. H. 7. And it is clear from King Henry the Eigth's i Ex lib. Denton. f. 72. b. Letter to the College, which takes notice of their discharge from any exhibition to the Alms-Knights, by virtue of the said Act, That what the College did in that kind, after this Act past, was merely upon courtesy, and not obliged thereunto; for He thanks them for granting a Pension of twenty Marks to Peter Narbone, whom He had recommended to an Alms-Knights place, and promiseth they should be no further burdened with Alms-Knights, but that he would settle Lands upon them for their maintenance, and free the College from the said Pension. Besides, when Mr. Narbone had the Pension granted him, it was by an k Ibid. f. 73. Indenture made between Nicholas West then Dean of Windesor and the Canons on the one part, and the said Peter on the other, dated 18. july anno 3. H. 8. wherein he covenanted, that when the King should settle any Lands on the College, for sustentation of such Knights, than the grant of the Pension should be void, and of none effect. In the interval between the disunion of the College and Alms-Knights by the foresaid Act, to their establishment by Queen Elizabeth, their Habit and Badge continued the same, and was so confirmed by King Henry the Eighth's l Art. 16. Statutes: But it may be collected from his last Will, that there was then an intention to draw the Garter about the Scutcheon of St. George's Arms, but it took no effect: We observe also, that in this interval several persons who had been of considerable quality and worth, became Alms-Knights, some of them were nevertheless great objects of Charity; among whom was Sir Robert Champlayne Knight, a valiant Soldier, and one whose martial services abroad, rendered him an honour to our Nation. It seems he had taken part in the Civil Wars here, with King Henry the six, against King Edward the Fourth, shortly after whose coming to the Crown he left England, and traveled into m Ex vet. MS. Hungary (having with him an Equipage of three Servants and four Horses) where, in the assistance of Mathias Corvinus King of Hungary against the Turk, he behaved himself bravely, and like a valiant Knight: But prosperous Fortune not attending him at all times, he received many wounds, and at length was taken Prisoner, lost all, and forced to pay 1500 Ducats for his Ransom. For the justification of all which, he obtained n Ex vet. MS. several authentic Testimonies under the Great Seals of Mathias King of Hungary, jeronimus Archbishop of Crete, Legate de Latere in Hungary, Frederick the Third Emperor of Germany, Renat King of Sicily (Father to Queen Margaret Wife of our King Henry the Sixth) Frederick Count Palatine of the Rhine, Charles Duke of Burgundy, and lastly a Declaration thereof from our King Edward the Fourth, under his Privy Seal, dated the third of April in the nineteenth year of his Reign. And being reduced to a low condition, by his great losses and the charge of his Ransom, he was through the favour of King Henry the Seventh o Ann. 1. H. ●. admitted an Alms-Knight here. But some others made their retreat hither, and obtained admittance into this Fraternity, probably out of devotion, rather than cause of poverty; and among these were p Pat. 22. E. 4. pars 1. m. 26. Thomas Hulme sometime Clarenceux King of Arms, q An. 7. H. 7. Lodowick Carly the King's Physician, r Pat. 18. H. 7. p. 1. john Mewtes Secretary of the French Tongue, and s An. 6. H. 8. Bartholomew Westby made second Baron of the Exchequer t Pat. 1. H. 8. p. 2. m. 31. 2. june anno 1. H. 8. It is manifest by the Will of King Henry the Eighth (as also by an u Ex lib. vocat. Frith in Aerar. Coll. Windesor. p. 55. Indenture Tripartite between King Edward the Sixth of the first part, the Executors of his Father of the second part, and the Dean and Canons of Windesor of the third part, dated the fourth of August anno 1. E. 6.) that he intended a re-establishment of half the ancient number of Alms-Knights, viz. Thirteen, to which end he appointed, that as soon as might be, after his death (if not done in his life time) there should be a Revenue of 600 l. per annum in Manors, Lands, and Spiritual Promotions (above all charges) settled upon the Dean and Canons and their Successors for ever, upon the Conditions following, that is to say, That the Dean and Canons should for ever find two Priests to say Mass at the Altar near his Tomb, to keep yearly four solemn Obits for him, and at every Obits to distribute ten pounds in Alms, as also to pay twelve pence a day to each of those thirteen Alms-Knights, and they to have once in a year a long Gown of White Cloth, and a Mantle of Red Cloth, besides five Marks annually, to such one among them as should be appointed for their Governor: And lastly, to cause a Sermon to be made at Windesor every Sunday throughout the year. King Edward the Sixth (in performance of this Will) the 7. of October, in the first year of his Reign, did settle several Lands upon the College, which we shall mention by and by; immediately after which, the w Ibid. p. 37. Dean and Canons were put in possession thereof, and received the Rents: but 600 l. per annum of these Rents, were by them paid back at the appointment of the then Lord Treasurer, to be employed in building of Houses for the Alms-Knights, intended to be settled as King Henry the Eighth designed. But it seems this work was not begun till the last of February anno 3. & 4. Ph. & Mar. and finished the 25. of Sept. anno 5. & 6. of the same King and Queen, the charge whereof came to x Lib. Compos. praef. penes— Haris nuper de Windesor. 2747 l. 7 s. 6 d. These Houses are situate in the South side of the lower Ward of the Castle, and contain thirteen Rooms, besides a Hall, a Kitchen and Pastry. The y Lib. Compos. praef. penes— Haris nuper de Windesor. Stone for building was brought from Redding, the Timber from several places in the Forest, and the Lead and Apparels for Chimneys, from Suffolk-place in Southwark. At a Chapter of the Order of the Garter held the a Lib. C. p. 24. first of june anno 4. & 5. Ph. & Mar. (these Houses being then near finished) debate was had about placing some Alms-Knights therein, if possible by Michaelmas following, whereupon it was Ordered, That the b Lib. C. p. 24. Marquis of Winchester Lord Treasurer, should assign Lands for their maintenance, that not any thing might be wanting to finish so pious a work. And towards the completing of all, the Queen had nominated nine of the thirteen designed Alms-Knights, namely c Lib. vocat. Frith. p. 64. james Crane, Michael Whiteing, Silvester Clessop, Hugh johans, Robert Case, john Brigby, George Fothergill, George Thackwell, and William Beard: but she fell sick of a Fever in August following, and so a stop was put to this business. But now (in the third place) to come to the Establishment, which these Alms-Knights obtained, and under which to this present they continue, Queen Elizabeth, immediately after her coming to the Crown, confirmed her Sister's Grants to the said nine Alms-Knights, and associated unto them d Ibidem. Thomas Kemp, William Barret, William Cowper, and john Acton, to make up the full number of thirteen, ordained by King Henry the Eighth. Afterwards, viz. e Ex lib. pergam penes Camerar. Scacc. 30. Aug. anno primo Eliz. the Queen, minding the continuance of the Foundation erected by King Edward the Third, and as near as might be the performance of the intent of her Progenitors, and advancement of the most noble Order of the Garter, and especially of the knowledge given her of the last mind and Will of her Father King Henry the Eighth, to make a special Foundation and continuance of thirteen poor men, decayed in Wars, and such like service of the Realm, to be called Thirteen Knights of Windesor, and kept there in succession: And having also set forth and expressed certain Orders and Rules for their better Government, and declared how and in what manner the profits of certain Lands, of the yearly value of 600 l. given and assigned by her Father to the Dean and Canons and their Successors, should be employed for the maintenance of these Poor-Knights, and otherwise according to his mind and will, she lastly declared her pleasure, That the Dean and Canons and their Successors should for ever cause the said Orders and Rules to be observed and kept, which are these that follow. 1. f Ibidem. First, We do establish 13 Poor-Knights, whereof one to be Governor of all the residue by such Order as followeth; The same 13 to be taken of Gentlemen, brought to necessity, such as have spent their times in the service of the Wars, Garrisons, or other service of the Prince, having but little or nothing whereupon to live, to be continually chosen by Us, and our Heirs, and Successors. 2. Item, We Ordain, that the Governor and Knights shall be chosen of men unmarried, and shall continue, except in special case, where it shall please Us the Sovereign, and the Heirs, and Successors of Us the Sovereign Kings of this Realm, to dispense with any person to the contrary. Provided nevertheless, if any of them will marry, he may so do, losing his place at the day of his Marriage. 3. Item, We Ordain, that no man desamed, and convicted of Heresy, Treason, Felony, or any notable Crime, shall be admitted to any Room of the said 13 Knights, and if any so admitted be afterwards convicted of any such Crime, he shall be expelled out of that company, and lose his Room. 4. Item, The same 13 Knights to have yearly for their Liveries, each of them one Gown of 4 yards of the colour of Red, and a Mantle of Blue, or Purple Cloth, of five yards, at six shillings eight pence the yard. 5. Item, The Cross of St. George in a Scutcheon, embroidered without the Garter, to be set upon the left shoulder of their Mantles. 6. Item, The charges of the Cloth, and of the Lining, making, and embroidering, to be paid by the Dean and Chapter, out of the Revenue of that foundation, and endowment given for that and other causes. 7. Item, The said 13 Knights to come together before Noon, and afternoon daily, at all the Divine Service, said within the College, in their ordinary Apparel, and to continue to the end of the same service, without a reasonable let, to be allowed by the Governor. 8. Item, The said 13 Knights shall keep their Lodgings appointed unto them, and their Table together in their common Hall appointed, and to have their provisions made by their common Purse, except for any reasonable cause, any of them be licenced to the contrary, by the Dean or his Deputy, and that Licence to endure not above 20 days in no year, except it be for sickness only. 9 Item, The said 13 Knights shall not haunt the Town, the Alehouses, the Taverns, nor call any Woman into their Lodgings, without it be upon a reasonable cause, and that with the Licence of the Dean or his Deputy. 10. And further, We will that 12 of the said Knights shall be obedient to the thirteenth, appointed for the Governor, and all 13 shall be obedient to the Dean and Chapter, in the observation of these Statutes, for the good Order of themselves. 11. Item, The said 13 Knights shall be placed within the Church where the Dean and Canons shall think best, to hear the Divine Service together, where they shall least trouble the Ministers of the Church. 12. Item, They shall be present at the Service, to be done quarterly for the memory of the Patrons and Founders of the said College, and specially of our said deaer Father and Us, and have for every of them at each time 20 d. and the Governor 2 s. The said Service shall be used at the four quarters of the Year, every Sunday next before the Quarter-day; That is to say, the Sunday next before the Feast of the Annunciation of our blessed Lady, the Sunday before the Nativity of St. John Baptist, the Sunday before the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, and the Sunday before the Nativity of our Lord God. 13. Item, If any of the 12 Knights do not obey the Governor in the observation of these Statutes, he shall sustain for every time of such disobedience, such forfeiture as the Dean and Chapter shall put on him. The Governor shall make report of all such disobedience and other Offences committed by any of the said Knights to the Dean and Chapter; and if the offence be such, as shall seem to them to require such punishment, they shall besides a pain Arbitrary, give a warning to the Offender, causing the same to be registered, and he that shall so twice be warned by them, shall immediately upon the third offence, be expelled for ever out of that company. And if the Governor disobey the Dean and Chapter in the Observation of the said Statutes, upon such warning by them, he shall receive like punishment as the other twelve. 14. Item, The Penalties of such as are punished by the Dean and Chapter for not observing of these Statutes, shall be employed, by the discretion of the Dean and Chapter, upon any of the Ministers or Choristers of the Church where they think best. 15. Item, When it shall please God, that We, or our Successors, Kings of this Realm, shall repair to the Castle of Windesor, the said 13 Knights shall stand before their doors in their Apparel, to do their obedience unto Us, then, at the coming and going away. 16. Item, Yearly at the keeping of the Feast of St. George, they shall stand likewise in their Apparel, before their doors, at the coming and going out of the Lieutenant, and of the other Knights of the Order, chosen for the keeping of that Feast. 17. Item, When any Feast of St. George is kept within that Castle of Windesor, the Governor and Knights at the Dinner, shall sit together in their Apparel, as aforesaid, at one Table, and have allowance of meat and drink, at the charges of Us, our Heirs, and Successors. 18. Item, The said 13 Knights shall daily in their Prayers, pray for Us the Sovereign, our Heirs and Successors, and for the Companions of our said Order of the Garter. 19 Item, The said 13 Knights shall all lie within their Lodgings provided for them, and if any of them shall lie without their said Lodgings, and the College, without the licence of the Dean, or his Deputy, he shall lose for every time twelve pence. 20. Item, If any of the Poor-Knights, after his admission into that room, shall have Lands or Revenues fall unto him to the yearly value of 20 l. or upwards, he shall immediately upon the coming of such Lands or Revenues unto him, be removed, and put from his said room of a Poor-Knight, and another, such as aforesaid, taken into his place. 21. Item, The said Poor-Knights (excepting cause of sickness) shall be every day present in the College, at Church at Divine Service as is aforesaid, and receive there for a daily distribution of twelve pence by the day, to be paid them Monthly, if it may be, or at least in such sort as the other Ministers of the Chapel be paid; and he that shall be absent from the Church one day without leave of the Dean or his Deputy, shall lose his distribution of 12 d. aforesaid. 22. Item, The Governor shall keep a Book, and therein note aswell the absence of every Knight from the Church, as other faults committed by them, punishable by these Statutes, whereof he shall deliver one to the Dean or his Deputy, and another to the Steward, or him that payeth the Poor-Knights, who by order of the Dean or his Deputy, shall defaulk at the time of their pay such sums as are set upon any of the said Knights for Penalties as aforesaid. 23. Item, The Dean or his Deputy shall once in the year at least, appoint a day and hour, at the which the Poor-Knights shall be warned to be present, unto whom the said Dean or his Deputy, or one of the Commons to be appointed by the Dean, or in his absence by his Deputy, shall read these Statutes, and if any of the Knights, being warned, shall be absent from that reading, without licence of the said Dean or his Deputy, he shall lose for every time of such absence, six shillings eight pence. 24. Item, The Poor-Knights so chosen, as is aforesaid, and every of them, before he take any commodity of his Room, shall give a corporal Oath before the Dean or his Deputy, to be faithful, and true to Us, and to our Heirs, and Successors, Kings of this Realm, and that he or they for the time of their tarrying there, shall truly observe these Statutes and Ordinances, so far as the same concerneth them, or such other as shall be hereafter made by Us, or our Heirs, and Successors, touching the good order of that Company▪ upon the pains contained in the said Statutes. 25. Item, Notwithstanding the Article before expressed, prescribing the aforesaid number to be chosen of Gentlemen, which we do most allow, yet considering that before the perfection of these Orders, we be advertised, that the more part of them now chosen, and admitted, be not certainly known Gentlemen, were received into the same Order, as men well reported for honesty, and thought meet to be relieved for their poverty, we are pleased to dispense with all such, as are presently placed, being not Gentlemen born, and hereafter mean in that point, not to have any admitted, contrary to the said Order. The annual allowance to each of these Alms-Knights upon this new Establishment is 18 l. 5 s. 0 d. to be paid by the Dean of Windesor (but their Governor hath 3 l. 6 s. 8 d. more) besides a Gown or Surcoat of Red Cloth, and a Mantle of Blue or Purple Cloth, on the left sleeve whereof is embroidered the Arms of St. George in a plain Scutcheon. King james was pleased to double this Pension, viz. to each of them g Howes Chron. p. 1037. 18 l. 5 s. 0 d. more, and made it payable out of the Exchequer by quarterly payments. To these thirteen Alms-Knights there was added, in the Reign of the late Sovereign King Charles the First of ever blessed memory, five more; to wit, two of the Foundation of Sir Peter la More Knight, and three of Sir Francis Crane Knight, sometime Chancellor of this most noble Order. For Sir Peter la Maire, by his h Ex lib. v●cat. A●dely in Officio Praerogat. Cant. f. 7. last Will and Testament, bearing date the eighth of january anno 1631. bequeathed the sum of 1500 l. to be bestowed and settled to and for such charitable and pious uses, and in such manner and form as Sir Francis Crane (who had married his Sister) should think fit and appoint, within four years after his death. Afterwards i Lib. R. p. 113. Sir Francis determining (very greatly to his own Fame and the honour of the Order) to erect certain Houses in Windesor Castle, for the dwelling of five 〈◊〉 Knights, did thereupon design the said 1500 l. towards that use, and added 〈◊〉 money of his own to make up the rest; charging his Executor [Sir Richard Crane his Brother, afterwards created Baronet] by his k Lib. vocat. Pyle in Officio praed. f. 105. Will, dated the 27. of August, anno 1635. to see the buildings, which himself had begun, finished. He also bequeathed for ever two hundred pounds per annum, to be settled in Lands by his Executor, according to the advice and direction of Thomas then Earl of Arundel and Surrey, and Henry Lord Ma●revers his eldest Son, to serve for the perpetual maintenance of five Alms-Knights, after the rate of forty pounds per annum to every one of them. But his Executor growing slack in the performance of this, the work being rather exposed to ruin than any way forwarded by him, by whom the same was only expected to be finished; and complaints thereof several times made to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions in Chapter, l Lib R. p. 140. Orders were issued thereupon to quicken him, and a m Sir james Palmer's journal pro anno 1639 p. 64. peremptory Letter sent him, dated the 7. of March 1639. to go on with the work forthwith; which commands he evading, and bad times growing on, the building was wholly neglected. Sir Richard Crane afterwards dying, by his n Vide lib. vocat. Aylet in Officio praed. f. 186. Will dated, the 20. of Sept. 1645. appointed that his Manor of Carbrooke in Norfolk, should for ever stand bound for the payment of the said 200 l. per annum, whereupon by an Inquisition taken at Windesor, 4. Mar. 1652. by virtue of a Commission upon the Statute, anno 43. Eliz. for charitable uses, the Manors of Woodrising and Wesfield, with other Lands in the County of Norfolk were found liable to satisfy for building and finishing the said five Houses, and payment of the 200 l. yearly; and further, that the Arrears thereof from Sir Francis Crane's death, came at that time to 3200 l. Some contest then ensued in the Court of Chancery, between Ralph Mabb, with other Prosecutors on the Alms-Knights behalf, and William Crane Esquire (to whom the Estate of Sir Richard Crane fell) nevertheless the 200 l. per annum was (19 july 1655.) Decreed to be paid out of all the Lands which were Sir Richard Cranes, and the building of the Houses out of his personal Estate. And upon this (about two years after) that fair pile of Building, erected between the Chancellor's and Garter's Towers, against the West wall in the lower Ward of the Castle, was taken again in hand, and finished in the following year; the charge whereof amounted to 1700 l. But for a final end of the Suit it was Decreed, the 27. of january 1659. That the before mentioned Manor of Carbrook should for ever stand charged with 200 l. per annum, to be paid half yearly at Michaelmas and our Lady-day, or within thirty days after, for the perpetual maintenance of five Alms-Knights, together with 30 l. yearly for repairs, payable at the foresaid times, and an assurance thereof to be made accordingly: towards the recovery and settling of which, the care and assistance of Sir Bulstrode Whiteloke (than Constable of the Castle of Windesor) was not wanting. The setlement being perfected, the present Sovereign, in a Chapter held at Whitehall the 14. of january anno 12. Car. 2. Decreed, That the Chancellor of the Order for the time being, should receive the said annual sum of 230 l. and dispose thereof thus; 200 l. per annum among the five new-instituted Alms-Knights quarterly, by even and equal portions, at the four usual Feasts of the year, and to employ the residue (being 30 l. per annum) upon repair of the new buildings, erected for their Lodgings, which powers were inserted into the Paten●●or his Office, bearing date the 20. of the same Month. And it was further decreed at the same Chapter, That these five Alms-Knights should be subject to the same Rules and Government, under which the other thirteen were established by Queen Elizabeth's Foundation, and made equal partakers of the same Privileges, and have the like Habit assigned to them. The number of Alms-Knights being by the donation of Sir Francis Crane, increased to eighteen. King Charles' the First of ever blessed memory, taking notice thereof (though they were not yet settled) intended to make them up six and twenty, as they were at the Institution of the Order; to which end, in a Chapter held at Whitehall the 18. of April 1637. it was Ordered, p Lib. ●. p. 121. That the Knights-Companions (Commissioners for other affairs of the Order) should consider of the best way how the same might be effected, and report their opinions to the then Sovereign: But nothing being done thereupon, this Affair yet waits a more propitious season for the completing thereof. SECT. VI Of other Ministers of the College. IN the last place, the Ministri or Officers of the College and Chapel of St. George, bring up the rear in the Patent of Foundation, under which Title are comprehended, first, the Superior Officers, namely the Chantor, Steward, and Treasurer. Chantor. The q Colleg. Stat. c. 37. Chantor is ordained to be chosen from among the Canons, the chief part of whose Office is to govern those that sing in the Choir, and such as are employed about Divine Service: Before the Reformation in Religion, he appointed who of them should begin the Antiphones, celebrate the Masses, and read the Lessons, Epistles, and Gospels; with these, to his care was committed the r Colleg. Stat. c. 37. custody of the Books, Crosses, Chalices, Vestments, and all the sacred Ornaments of the Chapel. He receives the Offerings there made, and accounts for them, for all which service an annual Pension of 5 l. is allowed him. The Steward and Treasurer are s Ibid. cap. 38. Steward. annually chosen on the morrow after Michael-mas-day, from out of the Canon-Residents. To the Steward's Office belongs the Government of all the Revenue of the College; the Rents and Profits arising thence, he is to pay to the Treasurer: To his keeping is delivered all the Ornaments, Jewels, and other Treasure of the Chapel, not committed to the Chantor, under the obligation of rendering an account, and his yearly Pension is 5 l. Treasurer. The t Ibid. Treasurer is appointed to distribute to the Custos, Canons, Vicars and every other Minister of the Chapel, the Pensions and Allowances assigned to them, of which if he fail eight days after the expiration of their set times of payment, he is debarred of his own Quotidians, as Canon-Resident, until such Arrears be discharged, so also the Steward if he be faulty herein. The Pension allowed him is also 5 l. per annum. As there is one Treasurer who receives the Rents of the Old Lands, so was there appointed another distinct from the former, and chosen from among the Canons to receive the Rent of the New (within few years after they were settled on the College) to whom the like annual Pension of 5 l. hath been also allowed. The Title of the former being Senescallus veteris Dotationis, and of the latter Senescallus novae Dotationis. There is also the Steward of the Courts, Steward of the Courts. and Clerk of the Lands, which is an Officer under both the before mentioned Stewards: He u Lib. Collect. praef. G. Evans, lib. A. f. 74. b. keeps the Courts by himself or Deputy, he is a Barraster at Law, and the standing Council for the College; his yearly Pension is w Ibid. f. 75. a. twenty Nobles; but the Council in Spiritualibus, is usually a Graduate in the Civil Law. Chapter-Clark. The x Ibid. Chapter-Clerks Office, or Registership, is to enter or register all Acts agreed upon in the Chapterhouse, he also draws, engrosseth, and registereth all Indentures, Patents, Grants, Leases, and other Writings, which pass under the common Seal of the Dean and Canons. His Pension is y Ibid. 3 l. 6 s. 8 d. per annum. The Under Stewardship and Chapter-Clarkeship went sometimes heretofore together, but of late they are divided, and now this Officer is also a Barraster at Law. Verger. Of the Vergers Institution the z Colleg. Stat. Cap. 54. Statutes of the College take notice, and appoint that in the Chapel at Processions and other Solemnities, he shall go before the Dean and Canons bearing his Rod: for which service there was then allowed him annually one Robe, Sextons. Bell ringers. Clock-keeper. Porter. and six pence per diem. And besides these Officers, there are two Sextons, two Bellringers, a Clock-keeper, and a Porter, who attends the shutting and opening of the Gates. SECT. VII. Of the Endowment of the College. OUR brief account relating to the Dean, Canons, and other Members of the College, being now dispatched, it follows that we treat of the Endowment thereof, and show what Lands were given towards the maintenance and support of this Foundation. But because we intent no other account here, than in that of the Castle, Chappel, and College, which was but short; we will only set down what Lands, etc. the Founder endowed the College with, and then touch upon those other considerable additions made by some of his Successors, Sovereigns of the most noble Order of the Garter, and of the Knights-Companions, referring the rest (after a bare mention of some other that were taken into the first Foundation) to the larger discourse which we intent hereafter to make public. The Endowments wherewith King Edward the Third invested this College by his Letters Patent of Foundation before mentioned, were first the a Pat. de an. 22. E. 3. pars. 2. m. 6. Advowsons' of the Churches of Wyrardesbury (vulgarly called Rasbury) in the Diocese of Lincoln, of Southtanton in the Diocese of Exeter, and of Uttoxater in the Diocese of Coventry and Lichfield. These he gave to the Custos, Canons, Alms-Knights and Ministers of the College, to hold in free, pure and perpetual Alms, throughly and perpetually, free from all secular exactions, with licence to appropriate the same to the College, notwithstanding the Statute of Mortmain. b Pat. de an. 22. E. 3. pars. 2. m. 6. He thereby also appointed so much of his Treasure as should be for their decent support, until he had settled an immovable estate of 1000 l. per annum upon them in Lands, Benefices, or Rents. But as for two of these Advowsons', namely uttoxater and Southtanton, 'tis to be doubted there was afterwards discovered some defect in the King's Title to them, and that the right of Patronage lay rather in Henry Earl of Lancaster, and Thomas Earl of Warwick: for the 18. of june anno 23. E. 3. the King granted special Licence to Henry Earl of Lancaster that he should give and assign to the Custos and Chaplains of the Chapel of St. George in Windesor, and their Successors for ever, the c Pat. 23. E. 3. p. 2. m. ●. Advowson of the Church of Vttokeshatre, it being there said to be of the Earls proper Patronage. And the like licence to Thomas Beauchamp Earl of Warwick, for assigning to them the d Pat. 23. E. 3. p. 2. m. ●. Advowson of the Church of Southtanton, that being of his Patronage also: The King gave special licence likewise to receive these Advowsons' from these Earls, and to appropriate them to the use of the College. Another like licence passed ( e Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3● 26. jan. anno 24. E. 3.) to William de Bohun Earl of Northampton, that enabled him to assign to the said Custos and Chapl●ins and their Successors, the f Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3● Advowson of the Church of Dadyngton in the County of Oxford, which he held of the King in Caepite, with licence for them to receive and appropriate the same. The 28. of january following, this royal Founder gave unto the Custos and College, by the name of Custos and Chaplains of his Free Chapel of Windesor, g Pat. 24. E. ●. p. 1. m. 36. one Message, seventeen Acres of Land, one Acre of Pasture, and three shillings Rend, with the appurtenances, lying in Wyrardesbury in the County of Buckingham, which had been conveyed to him by Rich. de Gloucester Heir to Isabella de Ditton. And on the 22. of May ensuing, he also granted unto them, the h Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 14. Advowson of the Church of Dachet near Windesor, with licence to appropriate it to them and their Successors. In the following year (primo Martii) the King gave them the i Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 1. m. 24. Advowsons' of the Churches of Ewer in Buckinghamshire, of Riston in the County of Norfolk, and of Whaddon and Caxton in the County of Cambridge, to appropriate these also to them and their Successors. And the 9 of May after he likewise granted and assigned to them, the k Pat. de eod. an. p. 1. m. 14. Advowson of the Churches of Symondesbourn (which the College in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth surrendered to Richard Duke of Gloucester) and of St. Stephens of Saltash, with like licence of Appropriation. But the first of these was the gift of Queen Philippe, she having purchased it of l Ibidem. Sir john Darcy Knight; and the other of Edward the black Prince; and both granted by them, first to the King, that by his Grant afterwards to the College, its Title might be better strengthened. The 26. of October in the same year, the King granted to the said Custos and College and their Successors, m Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 3. m. 15. one hundred Marks per annum, to be received out of the Farm of the Town of Northampton; and paid them by the hands of the Bailiff of that Town for the time being, at Easter and Michaelmas by equal portions, towards their sustentation and maintenance, and the supportation of the burden of the Chapel. It was at the instance of the Founder (and therefore we mention it here) That the Bailiffs and Communality of Yarmouth granted to the College (the first of April anno 26. E. 3.) under their Common-Seal, a n Ex ipso Autograph. in Aerar. hujus Colleg. Last of Red Herrings yearly, well dried and cleansed; to the end they might take this Corporation into their Prayers. But some say it was enjoined them as a Penance, for murdering a Magistrate among them. Moreover the Founder granted to them and their Successors (18. july anno 26. E. 3.) the o Pat. 26. E. 3. par● 1. m. 1. Manor of Ewer near Weybrigg, with its appurtenances in Buckinghamshire, the Manor of Craswell, with its appurtenances in the Parish of Bray, in the County of Berks, and a certain Weare, called Braybrok, placed in the River of Thames, with all the Lands and Tenements in the said Parish conveyed unto him by Sir john Philibert, together with the Knight's Fees, and Advowsons' of Churches, Chapels, Chanteries, and other things whatsoever, to the said Manors, Lands and Tenements belonging or appertaining. And the 23. of February following, a p Claus. 27. E. 3. m. 25. Writ issued to Henry de Greystock Clerk, Steward of the Lands set apart for the use of the King's Chamber, and to Robert de Haddon Escaetor of the same Lands, to give full seisin to the Custos and College of these Manors of Ewer and Bray St. Philebert, as also of a Wood called Temple-Wood in Stoke-pugeys, conveyed to the King by john de Molyns. Afterwards, the King considering, that all the Lands he had assigned for support of this College, were yet too little for that end; and being desirous to have it better provided for, he further granted to the Custos and College and their Successors by like Letters Patent, a q Pat. 28. E. 3. p. 2. m. 22. Pension of one hundred pounds yearly out of his Exchequer. These Letters Patent were afterwards vacated, for that by other like Letters dated the 12. of May anno 34. E. 3. he gave them Lands to the yearly value of r Pat. 34. E. 3. p. 1. m. 13 101 l. 11 s. 11 d. of the possessions of Religious Aliens, which fell into his hands, by occasion of the French Wars. One hundred pounds per annum part of this, was in recompense of the said 100 l. yearly Pension issuing out of the Exchequer, and the 1 l. 11 s. 11 d. in part of satisfaction of the Lands, which the King intended to provide for the further maintenance of the College; nevertheless he thereby also granted, s Pat. 34. E. 3. p. 1. m. 13 that in case these Possessions should by Treaty of Peace or otherwise be restored, they should then receive the said yearly sum of 101 l. 11 s. 11 d. out of his Exchequer as before, until there was provided for them Lands of the like annual value. And whereas in the Patent of Foundation it is said, that the King designed to settle upon the College Lands of the value of 1000 l. per annum; now in another Letters Patent bearing Teste the said 12. of May, there is notice taken only of Lands of the annual value of t Ibid. 655 l. 15 s. 0 d. (as if his intended Donation had extended to Lands of no greater value) and that the King in pursuance of such his purpose, had already provided Lands and other Possessions, rated at 604 l. 5 s. 3 d. per annum, the residue to make up the intended sum here expressed, being but 51 l. 9 s. 9 d. He thereupon u Ibid. appointed the College to receive that sum yearly out of 126 l. 0 s. 0 d. which the Prior of Takkele paid to him for the Farm of that Priory, it being then in the King's hands by reason of the War with France: Howbeit in case Peace was so concluded, that the same should be restored to the Prior, the King then further granted, w Ibid. that the Custos and College should thenceforward receive the said sum of 51 l. 9 s. 9 d. out of his Exchequer, at Michaelmas and Easter, by even Portions. But it seems the Lands fell short of the value rated at in this Account, and reached not to the total of the King's intended Endowment by 90 l. per annum: For the first of x Pat. 35. E. 3. p. 2. m. 21. june in the following year, by other Letters Patent, he granted to the Custos and College, so much money to be annually paid them out of his Exchequer (to make up what yet fell short) until he should cause to be provided Lands or Rents of that value, to be settled on them and their Successors. Lastly, the 2. of April anno 39 E. 3. the Founder bestowed on them a y Pat. 39 E. 3. p. 1. m. 22. piece of ground in New-Windesor (upon which had stood a House sometime of john de London) in lieu of the great Garden lying on the South part of the Castle, z Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 1. m. 37. formerly given them by him, for the use of the Custos and Canons. And also a Garden opposite thereunto, on the other side of the way, with its appurtenances, for the use of the Alms-Knights, Vicars, Clerks, Choristers, and other the Officers of the College; and herewith he closed his Endowments. But besides all these Donations made by the Founder, to the Custos, College, and their Successors, there were other Lands, Parsonages, Pensions, and Portions given to them by pious and devout persons, in free, pure, and perpetual Alms for ever, towards their sustentation, which are said a MS. to be taken into the first Foundation, and made up that Revenue, which b Praesat. ad Colleg. Stat. William Bishop of Winchester, accounted and declared sufficient for the maintenance of the Custos and those other of the College, according to the number by him limited in the College Statutes, as also for the due defraying of all charges imposed upon them, and these we shall let pass with the bare mention only. The c MS. Manor of Dodyngton Castle, two Pastures called Frith and Ashcroft, the Chapel of Langeley, the Parsonages of Es●riton, Langeley-maries', Wanting, Shaldeborne, Wedonbeek, Glind, and Ryslepe, the Pensions of the Vicarages of Wanting, Clyffe, Tyltehey, and Gottesford, and the Portions of Bassyngborne, Pre●●ewyke, in Haseley magna, Chalgrave, Adewelle, Aston, Rowband, Sebyngdon, Kyngeston, and Henton, in Stoke-Basset, and Clopecote, in Gatehampton, Whytechyrche, Maplederham, Retherfeld, Esthenrith, Stretham, of Thernecroft in Letherhed, of Totynbeek in Wodesdon, Ebyngton, Woodmershtborne, of Fordham, Ethorpe, ●ewenham, and in Tollesworth. In following times, there were many other considerable Donations bestowed on the College, by the succeeding Sovereigns and Knights-Companions of the Order (for as to what was given by others, we shall not need to take further notice of now) either out of devotion, or desire to be more especially taken into their Prayers, or in honour to the Military Order; some of which, as they fall into our way, we will here set down. King Richard the Second, Grandchild and Successor to the Founder (13. Feb. anno Regni sui 13.) gave to the Custos and Canons d Pat. 13. R. 2. par● 2. m. 11. one Croft in the Town of Northmolton, together with the Advowson of that Church, it being in the Diocese of Exeter, and licence to appropriate the same. john Duke of Bedford, third Son to King Henry the Fourth, bestowed on this College, by his Deed dated the 3. of December anno 9 H. 5. the e Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. hujus Colleg. Priory of Okeborne in the County of Wilts (a Cell to the Abbey of Bee in Normandy) together with all and singular the Possessions thereunto belonging or appertaining. This Grant King Henry the Fifth f Ex Lib. vocat. Arundel in Aerar. praed. f. 91. confirmed, and that it might be more valid, was likewise confirmed by King g Cart. de an. 1. E. 4. m. 20. Edward the Fourth. King Edward the Fourth had a singular respect and favour for this College, to which, the 18. of july in the seventh year of his Reign, towards augmentation of its maintenance, and ease of the great burdens of the Dean and Canons, he gave the h Pat. ●. E. 4. Manors of Atherston in the County of Warwick (a member of the Priory of Okeborne) the Manors and Advowsons' of the Churches of Chesingbury in Wiltshire, and of Quarle in Hantshire, the Church and Priorate of Uphaven, and the Deanery or Chapel of St. Burien in Cornwall, with all rights and appurtenances thereunto appertaining, as also an annual Pension which the Abbot of Sautre paid for the Church of Fulburne to the Abbey de bonà Requie, and another annual Pension of 20 l. paid by the Abbot of Rousford for the mediety of the Church of Rotheram. The 29. of january anno regni sui 13. he gave the i Pat. 13. E. 4. p. 2. m. 6. Manor or Priorate of Munclane in the County of Hereford (parcel of the possessions belonging to the Priories Alien) with all and singular its appurtenances. The following year (viz. 27. of February) he granted to them, by the name of Custos or Dean and Chapter of this College, the k Pat. 14. E. 4. p. 2. m. 5. Custody, Patronage, and free disposition of the Hospital or Freechappel of St. Anthony's London (a Preceptory of the Monastery of St. Anthony at Vienna) with all the Liberties, Privileges, Lands, Rents, Services, and Emoluments whatsoever thereunto belonging, upon the first vacancy, whether it should happen by death, resignation, or otherwise. He also gave them (the 17. of May ensuing) the l Pat. 14. E. 4. p. 1. m. 1. Priorate of Brimsfield in the County of Gloucester, the Manor of Blakenham in the County of Suffolk (parcel of the Priory of Okeburne) the Priorate of St. Elene in the Isle of Wight in Hampshire, the Priorate of Manor of Charleton in Wiltshire, and all the Lands, Tenements, Rents, and Services in Northumudon, Compton, and Welegh in the Counties of Sussex and Southampton (which sometime belonged to the Abbey of Lucerne in Normandy) the Manor of Ponyngton and Wedon in the County of Dorset (parcel of the possessions of Okeburne Priory) one annual Pension of twelve Marks, payable by the Prior of the Priory of Monte-Acuto, together with all and singular the Lands, Tenements, Rents, Advowsons', Liberties, etc. annexed to the said Priorates and Manors, or in any manner appertaining, with licence to appropriate the same to them and their Successors. About two Months after, this King gave also to the College, the m Ibidem. Manor of Membury in Devonshire, and Lordships of Preston and Monkesilver in the County of Somerset, the Advowsons' of the Churches of Puryton, and Wollavington in the said County (being parcel of the Priory of Golalys in Wales, and one of the Prior's Aliens) together with the Knight's Fees, Advowsons', Profits, Rights, etc. thereunto belonging. In the 18. year of his Reign, the Queen, Thomas Archbishop of York, and several Bishops, Noblemen and others, being seized to the use of the King his Heirs and Successors of the n Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. Colleg. Windesor. Manor of Wykecombe called Bassetsbury, the Fee Farm of the Town of great Wykecombe, the Manor of Crendon in the County of Buckingham, and of the Manors of Haseley and Pyrton in the County of Oxford, parcel of the Lands of the Duchy of Lancaster, they (at the special command of the King) demised and granted the premises with all their appurtenances to the Custos or Dean and Canons and their Successors, until such time as the King, his Heirs or Successors should grant to them other Lands of the like yearly value. The 17. of February following, this King gave them the o Pat. 18. E. 4. p. 2. m. 4. Advowson of the Church of Cheston, being of his own Patronage, with licence to appropriate the same, provided the Vicarage were sufficiently endowed, and a competent sum of money annually distributed among the poor Parishioners, according to the Diocesan's Ordinance, and form of the Statute in such case provided. This King the 21. of February following united the Custody or Deanery of the Free Chapel of Wolverhampton in the County of Stafford, to the Custos or Dean of this College, and his Successors for ever. This Church cum membris is exempt not only from the Jurisdiction of the Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, but (by a Papal Bull) from all his Legates, and Delegates; nor is it subject to any terrene power but the Majesty of England, and under it, to the perpetual visitation of the Keepers of the Great Seal pro tempore. He likewise gave them the q Pat. 20. E. 4. p. 2. m. 23. Advowson or Patronage of the Prebend of Ewern in the County of Dorset, the 27. of Sept. in the 20. year of his Reign, with all its rights and appurtenances, and also a licence of appropriation. And lastly, the 21. of November in the ensuing year, he granted to them two parts of the r Pat. 21. E. 4. p. ●. m. 3. Manors of Old-Swynford and Gannow in the County of Worcester, and the Reversion of the third part of them after the death of M●rgaret Wife of Fulk Stafford Esquire; with the Advowson of the Church of Old-Swynford. These were the effects of this most noble and munificent Prince's piety and liberality towards this College: Nor was he alone bountiful, but excited others▪ to be so likewise, and to that purpose, in the first year of his Reign, s Cart. an. 1. l. 4. m 20. h●●nsed all his Subjects in general to give what Lands, Rents, or Advowsons they plea●ed, to the Dean and Canons, within the value of 300 Marks per annum. as well such as they held of the King in Capite, or in Burgages, or otherwise▪ as any other Land; the same to be united and appropriated to the College and its uses perpetually, notwithstanding the Statute of Mortmain; and afterwards increased this licence to Lands of the value of t Pat. 19 E. 4. m. 5. 500 l. a year (but King Henry the Eighth extended the like licence to the value of u Ex lib. Denton. f. 115. 1000 l. per annum.) Hereupon shortly after, to wit, june 29. anno Regni sui 20. he granted licence to john Duke of Suffolk and Elizabeth his Wife the King's Sister, to give and assign unto them the w Pat. 20. E. ● p. 2. m. 26. Manor or Lordship of Grovebury otherwise called Leighton-Busard with its appurtenances in the County of Bedford, the Church of Tintagell in Cornwall, with all its emoluments; as also 19 Messages, 7 Tofts, 140 Acres of Land, 14 Acres of Meadow, 140 Acres of Pasture, 1ST Acres of Wood, and 4 l. Rent, with their appurtenances in Newford and Blanford in the County of Dorset. And 70 Messages, 12 Tofts, 500 Acres of Land, 100 Acres of Meadow, 300 Acres of Pasture, 100 Acres of Wood, and 100 shillings Rend, with the appurtenances in Stokesly, Northall, Edelesburgh, and Rodenach in Buckinghamshire. And 20 Messages, 8 Toasts, 300 Acres of Land, 60 Acres of Meadow, 200 Acres of Pasture, 40 Acres of Wood, and 20 shillings Rend, with the appurtenances in Compton-St. John in the County of Sussex. And 10 Messages, 9 Tofts, 200 Acres of Land, 20 Acres of Meadow, 100 Acres of Pasture, 10 Acres of Wood, and 20 shillings Rend, with the appurtenances in Portsmouth and Burgbegge in Hampshire. And one Message, 3 Tofts, 60 Acres of Land, 6 Acres of Meadow, 40 Acres of Pasture, and 20 shillings Rend, with the appurtenances in Stodeham in the County of Hertford, held of the King in Capite; notwithstanding the Statute of Mortmain, or any other restriction or proviso whatsoever. We shall here note, that the 24. of july anno 18. E. 4. this x Lib. 〈◊〉. f. 148. Duke of Suffolk enfeoffed Richard Duke of York, Thomas Bishop of Lincoln, and others, of the Manor of Leighton-Busard, who the 25. of june anno 19 E. 4. at his special instance Demised and Granted the said Manor to the Dean and Canons forever. And in the Octaves of St. john Baptist, anno 20. E. 4. the y Ibid. f. 149. Duke of Suffolk and his Duchess levied a Fine to the Dean and Canons, who thereupon agreed that for this their so large Donation they should be had in their perpetual Orisons. The 10. of january next after, z Ex ips● Autogr. in Aerar. Colleg. Windesor. Sir Walter Devoreux de Ferrer Knight, following this pious Example, together with Sir john Devoreux, and others his Feoffees, of the Manor of Sutton-Courtney in the County of Berks, and of the Church of Sutton-Courtney (having withal obtained the a Pat. 20. E. 4. p. 2. m. 3. vide Lib. Dento●. f. 41. & 42. King's licence to that end) did give and grant unto the Dean, Canons, and their Successors for ever, the Advowson or Patronage thereof, with all rights appertaining thereunto. All the before mentioned Endowments are called the Lands of the Old Dotation, to distinguish them from those settled on the College by King Edward the Sixth, which bear the title of Lands of the New Dotation, concerning which we shall speak in the next place. But several of them so given by King Edward the Fourth, the College never enjoyed, namely, the Manor of Atherston, the Manor and Advowson of Quarle, Vphaven, St. Burien, Fulburne Pension, Brimfeld, St. Elen, Charleton, Blakenham, Ponyngton, Wedon, Old Swinford, and Gannow: And of some others they were seized but a short time, to wit, Chesingbury Manor and Advowson, the Lands in Newford, Blanford, and Portsmouth. Besides these, the College was dispossessed of Gottesford in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth, of Cheston Advowson in Henry the Seventh's Reign, and in the time of King Henry the Eighth (or some time before) of Wodemershthorne, Tyltehey, Retherfeld, Levyngdon, Stoke-Basset, Stretham, Totingbeek, Fordham, Ethorp, Newenham, and Tollesworth; afterwards they surrendered into the hands of King Henry the Eighth, the Manors and Advowsons' of Ewer, Clyff, Ashton, Rowhand, Kingston, Esthenrith, Northumunden, Compton, Weleg, Compton-St. John's, and Shobingdon Portion. And lastly, the College lost at least 1000 Marks per annum, upon the Reformation of Religion, in the profit made by St. Anthony's Pigs, which the appropriation of the Hospital of St. Anthony's London had brought to it, and no less than 500 l. per annum, the Offerings of Sir john Shornes Shrine, at Northmarston in Buckinghamshire; a very devout man, of great veneration with the people, and sometime Rector there. The Advowson of this Church was appropriate to the Dean and Canons, by the Prior and Convent of Dunstaple, the licence of King Edward the Fourth being obtained for that purpose the b Pat. 19 E. 4. m 3. 15. of November, anno regni sui 19 in exchange for the Advowson of the Church of Wedenbeck in Bedfordshire. The Dean and Canons having by their Deed under their Chapter Seal, conveyed unto King Henry the Eighth the c Regist. vocat. Frith. p. 53. Manor and Rectory of Ivor in Buckinghamshire, the Manor of Dammery Court in Dorsetshire, and divers other Lands, Rents, Portions, and Pensions in the Counties of Somerset, Hants, Middlesex, Oxford, and Sussex, for which they had no recompense in his life, nevertheless by his last d Ex lib. vocal. Al●n in Regist. Cur. Prerog. Cant. n. 32. Will and Testament, he appointed them satisfaction; and thereby charged and required his Son, and all his Executors, and likewise all his Heirs and Successors Kings of England, as they would answer the neglect before Almighty God at the dreadful day of Judgement, that they should see assurance made to the Dean and Canons for settling Lands on them and their Successors, in performance of his Will, and the uses therein appointed. And it being manifest to the Lord Protector and his Co-Executors (after this King's death) e Regist. vocat. Frith. p. 56. that the Dean and Canons upon the commutation and agreement of an exchange, performed on their part by assigning to the said King the Manors and Lands above specified, being of the yearly value of 160 l. 2. s. 4 d. for which they were as then unrecompensed; King Edward the Sixth, minding the accomplishing and performance of his Father's last Will, as well for the assurance of Lands to the yearly value of 600 l. to the Dean, Canons, and their Successors for ever, to the uses in the Will, and for maintenance and performance of such other Ordinances and things, as he and the said Executors should limit and prescribe to them; as also for the assurance of other Lands of the annual value of 160 l. 2 s. 4 d. to be made to the Dean and Canons in recompense of the Lands, they had released and assigned to King Henry the Eighth; was pleased by his Letters Patent bearing Teste at Hampton Court, the 7. day of October in the first year of his Reign, to give and grant to the said Dean and Canons the Rectories, Impropriations, Parsonages, Chapels, Portions, and Tithes here named, viz. The Rectories and Churches of f Pat. 1. E. 6. par● 5. Bradnynche, Northam, Iplepen, Ilsington, and Southmolton in Devonshire, and the Tithe of Corn of Dtery in that County, part of the Duke of Somersets Possessions, as also Blosoms-Inn in St. Lawrence-Lane, London, sometime parcel of the Possessions of the late College of Otery. The Tithes of Grain, etc. of the Rectory of Ambrosbury in Wiltshire, and all the Tithes of Bedwyn, Stoke, Wilton, Harden, Harden-Tunrige, Knoll, Pathall, Chisbury, East-Grafton, West-Grafton, Grafton-Darten, and Wexcombe, parcel of the Prebend of Bedwyn in that County; as also the Prebend of Alcannyngs and Urchefounte, the Rectories of Urchefounte, Stapleford, Tytcombe, and Froxfield in the said County, and all the annual Pension of 8 l. issuing out of the Manor of Icombe in the County of Gloucester. The Rectory and Vicarage of Ikelington in Cambridgeshire. The Rectory of East-Bethworth in the County of Surrey. The Reversion of the Portion of Tithes of Trequite in Cornwall, and the Rent of 13 s. 4 d. reserved upon the same. All the Portion of Tithes of Trequite aforesaid, belonging to the Priory of St. Germane in Cornwall. The Rectory and Church of Plymton, the Chapels of Plymstoke, Wembury, Shagh, Sanford-Spone, Plymton, St. Maurise, and Bryxton in Devonshire, belonging to the late Priory of Plymton, the Rectory of Istleworth and Twickenham in the County of Middlesex, parcel of the possessions of the College of St. Mary's of Winchester, and the Rectory of Shiplake in Oxfordshire, lately belonging to the Monastery of Missenden in Buckinghamshire. As also all the Reversion of the Rectory of Aberguille, and of the Chapels of Llanlawett (alias dict. Llanbadock) and Llanpenysaunt, (part of the Monastery of Karmarden in South-Wales) with the Rent of 30 l. per ann. reserved thereon; the Reversion of the Rectory of Talgarth (part of the Priory of Brecknock in South-Wales) with the reserved Rent of 11 l. 6 s. 8 d. The Reversion of the Rectory of Mara in the County of Brecknock (belonging to the Priory of Brecknock) and 6 l. Rent. The Reversion of the Rectory of St. Germane in Cornwall (appertaining to the Monastery or Priory of St. Germane) with 61 l. 13 s. 4 d. Rent. To have and to hold all the premises, unto the Dean and Canons and their Successors for ever; except the Tithes in Woolpall and Fitzwaren in Wiltshire (belonging to the Priory of Bedwyn) The Vicarage-house of Ikelington, the moneys called Marriage-Money, Dirge-Money, and Mass-Money, and the whole profit of the Bedrolls of Ikelington. Nevertheless to pay the King and his Successors in the Court of Augmentation, for the Rectories of Aberguille, Talgarthe, and Mara, the Chapels of Llanbadock and Llanpenysaunt 4 l. 2 s. 8 d. in the name of Tenths, and for all Rents, Services, etc. of the other Rectories, etc. 48 l. 7 s. 4 d. annually at Michaelmas. Furthermore, within all these premises the King (by the said Letters Patent) granted to the Dean and Canons, Court Leets, or Views of Frankepledge, and to have Fines and Amerciaments, Free-Warrens, Waifs, and Felons Goods, and all other Profits, Commodities, Liberties, Emoluments, and Hereditaments whatsoever. All which Rectories, Tithes, Pensions, Rents, etc. before mentioned, and all other Gifts and Grants in the possession of the Dean and Canons anno jac. Reg. 2. were confirmed and made good and effectual in Law to them and their Successors, by Act of Parliament that year. The g Regist. Frith, p. 57 2. of August preceding the Grant made by King Edward the Sixth, a Rental passed under the hand of Sir Edward North Chancellor of the Court of Augmentation, containing the particular charges issuing out of the aforesaid Rectories, etc. whereunto certain Articles were annexed, and according to which the said Deed of Conveyance from the King was drawn. The ancient rate of these New Lands in the King's Books was h Ibid. p. 54. 661 l. 6 s. 8 d. per annum, but according to the improved Rents, to wit, as they were then turned over to the College, was 812 l. 12 s. 9 d. out of which improved value (as appears by the Articles now mentioned) i Ibid. p. 57 160 l. 2 s. 4 d. was yearly allowed them in satisfaction of the Lands passed over to King Henry the Eighth, and 600 l. per annum for accomplishment of his Will, but the remaining sum, viz. 52 l. 10 s. 5 d. was reserved in lieu of Tenths, to be yearly paid into the Court of Augmentation; howbeit this last reserved sum was not agreed unto by the Dean and Canons to be so paid, because the Charges issuing out of the Lands were greater than were expressed in the Rental. And we find, that shortly after the k Ibid. p. 54. Rents of the Parsonage of St. Germane, the Rectories of Northam, Ilsington, Icklington, Ambrosbury, Stapleford, and Vrchefount, the prebend's of Alcanings and Vrchefount, being part of the New Lands, were received and accounted for, according to the old rate in the King's Books, to wit, 162 l. 13 s. 4 d. per annum, by the Steward of the Old Lands, in recompense for the Lands conveyed to King Henry the Eighth, and out of which they paid a yearly surplusage of 2 l. 2 s. 1 d. this sum together with the Rents of the rest of the New Lands, being upon the said improvement accounted to be 597 l. 17 s. 11 d. made in all 600 l. per annum; and this was paid by the Dean and Canons for some time towards building the Alms-Knights Houses, as is before remembered. Thus stood the Lands accounted for, till the setlement made by Queen Elizabeth, for the disposition of the whole Revenue, which then was accounted to the College, but at the value entered in the King's Books; upon which setlement the Queen appointed the Dean and Canons to convert the Rents of these New Lands, from time to time to such uses and intents, and in such manner and form as she had set down in a l Penes Camerar. Scaccarii. Book signed with her Sign Manual, and annexed to an Indenture bearing date the 30. of August, in the first year of her Reign, made between Her on the one part, and the Dean and Canons on the other part. By which Indenture the Dean and Canon's Covenant for themselves and Successors m Penes Camerar. Scaccarii. to distribute and employ at all times for ever the Rents and Profits of these Lands, in such manner as in the Book is declared and appointed, and to observe and keep all the Ordinances, Rules, and things whatsoever contained therein, which on their part and behalf is limited and appointed to be performed and executed, according to the true meaning of the same. And if the Dean and Canons or their Successors should omit any thing to them appointed to be performed by the said Ordinances, Rules, and Statutes, then for every such default they are to abide such Order as shall be made by the Queen, her Heirs, or Successors, or by any of the Knights-Companions of the Order, as by her or her Successors should be thereunto appointed. l. s. d. In this Book, the Total of the Revenue, reckoned at the ancient value amounts to— 661 06 08 The Annual charge and disbursements to the College, therein set down, is— 430 19 06 And so Remains— 230 07 02 Which Remainder hath been and is n Ibid. assigned and employed for payment of Tenths to the Crown, Vicars and Curates annual stipends, Officers-Fees, Reparation of the premises, and for the relief of the Dean and Canons and their Successors, in maintenance and defence of the said Lands. And to the end the Queen might know how the Revenue of these New Lands was disposed of, she also Ordered, o Ex eod. lib. That her Lieutenant and the Knights-Companions, should annually (at the Feast of St. George held at Windesor) see the just account thereof, how the Income was expended, and the payments made; and that one of the Officers of the Order, should from time to time yearly put her Lieutenant in mind thereof. Which Order was renewed in a Chapter of the Garter held April p Lib. R. p. 10. & 15. 24. ann. jac. Reg. 21. and the Chancellor of the Order appointed to be the Remembrancer: and in obedience thereunto, the Account of these New Lands (which begins annually at Lady-day, as that of the Old Lands doth at Michaelmas) was afterwards exhibited in Chapter, and in particular that q Ibid. p. 88 Account, presented by the Dean of Windesor, and submitted to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions consideration, (the 6. of November anno 9 Car. 1.) was referred to the perusal and inspection of the r Ibid. p. 88 Knights-Commissioners, appointed at the same Chapter to consult the Affairs of the Order. SECT. VIII. Of the Privileges of the Chapel and College. IN the last place, the Privileges of both are to be considered, which we shall divide into Ecclesiastical and Temporal. Touching the first, it appears by a s In Aerar. Coll. Windesor. Bull of Pope Clement the Sixth, dated at Avignion the 12. of February in the 9 year of his Papacy, That at the desire of the Founder, this Pope exempted the Chapel, College, Canons, Priests, Clerks, Alms-Knights, and Officers of the College, from all ordinary Jurisdiction, Dominion, and Superiority of Archbishops, Bishops, Archdeacon's, and all other judges and Officials, and received them within the protection of the Papal See. And further granted, That the Custos for the time being, should have Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction over the Canons, Priests, Clerks, Alms-Knights, and Officers, and their Successors, as also the Cure of their Souls; notwithstanding any Papal Constitution, Statutes, Customs, whether Provincial or Synodical, or other whatsoever to the contrary. Willing nevertheless, that the Custos should receive the Cure of their Souls from the Diocesan of the place. And in considerat●●● of this Exemption and Privilege, the Custos was obliged to pay annually on St. George's day, one Mark in Silver to the Pope's Chamber. About two years before the date of this Bull, we find that this Chapel had the title of t Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 1. m. 36. the King's free Chapel, given unto it (so also whilst under the u Rot. Finium anno 1. E. 3. m. 21. former Foundation) and still enjoys the same: which title of Free Chapel is not only intimated but confirmed by its exemption from the Jurisdictions now mentioned. It is subject to no power (since the Supremacy in ecclesiastics became vested in the King, by the Law of this Realm) but only to the King of England; as heretofore it stood divided to the King and See of Rome. The Privilege of Exemption by Pope Clement the Sixth, is included in the w Cart. de an. 47. E. 3. Confirmation of Liberties made by the Founder in his Charter, dated the 28. of February anno regni sui 47. and all Privileges and Liberties granted by him, are x Rot. Parl. an. 8. H. 6. n 31. confirmed to the College by Act of Parliament, anno 8. H. 6. As this College doth depend immediately on the King, so is it visitable only by his Chancellor, whose y Praesa●. ad Colleg. Stat. Visitations, and accustomed Jurisdictions exercised by him in the Chapel, College, and Persons thereunto belonging, are reserved to him by the Statutes of the College; and himself called in the King's Commission for Visitation of the College anno 2. R. 2. z Pat. 2. R. 2. p. 1. m. 15. Governor of the said Chapel, as well in Spirituals as Temporals, and under the King immediate Custos. And so jealous were the Dean and Canons left the power of the foresaid Exemption should be infringed, that when Sixtus the Fourth had granted a a Lib. Denton. f. 10. Bull to the Bishop of Salisbury and Dean and Canons, with authority to make new Ordinances, and to interpret the ancient Statutes, they within few years obtained a b Ibid. f. 1. Revocation of that Authority; left the said Bishop (in whose Diocese the College is situate) being so impowered, might prejudice their Liberties, new form their Statutes, and by degrees bring them under his Jurisdiction, in prejudice to the said Exemption. And further, to prevent any such design, the same Pope commissionated the c Fol. 1●. Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishops of Winchester and Worcester to see this Bull of Revocation take effect, and enjoined them not to suffer the Bishop of Salisbury to intermeddle further in the College Affairs or Statutes; but that the d Fol. 18. Bishops of London, Lincoln, and Rochester, and the Chancellor of England, or any two or more of them, with the Dean and Canons should review, alter, or new make such Statutes or Ordinances, as might be for the utility and advantage of the College: This later Bull is dated at Rome, 7. Cal. Aug. an. Dom. 1485. It is an argument of no small privilege, that if the e Ex Collect. praef. G. Evans lib. A. ad Calcem. Archbishop of Canterbury be present in the Chapel of Windesor, yet he sits below the Dean; nor can he consecrate there without his Licence. And the instance is no less remarkable, that at the Solemnity of ratifying the Peace between King Charles the First of ever blessed memory, and Lewis the Thirteenth of France, the 6. of September 1629. in the Chapel of St. George at Windesor, f Lib. R, p. 53. Doctor Matthew Wren then Dean, gave the Oath (as Dean of this College) to the Marquis of Chasteneaus the French Kings Ambassador, and not the Archbishop of Canterbury, though he was then present. By the Statutes of the College, the g Cap. ●1. Dean and Chapter, are at their yearly Chapters, diligently to consider and debate all things that shall fall out, or seem fit to be dispatched, in reference both to the Spiritual and Temporal Affairs of the College, and whatsoever Ordinances or Determination shall be made at these Chapters (not repugnant to the College Statutes) all persons belonging thereunto, are firmly obliged to observe, so far as they are concerned in them, until they happen to be altered by later Resolves of succeeding Chapters. Other Notes and Marks of Exemption appears in the Deans taking no Institution from any other Bishop; but that his h Stat. 〈◊〉. Cap. 9 Institution, Investiture, and Installation into the Custoship, Canonship, and Prebendship, is received from such of the Canons-Resident, to whom the King (who Collates) doth recommend him by his Letters. As also in the constant i Ad Calcem; Collect. pras. proving of Wills before him, or in his absence before his Lieutenant: In using the power of Excommunication within their Jurisdiction (which is the Precincts of the College) and dispensing with themselves, for eating of Flesh in Lent. Add to these, that the k Ibid. Ordinations for the Chantry Priests were confirmed by the Dean and Chapter, not the Bishop of the Diocese, so also were the Statutes of the New Commons. Nor doth the l Ibid. Dean who hath the cure of Souls (as is before noted) pay any Synodals or Procurations, nor can any of the m Lib. R. p. 53. King's Chaplains preach in the Chapel of St. George, unless he be a Canon there, without the King's special mandate, or leave of the Dean and Canons. The Dean and Canons send no n Ex praef. Collect. Delegates to the Synod, and when this point fell into debate, anno 1640. it was carried in the Negative, as being a perfect Novelty, and against their Liberties, and might entitle them to the payment of Subsidies, and consequently bring a new charge upon the College. Nor have they share in the Government of the Church, as other Deans and Chapters have. So that notwithstanding any alteration or dissolution of the Government of the Church here in England by Archbishops, Bishops, Deans and Chapters, this College cannot be concerned, more than the Colleges in the Universities, where there are many nominal Deans. Lastly, after the Act for Uniformity past, o Ibid. an. 14. Car. 2. whereby every Clergyman was bound to subscribe before the Archbishop or his Ordinary, the p Ibid. Canons subscribed before the Dean of Windesor, he being the Ordinary of the place: And though some of them in majorem cautionem, subscribed also before the Archbishop of Canterbury, yet was it with this Salvo, saving the rights and privileges of this Free Chapel. Thus much in relation to the Ecclesiastic Privileges of the College: As to the Temporal and Civil, what the Founder granted to it, being very large and beneficial (in regard he was born here, and touched with a prerogative of affection to this place) and hath been since confirmed by several of his Successors, we shall here insert. First then the Founder King Edward the Third, by his q Cart. de anno 17. E. 3. m. 6. n. 14. Charter dated the 6. of March in the 27. year of his Reign, granted them several Profits, Privileges, and Immunities to the effect following. That the Custos and Canons, and their Successors, should for ever be free from payment of any Aid, for making the eldest Son of any King of England a Knight, and for marrying their eldest Daughter: as also of all Aids to the King, Contributions and Tallages. That whensoever the Clergy of this Realm, or of the Province of Canterbury or Tork, should give a Tenth or other Imposition, out of their Spiritualities; or the Commons of England should give a Tenth or Fifteenth, or any other Tax, out of their Temporalities or movable Goods, or that the King and his Heirs should cause his own Demain to be taxed; or that the Pope should impose any Tax or Imposition upon the Clergy of this Realm, and give the same to the King and his Heirs; this College with all its Lands and Possessions should be wholly freed thereof. That they should be free from any charge of Arraying Soldiers, for the service of the King and his Heirs; and from sending them for the Custody of the Seacoasts, and from every Fine or Composition for the same. That their Houses, as well those within the Castle of Windesor, as elsewhere, should be free from any Livery of the King's Stewards, Marshals, Purveyors, Officers, and Servants, and from the like Officers of the Queens, or any of their Children, or of the Peers or Nobles. And that the said Officers should not intermeddle there, without the leave of the Custos and Canons, and their Successors. That no Duke, Earl, Baron, or Nobleman, nor any Stewards, Marshals, Escheators, Sheriffs, Coroners, Bailiffs, or Officers, nor any other person of what condition soever, should upon any colour lodge or stay in the Houses of the Custos or Canons, without their consent. That they the said Custos and Canons, and their Tenants, should for ever be free from payment of Toll, Paviage, Picage, Barbicanage, Terrage, Pontage, Murage, Passage, Paiage, Lestage, Stallage, Tallage, Carriage, Pesage, and from Scot and Geld, Hidage, Scutage, working about Castles, Parks, Bridges, Walls for the King's Houses. And from suits to the County or Hundred Court, and Wapentakes, Court Leets, Murder, and Common Amerciaments, whether they should happen before the King, or any of the Justices of the Bench, or Justices Itinerant, or other Justices whatsoever, and from every other like Custom. That they should have within their Lands and Fees, the Chattels of all Felons and Fugitives, and seize them to their own use. That they should have all Fines for Trespasses, and all other Contempts and Misdemeanours, Fines, pro licentia concordandi, and for all other causes. That they should have all Amerciaments, Redemptions, Issues, and Forfeitures whatsoever, Annum, Diem, Vastum, & Streppum, and all things which might belong to the King and his Heirs thereupon. That they should have Wrecks, Waiss, and Strays, within all their Lands and Fees. That no Purveyance of Corn, Hay, Horses, Carts, Carriages, Victuals, or any Goods, Chattels, or any thing whatsoever, should be taken by any of the King's Officers or Ministers, in, or upon any of their Lands, or the Lands of any of their Tenants. That they should be free from the payment of any Pension, Corrody, or other Sustentation to be granted by the King, his Heirs or Successors. That they should have Free-Warren in all their Demain Lands wheresoever. And that, although they lay within the bounds of the Kings Forest. That they should have a weekly Market, to be held on Wednesdays, at their Manor of Ewer in Buckinghamshire, and two Fairs to endure for eight days, viz. on the Eve and Feast-day of the Apostles Peter and Paul, and for two days next following: and upon the Eve and Feast-day of St. Peter ad vincula and two days following, with all Liberties and Customs to the said Market and Fairs belonging. That they should enjoy all their Lands, with the Liberties of Soc and Sac, Insangthes, Vtsangthes, and View of Frankepledge; with Thewe, Pillory, and Tumbril, for punishment of Malefactors; and power to erect Gallows upon their own soil, for Execution of such Malefactors as should fortune to be apprehended within their Jurisdiction. That they should be freed and discharged from all Suits and Pleas of the Forest, and of all Charges or Fees, which the Justices or other Officers of the Forest might demand. And from Expeditation of their Dogs, and Suits of Court there. That they should be free from Gelds, Dane-gelds, Knights-Fees, Payments for Murder and Robbery, Building or Repairing of Bridges, Castles, Parks, Pools, Walls, Sea-banks, Causeways, and Enclosures, and of all Assizes, Summons, Sheriff-aids, their Bailiffs, or Officers, carrying of Treasure, and all other Aids, as also from the common Assessments and Amerciaments of the County and Hundred and all Actions relating to them. That they should be freed from the payment of Ward-penny, Aver-penny, Tithing-penny, and Hundred-penny, and discharged from Grithbrech, Forstall, Homesoken, Blod-wite, Ward-wite, Hengwite, Fight-wite, Leyr-wite, Lastage, Pannage, Assart, and Waste of the Forest, so that such Waste and Offences be not committed in the Forests, Woods, or Parks of the King his Heirs and Successors; and if it should happen so to be, that then reasonable satisfaction, without imprisonment or grievous recompense, should be accepted. That they should have return of all Writs and Attachments, as well relating to the Pleas of the Crown, as other, throughout all their Lands or Fees, and that no sheriff, Bailiff, or other Officer should make any Execution of such Writs there, unless in default of the Custos and Canons and their Successors. That they should have and hold Leets and Law-days, for all within their Lands and Fees. That they should have cognisance of all Pleas betwixt their Tenants, as well of Trespasses and Contracts, as others, in their own Courts. And lastly, that they should have and hold Wards, Reliefs, Escheats, Forfeitures, and other Profits, Issues, and Emoluments whatsoever, within their own Fees, from all their Tenants, which might belong to the King or his Heirs, and which the King might receive by reason of those Fees, in case they were in his own hands, as if the Tenants did hold of him or others in Capite of the Crown. CHAP. V. THE Institution OF THE MOST NOBLE Order Of the Garter. SECT. I. The several Opinions touching the occasion of its Institution. EDward King of England and of France, of that name (after the Norman Conquest) the Third, was the first Founder of this most renowned Order of the Garter: And this is not only unanimously attested by our own, and other Historians, but also by good Authorities and Records of the Order itself. The Historians generally agree in the person of the Founder, but as to the original occasion, that gave beginning to the Order, and the time when it was erected, there is not small difference among them; by reason whereof, the truth of both is left so perplexed, that if we had not clearer light from some other means, the world might yet live in ignorance of the verity of either: But that we may set down these two particulars more exactly than hitherto hath been done, and give a more perfect account of a Military Order, whose same hath spread all over the World, and been conferred on the greatest Princes thereof, is our design in this present Work. First then, as to the occasion of its Institution, the opinions of Writers (as we said) are various: The vulgar and more general is, That the Garter of joan Countess of Salisbury falling casually off, as she danced in a solemn Ball, King Edward hastily stooping, took it up from the ground; whereupon some of his Nobles and Courtiers smiling, as at an amorous action, and he observing their sportive humour, turned it off with this reply in French, Honi soit Qui mal y Pense; but withal added in disdain of their laughter, That in a short time, they should see that Garter advanced to so high honour and estimation, as to account themselves happy to wear it. But taking leave to examine this Tradition, we shall only make two or three Remarks, and then refer it to the judgement of others, what credit ought to be given thereto. First, Sir john Froissart (who only among the Writers of that Age speaks of this Institution) assigns it no such original, as that of the falling of a Lady's Garter: Nor is there found any thing to that purpose in our other Historians, for the space of two hundred years, till Polydore Virgil took occasion to say something of it; whose grounds we shall examine immediately. Besides it might be expected, that some Historian among the French (who were so forward to jeer at our King Henry the Fifth's design of invading them, with a return of Tennis Balls) would not have forborn to register some where or other, a scoff at the Lady's Garter; especially in a time when the fury of War had dissolved all obligations of friendship and civility, and opened the mouth of slander. Whereto we must add, that there is not the least appearance in the original Statutes of this most noble Order, to countenance the conceit of such a Feminine Institution; no not so much as obliging the Knights-Companions to defend the quarrels of Ladies (as the Rules of some Orders then in being enjoined) nor doth the Author of that piece entitled, Institutio clarissimi Ordinis Militaris à prenobili Subligaculo nuncupati, written by way of Preface to the Black Book of the Garter, let fall the least touch to that purpose. As to what Polydore says, it is even thence to be noted, that he himself is not so confident, as to ascertain the person whose Garter it was, but warily declining that, says, it was b Angl. Histor. l. 19 p. 379. either the Queens, or the King's Mistress; and if it were the later, yet doth he with the same caution omit her name and title of dignity, both which hath since been supplied (but on what authority we find not) by some of our modern Historians, who call her c Cambd. Brit. in Aurebat. p. 208. Speed●punc; Chron. p. 588. Baker's Chron. p. 139. Edit. Lond. 1665. Fuller's Holy State. p. 349. joan Countess of Salisbury; and there is as little reason, why she should be supposed to be joan, called also the Fair Maid of Kent (whom Edward the black Prince afterwards married) inasmuch as no Historian takes the least notice, that King Edward the Third ever courted her as a Mistress. We suppose our learned Selden points at her, when he calls the Lady from whom the Garter slipped, d Titles of Honour, p. 793. Countess of Kent and Salisbury; but about the time of the Foundation of the Order of the Garter, she in truth was neither: for albeit she was Daughter to Edmund of Woodstock Earl of Kent, and had been sometime the reputed Wife of William Mountagu, second Earl of Salisbury of that Family; yet than she could not properly be accounted Countess of Salisbury, because she was actually Wife to Sir Thomas Holland (one of the first Founders of that Order) and so f Ex lib. in Ossic. principal. Cantuar. vocat. Islip, f. 178. a. See heylin's Hist. of St. George, part 3. c. 2. sect. 7. Edit. 1633. where the Case is Reported. adjudged to be, by Pope Clement the Sixth, in a controversy depending before him, between Sir Thomas and the Earl: and for this reason not taken notice of either by Brook or Vincent (in the title of Salisbury) to have been his Wife. Nor was she yet (though afterwards) Countess of Kent, because her Brother john Earl of Kent at the Institution of this Order, was alive, and died not till anno g Escaet. de an. 26 E. 3 n 54. 26. E. 3. But that there was a Countess of Salisbury, of whom King Edward the Third became greatly enamoured, is reported by h Chronic. l. 1. c. 78. Sir john Froissart, after this manner; That this King having relieved a Castle belonging to the Earl of Salisbury, in the North of England, wherein his Countess had been besieged by the Scots (the Earl himself being at that time Prisoner in France) upon sight of her extraordinary beauty fell in love with her: but she so virtuously demeaned herself towards the King, during his short stay there, that he declined further solicitation. Howbeit some time after, the King out of desire to see her (saith the same i Ibid. c. 90. Author) proclaimed a solemn Justs in London, whither this Countess, and many other Ladies, being invited, came. Froissart names not the Castle, wherein this Countess lay, when the Scots besieged it, but only gives this note upon it, * Ibid. c. 76. That the King gave the same Castle to her Husband for his good service past, when he first married her, being then but a Knight. The name of the place being left thus by him in the dark, those who hitherto sought after it, have but roved at it with uncertain guesses. But upon more diligent search we have hit the mark, and find it was the Castle of | Pat. ●. E. 3. p. 2. m. 24. Wark upon Tweed in the County of Northumberland, upon the Borders of England towards Scotland, which King Edward had so bestowed upon Sir William Montague (afterwards created Earl of Salisbury) for his life, together with the Manor, Lands, and Tenements within the Liberty of the said Manor. This Castle being grown very ruinous, and the said Sir William undertaking the charge of the repair, (which happened to be very great) the King thereupon * Ibid. granted the same anew to him for life, by the service of one Knights Fee, the remainder after his death to his Son john, and the Heirs of his body lawfully begotten, to hold by the foresaid service; and if he died without such issue, then to the right Heirs of Sir William for ever. Though then it should be admitted, that this Countess of Salisbury was the King's Mistress, yet must it be noted, that she was Wife to William Montague, created Earl of Salisbury, k Rotul. Cart. 11. E. 3. memb. 26. num. 54. anno 11. E. 3. Mother to William the before mentioned second Earl, that her Christian name was l Escaet. bundle. anno 9 E. 3. n. 4. Katherine, not Alice, as Froissart, nor joan, as others call her, and Daughter to William Lord Granston, a Nobleman of Burgundy; and that she died m Escaet. anno 28. E. 3. n. 39 anno 28. Ed. 3. and lies buried at n Ex Gollect. jac. Strangeman. Bysham Abbey in Berkeshire. But that the whole story may appear, no otherwise than indeed it is, a Fable; we shall here insert the opinion of a late learned Writer, who hath taken no small pains to satisfy himself and the world in this particular. * Cosmography, l. 1. p. 287. Edit. 1652. This (saith Doctor Heylin) I take to be a vain and idle Romance, derogatory both to the Founder and the Order; first published by Polydore Virgil, a Stranger to the Affairs of England, and by him taken upon no better ground, than o Et Fama vulgi talis. Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19 p. 379. Fama vulgi, the tradition of the common people, too trifling a foundation to so great a building, common bruit being so infamous an Historian, that wise men neither report after it, nor give credit to any thing they receive from it. And yet hath it so fallen out, that many learned men, for want of reflection, have incautelously swallowed and run away with this vulgar error; whereupon it hath come by degrees to the vogue it is now in. Of the same spinning with the former, is another Tradition, and no less uncertain; q Andr. du Chesne Histoire generale d'Angleterre, d' Escosse, & d' Irlande. p. 670. That the Queen being departed from King Edward's presence to her own Lodgings, he following her soon after, happened to espy a Blue Garter lying on the ground (thought to have slipped from her Leg as she went along) whilst some of his Attendants passed by it, as disdaining to stoop at such a trifle; but he knowing the Owner, commanded it to be taken up and given to him, at the receipt whereof, he said, r Andr. du Chesne Histoire generale d'Angleterre, d'Escosse, & d'Irlande. p. 670. You make but small account of this Garter, but within few Months, I will cause the best of you all to reverence the like. And some think that the Motto of the Garter was the s Ibidem. Queen's answer; when the King asked her, what men would conjecture of her, upon losing her Garter in such a manner. But both these Relations are remote from truth, and of little credit; nevertheless, they give us opportunity to note here, That it hath thus fared with other Orders of Sovereign Foundation; and an Amorous instead of Honourable Account of their Institution, hath by some been untruly rendered. For instance, that of the Annunciade, Instituted some few years after this of the ennobled Garter; concerning which, though Andrew Favin hath given it an amorous original, yet have we (in the t Sect. 1. pa●. 100LS. & 109. third Chapter) from better authorities, cleared his mistaken account thereof. Nor hath it happened otherwise with the Order of the Golden Fleece, even that also hath met with the same fate; and the Institution reported to have risen from an effeminate ground: for it is said, that its u Favin, in le Theatre d' Honneur, l. 4. c. 5. Founder entering one morning into the Chamber of a most beautiful Lady of Bruges (generally esteemed his Mistress) found upon her w Toilet, or Toilette, called also Tavayoile, is a large Napkin, or cloth, usually laid over women's dresses, and other Clothes after they are spread on a Table. Toilet, a Fleece of low Country Wool; whence some of his Followers taking occasion of sport, as at a thing unusually seen in a Lady's Chamber, he (as is reported of King Edward the Third, upon such another occasion) vowed that such as made it the subject of their derision, should never be honoured with a Collar of the Order thereof, which he intended to establish, to express the love he bore that Lady. There is a third opinion, grounded on a Relation having an aspect to time before King Edward the Third's Institution, which is reported of King x Lib. N. p. 13. in prooemio. Richard the First, and is this; that while his Forces were employed against Cyprus and Acon, and extremely tired out with the tediousness of the Siege, He, by the assistance and mediation of St. George (as imagined) was inspired with fresh courage, and bethought himself of a new device, which was, to tie about the legs of a chosen number of Knights, a Leathern Thong or Garter (for such had he then at hand) whereby being put in mind of the future glory that should accrue to them, with assurance of worthy rewards if they overcame, they might be ronzed up to the behaving themselves gallantly and stoutly in the Wars, much after the manner of the ancient Romans, among whom were various Crowns, with which for several causes, Soldiers were adorned; to the end that by those encouragements, all sluggishness being shaken off, the virtue and fortitude of their minds might spring up and appear more resolute and vigorous. It further continues in the same Preface, That after a long interval of time, and divers Victories obtained by him, the said King returning into his Country, determined with himself, to institute and settle this most noble Order of St. George, on whose patronage the English so much relied. But admit this (though we are to note, it is only a Relation put down in the Preface of the Black Book, but not any part of the Annals of the Order, nor can it plead higher antiquity than the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, because written a little after the time he reform and explained the Statutes of the Garter) all this we say admitted, and that King Richard the First did make use of this devise in the Holy Land, as a signal or distinction of a party going out upon some warlike exploit: yet that he thence took occasion to frame a distinct Order of Knighthood afterwards, there is not the least mention, nor any ground to imagine. So that all the advantage can be made of it is, that (as y Hist. of St. George, part 3. c. 1. sect. 6. Doctor Heylin affirms) we may warrantably be persuaded, this occasion much heightened the reputation of that Saint among the English, by which means in process of time, the most heroic Order of the Garter came to be dedicated to him; and not that it any way contributed to the Institution of it. SECT. II. The true Cause asserted. THus far of the conjectures of others, concerning the Institution of this most noble Order; now come we to unfold the true occasion thereof. We affirm then, that King Edward the Third had no reflection, either upon a Lady's Garter, or King Richard's Leathern Thong, when he first designed the Institution, but that it did proceed from a much more noble cause; to wit, that this King being a person of a most absolute and accomplished virtue, gave himself up to a prudent management of Military Affairs; and being engaged in War for the recovery of his right to the Kingdom of France, in the prosecution of which enterprise, he had great use of the stoutest and most famous Martialists of that Age, did thereupon first design (as being invited thereto by its ancient same) the restauration of King Arthur's Round Table, which he exhibited with magnificent Hastiludes and general Justs, to invite hither the gallant and active spirits from abroad: and upon discovery of their courage and ability in the exercise of Arms, to draw them to his party, and oblige them to himself. And conceiving no place more fit than a Tho. Walsingh. sub. anno 1344. apud Lond. 1579. Windesor, upon b Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. Newyears-day, anno 1344. he issued out his Royal Letters of Protection for the safe coming and return of Foreign Knights, their Servants and what belonged to them, that were desirous to try their valour at the solemn Justs, by him appointed to be held there, on c Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. Monday after the Feast of St. Hillary next following (which that year happened on the 19 of january) and these Letters of safe conduct continued in force until the d Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. Octaves of the Purification of our blessed Lady ensuing, being in the 18. year of his Reign. At the time appointed, he provided a great e Ex vet. MS. Chronic. penes Ranul. Pigott Ar. Supper to begin the Solemnity, and then Ordained, that this Festival should be annually held there at f Ex vet. MS. Chronic. penes Ranul. Pigott Ar. Whitsuntide; and immediately after these first Martial Exercises were over (to the end better accommodation might be provided for the Knights that should afterwards come thither) he caused to be impress g Pat. 18. E. 3. p. 1. m. 39 Dorso & p. 2. m. 39 Carpenters, Masons, and Carriages, for erecting a particular building in the Castle, and therein placed a Table of h Walsingh. ut supra. two hundred foot diameter, where the Knights should have their entertainment of diet at his expense of i Walsingh. ut supra. 100 l. a week, to which building he gave the name of the Round Table. By this means he associated to himself, from most parts beyond Seas, the prime spirits for martial valour, and gained the opportunity of engaging them on his side in the ensuing War. And, as at these solemn conventions, and great assemblies, the days were spent in exercising all kind of noble feats of Arms, Justs, and Tournaments; so were a great part of the nights consumed in public Balls, and dancing with the Ladies, which attended the Queen thither; and perhaps it was hence conjectured, that at some of these Balls, the Queen's Gartër, or the Garter of Katherine Countess of Salisbury might slip off, and that King Edward's stooping to take it up, might beget smiles in the bystanders; and afterwards, when the King had modelled his intended Order, a Garter appearing for its chief Ensign, might add something to the conjecture: But that any such accident became the principal cause of erecting the Order, and that the Founder's particular design therein was to advance the honour of that Garter so accidentally taken up, is only a groundless imagination, and hath been already disproved. And though King Edward so far advanced the honour of a Garter, as that the Order did derive its k Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19 p. 378. title and denomination from it; yet is it most evident, that he founded this most famous Order, not to give reputation to or perpetuate an esseminate occasion, but l Ut militarem virtutem honoribus, praemiis atque splendore decoraret. Cambden in Attrebat. p. 207. to adorn Martial Virtue, with Honours, Rewards, and Splendour: to m Heyl. Cosmogr. l. 1. p. 287. increase Virtue and Valour in the hearts of his Nobility: or as Andrew du Chesne saith, n Ed. 3. desireux d' honorer la Virtue military de quelque faveur & recompense glorieux, etc. Hist. general. D angleterre, etc. p. 670. to honour military Virtue with some glorious favours and rewards; that so true Nobility (as is noted in the Preface to the Black Book of the Order) after long and hazardous adventures, should not enviously be deprived of that honour which it hath really deserved; and that active and hardy Youth might not want a spur, in the profession of Virtue, which is to be esteemed glorious and eternal. Upon these grounds no doubt does our learned Selden affirm, that o Tit. Hon. p. 794. this Order was raised chiefly out of the Round Table of that time (the Knights thereof being the flower of that Age) as out of a Seminary. It is further observable, from the current of the Histories of those times, that the p Tho. Walsingh. loco citato. Sam. Daniel. History f. 233. speeds Chron. p. 587. French King, Philip de Valois, in emulation of these martial associations at Windesor, practised the like at his Court in France, for he set up a Round Table, and invited the Knights and valiant men of Arms out of Italy and Almain thither, lest they should repair to our King Edward the Third. Which meeting with success, proved a Countermine to King Edward's main design, who thereby finding, that his entertainment of Stranger Knights, upon the account of reviving King Arthur's Round Table, was too general, nor did sufficiently oblige them to him, but being free and at liberty, did after their departure take what side they pleased in the following Wars; he at length resolved upon a design, more particular and select, and such as might oblige and tie those whom he thought fit to make his Associates, in a firm Bond of Friendship and Honor. And having given forth his q Cambd. in Attreb. p. 207. own Garter for the signal of a Battle that sped fortunately, (which with r Hist. Generale d' Angleterre, etc. p. 670. du Chesne we conceive to be that of Crescy, fought almost three years after his setting up the Round Table at Windesor; rather than with the Author of the s Tom. 2. p. 1407. Edit. Paris. 1661. Nouveau Theatre de Monde, that of Poicters, which happened above seven years after the Foundation of the Order, and whereat King Edward was not present) the Victory (we say) being happily gained, he thence took occasion to Institute this Order, and gave the Garter (assumed by him for the Symbol of Unity and Society) pre-eminence among the Ensigns of it, whence that select number, whom he incorporated into a Fraternity, are frequently styled Equites Aureae Periscelidis, and vulgarly, Knights of the Garter. By this Symbol he designed to t Heylin's Cosmogr. loco supra cit. bind the Knights or Fellows of it, severally unto one another, and all of them jointly to Himself, as Sovereign of the Order. And accordingly (saith a industrious Historian) this did not only serve as a u Speed. Chron. p. 588. vehement incentive to Honour and martial Virtue, but also a golden Bond of unity and internal society: it being most just, that those whom equal virtue and fortitude of mind, had joined together, no Fortune should separate or estrange, by occasion of any accident or difference. Whereunto may be added this further consideration; how nearly the Princely Garter (which ennobleth the Order) as it is framed with a Buckle to fasten it close to the Leg, doth resemble the w Cambd. in Attrebat. p. 208. Bond of most inward Society; and can be called nothing more aptly, than a x Cambd. in Attrebat. p. 208. Badge of Unity and Concord. By this Garter y Lib. N. in proaemio. the Knights-Companions are admonished, religiously, sincerely, friendly, faithfully, and dextrously, to go through whatsoever they undertake, but not to undertake or attempt any thing, contrary to the Oath, and Statutes of the Order, neither to frustrate the rights of peace and friendship, vilify the Law of Arms, or to proceed in any thing further than Faith or Compact, or the Bond of Friendship will admit. And much to this purpose, they who will take the pains to read the a Edit. Colon. Agripp. anno 1631. Catechismus Ordinis Equitum Pericelidis Anglicanae, will find the Author [F. Mondonus] Symbolically to descant upon the chief Ensigns of the Order. Moreover b Notis Guid. Panciroll. de Rebus deperdit. p. 170. Salmuthus, out of Stephanus Frocatulus notes, that in the binding of the Leg with this ennobled Ensign, there was given this honourable Caveat and Exhortation; That the Knights should not cowardly (by running away from Battle) betray the valour and renown which is engrafted in Constancy and Magnanimity. Nay, so exactly did the Founder suit the whole Habit unto the signification of this Princely Ensign, that he Ordained His, and the Knight-Companions Robes and Ornaments to be all alike, both for materials and fashion; thereby intimating, c Lib. N. p. 16. in proaemio. That they ought to conserve brotherly love among themselves. And lest at any time there should fall out the least breach of Amity, the great Collar of the Order (ordained to be of equal weight, and composed of a like number of small Links and Knots) was so made, in d Lib. N. p. 16. in proaemio. witness of the like Bond of Faith, Peace, and Amity, strictly to be observed among them. In fine, all things relating to the Order, were so designed and appointed, e Ibid. p. 1●. Froissart's Chron. l. 1. c. 101. That every one might plainly perceive, how much these things tended to the maintaining of Amity and Concord. In further reference to the Institution and perpetual establishment of this Order, the foresaid King, f Ibid. p. 1●. Froissart's Chron. l. 1. c. 101. call together the Earls, Barons, and principal Knights of his Kingdom, freely and obligingly declared his mind to them, concerning this Affair: To which g Ibid. all of them being well inclined, entertained the motion with equal joy and applause; considering it would prove a very great advancement to Piety, Nobility, and Virtue, and likewise an excellent expedient for the uniting, not only his Natives one with another, but all Foreigners with them in the Bonds of Amity and Peace. And 'tis very improbable, that this prudent Founder should summon his Nobles, solemnly to consult about so high and noble an advancement of an Order, had it taken its first rise from so slight an occasion, as the accidental dropping of a Garter from a Ladies Leg. On the contrary it is manifest from Froissart, that the declaration which the King made to them of his intention and design (when they were assembled) appeared h Loco cit. a matter very honourable, and (as hath been alleged) such as contributed to the improvement of Love and Amity among themselves; which we see this Historian assigns to be the only cause, why they joyfully consented to his proposal. Now to make the Bond and Tye of Love and Friendship yet more close and obliging, the King caused those who were (or should be) of the Order, to be called i Lib. N. p. 15. Fellows, Associates, Colleagues, Brethren, and Knights-Companions, and the Order itself k Lib. N. p. 15. a Society, Fellowship, College of Knights, and Knight-Companionship; and their l Lib. N. p. 15. Habit and Ornaments to be all alike, as to Fashion and Materials: and to no other end, but to represent how they ought to be m Lib. N. p. 15. united in all chances of Fortune, Copartners both in Peace and War, assistant to one another in all serious and dangerous transactions, and through the whole course of their lives, faithful and friendly one towards another. But besides these Authorities, we have met with some other testimonies, much to the same effect; namely, that this most noble Order of the Garter was first instituted, to n Caii Antiq. l. 2. c. 217. fortify the confidence of the King, the Kingdom, and Martial Virtue: that is to say, to strengthen the faith of the subjects towards them, and for their greater security. The French Orator, who made the Harangue at the investiture of Henry Prince of Orange, seems to account the denomination of this Order, by the stile of the Garter, to be very significant, and only for this reason; o MS. in Officio Armour. [L. 18.] circa medium. because it carries with it a Bond or Tye of Fellowship, and a Symbol of Amity and Friendship between Princes, being Companions of the same Order. In the last place, if we look back upon the Statutes of Institution, as also those that have succeeded, we shall find the Injunctions wholly Military, and so are the words of Admonition, appointed to be pronounced, at the putting on the Ensigns of the Order: and the ground of the Institution (in the Preamble to King Henry the Eighth's Exemplar) is said to be, p Article 1. For the honour of God, and exaltation of the Catholic Faith, joined both with Piety and Charity; in establishing a q Art. 13. College of religious men, to pray for the prosperity of the Sovereign of the Order, and the Knights-Companions, and to perform other holy duties; as also r Art. 16. Ordaining sustentation for a company of Alms-Knights, who have not otherwise wherewith to live. But not one word relating to any obligation or engagement, on behalf of the Feminine Sex. And whereas King Edward the Third had set on foot a Title to the Kingdom of France, and in right thereof assumed its Arms; he from the u Ex Collect. praef. Will. le Neve. Colour of them, caused the Garter of the Order to be made Blue, and the circumscription Gold. And it may, without any straining, be inferred from the Motto [honi soit qui mal y pense] w Ex Collect. praef. Will. le Neve. that he retorted shame and defiance upon him, that should dare to think ill of so just an enterprise, as he had undertaken for the recovery of his lawful right to that Crown; and that the magnanimity of those Knights, whom he had chosen into this Order was such, as would enable them to maintain that Quarrel, against all who durst think ill of it. Consonant to this is the conjecture of x Hist Anglic. Escles. p. 507. Harpsfield, that this Apothegme was designed to put the Knights-Companions in mind, not to admit any thing in the actions of their lives, or among their thoughts, unbeseeming themselves and their honour. And here we have a sitting opportunity to inform our Reader, that the Age we speak of did exceedingly abound with Imprese Mottoes, and Devises, of which the Rolls of the great Wardrobe will afford variety; and particularly that King Edward the Third (upon almost every occasion) was much inclined thereto, so far, as that his Apparel, Plate, Beds, Household-furniture, shields, even the very Harness of his Horses, and the like, were not without them; many of which, for any man now to descant upon, would be an endless and fruitless attempt, seeing the occasion of their invention, and the circumstances thereupon depending, are irrecoverably lost. Add to which, that others by reason of their brevity, seem insignificant, in regard it is to be imagined, that something was purposely omitted, and left to be understood, which cannot now be rightly supplied, so as to arrive at the mind of the Inventor. Of this number may well be this Motto, y Rotul. Libe▪ rat. Draper. Offic. mag. Gardrob. ann. 21. & 12. E. 3. membr. 11. penes Rememorat. Regis. It is as it is, being embroidered upon a Doublet, made for the King of white Linen Cloth, having about the sleeves and skirt a border of green Cloth, wrought over with golden Clouds and Vines. But there are others, which seem more easy to be understood, as is that daring and inviting Motto of this King, wrought upon his Surcoat and Shield, provided to be used at a Tournament z Ibidem. Hay bay the with Swan, By God's Soul I am thy man. We further observe, that although David Brus King of Scotland was a Prisoner in the Tower of London, yet such was the nobleness of this King, that he sometimes permitted him the use and exercise of Arms; for against a a Ibid. Hastilude kept at Windesor, he had a b Ibid. Harness made of Blue Velvet (at King Edward's charge) whereon was embroidered a Pale of Red Velvet, and beneath a White Rose. And that it was the custom then to have the Arms of a Knight, set upon his Horse-Harness, to distinguish him from others, appears by those eight Harnesses, which the King gave (and were among the preparations made for the Hastilude appointed at Canterbury, anno 22. Ed. 3.) of Indian Silk, beaten with the Arms of Sir Stephen Cosyngton Knight, of the Prince, of the Earls of Lancaster, and Suffolk, of Sir john Grey, Sir john de Beauchamp, Sir Robert Maule, Sir john Chandos, and Sir Roger de Beauchamp: four of these Martialists being shortly after chosen among the first Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order of the Garter. SECT. III. The Time when the Order was Instituted. IN what year of the Reign of King Edward the Third, the Order of the Garter received Institution, cannot certainly be deduced from our Historians, for the difference among them in this point is very wide. Our most learned Selden would have it, to be in the c Tules of Hon, p. 793. 18. year of the Founder's Reign, and relies chiefly upon the authority of d L. 1. c. 100 Sir john Froissart, who lived near that time (for he wrote his History in the Reign of King Richard the Second) But since Mr. Selden does acknowledge him guilty of a mistake in the number of the first Knights-Companions (and a gross one indeed it is) by making them no fewer than forty; why might he not likewise err in this point, namely the Time? and as unwarily confound the year of its Erection, with that wherein the Founder renewed the Order of the Round Table? Windesor being the place for holding the grand celebration of both. For should we admit, that during some part of the great Solemnity held in this Kings 18. year, the accident of the Lady's Garter slipping off happened; and that the King taking it up declared, he would make it highly renowned: what other inference can be made, but that he had then only an intention or resolution at most, to do somewhat afterwards, not that there was an Erection or Order actually Instituted at that time. Besides, if the King had been desirous to fall upon the establishment of the Order, immediately upon the said accident, yet may it well be supposed, that the jollity of the season, and remaining part of the Feast, was too busy a time to admit of much consultation tending thereunto; at least serious enough to mould a design, so complete and substantial, as it appears to have been, even at first; whether we consider the substance of the Statutes of Institution, or variety of the matter, and so fully, judiciously, and warily contrived, as little of that subject could be found worth the adding in many years after. To these, if we join the authority of Fabian, he is plain, e Chronic. f. 219. that though the King designed the Institution at the end of the Festival (which he placeth between Candlemas and Lent in the 19 not 18. year of this King) yet was it not then (saith he) but afterwards established by him. As to the testimony given by the f Apud Selden, p. 794. Author of Les grandes Chroniques de Britain, etc. who likewise allegeth, that the Institution of the Order, was in the 18. year of the King: We suppose his best authority was also taken from Froissart, supposing him (as Mr. Selden doth) the more to be relied upon, because he wrote so near that time. But 'tis a fault too frequent among Historians, to run away with what they find spoken by those from whom they collect (especially if such have gained any good opinion or credit in the world) though perhaps erroneous; without making a sufficient enquiry, either into the probability or truth of the thing. And for an instance of some unwariness in collecting, we may trace the now mentioned Author in another passage, relating to this matter, where he tells us it was the day of g Ibid. St. Gregory (instead of St. George) whereon the Grand Feast of the Order was ordained to be solemnised. We now see that Froissart, and with him Mr. Selden, place the beginning of this Order to the 18. year of King Edward's Reign; with whom agrees Thomas Cooper in his h Third part fol. 240. b. Edit. Lond. 1560. Epitome of Chronicles. And yet the same Mr. Selden, in i Notes upon Polialb. Song 15. another place, notes, that it took beginning in the 24. year of the said King, and our industrious Stow (with whom l Angl. Reg. Chron. p. 44. Lily, m Chron. p. 588. Speed, and n Hon. Mil. & Civil. p. 69. Segar agree) tells us, that the first Feast of the Order was celebrated in the year of our Lord 1350. which answers to the said four and twentieth year of King Edward the Third. But o Angl. Histor. l. 19 p. 378. Polydore Virgile in the series of his History, placeth it after Henry Earl of Derby was created Duke of Lancaster, and Ralph Lord Stafford, Earl of Stafford, which happened in p Pat. 25. E. 3. par. 1. m. 18. Cart. de ann. 25. E. 3. n. 31. March, anno 25. E. 3. Thus it appears, that our Historians took little heed to transmit the true time of so famous an Institution to posterity (and their neglect perhaps was the cause why our judicious Cambden became silent herein) yet how this Chronological note slipped all their Pens, is much to be wondered at: We must therefore have recourse to some other proofs, whence our Reader may receive better satisfaction. Admitting then, that the erecting this Order entered into King Edward's thoughts, at some of those grand Assemblies of the Round Table, held after the French King had set up the like, yet was it not brought to any maturity, till after his glorious Triumphs over the French and Scots, in the Battles of Crescy and Nevil's Cross (in which both the French and Scotch Armies were utterly vanquished, and David King of Scots taken Prisoner) and until King Edward had Calais surrendered to him, as will now be manifest. Among the Rolls of the great Wardrobe, we have met with one which contains the Accounts of all the King's Liveries, from Michaelmas, anno 21. E. 3. to the 31. of january in the 23. year of the same King: In this Roll are divers things mentioned to be adorned with Garters, which were provided against the first grand Feast of St. George, and among the rest are the Robes for the Sovereign of the Order; namely his r Ex Rot. Compot. Io. Coke Cler. mag. Gardrob. penes Rememor. Regis. m. 8. Mantle, Surcoat, and Hood, as also a s Ex Rot. Compot. Io. Coke Cler. mag. Gardrob. penes Rememor. Regis. m. 8. Bed of Blue Taffeta adorned with embroidered Garters, containing the Motto, Honi soit qui mal y pense. There were then likewise made for the Sovereign t m. 10. three Harnesses, whereof two were of White Velvet, wrought over with Garters de blu & diaspriz, per totum compedinem cum Woodhouses, and the third de Velvetto Ynde, cont. Lappekin quisseux, & caligas, wrought over likewise with Garters. Had this Roll been divided into years, or had there been other notes thereupon, to have distinguished whether these particulars were made and provided at the beginning of his 22. year against the Feast-day of St. George ensuing, or else towards the later end of that year, against the same Feast-day anno 23. E. 3. we might have been thereby guided with more certainty, as to the right and true year of the Institution. However, we may thence safely conclude, that this Order was not founded in the 18. year of King Edward the Third, according to Froissart, and his Followers; because we here find, that the Sovereign's Robes were not made until the 22. year of his Reign at the soon, perhaps not till the beginning of the 23. But to put all out of further doubt, the u Edwardus tertius Rex Angliae, anno reg. ni sui post Conquestum 23. Ordinavit etc. Founder's Statutes fix the time of Institution to his 23. year; so do the w Edoard apres la conquest D' angleterre l' an de son reigne vingt & trois Ordonne & Estably, etc. Statutes of King Henry the Fifth, and the x Edwardus tertius, anno regni sui 23. cum de Gallis atque Scotis plus semel illustrissime triumphasset, etc. p. 14. in prooemio. Preface to the Black Book; the same also is attested by y Ad Cygn. Cant. verbo Windelesora. Leland, and affirmed by z Catalogue. of Honour, f. 88 Mills, and * History of St. George● part 3. c. 2. Sect. 5. Doctor Heylin. To conclude, when this famous King had resolved upon the day and place for keeping the first grand Feast of this most noble Order, which he designed to exhibit with as much glory as could be imagined, a Lib. N. p: 20. vide etiam Froissart. Chron. l. 1. c. 100 & 102. He sent his Heralds into Germany, France, Scotland, Burgundy, Hainault, Flanders, and Brabant, to invite all Knights and Esquires who were willing to meet at that grand Solemnity (with assurance to every one of safe conduct and Liberty for fifteen days, both before and after the same) to show their Military Prowess and Valour, in all kind of Martial Feats, and other Public Exercises, there to be held, proper to the place and occasion. According to which Invitation, there came over at the appointed time, sundry Knights and other brave Martialisis, out of desire to signalise their valour; and what made the Solemnity more glorious, King Edward's Queen, attended with b Ibid. three hundred of the fairest Ladies, adorned with all imaginable gallantry were there likewise present. SECT. IV. Of the Patrons of the Order. KIng Edward the Third, upon his Instituting this Princely College, of a select number of Knights, did (according to the custom and opinion of that Age) make choice of several Patrons to this his most noble Order; under whose protection Himself and all the Knights-Companions, together with the Affairs of the Order, might be defended, conserved, and governed. The first and chiefest Patron that he elected for this end, was the c Lib. N. p. 24. in proaemio. holy Trinity, which, though indeed it be the Creator and Governor of all things, yet nevertheless was in a more especial manner invocated to the aid and assistance of this Order. Nor was it in those times accounted any derogation to God, or his divine worship, but rather on the contrary a great addition thereunto, that what he is alone the giver of, should be desired and implored, by their means, through whom he is well pleased to be sought unto: Upon which consideration this religious and pious King, being singularly affected to the d Ibid. blessed Virgin Mary, though she was accounted the general Mediatrix and Protectress to all men and upon all occasions, yet did he more peculiarly entitle her to the Patronage of this most noble Order. And no less was King Edward the Fourth in a special manner devoted towards the same blessed Virgin; insomuch as he thought it necessary, that some additional Ceremonies within the Order, should be observed by Himself and the Knights-Companions to her peculiar honour: and thereupon Ordained, e Ibid. p. 37. That on her five Solemnities, the Knights-Companions should annually (as was wont and accustomed, at the yearly Feast of St. George) wear the peculiar Habit of the Order, as long as Divine Service was celebrating (unless they had sufficient cause of excuse) bearing on the right shoulder of their Robes, a golden figure of the Virgin Mary, and further, that they should go in the same manner and Habit upon all the Sundays throughout the year: and lastly, that on the same days for ever, they should say five Pater Nosters, with as many Ave Maria's. Thirdly, f Ibid. p. 25. Saint George of Cappadocia, a most choice Champion of Christ, and famous Martyr, was also chosen one of the Patrons to this Order; and that g Ibid. p. 25. not so much because in his life, he was a Candidate of the Christian Faith, a real Professor, and a sincere defender thereof, or for that he was an armed Soldier or Knight of Christ; but much more because in those Wars, which were waged by Christians, against the Infidels, he by several appearances showed his presence, as a most certain encourager and assistant to the Christians; the relations of some of which Visions may be seen at large h Heylins' Hist. of St. George, part 2. c. 7. sect. 4. & 5. & part 3. c. 1. sect. 6. elsewhere. There is no need we should in this Work engage at all, in asserting the History of Saint George, against those who will neither allow him either a place in Heaven, or a being in the Church; since that is both learnedly and judiciously maintained to our hand, out of the venerable Records of Antiquity and Church-History, by the elaborate endeavours of the late reverend Divine, Dr. Peter Heylin, in a particular i Hist. of St. George asserted etc. Printed 1633. Tract. The like pains we are eased of, in avouching and assuring him to be the special Patron, Protector, defender, and Advocate of this Realm of England, and manifesting in what veneration he hath been held abroad, especially among the Eastern Churches; by the Pen of our most learned k Titles of Honour, p. 811. Selden. To whose testimonies we shall only add, that this Title of l Beatus Georgius invictissimus Christi Athleta, cujus nomen & patrocinia Gens Anglicana veluti Patroni sui singularis, in expeditione presertim Militari invocat & implorat, instinctu divino ut credimus excitati. Pat. de anno 25. E. 3. p. 2. m. 12. Patron to our Nation is given to St. George by the Founder of this most noble Order, in a Patent granted to the Deans and Canons of the Chapels of St. Stephen at Westminster, and St. George at Windesor, which dischargeth them from payment of Tenths (for the Churches appropriate to those Chapels) that were or should be given by the Clergy to Him and his Successors: As also by m The blessed Martyr St. George, Patron of the right noble Realm of England. King Henry the Eighth, in the Preamble of his Statutes: Nay further, that he was likewise called our Nation's Patron, in relation to the n Sanctus Georgius Martyr, qui totius Militiae Anglicanae Spiritualis est Patronus. Regist. MS. Arundel. Arch. Cant. par. 1. fol. 53. art. 37. Spiritual Militia of this Kingdom. And though in general he is styled, the o Heylins' Hist. of St. George, part 2. c. 7. Sect. 1. Principal Patron of the Affairs of Christendom, and a Tutelar Guardian of military men; yet among all Christians the English did the best, and in England the Founder of this most noble Order, in making particular choice of such a p Ordo est divo Georgio ut Bellatorum praesidi dicatus. Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19 p. 378. Captain and Patron, under whose conduct to fight, to wit, a Captain so approved and tried by such high testimonies as he had given. In particular relation to whom, the Knights-Companions had bestowed on them, the title of Equites Georgiani, St. George's Knights; and the Order itself came to be styled, Ordo divi Sancti Georgii, the Order of St. George. It is worthy of observation that du Chesne (a French Writer) acknowledges, q Hist●ire generale d' Anglete●re, etc. p. 670. it was by the special Invocation of St. George, that King Edward the Third gained the battle of Crescy, which afterward calling to mind, he founded (saith he) to his honour, a Chapel within the Castle of Windesor. But if we may go higher, and credit our r Cap. 72. Harding, it seems King Arthur paid St. George particular honours, for he advanced his Picture in one of his Banners: and this was about 200 years after his Martyrdom, and very early for a Country so remote from Capadocia, to have him in so great estimation. Lastly, The Founder added to these a fourth Patron, whose Name himself bore, namely, t Lib. N. p. 26. Saint Edward the Confessor, sometime King of England, and his Predecessor, by which choice the Patronage of the Order belongs also to him. And we find he was wont to be invocated by this noble Founder (as well as Saint George) at such time as he found himself in any great straight; of which a memorable instance is recorded by u Hist. Angl. p. 159. Thomas Walsingham, who reports that at a Skirmish near Calais, anno Dom. 1349. King Edward in great heat of anger and grief, drew out his Sword, and most passionately cried out, Ha Saint Edward, Ha Saint George, which his Soldiers hearing, ran presently unto him, and rushing violently upon the Enemy, put many of them to the Sword. But in further declaration of electing all these for Patrons to the Order, we find them ranked together, in the w In honorem omnipotentis Dei, & suae Genetricis Mariae virginis Gloriosae, Sanctorumque Georgii Martyris & Edwardi Confessoris nostris Regiis samptibus focimus, &c Pat. 22. E. 3. par. 2. m. 6. Preamble of the Charter of Foundation of Windesor College, granted by King Edward the Third; though in the Preamble to his Statutes of the Order, and to King Henry the Fifth's Statutes, Saint Edward the Confessor is omitted; nevertheless, in the Preamble to Henry the Eighth's Statutes, he is there remembered with the rest. SECT. V. The Honour and Reputation thereof. BEfore we leave this Chapter, we shall note some few things touching the Honour and Reputation of this most noble Order; and that, either as comparing it with other Orders of Sovereign Foundation, or else in relation to itself. First then, let what our learned Selden affirms be observed, viz. That this Order of the Garter hath x Notes upon Polyalb. Song. 15. precedency of antiquity, before the eldest rank of honour of that kind any where established. Secondly, The Statutes of Foundation were so judiciously devised and contrived; and framed upon such solid grounds of Honour and Nobleness, that they afterwards became a Precedent to other Orders, particularly those two of the Golden Fleece, and of Monsieur Saint Michael; as may be readily seen, by any that will take the pains to compare them. Thirdly, It hath begot no small honour to the Order, that the number of the first Knights-Companions, were never yet increased, but as there were five and twenty of them elected at the Institution, they, with the Sovereign of the Order, made up that y E. 3. H. 5. St●. Art. 3. Praef. to H. 8. Stat. Pol. Virg. Angl. Hist. l. 19 p. 378. Number, which at no time hitherto hath been exceeded, ut pretium faciat raritas, saith z Hist. St. George, part 3. c. 2. sect. 5. Heylin, lest being else communicated to many, it might at last become despicable. For it is manifest enough, that an invasion in this particular, hath like an undiscerned Rock, split several other Military Orders into contempt and ruin: nothing so much abasing the worth of Glory and Honour (which are to be desired by all, yet granted to few) than when made common, and given indifferently without choice and merit, to persons of mean condition: as may be sufficiently instanced in the Order of the a Andr. Favin en le Theatre d' Honneur. l. 1. c. 5. Star in France, under the Reign of Charles the Seventh, and the now declining Order of b Andr. Favin en le Theatre d' Honneur. l. 1. c. 5. St. Michael. Fourthly, It hath been honoured with the Companionship of divers c Rex instituit Garterium Ordinem, cui tantus deinde accessit honour, ut maximos quosque Reges, non paeniterit in id venire Collegium. Polyd. Virg. Angl. Hist. loco supra cit. Emperors, Kings, and Sovereign Princes of Christendom, who reputed it among their greatest honours, to be chosen and admitted thereinto; insomuch as some of them have with impatience courted the honour of Election. For we find remaining upon this Registry of Honour, eight Emperors of Germany, three Kings of Spain, five French Kings, two Kings of Scotland, five Kings of Denmark, five Kings of Portugal, two Kings of Sweden, one King of Poland, one King of Arragon, two Kings of Naples, besides sundry Dukes and other Free Princes, as one Duke of Gelderland, one Duke of Holland, two Dukes of Burgundy, two Dukes of Brunswick, one Duke of Milan, two Dukes of Urbin, one Duke of Ferrara, one Duke of Savoy, two Dukes of Holstien, one Duke of Saxony, and one Duke of Wertemberg, seven Counts Palatines of the Rhine, four Princes of Orange, and one Marquis of Brandenburg. Fifthly, It entitles those Knights and Noblemen, whose virtue hath raised them to this degree of honour, to be Companions and Fellows with Emperors and Kings; a Prerogative of an high nature, and a reward for greatest merits. In the last place, we shall close up all with the Elegy given to this most noble Order, by our learned Selden; d Notes upon Polyalb. Song 15. That it exceeds in Majesty, Honour, and Fame, all Chivalrous Orders in the world. CHAP. VI THE Statutes and Annals OF THE Order. SECT. I. Of the Statutes of Institution. AMong Societies in general, it hath been found expedient, to plant Rules for them to walk by: Order and Regularity being not only the beauty and Symmetry of Government, but the parent of that Being, which greatly contributes to their perpetuity: Besides, Statutes and Rules, are as well the Bounds to determine, as Bonds to unite Fellowships and Societies together; and if either through negligence fall into disuse, or be unadvisedly broken, they readily open a way to dissolution and ruin. Upon such like considerations therefore, that most famous, happy, and victorious Prince, King Edward the Third (after he had advisedly determined the Erection of this most noble and renowned Order of the Garter) did most prudently a Lib. N. p. 214. devise and institute several laudable Statutes and Ordinances, to be duly observed and kept within the said Order; which being collected into one Body, are called the Statutes of Institution. The original of these was Ordained to be safely kept within the b Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 27. Treasury of the College of Windesor, but hath long since wholly perished, yet there is a Transcript of them recorded in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth, at the beginning of the old Book, called Registrum Ordinis Chartaceum; a Copy whereof we have placed first in rank of the Infections and Autographs in the Appendix: nevertheless, bearing the marks of the Transcribers negligence or inadvertency, as will appear in several places, by the words we have supplied in the margin, warranted by two ancient Exemplars of this Body of Statutes. The first of which, written in an ancient hand, I had communicated to me by the favour of the late Lord Hatton, that noble Patron of all good learning and learned men. But 'tis evident these were not the Original Statutes, from a part of the 10. Article, where speaking of the penalty for a Knights not coming to Chapter on the Eve of the Grand Feast, at the assigned hour, it is there added, Concerning which there is a Decree extant. So also in the 12. Article relating to the penalty, where a Knight-Companion is found without his Garter; the payment whereof is there appointed to be made after the same manner, as those who sailing in like sort have been used to pay. And lastly, the 33. Article here is wholly added out of King Henry the Fifth's Body of Statutes. This Exemplar next follows the Transcript of the Original Statutes in the Appendix, and where we have occasion, is cited thus, Ordinis Statuta in Bibliotheca Hattoniana. Another Exemplar of the Founder's Statutes is registered at the beginning of the Black Book of the Order, it being the same in substance, put only into purer Latin, and the Articles rendered in a more eligant stile; yet there is one thing must not slip our observation, that whereas in the 17. Article of the Statutes entered in the Registrum Chartaceum, the Title of Marquis and Viscount, with the proportions they were decreed to pay c Regist. Chartley▪ f. 24. a. an. 24. H. 8. upon the death of each Knight-Companion, are both interlined by another hand, and with fresher Ink, this Exemplar hath put them into the Text: But the same Titles being not interlined in the 22. Article, in the said Register (where there is a like occasion to speak of the Degrees of Nobility in the Order) are also omitted in that very Article of this Exemplar: which is a sufficient Argument, to manifest that it was compiled from the Statutes in the Registrum Chartaceum; and as to the time, after the 24. year of King Henry the Sixth, at soon. These also are printed next the former Exemplar, and cited under this Title, Ordinis Statuta in Libro Nigro. SECT. II. Of those other Bodies of Statutes since established. BEsides these Statutes made at the Institution of the Order, there are two other Bodies or Exemplars established since; the one by King Henry the Fifth, and the other by King Henry the Eight. King Henry the Fifth, that happy restorer of the honour of the Order, having (at his entrance to the Royal Throne) found its glory upon abatement, not only raised it to its former lustre, but very much increased the honour thereof. For He renewed the Grand Festival and other Solemnities, He commanded a strict observation of all the Founder's Statutes, and d Lib. N. p. 6● brought many more to a like perfection, which He subjoined to such of them where they properly might be inserted, and are these that follow. Article 3. That the Knights should make their obeisance in the Choir, first to the Altar, and next to the Sovereign. 8. That the Deputy should elect, if the Sovereign (when abroad) had not six Knights with him. 9 That the Feast of St. George should not be kept on St. Marks day, May-day, etc. 12. That when a Knight should ride, he might wear a Blue Ribbon instead of his Garter. 14. That the order and manner of offering up the Achievements of deceased Knights, should be such as is there prescribed. 20. That Knights absent in the Sovereign's service, might be Installed by Deputy. 31. That the Sovereign should take a Signet of the Order abroad with him. 34. That no Charge should be admitted upon the College, by the Custos or Canons, without the Sovereign's consent. The Statutes of Institution, with these Additions, this King caused to be translated into French, and transcribed into a Roll, the Transcript whereof was lent me by the right honourable Basill Earl of Denbigh, a person who through an industrious search into his own ancient Evidences, is become fortunately happy, by adding thence great light to his e From the Earls of Haspurge in Germany, Dugd▪ Antiq. of Warr. p. 57 high and noble Descent; and a no less encourager of, than really affected with the Studies of venerable Antiquity. This Roll (as before the Statutes of Institution) was Ordained to issue out thenceforth to the Knights-Companions under the f Art. 27. Common Seal of the Order. In after times it was transcribed into Books; and by a Decree passed an. 3. H. 7. an g Lib. N. p. 168. Original Book of these Statutes and Institutions fair written, was to be laid up in the College of St. George; and the Scribe or Register to have Transcripts of it in readiness to present the Elected Knights withal. The last and largest Body was undertaken and completed, by that munificent increaser of the splendour of this most Noble Order, King Henry the Eighth; chiefly in regard some of the former Statutes were obscure, doubtful, and needed further explication; others wanted reducing and contraction, where the necessity of the case required. And to set this worthy work on foot, this Sovereign gave Orders (in a Chapter held at h Lib. N. p. 205. Greenwich on St. George's day, anno regni sui 9) i Lib. N. p. 205. That all the Knights-Companions should be carefully summoned, to assemble together in the year than next following (whilst the solemnity of the Feast lasted) to consult and conclude upon the abrogation of such things as tended to the dishonour of the Order (if any such were) and for the advancement of other things that might augment and promote the honour thereof, but it seems there was not any thing done thereupon. Afterwards, to give greater reputation to this his Royal design, this Sovereign on the k MS. in office. Arm. [M. 17.] p. 26. b. 28. of May in the 11. year of his Reign, entered upon this great and noble work, with all magnificent Ceremony, being accompanied with l MS. in office. Arm. [M. 17.] p. 26. b. 19 Knights-Companions of the Order, all m MS. in office. Arm. [M. 17.] p. 26. b. proceeding on Horseback to the Chapterhouse at Windesor; where being entered, and consideration had of the old Statutes; the n Ibid. p. 27. Knights-Companions, with all due reverence, entreated the Sovereign to reform and explain them, as he should think convenient; who thereupon determining so to do, the whole Company gave their advice and consent. That done, all present besought the Sovereign, kneeling, that where any of them had o Ibid. p. 27. offended, in breaking any Ordinance concerning the Order, he would please to remit it, and give them a general pardon, which most benignly he granted, and the next day, in Chapter, ratified it to them. But it seems this undertaking held yet p Lib. N. p. 196. three years, before it came to perfection; nevertheless then, viz. the 23. of April, anno 14. H. 8. the Sovereign out of q Ibid. p. 215. right singular, love, good zeal, and entire affection to this most Noble Order, to the estate of Chivalry, and the continuance and increase thereof; as also at the humble request and instant desire of the then Knights-Companions, and by their advice, counsel, and consent did make Interpretation, and Declaration of the obscurities, doubts, and ambiguities of the former Statutes and Ordinances. And having r Ibid. reform divers things in them, he thereunto made several s Lib. N. p. 21●. additions, no less necessary than expedient. The t Ibid. 229. Original whereof being signed and sealed, was commanded to be carefully laid up, in the Treasury of the College at Windesor, there to remain to succeeding times, notwithstanding which, it hath not been seen there these many years past. The Articles and Clauses added to the former Statutes in this last Body are these. Article 1. That the interpretation of the Statutes, etc. belongeth to the Sovereign. 2. The three points of Reproach, declared; and what is meant by a Gentleman of Blood. 4. Of the Prorogation of the Feast. 5. How the Feast is to be observed by absent Knights. 6. Attendance on the Sovereign, if he be not at the Feast. 7. That the Sovereign's Deputy may correct things in Chapter. 12. The Offering up of Achievements, and a Taper armed with a Scutcheon. 13. Canons to sit in the lower Stalls, when any Knights are present. 14. That six Knights make a Chapter. 20. The manner of Installation set down. 21. Clause for a foreign Knight's Deputy to be conducted from the Chapterhouse to his Stall; and for making an Election void, if the Knight send not his Proxy within seven months. 23. For Advancing and Translating of Stalls. 25. Plates not to be larger than the first Founders, except Strangers. 38. Concerning the Collar of the Order. This Body of Statutes was compiled in Latin, and is recorded in the u Pag. 214. Black Book of the Order; it was translated into w Ib. p. 196. French and English by Sir Thomas Wriothesley. Knight, then Garter King of Arms: The English Version is that which hath been since delivered (instead of the former Statutes) to all succeeding Knights-Companions, according to the Injunction, but of late times appointed to be sent to Foreign Princes, and other Elect Knights abroad, x Lib. R. p. 120. sealed with the Great Seal of the Order, affixed to a Label of Blue Silk and Gold. Where this Book hath been delivered to a Knight-Companion at the Sovereign's charge, the Knight's y E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 28 Executors are obliged to send it back to the College of Windesor, and there to deliver it to the Custos or Register of the Order. And because this Law was defective in point of time, therefore King z Art. 31. Henry the Eighth's Statutes appoint the same to be sent to either of them (or to one of the principal Officers of the Order, for the time being) within three months' next after the decease of such Knight-Companion. And yet besides these three Bodies, most eminently known by the title of Statutes, there was another drawn up and published, anno 7. E. 6. the Reformation of Religion here in England giving the occasion; but it being within few Months repealed by * Lib. C. p. 6. Queen Mary, his Sister and Successor, before it received the life of Execution, and not since revived, we suppose it not proper to rank it in the Appendix or make any use thereof in the following Discourse. In the Month of December 1666. the Right Reverend Father in God Matthew Wren, late Lord Bishop of Ely, showed me a Manuscript, compiled by himself, about the year 1631. being at that time Register of this most Noble Order: wherein by way of Comment upon King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, he briefly shows (out of the Statutes and Annals of the Order) what alteration there hath been in the Law of the Garter, both before and since. It is a work composed with a great deal of judgement, and exceeding useful; and had it been my good hap to have met therewith before I had so near finished this Work, the ready directions therein would have eased me of much toil, whilst I was about the composing it. SECT. III. Several endeavours for Reforming the Statutes, since the Reign of King Henry the Eighth. AS the Kings of this Realm, immediately at their attaining the Crown, do become Sovereigns of this most Noble Order of the Garter, and consequently the a Lib. R. p. 119. & 122. Supreme Law, and Interpreters thereof; so is the regulation of the whole their undoubted Prerogative; and this hath been evidenced in nothing more fully than from their constant course in exercising the power, not only of making and establishing, but changing and altering the Laws and Statutes thereof; which upon interest of Religion, pleasure of the Sovereign, change of times, or any other fit or necessary Occasion, hath from time to time been done by them. Upon this ground was it, that King Edward the Sixth went about to alter and reform such things in preceding Statutes as seemed not consistent with the Religion he had established in England. To which purpose, at a Chapter holden at Greenwich, the 23. of April in the 3. year of his Reign, it was agreed, b Lib. N. p. 302. That the Lord St. John, the Earl of Arundel, and Sir William Paget should peruse over the Statutes of the Garter; and that the same should be reform, and made agreeable to the King's Majesty's other proceedings, by the advice of the Duke of Somerset Lord Protector, and other Companions of this Noble Order. This was seconded by another Order, made also in Chapter at Greenwich, on St. George's day in the following year; where it was agreed, c Ib. p. 304. That the Book of Statutes should be reform, and thereupon the Sovereign delivered to the whole Company, a Book, wherein was contained certain Statutes, by the same to be corrected and reform as they thought best, until the next Chapter. But it seems, nothing was as yet done, in pursuance of either of these Orders, for at the next Feast, on the 24. of April, anno 5. E. 6. another Order past, d Ib. p. 306. impowering the Duke of Somerset, the Marquis of Northampton, the Earls of Warwick, Arundel, Bedford, and Wiltshire, to peruse over the Statutes and other Books of the Order, and the same to be reform; as aforesaid. This third Order it seems took more effect than the former; for thereupon a new Body of Laws was collected together (wherein some things were reform, others newly added; but in effect the Laws of the Order very much altered) and published March 17. anno 7. E. 6. But this King dying within four Months after, the very first thing Queen Mary (his Sister) took care for, in reference to the Affairs of this Order, was to see these new statutes abrogated and made void. To which purpose in a Chapter held at St. James' House, the 27. of September next following her coming to the Crown, it was among other things Decreed and Ordained, e Lib. C. p. 6. That the said Laws and Ordinances, which were in no sort f Ibid. convenient to be used, and so impertinent and tending to novelty, should be abrogated and disannulled; and no account to be made of them for the future. And for the speedy execution of this Decree, command was then also given to Sir William Petre (who that g Ib. p. 7. day was admitted Chancellor of the Order) to see, h Ibid. that they should be speedily expunged out of the Book of Statutes, and forthwith defaced; left any memory of them should remain to posterity: and only those Decrees and Ordinances, which her Father, and his royal Predecessors had established, should be retained and observed. It may be also noted, that in this particular of Reformation, King Philip her Husband appeared no less zealous: for on the 5. of August, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. (which was the third day after he had been invested, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order) himself being present at a Chapter in Windesor Castle, it was then Ordained; i Ibid. p. 12. That all Acts and Decrees being recorded in divers places of the Great Book (to wit, the Black Book of the Order) which were repugnant and disagreeable either with the ancient and received Statutes of the Order, or else with the Laws of the Realm; should clearly be abolished and taken away; by the Marquis of Winchester, the Earls of Arundel, and Pembroke, and the Lord Paget. And we no sooner see Queen Elizabeth ascending the Throne, but shortly after, on St. George's day in the 2. year of her Reign, a view of the Statutes is committed (by Commission) to four of the Knights-Companions, namely the k Lib. C. p. 5●. Marquis of Northampton, the Earls of Arundel, and Pembroke, and the Lord Howard of Effingham: l Lib. C. p. 5●. Who were thereby impowered to read over and consider those Statutes, and being so read over and viewed, to consider with a watchful care and diligence, if any of them were disagreeable to the Religion, Laws, and Statutes of this Realm; and if any such were found, the same to be faithfully represented to the Sovereign, to the end that She, with the Knights-Companions, might establish such Decree concerning them, as she should think fit. Whether any thing was done pursuant hereunto, or not, doth not appear in the Annals of the Order, or any where else that we have seen; nor do we conceive there was, or that this Sovereign saw much cause, to alter the frame of those Statutes, which King Henry the Eighth had established, and Queen Mary confirmed; since the Books of Statutes delivered to the Knights-Companions at their Installations, throughout her Reign, were no other than Transcripts of her Father's Body of Statutes, and besides, the practice of her time was generally pursuant to the direction therein; except in some few things, now and then added or altered, at future Chapters, when there arose new cause for so doing; of which we shall give an account as the matter occurs. After her Reign, King james, her Successor, observing the obscurity and disagreement of some passages among the Statutes, attempted something towards their reformation, and in reference thereto, the m Ibid. p. 173. 14. of May, in the 9 year of his Reign, Decreed, That Commissionary Letters should be made forth to the Earls of Nottingham, Worcester, Pembroke, and Northampton, whereby power should be given them, n Ibid. p. 173. to examine the Registers, and other Monuments, which pertained to the Order; and where any thing should be found obscure, to make it clear, where contrariety appeared, fitly to reconcile it, yet with no endeavour of innovating any thing, but an intention of renewing all things, as near as might be to the first and most ancient Institution of the Order: Saving always power to himself, as Sovereign of the Order, to add or change any thing (according to the occasion) as it should seem agreeable to his prudence, for the honour of this most Noble Order. What was done hereupon appears not, but some few years after, this Affair was revived, and the following Commission issued forth. james R. JAmes by the grace of God King of Great Britain, Ex Collect. Guil. le Neve mil. ●uper Cla●▪ R. Armour. France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To our Right trusty, and Right well beloved Cousin's and Councillor's, Charles Earl of Nottingham, and Edward Earl of Worcester, and to our right trusty, and right well beloved Cousin Henry Earl of Southampton, and to our right trusty, and right well beloved Cousin and Councillor Thomas Earl of Arundel, and to our right trusty, and right well beloved Cousins, Philip Earl of Montgomery, and Robert Viscount Lisle, Knights and Companions of our said Order, Greeting; Whereas, ever since our coming to the Crown of this our Realm of England, We have had a special care to maintain and uphold the dignity and honour of our most Noble Order of the Garter, whereof we are Sovereign, as to the world hath well appeared, both by our careful observation at all due times of all the Ceremonies and Solemnities belonging to the same, and also by the choice we have made of Noble and Worthy persons, whether Princes of Foreign Nations, or Subjects of our own Kingdoms, to supply the places which have been void of that Society. Now forasmuch as We are not ignorant that in all humane Constitutions, there may be not only Ambiguity, suffering doubtful Interpretation, but also defect, for which addition is requisite, the same best appearing in time, which is the producer and tryer of truth, We have therefore thought fit, out of the knowledge and experience we have of your understanding and wisdom, and the confidence we repose in your faithfulness and sincerity, being men of honour, and Knights and Companions of our said Order, to nominate you six, and to appoint you, or any four of you, to take an exact view of all the ancient Statutes and Articles of our said Order. And do give unto you, or any four of you, full power and authority to call before you all such persons, whether Officers of our said Order, or others, as can give you light or information concerning the same; and after a serious consideration thereof had by you all, or four of you, We will and require, that you set down in writing, what in the said ancient Statutes and Articles, you shall conceive meet to be explained, and what to be added, whereby our said Noble Order may be made more famous and illustrious, that the same being presented to us the Sovereign and the Society, at a Chapter holden, may be resolved on, in part or in all, to be put in execution, if to us it shall seem so good. Given under the Seal of our said Order, at our Palace of Westminster, the 26. day of April, in the sixteenth year of our Reign, etc. Notwithstanding the powers and directions given by this Commission, the progress in this business was very slow paced, but towards the later end of his Reign, the Earls of Worcester, Montgomery, Arundel, Surry, and Leicester, four of the six Commissioners abovenamed, having had divers meetings, and debated several things represented to them; did at a Chapter holden at Whitehall, the 19 of May, anno jac. Regis 20. present to the Sovereign certain Articles, subscribed with their hands, which for the Honour of the Order they thought necessary to be observed. By the first of which they endeavoured to provide for a further progress and advance of the same, in proposing, o Lib. C. p. 11. & 12. that every year a Commission from the Sovereign should be given or continued to such Knights of the Order, as in Chapter should be thought fit; to consider of all things to the Order belonging; and that the year following an account by the Knights in Chapter should be given of their proceedings, by virtue of the said Commission. This with 8 other Articles, were p Ib. p. 12. & 13. confirmed by the Sovereign, and twelve of the Knights-Companions, the q Ib. p. 12. & 13. 22. of May following, in a Chapter held at Whitehall. And so happily and effectually went this work forward, that on the Feast-day of St. George held at Windesor in the ensuing year, the said Earl of Worcester (being then the Sovereign's Deputy for that Feast) with ten Knights-Companions more, did agree to eight other Articles (most of them concerning the Alms-Knights) which the next morning were r Ib. p. 14. approved of by the Sovereign; and that day, before the celebration of Divine Service, by the Sovereign's Deputy, and Companions assembled in the Chapterhouse, s Ib. p. 14. the observation thereof was also Decreed. And now to come nearer, even to the Reign of his late sacred Majesty, King Charles the First, of ever blessed and glorious memory, who while it lay in his power, was (and much more would have been, had not the angry Fate of our late times opposed) the greatest Increaser of the Honour and Renown of this most Illustrious Order: He, I say, taking into his princely thoughts all things whatsoever, which carried any show or probability of adding lustre thereunto, designed and endeavoured, the most complete and absolute Reformation of any of his Predecessors. And first, at the Solemnity of St. George held at Windesor the a Lib. R. p. 6●. 6. day of October in the 6. year of his Reign, He commissionated nine of the Knights-Companions, namely, the Earls of Molgrave, Pembroke, and Montgomery, Arundel and Surry, Salisbury, Carlisle, Dorset, Holland, Berkshire, and Suffolk, with command to assemble four times in a year, to consult and handle the Affairs of the Order. All these, but the Earls of Molgrave and Dorset, met at Whitehall, the 2. of january following, where some b Ibid. p. 67. few things were considered of. This Commission was seconded by one more ample, about three Months after, and directed to the beforenamed Knights-Companions, or to any 8, 7, 6, 5, or 4 of them, thereby impowring them, d Ib. p. 68 to meet, consult, and take an exact view, and to peruse all the Statutes and Ordinances of the Order; as well such as were established in the beginning, as such as had been since made by Explanation or Addition, and to consider advisedly, whether any thing had been Ordered, that had brought Doubt or Ambiguity, or did stand in need of Alteration or Amendment. To the end, that if upon mature deliberation by them, there should appear any contrariety or other defect, by want of plain expression or other omission, which were fit by the Sovereign to be supplied for the augmentation of the Honour of the Order, that then in such case, He [the Sovereign] might (upon return of their Proceedings) resolve of some general Declaration in Chapter, to reform and reduce into one body all the Statutes and Ordinances thereof, that the same being compiled and settled in a perfect form, might be so delivered over to posterity, cleared and freed from all future questions and doubts. We see here the largeness of this noble design: Nevertheless not any thing was done upon this Commission, though it stood in force even from the 6. to the 13. year of this Sovereign's Reign: but where the neglect lay appears not, though it may not untruly be conjectured by that which follows. At the Feast of St. George, celebrated by Prorogation at Whitehall, for the year e Sir Thomas Rows journal p. 8. 1636. upon the 17, 18, and 19 days of April, anno 1637. divers humble Petitions for f Ibid. p. 9 Reformation and Renovation, were presented to the Sovereign, the said 18. day of April, by the Chancellor, and them also read; some of which more especially tending to the honour of the Order were accepted and decreed by the Sovereign, and the rest referred and transmitted to the Knights-Commissioners before mentioned. The first of those Decrees which at this time past, was g Lib. R. p. 118. to revive and renew the powers given in the former Commission, and thereupon a new Commission, dated the 7. of May then following, issued under the Great Seal of the Order, having the same Preamble with the former Commission, and was directed to the Earls of Molgrave, Derby, Pembroke, and Montgomery, Arundel, and Surrey, Kelley, Salisbury, Dorset, Holland, Berkshire, Suffolk, Lindsey, Exeter, Marquis Hamilton, Duke of Lenox, the Earls of Danby, Moreton, and Northumberland, or to three or more of them, to h Rows journal, p. 18. meet and consult of any matter, concerning the Statutes, or Honour of the Order. These Knights-Commissioners, were likewise armed with i Rows journal, p. 18. all the powers given in the foresaid Commission, dated anno 6. Car. 1. Unto which was added, for the better effecting the Sovereign's royal care; k Ibid. p. 19 That three or more of them should meet at the Sovereign's Court, and begin to execute the said Commission, in Whitsunweek next ensuing, attended and assisted by the Chancellor of the Order, and all or any other Officers, or such of them as they should call and find serviceable. And being met and assembled, to have power to hear, propound, and debate whatsoever should be presented, or that they should conceive conducible, to the honour and perfect establishment of the Order. And to prepare all matters of such their consultation to be presented unto the Sovereign, at the next Feast of St. George, and so successively at every Chapter to be held by the Sovereign: therein to receive his full determination, approbation, and royal assent: with further power to adjourn from time to time, after the first opening and reading of the said Commission, their meetings to such places and days, as to them should seem most convenient. Now who would think, that, after so noble a designation of the Sovereign, after his care to send forth a second Commission with augmentative powers, after his earnest l Ibid. recommending this Affair to their diligence, his pressing their dispatch for the speedy accomplishment of his Royal Intentions, and lastly, his expecting from them an account of their Transactions, at or before the celebration of the next Feast, these honourable persons who were Companions of so noble and honourable an Order, and at their admission sworn to advance the honour of the same, no less than to defend and maintain it, should need a Spur to so worthy a design? But it was so!— For although the foresaid Commission was opened and read at the Court at Whitehall, the 30. of May following, in the presence and session of the Earls of Pembroke, and Montgomery, Salisbury, Holland, Marquess Hamilton, and Duke of Lenox, Commissioners and Companions of this most Noble Order; yet I find the then Chancellor Sir Thomas Rowe, in an account of that day's proceedings by Letter, dated the fourth of june 1637. and directed to Dr. Christopher Wren, than Regiter of the Order (whose attendance was on that day excused) sadly profess; That it was as much as he could do, to procure and draw together five of the Knights-Companions, to open and read the Commission, and this also in haste, quasi in transitu; and all that was done, was to appoint another meeting at the Court in Midsommer-week, than next ensuing; and to lay a charge upon the Chancellor to prepare matter (to wit, m Ibid. p. 21. Propositions and Observations upon the Statutes) fit for their Consultation, against that time, according to the tenor of the Commission. And elsewhere he makes this ingenuous acknowledgement, That he found such difficulty to procure meetings, and a certain non-chalance in every one, as if it were but a ceremonious Affair, and so few hearty in it, that he feared, he and the Officers should wait to little purpose. And so indeed it fell out, for albeit he attended the said Knights-Commissioners in Midsomer-week, according to the appointment at their last sitting; yet there was nothing done, save only the adjourning of their meeting to n Ibid. London. Some little (and but little) progress was afterwards made in this Affair, at another meeting at Whitehall, the o Ibid. p. 31. 8. of February following; where three of the said Knights-Commissioners were present, namely, the Earls of Berkshire, Lindsey, and Northumberland; who Ordered, p Ibid. p. 31. That the Chancellor, Register, and Garter, should prepare an abreviation of the Statutes, and reduce every thing of one-head, into an act, to avoid confusion: And this being the half of what they then did, caused this Expression to fall from the Pen of this worthy Chancellor, in another Letter to the Register, of the 24. of Nou. 1637. There is little hopes of the Knights; they never meet, or to no purpose; though I am tired with solicitations. Finally, the q Ibid. p. 36. first of February after, another assembly of seven of the Knights-Commissioners was held also at Whitehall, in whose presence a few things were debated, but little concluded: and further than this sitting, can I not trace the prosecution of this noble design and intendment of the late Royal Sovereign, all the following years of his Reign; but that here it slept in silence and neglect. SECT. IV. Of the Annals of the Order. AND because the several Orders and Decrees occasionally made in Chapters (being of good authority and binding to the Knights-Companion● and Officers) with many other Historical and Ceremonial matters, relating to the Order, lie dispersed throughout the Annals thereof; it will be requisite here, to give some account of those Books wherein they are so recorded, because we shall make frequent use of them in the progress of our Discourse. Registrum Ordinis Chartaceum. The first of these in order of time, is an old Paper Book, written in French (hitherto fortunately preserved in the Paper-Office at Whitehall) which in all probability was begun by john Coringham: for we find him 1414. (which was a little before the Annals therein entered do commence) made e Tho. Frithin suo Canonicor. Catal. Canon of Windesor, and constituted f Tho. Frithin suo Canonicor. Catal. Register of the Order. And in regard that one and the same kind of hand-writing is continued from the beginning of this Book, until anno 16. H. 6. inclusive, where follows an Hiatus till anno 23. H. 6. that the Annals begin to be entered with another hand, and that he shortly after died, viz. g Tho. Frithin suo Canonicor. Catal. anno Dom. 1445. 'tis very probable, the Book so far was writ by himself. Hence forward these Annals are entered with several hands, and those generally in use about the times, wherein the Transactions passed, whence may well enough be presumed, that these were the proper handwritings of each Register of the Order, and that this Book was transmitted from one Register to another, wherein, after their death or other removal, the Annals and Acts were continued by the hand of the next Successor; and from this conjecture may some light be also given of the time how long each Register or Scribe enjoyed his Office. After Richard Sidnor was made Register, to wit, h Lib. N. p. 245. anno 16. H. 8. (who subscribed his name to the foot almost of each leaf) the Annals were written in one hand, until anno 26. H. 8. that i Ex Catalogue. praed. Robert Aldrydge Doctor of Divinity, and one of the Canons of Windesor k Lib. N. p. 265. succeeded him in that Office, and then 'tis evident the hand-writing also was changed, to an old set Roman, which ran on to the end of 29. H. 8. in which year he was advanced to the Bishopric of l Godwins Catal. of Bishops, p. 543. Carlisle, and this Book ends in the 31. of his Reign. Besides this, there is another Book wherein the Annals of the Order are recorded in Latin, concerning which there past a Decree, anno 3. H. 7. m Lib. N. p. 168. That it should be fairly transcribed, and n Anno 22. ● 7. vide Lib. N. p. 181. afterwards, That the Sovereign should be put in mind of it, as being then needful to be renewed; but neither of these Decrees took effect, nor was this done till towards the end of the Reign of King Henry the Eight. This Book agrees very nearly with the Registrum Chartaceum, for therein is nothing entered relating to the Order (except o Lib. N. p. 27. one of the Exemplars of the Founder's Statutes, and a n Ibid. p. 38. Catalogue of the first 25 Knights-Companions) before the fourth year of King Henry the Fifth; the Annals of the Order until then being wholly lost. It hath the same Hiatus or Intervals, viz. from the 16. to the 23. year of King Henry the Sixth, from the 7. to the 10. of Edward the Fourth, from the 4. to the 7. of Henry the Seventh, and from the 10. to the 14. of the same King; it also runs parallel therewith for the most part, yet where there is any thing more recorded in the Registrum Chartaceum than in the Black Book, we shall note it, as we have a fitting occasion offered. And that it was compiled by Dr. Aldrydge, while he was Register, may be collected from a short Account given in the o Pag. 22. & 23. Preface, of all the Sovereigns of the Order, ending with King Henry the Eighth; with a memorial relating to Cardinal Wolsey, who, as it there appears, was then dead. The Transcription of this Book was finished anno 31. H. 8. for so far it is written (as ●●so the Appendix) with one and the same hand (being a middle sized Text Letter) but anno 32. H. 8. 'tis most apparent, another hand is introduced, which with some variation is afterwards carried on to the end of anno 5. E. 6. where this Book ends. The Register of the Order, by the Constitutions of his Office, was obliged to provide p Lib. N. p. 235. two Books, and therein to enter the Ordinances and Statutes, with other Acts of the Order, whereof one was appointed to be kept in the Chapterhouse at Windesor, and called Index Windesoriens●s; and the other (being a duplicate of the former) to remain in the Register's keeping, ready at hand to show the Sovereign whensoever he should require it; and this latter was called Aulae Regisirum. As to the general directions given for compiling these Books, and of what particulars they are principally to consist, we have some information from the Statutes of the Order, and the foresaid Constitutions; for besides the entry this Officer is enjoined to make of all the Scrutenies taken in Chapter, and Elections thereupon made (which we shall at large discourse of in its q Chap. 9 Sect. 15. due place) his duty is to record the r E. 3. Stat. Art. 34. Penalties inflicted on Knights-Companions, and the reason thereof, the s Ord. Stat. in Bibl. Hatton. Art. 36. reconciliatin of those that have suffered penalties as Delinquent, with other Acts and their causes, appertaining to the Order: All which are Decreed to be t E. 3. Stat Art. 34. H. 5. Stat. Art. 36. recited before the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, at the beginning of the Chapter, yearly on the Eve of St. George; to the end they may be corrected, and reduced into Method, if need require. Moreover, he is, by the foresaid Constitutions, to make entry of all the u Lib. N. p. 235. Policies in War, Exploits, Transactions, and memorable Achievements, both of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, according as he can best attain the knowledge of them, either by his own search, or the assistance of Mr. Garter, which having first set down and committed to writing, as passages and accidents happen from year to year, whatsoever is thus noted by him, is to be red and perused at the next Chapter, by the Knights-Companions there assembled, that if any thing be found to stand in need of Correction, it may there be forthwith amended, and again in like manner at another Chapter afterwards; which done, he is to take care, that they be fairly engrossed in the foresaid Book, for a perpetual memorial. And because the time assigned for rehearsal of these particulars in Chapter, had in succeeding years been taken up with other Affairs; in one of those Articles, which the Knights-Companions (to whom King james recommended the framing of some Articles, necessary for the honour of the Order) presented to the Sovereign the 19 of May, anno jac. Regis 20. and confirmed the 22. of May following, it was Decreed, w Lib. R. p. 13. That nothing of this nature, or any other Act in Chapter should be Registered, before it had been perused and considered by the then Knights-Commissioners, or at least sour of them, who when they should set times apart, to consult of the Affairs of the Order, for which they were chiefly constituted, might then also make use of such opportunities, as should give this business dispatch with more conveniency. Upon due consideration had of these Injunctions, the present Register (at a Chapter held the 19 of November, anno 22. Car. 2.) x Lib. Carol. p. 76. exhibited the continuation of the Annals of this Noble Order, which he had prepared to register in the Liber Carolinus, and humbly submitted it to the perusal and approbation of the Knights-Companions whom the Sovereign had deputed to take into their consideration the Affairs of the Order; which tender when they declined, he proposed that it might be examined by the Prelate, but that not being liked by them (on consideration that the Register was obliged under an Oath, to deal faithfully in his Report) it was Decreed, y Lib. Carol. p. 76. That the said Annals should be recorded in the said Book without any further examination. Besides the abovementioned particulars, there were materials of another nature, ordered to be collected, both from the Chancellor of the Order, and Garter Principal King of Arms, to be digested by the Register, and entered also upon Record; for, whereas one part of the Chancellor's duty was to z Lib. N. p. 234. set forth and declare every year in Chapter, at the Feast of St. George, the renowned and praiseworthy Acts of the Knights of this Order, as many as had so merited, and as for those who had deserved the contrary, to make relation also of their scandalous and disgraceful actions; the Register was to take these in writing, and record them for a memorial of their honour or shame, never to end. And it is part of the duty of Mr. Garter, a Ibid. p. 237. diligently and industriously to make enquiry after the valiant, fortunate, and renowned Acts, both of the Sovereign, and the rest of the Knights-Companions, which having learned, he is to make a true and faithful relation of them to the Register, to be by him entered upon Record for a perpetual memorial. But we find very little of this hitherto done, and how sparingly inserted, the Annals themselves are but too evident Witnesses. Nevertheless, the present Garter, Sir. Ed. Walker, hath drawn up a faithful account of the noble Actions and Characters of the Knights-Companions, beginning with Thomas Earl of Strafford, and continuing it down to his Son; which he delivered to Dr. Ryves, the now Register, for the use afore directed. Among the Articles established at the Feast of St. George, anno jac. Regis 21. the last is, b Lib. R. p. 16. That the than Register of the Order should compose a Book, wherein should be orderly transcribed the form and manner of all the Solemnities, Ceremonies, and Processions, which were accustomably used at the Feast of St. George, and celebration of the Order, as also of taking down and offering the defunct Knights Achievements, to the end the Knights-Companions, upon recourse to it, might have full information thereof. But (after much enquiry) we have not heard that such a Book was drawn up by him, or any of his Successors. And that some course should be taken for the safe custody and preservation of the Annals of the Order, such was the worthy care of the foresaid Knights-Commissioner, that the said 22. of May, anno jac. Regis 20. it was Ordained, c Ibid. p. 13. That a secure and certain place within the Castle of Windesor, should be provided and appointed, in which all Acts concerning the Order, should be kept, and to which every Knight-Companion at all times might have access. And further, d Ibid. p. 13. That upon the remove, or after the death of the Register of the Order, the Book containing an account of all such acts as had been Registered and there reserved, should be delivered to one of the Knights of the Order. The second of these Books (is called the Blue Book, Liber Coeruleus. and so called from the colour of the Cover, being fairly bound in Blue Velvet. It begins with the first year of Queen Mary, and ends at the 18. year of King james. The third, Liber Rubeus. being bound up in Red Velvet, goes therefore under the name of the Red Book; it takes commencement where the Blue Book ends, and contains like Acts and Entries with the former, it ends in the 14. year of King Charles the First of ever blessed memory, having first given a full account of the Ceremonies performed at the Installation of the present Sovereign. And as to a great part of this Book may I justly and without flattery say, (and to the honour of that right Reverend Prelate, Doctor Wren the late Lord Bishop of Ely, let it be remembered) that from the Institution of this most Noble Order, until he was chosen into the Office of Register, the Annals of the Order, were at no time recorded by a Pen near so judicious or eligant; whose excellent Pattern his worthy Brother, and Successor into that Office, Doctor Christopher Wren, (who most freely and readily communicated to me, what materials he had, to encourage my first design and entrance upon this Work) hath exactly copied in its following leaves. The fourth and last Book commenceth, Liber Carolinus. anno 1640. wherein the Annals are continued down to the beginning of the year 1670. according to the English Account, by the learned pains of Dr. Brune Ryves the present Register of the Order. And in a Chapter held at Windesor the 16. of April, anno 13. Car. 2. it was Decreed, e Lib. Carol. p. 30. That there should be two of these Books made, the one penned in Latin to remain with the Register at Windesor, and the other in English to be kept at Whitehall, and called Registrum Aulicum. THE Account drawn up of the Founder and first Knights-Companions of this Noble Order, we designed for the next Chapter, but for some considerable reasons cannot bring it in here; nevertheless we intent it to usher in the Catalogue of their Successors, and join them together in the last Chapter, where our Reader, is hence he cast his eye thither, may read it in due Order. Of what materials this principal Ensign was at first made, we have not yet found, nor is it described by any, before P●lydore virgile, and he, but in general, as to the ornamental part of it, to wit, That it was c Angl. H●●t. l. 19 p 37●. adorned with Gold and precious Stones, and had a Buckle of Gold at the end, wherewith to fasten it about the Leg. But doubtless, it was also wrought with rich Embroidery, and thereon the Symbolical word or Motto was raised with Gold, Pearl, and sundry sorts of Silks; as may be guessed from the Garters anciently placed on the left shoulder of the Knights-Companions Mantles, and these other little embroidered Garters, wherewith their Surcoats and Hoods were heretofore adorned, which we shall describe by and by. But touching those made in the last Age, we have received more particular satisfaction: for we find, that the Garter sent to Em●nuel Duke of Savoy, ann. 1 & 2. Phil. & Mar. was set with d Ex Collect. Will le Neve Eq. Aut. nupe: Clarencieux R. Armorum. Letters of Goldsmiths Work▪ the Buckle and Pendant of the same, and on the Pendant, a Ruby and a Pearl hanging at the end. The Garter made for Francis the Second, anno 6. Eli●. was e Ex Collect. Aug. Vincent nuper Windesor ●eraldi. richly wrought with Letters of Gold, garnished with Stones: the Buckle and Pendant weighing f MS. fol. pen. Georg. Owen, nuper Yo●k Herald. p. 154. three Ounces and a half and half quarter, was richly set with Rubies and Diamonds. The French King Henry the Fourth, had a Garter of g Ib. p. 229. Purple Velvet, embroidered with Letters of Gold, garnished with Diamonds and Rubies; and the Garter of Christier● the Fourth King of Denmark, was h Ib. p. 299. embroidered with Gold and Pearls. But that Garter sent to Gust●vus Adolphus King of Sweden, did excel all others, bestowed by former Sovereigns, for richness and glory: each Letter of the Motto being composed of Diamonds. A particular Inventory whereof (taken the 24. day of May, anno 14. Car. 1. when delivered by the Sovereign's Command, to the custody of the Dean and Chapter of Windesor, to be preserved there in memory of that famous King) we here exhibit; it being the transcript of that Counterpart, signed by Doctor Christopher Wren, than Dean of Windesor, and seven Canons of that College, upon the receipt thereof. Under the Letters of the Garter Small Diamonds on [the lower] side 52 Item, on the upper side of the Garter of Small Diamonds 52 In the Letter H Diamonds small 10 In the Letter O Diamonds small 12 In the Letter N Diamonds small 11 In the Letter I Diamonds small 4 The first stop Diamond 1 In the Letter S Diamonds small 11 In the Letter O Diamonds small 12 In the Letter I 4 In the Letter T Diamonds 10 The Stop, 1 In the Letter Q Diamonds 13 In the Letter V 9 In the Letter I 4 The Stop, 1 207 In the Letter M Diamonds small 11 In the Letter A Diamonds small 10 In the Letter L Diamonds small 6 The Stop, 1 The Letter Y Diamonds 6 The Stop, 1 The Letter P 10 The Letter E 9 The Letter N 11 The Letter S 11 The Letter E 9 85 In the first Button, Diamonds 6 In the second 6 In the third 6 In the fourth 6 In the Star of longer Diamonds 7 Small Diamonds. 31 In the Chapes border, Diamonds of a bigger size 32 In the Cross, four faucet long Diamonds, and four three square faucet Diamonds 8 One large Diamond long and fauce● encompassed with seven square Diamonds and faucet 8 In the Buckle, one faucet table Diamond in the end, and twenty seven in the compass and tongue 28 In the Hinge of the Buckle, one soul square Diamond, and eleven other faucet and square Diamonds 12 88 Total of the Number 411 See the trusties Book of Sales. This rich Garter, being (for greater security) buried in St. George's Chapel, at the beginning of the late War, was discovered by Cornelius Holland, and fetched thence by john Hunt Treasurer to the trusties for sale of the late Kings Goods, and sold by them to Thomas Beauchamp their then Clerk. The Garter which his said late Majesty wore upon his Leg at the time of his Martyrdom, had the Letters of the Motto composed likewise of Diamonds, which took up the number of 412. It came into the hands of i Ex relatione praed. Tho. Beauchamp. Captain Preston (one of the late Usurper's Captains of Horse) from whom the said k Ex relatione praed. Tho. Beauchamp. trusties re-received it, and sold to Mr. john Ireton, sometimes Lord Mayor of London for 205 l. But since the happy Restauration of the present Sovereign, Mr. Ireton was summoned before the Commissioners, impowered by a Commission under the Great Seal of England, to inquire after the Crowns, Plate, jewels, etc. of the said late Sovereign, which had been concealed or imbezeled, and being charged with the buying the foresaid Royal Garter, and not denying it, Composition was offered him, according to the direction of the Commission (as in all other like cases, where any thing could not be had in kind) but he refusing the offer, the King's Attorney General proceeded against him in an Action of Trover and Conversion, in the Court of Kings-Bench, which coming to trial in Trinity Term, 〈…〉 upon a full hearing, a Verdict was given for the King, against the said john Ireton for 205 l. and 10 l. Costs of Suits. The Motto of the now Sovereign's Royal Garter, is set with Diamonds upon Blue Velvet, and the borders wrought with fine Gold Wire; the Diamonds which frame the Letters of the Motto are Rose Diamonds, much of a bigness, but those which make the Stops, table Diamonds; and the number which set each Letter are as followeth. In the Letter H small rose Diamonds 10 In the Letter O 12 In the Letter N 11 In the Letter I 4 The first stop Diamond 1 In the Letter S 9 In the Letter O 11 In the Letter I 4 In the Letter T 8 The Stop, 1 In the Letter Q 12 In the Letter V 9 In the Letter I 4 The Stop, 1 In the Letter M 13 In the Letter A 10 In the Letter L 6 The Stop, 1 In the Letter Y 8 The Stop, 1 In the Letter P 9 In the Letter E 9 In the Letter N 12 In the Letter S 8 In the Letter E 9 In each of the four Ilot holes six little Diamonds 24 In the Buckle, two very large Diamonds, four somewhat less, three less than they, and four small Diamonds 13 In the Tab, three very large Diamonds, six a little lesser, one somewhat less, four smaller Diamonds, two less than they, and fourteen small Diamonds 30 Total 250 The Hinge of the Buckle is pure Gold, and thereon the Sovereign's Picture to the breast, curiously cut in flat-stich, crowned with a Laurel, and vested in the Military Habit worn by the first Roman Emperor's. The Tab or Pendant is also Gold, and on the back side thereof engraved a Saint George on Horseback, encountering the Dragon. The order of placing the Diamonds on the Buckle, Tab, and about the Ilot holes, may be seen in the Draught which (with the rest of the Noble Ornaments, that make up the whole Habit and Ensigns of the Order, exactly taken from the particulars themselves) is placed at the beginning of this Chapter. This Noble Ensign [the Garter] was at the Foundation of the Order, appointed to be worn on the l Po●●d. V●gi●. Angl. Hist. l 1●. p. 378. left Leg, a m Lib. N. p. 5●▪ little beneath the Knee, and so hath the usage in all time since continued. And its apparent, that the manner of placing this Garter on the left Leg of the Knights-Companions Sepulchral Portraitures, was very early brought into use; seeing in that Alabaster Figure, of Sir William Fitz Waren (who died a Knight-Companion of this Noble Order, in the n Ex vetust● Codice de Epis●●p●s & P●●ribus Dunelmens'. Ecclesis. vide Tho. Walsingh. sub anno 1361. five and thirtieth year of the Founder's Reign) lying with his Lady on a raised Monument, in the North side of the Chancel of Wantage Church in Berkshire (and yet to be seen) with his Surcote of Arms upon the breast) the resemblance of his Garter (but without any Motto) is carved upon its left Leg. In like manner is the Garter o Ex Collect. Silae Taylour gen. lib. D. f. 129. b. represented on the left Leg of the Alabaster Portraiture of Sir Richard Pembridge, elected Knight of this most Noble Order, in the Founder's Reign, and in the room of Sir Thomas Vfford: whose Monument is erected in the p Ex Collect. Silae Taylour gen. lib. D. f. 129. b. South side of the Cathedral Church of Hereford, below the Pulpit, and encompassed with a Rail of Iron Spikes. The next Monument in time, whereon we have seen the Garter so represented, is that made for Sir Simon Burley ( q See the Inscript. in Mr. Dugdales' History of St. Paul's Cathedral, p. 103. & Placita coram Rege an. ●. H. ● rot. 46. Heres. beheaded anno 1388.) and raised in the North wall siding the Choir of St. Paul's Cathedral London, almost over against the Monument of john a Grant Duke of Lancaster. Thence forward the usage became more frequent (and then the Motto began likewise to be cut thereon) insomuch as even until these days, the Garter is to be seen thus represented, upon all the Monumental Portraitures of those, who were since Companions of this most Noble Order. And albeit this Princely Ensign of the Order, was at first designed for an Ornament to the left Legs of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions; yet was not its use confined only thereto, but extended to some other particulars: For, in the next place it was (and that ancienly also) made use of to encircle the Scutcheon of St. George's Arms, worn by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions on the left shoulder of their Mantles; who within a short time after took it to surround each of their proper Coats of Arms: which usage, their Successors in this most Noble Order have retained, as a peculiar privilege, but not permitted to any other, except the Prelate of the Garter their principal Officer. The first Example which hath occurred to our view, is the before mentioned Monument of Sir Simon Burley; where on the front towards the head is a Scutcheon of his Arms, impaled with his first Wives, set within a Garter (wanting the Impress) but another having the same impalment (placed below the Feet) is surrounded with a Collar of SS, of the fashion with that about his neck. The Monument also of joan Wife to Ralph Nevil Earl of Westmoreland, Daughter to john a Gaunt Duke of Lancaster (who died on the Feast-day of St. Brice, anno 1410.) raised on the South side of the Choir in the Cathedral Church of Lincoln, hath the Arms of Nevil, impaled with those belonging to the said joan, encircled with a Garter: And by these two (among other Examples) it appears to have been the usage about those times, to surround Scutcheons of Arms, and other Devices, with a Collar of SS also: for so, on this great Lady's Monument, is there such a Collar, fashioned like that of Sir Simon Burley's placed about a square, whereon, what was painted doth not now appear. Another ancient instance is that Scutcheon, viz. r MS. in Bibl. Hatton. Sable, three Ostrich Feathers Argent, surrounded with the Garter, set up in the Glass Windows of Greenwich Church in Kent, by Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, and supported with a Greyhound and an Antilope. It is said, that these three Feathers were the Badge of King Henry the Fourth, which he had from john a Gaunt Duke of Lancaster his Father, who bore them for his Device (as might be seen not long since in the North Window, against his before mentioned Monument, in St. Paul's London) and placed in a Field Sable as here, but the Pens were powdered with Ermyns, for a difference from the Black Prince's Feather. The King likewise, so also the House of Somerset, gave the White Ostrich Feather for a Device; but all the difference lay in the Pen, for the King's Pen was Or, the Princes Argent, the Duke of Lancaster's Ermyn, and the Duke of Somersets Compony, Argent, and Azure. The Arms of Sir Lewis Robsort Lord Bourchier, one of the Knights of this Order, Elected in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth, are to be seen painted within a Garter, on each side his Monument, in St. Paul's Chapel in Westminster Abbey. Afterwards we find at the Interment of Richard Duke of York, Father to King Edward the Fourth (slain at the Battle of Wakefield) that every corner of the Majesty Scutcheon (set over the Image of the defunct) had s MS. in Offic. A●m. [I. 3.] f 8 b. vide lib. I. 11. in ead. Offic. f. 84. a Scutcheon of the Arms of France and England quarterly, and four Angel's Gold, holding the Arms within a Garter. In like manner, some of the Scutheons prepared for the Funeral of john Viscount Wells (who married Cicely, third Daughter to King Edward the Fourth and died the t MS. in Offic. praed. [I. 3.] f. 32. 9 of February anno 14. H. 7.) were u Ibid. f. 2. surrounded with the Garter; and so were others having his w Ibid. f. 2. Lady's Arms, of both Metal and Colour. At the Interment of Thomas Duke of Norfolk in Thetford Abbey (who died anno x Aug. Vincents discovery of Errors in Brooks Nobility, p. 356. 16. H. 8.) there was provided a Shield of his Arms y Ex praef. MS. [I. 3.] fol. 103. within a Garter, and a Coronet set over it. A Target also of the Arms of George Earl of Shrewsbury z MS. in ead. Offic. [I. 11.] f. 67. b. within a Garter was born at his Funeral, anno 33. H. 8. It was the custom (begun with us about the Reign of King Henry the Seventh) when the Obsequies of any Foreign Prince were celebrated here in England, to paint the Scutcheon of such Prince's Arms within the Collar of that Order, whereof he was Sovereign, or a Fellow-Companion; for instance, At the Obsequies of the French King Charles the Eighth, celebrated in the Cathedral of St. Paul's London, the Scutcheons of the Arms of France, were placed a MS. [I. 3.] f. 10. within the Collar of the Order of Saint Michael, of which he was Sovereign. At each end of the Hearse, b 18 & 19 Aug. 1557. MS. [I. 15.] in ead. Offic. f. 246. b. when the Obsequies of john King of Portugal, were kept in St. Paul's Cathedral, there was among others, one great Scutcheon of his Arms, c Ibid. within the Collar of the Golden Fleece, wrought with Metal upon Wax, in regard he was one of the Knights of that Order. The Obsequies of the Emperor Charles the Fifth, being performed in Westminster Abbey the 22. and 23. days of December anno 1558. there were ten great Scutcheons, d Ib. f. 284. b. compassed with Garters; to show he was a Fellow, and Knight-Companon of this Order. And upon the same account, where any Foreign Princes, were not only Sovereigns of one Order, but Companions of another; their Hearses were garnished with Scutcheons of their proper Arms, surrounded with the Collars, or principal Badges of both those Orders. Hereupon we find, at the Obsequies of Francis the First, the French King, celebrated the 19 of june in St. Paul's Lond●n, anno 1. E. 6. the Hearse was adorned with the Scutcheons of the Arms of France, placed both e MS. [I. 11.] f. 112. within the Garter of St. George, and Collar of St. Michael's Order; in regard he had been a Fellow of the one, and Sovereign of the other. At the Obsequies performed for Henry the Second of France, on the 9 of September, anno 1. Eliz. in St. Paul's also, there were some Scutcheons of his Arms, encircled both with the f Lib. l. 13 f. 8. Garter and Collar of the g l. 14. f. 7. Golden Fleece, he having been a Knight-Companion of both these Orders; under the joists was a Majesty Scutcheon of Black Taffeta, of this King's Arms within a Garter, crowned with an Imperial Grown: This Scutcheon was garnished in eight places, with eight Rundles, and therein his Impress Donec totum impleat Orbem, with three Crescents, and two Ds of the Roman Letter, linked back to back; and in several other places of the Hearse, were fastened other Scutcheons of his Arms within this principal Ensign of the Garter. King Henry the Eighth was first of the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order, who introduced into his Great Seal, the Scutcheon of his Arms, encircled within a Garter; as may be h Speeds Chr●n. f. 765. seen placed on either side of his Portraiture, sitting in his Royal Throne. Since his Reign, all succeeding Sovereigns have born their Arms within the Garter, not only in their Great and Privy Seals, but also in those other belonging to their Courts of Justice; and generally in all things (except Coins) whereon the Scutcheon of their Arms have been since cut, carved, graved, painted, or wrought (in imitation of whom the Knights-Companions have done the like) But there were an. 21. Car. 1. certain half Crowns stamped in the West of England, having the Sovereign's Arms so encompassed, and this was the first Money, whereon the Royal Garter appeared amongst us. And the present Sovereign, intending the augmentation of the Honour of this renowned Order, as in many other things, so in advancing the reputation of this Noble Ensign by a more public way; hath caused the irradiated Cross of St. George, encompassed about with the Royal Garter, to be stamped in the Centre of his Silver Coin made upon the alteration of it, anno 14. Car. 2. There were likewise Medals, heretofore stamped upon several occasions, wherein the Garter was designedly added, some of which are here exhibited; As that in the year when Frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine, was crowned King of Bohemia, and Robert Cecil Earl of Salisbury, made Lord Treasurer of England, both Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order. We have seen Gold Rings cast into the Figure of Garters, the ground on the outside enameled with a deep Blue, through which the golden Letters of the Motto appearing, set them off with an admirable beauty. And it seems such Garter Rings have been of ancient use, since the Preface to the Black Book of the Order, taking notice of wearing the Garter on the left Leg and Shoulder, adds also the i Interdum Pollice gestare. lib. N. p. 15. Thumb; by which we suppose is meant Gold Rings, made into the fashion of Garters, and bestowed by some new installed Knights upon their Relations and Friends, to wear in memorial of so great an honour conferred upon them. Among the Officers belonging to the Order, the Prelate is allowed to bear his proper Arms, (impaled with those of his See) within the Garter: and the rest of the Officers are permitted only to wear the Badges of their Office, surrounded with the same, to express their peculiar relation to this most Noble Order. Besides the manner of bearing Arms within the Garter of this Order, the Garter, either in whole or part, hath been given by way of Armoury, (but without the Motto) and in sundry manners of bearing. As in the Seal of Arms, belonging to the Office of Garter, Principal King of Arms; where the Garter (surrounding a Crown) is placed in Chief, between one of the Lions of England, and a Flower de Lis of France. And to instance in Families; we find, k Pat. 17. H. 7. pars 2. m. 1. vide porro MS. Offic. Arm. [G. 15.] Argent, three demi Garters Azure, buckled and garnished Or, granted by King Henry the Seventh, to his Servant Peter Nerborne: and l Ibid. See also Glover's Ordinary, p. 419. Sable a Garter Or, between three Buckles of the second, to be born by the name of Buckland or Bowland in the County of Northampton. SECT. II. Of the Mantle. IN the Founder's Statutes, mention is made of no other Robe among those appointed for the Habit of this most Noble Order, but only an upper Garment, to which is there given the name of Mantle; and is the chief of those Vestments, which the Sovereign and Knights-Companions wear upon all solemn occasions relating to the Order. That this kind of Mantle was transferred and derived to us from the ancient Greeks and Romans, is not to be doubted; since it so little differs in fashion from their Pallium or Toga. For the m Panciroll. lib. 1. rerum memorab. deperdit. Tit. ●4. Grecian Pallium, was a kind of long Cloak, which only wanted a Choler or Cape: and the n Car. Sigonius de jadiciis, l. 3. c. 17 p. 459. Roman Toga, a Garment as common in fashion with, and proper to them, as the Pallium to the Grecians; and the use so ancient, as Romulus is noted by o In Vit● Romali. Plutarch to have worn it. We find the Pallium further described to be p Panci●●il. eod. lib. Tit. 43. a kind of upper Robe, that covered the whole Body, made fast on the right shoulder with a Fibula, or Clasp: It was usually worn over the Tunica, or short Coat, whence grew the Proverb, Tunica Pallio propinquior est; and is more particularly observed by q Eq. Aur. Anglo. Wittemb. p. 137. Erhard. Cellius from the authority of Livy, Suetonius, Tacitus, and other Latin Authors to have been a Garment, made without Sleeves, that reached down to the Ankles. In describing this upper Robe called the Mantle, (the Sovereign's being differenced from the Knights-Companions, only by a long Train) we shall first set down the various Names given it in the Records of the Order, secondly the Materials whereof made, thirdly the Colour, fourthly the Quantity, and last of all the Ornamental Trimming used about it. Wherein, though some things hereafter inserted, may perhaps to some seem light and trivial, and fitter to fill up a a Tailor's Bill, than have place in a serious Discourse; yet well knowing they will be thought to others worthy remembrance, and as much esteemed, as necessary to be known; we thought good, not to omit the least particular, that might contribute to the satisfaction of any enquiry. In the Founder's Statutes it is called r Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 3.9.11.16.20 etc. Mantellum, 1. 〈◊〉 Name. and in Henry the Fifth's Mante●●, both which in English we render a Mantle. But the Exemplar of the Founder's Statutes entered in the Black Book, and the Statutes of Henry the Eighth call it Trabea, which s Lib. 5. c. 32. vide etiam Rom. Hist. Anthologia, p. 154. Trabea qunque Toga erat, Panciroll. Rer. memor. deperdit. L. 1. Tit. 45. Rosinus also reckons among the different kinds of Mantles or Gowns. And in the 20. Article of King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, it is applied both to the Mantle and Surcoat. Sometime it is called t Lib. N. p. 30.31.310. Chlamyda, sometime u Lib. R p. 120. Stola, but in other places (and more agreeable to the Greek and Latin denomination) w Lib. N p. 209. Pallium, and x Ib. p. 317. Toga. In the second place, 2. Materials. as to the Materials; That Mantle made for the Founder, against the first Feast of this Order, appears to have been of y Ex Rotul. Comp●● Io. Cok● Cler. mag. Gardrob. ab an. 21. ad 23. E 3. m. 8. penes Remem. Regu in S●accario. fine woollen Cloth. And it is not unlikely, the Founder made choice of Cloth for the Robes of the Order (rather than any richer material) to the end he might give a reputation to that our homebred and native Commodity: albeit we find in the Statutes of Institution, a permission for the Proxies of Foreign Princes, to bring over with them Mantles of z Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 20. vide H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. Silk or Velvet, when they came to receive the possession of their Principals Stalls; either because other Countries were better furnished with such Commodities, than our English Cloth, or that it might rather stand with the liking or esteem of Foreign Princes, as accounting Silk or Velvet the nobler material. How long the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order continued wearing of Cloth, we cannot directly say, the first time we discover their Mantles to be made of a Ex lib. vocat. Co●om, in Offic. mag. Gardrob. f. 47. & 52. Velvet, is about the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Sixth; which sort of Silk hath thence continued in use until this day. About this time also we observe the Mantles of Foreign Princes, were likewise made here of Velvet; for so was b Ibid f. 92. that sent to the King of Portugal, elected c Lib. N. p. 91. anno 13. H. 6. As touching the Mantles of the Knights-Companions, there is no question, but they were of the same materials, with those made for the Sovereign of the Order; namely, at first, of fine woollen Cloth, and when the Sovereign changed Cloth to Velvet, they did so likewise: But we cannot meet with equal satisfaction in this particular, as we have done in the Mantles belonging to the Sovereign, because the Knights-Companions provided this Robe at their own charge, and their private accounts, through many casualties were of no great durability; but their Surcoats were of the Sovereign's donation, and consequently the particulars of them remain on Record, in the Rolls and Accounts of the great Wardrobe. The Colour of these Mantles is appointed by the Statutes to be d Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 11. H. 5. Stat. Art. 11. Blue; 3. Colour. and of this coloured Cloth, was the e Ex praed. Rot. Comp●●. Io. Coke m. 8. first Robe made for the Founder; by which, as by the groundwork of the Royal Garter it is not unlike, he alluded (in this no less than that) to the Colour of the Field in the French Arms; which a few years before he had assumed in Quarter, with those of his Kingdom of England: But the Colour of the Surcoat was changed every year as will appear by and by. Of the same g De Velvet blodio, vid. lib. praed. vocat. C●tom. f. 47.54. Colour were the Velvet Mantles made in King Henry the Sixth's Reign, who though he changed the Stuff, yet did he not vary the die. It is also manifest, that the Blue Colour was retained to King Edward the Fourth's Reign, for when this Sovereign sent the Habit and Ensigns of the Order to julianus de Medicis, the Mantle was made of i Ex Coll. jac. Ware Eq. Aur. Blue Velvet. But in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, there is no mention at all of the Colour of this upper Robe, save only of the Mantle, which a Foreign Prince's Proxy is enjoined to bring along with him, when he comes to assume the Stall of his Principal, which though it be not directly to the point, yet is it there noted to be of k Hen. 8. English Statutes Art. 21. Blue Velvet: and it is more than probable, that the Blue Colour continued still in use; for within a few years after the compiling this last mentioned Body of Statutes, it appears, the Mantle sent to james King of Scotland, was of l Autogr. in Bibl. Hatton. Blue Velvet. And m Utu●tur Pallio coeruleo. Angl Hist. l. 19 p. 378. Polydore Virgile, who wrote his History about that time, affirms as much. Moreover in the ancient form of admonition and signification, appointed to be spoken at the Investiture of Foreign Princes, and then in use, it is called the Mantle of n Accipe Chlamydem hanc coeli●i coloris. lib. N p. 310. Celestial Colour. If we pass from the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, to the first and second years of King Philip and Queen Mary, it will appear, the Mantle sent to Emanuel Duke of Savoy was likewise of o Ex lib. Warr. Dorm. temp. H. 8. E. 6. Ph. & Mar. & ●liz. Reg. in Offic. mag. Gardrob. pag. 364. Blue Velvet. But in Queen Elizabeth's Reign (upon what ground is no where mentioned) the Colour of Foreign Princes Mantles, was changed from Blue to Purple: for of that Colour were the Mantles sent to the French Kings, p Ex lib. Warr. particular. temp. Eliz. R. in Offic. praed. p. 85. Charles' the Ninth, anno 6. Eliz. and q Ib. p. 201. Henry the Third, an. 27. of the same Queen: So also to the Emperor r Ib. p. 17. Maximilian, an. 9 Eliz. to s Ex lib. 4. in Offic. praed. p. 446. Frederick the Second King of Denmark, a. 24. Eliz. to t Ib. p. 157. john Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, an. 21. Eliz. and to u MS. fol. penes praef. Geo. Owen, York fol. 299. Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. jac. R. 4. but that sent to w Erh. Cellius in Eq. Aur. Anglo. Wirtemb. pag. 135. Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg in the same year, was of a mixed Colour, to wit, Purple with Violet. Thus the Purple Colour came in, and continued till about the 12. year of King Charles the First, when that Sovereign (having determined to restore the Colour of the Mantle to the primitive Institution, namely a rich Celestial Blue) gave directions to x Ex Autogr. penes jac. Palmer Eq. Aur. nuper Cancel. hujus Ord. Mr. Peter Richant Merchant (afterwards Knighted by him) to furnish himself with a parcel of Velvets of that Colour from Genoa, and upon their arrival into England commanded y 3. jan. 1637. Sir Thomas Rowe, than Chancellor of the Order, forthwith to signify by Letters to all the Knights-Companions his Sovereign Pleasure; that every one of them should take so much of that Velvet as would make new Robes, against the following St. George's day, and satisfy for them; in obedience to this command the Chancellor within ten days gave notice thereof to the Knights-Companions. Hereupon all the Knights furnished themselves with new Mantles at the rate of thirty seven shillings a yard, being the price the Sovereign paid to Mr. Richaut for the Velvet of his own Robes; and the first time these Mantles were worn, was to honour the Installation of the present Sovereign. And because there were many Knights-Elect to be Installed, after the happy return of the present Sovereign, it was therefore Ordered, at a Chapter held at Whitehall, the 14. of january, an. 12. Car. 2. (called to consider what preparations were fit and necessary to be made, against the grand Feast of St. George then at hand) That directions should be given to the Master of the Wardrobe, to send abroad for special good Velvets, of Skie-colour and Crimson, and other materials of the proper Colours for the Mantles and Surcoats, both of the old Knights-Companions, and those that were then to be Installed; which was accordingly done, and they brought over in time to accommodate them at the said Feast. 4. Quantity. Albeit the just number of els of Cloth, which went to the making the Founder's first Mantle, are not set down, yet in gross for his Mantle, Hood, and Surcoat, there was allowed a Ex praed. Rot. Camp. Io. Coke, m. 8. 10 els of long Cloth. The Mantle of King Henry the Sixth took up b Ex lib. praef. vocat. Cotom. f. 52. one Piece, 5 els and 3 quarters of Blue Velvet; and those sent to c Ex lib. 4. in Offic. mag. Gard. p. 446. Frederick the Second, and d MS. fol. penes Geo. Owen nuper York Heraldi. p. 299. Christiern the Fourth, Kings of Denmark, and to the French King e Ex lib. Warr. particular temp. Eliz. R. in Offic. mag. Gardrob. p. 201. Henry the Third, contained each 20 yards of Velvet. This we find to be the allowance for the Mantles of Foreign Princes, and are the more large by reason of their long Train, which being wanting in the Mantles of Knights Subjects, 18 yards served to make one of them. The full length of the present Sovereign's Mantle, from the Collar behind to the end of the Train, is 3 yards; the length of the foreside 1 yard and 3 quarters; from the foot along the bottom to the setting on of the Train is 2 yards; and from thence, the length or compass of the Train is 2 yards. The left shoulder of each of these Mantles have (from the Institution of the Order) been adorned with one large fair Garter, 5. Trimming. containing the Motto, Honi soit qui mal y pense: These were distinguished from the lesser Garters, anciently embroidered upon the Surcoats and Hoods, of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, by the name of f Ex eod. lib. voc. Cot●m. f. 43.47.12.92.96. b & 99 Garters gross. Within this Garter was embroidered the g Ib. f. ●2. b. Vid. Hist. Th●. de la Mar● p. 156. b. MS. Arms of St. George, viz. Argent a Cross Gules; and was heretofore wrought upon h Ib. f. ●2. b. Vid. Hist. Th●. de la Mar● p. 156. b. MS. Satin, with Gold, Silver, and Silk; but in succeeding times, more cost was bestowed upon this Ensign; the embroidery being curiously wrought upon Velvet, with Damask, Gold, and sundry sorts of Purls, Plates, Venice Twists and Silks; and the Letters of the Motto and Borders of the Garter, composed of fair Oriental Pearl. The Garter fixed upon the Mantle of the present Sovereign, is encompassed with large Oriental Pearl, so also are the Letters of the Motto, and the Cross within the Garter (an exact Figure whereof is to be seen in the Plate set at the beginning of this Chapter) the Diameter of this Garter is seven Inches, but the depth, from the upper part to the end of the Pendant, ten Inches. In the Reign of King Henry the Sixth, it seems to have been the fashion to garnish the Mantle with three or four Welts drawn down the sides, and round the bottom; for so have I found it expressed on the Monument of john Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, set in the South Wall of the Chancel in the Church of Whit●hurch in Shropshire. About this time also the Lining of this Robe, was i Ex ●od lib. f. 47.92. & 96 b White Damask, and afterwards k Ex vet. pergam Cod. in office. mag. Gard. p. 47. White Satin; but of later times, it was lined with White l Lab. Warr. D●rm. temp. H. 8. etc. f. 264 Tassaty, which continues yet in fashion. For further Ornament, the Mantle had fixed to its Collar, a pair of long strings, anciently woven of m Ex lib. praed. voc. C●tom. f. 52 b. & 96. b. Blue Silk only; (called Cordans, Robe-strings, or Laces) but of later times n Ex Collect. praef. Aug. Vincent. twisted round, and made of Venice Gold, and Silk of the Colour of the Robe; at each end of which, hung a great o Ex eod. lib. voc. Cotom loco nuper cit Knob or Button wrought over and raised with a rich Caul of Gold; and Tassels thereunto of like Silk and Gold. Lastly, at the Collar was usually fixed, an p Ex lib. terti● in praed. Offic. p. 17. Hook and eye of Gold; for the surer fastening it about the shoulders. SECT. III. Of the Surcoat. WE observed before, that the Mantle or upper Robe is only taken notice of in the Founder's Statutes, but not the Surcoat or Kirtle; nevertheless this part of the Habit, is as ancient as the other, being made use of at the Institution of the Order: For such a Garment the Founder then made, together with his Mantle (as also a Hood) to wear at the first Feast of this most Noble Order. And as the Mantle was derived from the Greeks and Romans, so was the q Panciroll. li●. 1. ver. deperdit. Tit. 44. Surcoat also; it being not much unlike the Tunic or upper Coat, now in fashion with us, and worn over the Vest. This Garment among the Romans was called Tunica, and worn, r Rosin. antiq. Rom. l. 5. c. 33. next under the Toga, but both s Rosin. antiq. Rom. l. 5. c. 33. narrower and shorter than it; it was girded close to the Body with a Girdle, and so girded, that the t Quintil●. ●. 11. Him of it reached a little below the Knee, or to the middle of the Ham. u Rosin. loco cit. Baisius de re Vestiar. p. 212. It was the proper Mode of the Roman Citizens, and by its trimming were the three degrees among them known: For the w Rosin. loco cit. Baisius de re Vestiar. p. 212. Senators Tunicks, were embroidered or purfeled over with broad purple Studs, the Knights with narrow ones, and the Plebeians plain, and without any such embroidery. In setting forth the Surcoat which was heretofore annually bestowed by the Sovereign on the Knights-Companions, and therefore called his x Liberationes dicuntur res necessariae quae vel ex debito, vel honori gratiâ, Magi●●ratui, Hospitibus, seu Peregrinantibus ministrantur. Spelman. Glossar. verbo Liberatio. Livery, we shall follow the method used in describing the Mantle, and say something of the Name, Materials, Colour, Quantity, and Garnishing. As to the Name, 1. It's Name. we observe, this Garment hath had sundry denominations; that bestowed on it in the old Rolls of the great Wardrobe is y Ex Rot. Compot. johan. Newbury, an. 34. E. 3. m. 1. penes R●mem. Regis in Scaccario, & Rot. Compot. Hen. de Snaith, an. 37. E. 3. m. 3. Vide porro Rot. Compot. Alani de Stoke an. 7. R. 2. m. 9 & 15. & lib Comp. de liberat. Pannorum, etc. temp. R. 2. in Offic. mag. Gardrob. f. 155.167.173.184.194. Roba, a Robe; but more properly (as the Founder's first Surcoat is called) z Rot. Compot. johan Coke, ab anno 21. ad annum 23. E. 3. m. 8. & lib. R. p. 120. Tunica, which Name is also given it, in the Red Book of the Order. In English it is rendered Gown, Kirtle, a MS. in Offic. Armour. [L. 1.] f. 19 Surcoat, b Sir Tho. Rows journal. p. 35. Vndercoat, and Robe. The first of these English Names, [Gown] is attributed to the Surcoats of the Sovereign and Foreign Princes, in the times of d Ex Lib. praed. vocat. Cotom. Henry the Sixth, e Ex Autogr. penes jac. Ware Eq. Aur Edward the Fourth, and f Ex vet, MS. penes praef. Will. le Neve Eq. Aur. f. 295. Henry the Seventh; but since his Reign, and (till very lately) it hath been bestowed also on the Surcoats of Knights-Companions; and that of Kirtle sometimes given to those sent to Foreign Princes, as doth almost every where appear among the Books of Warrants, in the great Wardrobe; but the rest are terms made use of in our Age. 2. Materials. As the first Mantles, so the first Surcoats were made of h Ex praef. Rot. Comp. Io. Coke, m. 8. vide etiam lib. Comp. de Liberat. pannor. temp. R. 2. f. 124.155.167.173.184. etc. Woollen-Cloth: and though the Cloth of the Mantles, was in time changed to Velvet, yet were the Surcoats for some time after made of i Ex lib. vocat. Cotom. f. 47. & 92. Cloth, at least till after the Office of Chancellor of the Garter was erected by King Edward the Fourth, as appears by the k Ex vet. pergam. Cod. in office. mag. Gardrob. p. 12. Precedent of this Livery, in the Sovereign's great Wardrobe; where after the distribution of materials for this Garment, proportionable to each Degree of Nobility, the like follows for the Liveries, given to the Officers of the Order, among whom the Chancellor is there mentioned. But at length they also came to be made of Velvet, which sort of Silk is still retained. 3. Colour The Colour of this Vesture was anciently changed every year, commonly into one of these four Colours, either Blue, Scarlet, Sanguine in grain, or White; but the Colour of the Mantles remained one and the same, as at the Institution, until Queen Elizabeth's Reign, namely Blue: and note that the Surcoats of the Knights-Companions, were always changed to the same Colour with the Sovereign's. The Founder's first Surcoat was of the same Cloth and Colour with his Mantle, viz. l Ex bread. Rot. Compot. Io Coke. m. 8. Blue; but that Surcoat provided for him in the 34. year of his Reign, was m Ex rot. Io. Newbury, m. 13. Black Cloth. And of the n Ibid. m 1. same Colour were those he bestowed (against the Solemnity of the Feast held that year) upon these following Knights-Companions, namely, the o Ibid. m. 1. Black Prince, the Earls of Ulster, Richmond, and Salisbury, Edmund of Langley (his Son) Sir Richard la Vache, Sir Hugh Wrotesley, Sir Reignald Cobham, Sir Bartholomew Burgherst, the Lord Mohun, Sir Walter Manney, Sir Nele Loring, Sir Walter Paveley, Sir William Fitz Waryn, Sir Miles Stapleton, the Earls of Stafford, Warwick, and Suffolk, and Sir Thomas Vghtred. But we conceive this mourning Colour was then assumed, because the p Pestilentia minor. Pestilence began again to increase; the dreadful remembrance of that great Pestilence, which so furiously raged eleven years before (called Pestilentia magna) inviting to all kind of humiliation. The Surcoats which the Sovereign gave the Dukes of Lancaster and Clarence, and 14 other Knights-Companions, r Ex praef. Rot. Compot Hen. de Snaith, m. 3. an. 37. E. 3. were of Cloth, Sanguine in grain. Those 24. provided for the Feast of St. George, an 7. R. 2. were s Ex praed. R●t. Comp. Alani de St●ke, m. 15. Violet in grain; whereof one was for the Sovereign, the other 23. for these Knights-Companions following, t Ib. m. 9 john King of Castille and Leon, Duke of Lancaster, the E●●●● of Cambridge, Buckingham, Derby, Kent, Warwick, Stafford, Salisbury, Northumberland, and Nottingham, the Lords Nevil, Basset, and john Holland, Sir Guy Bryan, Sir William Beauchamp, Sir Thomas Percy, Sir Nele Loring, Sir john Sulby, Sir Lodowick Clifford, Sir Simon Burley, Sir Richard Burley, Sir Bryan Stapleton, and Sir Sultan de la Trane. Anno 11. R. 2. there were made against St. George's Feast, three and twenty Surcoats of u De Panno Blank long. Videses lib. Camp de Liberat Panror. & tem● R. 2. f. 155. & 167. White Cloth, for the Sovereign and 22 Knights-Companions. And in the 12. and 19 year of the same King, the Sovereign bestowed on the same number of Knights, Surcoats of w Ib. f. 155. & 173. b. long Blue Cloth, as were the first. The 23 Surcoats provided for the Feast of St. George, an 1. H. 5. were of x MS. in Bibl. Hatton. White Cloth. Anno— H. 6. the Sovereign's Gown or Surcoat was made of y Ex lib praed. vocat. Cotom. f. 47. Scarlet; and so was that sent to the z Ib. f. 92. King of Portugal in the 13. year of the same King. Anno— H. 6. the Sovereign had a Ib. f. 51. White Cloth; and of b Ib. f. 71. b. like Colour were the Surcoats provided for 20 Knights-Companions in the— year of his Reign. Afterwards the before mentioned four Colours, began to be laid aside, and others brought into use; for the Surcoat sent to julianus Medici's, in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth, was c Ex Autogr. penes jac. War● Eq. Aut. Purple Velvet. And by the Sovereign's Warrants entered in the great Wardrobe, towards the latter end of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, and since; it is manifest the Surcoats of the Sovereign, and all the Knights-Companions were Crimson Velvet: Nor was this Colour altered in the Surcoat, though the late Sovereign restored the Mantle to its first and ancient Colour, an. 12. Car. 1. It is evident that in provisions of Surcoats made for the Knights-Companions, 4. Quantity. against one and the same Feast, there hath been some difference in the Quantity of the Cloth allowed: for we find, an. 34. E. 3. the Earls of Stafford, Warwick, and Suffolk, as also Sir Thomas Vghtred, had then allowed for each of their Surcoats, d Ex Rot. Compos. I●. Newbury. m. 1. 6 els of Cloth (perhaps the tallness of their stature required it) when the other 15 Knights-Companions were allowed but e Ex rot. Compos. I●. Newbury. m. 1. 5 els, being the f Ibid. m. 13. same quantity put into the Sovereign's Surcoat at the same time. The Dukes of Holland and Clarence (a. 1. H. 5.) with the Earl of Arundel, were allowed g Ex lib. MS. in Bibl. Hatton. 8 els of Cloth apiece, the Dukes of Bedford, Gloucester, and York, the Earls of Westmoreland and Warwick, the Lords Grey, Fitz-Hugh, and Roos, h Ex lib. MS. in Bibl. Hatton. 6 els apiece, the Earls of Dorset, with six Barons, and five Knights-Batchellors, but i Ex lib. MS. in Bibl. Hatton. 5 els apiece. Afterwards, when the number of els of Cloth, Garters, and Furs came to be ascertained for each Degree, all the Knights-Companions (even the Prince of Wales) were stinted to a certain allowance of l Ex vet. pergam. Cod. fol. in Offic. mag. Gardrob. f. 1●. 5 els of Cloth. But since Velvet came into use, the allowance for Surcoat and Hood (as appears by the Sovereign's Warrants) hath been eighteen yards; that is, while the Surcoat reached down to the feet, but now it being the fashion to wear it shorter, the allowance is but ten yards. The length of the now Sovereign's Surcoat, is one yard and a half; and of the sleeve one yard wanting a Nail. In the last place, 5. Trimming. the ornamental Trim of these Garments, especially at the time of Instituting the Order, are worthy observation; for they were then, and for a long time after, garnished or n Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Io. Coke m. 8. powdered all over with little Garters, embroided with Silk and Gold Plate; in each of which was neatly wrought the Motto, Honi soit qui mal y pense. Besides, the Buckles and Pendants to these small Garters were Silver, gilt. Of these embroidered Garters, there were laid upon the first Surcoat and Hood made for the Founder, no less than o Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Io. Coke m. 8. 168. In King Richard the Second Reign, the little Garters that adorned the Surcoats of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, were wrought in embroidery upon p Lib. comp. de Libera Pannor. etc. temp. R. 2. f. 155.173.184: & Ret. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 15. Blue Taffeta, with Cyprus and Soldat Gold, and Silk of divers Colours; and the Letters q Lib. comp. de Libera Pannor. etc. temp. R. 2. f. 155.173.184: & Ret. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 15. Gold. And as the Sovereign was not limited in the proportion of Cloth or Velvet for his Surcoat; no more was he confined, to a certain number of Garters, wherewith to adorn it: nor do I find, that any of the Knights-Companions were, until the Precedent of the Livery of the Garter was settled. For an. 1. H. 5. the D●kes of Holland and Clarence, the Earl of Arundel, the Dukes of Bedford and Gloucester, had each of their Surcoats adorned with r MS. in Bibl. Hatton. 120 Garters: but the Duke of York, and the rest of the Earls, Barons, and Knights-Batchelors wore but 100 The setlement in the Precedent of the Livery was made in relation to the Degrees of honour of each Knight-Companion, according to which, they had an allowance of a greater or lesser number of Garters, that is to say A Duke 120 Garters. A Marquis 110 Garters. An Earl 100 Garters. A Viscount 90 Garters. A Baron 80 Garters. A Baneret 70 Garters. A Knight-Batchellor 60 Garters. About the Reign of King Henry the Sixth, the Sovereign's number of Garters did not much exceed those which the Founder allowed to himself at the Institution; for the Surcoat and Hood of the said King, took up but s Ex praed. lib. 〈◊〉 Cotom. f 52. b. 173. and the King of Portugal, an. 13. H. 6. t Ib. f. 92. 120 Garters. But this manner of adorning these Garments, grew at length quite out of fashion (perhaps when Cloth was altered to Velvet) and the plain Surcoat hath to this day continued in use. In the second place it is to be noted, that all these Surcoats (whilst made of Cloth) were lined with Fur, of one and the same kind, to wit, with Bellies of pure Miniver; only the Sovereign's were u E▪ praef Rot. Compot. Io. Newbury m. 13. & Lib. Comp. de liberat. Pan●●, remp. R. 2. f. 129 vid● porro lib. praed. vocat Cotom. f. 51 b. & f. 104. purfled with Ermyn; and of these it seems a like proportion was at first allowed to all the Knights-Companions, viz. w Ex eod. R●t. Comp Io. Newbury m. 1. & Rot. Comp. praef. H S●ith m. 3. & Rot. Comp. praed. Al. de Stoke m. 9 200 Bellies. Yet in the Reign of King Richard the Second, some difference began in the allowance to the Knights-Companions; for a Baron and all Degrees upward had the same allowance of x Ex eod. lib. Comp. de liberat. Pannor f. 167.173. & 184. 200 Bellies, but the Degrees under a Baron only y Ex eod. lib. Comp. de liberat. Pannor f. 167.173. & 184. 120. Howbeit an. 1. H. 5. the Barons were equalled to the Knights-Batchellors, for all Degrees z MS in Bibl. Hatton. above a Baron were allowed a Fur of 200 Bellies, but the Barons and Knights Bachelors Furs were only of 120 Bellies. Afterwards by the Precedent of the Garter, there was another Proportion set; the Prince, a Duke, a Marquis, an Earl, had each of them a Ex vet. pergun. Codic. in Offic. mag. Gardr. p. 12. 5 Timber of pure Miniver allowed to a Surcoat, but the Viscount, Baron, Baneret, and Bachelor Knight, but 3 Timber apiece. In time these Furs also were laid aside, and then the Surcoats came to be lined with White Sarsenet, to which, in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, White Taffeta succeeded, and that still continues. What became of these Surcoats heretofore, seeing the Knights-Companions had new ones every year, appears from this Note entered in the Black Book of the Order, b Pag. 318. That on the Eve of the Feast of St. George, the Knights wore to Vespers the Soveraign's Livery or Surcoats used by them the preceding year, which after that night they did not wear (for the new Surcoats were first worn on the Feast-day) but the Ensigns and Ornaments of this kind, were afterwards disposed of to the use of the College. SECT. IV. Of the Hood and Cap. THE Hood comes in the next place to be spoken of, which in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, and the Black Book of the Order, is called Humerale; but in the Rolls of Accounts in the Sovereign's great Wardrobe, Capucium. In the French it is Chaperon, a word used in the Statute, an. 1. Ric. 2. c. 7. and also retained in an old English Draught of Henry the Eighth's Statutes, that seems to have been prepared for the view of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, at their solemn meeting in Chapter at Windesor, an. 11. H. 8. for it carries the date of 29. of May, in that same year; on which day that memorable Chapter was held, for Reforming and Explaining the Statutes of the Order. Hoods were anciently worn for defence of the Head, against the inconveniences of weather, etc. but in later times Caps and Hats have supplied their place. How they were then worn and sat upon the Head, may be observed in that c Vide infra Chap. 26. Plate, which exhibits the Portraitures of the first Founders of the Order, standing completely robed. As also with some variety of fashion in succeeding times, in the Pictures of d Dugdales' Antiq. of Warwick●h. p. 121. William Beauchamp Lord Bergaveny, Richard Earl of Warwick, Humphrey Earl of Stafford, and john Duke of Norfolk. Yet is not the Hood quite laid aside, since still kept hanging down the back (almost like a Pilgrim's Hat) as if put in hopes (being so ready at hand) that it may again be restored to its former use. This Hood was Ordained, and is yet retained as part of the Habit of this most Noble Order: And though neither it, nor the Surcoat is remembered in the Statutes of Institution, or in either of its Exemplars, nor doth King Henry the Fifth's take notice of it, yet is it of equal antiquity with the rest of the Habit; as appears from several places before cited, out of the Rolls of the great Wardrobe; and Henry the Eighth's Statutes have made special observation of it, as part of the Habit, for there the Mantle, Surcoat, Hood, and Collar, are called e Art. 3. the whole Habit of the Order. Nay, before this time, mention is made of it in the Black Book anno 22. H. 7. where at the Investiture of Philip King of Cas●ile, the Mantle, Kirtle, f Pag. 184. Hood, and Collar, are expressed to be the whole Habit, wherewith he was invested. The form of this part of the Habit is perfectly described in the Plate at the beginning of this Chapter. It was heretofore, and now is, generally made of the same materials with the Surcoat, and consequently of the same Colour. Moreover it was anciently trimmed and garnished, with a proportion of little embroidered Garters, lined with Cloth of a different colour, and such as would best set off to view; but now with Taffeta, as is the Lining of the Surcoat; of all which mention is made, in those authorities cited before, and relating to the Surcoat. As to the Cap, which in use and place succeeded the Hood, we shall briefly say thus much: That it hath been, and yet is made of Black Velvet, lined with Taffeta, but the fashion hath several times varied: for in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, the Cap was flat, as appears in a Proceeding of that Sovereign, and the Knights-Companions, fairly limned in the g Pag. 19●. Black Book of the Order. In Queen Elizabeth's time, it was a little raised in the head, as may be seen in another Proceeding in her Reign, which h Chap. 20. hereafter follows. But in King james his Reign, they were much more high crowned; and the present fashion is shown in our before mentioned Plate. This Cap hath been usually adorned with Plumes of white Feathers, and Sprigs, and bound about with a Band, set thick with Diamonds; i Lib. R. p. 146▪ so was that Cap provided for the Installation of the present Sovereign: And sometimes the Brims have been tacked up with a large and costly Jewel. It seems the custom of wearing Caps and Feathers at the grand Solemnities of the Order, had for some time (about the beginning of King james his Reign) been neglected; and thereupon, in a k MS. penes Edw. Fanconbridge gen. Chapter held the 13. of April, an. 10. jac. Regis, this laudable usage was reestablished. To all these may be fitly added, the Cross of the Order, encompassed with a Garter, which by King Charles the First was * Lib. R. p. 29. Ordained to be worn, upon the left side of the Sovereign's and Knights-Companions Cloaks, Coats, and Cassocks, when they did not wear their Robes. The Order for which we shall here insert. Charles R. Ex Collect. Praef. Will. le Neve. WHereas the Robes concerning the Order, first, having the same ordinary use which Cloaks have at this time, and now are worn only at the Feast of St. George, Installing of Knights, and holding of Chapters, so that the Arms of the Garter, not being daily worn thereon, may be thought an omission, whereby the Order doth receive some diminution of honour, contrary to the intention of the Founder. King Charles out of his princely desire by all due means to advance the honour of the said Noble Order, at a Chapter holden at his Palace of Westminster, on the 27. day of April, in the 2. year of his Reign of Great Britain, the same day, being by Prorogation appointed for the day and Feast of St. George, for that year, His Majesty, with eleven Knights of the Order, viz. Edward Earl of Worcester Lord Privy Seal, Robert Earl of Sussex, William Earl of Pembroke Lord Chamberlain of his Majesty's House, Philip Earl of Montgomery, Francis Earl of Rutland, George Duke of Buckingham Lord high Admiral of England, William Earl of Salisbury, James Earl of Carlisle, Edward Earl of Dorset, Henry Earl of Holland, Captain of his Majesty's Guard, and Thomas Earl of Berkshire, hath Ordered and and Ordained, That the Knights and Companions of the Order, and the Prelate and Chancellor of the same, shall after three months' next ofter the date before mentioned of the said Order, wear upon the left part of their Cloaks, Coats, and Riding Cassocks, at all times when they shall not wear their Robes, and in all Places and Assemblies, an Escotcheon of the Arms of St. George, that is to say, a Cross within a Garter, not enriched with Pearls or Stones; that the wearing thereof may be a testimony apert to the World, of the honour they hold from the said most Noble Order, Instituted and Ordained for persons of the highest honour and greatest worth. And it seems it was not long after e'er the Glory or Star (as it is usually called) having certain beams of Silver that spread in form of a Cross, was introduced and added thereunto, in imitation (as is thought) of the French, who after that manner wore the chief Ensign of the Order of the Holy Ghost, being the resemblance of a Dove, irradiated with such like beams. And whereas some allow this Symbol of the Holy Ghost, to be properly enough surrounded with a Glory, like as are the representations of the Heads of our Saviour and his Apostles, by a general consent among Painters, yet censure it altogether improper for a Garter to be so adorned; let them consider that King Edward the Fourth, encompassed his White Rose with the like Glory (whereof both the Stonework, and Wood-work of St. George's Chapel in Windesor Castle afford divers instances) and then there will be found something of Precedent for it, long before Institution of the Order of the Holy Ghost, as also of its application to other no less than sacred things. But this King assumed this Devise, upon the Sun's appearance like three Suns, which suddenly united together into one, immediately before his fortunate Victory at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross: an occasion, which he thought himself much obliged to perpetuate. And they mistake, who take it to be the Garter, in this new Ornament, that is thus irradiated, but there is something else in it, which was then thought more worthy of the Glory, and from it, not the Garter, do the beams and rays spread; namely the Cross of the Order, esteemed glorious, since it shined so in Heaven, at its appearance to Constantine the Great; which that it may more evidently appear, a draught of the Medal stamped in memorial of adding this honourable Devise is here represented, whereby it is manifest, the Glory issues from the Cross, not Garter. SECT. V. The Robes anciently assigned to the Queen and great Ladies. HAving thus dispatched our discourse concerning the Robes of the Order, we shall next give some light to a Custom taken up shortly after its Institution, of honouring the Queen, some of the Knights-Companions Wives; and other great Ladies, with Robes and Hoods, of the gift of the Sovereign, and of the same materials, as were the Sovereign's and Knights-Companions Surcoats; garnished also with little embroidered Garters, and lined with rich Furs; which Robes they likewise wore during the Solemnity of the Feast of St. George. The first mention of this, which hath occurred to us, is m Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 an. 7. R. 2. (though we conceive 'tis elder) where, against the Feast of St. George, appointed to be held that year, such kind of Robes and Hoods were provided for the n Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 Queen, the Sovereign's Mother, the Duchess of Lancaster, the Countesses of Cambridge, Buckingham, Penbroke, Oxford, and Salisbury, the Ladies Philippe and Katherine, Daughters to the Duke of Lancaster and the Lady Mohun. They were made of Cloth o Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 Violet in grain, like as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions Surcoats that year. The Robes lined with p Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 Fur, but the Hoods, with q Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 Scarlet, and both embroidered over with r Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 little Garters; and the proportion of Cloth, Furs, and Garters were allowed according to their several Degrees. For the Queen's allowance was s Ex praed. Rot. Comp. Alani de Stoke m. 9 8 els of Cloth, and half an Ell of Scarlet, for the lining of her Hood; the Sovereign's Mother had allowed her one whole Cloth, and a double proportion of Scarlet: but we conceive she had two Robes and Hoods made at this time, in regard so large quantity of all things were assigned her, besides the particular number (accounting the Queen for one) are but 11. and cannot else reach the total of Robes provided for them, and expressly set down to be t Ibid. m. 1●. 12. The Duchess of Lancaster had the allowance of half a Cloth, and half an Ell of Scarlet, the Countess of Cambridge 7 els of Cloth, and half an Ell of Scarlet; and the rest of the Ladies the same proportion of Cloth with the Knights-Companions; that is, each of them 5 els apiece, and half an Ell of Scarlet. According to their proportion of Cloth, was also their proportion of Miniver, the Queen's allowance was two Furs, each of them containing 300 Bellies of pure Miniver; the Sovereign's Mother had double that proportion; the Duchess of Lancaster, and Countess of Cambridge a like proportion of Miniver as had the Queen, but all the rest of the Ladies had only one Fur, consisting of 200 Bellies of pure Miniver▪ Besides, the embroidered Garters provided to adorn and garnish the u Ibid. m. 1●. 24 Surcoats of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, and the w Ibid. m. 1●. 12 Robes for the Queen and other Ladies, amounted to the number of x Ibid. m. 1●. 2900 Garters. In like manner were there prepared against the Feast of St. George, an. 11. R. 2. y Lib. Comp. de Liberat. Pannor. temp. Ric. 2. in Offic. praed. f. 167. 15 Robes and Hoods for the Queen and other Ladies, of the same livery and suit, which the Sovereign and Knights-Companions than wore: namely, white long Cloth, and blue Cloth for the lining of their Hoods: the proportion in all things being like the former: z Lib. Comp. de Liberat. Pannor. temp. Ric. 2. in Offic. praed. f. 167. The Duchess of York having here the like allowance as had the Duchess of Lancaster above mentioned. Anno 13. R. 2. the Ladies Robes and Hoods were a Ibid. f. 184. Sanguine Cloth, and the lining of their Hoods Cloth in grain; and in the 19 year of the same King they were b Ib. f. 173. Blue Cloth, and long Cloth in grain for lining their Hoods. In both these years we find the Duchess of Aquitane had double the proportion of Cloth allowed her (as had also the Duchess of York) viz. 14 els (the Queen having then but the former allowance of 8 els) and yet her proportion of lining both for the Robe and Hood, was no more than is mentioned before be allowed the Queen. But an. 1. H. 5. the proportion of Cloth, Miniver, and Garters were alike to Ladies of all Degrees, whether Duchess', Countesses, or other Ladies, and that was to each 5 els of White woollen Cloth, (only the Queen Mother had 8 els of White Cloth, and 8 els of Black Cloth) a Fur containing 200 Bellies of Miniver pure, and 100 embroidered Garters. And by a d Ex Collect. Guil. le. Neve Eq Aur. nuper Clarenc. Letter dormant, under the Privy Seal, dated the 3. of November an. 12. H. 6. and directed to the then Master of the Sovereign's great Wardrobe, the like Livery (both for Colour of Cloth, number of els, Bellies of Miniver, and Garters) is commanded to be provided, for the Countess of Suffolk, against the succeeding Feast of St. George. The last mention we find of these Liveries was e MS. penes Hen. St. George Ar. Richmond Herald. an. 16. E. 4. when at the Feast of St. George, held the Sunday after the 27. of February at Windesor, the Queen, the Lady Elizabeth the King's eldest Daughter, and Duchess of Suffolk the King's Sister, had for their Livery Murrey Gowns embroidered with Garters. Besides, these Robes worn by the Ladies, at the Festivals of the Order, there seems to be some intimation of wearing a Garter also on their left arms, in like manner as the Knights-Companions do on their left Legs; for it is observed to our hand, from the Countess of f Ex praef. lib. vocat. C●●om. f. 92. Tankerviles' Monument, that she is portrayed with such a Garter on her left Arm. After a long disuse of these Robes by the Queens of England, and Knights-Companions Ladies, there was (at the Feast of St. George, celebrated an. 14. Car. 1.) endeavour used to have them restored; for the than Deputy Chancellor moved the Sovereign in Chapter (held the g Sir james Palmers large journal, p. 16. 22. of May) h Sir james Palmers large journal, p. 16. That the Ladies of the Knights-Companions might have the privilege to wear a Garter of the Order about their arms; and an upper Robe, at Festival times, according to ancient usage. Upon which motion the Sovereign gave Order, i Sir james Palmers large journal, p. 16. That the Queen should be acquainted therewith, and her pleasure known, and the affair left to the Ladies particular suit. The k See his journal pro anno 1639. p. 59 10. of October in the following year (the Feast of St. George, being then also kept at Windesor) the Deputy Chancellor, l See his journal pro anno 1639. p. 59 reported to the Sovereign in Chapter, the Answer which the Queen was pleased to give him to the aforesaid Order; m See his journal pro anno 1639. p. 59 Whereupon it was then left to a Chapter to be called by the Knights-Companions to consider of every circumstance, how it were fittest to be done, for the honour of the Order; which was appointed to be held at London, about Alhollantide after: but what was then, or after done, doth not appear; and the unhappy War coming on, this matter wholly slept. SECT. VI Of Collars in general. THE Collar is an Ornament, not of late, but ancient invention; and certainly, could we not deduce its antiquity very high, yet the wonderful consent of most Nations therein, would sufficiently plead for it, since such a consent can scarce be found, unless in things most ancient. As to its Antiquity, the Author of the first Book of n ● Gen. 41. v. 42. Sacred Writ, setting down the Ornaments bestowed by Pharaoh on joseph, mentions the Collar to be one, and of Gold; that being the Metal whereof it was in all times ordinarily made: And it may be inferred, the use of it in that, was the same as in this Age, viz. to be worn about the neck; in regard Pharaoh put it about Ioseph's Neck. Again, the Draught of that most ancient Hierogliphical Table, reserved of old in the Temple of Isis in Egypt, and most happily conserved till of late years (when, though it unhappily perished at the o Athan Kircher. Oedip. Tom. 3. p. 80. sacking of Mantua by the Spaniards, an. 1630. yet was fortunately set forth before in Picture by Laurentius Pignorius) doth evidence the great antiquity of this Ornament among them; for there are to be found encircling the Necks of the Images of Isis and Osiris such like Collars, in a manner extending to their shoulders: Their workmanship seems curious, being intersected with various lines, and divided with Tablets and precious Stones. The Collar became first and principally famous among the Romans, for having given a p Liv. l. 7. c. 10. Surname of perpetual memory to one of the chiefest Families in Rome, derived unto it from T. Manlius Torquatus, who fought with a Champion of the Gauls, near the River Anio, Anno V. C. 392. and having vanquished him, q Gell l. 4. c. 14. cut off his Head, than plucked off his Collar, and (bloody as it was) put it about his own neck. Livy saith, r L●●o ●itato. the Soldiers, when they presented him to the Dictator, were heard to Surname him Torquatus, and from him that honourable name descended to his Posterity. In further memory of this gallant action, and to show the original of this Surname, the representation of the Collar of this Gaul, is found stamped upon some Roman Coins, in particular that referring to s F●uv. Vrs●●. de Familiis Romanor. p 152. L. Torquatus, Consul with t Fasti l. 1. L. Cotta, An V. C. 688. which we have here inserted, to the end its fashion may be the better known. And we shall herewith note, that when one of another Tribe became adopted into this Family, he also did assume this Badge of Honour; as may be seen in another Coin relating to D. junius Silanus, sometime * Flor. Epit. L. 54. Praetor of Macedonia, adopted into the Manlian Family of the Torquati; though the fashion of the work be somewhat differing from the former. In eldest times, none but Kings and Princes wore Collars, and therefore their first use seems to be a note of Dignity and Power: as is evident out of Daniel, where is noted, that the Assyrian Kings used this Ornament. Afterwards men famous for wisdom, excelling in Counsels, and thereby beneficial to their Country, had Collars bestowed on them, for tokens of Reward; and this is plain, as in the Example of joseph, so likewise from the u Dan. c. 5. ●. ●. Proclamation of Belshazzar King of Babylon, among the Rewards proposed to him, that could read and interpret the Writing on the Wall. But the Collar was bestowed as a Reward also upon those, whose famous actions and military enterprises merited well, and rendered them deserving of eminent recompenses, though otherwise persons of no great or extraordinary note. Thus the Romans among the w Such were the Coronae, Armillae, Hastae, Phalerae, Vexilla, etc. Dona & Praemia Militaria, those solemn Rewards, wherewith they honoured Virtue, which upon occasion of merit and desert, they bestowed among such of their Commanders and Soldiers, as had gallantly exposed their lives to dangers for the service of that Commonwealth; and no less to excite others to like performances, than to recompense the deserving for great services done; among these (we say) Collars were of the number, and the honour of receiving them thought worthy to be preserved for the notice of Posterity, in Marble Inscriptions; of which sort there are many collected by the industrious x Pag. 358, Inscr 2. p. 391. Inscr. 4. p. 443. Inscr. 2. p. 1102 Inscr. 4. Gruter, out of whom, for a specimen of this kind, we have transcribed this that follows, * Pag. 429, Inscr. 1. M. LICINIO. MUCIANO. etc. — DONIS. DONATO— ob vir TUTEM. ET. FORTITUDINEM. BELLO. DACICO. AB. IMP. TRAIANO. CORONA. VICTRICI. PURA. HASTA. TORQVIBUS. ARMILLIS. PHALERIS. etc. This custom of bestowing Collars, as a peculiar Reward for military and memorable services, was continued down to, and used by the later Emperors, as the learned Budaeus observes. And we read of Investing a Knight of the Sepulchre with a Collar, at his Creation: where assoon as the Ceremony of his Ordination is finished, the Padre Guardian kisseth the new made Knight, and y Fr. Mennen. Delic. Equest. p. 46. puts about his neck (according to the manner of Ancients) a Golden Collar, with a Cross hanging thereat. Most fitly therefore have the Sovereigns of Military Orders, added this Ornament of the Collar to their Habit, and bestowed it on the Fellows and Companions; many of whom have meritoriously deserved it, upon account of those ancient qualifications, Wisdom and Valour. SECT. VII. The Collar of the Order. HEreupon also, in addition to the Ensigns and Ornaments of this most Noble Order of the Garter, there was instituted a Collar, composed after a peculiar manner, exactly relative to the name and title of the Order; to the wearing of which, the Sovereign obliged both himself, and Knights-Companions, and His and their Successors. This Collar was Ordained to be a Hen. 8. Stat. Art. 38. Gold, 30 ounces Troy weight, but not above: howbeit, that Collar sent to Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, weighed 34 ounces and a quarter; and that belonging to the late Sovereign King Charles the First, 35 ounces and a half; which after his Sufferings coming into the hands of b Ex Relatione Tho. Beauchamp gen. Thomas Harison, sometime called Major General Harison, was by him delivered to the trusties for sale of this King's Goods, who c Ex Relatione Tho. Beauchamp gen. Anno 1649. sent it to the Mint with the d Ex Relatione Tho. Beauchamp gen. Regalia here particularised to set the Stamp on work for the first Gold that the upstart Commonwealth coined, viz. The Imperial Crown, Inventory Book of the late Kings Goods, f●l. 36. a. weighing 7 l. 6 ounces, enriched with 19 Saphires (3 of which were exceeding large) 232 Pearls, 58 Rubies, 28 Diamonds and 2 Emeralds. The Queen's Crown, weighing 3 l. 10 ounces 1 half, enriched with 20 Saphires, 22 Rubies, and 83 Pearls. An ancient Crown weighing 2 l. 1 ounce, enriched with one fair Diamond (valued by the trusties, who rated such things far beneath their worth, at 200 l.) 13 other Diamonds, 10 Rubies, 1 Emerald, 1 Saphir (valued by them at 60 l.) and 70 Pearls; which Stones and Pearls weighed 3 ounces. The Globe or Orb, Fol. 37. weighing 1 l. 5 ounces 1 quarter. Two Coronation Bracelets (adorned with 3 Rubies Ballast, and 12 Pearls weighing an ounce) in all 7 ounces 1 quarter. Two Sceptres, weighing 18 ounces 1 quarter. A long Rod Silver gilt, weighing 1 l. 5 ounces. One Gold Porringer and Cover, weighing 15 ounces 1 half. One Chalice, adorned with 2 Saphires and 2 Ballast Rubies, weighing 15 ounces 1 half. Two Patena's enameled, weighing 25 ounces 1 half. Two Spoons, with flat heads, weighing 5 ounces 1 quarter. One Taster, enameled with a Phoenix, weighing 5 ounces 1 half. Two Offering Pieces and a Say of Gold, weighing 10 ounces 1 quarter. Queen Edith's Crown (formerly thought to be of massy Gold, Fol. 40. ●. ●. but upon trial found Silver gilded) enriched with Garnets', Pearls, Saphires, and other Stones, weighing 50 ounces. King Elfrid's Crown, of Gold Wirework, set with Stones, and two little Bells, weighing 79 ounces ● half. A Patena enameled, set with Stones, weighing 23 ounces 1 half. The Ampulla, set with Stones and Pearls, weighing 8 ounces 1 half. A large Staff, with a Dove on the top, the upper part Gold, the lower part Silver gilt, weighing 27 ounces. A small Staff, with a flower de Lis on the top, being Iron within, and Silver gilded without. Two Sceptres, one set with Pearls and Stones, the upper end Gold, weighing 23 ounces, the lower end Silver gilt. The other Sceptre Silver gilt, having a Dove weighing 7 ounces 3 quarters. The Gold of the Tassels of a Liver-coloured Robe (adorned with Pearl) weighing 4 ounces, also the Gold of the Neck Button of the Coat, weighing 1 ounce. A pair of Silver gilt Spurs, set with 12 Stones, (having Straps of Crimson Silk) weighing 6 ounces 3 quarters. Besides these, there were other parts of the Regalia fetched from Westminster-Abbey, and sold by these trusties, namely One large Chalice of Glass, wrought in Figures, and set in Gold, with Stones and Pearls, weighing 68 ounces 1 half. A Staff of black and white Ivory, having a Dove on the top, the binding and feet Gold. A Silver Spoon gilt weighing 3 ounces. One Crimson Tafsaty Robe. Ibid. f. 41. One Robe trimmed with Gold Lace. One Liver-coloured Silk Robe. One Robe of Crimson Tafsaty Sarsenet. One pair of Buskins Cloth of Silver. One pair of Shoes Cloth of Gold. One pair of embroidered Gloves. Three Swords, with Scabards' Cloth of Gold. One Horn Comb. It was further appointed by King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, that this Collar should be composed of e Art. 38. pieces of Gold in fashion of Garters, the ground enameled Blue, and the Letters of the Motto Gold. In the midst of each Garter, two f Art. 38. Roses placed, the innermost enameled Red, and the outermost White; contrarily in the next Garter, the innermost Rose enameled White, and the outermost Red; and so alternately continued: but of later times these Roses are wholly Red. The number of these Garters are so many, as be the ordained number of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, by the Institution of the Order, viz. Twenty six; being tied together with as many Knots of Gold: and this fashion hath in all particulars hitherto continued invariable. Nor ought the Collar to be garnished or enriched with precious Stones (as may the George which hangs thereat) such costly embellishments being absolutely prohibited by the g Ibid. Law of the Order. At the middle of the Collar before, is to be fastened the Image of St. George armed, sitting on Horseback, who having thrown the Dragon upon his back, encounters him with a tilting Spear. This Jewel is not surrounded with a Garter, or row of Diamonds, as is the lesser George, but made according to the representation in the Plate above, and called the Great George. It is allowed to be * Ibid. garnished with Diamonds, and other enrichments, at the pleasure of the Knight-Companion who owns it; and upon that licence, hath been frequently adorned with variety of costly art, whereon the Diamonds and other precious Stones are so disposed, as may upon its motion and agitation cast out the greater lustre. But before the establishment of this Article by King Henry the Eighth, it appears the Knights-Companions were invested with Collars at their installations; for the Black Book takes notice of a h Propriam Ordini● Togam Trabeam Humerale ac Collare statim induit. p. ●84. Collar among the Ensigns of the Order, wherewith Philip King of Castille was invested, an. 22. H. 7. but whether a Collar of SS, or other fashion, doth not there appear. Nevertheless this doubt is in part cleared, by an old memorial of the ceremonies used at the i MS. in Ofic. Arm. [L. 12.] f. 27. Creation of Henry Lord Stafford Earl of Wiltshire (Brother to Edward Duke of Buckingham) 3. Feb. an. 1. H. 8. where it is noted, that after he was invested with the Robes of his State and Dignity, k MS. in Ofic. Arm. [L. 12.] f. 27. The Collar of the Garter was put about his neck, denoting him a Knight of that Order. And to make it yet more evident, there is found in a l Penes Arthur. Com. Anglesey. Vellum Book of Statutes in French, sent to Maximilian the Emperor, signed the 5. of january 1508. by T. Rowthale then Register of the Order. And in m In Biblioth. Ha●●on. another belonging to Edward Stanley Lord Mounteagle, elected n Lib. N p. 202. an. 6. H. 8. a particular Article (namely the 41.) that Ordains a Collar to be publicly worn by each Knight-Companion, there called the Collar of the Order, which though it be not in all respects agreeable to the fashion of that prescribed by King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, yet comes it very near, and said to be a Gold Collar, coupled together by several pieces of Links in fashion of Garters, with a Vermilion Rose, and the Image of St. George hung thereat. The reason of the Knights-Companions wearing it, the times appointed therefore, the Licence for putting it to mending, the command not to enrich the Collar, but the George only, and obligation not to sell, pawn, or alienate it for any necessity whatsoever, are wholly the same, as were afterwards enjoined by o Art. 38. King Henry the Eight; so that in truth he did no more but adjoin to his Body of Statutes, a Decree, which (for the main) had been in practice before. Besides, an. 11. H. 8. upon interpretation of the 11. Article of the Statutes for wearing the Habit of the Order, at the grand Feast of St. George; the p Ibid. p. 209. Collar is there enumerated among those Ornaments (as part of the whole Habit) that a Knight-Companion is obliged to wear. In further proof that the Collar of Garters was used before King Henry the Eight's Reign, let us offer here the Monument of Sir Giles Daubeney (who died an. 22. H. 7.) erected in St. Paul's Chapel seituate on the north side of St. Edward's Shrine in Westminster Abbey, whereon his Portraiture, in his Robes of the Order, is adorned with such a Collar, as King Henry the Eighth's Statutes do afterwards describe. As the Garter sent to Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, so the great George (pendant at his Collar, weighing seven ounces) was set with large and resplendent Diamonds; the particulars and order do fully appear, out of the Counterpart of that Inventory (mentioned at the beginning of this Chapter) taken upon its delivery into the custody of the Dean and Canons of Windesor, and were as followeth. In the three Chains of the George, small Diamonds 10 In St. George's Feather, three small, middlemost wanting 2 In his Forehead 1 In his Breastplate, four faucet Diamonds, of a reasonable bigness 4 In the right Arm, faucet big 4 In the left Arm 4 In his Baces, of a big sort 4 Thigh, Knee, Leg, and Foot, one in each 4 The Horse's head, in the forehead a faucet Diamond 1 In his Crest, very small, beside two wanting 5 In his Mane, four lozenge Diamonds 4 In his Neck 1 In his Bridle [4] small, one wanting 3 On his shoulder, two square, and two lozenge Diamonds of a bigger size 4 On his buttock, one square Diamond, and eight about, on his Traps and Crupper six, four wanting on the border of his saddle behind 21 Four square Diamonds large, at the skirts and leg 4 Between the fore legs, one fair square Diamond 1 The Dragon's forehead 1 In his Wing and Body, faucet Diamonds, one wanting 9 Total of the George are just 87 This George (with the Collar) was sold by the trusties for sale of the late Kings Goods, to the before named Thomas Beauchamp. Of what account this Noble Ensign of Honour [the Collar] hath been with the Sovereigns, and Knight-Companions, not only of the Order of the Garter, but other Military Orders; may be observed from the Pictures of some of them, as also their Seals, Coins, and Medals: which later passing up and down, after a public manner, proclaim its honour throughout the world: for in these they have been pleased to exhibit as well their Effigies, as Scutcheons of Arms, encircled therewith; and also the Symbols of their several Orders pendant thereto. There is a Picture (hanging in his Majesty's Gallery at Whitehall) of Philip Duke of Burgundy, Founder of the Golden Fleece, adorned with the Collar of that Order. And the leading example of the like representation in Seals, was first given by a Successor of his, above 180 years since, as appears from the great Seal of q Sigilla Commit. Flandria. p. 116. Maximilian and Philip his Son, Archdukes of Austria, Burgundia, etc. fixed to the agreement of Peace made between them and the Flemings, an. 1485. wherein the Pictures of both these Princes are represented, wearing their Collars of the Golden Fleece; and this fashion hath been since continued in Seals, by their descendants Kings of Spain, Sovereigns of that Order. The French King Lewis the Eleventh, after he had instituted the Order of St. Michael, caused his Picture to be drawn (hitherto preserved at Fountain-bleau) with the Collar of that Order; the Copy of which François de Mezeray, having exhibited in his r Tom. 2. p. 98. History of France, we thence made a draught of it. In like manner, in a Picture of Am the Tenth Duke of Savoy (now hanging in the Gallery at Whitehall) is represented the ancient Collar of the Annunciade, and thereon the Motto in old Characters, used at the Foundation of that Order: All which we have caused to be etch'd (Tab. 1.) for the Readers satisfaction; together with the Medals made upon the Coronation of King Charles the First at Westminster, and of the present Sovereign there also, on the Feast day of St. George (Patron to this most Noble Order of the Garter) an. 1661. in both which, the Collar of the Garter may be seen placed over their Royal Robes. Soon after the Institution of the Order of the Holy Ghost, the French Kings were represented wearing the Collars both of St. Michael and the Holy Ghost; it being Ordained by the Statutes of the later Order, s Art. 37. that whosoever should be honoured with both Orders, should wear their Collars, together: and perhaps, upon the same ground it was thought fit, that the Collars of both the Garter and the Thistle, should be expressed in the Coronation Medal of King Charles the First in Scotland, an. 1633. And as the Sovereigns, so the Knights-Companions of several Orders, have assumed this manner of adorning their Effigies with the Collar of that Order, whereof they were Fellows: the Copies of some of their Medals and Coins, are also expressed in Tab. 2. that is to say, the Funeral Medal of t Sillage Numis. elegantic▪ ●um. p. 62. Lewis King of Hungary, Knight and Companion of the Golden Fleece, another Medal of d Ibid. p. 27●. . james the Fourth King of Scotland, Knight of the Order of St. Michael, stamped at such time as he invaded England, a 1513. one of e Ib. p. 4●. Christian the Second, King of Denmark, upon his Expedition against the Swedes: as also the Dollars of George Duke of Saxony, Henry Duke of Brunswick, and a piece of Gold of Sigismond the Fourth King of Poland; which last is now in his Majesty's rich Cabinet of Medals. And in like manner are extant the Pictures of divers Knights-Companions of the Garter in Painting, Limning, and Sculpture, adorned with the Collars of that Order. And to make this Noble Ensign become ornamental to the Arms also both of Sovereigns and Knights, they have been placed (sometimes with their Quartering) within it; the first we find ordered in this manner, was a Seal of f Sigilla Com. Fland. p. 95. Charles the bold, Duke of Burgundy, Chief and Sovereign of the Order of the Golden Fleece, put to an Instrument, dated anno 1470. and whom we observe to have adorned the neck of the Lion of Flanders therewith, in another of his g Ibid. p. 107. Seals, as in Tab. 3. The Chiefs of other Orders did the like, as may be seen from other examples of Coins and Medals in the same Table: But the Sovereigns of the most Noble Order of the Garter, usually encircled their Arms, not within the Collar of the Order, but the Royal Garter, that being its principal Ensign. This led on the custom to the Fellows and Companions of other Orders, to encompass their Arms with the Collars, both in Coins, Medals, etc. examples of some are added by the Graver, in Tab. 4. Among these is the draught of a Seal of Charles Count Palatine of the Rhine, encircled both with the Garter and Collar of the Order, and is the first example we have met with, wherein both these Ensigns are used together. The last in the 4. Table, is the full Achievement of Bernard de Foix de la Valette Duke of Aspernon, etc. set beneath his Effigies, graved at Paris by P. Van Schuppen, where his Arms and Quartering are encompassed with the chiefest Ensigns of those three Orders, whereof he was a Brother and Companion. And here it is proper to observe, that the more ancient the Order, whose chief Ensign is after this manner represented, the nearer ought it be set to the Scutcheon of Arms being the more honourable place: and consequently, a great mistake was committed, in marshalling the Collars of the several Orders, about the Arms of the Duke of Chevereux, in his Plate remaining over his Stall at Windesor, where the Collars of St. Michael and of the Holy Ghost are both placed nearer to his Scutcheon, than is the Garter. SECT. VIII. Collars of SS. IT will not be amiss in this place, since there are now in use with us several sorts of Collars, worn as Badges of lower and inferior Honours (some of which are adorned with part of the Collar of the Garter) and vulgarly called Collars of SS: to note down a few things concerning them: having first given a more exact account, as to their antiquity, than yet hath been made public among us. h Histor. de Divis ●am vet. quam novi Testamenti. Edita Basiliae, an. 1557. p. 258. Georgius Wicelius informs us, that he found a Book remaining in the Library at Fulda, where (in the life of the two Brothers Simplicius and Faustinus, both Senators, and i Videses Baronii Annal. ad annum Christi 30●. ne●non Surium, Tom. 3. ad diem 31. Mai't. suffered Martyrdom under Dioclesian) is a description of the Society of Saint Simplicius, consisting of persons noble in their own Families; and so coming to describe the Collar used, as the Note and Badge of their Society, he says thus: It was the custom of those persons to wear about their necks Silver Collars, composed of double SS, which noted the name of Saint Simplicius: between these double SS the Collar contained 12 small plates of Silver, in which were engraved the 12 Articles of the Crede, together with a single Tresoyle. The Image of Saint Simplicius hung at the Collar, and from it 7 Plates, representing the 7 gifts of the Holy Ghost. As to the manner of their suffering, it is thus set down in an old Legend; k MS▪ in Biblioth. Coton. They were commanded to undergo the sentence of death, their Bodies to be bound together by the neck to a Stone, and sent to the Bridge over the Tiber in Rome, and thence thrown into the River: All which was executed upon them, the l MS. 287. year after the Incarnation of our Saviour. And 'tis probable, that to these Collars, the passage in Walsingbam (cited by n Titles of Honour, p. 835. Mr. Selden to this purpose) should refer; where speaking of the Earl of Kent's coming to Sunning near Reading in Berkshire, where Richard the Second Queen then lay, to comfort her with the assurance, that her Husband was then at liberty; o Walsingh. Ia● anno 1400. to the end he might gain credit to his relation, forthwith plucked off the Collars from some there present that wore them, letting them know, they ought not to wear a Badge, so particularly relative to Henry the Fourth. In the ancient creation of an Esquire in England, part of the Ceremony was, that the King put about his neck a p Cambd. Brit. p. 128. Silver Collar of SS, as an Ensign of that Dignity: and our learned Selden contemns not the authority of that old Ballad, The Canner of Camworth, to q Titles of Honour, p. 836. prove the making of Esquires in King Edward the Fourth's Reign, by bestowing such Collars. But that the Golden Collar was the undoubted Badge of a Knight, may be instanced in a multitude of Examples, deduced from the Monuments of persons of that Degree in the Reigns of Henry the Sixth, Edward the Fourth, Henry the Seventh, Henry the Eighth, and since: and so justly and legally appropriate thereto, that in the r Anno 24. H. 8. cap. 13. Act of Parliament made for reformation of Apparel, there is a Proviso entered, That Knights, notwithstanding, might publicly wear a Gold Collar of SS, though since it hath grown out of fashion. s Theatre d' Honn. ●. 9 c. 2. Andrew Favin tells us, that our King Henry the Fifth Instituted an Order, surnamed Knights of the SS, on the day of the Martyrs St. Crispin and Crispianus: of which Institution, though he found nothing mentioned in our English Histories, yet out of the Chronicle of I. juvenal des Vrsins, where it treats of the Battle of Agin-Court, he collected this following relation. t Ibid. The King of England exhorted his men, and commanded, that if any of them had trespassed against another, they should be reconciled, and confess to the Priests, that were in their company, otherwise no good could happen to them in their undertake: He further exhorted them to be civil in their march, and to do their duty well, and thus agreed with them: That all those of their company who were not Gentlemen, he would make them so, and give them Warrants for it, and have them thence forward enjoy such Privileges as the Gentlemen of England had; and to the end they should be particularly known from other, he gave them leave to wear a Collar powdered with the letter S. Among the variety of Collars of SS now in use with us, there are these following differences in Figure and Fashion. The Lord Mayor of London's Collar is Gold, having a knot (like one of those which tie the Garters together, in the great Collar of the Order) inserted between two SS, and they again placed between two Roses, viz. a White Rose within a Red; and in the middle before the Breast, is a large Portcullis, whereat hangs a most rich Jewel, set with fair and large Diamonds The Collars of the Lords Chief justices of both the Benches, and the Chief Baron of the Exchequer, are (in u Camb. Remains, p. 1●3. Edit. an. 1639. memory of the before mentioned Saint Simplicius, a Senator and consequently a Gown-man) form of the Letter S and a Knot alternately; having a Rose set in that part of it, which falls out to be in the middle of their Breasts, and another on their Backs: the five Flowers of these Roses, are made of five large Pearls. Those Collars which appertain to the Kings and Heralds of Arms, so likewise to the Sergeants at Arms, having been bestowed by former Kings, and renewed to them by his present Majesty, to be worn upon all days of solemn attendance for his honour, are also composed of SS, linked together; in the middle of the Breast is a Rose, and another in the middle of the Back, at each of which hang three small drops of Silver. But the SS in the Collars worn by the Kings of Arms, are made somewhat bigger than the others; and in that part lying on either shoulder, ● a Portcullis taken in between the SS, which are wanting in the rest. The general difference between the Collars, appropriate to the Degrees before named, is this: All such persons as are honoured with Knighthood, have allowed them Collars of Silver gilt, but to Esquires those of Silver only: and therefore he that is created an Herald is also in part of that Ceremony made an Esquire, by putting on a Collar of SS of Silver about his neck: and so is a Sergeant at Arms. The Kings of England have sometimes heretofore drawn a Collar of SS about their Arms, in like manner as we have showed, how the Garter doth surround them: and we have seen impression of King Henry the Eight's Privy Signet, whereon his Royal Arms (crowned) are encircled with a Collar of SS, to the lower end of which is affixed two Portculliss. SECT. IX. The lesser George. WE do not find among the Records of the Order, that the Image of St. George was at any time worn by the Sovereign, or Knights-Companions before the Breast, or under the right Arm, as now used, until the 13. year of King Henry the Eighth: But then that Sovereign past a Decree in Chapter held at Greenwich, the morrow after St. George's day, with consent of the Knights-Companions, present to this effect. w Lib. N. p. 212. That every Knight of the Order, should wear loosely before his Breast, the Image of St. George in a Gold Chain, or otherwise in a Ribbon, the same to be thence forward placed within the ennobled Garter; to the end a manifest distinction should thereby appear, between the Knights-Companions and others of the Nobility and Knights, who according to the fashion of those times, wore large Gold Chains, the ordinary Ensign of their Knighthood. And thus the wearing the Medal or Jewel (usually called the Lesser George, to distinguish it from the other George worn at the Collar of the Order) was first enjoined, and hath since been constantly so used. This George was for the most part made of pure Gold, curiously wrought by the hand of the Goldsmith, but we have seen divers of them tightly cut in oni●'s, as also in agates, and therein such happy choice of the Stones, that by joining thereto the Workman's skill, in designing and laying out the Figures, to express the History, the natural tincture of the Stones have fitted them with Colours, for Flesh, Hair, and every thing else, even to admiration. In this Jewel is St. George represented in a riding posture, encountering the Dragon with his drawn Sword. By the last Article of King Henry the Eighth's Statutes this George is allowed to be enriched and garnished at the pleasure of him that wears it (as is the great George) which for the most part hath been curiously enameled, and the Garter about it set with Diamonds, in the best order either art or invention could devise. And of what weight and bigness these lesser Georges formerly were, may be judged from that sent to the French King Charles the Ninth, being x MS. fol. penes. praef. G. Owen. p. 154. an ounce and a half, and half quarter weight. The variety of Workmanship shown in those Gold Chains, whereat this Jewel hung, was usually great, and the Artists upon all occasions express much ingenuity and skill in them, according to the fancy or pleasure of the persons for whom they were made. But within a short time, wearing the lesser George in Silk Ribbons, as well as Gold Chains was indifferently used and at pleasure (so were the Symbols of Foreign Orders, as appears from sundry Coins and Medals) but the Colour of these Ribbons at their first use were Black, as is noted of those belonging to the George's, wherewith y Ex Collect. praef W●le Neve. Eq. A●●. john Dudley Viscount Lisle, the Lords Saint john and Parr were invested, an. 35. H. 8. and in the Pictures of several Knights-Companions about that time (both painted in Oil, and limned with Water Colours) the Ribbons of their George's are visibly Black. That small Chain, whereat hung the lesser George sent to Emanuel Duke of Savoy, an. 1. & 2. Phillip ●amp; Mar. was form of z Ex. Collect. praef W●le Neve. Eq. A●●. twelve pieces of Gold, in every of which were set three small Diamonds; and of twelve other like pieces, wherein were three Rubies and twenty four Pearls. It appears by a Letter sent from a MS. in Offic Armour. [L. 2. p. 2. Sir Richard St. George Knight Clarenceux, and the Heralds of Arms, to Henry Earl of Holland, dated the 10. of july 1627. b MS. in Offic Armour. [L. 2. p. 2. that the Blue Ribbon had some years before been added to the Ornaments of the Order. And 'tis said c Ex relatione Will. Dugdale Ar. Norroy. that Robert Earl of essex being in France, and observing the Jewels of the Order of St. Michael and St. Esprit, worn in Blue Ribbons, upon his return did occasion the altering those Ribbons, whereat the George hung, into that Colour: And I have seen the d Penes Erasm. Moyse nuper de To●●enham in Com. Mid. Ar. Picture of Queen Elizabeth drawn towards the end of her Reign, wherein was represented the Lesser George, hanging before her Breast at such a Blue Ribbon. It was not long ere this Colour grew into great estimation with the Sovereign and Knights-Companions; the rather, for that it was the ground of the Garter, and colour of the Mantle of the Order. And toward the * 22. May an. regni sui 20. later end of King james his Reign (because the Colour of the Ribbon had not been peculiarly expressed in any Article of the Statutes, and the Blue or Sky Colour used for some years passed) it was Decreed, e Lib. R. p. 12. That for the future it should always be of a Blue Colour, and no other: f Lib. R. p. 12. nor in time of mourning for any of the Knights-Companions, of what Degree soever, should the Colour be changed. The ordinary manner of wearing this Ribbon in time of peace, was (till of late) about the neck, down to the middle of the Breast, where the lesser George hung; but now for the more conveniency of riding or action, the same is spread over the left shoulder, and brought under the right arm, where the Jewel hangs. But where the Pictures of the Sovereign, or any of the Knights-Companions are drawn in Armour, there, even to this day, the George is represented, as fixed at a Gold Chain, instead of the Blue Ribbon, and worn about the neck (not brought under the right arm) which also was so exhibited in the three pound pieces of Gold, stamped at Oxford by the command of his late Majesty of ever blessed memory King Charles the First, whereby he published to the world, that the true and just occasion of his taking up Arms in the late War, was to maintain the Protestant Religion, the Laws of the Land, and the Privilege of Parliaments. And in like manner is the Gold Chain represented in a Medal of Charles Count Palatine of the Rhine, now signior Knight-Companion of this most Noble Order. Among those rich and invaluable Jewels, and other choice Curiosities of his said late Majesty, which came to the hands of the trusties appointed for sale of his Goods, there were several of these lesser Georges g 15. Oct. 1651. sold by them to the foresaid Thomas Beauchamp, the particulars whereof, how low they were valued, and for what sold, appears thus from the Book of Sales. Valued at Sold for A George containing 161 Diamonds, which came from the Countess of Leicester, and was discovered by Cornelius Holland. 60 00 00 71 02 00 A George cut in an Onyx, with 41 Diamonds in the garnish. 35 00 00 37 00 00 A small George with a few Diamonds— 8 00 00 9 00 00 A George with 5 Rubies and 3 Diamonds, and TWO Diamonds in a Box. 10 00 00 11 00 00 A George cut in a Garnet— 7 00 00 8 00 00 Total— 120 00 00 136 00 00 The George which his said late Majesty wore at the time of his Martyrdom, was curiously cut in an Onyx, set about with 21 large Table Diamonds, in the fashion of a Garter: On the back side of the George was the Picture of his Queen, rarely well limned set in a Case of Gold, the lid neatly enamelled with Goldsmith's work, and surrounded with another Garter, adorned with a like number of equal sized Diamonds, as was the foreside. A Draught of this Jewel, in three parts, open and shut, we have exhibited to the Readers view, among the Ensigns of the Order, at the beginning of this Chapter. Nor will it be unfitly here remembered, by what good fortune the present Sovereign's lesser George set with fair Diamonds was preserved, after the defeat given to the Scotch Forces at Worcester, a. 4. Car. 2. Among the rest of his Attendants then dispersed, h Ex relatione Geo. Barlow gen. 11. I●nii 1660. ac Roberti Milward ar. & Isaaci Walton gen. Colonel Blague was one, who taking shelter at Blore-pipe House (within two miles of Eccleshall in Staffordshire) where one Mr. George Barlow then dwelled, delivered his Wife this George to secure. Within a week after Mr. Barlow himself carried to Robert Milward Esquire (now second Justice of the great Sessions of the County Palatine of Chester, one of the Commissioners of the Privy Seal, and Son unto Sir Thomas Milward Knight, late Chief Justice of the said great Sessions, both persons of known loyalty, and great sufferers for his late Majesty) he being when a Prisoner to the Parliament, in the Garrison of Stafford; and by his means was it happily preserved and restored: for not long after he delivered it to Mr. Isaac Walton (a man well known, and as well beloved of all good men, and will be better known to posterity, by his ingenious Pen, in the lives of Doctor Donne, Sir Henry Wotton, Mr. Richard Hooker, and Mr. George Herbert) to be given to Colonel Blague then Prisoner in the Tower; who considering it had already passed so many dangers, was persuaded it could yet secure one hazardous attempt of his own, and thereupon leaving the Tower without leave taking, hasted the presentation of it to the present Sovereign's hand. The first is the Great Seal of Borice-Feodorwiche Emperor of Russia, affixed to his Letters sent to Queen Elizabeth, dated at his Imperial Palace of Mosko the 12. of june 1602. and 39 year of his Reign: A Translation of which was most courteously afforded me by Mr. ja. Frese (Interpreter to the Russian Ambassadors, sent over hither to his now Majesty, an. Dom. 1660.) and is as followeth. By God's providence, We the great Lord, Emperor, and great Duke Boreece Feodorwiche of all Russia Self-upholder, of Wolodeemer, Mosko, Novograde, Emperor of Kazan, Emperor of Astracane, and Emperor of Seebeeria, Lord of Psokosske, great Duke of Smolenskee, Twerskee, Ugarskee, Permskee, Vaticekee, Bolgarskee and other; Lord and great Duke of Novagradia, the lower Countries, Cheringoskee, Rezanskee, Rososkee, Yaroslaveskee, Beloozerskee, Leeflandia, Udorskee, Obdorskee, Kondinskee, and Commander of all the Northern parts, and Lord of all the Iverskee Countries, and Granziskee Empires, and of the Caberniskee Countries, Cherkaskee, Igorskee, and of many other Kingdoms, Lord and Conqueror. We have likewise seen another of this Emperors great Seals, fixed to his Letters, bearing date the 31. day of May, an. Dom. 1594. which he also sent to Queen Elizabeth, and was presented to her at Richmond, the 14. of October following, by his Ambassador Evanowich: the Circumscription containing the same Style and Titles above set down. There is preserved in the Archives at Oxford, an Instrument containing Letters testimonial of this Emperor, given to Doctor Christopher Ritinger his chief Physician, the Seal whereof is Silver gilded, but differs in size and design from the former, and contains on the reverse the Figure of St. George and the Dragon only. A translation of the whole Instrument I have transcribed hither, as it was communicated to me by my worthy friend Mr. Thomas Hyde, the present Library-Keeper of that famous University, a Gentleman of eminent Learning, in all kinds, and especially in the Oriental Tongues. By the great mercy of God, We, great Lord, Emperor and great Duke Borrys Feodorwich of all Russia sole Commander, of Volodemersky, Moscovesky, Novogorodsky, King of Cazansky, King of Astracansky, King of Sibersky, Lord of Vobsky, and great Duke of Smolensky, Twersky, Ugorsky, Permesky, Votsky, Bulgarsky, and many others, Lord and great Duke of Novogorod, Levelandsky, Udorsky, Obdorsky, Kondnisky, and all the Northern parts, Commander. Lord of Iverskyland, King of Grusinsky, Caberdinsky Country; Chercasky, and the Country of Iversky, and of many other Kingdom's Lord and Commander, together with our princely Son Pheodor Burrissiwich of all Russia, do by these our princely Letters, given unto Doctor Christopher Ritinger Physician, Hungarian born, acknowledge his true, faithful, and willing service unto our Highness: in which his profession, We Lord, King and great Duke Burrys Feodorwich of all Russia, have sufficiently tried his skill, on our princely person, which he carefully performed for the better preservation of our health: and through God's great mercy, by his diligent and faithful service hath cured our Highness of a dangerous sickness. And therefore we Lord King and great Duke Borys Feodorwich of all Russia sole Commander, with our princely Son Pheodor Burryssiwich, in regard of his great learning and faithful service to us, have admitted him to be our Princely Doctor, to minister Physic, and attend on our royal person: to which end we have granted him our Letters, and hereby we testify his sufficient knowledge and practice in Physic, who hath by ourselves well deserved, to publish and make known the same. And if the said Doctor Christopher shall repair to any other Princes, Countries, Emperors, Kings, Curfists, Arch-duke's, or Dukes, to offer his service unto them, We do by these our princely Letters wheresoever they shall come, give true testimony on the said Doctor Christopher's behalf, to be of great learning, sufficient knowledge, well practised in Physic matters: as also in that profession, careful, diligent, and trusty to be credited, We having had sufficient trial of his faithful carriage, in all true and honest services towards us. These our Princely Letters, given in our great and chiefest Palace in the Kingdom of Moscow, in the year of the creation of the World 7109. and in the month of August. The Style about the Seal. By the great mercy of God, We great Lord, Emperor, and great Duke Borys Feodorwich of all Russia sole Commander, Lord and Governor of many other Countries and Kingdoms. The third, is the great Seal of Alexeye Michailowiche, the present Emperor of Russia, wherewith was sealed the Letter sent to his now Majesty, an. Dom. 1660. by his Ambassadors, Duke Peter Semoenowiche Prosoroskee, Lord and Possessor of the Dukedom of Toole, and Evan Offonosyewiche Zelabuskee, Namestinck of Coormeskee. Which having obtained by the favour of Sir William Morice Knight and Baronet, late principal Secretary of State, we also here exhibit to public view, with a translation of this Emperor's Style, rendered into English by the said Mr. ja. Frese. By God's mercy, We the great Lord, Emperor, and great Duke Alexeye Michailowiche of all the great and lesser and white Russia Self-upholder, of Moscovia, Kneveskee, Wolodeemerskee and Novagardskee, Emperor of Kazan, Emperor of Astracan, Emperor of Siberia, Lord of Pscosskee, and great Duke of Lettow, Smolenskee, Twerskee, Wolniskee, Podolskee, Ugarskee, Permskee, Waticekee, Bolgarskee, and others. Lord and great Duke of Novogradia, the lower Countries, Cheringoskee, Rezanskee, Polotskee, Rostosskee, Yaroslasskee, Belozerskee, Udorskee, Obdorskee, Kandinskee, Weetepskee, Meestesloskee, and of all the Northern parts Commander. Lord of the Iverskee Countries, Cartalinskee, Groonsiskee, and Igerskee Empires, and of the Kabardinskee Countries, Cheringosskee, and Igorskee Dukedoms, and of many other Dukedoms Eastern, western and northern, from Father and Grandfather heir apparent Lord and Conqueror. This representation of St. George and the Dragon we find assigned for Arms to Anne de Russie, Daughter to jaroslaus King of Russia and Moscovia, married to Henry the First King of France, in the year of our Lord 1051. and thus blazoned. i S. Marthe Hist. Geneolog. de la Maison de France. Tom. 1. l. 12. c. 4. p. 453. De Gueules, à un homme à Cheval, d' Argent, tenant une Lance en la main, qu'il darde en la gueule d'un Dragon renverse. The Counts of Mansfield in Germany, have likewise frequently stamped on their Coins, the Figure of St. George killing the Dragon: from which we have singled out one, bearing the name of St. George, and placed it under the Number IU. In the last may be seen the Effigies of Vincentius Duke of Mantua and Montserat, a Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece, and on the Reverse thereof, St. George encountering the Dragon, in the manner generally worn by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order of the Garter. SECT. X. When the Habit, or part of it, aught to be worn. THere are several solemn days and occasions, on which the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of the Garter are enjoined to wear, either the whole Habit of the Order, or some part of it. The more solemn, and which require a full conformity, as to wearing the whole Habit, that is, the Garter, Mantle, Surcoat, Hood, Collar, Great George, and Cap, are first, the high Festival of the Order (commonly called St. George's Feast) whether it be solemnised on the 22, 23, or 24. days of April annually, or any other days within the following year by Prorogation. And for this there is clear Text, in all the Bodies and Exemplars of the k Art. 3▪ Statutes; as also to the time how long they ought to be worn on every of those days, before the Sovereign or Knights-Companions put them off. For first, it was Ordained, l Art. 3▪ That the Knights-Companions should put on the whole Habit, on the Eve of St. George, before the Sovereign proceeded to the Chapel, to hear Divine Service; and being so habited, should attend the Sovereign to the Chapterhouse, thence to the Chapel, and return with him back, continuing in the same manner habited (as well such of them as should be minded to Sup, as those that should not) until after Supper; m Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 3. nor might they put off their Robes until the Sovereign or his Deputy had put off his, or declared it time for his or their so doing. By the same third Article of the Statutes, the wearing of the whole Habit was also enjoined on the Feast day of St. George, both at their Proceeding in the morning to the Chapterhouse or Chappel, at their return to Dinner; from thence to the second Vespers, and back to Supper; as also till Supper should be ended, and until the Sovereign or his Lieutenant took leave of the rest of the Knights-Companions. Secondly, it is manifest from King Henry the Eighth's n Art. ●. Statutes, that the Eve the day of St. George, and morrow following, were appointed to be kept with solemn service, and holding of Chapters, wheresoever the Sovereign should then be, though the Grand Feast and Solemnity of St. George were prorogued, to some further time in the year: And therefore, when by reason of such Prorogation, the Knights-Companions do meet in any other place besides the Castle of Windesor, to attend the Sovereign for the observation of St. George's day only, they then are appointed to wear the whole Habit of the Order, from beginning of the first Evening Service, until the last Evening Service on St. George's day. Thirdly, on such other days of the year, whereon the Grand Feast is held by Prorogation; and during such part of the Eve, and day of the Feast, as is before appointed, when the said Feast is held on its proper day. Fourthly, by absent Knights, whensoever the Grand Feast of St. George should be celebrated, and o E. 3. H. 4. Stat. Art. 11. H. 8. Stat. Art. ●. wheresoever they should at such time happen to reside or be p Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 9 if at liberty, and not under restraint) in like manner, as if then present with the Sovereign or his Deputy, in the place where he should celebrate the Feast. The time of wearing the whole Habit in this case, extends but to the end of the second Vespers, as in the second instance above. Fifthly, in like manner are the Knights-Companions to wear the whole Habit of the Order, at the Feasts of Installation, I mean such of them as are appointed by the Sovereign to assist at that Ceremony; where, if it begin in the Evening, then are they not disrobe themselves, till after Supper; and being the next morning habited as before, then to proceed to the Chapterhouse or Chappel, and not put off their Robes till Dinner be ended. The less solemn Occasions, are those which require wearing the Mantle, or Collar of the Order only. And they are, first, upon the r ● 8. Stat. Art. 12. morrow after the Grand Feast day, when the Sovereign and Knights-Companions proceed to the Chapel, and make their Offering of Gold and Silver; for it then sufficeth that they put on the Mantle only: which (service being finished) they were wont to leave at the Chapterhouse door, as they went out of the Chapel. Secondly, as often as s E. 3. H. 5. S●at. Art. 3. Chapters are called, and in what place soever held, either for Elections, or other Causes, as it shall please the Sovereign to name. And also as often as it is requisite for the Sovereign, or any of the Knights-Companions, to t Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 16. enter into the Chapel of St. George at Windesor: and with reference hereunto was it Ordained; u E. 3. Stat. Art. 1●. H. 5. Stat. Art. 15. That every one of the Knights-Companions, should leave a Mantle at Windesor, to the end, that upon any sudden and unexpected occasion of access thither, there might be Robes found in readiness for the due observing the Statutes in this point, with all the Commands and Decrees of the Sovereign. It's manifest that anciently (in pursuance of this Article) both the Sovereign and Knights-Companions left Mantles in the Vestry at Windesor, for such accidental Occasions: for in the Inventory of Ornaments belonging to the Chapel taken an. 8. Ric. 2. We find remaining at that time in the Vestry, a Mantle belonging to the Sovereign, another to john Duke of Britain, a third to john Holland Earl of Huntingdon, another to Edmund Langley Earl of Cambridge, and one to Thomas Holland Earl of Kent, all of them then alive. And by a Decree past, at the Grand Feast, anno 1. H. 6. the w Lib. N. p. 75. Mantle of the young Sovereign was appointed to be left at Windesor, as the Statutes required. It is further to be noted, that this Article of the Statutes was confirmed by King Henry the Eighth's x Art. 15. Statutes: by force whereof the Mantles of the Emperor y Ex. Autogr. p●nes Christ. W●en nuper hujus Ord. Regist. Charles the Fifth, and Anna Duke of Montmorency Constable of France, were left in the custody of the Dean and Canons of Windesor. And heretofore, in the general Bill drawn up of things necessary to be prepared for Installation of a Knight-Companion, there were usually z MS. in Bibli●b. Coton [sub effigie julii F. 11. vide Collect. Aug. Vincent. two Mantles set down, the use of the one being therein expressly mentioned to remain in the College at Windesor, and the other for all other occasions elsewhere. These Mantles thus enjoined to be left in the College for sudden chances, the owners living; were anciently committed to the Custody of the Black Rod, as we find it granted by * Pat. 1. H. 5. pars. 3. m. 18. Letters Patent to john Athelbrig, with the grant of that Office, and fell after the death of the Owners, to the Dean and Canons of Windesor, being then reserved, either for public use of the Knights-Companions, when they casually came to Windesor, or else sold, sometimes to the Heirs of the Deceased, or other Knights-Companions, who succeeded in the Order (as that of Charles the Fifth was to the Earl of Bedford, and that of the Constable of France lent to the Earl of Warwick, a. 7. Eliz.) which appears from the a Ex. Collect. G. Evans modo unius Ca●●nic Colleg. Windesor. Accounts of the Chanter of the College, in the Reigns of King Henry the Fourth, King Henry the Fifth, King Henry the Eighth, Queen Elizabeth, and King james, who in all times answered the full benefit thereof to the College; as b Ex. Collect. G. Evans modo unius Ca●●nic Colleg. Windesor. being a certain and unquestionable due to the Dean and Canons; and this they have accordingly had and enjoyed. And yet we find some of the College made over bold with the Robe of Sigismond the Emperor and c Videses Injunct. Eborac. Archiep. Art. 19 sold it while he was yet alive: But the Archbishop of York (who, as Chancellor of England, was Visitor of the College) upon a Visitation made by him shortly after, viz. the 22. of February, anno 1431. d Videses Injunct. Eborac. Archiep. Art. 19 kept the Money from being distributed among those who had sold it, and reserved the dividend to the Dean and Canons, who should happen to be of the College at the time of that Emperor's death: and withal commanded for the future, under pain of Excommunication, e Ibid. That no Dean and Canon should presume to withdraw or alien any of the Knights-Companions Mantles, while he was alive, but the same as much as possible, should be well, decently, and faithfully kept and preserved. But we are informed, that the before mentioned Statute was altered f Ex. Autogr. per Sacrament. praef. D. Christ. Wren attestat. 12. Mar. 1651. anno 9 Eliz. and a new one made to this effect, g Ex. Autogr. per Sacrament. praef. D. Christ. Wren attestat. 12. Mar. 1651. That the Knights-Companions should be bound by Oath, to take care by their Wills, that after their decease, all the Ornaments which they had received, should be restored; the Robes to the College, and the Jewels to the Sovereign that gave them. We come, in the last place, to the times of wearing the Collar of the Order, with the Great George thereunto appendent, which is not only enjoined to be worn (as part of the Habit) at the Grand Feasts, and Feasts of Installation, but also at other times, when not any of the rest of the Habit (saving the Garter) is appointed to be worn, as in special, at the h H. 8. Stat. Art. 38. principal and solemn Feasts of the year: and other Feast days, to which a particular Order in Chapter, anno. 4. Eliz. thus directs. The Holy days, and Sundays, within the twelve days. Saint Mathias day. Holy days in Easter week. Saint Marks day. Saint Philip and Jacob's day. Holy days in Whitsun week. The Feast days of St. Peter. St. james. St. Bartholomew. St. Matthew. St. Luke. St. Simon and jude. St. Andrew, and St. Thomas. Besides these, the Sovereigns and Knights-Companions have been accustomed to wear this Noble Ensign, upon the Aniversary of the Sovereign's Coronation, of the Gunpowder Treason, and now lately, on the present Sovereign's Birth day. So also heretofore, upon some occasional Ceremonies, not relative to the Order; as when a Knight-Companion hath been created into Titles of Dignity and Honour, he had the i MS. in Offic. Armour. [L. 12, f. 27.] Collar of the Garter added to his Investiture, as appears in the case of Henry Stafford, created Earl of Wiltshire, an●o 1. H. 8. And at a Chapter held the twenty second of May 1622. it was Ordained, k Lib. R. p. 13. That such Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order, as should afterwards assist at the Funeral of any Knight-Companion, should wear the Collar apert, at the said Funeral: and it was▪ so observed by the Dukes of Ormond and Richmond, the Earls of Manchester and Sandwich, at the solemn Funeral of his Grace George late Duke of Albemarle. Howbeit, the custom is otherwise, as to wearing the Garter, that principal Ensign of the Order; for though it be enjoined to be worn, especially at the l Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 3. Grand Feast, and all times of entering into St. George's Chapel, or holding of Chapters; yet doth not this imply, that it may be left off, at all other times as may the rest of the Habit: for indeed it ought daily to be worn, both by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions. And therefore was it Decreed, even at the Institution of the Order: m Ibid. Art. 12. & H. 5. Stat. eod. Art. That if any of the Knights-Companions should in public be found without his Garter, and that the same was not buckled about his Leg, in deoent and usual manner; upon challenge thereof, he should presently pay, a n Ibid. Art. 12. & H. 5. Stat. eod. Art. Noble to the Dean and College of Windesor. By King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, the Fine was raised to a o Art. 10. Mark: the same to be paid forthwith after challenge made, by any of the five Officers of the Order, or as before, by the Dean of Windesor; beside which p Art. 10. Fine, the Knight lies liable to a q Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 10. check. But the Article in the Statutes of Institution being penned too strictly, and without any exception, the several occasions of military or necessary affairs discovering the inconvenience; King Henry the Fifth admitted of a qualification, and in case of riding with Boots, Ordained, That it might suffice, if the Knight-Companion wore some r H. 5. Stat. Art. 12. & H. ●. Stat. Art. 10. Ribbon or Silk Lace, to represent the Garter: nevertheless in this very Article there is a Proviso added, That no Knight-Companion should enter into Chapter, without his Garter buckled about the Leg. To conclude, King Henry the Eighth's Statutes provide, that the Gold Chain, whereat the Lesser George (in that Age) hung, should be worn s Art. 38. all other days of the year, except the t Art. 38. principal and solemn Feasts, whereon the Great Collar was Ordained to be worn, and except in time of War, Sickness, or long Voyage; in any of which cases, it should suffice the Knight-Companion concerned, to wear only a Silk Lace or Ribbon, with the Image of St. George thereat: and the Blue Ribbon, having since succeeded in place of the Gold Chain, the Injunction of this Statute, extends to it in all particulars. CHAP. VIII. THE Officers APPOINTED FOR THE SERVICE OF THE Order. SECT. I. The Prelate's Institution his Oath, Robe, and Privileges. TO give increase and augmentation to the Honour of this most Noble Order, the Founder constituted certain Officers, namely, a Prelate, Register, and Usher, to whom he assigned several and particular duties: Some of his Successors added the Chancellor, and Garter, upon the same account, and all of them sworn to be of the a H 8. Stat. Art. 15. Council of the Order. Among these, the Prelate and Chancellor are usually called the b Lib. N. p. 237. principal, the other three, the inferior Officers of the Order; known and distinguished by the Robes or Ensigns of their peculiar Offices. The ancient Habits and Ensigns assigned to the Officers of the Order. The present Habits Ensigns and Badges belonging to the Officers of the Order The Prelate is the first and principal Officer belonging to the Order, His Institution. and in the Founder's Statutes is called f Art. 18. Prelatus Ordinis; thus we see his Office is as ancient as the Institution of the Order, and that the then Bishop of Winchester [William de Edyngton] was the first Prelate, is as apparent g Art. 18. thence. He is an Officer of honour only, and hath not either Pension or Fees allowed him. By the said Constitutions this Office is vested in the Bishops of Winchester for the time being; and from sundry passages in the Annals of the Order, it is further manifest, that the Successors to William de Edyngton, have continued Prelates to this day, except the interruption only of a few months, anno 7. E. 6. immediately after publishing this King's Statutes; wherein the other four Officers were constituted anew, to attend the service of the Order, but the h Chap. 8. Prelate wholly set aside. Of what estimation this See hath been, may be collected from the precedency granted to the Bishops thereof, by an Act of Parliament, Entitled, i Rot. Parl. an. 31. H. 8. n. 10. An Act concerning the placing of the Lords in Parliament Chamber, and other Assemblies and Conference of Council, wherein it is Enacted, that this Bishop shall sit next to the Bishop of Durham, who hath place (by that Act) assigned him next the Archbishop of York: though before, in k Constitut. u● Officialis Ordinis attinentes. cap. 1. respect of the honour and pre-eminence of this most Noble Order, he had precedence and place, granted above all Bishops, and next unto the Archbishops. At this Officer's admittance, Oath. he is obliged to take an Oath in the presence of the Sovereign or his Lieutenant, which consists of these particulars. 1. l Vide Append. Num, VI To be present in all Chapters, whereunto he is summoned. 2. To report all things truly, without favour or fear. 3. To take the Scrutiny faithfully, and present it to the Sovereign. 4. To keep secret and not disclose the Counsels of the Order. 5. To promote and maintain the honour thereof. 6. To withstand and reveal, what is designed to the contrary. This Oath is read or pronounced in Chapter by the Register of the Order, the m Lib. R. p. 39 & 84. Gentleman Usher of the Black-Rod holding the Book, whilst the Prelate knelt between the Sovereign's knees. As the Knights-Companions had their Surcoats bestowed on them at the Sovereign's charge, Robe▪ and therefore called the King's Livery; so had the Officers of the Order, their Liveries or Robes, out of the Sovereign's Wardrobe likewise, and in particular the Prelate of the Order: For in the Rolls of the Great Wardrobe we find that n Domino Willielmo de Edyngton Episcop● Winton. ad unam Robam sibi, de Liberaturâ Domini Regis, contra Feslum Sancti Georgii, de secta Militum de Garterio, saciend. & Furrurand. per Literam Privati Sigilli, Scilicet, ● Pannus Sanguine. in grano. ● Mantell. de 454 Ventr. Miniver pur. ● Furrura de 244 Ventr. Miniver pur. ● Furrura de 270 Ventr. Miniver pur. ● Capucium de 154 Ventr. Miniver pur. ● Furrura dimid. de Biss, furr'ata de Biss. Ex Ro●● Compoti Hen. de Snaith Custodi● mag. Gardrob. Regis an. 37. E. 3. m. 3. William de Edyngton had allowed him for his Robe of the Sovereign's Livery, against the Feast of St. George, anno 37. E. 3. one Cloth of Sanguine in Grain, and a large quantity of Furs, for trimming it up. We have had occasion in the o Sect. 3. last Chapter to observe, that the word Roba in the Rolls of the Wardrobe, is used to signify a Surcoat (being there applied to the Knights-Companions Surcoats) not Mantle, which in reference to the Prelate is to be understood by it. And we find this Robe, so assigned to the Prelate, noted to be of the Suit or Colour of the Knights-Companions Surcoats, the foresaid year, viz. p Rotul. praed. m. 3. Sanguine in grain. But whereas each Knight-Companion had q Ibid. 5 els of this Cloth for a Surcoat, the Prelate's allowance is said to be, one Cloth of the same Colour: Yet what difference there was in Measure, between one Ell, and so many as made one Cloth, we have not hitherto learned: but in Fur the Prelate much exceeded them, every Knight-Companion then having but r Ibid. one Fur of 200 Bellies of Miniver pure. Anno s Ex Rotulo Compori Alani de Sto●e Custod mag. Gardrob. Regis m. 8. 7. Ric. 2. we meet with the same allowance of Cloth and other materials to William de Wyckham (than also Prelate) but the difference lay in the t viz. ● Pannum Violettum in grano. ● Mantellum de 600 Ventr. ● Capucium de 140 Ventr. Miniver pur. ● Furrura de 400 Ventr. ● Furrura de 360 Ventr. Miniver gross. ● Furrura de Biss de ●40 Best. Ibid. Bellies of Miniver, whose number now was much increased: and that the same allowance was made him, in the 11. and 19 years of the said King. But in these three Instances, the Colour of the Cloth was different, and changed to that assigned for the Knights-Companions Surcoats those very years, to wit, u Ibid. Violet in grain, w Lib. Compot. de Liberat. Pannorum, etc. temp. R. 2. f. 167. White, and x I●id. p. 173. Blue. And anno 12. H. 6. the Robe of Henry Beaufort Cardinal and Prelate, was y F● Lib. vocat. C●tom. in Offic. mag. Gardrobe, f. 91. b. White, as then were the Surcoats of all the Knights-Companions; whence it is evident, the Livery anciently allowed the Prelate, annually varied in Colour, as did the Knights-Companions Surcoats. In that ancient Precedent of the Liveries of the Garter, recorded in an old Velam Manuscript, remaining in the Sovereign's Great Wardrobe, wherein the Surcoats bestowed on the Knights-Companions are reduced to a certainty, as to the measure of Cloth, number of Furs and Garters, nevertheless proportioned according to their several Degrees; there the Prelate hath the following allowance for his Livery. z Fol. 12. 24 Yards of Woollen Cloth. 18 Timbr. pur. Miniver. 18 Timbr. gross. Miniver. 3 Timbr. de Biss. By all which it is manifest what Materials and Colour the Prelate's Robe was of, as at the Institution of the Order, so for a long time after; nor can we find, any alteration therein, until the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, and then his Habit was a Constitutiones ad Official. Ord. attinentes. cap. 1. ordained to be of Crimson Velvet, lined with White Taffeta, faced with Blue, and thereon richly embroidered, sundry royal Cognisances, such as appear on the front of the Prelate's Robe, in the Draughts of the Officers ancient Habits placed at the beginning of this Chapter. The first of which is the Rose of England crowned. The second, one of King Edward the Fourth's Badges; and may be seen in several places of the Stonework, in and about St. George's Chapel at Windesor. The third is the Flower de Lis of France, crowned. And the fourth King Edward the Third's peculiar Badge, viz. the Sun Beams issuing out of a Cloud. b Ex Rot. Comp. joh. Co●e Clerici Provisionis mag. Gardrob. m. 9 Forty of these Clouds, embroidered with Gold, Silver, and Silk, having in the middle the Saxon Letter E of Gold, were provided to trim several Garments made for this King in the 21. year of his Reign, and garnished with Stars. As the left shoulder of a Knights-Companions Mantle, so the right shoulder of the Prelate's Robe, is ordained to be embroidered with a c Ibidem. Scutcheon of St. George's Arms, encompassed with the Garter; and d Ibidem. adorned with cordon's of Blue Silk mingled with Gold. After a while (though we find not the certain time) the Colour of this Robe became changed to Murrey, the allowance of Velvet e Ex vetust. pergam MS. in Offic. mag. Gardrob. p. 46. 16 yards, of White Sarsenet for lining 12 yards, and a Garter for the shoulder embroidered with Purls of Damask Gold. But by a Warrant dated the 22. of March anno 23. Eliz. directed to the Master of the great Wardrobe, for the Livery of the Order for Bishop Watson, then newly admitted Prelate. The quantity of Velvet was increased to f Lib. Warrant. particul. temp. Eliz. Reginae in Offic. mag. Gardrob p. 232. 18 yards, but the lining and Garter as before, so also the Cordon, having Buttons and Tassels of Blue Silk and Venice Gold. The like Robe in all particulars was made for his Successor Bishop Cooper, upon the Sovereign's g Ibid. p. 359. Warrant (11. April an. 26. Eliz.) and for Bilson, by a h Ex lib. partic. Warrant. ab an. 1593. ad ann. 1603. p. 167. like Warrant an. 41. of the same Queen. About the 12. year of King Charles the First, the Prelate and Chancellor petitioned the Sovereign to restore them their ancient right and estimation, in relation to their Robes and Badges of Honour, upon their outward Garments; whereupon it was Ordered in a Chapter held the 18. of April, an. 13. Car. 1. (being the Feast-day celebrated by prorogation for the year 1636.) among many other things relating to the Honour of this most Noble Order, i Lib. R. p. 122. That the Knights-Commissioners (newly established by k Ibid. p. 118. that Chapter) should consider of the Robes to be worn by the Prelate and Chancellor, and certify the Sovereign the ancient Colour and Form. But we have not met with any thing further done in relation thereunto, during that Sovereign's Reign; nor until after the happy Restauration of the present Sovereign, and then by Warrant under the Signet of the Order, (dated Feb. 19 an. 13. Car. 2.) the Prelate had assigned him for his Livery of the Order one Robe of * Appendix Num. IX. Purple Velvet, containing 18 yards, and 10 yards of White Taffeta for lining, as also a Scutcheon of St. George within a Garter, wrought with Letters and Purls of Damask Gold and Pearls, having Laces, Buttons, and Tassels of Purple Silk and Venice Gold; but what inducements the Sovereign had, for changing the Colour from Murrey to Purple we have not heard. An Account being thus given of the Prelate's Robe, it follows that we note, at what times he is enjoined to wear it, concerning which it is set down in express Text, m Constitut. ad Offic. Ord. attinentes. cap. 1. That he should be obliged to wear it yearly on the Vigil and day of St. George, wheresoever he is at his Liberty, whether it be in Parliament, or any other solemn occasion, or Festival whatsoever. The Honours conferred on this Officer are, Privileges. That his Place in all Proceedings and Ceremonies of the Order is on the o Ibid. right hand of the Chancellor. That he may p Ibid. marshal his Arms within the ennobled Garter, and accordingly hath it been customary for the Prelate, to surround them (impaled with those of the See of Winchester) with this Noble Ensign. He hath allowed him convenient q Ibid. Lodgings within the Castle of Windesor, and these are in a Tower, situate on the North side of the Castle in the middle Ward, called r Lib. R. p. 55. Winchester-Tower. And as often as he shall come thither, or to any other place at the Sovereign's command either to celebrate the Solemnity of St. George, or do any act or thing belonging to the Order, he ought to have allowed him of the s Ex praef. Constitut. c. 1. Court-Livery for himself and Servants, according to the rate that Earls resident in Court are used to have. Lastly, at a Chapter held the 27. of April, anno 2. Car. 1. this Officer (so also the Chancellor) had the Privilege granted to t Vide supra cap. 7. Sect. 4. p. 216. wear upon the left part of his Cloak, Coat and Riding Cassock, at all times when he should not wear his Robe, and in all Places and Assemblies a Scutcheon of the Arms of St. George, but not enriched with Pearls or Stones, That the wearing thereof might be an open testimony to the World, of the honour he held from this most Noble Order. But not long after there was some restraint put upon this Act, though I do not find it repealed. SECT. II. The Institution of the Chancellor's Office, his Oath, Robe, Badge, and Pension. AT the Institution of this most Noble Order, His Institution. a E. 3. Stat. Art. 26. The Common Seal was ordained to remain in the custody of whomsoever the Sovereign should please; nevertheless, such person is expressly appointed to be b Art. 30. one of the Knights-Companions. Among them in after times Sir john Robertsack (to whom its custody was committed, by Decree in Chapter an. 1. H. 6.) is styled c Lib. N. p. 74. Custos Sigilli Ordinis; and within a few lines in the Book and Page now cited (the same Chapter still sitting) there is mention made also of the d Dominus Guliel. Haryngton per Cancellarium excusatus est. Ibid. Chancellor: where though the reference be not to Sir john Robertsack by express Name, yet in all likelihood is intended to him, the Seal of the Order being at his Nomination delivered into his keeping. And though in the course of the Annals there recorded, this Title is given to Sir john Robertsack, preceding the entry of the e Ibid. p. 75. Decree, which constituted him Keeper of the seal, yet is it probable his nomination past one of the first things in the Chapter; after which, the Register might justly afford him that Title, though not as yet drawn up into an Order: That work being commonly done after the Chapters were broke up. But King Edward the Fourth, finding it necessary to settle the Office of Chancellor of the Garter, in a person distinct from the Knights-Companions, and subservient to them, Ordered, in a Chapter held at his Palace of Westminster the 4. of November, in the 16. year of his Reign, f Lib. N. p. 141. That the Seal of the Order should be delivered to Richard Beauchamp then Bishop of Salisbury to keep during pleasure; and he to be called Chancellor of this most Noble Order. Not long after, this King by g Appendix. Num. IU. Letters Patent under the Great Seal of England, bearing Teste at Westminster, the 10. day of October, in the 15. year of his Reign, declared, That though among the Officers of the Order of the Garter, the Office of Chancellor was not appointed by the Founder's Statutes, yet was it nevertheless very lawful and necessary. And therefore did Ordain, that for the advancement and good of the Order in those Affairs, there should be constituted an Officer named Chancellor. And forasmuch as this Office was great, and of great charge, and required an able and dextrous person, it was his further pleasure, that none should be admitted thereinto, unless he were of Ecclesiastical Dignity, that is to say, a Bishop. Moreover, considering the Chapel of St. George in the Castle of Windesor, was founded and established within the Diocese of Salisbury, and having regard to the prudence and diligence of Richard Beauchamp then Bishop of that Diocese, who out of mere love towards the Order, gave himself the leisure daily to attend the advancement and progress of that goodly Work, wherewith the King was then in hand, in the Castle of Windesor, for enlarging the Chapel there, He did therefore likewise Ordain and Establish the said Bishop for the term of his life Chancellor of the Order, and did further Will and Ordain, that after his decease his Successors Bishops of Salisbury should always have and hold the said Office of Chancellor. Nevertheless, in this Patent there is a Proviso, that the King's Concession, should be put in execution by the advice of the Knights-Compaenions, and without prejudice of the Bishop of Winchester in those things, which, touching the Order, aught by the Statutes of Institution to belong unto him. This Office being thus conferred upon Richard Beauchamp▪ personally, for term of life, and perpetually, to the succeeding Bishops of the See of Salisbury, divers of his Successors (some of whom are remembered in the Black Book, though the names of special Officers are seldom set down in Chapter Acts) were, by virtue of this Grant, continued therein, and executed the Office; nor doth it appear by the Records of the Order, that any other person had been invested therein, besides the Bishops of Salisbury, until an. 7. E. 6. that Sir William Cecil, then Principal Secretary of State, was made Chancellor; concerning which more by and by. If recourse be had to the Constitutions peculiarly relating to the Officers of the Order, it will appear, h Cap. 2. That this Office is very noble and honourable, of great trust and care, requiring a person of much Honour and Reputation to exercise and manage it: In which regard it is therein provided, that no man should be advanced to this Dignity, unless he be a Prelate of the Church, viz. Archbishop, or Bishop, or of some other such like eminent preferment therein: Or if a Layman, then to be a Knight of known Extraction, expert, learned, and of untainted Reputation. By this Clause, a Layman no less than a Clergyman was made capable of this Office, nevertheless it amounted not to a divesting the Bishop then living, or excluding any of his Successors, unless it had pleased the Sovereign after making that Constitution, to have passed by the Bishop of Salisbury, and bestowed it elsewhere, which he did not; for Edmund Audeley the then Bishop, some time after the establishing these Constitutions, and his immediate Successor Cardinal Campeius (till he went to Rome) if not more of them, enjoined and executed the same. But upon Reformation of the Order by King Edw●rd the Sixth, his Statutes wholly leave out the ecclesiastics, and i Cap. 9 appoint that the Chancellor's Office should be executed by a Knight, qualified as before. And thereupon Sir William Cecil was constituted Chancellor, whose Patent bears date the k Pat. 7. F. 6. pars 12. of April anno 7. E. 6. And here first entered a secular person, though he enjoyed the Office but a while, for the l Lib. C p▪ ●. 27. of Sept●m●er following, Sir William Petres was admitted thereinto, since which time, until now, the Chancellorship hath continued in the execution of persons of that rank and quality. Notwithstanding which, in a Charter granted to the Bishop of Salisbury the m 〈◊〉. 4. Eliz pars prima first of Dec an. 4. Eliz. (confirming the Charters of Queen Mary, King Henry the Eighth, and King Henry the Seventh) as also in another by the late Sovereign King Charles the First, ( n Pat. 4. C●●. 1. p. 25. 6. Mar. an. reg. sui 4.) the forementioned Letters Patent made to Bishop Beauchamp by King ●dward the Fourth, are therein recited totidem verbis, and confirmed, as a tacit Reservation of the right and title of the Bishop of Salisbury, whensoever the favour of the Sovereign should grow propitious to that See. It doth not appear that any of the Bishops of Salisbury, after the Reign of King Edward the Sixth, concerned themselves for recovering the Execution of this Office to their See, until the o Ib. p. 165. sixth year of King james, that Henry Cotton then Bishop, upon the death of Sir Edward Dyer sometime Chancellor, set forth by Petition to the then Sovereign, That this Office belonged to him and his Successors Bishops of Salisbury, and therefore humbly prayed Restitution thereof to the Church of Salisbury. But before the Sovereign would determine any thing hereupon, he was pleased to call the two Chief Justices and Chief Baron to advise with, who were of opinion (saith the Blue Book) p Ibidem. That this Office w●s not completely or sufficiently annexed to the Bishopric of Salisbury by King Edward the Fourth. But Sir Edward Cook, one of those Judges, Reports the point upon which it was void, to be q 4 part Institut. p. 200. the incertainty of the Grant, for that a new Office was erected, and not defined what jurisdiction or Authority the Officer should have. And yet we find elsewhere this third reason given, r MS. de Festis temp. jac. Regis f. 147. ● penes Ed. Walker Eq. Aur. modo Garter, Princ. R. Armorum That the Grant was in the Sovereign's disposition, because the Patent was granted without Fee. With one, or more of these opinions, the Sovereign's judgement being swayed, He forthwith nominated Sir john Herbert one of his Privy Council to the Chancellorship, and so this Affair slept, until anno 12. Car. 1. When john Davenant Bishop of Salisbury (Sir Francis Crane Chancellor being lately dead) with all due humiliation remonstrated to the Sovereign, That the Office of Chancellor was perpetually annexed to his See, by the foresaid Letters of King Edward the Fourth, and though in following times it had been bestowed upon Laymen, yet he humbly desired his right might be restored. Whereupon at a Chapter of the Order held in the Chapterhouse within the Castle of Windesor, the 5. of December in the year aforesaid, the Sovereign proposed to the Knights-Companions present, s Sir Thomas Rows journal. p. 2. vide etiam Lib. R. p. 115. That though he had of his especial Grace, made Election of Sir Thomas Rowe Knight for his Chancellor at that time, yet having understood a Claim made by the Bishopric of Salisbury, that the place was annexed to that See. He commanded the Lords-Companions of the Order, to take the pretence of right into their considerations: To which proposition of his Majesty, the Lords humbly answered, That they thought it was not their part to search for the Title of any; but that if the Bishop of Salisbury did produce his Evidence, and the proofs thereof, he might present it in Chapter, to his Majesty, to be considered. Upon this encouragement, the Bishop prepared a Petition, which was t Ibid. p. 12. & Lib. R. p. 121. presented and read in Chapter, held at the Feast of St. George celebrated at Windesor, the 18. of April ensuing, and here inserted. To u Ex. Autogr. penes jac. Palmer Eq. Aur. nuper hujus Ordin. Cancel. To the King's most Excellent Majesty Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. The humble Petition of John Bishop of Sarum, your Majesty's Chaplain in Ordinary. Shows, THat whereas your Majesty's most noble Progenitor, King Edward the Fourth, did by Letters Patent, erect and establish one Office of Chancellor of the most Noble Order of the Garter, and did then also grant a Charter unto Richard Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury, and his Successors for ever, that they should execute that Office, in consideration that the Chapel of St. George in your Majesty's Castle of Windesor, was within the Diocese of Sarum, and for other considerations in the said Charter specified. Which Office was enjoyed by the said Richard Beauchamp, and divers of his Successors in the See of Sarum, according to the Charter, which Charter hath also been confirmed under the great Seal of England, by some other Kings and Queens since the Reign of King Edward the Fourth. And was lastly most graciously confirmed by your Royal Majesty, in the fourth year of your happy Reign. But to the great prejudice and dishonour of the See of Sarum, the use and exercise of the said Office, hath been for many years discontinued from the Bishops of your Majesties said Church. May it therefore please your most Excellent Majesty, out of your accustomed goodness to the Church, graciously to consider of your Petitioners Claim and Charter, and if your Majesty shall so think fit, to vouchsafe your Petitioner a hearing, or to refer the examination thereof to some others. That thereupon such course may be taken for the restoring and preserving of the right of the said Church herein, either for the present or future time, as your Majesty in your Princely wisdom shall find agreeable to honour and justice. And the Petitioner according to his duty, shall pray for your Majesty's long, happy, and glorious Reign. To the substance of this Petition it was objected▪ 1. w Rows journal▪ & Lib. R. Locis cit. That the Great Seals of England, did not work within, or upon the Statutes and Rules of the Order of the Garter. 2. That no Grant could prescribe or limit the present Sovereign; it being a Fundamental Law within the Order, Suprema Lex, was Supremi voluntas. 3. That it did not appear by the Records of the Order, that the place of Chancellor was any otherwise conferred upon Richard Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury, than, quam diu Regiae celcitudini complaceret: So as the free disposition thereof did remain with the Sovereign. To the first; It was x Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer. answered by way of exception, as to the Grant of Offices: forasmuch as the power of the Great Seal of England, was anciently took into, and became legal within the Order in like Cases, and not any Patent for an Office, from the Institution of the Order unto that time; had passed under the Seal of the Order, but under the Great Seal of England, and in particular the Office of Chancellor (as was manifest enough from their Enrolments) For besides the first Grant made by King Edward the Fourth, when the Office came afterwards into the hands of Laymen (from the Patent granted to Sir William Cecil to that made to Sir Thomas Rowe) all past under the said Great Seal; which had not been done, if any legal defect had been therein. To the second; it being so as was objected, it thence appeared, that the Sovereign was as much at liberty to restore this Office to the See of Salisbury, as continue it to secular Dignities. To the third; What was alleged out of the Records of the Order, related only to the time of delivering the Seals to Bishop Beauchamp, but when afterwards the Office was erected by Letters Patent, it was then granted to him during life. Something was replied from the Judge's opinions, given in this case, a. jac. Regis 6. but the Sovereign thought it was not then well considered, to permit the Chapter Acts of this Order, which hath Statutes and Rules of its own, and wholly independent from other Laws, to receive construction and determination from the Measures and Rules of our Common-Law, and therefore notwithstanding what had been objected against the Bishops Claim, the Sovereign was pleased justly to pronounce; y R●●●● Infinal. pag. 12. That he ought to be heard: and to that purpose, gave the Chancellor order to signify unto him, that he should prepare and set down in writing, a brief of the Vouchers and Proofs of his Pretensions, in verification of his Petition, and send them to the Chancellor, to be delivered to the Knights-Commissioners (appointed for the Affairs of the Order) to consider of them, and present them at the next Chapter to the Sovereign, who would therein take such Order, as was conformable to his most impartial and untainted Justice. The 4. of October after, in a Chapter held at Windesor during the Feast of St. George, the Chancellor represented the said Bishop's Petition, with the Vouchers to his Pretensions, which the Bishop exhibited no otherwise than as Inducements and humble Motives, for restoring the ancient right of the Church of Salisbury, and perpetually reuniting the Chancellorship of the Order to that See, if it should seem agreeable to his Will, Wisdom, and Justice. z Ibid. p. 27. But the Knights-Commissioners having not to that time met, the business was again referred to them to be considered▪ prepared and abreviated for the Sovereign's consideration and final judgement. All which the Chancellor by Letter thus signified to the Bishop. a Ibid. p. 3●. Right Reverend and my very good Lord, I M●y have justly incurred the censure of your Lordship, either of want of manners, or prevarication, that I have not given you an account of the trust you pleased to repose in me, and that I so willingly undertaken, both out of true respect I bear to your Lordship, and duty and service to the Church, whose cause you solicit; but I hope your goodness will acquit me of any of these crimes, and be pleased to take my just excuse, that I deferred only, to give you a more certain answer than yet I am able, ●● left a longer delay might endanger the good opinion, which I desire to preserve with ●ou, you may be pleased to know; that at the last Chapter of the Order held in October at Windesor, I represented your Lordship's Petition, and all the several Vouchers and verifications of your demand and pretention, but his Majesty having not leisure at that time to enter into a full debate, did refer it to the Knights-Commissioners standing for the Order, both to consider and to deliver their opinions, and to make report to him at the next Feast, reserving to Himself the final judgement. Of this I have made a Record and registered it in the Acts of the Order for continuance of your Claim. I have since solicited the Knights-Commissioners often to meet upon it, and other occasions of the Order, but hic labor hoc opus, I cannot procure them till after the Term, when I beseech you to believe, that I will be a faithful Remembrancer, and Advocate of your cause, and that as soon as I can get any resolution, I will thereof render you an account: and if they will do nothing therein, I will again bring it to his Majesty. In this business, I cannot omit to let you know, the care of his Grace my Lord Archbishop of Canterbury in your behalf, who doth often call upon me, and if you please to take notice thereof to him, and to desire him to move his Majesty to command some of the Knights to meet and to hear it, it will procure both a quick and effectual dispatch, and there shall be of my part no manner of omission, to testify to your Lordship both my reverence to your person, and desire to deserve of you the name of Your Lordship's most humble servant Tho. Rowe St. Martyns-Lane 29 Nou. 1637. Nor was this worthy Chancellor unmindful of his promise, for the next time the Knights-Commissioners sat, which was the first of February following at Whitehall, b Rows journal. p. 36. He to their considerations presented the foresaid Petition, Claim, and Vouchers, to be heard by them according to the former Order: But it was their opinion, That unless the Bishop were himself present, it would be labour lost, and that they could not conclude in the cause, without hearing his own Reply: And therefore they entered not into the debate, but Ordered the Chancellor to write a Letter to his Lordship, that whensoever he came up to London, he should be heard personally, and his reasons considered, and to the Sovereign represented. The Letter upon this occasion was as followeth. c Ibid. p. 37. My Lord, IT hath pleased the Lords Knights-Commissioners for the Garter, to meet upon Thursday last, the first day of this Month: where in the first place I presented your Lordship's Petition to his Majesty, and read the Order of Reference upon it made in Chapter, and offered unto their consideration the authentic Vouchers to every part, sent me by your Lordship, and urged your Claim as far, as if it had been my own, both by succession of Bishops of Salisbury in the Office of Chancellor until Henry the Eighth, and of the first Grant made under the Broad Seal, and of continual renewing thereof in all the Charters of Bishops since, to your Lordship, and all other arguments, which either my wit could present, or to which by sincerity, and your trust, I was obliged. But could not induce their Lordships to view them, nor to make any report upon the cause, all the answer I obtained, was, that it was not proper for me to be the Advocate, nor for them to hear, where I could not be furnished with a reply on your part, if they found cause to except against any part of the title, and so they would not judge you by any prejudice: But commanded me to signify to your Lordship, that whensoever your occasions should bring you to London, or the Court, that they would hear you, and from you only receive the information. And that when your Lordship should call upon them, they would give you such an answer as the justice of your cause should merit. I am sorry to write your Lordship so weak effects, but I desire you to believe, that I have proceeded with all faith and integrity, and that I could do no more: Of this proceeding I acquainted his Grace my Lord Archbishop of Canterbury, who did think it fit that I should signify to you, how the business stood, that you might be the better prepared against your coming to London, where I shall be ready to do you all service in my power, and until then will keep your Papers safe for your use: Unless his Majesty, to whom I purpose to render an account of the business, make a new Order for more expedition, which I believe will not be done before your coming, or the next Chapter. In hope and desire to be of more use to your Lordship when you shall make your own Claim, or in any other of your commands, I shall ever rest Your Lordship's most humble servant Tho. Rowe. St. Martins-Lane 6. Feb. 1637. After which we find not, that the Knights-Commissioners met, either upon this or any other Affair relating to the Order, before the Feast of St. George, begun to be held at Windesor the 20. of May, an. 14. Car. 1. and to that, being added the Ceremonies of the present Sovereign's Installation, the Bishop of Salisbury thought it not convenient to interrupt any part of that great Solemnity, with the consideration of this Affair; and the Scotch War shortly after breaking forth, and troubles growing high at home, the further prosecution was laid aside, and not revived until the 19 of November, an. 21. Car. 2. when Seth Ward now Lord Bishop of Salisbury took encouragement upon the former grounds and the Sovereign's favour, to set on foot this Claim by a Petition presented in Chapter then held at Whitehall, where after a full debate and consideration had of the justness of his Claim, he obtained the following Decree for re-establishment of this Office on the Bishop of that See upon the first vacancy. d Vide Lib. Caro●in. p. 65. At a Chapter of the most Noble Order of the Garter, held by his Majesty Sovereign, and the most noble Companions hereafter named, in the Red Chamber next the Bedchamber in Whitehall, the nineteenth of November 1669. Present His Majesty Sovereign. His Royal Highness the Duke of York. Duke of Ormond. Earl of Oxford. Earl of Manchester. Prince Rupert. Earl of Bristol. Earl of Sandwich. Duke of Monmouth. Officers Prelate the Bishop of Winchester. Officers Register, Garter, Usher. The Sovereign then declared, That the reason of calling this Chapter was to consider of the pretensions of Dr. Seth Ward Bishop of Salisbury, exhibited in a Petition, concerning the Title and Claim of himself and his Successors, unto the Office of Chancellor of the most Noble Order of the Garter (when the same should become void) the Bishop grounding the equity of his Claim, upon a Charter first granted by King Edward the Fourth, in the 15. year of his Reign, unto Richard Beauchamp Bishop of Salisbury and his Successors for ever, which Charter hath been since confirmed under the Great Seal of England, by other Kings and Queens, and particularly by King Charles the First, of ever blessed memory; hereupon the Bishop being called in, and commanded to produce his proofs to make good that his pretention, accordingly the Bishop humbly offered an authentic Copy of the original Charter, of the said King Edward the Fourth, renewed and confirmed by the said King Charles the First, in the fourth year of his Reign; The which being read and duly considered, together with the Objections to the contrary, particularly that the possession and execution of the said Office of Chancellor, had been for above an hundred years, committed unto Laymen, notwithstanding which, the Sovereign and Companions, being fully satisfied with the justness of the Claim of the said Bishop, grounded upon the aforesaid Charters, and likewise considering, that the returning of the said Office to the first Institution, would be for the honour and dignity of the said most Noble Order, the Sovereign thereupon, with the unanimous consent of the most Noble Companions then present, did Declare and Ordain; That the Bishop of Sarum, and his Successors for ever, shall have and execute the Office of Chancellor of the said most Noble Order, and receive and enjoy all Rights, Privileges, and Advantages thereunto belonging, immediately upon the first vacancy of the said Office. Proceed we next to the Oath the Chancellor takes at his admission, Oath. which we find to be the c Lib. N. p. 313. same with the Prelate's, and in the like humble posture, that is, upon the Knee, and usually administered by the f Lib. C. p. 107.112. & Lib. R. p. 114. Sc● Palmers large journal. p. 57 & Lib. Carolin. p. 24. Register of the Order. When Sir james Palmer was to be admitted Chancellor ( g Palmer's large journal p. 56. 17. jan. an. 20. Car. 1.) the Register moved the h Ibid. 57 Sovereign. That in regard his Majesty had made choice of him for that Office in place of Sir Thomas Rowe deceased; and though he had long executed the same, in his absence, and taken the Oath as Deputy Chancellor, yet being now elected Chancellor, aught to take the Oath in the quality he was in: The Sovereign and Knights-Companions present thought it fit to be done, and thereupon the Register gave him the Oath; after which being saluted by the Knights-Companions, and joy given him of his new Office, he went on with the business of the Chapter. It is clear from the Precedent of the Sovereign's Livery of the Garter, Robe that the Chancellor's Robe, was at first the same with the Prelates, both for Cloth and Colour, but his proportion of Cloth far less, having allowed him but i Ex Vetust. MS pergam. in Officio mag. Gar●rob. p. 2. 5 yards when the Prelate had 24. nor but 3 Timber of Miniver gross, where the Prelate had 19 beside a large quantity of other Furs. Nor was the Colour settled to one kind, until the Constitutions of his Office, appointed it to be k Cap. 2. the same with the Prelates, [Crimson] for no doubt, it was before annually changed (as was the Prelates) to the Colour of the Knights-Companions Surcoats. Howbeit by the Plate of the ancient Habits of the Officers, it is visible to have wanted the Royal Badges, wherewith the Prelate's Robe was then embroidered. When the Colour of the Prelate's Robe was changed to Murrey, then was the Chancellors so also, and made alike in all other particulars. The proportion allowed to Sir Thomas Smith for his Livery, an. 14. Eliz. was l Ex Lib. tertio particular. Warrant. temp. Eliz. Reg. p. 203. 18 yards of Murrey Velvet, 12 yards of Sarsenet for the Lining, one Garter wrought with Pearls of Damask Gold, for the shoulder one Lace (or Cordon) with Buttons and Tassels of Blue Silk and Venice Gold. And the same materials and proportions were afterwards given out of the Sovereign's great Wardrobe, to the succeeding Chancellors. But an. 13. Car. 1. the Prelate and Chancellor endeavoured a Reformation of their Robes, and upon meeting of some of the Knights-Commissioners at Whitehall the first of February in the foresaid year, who heard and debated several things relating to the Order, it was determined, m Rows journal. f. 36. That the said Knights should move the Sovereign for a new Robe for the Chancellor (notice having been given to the Knights-Companions about a week before, to provide for themselves new Mantles of Celestial Blue) and the Colour being in question, upon the Reformation of the Knight's Robes, it being alleged (but without ground) that the Prelate and Chancellor for their upper Robe had from the Foundation, the same Stuff and Colour that was worn by the Knights, it was referred to the Sovereign. But herein nothing was done till an. 13. Car. 2. when the Colour both of the Prelate and this Officers Robe, was changed to Purple. Badge. Besides this Robe, the Chancellor of the Order hath an honourable Badge assigned him to wear, first granted to Sir William Peter, and his Successors, the 9 of October, an. 1. & 2. ●hil. & Mar. viz. n Lib. C. p. 16. a Rose Gold, enclosed within a Garter, which he and the succeeding Chancellors of the Order have ever since worn daily about their necks; at first in a Gold Chain, but since in a Purple Ribbon. The Figure of which with those Badges worn by Garter and Black-Rod are to be seen at the beginning of this Chapter. It seems something to this purpose had been in design a little before, so soon as the Chancellorship became vested in a Layman; for King Edward the Sixth's Statutes did Ordain, o Cap. 9 That the Chancellor should wear about his neck a Cross of the Order, with a Red Rose in a White, of Gold, all compassed within a Garland of Red and White Roses. And because it was suggested to the late Sovereign King Charles the First, That there were differences and uncertainties in some Books remaining with the Chancellor touching the wearing his Badge; He thereupon gave out the following Warrant, under His Royal Hand and Signet of the Order to ascertain the form therein described, and manner of wearing it. Charles R. Charles' by the Grace of God King of Great Britain, Ex Original penes praef. jac. Palmer. France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, etc. To all and singular to whom these presents shall come Greeting. Whereas there are differences and uncertainties in Books of our most Noble Order of the Garter, remaining in the custody of the Chancellor of our said Order, about his wearing of his Badge or Token about his Neck. And because our pleasure is, that the same might be certain and constant: We do therefore of our Sovereign Power and Authority, to whom in any ambiguities arising, the Interpretation, decision, correction, solution, and dispensation of all Statutes only belongs, and with the knowledge and consent of our Companions of our said Order, at this time remaining with us, Decree and Ordain that our trusty and well beloved Servant Sir James Palmer Knight and Baronet, Chancellor of our said Order (and his Successors) shall wear about his neck at all times in honour of his said place (that thereby he may be known to be of that Office and Dignity, as hath been accustomed) a Medal or jewel of Gold, enameled with a Red Rose (within a Garter of Blue enamel with this sentence inscribed Hony soit qui mal y pense) or such a one as We or the rest of the Knights-Companions of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, do or shall from time to time hereafter wear in our Collars of the said Order, in particular reference unto us and them: And in the reverse thereof he shall bear the Scutcheon of St. George enameled within a Garter also, in reference to the Order itself, which he only shall wear hanging by a light Purple Ribbon, or in a Gold Chain, as hath been accustomed. Given at our Court at Oxenford under the Signet of our Order, the 16. day of December, in the twentieth and one year of our Reign 1645. Among the Officers of the Order the Chancellor hath place next beneath the Prelate, Privileges▪ and in all Proceedings and Sessions, goeth and sitteth on his left hand. And as it was provided by the Constitutions of the Officers, That if the Chancellor happened to be a Layman, he should be also a Knight, and have other personal endowments, before set down. So did the late Sovereign King Charles the First conceive it requisite to confer some further note of honour and estimation upon this Officer, in relation to place and precedence without the Order, to which effect there past the following Decree. q Lib. R. p. 49. vide etiam Lib. l. 25. in Offic. Armour. f. 62. At a Chapter of the most Noble Order of the Garter held by the Sovereign at Whitehall the 23. of April 1629. present the Right honourable the Earls of Mullgrave. Montgomery. Rutland. Carlisle. Holland. Suffolk. Pembroke. Arundel and Surrey. Salisbury. Dorset. Berkshire. Northampton. Charles R. THE Chancellor of the Order, being by the Institution a place of honour, and so disposed of, that the same hath ever been possessed by persons of great worth and virtue, yet because it appears not, that any declaration hath been made of the Rank and right of Place belonging to that Office, His Majesty hath therefore by the advice of all the Knights present at the Chapter, held upon the day and Feast of St. George, Ordered and Decreed that Sir Francis Crane the present Chancellor, and all others that shall succeed him in that place hereafter, shall in right of that place, in all assemblies, and upon all occasions, be ranked and placed immediately after Knights, Privy Councillors, and before the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the persons holding both places being in pari gradu, and consequently before all others, whom the said Chancellor is to precede. And to the end public notice may be taken hereof, and the respects known that is due to that place, His Majesty hath commanded an Entry thereof to be made in the Register of the Order. And is pleased, that the Earl Marshal of England shall likewise cause the same to be entered in the Office of Arms. And to the end the place belonging to the Chancellor of the Exchequer may be certainly known, we have thought fit to transcribe hither so much of the Decree and Establishment of King james, made the 20. of May in the 10. year of his Reign, as will evidence the same. t Pat. 10. jac. pars 10. m. 8. And his Majesty doth likewise by these presents, for Himself, his Heirs, and Successors, Ordain, That the Knights of the most Noble Order of the Garter, the the Privy Councillors of his Majesty, His Heirs and Successors, the Master of the Courts of Wards and Liveries, the Chancellor and Under-Treasurer of the Exchequer, Chancellor of the Duchy, the Chief Justice of the Court commonly called the King's Bench, the Master of the Rolls, the Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas, the Chief Baron of the Exchequer, and all other the Judges and Barons of the Degree of the Coif of the said Courts, now and for the time being shall by reason of such their honourable Order, and employment of State and justice, have place and precedency in all places, and upon all occasions before the Younger Sons of Viscounts and Barons, and before all Baronet's, etc. The foresaid Constitutions appoint the Chancellor of the Order an s Cap. 2. Habitation within the Castle of Windesor, like as hath the Prelate, and that is the South-west Tower, in the Lower-Ward of the Castle●hence ●hence called the Chancellors-Tower. It appears the possession thereof had been for some time, in the hands of others, and therefore in a Chapter held at Whitehall the 5. of November, an. 5. Car. 1. It was decreed to be t Lib. R. p. 55. restored unto Sir Francis Crane then Chancellor of the Order, and after his decease, to descend to his Successors in right of this Office. These Constitutions also Ordained, u Loco citato. That this Officer should have the like Diet and Liveries in the Sovereign's Court, as were allowed to the Prelate. Pension. At the erection of this Office, the Chancellor had no Pension allowed him, towards defraying his charge in the Execution thereof: nor until the Constitutions relating to the Officers were established: but thereby is settled on him a w Ibid. Pension of 100 l. per annum, in consideration of his Employment, or else an allowance proportionable in Fees, Offices, or other Promotions, over and beside his Lodgings in the Castle, and Liveries at Court. But as to Fees or Perquisites, there are none due to this Officer; and for that reason he hath not only the foresaid Pension, but all his disbursements touching the Affairs of the Order allowed him, even to Paper, Wax, and Wafers: and indeed those persons who formerly enjoyed this Office, have thought it much below them, to accept either of Fee or Gratuity for any thing done within the Order: and so that truly noble person Sir Thomas Rowe (sometime the worthy Chancellor of this Order) out of an extraordinary sense of Honour, affirmed in a x 24. Nou. 1637. Letter to Doctor Christopher Wren, Register, upon the tender (but his refusal) of some Gratuity; That his Office was an Office of Honour, and not of Fees, and that he had always excepted against Fees for the disbursements of the Sovereign's Money. Though he acknowledged some had given his Clerk a small Gratuity for the bare Engrossing of an Alms-Knights Patent, but nothing further. Seals of the Order. And because the Custody of the Seals of the Order, belong to this Officer, before we leave this Section, it will be here the fittest place to say something concerning them. It appears by the Statutes of Institution, to have been then agreed, y E. 3. Stat. Art. 26. That there should belong to this most Noble Order a Common Seal. This is confirmed by the Statutes of King z Art. 26. Henry the Fifth, and since called the a Pat 15. E. 4. p. 4. m. 18. Great Seal of the Order. The use of this Seal is declared to be to b E. 3. Stat. Art. 27. seal not only the Original Statutes, appointed to remain perpetually within the Treasury of Windesor College, as also those c E. 3. Stat. Art. 27. Copies of which each Knight-Companion is obliged to have one in his keeping, but likewise all d Ibid. Art. 30. H. 5. Stat. Art. 31. Letters of Licence to any of the Knights-Companions desirous to purchase Honour abroad, and all e Ibid. Art. 30. H. 5. Stat. Art. 31. Mandates and Certificates relating to the Order. After what manner this first Seal was designed, or what was engraven thereon, we yet could never find: Polidore Virgile tells us, f Angl. Hist l. 19 p. 379. That when the Founder of the Order had made choice of St. George for its Patron, he represented him armed, mounted on a Horse, bearing a Silver Shield, and thereon a Red Cross. But whether St. George thus designed was engraved on the first Seal, or only a Scutcheon of his Arms, as in after times, is not certain: But this Author notes, that the Founder clothed his Soldiers in White jackets or Coats, and on their Breasts and Backs sowed Red Crosses, parallel to the Arms anciently assigned to St. George, as also to the Kingdom of England, placed under his Patronage, which Arms the Sovereigns of this Order have ever since advanced in their Standards, both by Land and Sea. But besides this Common Seal King Henry the Fifth, in the g Lib. N. p. 67. 9 year of his Reig●. Instituted a h H 5. Stat. Art. 31. vide Lib. N. p. 67. & 68 Privy Signet, in case weighty Affairs should occasion the Sovereign to go out of this Kingdom: The use whereof was to set to all Acts made by the Sovereign beyond Sea, to difference them from those of his Deputies here in England. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes ordain the making both of a Common-Seal and Signet; and direct, that the Arms of the Order should be engraved upon each of them. The Common-Seal used in his Reign we have seen and represented in the inserted Plate under the Number [I] the Signet being designed after the same manner, but less. The use of this Seal was continued (as appears from several Commissions of Lieutenancy, that have come to our hands) until the Reign of King james, and then altered to that Draught placed under number [TWO]. There was a like Seal made at the beginning of the Reign of King Charles the First, which being i Rows journal, p. 11. vide Lib. R. p. 121. judged too little for the honour of the Sovereign's Commissions, it was afterwards Decreed in Chapter held the 18. of April, an. 13. Car. 1. k Rows journal, p. 11. vide Lib. R. p. 121. That a new one should be made of a larger size, with the accustomed Arms and Motto, and the care thereof left to Sir Thomas Rowe the then Chancellor, and it appears he executed this Command with all due consideration, by the nobleness of the design exhibited under the Number [III]. In the same Decree direction was given for making a new Signet, the former being thought too big for Letters; this also was effected by the said Chancellor, and represented under the number [IV]. It was at the same Chapter further Decreed, l Lib. R. p. 119. That all Legations to deliver the Order to Foreign Princes, all other Acts bearing the stile of Commissions, all Patents of Offices and Fees, all Grants or Licenses to go out of the Kingdom, should be sealed with this Seal, which should be thence forward called the Great Seal of the Order. So also the m Ibid. Book of Statutes sent to Elect Knights or Foreign Princes, being fixed to a Label of Blue Silk and Gold, according to ancient Custom. And n Ibid p. 12●● that all Letters concerning the Order, whether of signification of Election, or Lieutenancy, or Summons upon Prorogation, or other directions from the Sovereign, should only be sealed with the Signet. These two Seals were by the said Decree appointed to be thenceforth o Lib. R. p. 120. born before the Sovereign in all public Assemblies, during the celebration of St. George's Feast, or in other its Solemnities, by the Chancellor of the Order, in a Purse of Blue Velvet. And p Rows journal. loco cit. command given to Sir Thomas Rowe to provide one accordingly. On the q Vide Compot. Th●. Rowe nuper Cancellar. penes praef. jac. Palmer. foreside of which Purse, was richly embroidered (by Edmund Harison the Sovereign's Embroiderer) with fine Venice Gold and Silver, Gold and Silver Purls and Plates, and variety of coloured Naples Silks, the Arms of St. George impaled with the Sovereign's, surrounded with á Garter, and Crowned, having a very fair running work or compartment round about, the charge of which came to r Vide Compot. Th●. Rowe nuper Cancellar. penes praef. jac. Palmer. 13 l. 6 s. 10 d. By the Statutes of Institution it was Ordained, s Art. 31. vide ●. 5. Stat. Art. 31. That in case the Knight-Companion, to whose trust the Sovereign did commit the Seal of the Order, should upon any lawful occasion happen to be absent from the Court, he should in the mean time leave it behind him, with some other of the Knights-Companions present with the Sovereign, to the intent it might be always near him, so long as he remained within the Kingdom: but if the Sovereign went beyond Sea, than his Deputy was to have the same disposal of it, as himself had: and the Signet of the Order should suffice him to Seal all such Acts and Writings as should be made there. The distance from Court, is by the t Cap. 2. Constitutions for the Officers of the Order, limited to 10 Miles, and by the u Art. 29. Statutes of King Henry the Eighth to 20. Upon consideration whereof we find w See his journal. p. 21. Sir Thomas Rowe Chancellor having some occasions Anno 13. Car. 1. to be absent from the Court above 20 Miles, acquainted the Sovereign therewith, and tendering him the Seals of the Order, He was pleased to dispense with the Statutes, and give him leave to keep them, nevertheless in his own Custody. SECT. III. The Register's Institution, Oath, Mantle, Badge, Privileges, and Pension. THis Officer was one of the three constituted at the Institution of the Order, His institution. under the Title of * E. 3. Stat. Art. 34. Registrator and a Ord Stat. in Bibl. Hatton. Art. 36. Registrarius, and so is called in the b Art. 18. & 36. Statutes of King Henry the Fifth. Yet in the Black Book he is frequently styled Scriba, and in the Registrum Chartaceum, and Blue Book, Actuarius. What was the first Register's Name, or who were his Successors, unto the Reign of King Henry the Fifth, we cannot discover, but it may be presumed they were Canons of Windesor, because this Office was at first appointed to c E. 3. Stat. Art. 34. one of the College, namely a d Ord. Stat. in Bibl. Hatton. Art. 36. Canon Resident there: besides, those Registers we meet with, mentioned in the Black Book from the Reign of King Henry the Fifth, to the beginning of King Henry the Eighth, were also Canons of this College, among whom (and the first we observe so called) was john Coringham, as (among other Testimonies) the fragments of a Glass Inscription in the Chancel of Clure Church, near Windesor, were he was Rector, witnesseth. The first Dean of Windesor, constituted Register of the Order, was e Regist. Chartac. f. 53. b. john Vescy, an 8. H. 8. the next f Lib. C. p. 7. Owen Oglethorp, an. 1. Mar. many of whose Successors in this Deanery (though not all) have since been admitted to this Office, nevertheless as they were g Non quatenus Decanised quatenus Canonici ejusdem muneris capacces sactisunt. Tho. Frith in suo Decan. & Canonie. Catalogue. Canons not Deans of Windesor. And 'tis not unlike, but the Deans were made choice of for this Employment, as being enabled to support the reputation of the Registership with the Revenue of this Deanery, better than any of the Canons though with addition of the Pension appointed thereto. But at a Chapter held at Whitehall the 22. of April, an. 11. Car. 1. it pleased the then sovereign to declare h Lib. R. p. 107. how suitable and convenient it seemed to him, that the Office of the Dean and Register should meet in one and the same person, as for some time past it had been enjoyed, and therefore commanded this his judgement and purpose to be entered among the Annals of the Order, that so it might pass to future times, from Example into Rule. If we look into the Constitutions of this Office, we shall find that a i Cap. 3. Secular person is made capable of this Employment no less than an Ecclesiastic, howbeit to be a k Cap. 3. man of singular integrity, eminent quality, a Knight, and w●ll ●●proved of for Experience and Learning. But if an Ecclesiastic, then is it appointe●●hat he be l I●id. Learned, a professor either of Divinity or Law, that it either Canon or Civil Law, in which respect he is supposed to have dignity in some Cathedral Church, or else promoted by the Sovereign to a Canonship at Windesor. Nevertheless, whether he be a Layman or Ecclesiastic, there is here put upon him Qualifications suitable to what the Statutes of Institution do Ordain, to wit, m Art. 24. vide cuam H. 5. S●at. A●t. ●6. That he be a very knowing person, able to perform the office, and n Ord. Stat. in ib. N. Art. 33. most fit both for Learning and Virtue. The particulars of the ancient Oath, Oath taken by the Register, are set down in the Statutes of Institution, the substance being o A●t. 2●. H. 5. Stat. Art. 3●. To enter upon the Registry with all fidelity, the Scrutenies, Elections, Penalties, R●conciliations, and all other Acts relating to the Order. To which in one of the Exemplars this general Clause is added, p Ord Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 33. That he shall faithfully discharge his Duty in all things. But in King Henry the Eighth's Reign, the q Lib. N p. 313. same Oath was enjoined him, as the Prelate and Chancellor took. At this Officer's admittance, he takes the Oath, kneeling at the Sovereign's feet, while the Prelate heretofore pronounced the words, for so did he when r Lib. C. p. 7. Owen Oglethorp took it an. 1. Mar. so likewise upon s Ibid p. 23. john Boxolls admittance an. 5. & 6. Phil. & Mar. But being absent an. 3. Eliz when George Carew was sworn, the Oath was administered by the t Ib. p. 32. vide etiam p. 194. Chancellor. An. 4. Car. 1. the Prelate, Chancellor, and Register took their Oaths at one time, and then the Ceremony was ordered in this manner, u Lib. R. p. 39 First Doctor Matthew Wren Register took it kneeling between the Sovereign's knees, the Black Rod holding the Evangelists, whereon he laid his hand, and Garter read the words out of the Black Book: this done the Register read the words of the Prelate's Oath when he was sworn, and in the last place did the like to the Chancellor. Thus also did Garter read the words to Doctor Christopher Wren, admitted Register, w Ibid. p. 107▪ an. 11. Car. 1. as also x Lib Carolin. p. 22. an. 12. Car. 2. to Doctor Brune Ryves. What Habit was assigned this Office at the Institution of the Order we do not find; Mantle. but it afterwards appears by the Precedent for the Livery of the Garter, that his allowance was the same with the Chancellors, that being 5 yards of Woollen Cloth, and three Timber of Miniver gross, and as much as those Knights-Companions had, who were under the Degree of an Earl. The Habit wherein he is represented in a y Lib. N. p. 196. Proceeding of King Henry the Eighth's Reign, appears to be Ecclesiastic, viz. a Black Gown, a Surplice over that, reaching to his Ankles, and thereon a Mantlet of Furs; but the z Cap. 3. Constitutions of his Office appoint him not any, wherein there seems some defect, seeing the Habits thereby assigned both to Garter and Black Rod refer to the Registers, to be the same with his. Notwithstanding from the Plate of the Officers ancient Habits, exhibited above, it may be plainly seen to be a Mantle, somewhat of a Russet Colour, faced with a pane of Blue, whereon is embroidered a Flower de Lis, crowned Gold, than another pane of Red, thereon a Lion crowned Gold, and so are they alternately placed to the bottom. To this Mantle belong Cordans of Silk, Blue and Yellow. Since that time, not only the Register's, but also Garter's, and Black-Rod's Robes have received some alterations; for by a Decree in Chapter held at St. James' House, the first of june an. 4. & 5. Ph. & Mar. these Officers were assigned Mantles of Crimson Satin, lined with Taffeta, and a Scutcheon of St. George's Arms embroidered on the left shoulder, but not encompassed with a Garter, having like Buttons and Tassels, as were appointed to the Prelate and Chancellor. The Proportion of Satin assigned to each Mantle was * Ex Lib. pr●f. particular. Warr. in mag. Gardrob. p 131 14. yards, and as many yards of White Taffeta. And though the Register's Mantle was an. 27. Eliz. made of the preceding materials and had like trimming, yet did it differ in proportions, here being allowed a Lib. particular. Warr. temp. Eliz. R. p. 201. 18 yards of Crimson Satin, and but 12 of Taffeta. From hence these Mantles continued unalterable in every thing until after the present Sovereign's return into England, when (20. Feb. an. 13. Car. 2.) there issued a b Appendix Numb. X. Warrant to the Master of the Great Wardrobe, to prepare for this Officer, as also for Garter, and Black Rod, for their Liveries Mantles of Scarlet Satin, each containing 18 yards, and 10 yards of White Taffeta for lining, but agreeable in all other things with the former: yet why the Colour became altered, the Warrant doth not express. Though this Officer hath not any Badge assigned, Badge. for daily wearing, yet in the Plate at the beginning of this Chapter, he seems (at the public Solemnities of the Order) to have heretofore carried a Scroll in his hand, and by the Proceeding in Queen Elizabeth's Reign ( c Cap. 21. Sec●. 3. hereafter inserted) a Book, both proper Symbols of his Office. In Doctor Christopher Wren's Registership, the Sovereign gave him command to cover the Red Book of the Order with Crimson Velvet, and assigned for the Device two Pens in Saltire within the Garter, above which these two Letters C. R. crowned; all being wrought in rich embroidery (so also the Border) with Venice Gold and Silver, Purls and Plates of Gold and Silver, and various Colours of Naples Silk by Edmund Harison the than Sovereign's Embroiderrer, after the manner here expressed, cost d Vide Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer. 12 l. 17 s. 6 d. This Book he was commanded to bear before his Breast, on all solemn occasions, when he wore his Mantle; and thereupon, for his better ease and convenience, he made a Belt and Ouch to hang it at. So great a regard had the Sovereigns of this Order, Privileges. not only to this Officer, but likewise to Garter and Black-Rod, that they took them into a particular protection, and by the Constitutions of their Offices, Granted, e Cap. ●. That they, their Goods and Servants should securely remain under the perpetual protection and safeguard of the Sovereign. And if any injury or violence should I chance to be offered them, either by subjects or Foreigners, whensoever they should exhibit their complaints to the Sovereign, either Himself, with the Knights-Companions, should afford them justice, or cause it to be administered according to right and equity; but if the adverse party should refuse to submit his cause to the Sovereign, than the Sovereign and Knights-Companions should show themselves so far inclinable towards these Officers, as to be ready to allow them all due favour, countenance, and protection, as much as should be consistent with justice and equity. Upon the strength and security of this ancient Privilege, and to avoid the charge and tediousness of a Suit at Law, Doctor Christopher Wren, Register, petitioned the Sovereign in Chapter held at Whitehall the f Lib. R. p. 12●. 19 of April an. 13. Car. 1. against one Thornhill, who under pretence of digging for Salt-Petre, had so undermined his Pigeon-house, built on the Rectory of Knoil-magna in Wiltshire, that it fell down: Upon reading of the Petition it was resolved by the Sovereign and Knight-Companions, g Rows journal. pag. 15. That they would consider the extent and purport of ●●e Grant in the Constitutions, and until it were farther declared, the h Rows journal. pag. 15. Chancellor of the Order should have power upon Information from any of the said Officers, of any rigour upon controversy begun in any other Court, to write Letters under the Signet of the Order, That all vexation against them should be superseded, until information of the Cause were given to, and determination therein resumed by the Sovereign, or leave of him obtained to proceed. After this it seems Thornhill was summoned before the Lords-Commissioners of the Navy, and his i Ibid. negative Answer given them, represented to the Sovereign in another Chapter, held the 4. of October ensuing, whereupon it was Ordered, k Ibid. That the Chancellor should write a Letter to the same Lords-Commissioners, and another to the Earls of Pembroke, Arundel, and Dorset, three of the Knights-Companions of the Order, to be enjoined to them, that they, or any three of them should convent the said Thornhill before them, and write their Letter to any Gentlemen or others near dwelling unto Knoil-magna, to view and testify the truth, to hear any further proof on the behalf of either party, and to give sentence according to justice, that so a tedious suit in Law might be prevented, and the dignity of this most Noble Order protected. These Commands the Chancellor performed the l Ibid. p. 30. 10. of November following, and Certificates being returned from the Country, the Knights-Companions (in a Chapter held the m Palmer's journal pro anno 163●. p. 21. 23. of May an. 14. Car. 1) were moved to peruse them, which they promised to do; but n Palmer's journal pro anno 163●. p. 21. before they could meet, Thornhill, being Indicted conveying Salt-Petre to Dunkirk, fled: and so the prosecution of this business fell. Upon the same ground was it, that the Register obtained from the late Sovereign his gracious protection for Himself, Servants, and Estate, in the late War, in the form following. Charles R. WHereas by the ancient constitutions and Laws of our most Noble Order of the Garter, Palmer● large journal. p. 68 the Register of our said Order is to have his person and estate secured from violence and injury, to the end he or his Ministers may securely live under our perpetual protection and safeguard, and as often as he shall be molested for himself, or for any thing that belongs unto him, he is to receive our protection, and the assistance of the Companions of our said Order according to equity and right. These are therefore to will and command all men of what condition soever they be, not to trouble or molest Doctor Christopher Wren Dean of Windesor, and Register of our most Noble Order of the Garter; or any of his Ministers whomsoever, or any thing that belongs to him whatsoever, but to suffer his Person, servants, and Estate to be in quiet, security, and peace, without any injury or violence to be offered by any unto him or his, as they and every of them will answer the contrary at their peril. Given at our Court at Oxford, under the Signet of our Order, the 12. day of December in the 19 year of our Reign. This Officer by the Constitutions of his Office, Pension. hath a Pension of o Cap. 3. 50 l. per annum allowed him; or proportionable in Fees, Offices, or other Profits. And an. 1. & 2. Phil. & Mar. the like Pension was granted to p Lib. C. p. 18. Owen Oglethorp, Dean of Windesor, out of the Exchequer, until some Ecclesiastical Preferment of like value should be conferred on him by the Sovereign. The same was confirmed to q Ibid. p. 192. Doctor Maxey, by Decree in Chapter 23. April an. jac. Reg. 16. and afterwards to r Lib. R. p. 4. Doctor Beaumond by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of England in the 20. of the said King: for which there is a s Gratiae itaque amplissimae & perennes pro maximo isto favore Regiae celsicudini sint semper debitae & exolutae. Ibid. most grateful acknowledgement entered among the Annals. But there needed to assignment of Lodgings at Windesor to this Officer, as there was to the rest, considering both the Canons and Dean were provided of Houses belonging to their Ecclesiastical Dignities within the College, at the Institution of the Order. SECT. IV. Garter's Institution, Oath, Mantle, Ensign, Badge, Privileges, and Pension. His Institution. KIng Henry the Fifth Sovereign of this most Noble Order, a Appendix Numb. V. seriously contemplating its honour upon good and mature deliberation, and with advice and consent of all the Knights-Companions, b Appendix Numb. V. Ordained and Instituted this Officer, and for the Dignity of the Order, was pleased he should be the c Appendix Numb. V. Principal Officer within the Office of Arms, and chief of all the Servants of Arms. The services enjoined him relating to the Order, were in time preceding performed by d Collect. W. le N. Cl. Windesor Herald at Arms, an Officer created with that Title, by King Edward the Third, much about the time of his Instituting the Order; and an annual Pension of e Pat. 41. E. 3. pars 1. m. 13. 20 Marks granted him out of the Exchequer, by Letters Patent for life, which received confirmation from King f Pat. 3. R. 2. p. 1. m. 10. Richard the Second. But as to the nature of his employment, comprehended under this later part of his Title, and thus annexed to the Office of Garter, we have here no direct occasion to discourse off; nothing therein properly relating to the service he is to performed within this Order. Nevertheless, where any are desirous to be informed of it, some part of his Privileges, Employments, and Duty, are to be found in the g Cap. 4. Constitutions of his Office, others in the h In Archiv. Offic. Arm. Constitutions made by the Duke of Norfolk Earl Marshal of England, a. 10. Eliz. and lastly by the i In Archiv. Offic. Arm. Lords Commissioners constituted for the Office of Earl Marshal, dated the 22. of November an. 20. Car. 2. Sir William Brugges was the person first created Garter, and called in the Institution of his Office jartier Roy d' Armes des Anglois, but else where his Title is found to run thus, k Pat. 7. H. 6. m. 8. Willelmus Brugges alias dictus Gartier Rex Armorum. This Sir William became a great Benefactor to St. George's Church at Stamford, and in the Windows of the Chancel caused to be represented King Edward the Third, with his 25 first Knights-Companions kneeling, habited in their Mantles, and Surcoats of Arms: which upon my journey thither, an. 1664. I found so broken and defaced, that no tolerable Draught of them could be taken, fit to exhibit to the Readers satisfaction. john Smert, the immediate Successor to Sir Will. Brugges, had this Office given him by Letters Patent under this Title l Pat. 28. H. 6. m. 25. johannes Smert Rex Armorum de Garteria, and john writhe was styled m Pat. 18. E. 4. p. 2. m. 28. Principalis Heraldus & Officiarius in●liti Ordinis Garterii Armorumque Rex Anglicorum. But n Pat. 4. E. 6. p. 2. Sir Gilbert Dethick, leaving out Heraldus, joined Principalis with Rex, and so it hath continued since Principalis Rex Armorum Anglicorum, Principal King of English Arms. In the Constitutions of his Office, he is called o Cap. 4. Garterus Rex Armorum Angliae, whom the Sovereign and Knights-Companions thereby Ordained, to be a Gentleman of Blood and Arms, of untainted reputation, and born within the Kingdom of England. Besides, as King Henry the Fifth did before, so doth King Henry the Eighth here declare, p Ibid. That he should be chief of all the Officers of Arms, attending upon the Crown of England. The substance of his Oath administered by the Register at his admission, Oath. whilst he humbly kneeleth at the Sovereign's feet, in the Chapterhouse, is 1. q Appendix Num. VII. To yield obedience to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions. 2. To keep silence, and not disclose the secrets of the Order. 3. To make signification of the death of each Knight-Companion. 4. To execute all things faithfully, committed to his care. 5. To inquire diligently after all the Noble Acts of the Knights-Companions, and certify them to the Register. 6. To be faithful in the exercise of his Office. And we find it observed, that an r MS. 4. penes W. le N. Cl. Oath, consisting of these particulars, was administered to Garter, at a Chapter held at Greenwich, an. 28. H. 8. which is to be understood of Sir Christopher Barker, admitted Garter that very year. We find no allowance given to this Officer for his Habit in the Precedent of the Garter for Liveries, Mantle. nor among the Books in the Sovereign's Great Wardrobe, whence it may be presumed, he had no particular Habit assigned him at first, but was distinguished from the rest of the Officers of the Order, by his Coat only, embroidered with the Sovereign's Arms, like as the Provincial Kings than wore. But after the Constitutions of the Officers were established, there was appointed him a s Cap. 4. Habit, in all things like to the Registers (saving that the Ground whereon the Lions and Flowers de Lis were embroidered, was wholly Red) and this to be worn only at the Public Solemnities of the Order; the fashion and embroidery of which appears in the Plate exhibited at the beginning of this Chapter. Queen Mary caused it to be made of t Lib. C. p. 24. Crimson Satin, and so it continued till shortly after the present Sovereign's return, when the Colour was altered to Scarlet. This Officer is appointed to bear a u Constitut. ad Officiales Ordin attinentes, Cap. 4. White Rod or Sceptre at every Feast of St. George the Sovereign being present, Ensign gilded at both ends, and at the top a Scutcheon of the Arms of the Order, impaled with the Sovereign's Arms. In the forementioned Plate, the Figure of this Sceptre hath these Arms crowned, but no directions for it given in the Constitutions, nor for the Crown on his head, wherewith he is there represented, which at these Solemnities of the Order, neither is, nor hath been used that we can discover. There was assigned him by Queen Elizabeth a w Lib. C. p. 53. Badge of Gold, Badge. to be worn daily by him and his Successors, before the Breast, in a Gold Chain or Ribbon, and ●hereon enameled the Sovereign's Arms, crowned with an Imperial Crown, and both surrounded with the Princely Garter; but Sir Edward Walker when made Garter, obtained the Sovereign's Licence to impale therein St. George's Arms, with those of the Sovereign's of the Order, of which Badge, the foreside and backside are both alike. There is a House appointed for his habitation within Windesor Castle, Privileges. and is the middle West Tower in the lower Ward, which thereupon hath gained the name of Garter's Tower. It was by a Decree in Chapter x Lib. R. p. 55. annexed for ever to the Office of Garter, and restored to Sir William Segar's possession the 2. of May 1630. By the Constitutions of his Office he is to be allowed y Cap. 4. Baron Service in the Sovereign's Court, and his Table served next after the Dean of the Chapel, with such z Cap. 4. Liveries as of old were accustomed. It appears that King Henry the Fifth, Pension. after his instituting this Office, died, a Appendix Num. V. before he had settled any Pension upon Sir William Brugges, for supportation of his little Estate, which the Knights-Companions taking into consideration, and desiring that for the honour of the Order he should receive a reasonable subsistence among themselves, by which he might more honourably comport himself to the service of the Order, till the Infant King should come to age, and be more largely provided for: b Appendix Num. V. They being present in Chapter, with the consent of the Prelate, did assign and ordain the said Sir William to receive of each of them annually at the Feast of St. George the Pensions following, viz. Of the c Appendix Num. V. Bishop of Winchester Prelate 5 Marks. Of every Duke 5 Marks. Of every Earl 6 Nobles. Of every Baron or Baneret 4 Nobles. Of every Knight Batchelor 2 Nobles. The first payment was agreed on to be made in hand, and so to continue yearly without failings; with request to the absent Knights, that for the honour of the Order, and causes in the Instrument express, they would consent to and approve of their Ordinance and Agreement, which passed under the Seal of the Order, and bears date in the Chapterhouse at Windesor in the Feast of St. George, an. 1422. but there is a mistake in the date, for at that time King Henry the Fifth was alive, and died not till the 31. of August following St. George's day in that year. Afterwards King Henry the Sixth, in consideration of the good services performed by Sir William Brugges to his Father and Himself, with consent of his Council d Pat. 7. H. 6. m. 8. granted him by Letters Patent an annual Pension of 20 l. out of the Fee Farm of the City of Winchester during pleasure, which Pension upon surrender of this Patent, He e Pat. 24. H. 6. p. 1. m. 11. granted a new to him and Agnes his Wife for their lives, and the longer liver of them. And when this Office (upon Sir William Brugges death) was given to john Smert Guyenne Herald (3. April an. 28. H. 6.) he had the f Pat. 28. H. 6. p. 2. m. 25. yearly Pension of 20 l. granted him therewith for life, out of the Exchequer. But his Successor john writhe Norroy, obtained an increase of Pension to g Pat. 18. E. 4. p. 2. m. 28. 40 l. per annum made payable out of the small Customs of the City of London. This annual sum was after confirmed to Garter by the h Cap. 4. Constitutions of his Office and an i Cap. 4. augmentation from the then Knights-Companions also made to the Pensions granted by their Predecessors upon the death of King Henry the Fifth, viz. Of A Duke 4 Pounds. Of A Marquis 5 Marks. Of An Earl 4 Marks. Of A Baron 6 Nobles. Of A Knight-Batchellor 4 Nobles. In succeeding times the Sovereign thought fit to increase his Pension to 50 l. per ann. (now paid out of the Revenue settled upon the Order) and the Knights-Companions yet to augment their Annuities, which they did by the following Decree. AT a Chapter holden at Windesor, Ex ipso Autogr. the Feast of St. George being there solemnised the xiii, xiv. and xv. days of September, Anno Domini 1617. It was Ordained and Decreed by the mutual consent of the Knights and Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter then present (the Sovereign thereto assenting) That their officer Sir William Segar Garter Knight, King of Arms of that Order, should then, and from thenceforth have renewed and paid unto him certain Annual Fees and Pensions, anciently due to his Place and Predecessors, with an increase of ten pounds per annum, which his Majesty forth of his Royal Bounty hath given unto his said Servant for his better maintenance and support; As also of Prince Charles Prince of Wales the sum of eight pounds, and of every Duke of the blood six pounds; all other Estates, viz. a Duke not of the Blood, four pounds, a Marquis five Marks, an Earl four Marks, a Viscount seven Nobles, a Baron forty shillings, and a Knight Bachelor that shall be of the Order, twenty six shillings and eight pence. All which said sums of money, according to the several degrees of their Estates, are to be paid unto the said Garter or his Assigns yearly at St. George's Feast, or immediately after, as well by the Knights then present, as by those that shall be absent, or hereafter are to succeed in the said Order. And after the decease of the said Garter to his Successors for ever. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales viij l. The Earl of Nottingham liii s. iv. d. The Earl of Northumberland lviii s. iv. d. The Earl of Worcester liii s. iv. d. The Lord Sheffeild xl s. The Earl of Suffolk liii s. iv d. The Earl of Sussex liii s. iv d. The Earl of Derby liii s. iv d. The Earl of Exeter liii. s. iv d. The Duke of Lenox iv l. The Earl of Southampton liii s. iv d. The Earl of Marr liii s. iv d. The Earl of Penbroke liii s. iv d. The Earl of Montgomery liii s. iv d. The Earl of Arundel liii s. iv d. The Earl of Somerset liii s. iv d. The Earl of Kelly liii s. iv d. The Viscount Wallingford xlvi s. viij d. The Earl of Rutland liii s. iv d. The Marquis of Buckingham iii l. vi s. viij d. The Earl of Leicester liii s. iv. d. Charles P. Nottingham. E. Worcester. T. Suffolk. Will. Derby. Lenox. Penbroke. T. Arundel. Fenton. J. Rutland. Northumberland. E. Sheffeild. Ro. Sussex. Exeter. H. Southampton. Montgomery. R. Somerset. W. Walingford. G. Buckingham. Last of all at l Ex Colle●●. E. W. G. St. George's Feast held at Windesor the 22.23. and 24. of April, an. 15. Car. 2. Sir Edward Walker now Garter represented to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions by Petition, That the annual Pensions of the Installed Knights then in arrear for one year amounted to 94 l. 13 s. 04 d. according to the proportions last above decreed, whereof the Sovereign's part (he being to pay for all Stranger-Knights) was at that time 32 l. 13 s. 4 d. And therefore humbly prayed, that his Majesty would please to grant him and his Successors, to receive in lieu, not only of the said Pensions from Himself and Knights-Companions both Strangers and Subjects, but for quitting his right and just pretence to his annual Pension of 50 l. to his allowances for preparing Scutcheons, and removal of Achievements, 100 l. per annum, out of the yearly Revenue settled and assigned to the use of the Order. This Petition the Sovereign was pleased to refer to a m Ibid. Committee of the Knights-Companions, namely the Duke of Albemarle, the Earls of Lindsey, Manchester, Sandwich, and Strafford, who being attended by Garter, and n Ibid. consideration had upon the Proposals contained in the Petition, they humbly offered their opinions to the Sovereign, to grant him the said 100 l. per annum, in lieu of what he offered to quit; and thereby he should not only gratify him, by preserving the interest of his Office in a more certain way than it was, but be freed from those small payments for Strangers, and other yearly Charges the Petitioner pretended unto, as also exempt the Knight's Subjects from the payment of their annual Pensions. Shortly after, the o Ibid. Chancellor, Register, and Garter attended the Sovereign with the Report, which he approving of, ordered the Chancellor to pay unto Garter and his Successors the said annual sum of 100 l. which he accordingly performed, and for testimony thereof signed the ensuing Declaration. Ex Collect. praed. I Henry de Vic Knight Chancellor of the most Noble Order of the Garter do certify and declare, That upon certain Proposals made by Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter Principal King of Arms, to the Lords Commissioners for the Affairs of the said Order, It was certified by a Writing under their said Lordship's hands, dated the 26. May 1663. That in lieu of all Fees and Salaries in the said Proposals contained, the said Sir Edward and his Successors Garters and Principal Kings of Arms shall be paid by me and my Successors, in the said Office of Chancellor of the Garter, the sum of one hundred pounds by ●he year, out of the Revenue of the Order; with which Writing having attended the Sovereign, his Majesty was pleased to conform unto it, and to direct in his Commission unto me, under the Seal of the Order, to pay and issue the said one hundred pounds accordingly to the said Sir Edward Walker Garter. In witness whereof I have set my Hand and Seal to this present Certificate, this 5. August 1664. De Vic. Canc. Touching the Duty of this Officer in general, it is to q Constitut▪ ad Officiales Ordin. attinentes Cap. 4. perform or cause to be done, what business soever, relating to this Order, the Sovereign, or Prelate, or Chancellor shall enjoin him to do: but his duty in particular is dispersedly set down in the following Discourse, under such heads to which it properly relates. SECT. V. Institution of the Black Rod's Office, his Oath, Habit, Ensign, Badge, Privileges, and Pension. His Institution. THis Officer was instituted by the Founder of this most Noble Order, but whether so soon as the Institution of the Order doth not yet appear. Howbeit within a few years after, viz. the 13. of April in the 35. year of his Reign, he granted to r Videses Pat. 50. E. 2. p. 1. m. 25. & p. 4. m. 5. William Whitehorse Esq for life, Officium Hostiarii Capellae Regis infra Castrum de Windesore, with a Fee of twelve pence a day out of his Exchequer. An. 3. H. 4. This Office is called s Pat. 3. H. 4. p. 4 m. 21. Officium Virgarii comitiv● de la Garter infra Castrum Regis de Windesore: and under that title was then granted to Thomas Sye with the Fees and Profits thereunto belonging. In the Patent granted to his Successor john Athilbrigg, an. 1. H. 5. we observe it called t Pat. 1. H. 5. p. 2. m. 18. Officium Virgarii sive Ostiarii, etc. Afterwards it hath this Title, u Term Mich. an. 1. E. 4. rot. 46. Officium Virgae-baiuli coram Rege ad Festum Sancti Georgii infra Castrum Regis de Windesore. And ever since it hath passed in Patents by the name of Virgae-baiulus, Virgarius, or Nigri-virgifer. But in the Constitutions of his Office he hath given to him the title of w Cap. 5. Hostiarius; and these qualifications put upon him, x Cap. 5. That he be a Gentleman of Blood and Arms, born within the Sovereign's Dominions; and if he be not a Knight at his entrance upon the Office, he ought then to be Knighted. As Garter was declared the Principal Officer of Arms, so was the Black Rod (for the honour of the Order) appointed the Chief Usher in the Kingdom: And as he is so, and frequently called Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod; so we shall wave (as we did in the account of Garter's Office) all things appertaining to his Employments, other than what directly relate to this most Noble Order. In a Chapter held at Whitehall the 13. of February, an. 6. Car. 1. it was Decreed, y Lib. R. p. 71▪ That the Office of Black Rod should from thenceforth successively, as soon as the same should become void (james Maxwell Esquire then enjoying the Office) be annexed to some one of the Gentlemen Ushers daily-waiters, whom the Sovereign should appoint. This was obtained upon the Petition of the Gentlemen Ushers daily-waiters, seconded by the Lord Chamberlain, the Earl Marshal, and divers others of the Knights-Companions, as appears from another Petition of theirs presented to the Sovereign in Chapter held at Oxford, the z Palmer's large journal. p. 63. 17. of jan. an. 20. Car. 1. But it seems some years after this Decree past, viz. an. 1642. the Lord Lenerick Secretary for Scotland, had (on Mr. Maxwell's behalf) obtained the Sovereign's hand to a Warrant for passing a Ibid. Letters Patent, under the Great Seal of England, for two lives (his own, and Mr. Alexander Thayne's) and the longest liver of them, whereby the Sovereign's intention (signified in the foresaid Decree) to the Gentleman-ushers was frustrate; of which they complaining in this last mentioned Chapter, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions then present (in regard this later Grant was not only repugnant to the preceding Decree, and the Great Seal surreptitiously gained, but aught to have passed the Seals of the Order, to be made authentical, according to a Decree made, an. 20. Car. 1.) Ordered, b Ibid. That Peter Newton Esquire, should be presently sworn into this Office: Which was then done in the presence of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions. Nevertheless shortly after the present Sovereign's happy return, viz. c Lib. Caroli●. p. 23. 14. jan. 1660. (the said Peter Newton being deceased) the Gentlemen-vshers daily-waiters petitioned the Sovereign in Chapter for the void place, which being read, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions Ordered, That the Petition should be showed to Mr. Thaine, and he to be heard in the next Chapter, what cause he could allege, why it should not be granted. To this, Mr. Thaine drew up his Answer; which being taken into consideration by the Sovereign, in a Chapter held at Whitehall, the 20. of February an. 13. Car. 2. as also the Decree in Chapter before specified, which fixed the Office to one of the Gentleman-ushers daily-waiters, The Sovereign and Knights-Companions adjudged and declared the said Thaines Answer not satisfactory, as to the right by him pretended to the said Office, and thereupon confirmed the foresaid Decree: and further Ordered, d Ibid. That john Ayton Esquire one of the Petitioners should be forthwith sworn Gentleman-usher of the Black Rod, to execute the place upon all occasions hereafter, which was done by the Register of the Order in the presence of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, the Chapter sitting. The Oath, Oath as we find it given to this Officer in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, was, e Appendix Numb. VIII. Truly and faithfully to observe and keep all the points of the Statutes of the Order, as to him belonged and appertained. He hath the like Habit, Habit. with the Register and Garter, before described. But his Ensign and Badge are somewhat different from Garter's; Ensign. for first it was Ordained, f Pat. 50. E. 3. p. 1. m. 25. vide Constitut. ad Offic. Ordin. attinentes. cap. 5. That he or his Deputy should carry a Black Rod (whence he hath his ordinary Title) before the Sovereign or his Deputy at the Feast of St. George within the Castle of Windesor, and at other Solemnities and Chapters of the Order. On the top of which there ought to be set a Lion of England. This Rod serves instead of a Mace, and hath the same authority to apprehend such persons as shall be found Delinquents, and have offended against the Statutes and Ordinances of this most Noble Order. And g Ibid. if at the command of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions he should apprehend any one of the Order as guilty of some Crime, for which he is to be expelled from the Order, it is to be done by touching them with this Black Rod, in consideration whereof, his Fee is 5 l. There is also assigned him a Gold Badge, Badge▪ to be openly worn in a Gold Chain or Ribbon before his Breast, composed of one of the Knots in the Collar of the Garter, which tie the Roses together, and encompassed with the ennobled Garter, being alike on both sides; which honour is conferred on him and his Successors by h Lib. C. p. 52▪ Decree in Chapter held the 24. of April an. 8. Eliz. 'Tis as ancient as King Henry the Fifth's Reign, Privileges. that we find a i Pat. 1. H. 5. p. 3. m. 18. House in Windesor Castle granted to this Officer by Letters Patent (together with his Office) during life, and the like provision is made for him by the k Cap. ●. Constitutions of his Office. It is situate on the South side of the Castle in the middle Ward. The said Constitutions give him l Ibid. Baron-service at Court, and Livery thereto appertaining; and besides these, the m Ibid. keeping of the said Castle, and the two Parks adjacent. n Lib. R. p. 54. King Charles' the Firs●, having taken into his hands the Little Park of Windesor (by the resignation of Sir William Hewyd, who had it by Grant under the Great Seal of England) and bestowed it upon the foresaid james Maxwell then Usher of the Order. He also thought fit, with the advice and consent of the Knights-Companions, at a Chapter held in the Withdrawing Chamber at Whitehall, 5. November 1629. to Order and Decree, That as the Custody of the said Little Park was conferred on Mr. Maxwell in right of his Office (pursuant to the institution) so the same should for ever after be annexed thereto, and not be disposed of, but under the Great Seal of the Order, and that only to the Usher of the Order for the time being. Pension. Lastly, this Officer had anciently a o Pat. 50. E. 3. p. 1. m. 25. Fee of 12 d. per diem allowed him, which we find continued down in the Letters Patent whereby this Office was granted; beside which, the Constitutions of his Office allow him an p Cap. 5. annual Pension of 30 l. heretofore paid him out of the Sovereign's Exchequer: but by King Charles the First, assigned him out of the 1200 l. per annum, settled upon the Order, touching which we shall Discourse in the next Section. SECT. VI The payment of the Officers Pensions upon the new Establishment. KIng james, sometimes Sovereign of this most Noble Order, well considering its Institution, Nature, and Constitution; and that it was in the nature of a distinct Sovereignty, governed by Laws, Statutes, and Assemblies of its own; and Himself as Sovereign, in matters and things immediately relating thereto, had sole and absolute power of altering, changing, adding, or explaining. And finding that the annual Pensions paid to the Officers of the Order (as those to the Alms-Knights) and some other its Expenses, had been anciently made payable out of his Receipt of the Exchequer, either upon and by virtue of the Great Seals of England, or otherwise by Privy Seals; and conceiving it incongruous, that the Officers should longer receive or challenge their Pensions by virtue of any other Seal than that of the Order; and in some kind derogatory to the Dignity of the Order itself, to permit other Seals longer to work within or upon the same. He thereupon, with twelve Knights-Companions, in a Chapter held at Whitehall the 2●. of May in the 20. year of his Reign, Ordered, q Ex ipso Aut●gr. vide etiam Lib. R. p. 12. That all things concerning the Order should thereafter be passed under the Seal of the Order only, and in particular, That the r Ex ipso Aut●gr. vide etiam Lib. R. p. 12. Grants of Poor-Knights Places, after their being signed by the Sovereign, should be passed under the Seal of the Order only, and none other. And whereas at the Feast of St. George the following year, the s Ex ipso Autogr. vide p●rro. Lib. R. p. 15. Chancellor had received from the Dean of Windesor a Note in writing of the Pensions given to the Poor-Knights, and by whom, and in what manner the same had been given; it was also Ordered, t Ex ipso Autogr. vide p●rro Lib. R. p. 15. That he should take advice of the Sovereign's Attorney General, how by virtue of the Seal of the Order, the said Pensions might be paid and received, His Majesty's further pleasure being, u Ex ipso Autogr. vide p●rro Lib. R. p. 15. That all Grants and Payments concerning the Order, should afterwards pass under the Seal of the Order only, and by virtue threof. As to the Alms-Knights Patents, this Decree took effect, but in the other generals referring to the Order, how far it was pursued we know not; for in some of them we find it not observed. But in a Chapter held at Windesor, on the 22. of April in the 10. year of the Reign of his late Majesty of ever blessed memory, debate was had about setting a part from the profits of his Revenue, to the peculiar use of the Order, the annual sum of w Lib. ●. p. 94. 1000 l. to be assigned out of the Receipt of his Exchequer, and employed particularly in discharge of Expenses towards the Feasts of the Order, Legations to Foreign Princes, payment of the Officers Pensions, and all other Titles, by which any thing, should at any time be disbursed for the necessity or reputation of the said most Noble Order. Afterwards at a Chapter held the 18. of April an. 13. Car. 1. the Sovereign x Ibid. p. 121. tatified his Royal Assignation, and increased his gracious bounty to the sum of 1200 l. per annum, settling it (for the uses aforesaid) in a Perpetuity for ever, and making it payable out of the Customs in the Port of London; but to be received by the Chancellor of the Order for the time being, as Treasurer of this Money y Ibid. p. 134. of which he should be obliged to render an accounted, to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions yearly at St. George's Feast. And in pursuance of this Ratification, was pleased to give his z Rows journal p. 27. Attorney General directions to draw up a Book for his Royal Signature, to warrant its passing under the Great Seal of England. The further care of which Affair being committed to Sir Thomas Rowe then Chancellor, he readily undertook it, and on the a Ibid. p. 36. first of February following, at a meeting of the Knights-Commissioners (impowered to consider of matters touching the honour of the Order) gave them an account that the same was dispatch. The Letters Patent bearing Teste at Westminster the b Appendix Numb. XI. 23. day of january preceding. He then also presented their Lordships with a List of the ordinary Fees and Charges of the Order, upon consideration of which, it was thought fit, c Ibid. That there should issue out a standing Commission to the Chancellor, under the Great Seal of the Order, to warrant the yearly Payments, and he to be discharged, according as the said Patent had provided. Hereupon a Commission was drawn up, which past the said Great Seal the 3. of May, an. 14. Car. 1. d Appendix Num. XII. whereby the Sovereign declared his will and pleasure, and impowered the Chancellor to pay out of the said annual Revenue of 1200 l. all and every the yearly and ordinary Fees, Pensions, Salaries and other Payments usually paid to any the Officers of the Order, Alms-Knights, or others, who do their yearly duty and service, any way unto the Order appertaining, either by Charter, Grant, or Assignation, under the Seal or Signet of the Order, or by any other lawful way whatsoever, and in particular l. s. d. To Himself as Chancellor.— 100 0 0 per annum. To Register of the Order.— 50 0 0 per annum. To Garter Principal King of Arms.— 50 0 0 per annum. To Usher of the Black-Rod.— 30 0 0 per annum. To Thirteen Alms-Knights.— 237 5 0 per annum. Total— 467 5 0 e Appendix Num. XII. All which yearly Pensions are thereby appointed to be quarterly paid, that is to say, at the four usual Feasts in the year. As also any other annual and usual charge, to any other inferior Officer or Servant, for their service or attendance. And all these upon account thereof to be made and given, and Acquittances to be produced for the receipt, to be presented to the Sovereign, or so many of the Knights-Companions as he should depute in Chapter, to take liquid, and allow the disbursments under their hands in writing, for the Chancellor's discharge. By virtue of the foresaid Letters Patent Sir Thomas Rowe, and in his absence beyond Sea, Sir james Palmer Deputy Chancellor, received out of the Sovereign's Receipts of Subsidies, Customs, and Imposts, the 1200 l. per annum, out of which they paid the annual Pensions above mentioned, under the notion of certain and ordinary charges, as also such as came within the compass of uncertain and extraordinary Expenses; some of which as we can collect from the f Penes praf. I●c. Palmer. Accounts of the said Chancellor and Deputy Chancellor, (they falling within the disbursments of their time) were such as these; Mantles, when the Sovereign pleased to bestow them on the Knights-Companions. Plate for the Altar in St. George's Chapel at Windesor. Embroidery of the Purse for holding the Seals. Removal of Achievements and Plates against Installations. Scutcheons set up at St. George's Feast. Privy Seals and Fees disbursed for receiving the 1200 l. per annum. Fees for Installation of Foreign Princes, and Stranger-Knights. Parchment used in Dispensations and Prorogations. Blue Wax for the Seals of the Order. By all which may be guest, what other particulars ought to be accounted Extraordinary Charges; towards the discharge whereof this annual sum was to be employed as far as it would go, to ease the Expenses of the Great Wardrobe, formerly charged with Provisions of the Order, both for Foreign Embassies, and Expenses at home. And when Sir Thomas Rowe was sent Ambassador to Ferdinand the Third, Emperor of Germany, he paid over to the said Sir james Palmer, upon the * Ex ipso Autograph. Sovereign's Warrant dated the 4. of May an. 14. Car. 1. the sum of 600 l. then resting in his hands of the said annual Receipts; which he adding to the growing Income, disbursed in ordinary and extraordinary Expenses. In reference to the manner of the Chancellor's passing his Account, as is directed by the said Commission we find it thus done by Sir james Palmer: he humbly moved the Sovereign in a g See his journal pro anno 1639. p. 57 Chapter held the 10. of October an. 15. Car. 1. That it would please him and the Knights-Companions to view the disbursments made for the Expenses of the Order, which thereupon being examined by the Knights in the Sovereign's presence the same were found agreeable to the directions of the Commission, and the Payments justified by the Acquittance of every Officer, to whom any Fee was due (no payment having been made, but the Sovereign's hand was first had to authorise the same) All which being seen and allowed, the Account (wherein his disbursments exceeded his Receipts 37 l. 13. s. 10 d.) was esteemed just, and allowed by the subscription of the present Sovereign than Prince, the Earls of Penbroke and Montgomery, Salisbury, Holland, Berkshire, Duke Hamilton, and the Earl of Northumberland. SECT. VII. The Execution of these Offices by Deputies. THough all the Officers of the Order are strictly obliged personally to attend the duties of their several Places; yet in case of sickness, absence out of the Kingdom, or other lawful or emergent cause, the Sovereign hath pleased to dispense with their attendance, and appointed other to officiate in their stead; who on such occasions wear the Robe of that Officer for whom they serve: So also in case of Vacancy. The absence of the Prelate from the Grand Feast celebrated at Windesor, an. 31. H. 6. is noted in the Black Book to have been upon just cause, and the h Lib. N. p. 109. Bishop of Bangor was appointed to celebrate Divine Service in his stead; who the next morning celebrated Mass pro defunctis. The following year his place in these Religious Duties was supplied by the i Ibid. p. 112. Bishop of Salisbury: as also an. * Pag. 118. 36. & ¶ Pag. 119. 37. H. 6. And at all times of the Prelate's absence since, the Sovereign hath appointed which of the Bishops should officiate for him. The Office of Chancellor hath been executed by Deputy also; to this may first be referred a passage in the k Pag. 237. Black Book, where Doctor Taylor hath the Title of Vicechancellor. Of later times when Sir Thomas Rowe was employed upon the forementioned Embassy into Germany, Sir james Palmer Knight (one of the Gentlemen-Ushers of the Privy Chamber) was deputed by the Sovereign to the execution of the Chancellorship during his absence, having the l Lib. R. p. 138. Purse with the Seals delivered unto him by the Sovereign the 4. of May 14. Car. 1. He first entered upon this Employment at the Installation of the present Sovereign, being sworn by the Register of the Order (the m See his large journal p. 15. 22. of the said Month) durante deputatione & beneplacito Regis: which n Lib. Carolin. p. 22. Clause was likewise added in the Deputy Chancellor's Oath an. 12. Car. 2. After Sir Thomas Rowe's return into England, being sick, and not able to officiate at the Feast of St. George held at Whitehall the first of March, a. 16. Car. 1. o Palmer's large journal. p. 29. Sir james Palmer was again deputed Chancellor, to supply his place in that particular Ceremony: As also a third time, when the Feast was kept at p Ib. p. 35. York, the 18. of April an. 18. Car. 1. and thenceforward he continued Deputy-Chancellor unto the death of Sir Thomas Rowe; of which the Sovereign having notice given him at Oxford, in q Ib. p. 46. November an. 1644. was graciously pleased to reserve the gift of this Office, till Sir Iames Palmer's return to Court out of Wales (where he was employed in his Service) and then r Ib. p. 47. gave him permission to wear the Badge and Ribbon about his neck, till a Chapter of the Order should be called to complete his admittance: in token of his due acknowledgement for so high a favour, he humbly upon his knees gave the Sovereign thanks, and received the honour of kissing his hand. In the vacancy of the Registership, an. 2. H. 8. s Lib. N. p. 199. Thomas Ruthall Bishop of Durham supplied it, and an. t Lib. C. p. 73. 18. & u MS. penes G. O. Y p. 113. 19 Eliz. Doctor Day Dean of Windesor executed the Office, and attended at the Feasts of St. George as Deputy Register, Doctor George Carew then Register having licence by his Patent to exercise it by himself or w Pat. 3. Eliz. par. 10. Deputy, with allowance of the Queen or Sovereign of the Order, in case of sickness or other impediment. ● After his death Dean x Lib. C. p. 94. Quatnvis Scribae five Actuarii nobilissimi Ordinis Officium supplevit, non tamen Jurat●s nec admissus est. Tho. Fiith. in suo Custodum Catalogue. Day was commanded still to execute the Office during its vacancy (being 14 years) which he did, until advanced to the Bishopric of Winchester, a. 38. Eliz. upon which Doctor y Lib. C. p. 130. Robert Bennet (who succeeded him in his Deanery) was the same year admitted Register. Afterwards towards the later end of Doctor Beaumont's time (he being much broken with age and sickness) Doctor z Lib. R. p. 35. john King the junior Canon supplied the place. The Office of Garter hath likewise been supplied by Deputy, for in those Embassies with the Ensigns or whole Habit of the Order to Foreign Princes, where special occasions detained Garter at home, some of the Kings or Heralds of Arms have been sent upon those Employments, nevertheless upon Garter's recommendation of them to the Sovereign, of which several instances shall be hereafter inserted. So also in case of vacancy, for we find that Clarenceux King of Arms executed this Office after Sir Gilbert Dethick's death, in a Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. january an. 27. Eliz. being then sent in the Embassy with the Earl of Derby, to carry the Habit of the Order to the French King Henry the Third. As also in reference to the b MS. 4. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 8. preparations, made for his Installation, the 15. of April following, and service performed thereat, and at the c Ibid. f. 10. Feast of St. George ensuing. And lastly the Constitutions of the Office of Black Rod admit of a d Cap. ●. Deputy to bear the Rod before the Sovereign, which is to be understood where a lawful occasion hinders his personal service. And e Lib. R. p. ●1. Sir Peter Young (chief Gentleman Usher) executed this Office at the Feast of St. George, held at Windesor, an. 6. Car. 1. james Maxwell Esq Black Rod being then in France upon the Sovereign's service. He being also sent by the King into f Palmer's journal pro anno 163●. p. 18. Scotland, Peter Newton Esquire was appointed to wait in his place, at the Feast held at Windesor the 8.9. and 10. of October, anno 15. Car. 1. CHAP. IX. THE Election of a Knight INTO THE Order. SECT. I. Of Summons to the Election. THE Statutes of Institution Ordained, a Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 18. That whensoever any of the Knights-Companions happened to depart this life, the Sovereign (or his Deputy) after certain notice had thereof, should forthwith by his Letters Summon all the Knights-Companions, then within the Realm (who were able to come) to meet him within six weeks after such notice, in what convenient place soever be pleased to assign, for the Electing a new Companion into the Society. Thus did the Law of this most Noble Order, in case of Death, and to avoid long Vacancies, at first provide, wherewith we observe the practice of elder times did punctually concur: and among other Testimonies, they are not the least which may be collected from the ancient Letters of Summons issued out upon this occasion. For assoon as Garter (in discharge of his b Liber N. p. 314. Oath, and pursuance of the c Ibid. p. 237. duty of his place) had made d Ibid. p. 237. Certificate to the Sovereign of a Knight-Companion's decease, or otherwise to the Register of the Order; care was taken thereupon to fill up the vacant Stall, within the time limited by this Article of the Statutes, or shortly after; in order whereunto Letters of Summons were sent to the Knights-Companions to appear at the Election, which hath induced us to exhibit two of these ancient Letters in the e Num. XIII. & XIV. Appendix: The first contains several particulars no less pursuant to the Statutes, than worthy observation; and especially these. 1. First, the day whereon the defunct Knights-Companion died is therein set down, and is a note useful in Story. 2. Direction is given for celebrating Masses, according to the tenor of the Statutes, of which more shall be spoken in its due place. 3. Intimation that a Stall is become void by the Knight's decease. 4. The Law of the Order vouched, which appoints an Election of another Knight, within six weeks after Certificate made of the death of the former, to avoid (as much as might be) an interval in succession, by a speedy filling up the number of Knight-Companions. 5. The Sovereign's power asserted, where he sees cause to prorogue the Election. 6. An Injunction to attend personally at the Election, under a penalty expressed in the Statutes, of which more hereafter. 7. The Day, Place, and Hour for appearance, is with certainty appointed and set down, to the end the Knights-Companions might so accommodate themselves, as to be present at the time prefixed. 8. The end of coming is mentioned, with full disposition and preparation, to perform what the Statutes in this case required. 9 Lastly, direction is there given to the Knight summoned, that in case any accident obstructed his Journey, or hindered him from coming to the Chapter, he should certify the reason of his default, against the day and time of his appearance; of the sufficiency whereof, the Sovereign was to be sole Judge. And generally of these heads, and to this purpose were the Letters of Summons in succeeding times framed. The before mentioned branch of the Statutes of Institution we observe (from its insertion into the g H. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 following bodies of Statutes) to have been sufficiently confirmed, nor hath it since received alteration; howbeit some enlargement and explanation was given thereunto, in the h Lib. R. p. 14. 21. year of King james, at a Chapter held the last day of the Feast, viz. the i Lib. R. p. 14. 24. of April at Windesor; where in the first place (among other things then also established) it was thus Decreed: k Lib. R. p. 14. That the Sovereign being advertised of the death of a Knight-Companion of the Order, the Knights-Companions remaining at the Court should move him to declare his pleasure, whether he would that Letters should be sent to all the Knights-Companions within the Realm, to attend his person for the choice of a new Knight, at a day by the said Sovereign appointed, according to the ancient Statutes of the Order; or be pleased to defer the Election until the day and Feast of St. George, at what time Elections have been most usually made, wherein the Soveraign' s pleasure and direction was to be followed and observed, and according as he resolved, in what place it should be, so it ought (by Letters directed to the Knights-Companions within the Realm) to be made known unto them. This deferring or proroguing the Election was (to say truth) no new thing, nor more than what had been anciently practised (though not indulged by the Statutes of Institution, or declared Law, before this 21. year of King james) as appears from the forecited Letters of Summons, both which take notice of the limitation of time given by the Statutes, after Certificate of death, viz. six weeks; within the compass whereof, a new Election was to be made. And where a Chapter for Election could not conveniently be held, within that limited time, it was enough if the Sovereign declared (as he did in that Summons sent after Sir Robert D'umfrevils' death, and entered in the Black Book) m Pag. 82. That being then involved in other business, he could not well attend this Affair, and therefore deferred the time for Election unto the Eve of St. George next following. So that it is plain, the Decree an. 21. of King james, was but declaratory of an old and practised Custom. But of later times this formal way of Summons by Letter to Knights-Companions attending at the Court, hath been left off (yet continued to such as are remote) and notice given them by a verbal message only: For the Chancellor of the Order having known the Sovereign's pleasure, as to the day and place, usually acquaints Garter therewith, who thereupon goeth immediately to the Knights-Companions then at Court, and desires their attendance at the Chapter, according to the Sovereign's appointment. And here it is to be understood, that no Knights-Elect, aught to be summoned to a Chapter of Election, or are capable of giving their Votes therein, until they be completely installed, either in Person or by Proxy: Nor indeed did any necessity fall out from the Foundation of the Order, that did require they should, until the late rebellious times, when the Castle of Windesor being Garrisoned by the Parliaments Forces, it was not possible for his Royal Highness the Duke of York, and his Highness' Prince Rupert, to take possession of their Stalls, in such manner as the Law of the Order enjoined. Therefore the then Sovereign (to whom the power of dispensing with any of the Statutes is reserved) did on the 17. of jan. an. 1644. (so inevitable necessity requiring) n Palmer's large journal. p. 66. & 69. vide Appendix Num. XV. dispense with their Installation in the Chapel of St. George at Windesor, for the present, and invested them with all the Privileges of the Order; among which, the power of giving their Votes in Chapter was one: Provided, these Princes should first take the Oath given at Installations, and afterwards perform the accustomed Ceremonies at Windesor, so soon as it should be thought fit, after the Castle was delivered out of the power of the Rebels, and returned into the possession of the Sovereign of this most Noble Order. In compliance with this Proviso they both than took the o Palmer's large journal. p. 65. & 66. Oath: And on the Eve of the first Feast of St. George, celebrated after the present Sovereign's happy Restauration, the Duke was Installed by the Earls of Northumberland and Berkshire: and on the Eve of the second Feast, being the 22. of April, an. 15. Car. 2. the Prince likewise, received his Installation by the hands of the Duke of Albemarle and Earl of Lindsey. SECT. II. The Place of Assembly. BUT at what time soever this Ceremoney of Election is appointed, the same aught to be celebrated in Chapter (for so is the assembly of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions called, wheresoever or whensoever held on this occasion) whether at the Solemnity of St. George's Feast, which hath been the ordinary and most usual time, or on other certain days, set apart for this affair, by more special appointment of the Sovereign. And therefore when the Sovereign thinks fitting (in the interval of Feasts) to Elect any Foreign Prince, or other person, either Stranger or Subject, He many times doth it in peculiar Chapters, called to that end and purpose; and then he appoints his own both day and place, having the prerogative to declare them at pleasure. This we find hath been practised both heretofore and of late times; and by those few of many Chapters, holden at sundry places, most convenient to the Sovereign's present occasions (drawn out and here exhibited) will be sufficiently manifest, whereunto we shall add the Names of those Persons of eminence, who at such times and places have been Elected. Place. Day and Year. Knights Elected. 1. Sign of the Lion in Brainford. 11. july 24. H. 6. Albro de Vasques Dalmadea Earl of Averentia▪ 1. Sign of the Lion in Brainford. 11. july 24. H. 6. Lord Beauchamp. 1. Sign of the Lion in Brainford. 11. july 24. H. 6. Lord Hoo. 2. Sovereign's Bedchamber at Westminster. 27. Nou. 25 H. 6. Sir Francis Surreyne. 3. London within the Bishop's Palace. 8. Febr. 39 H. 6. Richard Earl of Warwick. 3. London within the Bishop's Palace. 8. Febr. 39 H. 6. Lord Bonvile. 3. London within the Bishop's Palace. 8. Febr. 39 H. 6. Sir Thomas Kyriell. 3. London within the Bishop's Palace. 8. Febr. 39 H. 6. Sir john Wenlock. 4. Tower of London. 8. Aug. 14. E. 4. Guido Vbaldus Duke of Urbin. 4. Tower of London. 8. Aug. 14. E. 4. Henry Percy Earl of Northumberland. 5. Starchamber. 15. May 15. E. 4. Edward Prince of Wales. 15. May 15. E. 4. Richard Duke of York. 15. May 15. E. 4. Thomas Grey Marquess Dorset. 6. Sovereign's Bedchamber in the Wardrobe London. 10. Febr. 19 E. 4. Ferdinand King of Spain. 6. Sovereign's Bedchamber in the Wardrobe London. 10. Febr. 19 E. 4. Hercules' Duke of Ferrara. 7. Greenwich. 14. July 15. H. 8. Lord Ferrer. 8. Caelais. 27. Oct. 24. H. 8. Anne Montmorency Earl of Beaumond. 8. Caelais. 27. Oct. 24. H. 8. Philip Chabot Earl of Newblanke. 9 Hampton-Court. 9 Jan. 32. H. 8. Edward Seymour Earl of Hertford. 10. Windesor. 6. Aug. 1. & 2. Ph. & M. Emanuel Duke of Savoy. 11. Whitehall. 8. Febr. 20. Eliz. john Casimire Count Palatine of the Rhine. 12. York. 12. Sept. 16. Car. 1. Thomas Earl of Strafford. But for the most part, since the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign, Whitehall (the Sovereign's usual Court of Residence) hath been the place, whereunto the Knights-Companions have been specially summoned, and peculiar Chapters held for Election of Knights, in the interval between the vacancy and St. George's Feast: Howbeit of late, while the present Sovereign was abroad beyond the Seas, and wanted the full number of Knights-Companions to constitute a complete Chapter, He hath been necessitated to make use of his supreme power, not only in p Ex Collect. Edw. Walker Eq. A●r. Garter. dispencing with the Ceremony of Election in Chapter, but also in q Ex Collect. Edw. Walker Eq. A●r. Garter. supplying th● defect of a Scrutiny, by making his own choice; nevertheless, since his most happy return to the Throne of his Ancestors, Whitehall hath also recovered her accustomed Honours, and beheld again a most worthy advancement of Knights into this most Noble Order, at a Chapter specially called and held in the Bedchamber there, the first day of April, an. 13. Car. 2. in the Election of the Duke of Richmond, the Earls of Lindsey, Manchester, and Strafford. SECT. III. The Number of Knights that constitute a Chapter. IN the next place we are to consider, what number of Knights-Companions ought to assemble for constituting a complete Chapter of Election. By the Statutes it is appointed, there should be r E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18 H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 ●ix at the least, besides the Sovereign or his Deputy; the due observation of which hath been so strictly stood upon heretofore, that Elections were ordinarily deferred, where the Chapters consisted not of so many. For proof of which we find that the Duke of Gloucester, anno 9 H. 6. then Deputy to the Sovereign (at that time in France) for celebrating the Feast of St. George at Windesor, s Lib. N. p. ●●▪ forbore to proceed to Election, because the Number of Knights-Companions there assembled, was less than the Statutes required to constitute a Chapter. We likewise take notice, that anno 10. H. 5. no Election was made (the Feast being also celebrated at Windesor) though one Stall was void, by the death of the t Ib. p. 69. Lord Clifford; and probably the reason (though not expressed) might be for want of that full number of Knights-Companions, the Statutes required: For the Duke of Bedford (than the Sovereign's Deputy) had but u Ib. p. 6●. three Knights present with him. But in this case we need not fly to conjectures, there are direct and clear instances enough; wherein, if we abound, we hope the satisfaction they will give the concerned Reader, beside the antiquity of the Precedent may obtain our pardon. In the w Ib. p. 95. 22. year of King Henry the Sixth, or rather 23. (for so the x Fol. 23. b. Registrum Chartaceum hath it in the hand of that very Age) Humphrey Duke of Buckingham, being deputed to celebrate the Feast of St. George at Windesor, although there were at that time four Stalls vacant, yet did no Nomination pass, one reason being y Fol. 23. b. because there was not present a sufficient Number to make Election. So when the same King celebrated the Grand Feast z Lib. N. p. 108. personally at Windesor, in the 31. year of his Reign, having but three Knights-Companions attending him thereat, and two Stalls void; the Election was prorogued a Lib. N. p. 108. for the very same reason. In like manner the want of a sufficient Number of Knights-Companions, happening at the Feasts held the 32.33. and 34. of Henry the Sixth hindered the Election at those times: for at the first of them there were but b Ib. p. 111. two Knights-Companions, beside the Sovereign's Deputy, and at the two last but c Ib. p. 112.114. four besides the Sovereign, though the Registrum Chartaceum anno 33. names five, by adding the Duke of Somerset. At the Feast of St. George, celebrated at Windesor, anno d Ex MS. in Offic. Armour. [M. 15.] fol. 12. b. 1471. which answers to the 11. year of King Edward the Fourth (although from what is spoken, concurrent with the following circumstances, both out of the e Dominus johannes Ascheley literis suis per Garterum missis sufficientem excusationem obtendit. At à fine celebritatis, quia minor erat illic numerus quam ut Electioni suscipiendi sufficeret, eundem Rex accerceb●t, ut supplerer. Lib. N. p. 132. Black Book of the Order, and the f Et puis envoyes per le Roy pour Messieur Ashley john des●re a l' elexion condemayn apres St. George, fol. 42. Registrum Chartaceum, we suppose it should more rightly be transferred to the twelfth of this King's Reign; and therefore this passage throughout may fitly be corrected by those Authorities) the Sovereign intending to make an Election, and having but five Knights-Companions present with him, Calys Pursuivant at Arms, was sent to London for Sir john Astley, to come and furnish the Chapter; in which, saith this Fragment, there were chosen seven Knights, namely the Prince, the King of Portugal, the Duke of Norfolk, the Earl of Wiltshire, the Lord Ferrer, the Lord Montjoy, and the Lord Howard. But here are some other mistakes, for the Prince was not elected until anno g Lib. N. p. 138. vide Regist. Chartac. f. 44. b. 15. E. 4. and the King of Portugal not until the h Lib. N. p. 149. Regist. Chartac. f. 49. b. 22. year of the same King. As for the rest we not finding the true time of their Election elsewhere, shall let them stand; having been loath to make use of so imperfect an authority, but that the circumstance of sending for Sir john Astley, to make up a Chapter, rather than violate the Laws of the Order, may be faithfully enough related, and well worth observing through the other false lights cast in, from the inadvertency of the Relator. Lastly, the 31. of january, anno 21. Car. 2. being designed for the Election of Christopher Duke of Albemarle, and there appearing but five Knights at the Chapter, the Election was put off till the 3. of February following, at which time a statutable number of Knights being present, his Election past. SECT. IV. Dispensation for want of a full Number. AND whereas some may suppose that the Sovereigns of this Order in later times, have appeared less careful in the due observation of its Statutes and Laws than were their Predecessors, by making use of Dispensations, where the number of six Knights-Companions have been wanting, they are to consider the Licence herein, is no other than an advantage to be laid hold on, in cases of necessity only (for necessity can bring a sufficient plea, where the infringement of a Decree is objected, in the Law of this Order) and withal to show that the power and prerogative of Dispensation is reserved to the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order, in all cases of exigency: albeit not to be made use of, where there is a possibility to perform the Rules and Injunctions of the Statutes. The Sovereigns therefore in succeeding times, for sundry reasons, and upon important and urgent occasions have been induced to dispense with this branch of the Statute, as to a full Number of Knights-Companions; in case so many were not in readiness as the Law appointed to make a complete Chapter. And the first liberty we observe to have been taken herein, was by King Henry the Eighth, in the i Lib. N. p. 266. 26. year of his Reign; who after he had received intelligence of the death of the Lord Montjoy, immediately called a Chapter at Whitehall, where no more than k Ibidem. five Knights-Companions being present, the absence of the rest were excused by his special favour, and the l Idem & Ibidem. Injunction of the Statute (as the Annals further add) concerning the due Number of Nominators, were by the same clemency remitted, because of the exigency of the time and place; and forthwith upon a Scrutiny then taken, james the Fifth King of Scotland was elected into the fellowship of this most illustrious Order. From this time to the late Rebellion, we meet not with the like case; but then the wickedness of those days created new necessities, which occasioned or rather enforced the then Sovereign (one of the exactest observers of the Laws and Ceremonies of this Order) most unwillingly to awaken this dormant prerogative, which he first put in execution at a Chapter specially called for the Election of that deserving and renowned Knight, Thomas Earl of Strafford, held at the City of York, upon the m Palmer's large journal. p. 25. 12. day of September, anno. 16. Car. 1. where at that time and place, by his Supreme Authority, he dispensed with the defect of Number of n Palmer's large journal. p. 25. six Knights-Companions (having then with him o Palmer's large journal. p. 25. four only, some of the rest being employed in his Service against the Scots) and gave Sir Thomas Rowe then Chancellor of the Order, directions to prepare a Dispensation accordingly; which (in regard that Sovereign did therewithal command should be p Palmer's large journal. p. 25. entered among the Annals of the Order) we have thought fit to insert in the q Numb. XVI▪ Appendix. Afterward, when several of the Knights-Companions so much adhered to the Long-Parliament, that no summons could draw thence their attendance upon the Sovereign, though but to celebrate the grand Festival of their Patron (much less to the completing Chapters of Election) to which the Oath taken at their Installation had equally obliged them; the Sovereign was constrained to make further use of his Supreme Authority, in this very particular; and thereupon at the Feast of St. George celebrated at r Palmer's large journal. p. 35. York, upon the 18.19. and 20. days of April, in the 18. year of his Reign, in a Chapter held on the Eve of the said Feast, by Himself and but s Ibid. p. 36. four other Knights-Companions, viz. Prince Charles, the Prince Elector, the Earl of Lindsey, and Duke of Richmond and Lenox, it was Ordered, t Ibid. p. 36. That Letters of Dispensation should be drawn up by Sir James Palmer (than Deputy Chancellor) for the insufficient Number (as wanting of six Knights) to hold a Chapter of Election; and for authorising the Knights then present, to deliver in their Votes, according to custom in other Scrutenies, that so the Sovereign might proceed to the Election designed. By virtue of which Dispensation, the * Ibid. p. 42. Duke of York, and Prince Rupert, were Elected Fellows and Companions of this most Noble Society. The like Dispensation was made for the defect of Six Knights, to hold a Chapter of Election at Oxford, upon the second day of March, ann. 20. Car. 1. there being then but u Ex Aut●gr. penes praef. jacob Palmer. five Knights-Companions present with the Sovereign, namely the Duke of York, Prince Rupert, the Earls of Dorset and Berkshire, and the Duke of Richmond and Lenox; at which Chapter, William Prince of Orange, Son-in-Law to the Sovereign, and Bernard de Foix Duke of Espernon were Elected. Last of all, in reference to the holding * 29. Mar. 1. Apr. 10. Apr. three several Chapters, preparatory to the Feast of St. George, and Grand Installation celebrated at Windesor the 15.16. and 17. days of April, in the 13. of his Majesty the now Sovereign's most happy Reign (one of which Chapters was called for the Election of four Knights, and to deliberate with the surviving Knights-Companions) the Sovereign was pleased (the 29. day of March immediately foregoing) to pass the like w Lib. Carol. p. 24 & 2●. Dispensation, under the Signet of the Order, and his own Sign manual for this defect; and x Appendix Num. XVII. thereby made those three Chapters as legal and of as much force and validity, as if the Number of Knights-Companions, required by the Statutes, had been full and complete. SECT. V. Of opening the Chapter. WE are now arrived at opening the Chapter, whereinto neither the Sovereign of the Order, nor any of the Knights-Companions are to enter, without wearing both their Mantles and Garters, for so the y E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 3. Statutes of the Order ordain, and so hath the Law been understood, in case where a Chapter hath been held elsewhere than at Windesor; as for instance at a Chapter held at Whitehall, for the Election of john Count Palatine of the Rhine, an. 20. Eliz. the z MS. quart. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 23. b. Earl of Huntingdon, and the Lord Grey of Wilton, not having their Mantles then at Court, not permitted to enter into that Chapter, to give their Votes for his Election. The late Sovereign King Charles of ever blessed memory a Palmer's large journal p. 25. determining to call a Chapter for Electing the foresaid Thomas Earl of Strafford at York, where neither He, nor any of the Knights-Companions then attending his person, had their Robes of the Order with them, and taking notice of the Injunction of the Statutes now mentioned, did by his supreme authority, as Sovereign of the Order, b Appendix. Num. XVI. dispense with the Knights-Companions then present, for coming into the Chapter without their Mantles. Afterward, upon great necessity, occasioned by the late Rebellion, the same Sovereign was enforced to make further use of his Prerogative, relating to this particular, in some c Palmer's large Iourn. p 48. & 55. vide Autogr. penes eurdem jac. Palmer. following Chapters held at Oxford. In like manner shortly after the present Sovereign returned to his Throne, a like Dispensation passed under the Signet of the Order (the Great Seal being then under the hand of the Graver, but not finished) dated the 10. of january in the 12. year of his Reign, He being then necessitated to make use of his Supreme authority for holding a Chapter the 14. of january following, in regard the Knights-Companions, then in being, were not as yet provided of new Robes. Presuming then, that a full Number of Knights-Companions (in obedience to their Summons) are attending the Sovereign, habited in their Mantles and Garters, and entered into the Chapterhouse at Windesor, or other place appointed for this their Assembly, the Sovereign having taken his Seat, at the upper end of the Table, and given leave to the Knights-Companions to sit; the occasion of their being called together, is first declared, either by the Sovereign himself, or by the Chancellor of the Order, upon his command. The next thing in course, is to give the Sovereign information of all the Stalls then void, the notice of which vacancies, if (as sometimes formerly) the Sovereign happens to be in foreign parts, aught to be before sent him, by his e Lib. N. p. 65. Deputy or Lieutenant; but if in England, and present in Chapter, then to be presented by the Chancellor, or in his absence, by the Register or other Officer of the Order. This done, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions enter into consideration how the room of the defunct Knight, or Knights, shall be f Lib. C. p. 109 supplied; and sometimes (where two or more Stalls are found void) whether they shall be all filled up at that time, or if not, g Lib. C. p. 109. how many Knights then Elected. But where the Scrutiny is intended to be taken in the Choir of St. George's Chapel at Windesor, these or the like particulars (referring to Election) are commonly considered of on the Feast day, in the Chapter held immediately before Vespers; wherein it is most usually Ordered, That the Scrutiny shall be taken in the said Chapel that following Afternoon, and so was it Decreed on St. George's day anno 5. E. 6. viz. h Lib. N. p. 304. That the Elections of Knights should be taken that Evensong, and in the Chapel. After this, the Chancellor begins to collect the Knights-Companions Votes, and this is frequently termed, the taking of a Scrutiny: To the full understanding the nature of this Action and Ceremony, we shall proceed to certain considerations preparatory thereunto; beginning with what concerns the Nomination of the Persons to be proposed to Election. SECT. VI That Knights only present in Chapter ought to Nominate. THE Nomination of those persons proposed to the Sovereign's Election, belongs only to such of the Knights-Companions as are present in Chapter when the Scrutiny is taken; for therein not only all the Bodies of the Statutes are positive, but Entrances to that purpose, are made in sundry places of the Annals; insomuch, that from the Institution of this most Noble Order, it hath not been otherwise used, that we can collect. And it is observable, that anno 26. Eliz. (the Feast of St. George being celebrated at Greenwich) the Earl of Warwick, and Lord Burley (Lord Treasurer of England) fell both ill of the Gout, upon the Feast day, which occasioned their absence at Evening Prayer, whilst the Scrutiny was taken: whereupon we find their i Lib. C. p. 95. indisposition of body, and absence noted in that Scrutiny instead of, and in those peculiar places, where their Nominations should else have been entered, had they been present at the taking thereof. And beside this we meet with an observation made upon the same occasion, by Robert Cook Esquire, than Cl●renceux King of Armest k MS. quart. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 8. That as for those Knights-Companions, who happen to be absent, when the Scrutiny is taken, although this absence be occasioned by accident of sickness, or with the Sovereign's licence, nevertheless, in regard of this their absence, at that very time their Votes may not be received. Those Knights-Companions that come late to the Chapter, lose also the privilege of giving their Votes for that time, which so happened to l Lib. Carolin. p. 44. & 45. Prince Rupert and the Earl of Strafford at the Chapter held for the Election of james Duke of Monmouth in the Privy-Chamber at Whitehall the 29. of March, a. Dom. 1663. Now though none of the absent Knights-Companions can give a Proxy to Vote, or otherwise send their suffrages into the Chapter or Chapel, there to pass in Nomination; yet anciently (about the Reigns of King Henry the Fifth, and King Henry the Sixth) when divers of the Knights-Companions were frequently employed in the Wars of France, and consequently so strictly obliged to their several Commands, that they could not personally attend the celebration of the Feast of St. George at Windesor, it was usual for the Commander there in chief, with consent of those Knights-Companions, to make a formal Certificate or Presentment (but not to pass it by way of Nomination or Vote, for that the Law of the Order did not permit) to the Sovereign of the Order, or his Lieutenant, and Knights-Companions assembled at the Feast, of such persons famous for martial Valour and Virtue, with an account of their notable services and achievements (attested by other persons of honour also) as were at that time, and in that Kingdom, employed in the Sovereign's service, and seemed worthy the honour of Election; to the end that famous and deserving men might be preferred to so noble a Dignity. Which manner of Recordation we having most happily lighted upon, among the Collections made by the great industry of William Dugdale Esquire, now Norroy King of Arms; and esteeming it to carry the just reputation, both of authority, for informing us of this custom, and of antiquity, for the hand of that time, cannot without injury to its due worth omit. My Lord the Duc of Bedford remembrith, as by the Statutes of the Diver of the Gartice, the Election of the Stalls void; be saith in the voice of the Brethren, and of the Fellowship, being at the time at the Fest, in the presence of the Sovereign or his Deputy; It thinkyth to my said Lord, that for his acquital to Knighthood, it fytteth him to give in knowledge to the King, Sovereign of the Ordre, and to his Fellowship of the same Ordre, the great honours of the notable Knights, that from time to time exerciseth, and have exercised in Knighthood, and especially in the service of their Sovereign Lord; and of such notable knights, as my Lord of Bedford, for the time remembreth him of; he hath, by the advyce of them of the fellowship of the Order, being now in France, in the Kings' service, and giving in charge to the said Garter, King of Arms of the Order, to show their ●ames to the King, and to expound part of their Deeds, Acts, and of their worthiness. First, to expose the honour of Sir John Radeclyff, that hath contynowed all the time of the victorious King that last died, whom christ absolve, at the first landing of him at * Ches de Cau●. Quies-de Caux, where the said Radeclyff receyved the order of a Knight, and after continowed the Siege of Hareflew; And after with my Lord of Excester, at the Battle of Vallemont, and of Quies-de Caux. And also sithence the death of the said victorious King, Radeclyff being Seneschal of Guienne, hath brought by his labour in Knyghthood, to his Sovereign Lord's obeisance, within the Duchy of Guienne many dyverse Cities, Towns, and Fortresses. And in especial deserved great and notable merits, at the Siege of the City of | Bazas. Bazates, which Siege was accorded, appointed, and set day of Battle, and of Rescous, the which day was kept and holden, with great power on both sides, and under Banners displayed, the Enemies doubting to fight with Radeclyff, required him of appointment they to depart, under saufe conduit, from the said field, the which saufe conduit he granted them, for the term of eight days, like as they required. The honour and the empruise, rested in the said Radeclyff, and to his high merit; for incontinent followying, was delivered to him, the reddyssion and possession of the said Cytty of Bazates. And also the said Radeclyff was at the Battle of Assincourt, and hath contynowed and exercised the Arms, the space of xxviij. Winter unreprothed. And in the time of his Esquierhood, was at the Battle of Shrewsbury, and at the Journey of Husks, with the Lord Grey at the discomfiture and taking of Owenson. Sir Thomas Ramston. Sir William Oldegall. Sir Rauff Butler. Sir Ro. Harling. Sir Gilbert Halsall. Item, my Lord the Duc of Bedford, beseecheth the King, Sovereign of the Order, to have also for recommendyd to his good grace and highness, other of his Subjects and Servants, now being in his service, in his Realm of France, which hath done, and yet doth take great pain by their knightly labour, daily to serve the merit of worthyness and prowess; as Sir Robert Hungerford, Sir Thomas Beaumont, Sir John Popeham, Sir Nicholas Burdett, Sir Rauff Nevell, Sir Edward Wyver, Sir John Robesart, Sir Tyre Robesart, Sir William Bretton, Sir Thomas Kyngston, Sir Richard Hankford and dyverse other. But lest peradventure it may seem to some, that the Knights-Companions present in Chapter can at their pleasures, Nominate or propose to Election such persons as they think fit, so they be qualified according to the Statutes of the Order; this privilege is to be understood of Knights Subjects only; for in all cases concerning Strangers, the Sovereign doth but permit, and may direct and confine the Knights-Companions to the Nomination of such, as He at any time intends to Elect, which Prerogative we find more particularly asserted in the 31. year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, and third year of King Charles the First. In the first of these instances, the m Pag. 113. Blue Book of the Order recordeth, That at a Chapter held immediately before Vespers on Saint George's day, the Earl of Huntingdon, than Lieutenant for the Sovereign, acquainted the Knights-Companions, That the Sovereign did n Locum-tenens certiores Lacit Commilitones superiorem permittere ipsorum voluntari, quemcunque externum Principem, quen suis suffragiis comprobarent in hunc Ordinem Eligere. Ibid. permit them, or leave it to their pleasure, to choose into the Order whatsoever Foreign Prince they should by their Votes approve of. Hence there may be observed two things, First, that the Knights-Companions have not the privilege and liberty to nominate what Foreign Prince they please, but the same is derivative from the Sovereign, and only by his particular licence or leave, at some times permitted to them. Secondly, if this Paragraph be well weighed (as also that which succeeds) it is most clear from the context, that Nominare ought to be understood here by the word Eligere, and that the power delegated to the Knights-Companions from the Sovereign, was only to Nominate, not Elect. For it immediately follows, o A Capitulo ibant ad Vesperas, dum illae celebrantur, Equites Nuncupationes Votorum ineunt quas Pra●larus Ordinis excepit. ead. pag. That the Knights-Companions went from the Chapter to the second Vespers, and while the Divine Offices were celebrating, the Prelate received their Nominations, and that very Evening the Lieutenant presented them to the Sovereign, for her to consider of: which had been needless, if the Knights-Companions had been impowered by her said Licence, to have made the choice themselves: But the contrary is yet more evident by that which follows, for the next morning, all the Knights-Companions attending the Sovereign in Chapter, she herself made there the Election, not of any Foreign Prince, but of the * Ibid. p. 114. Earl of Sussex, and Lord ●uckhurst. In the other Instance anno 3. Car. 1. the Sovereign in a p Lib. R. p. 33. Chapter, held before Vespers on St. George's day, signified it to be his pleasure (three Stalls being then vacant) that out of Foreign Princes (the q Quorum nominatio ad se solum spectat. Ibid. Nomination of whom (saith the Annals in that very place) belongs only to the Sovereign; that is, the Sovereign has the prerogative to direct the Knights-Companions to Name, or impose upon them the Nomination of such Foreign Princes as he pleaseth) they the Knights-Companions should Choose, which must nevertheless be understood to Nominate, or enter down into the Scrutiny (not Elect) Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, and Henry of Nassau, Prince of Orange: For there a little after, it in like manner appears (when the Scrutiny was presented to the Sovereign) that Himself, not the Knights-Companions, made Election of them. And it is further manifest by the Scrutiny r Lib. R. l●co citato. there inserted, that both these princes were named by every of the Knights-Companions then present, according to the Sovereign's signification (which has been usually done at all other times, upon the like occasions, as may be seen by the Scrutenies entered in the Annals) But concerning the third person then to be Elected, the Sovereign (intending him to be a Knight-Subject) s Lib. R. l●co citato. left it wholly to their pleasure, to Nominate whomsoever they esteemed worthy of their Votes. Since this time, the Nominations in like cases have been sufficiently owned, by the Knights-Companions themselves, to be a Prerogative belonging to the Sovereign: For, to the end they might more readily and fully comply with the observance of this particular; it was moved in a t Ex Autograph penes praef. Ia●. Palmer. Chapter held at Oxford, the second day of March, a. 19 Car. 1. u Ex Autograph penes praef. Ia●. Palmer. That it might become a custom for the Sovereign to de●l●re before hand, whether He would Elect any Foreign Prince, and whom; that so the Knights-Companions might be sure to Name him in the Scrutiny. SECT. VII. Of the Number, Qualifications, and Degrees of the Persons to be Nominated. ANother consideration in our progress towards the act of Election, is touching the Number, Qualifications, and Dignities of the Persons Nominated, which may be best known from another branch of the before mentioned Article of the Statutes, and is to this effect, w E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. That every one of the Knights-Companions present at the Election, should Nominate for himself nine very sufficient Persons, whom he should judge free from all reproach and scandal, whether Subjects to the Sovereign, or Foreigners. Provided they are known not to favour or abet any party at enmity with him: that is to say three Earls, or others of higher degree, three Barons, and three Knights. The things chiefly observable out of this Text, we rank under five heads. First, The Number of Persons Nominated, or to be given in by every Knight-Companion, are to be exactly Nine. Secondly, They ought to be of unblamable Reputation. Thirdly, Either Subjects to the Sovereign, or else Strangers. Fourthly, Such as are known not to be engaged in any party against the Sovereign. Lastly, to be Earls (or of greater dignity) or Barons, or Knights. 1. For the first of these, their Number; every one of the Knights-Companions assembled in Chapter are enjoined to name nine, neither more nor less. So also saith King Henry the Fifth's x Art. 18. Statutes, whereunto are consonant the z Art. 19 Statutes of King Henry the Eighth. And in this particular the Statutes have been hitherto observed (except in one case) as from the Entries of those many Scrutenies, in the Annals of this most Noble Order, is fully evident. As to Numbers, we are taught that great Mysteries lie wrapped up in them, the excellency and dignity whereof, and particularly of this number Nine (which a Poet. l. 1. c. 1. Scaliger calls the most perfect number) are largely celebrated among the Learned, both ancient and modern, which are easy to be met with; wherefore we shall not spend further time to insist upon them. But why our Royal Founder made choice of this Number, to be put in Nomination, above all other, unless he had some reflection on the Nine Worthies (men reported famous for valour and martial exploits, and therefore not unlikely to be at first proposed as Examples to the Knights-Nominators) or otherwise considered it as a trebled threefold Cord, and Symbol of perfect stability and solid amity (for so also is the number Nine accounted to signify) can neither easily nor certainly be resolved. 2. As to the second point; the Injunction in the Statutes of Institution takes order, that the Persons designed for Election, should be free from all reproach, and of untainted reputation; and according to those of King Henry the Fifth, are to be b Art. 18. the best and most sufficient Knights, and freest from reproach, that the Nominators know. To the same purpose speaks the Exemplar entered in the Black Book, c Art. 17. Such as are fittest, and whom they who Nominate believe to be free from ignominy and dishonour. And to this Act of Nomination belongs part of the second Article in Henry the Eighth's Statutes, d Lib. N. p. 215. That no Knight-Companion should name any Person whom he thinks or esteems in his Conscience, to have upon him any spot of Reproach: But on the contrary in another place of the same Statutes, it is provided, that they be nominated and proposed, e Art. 19 out of the number of the most worthy and select Knights. How tender the Knights-Companions were in ancient time of infringing the Statutes in this particular, is manifest from a notable passage, which fell out f Lib. N. p. 121. an. 39 H. 6. at a Scrutiny taken the 8. of February, in the Bishop of London's Palace; where john de Foix Earl of g Lib. N. p. 121. Kendal, a Gascoigner by birth, (which makes the Example more eminent, where a Stranger became so tender of the honour of the Order) not being acquainted with the h Lib. N. p. 121. quality and merit of Knights and honourable Persons among us, so well and sufficiently, as to name such whom he was confident were irréprehensible, and without blemish, forbore to i Lib. N. p. 121. nominate any person at all. And certainly, seeing the Statutes put very considerable qualifications upon the Deputies and Proxies made choice of for the Installation of Strangers (as shall be discoursed of in its proper k Cap. 16. Sect. 2. place) much more caution and regard ought to be used and had, both in the Nomination and Election of Knights, into this so Illustrious Society. 3. Touching the third point; the Statutes make indifferently capable of being Nominated or Elected, either Knights-Subjects, or Strangers, [Free Princess or their Subjects] and it was so even at the Institution, upon the first choice; where among the 25 Elected Knights, 23 of them were Subjects (among whom we reckon Piers Capdall de la Buche) but Sir S●nc●io dabric●●●●rt▪ and Sir Henry Eme were both born Strangers, and Subjects to other Princes. And thus was it practised, not only in the remaining part of the Founder's Reign, and during the Reigns of three of his Successors, as appears in the Catalogue of Knights elected in their times; but also ever since, as is more particularly and fully evident, from the Scrutenies taken and entered throughout the Annals of the Order. Of those who were admitted into this Noble Order by Election, we shall in the last Chapter give an account in a complete Catalogue of them: Here we think it sufficient, to insert the Names of such, as having not been Elected, are not to be forgotten, out of this very respect, that by their standing Candidates in Elections into this Order, have the fame of being mentioned in the principal Register of Honour now in the Christian world: Giving a List, not of all (for that were too numerous) but only those of eminent quality in Foreign parts, with the time when the Scrutenies were taken, that transmitted them to our hands. A Catalogue of some Strangers, who have been Nominated yet not Elected. Franciscus Sforza dux Mediol●ni— 28. H. 6. Franciscus secundus dux Britanniae— 13.14.15.22 E. 4. Henricus quartus Rex Legionis & Castillae. 14. E. 4. Mathias Corvinus Rex Hungariae— 19.22 E. 4. Fredericus s●cundus Dux Austriae— 22. E. 4. & 1. R. 3. Philippus quartus Dux Burgundiae— 14. H. 7. Franciscus Maria Dux Vrbini— 1.2 H. 8. Vladislaus Secundus Rex Hungariae— 1.2.6.8 H. 8. Christianus secundus Rex D●niae— 6.8 H. 8. Dux Barrye.— 8. H. 8. Comes Galaciae— 8. H. 8. Alphonsus Dux Ferrariae— 13.15 H. 8. Lodovicus secundus Rex Hungariae— 13.14.15 H. 8. Maximilianus Sforza Dux Mediolani— 14.15.16 H. 8. Marchio Piscarae— 17. H. 8. johannes tertius Rex Portugalliae— 17.18.26.28 H. 8. — Marchio Mantuae— 18. H. 8. Carolus Burbonus Dux Vandosme— 24. H. 8. Guilielmus Dux Clivensis— 32. H. 8. — Dux Bavariae— 32. H. 8. Dux Alvae— 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. Dux Medinae Coeli— 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. Comes Fereae— 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. Franciscus secundus Rex Galliae— 1. Elizab. Franciscus tertius Comes Palatinus— 10.11.12.13.16.17 Eliz. Augustus Dux Saxoniae— 11. Eliz. Alphonsus secundus Dux Ferrariae— 13. Eliz. — Dux Andegavensis— 13.22.23.24 Eliz. Rambrith de Walsey— 25. H. 6. johannes de Voynada— 25. H. 6. Dominus Grabazenby— 24. H. 8. Dominus Humers— 24. H. 8. Dominus johannes Mounte— 24. H. 8. Dominus Harmibolt— 24. H. 8. Dominus Boysy— 24. H. 8. 4. In the fourth place, they are not in a capacity of Nomination, who are known to have taken contrary part against the Sovereign; or as the Exemplar entered in the Black Book more largely than any of the Statutes express, Art. 17. such as are not his Adversaries, or Abettors or willing defenders of his Adversaries. But concerning such, we no where observe they had room in the Scrutenies, all Knights-Companions having been more wary and discreet, than by Nominating a known or public Enemy, to put either disrespect upon the Sovereign, or offer violation to the Statutes. 5. In the fifth and last place, concerning the Degree, Rank, and Dignity of the Nine Knights propounded to Election; the Statutes of Institution appoint, That they be, first three Earls, or persons of greater dignity, secondly, three Barons, and thirdly, three Knights; or as it is in Henry the Fifth's Statutes, m Art. 18. trois Contes, ou de greigneur estate, trois Banerets, & trois Bachelors. These Degrees are to be ranked in three Classes, and they distinguished by three Divisions, all comprehending the three Degrees aforesaid. As touching the first of these Divisions; whereas all other Bodies and Exemplars of the Statutes make positive mention of Earls only (taking in nevertheless the higher Degrees though not named) the Statutes of Henry the Eighth express themselves in this point somewhat more amply than the rest, by mentioning in the first Class, n Art. 19 Dukes, Marquesses, and Earls, or persons superior to these in Degree, wherein the highest Dignities are included. In this place we may properly observe, the different Title (viz. Baneret) that Henry the Fifth's Statutes (but now mentioned) hath given us, instead of Baron; and not only in this Article, but in all o Art. 21.22. other, where there is occasion to speak of Barons; nevertheless the Record intends by it, to signify no other than the very same Degree, namely a Baron. For albeit a Baneret, who had his name p 2. part Institut. f. 667. a Vexillo, from the Banner, was usually taken to signify a Degree of Honour next beneath that of Baron, both heretofore and in later times (as may be collected from that famous q Pat. 10. jac. pars 10. m. 8. establishment made on the behalf of the younger sons of Viscounts and Barons) yet formerly among our Records it is found to be a Synonimy to Baron, and so clearly made out by our most learned r Title of Honour, p. 736.737 Selden, and is to be so taken here; and not as a distinct Title of a lower Degree, because also we observe the Banerets ranked in all Scrutenies before King Henry the Eighth established his Statutes (except s An 14. H. 7. vide Lib. N. p. 172. & 173. one) with the Knights-Batchelors not with Barons. Besides this, something further may be said concerning the Title of the third and lowest rank in this Classis; for in the Statutes of Institution they are called w Art. 18. Milites Bachalauri, in those of King Henry the Fifth x Art. 18. Bachelors, and elsewhere y Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 17. Bachalauri, and z H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 Bachalauri Equites, which in common acceptation are all the same with Milites; though thus rendered to express and manifest their difference from Knights Banerets, who are of a higher Degree of Honor. And here we have an occasion given to note, That there is no place in a Scrutiny for any under the degree of Knights Bachelors. And though h Ord. Stat. in Bibl. Hatton Art 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 three of the Nine named are appointed to be Barons, and three other Earls, or of a higher Degree, yet must these six be such as have received the Order of Knighthood, else ought not their names be either given or taken in Nomination; for the Text is plain, That each of the Knights assembled at the Election shall name nine i Ord. Stat. in Bibl. Hatton Art 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 Knights. Thus his late Majesty of blessed memory, in the sixth year of his Reign, intending to choose james Marquis Hamilton into the Society of this Order, conferred the honour of k Lib. R. p. 59 Knighthood upon him immediately before his Nomination; and the Annals in that place give this Remark upon the Action, and the reason for it, l Ibid. Because by the Statutes it is provided, That none should be Elected into the Order, that have not been dignified with the title of Knight. Yet it seems the Ceremony of Knighting the person designed for Election, was not so strictly and duly observed as it ought, but that sometimes this branch of the Statute was either not taken notice of, or else confounded with the second Article, throughout the several Bodies of the Statutes, which prohibits the Choice or ●lection of any person into the Society (of which we shall speak by and by) as this doth the Proposal or Nomination; and thereupon perhaps it was conceived, that although the Nomination, Election, and sometimes delivery of the Ensigns of the Order, were first dispatched and passed, yet it was well enough if the honour of Knighthood were conferred afterward. As it was in the case of William Earl of Derby, and Thomas Cecil Lord Burleigh, anno 43. Eliz. where the Register notes, m Lib. C. p. 144. that as soon as their Election was past, and they brought into the Chapter, the Earl of Derby (who it seems had not been Knighted before) was dubbed Knight, with a drawn Sword, according to Custom, after which they had the Garter and George put on by the Sovereign herself. In like manner n Pag. 159. Vlrick Duke of Holstein, and Henry Earl of Northampton, immediately after their Election (being the last day of St. George's Feast, an. 3. jac.) and before they received the Ensigns of the Order, had the dignity of Knighthood conferred on them by the Sovereign. So also in the case of the Earl of Suffolk, a. 3. Car. 1. which the Red Book of the Order taking notice of, saith, o Pag. 35. that as soon as it was understood, that the Earl had not received the Order of Knighthood before, the Sovereign immediately drawing his Sword Knighted him; which was not done till after his p Pag. 35. Election, and Investiture with both the George and Garter. Thus also did the Ceremony of Knighthood succeed the ●lection of his sacred Majesty the present Sovereign, the 21. of May, an. 14. Car. 1. For q Palmer's large journal. p. 9 after he had been Elected, and the Ensigns of the Order placed upon him, and that the two signior Knights (the Earls of Penbroke and Montgomery, and of Arundel and Surrey) were entreated by the rest of the Knights-Companions, to present his Highness to the Sovereign in the name of all the rest, to be initiated into the Title and Dignity of a Knight-Batchelor, he was conducted by the said Earls (his Supporters) into the Presence Chamber in Windesor Castle, where before the Chair of State, he most solemnly r Palmer's large journal. p. 9 received the Order of Knighthood from the Sovereign his late Majesty of blessed memory. To s Lib. R. p. 143. honour which Knighthood, and the memory thereof, four of the chief Nobility then present were also Knighted, namely, the Earls of essex, Saint Alban, and Elgin, and Viscount Grandison; the first of them being conducted from the great Chamber to the Sovereign's State, between two Bachelor Knights, Sir Frederick Hamilton, and Sir Robert Huniwood; the second by Sir Roger Palmer Knight of the Bath, and Sir Henry Mildmay; the third by Sir john Meldram and Sir William Withrington; and the fourth by Sir john Harpur and Sir john Lucas. Afterwards the Law in this point began again to be more rightly understood, and by that time his Royal Highness the Duke of York, came to be Elected (which was on the t Palmer's large jour. p. 42. 20. of April, an. 18. Car. 1. being the last day of the Feast of Saint George, then celebrated at the City of York) the Sovereign appointed and accordingly conferred the honour of Knighthood upon him, the u Palmer's large jour. p. 42. day before, which he received upon his knees; being first conducted into the Pres●●e Chamber, between two of the Nobility, who were also Knights, namely, the w Ibid. p. 39 Marquis of Hertford, and Viscount Grandison: In honour and memorial whereof, there were also four Noblemen Knighted at that time, the x Ibid. p. 39 Earl of Carnarvan, supported by Sir William Killigrew and young Sir Arthur Ingram; the Lord George d' Aubigne, sapported by Sir William Howard and Sir Peter Wyche; the Lord john Stewart, by Sir Peter Killigrew and Sir Capell Bedell; and the Lord Bernard Stewart by Sir Edward Savage and Sir He●ry blunt. And thus y Ex Collect an. E. W. G. Prince Edward Count Palatine of the Rhine, and George Duke of buckingham, z Ex Collect an. E.W.G. being designed by the present Sovereign to be admitted into this most Noble Order, were both first Knighted at Saint Germans in France, an. Dom. 1649. and afterwards had the a Ex Collect an. E. W. G. Ensigns of the Order sent unto them by the hands of Sir Edward Walker Garter, who, in right of his Office, invested them therewith. Nevertheless in the case of his Highness' Prince Kupert, who had the honour to be Elected, with his Royal Highness the Duke of York, a. 18. Car. 1. His want of Knighthood became no impediment thereunto, being then a Prince in another Country, viz. Count Palatine of the Rhine and Duke of Bavaria, and might therefore justly claim the privilege, to come within the rule of Foreign Princes, mentioned a little lower. But herein also the Sovereign, to come as near to the intention and observance of the Statute as he could (where there was a possibility to do it, and the honour also would be well accepted by the Prince) thought it requisite by Commission, under the great Seal of England, to empower b Palmer's large journal. p. 45. Thomas Earl of Arundel and Surrey, and George Lord Goring (late Earl of Norwich) both being then in Holland, or either of them, to c Palmer's large journal. p. 45. Knight the said Prince, d Palmer's large journal. p. 45. before the putting on his Garter (seeing it could not possibly be done before his Election) which was intended to be sent and presented unto him, by the hands of Sir john Burrough Garter; but his * Pag. 48. & 53. death after happening, the Sovereign's intention herein was frustrated. Albeit the Prince upon his coming afterwards into England, received both the Garter and George from the Sovereign himself at e Pag. 33. Nottingham, nevertheless without being Knighted, which to excuse it may well be alleged, that the Sovereign might not take into his thoughts this part of the Ceremony, it being a time of so greas business and trouble, occasioned by the then setting up of his Standard. However, upon the f Id. p. 62. 17, day of january, an. 1644. when a Decree passed in Chapter, then held at Oxford, that both the Duke of York and the Prince should enjoy all g Id. p. 65. Rights and Privileges of the Order, though they were not hitherto Installed (until Windesor was free from the Enemy, but then to perform the Ceremonies of Installation there) the Prince, h Id. p. 65. before he took his Oath, was conducted by the Earl of Berkshire, and Duke of Richmond and Lenox (two of the Knights-Companions) unto the Sovereign, and kneeling down received the honour of i Id. p. 65 Knighthood from him. There being at the same time, k Id. p. 65 two of the Nobility likewise Knighted in memorial of that Solemnity; namely, the Lord Henry Seymour, second Son to the Marquis of Hertford, brought up to the Sovereign between Sir john Stawell Knight and Baronet, and Sir Francis Lloyd Knights; and the Lord Capell conducted between Sir Richard Willis and Sir Thomas Corbet Knights. SECT. VIII. Of the Scrutiny, and by whom it ought to be taken. ALL this being premised, we are led directly to the Scrutiny itself, in reference to which we shall first consider by Whom it ought or hath been usually taken, next the time when, and then the manner and form thereof. By the Statutes of Institution the collecting Knights-Companions Votes, and entering them in the Scrutiny, properly belongs to the p E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18 Prelate of the Order, and upon him is this employment conferred, not only by the other q H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 Bodies of Statutes that succeeded, but also by the r Lib. N p. 232. Constitutions of his Office, and the obligation of his * Ib. p. 313. Oath; whose right thereunto we find afterwards duly s Wintoniensis Antistes Ordinis Praelatus cujus illud erat Officium, summa cum reverentia and soliram Equitu● nomenclaturam procedit. etc. lib. C. p. 100 asserted, upon this Officers taking a Scrutiny, anno 27. Eliz. on the Feast day of St. George. Nevertheless the Statutes provided, that if the Prelate were at any time absent, than the t E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. Dean of Windesor, or the u E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. Register, or the w E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. Signior Residentiary of the College, or the x Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 17. Secretary or Scribe of the Order, should undertake the employment; and the Constitutions of the Officers say, the * Lib. N. p. 232. Chancellor, Dean, or Register shall in like case do it; which when they did, it is frequently mentioned to be performed by them, y Lib. N p. 77. & 89. in absence of the Prelate, as implying a reservation of his right to the employment; or as in another place more expressly, z In absentia Prelati cujus Ordinarium alioquin id erat Officium. Idem p. 84. In the absence of the Prelate, whose particular duty otherwise it had been. Now there are various Examples of all these, given us in the Annals of the Order, but among the many, take these that follow, and first of the Prelate. The Prelate of the Order gathered and received the Suffrages from the Knights-Companions, a Lib. N. p. 64. anno 9 H. 5. when john Earl Marshal, and four other Knights were Elected. The like did Henry Beaufort Lord Cardinal, Prelate of the Order, upon the Election of the King of Portugal, b Id. p. 91. an. 13. H. 6. And when the Duke of Norfolk was Elected, c Pag. 105. an. 28. H. 6. the Prelate then also collected the Suffrages; which he likewise did, upon the Feast days of St. George, celebrated in the d Lib C. p. ●●. 12. e Idem. p. 62. 13. f Pa●. 64. 14. g Pag. 100 27. h Pag. 103. 28. i Pag. 108. 30. k Pag. 113. 31. l Pag. 119. 34. and m Pag. 128. 35. years of Queen Elizabeth's Reign. Sometimes the Scrutenies have been collected, both by the Dean of Windesor and the Register of the Order jointly; as at the Elections of n Lib. N. p 77. john Lord Talbot a. 2. H. 6. of o Pag. 81. & Regist. Chartac. f. 13. b. Sir john Fastolf, a. 6. H. 6. and the Duke of p Conimbero. Quinbery, an. q Lib. N. p. 84. 5. H. 6. all taken at the Feasts of St. George celebrated at Windesor. And peradventure the Dean, at those times, received the Votes from the Knights-Companions on the Sovereign's side, while the Register collected those other on the Prince's; for we observe, that in King Henry the Fifth's Reign, in employments of other natures (but of like manner as to the performance) one whereof was, to signify the pleasure of the Sovereign to the Knights-Companions, about their giving due Reverence, first to God, and afterwards to Himself; and the other in a Ceremonial, which directs and appoints the manner and order of r Regist Chartac. f. 9 b. Censing the Knights-Companions; in both which, the Dean was sent to perform the service on the s Lib. N. p. 65. right hand the Choir [the Sovereign's side] and the Register, on the t Lib. N. p. 65. left. Sometimes the Register of the Order took them himself alone, as at the Election of u Ib. p. 89. john Earl of Arundel, an. 10. H. 6. as also at another Election of the w Pag. 92. Earl of Monteyne and Sir john Grey, a. 14. H. 6. And we likewise find, that when the Office of Register was void, and Thomas Ruthall Bishop of Duresme, executed it during its vacancy, the Bishop himself x Pag. 199. an. 2. H. 8. collected the Suffrages. In like manner, when William Day Dean of Windesor, officiated in the absence of George Carew Dean of the Chapel and Register of the Order, at the Feasts of Saint George held at Whitehall the y Lib. C. p. 73. 18. and z MS. penes ●. O. ●. p. 113. 19 years of Queen Elizabeth, he performed this service. This duty was likewise performed by the Register, from the 15. year of King Henry the Eighth, to the end of his and his Sons Reign, as appears by the Black Book of the Order, in those places, where the taking of Scrutenies is treated of, as also on the day of St. George, celebrated the first of Queen Elizabeth by a Lib. C p. 29. john Boxhall, and again at the Feast of St. George held, an. 1. jac. by b Pag. 150. G●le● Thompson, who in the several times were Registers of this most Noble Order. Nevertheless here it must be understood, that what was in these Instances done by the Register or such as officiated for him, was on the behalf of the Prelate, and not otherwise. But in the * Pag. 7. beginning of Queen Mary's Reign we find the Chancellor of the Order began to perform this service, being by | Art. 19 King Henry the Eight's Statutes, adjoined to those other Officers, before appointed to collect the Scrutenies, In absence of the Prelate, and thereby made capable of the employment; which afterwards we observe somewhat tacitly noted to be performed, as if in his own right, when the Register hath done it, in the Chancellor's absence. Though in truth it was no other, then as when the Bishop of Duresme, and Doctor Day (immediately before remembered) took the Scrutiny in the vacancy of the Office, and absence of the Register, nevertheless on the behalf of the Prelate. For instance, an. 4. Eliz. the Register in the c MS. penes W. Le. N. Cl. absence of the Chancellor (who was sick) upon the Feast day of St. George collected the Suffrages; and an. 8. ●liz. George Carew then Register of the Order, took the Votes of the Knights-Compaions, d Lib. C. p. ● t. in absence of Sir William Petre Chancellor of the Order. So also anno e Pag. 161. jacobi 4. where the cause of the Chancellor's absence is noted to be f MS. penes Guil. Dugdale Ar. modo Norroy Reg. Armour. sickness, and an. 6. jac. to be g Lib. C. p. 166. death. In the first of these Instances we find the Prelate expressly mentioned to be present; in the two following his presence employed, for it is said, that the h Ex cod. MS. pen. Guilford▪ Dugda●e. four Officers of the Order did attend both Feasts, whereof (the Chancellor being wanting) the Prelate must needs be one. Now all these passages seem to relate to the Chancellor's, rather than the Prelate's right, by this Remark; That every of the Scrutenies were taken in the absence of the Chancellor, which looks something like a cautionary note, that intended the preservation of the right of performing this service to the Chancellor, rather than the Prelate. Furthermore, when a Deputy Chancellor hath been admitted to officiate in the Chancellor's absence, he and not the Prelate hath taken the Scrutiny, though present; as at that made for the Election of his sacred Majesty the present Sovereign, the i Palmer's large journal. p. 18. 20 day of May, an. 14. Car. 1. and at another Scrutiny taken the k Palmer's large journal. p. 1●. 22. of May following. As also when the Suffrages were collected, for the Election of his Highness the l Ibid. p. 40. Duke of York, and Prince Rupert, at York anno 17. Car. 1. But there is one passage more (upon taking a Scrutiny, an. jac. 22.) which seems advantageous to the Chancellor in this point, where it is said, m Suffragia quum dedissent praenomin●ti militi●s, & ca supremo detulisse●, Cancellarius, qui eis ex officio excipiendis incumbeba●, Supremus etc. lib. R. p. 23. That when the Knights-Companions had given their Votes (as in the Annals they are described) the Chancellor who, according to his Office, was to receive them, presented them to the Sovereign. Howbeit in truth, we find no sufficient ground for the Register to record this as done by the Chancellor, by virtue of his Office, or any one Act or Decree of Chapter that hath suspended or taken off the Prelate's right, which is reserved to the Prelate, even by the * Pat. 15. E. 4. par. 3. m. 18. Patent for erecting the Office of Chancellor, particularly in those things, which touching the Order, aught by the Statutes of the Institution to belong to him. But forasmuch as at the usual time of performing this Ceremony in the Chapel, the Prelate (if present) is presumed to be officiating at the Altar, in discharge of another part of his Duty: Upon this consideration hath the service been then imposed upon the Chancellor and others. Lastly, we have observed the Scrutiny to be once taken by n Palmer's large journal. p. 27. Garter, a. 16. Car. 1. at the Election of the renowned Thomas Earl of Strafford; but this was at a time when not only the Prelate, but all the other Officers of the Order, excepting Sir john Burrough Garter, were absent; and consequently this Service being so performed by him, ought rather be judged (from what hath been said) to have been done in the Prelate's, than Chancellor's right. SECT. IX. The Time when. BUT whosoever of the Officers of the Order they were that gathered the Knights-Companions Suffrages, the time when they entered upon this duty (in the intervals of Feasts, where the occasion required a peculiar Chapter to be called for Election) was usually after the Chapter had been opened, and the matter of Election proposed by the Sovereign; after which (to the execution of this accustomed employment) the Officer usually proceeded with great Reverence and all possible Respect. Howbeit upon an extraordinary occasion (in the interval of the Grand Feasts) the Sovereign hath sometimes, caused and assembly of the Knights-Companions to be had at the Castle of Windesor, who in the Choir of St. George's Chapel (not Chapterhouse) after the more solemn way, have delivered in their Nominations, and returning thence into the Chapterhouse, He there hath made his Election. Thus did King Henry the Eighth, upon the o Lib. N. p. 288. 7. of june in the 17. year of his Reign in reference to the Election of the p Ibid. p. 249. Lord Henry Fitz Roy (so is he styled in the Scrutiny, and there ranked among the Barons) for as yet he was not created Duke of Somerset and Richmond, nor until the q Pat. de an. 17. H. 8. pars 1. 18. day of the same Month) and Ralph Nevil Earl of Westmoreland; the Ceremony of whose Nominations having been performed in the r Lib. N. p. 249. Choir, the Sovereign returned into the Chapterhouse where the Election passed. Again we observe, that the s Lib. R. p. 139. 20. of May an. 14. Car. 1. being Trinity Sunday, the Sovereign caused a Chapter to be held that afternoon in the Chapterhouse at Windesor, in reference also to the Nomination and Election of his Sacred Majesty, the present Sovereign; at the breaking up whereof, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions proceeded immediately to Saint George's Chapel, where at t Palmer's large journal. p. 5. Evening Prayer (which was not within the compass of the Fe●st, for that began not until the next day) the Scrutiny was taken. And besides those Examples, which show the Nominations have been collected (upon peculiar occasions) in the Choir at Windesor, there are also one or two Instances, where it appears they have been also taken in the Chapel at Whit●hall, as on the u Lib. R. p. 2●. 15. of May, an. 1. Car. 1. at the Election of Edward Earl of Dors●t, Henry Earl of Holland, and Thomas Viscount Andever (afterwards Earl of Berkshire) as also on the w Lib. R. p. 2●. 4. of july the same year, whereat the Duke of Chevereux was chosen one of the Companions of this most Noble Order. Otherwise, and that most usually, the Suffrages have been collected at the second Vespers, or in the time of Evening Prayer, on St. George's day, or that day whereon the Feast of St. George hath been celebrated by Prorogation. And with this note of time do we find the taking of divers Scrutenies marked. Howbeit, we once have met with a scrutiny, made in the Chapterhouse at Windesor, on the x Lib. R. p. ●9. Eve of the Grand Feast, at which the Person immediately Elected was sent for in, and had the y Id. p. 61. Ensigns of the Order placed upon him: when forthwith the Sovereign proceeded to the Chapel, and after some space the Elect Knight followed to his z Id. p. 61. Installation. And this was the case of james Marques Hamilton, an. 6. Car. 1. who being necessitated to begin his Voyage the next morning towards Germany (whither he went General of 6000 Foot, in assistance of the King of Sweden) occasioned the Sovereign to dispatch these Ceremonies on the Eve of the Feast. Formerly the time wherein the Scrutiny was begun to be taken in the Chapel may be noted to have been spoken of somewhat general and indefinite, as in the a Cellesian. W. le N Cl. 2. b MS. fol. illness eund. W. le N. ●l. 3 c MS. fol. illness eund. W. le N. ●l. 4 d MS. penes c. praef. W. D. N. 5. e MS. penes praef. W. D. N. 8. and f MS. penes praef. W. D. N. 9 years of Queen Elizabeth, during the time of Evening Prayer. And so in like manner, an. g Lib. C. p. 160. 4. jac. and an. h Lib R. p. 30. 13. Car. 1. And when the Feast of St. George was held at Whitehall upon the 18. of April, an. 13. Car. 1. the Annals say, i Lib. R. p. 122. That the Sovereign recreated himself with the melody of Evensong, during which, the Chancellor collected the Votes of the Knights-Companions. But in some other places, the time of this Action, is delivered more limited to a precise time, or some particular part of Evening Prayer. As an. 26. and 27. Eliz. k Lib. C. p. 94. Whilst the Choir sung the service. And the like, a. l Ib. p. 18 s. 14. jac. but an. 4. Car. 1. while the Anthem was sung, after the second Less●n, m Lib. R. p. 44. but more frequently after the first Lesson, as in the 2. and 9 years of King Charles the First, n lb. p. 33. while the Anthem was singing, or during the Anthem of the blessed Virgin, called the Magnificat; and which is all one with than an. 14. Car. 1. viz. p Palmer's large journal. p. 25. assion as the first Lesson was read, or q Palmer's journal pro an. 1638. p. 23. at the first Lesson, which is there remembered to be, the r Palmer's journal pro an. 1638. p. 23. usual part of the service, in which the Nomination ought to begin. SECT. X. The Manner and Order of it. AFter what manner the Knights-Companions Votes ought to be collected, when the Scrutiny is taken in the Choir, if we have recourse to the celebration of Saint George's day at Greenwich, an. 28. H. 8. entered into the Black Book of the Order, we shall be informed from the then Register, f Pag. 269. That he used his diligence in going to and fro, from one side to the other, to demand and redemand the Suffrages, from the Knight's Companions, according to the variety and order of their Stalls, which like course and proceeding we find recorded, in eisdem terminis, to have been observed by the Chancellor, anno t Lib. C. p. 88 24 Eliz. And without question was generally thus performed at other times; for in other places of the Annals, it is mentioned to be done u lb. p. 42. the more, after the usual manner, as a. 5. Eliz. or w Pag. 94. juxta Ordinis Constitutiones, according to the Ordinances and Decrees of the Order, as anno 26. Eliz. That the Officer who collects the Nominations, aught to begin at the youngest Knight-Companion, and so proceed upward towards the eldest, doth plainly appear from the order mentioned to be used in the x Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. 2. and the y MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 114. 20. years of Queen Elizabeth, as also an. z Palmer's journal pro anno 1639. p. 23. 15. Car. 1. But to give the Reader a more particular account of this Ceremony, with its circumstances, as it was performed in his late Majesty's Reign of blessed memory, and doubtless long before, though it hath not been our good hap to meet therewith in scriptis, it was as followeth. a Ex relation. Chr. Wren. nuper Regist. hujus Ordin. & Dan. Stokes nuper unius Praeb. Reg. Cap. S. G●or. Windesor. First the Officer arose, and went into the middle of the Choir, directly over against his own Seat, where he made two Reverences, first towards the high Altar, and next to the Sovereign: thence he proceeded up the Choir, near the halt pace, against the Stall of the junior Knight-Companion, and there made like Reverences: This done, he went up to the Stall of the said junior Knight, and with a single Reverence to him only, demanded whom he pleased to Nominate, which having taken (making to him a second Reverence) he descended into the Choir, and thence passed to the next signior Knight on the other side (unless by reason of the vacancy of that Stall he sat on the same side with the junior) and received his Nominations. b Ex relation. Chr. Wren. nuper Regist. hujus Ordin. & Dan. Stokes nuper unius Praeb. Reg. Cap. S. G●or. Windesor. From the second Knight-Companion he again crossed the Choir to the third, and in like manner he ascended, according to the seniority of the Knight-Companions present (always crossing the Choir where there was occasion) until he arrived at the signior Knight-Companion; and having thus received all their Nominations, he returned into the middle of the Choir, and after usual and accustomed Reverences, took his Seat. This method and order of collecting the Votes, as to the general, and in the Choir, ought likewise to be observed, when they are taken from the Knights-Companions in Chapter, they being ranked in due order, on each side the Table, according to the seniority of their Elections, and position of Stalls in the Choir, the Officer who gathers them beginning with the junior, and thence orderly ascending to the Signior Knight-Companion; concerning which more need not be said, than is before delivered. And that it may be understood in what form every Knight-Companion ranketh the Names of those Persons he proposeth, and how each Classis is distinguished and divided, the following Scrutiny will fully enough declare, it being taken the 12. day of May, an. 13. H. 6. upon the vacancy of one Stall, happening by the death of Sir Heer Tanke Clux a Germane by birth, and is the first Scrutiny we find marshaled among the Annals of this most Noble Order. Nominabant Principes. Barones. Equites. Dux Exoniae Ducem Norfolciae Dominum Lovel Dominum Tho. Stanley Dux Exoniae Ducem Warwici Dominum Audley Dominum joh. Holland Dux Exoniae Comitem Oxoniae Dominum Dudley Dominum joh. Steward Marchio Suffolciae Ducem Norfolciae Dominum Lovel Dominum jacobum Fenys Marchio Suffolciae Comitem Devoniae Dominum Audley Dominum Ric. Woodvyle. Marchio Suffolciae Comitem Oxoniae Dominum Foix Dominum Andream Ogard Comes Salopiae Ducem Warwici Dominum Audley Dominum Rogerum Fenys Comes Salopiae Ducem Norfolciae Dominum Dudley Dominum Thomans Stanley Comes Salopiae Comitem Oxoniae Dominum Foix Dominum Thomam Kiriell Dominus Sudeley Ducem Norfolciae Dominum Foix Dominum Rogerum Fenys Dominus Sudeley Ducem Warwici Dominum Lovel Dominum jacobum Fenys Dominus Sudeley Comitem Devoniae Dominum Audley Dominum Gulielm. Bonevile Dominus Willoughby Ducem Warwici Dominum Wells Dominum Thomam Kiriell Dominus Willoughby Ducem Norfolciae Dominum Lovel Dominum Io. Montgomery Dominus Willoughby Comitem Oxoniae Dominum Laware Dominum Rob. Shotesbroke Dominus Scales Ducem Warwici Dominum Foix Dom. Edm. Hungerford. Dominus Scales Comitem Oxoniae Dominum Clyfford Dom. Guliel. Beauchamp Dominus Scales Comitem Devoniae Dominum Laware Dom. Andream Ogard Dominus Johannes Fastolph Ducem Norfolciae Dominum Bowser Dominum Ro. Hungerford Dominus Johannes Fastolph Ducem Warwici Dominum Audley Dominum Rob. Roos Dominus Johannes Fastolph Comitem Oxoniae Dom. Grey ruffian Dom. Andream Ogard Dominus Johannes Beauchamp Ducem Warwici Dominum Foix Dominum Rogerum Fenys Dominus Johannes Beauchamp Comitem Devoniae Dominum Lovel Dominum jacobum Fenys Dominus Johannes Beauchamp Comitem Oxoniae Dominum Audley Dominum Robertum Roos Here may be observed, how each Knight-Companion hath his own Name prefixed to those Persons for whom he gives his Vote, to the end it may be known and remembered by whom the Knights-Candidates are Nominated, and these are ranked in three several Divisions. The first contains the Degrees of Earls, Marquesses, Dukes, Princes, Kings, and Emperors; howbeit at a Scrutiny taken an. 24 H. 6. in a Chapter held at Brainford, c Lib. N. p. 98. Albro Vasques Dalmadea (who immediately following is styled Comes Averentiae) is by mistake ranked but in the second division, among the Barons, and twice among the Knights, in the Votes of the Marquis of Suffolk, and Earl of Shrewsbury: but this Error peradventure arose for want of due information either of the Law in the Statutes, or his Degree; the later of which is more probably true, for being a Stranger, his Title of Earl might not be so generally known; nor is it taken notice of in the Scrutiny itself, though in the Annals immediately after. And which is more apparent, the Earl of Oxford, Devonshire, and Arundel (whose degrees were sufficiently known) at a Scrutiny taken an. e Lib. N. p. 98. 24. H. 6. are once ranked in the second division among the Barons, and an. f Pag. 197.198. 1. H. 8. the Earl of Derby is three times so placed, and again an. g Pag. 211. 13. H. 6. the Earl of Devonshire twice. But this happened not through any oversight, or neglect in observation of the Statutes in this particular, but because at these Nominations, wherein they are so placed, the first division (to which they belonged) happened to be filled up with those other higher degrees, appertaining to the same Classis, that is to say, Kings or Dukes; as when the before mentioned Earls of Oxford, Devonshire, and Arundel, were named in the place of Barons, the King of Portugal, the Dukes of Warwick and Norfolk, were set down in the place of Princes; and so it fell out in like manner in the other instances. On the contrary an. 15. and 16. E. 4. the Lord Richard Grey one of the Queen's Sons by her former Husband Sir john Grey of Groby Knight, in respect of his alliance to the Royal Family, is ranked in the first Division among the h Lib. N. p. 138 140. Princes, under this Title Dominus Richardus filius Reginae, and afterwards, an. 19 of the same King, set only among the i Ib. p. 144. 14● 148.149. Barons, as well with the former Title, as this, Ricardus Dominus Grey. But in the 22. of the same King, he is thrice registered among the Princes, and as often with the Barons; whence we see, that sometimes the place among Princes may be afforded of courtesy to Persons of most eminent Relation, but then again as it is not their due, so such of the Knights-Companions as rank them lower, pass no diminution on their honour. Within the second Division are placed Barons and Viscounts; for Viscounts were in all Scrutenies, after the first Erection of that Dignity, ranked with k Lib. N. p. 99.104.110.244▪ & Lib. C. p. 17▪ 47.51.55.57▪ 59.60.62. ●●▪ Barons, until the l Lib. C. p. 157. 3. of King james (saving only m Lib. N. p. 289 john Dudley Viscount Lisle, an. 35. H. 8. who by every Knight, the Duke of Norfolk excepted, is ranked in the first Division with the Princes) and in a Scrutiny then taken, Robert Cecil Viscount Cranborne is the second Viscount that we observe to have been ranked with Princes, from whence it became usual so to do, in succeeding Scrutenies, until an. n Palmer's large journal. p. 21. 14. Car. 1. and then upon a question put in Chapter (held at Westminster the o Palmer's large journal. p. 21. 23. Maii anno praedicto, whether Earls Sons and Viscounts were eligible with Barons; it was resolved they were, and that by all practice (except in the two cases now mentioned) it was usually done, and it seems so again observed near that time, for in p Ex eod. journal. p. 5. & 18. two Scrutenies taken the 19 and 21. of that instant May, the Viscounts are therein reduced to the second Division, and ranked with Barons. Finally, in the third Division the Knights-Batchellors receive their place; so also did Banerets, until King Henry the Eighth in his * Art. 19 Body of Statutes gave them equal rank in Scrutenies with Barons. Only in that one Scrutiny taken an. q Lib. N. p. 171.172.173. 14. H. 7. Sir Reignald Bray, Sir Richard Gouldford, and Sir Rice ap Thomas (all three r Rot. pergam nuper pen. Sim. Archer Eq. Aut. created Banerets at the Battle of Black-heath) are registered among the s Lib. N. p. 172.173. Barons, and yet two of them are oftener ranked with the t Lib. N. p. 172.173. Knights-Batchellors in the very same Scrutiny. But though the word in King Henry the Eighth's Latin Statutes is Baronettus instead of Banerettus, yet is this a mistake met with anciently in some both Records and Books, as well as in those places of the Annals, all written long before the Title of Baronet was conceived, or the Dignity in use with us; for the * Pat. an. 9 jac. Reg. pars 2 5. first Creation of that happened but in this last Age. And hereof more satisfaction may be received | Cooks Instut. pars 2. f. 667. Selden's Tit. of Hon. p. 736 & 737. Spelman's Gloss verbo Baronct●us. elsewhere. In the last place, he who demands these Suffrages, given according to the judgement of each Knight-Companion present, is by the Statutes of Institution appointed to take them in u ●. 3. Stat. Art. 18 writing. In pursuance of which, we find it so observed, at a Scrutiny taken an. 2. H. 6. for the Election of w Regist. Chartac. fol. 12. b. john Lord Talbot and Furnivall (afterwards created Earl of Shrewsbury) where the Dean of Windesor and the Register of the Order, x Regist. Chartac. fol. 12. b. wrote down the Votes and Nominations of every one of the Knights present at the day of Election. Again, at a Scrutiny made an. 4. H. 6. (so also at sundry other times) to supply the Stall of Ralph Earl of Westmoreland, then lately deceased (for whom mistakingly, the Black Book of the Order sets down y Pag. 81. Sir Henry Fitz. Hugh, in whose room a little before in the same z Pag. 78. Book an. 3. H. 6. it appears the Lord Scales was Elected, and elsewhere, that a Regist. Chartac. f. 13. b. Sir john Fastolse was chosen a Companion of this most Noble Order, upon the death, not of Sir Henry Fitz. Hugh, but of the said Earl of Westmoreland) we find it noted, that the b Lib. N. p. 81. Dean and Register wrote down in order (according to their seniority) the Votes of the Knights-Companions. And after the Scrutenies began to be entered on the Pages of the Annals, it is evident the general practice hath gone along with the Injunction of the Statutes, only there are two Instances of an Election made, without taking a Scrutiny in writing; one in the case of Prince Henry, and Christian the Fourth, King of Denmark; where the Knights-Companions in a Chapter held at Whitehall the 14. of july, an. jacobi Regis primo, gave their Votes c Lib. C. p. 150. Viva Voce, and forthwith the Sovereign Elected them both into the Fellowship of the Order. The other was the case of james Marques Hamilton, Elected the 2. of February in the 20. year of the same King, with the d Lib. R. p. 4. vocal consent of all the Knights-Companions present. But it is to be considered, that this course, and the omission of taking the Scrutiny in writing, is not only contrary to the Law of the Order, so enjoined for a more certain memorial of the action, and more faithful transmission of it to Posterity, but exceeding prejudicial to persons of Honour and Merit; whose Names would otherwise live with great reputation among the Candidates of this Illustrious Order: and of which honour many deserving persons will be hereafter deprived, if the Injunction of the Statutes be not observed in this particular. SECT. XI. The Presentation of it to the Sovereign. THE Suffrages being received from the Knights-Companions, the Officer by whom they are collected, is to present the whole form of the Nominations to the Sovereign, with all due Reverence; for so is it recorded, an. e Lib. N. p. 64▪ 9 H. 5. when the Prelate of the Order had taken the Scrutiny. If these Votes were taken in Chapter, the Paper wherein entry was made hath been usually forthwith presented to the Sovereign's hands, who upon perusal of it made Election and Choice before the Chapter broke up; of which practice we could give sundry Instances, did not the generality thereof render it needless. But if collected in the Chapel; sometimes it was immediately delivered to the Sovereign, before he went thence, though no Election were made until the Sovereign and Knights-Companions met in Chapter the next morning. And thus in the f MS. penes W. le N. Cl. 2. and b Lib. C. p. 42. 5. years of Queen Elizabeth, as soon as the Nominations were all received, the Chancellor of the Order (who then took them) presented the Scrutiny to the Sovereign, c Ex Collect an. W. le. N. Cl. before Service ended: the like did the Register of the Order, an. d MS. penes W. D. N. 8. Eliz. At other times it hath not been presented until Vespers were finished, as in the e MS. penes W. D. N. 4. f Lib. C. p. 66. 14. and g Lib. p. 103. 28. years of Queen Elizabeth, and the h Lib. C. p. 166. 6. i Ib. p. 172. 9 k Ib. p. 184. 13. and l Ib. p. 187. 14. of King james. Lastly (and which hath been frequent in use of later times) the Scrutiny hath not been presented to the Sovereign until the next morning, after opening the Chapter (customarily held before Morning Prayer) as in the m Ib. p. 63. 13. n Pag. 70. 15. o Pag. 84. 22. and p Pag. 108. 30. years of Queen Elizabeth, and again in the q Lib. R. p. 35. 3. r Ib. p 90. 9 s Pag. 97. 10. t Pag. 124.132. 13. u Pag. 142. 14. w Palmer's Iourn. pro an. 1639 p. 20. 15. and x Palmer's large journal p. 42. 17. years of the Reign of his late Majesty of ever sacred memory: against which last time of presentation, it was transcribed into a little y Palmer's large journal p. 42. Book, and with all due reverence offered upon the Knee, z Lib. R. p. 142. before any thing else was treated of in the Chapter. If the Sovereign be absent from the Chapel when the Votes are collected, that Officer by whom they are taken, is to present them into the hands of the a E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. Sovereign's Deputy, or Lieutenant; who thereupon is obliged to deliver them to the Sovereign, either that Evening or the next Morning. Besides the general practice hath gone along therewith, as we see an. c Lib. N. p. 77. 2. H. 6. where the Dean of Windesor, and the Register of the Order having collected the Vote of every Knight, d Lib. N. p. 77. they were immediately presented to the Sovereign's Deputy. So also when john Duke of Bedford was Lieutenant, a. 4. H. 6. the Votes taken for Election, e Ib. p. 81. vide Regist. Chartaceum. f. 13. b. were delivered unto him. Again anno 20. Fliz. Sir Francis Walsingham then Chancellor, having taken the Suffrages, forthwith (before Evening Prayer was ended) gave them to the f MS. penes G. O. Y p. 114. Earl of Sussex, than Lieutenant to the Sovereign: and the like did the Prelate to the g Lib C. p. 103. Lord Howard of Effingham Lieutenant, a. 30. Eliz. as also in the h Excad. lib. 33.35.36. and 37. years of the said Queen's Reign. And that the Lieutenant in discharge of his duty, did present them afterwards to the Sovereign, appears likewise from several places in the Blue Book of the Order: for after the Nominations were received, and delivered to him by the Prelate, in the said 30. year of Queen Elizabeth, i Ib. p. 113. He presented them unto her: and to the like purpose is it remembered in the k Vota Nominantium excepit Praelatus Ordinis, qui ea Locum-tenenti exhibit, & is Superiori Lib. C. p. 119. 34. l Vota Nominanti●m excepit Cancellarius, except a sine mora Locum-tenenti tradidit, eademque ille postmodum Supremae exhibebat. Ib. p. 131. 38. and m Nomina in Scrutinio excepta, Locum-tenenti Cancellarius obtulit, hic Suprema: Ib. p. 137. 40. years of this Queen. But it seems in the 12. year of King james, some exceptions were taken, for that the Chancellor did not present the Scrutiny to the n MS. de Festis temp. jac. R. pene● E. W. G. f. 151. b. Prince (at that time the Sovereign's Lieutenant) but afterwards to the Sovereign himself: wherein he committed an Error, which some of his Predessors had fallen into before, viz. an. o Lib. C. p. 32.33. 2. p MS. fol. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 4. 3. and q Lib. C. p. 91. 25. Eliz. SECT. XII. His Considerations thereupon, referring to the Qualification of each Person to be Elected. THE Scrutiny being thus taken, and presented to the Sovereign, we now proceed to those particulars, which are to be weighed by him, upon view and consideration had thereof. For, as the Knights-Companions are obliged by the Statutes to Nominate no other than such as can abide the Test of those Qualifications before remembered; so is there a standard of Honour, provided and ordained for the Sovereign, whereby to measure the Extraction, Quality, and Merit of the Person proposed to Election; lest peradventure in less circumspect times, the favour of the Sovereign might become over indulgent, to s Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 2. inferior or unworthy persons, who ought here utterly to be rejected, because this Order, t Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 2. consisting of goodness and honourable virtue, doth not admit or uphold unworthiness and villainy. Here then falls in to be considered the substance of the second Article, throughout all the Bodies and Exemplars of the Statutes, wherein the Qualifications for Election are exhibited, as in the 18. Article are those for Nomination. In the first of which viz. those of Institution, the words u E. 3. Stat. Art. 2. That none shall be Elected into the Order, etc. can refer to the Act of Election only, if we consult the rest of the Statutes, and compare them with this place; for thus they severally deliver themselves, That none shall be w H. ●. Stat. Art. 2. Elected Companion of the Order. That none shall be x H. 8. Stat. Art. 2. Elected and Chosen a Companion of this Order. All pointing to the time of Election more properly and directly, than to any other Ceremony succeeding, either of Investiture with the Garter and George, Installation, or to what ever else it may nor dubiously be wrested, from the Expressions of y Ord. Stat in Biblioth. Hatton. Art. 2. Admitting and z Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 2. Receiving Knights into this Order, used in the Exemplars of the Statutes of Institution. And that this doth so is further cleared, from another passage in the said second Article of King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, which speaking of the last point of Reproach, saith, the guilt thereof so incapacitates any man's Election, that he ever after aught to be esteemed unworthy of Election into the Order. The Qualifications and Endowments are chiefly noted to be two; first, that the Person in Nomination be a Gentleman of Blood; and secondly a Knight and without Reproach. As to the first of these, finding the phrases somewhat varied throughout the Statutes, we shall therefore single them out. By the Statutes of Institution no man ought to be Elected, a Art. 2. unless he be a Gentleman born, and so saith King Henry the Fifth's b Art. 2. Statutes. The Exemplar entered in the Black Book saith, c Art. 2. unless he be worthy upon the account of Birth and Arms; whereunto is added (in this Exemplar only) d Art. 2. that he be one eminent for his demeanour and good Report; hereby linking together, Blood and Virtue, which indeed make the noblest Conjunction. Finally, King Henry the Eighth's Statutes speak a little larger, and appoint him to be a e Art. 2. Eum nomine & armis nobilem esse, qui proprii Cognominis, Tessaram gentilitiam gestar, & eo sanguine genirus est, cujus idem insigne & nomen propria sint. MS de Arte Heraldica apud jurisp. Heroic. p. 438. Gentleman by Name, Arms, and Blood; and lest this Character might seem in any part obscure; a Gentleman of Blood is determined to be f H. 8. Engl. Stat. Art. 2. one descended of three descents of Nobles, viz. of Name and Arms, both of his Father and Mother's side. For most certain it is, that Gentility is not made perfect or accomplished in the Person in whom it takes beginning, but rather completed by Succession. And we find among the Romans, though the Father was free born, and of the Equestrian Cense, yet was it further requisite, that the g A●no V. C. 775. Constiturum est ne cui jus Annuli esser nisi cui ingenuo ipsi Patri Avoque paterno sextertia 40 census fu●ssent. Plin. l. 32. c. 2. Grandfather should be so likewise, for obtaining a Ring, one of the Symbols of the Equestrian Order with them. Whence have been wisely found out, those three Degrees of Gentility; Beginning, Increase and full Ripeness: for h jurisprudentia Heroica. p. 8. a. Gentility hath its beginning in the Grandfather, its increase in the Father, and full ripeness in the Son; and therefore in the constitution of Gentility, the Father and Grandfather (bringing renown and reputation to the Son, by same and estimation of life and actions) are at least required to make it perfect and complete; because it cannot naturally and congruously grow to ripeness in the Son, unless it hath formerly increased in the Father, and long before begun from the Grandfather. As to this particular, there is a memorable instance in that of the Lord William Pagit, devested of the Garter, about five years after his ●lection; upon pretence of his i King Ed. 6. Diary in Bibl. Colton, Sir I●. Hawards' life of the said King. Print. 1636 p. 344. not being a Gentleman of Blood by either Father or Mother. But it is also observable in the Blue Book, that this severity towards him proceeded not altogether from defect in point of Extraction, but most from the prevalence and practice of john Dudley Duke of Northumberland ( k A quo procurance Deuce Norhumbriae suerat injustissime ac immeritissime deturbatu●. Lib. C. p. 6. by whose means he was most unjustly and undeservedly put out of the Order) haply grudging the great honour he had formerly done the said Lord, when being Earl Marshal of England, l Ex. Collect. Pat. Arm. d Rob. Glover nuper Somerset. Herald. f. 45. b. his good advice and character of him procured from King Edward the Sixth, a new Grant of those Arms, under the Great Seal of England, which he had sometime before m Ex. Collect. Pat. Arm d Rob. Glover nuper Somerset. Herald f. 45. b. received from Garter Principal King of Arms. But admit the defect of Blood and Arms for three descents, were the true cause of his deprivation of the Garter; yet what follows is mis-related by n Hist. E. 6. loco cit. Sir Io. Howard (as also by o Chronic. f. 1026. john Stow) to wit, that the George and Garter were forthwith bestowed upon the Earl of Warwick eldest Son to the Duke of Northumberland (who out of p Dugdales' Antiq. of Warwickshire p. 339. a. courtesy was so called, as a commonly Duke's Sons, in the life time of their Fathers, are entitled of some Earldom, whereof their Fathers have the honour) but more truly had he said, they were bestowed upon Sir Andrew Dudley, Brother to the said Duke. For although we find the said Earl of Warwick put in the Scrutiny, entered among the Annals of the Order, of Edward the Sixth's Reign, and taken at a Chapter held on St. George's day, an. 6. Ed. 6. (the Lord Pagit being q Lib. N. p. 320. vide Autogr. penes praef. Guil. Dugdale. See also King Ed. 6. Dyary in Bibl. Cotton. degraded in a Chapter held on the r Lib. N. p. 320. vide Autogr. penes praef. Guil. Dugdale. See also King Ed. 6. Dyary in Bibl. Cotton. Eve of the said Feast) yet was not the Earl Elected at that or any other time; nor was any other person then chosen, who had the honour to be inserted into that Scrutiny, except the s Lib. N. p. 321. Earl of Westmoreland, and the said t Lib. N. p. 321. Sir Andrew Dudley. But to return; the Ensigns of this most Noble Order were not with more disgrace taken from, than with honour restored to the Lord Pagit, assoon as Queen Mary came to the Crown; and that by as great and absolute authority, as did deprive him of them, namely by Decree in Chapter, holden at St. James' the 27. of September, an. 1. Mar. so that this Honour might be said, to have been rather wrongfully suspended than justly lost. For in confirmation of this Lord's restauration, he had the u Lib. C. p. 6. Garter forthwith buckled on his Leg again, by two of the Knights-Companions present, and the w Lib. C. p. 6. Collar of the Order put about his shoulders, with the George depending thereat. And a command then also given Garter, to take care that his x Lib. C. p. 6. Achievements should be again publicly set up, over his Stall at Windesor: being the same he before possessed, viz. the 9 on the Sovereign's side. In this case of the Lord Pagit, we observe that the very Records of the Order, brand his degradation of injustice upon the foresaid pretence, as if it were inferable thence, that when Honour is conferred upon the score of Virtue, and great Endownments, the consideration of these supplies the defect and obscurity of Extraction. Whence it came that the then Sovereign (whose prerogative it was y H. 8. Stat. Art. 1. to declare and interpret the Statutes) being at that time present in Chapter, thought fit to qualify the Law, and gave him this honourable commendation, z Lib. C. p. 6. That he had highly deserved of the Nation by his Prudence and Counsel. And though the Exemplar entered in the Black Book hath the qualification of a Art. 2. Virtue and good Report inserted only into it; yet we observe the same (in effect and practice) considered in foregoing times, with great circumspection, by the Sovereigns and their Lieutenants before Election; and that the Magnanimity, Fortitude, Prudence, Generosity, Fame, Reputation, and other Virtues and Merits, whether innate or acquired, of the Person proposed to Election; have been by their prudent Inquisition looked into, deliberately weighed, and brought to the Rule for trial, as to their fitness and capacity of the honour of this most Noble Order. These and such like Qualities we see b Ille Nominatos expendens, ut alii●●lii Fortitudine, Prudentia, reliquisque Virtutibus ac Meritis antecellerent, è Comitibus johannem Comitem Mareschallum (ut vocant) etc. aptissimos atque quam dignissimos & ob id in Ordinem suscipiendos esse decrevit. Lib. N. p. 64. King Henry the Fifth took into his consideration, at an Election in the 9 year of his Reign, and for which he preferred before others (then Nominated and presented unto him) john Earl Marshal, William Earl of Suffolk, john Lord Clifford, Sir Lewis Robertsack, and Sir Heer tank Clux. In like manner did c Ibid. p. 77. Humphrey Duke of Gloucester (Deputy to King Henry the Sixth, in the second year of his Reign) weigh and examine diligently with himself, the Fortitude and Prudence, with other the illustrious Actions and deserts of john Lord Talbot before his Election; and thereunto gave an approbation worthy his own judgement, and not less than that noble Candidates virtue merited. It is further remembered in the Annals of this Order, that for these and such like noble and heroic Qualifications, persons in after times were likewise preferred in Election before others: And particularly, we observe it taken notice of, a. 28. H. 8. upon the Election of Sir Nicholas Carew, d Lib. N. p. 271. That he was a very fit person, upon the eminency of his Extraction and Fame, and the many worthy and noble Actions he had performed; so as that all present did without any delay unanimously approve of his Election. Of like nature those Commendations given to Henry Earl of Cumberland upon his Election, wherein also particular services are taken notice of, viz. the e Ibid. p. 274. many famous and loyal Achievements performed by him, both at several other times, and then more especially, when the tumult of Rebellion, began to break forth in those Borders, where he had his habitation. The second Point is, That unless he be a f E. 3▪ Stat. Art. 2. Knight, he is not qualified for Election, (or as one of the Exemplers express it * In Bibl. Hatton. Art. 2. unless girded with the unstained Girdle of Knighthood) and the same in terms do the other g H. 5. H. 8. Stat. Art. 2. Bodies of Statutes declare. Whence we may again mind the Reader of the singular regard and jealousy the Law of the Order hath of this particular Qualification, above the rest: And lest chance or inadvertency might let slip a Person not Knighted into the Scrutiny (besides the two former cautions given touching Nomination) yet is it also here (in another Article) a third time remembered and provided against, to secure such from passing through the Sovereign's Election. For this cause also were the words h Lib. N. Ord. Stat. in Art. 2. ut minimum (That he be at least a Knight before he be elected) added as a special Item, to give a more than ordinary caution, when the Sovereign comes to make his Choice. And to make it clear, that the second Article in the Statutes hath long since received this construction, we shall insert an eminent case, which fell out i Lib. N. p. 246. an. 17. H. 8. where the Sovereign (keeping the Feast of St. George at Greenwich) having Elected the Lord Roos (created Earl of Rutland, the 18. of june following) into the Society of this most Noble Order, and being k Pag. 247. advertised on the morrow after St. George's day, while the Mass of Requiem was celebrating, that he had not before received the dignity of Knighthood, according to the Statutes, which positively enjoin, l Ibid. That whosoever is elected into this Society, should be in degree at least a Knight, that is actually Knighted beforehand; for so the words ut minimum here in this place also of the Annals vouched, ought justly to be understood, in regard the Lord Roos, was at the time of his Election a Baron of this Realm, and consequently stated in a higher degree of honour than a Knight: The Sovereign therefore immediately after Mass, recalled the Knights-Companions to a new consultation, whereat he declared the Election void, for the reason before alleged, and commanded the Ensigns of the Order, [the Garter and George] so lately received to be withdrawn, which being accordingly done, He in the same place, drew his Sword, and therewith dubbed him Knight, and then proceeded, with the Knights-Companions present, to a new Election, wherein the said Lord Roos was with their unanimous consent again Elected a Companion, and so declared by the Sovereign's own mouth: by whose command also, the aforesaid Ensigns and Ornaments were restored unto, and placed upon him by the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk. And declaratory to this, is it since recorded in the Red Book of the Order, m Pag. 143. That none of the English, Scotch, or Welsh Nation, how considerable soever otherwise, in the prerogative of Blood or Virtue, can be Elected into this most honourable Society, but that he ought to be first ennobled and rendered capable by this first Degree of Knightly honour. But in reference to Foreign Princes being in their own Country, this Law hath now no force; for by a Decree made at Whitehall, in a Chapter there held, the n Lib. R p. 117. 18. day of April, an. 13. Car. 1. it being the day whereon the Feast of St. George was also celebrated, these words [ut minimum] are explained to relate to o Placuit Supremo, ut solos Majestati suae subditos Lex ea comprehenderet, primi hujus gradus expertes; Non autem Principes Exteros superiori gradu ornatos, Ib. p. 119. all Subjects, of what Degree soever, within the Sovereign's Dominions ( p Placuit Supremo, ut solos Majestati suae subditos Lex ea comprehendret, primi hujus gradus expertes; Non autem Principes Exteros superiori gradu ornatos, Ib. p. 119. not Foreign Princes) who before their Election at least (if not Nomination) ought to be Knighted, as the Basis and first Degree of Chivalry. And as they ought to be Knights, The three points of Reproach. so as well Knights free from Infamy or Reproach; for so the q Art. 2. Statutes of Institution enjoin. In Henry the Fifth's Statutes it is thus rendered, r Art. 2. Chivalier sans reproach, which is the same with s H. 8. Stat. Art. 2. Eques irreprehensus. And we find it one of the Arguments used by john Duke of Bedford, on the behalf of Sir john Radcliff, to promote his Election; t Ex autogr. penes W. D. N. That he had continued and exercised the Armies, the space of eight and twenty Winters unreproached. But for as much as the points of Reproach may be accounted many and divers, and through their incertainty and number, rather become Traps to enshare, than Rules for caution and direction, u Stat Art. 2. King Henry the Eighth determined and limited them to Three only. The first species or point of Reproach is, 1. Conviction of Heresy. where a Knight hath been convicted of Heresy, against the Catholic faith, or suffered any public punishment for such offence. Here we may see, Heresy is reckoned among those defects that deprive men of Honour, in as much as bending its force against the Catholic Church, it not only renders a man in the balance of Honour of no weight, but more than all other sins makes him infamous. And therefore when either by Tongue, Pen, or Actions, a man endeavours to trample under foot the sacred Law, scandalizeth Government, seduceth others, or in like execrable wickednesses discovers himself, he is judged void of Conscience and equity, and a most notorious destroyer of that divine part of man, the Soul and consequently deserving, not of external infamy alone (which the guilt of this Offence justly contracts) but other punishments extending to life. The second Point of Reproach is, 2. Attainture of Treason. where any Knight hath been arraigned, convicted, and attainted of Treason. Nevertheless Queen Elizabeth qualifies this point by a Decree in Chapter held at the Tower the w Lib. C. p. 26. 12. of january, in the first year of her Reign (which we conceive was made upon occasion of restoring in Blood William Marquis of Northampton, and the Lord Robert Dudley, after created Earl of Leicester, who with others had been attainted of high Treason in the first of Queen Mary, and the attainder confirmed by Parliament the same year) viz. x Decretum est, si quis ex familia nobili, aut generosa procrearus, cujus utetque parens avus & proavus generosi sucrint. Laese Majestatis vel ante hac condemnatus est, vel post hac condemnabitur, si el post eam condemnationem a Principe, ignoscatur, ita ut ad family sue beneficium, Insignia & dignitatem restituatur; rabbus ortus majoribus quales antea notati sunt, sitque hujusmodi qualem ejus Ordinis Leges & Institut● describunt, ut is deinceps Ordinis nobilissimi capax sit, & in ejus Comilitonum adlegi & coaptari rite poss●. Ib. p. 29. That in case any Person (so convicted) were pardoned by the Sovereign, and restored in Blood, every such Gentleman in Name, Arms, and Blood, and descended as aforesaid, being otherwise qualified according to the ancient Statutes of the Order, should be thenceforth accounted Eligible and might be chosen a Companion. And we find that the very next St. George's Feast, held the y Ibid. p. 29. 22.23. and 24. of April following, the said Marquis of Northampton, and the Lord Robert Dudley (who during the remaining part of Queen Mary's Reign, lay under the burden of a heavy fate) had now recovered the Privileges of Honour, and were preferred in Nomination, and on the last day of the said Feast z Pag. 30. Elected into this most Illustrious Society. And here may further notice be taken of the said Marquis of Northampton's case, who having been restored in Blood, and his restauration to the honour of this most Noble Order also designed (for he had been formerly, a. 35. H. 8. a Lib. N. p. 289. Elected and b Ib. p. 290. Installed) it was thought necessary to descend to a new Nomination and Election, which as may be collected from the aforesaid Decree ought now to be done, and was in him accordingly performed, the c Lib. C. p. 31. 3. of june, anno primo Eliz. 3. Flying from Battle. The third and last Point of Reproach, is where a Knight-Companion hath fled from Battle, in which the Sovereign, or his Lieutenant, or other Captain (having the King's authority) were present, when Banners were displayed, and both sides proceeded to fight. Now for a man to carry himself cowardly in the Field, abandon his Colours, leave his Prince, Friends, and Companions in hazard of life; are undoubtedly things highly reproachful, and draw dishonour upon the Order, the Sovereign, and Knights-Companions; and a sufficient testimony, that he valueth more his life than his honour, and prefers an infamous safety before an honourable death. If we look back into ancient History, we shall meet with a great Example of Honour and Courage in d Maccab. l. 1. c. 9 ver. 4.5.6. judas Maccabeus, who though he had but 800 of 3000 men left him (the rest being fled out of fear to encounter Bacchides Army, consisting of 20000 Foot, and 2000 Horse) and those 800 too forward to follow after; yet rather than cowardly forsake the Field (whereby in all likehood, he might have saved his life which was there loss) he encouraged his Soldiers to receive the onset of his Enemies, with these words, e Verse 10. God forbid that I should do this thing, and flee away from them; if our time be come, let us die manfully for our Brethren, and let us not slain our Honor. And to say truth, the resolution of a right Martialist ought to be either to return with Honour, or die upon the Bed of Honor. By the Laws of King Edward the Confessor, where a Soldier in any expedition either by Land or Sea, runneth from his Colours, his g Lambert's Arch. f. 147. de Heretochiis Edit. Cant abr. 1644. life and Estate was made liable to answer the Offence. And sad experience, having from time to time made appear the inconvenience, danger, and loss occasioned by such cowardly and dishonourable departure out of the Field; at length our Parliaments, taking the same into serious consideration, made it h Stat. 18. H. ●. c. 19.3. H. 8. c. 5.2. E. 6. c. 2.4. & 5. Ph. & Mar. c. 3. Felony without benefit of Clergy, forasmuch as this Offence tended to the hurt and jeopardy of the i Stat. 7. H. 7. c. 1. King, the Nobility, and all the Commonwealth. And to secure our Naval Forces, as well as Land Armies, Queen Elizabeth extended the Statute of 18. H. 6. cap. 19 no less to Mariners and Gunners, to all intents and purposes, than to other Soldiers. But much greater may the danger be, and far more dishonourable to them than private Soldiers, where a Commander in chief, or other Officers (having the conduct of an Army, or any part of it) shall herein offend; of which there is a notable example in Thomas Earl of Lancaster, who a. 12. E. 2. was * Walsingh. sub. an. 1319. proclaimed Traitor for leaving the Army at the Siege of Berwick, the consequence whereof proved the loss of the whole design. And therefore, whoever is culpable of any of these three points of Reproach, is altogether k Lib. N. p. 216. uncapable of Election into this most Noble Order. Ere we pass further, let us take notice of an Error, which Polydore Virgil hath linked with one justly observed and refuted by the learned Pen of l Histor. of St. George, part. 3. ch. 3. sect. 6. Doctor Heylin, and which m Eq. Aut. Anglo Wirtemb. p. 24. Erhardus Celius hath transcribed from the said Polydore; namely, that the Knights-Companions have certain Laws belonging to their Order, whereby they are obliged, n Hist. Angl. l. 19 p. 378. To defend and help one another, and in time of Battle never to betake themselves to shameful flight. But the first of these Clauses, is not in truth, any part of the Statute-Law of the Order; nor is the latter otherwise to be taken, than as one of those points of Reproach laid down in the second Article of King Henry the Eight's Statutes; which renders the person nominated uncapable of Election, if known guilty thereof. Now that which gives some umbrage to the Knights mutual assistance and defence, is an Article of the Statutes, which prohibits the arming themselves one against another. For to avoid begetting of Feuds among them, whereby brotherly love might be extinguished (a thing in all Societies specially to be preserved) it was not the Founder's least care to provide against so great a mischief. And therefore he Ordained (which since the ensuing Bodies of Statutes have confirmed) * E. 3. Stat. Art. 29. H. 5. Stat. Art. 30. H. 8. Stat. Art. 33. That none of the Knights-Companions should Arm themselves against any of their Fellows, unless either in the cause of his Sovereign, or his own just quarrel. Upon this Clause some of them took hold, when in the great and fatal controversy between the Houses of York and Lancaster, they divided themselves to either side, and both pretended to take part with the King: some sticking close to Henry the Sixth, whom they accounted Sovereign of the Order, both de facto, and de jure; others taking part with Edward the Fourth, as esteeming him Sovereign de jure, though not de facto. But to make the obligation and tye of this most Noble Fraternity more strong, and to preserve a perpetual unity among the Companions thereof, left they should unhappily engage in factions one against another, specially to the effusion of blood: it was further Ordained, | Ibid. That if a Knight-Companion should happen to be retained in the service of a Foreign Prince, to take up Arms in his quarrel, and after his Adversary desired to entertain another Knight-Companion on his side also; he that was last invited, was bound to wave the proffer, and in no wise to give his consent. And therefore in all Reteynors of War, the Knight-Companion was obliged to make a special precaution, that his engagement should become void, if any of his Fellows were before retained on the other side. And if at the time of his reteynor, he knew not that another of his Fellows had been engaged with the Adversary, so soon as it came to his knowledge, he was obliged to relinquish the service he before undertook. Besides these three points of Reproach, in a Manuscript of the Statutes in English, which hath before it the whole preamble to Henry the Eight's Statutes, and did belong to Henry Grey third Marquess Dorset, Duke of Suffolk, as appears by his Coat of Arms, painted in the beginning of it within a Garter, and his Name subscribed with his own hand, under the Coat; we find a fourth point of Reproach, added to these other Three, in these words. The fourth point of Reproach is, That if any Knight of the Order from henceforth, by prodigality or riot, wilfully and negligently misspend, sell, alien, or do away his Patrimony or Livelihood, by reason whereof, be shall not be able honourably to maintain himself and his Estate, in such honourable manner, as may conserve the honour of the said Order, and of himself; In this case he shall be summoned by the Usher of Arms of the Order, called the Black Rod, by Commandment of the Sovereign, his Lieutenant, or Deputy to appear before his Majesty, or his Commissioners, and the Knights of the Order, at the next Chapter ensuing, there to be examined before the Sovereign, or his said Commissioners, and the Knights and Companions of the said Order, and if he be found in such great default of Prodigality, insolent Riot, or wilful negligence; That then the Sovereign, with the advice of the Company of the said Order, may deprive and degrade him of the said Order, at the said Chapter, if it be their pleasure. But this point of Reproach is not inserted into King Henry the Eighth's Statutes; nevertheless the substance thereof appears to have been approved of before: for we find among some Orders prepared in the Chapters held at Windesor, by the Marquis of Exiter, and other Knights-Companions then present, the 25. and 26. days of May, an. 8. H. 8. one of them was something to o Deinde quatenus Equites hoe Insigni Subligaculo decorati, si praeclari slatus obliti, minus honestè viverent, excluderentur ab hac honoranda Societate; nis● commoniti propere resipuerint. Lib. N. p. 204. this purpose. SECT. XIII. Of other Inducements for Election. AMong the number of these Candidates, the Sovereign is to regard those who have p E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 most voices, or whom he conceives likely to contribute most to the q E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 honour of the Order, and prove most r E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 serviceable to himself, or most s E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 useful to his Crown and Kingdom. Touching the first of these Inducements, 1. The having most voices. the greater number of Voices; we find the Law hath not been always observed, as from the many Scrutenies, entered in the Annals will appear, if need were to refer thereunto. Nevertheless it is sometimes noted to have taken place, as at the Election of the Duke of t Conimbero: Quinbere, an. 5. H. 6. where after a due and sufficient examination had of the Scrutiny then taken, the said Duke u Lib. N. p. 84. by the consent of most voices, was then Elected into the Stall of Thomas Duke of Exiter. This plurality of Voices is again taken notice of (among other Inducements) for the Election of Sir Nicholas Carew, the w Lib. N. p. 271. 24. of April an. 28. H. 8. It is remarkable that one time when the number of Voices, on the behalf of two Knights, were upon Examination found equal (which happened in the case between Sir john Fastolf, and Sir john Radcliff, an. y Ib. p. 81. vide Regist. Chartac. f. 13. b. 4. H. 6.) Sir john Fastolf, being by the Sovereign's Lieutenant esteemed the more z Ib. p. 81. vide Regist. Chartac. f. 13. b. worthy of the two, obtained the Election. The second Inducement relates to such, 2. Being most honourable for the Order. as in probability may bring most reputation to this Order, or advance the good and prosperity thereof; and these have been chiefly Foreign Princes, esteemed so in respect of that high pitch of Honour they attained, and whose eminent Valour and Worthiness proclaimed them deserving, both of Nomination and Election. And therefore the late Sovereign of blessed memory, a See the Commission of Legation. upon consideration had of the Glorious Achievements and high Renown of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, judged it a part of his respect, not only to render him all offices of kindness and friendship, as to a Prince nearly allied, and his most special friend; but also to impart to him, as far as in him lay, the greatest and highest honours that might be, and especially such wherewith the Military Virtue of a great Captain was wont to be adorned. But the general consideration, for which the Sovereign's thought fit to Elect Foreign Princes into this most Noble Society, and to impart to them these Testimonies of Honour, hath been expressed in the Commissions of Legation to be in respect of their Glorious Merits, ennobled by the lustre and grace of their Heroic Virtues, their eminent Nobleness, Grandeur, Prowess, and Magnificence, the renown of which, Fame had divulged and spread abroad through the World. 3. Serviceable to the Sovereign. Thirdly, where the advantage of the Sovereign's service was cast into the Balance, it frequently outweighed other pretensions; insomuch, that (a. 2. H. 6.) the consideration of the c Lib. N. p. 77. Eminent services of john Lord Talbot, for his King and Country; appears to be the strongest motive for his Election. And d Ex Collect. E. W. G. the great zeal and affection which john Gaspar Ferdinand de Marching had, to engage himself in the present Sovereign's service and Cause, for the recovery of his just rights (besides his eminent and famous actions, performed in several military Commands, wherein he had been for many years employed) was the strongest inducement that swayed with the Sovereign, to choose him a Knight-Companion of this most Noble Order, an. 10. Car. 2. 4. And useful to the Kingdom But the last of these Inducements is of greatest latitude, for thereby the Sovereign has power to reject whosoever he pleases, though exceed in number of Voices or other Qualifications, and to Elect a Person, but once named, which appears full enough in the case of Casimire the Fourth King of Poland, an. 28. H. 6. who having but the e Lib. N. p. 104. single Vote of the Lord Scales, yet upon consideration had by the Sovereign, how advantageous he might become to his, and his Kingdoms, Interest, passed in Election. And of later times (as appears in some of the Preambles to the f See the Appendix. Commissions for carrying the Ensigns, etc. to Foreign Princes) the advantages which the Sovereign has conceived to possess himself of, in the improving, confirming, and establishing of a most strict and inviolable Bond of Friendship and fair correspondency, between him and Foreign Princes, their Realms and Subjects; hath been a main Inducement to Elect such into the Order. SECT. XIV. That the Sovereign only doth Elect. UPon the vacancy of any of the Knights-Companions Stalls, the Election of new Knights g E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 appertains to the Sovereign, and in some case to his Lieutenant; in declaration of which, it is recorded in the Black Book of the Order, h Pag. 65. That if any Stalls fall vacant, it should belong to the Sovereign to Elect new Knights, wheresoever he were resident; provided he have with him the complete number of i Ib. p. 65.66. six Knights-Companions; but if he be beyond Seas, wanting that Number, and the Feast of St. George held by his Lieutenant at Windesor, k Ib. p. 65.66. in such case the Election belongs to the Lieutenant, who is first to be certified of the Sovereign's pleasure, as also who they are that in His esteem appear fit persons to be chosen, to the end such Information may guide his Election. This power of Election is fully acknowledged by the Knights-Companions themselves to be in the Sovereign, as appears out of their Letter sent to King Henry the Fifth then in France, and dated at Windesor, on the morrow after Saint George's day, where it is said, m Et quia metuendissimè domine plane noverimus, quod vestra regalis sublimitas ubicunque suerit locorum potest prout decet & convenit vacantibus Stallis Commilitonum vestri Collegii militaris; adhibito numero corundem pro Electione celebranda, requisito tales corum l●●o subrogare & praficere, quo● vestrae coronae regiae tanta celsitudo versimiliter magis sencerit profituros ac morum probitate & nobilitate sanguinis noverit praepollere, Ex vetusto Codice MS. penes Sylam Taylor Gen. f. 158. b. That the Sovereign in what place soever residing, may, as is most fitting, elect into a vacant Stall (there being a sufficient number of Knights called to the Election) such as he shall judge serviceable to his Crown, or do exceed others in deserts, and nobleness of descent. Observable herewith is this, that at the publishing the Election of Emanuel Duke of Savoy, King Philip and Queen Mary, being at that time, joint Sovereigns of the Order, it is called, the Election of the * MS. p. 14. King and Queen. This grand Prerogative of the Sovereign, being not duly considered by Polydore Virgil, occasioned his committing a great mistake (and n De jure & Privileg. Militum l. 1. c. 15. Claudius Coteraeus from him) for speaking of this Order, and the succession of new Knights into the rooms of those deceased, he hath this passage, o Angl Histor. l. 19 p. 378. One Knight is received into the room of another deceased, by the Choice and Election of all the r●st. But Erhard Celly being as much ignorant of the Sovereign's Prerogative, and rather more mistaken, sticks not to affirm, p Anglowirtemb. p. 103. That no person may be received into this Order. not so much as by the Sovereign, unless with the common consent or suffrage of all the Knights-Companions. But these passages are altogether erroneous; the Knights-Companions part being only to Nominate the Persons (nevertheless qualified as aforesaid) but the right of Election remains wholly in the Sovereign of the Order. For whosoever He designs, appoints, and chooseth, is forthwith admitted: His only pronouncing the Name of the Person in Chapter being sufficient. For after the Scrutiny hath been taken, and presented to the Sovereign, in the manner and order before laid down, He peruseth it himself, or otherwise the Chancellor, or other Officer of the Order that took it, q Lib. R. p. 13●. reads it over to him; which done, the Sovereign (with reference to the considerations before expressed) forthwith resolves upon some one, or more of the Knights, named in the Scrutiny, and thereupon openly and publicly r Supremus pro Electis tres illustrissimos Principes (Ducem Brunswick, Comites Salisbur. & Carliolensem) pronunciabat. lib. R. p. 23. Supremus Comitem Northamptoniae Electum pronunciat. Ib. p. 4●. Supremus accepta & perpensa Nomenclaturae Schedula, Electos pronunciat Comites Danbiae & Moritoniae. Ib. p. 90. declareth the Name of him, or them, whom he doth Elect: by which bare act of Pronunciation, and without any further Ceremony, the Person or Persons so named, stand and become Elect Knights: And this is the manner used at the conferring an Election; except now and then the Sovereign is pleased to give his reasons why the Knight is Elected by him. But though this act of Election be settled by the Law of the Order upon the Sovereign, yet is the consent of the Knights-Companions thereunto, frequently entered down among the Annals, and sometimes mentioned in the Commissions of Legation to Foreign Princes: Not that the single act of Election is in truth the act of the whole Chapter, or is invalid or incomplete, without the joint consent of the Knights-Companions present at the Election; but their consent so expressed is to be understood, as an honorary respect given them by the Register, and signifying rather than applauding or praising the Sovereign's Choice, as being in their judgements, according to the merits of the Person Elected, than a necessary circumstance, contributing to the ratification or strengthening the Election made by the Sovereign, as if defective without it. SECT. XV. The Scrutiny ought to be entered among the Annals. AMong other the duties laid upon the Register and set down in the * E. 3. Stat. Art. 34. vide H. 5. Stat. Art. 36. Statutes of the Order, and Constitutions of the Officers this is one; of which mention is made to this effect, s Lib. N. p. 235. That the Registers part is to set down and record for a memorial, the Elections (or Scrutenies) and Names of the Knights Elected. But in succeeding times a scruple arose, whether this need be done, when the Scrutiny should be taken, yet no Election made? To clear which doubt, in a Chapter held on Saint George's day, an. 5. Eliz. we find it the Sovereign's will and pleasure, that thence forward it should be enacted, and accordingly it was established for a Law within this Order, t Lib. C. p. 42. That if any Nominations were taken from the Knights-Companions, the same should be entered in the Annals, though there were no Election made of any Person into the Order at that time. Which we suppose was so decreed, out of great respect to those Princes and Noble Personages, who in future times should by the glory of their actions appear but worthy the honour of Nomination into so Illustrious an Order. And in pursuance of this Decree, there is frequent mention made of the delivery of the Scrutiny into the hands of the Register, to make entry thereof accordingly. For instance, an. 22. Eliz. the Blue Book saith, u pag. 82. That the Chancellor himself delivered the Knights-Companions Votes to the Register, to be committed to writing, for a perpetual memorial; and accordingly the Register, as his duty obliged him, having transcribed them, put them into their proper place, with all care and fidelity. In like manner, a. 26. Eliz. After the Chancellor had presented the Scrutiny to the Sovereign, he delivered it to the Register, w Ibid. p. 94. & 100 to insert among the Annals of the Order, who immediately committed it to posterity, after the accustomed form. Again, an. 34. of the same Queen, x Ibid. p. 120. & 131. The Votes were delivered to the Register, who took care to Record them, according to the usual order. Nevertheless since the aforesaid Law passed, the Entry of Scrutenies hath been sometimes omitted, either through the Registers not calling to memory the duty enjoined by the before mentioned Decree, or else by some accidental miscarriages, or other neglects. As for Example, in some places of the Annals, instead of Scrutenies we find Excuses entered, as an. 28. Eliz. where it is said; That the y Lib. C. p. 103. Prelate immediately after Vespers, presented the Scrutiny to the Sovereign, but because there was z Lib. C. p. 103. no Election made of any new Knights, in regard of the crowd of weighty and pressing affairs, which seemed very much to concern the Sovereign and State, it was laid aside a Ibid. and through neglect lost; at least it came not to the b Ibid. Registers hands, to be inserted in its proper place. So an. 18. Eliz. although the Dean of Windesor took the Scrutiny at Vespers, on St. George's day, nevertheless it is said, c Ib. p. 73. That no Election was made, nor any thing else done. The like Excuse is made, an. 5. Car. 1. but the fault is here laid on the Chancellor; for though the Scrutiny had been taken by him during the Vespers of the Feast day, d Lib. R. p. 50. yet would be not suffer it to be entered. In the next place we read, That the Votes being presented to the Sovereign, an. 31. Eliz. e Lib. C. p. 113. they were left with her. And an. 11. Car. 1. the f Lib. R. p. 108. Scrutiny of Algernon Earl of Northumberland, never came to the Registers hands, and lastly an. 33. Eliz. we only find, g Lib. C. p. 118. that the Chancellor delivered the Votes to the Lieutenant, but no mention is there made, what became of them afterwards. But the Law yet remains in force, that all Nominations and Votes of the Knights-Companions ought to be entered among the Annals; whether Election be made or not, unless it shall please the Sovereign, for any extraordinary reason, upon particular occasions, to forbid it. One Example (and but one) of such a Prohibition we have met with, a. 40. Eliz. where h Lib. C. p. 137. by the Queen's special command, the Scrutiny then taken was not recorded among the acts of this most Noble Order; nor is any thing thereof to be found in the Blue Book. But it is there also said, that the Register took care to set down all the passages as they happened, i Ibid. the Names only excepted. And that it may not seem strange, why the Scrutiny is not inserted in the Registry, an. 44. Eliz. this account is given, k Ibid. p. 146. That upon assembling the Knights-Companions, it seemed good to the Sovereign for several urgent Reasons, best known to herself, to give commandment; l Ibid. That for that time they should wholly forbear all Scrutiny of Votes and Nomination of Persons; except which, there was nothing wanting to the height of Solemnity at that meeting. But this we find noted in the Annals, to be m Ib. praeter mor●m, contrary to the usual Custom. SECT. XVI. The Scrutiny ought not to be viewed until it be entered. HEnce we are led to take notice of the following passage: It seems the n Ex Collect. Rob. Cook Ar. nuper Clar. R. Armour. fol. 10. Earls of Derby and Rutland, two of the Knights-Companions (on the morrow after St. George's day, an. 27. Eliz.) were desirous to have seen the Scrutiny, which was delivered into the Dean of Windesor's Custody to be Registered, in pursuance of the before mentioned Decree, an. 5. Eliz. But he gave them a modest denial, and said o Ex Collect. Rob. Cook Ar. nuper Clar. R. Armour. fol. 10. it ought not to be seen before it was Registered. Whereupon the Earls, not satisfied with this answer, requested the opinions of the rest of the Knights-Companions (present at that Feast) in this case; who upon consideration thereof adjudged the point p Ex Collect. Rob. Cook Ar. nuper Clar. R. Armour. fol. 10. against them. And since this occasion, we have observed it elsewhere noted. q Ex Autogr. pen. praef. jac. Palmer. That no Knight-Companion ought to see whom the other hath named. SECT. XVII. Of Scrutenies taken, yet no Election made. IT hath often happened, that though the Nominations for Election, have been formally taken, presented, and perused, yet hath not the Sovereign thought fit at present to make any Election, being moved thereunto from several considerations; principally where an intent was to keep open a Stall: But this must be understood of such Scrutenies as are taken of course, at the Vespers on the Feast day. The most notable Example in this kind, is that of Sigismond the Emperor, who died in the r Lib. N. p. 94. MS. in Offic. Arm. [F. 9] f. 19 b. 16. year of King Henry the Sixth, and whose Stall was not disposed of till 21. years after, viz. the s Lib. N. p. 119. 37. year of the said King; and then determined to be reserved for t Lib. N. p. 119. Prince Edward, the Sovereign's only Son, he being at that time about six years of age. This is that Emperor, whose Election (being about the u Ibid. p. 57 7. of May, an. 4. H. 5.) is the first Election we find Registered in the Annals, where he is styled w Ibid. p. 57 Sigismundus Imperator Almanicus. He was then lately come into England, and so was the Duke of Holland, x Ibid. p. 57 cum praeclaro Duce de Brigâ, una ex comitatu Imperatoris (as he is there styled) who hitherto had the ill fortune not to be remembered in any of the Catalogues of Knights-Companions, that we have yet met with; nevertheless at the Feast of St. George celebrated at Windesor, the day abovesaid, was y Ibid. p. 57 Elected Knight of this most Noble Order. And the reserving a Stall was sometimes given by the Sovereign, as a reason for deferring his Election; as upon the 4. of October, being the morrow after the Feast of Saint George, held by prorogation at Windesor, an. 13. Car. 1. (when the Scrutiny, taken the day before, was read over in the Chapterhouse) where the Sovereign declared, z Lib. R. p. 132. That he would receive no man into the Order, before his Son Charles: whereupon, all the Knights-Companions gave their sense, a Lib. R. p. 132. That this resolution, was rather an effect of justice than fatherly indulgence; since they all acknowledged him to be more a Prince by merit and towardliness of his youth, than by the fortune of his Birth, at which the Sovereign expressed his satisfaction, no otherwise than by silence. For such like cause, an. b Palmer's journal pro an. 1639. p. 34. 15. Car. 1. when the Scrutiny was presented to the Sovereign, by the Chancellor of the Order, the 10. of October (being the last day of the Feast, celebrated at Windesor by prorogation) the Sovereign declared, c Palmer's journal pro an. 1639. p. 34. That he had a purpose to have chosen Prince Rupert his Nephew, a Knight of the Order, but being then a Prisoner with the Emperor, he would not Elect any at that time: Whereupon the vacancy of a Stall was reserved. At other times, we note the pleasure of the Sovereign in deferring Elections, to be frequently entered down only in the general, and without expressing the cause, as an. 13. Eliz. on the morrow after St. George's day, upon perusal of the Scrutiny by the Sovereign in Chapter, held in the Privy Chamber, where the Blue Book tells us; d Pag. 63. That the said Sovereign made no Election, though there were two Stalls vacant. Nay although there were found to be three Stalls void, on the Feast days in the e Lib. C. p. 87. & 93. 23.24. and 25. years of the said Queen's Reign; nevertheless upon receipt of the Scrutiny no Election was made by the Sovereign, until the following year, viz. an. 26. Eliz. Thus was it in the 2.8.11. and 12. of King james, where no other mention is made than this, f C. p. 156. None were admitted into the Order this year. And in such case, the Sovereign only g Palmer's large journal. p. 20. views the Scrutiny, h Palm. Iourn. p●● an. 1639. f. 34. approves of every Knight-Companion's Nomination, and gives them thanks. Sometimes we meet with this Prorogation of Elections recorded, as done at the pleasure of the Sovereign only; and at other times, by the Sovereign, with the approbation of the Knights-Companions. To the first of these pertains a memorial entered, an. 22. Eliz. on the 24. of April, at a Chapter held before Morning Prayers; where the Knights-Companions received notice, i Lib. C. p. 84. that it was the pleasure of the Sovereign to prorogue the Election for that time. And an. 38. Eliz. though there was an k Pag. 132. earnest expectation on the morrow after Saint George's day, of the Election of a new Knight, yet l Pag. 132. it seemed good to the Sovereign, to prorogue the Election to the following year. Again, an. 10. Car. 1. on the morrow after the Feast day, then celebrated at Windesor, when the Schedule of Nominations taken the Evening before, was presented to the Sovereign in Chapter by the Chancellor, and one place void; m Lib. R. p 97. The Sovereign did not think fit to make any Election at all. As touching the second, we meet with this instance, an. 27. Eliz. n Lib. C. p. 101. That with the concurrent approbation and assent, of the Knights-Companions then assisting, the Sovereign thought fit to put off the Election to another time. But as to the reason of this seeming difference in the Sovereign's absolute power, yet taking in the Knights-Companions approbation, it may be said, as is already spoken, in the act of Election; That though it be the unquestionable prerogative of the Sovereign, to prorogue Elections at pleasure, yet ought of respect and honour to the Knights-Companions, their approbation hath been sometimes expressed. SECT. XVIII. The Penalties inflicted on Knights-Companions who appear not at an Election. LAstly, to close up this Chapter; where any Knight-Companion hath received Summons to appear at a Chapter of Election, and doth o E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 refuse to come, or wilfully withdraw himself, unless he be hindered for some just cause; and the reason of that impediment p E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 signified to the Sovereign, under his Seal of Arms beforehand (which if found to be just and reasonable is forthwith q E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 allowed and accepted, if otherwise, rejected and disallowed) his disobedience was Ordained to be punished with the payment of r E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 one Mark (which King Henry the Eighth's Statutes enlarged to twenty shillings) to the Dean and College of Windesor, and heretofore disposed towards praying for the Souls of the desunct Knight. At his next coming to Chapter, he is to tarry s E. 3. Stat. Art. 18. H. 5. Stat. Art. 18. H. 8. Stat. Art. 19 kneeling upon the ground in the midst of the Chapter, before the Sovereign (or his Deputy) and the whole company there present, which penalty he must still undergo, until such time, as finding favour with them he be restored. And for greater caution this Clause was herefore inserted in the Letters of Summons, as appears (among others) in that which issued out after the death of Sir Robert D'umfrevile, where after the time and place for Election was certified, and command given to observe both; the Letter closeth thus, t Regist. Chart. f. 12. b. Et se estre ny pouer nous signifies soubz, etc. And if it cannot be accomplished, that is, if the Knight-Companion could not meet at the appointed time, to perform his part in what the Statutes oblige, he should then signify to the Sovereign under his Seal the cause of his impediment; that so he might perceive by his excuse, whether it were worthy acceptance, or he in fault or not. CHAP. X. THE Investiture OF A KNIGHT SUBJECT WITH THE Garter and George, SECT. I. The Notice given to a Knight Subject of his Election. IN reference to this Ceremony, we are first to premise something, concerning the notice to be given the Knight-Elect of his Election into this most Noble Order; whether he be at such time personally at Windesor, or other place where the Chapter is then held, or employed in some more remote parts within the Kingdom, or elsewhere beyond the Seas, upon the Sovereign's Affairs. To the newly Elect-Knight, who upon this acquisition of Honour happens to be at Windesor, or wheresoever else the Chapter is held, a Constitut. ad Official▪ Ordin. attinente●. c. 4. Garter (immediately after the Sovereign hath signified his pleasure, in Election of the person) is sent out of the Chapter to give him notice of it; for we find this employment recorded as part of the b Constitut. ad Official▪ Ordin. attinente●. c. 4. duty of his Office, and asserted to be so by the general practice; and (among other Precedents in the Annals) upon the Election of the c Ibid. Lord Howard, and Sir Henry Marney, an. 2. H. 8. (both then present at Court) it appears that Garter was forthwith sent out of the Chapter, to give them notice thereof, and to conduct them to the Sovereign 's presence; where both were invested, with the two principal Ensigns of the Order, the Garter and George. And upon the like service was he employed, at the Election of Sir d Ib. p. 271. Nicholas Carew an. 28. H. 8. and of the e Lib. C. p. 66. Lord Burghley, and Lord Grey of Wilton, an. 14. Eliz. And as Garter hath been accustomed to carry the verbal notice of Knight's Election; so also the Sovereign's Letter, signifying Election, to a Knight then likewise at Court, where the Sovereign is pleased (for the greater honour of the Person) to wave a verbal notice, and send Letters of signification in its stead. And in such case these Letters are drawn up by the Chancellor of the Order, and pass under both the Sovereign's Sign manual, and Signet of the Order. Such a particular Honour was afforded the present sovereign; to whom f Palmer's large journal p. 7. immediately after his Election, in a Chapter held at Windesor, the Sovereign directed the following Letter, presented to him by g Palmer's large journal p. 7. Sir john Burrough Garter, who found him walking in St. i Palmer's large journal p. 7. George's Hall. Charles R. OUR most dear and entirely beloved Son, Rows Iourn. p. 42. having to our great comfort seen, and considered the ripeness of your youth, and conceived joyful and pregnant hopes of your manly virtues, in which we are assured, you will increase to your own honour, both in prowess, wisdom, justice, and all princely endowments: and that the emulation of Chivalry will in your tender years provoke and encourage you, to pursue the glory of heroic action, besitting your royal birth, and our care and education. We with the Companions of our most Noble Order of the Garter, assembled in Chapter, holden this present day at our Castle of Windesor, have elected and chosen you one of the Companions of our Order. In signification whereof, we have sent unto you by our trusty and well beloved servants Sir John Burrough Knight Garter, and our Principal King of Arms, these our Royal Letters, requiring you to make your speedy repair unto us, to receive the Ensigns of our most honourable Order, and to be ready for your Installation, upon the 21. day of this present Month. Given under the Signet of our Order, at our Castle of Windesor, the 20. of May, in the 14. year of our Reign 1638. To our dearly beloved son Prince Charles. This is the only Instance we have met with, where a Letter was sent to an Elect-Knight, and he at the same time present at Court. But when an Election passeth, and the Knight Elected is remote from Court, than the general form of the Letter is both to signify his Election, and summon him to his Investiture with the Garter and George: of which see a Precedent in the l Num. XVIII. Appendix. But where the Sovereign is pleased to descend to mention particular services, or other inducements for a Knight's Election, there the Preamble of the Letter is worded accordingly: and that this hath sometimes, though but rarely been used, appears thus in that Letter which certified Election to Sir john Fastolfe, m Appendix Num. XXI. We considering the virtuous fidelity you have shown, and the honourable exploits you have done, in the service of our thrice renowned Father, and that in our service also, you (as many others) have given proofs of that honour and those deserts wherewith God hath endowed you, always suffering, as is the part of a good and faithful subject, the pains and toils of War, for the vindicating and maintaining of our just right, claims, and title; have chosen you one of our Companions of our Order, etc. Where the Letter barely signifies Election; that is when the Sovereign doth not design a present Investiture with the Garter and George, but defers that Ceremony till the Elect-Knight comes to Windesor, to take possession of his Stall; in such case notice of the day of his Installation is also inserted towards the end of the Letter, and upon his appearance at Windesor, so soon as he is called into the Chapterhouse, the Garter is first buckled about his left leg, next follows his Investiture with the rest of the Ornaments of the Order, and lastly his Installation. And thus (in the case of Henry Earl of Cumberland, an. 29. H. 8.) was the Investiture with the Garter deferred, till his appearance at Windesor, where that Ceremony, as also his Investiture with the Habit and Collar, and lastly his Installation, were dispatched at one time. SECT. II. His Reception into the Chapterhouse. IF the Elect Knight be near where the Chapter is held, and that Garter hath been sent forth to give him notice of the Honour, and to usher him into the Chapterhouse to receive the Garter and George, before the Chapter break up; intimation being given of his approach, the Sovereign sends forth two of the Knights-Companions to meet him, who after a mutual salute, conduct him between them to the presence of the Sovereign, Garter going before them. For instances herein, first of Strangers, we shall remember a Lib. C. p. 159. ulrick Duke of Holstien, an. 3. jac. R. who being sent for by Garter, was introduced into the Chapter between Prince Henry and the Earl of Dorset, and by them presented to the Sovereign: So b Lib. R. p. 23. Christian Duke of Brunswick, an. 22. jac. R. proceeded with much state and honour, in the midst between William Earl of Penbroke and Philip Earl of Montgomery, to receive the Garter and George. The c Collect. E. W. G. 6. of November, an. 14. Car. 2. Christian Prince of Denmark being Elected in a Chapter, held in the Withdrawing Room at Whitehall, and then absent, Garter was sent next day by the Sovereign, to give him notice thereof, with desire to be present the following day, at the foresaid place, to receive his Investiture; where the Sovereign and several of the Knights-Companions being assembled, d Collect. E. W. G. Garter was sent out for the Prince (then at the Earl of Bath's Lodgings in the matted Gallery) and thence ushered him into the Lobby between the said Gallery and the Withdrawing Room; where he was received by the Earls of Lindsey and Manchester, and conducted between them into the Chapter, Garter preceding them, and after three obeisances they brought him up to the Sovereign. Among Knights-Subjects, we find the e Lib. C. p. 66. Lord Burghley and Lord Grey were conducted (an. 14. Eliz.) to the Sovereign by the Lord Clinton and Earl of Bedford; and f Ib. p. 109. Robert Earl of Essex, Thomas Earl of Ormond, and Sir Christopher Hatton (present at Greenwich, an. 30. Eliz. when their Election passed) g Ibid. were severally led into the Chapter; the first of them between the Earls of Worcester and Penbroke; the second between the Lord Hunsdon and Lord Grey of Wilton; and the third between the Earl of Leicester and Lord Burghley; and as soon as they were brought up before the Sovereign, with all Reverence and Humility they fell upon their knees. In like manner, a. 4. jac. R. h Ex lib. C. p. 163. Robert Earl of Salisbury proceeded up to the Sovereign's Throne, between the Earls of Nottingham and Dorset; and Viscount Bindon, between the Earls of Suffolk and Northampton. And an. 22. jac. R. the Earl of Arundel and Surrey, and Earl of Kelly, took i Lib. R. p. 23. William Earl of Salisbury between them, and presented him to the Sovereign: So also in the Reign of his late Majesty of blessed memory, it is remembered, that the k Ibid. p. 45. Earl of Northampton was conducted to his receipt of the Garter, in the Chapterhouse at Windesor, between the Earls of Penbroke and Montgomery, a. 4. Car. 1. and the Earls of Danby and Moreton, being Elected also at the same place, a. 9 Car. 1. the l Ib. p. 90. former of them was conducted to the Sovereign by the Earls of Penbroke, and Arundel and Surrey, and the m Ib. p. 90. latter by the Earls of Salisbury and Carlisle. And when the present Sovereign appeared upon his Letter of Summons, at the Chapter held in the Withdrawing Chamber in Windesor Castle, to receive his Investiture, two of the signior Knights, viz. Philip n Lib. R. p. 142. Earl of Penbroke and Montgomery, and Thomas Earl of Arundel and Surr●y, were sent forth to conduct him in, who (ushered by the o Palmer's large journal p. 8. Black Rod) brought him between them up to the Sovereign. The p Ex Collect. E. W. G. Duke of Monmouth being Elected at a Chapter held in the Withdrawing Room at Whitehal, the 28. of March a. 15. Car. 2. Garter was immediately sent to him in the Sovereign's Bedchamber, who being met at the door the Earls of Lindsey and Manchester, Garter (the Black Rod joining himself to him in the Room) passed to the lower end of the Room before the Duke and the two Knights-Companions, whence they proceeded up to the Sovereign with three Reverences. Lastly, at the Election of q Ibidem. james Duke of Cambridge, in the same Room at Whitehall (3. Dec. an. 18. Car. 2) Garter was also sent fort into the Bedchamber, to acquaint him that the Earl of Manchester and Duke of Monmouth w●re appointed by the Sovereign and Chapter to bring him in thither. That done, the said Knights-Companions arose and went to the Duke, whom meeting at the Bedchamber door, they took their compass about the rest of the Knights-Companions (then standing) and brought him between them (Garter and Black Rod preceding) from the lower end of the Room close before the Sovereign. SECT. III. The Ceremonies of Investiture with the Garter and George. THE Knight-Elect being thus introduced, and brought to the Sovereign, having first with all reverence bowed himself before him, it was usual heretofore to make a short gratulatory speech, in acknowledgement of so great an evidence of the Sovereign's royal bounty, and the Knights-Companions respects: The substance of such an address, we find couched in that speech made by Sir Nicholas Carew, after he had been conducted into the Chapterhouse at Windesor, to receive his Investiture, an. 28. H. 8. who first a Lib. N. p. 271. giving infinite thanks, both to the Sovereign and the whole Society, for that they had vouchsafed to receive him into the honour of this most illustrious Order, being a person in his own esteem most unworthy thereof; in the next place professed, That whereas he was preferred in this choice before many others much more deserving than himself, it was not to be attributed to his merits, or any thing by him performed, but merely to the Sovereign's bounty, and the favour of the Knights-Companions present towards him. The bestowing of so singular an honour, being thus thankfully acknowledged the Ceremony of Investiture with the two principal Ensigns of the Order begins, first with the Garter, as the most ancient and chiefest Ensign, and next with the George: but the further Investiture with the Habit, and other the Ornaments of this Order, are to be completed at the time of the Elect-Knights Installation at Windesor. Now the manner and order in the aforesaid Investiture, was anciently as followeth; first the Elect-Knight set his left foot upon a Stool, and then one of the Knights-Companions, by the Sovereign's appointment, as his Substitute, buckled the Ennobled Garter about his left leg; and this is to be seen in Picture in the margin of an old Draught of the Combats of Sir john Astley, set forth in the b Pag. 73. Antiquities of Warwickshire, where the said Sir John's Investiture with the Garter, is represented after the aforesaid manner. But of late times, the Elect-Knight c Ex Collect. A. V. W. kneeled on his right Knee, whilst this Ceremony was performed; during which, the d Lib. N. p. 201 words of Admonition or Signification at this part of the Investiture are to be read. The Forms of Admonition anciently used at the Investiture of Knights-Subjects are inserted in the e Numb. XXXVI. Appendix; but that particularly relative to the putting on the Garter, is entered in King Henry the Eighth's Book of f Art. 27. English Statutes, and is as followeth. Sir, the loving Company of the Order of the Garter hath received you their Brother and Fellow, and in token of this, they give and present you this present Garter, which God grant that you receive and wear from henceforth to his praise and glory, and to the exaltation and honour of the said Noble Order, and yourself. Afterward it was decreed in a Chapter held at Windesor the 5. of August, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. to this effect, g Lib. C. p. 12. That not only the same Advertisements and Admonitions which were wont to be given to Strangers at their Investitures, should be likewise given to Knights-Subjects, that in time to come should be Elected and Installed; but also, that among the Knights-Companions there should not be any Investiture differing either in Ceremony or Habit. Hereupon the foresaid words of Admonition at putting on the Garter were left off, and h Lib. N. p. 310. those used at the Investiture of Strangers given and continued to Knights-Subjects; the English Version of which may be seen at the end of the said English Statutes, which thence we have transcribed hither: being pronounced by the Chancellor, if the Sovereign or his Lieutenant be present, otherwise by the Register. To the land and honour of Almighty God, his immaculate Mother, and Saint George the holy Martyr, tie or gird your Leg with this. Noble Garter, wearing it to the increase of your honour, and in token and remembrance of this most Noble Order; remembering, that thereby you being admonished and encouraged, in all just Battles and Wars, which only you shall take in hand, both strongly to fight, valiantly to stand, and honourable to have the Victory. But against the Investiture of the present Sovereign, the words of Signification, being better weighed and considered, were put into this form. h Palmer's large Iourn. p. 8. To the honour of God omnipotent, and in memorial of the blessed Martyr St. George, tie about thy Leg for thy renown this Noble Garter; wear it as the Symbol of the most illustrious Order, never to be forgotten or laid aside: That thereby thou mayst be admonished to be courageous, and having undertaken a just War, into which only thou shalt be engaged, thou mayest stand firm, valiantly fight, and successfully conquer. The Princely Garter being in manner aforesaid buckled on, and the words of Signification pronounced, the Elect-Knight is brought before the Sovereign, who puts about his Neck the George, pendant at a Sky coloured Ribbon; at which part of the Ceremony, the Admonition used at the adorning of an Installed Knight with the Collar of the Order (changing only the word Collar for Ribbon) is pronounced; but were thus framed for the before mentioned occasion, of the present Sovereign's Investiture with the George and Ribbon. i Ibid. Wea● this Ribbon about thy Neck, adorned with the Image of the blessed Martyr and Soldier of Christ St. George; by whose imitation provoked, thou mayest so overpass both prosperous and adverse encounters, that having stoutly vanquished thy Enemies, both of Body and Soul, thou mayest not only receive the praise of this transient Combat, but be crowned with the Palm of eternal Victory. In further progress upon this Ceremony, we shall note, that so great a respect hath been given to Foreign Princes who receive the honour here, that the Sovereign most usually performs the Investiture himself: For so when Philip King of Castille received a personal Investiture, in the Chapterhouse at Windesor, it was from the k Lib. N. p. 184. Sovereign's own hands, for he took the Garter from the King of Arms, put it about the King's Leg, and Prince Henry fastened the Buckle. Queen l Lib. C. p. 79. Elizabeth herself buckled the Garter about the Leg of john Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine; and hung about his Neck a Gold Chain with the George at it. The like honour did m Ib. p. 15●. King james to the Duke of Hol●tein in the third year of his Reign. And now and then (though seldom) out of special grace and favour hath the Sovereign done this honour to a Knight-Subject: though when Queen Eliz. was pleased to adorn the Lord Burghley with the Garter, the Annals note it to be done as it were n Ib. 65. by the by; and Henry Earl of Susse●. an. 31. Eliz. received these Ensigns of the Order from the o Ib. p. 113. Sovereign herself. The like favour did she to the p Ib. p. 1ST. Earl of Shrewsbury in the 34. year of her Reign. So also did q Ib. p. 159. King james invest Henry Earl of Northampton, with the principal Ensigns of the Order; as a person worthy so great an honour: and lastly, his r R. p. 142. & 143. vide porro Palmer's large Iourn. p. 8. late Majesty of blessed memory, placed both the Garter and George upon the present Sovereign, the 21. of May 1638. with his own hands. Sometimes the Sovereign hath performed but part of the Investiture, and commanded the signior Knight to do the rest. Thus when the Earl of Devonshire an. 13. H. 8. received these Ensigns, it was on this manner; first the Sovereign reached out the Garter to the Marquis Dorset, and commanded him buckle it about his left Leg, which as he was doing, the Duke of Norsolk gave him his assistance; then the s Lib. N. p. ●11. Sovereign put on the Gold Chain, with the Image of Saint George at it. At the Investiture of Christian Duke of Brunswick, an. 22. jac. R. the t Lib. R p. 23. Sovereign put about his neck the Blue Ribbon, whereat hung the Effigies of St. George; and the Earls (who introduced him to the Sovereign's pres●●●e) buckled on the Garter. The like did the u Ibid. p. 45. late Sovereign to William Earl of Northampton, an. 4. Car. 1. at which time the Earl of Penbroke fastened the Garter about his left Leg; and an. 9 Car. 1. the Earls of Danby and Moreton were both of them invested with the George by the w I●. p. ●9. Sovereign himself, while the Earl of Penbroke invested the former, and the Earl of Carlisle the latter with the Garter. So also (since the Sovereign's happy return) in the cases of the Prince of Denmark, the Dukes of Monmouth, Cambridge, and Albemarle, was the Investiture begun with the George. And thus we see, that an. 22. jac. Reg. the order of Investiture began to be inverted, the George and Ribbon being then first put on, and the Garter last: Nevertheless, the Garter as it was the first, so the principal and most worthy Ensign of the Order, and therefore in the practice of all former times, thought fit to have the precedence of Investiture given it; and was so observed at the Investiture of the present Sovereign. Lastly, the Investiture with these two Ensigns, hath for the most part been heretofore performed by the two signior Knights, and at the command of the Sovereign, but always in his presence, the Chapter sitting; but if absent, then by his Lieutenant: and so it happened an. 31. Eliz. for the Lord Buckhurst being Elected at Whitehall, upon the 24. of April that year, and coming to Court (having no knowledge of his Election) after the Sovereign was risen (yet leaving the Chapter sitting) her x Lib. C. p. 113. Lieutenant invested him both with the Garter and George. The Solemnity of Investiture being completed, the Elect-Knight recollecting himself with all befiting humility, y Lib. N. p. 211. renders thanks to the Sovereign for these Tokens and Ensigns of Honour, and after, with due respects, salutes the Knights-Companions, z Palmer's large journal p. 9 who thereupon resalute the Elect-Knight, and joyfully receive him into their Fellowship Society. In case two or more Elect-Knights receive the honour of this Investiture at one time, then so soon as the signior hath been Invested, and his humble thanks presented, he * Ex Collect. A. V. W. passeth down towards the Chapterhouse door, and there stands, while the next junior is in like manner invested; which Ceremony being ended, he also goes down, and stands with the other Elect-Knight; and so do the rest in order (if there be more present, that attend their Investiture) until the Chapter break up. SECT. IV. Of sending the Garter and George to an Elect-Knight Subject. WHere a Knight-Subject at the time of his Election is remote from Court, or beyond Sea, and the Sovereign determines to send him the two principal Ensigns of the Order, the charge of this employment doth of right belong to * Constitut. ad Official. Ordin. Altinentes c. 4. Garter; and herein there are divers Precedents. Sir Thomas Wriothesley Garter, was sent to the a Ex vet. MS. penes Io. Vincent gen. p. 159. Earls of Arundel and Westmoreland, with the Garter and George, an. 17. H. 8. So also was Sir Gilbert Dethick Garter, sent upon the like employment, to the Earl of b Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Westmoreland an. 6. Ed. 6. to the Earl of c Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sussex, an. 1 & 2. Ph. & M. to the Lord d Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Grey of Wilton, an. 3. & 4. Ph. & M. to the e Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Shrewsbury, an. 3. Eliz. to the Earl of f Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Bedford, a. 6. Eliz. to the Earl of g Lib. C. p. 44. Warwick a. 5. Eliz. (being then at Newhaven in France) to William * Ex Collect. E. W. G. Earl of Worcester a. 12. Eliz. to | Ex Collect. E. W. G. William Lord Cobham an. 26. Eliz. and to the Lord Scroop the same year who then was at Carlisle in Cumberland. This Investiture of the Lord Scroop, was the i Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. last action in this kind, which Sir Gilbert Dethick performed; who had served four Sovereigns of this Order, an Officer of Arms, the space of k Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. 65. years, whereof he had been l Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Garter 38. years, and having most worthily and faithfully accomplished his service, upon his return to London from Carlisle aforesaid, he languished by the space of ten weeks or thereabouts, and died the m Ex Collect W. le N. Cl 3. day of October, an. Dom. 1584. in the 81. year of his age. The Letters heretofore sent from the Sovereign along with these Ensigns of the Order to the Elect-Knights, have for the most part been drawn after the form of those certifying Election; only instead of the last Clause, which therein requires the Elect Knights repair to the Sovereign: for receiving the Garter and George from him, in these was an allowance to n Appendix. Num. XIX. use them, as to their Election appertain. And these were the two general forms of Letters, sent upon the foresaid occasions: all further difference lay, not in the body, but direction of the Letters, which were evermore worded according to the quality of the person to whom sent: as to a Knight Bachelor, the direction was, To our trusty and wellbeloved, etc. to a Baron, Right trusty and wellbeloved, etc. to an Earl, Right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, etc. and to a Duke, Right trusty, and right entirely beloved Cousin, etc. But we observe the forms of those o Appendix. Num. XX. Letters, sent upon like occasion to Knights-Subjects, when the present Sovereign was beyond the Seas, were penned after another manner, and (the necessity of those times requiring) contained some other particulars, namely (besides a large preamble relative to the Election of Knights, eminent for noble birth and heroic virtue) additional clauses of (1.) Power to wear the Star of Silver about St. George's Cross: (2.) The great Collar of the Order: And (3.) to style themselves Knights and Companions of the Order of the Garter, in as ample manner as if they had been Installed at Windesor; with an assurance of receiving the whole Habit there, when the Sovereign was restored to the possession thereof. And it appears from some of these p To the Duke of Ormond Marq. of Mortross, etc. Letters, that by reason Sir Edward Walker Garter was otherwise employed in the Sovereign's service, when they were sent, therefore the Sovereign made choice of other persons to carry both the said Letters and Ensigns of the Order, nevertheless q Letters to Duke Hamilton. Marq. of Newcastle. etc. reserving unto him as Garter, the rights of h●s Office. Howbeit, the said Sir Edward looking on the disposing this employment to others, as an invasion upon the rights of his Office, and having a just regard to the preservation of the interest of his Successors, no less than his own; humbly petitioned the present Sovereign for redress, and obtained his gracious Reference thereupon to several Knights-Companions of the Order, to examine the matter, and make report both what they found, and what they thought fit to be done therein; upon whose Report the Sovereign did him full right, by his gracious Declaration. All which Proceedings we think necessary to insert here, for clearing and settling the interest of so ancient an Office. To s Ex Collect. E. W. G. To his sacred Majesty, Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. The most humble Petition of Sir Edward Walker Knight Garter, principal King of Arms, and Officer of the said Order. In all humility representing, THat by the especial favour of his late Majestly your Royal Father, of ever glorious and blessed memory, he was created Garter Principal King of Arms, and was thereby to enjoy all immunities and advantages thereunto belonging, as amply as any of his Predecessors. That since your Majesty's accession to the Crown, he hath by right continued in the said Office, it being granted during life by Letters-Patent. Notwithstanding which, there have lately some disputes arisen about the execution of that part of his Office, wherein he conceives himself most concerned, and for which his Office was at first erected. He therefore, in all humility, appeals to your Majesty, as Sovereign of the said Order, and Protector of the Officers thereof, for the vindication of his just rights, which were never questioned, until this time of general Invasion, hoping clearly to make it appear. First, when any Foreign Prince is chosen, that the Ensigns of the Order are sent and delivered him by an Ambassador, and Garter joined with him in the presenting thereof. Secondly, that until this time of Rebellion (wherein your Majesty cannot formally either Elect, or Install any subject) the Garter hath rarely been sent to any of them, but according to the Statutes was always delivered them in the Chapterhouse, Garter, and the rest of the Officers of the Order assisting. To prove the first, he refers himself to the Statutes, and to the constant practice; As for example, the Garter was delivered by the Earl of Arundel, and Garter King of Arms, to Philip the second King of Spain, in the time of Queen Mary. By the Lord Spencer, and Sir William Dethick Garter, in joint commission with him, to the Duke of Westemberg, in the first year of King James. By the Lord Carleton, and Sir William Seagar, to Maurice Prince of Orange. By Mr. Peter Young Gentleman Usher, and Mr. Henry St. George, Richmond Herald, Deputy to Sir William Seagar Garter, to the King of Sweden, by whom they were both Knighted: and, as he remembers by Sir William Boswell, and Mr. Philpot Deputy to Sir John Burrough Garter, to the now Prince of Orange, from all which, Garter and his Deputies received large and honorary rewards. To the second, by the Statutes, no Knight chosen or elect shall be installed by Attorney, except he be a Stranger, or bus●ed without the Realm, for the affairs of the Sovereign; nor receive the Garter, but in Chapter, so that the sending of the Garter to any subject, rarely happens. The only example he remembers, is, of that sent by Garter to the Lord Scroop Precedent of the North, in Queen Elizabeth's time. As for the other alleged of that sent to the Earl of Holland, into France, it is subsequent in time, and was only the delivery of the Garter, and no completing of the Order, and may (if it were so) for aught appears to the contrary, have been done by Garter's consent. Besides, he is in the affirmative, and so to be believed touching the rights of his own Office and Profession, before others that understand them not. By all which he hopes it is evident, That Garter is the proper Office to be sent with an Ambassador, to present the Order to a Foreign Prince, and that your Majesty sends not Ambassadors, to your own Subjects. So than it follows, when any such cases happen (as of late have done) that Garter only, or his Deputies, and none other, aught of right to be employed therein. Wherefore, not to mention at large, how that your Majesty hath by your Royal Letters, with dispensation, fully invested eight most noble and eminent persons with the Order, and all the rights and honorary advantages thereof, and his preparing the Letters, and settling the manner and form, without any notice taken of him for doing thereof as yet, and that a great advantage hath been made by another, be performing that which he hopes fully to evidence is the right of his Office. He doth therefore in all humility appeal unto your Majesty, Sovereign of the said most Noble Order, beseeching that he may be heard, to make the particulars appear either before your Majesty alone▪ or attended by as many of the Companions of the Order, Peers and Council, as your Majesty shall please to call to that purpose, or by any other way that shall seem best to your Majesty: And that he who hath disputed it may be present, and then if it shall appear that the right is his, that he may have your Majesty's Declaration to fortify it, with direction, that the same be entered in the Register Book of the said Order, that so the Precedents that have been of late made, may not for the future be brought in example against him, or his Successors, to the prejudice of his right, and the loss of the greatest honour and advantage of his Office. The which will more reflect on him than any that have held that Office formerly. He having had the extraordinary happiness to enjoy more of his Sovereign's favours and employments, than any of his Predecessors. And (as in duty bound) he shall ever pray, etc. At the Court at Breda the 21. of April 1650. His majesty is graciously pleased to refer the consideration of this Petition, to the most honourable Lords, the Dukes of Buckingham and Hamilton, and the Marquis of Newcastle, Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, to examine the Allegations of this Petition, and such other proofs as the Petitioner shall produce, for the justifying of his right; and thereupon to make report unto his Majesty what they find, and think fit to be done therein. Rob. Long. Breda 27. May 1650. WE George Duke of Buckingham, William Duke of Hamilton, and William Marquis of Newcastle, Knights of the most Noble Order of the Garter, having read and considered the within written Petition, do find the Allegations therein mentioned to agree with the Statutes and ancient practice of the said Order. And that Garter King of Arms; and his Deputies, aught to bear all Letters-Patents, appertaining to the Brethren of the said Order, and all Elections to the Knights-Elect. And we do therefore make this Report to your Majesty, to the end you may be pleased to maintain the Petitioner in his just rights. And that no examples lately made may be brought in Precedent against him, or his Successors in the said Office. G. Buckingham. Hamilton. W. Newcastle. His Majesty's Declaration of the Rights of Garter King of Arms to Sir Edward Walker. Charles R. t Ex ●od. Collect. CHARLES' the Second of that name, by the Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. And Sovereign of the most Noble Order of Saint George, called the Garter. To all and singular the Princes and Peers, Knights and Companions of the said most Noble Order, Greeting. Whereas we have for the continuation and honour of the said most Noble Order (in this time of general Rebellion in our Dominions) by our power, as Sovereign of the said Order, lately Elected into the Fellowship thereof, divers eminent persons, whom for their great Nobility, Courage, and Fidelity, we have esteemed worthy of the same; and have by our necessary dispensations, fully invested them with all the honorary privileges and advantages thereof, and have employed divers of our Servants, and others unto them, with Letters missive declaring the same. And whereas we have been by the humble Petition of our trusty and well beloved Servant, Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, principal King of Arms, and Officer of the said Order, informed, That by the Statutes and ancient practice of the Order, when any of our Predecessors, have Elected any Foreign Prince thereinto, that the Ensigns thereof were always sent and delivered by an Ambassador, and Garter King of Arms joined with him in the doing thereof. And that when any of our Subjects was Elected, the Garter was delivered him in the Chapterhouse, or (being employed abroad) was sent unto him by Garter King of Arms Officer of the said Order. All which we having taken into our consideration, were graciously pleased for the preservation of the rights of the Officers of the said Order, to refer the examination of the particulars unto our right trusty and entirely beloved Cousins and Counsellors, George Duke of Buckingham, William Duke of Hamilton, and William Marquis of Newcastle, Knights and Companions of the said most Noble Order, who upon due examination of the particulars, have made their Report, That they find all the allegations abovementioned, to agree with the Statutes and ancient practice of the said Order. And that Garter, King of Arms, and his Deputies, aught to bear all Letters, Patents appertaining to the Brethren of the said Order, and all Elections to the Knights Elect; Wherefore, to the end that the rights and privileges of the Officers of the said Order may be fully preserved and established, We are graciously pleased (by the advice of the said most Noble Companions) hereby to declare, that although we have (in regard of the other employments of the said Sir Edward Walker Garter, in our service) sent the said declaratory Letters with the Garter, by others, unto the persons Elect, yet that the doing thereof shall not be brought in example against him the said Sir Edward Walker Garter, or his Successors in the said Office, to the prejudice of his right, We being fully satisfied, that it is his right, and properly belongs unto his Office, as Garter, King of Arms to perform the same. And we do therefore hereby command, that an Entry be made hereof, in the Book of the said most Noble Order, by the Register thereof, assoon as conveniently it may be done, To the end it may appear, we have preserved the said Garter King of Arms, and his Successors in their just rights, and that he hath not failed to prove the same. Given at the Castle at Breda this 28. day of May, in the second year of our Reign. Anno Domini 1650. By his Majesty's command Rob. Long. We shall further add, that together with the Letters signifying an Election and the Ensigns of the Order, it was anciently in use, to send the Book of Statutes under the Common Seal of the Order, no less to a Knight-Subject, than (in like case) to a Stranger; and to the same end, viz. that he might peruse and advise thereupon, whether he would accept of the Election or not: for so it appears by the u Appendix. Num. XXI. Letters signifying Election sent to Sir john Fastolf, an 4. H. 6. Within a few days after his Highness' Prince Rupert was Elected into this Order (being then in Holland) a w Palmer's large journal p. 45. Commission of Legation was prepared to be sent thither with the Garter and George by Sir john Burrough Garter, to perform the Investiture with them: but Sir john x Ibid. p. 48. & 53. falling sick and dying, prevented the designed Ceremony. Nevertheless, some while after the Prince had been in England, the then Sovereign thought fit to command Sir y Pag. 48. james Palmer Chancellor of the Order to attend his Highness, to declare the reasons, why the said Commission was not sent and executed, as was designed, as also to deliver him the Commission itself; to the intent (being prevented of receiving his Installation at Windesor, because that Castle continued in the possession of the Rebels) it might remain with him as a memorial of this Sovereign's Princely favour, and respect to his quality and merits, as also for a further evidence of his admittance into this Noble Order, since there was no other memorial thereof, but the minutes of his Election and this Commission. On z Pag. 48. Monday therefore the 14. of jan. 1644. the said Chancellor accompanied with Dr. Chr. Wren Register, and Sir Edward Walker, then newly made Garter, attended the Prince at his Lodgings in Oxford, who having notice of their coming, received them with all obliging civility: and after a little pause, the Chancellor made known to his Highness the Sovereign's Commands in the following Speech. * Ibid. p. 49. May it please your Highness, THE Kings of England Sovereigns of the most Noble Order of the Garter, ever since that honourable Foundation, have thought fit (not only for the reward of eminent services done by their own Subjects, but also for encouragements to noble acts of Chivalry and virtue, and partly for further augmentation and extension of the renown and honour of that most Noble Society) have made it so estimable amongst all the Foreign Princes of Christendom, that they have 〈◊〉 thought their fames sufficiently advanced, till they have been taken notice of by this Princely Society, and Elected into this most Noble Order of the Garter. Which ●l●ction hath been so welcomed, even to the Emperors and Kings of highest degree of Renown in Europe, that no tye of alliance, amity, or league hath proved a stronger bond of affection between this and Foreign Crowns, than that of the Companionry of the most Noble Order of the Garter; in which nine Christian Emperors fi●ty five crowned Kings, and four hundred Princes and Peers, having taken the Oath of homage and fealty to the King of England, as their Sovereign in the said most Noble Order, have already had their Names and glorious Acts registered in the Records thereof. According to which Example of his Majesty's Progenitors of famous memory, his Majesty King Charles my Master Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, did at a Chapter held at his City of York, the 20. of April in the 18. year of his Reign (when though many Stalls remained vacant) yet did think sit then to elect but two Knights only; namely, Prince James Duke of York his Son, and your Highness his Nephew; whom his Majesty thought worthiest to make choice of, not only for your Princely descent of Blood, but for his own particular interest in that noble consanguinity (as being the Son of his only beloved Sister the virtuous Queen of Bohemia) and for many eminent virtues besides (as well heroical as moral) inherent in your person. And that his Majesty's affection to you might be the more emphatically expressed, he elected your Highness a Companion of the Order in the company of his own Son, both to manifest thereby the intimateness of affection to your Highness, as well as to show Prince James his tender years, a glorious pattern for his Princely imitation of valour and martial Achievements; in which choice, his Majesty did not prove himself a King of Grace and Goodness only, but a King and a Prophet also; as if he could by his foreseeing judgement divine, how happy an instrument of valour and safety you would after prove, to his Crown and dignity, in their greatest distresses. In the conduct of whose Armies, your, Highness hath hitherto been so prosperous and successful, that it will be my duty to truth, as well as to the propriety of my Office, to give a timely recordation of each particular to the Register of the Order, that he may eternize the memory of your noble Acts, to remain in the Records of the Order, that posterity may know as well as we find, what happy assistance your Princely Conduct (of his Majesty's Armies) hath brought to his Kingdoms and Dominions. Sir, the Reasons and Motives of this your Election being so many, it behoves me now to inform your Highness, the reasons why this Commission hath not been sooner delivered unto your hand; and those are, that immediately upon your Election at York, his Majesty commanded me to draw up a Commission of legation to Sir John Burrough Knight (than principal King of Arms and Garter) ●o bring the Ensigns of the Order, together with the notice of your Election, unto your Highness then in the Low Countries, and to perform the same with all the Solemnities thereunto belonging. Another Commission also under the Broad Seal of England was directed to the right Honourable the Earl of Arundel and Surrey, Earl Martial of England; and to the Lord Goring his Majesty's Ambassador extraordinary with the States of the United Provinces; to give your Highness the honour of Knighthood, a Ceremony always by the Statutes of the said Order necessarily to be performed to any Elected Knight, before he can be admitted to be a Companion, and receive the Ensigns of the Order of the Garter. But the said King of Arms then falling sick shortly after died, and your Highness suddenly coming in person into England, that Ceremony was prevented by those casualties, and his Majesty at Nottingham himself performed that Office, in delivering both the Garter and George unto your Highness; since which time your continual employments in his Majesty's Wars, and your absence thereby necessarily enforced from Oxford (where the Commission and Seals of the Order remained) the delivery thereof was necessarily delayed till this present; when his Majesty's express command to me, and to those Gentlemen Officers of the most Honourable Order, is to deliver it now unto your Highness' hands, considering the place of your Instalment at the Castle of Windesor is necessarily prevented (by reason of the possession thereof by the Rebels) and no other memory, but your Election and this Commission remains upon Record. But his Sovereign Majesty is so desirous to invest you and the Prince his Son, in the full privileges of the said Order and society, that assoon as a competent number of Knights can be assembled to make a Chapter, his Majesty determines to consult of a course how the Instalment at Windesor may (if possibly it can) be dispensed with, that rather than you should be deprived longer of the full enjoyment of all rights of Installation, his Majesty is fully determined to make ordinary rules of Ceremony and Order, to give place to extraordinary Examples of merit and fidelity, already so amply performed by your Highness to his Crown and dignity, which is the sum of what his Majesty hath commanded me to present unto your Highness, which he desires, you to take in good part till the rest can be performed. At the ending of this Speech, Sir * Ibid. p. ●●. james Palmer presented the Commission to the Prince, who gave this Majesty many humble thanks for this gracious Message, and acknowledged his Majesty's favours far beyond his desert; but promised he would study to be more worthy by his actions, than in return of words, with many thanks to the Chancellor and the other Officers of the Order for their pains: whereupon they took their leave, and the Chancellor went immediately to his Majesty, and rendered him an account of this Employment. SECT. V. The Manner of a Knight's Investiture. IN ancient time it was part of the Ceremony, belonging to the Investiture with the Garter, of an Elect-Knight (whether a Stranger or Knight Subject) to give him an Oath, which we find called, The Oath in such cases accustomed to be taken, and was to this effect, that the Knight a Appendix. Num. XXI. should well and faithfully keep and observe, so far as God should enable him, all that was contained in the Statutes of the Order. But we find not of late, that the taking such an Oath, at performing this Ceremony hath been imposed upon any but Foreign Princes, of which anon. It is also observable that an. 4. H. 6. a particular b Appendix. Num. XXII. Commission issued to the Earls of Warwick, Salisbury, and Suffolk, with power to any two or one of them, to receive this Oath from Sir john Fastols, upon his Investiture: And this was besides the Oath, which his Proctor was afterwards to take at Installation, as is manifest out of the Letters of Procuration, whereby the said Sir john Fastols gave to his Proctor licence to take on his behalf, c Regist. Chartac. fol. 14. b. such Oath as should be required at the time of his Installation. As to the Ceremony and manner of Investing a Knight-Elect with the Garter and George, albeit we have discoursed thereof before, we nevertheless think it necessary to subjoin two or three considerable Instances as most proper to this place. When a MS p. 3. Philip Prince of Spain, an. 1. Mariae, had these Ensigns of the Order sent him, the Sovereign joined Garter King of Arms, with the Earl of Arundel to perform the Investiture, who upon notice of his arrival on the Coast of England, set forward on their journey to Southampton, where on b MS p. 3. Friday the 20. of july, they took Water, and meeting the Prince before he landed, entered his Barge, c Ib. p. 4. and gave him notice of his Election in a short speech, which being ended, Garter having the Garter in his hand, d Ib. p. 4. kissed it, and so presented it to the Earl, who forthwith fastened it about the Prince's Leg: in like manner Garter presented the Earl with the George hanging at a Chain of Gold, who put it also about the Prince's neck. The Ceremony of Investiture being thus performed, the Prince came on shore at Southampton, and on the uppermost stair there were ready attending his landing, the e Ib. p. 4. Marquis of Winchester, Lord high Treasurer of England, with divers other Lords; the Prince gave the f Ib. p. 4. Lord Williams his White Staff, and made him Lord Chamberlain of his Household; and Sir Anthony Brown Master of his Horse, presented him from the Queen a Horse with a Foot-cloth of Crimson Velvet, richly embroidered with Gold and Pearls, having the Bridle and all other Furniture suitable, whereon he road to the Cathedral, and after Prayers to the Lodgings prepared for him. Touching Garter's Investiture of the Earl of Warwich, at Newhaven in France, the first of May, an. 5. Eliz. it was as followeth, First Garter repairing to the Earls Lodgings, d MS fol. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 10. b. put on his Mantle in the next Chamber to the Earls, and thence proceeded into the Earls Chamber, where having made three Reverences, he buckled the Garter about his left leg, and next put on the George and Ribbon about his neck; reading to the Earl the words of Signification, appointed to be pronounced at the Investiture; which done, Garter retired into the Room, where he had put on his Mantle and there disrobed himself, and so the Ceremony ended. And it seems to have been a custom about these times, for the Nobility and others, the Allies or Friends to the Elect-Knight, to send unto him by Garter several Garters and George's, as tokens of congratulation for the Honour he was at this time to receive; which so soon as the Investiture was finished, and Garter returned from putting off his Robe, he delivered unto him, with the particular services and respects of those his Friends who had so bestowed them; for such we find to have been sent by Garter, and presented to the aforesaid e MS fol. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 10. b. Earl of Warwick at New-haven, and to the f Ex. Collect. W. le N. Cl. Lord Scroop at Carlisle, a. 26. Eliz. At Garter's return to Court, he is obliged to deliver an account to the Sovereign how he hath discharged his employment, and therewith by special directions from the Elect-Knight, also present the g Lib. C. p. 95. highest thanks he can express, as well to the Sovereign as the rest of the Knights-Companions, for honouring him with a reception into so illustrious an Order. We shall close this Section, with a brief account of the Investiture of his Highness the late Duke of Gloucester at the Hague, on Easter-day in the morning, being the h Lib. Carolin; p. 16. 14. day of April 1653. in reference to which Ceremony there was provided, 1. i Collect. E. W. G. A Garter with the Motto, to be tied about his left Leg. 2. A George in a Ribbon, to put about his Neck. 3. An embroidered Cross of St. George within a Garter and Star, to be sowed on the left shoulder of the Duke's Cloak. 4. A Velvet Cushion, whereon the Ensigns and Ornaments of the Order, as also the Letter signifying his Election, were to be laid. Moreover, for the honour of the Order, and his said Highness, Sir Edward Walker Garter, humbly proposed as followeth. k Collect. E. W. G. That he might be assisted by two or four Knights, in performing his duty. That his Highness the Duke, might receive the Ensigns of the Order, in the Presence Chamber of the Princess Royal, or in his own, accompanied with the Queen of Bohemia, her Highness Royal, and some other persons of Honour and Quality. That his Highness having placed himself under the State, Garter should take the Cushion upon his Arms, on which were to be laid all the particular Ornaments above mentioned; and being assisted with the Knights, and a passage left for him to make his three obeisances, he should proceed up towards the Duke, and lay the Cushion with the Ornaments on a Stool set near his Highness for that purpose. That he should signify to his Highness, in few words, the cause of his coming; and then deliver into his hand the Sovereign's Letter. That his Highness having received it, should break it open, and deliver it back to Garter to read, which he having done should return it to his Highness. That after this, he should proceed to the Investiture of his Highness with the Ensigns of the Order. Which having finished, briefly to represent unto his Highness, in a Speech somewhat of the quality and splendour of the Order. And lastly, to kiss his Highness' hand, and attend what he should please to say and so depart. According to these proposals and in the same order, were all things performed; and the Speeches then made to his Highness by Sir Edw. Walker, and first that signifying the cause of his coming was as follows. l Ex cod. C●l▪ lect. May it pl●●se your Royal Highness, HIs sacred Majesty the King your Royal Brother, Sovereign of the most Noble ancient and renowned Order of Saint George, called the Garter, hath commanded me Garter Principal King of Arms and Officer of the most Noble Order, humbly to attend your Highness, and from his Majesty to deliver unto your Highness the Ensigns of that most Noble Order, together with Letters of Dispensation, for the present investing your Highness in all the honorary Ornaments and accidents thereof. And because the Reasons inducing his Majesty to Elect your Highness, into this most Noble Society and Fellowship of the Order, are best expressed in his Majesty's gracious Letters, I do humbly present them unto your Highness, that they may be read, and then I shall proceed in full obedience to his Majesty's Commands, to Invest your Highness with the Garter and George therewith sent. Having spoken this, he proceeded to the Investiture, which being finished, he thus continued his Speech. Now that your Highness is by his Majesty's Royal Election and Dispensation for the present Invested, and made a Companion of this most Noble and famous Order, I shall humbly presume (according to the obligation of my Office) succinctly to represent unto you Highness, somewhat of the antiquity and reason of the Institution, what qualifications are requisite to all persons Elected, and how in all ages (since the Institution) this Order hath been highly valued and esteemed: All which, I believe, your Highness having lived from your Cradle under the power and barbarous restraint of the most unparallelled Rebels and Traitors usurping in England, hath not yet known. And first, for the Antiquity and Institution of this most Noble Order, your Highness most glorious and victorious Ancestor King Edward the Third (for the honour and encouragement of Martial Actions, and to oblige unto him by the nearest ties of Royal favour and society, such persons of eminent birth, as by valiant and noble acts had highly merited of him) Instituted this Order, and Elected into the Fellowship thereof (with himself the Sovereign) the number of 25. other renowned Knights, by giving them the Garter, with this most significant and generous Motto, HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE, assigning them likewise a peculiar and stately habit, ordaining them yearly to attend him on the Feast of St. George, at his Castle of Windesore (the seat of the Foundation) where be regally entertained them, and framing Statutes which themselves and their Successors were obliged to observe, for the honour of the Sovereign and the Order. By which Statutes, in the second place, the proper qualifications are fully declared, which are principally, that every person elected into this most Noble Order, be a Knight without reproach, a Gentleman of Blood and Arms, of three descents by Father and Mother, a man of courage, a lover of justice, and of unblemished fame and honour; who likewise at his Installation is by Oath obliged to defend and sustain the honour, quarrels, rights, and dominions of the Sovereign, and to endeavour the augmentation of the Order; And if any one elected into this most Noble Society shall be either convict of Heresy, Treason, Cowardice in flying from the King's Banner or Standard in the field, or that by prodigality he hath wilfully wasted his Patrimony, he may (if the Sovereign and Companions please) be degraded and deprived of the Order as unworthy thereof. Lastly, The Institution of this most Noble Order hath been so inviolably observed, as that the Sovereign and Companions have never augmented their number, and but very rarely dispensed with any of the qualifications, whereby the dignity and splendour of the Order hath been entirely preserved. And so great a value and high esteem hath been set upon this most Noble Order, as the greatest and most powerful Monarches of Europe have accounted it an honour to be Companions thereof, amongst whom the Emperor Sigismond, in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth, and that most potent and glorious Emperor Charles the Fifth, in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, came personally into England to receive it. And although the number of the Companions from the first Institution (now full 303 years) is with your Highness but 444 persons, yet of them there have been 8 Emperors, and 52 Kings and Princes of Foreign Countries, besides other most illustrious and eminent persons, some of them Strangers, the rest Subjects to the Kings of England, Sovereigns of the most Noble Order. Thus Sir, I have represented unto your Highness, the noble ends for which this Order was Instituted, the qaulifications required, and the care in preserving the dignity and honour thereof: I shall now presume to add, that as your Highness most Royal extraction is equal to any Prince of Europe, so your most towardly and generous inclination gives great assurance, that you will encourage magnanimity and honourable enterprises, appear equal to the most renowned Princes that have been Companions of this most Noble Order; And as your Highness bears the Title of the Duke of Gloucester, so that you will inherit the great and heroic virtues of that excellent Prince your Predecessor, Humphrey Plantagenet Protector of the Realm and Person of his Nephew King Henry the Sixth, who by his great wisdom, bounty, and justice, obtained the title and appellation of the good Duke. I shall conclude with my humble and real Prayers for long life, honour, and all prosperity to your Royal Highness, the most high, mighty, and excellent Prince, Henry Duke of Gloucester, Knight, and Companion of the most Noble Order of the Garter. SECT. VI Allowances and Rewards given to Garter for his service in this Employment. THE Sovereign of this most Noble Order bears the charges of Garter, whensoever, and as often as he is sent to any Elect Knight Subject; either with Letters to signify his Election, or the Garter and George, wherewith to invest him; and this is commonly proportioned, according to the length or shortness of the Journey. The allowance for that Journey which Sir Gilbert Dethick Garter made into the Counties of Lincoln and Cumberland (by the n Lib. C. p. 96. Sovereign's command given in Chapter) first to the Earl of Rutland, and next to the Lord Scroop, a. 26. Eliz. appears to have been o Appendix. Num. XXIII. 20 l. Besides the Sovereign's allowance to Garter, he hath been accustomed to receive honourable gratuities and rewards from the Elect-Knight himself, after the Investiture performed; and these have usually been proportioned according to the esteem of the honour he receives, and his particular inclinations to Garter, and the service done by him. Among whom we find the p Ex vet. MS. fol. penes johan. Vincent Gent. p. 159. Earl of Arundel, an. 17. H. 8. gave to Thomas Wriothesley Garter 10 l. in Angelotts, being then at his Manor of Dawnley, and q Ex vet. MS. fol. penes johan. Vincent Gent. p. 159. Ralph Earl of Westmoreland, elected at the same time with the said Earl of Arundel, then at Myle-end, 6 l. 13 s. 4 d. But the r Ib. p. 160. Earl of Northumberland, a. 23. H. 8. gave Garter for the verbal certifying him of his Election 4. l. though he went no farther than the Chapterhouse door. Lastly, an. 26. Eliz. the Earl of Rutland honourably rewarded Garter at Newark; and the Lord Scroop gave unto him s Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. 30 l. in Gold, a Velvet Cloak, and a Gallaway Nag, and to William Dethick York Herald, who then went along with Garter to Carlisle t Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. 10 l. But since these times, the Knights-Elect have greatly enlarged their Gratuities to Garter, for his service upon this occasion. CHAP. XI. OF Preparations FOR THE Personal Installation OF A KNIGHT. SECT. I. That Installation gives the Title of Founder. THE Installation or Inauguration of a Knight of this most Noble Order, consists in a conjunction of many Ceremonies, and contains the most solemn part of those, whereby so great an honour is conferred; indeed that which compleateth all the rest. And till this great Ceremony be duly and solemnly performed, the person Elected hath not the honour of being reckoned among the number of Founders, but barely passes for an Elect Knight, and no other. For the express Text is, a E. 3. Stat. Art. 19 That in case a Knight Elect die before his Installation, he shall not be named one of the Founders. And the reason is there given, b E. 3. Stat. Art. 19 forasmuch as he hath not had the full possession of his state; and in this point do the other c H. 5. Stat. Art. 19 H. 8. Stat. Art. 20. Bodies of the Statutes agree. Howbeit assoon as the Ceremonies of Installation are completely finished, the Knight is unquestionably vested in full possession of all the Honours and Privileges belonging to a Founder of this most Noble Order. But to quicken each Elect Knight, who is either a Subject to the Sovereign, or resides within his Realm (and consequently in a more ready capacity of receiving Installation, than one remaining in Foreign parts) to the full attainment of his honour, or otherwise to wave what hath been conferred on him, by the Act of Election; the compass of h E. 3. Stat. 〈◊〉 19 H. 5. Stat. Art. 19 H. ● Stat. 〈◊〉. 20. one year after such his Election, is allowed him by the Statutes for Installation (albeit for sooner speeding thereof, the Statutes do as well appoint him to use all convenient diligence) otherwise his Election is ordained to be absolutely i Ibid. nul and void. Nor can any thing hinder▪ but that the Sovereign may then freely proceed to a new Election; unless the k Ibid. Elect-Knight send or produce an excuse for such delay, sufficient and fit to be accepted by the Sovereign, or his Deputy, and the whole Society; or that the Sovereign himself think fit to defer the Ceremony of Installation for some longer time. For which cause, when certain Articles concerning the honour of the Order had been prepared by the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and ten Knights-Companions, approved by the Sovereign, and in a Chapter held l Lib. R. fol. 14 & 15. 24. April an. 21. jac. R. ordered to be observed; one of them was for hastening the Installation, after a Knight had been Elected, nevertheless with this Exception, m Ibid. unless for some special cause, the Sovereign should think fit to defer the same, until the Eve or day of Saint George next following the time of Election. SECT. II. Of the Time and Place appointed for Installation. THE Feast of Installation hath not been hitherto fixed to any certain time, but always rested in the pleasure of the Sovereign to assign a convenient day; which hath been obtained, either upon the suit of the Knight-Elect, or some other of the Knights-Companions, whose favour and esteem with the Sovereign was best able to prevail. Such a one do we find the Lord Burghley, n MS. fol. penes. G. O. Y. p. 203. an. 35. Eliz. (partly in regard he had been Lieutenant at St. George's Feast immediately preceding, and partly by reason of his being Lord Treasurer of England) who on the behalf of the Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland obtained the 19 of june in the foresaid year, to be appointed for the day of their Installation. It sometimes fell out that though the day for Installation was set down, nevertheless, upon some extraordinary occasion intervening, it hath been protogued to a further and more convenient time for the Sovereign's Affairs: and the most remarkable instance is that, a. 3. & 4. Ph. & Mar. when the a Lib. C. p. 20. Earl of Sussex, the Lord Grey, and Sir Robert Rochester, Knights Elect, had their b Lib. C. p. 20. Installation together with St. George's Feast, prorogued to the 10. of May in the year aforesaid. But c Ib. p. 21. many and urgent affairs, relating both to the King and Queen, happening about that time, not only the d Ib. p. 21. Grand Feast, but the Solemnity of their Installations were in a Chapter held the 3. of the same Month, prorogued to the e Ib. p. 21. 5. of December following, and on the last day of October preceding, were they again prorogued to the first Sunday after Twelf-day, in case the King should not return into England before the said 5. of December. After all this on the 5. of january following, the Grand Feast was prorogued a fourth time to the 20. of February next coming. Nevertheless it was then Ordered, that the Earl of Sussex (one of the three Elect Knights) should be forthwith Installed, which was performed on the 8. of the same january. And the 6. of February following, the Lord Grey also obtained an appointment for his Installation, and that was celebrated the 20. of April ensuing; but we do not find that Sir Robert Rochester ever received that honour. But though the time of Installation be arbitrary and uncertain, yet hath the place been from the Institution of the Order, fixed (as an essential Privilege) only to the Sovereign's free Chapel of St. George in the Castle of Windesor; within whose Choir stand erected the Sovereign's and Knights-Companions Stalls, and under its sacred Roof their Banners and Achievements are set up, as Monuments of their high deservings, and so great honour. For albeit the celebration of the Grand Feast of St. George, happened to be withdrawn from Windesor, by a Decree past an. o Lib. C. p. 54. 9 Eliz. nevertheless the p Ibid. Feast of Installation was therein excepted, and appointed to be solemnised at that place. And this was again provided for among the before mentioned Orders, an. jac. Regis 21. to wit, p. 15. That after an Election made of a Knight of the Order, his Installation should be performed at Windesor, according to the ancient Custom and Statutes of the Order. When therefore the Sovereign hath been pleased to prefix a certain day, for Installation, in order to this great Solemnity, several things are necessarily to be prepared; as namely, (1.) a Commission to admit and install the Elect-Knight, (2.) Letters to each of the Commissioners, and the Elect-Knight, for their repair to Windesor, (3.) Warrants for the Sovereign's Livery, (4.) a Bill or Warrant for the removal of Stalls and Achievements (all which are to be obtained from the Sovereign under his Sign manual by the Chancellor of the Order) and (5.) last the Knights own Preparations; among which his Achievements are to be got in readiness for setting up, so soon as he is Installed. SECT. III. Of Commissions for Installation. IN the first place we are to note, that no Elect-Knight can be Installed unless by the Sovereign of the Order himself, or (being present) by such of the Knights-Companions whom he shall verbally authorise, or (if absent) by his Commission drawn up in writing, and past under the great Seal of the Order, directed either to his Lieutenant, or Knights-Commissioners. We have met with but one Instance, where the Soveraign●ath ●ath been pleased to honour a Knight by performing the Ceremony of Installation himself, and that was in the case Philip King of Castille and Leon an. 22, H. 7. yet it is probable enough that Sigismond the Emperor, and anciently some other Foreign Princess of eminence and dignity, might receive Installation from other of the Sovereigns, though no memorial thereof hath been transmitted to us. As to the Sovereign's verbal appointment, we shall mention it r Chap. 12. Sect. 6. by and by: But in reference to Installation by Commission we shall speak of it here. For it was Ordained by the Statutes of Institution, s Art. 25. vide eliam H. 5. Stat. Art. 25. That in case the Sovereign should be absent out of the Kingdom at the time of Installation of any of the Knights, so that he could not personally perform those things his Office obliged him to, it should be lawful for him to constitute as his Deputy in this affair, whomsoever of the Society he should think fit, and he to have power and authority in the Sovereign's name to perform and execute those things, which it would have been his own part to have done, had he been present. By virtue of this Article the Sovereign's Deputy or Lieutenant (in his absence) performed the Ceremony before the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, which was usually done at the Feast of St. George (for the Celebration of which he had another Commission) but in the Commission given out for Installation, formerly the Lieutenant was first named, and the t Appendix Num. XXIV. Knights-Companions appointed for his Assistants at the said Feast, were joined with him in the Commission for Installation, to assist in that Ceremony also; but of later times, the Commission hath passed to the u Num. XXV. Lieutenant alone. King Henry the Eight enlarged the powers given by the former Statutes to a Deputy, to w H. 8. Stat. Art. 28. two or more of the Knights-Companions, that should exercise the same by the Sovereign's Letters of Commission. And therefore by the liberty and privilege of this Article, whensoever after the Sovereigns did appoint an Installation, at other times of the year, than at the Feast of St. George, they then delegated their authority to such of the Knights-Companions as were thought most fit to perform this great Ceremony. And the very next year after making this Statute, we find such a x Appendix Num. XXVI. Commission issued to the Marquis Dorset, and Earls of Devonshire and Kent, to Install the Lord Ferrars of Chartley; the substance of which hath been ever since, and is yet retained, though the form hath received some little Variation, as may be seen by two other Commissions immediately following in the y Num. XXVII & XXVIII. Appendix. The particular powers granted by the Commissjoiners are these, to accept and admit the Knight Elect into the Order, to receive his Oath, and to Install him: and the general power is, to do and accomplish every thing which belongeth to his due Admittance and full Installation, as to the Statutes and laudable Usage●, Rules, and Customs of this Order appertaineth. We shall only add this observation out of the Commission given to the z Lib. N. Pa●. 306. Marquis Dorset and the Lord Cobham, an. 5. E. 6. for Installation of the Lord Dar●y (which else is the same verbatim, with former Commissions) that in the last clause of general power, the word * Lib. N. Pa●. 306. Usage is put down, instead of the words Statutes and laudable Customs, which were generally inserted in the more ancient Commissions; perhaps, as restraining the Ceremonies of Installation, to such as were in use about that time, (when many Ceremonies accustomably used were forborn) not what the Statutes and laudable Customs of formerly days, had appointed and practised: Howbeit, shortly after, these words were restored to the Commissions of Installation as appears from a | Appendix Num. XXIX. Commission made to the Earl of Huntingdon, and Lord Clinton, an. 2. & 3. Ph. & Mar. for the Installation of Anthony Brown Viscount Montague. SECT. IV. Letters of Summons. BEsides the Commission impowering the Sovereign's Lieutenant, or Knights-Commissioners therein named to Instal the Elect-Knight, it hath been usual for the Sovereign (upon the Chancellor's motion) to issue out Letters of Summons under his privy Signet (but of late under the Signet of the Order) both to the Commissioners for Installation, and to the Elect Knights. Those to the Commissioners are directed severally to each, nominated in the Commission: the effect whereof, is to give them notice of the Installation, and to require their repair to Windesor, against the day therein assigned, to the end the Elect Knight might proceed to his Installation; a Precedent whereof is also added in the * Num. XXX. Appendix. But at the Installation of Algernon Earl of Northumberland, a. 11. Car. 1. a | Numb. XXVIII. Clause to this purpose is inserted into the Commission itself. Those directed to the Elect Knight, pass likewise under the Sovereign's Sign manual and Signet of the Order, by which he is required to repair to Windesor Castle, at a certain day therein prefixed, to proceed to his Installation, according, to the Statutes of the Order; and of this kind we have also inserted a Form in the a Numb. XXXI. Appendix. Where note, that if there be two or more Knights appointed to be Installed on the same day, the like Letter is sent to each of them, the difference being only in the direction. Besides these Letters sent from the Sovereign, the Chancellor (in case the Sovereign afford his presence) in his Circular Letters to the Knights-Companions for their repair to the Feast of St. George, gives them also intimation of the designed Installation. And if the said Feast be held either by the Sovereign or his Lieutenant, he dispatcheth a Letter to the Prelate of the Order, signifying the Sovereign's commands for his attendance at the day appointed: In both which cases, as also if the Installation be dispatched by Commissioners, he writes his Letters to the three inferior Officers of the Order, purporting the same command. The conveyance of all which appertain to Garter, and are left to his care and trust by the d Cap. ●. Constitutions relating to the Officers of the Order; whose allowance and reward upon these and such like service, shall be noted in its due place. SECT. V. Warrant for the Livery of the Order. THE third thing to be obtained by the Chancellor of the Order, is the Sovereign's Warrant, directed to the Master of the Great Wardrobe for the time being, to deliver so much Velvet for the Livery of the Order as will make the Knight Elect a Surcoat and Hood, and as much Sarsenet or Taffeta, as will line them. Of such a Warrant there is an ancient Precedent in Latin entered in the Black Book of the Order, and transferred to the a Num XXXII Appendix; together with which, we have also inserted another b Num XXIII. Precedent in English, for delivery forth of materials for the Livery, to Sir john Wallop Knight, c Lib. N. p. 291. Elected an. 35. H. 8. And in the same form run all the Warrants we have seen in the Reigns of d Ex vet. Cod. MS. in Offic. mag. Gard. Regin pag. 72.81.126.127.148. etc. Videfis lib. Warr. dormant in eod. Offic. pag. 57.60.68.94. etc. Et lib. tertium Warr. particul. pag. 126.171.231.110.298. Queen Mary, and e Ex vet. Cod. MS. in Offic. mag. Gard. Regin pag. 72.81.126.127.148. etc. Videfis lib. Warr. dormant in eod. Offic. pag. 57.60.68.94. etc. Et lib. tertium Warr. particul. pag. 126.171.231.110.298. Queen Elizabeth. There is also to be provided a Book, wherein King Henry the Eighths English Statutes are written in a fair and legible hand upon Vellum: having in the beginning the Sovereign's Arms impaled, with those of the Order, and the proper Arms of the Knight for whom the Book is provided, both fairly limned and surrounded with the Garter. This Book of Statutes is prepared by the Register of the Order, to whom, for the writing there is an allowance made, which generally in the Reigns of King Edward the Sixth, Queen Marry, and Queen Eliz. was g Ex Autogr. pene W. Le N. Cl. 2 l. but at King james his coming to the Crown, it was enlarged to h Ex Autogr. pene W. Le N. Cl. 3 l. 6 ●. 8 d. SECT. VI The Removal of Achievements and Plates. BEsides these particulars before mentioned, there is a Warrant or Scheme prepared for the Sovereign to sign, wherein the order of the Stalls in the Choir at Windesor is set down, according as he appoints them to stand at the ensuing Installation; by virtue of which, Garter is impowered to removed the Plates and Achievements of the present Knights-Companions, that so way be made for the Elect Knight, or Knights, and to fix the new Plates and Achievements within and over the Stalls, in such order as they are ranked in the said Scheme. In reference to this alteration, Garter (so soon as the Sovereign's pleasure is known touching an Installation) brings to the Chancellor of the Order, the Names of the present Knights-Companions, ranked in the order they then sit in, their Stalls (in which the Stalls void are to be so noted) to the end he may present them to the Sovereign; who, upon observing the series wherein they be already placed, may the better consider and determine how to alter and seat both them, and the new Elect Knights. And we find in the vacancy of Garter's Office, this Employment was put upon Clarenceux; for g Ex Collect. R. Cook modo Clarenc. pag. 8. an. 27. Eliz. the Sovereign's Warrant for removal and placing of Plates and Achievements was delivered to h Ex Collect. R. Cook modo Clarenc. pag. 8. him five days before the Installation of the Earl of Rutland, the Lords Cobham and Scroop, who thereupon fixed them according to the direction therein given. This Section may be further enlarged, by adding thereunto an account, upon what ground this Alteration and Removal came to be made, and how it continueth now in practice, seeing it was otherwise at the Institution of the Order; wherein we must first have recourse to the Statutes of the Order, and ancient practice grounded thereupon. Among the Statutes, 1. The Elect Knight to succeed into the Stall of his immediate Predecessor. those of Institution did Ordain, i E. 3. Stat. Art. 21. vide etiam H. 5. Stat. Art. 21. H. 8. Stat. A●●. 22. That if any Earl, Baron, or Knight Bachelor should depart this life, he that succeeded in his place, of what condition or state soever, should possess the same Stall, which his Predecessor held before, without changing: So that it might happen for an Earl (or Duke) to succeed a Knight, and a Knight an Earl (or Duke). And it was thus at first appointed, k E. 3. Stat. Art. 21. That it might be known who were the first Founders of this most Noble Order. Now how punctually this Article of the Statutes hath been observed, and what care was generally taken (for a long time after the Institution of the Order) that none chosen should interrupt or change this course, we shall show in the following Instances; conceiving it very material to make use of those Tables, yet preserved in the Chapterhouse at Windesor (but heretofore in the * Heylin's Hist. of St. George, Part. 3. c. 4. sect. 1. Choir of St. George's Chapel there) wherein are collected the Names of all those Knights Companions, who succeeded one another in each Stall until the beginning of King Henry the Seventh's Reign, a transcript whereof we have inserted in the Appendix next after the Constitutions belonging to the Officers of the Order. From which Series of succession, and other Authorities, we shall note how exactly the Law in this point hath been kept and observed, even unto King Henry the Eighth's Reign (when it received some alteration in this particular) with reference no less to Election than Installation: for we find in the Annals several Knights designed to the Stall of their immediate Predecessor, by the honour only of Election, albeit prevented of Installation by death, or other accidental occasion, and the Statutes do not bind him only, who shall fortune to attain the honour of Installation, but him o E. 3. Stat. Art. 21. who shall come after or succeed the desunct Knight, which may as well be understood of, and applied to an Elect, as Installed Knight; though the before mentioned Tables take notice only of the latter of these. First therefore, we shall instance in foreign Kings, among whom we see the King of Denmark [Ericus] to have received Installation in q Lib. N. pag. 18. & 64. King Henry the Fifth's Reign, not according to his own state and degree (as a King) but into the Stall of that Knight-Companion whom he succeeded, namely the Duke of Bavaria, it being the eighth on the Sovereign's side, whose first Predecessor and Founder was Sir john Grey of Codnore Castle in the Country of Derby. Besides, john [the First] King of Portugal (a Knight-Companion in r Lib. N. pag. 18. & 64. King Henry the Fifth's time also) was installed in the second Stall on the Sovereign's side, which belonged to Henry Duke of Lancaster, his first Predeccessor, and to this King did succeed (in the same Stall) his Son Edward King of Portugal elected s Ibid. p. 91. an. 13. H. 6. to whose Successor [Humphrey Duke of Gloucester] t Ib. p. 114. an. 34. of the same King, succeeded Alphonsus [the Fifth] King of Portugal, and to him, as saith the French Table, john [the Second] King of Portugal. But I rather doubt this Table (as to the last King) is mistaken for the second Stall, not on the Sovereign's but Prince's side; because there we find (as may be seen) George Duke of Clarence seated; and the Black Book saith, this King of Portugal was Elected, an. 22. E. 4. u Ib. p. 149. in the place of George Duke of Clarence, whose Stall had been long vacant, and whereinto an. 19 E. 4. had been Elected (though perhaps not installed) w Ib. p. 145. sub finem. Henry King of Spain. So the King of Poland [Casemir] was Elected. x Ib. p. 105. an. 28. H. 6. into the sixth Stall on the Prince's side, at that time void by the death of the Duke of Conimbero, whose first Founder was Sir john Mohun. Again Alphonsus King of Arragon and Naples, a Ibid p. 105. an. 38. H. 6. was Elected into the Stall of Don Albro Vasques Dalmadea Count d' Averence, being the seventh on the Sovereign's side, Sir Hugh Courtney first possessing it. Ferdinand King of Naples and Sicily, Elected b MS. penes Syl. Tayl●r. fol. 160. an. 3. E. 4. was Installed in the third Stall on the Prince's side, Ralph Earl of Stafford having been the first installed therein. To this King succeeded Hercules' Duke of Ferrara, c Lib. N. p. 145. Elected, an. 19 E. 4. and after him Guido Vbaldus Duke of Urbin, chosen a Companion of this most Noble Society by King Henry the Seventh. Lastly, we find that Alphonsus' King of Sicily and jerusalem, being Elected also by King Henry the Seventh, received his Installation in the second Stall on the Prince's side, whose first Predecessor was Thomas Beauchamp Earl of Warwick. In the second place, if we descend to Foreign Princes, it may be observed that William Duke of Gueldres, Elected by King Richard the Second, was installed in the sixth Stall on the Sovereign's side, which Sir john Beauchamp, one of the first Founders sometime possessed. That William of Henault Earl of Ostervant (afterwards Earl of Holland, Haynalt, and Zealand) chosen Companion of the Order by the said King Richard, was installed in the eleventh Stall on the Sovereign's side, whose first Predecessor was Sir john Cha●dos. That Robert Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria, Elected by King Henry the Fourth, was installed in the eighth Stall on the Sovereign's side. That Philip Duke of Burgundy was Elected by h Lib. N. p. ●7. King Henry the Fifth (though not Installed) into the Stall of Sir john Clifford, which appears to be the eleventh on the Prince's side. Sir james Audeley one of the first Founders, having been first placed therein. And that an. 28. H. 6. Henry Duke of Brunswick was Elected into the Duke of Suffolk's Stall (viz. the seventh on the same side) it having been the Stall of Sir Thomas Holland (Earl of Kent) one of the first Founders. And lastly, that Frederick Duke of Vrbyn sat in the twelfth Stall on the Sovereign's side, he therein succeeding Sir Walter Blount, an. 14. E. 4. and having Sir▪ Otho Holland (Brother to the aforesaid Sir Tho. Holland) for his Founder. Add to these the Sons of Kings, and we find Peter Duke of Conimbero, one of the Sons to john the First King of Portugal (Elected i Ibid. p. 84. an. 5. H. 6.) to have been Installed in the sixth Stall on the Prince's side, therein succeeding the Duke of Exeter. So also Henry Duke of Visen (another of this King's Sons) Elected an. 21. H. 6. succeeded Sir Simon Felbrige in the lowest Stall on the Prince's side, whose first Predecessor therein was Sir Walter Pavely. And as the Statute was carefully observed with reference to the Election and Installation of Foreign Princes, so no less in relation to the Princes of the Blood at home, among whom, let us (in the third place) observe the placing the Sons of the Founder of this most Noble Order, where first we see Lyonel Duke of Clarence his third Son to have been Installed in the sixth Stall on the Sovereign's side, whose immediate Predecessor was Sir john Beauchamp one of the first Founders. In like manner john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster his Fourth Son was Installed in the seventh Stall on the Prince's side, having Sir Thomas Holland for his Predecessor, and a Founder. Again Edmund of Langley Duke of York his fifth Son was Installed in the seventh Stall on the Sovereign's side, Sir Hugh Courtney, one of the first Founders, being first placed therein. And Thomas of Woodstock Duke of Gloucester his sixth Son sat in the eighth Stall on the Sovereign's side, whose first Predecessor was Sir john Grey, one of the first Founders likewise. It may be further observed that the Rule in the Statute was strictly pursued in relation also to the Sons of King Henry the Fourth, for Thomas Duke of Clarence his second Son, was seated in the seventh Stall on the Prince's side. john Duke of Bedford and Regent of France his third Son, was installed in the seventh Stall on the Sovereign's side; viz. opposite to the Duke of Clarence his elder Brother, and in a Stall of higher dignity. And Humphrey Duke of Gloucester his fourth Son, s●t in the eleventh Stall on the same side. To instance next in the Brothers and Sons of King Edward the Fourth; George Duke of Clarence was placed in the second Stall on the Prince's side. Richard Duke of Gloucester (afterwards King of England and Sovereign of this Order) was Installed in the fifth Stall on the Sovereign's side, whose first Predecessor was Sir john Lisle. And Richard Duke of York, the said Kings second Son, received his Installation in the fourth Stall on the Prince's side. In the last place, if we review the foresaid Tables, we shall find, that as the Knights-Companions of higher dignity, assumed the Stalls (when they became vacant) though often of the lower sort, so some of the lowest degree among them, have had the honour to be Installed in Seats of superior rank; and this merely by virtue and observance of the Law in this case provided. Among these Knights-Companions we shall first reckon Sir Philip la Vache, a Gascon, who in the Reign of King Richard the Second was first Installed in the Prince's Stall (that being void by the death of john of Gaunt, in whose room he happened to be Elected) though afterwards removed to the third Stall on the Sovereign's side. As also Sir john Dabrichcourt, Elected an. 1. H. 5. who died possessed of the said Princes Stall in the fifth of the said King. Next, Sir Nicholas Sarnesfield, Standard-Bearer to the Founder, who succeeded Hugh Earl of Stafford, and after him Sir William Arundel, immediate Successor to the said Sir Nicholas, were both installed in the second Stall on the Sovereign's side. Sir john Robsart an Heynower, was an. 9 H. 5. installed in the second Stall on the Prince's side. Sir Gilbert Talbot, and after him Sir john Grey were both installed in the third Stall on the Sovereign's side. And in the third Stall on the Prince's side was Ralph Stafford one of the first Founders installed, in which Stall successively sat Sir Alan Boxhull, Sir Bryan Stapleton, and Sir William Scroop. We could add here divers other instances, how the Knights-Companions, both in the case of Elections and Installations, have succeeded in the Stalls of their immediate Predecessors; but these already inserted may suffice, since they include the chief and most considerable particulars; and sufficiently manifest that the usage and practice down to the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, was pursuant to the ancient Law of the Order. But we are here to note, that notwithstanding each Knight was by the before mentioned Article appointed to succeed his immediate Predecessor, in the Stall void by his death; yet doth there follow an Exception, as to the Stall belonging to the Prince of Wales. This Stall is the first on the left hand at the entrance into the Choir of St. George's Chapel at Windesor, and wherein Edward the Black Prince was Installed; from this Stall doth the whole range of Stalls on the same side take their denomination, and to which the k E. 3. Stat. Art. 21. H. 5. Stat. Art. 21. H. 8. Stat. Art. 22. Prince of Wales assoon as he is Elected into the Order, hath a due Title. But though this Stall de jure belongs to the Prince of Wales; nevertheless heretofore when the Sovereign had no Heir, than was it (for the present) disposed of (otherwise a defect in the full number of Knights-Companions would have ensued) to some other Knight, who received the honour of Installation therein. The first that obtained that honour (besides Princes of Wales) was john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, it being conferred on him by Decree of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions (Richard the Second, having no issue, neither then nor afterwards) and thereupon removed thither, from the seventh Stall on the same side, wherein he had been installed at his first admission into the Order. But the first Knight-Companion that happened to be installed in it, was Sir Philip l● Vache (a little before remembered) and a very great honour it was, for one of his rank: But it fell to him by the then Law of the Order, being elected into the room of the said Duke of Lancaster, who died possessed thereof. Howbeit shortly after (such was the change of times) King Henry the Fourth coming to the Crown, and his eldest Son being n Rot. Parl. an 1. H. 4. n. 72. created Prince of Wales, laid then claim to this Stall by virtue of the foresaid Statute, and had it surrendered to him. Nevertheless, that the former possessor might suffer as little diminution in the honour of his Session, as might be, he was removed no lower than to the Stall, which King Henry the Fourth lately held when Earl of Derby, viz. the third on the Sovereign's side, and had now relinquished for the Sovereign's royal Stall. Upon the death of King Henry the Fourth, and removal of King Henry the Fifth from the Prince's Stall (whereby a vacancy therein ensued) to the Sovereign's Seat: Sir john Dabrichcourt (Elected an. 1. H. 5.) was Installed therein, and he (an. 5. of the same King) dying possessed thereof (of which a notable testimony remains, by the continuance of his Plate in that Stall to this day) and the Sovereign yet unmarried, the Emperor Sigismond became the next Successor to Sir john Dabrichcourt, both into the Society of the Order, and the Prince's Stall. He dying o Lib. N. p. 94. Albert Duke of Austria, afterwards Emperor (there being hitherto no Prince born) was Elected in his room, an. 16. H. 6. but this Emperor was never Installed, and thereupon during his life (near 20. years after his Election) the Prince's Stall was not otherwise disposed of, but remained vacant, and so is it noted in several Pages of the p Ibid pag. 95.101.104.108.109.112.113.114. Black Book. But some few years before King Henry the Sixth died, he had a Son born, to wit, in the 32. year of his Reign, in which regard, though the Emperor Frederick was Elected into the Order, q Ib. p. 117. an. 35. H. 6. upon the death of Albert, yet was the said Stall reserved for the Prince (but he never possessed it) and the Emperor r Ib. p. 119. an. 37. H. 6. Installed by Proxy in the Duke of Somersets Stall, then lately deceased, being the eighth on the Prince's side. In King Edward the Fourth's Reign, we find the right in this Stall returned again to Edward Prince of Wales, his eldest Son; and in King Henry the Seventh's Reign to Prince Arthur; but upon his death, Maximilian Son of Frederick King of the Romans, and after Emperor, sat therein: So also did the Emperor Charles the Fifth (his Grandchild) in regard that as yet, there was no Son born to the Sovereign. But Prince Edward being born, while this Stall was possessed by Charles the Fifth, it happened also that the King of Scots died, which caused King Henry the Eight to reserve his Stall (the third on the Sovereign's side) for the Prince, albeit he never had possession of it, nor was ever Elected into the Order, though we find him s An. 32. H. 8. Lib. N. p. 281. once registered in a Scrutiny. And King Henry the Eighth dying, Prince Edward became both by inheritance and succession, Sovereign of this most Noble Order, by virtue of the first Article of the Statutes; not needing any Ceremony to make him so. From this time to the eighth year of King james there was no Prince of Wales; which King, finding the Princes Stall void at his entrance upon the English Throne, did (in a Chapter held the t Ex. Collect. A. V. W. 3. of july, an. 1. jac. Regis) advance the French King Henry the Fourth, from the second Stall on the Sovereign's side into it; and appointed Prince Henry to be Installed u Ex. Collect. A. V. W. in that King's void seat, where he remained till an. 3. jacobi. that Christian the Fourth King of Denmark came to be Installed by his Proxy, to make way for whom, the Prince (though his Senior both by Election and Installation) was removed yet lower, viz. to the x Ex. Collect. praef. R. Cook, 1●. fol. 17. second Stall on the Prince's side, and the said King Installed in the Seat which Prince Henry had to that time possessed. And yet y MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. an. 9 jac. R. upon the death of the foresaid French King, not the Prince (as was his right, since now he was created Prince of Wales) but the z MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. said King of Denmark was translated to the Princes vacant Stall; hereupon Prince Henry was returned again to the a MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. second Stall on the Sovereign's side, which he enjoyed while he lived, and upon his death b MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. Prince Charles was removed into it, a. 11. jac. R. and there rested all King james his Reign. In like manner, when the present Sovereign came to be Installed, the then Sovereign finding him prevented for assuming the Prince's Stall (the foresaid King of Denmark yet living) assigned to him the second Stall on the Sovereign's side, (wherein himself sat, while Prince of Wales) and where hitherto the present Sovereign's Plate remains fixed as a memorial of his Installation therein. 2. Removal upon extraordinary Occasion, by Order of Chapter. Albeit (as hath been before cleared) that the Knights-Companions at their Election or Installation succeeded the immediate defunct Knight in his Stall, yet do we also observe, that sometimes, after Installation, as an especial mark of favour and indulgence, the Sovereign hath been pleased (though but seldom and rarely) to advance a Knight-Companion to a higher Stall (when it became vacant) then that wherein he was at first Installed. And though there be no such liberty given by the Law of the Order, nevertheless in the first Precedent (very early after the Institution) in the case of john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster (who as is before noted was removed from the seventh Stall on the Prince's side (wherein he was first placed) to the Princes Stall itself) this act is said to be done c See the second Table in the Appendix. by the decree of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions; and no doubt, but as this was done by so good authority, so upon no less inducements to the Sovereign and whole Society. But there are few of these extraordinary cases, which (taking up little time) we will remember here. William of Henalt Earl of Ostervant, was advanced by King Richard the Second from the eleventh Stall on the Sovereign's side, to the Duke of Britain's Stall, it being the second on the Prince's side. Next, Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth, having been first installed in the eleventh Stall on the Sovereign's side, was (when he came to be Lord Protector) removed to the second Stall on the same side. Afterward Richard Nevil Earl of Warwick, by the d Lib. N. p. 121. consent of the Knights-Companions in Chapter, an. 39 H. 6. was translated to the Duke of Buckingham's Stall, the Lord Bonvill, to the Lord Scales his Seat, Sir Thomas Kyriell to the place of the Earl of Shrewsbury, and the Lord Wenlock to the Stall of Viscount Beaumond. And lastly, Ferdinand King of Naples and Sicily, was removed to the third Stall on the Sovereign's side, after he had been installed in the third on the Prince's side: yet this was an advance of so little honour, as it is scarce worth taking notice of, being but the very next above that, wherein he was first Installed. But King Henry the Eighth thinking it requisite for the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order, 3. Translation at pleasure by the Sovereign's Warrant. to be impowered by a general Law, to do that at pleasure, which the former Sovereign's did not but by the power of particular Acts or Orders in Chapter; after he had confirmed the e Art. 22. ancient Law of succeeding in the Stall of the immediate Predecessor, not to be changed without the Sovereign's Licence (nevertheless excepting Strangers) he in the next succeeding Article established this Privilege upon Himself and Successors, f Art. 23. That if there were any Place or Stall void, the Sovereign at his own pleasure might advance and translate any Knight of the Society into the void Stall, so that it were higher than that wherein he sat before. This in effect did vacat the ancient Law of succeeding in Stalls by him seemingly confirmed to Knights-Subjects; for afterward Translations preceding to Installations, became so frequent, that the right an Elect-Knight had to his Predecessors Stall was seldom enjoyed. Howbeit, hereby he settled a power to gratify and oblige such of the Knights-Companions as should be thought worthy the honour of advancing, without recourse had to a Chapter for a special and particular allowance: and from hence the Custom began to issue out Warrants under the Sovereign's Sign manual for the Translation of Stalls, some convenient time before the day of Installation approached, and consequently the alteration and removal of such of the Knights-Companions Helms, Crests, Banners, and Plates, who should receive the honour of a higher Place; their Achievements being by virtue of such Warrants set up over the Stalls, to which they were advanced, there to remain during the time their owners continued therein. And now that we may see in what manner King Henry the Eighth made use of the powers and privileges settled by the foresaid Articles, both as to the removal of Stalls, and doing it by special Warrant (which is Garters discharge) we shall exhibit a few Examples; first showing in what order the Stalls were ranked, shortly after passing this Law, that by comparing some following years with these Schemes, the alteration may with greater readiness be discerned. Knights of the Order of the Garter, as they stood ranked in their Stalls, Anno 17. H. 8. The Sovereign's side. The Prince's side. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The Emperor Charles the Fifth. Ex Collect. Tho. Wrothes●●● pen. G. O. Y. f. 1. b. 2. Duke of Richmond. 2. Archduke of Austria. 3. Marquess Dorset. 3. Duke of Norfolk. 4. Marquess of Exeter. 4. Earl of Northumberland. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 5. Duke of Suffolk. 6. Earl of Essex. 6. Earl of Arundel. 7. Earl of Worcester. 7. Viscount Lisle. 8. Viscount Fitz Walter. 8. Lord Bergaveny. 9 Lord Dacre. 9 Lord Ferrars. 10. Lord Dudley. 10. Lord Darcy. 11. Earl of Westmoreland. 11. Lord La Ware. 12. Earl of Rutland. 12. Lord Sandys. 13. Viscount Rocheford. 13. Sir Richard Wingfield. Knights of the Order of the Garter as they stood ranked in their Stalls Anno 18. H. 8. Ibid. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The Emperor Charles the Fifth. 2. Duke of Richmond. 2. Archduke of Austria. 3. Marquess Dorset. 3. Duke of Norfolk. 4. Marquess of Exeter. 4. Earl of Northumberland. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 5. Duke of Suffolk. 6. Earl of essex. 6. Earl of Arundel. 7. Earl of Westmoreland. 7. Viscount Lisle. 8. Viscount Fitz-Walter. 8. Lord Bergaveny. 9 Earl of Rutland. 9 Lord Ferrars. 10. Lord Dudley. 10. Lord Darcy. 11. Void. 11. Viscount Rochfort. 12. Lord Mountjoy. 12. Lord Sandys. 13. Sir William Fitz Williams. 13. Sir Henry Guldeford. In the latter of these two Schemes, drawn for the Translation of Stalls, an. 18. H. 8. it may be observed, first, that on the Sovereign's side the Earl of Westmoreland was advanced from the eleventh Stall to the seventh, being void by the death of the Earl of Worcester: The Earl of Rutland from the twelfth to the ninth, that being also void by the Lord Dacres death; then Viscount Rochfort from the thirteenth Stall to the eleventh on the Princess side, where the Lord La Ware lately sat, but then also deceased. And lastly, the h Lib. N. p. 252. three newly Elect Knights were thus disposed of at their Installation; first the Lord Montjoy into the twelfth Stall, then lately void by the removal of the Earl of Rutland, next Sir William Fitz Williams into the thirteenth Stall, from whence Viscount Rochfort was removed, and lastly, Sir Henry Guldeford into that void by the death of Sir Richard Wingfield, viz. the thirteenth on the Prince's side; but the Stall from whence the Earl of Westmoreland was removed, remained yet void. An appointment for the Translation of Stalls upon admission of Francis the French King, An. 19 H. 8. Ex Collect. prefat. Tho. Wrothersley, fol. 12. vide etiam MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 31. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The Emperor. 2. The French King. 2. The King of Bohemia. 3. Duke of Richmond. 3. Duke of Norfolk. 4. Marquess of Exeter. 4. Marquess Dorset. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 5. Duke of Suffolk. 6. Earl of Essex. 6. Earl of Arundel. 7. Earl of Westmoreland. 7. Viscount Lisle. 8. Viscount Fitz Walter. 8. Lord Bergaveny. 9 Earl of Rutland. 9 Lord Ferrars. 10. Lord Dudley. 10. Lord Darcy. 11. Earl of Oxenford. 11. Viscount Rochfort. 12. Lord Mountjoy. 12. Lord Sandys. 13. Sir William Fitz Williams. 13. Sir Henry Guildford. The setlement of Stalls made the i Ex Collect W. le N. Cl. 26. of january, in the following year, affords us these observations. First, by reason of the French King Election (which past the k Lib. N. p. 215. 21. Oct. an. 18. H. 8.) and to make room for his Instalment in the second Stall on the Sovereign's side (which hitherto had been possessed by the Duke of Richmond) both the said Duke and Marquis of Dorset were removed lower, the Duke into the said Marques' Stall, and the Marquis into the Earl of Northumberla●ds, then lately void by death. And this was now so done, that the Sovereign might express what honour he could to a King, between whom and him there had lately passed so great endearments. All the rest of the Stalls may be observed to stand ranked, as they did the year before; and the void Stall on the Sovereign's side to be here supplied by the Installation of the Earl of Oxford, Elected in the same Chapter with the French King. In the 20.21, and 22. years of King Henry the Eighth, the Stalls received no alteration; and but little an. 23. of the same King; when the death of the Marquis Dorset occasioned advancing the Duke of Suffolk into his void Stall, and placing the Earl of Arundel in the Dukes. Whereupon the Earl of Northumberland (Elected in the room of the Marquis Dorset) was Installed in that which the Earl of Arundel relinquished: and in this order they continued the m MS. in Offic●. Arm [M. 17.] sol. 33. b. 24. and 25. years of this King. Nor was there any removal made an. 26. H. 8. for albeit the Earls of Beaumond and Newbl●nke [French Noblemen] were elected in a Chapter held at Callire the 27. of Oct. an. 24. H. 8. yet at their Installation, they were placed in the two Stalls, then void by the death of two of the Knights-Companions, viz. the n Ex Collect. Tho. Wrothesley Garter, penes G. O. Y. f. 6. b. first in the Stall of the Lord Dudley, and the other in that of Sir Henry Guildford. But the alterations became yet more considerable, and extended almost to a general Translation, which were made in the Stalls, an. 27. H. 8. upon the admission of james the Fifth, King of Scotland, (one Stall being then void by the death of the Lord Montjoy) for there remained unchanged only these five, viz. the Earl of Rutland, and Earl of Beaumond (but called only Lord Beaumond in the Warrant for Translation) on the Sovereign's side; and the Emperor, the King of Bohemia, and Duke of Suffolk on the Princess side. Nevertheless this so great an alteration was not made but upon consultation in o Lib. N. p. 267. Chapter held at Greenwich on St. George's day, in the aforesaid year, where the Sovereign with the assent of the rest of the Knights-Companions present, thought it expedient, that forasmuch as the said King of Scots, was newly admitted into the Society of the Order, and that there ought to be assigned a Stall answerable to his greatness; that the Stalls of the Knights-Companions should be translated, q Ibid. so as the said King should be placed next to the King of the Romans, and the rest to be ranked according to the Sovereign's pleasure; and thereupon it was given in charge to Garter, to see the same accordingly performed. The setlement of the Stalls at this time, as it was sub-signed by the Sovereign, coming to our hands, we have exactly transcribed hither. The King's Highness appointment for the Stall of the King of Scots, An. R. sui 27.23. April 1535. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The Emperor. 2. The French King. 2. The King of the Romans. 3. The King of Scotland. 3. The Duke of Richmond. 4. The Duke of Norfolk. 4. The Duke of Suffolk. 5. The Marquis of Exeter. 5. The Earl of Shrewsbury. 6. The Earl of Arundel. 6. The Earl of Essex. 7. The Earl of Northumberland. 7. The Earl of Westmoreland. 8. The Earl of Wiltshire. 8. The Earl of Sussex. 9 The Earl of Rutland. 9 The Earl of Oxenford. 10. The Lord Beaumond. 10. The Viscount lisle. 11. The Lord Burgaveny. 11. The Earl of Newblanke. 12. The Lord Ferrars. 12. The Lord Darcy. 13. The Lord Sandys. 13. Sir William Fitz William. Henry R. In this Scheme we find the King of Scots, placed in the Duke of Richmond's Stall, who with the Duke of Norfolk, the Earls of Shrewsbury, Arundel, Essex, Northumberland, Westmoreland, and Sussex, were all removed into the next Stall below that which each of them sat in before, whether it were on the Sovereign's or Prince's side. The Marquis of Exeter to the next below his own on the Sovereign's side, Viscount Lisle from the seventh to the tenth Stall on the Prince's side, the Lord Abergaveny from the eighth on the Prince's side, to the eleventh on the Sovereign's side; the Lord Ferrars from the ninth on the Prince's side, to the twelfth on the Sovereign's side; the Lord Darcy from the tenth on the Prince's side, to the twelfth on the same; and the Lord Sandys from the twelfth on the Prince's side, to the thirteenth on the Sovereign's. And as these before mentioned Knights Companions were removed lower, so the Earls of Oxford, Wilts, and Newblanke, were honoured with higher Stalls than they before possessed; for the first of them was advanced from the eleventh Stall on the Sovereign's side to the ninth on the Prince's, the second from the eleventh on the Prince's side to the eighth on the Sovereign's and the third from the thirteenth of the Prince's to the eleventh on the same side. So that in this last example, though many of the Knights-Companions were removed lower, yet it may be observed, that the English Nobility were now ranked according to their Degrees; first Duke's, next a Marquis, than Earls, next Viscounts, afterwards Barons, and last of all Knights. Some few removals were made in the following years of this King, but none of so great note as this last mentioned, and therefore we need not enlarge our Instances. Nor were there any considerable translations, in the Reigns of King Edward the Sixth, or Queen Mary. But immediately after Queen Elizabeth came to the Crown, by consent of the Knights-Companions in Chapter held the 12. of january an. 1. Eliz. the Achievements of p Lib. C. pag. 28. Philip King of Spain (late Sovereign of the Order) were removed to the Stall of the Emperor Ferdinand, void by his being advanced into the Prince's Stall, for which q Lib. C. pag. 28. Garter had then command given him. And when the French King Charles the Ninth was Elected into this Order, to wit, on the r Lib. C. p. 48. morrow after St. George's day an. 6. Eliz. it occasioned the Sovereign then to alter some Stalls, to leave one vacant for him: and the better to observe this alteration (which was considerable) we shall first show how they stood ranked on the Eve of the said Feast. Elizabeth R. MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 14. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The Emperor Ferdinand. 2. The King of Spain. 2. The Duke of Savoy. 3. The Constable of France. 3. The Duke of Holstein. 4. The Earl of Arundel. 4. The Marquis of Winchester. 5. The Earl of Derby. 5. The Earl of Penbroke. 6. The Duke of Norfolk. 6. The Lord Clinton. 7. Void. 7. The Marquis of Northampton. 8. Void. 8. Void. 9 The Lord Effingham. 9 The Earl of Sussex. 10. The Earl of Shrewsbury. 10. The Lord Hastings. 11. The Viscount Mountagu. 11. The Lord Robert Dudley. 12. The Earl of Northumberland. 12. The Earl of Warwick. 13. Void. 13. The Lord Hunsdon. The 14. of May following, being appointed for the Installation of Francis Earl of Bedford, and Sir Henry Sidney, Elected at the same time with the French King, the Stalls were removed, by the Sovereign's appointment, and settled in the following order. Elizabeth R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The Emperor Ferdinand. Idem fol. 17. 2. The King of Spain. 2. Void. 3. The Duke of Savoy. 3. The Constable of France. 4. The Earl of Arundel. 4. The Duke of Holstein. 5. The Marquis of Winchester. 5. The Earl of Derby. 6. The Earl of Penbroke. 6. The Duke of Norfolk. 7. The Lord Clinton. 7. The Marquis of Northampton. 8. The Lord Effingham. 8. The Earl of Sussex. 9 The Earl of Shrewsbury. 9 The Lord Hastings. 10. The Viscount Mountagu. 10. The Lord Robert Dudley. 11. The Earl of Northumberland. 11. The Earl of Warwick. 12. The Lord Hunsdon. 12. The Earl of Bedford. 13. Void. 13. Sir Henry Sidney. Where, beside the translation of the Stranger Princes (whom we shall mention a little below) we see the Marquis of Winchester, the Earls of Derby and Penbroke, the Duke of Norfolk, and the Lord Clinton, were each of them seated in the next lower Stall to that they enjoyed before. And by the advancement of the Lord Effingham, Earl of Shrewsbury, Viscount Mountagu, and Earl of Northumberland, each a Stall higher on the Sovereign's side; and the like advance of the Earl of Sussex, Lord Hastings, Lord Dudley, and Earl of Warwick, on the Prince's side; the eighth Stall on the Sovereign's side, and that opposite thereunto on the Princes, were now filled up. The Lord Hunsdon was likewise advanced from the lowest Stall on the Prince's side, to the twelfth on the Sovereign's; and lastly the two Elect-Knights were installed in the twelfth and thirteenth Stall on the Prince's side. Beside the power established upon the Sovereign's of this most Noble Order, of translating Stalls, when a vacancy happened, King Henry the Eighth further added this larger Prerogative s Art. 23. That the Sovereign once in his life, might if it pleased him, make a general Translation of all the Stalls at his pleasure, except of Emperors, Kings, Princes, and Dukes, who (being settled in Stalls agreeable to their Dignities) should keep their Stalls and Places (if such a general Translation happened) unless advanced to a higher Room and Stall. In which Translation, the long continuance in the Order, and the praises, worthiness, and merits of the Knights-Companions were to be considered and remembered. But this branch of the Sovereign's Prerogative in the Order, was never yet made use of as we can find (though that Translation an. 27. H. 8. came something near it) perhaps lest it might raise too great animosities among the Knight's Subjects, forasmuch as that of translating only (when there happened a vacancy) Begot great emulations, which at length introduced an alteration, and to which we shall pass, after we have taken notice of a Clause added in the 22. Article of King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, relating to Stranger Princes. Here therefore it is to be observed, that the ancient Law of succeeding in Stalls, was also, in relation to them, whollyaltered: For King Henry the Eighth upon the establishment of his Body of Statutes, not only appointed those Strangers, then present of the Order, to be seated next himself, but that t Art. 22: all Emperors, Kings, and Princes should hold their Stalls after their Estates, and the very next unto the Sovereign, though Knights-Subjects upon vacancy became removable at pleasure. Hereupon the Emperor u Collect. W. le N. Cl. Maximilian the Second, w Collect. W. le N. Cl. and after him Rudolph the Second his Son, had the Princes Stall assigned them after their Election into the Order. The French Kings x MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] f. 31. Francis the First, y Ex ipso Autogr. Henry the Second, z Ex ipso Autogr. Charles' the Ninth, a Collect. A. V. W. Henry the Third, and b Ex Collect. praef R. Co●k f. 12. Henry the Fourth, were Installed in the next below, being the second on the Sovereign's side. And when there were more than one King at a time in the Order, the second Stall on the Prince's side was assigned to him, of whom the former had precedency allowed him, in relation to his State and Dignity, not of antiquity in the Order; as it was by the King of c Ex praef. Collect. Tho. Wriothesl●y. Bohemia, an. 19 H. 8. The King of d MS. penes W D. N. f. 19 Spain, an. 8. Eliz. So also upon the same Rule, and for the same Reason was sometimes the third Stall on the Sovereign's side possessed by Kings, as in the cases of e Ex ipso Autogr. james the Fifth King of Scotland, an. 27. H. 8. and f Collect praef. R. Cook f. 6. Frederick the Third King of Denmark, a. 25. Eliz. And lastly we find, that Prince's Strangers were placed next to Kings, according to their state as were the Dukes of g Ex ips● Autogr. Savoy, Montmorency, and Holstein an. 3. Eliz. h MS. penes G. O. Y f 115. john Casimire Count Palatine of the Rhine an. 25. Eliz. and i Collect. A. V. W. Frederick Prince Palatine, and Maurice Prince of Orange, an. 11. jac. Regis. But notwithstanding these Assignments of Stalls to Strangers, they were nevertheless subject to removal; sometime to Stalls higher than their own, upon the death of a Stranger, who died possessed of a superior Stall, and sometimes again to others lower, for the advancing a Knight of greater dignity, where the upper Stalls were already filled: else could they not be placed or hold their Stalls according to their respective States, as the Statute doth enjoin; nor indeed would any Stranger King (since the ancient manner of succeeding in Stalls received alteration) have accepted of Election into the Order, unless room had been made to seat him in a Stall suitable to his Dignity. Instances of Advancement in translation of Stalls are of Ferdinand Emperor of Germany, who after the death of the Emperor Charles the Fifth, his Brother, was advanced from the second Stall on the Prince's side into the Prince's Stall, k Lib. C p 28. an. 1. Eliz. Of Philip the Second King of Spain, advanced from the second on the Prince's side to the l Ib. p. 37. second on the Sovereign's an. 2. Eliz. after the death of the French King Henry the Second. Of Henry the Fourth of France, advanced from the second on the Sovereign's side to the m Collect. A. V. W. Prince's Stall, an. 1. jac. R. Of Christerne the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 9 jac. R. from the second on the Sovereign's side to the said n MS. penes Ed Fauc●nbridge ge●. Prince's Stall, after the death of the French King Henry the Fourth. And of Christian the Fifth King of Denmark, advanced from the fourth Stall on the Prince's side, to the second on the Sovereign's, an. 22. Car. 2. Among the Prince's Strangers, we find Emanuel Duke of Savoy advanced from the third on the Prince's side to the o Lib. C. p. 37. second of the same side, a. 2. Eliz. john Casimire Count Palatine from the fourth on the Sovereign's side, to the p Collect. W. le N Cl. third on the princes an. 32. Eliz. four years after the Duke of Holstein's death. Frederick Prince Palatine an. 1. Car. 1. was advanced from the second on the Prince's to the q Collect. W. le N Cl. second on the Sovereign's side: And Henry Frederick Prince of Orange, from the third on the Sovereign's to the r Collect. W. le N Cl. second on the Prince's, an. 10. Car. 1. upon the death of the King of Sweden. In those instances of Removals lower after Installation, we shall first remember, That an. 6. Eliz. when the French King Charles the Ninth was Elected, the superior Stalls were already filled with Strangers, and there was no way left to make room for him to the Stall designed him by the Sovereign, but by removal of some of those Knights Strangers lower, and thereupon for the present, Emanuel Duke of Savoy was removed one Stall lower, viz. to the s MS. penes W. D. N. f. 17. third on the Sovereign's side, Anne Duke of Montmorency to the t MS. penes W. D. N. f. 17. third on the Prince's side, and the Duke of Holstein to the fourth on the same side. But the said French King was not Installed until the 16. of january an. 8. Eliz. and before that it was concluded to m MS. fol. 24. b. remove the King of Spain to the Duke of Savoy's Stall, voided as before, and to Install the French King in the King of Spain's void Stall, n MS. fol. 24. b. which was accordingly done; so that on this occasion there were four Strangers, and five Knights Subjects (before remembered) removed lower, to make way for the French King. The 20. of April, an. 2. jac. Reg. the Duke of Wirtemberg was installed in the o Collect. praef. Rob. Cook, p. 15. third Stall on the Prince's side, and on St. George's Eve in the following year advanced a Stall higher, viz. to the third on the Sovereign's side. The 16. of May ensuing p Ib. p. 16. ulrick Duke of Holst had assigned him that Stall from whence the Duke of Wirtemberg was advanced, and installed therein: But against the Installation of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark (which happened to be the 9 of September in the same year) the q Ib. p. 17. Duke of Wirtemberg was removed back to the Seat wherein he was Installed, and the r Ib. p. 17. Duke of Holst advanced into his void Stall. All which will appear more clear, from the appointment of Stalls on these occasions which follow. A Remove of Banners and Plates at the Installation of Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, Anno. jac. Reg. 2. Ex Collect. praef. R. Cook f. 15. james R. 1. The Sovereign 1. The French King. 2. The Prince 2. Void. 3. Earl of Nottingham. 3. Duke of Wirtemberg. 4. Earl of Ormond. 4. Earl of Dorset. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 5. Earl of Cumberland. 6. Earl of Northumberland. 6. Earl of Worcester. 7. Lord Sheffield. 7. Earl of Suffolk. 8. Earl of Devonshire. 8. Sir Henry Lea 9 Earl of Sussex. 9 Lord Scrope. 10. Earl of Derby. 10. Lord Burghley. 11. Duke of Lenox. 11. Earl of Southampton. 12. Earl of Marr. 12. Earl of Penbroke. 13. Void. 13. Void. The order of Stalls at St. George's Feast, Ibid. an. jac. Regis 3. james R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The French King. 2. The Prince. 2. Void. 3. Duke of Wirtemberg. 3. Earl of Nottingham. 4. Earl of Ormond. 4. Earl of Dorset. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 5. Earl of Cumberland. 6. Earl of Northumberland. 6. Earl of Worcester. 7. Lord Sheffield. 7. Earl of Suffolk. 8. Earl of Devonshire. 8. Sir Henry Lea. 9 Earl of Sussex. 9 Lord Scrope. 10. Earl of Derby, 10. Lord Burleigh. 11. Duke of Lenox. 11. Earl of Southampton. 12. Earl of Marr. 12. Earl of Penbroke. 13. Void. 13. Void. A Remove of Banners and Plates at the Installation of Vlrick Duke of Holst, the Ibid. Fol. 16. 16. of May an. jac. R. 3. james R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The French King. 2. The Prince. 2. Void. 3. Duke of Wirtemberg. 3. Duke of Holst. 4. Earl of Nottingham. 4. Earl of Ormond. 5. Earl of Dorset. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 6. Earl of Cumberland. 6. Earl of Northumberland. 7. Earl of Worcester. 7. Lord Sheffeild. 8. Earl of Suffolk. 8. Earl of Devonshire. 9 Sir Henry Lea. 9 Earl of Sussex. 10. Lord Scroop. 10. Earl of Derby. 11. Earl of Exeter. 11. Duke of Lenox. 12. Earl of Southampton. 12. Earl of Marr. 13. Earl of Penbroke. 13. Earl of Northampton. A Ib. Fol. 17. Remove of Banners and Plates at the Installation of Christian the Fourth, King of Denmark, the 8. of Sept. an. jac. Reg. 3. james R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The French King. 2. The King of Denmark. 2. The Prinoe. 3. Duke of Holst. 3. Duke of Wirtemberg. 4. Earl of Nottingham. 4. Earl of Ormond. 5. Earl of Dorset. 5. Earl of Shrewsbury. 6. Earl of Cumberland. 6. Earl of Northumberland. 7. Earl of Worcester. 7. Lord Sheffeild. 8. Earl of Suffolk. 8. Earl of Devonshire. 9 Sir Henry Lea. 9 Earl of Sussex. 10. Lord Scrope. 10. Earl of Derby. 11. Earl of Exeter. 11. Duke of Lenox. 12. Earl of Southampton. 12. Earl of Marr. 13. Earl of Penbroke. 13. Earl of Northampton. Here in this last Scheme we see Prince Henry was removed from the second on the Sovereign's, to the second on the Prince's side, to make room for the King of Denmark. And though the Duke of Chevereux An. 3. Car. 1. upon the death of the Duke of Brunswick, was advanced from the third Stall on the Sovereign's side into the s MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. Duke of Brunswick's void Stall, namely the second on the Prince's side: nevertheless, the year following, upon the admittance of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, he was removed t MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. two Stalls lower; and at that time the Prince Elector Palatine one. 4. The ancient Law of succeeding in Stalls altered. But let us return from the Removal and Translation of a Knight-Subject, after he had been installed, to the Assignment of his Stall at the time of Installation itself, and (in the last place) note, That on the 24. of April an. 6. Eliz. instead of the ancient Law which appointed each Elect-Knight to succeed in the Stall of his Predecessor, and the latter, which permitted a Translation at pleasure, a new one was introduced; being framed (as was conceived) upon a more equal ground than the former, and to avoid as much as might be the danger of emulation, which was this, u Lib. C. p. 49. That all Knights who for the future were admitted into the Society of the Order, should take and be installed in the lowest Stall, according to the course and seniority of their Election; except only stranger Kings and Princes. Whereupon it came to pass, that when a Knight-Subject Elect was to be Installed (he taking the lowest Stall) all the Knights-Companions, between him and the vacant Stall, were removed higher, to the end such vacancy might be supplied: or if two or more were to be Installed at one time, they took the lowest Stalls according to the seniority of their Election; the signior Knight-Elect being placed higher than the junior. And albeit this manner and order in Removals is now become a thing of course, and the method easy; yet may it not be done, or the Achievements, Banners, or Plates removed, unless the Sovereign Sign a Warrant as formerly, wherein they are orderly ranked, to justify Garter for so doing, which will be the more easily understood by the insertion of a Scheme or two. The order of Stalls as they stood at the Feast of St. George an. 29. Eliz. Ex Collect. ●. V. W▪ Elizabeth R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. Void. 2. The French King. 2. The King of Spain. 3. The King of Denmark. 3. Void. 4. Duke john Casimire. 4. Void. 5. The Viscount Montague. 5. The Earl of Leicester. 6. The Earl of Shrewsbery. 6. The Earl of Warwick. 7. The Lord Hunsdon. 7. Void. 8. Void. 8. The Earl of Worcester. 9 The Earl of Huntingdon. 9 The Lord Burghley. 10. The Lord Grey. 10. The Earl of Derby. 11. The Earl of Penbroke. 11. The Lord Howard of Effingham. 12. Void. 12. The Lord Cobham. 13. The Lord Scrope. 13. Void. A Translation of Stalls made against the Feast of Installation, an. 30. Eliz. Elizabeth R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. Void. 2. The French King. 2. The King of Spain. 3. The King of Denmark. 3. Void. 4. Duke john Casimire. 4. Void. 5. The Viscount Montague. 5. The Earl of Leicester. 6. The Earl of Shrewsbury. 6. The Earl of Warwick. 7. The Lord Hunsdon. 7. The Earl of Worcester 8. The Earl of Huntingdon. 8. The Lord Burleigh. 9 The Lord Grey. 9 The Earl of Derby. 10. The Earl of Penbroke. 10. The Lord Howard of Effingham. 11. The Lord Cobham. 11. The Lord Scroop. 12. The Earl of Essex. 12. The Earl of Ormond. 13. Sir Christopher Hatton. 13. Void. The first of these Schemes show how the Stalls were ranked on St. George's Eve, an. 29. Eliz. and the second how altered against the Installation of the Earls of Essex and Ormond, and of Sir Christopher Hatton, the 23. of May an. 30. Eliz. by which those three Elect Knights appear to be Installed in the lowermost Stalls, (as the last mentioned Decree enjoins) and by reason that the Earl of Essex and Sir Christopher Hatton were settled on the Sovereign's side, the vacancy before in the eighth and twelfth Stalls of the same side became filled up; the Earl of Huntingdon (seated before in the ninth Stall) being advanced into the eighth, the Lord Grey into the ninth, and the Earl of Penbroke into the tenth Stall. So also by the like advance of the Earl of Worcester into the seventh on the Prince's side, the vacancy is therein supplied, and the other Knights-Companions seated below him, by a joint and orderly removal, left the twelfth Stall for the Earl of Ormond, and the thirteenth void for the next Elect Knight. The like order was observed by King james, as appears by another Scheme of the Stalls, settled in Chapter held the w Lib. C. p. 1●0. 3. of july an. 1. jac. R. at the Election of the Duke of Lenox, the Earls of Southampton, Marr, and Penbroke. Stalls Ex Collect. jobannis Vincent Gen. altered at a Chapter held at Windesor, the 3. of july an. 1. jac. R. james R. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The French King. 2. The Prince. 2. Void. 3. The Earl of Nottingham. 3. Void. 4. The Earl of Ormond. 4. The Lord Buckhurst. 5. The Earl of Salop. 5. The Earl of Cumberland. 6. The Earl of Northumberland. 6. The Earl of Worcester. 7. The Lord Sheffeild. 7. The Lord Howard of Waldon. 8. The Lord Hunsdon. 8. The Lord Montjoy. 9 Sir Henry Lea. 9 The Earl of Sussex. 10. The Lord Cobham. 10. The Lord Scrope. 11. The Earl of Derby. 11. The Lord Burghley. 12. The Duke of Lenox. 12. The Earl of Southampton. 13. The Earl of Marr. 13. The Earl of Penbroke. From hence it appears that these Elect-Knights were Installed in the lowest Stalls; and so were all other Elect-Knights Subjects throughout his Reign and since, except the Prince of Wales, and Charles' Duke of York, Sons to the said Sovereign: for the Prince was Installed in the second Stall on the Sovereign's side; and upon the election of the said Duke of York, a MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 149. a a. 9 jac. R. the second Stall on the Prince's side was first designed for him, and in b Ibid. f. 149. b. place answerable thereunto, did he proceed to the Chapel, the morrow after St. George's day upon which he was elected. But upon Whitsunday following, at a solemn debate in Chapter, it was determined; c Ibid. f. 149. b. That notwithstanding he was the Sovereign's Son, yet should he have no more pre-eminence than other Knights-Companions, but come in as a Puisne, and that his d Ibid. f. 149. b. Achievements (which it seems had been set up over the e Ibid. f. 149. b. second Stall on the Prince's side) should therefore be removed to that Stall next above the Viscount rochester's (being the eleventh on the same side) and so to be f Ibid. f. 149. b. consorted with the Earl of Montgomery (before whom he proceeded on Whitsun Monday to the Chapterhouse towards his Installation) and it was moreover then Decreed, g Ibid. f. 149. b. that all Princes not absolute, should be installed thenceforth in the puisne place. But after this, endeavours were used to advance the said Duke into the Stall to which he was first appointed, and the Kings of Arms were consulted with in the case, who certified that h Ex. ipso Autogr. Richard Duke of York second Son to King Edward the Fourth, was Installed in the fourth Stall on the Prince's side, and had precedence of the Duke of Suffolk, the Earls of Dowglas and Essex, who were elected long before him: That Henry Duke of York, second Son to King Henry the seventh, was Installed in the third Stall on the Sovereign's side, and had place of the Duke of Buckingham, and the Earls of Oxford and Derby his ancients: and lastly, that Henry Fitz Roy Duke of Richmond, base Son of King Henry the Eighth, had place and precedence before the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk and others. Whereupon it was thought fit, that the Sovereign's Children should be as well privileged in this case, as Stranger Princes; and therefore in another i MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge, gen. Chapter, held at Whitehall on the 13. of April (being Easter Monday) an. 10. jac. R. the Order which past the year before for making the Duke a Puisne, was k MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge, gen. abrogated, and he translated to the second Stall on the Prince's side, and paired with Prince Henry; as may be also seen by the order of the Stalls then settled, and entered in the l Pag. 174. Blue Book of the Order. We need not bring hither more instances in proof of the observation of the Chapter Act made an. 6. Eliz. as it hath relation to Knight Subjects, since the same hath been to this time punctually pursued; but in regard Strangers are therein excepted, it will be necessary to note here concerning them, that the rule and practice continued as established by King Henry the Eighth, viz. That they were Installed in Seats next to the Sovereign, according to their state and dignity. We shall only add an instance of the manner of placing both Strangers and Knights Subjects at one and the same time: for at the coming of King Charles the First to the Crown, there were of both conditions to be Installed in one day, namely the Duke of Brunswick a Stranger Prince, the Earls of Salisbury and Carlisle Knights Subjects, elected by King james the m Lib. C. p. 23. 31. of December in the 22. year of his Reign; as also the Earls of Dorset and Holland, with Viscount Andover, elected by the said King Charles, the n Ibid. p. 26. 15. of May following, and the Duke of Chevereux elected the o Ibid. p. 26. 4. of july after. And when the Removal of Stalls was considered on for admission of these seven Elect Knights, it was determined, that the Dukes of Brunswick and Chevereux should be installed in the uppermost Stalls among Strangers, as King Henry the Eighth had ordained, but the Knight's Subjects in the lowermost Stalls, according to the constant practice, since passing the Decree an. 6. Eliz. as doth appear from the setlement of Stalls then made, and thus Entitled. A Remove of Banners and Plates at the Feast of St. George, and Ex ipso Antogy. Installation holden at Windesor the 13.14. and 15. days of December, an 1625. At which time were Installed the Dukes of Brunswick and Chevereux, the Earls of Salisbury, Carlisle, Holland, Dorset, and the Viscount Andover, as followeth. Charles R. 1. King Charles Sovereign. 1. The King of Denmark. 2. The Prince Palatine. 2. The Duke of Brunswick. 3. The Duke of Chevereux. 3. The Earl of Northumberland. 4. The Earl of Worcester. 4. The Lord Sheffield. 5. The Earl of Suffolk. 5. The Earl of Sussex. 6. The Earl of Derby. 6. The Earl of Marr. 7. The Earl of Penbroke. 7. The Earl of Montgomery. 8. The Earl of Arundel. 8. The Earl of Somerset. 9 The Earl of Kelly. 9 The Visc. Wallingford. 10. The Earl of Rutland. 10. The Duke of Buckingham. 11. The Earl of Leicester. 11. The Earl of Salisbury. 12. The Earl of Carlisle. 12. The Earl of Dorset. 13. The Earl of Holland. 13. The Viscount Andover. Shortly after the Restauration of the present Sovereign to his Crowns and Kingdoms, when several Knights-Companions, both Strangers and Subjects, were to be Installed, debate was had in Chapter held at Whitehall the 10. of April, an. 13. Car. 2. about placing their Achievements over their Stalls, whereupon the following Order issued. Charles R. WHereas divers Elected Knights and Companions of our most Noble Order of the Garter, Ex Collect. E. W. G. are by our special appointment, to be installed in the Chapel of our Castle of Windesor, upon the 15. day of this instant, and that some of them who are Strangers, do not yet, nor are likely to appear either in their own persons or by their sufficient Proxies, at the said Instalment, and so might run hazard to lose the benefit and advantage of their pre-election in point of rank and precedency in respect of some of our Subject Knights, who though since Elected will be first installed, without some expedient taken therein to prevent it. There being no reason (nor is it in our intention) that those Noble Persons should suffer that prejudice for want of that usual formality, and for which they are not in fault, but others, who according to the Statutes and ancient Custom were to give timely, advertisement to the said Foreign elected Knights, and to summon them by themselves or Proxies to assist at the said Instalment: Our will and pleasure is you proceed forthwith to the placing of the Hatchments of all the respective Knights and Companions of our said Order, whether Installed, or Elect, Subject, or Strangers, over the Stalls which we do in manner as followeth assign and appoint them in our foresaid Chapel. 2. The Duke of York. 1.— 1. The Sovereign 2. The Elector Palatine. 3. Prince Elector of Brandenburg. 3. Prince of Orange. 4. Prince Rupert. 4. Prince Edward. 5. Earl of Salisbury. 5. Earl of Berkshire. 6. Earl of Northumberland. 6. Duke of Espernon. 7. Duke of Ormond. 7. Duke of Buckingham, 8. Earl of Southampton. 8. Marquess of Newcastle. 9 Earl of Bristol. 9 Prince of Tarente. 10. Count Marshin. 10. Duke of Albemarle. 11. Earl of Sandwich. 11. Earl of Oxford. 12. Duke of Richmond. 12. Earl of Lindsey. 13. Earl of Manchester. 13. Earl of Strafford. And for so doing this shall be your sufficient Warrant, any Statute or Custom to the contrary notwithstanding. Given under the Signet of Our said Order at our Court at Whitehall the 10. of April 1661. By the Sovereign's command Hen. de Vic. To our trusty and wellbeloved servant Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, and Principal King of Arms of our most Noble Order of the Garter. So that here we see the Stranger Princes are settled in the upper Stalls, nearest the Sovereign, according to their several dignities and degrees, and all the Knights Subjects (among whom were reckoned the Duke of Espernon, the Prince of Tarente, and Count Marshi●) according to the times of their Elections: this being in confirmation as well of the setlement made by King Henry the Eighth, as of Queen Elizabeth before remembered. And among the Knight's Companions in this setlement it is to be noted, that though the Earl of Southampton did not receive his Garter and George, till the Sovereign's happy return into England, and then from his own hands▪ yet was his place and precedence here allowed him according to the time of his Election, in the Isle of jersey, in january an. Dom. 1649. some few days before Duke Hamilton, and the Marquis of Newcastl● were elected. But the 10. of january, an. 14. Car. 2. the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, assembled in Chapter, Ordered, q Lib. Carolin. p. 43. That thence forward all Prince's Strangers of what condition soever, should have precedence among themselves, according to the seniority of their Elections and Installations; and thereupon the Sovereign's Warrant issued out to Garter under the Signet of the Order, dated the 30. of March following, to authorize him to set up their Achievements in the Chapel of St. George at Windesor, in the order here exhibited. Charles R. r Lib. Caro●in. p. 43. 1. The Sovereign. 1. Void. 2. Duke of York. 2. Prince Elector Palatine. 3. Prince Rupert. 3. Prince of Orange. 4. Prince Elector of Brandenburg. 4. Prince of Denmark. 5. Earl of Salisbury. 5. Earl of Berkshire. 6. Earl of Northumberland. 6. Duke of Ormond. 7. Duke of Buckingham. 7. Earl of Southampton. 8. Marquess of Newcastle. 8. Earl of Bristol. 9 Prince of Tarente. 9 Count Marshin. 10. Duke of Albemarle. 10. Earl of Sandwich. 11. Earl of Oxford. 11. Duke of Richmond. 12. Earl of Lindsey. 12. Earl of Manchester. 13. Earl of Strafford. 13. Duke of Monmouth. Nevertheless the 19 of November, and. Dom. 1669. at a Chapter held at Whitehall, upon due consideration had of the Law made by King Henry the Eighth, for placing of Strangers, as also of Queen Elizabeth for Knights Subjects, and to remove all Orders made in alteration thereof; the Sovereign by the advice and consent of the most Noble Companions present, was pleased to Ordain and Declare, s Ibid. p. 7●. First, that the Princes of Wales, and such Emperors and Kings, that should be of the Order, should be placed in the nearest Stalls, to that of the Sovereign, according to their Elections and Installations. Then, that all other Sovereign Princes, and Princes of the Blood, should be placed in the Stalls, next unto Kings according to their seniority in the Order. And thirdly, that all other his Majesty's Subjects and Strangers, not of the dignity above mentioned, should be installed in the lowest Stalls, according to their antiquity in the Order, and the ancient Practice. Thus stands the Law for setlement of Stalls at this day. And whereas the Stall commonly called the Prince's Stall, was and had been long void, the Sovereign by the advice of the most Noble Companions (present in Chapter the said 19 of November) was pleased to order, t Ib. p. 73. That the present King of Sweden should by his Proxy be placed in that Stall, and his Achievements hung up thereon accordingly, in convenient time: All which being done as this Order directed, the Stalls at the Feast of St. George celebrated, an. 23. Car. 2. were ordered in the following manner. 1. The Sovereign. 1. The King of Sweden. 2. King of Denmark. 2. Duke of York. 3. Prince Elector Palatine. 3. Prince Rupert. 4. Prince of Orange. 4. Prince Elector of Brandenburg. 5. Prince Elector of Saxony, 5. Duke of Ormond. 6. Duke of Buckingham. 6. Duke of Newcastle. 7. Earl of Bristol. 7. Prince of Tarente. 8. Count Marshin. 8. Earl of Sandwich. 9 Earl of Oxford. 9 Duke of Richmond. 10. Earl of Strafford. 10. Duke of Monmouth. 11. Duke of Albemarle. 11. Void. 12. Void. 12. Void. 13. Void. 13. Void. SECT. VII. Preparations made by the Knight Elect. HAving in the preceding Section laid down the ancient Law of succession into void Stalls, and of Translation from one Stall to another; with several instances, both while such removals were at the Sovereign's pleasure, and after, when they became confined to the regular course now observed; and having also discourt concerning those things which are to be prepared for the Installation of a Knight Subject on the Sovereign's part, and for which his Warrants and Letters issue forth, as is before showed at large: we come now to consider, what is further to be prepared for the Knight Elect, at his own charge, against the day of this great Solemnity, and they are chiefly these which follow. 1. A Mantle or upper Robe, with its appurtenances. 2. A Collar of the Garter, and Great George. 3. A Cap of black Velvet adorned with Plumes. 4. An Helm, Crest, Mantlings, and Sword. 5. A Banner of his Arms. 6. A Plate of his Arms and Stile. 7. A Cushion, to carry his Robes and Collar upon. 8. Lodging Scutcheons. i Mantle We do not find that the Mantle of the Order was anciently bestowed by the Sovereign upon Knights Subjects, as was the Kirtle or Surcoat; nor indeed of late (unless now and then as a peculiar favour) for seeing the a Lib. R. p. 43. & 120. Injunction for returning the Mantle upon the death of a Knight-Companion, is restrained to such only on whom the Sovereign should vouchsafe to bestow them, it is thence evident, that the Sovereign is not obliged to give the Mantle at all, nor to all, but only where himself pleaseth. But it appears that the Sovereign always bestowed the Mantle (together with the rest of the Habit) upon Strangers, after he had Elected any of them into the Society of the Order. And when the whole Habit was sent over by Garter to the King of Portugal an. 13. H. 6. the b Ex lib. vocat Cotom. in Offic. mag. Gardrob. fol. 92. Mantle, Surcoat, and Hood were accounted for together in the Accounts of the Great Wardrobe; and the like hath been done in all such cases since. Howbeit of late times the Sovereign, as an especial mark of favour, hath been pleased now and then to give a Knight-Subject the Mantle also: as did King james to c Lib. Warr. in Offic. praed. à festo S. Mich. 1623. ad an. 1624. james Marquis Hamilton, an. 21. jac. R. and King Charles the First to d Warr. cur. in eod. Offic. de an. 1628. Theophilus Earl of Suffolk a. 4. Car. 1. to e Lib. Warr. de an 1629. William Earl of Northampton, an.] 5. Car. 1. and an. 14. Car. 1. Sir james Palmer by this Sovereign's direction g Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer. paid for the Velvet and Taffeta of the Earl of Kelly's Mantle and Surcoat to Sir Peter Richaut, and put it upon the Account of h Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer. extraordinary charges of the Order. Besides which the present Sovereign, as a mark of like favour, caused 17 Mantles (with the usual Liveries of Surcoat and Hood) to be provided against the Grand Feast of St. George, an. 13. Car. 2. which were bestowed not only among the new Elect Knights, but the three signior Knights-Companions also namely, the Earls of Salisbury, Berkshire, and Northumberland; for which see the Warrant in the i Numb. XXXIV. Appendix. But the Elect Knight being otherwise to provide the Mantle at his own charge, directions may be had in the k Sect. 2. Chapter of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, as to all the materials for making thereof. The Collar of the Order with the Great George is to be provided by the Elect Knight, unless where the Sovereign is pleased to bestow the Mantle; and in such case he also bestows the Collar, and then a like Warrant issues to the Master of the jewel-house, as did for providing the 17. Collars l Appendix Num. XXXV. a. 13. Car. 2. The Black Velvet Cap, 3. Cap.: mentioned and described n ●hap. 7. Sect. 4. before, and therefore needless to speak of it here; is also to be provided at the charge of the Knight Elect. Likewise the Helm, 4. Helm, Crest, etc. and Crest, with Mantlings thereunto belonging, also a Sword and Girdle (usually called within the verge of this Order, the Achievements of a Knight-Companion) are to be got in readiness, by the care and direction of Garter, but at the Elect Knights cost; all which are to be set over his Stall, assoon as his Installation Fees are paid. This honour, that every Knight-Companion should have his Helm, Crest, and Sword, hung up over his Stall in the Chapel of St. George at Windesor is particularly provided for, in all the several Bodies of Statutes; and are ordained to remain there during the lives of the possessors, o E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 in memory (or as a p shd. Stat. in B●l. Hatt●n Art. 9 Token or Mark of Honour) of him that bears them, and a testimony of the defence of the Church, as the Oaths of Military Orders require. The Helms, used for this purpose and upon this occasion, are made of Steel large and fair, and of a more than ordinary proportion: they are likewise (for the most part) of two sorts, the one appointed for Sovereign Princes, and framed q Collect W. le N. Cl. open, with large Bails or Bars; the other for Knights Subjects, whose Vizors are made r Collect W. le N. Cl. close. About King Henry the Eighth's Reign the Knight's Subjects Helms were parcel gilded with fine Gold in Oil, wrought with Rabeskies and other works, and burnished with fine Gold. But in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, and since, it hath been the Custom to gild their Helms all over, placing St. George's Arms in the middle before the Vizors. The Mantlings that hang down on either side the Helm, which, with the Wreath, are in some places called s Lib. N. p. 67.70. videses Stat. in Pabl. Ha●● Art. 7. & ●. 8. Stat. Art. 8. Appendices, are all of Tissue or Cloth of Gold, and heretofore lined with t Collect. W. le N. ●●. Sarsenet; but in Queen Mary's Reign they began to make use of u Collect. W. le N. ●●. White Satin, for of such were the Linings to the Mantlings of w Collect Io. Vincent. Anthony Brown Viscount Montague, and x Collect Io. Vincent. William Howard Lord Admiral. At the bottom of these Mantlings hang a pair of gilt knobs, burnished with Gold, from which issue Tassels of either Gold or Silver (according as is the metal in the Knight's Coat Armour) mixed with Silk of the chief Colour in his Arms. Upon the Helm and Mantlings is placed a Wreath of corded Silks, of the Knight's colours, which was heretofore made of Sarsenet, but now of Taffeta. The Crest of the Knight is placed either upon these Wreaths, or issuant out of a Crown, or ducal Cap; turned up with Ermyn, and of what kind soever the Crest is, the same is neatly carved in wood, and either gilt or wrought in its proper colours in Oil. Directly before the Helm, an arming Sword hangs down, the Pommel, Cross, and Chape are gilded; the Scabbard is made of the same Tissue or Cloth of Gold, as are the Mantlings, and so is the Girdle thereunto belonging; but the Buckles and Pendants are of Copper gilt. It appears a little before, that the custom of setting up the Helm, Crest, and Sword, over the Knight's Stall is as ancient as the Institution of the Order; but when their Banners were first hung up, is not so clearly manifest; for neither do the Statutes of Institution, or King Henry the Fifth's Statutes take notice of them. The first mention of them that we find is in the Black Book of the Order, an. 2. H. 6. where the a Lib. N. p. 7●. Banner of the King of Portugal, is particularly named among the Achievements then set up over his Stall, but Henry the Eighth's body of Statutes makes particular c Art. 8. mention of them. The fashion of the Sovereign's and all the Knight-Companions Banners are square; but it doth no where appear to us, of what size their Banners anciently were; yet in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, we find them d Collect. W. le N. Cl. videses MS. 4. penes E. W. G. two yards and a quarter long, and a yard and three quarters broad, beside the Fringe (which is made of Gold or Silver and Silk, of the colours in the Wreath) and thereon are wrought or beaten upon Taffaty-Sarcenet, double-Sarcenet, or rich Taffeta, with fine Gold and Colours, on both sides, the paternal Coat of the Knight's Companion, together with his Quartering, or so many of them as he please to make use of, wherein Garter is to take care that they be warrantably marshaled. And because a a Collect. W. le N. Cl. single Coat was conceived not to stand fair enough in a Banner of this proportion, therefore the Sovereign hath been pleased (where a Knight-Companion wanted Quarterings) to grant a new Coat to bear in Quarter with his paternal Coat; as did King james to b Collect. W. le N. Cl. Robert Carr Viscount Rochester, afterwards Earl of Somerset; to whose paternal Coat (8. jun. an. 9 jac. R.) he first added a c Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. Lion passant gardant Or, in the dexter part, as an especial gift of favour, and then a new invented Coat to be born in quarter therewith, viz. d Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. Quarterly Or and Gules, a Lion Rampant sable over all. He also granted to Sir Thomas Erskin (afterwards created Earl of Kelly) a Coat of Arms to be quartered with his paternal Coat, viz. e Ibid. Argent, a pale Sable. These Banners of Arms are fixed to the end of long Staves, painted in Oil, formerly with the Colours of the Wreath, but now Red: Their ends are put into Sockets of Iron, well fixed in the Wall, directly over the Knights-Companions Helms and Crests; and commonly lined with thick Fustian, to preserve them. 6. Plates of Arms. Besides these, there is also to be provided a Copperplate gilt, whereon a Scutcheon of the Knight-Elect's Arms, and Quartering within a Garter, are engraved and enameled in Colours, with his Helm, Crest, and Supporters, and underneath his Style and Titles of honour: which Plate, Garter usually takes care to provide, and is to be fixed on the back of the Knight-Elect's Stall assigned for his Installation. 7. Cushion. Moreover a Velvet Cushion is to be also provided, whereon to carry the Knight-Elect's Mantle, Collar, Hood, and Book of Statutes before him, in the proceeding to the Choir at his Installation. Concerning the materials and garnishings of some of these Cushions, we find this account of those used at the Installation of the Lord Treasurer Weston, the Earls of Exeter and Lindsey, Installed an. 6. Car. 1. that each of them contained one yard and a half of Crimson Velvet, one Ell of rich Taffeta for their lining, and 4 yards of Fringe, and 4 great Tassels. 8. Lodging Scutcheons. Lastly, there hath been commonly provided a convenient number of Lodging Scutcheons, of the Elect-knights Arms, environed with a Garter, with his Style and Titles underneath; and these Garter also gets in readiness, for it hath been an ancient custom, to distribute at the Inns in the Knight's passage, to and at Windesor, these Scutcheons, to be set up in the principal Rooms of those Houses, as a memorial of the honour of the Knight's Installation. Such of the foresaid particulars as are committed to the care of Garter to prepare and make ready, the charges thereof have been sometimes cast up, and the Account stated and paid off beforehand; by which means he was the better enabled to furnish out the same, for so did the f MS. fol. penes G.O.Y. p. 203. Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland, an. 34. Eliz. And in Garter's Bill there is to be inserted the price of a Trunk, the charge for Carriage of those things he provides for the Knight-Elect to Windesor, and for their setting up. Lastly, besides all these things before mentioned, to be prepared and provided either by the Chancellor of the Order, or Garter; there are other to be taken care for, by the Knight-Elect, relating more particularly both to himself and his retinue; as his own Apparel, the number of his Attendants and Servants, with their Clothes and Liveries, his Coach and Saddle Horses, both for himself and them; with divers other things necessary for setting forth his Cavalcade and Proceeding, to and at Windesor; all which have usually been the richest and best that could be made or gotten, that so the show might be furnished out, with all possible splendour and gallantry. Together with these, the Provisions for Diet at Windesor (if the Feast be kept at the Elect-knights charge and expense) is to be considered of, and to that end for the most part some one of the Clerks of the Sovereign's Kitchen is to be consulted, who commonly undertakes the management of that Affair. To conclude this Chapter, the Hall or Room where the grand Dinner is to be kept, the Chapterhouse and Chapel, ought chiefly to be set forth and adorned with rich and sumptuous Furniture, against this solemnity, over and beside what is of ordinary and necessary use. The Hall or Dining room, to be furnished with rich hangings▪ and if the Sovereign or his Lieutenant hold the Feast, then▪ must there be a k Colle●t W. le N. Cl. Cloth of State set up at the upper end of it: but not if the Installation be performed by Commissioners. The Chapterhouse is then also to be hung, a rich Carpet spread upon the Table, and set about with Velvet Chairs and Cushions; and because in the late times of plundering, this place had suffered its share, and nothing found there upon the present Sovereign's happy return, that was worth taking away; his said Majesty in a Chapter held the 14. of january an. 12. Car. 2 am●ng other preparations relating to the Order, caused directions to be given to the M●ster of the Wardrobe, to provide Velvet for Chairs to furnish the Chapterhouse, and Cushions to be used in the Choir of St. George's Chapel, which accordingly were made ready for the service of the following Fe●st. Against the Installation of Philip King of C●stile and ●●n. a●. 22. ●. ●. T●e m Ex 〈◊〉 MS. penes W ● N. ●l. vide Lib. N. p 183. Table in the Chapterhouse was covered with cloth of Gold, and the Forms with Baudkin; before the Sovereign was laid a Cushion of Cloth of Gold, whereon a Crucifix lay, and the n Ex 〈◊〉 MS. penes W ● N. ●l. vide Lib. N. p 183. Evangelists turned open to the place of the Canon, with several Tapers burning on either side. At the upper end of the Table towards the right hand was set a Chair for the Sovereign▪ under a golden Canopy▪ with Cushions of Cloth of Gold, and on the left hand a Stool with like garnishing, for the King of Castille. In St. George's Chapel, the high Altar is to be richly adorned with Plate, the Sovereign's Stall with a Canopy, and other usual ornaments, and last▪ the Stalls of the Knights-Companions present at this Ceremony with Velvet Cushions. As to the furnishing of other places in the Castle of Windesor, on such a solemn occasion, we will in the last place borrow an account from the Relator of the Ceremony of Installation of the aforesaid King of Castille and Leon, whose words are these. To writ of the great rich cobbord, Ibid. which continually stood in the great ball, which was all guilt Place; or of the great and rich beds of estate▪ hangyngs of rich Cloth of Gold, or of the rich and sumptuous clothes of Arras, with divers Clothes of estate, both in the King's Logging, and in the King of Castil's Logging, so many Chambers, Haulle, Chapel, Closetts, Galleries with odir Logging, so richly and berely well appointed, with dibers odir things, that I suffice nor cannot discern, and as I suppose▪ few or none that there were, that ever saw Castle or odir Logging, in all things so well and richly appointed, and the great continual fare, open household, so many noble men so well apparelled, and with so short warning, heretofore as I think hath not been seen. CHAP. XII. THE Personal Installation OF A Knight Subject. SECT. I. Of the Cavalcade to Windesor. IN former times, the Knights-Elect frequently took their journey from London to their Installation at Windesor, in the nature of a solemn and stately Cavalcade; and this Proceeding on Horseback was generally set forth with exceeding pomp; whether we consider the great number of their honourable Friends, who on gallant Coursers road along with them, or the multitude of their own Attendants well mounted, the richness of whose Apparel, Jewels, Gold Chains, rich embroideries, and Plumes of Feathers of their Lords Colours, even dazzled the Eyes of the beholders. Suitable thereto was the Feast, which had in it all manner of magnificence and plenty, as well as provision, as all other things that could add glory thereunto: and in which the ●lect-Knights (when kept at their charge) strove not only to exceed their Predecessors, but one another: Insomuch that Ambassadors and Strangers esteemed it one of the goodliest sights, that was to be seen in Christendom; and to which (as is noted by a a ●●vi● Chi●●●●●ron. S●x. ●●b. 26. Stranger) a great concourse and innumerable multitude of People, used to flock from London and other places, some reasonable distance from Windesor, to behold the Solemnity. But to make the splendour of the Cavalcade no less conspicuous to the City of Lond●n▪ than Town and Castle of Windesor, the Knights-Elect have taken up their Lodgings sometimes in the Strand, at other times in Salisbury Court, then in Holborn, or within the City; to the end it might pass through some of the eminent streets, for the People's satisfaction, whereof we shall here descend to some particulars. Gilbert Earl of Shrewsbury, in order to his Cavalcade an. 34. Eliz. was lodged in b MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 203. Mr. Gresham's house (afterwards knighted, and this house since known by the name of Gresham College) whence he road c MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 203. through the City, accompanied with sundry of his honourable Friends, and a numerous and gallant Train of Attendants and Servants to Charing Cross; where he met d MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 203. George Earl of Cumberl●nd (his Companion Elect) and thence both together rode towards Windesor, within a mile or two of which place, e MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 203. Garter King of Arms met them, and set their Attendants in order; and thence the Elect-Knights took their way, in goodly Equipage through the Town into the Castle, the Proceeding being thus ordered. Trumpets, two and two. Gentlemen in Blue Coats and Gold Chains. Gentlemen of note. Garter. Gentleman-ushers. Earl of Ormond. The two Elect-Knights. Baron of Essingham. With their Footmen about them. Noblemen, Knights, and Gentlemen of Quality. All their Servants in the rear. In like manner Custom and Peace begat many such glorious Cavalcades, during the Reigns of Queen Elizabeth, and King james, specially that at the Installation of f MS. penes E. W. G. f. 147. Robert Earl of Salisbury, and Thomas Viscount Bindon, May 21. an. 4. jac. R. who came to Windesor honourably g MS. penes E. W. G. f. 147. accompanied, with a great appearance of Nobility, Knights, and Gentlemen of special note. But the fate of this Solemnity, much like that glorious body the Sun (whose lustre at such times it strove to outshine) had at sometimes its short intermitting Clouds, at others, long nights, and the glory thereof appeared but now and then, when the pleasure of the Sovereign grew auspicious, or the honour of the Order became placed upon more generous Spirits. And to say truth, there may grow an excess in such Solemnities, even to surfeit; which is then best cured by a long abstinence. Nor was this Festival at all times free from this distemper; but then the Sovereign readily cured it, by taking away the cause, and prohibiting excess in their Attendants. Hereupon it was that King james, observing those Excesses the Knights-Elect run into upon this occasion, and willing to check the growing inconveniences, took occasion against the Installation of Francis Earl of Rutland, Sir George Vill●rs Knight (after created Earl, than Marquis, and lastly Duke of Buckingham) and of Viscount Lisle, an. 14. of his Reign, to forbid h Ibidem. Livery Coats, for saving charge, and avoiding emulation; and shortly after, in a Chapter held at Whitehall, an. 16. jac. R. with the consent of the Knights-Companions then assembled, put some restraint upon the number of Attendants; and Decreed, i Lib. C. p. 191 That every of the Knights-Companions should have 50 persons to attend him unto the annual Solemnities of the Order, and no more. Some little exceeding (above that allowed number) we meet with afterwards in the Attendants of Gentlemen and Yeomen upon William Earl of Northampton an. 5. Car. 1. to the number of fourscore, who began his Cavalcade to Windesor, from k Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Salisbury House in the Strand; and certainly would have exhibited a more glorious show, had not the continual Rain for l Lib. R. p. 47. three days space together impeded: Nevertheless conceiving that a Proceeding designed with so much gallantry as it was, aught to outlive the accident of foul weather, we shall insert the order of it here. The order of riding to the Installation of William Earl of Northampton, Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. the 20. of April, 1629. Trumpets, whose Banners were of Damask, and thereon the Earls Arms within a Garter, with his Crest and Supporters. The meanest of his Servants, as Grooms, and Teomen, in Blue Coats, two and two. His Lordships other Servants in Blue Coats as Gentlemen, Esquires, and Knights two and two. Two Secretaries; Mr. Ralph Goodwin, and Mr. Francis Mewse. Steward, Mr. Cuthbert Ogle. Controller, Mr. William Goodwin. Two Pages, Thomas Floyd, and Francis Browne. His spare Horse, led by the Gentleman of his Horse. His Chaplain to distribute his Alms. Pursuivants at Arms, two and two. Heralds at Arms, two and two. Gentleman Usher, Mr. Walter Thomas, bareheaded. Earl of Berkshire. Earl of Northampton. Earl of Salisbury. The Senior Herald covered. Noblemen in their places, two and two. Knights, Esquires, and Gentlemen, which accompanied him. The Commissioners Servants. Other Nobleman's, Knights, Esquires, and gentlemen's Servants. Thus Henry Earl of Danby, and William Earl of Morton, being to receive the honour of Installation, an. 10. Car. 1. so disposed of themselves, for their more commodious passage and the people's view; that the one lodged at m Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. vide Lib. R p. 93. Warwick House in Holborn, the other at n Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. vide Lib. R p. 93. Dorset House in Salisbury Court near Fleetstreet, and proceeded severally through the Streets to o Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. vide Lib. R p. 93. Hide Park, each between two Noblemen to support him, with their Footmen in rich Coats on either side them. Their Gentleman-ushers road bareheaded, and before them the Officers of Arms wearing their Coats, than their Servants in Blue Coats and Cognisances (as was the ancient manner) all led on by Trumpets. The rest of the Lords, Knights, and Gentlemen followed after each Knight-Elect in Troop, according to their Degrees, those of the best quality foremost. In particular, the Proceeding of the Earl of Morton, was marshaled in the following order. Trumpets, Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. two and two. Grooms in Coats, two and two. Yeoman two and two. Gentlemen, two and two. Secretaries. Steward. Gentleman of the Horse. Pages. 4 Officers of Arms. Gent. Usher bare. Lancaster Herald covered. Earl Morton supported between two chief Lords. Footmen on each side in rich Coats. Noblemen and Gentlemen, according to their Degrees. At Slow (two miles on this side Windesor) they all made a stand, and being put again into order, proceeded to Windesor Castle, where alighting in the lower Court, the Knights-Elect were thence conducted to their several Lodgings. To these already mentioned, we shall add the order of that stately Cavalcade, set forth by Algernon Earl of Northumberland, from Dorset house in Salisbury Court, toward Windesor the 13. of May an. 11. Car. 1. which though the last this age hath beheld, yet was it not the least in pomp and glory; and disposed as followeth. Mr. Butler. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Mr. Havelocke. Mr. Hillman. Mr. Eglebie. Mr. Gradye. Mr. Williams. Mr. Sheares. Mr. Collins. Mr. Simpson. Mr. Barnard. Mr. Gates. Mr. johnson. Mr. Fenwick. Mr. Granger. Mr. Cappon. Mr. Browne. Mr. Rushton. Mr. Percy. Mr. Gibbons. Mr. Musgrave. Mr. Millar. Mr. Heron. Mr. Potter. Mr. Dodsworth. Mr. Githens. Mr. Blackstone. Mr. Harris. Mr. Hall. Mr. Newland. Mr. Hubbald. Mr. Lamb. Mr. Clerk. Mr. Emery. Mr. Meriwether. Mr. Guppie. Mr. Cobbie. Mr. Holdridge. Mr. Baldwine. Mr. Thorneton. Mr. Edmunds. Mr. Francis Mose. Mr. William Mose. Mr. Cartwright. Mr. Cardinal. Mr. Wivild. Mr. Pagler. Mr. Smith. Mr. Taylour. Pages, being Earl Sons, viz. Mr. William Herbert. Mr. Philip Cecil. Mr. john Herbert. Mr. Algernon Sidney. Heralds at Arms, two and two. Mr. Blu●devile Gent. Usher, bareheaded. Norroy King of Arms. Marquess of Winchester. Earl of Northumberland. Earl of Kent. And somewhat behind him the rest of the Lords, Knights, and Gentlemen in order, the best foremost, two and two, the Coaches closing up the Troop. There was a public Cavalcade des●●n'd from Somerset House in the Strand to Windesor Castle, when the present Sovereign was to be Installed; which though it took not effect, yet is fit to be remembered by the insertion of the than Chancellor's Letter to each Knight-Companion, for making preparations to accompany him thither. May it please your Lordship, THE King's Majesty Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, Row● journal. p. 39 having determined to create the Prince his eldest Son Knight, and to propose him in Election to be a Companion of his Order, for the better conveniency of his Installation hath prorogued by a Commission under the Seal of his Order, given the 25. of February now remaining in my Custody, the celebration of the Feast of St. George from the 22.23. and 24. of April next, whereon it should have been solemnised, unto the 21.22. and 23. of May, immediately ensuing, and thereby given Command to all the Knights-Companions, and Officers of his Order, that they should attend his royal person at his Palace of Whitehall upon those days appointed. In discharge of the duty of my place, and by special order, I do signify unto your Lordship his Majesty's will, and that it is his pleasure for the more honour of the Prince, and the noble Feast of his Election and Installation, that your Lordship should be attended with your Servants and Retinue according to solemn Custom, and be prepared to accompany his Highness from Somerset-house in the Strand unto the Castle of Windesore, upon the 19 of that month, to assist at the Ceremony, and Feast of his Installation upon the day following: Praying your Lordship that you will be pleased to take knowledge hereby, both of the time and place designed, and of the Sovereign's order, I humbly rest In all due obedience and observance Tho. Rowe. St. Martin's Lane 27. Feb. 1637. When this Letter was sent, the Sovereign intended to create the Prince * Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer Knight of the Bath, which Ceremonies were designed to begin at the old Palace at Westminster, upon the 21. day of May an. 13. Car. 1. as also to hold the Feast of St. George, for that year, at Whitehall, on the 23. of the same Month; and to take the Scrutiny that Evening for his Election into this Order: The next day was designed to invest him with the Garter and George, and the day following, to set forward the Cavalcade towards Windesor, wherein also the Knights of the Bath (intended to be created with the Prince) were to ride in their Robes. But this resolution being changed, and the intention of creating the Prince a Knight of the Bath, altered to that of a Knight-Batchellor, the Ceremony thereof was deferred to Windesor; and so the Cavalcade followed not. It was the manner heretofore, for the Sovereign's Lieutenant (when the Sovereign thought fit to appoint the Installation at the same time with the Feast of St. George) to ride to Windesor, attended with a gallant Train, and no small number of his own Gentlemen and Yeomen richly habited, and in all things well appointed; as was seen in that Cavalcade of the q Collect. Io. V. Gen. Duke of Norfolk Earl Marshal of England, and Lieutenant to the Sovereign, for St. George's Feast, an. 5. Eliz. (at which time the Earls of Northumberland and Warwick were to be Installed) who had then attending on him r Collect. Io. V. Gen. 200 of his own Gentlemen and Yeomen. The Lieutenant and his Assistants (or otherwise the Knights-Commissioners, if the Feast of St. George be not then held) being arrived in the Castle, forthwith retire to their Lodgings, which most usually have been prepared at the Deans house, the Rooms therein being the fairest, and best fitted accommodation in the Castle (next those of the Sovereign's in the upper Ward) but the Knights-Elect were at all times furnished with Lodgings, in some of the prebend's houses. SECT. II. The Offering in the Chapel, on the Eve of the Feast. IF it so happened, that the Installation passed by Commissioners, and the Cavalcade set forth from London in the morning of the day preceding the Installation, and arrived at Windesor Castle early that afternoon; then the Knights-Commissioners have been accustomed to put on their s MS. fol. penes, G. O. Y p. 203. Mantles only (at the Chapterhouse door) and enter St. George's Chapel to offer; but without the attendance of t MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 147. Heralds, or any solemn Proceeding before them into the Choir (only brought in by the prebend's) where having taken their Stalls with usual Reverences (the order of which shall be discoursed at large in the 20. Chapter) and heard an Anthem, they passed up to the Altar, with the u MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 147. Verger and w MS. penes G. O. Y. loco cit. Garter before them, and there made their x MS. penes G. O. Y. loco cit. Offering, both of Gold and Silver, according to usual custom. As soon as the Vespers were ended, they descended from their Stalls (after the accustomed manner) and departed to their Lodgings; and in this case the Knights-Commissioners * Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. put not off their Mantles, till after Supper. In this manner was the Ceremony of Offering (on the Eve of the Installation) performed by the y ●x ●●d MS. pen●● G. O. Y. lo●● ante ●i●ate. Lord Admiral, and Earl of Ormond, Commissioners for the Installation of the Earl of Shrewsbury and Cumberland, an. 34. Eliz. as also by the Earls of z MS penes E. W. G f. ●47. Nottingham, Worcester, Suffolk, and Southa●pton, Commissioner●▪ appointed for the Installation of the Earl of Salisbury, and Viscount Bindon, a●. 4. Ia●. R. But at the Installation of the Earl of Rutland, and others, a. 26. El●z. the Lord Hunsdon (one of the Commissioners for that Solemnity) refused to go to the Chapel to Offer alone, albeit he arrived at Windesor Castle a MS. 4 penes W. le N. Cl. timely enough on the Eve; because he wanted the company of Viscount Montague (joined in Commission with him) who came not thither till the b MS. 4 penes W. le N. Cl. next morning. The Offering thus made, at the Knights-Commissioners coming to the Castle, on the ●ve of Installation, is in conformity to an Article in the Statutes to this ef●●●t▪ c F. 3. Stat. Art. ●6 vide etiam H 5. Stat Art▪ 16. & H. 8. Stat. Ar●. 17. That if any of the Knights-Companions being upon a journey, d F. 3. Stat. Art. ●6 vide etiam H 5. Stat Art▪ 16. & H. 8. Stat. Ar●. 17. should accidentally pass by Windesor Castle, he is to turn in thither (if he can with convenience, and be not hindered by some just and allowable cause) in honour of the place, and prepare himself to enter into the Chapel to Offer; first putting on his Mantle, without which he must never presume to enter into it. After the Knight-Companion had entered the Castle, the Canons-Resident were by this Article appointed to meet and receive him, and with due reverence conduct him into the Choir. If it were in the time of high Mass, the Knight was obliged to stay and hear it, in honour of God and St. George, but if he came thither in the afternoon, he was to stay till the Canons, with the rest of the Choir, had sung the Anthem de Profundis, which being ended, he proceeded to the high Altar and Offered, and returned to his Stall, with usual Reverences, and then departed. But if the Knight-Companion e Ibid. passed through the Town of Windesor, and did not go to the Chapel to Offer, in manner as before is ordained; so often as he omitted doing thereof, he was bound upon his obedience to walk a mile on foot to the Chapel, in honour of St. George, otherwise for every time he failed to offer one Penny, f Art. 17. which by King Henry the Eighth's Statutes is enlarged to a Groat. It seems at last, there happened some dispute about the just distance (intended by this Article) from the Castle, and to the end the Knig●ts-Companions might fully know when they came within the breach of this Injunction, it was thought requisite by King Henry the Eighth, to ●●t down a certain bound, which in his Statutes is there declared to be g Art. 17. two miles: within which, if any of the Knights-Companions come, and do not repair to the Chapel and Offer, he is liable to the penalty or mulct above specified. And because it oftentimes fell out, that some of the Knights-Companions did accidentally ride within the said limits, whilst they took the pleasure of hunting in Windesor Forest (some part of it lying near the Castle) nevertheless could not conveniently leave their sport to perform all the Solemnity required, they usually (in such case) sent their Offering in money to the Canons, which being received, the Knights took it for a dispensation of the Ceremony, enjoined by the Statutes. But they still apprehending inconvenience in this Article, endeavours were used to have it interpreted with greater latitude, which so far took effect, that at a Chapter held at Windesor the 10. of October, an. 15. Car. 1. it was ordered to be considered of at the next Chapter, h Sir james Palmer's journal pro anno 1639. p. 60. that so some provision might be made to save the Knights from breach of their Oath, if they came within the foresaid limited distance of Windesor Castle, and passed thence without Offering. But nothing being then done, nor at any time since, the Law stands as it did. SECT. III. The Supper on the Eve. THE Supper at night, after their arrival at Windesor, is but in the nature of a private Meal; and prepared for the Lieutenant (or Commissioners) and the Knights-Elect, generally in the Deans House; and where, on the Eve of Installation of the * Collect. W. le. N. Cl. Earl of Rutland and Lord Cobham, an. 26. Eliz. the Commissioners, supped together, with such Lords and Gentlemen of account, as came along with them; no Nobleman having above | Collect. W. le N. Cl. one servant to wait on him at the Table; the rest had their diet prepared in the Town at their own Inns. But now and then they have been permitted to sup in some of the Rooms in the Sovereign's Lodgings; for c MS. in Offic. Arm. [L.1.] p. 19 there was the Supper made ready at the Installation of the Lord Russel and other Elect Knights, a. 31. H. 8. and at the Installation of the Earl of Shrewsbury, and Lord Hunsdon, an. 3. Eliz. the Lieutenant and Knights supped in the d Ex. Collect. W. le. N. Cl. Great Chamber there, all sitting together at one Table, in the e Ex. Collect. W. le. N. Cl. same order as was used at other times; but the f Ex. Collect. W. le. N. Cl. Heralds then supped in St. George's Hall. And in the 34. of Queen Elizabeth, when the Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland were Installed; all the Lords and Gentlemen supped together at one long Table set in the g MS. penes cund. G. O. Y. p. 203. Council Chamber. SECT. IV. The order in Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. WE come now to the chief Circumstances of this great Solemnity; namely the particular Ceremonies of Installation, managed and ordered after either the Sovereign, (or in his absence his Lieutenant or Commissioners) and Knights-Elect, are arrived at Windesor. In reference to which we shall premise this general note; That since neither the Statutes of Institution, nor the Statutes of King Henry the Fifth afford us a Formulary, for the personal Installation of a Knight-Elect (though each of them contain some part of those Ceremonies, observed at the h E. 3. Stat. Art. 20 H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. Installation of Strangers by Proxy) yet those made by King Henry the Eighth do exhibit (in short) the i Art. 20. order and method thereof; which we shall make use of as we pass along, and regularly place those directions, under their proper heads. We must further observe, that if the Installation be appointed together with the Feast of St. George, then either the Sovereign (and consequently the Knights-Companions) or else his Lieutenant and Assistants are present; but if any other time of the year, than it passeth by Commissioners only: and where we mention the Sovereign and his Lieutenant, and Commissioners together, there the Case or Rule inserted, will suit with every of them. After such time therefore as the Sovereign (his Lieutenant or Commissioners) have prefixed an hour wherein to begin the proceeding to the Chapterhouse, in order to the Installation of the Elect Knight (which Ceremony for the most part hath been performed and dispatched on the Evening of their arrival at Windesor, but sometimes the next morning) all the Knights-Companions and Elect-Knights, the Officers of the Order, and of Arms, the prebend's of the College, and Alms-Knights are to give their attendance: that is to say, the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order on the Sovereign in his inward Lodging▪ the Elect-Knights and Officers of Arms in the Presence Chamber, the prebend's and Alms-Knights in the Great Chamber, where they wait the Sovereign's coming forth. The attendance to be given upon the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and such of the Knights-Companions as are appointed for his Assistants, is by the Officers of the Order and of Arms, the prebend's and Alms-Knights, either at his Lodgings, or else where, as he shall appoint; but not by any other of the Knights-Companions. For though we find the Knights-Companions have sometimes proceeded to the Chapel, before the Sovereign's Lieutenant, when an Installation was celebrated, yet hath it been at such time only, as they came to Windesor with the Sovereign, chiefly to hold St. George's Feast; where though the Sovereign through indisposition of body or weighty affairs, could not pass down to the Chapel on the Eve of the Feast, yet they being obliged by the Statutes to celebrate Vespers, did on this occasion, not that of Installation proceed thither; as it fell out at the Installation of k MS. penes E. W. G. ●. 144. Prince Henry, and four other Knights, a. 1. jac. R. when the Proceeding began from the Presence Chamber, and thence past to the Chapterhouse in the following Order. Alms-Knights. prebend's. Pursuivants. Heralds. Ulster King of Arms. Lion King of Arms. Clarenceux King of Arms. The four ●lect-Knights. Knights-Companions. Black Rod. Register. Garter. Chancellor. The Sovereign's Lieutenant, leading the Prince in his hand. The Knights-Companions proceeded likewise before the Sovereign's Lieutenant, at the Installation of the Duke of l MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. Brunswick and five other Elect-Knights, the 23. of Nou. an. 1. Car. 1. but the Sovereign was then at m Lib. R. p. 29. & 30. Windesor Castle (though not in the Proceeding) and the Feast of St. George there also solemnised. But upon the Sovereign's Commissioners, neither the Knights-Companions, nor the n Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer videses alium Autogr. in Bibl. Cot●on. Prelate nor Chancellor do give the●r attendance; only at the Grand Feast of St. George, an. 13. Car. 2. the Chancellor then waiting on the Sovereign at Windesor in the duties of his place, out of a particular regard to his Royal Highness the Duke of York (being then Controller of his Household) attended the Commissioners in the proceeding to his Installation. The Proceedings upon this solemn occasion, have been generally ordered on foot: Nevertheless, upon some extraordinary account marshaled and disposed on Horseback, in manner of a Cavalcade; as was set forth at the Installation of o Ex. vet. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 293. b. Philip King of Castille, an. 22. H. 7. and that when the p MS. in Offic. Arm. [L.1.] fol. 19 Lord Russel, and other Elect-Knights were installed, an. 31. H. 8. So also at the Installation of the q MS. p. 11. Earl of Sussex, an. 1. &. 2. Ph. & Mar. which King Philip honoured with his own presence; Himself, and several of the Knights-Companions, r MS. p. 11. riding on Horseback from his Lodgings in the Castle, down to the Cloister door at the East end of the Chapel, and there alighting, proceeded directly into the s MS. p. 11. Chapterhouse. When the Earl of Shrewsbury and Lord Hunsdon were installed, an. 3. Eliz. the Proceeding was likewise ordered on t Ex. Collect. W. le N. Cl Horseback. So also at the Installation of the u Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. Earl of Northumberland, and Earl of Warwick a. 5. Eliz. and lastly at the Installations of Francis Duke of Montmorency, the Viscount Hereford, and the Lords Burghley, Grey, and Shandos an. 14. Eliz. concerning which it is further observed; w Ex. ●od. Collect. that the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and Knights-Assistants did then put on their Robes in the Sovereign's Lodgings in the Castle, and meeting in the Presence-Chamber, proceeded down to the outward Hall door, in the upper Ward of the Castle, where taking their Horses, adorned with foot Clothes, they proceeded on Horseback to the West door of the Chapel. If the Proceeding was ordered on Horseback at the beginning of the Feast, it continued the same throughout at the usual times, so often as the Sovereign his Lieutenant or Commissioners) went to the Chapterhouse, or Chapel; and all the returns were marshaled in the like order as the settings forth. As concerning the marshalling this proceeding to the Chapterhouse, it hath been done after the same manner and order, as that celebrated on the Eve of the Grand Feast of St. George (in relation to the degrees, whereof it was composed) of which we shall discourse at large x Chap. 20. below; nevertheless, where there happened any considerable difference, it shall be noted in this Section, as we have occasion. To begin now (as we shall do there) with Servants and Attendants belonging to the Knight-Elect; who (if they be taken into the Proceeding) pass on first, two and two in rank, according to their quality; those of the meanest condition foremost. Next the Alms-Knights in their Habits, and usual order. Then follows the Verger of the College. After him the prebend's or Canons; but what attendance they have given heretofore at Installations we cannot make appear; for in those Schemes left us of Proceeding to Installations in the Reigns of King Henry the Eighth, King Edward the Sixth, Queen Marry, and part of Queen Elizabeth, we find them not inserted, though since they are. Next to the prebend's of the College do the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings of Arms, proceed in a Body. And after them the Knight-Subject Elect, unless the Proctor of an absent Knight-Subject pass at the same time in this Proceeding, whose place is immediately next after the Provincial Kings: And if it so happen that the Proctor to a Stranger-Prince be then also present, he is to proceed between the Knight-Subject's Proctor, and the Knight-Subject Elect. But Prince Henry at his Installation, an. jac. R. 1. went in a place y MS. sol. penes E. W. G. f. 144. a above all the Knights-Companions, and was paired with the Earl of Nottingham, the Sovereign's Lieutenant for that occasion. Where two or more Elect-Knights proceed to their Installation at the same time, they take place, according to the seniority of their Election; proceeding two and two together; and if the number be odd, the junior Elect-Knight passeth alone. Some other notices may here take place; as first, that the Elect-Knight passed heretofore in his ordinary Apparel (wearing over it long since a short Gown, afterwards a Cloak, and of later times a Coat) as did the Earl of * Collect. I. V. gen. Northumberland, a. 5. Eliz. and the Earls of a Collect. I. V. gen. Penbroke and Derby a. 16. Eliz. And this also the Annals of the Order, and other Authorities particularly note of the Earl of b Lib. C. p. 114. Sussex and Lord Buckhurst, an. 31. Eliz. of c MS. penes E. W. G. f. 149. b. Charles Duke of York and others an. 9 jac. R. of the Duke of * Lib. R. p. 18. Lenox an. 22. jacobi, the Earl of d Collect. W. le N Cl. Northampton, an. 5. Car. 1. and Marques * Lib. R. p. 18. Hamilton the year following. But this was before any peculiar under Habit was appointed to the Knights-Companions; for now there being a Cloth of Silver Doublet, and Trunk Hose established to be worn at the Feasts of Installation and of St. George, the Elect-Knight proceeds in this Habit, and so did the Duke of Albemarle, an. 23. Car. 2. Secondly, In this Proceeding to the Chapterhouse he weareth only the Garter about his Leg, and the George and Ribbon wherewith he was invested, either about his neck, or (as of late) drawn under his right arm; which being omitted by Sir George Villars, and Viscount Lisle, is noted to be e MS. penes E. W. G. f. 153. a. contrary to order. Thirdly, that the Earl of f MS. penes E. W. G. f. 153. a. Rutland with his Fellow Elect Knights, a. 14. jac. Reg. proceeded bareheaded, as also the Duke of * Collect W. le N. Cl. Lenox, an. 9 Car. 1. and so did the Duke of Albemarle, an. 23. Car. 2. Fourthly, the Elect Knight doth not always go in this Proceeding, but sometimes stays at his Lodgings in the Castle, as did the Earls of g MS. penes G O Y p. 203. Shrewsbury and Cumberl●nd an. 34. Eliz. or else at some other convenient place near unto the Chapterhouse, till he be sent for in thither, to receive Investiture with the Surcoats; an instance whereof we have in the Duke of h Collect. W. le N. Cl. Montmorency, an. 14. Eliz. and the other Elect Knights that were to be installed at the same time with him, who (before the Sovereign's Lieutenant and Assistants proceeded to the Chapterhouse) went privately from the Sovereign's Lodgings down to the House of Mr. French (than one of the prebend's) for the Dean was absent at that time and his House unprovided for their Reception) and rested in the Parlour until they were sent for: Or otherwise he hath gone privately into the East Isle of the Chapel behind the High Altar and there stayed till called in, as did the Duke of Monmouth, an. 15. Car. 2. If the Sovereign be present at the Installation, the Knights-Companions proceed next after the Knights-Elect (or the Proctor to a stranger Prince) according to the order of their Stalls; but if the Sovereign's Lieutenant, than his Assistants go in their place: of which there is a Precedent at the Installation of the Earl of Shrewsbury and Lord Hunsdon an. 3. Eliz. the Proceeding being ordered in the following manner. i Collect. W. le N. Cl. Vergers. Alms Knights. Officers of Arms. Elect-Knights. Assistants to the Lieutenant. Officers of the Order. Earl of Arundel Lieutenant. And if the Installation be dispatched by Commissioners, than the three inferior Officers of the Order, immediately follow the Knight-Elect and proceed next before the Commissioners (because they have no Assistants appointed them to pass between, as hath the Sovereign's Lieutenant) and thus we find them marshaled at the Installation of the Earl of Northampton, an. 5. Car. 1. k Lib. C. p. 114. videses Autogr. in Biblioth. Cotton. The Earls Servants. Alms-Knights. prebend's. Heralds. Elect-Knights. Officers of the Order. The Sovereign's Commissioners. Nevertheless once (and but once) viz. an. 16. Eliz. at the Installation of the Earls of l Collect. I. V. gen. Penbroke and Derby, we find the said Officers did precede the Elect-Knights; but this was through mistake. Something more may be added, concerning these three Officers place and order, in proceeding at the Solemnities of Installation, since there hath heretofore fallen out both question and dispute thereupon: For at the Installation of the said Earl of Northampton, some question and debate happening touching their place in this Proceeding, it was at length concluded; m Lib. R. p. 48. That from the Castle to the Chapel they should proceed before the Commissioners, but in returning from the Chapel to the Castle they should follow. We suppose the Question (whatsoever it was) chanced not to be propounded till the Proceeding was ready to pass on, and then star●ed on a sudden; because the Heralds not readily resolving (as the Annals note) seems rather to proceed from suprize, than want of ability to answer; and it also appears, that the determination which took place was grounded but upon n Tandem igirur per conjecturam conclusum est. &c Ibid. conjecture; and how fit soever it was them thought, yet if well considered, will appear not consonant to Precedents and Practice, both before and since; as also to the usual rule, where all returns are marshaled answerably to their settings forth, unless the condition of any person in the Proceeding be in the mean time changed. But perhaps it will be answered, that the ground of this resolution, of following the Commissioners in their return, was because the authority wherewith they were impowered, seemed to cease as soon as the Knight was Installed; and consequently the attendance, which that authority exacted from the Officers, than ceased also. Yet if so, what needed any Proceeding back at all, but that the Commissioners should have put off their Habits in the Chapterhouse, and pass thence privately to their Lodgings? But to proceed, It is further to be observed, that when Installations pass by Commissioners only, these three inferior Officers wear their Robes (for they are appointed to be worn. * Lib. C. p. 24. at all solemn Assemblies of the Order, no less than at the Feasts of St. George) but bear not the Ensigns of their Offices in the Proceeding. And this seems to be deduced from particular Injunctions, laid down in the Constitutions appertaining to the Officers of the Order, which appoint o Cap. 4. Garter, and p Cap. 5. Black Rod, to bear the Ensigns of their Offices at the Feast of St. George, when the Sovereign or his Deputy shall be present, whence it may be inferred, that if either happen to be absent, they need not bear them: We also find this in practice, and their Ensigns not carried at the Installations of q Ex Collect. R. Cook nuper Clar. fol. 28. Frederick King of Denmark, and john Casimire Count Palatine of the Rhine, an. 25. Eliz. next of the r Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Rutland and Lord Cobham the following year, and thirdly so noted in the s Pag. 48. Red Book of the Order. But if the Sovereign himself be present, or that he constitute a t Ex Collect. I. V. gen. Lieutenant in his stead, the Register than carries the u MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. Red Book, and Garter, and the Black Rod, bear each of them their Rods. And note also, that in every Proceeding to Installation by a Lieutenant or Commissioners w Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 32. videses MS. Garter carries the Sovereign's Commission in his hand to the Chapterhouse before them. We now are arrived at the place of the Sovereign (his Lieutenant or Commissioners) which is in the Rear, and with which we shall close the ordinary Proceeding. But because we would give some instances where the Sovereign, willing to add honour to the Elect-Knights, hath appointed their Installation at such time, as he personally solemnised the Feast of St. George, we shall insert here first that memorable but mixed Proceeding on Horseback (when the Election and Installation of Philip King of Castille and Leon, past an. 22. H. 7.) from the Sovereign's Lodging in the Casile, to the South door of St. George's Chapel, and was thus ordered. d Lib. N. p. 183. videses MS. vet. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 294. b. Knights according to their Degrees. Lords after their Degrees. Knights-Companions, in their whole Habit, bearing company with some of the Knights of the Order of Toyson d' or. Prelate of the Order. Archbishop of Canterbury. The Spanish Ambassador. Toyson d' or, King of Arms, in his Coat of Arms. Garter King of Arms in his Coat of Arms. The Sword. The Prince. Philip King of Castille. King Henry the Seventh, Sovereign of the Order. Another but later instance, shall be that at the Feast of St. George, an. 9 jac. R. when e MS penes E. W. G. fol. 149. b. Charles Duke of York, Thomas Earl of Arundel, and Robert Viscount Rochester, were installed. f MS penes E. W. G. fol. 149. b. Alms-Knight. prebend's. Officers of Arms. Visc. Rochester. Earl of Arundel. Duke of York. Knights-Companions. Officers of the Order. The Sword. The Sovereign. The same Sovereign with several of the Knights-Companions, proceeded also to the Chapel at the personal Installation of g Lib. C p. 1●8. Frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine, an. 10. jac. R. the Feast of St. George being then solemnised; and again at the Installation of the h Ex eod. MS. penes ●. W. G Earl of Rutland, Sir George Vill●rs, and Viscount Lys●●, in the 14. year of the same King. The like honour did King Charles the First to the i Lib. R p 20. Earl of Suffolk a. 4. Car. 1. and to the k Ibid. p 8●. Duke of Lenox an. 9 Car. 1. as also to the l ●a●m. l●rge Iourn ●. 11. present Sovereign, when his Installation was celebrated at Windesor an. 14, of the same King. To these examples we may add, the present Sovereign's personal appearance at the Grand Feast of St. George, held next after his happy Restauration; whereat 12 Elect Knights Subjects received the honour of Installation, namely, the Dukes of Ormond, and Buckingham, Earl of Southampton, Marquis of Newcastle, Earl of Bristol, Duke of Albemarle, the Earls of Sandwich, and Oxford, Duke of Richmond, and the Earls of Lindsey, Manchester, and Strafford. As also at the Installations of the Prince of Denmark, and james Duke of Monmouth, the 22. of April, an. 15. Car. 2. and lastly of the King of Sweden, the Duke of Saxony, and Christopher Duke of Albemarle, the 28. of May, an. 23. C. 2. Lastly, at this Solemnity of Installation, the Sovereign proceeds in full Robes, having the Sword of State born before him by a Nobleman not of the Order, his Train-Bearers and Attendants following, and the Band of Pensioners closing up the Proceeding. The Sovereign's Lieutenant and his Assistants (so also the Commissioners) proceed in full Robes likewise, which we find not only mentioned, but the particulars * MS. in Offic. Arm. [L 1.] fol. 19 enumerated; an. 31. H. 8. when the Earl of Arundel and his Assistants, installed the Lord Russel, and two other Elect Knights; but the Sovereign's Lieutenant (not any of the Commissioners) hath his Train carried up, and this service is usually performed by some of his own Gentlemen. The | Collect. W. le N. Cl. fol. 4. b. Earl of Arundel's Train was carried up by his Gentleman Usher, a. 3. Eliz. And the * Ibid. fol. 11. b videses Collect. I. V. gen. Duke of Norfolk's, an. 5. Eliz. by Sir Nicholas Strange, his Chamberlain. The Processional w●y (if the Proceeding take beginning in the Presence Chamber) is down thence into the upper ward of the Castle, and through the other Wards in at the Cloister door, and so to the Chapterhouse; but if from the Deans house, than the way is but short, and taken only through the Cloisters, into which there is an immediate passage from the Deanery. The Proceeding having entered the East door of St. George's Chapel, and passed by the Chapterhouse door, makes a stand in the North Isle; while first the | Lib. C. p. 114. Officers of the Order, next the Knight's Commissioners; or else the Knights Assistants and the Sovereign's Lieutenant; or lastly the Knights-Companions, and the Sovereign (with the Sword born before him) pass into the Chapterhouse. But the m MS. in office. Arm. [H. 2.] f. 8. b. Knight (or Knights) Elect, ought not as yet to enter, but as they come in at the Chapel door, fall off on the left hand into the East-Isle, behind the high Altar, where they may either walk or repose themselves at pleasure (on Velvet Chairs or Stools, with Cushions, there prepared for them) n MS. in office. Arm. [H. 2.] f. 8. b. until they are called into the Chapterhouse. And this hath been so usual a custom, that we find very frequent mention made of it; amongst others, it is thus noted of the Earl of Northumberland, a. 5. Eliz. that he entered not into the Chapterhouse with the Lieutenant and Assistants, but o Ex Collect. I V. gen. walked before the door, until he was called in. The like did the p Lib. C. p. 110. Earls of Essex, and Ormond, and Sir Christopher Hatton, while the Commissioners appointed for that Installation, an. 30. Eliz. went into the Chapterhouse. At the Installation of the Earl of Rutland, Sir George Villars, and Viscount ●ysle, an. 14. jac. R. there were prepared in the foresaid Isle, q Collect. W. le N. Cl. Stools set upon Carpets, one an Ell distant from another, on which they sat, according to the order of their Election, whilst the Sovereign, Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order entered into the Chapterhouse. So an. 1. Car. 1. the Earl of Salisbury, and the rest of the Elect Knights, r MS. penes Ed. ●auconbridge. retired out of the Proceeding as it entered the Chapel, and rested themselves in Velvet Chairs placed in the aforesaid Isle. Lastly, all the Elect Knights that received their Installation at the Gr●nd Feast of St. George, happily celebrated in the 13. year of the present Sovereign did the like. Nevertheless, out of extraordinary respect to great personages, they have been sometimes (though but rarely) admitted into the Chapterhouse, with the Sovereign or his Lieutenant; among whom s Lib. N. p. 183. Philip King of Castille and Leon, an. 22. H. 7. was one, and also t MS. penes E. 1●. G. f. 149. b. Prince Henry, a. 1. jac. R. he being led in by the Sovereign's Lieutenant, while the other four Elect Knights (installed at that Solemnity with him) sat upon Benches in the accustomed place, until they severally received their Summons to enter. Sometimes the Sovereign and Knights-Companions in their Proceeding to Installation, have waved going to the Chapterhouse, and passed immediately into the Choir, as did King james an. 9 when u Ibidem. ●harles Duke of York, and others were Installed: The like did King Charles the First at the Installation of the w Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Suffolk; but then the Sovereign had held a Chapter in the x Lib. R. p. 38. Privy Chamber, immediately before the Proceeding set forward, and it is to be noted, that in the former instance, when the Proceeding came as far as the East end of the Chapel, the Duke of York, and the two other Elect Knights, with Norroy before them, went out of the Proceeding into the Chapterhouse, and there reposed themselves while the Sovereign proceeded on to the South door of the Chapel, and thence into the Choir. SECT. V. The Ceremonies performed in the Chapterhouse. AFter the Lieutenant's entrance into the Chapterhouse, 1. Reading the Commission. and opening of the Chapter; * Lib. C. p. 110. & 114. Garter (with three Reverences) presents first the Commission a Collect. W. le N. Cl. & I. V. of Lieutenancy to hold the Feast, next that of Installation, to the Lieutenant (or if the Installation pass by Commissioners, then only the b MS. penes Arthur Comit. Anglesey. f. 119. a. Commission of Installation to the Signior Commissioner) which being received, he delivers it to the Register of the Order, who forthwith c Lib. N. p. 277. vide etiam Lib. C. in locis cit. & porro pag. 135. & 140. reads it, for to him this duty appertains, as is recorded in the d Pag. 181. Black Book of the Order, upon occasion of Garter's reading the Commission for Installation of Sir Thomas Brandon, a. 22. H. 7. the Register being then absent. When the Register hath read the Commissions, he e MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. Pag. 203. returns them to the Lieutenant (or Commissioners) and he again to the custody of f MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. Pag. 203. Garter, as it is noted to be done at the Installation of the Earls of g MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. Pag. 203. Shrewsbury, and Cumberland, an. 34. Eliz. If the Sovereign be present, 2. Receiving the Elect Knight into the Chapterhouse. the Chancellor acquaints him that the Knights-Elect are without, otherwise the Lieutenant and Assistants (or Commissioners) consult together for some short space, touching the manner of calling in, and receiving the Elect-Knight; which being concluded on, they immediately send out for him; and h Lib. N. pag. 277. videses Collect. I. V. gen. & Lib. R. pag. 5. & 6. Garter is usually employed in this service, i Lib. N. pag. 277. videses Collect. I. V. gen. & Lib. R. pag. 5. & 6. who with all due respect invites and conducts him, to the Chapterhouse door. But an. 34. Eliz. Garter went to the k Ex eod. MS. penes G. O. Y. in loc. cit. Lodgings of the Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland, where they waited the Summons from the Commissioners, and having delivered his message, they forthwith repaired to the Chapterhouse; their Train attending them to the door. At the Installation of Francis Duke of Montmorency, the Earl of Leicester (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) as an evidence of singular respect, sent from the Chapter l MS. in quarto penes W. le N. Cl. f. 25. two of the four Assistants assigned him, (namely the Earl of Bedford, and Sir Henry Sidney) to Mr. French his Lodgings; who taking m MS. in quarto penes W. le N. Cl. f. 25. Garter and the Officers of Arms before them, led him thence between them, into the Chapterhouse. When there are two or more Elect-Knights that wait without in the East Isle, expecting to be called in; Garter first conducts the n ●x Collect. I. V. ●en. signior by Election, to the Chapterhouse door, and afterwards the next, and so the rest in like order: for Instance, an. 14. jac. R. when three Elect-Knights remained without, Garter came forth and made his Reverence to the Earl of Rutland (the signior Elect-Knight) and o ●x Collect. I. V. ●en. first ushered him to the Chapterhouse door, leaving the other two reposing upon their Seats; again, Garter returning the second time, introduced Sir George Villars, the next signior Knight-Elect; and last of all brought Viscount Lisle the junior Elect to the same place. In like m●nner and order did Garter perform this service to all the Knights-Elect, according to their seniority of Election, an. 13. Car. 2. As soon as Garter hath conducted the Elect-Knight to the Chapterhouse door, two of the Commissioners (when the Installation is performed by Commissioners) or two of the Knights-Assistants (when by the Sovereign's Lieutenant) or two of the signior Knights-Companions (if the Sovereign himself be present) receive him * MS in Offic. Arm [H. 2] fol 8 b & ●ide ethem MS penes G. O. Y. fol 162. without. Thus did the two Commissioners receive the Earls of p Collect. I. V. gen. Derby and Pe●broke, a. 16. Eliz. and the q Lib. C. pag. 110. Earl of essex an. 30. ●liz. In like manner did two of the Lieutenants four Assistants, receive the * Lib. N. p. 277. Lord Cromwell, a. 29. H. 8. as also the Earl r Ex pr●●d MS. penes eund. G. O. Y. fol. 80. of Huntingdon, an. 3. E. 6. and Earl of s Collect. I. V. gen. Northumberland, a 5. ●liz. The Elect-Knight being thus received, is immediately t Lib. N p. 277. conducted from the Chapterhouse door up to the Sovereign (his Lieutenant or Commisioners) unto whom he maketh humble Reverence, and after some short congratulation, the Lieutenant (or signior Commissioners) in a short speech makes u Ibid. known to him, the effect of his Commission, and w Lib. C. p. 114 videses MS. pr●●d. penes G. O. Y. fol. 203. declares the Sovereign's bounty and ready kindness towards him, for a full admittance into this most honourable Society; which the Elect-Knight most humbly and gratefully acknowledgeth and accepts. When Philip King of Castille and Leon, was to be Installed (which he personally received at Windesor the 9 of Feb. an. 22. H. 7.) the x Ex vet. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 294. Sovereign himself (being present in the Chapterhouse) rose up from his Throne, and gave him information of the Statutes and Ceremonies of the Order, and what they obliged him to perform; to all which he gave his ready assent. The Compliments at receiving the Elect-Knight into the Chapterhouse being over, 3. Investing him with the Surcoat. he disrobes himself of his a Lib. N. p 274. & 277. Lib. C. pag. 114.135.140. & Lib R. p. 6. & 18. upper Garment, and then the Surcoat or Kirtle is taken from the Table (where it and the rest of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order are decently and separately laid in readiness before hand) and he invested therewith; at the doing of which these words of Admonition (entered at the end of King Henry the Eighth's Book of English Statutes) are to be read or spoken. Take this Robe of Purple to the increase of your honour, See also the Appendix, Num. XXXVII. and in token or sign of the most honourable Order you have received; wherewith you being defended, may be bold not only strongly to fight, but also to offer yourself to shed your blood for Christ's Faith, the liberties of the Church, and the just and necessary defence of them that be oppressed and needy. After this, his Sword is close girt about him, over his Surcoat, by the b MS. penes E. W. G. f 2● vide etiam Collect. I. V. gen. Commissioners (or the Assistants to the Lieutenant, or some of the Knights-Companions) and sometimes (in way of assistance) Garter hath put on the Elect-Knights Surcoat, gird his Sword about him, and laid his Hood over his shoulder, as in the case of the c MS. Earl of Rutland, a. 26. Eliz. And as soon as this Ceremony is dispatched, the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) proceed into the Choir leaving the Elect-Knight behind them. The Hood was heretofore put on in the Chapterhouse (for so King Henry the Eighth's h Art. 20. Statutes do appoint) i Collect. I. V. gen. after the Elect-Knight hath been invested with his Surcoat, and before he proceeded to his Installation; but of late, because it must be k MS. in Offic. Arm. [I. 1.] p. 19 taken off again in the Choir, and laid aside, to the end the Mantle may be put on, and after that laid on the shoulder a second time (over the Mantle) it hath been conceived a sort of diminution in the investiture, to take off any part of the Habit before the whole investiture be completed. Whereupon at the beginning of King james his Reign, it was thought more convenient, that the Hood should be carried upon the Cushion by Garter into the Choir, together with the Mantle and Collar, and not be put on till after the Investiture with the Mantle, and so was it observed at the Feast of St. George. an. 13.15. & 23. Car. 2. And though anciently it was laid over the left shoulder of the Elect-Knight, and so worn upon all occasions, yet an. 2. & 3. Phil. & Mar. the wearing thereof being taken notice of to obscure the Scutcheon of St. George (embroidered on the same shoulder of the Mantle it was therefore in a Chapter held at St. James', on the 22. of April, in the foresaid year Decreed, l See the Decree entered at the end of King Henry the Eighth's Book of English Statutes. That thenceforth the Knights-Companions should wear their Hoods on the right shoulders, to the end the Scutcheon might be the better seen and appear. Nevertheless there was a question moved, an. 12. jac. R. m MS. penes. E. W. G. f. 151. b. whether the Knights-Companions should not restore the usage of wearing their Hoods to the left shoulder; which it seems was overruled, and the custom of wearing them on the right, thought fit to be continued, as the foresaid Decree appoints. And on the Eve of the Feast of St. George an. 23. Car. 2. some of the Knights-Companions, supposing the Hoods ought to be worn rather on the left shoulder, did so wear them to Vespers, but the next morning being better persuaded, of the Law and later Custom, they altered them to the right. To great Princes-Strangers, there is a liberty given by King n Art. 20. Henry the Eighth's Statutes, to receive (if they please) their Habit wholly within the Chapterhouse, and before they enter their Stalls; and it thereby appears, that this was the Custom in times past; and whereof we have an Instance in Philip King of Castille an. 22. H. 7. who was o Lib. N. p. 18 a. videses vet. MS. penes W. le. N. Cl. f. 295. fully invested in the Chapterhouse with the Garter, Surcoat, Mantle, Hood, and Collar, the Sovereign himself putting his hand to his Investiture with the Mantle. Hereupon King Philip (Grandchild to the foresaid King of Castille) was invested with the whole Habit of the Order, before he assumed his Stall, for arriving at Windesor the 3. of Aug. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. he proceeded to the Chapel, and received his Investiture within the p MS. pag. 11. West door; where was prepared a Form (adorned with Carpet and Cushions) and there the q MS. pag. 11. Register of the Order, delivered the Mantle, to the Earls of Derby and Penbroke, who kissing it, presented it to the Queen, and r Lib. C. p. 11. she herself (assisted by the said Earls) invested the King therewith; next Garter gave the Collar to the Earls of Arundel and Penbroke, who presented it also to the Queen, with the like ceremony wherewith the Mantle was delivered; and She thereupon put it about King Philip's neck, and forthwith the Knight-Companions (having also robed themselves within the Chapel door) proceeded before the King and Queen, who with joined hands passed into the Choir; where being arrived, the Queen s Ibid. led him to the Sovereign's Stall, which having ascended, they both sat therein. But as the foresaid Statute leaves this to the pleasure of the Stranger-Prince, and was permitted only for gaining of time, so have not any (who received a Personal Installation at Windesor since) been fully invested before they entered the Choir. For t Collect R. C. Cl. f. 25 & 26. Francis Duke of Montmorency, an. 14. Eliz. and u MS. penes E. W. G. f. 151. frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine, an. 10. jac. R. were both invested with their Surcoats only in the Chapterhouse; but received the Mantles, Hoods, and Collars in their Stalls, after they had taken their Oaths. SECT. VI The Proceeding into the Choir. THE Elect-Knight habited as before, forthwith passeth from the Chapterhouse along the North Isle, and so in at the West door of the Choir, in solemn order; but his place in this Proceeding is changed, for here he is led between two of the Knights-Companions. This is noted in the a Ed●●● s●●t sin●●●●m e● Consilio. p. 99 Black Book to be the order wherein Albro Vasques d' Almadea Earl of Averence, and two other Elect-Knights proceeded to their Installation, an. 24. H. 6. And albeit the Statutes of Institution, and those made by King Henry the Fifth are silent in the order of this Proceeding; yet for an Elect-Knight to be led to his Stall, between two other of the Knights-Companions is no modern Ceremony; since we also find that b Ibid. p. 108. Viscount Bouchier, an. 30. H. 6. past to his Installation between the Lord Hastings and Lord Beauchamp. But the order of Proceeding is precisely set down in c Art. 20. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, to wit, That the Elect-Knight attended by his Gentlemen and Servants, shall be led between two other of the Knights-Companions, the Officers of the Order going before them. To this Rule the constant practice hath been answerable, at all Installations since; the Knight-Elect proceeding either between d Lib. C. p. 114. two of the Knights-Commissioners, when there hath been no Lieutenant, or between two of the e Lib N p 274. & 27● videses MS. in ●ffic. A●m. [H. ●.] f●l. 8. b Knight's Assistants, where a Lieutenant was constituted, or lastly between the two f Lib. C. p. 178. p●9 ●9. signior Knights-Companions, the Sovereign being present. Of which cases we shall here assign each a Precedent. * Collect. W. le N. Cl. A Proceeding from the Chapterhouse into the Choir, at the Installation of the Earl of Rutland, a. 26. Eliz. Viscount Mountagu and Lord Hunsdon being Commissioners for that Solemnity. Verger with his Rod. Alms-Knights, two and two Pursuivants, Heralds, and Norroy. Black Rod. Register. Clarenceux, who then executed the Office of Garter. Lord Hunsdon. Earl of Rutland. Viscount Mountagu. | Collect. W. le N. Cl. Another Proceeding from the Chapterhouse at the Installation of the Lord Russel, an. 31. H. 8. the Earls of Essex and Rutland, being then the Lieutenants' Assistants. Heralds. Register. Garter. Earl of Rutland. Lord Russell. Earl of Essex. * Collect. W. le N. Cl. A third Proceeding at the Installation of the present Sovereign, an. 14. Car▪ 1. the two signior Knights-Companions being appointed to conduct the Prince from the Chapterhouse to his Stall in the Choir. Alms-Knights, two and two. Officers of Arms, two and two. Black Rod. Register. Garter. Earl of Arundel The Prince Earl of Penbroke. But when there hath been three Commissioners nominated, than the two signior Commissioners take the Knight-Elect between them, and the * MS. penes Arthur. Comit. Anglesey. fol. 119. a junior Knight Commissioner proceeds before them; and thus was it ordered at the Installation of the Earls of Essex, and Ormond, and Sir Christopher Hatton, an. 30. Eliz. where the g Lib. C. p. 110. Earl of Essex proceeded from the Chapterhouse into the Choir, between the Lord Hunsdon and Earl of Worcester, and the Lord Grey the junior Commissioner past singly before them. In all cases where the Sovereign is present at an Installation (since the Custom of Investing with the Collar in the Chapterhouse was left off) this is generally to be observed; that so soon as the Investiture with the Surcoat is finished, the Sovereign passeth from the Chapterhouse into the Choir, with the whole Proceeding before him, leaving the Elect-Knight behind. And so soon as he and the Knights-Companions have taken their Stalls, in the h Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. usual manner, the two signior Knights-Companions, upon the Sovereign's verbal directions, descend from their Stalls and stand under their Banners, while the Alms-Knights (but not the prebend's) Officers of Arms, and the three inferior Officers of the Order pass out of the Choir in usual manner, and proceed before them to the Chapterhouse, from whence they introduce the Elect-Knight into the Choir to his Installation. But if there be more Knights to be Installed, than the two next signior Knights descend, and after them the next seniors to them, till all the Elect-Knights are conducted in. And this course is likewise observed when a Lieutenant is constituted, and hath been generally so practised, since the Investiture with the Collar, was performed in the Choir, and particularly at the Installations of the i MS. penes. E. W. G. f. 144. a. & 146. a. Duke of Lenox, * MS. penes E. W. G. f. 144. a. & 146. a. and Earls of Penbroke, Marr, and Southampton, an. 1. jac. R. and of the Duke of Holstein and Earl of Northampton, an. 3. jac. R. In this Proceeding to Installation, the Register usually carries a Book of the New Testament for the Elect-Knight to take his Oath upon; as also the Oath itself, fairly written in Parchment. k Lib. N p. 274.277. & Lib. C. p. 110. Garter bears before the Knight-Elect his Mantle, until he arrive at his Stall, and l Art. 20. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes place this service upon some one of the Knights-Companions likewise; but we have not found in all our search, that it was ever performed by any of them. It should seem, that about the time when this Injunction passed, it was the Custom for Garter to bear the Mantle upon his arm; for we find it so carried at the Installation of the Lord m MS in Offic. Arm. [L. 1.] p. 19 Russel, and others an. 31. H. 8. But it was not long after, that the laying it on a Velvet Cushion began. The great Collar of the Order was also laid upon the Cushion; at the Installation of n MS. fol. 20. b. Sir Henry Sidney, an. 6. Eliz. of the o Collect. I. V. gen. Earl of Derby, a. 16. Eliz. of the p Ex Autogr. Earl of Rutland, a. 26. Eliz. and of the q Ex eod. Collect I. V. gen. Earl of Shrewsbury, an. 34. Eliz. and in this manner born before the Knight-Elect, an. 13. Car. 2. and before the Duke of Monmouth, an. 15. Car. 2. and the Duke of Albermarle, an. 23. Car. 2. With these the Hood (though heretofore put on in the Chapterhouse, yet) of late hath been laid upon the Cushion, and also the Book of Statutes, and so we find them born by Garter before r MS. penes. E. W. G. f. 144. b. Prince Henry a. 1. jac. R. and Frederick s Ibid. f. 151. a. Elector Palatine in the 10. year of the same King, as also before the Knights Installed, an. 13. Car. 2. and since. And here we must note, that when Garter bears these Ornaments and Ensigns upon the Cushion before an Elect-Knight, or a Proctor, he is always placed between the Register and Black Rod in the Proceeding. Lastly, in this Proceeding also the Knight-Elect goeth bare headed, holding his Cap in his hand, and so did the Duke of Albermarle, an. 23. Car. 2. for it hath been thought incongruous to the order of Investiture (as is before noted of the Hood) to put on any part of the Habit or other Ornaments that must be taken off again, before the Investiture be completed; and the due place (among the Ceremonies of Investiture) for putting on the Cap is not till all the other be finished. SECT. VII. The Ceremonies of Installation. WHen the Proceeding hath entered the Choir, the Alms-Knights and Officers of Arms, make their obeisances towards the high Altar, and the Sovereign's royal Stall, in the same manner and order as we shall a Chap. 20. Sect. 6. describe anon to be done on the Eve of St. George. Then they proceed up to the steps before the Altar and b Collect. I. V. gen. divide themselves, next the Officers of the Order make their like double Reverence, and last of all the two Commissioners (or Knights-Assistants, or Knights-Companions) and Knight Elect, all three together. After this the Officers of the Order turn aside towards the Stall, 1. Taking the Oath. designed for the Elect Knight, and approaching near it, stand below in the Choir, while the Commissioners (or Assistants, or Knights-Companions) pass into the c MS. penes Arthur Comi● Anglesey, f. 119. lower row of Stalls (sometimes called the d MS penes E. W. G. f. 144 a. middle row) directly under the designed Stall, e Lib. C. p. 14 c. & Li. R. p. 154 leading the Elect Knight with them. And in this f H. 8. Stat. Art. 20. videses Lib. C. pag. 110.114 140. place is he to take his Oath, called in the Annals, the g Lib. C. p. 50. Sacred Oath of the Order of the Garter: during which time he ought to stand between the Knights-Companions, who brought him thither. At the Installation of Prince Henry an. 1. jac. R. the h MS. fol. penes E. W. G. l●c. cit. Sovereign's Lieutenant himself, with the Lord Buckhurst (the next signior Knight-Companion) led him directly under his own Stall, and there gave him his Oath. And when the Earl of Shrewsbury was Installed, an. 34. Eliz. we find it noted, that the i MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 206. signior Commissioner first entered the lower row of Stalls; but an. 31. H. 8. at the Installation of the Lord Russell, and others, the k MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 1.] p. 19 junior Assistant went up first. The Knight Elect being thus placed, the Register of the Order (standing before them, but below in the Choir) l Lib. N. p. 274. Lib. C. p. 114.151. & Lib. R. p. 6.19.47.61.85 & 145. readeth or pronounceth the Oath, for it is part of his duty, to administer the same. In this solemn Ceremony, the New Testament whereon the Oath is taken (commonly opened in some place of the Gospels) is indifferently held by one of the three inferior Officers of the Order, for sometimes the m Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. Register hath held it, as at the Earl of n Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. Derby's Installation, an. 16. Eliz. as also at the Installation of the o Autogr. Earl of Rutland, and Lord Cobham, an. 26. of the same Sovereign. At other time's Garter hath held it, as a. 5. Eliz. when the p MS. penes. W. le N. Cl. f. 11. b. Earl of Northumberland took his Oath, and an. 10. Car. 1. at the Installation of the q MS. Earl of Moreton. But when the r MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 206. Earl of Shrewsbury was sworn, an. 34. Eliz. the Usher of the Black Rod, performed this Office. While the Oath is administering, the Elect Knight holds his right hand upon the s Lib. R. p. 6●. holy Evangelists, and assoon as the Register hath ended pronouncing the words, the Elect Knight answereth, * Collect. W. le N. Cl. I will, so help me God, and then taketh off his hand reverently kissing the Book; and by this Ceremony sealeth his obligation to the Statutes of this most Noble Order. The Ceremony used when Philip King of Castille and Leon, took the Oath (which to him was administered in the Chapterhouse at Windesor) an. 22. H. 7. was this, The said King laid his hand upon the t Lib. N. p. 184. videses vet. MS. penes. W. le N. Cl. f. 294. Canon (under which was placed the Book of the Statutes of the Order, by the Prelate, to whom it was delivered by the Register) and repeated the words of the Oath, and having reverently kissed all those things, by which he swore, he took a Pen from the Prelate's hand, and signed the Oath he had taken, with his own hand-writing; and forthwith delivered it to the Sovereign then present. Now the Oath which a Knight-Subject takes, at his personal Installation, being of very great weight and concernment, it is fit we here render some account of the nature and form thereof, and (leaving those others taken by Stranger-Princes, and their Proctors, and the Deputies of Knights-Subjects, to their proper places) inquire, what was its original form, and how, when, and upon what occasion it received addition and enlargement. First then, the form of the ancient Oath, which the Statutes of Institution appointed to be taken by the Elect-Knight was very short, but comprehensive, and was, u E. 3. Stat. Art. 24. That he should well and faithfully observe, to the uttermost of his power, all the Statutes of the Order. This was the full content of the Oath, taken by the first Founders, and to which they also affixed their w Lib. N. p. 2●. Seals; and so it continued without alteration or addition, till towards the end of King Edward the Fourth's Reign. But at a Chapter held at the King's Wardrobe in London the 10. of February, in the 19 year of the same King, it was Decreed, That all the Knights-Companions then alive, and all such as were afterwards admitted into the Order (and that before they took possession of their Stalls) should be obliged to take this Oath, also x Lib. N. p. 146 That they would aid support, and defend, with all their power, the Royal College of St. George, within the Castle of Windesor, as well in its possessions, as all other things whatsoever. In pursuance of which Decree, there was a form drawn up, wherein both Oaths were joined together, and entered in the Black Book, the Transcript whereof we have placed in the y Num. XXXVIII. Appendix. But when the Register of the Order pronounced the Oath, (he premising such compellation as was due to every Elect Knight by name) it was altered to the form z Num. XXXIX. there likewise following. This Clause (relating to the maintenance and defence of the liberties of the College) we also find retained in the Oath drawn up for the Prince of Wales, and entered for a Precedent in the Annals of the Order, which we have also thought fit to subjoin to the * Appendix, Num. XL. former. But when King Henry the Eighth new modelled the Statutes, we observe this Clause to be omitted, and some other particulars of another nature added to the general Oath, for due observation of the Statutes; as first, instead of maintaining and defending the College in its rights and possessions; there is adjoined a Clause, to defend the Honours, Quarrels, Rights, Dominions, and Cause of the Sovereign, to augment the Honour, and accomplish all the Statutes, Points, and Ordinances of the Order, as may be seen at large in his Body of a Art. 27. Statutes, all which we find summed up together, in that form of the b Appendix, Num. XLI. Oath, taken by the Earl of Cumberland, at his Installation an. 29. H. 8. In the third year of King Edward the Sixth, at the Installation of the Earl of Huntingdon, and other Elect Knights, a new form was agreed on, by consent of the Earl of Derby, than the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and the Knights-Assistants appointed for that Solemnity; the alteration being such, as the Reformation in Religion, and the Sovereign's Interest, thought fit to make: and to the end the difference between this and former Oaths may be observed, it is also inserted in the c Num. XLII. Appendix. But an. 1. Eliz. the Blue Book affords us a notable instance, of a dispensation for taking the Oath at the Installation of the Duke of Norfolk and others, in regard the d Lib. C. p. 31. Rites and Ceremonies of Religion were then altered, and no new form of an Oath yet settled; for which cause the Earl of Penbroke (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) dispensed with their taking any Oath at that time; upon promise e Ibid. they would observe such Statutes and Orders, as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions should decree to be observed and kept in the next Council of the Order. And accordingly (within a short time after) another Form was Ordained, wherein the words of Obligation were put in the Negative: And this is the form of the Oath, taken by a Knight-Subject at this day; it being recorded at the end of the Red Book of the Order, both in Latin and English, and thence transcribed into the * Num. XLIII. Appendix. 2. Investiture with the Mantle, etc. As soon as the Knight-Elect hath taken the usual Oath, he is led by the Knights-Commissioners (or Knights-Assistants, or Knights-Companions) up to the Stall appointed for him, through that entrance next beneath it, and by them placed before it. In the mean time Garter advanceth into the lower row of Stalls to the place where the Elect Knight stood, when he took his Oath, and from thence he presenteth to them (with due Reverence) the Mantle, Collar, and Book of Statutes, who invest the Elect Knight first with the f E. 3. Stat. Art. H. 5. Stat. Art. 19 H. 8. Stat. Art. 20. Mantle, by putting it upon his shoulders. But we have met with some Examples, where Garter hath delivered the Mantle, while the Elect-Knight remained in the lower row of Stalls, and wherewith he was invested before he went up to his Stall; and these were in the cases of the g Ex Collect. I. V. gen. Earl of Northumberland, a. 5. Eliz. of h MS. 4. penes W le N. Cl. Francis Duke of Montmorency, and others, a. 14. Eliz. the i MS. penes E. W. G. f. 148. Earls of Dunbar, and Montgomery, a. 6. jac. R. and the k Palmer's large Iourn. pag. 13. present Sovereign, an. 14. Car. 1. Whereto may be added, that those Elect-Knights installed at the Grand Feast of St. George, most happily celebrated, an. 13. Car. 2. were constrained to receive their Investiture below in the Choir, y●t directly under their proper Stalls. But this happened through the great concourse of people, which at that time had flocked to Windesor (greedy to behold the glory of that Solemnity, which for many years had been intermitted) and rudely forced, not only into and filled the lower row of Stalls, but taken up almost the whole Choir. But it is noted in the Red Book that the Investiture with the Mantle and Collar, hath been sometimes performed by the Black Rod: as at the Installation of the * Lib. R. p. 47. Earl of Northampton, an. 5. Car. 1. and of the Lord Treasurer | Ibid. p 51. Weston, the Earls of Exiter and Lindsey, and james Marquis Hamilton, an. 6. Car. 1. Nevertheless this is to be understood, of this Officers assistance given to the Knights-Companions whose Office it only is, and no otherwise. l MS. fol. 20. Whilst the Ceremony of Investiture with the Mantle is performing, the words of Admonition proper thereunto are pronounced, and are these that follow. Take this Mantle of Heavenly Colour in sign and token of the most honourable Order you have received, See the Appendix. Num. XXXVI. & XXXVII. and to the increase of your honour, signed and marked as you see with a red Scutcheon of our Lord's Cross, to the intent that you being always defended by the virtue and strength thereof, may p●s● through your Enemies, and then also overcome and vanquish, so that at the last for your worthy and approved acts, you may after this temporal Chivalry come to eternal triumphant joys in Heaven. But at the Installation of the present Sovereign, the received some alteration, and were put into this form. Receive this Robe of Heavenly Colour (the Livery of this most excellent Order) in augmentation of thy honour, Palm. la●ge Iourn. p. 13. ennobled with the Shield and Red Cross of our Lord, by whose power thou mayest safely pierce Troops of thy Enemies, and be over them ever victorious; and being in this temporal warfare glorious in egregious and heroic actions, thou mayest obtain eternal and triumphant joy. In the next place the Commissioners (or Assistants or Knights-Companions) lay the Hood upon n MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 80 & 87. the Knights right shoulder over the Mantle, and bringing the Tippet athwart his Breast, tuck it under his Girdle, at which his Sword hangs. And lastly, they tie the Collar about his shoulders, over his Mantle and Hood, and at this part of the Investiture these words of Admonition are also pronounced. To the increase of your honour, Appendix. Num XXXVI & XXXVII and in token of the Honourable Order you have received; Take this Collar about your Neck, with the Image of the holy Martyr and Christ's Knight St. George, by whose aid you being defended, may pass through the prosperities and adversities of this world; that having here the Victory, as well of your Ghostly as Bodily Enemies, you may not only receive the glory and renown of temporal Chivalry, but also at the last the endless and everlasting reward of Victory. This form of words received likewise alteration when the present Sovereign was to be Installed, being varied after this manner. Wear this Collar about thy Neck, Palm. large journal. p. 8. adorned with the Image of the blessed Martyr and Soldier of Christ St. George, by whose imitation provoked, thou mayst so overpass both prosperous and adverse encounters, that having stoutly vanquished thy Enemies, both of body and soul, thou mayest not only receive the praise of this transient Combat, but be crowned with the Palm of eternal victory. And here (before we pass further) it will be needful to observe, that anciently at the Solemnities of Installation when the Sovereign or his Lieutenant was present, the Elect-Knight after he had been invested with the Mantle in his Stall, was immediately conducted out of the Choir, back to the Chapterhouse (where the said Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) was accustomed to remain till he returned) there to receive Investiture with the Collar of the Order, from the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant's) hands; which being done, he is said to have received the full possession of his Habit. And this is evident, first from King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, which direct (after the Elect-knights Investiture with the Mantle) o Art. 20. That he shall return into the Chapterhouse, where he shall receive from the Sovereign or his Deputy, the Collar of the Order; and secondly from the Practice about that time, as is manifest in the cases of the Lord p Lib. N. p. 254 Montjoy, Sir William Fitz Williams, and Sir Henry ●ouldford, installed an. 18. H. 8. and the q Ibid. p. 277. videses Lib. vocat. Dalton. p. 119. b. Lord Cromwell, a. 30. H. 8. as also of the r MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 1.] pag. 19 Lord Russell, Sir Thomas Cheney, and Sir William Kingston, installed an. 31. H. 8. of the s MS. penes G. O. Y. fol. 87. Marquis Dorset, Earl of Derby, Lord Seymour of Sudeley, and Sir William Pagit, an. 1. E. 6. of the t Ibid. fol. 80. Earl of Huntingdon, Lords La Ware and Cobham, and Sir William Herbert, a. 3. E. 6. so likewise of the u Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Shrewsbury, and Lord Hunsdon, an. 3. Eliz. of the w Collect. I. V. gen. Earl of Northumberland, a. 5. Eliz. and of the x Collect. R. C. Cl. pag. 26. Duke of Montmorency, an. 14. Eliz. The Proceeding back into the Chapterhouse, upon this occasion, was ordered almost after the same manner, as that before mentioned into the Choir, only with this difference; that the new installed Knight took here his place, according to the dignity of his Stall: and so did the aforesaid Duke of Montmorency, when he returned to the Chapterhouse, to receive his Collar; for because the Stall wherein he had been installed, was of a y Ibidem. higher rank, than either of those belonging to the two Assistants, that conducted him to his Installation, they therefore proceeded before (not on either side) him thither. But this is observable, that when the Sovereign's Lieutenant remained in the Chapterhouse, while the Elect-Knight proceeded to his Installation, the Usher of the Black-Rod, proceeded not with the said Knight, but stayed behind, to attend upon the Lieutenant: as appears from the notices of the before mentioned Installations, of the Lord Russell, Earl of Huntingdon, and Earl of Northumberland; and as soon as the Investiture with the Collar was finished, the Lieutenant proceeded to the Choir in the Rear and the new invested and installed Knight in place according to his Stall: A Precedent or two of such Proceeding follows. The Lieutenant's Proceeding into the Choir, at the Installation of the Lord Russell and others, a. 31. H. 8. after they had received their Collars in the Chapterhouse. Officers of Arms. Knights newly installed, the junior foremost. Knights-Assistants. Black-Rod. Register. Garter. The Lieutenant. In the same manner was the Lieutenan's Proceeding ordered at the Installation of the Marquis Dorset, and others, a. 1. E. 6. After the Proceeding had entered the Choir, and the Lieutenant and Knights-Companions taken their Seats, with the usual Ceremonies; the Service of the Church began. But when the Installation was performed by Commissioners, than was the Collar of the Order laid on the Cushion with the Mantle, and born before the Elect-Knight to his Stall, were, after his Investiture with the Mantle and Hood, he received Investiture with the Collar also, and among sundry examples we shall instance in these; The a Collect. I. V. gen. Lord William Howard, an. 1. & 2. Pl●l. & Mar. was ●irst invested with his Mantle, and then had his Collar put about his neck by the Lord b Collect. I. V. gen. Clinton and Lord Pagit, the two Commissioners appointed for his Installation. The c Collect. I. V. gen. Earl of Lincoln, and Viscount Montague, Commissioners for the Installation of the d Collect. I. V. gen. Earls of Derby and Penbroke, put on their Collars in their Stalls: and thus was it done by the Commissioners at the Installations of the e Autogr. Earl of Rutland, and Lord Cobham, an. 26. Eliz. and of the f MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 206. Earls of Shrewsbury, and Cumberland, an. 34. of the same Queen. And in like manner, at all Installations solemnised since Queen Elizabeth's Reign, where the Sovereign hath vouchsafed his presence (the ancient Custom of returning to the Chapterhouse for the Collar being laid aside) the Knights-Companions who led the Elect-Knights to their Stall, did there invest them with the Collars also; as we find in the case of the g MS. penes E. W. G. f. 153. b. Earl of Rutland, Sir George Villars▪ and Viscount Lisle, an. 14. jac. R. who being come to their several Stalls, were first invested with their Mantles, next their Hoods, and after that their h MS. penes E. W. G. f. 153. b. Collars. In like manner did the i Auto●. penes Camer. Scacca●i. Earls of Dorset and Holland invest the Earl of Su●●olk with the Collar in his Stall, an. 4. Car. 1. and thus hath it been observed, at all Installations since, where the Sovereign hath been present at the Solemnity. As soon as the Ceremony of Investiture, 3. Delivery of the Book of Statutes. with the Mantle, Hood, and Collar, is finished; the Commissioners (or Knights-Assistants, or Knights-Companions,) take the k MS. Book of the Statutes of the Order, and deliver it into the hands of the new invested Knight. Thus this part of the Ceremony was observed to the l MS. fol. penes G O. Y. p. 206. Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland after their Investiture, an. 34. Eliz. and to the verbar; MS penes E. W. G. f. 153. b. Earl of Rutland, Sir George Villars, and Viscount lisle, an. 14. jac. R. and so generally to all Elect-Knights since. This Book the Knight is to keep safe in his own custody, both for instruction and direction, in such things as relate to the Laws and Ceremonies of this most Noble Order, therein contained. After this, they also give unto him the Black Velvet Cap, adorned with Plumes of White Feathers; and this in particular is noted to be the last among the Ceremonies performed at the Installation of the present m Lib. R. p 146. Sovereign. All things relating to the full Investiture being ended, 4. Placing the Knight in his Stall. there only remains, to complete this great Ceremony, the Installation itself, which is performed in the following manner. The new invested Knight, standing before his Stall, and turning himself towards the High Altar, first makes an humble Reverence thitherward, and after a like obeisance towards the Sovereign, or in his absence towards his Stall, (Thus is it noted of q Ex. Collect. I. V. gen: William Lord Howard, 1. & 2. Phil. & Mar.) which having done, the r Lib. C. p 110. & Lib. R. p. 61. Commissioners (or Assistants or Knights-Companions) forthwith jointly embrace him, with much joy (as their Fellow and Companion) according to the Custom of Installations, and set him down in his assigned Stall; thereto adding their wishes for his happiness and honour. With the like s MS. in Offic. Arm. [lib. L.] pag. 19 courteous and civil expressions and congratulations, we find this Ceremony was closed to the Lord Russel, an. 31. H. 8. which he answered with equal respect; giving moreover to the Knights who installed him, great thanks for the honour of their assistance: and to the Marquis Dorset and others installed, an. 1. E. 6. the Commissioners for that Ceremony, added this Vote, t MS. f●l pen●● G. O. Y. p. 87. That God would give them much honour; and after such like Complimental respects have past, the Commissioners (or Knights-Assistants, or Knights-Companions) take their Stalls. But we have a notable instance in relation to this Ceremony, at the Installation of Philip King of Castille, an. 22. H. 7. where the Sovereign himself, u Lib N. p. 184 solemnly introduced him into his Stall (being the w Ex ve●. MS. pen. W. le N. Cl. fol. 29●. next unto his own) and x Ex ve●. MS. pen. W. le N. Cl. fol. 29●. therein placed him. At which action it seems there was a form of words pronounced, relating to the Elect-knights Session and act of Installation, no less than at his Investiture, though we are not so happy as to know them: the Relator of the manner and order of this great Ceremony, having in the place of the words added an etc. and left a blank for them; but with this short note at the instant of Installation; y Ex vet. MS. pen. W le N. Cl. fol. 295. The Sovereign saying these words, Don ●ils, etc. SECT. VIII The Order observed, when two or more Knights are Installed in one day. WHen there are two or more Elect-Knights appointed to receive the honour of Installation at one Solemnity; and that the Ceremony is performed by two Commissioners (or two Knights-Assistants) then as soon as they have finished all the Ceremonies of Investiture and Installation, due to the signior of them, they leave him so possessed of his Stall, and forthwith * Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. vide MS. penes Arthur. Comit. Anglesey. fol. 119. a. return to the Chapterhouse; the Proceeding of Alms-Knights, Officers of Arms, and the inferior Officers of the Order (after their usual Reverences made in the middle of the Choir) passing forth before them, to the Chapterhouse, and thence they conduct the next signior Elect-Knight into the Choir, where they perform all the circumstances of Investiture and Installation to him, as they did to the first Installed Knight: Which having finished, they leave him also in his Stall, and a Ex. Collect. I. V. gen. vide MS. penes Arthur. Comit. Anglesey. fol. 119. a. proceed back as before for the third Elect-Knight, and after the like manner do they introduce and install him, and so the rest (if there be more that wait their Installation) till all be installed. This seems to have been the ancient practice, for it is noted in the Annals, that Viscount Beaumond, and the Lord Sudeley, Commissioners appointed by King Henry the Sixth, for the Installation of Albro Vasques d' Almadea Earl of Averence, the Lord Beauchamp, and Sir Thomas Hoo; led them into the Choir b Lib. N. p. 99 singly and apart by themselves, and there installed them in their proper Stalls. And thus is it noted of the two Assistants at the Installation of the Earl of Huntingdon and others, a. 1. E. 6. who c MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 80. after they had invested and installed the said Earl, d MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 80. proceeded back to the Chapterhouse, for the Lord La Ware, and he being installed, they e MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 80. returned again for the Lord Cobham, and lastly for f MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. pag. 80. Sir William Herbert. In like manner, when the Commissioners had given the Proctor to Emmanuel Duke of Savoy, possession of his Principals Seat, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. they g Collect. I. V. proceeded back for William Lord Howard, and conducted him to his Installation. Thus did the Commissioners by the Earl of h Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 29. Penbroke, an. 16. Eliz. when they had first installed the Earl of Derby; and by the i MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 206. Earl of Cumberland, after the Earl of Shrewsbury had been installed. When the Sovereign hath nominated three Commissioners to his service, in such case they have returned k Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 34. altogether to fetch in the other Knights (after the Ceremonies of Installation were performed to the signior Elect-Knight) singly, that were to be installed, and alternately changed their places in the Proceeding to the several Installations: (one of them always going single and foremost) an instance whereof we have at the Installation of the Earls of Essex, and Ormond, and Sir Christopher Hatton, an. 30. Eliz. where the Earl of Essex having been first conducted to his Installation, between the Lord Hunsdon, and Earl of Worcester, the Lord * Lib. C p. 110. Grey the third Commissioner went single next before them, than all three Commissioners returned to fetch in the Earl of Ormond, who proceeding into the Choir, between the Lord Hunsdon and Lord Grey, the Earl of l Ibid. pag. 111. Worcester went alone immediately before them; and his Installation being likewise dispatched, Sir Christopher Hatton was conducted to his Stall, between the Earl of Worcester and the Lord Grey, the m Ibid. pag. 111. Lord Hunsdon in this proceeding going next before them. If the Lieutenant had four Assistants appointed him, (which was necessary when there were many Knights to be installed) the order of their Installation hath been as followeth; first two of the signior Knights-Assistants conducted the signior Elect-Knight to his Installation, next the two other Assistants proceeded with the second Elect-Knight, and installed him; then again the two signior Knights-Assistants introduced the third Elect-Knight to his Stall, and in this manner they alternately changed, till all were installed. Thus was it ordered at the Installation of n Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 26. Francis Duke of Montmorency, and others, a. 14. Eliz. for at this Solemnity the o Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 26. Earl of Bedford, Sir Henry Sidney, the Earl of Worcester, and the Earl of Huntingdon, were appointed Assistants to the Earl of Leicester (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) the p Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 26. two first conducted the Duke to his Stall, and the two last the Earl of Essex, than the two first proceeded again with the Lord Burghley, and the two last with the Lord Grey, and lastly the two first proceeded a third time, with the Lord Shandos between them. And the like method and alternate change is observed, if four Commissioners be constituted, as at the Installation of Frederick King of Denmark, and john Prince Palatine of the Rhine, an. q Ibid. fol. 31. 25. Eliz. where the King's Proxy was conducted into the Choir, between the Earl of r Ibid. fol. 31. Leicester, and Lord Hunsdon, being the two signior Commissioners, and the Prince between the s Ibid. fol. 31. Earl of Huntingdon, and the Lord Charles Howard, the two junior Commissioners. But some have been of opinion, that the Commissioners nominated to this employment, ought not to divide the duty, and part of them to install one Knight, and part another, and by such an alternation to dispatch the Ceremony, as in the former cases; but on the contrary, that all should jointly assist at each Installation. And in favour of this opinion, there is an instance at the Installation of the Earl of Salisbury and Viscount Bindon, an● 4. jac. R. for the said Earl, having been brought in to the Choir, and both invested and installed by the Earls of Nottingham and Suffolk, (than the two signior Commissioners) the other two Commissioners, who were left behind in the Chapterhouse, to conduct Viscount Bindon to his Stall, calling to mind that all four were u MS. penes E. W. G. f. 147. a. joint Commissioners, conceived that the said Earl was not legally installed by the two other, because themselves had not been assistant at the Ceremony. And upon consultation with the signior Commissioners, it seems this opinion prevailed so far with them, that they agreed to impart it to the Earl of Salisbury, who thereupon w Ibid. descended into the lower Seats before his Stall, and there all x Ibid. four Commissioners gave him his Oath again, then led him up into his foresaid Stall, and a second time y Ibid. Invested and Installed him; each of the four Commissioners putting to their hand: and the like z Ibid. joint assistance was given by them to the Viscount Bindon, installed at the same time. But this method was not only new, but different from former practice, for in all like cases as before are cited, we have observed that both the Knights-Commissioners, and Lieutenant's Assistants have constantly divided the employment, by an alternate change; and besides, where the Sovereign hath authorized his Lieutenant to peform this Ceremony, and appointed some of the Knights-Companions to assist therein, these Assistants and not the Lieutenant have done the duty appertaining to the Installation, that part of it of investing with the Collar heretofore in the Chapterhouse, and the whole duty at the Installation of Prince Henry, excepted. And it is to be further noted, that this way of joint assistance at the installation of the Earl of Salisbury, was afterwards thought so little essential or necessary, that it became no Precedent; for at the very next Feast of Installation, when the a Ibid. f. 148. a. Earls of Dunbar and Montgomery were installed (in the sixth year of the same King) and for which Ceremony four Commissioners were likewise appointed; the two signior of them installed the Earl of Dunbar, and the two junior, the Earl of Montgomery; and this we find again in Practice, an. 10. Car. 1. when the b Autogr. two signior Commissioners installed the Earl of Danby, and the other two the Earl of Morton. But in the last place, if the Sovereign be present, and consequently that the Knights-Companions perform this Ceremony of Introduction, Investiture, and Installation, there is commonly then so many of them, as can go through the whole work, without changing by turns, after the manner used when done by a few, either Commissioners or Assistants, and therefore in this case the order is thus, First, the two signior Knights-Companions (having descended from their Stalls, and past out of the Choir to the Chapterhouse with the Proceeding before them) conduct to his Installation the eldest Elect-Knight, and having performed that whole Ceremony, they return and take their Stalls with accustomed Reverences. Then the two next signior Knights-Companions, descend and go out, and return with the next signior Elect-Knight, to his Installation, and after that two other Knights-Companions go out and fetch in the third, and so the rest in due order. And this method, we observe to have been practised at the Installation of Prince Henry, and other Elect-Knights, c Lib. C. pag. 151. videses MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 144. b. an. 1. jac. R. for after the Prince had been placed in his Stall, by the Earl of Nottingham and Lord Buckhurst; the d Lib. C. pag. 151. videses MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 144. b. Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland, came down from their Stalls, and went to the Chapterhouse, taking the Proceeding before them, and thence conducted the Duke of Lenox to his Stall, and returned to their own. In like manner the e Lib. C. pag. 151. videses MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 144. b. Earls of Northumberland and Worcester, went next out for the Earl of Southampton; and having installed him, the f Lib. C. pag. 151. videses MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 144. b. Lord Sheffield, and Lord Howard of Walden, passed forth of the Choir, and brought in the Earl of Marr; and lastly, the g Lib. C. pag. 151. videses MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 144. b. Lord Montjoy and Earl of Sussex, Installed the Earl of Penbroke. The like order was observed at the Installation of the h Ibid. f. 153 a Earl of Rutland, and others, a. 14. jac. R. who having been left behind in the Chapterhouse, while the Sovereign proceeded to the Choir, were afterwards by several Knights-Companions ( i Lib. C. p. 188. the seniors going out first) introduced to their Installations; one after another, according to the seniority of their Election. But to be more particular in the order of the Ceremony in this case, we shall lay down the method observed at the grand Feast of St. George, held at Windesor, an. 13. Car. 2. which was as followeth. First, the two senior-Knights, the Earls of Salisbury and Berkshire, descended from their Stalls with the usual Reverences, and stood before them. Next the Alms-Knights came down in a body, from the halt paces of the Altar, into the middle of the Choir, and having there made their double obeisances proceeded forth. After them the Officers of Arms descended also (the Pursuivants foremost) and having made the double Reverences in the middle of the Choir, went out after the Alms-Knights. Then followed the three inferior Officers of the Order, having first made their usual Reverences. And lastly, the two Signior Knights joining together in the middle of the Choir, (after their double Reverences) past out in the Rear. In this order they proceeded towards the Chapterhouse; and when the Alms-Knights came near the door, they fell off and divided themselves; the like did the Officers of Arms, and both thereby opened a way for the Officers of the Order, and Knights-Companions, to pass between them into the Chapterhouse; where being entered, they first brought forth the Duke of Oromnd (the signior Elect-Knight) and taking him in the middle between them, the Proceeding went before into the Choir, in the same order as it came thence, Garter then bearing (on a Velvet Cushion) his Mantle, Hood, Collar, and Book of Statutes. The Alms-Knights being entered the Choir, made their double obeisances in the usual place, and ascended the hault-paces of the Altar, flanking on the other side. After them, the Officers of Arms did the like. Then the three inferior Officers of the Order, coming up into the middle of the Choir, made their double Reverences, and so passed before the Knights to the place directly under the Stall designed for the Duke, whither he (conducted as aforesaid) followed, after that he and the two Knights-Companions had also made their usual Reverences, in the middle of the Choir; for the Crowd was so great through the concourse of People to this grand Festival that the Knights-Companions could not pass into the lower row of Stalls with the Duke, (being the usual place for the Elect-Knight to be brought unto) but were necessitated to invest him below in the Choir. After the Duke was Invested and Installed, the Proceeding (ordered in all points as before) went again to the Chapterhouse, and brought the Duke of Buckingham into the Choir, where he received his Installation, in the manner aforesaid. But the day being far spent, and these Proceedings to and from the Chapterhouse taking up much time; the Sovereign to shorten the Ceremony, commanded that with the next Proceeding, all the rest of the Elect-Knights, being eight, (beside two Proxies) should be introduced at once; which command being obeyed, and each Elect-Knight placed before his Stall, they took the Oath, received their Investiture, were led up to their Stalls, and took possession of them by a solemn Installation. And in regard so many Elect-Knights were introduced together, it was thought fit (because necessary) that their Mantles and Collars should be also brought in the Proceeding, and to effect this, each Knight-Elect appointed one of the Gentlemen that attended on him, to bear the Cushion (whereon his Mantle and Collar were laid) before him to the Choir door, which was accordingly done; and where they stood holding them in their arms, until Garter had in due order (as they were to be made use of) fetched them into the Choir. And here we may insert this general Rule, That at all Installations where some of the Elect-Knights are not sent for in to the Chapterhouse, to receive investiture with the Surcoat (before the signior Elect-Knight hath been conducted to his Stall, but left to repose themselves, in the East Isle of the Chapel, during his Installation (as hath many times happened) the Knights-Commissioners or Assistants, upon their return to the Chapterhouse, send Garter for the next signior Elect-Knight, whom they receive at the door thereof, and having invested him with his Surcoat, and girt his Sword about him, proceed with him to his Installation in the usual order: and the same method is observed, if there be more Elect-Knights that wait their calling into the Chapterhouse. And thus we find it practised to Sir k MS. in Offic. Armour. [L.1.] pag. 19 Thomas Cheney, and Sir William Kingston, an. 30. H. 8. after the Knights-Assistants had returned from the Installation of the Lord Russell; and to the Earl of l Collect. I. V. gen. Penbroke, as soon as the Knights-Commissioners had installed the Earl of Derby, a. 16. Eliz. as also to the Earl of m MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 206. Cumberland, when the Commissioners returned from the Installation of the Earl of Shrewsbury, an. 34. Eliz. and lastly to the n Autogr. Earl of Morton, after the Earl of Danby had received his Stall, an. 10. Car. 1. The Knight or Knights having now received a complete Installation, the Knights-Commissioners (Knights-Assistants, or Knights-Companions) with all civil respect take their leaves of the last installed Knight, and descend into the Choir, and with usual Reverences take their own Stalls, but the signior Knight-Companion ascends first. Where note, if the Stalls of the Commissioners, or Assistants, or Knights-Companions be on the same side with the last installed Knight, they then descend not into the Choir, but (after their Reverences made above) pass directly to them along the Stalls, and this we find done by the Lord o Ex eod. MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. in loc. cit. Howard of Essingham, and the Earl of Ormond, an. 34. Eliz. when they had finished the Installation of the Earl of Cumberland. The Ceremonies and Circumstances of Installation being finished, the Officers of Arms first, next the Alms-Knights descend from the Steps of the Altar, and take their several stations in the Choir. Then one of the prebend's of the College (but if the Sovereign be present, the Prelate with the Serjcant of the Vestry before him) is conducted to the Altar by the Verger of the Chapel, and there begins the Service appointed by the Church, which being finished, the Proceeding passeth out of the Choir in the usual order (the new installed Knight being ranked according to his Stall) either to the Presence Chamber, or the Lieutenants, or Commissioners Lodgings, as the occasion is. SECT. IX. The Offering of Gold and Silver. BUT if the Installation be solemnised in the morning, the Service of the Church having proceeded as far as the Offertory, two of the prebend's (appointed to receive the Offering) are conducted to the Altar by their Verger, and forthwith first the Alms-Knights, and then the Officers of Arms ascend again to the steps of the Altar, and flank on each side as before. After this, Garter summons down the Knights-Companions to the Offering; who descend with usual Reverences, and stand in the Choir under their proper Stalls, whilst the Sovereign's Lieutenant descends from his Stall, and offers (first) for the Sovereign (he receiving the Bezant from the signior Knight) and then returns to his Stall. And at this instant was the usual time heretofore for offering the defunct Knights Achievements; which by King james his appointment was altered, and ordained to be performed before the Elect-Knights were installed; of which we shall speak * Chap. 25. anon. The Lieutenant after a short stay in his Stall, descends again, and proceeds up to the Altar to make his own Offering both of Gold and Silver, and then returns; and after him do the rest of the Knights-Companions (including those newly installed) offer in their due order, the circumstances we shall largely set down in our discourse upon the offering on the | Chap. 21. Grand Feast-day. But when the Installation passeth by p Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 33. Commissioners, there is then q Collect R. C. Cl. f. 33. no Offering made for the Sovereign; but the commissioners offer first, beginning with the two r MS. Seniors, and after them the other Knights-Companions in their due order. The Ceremony of Offering at the Installation of s Ex ver. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 295. b. Philip King of Castille, an. 22. H. 7. is remarkable, and therefore we shall note it here: For he descending from his Stall into the Choir, and t Ex ver. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 295. b. standing before it (as the other Knights-Companions did) the Sovereign left his royal Stall, and hastened down to proceed to the Offering; to which the King would have u Lib. N. p. 185. followed, this the Sovereign would not permit, but obliged the King to proceed along with him w Ex eod. vet. MS. on his left hand, though he x Ex eod. vet. MS. desired to perform his duty as a Brother of the Order, and Knight-Companion, so that at last they both made their Offerings, y Lib. N. loc. cit so near together, that though the Sovereign had the precedence, yet was it hardly observable. SECT. X. Of the Grand Dinner at the Installation. ON the day of Installation, there hath from ancient time been accustomably prepared, a very sumptuous and noble Feast; and though it was agreed on in Chapter, an. 3. E. 6. a Lib. N. p. 302 videsi● lib. vocat. Dalton. p. 129. b. That the Knights-Elect from thenceforth might be installed by Commission without a Feast, yet after his Reign, we find the old usage of making a Feast at this Solemnity restored. If the Sovereign appoint the Installation to be when the Feast of St. George is also celebrated, and himself personally present, the Feast is then kept at the Sovereign's charge. If in such case he constitute a Lieutenant, the Installation Dinner is kept at the expense of the Lieutenant; and usually prepared in some of the Sovereign's Lodgings in the Castle, but seldom in St. George's Hall; though b MS penes W. D. N. f. 5. b. there, the Earl of Arundel, at the Installation of the Earl of Shrewsbury and Lord Hunsdon, kept his Feast, an. 3. Eliz. But when the Installation is kept at any other time of the year, without the joint observation of St. George's Feast, than the c Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 34. new installed Knight or Knights are at all the charge; who for the most part have had the Grand Dinner prepared at the Dean's Lodgings. Nevertheless, where ever it is appointed, thither do the Sovereign (his Lieutenant and Assistants, or Commissioners) together with the new installed Knights proceed in full Robes, which at the Installation of the d MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 87. Marquis of Dorset and other Knights, a. 1. E. 6. we find noted to be e MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 87. according to the ancient custom. At the Installation of the Lord Russell, Sir Thomas Cheney, and Sir William Kingston, an. 31. H. 8. the Sovereign's Lieutenant f MS. in Offi●. Armour. [L.1.] pag. 19 washed alone, the water being brought up with three Reverences; after him did his two Assistants walh, and lastly the three new installed Knights. The Lieutenant's place at the Table, is somewhat on the g MS. penes W. D. N. f. 5. b. left hand the cloth of State, and there sat the Earl of Arundel, Lieutenant for St. George's Feast, when the Earl of Shrewsbury and Lord Hunsdon were installed, an. 3. Eliz. But the other four Knights-Companions (his two Assistants, and the two new installed Knights) sat towards the h MS. penes W. D. N. f. 5. b. Tables end on both sides, for that they could not well sit all on a side. But of late times, viz. at the i Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Installation of the Earl of Northampton an. 5. Car. 1. a question was started, whether the Lieutenant (or Commissioners) should sit at Dinner in their Habit, or not? since the powers given them by their Commissions, seem to terminate as soon as the Knights are installed (though it was allowed that the new installed Knight ought to sit in his Robes) as also because at the Installation of the k Ex lib. vocat. Dalton. pag. 119. b. Lord Cromwell, a. 29. H. 8. after all the Ceremonies were finished in the Chapel, the Knights went to the Deans house, and there put off their Habit, and l Ex lib. vocat. Dalton. pag. 119. b. dined in their ordinary Apparel. So also at the Installation of the Earl of m Autogr. Rutland, and Lord Cobham, an. 26. Eliz. the Commissioners when they were returned from the Chapel, did put off the n Autogr. Habit of the Order, before they went to Dinner, and the new installed Knights kept on o Autogr. only their Surcoats; and thus sat all Dinner while. What was answered to these objections, or whether they dined without their Habit, we do not find; but the practice to the contrary, to wit, of keeping on the whole Habit till the grand Dinner be ended, hath been at other times generally observed. At the a MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. videfi● MS. fol. penes W. D. N. fol. 5. b. & 12. b. second Course (called also the b MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 151. a. & 153. b. second Mess, and second c MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 151. a. & 153. b. Service) doth Garter (accompanied with the Officers of Arms) proclaim the Styles, and Titles of honour of the Sovereign (if he be personally or by Lieutenant present) in Latin, French, and English, and cries Largess thrice: next the Styles of the new installed Knights in French or English only, with two Largesses, and in that order they were installed. Thus was it done at the installation of d Ibid. Charles Duke of York a. 9 jac. R. of e Ibid. Frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine an. 10. jac. R. of the f Ibid. Earl of Rutland, and others, a. 14. jac. R. g Ex vet. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 301. Philip King of Castille dined with the Sovereign in his Privy Chamber, the day of his installation an. 22. H. 7. whose Style was proclaimed by Garter not in the same Room, but at the Sovereign's h Ex vet. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 301. great Chamber-door, and in St. George's Hall (after Largess had been thrice cried) in this manner. i Ex vet. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 301. Du treshault trespuissant tresexcellent Prince, Ic Roy de Castile de Leon & de Granade Archdue Daustrich, Due de Bourgoine, & Chevalier de la tres-noble Ordre de la jartier. When the Sovereign constitutes a Lieutenant, then is the Lieutenant's Style also proclaimed, and to his other Titles is added that of this present honour of Lieutenantship; and afterwards the Styles of the new installed Knights; which we find noted at the installation of the Earl of Shrewsbury, and Lord Hunsdon, an. 3. Eliz. where Garter and the Officers of Arms proceeded into the middle of St. George's Hall (the Grand Dinner being held there) and after three obeisances, proclaimed their Styles (only in French) as followeth. k MS. penes W. D. N. f. 5. b. Du tres-noble & puissant Seigneur, Henry Fytz Allen, Conte de Arundel, Seigneur Matravers, & de Clun, Chevalier du tres-noble Ordre de la jartier, & Lieutenant de cest noble Feste de St. George. Du tres-noble & puissant Seigneur, George Conte de Shrewsbury, Seigneur Talbot, Furnivall, Verdon, & Strange de Blakmer, Chevalier du tres-noble Ordre de la jartier, & justicier des Forrestz & Chasez, de la Riviere de Trent envers le North. Du tres-noble seigneur Henry Cary, Baron de Hunsdon, Chevalier du tres-noble Ordre de la jartier The order of this Ceremony is more particularly noted at the Installation of the Duke of Montmorency, and others, a. 14. Eliz. and was thus; first o Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 27. Garter cried Largess, and next proclaimed the Sovereign's Style, and Titles of honour, in three Languages, then going two foot back, he proclaimed the Lieutenants Style only in French, with two Largesses; after that he cried one Largess for the Duke, and lastly for all the other new installed Knights, only two Largesses, and the other Officers of Arms did the like; and still as Garter had finished his proclamation of the Styles, the Heralds joined with him in crying Largess; and so with Reverence they departed the Hall. But we are in the last place to note, that when neither the Sovereign is present, nor his Lieutenant, than the Sovereign's Style is p Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. not proclaimed, nor those of the q Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Commissioners, but only of the r Ex collect. W. le N. Cl. new installed Knights. Assoon as Dinner is ended, the Knights-Companions rise from the Table, and withdraw to disrobe themselves, and therewith the Solemnity of Installation takes ending: but if at any time the Solemnities continue to that evening and the following day; it is only, because the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) is present, upon the account of celebrating the Feast of St. George, and not with reference to the Solemnity of Installation. We shall conclude with this Observation, that the ancient custom of preserving the memory of remarkable actions by some Emblematical Representations, Figures and Devises (whereof, for the last Century, s Sylloge Numismatum Elegantiorum. Lukius affords plenty of Examples) is still continued in use; and therefore upon consideration had of the honour they thereby brought the persons to whom they related, was it, that the late Sovereign, of ever blessed memory, thought fit to perpetuate the Solemnity of the present Sovereign's Installation, by certain Medals; whereof the forms and inscriptions were these. SECT. XI. Of setting up the Knight's Achievements. THE last thing to be done, at this great Solemnity, is setting up the Helm, Crest, Sword, Banner, and Plate of the new installed Knight, over his Stall, in the Chapel of St. George at Windsor; to which purpose they are to be provided in readiness, according to the a Chap. 11. Sec. ●. directions before given. This, though it be no part of the Ceremony of Installation, yet is it a consequent thereunto, and an unseparable appendix; and therefore proper enough to be added here. The setting up of Trophies, Ensigns, and Achievements of honour anciently in Churches, as well in the life time of such worthy and deserving men, who had performed some gallant action, as on their Tombs and Monuments after their death, was chiefly designed to this end; that the Beholders thereby put in mind of their great virtues, might be excited to the imitation and pursuit of true Nobility, Valour, and Virtue. Hereupon at the Institution of this most Noble Order, the Achievements of the Knights-Companions, were thought fit to be set up in the Choir of the said Chapel; and hence also the remarkable Plates, wherein their Escotcheons of Arms, curiously wrought in enamel, were fastened to the back of their Stalls. b Lib. N. p. 10 Not that the outward form of such things, have in them any great force; but that the memory of great actions done, beget that ardour in the breasts of excellent persons, which never is at rest, till some eminent achievements of theirs have over-taken the others fame and glory. By the Statutes of Institution it is ordained, that the time for setting up the Achievements shall be c E. 3. Stat. Art. 19 when the Elect-Knight comes to Windesor Casil●, that is, to his Installation, and not before; and the reason is there likewise given, d Ord. Stat. in Bibliuth Harton Art. 19 lest it should happen (he not coming within the time limited for his Installation and consequently the vacating his Election thereupon ensuing) that a new Election being made, those Military Ensigns might seem to be disgracefully withdrawn, and an e Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. p. 18. occasion of dishonour given, which otherwise could not be avoided, if they should be suddenly taken down from a place so high. Now 'tis most clear, that the intention of this Article extends to the ●inishing the Ceremonies of Installation, before the Achievements ought to be set up, by so carefully providing against the dishonour of taking them down, in case the Election should become void, which must certainly happen, if the Knight-●lect died but the hour before he were completely installed. And accordingly in the ancient Deputation both to f Appendix, Num. XLIX. and●. Sir William Philip, and Sir john Fasi●l● power is given their Proctors first to demand, receive, and obtain their Principals Stalls, and next to tender their Helms and Swords, to be hung up in the Choir of Windesor according to custom: and for clearer information of the order and course in this Ceremony, it may be observed, that the Sovereign impowered his Commissioners * Appendix, Num. L1. first to give the Deputy possession of his Principals Stall, and a●ter to receive the Achievements, and place them over it. Herewith it may be considered, That the Achievements are set up in memorial of the Knight-Elect's being installed a Companion of the Order; and 'tis incongruous in the rules of Honour, to have the sign or memorial of an action, precede the action itself. Again, the Statutes of this most Noble Order expressly provide, That the Knights Achievements shall not be permitted to be hung up, until all the g E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 12 H. 8. Stat. Art. 24. Duties and Fees enjoined by the Statutes, to be paid the College, be first discharged: but 'tis certain there are no Fees due (and consequently cannot be challenged) till the Ceremonies upon which they become due are completely finished. And it is remembered as the Custom in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, for the Elect-Knights h Collect. A. V. W. Steward, or some other of his Servants, to bring money with them to Windesor and there pay the Fees at the Chapel door, so soon as the Installation was dispatched, to the end the Achievements might immediately after be set up. But to clear all doubts which may arise upon this point, it was in a Chapter held at Whitehall, the 4. of February, an. 22. Car. 2. Ordained and Decreed, * Lib. Carolin. p. 81. That not any of the Achievements of an Elect-Knight shall be set up in the Chapel at Windesor, before he be Installed and the Fees of Installation paid. It should seem that though anciently they did not set up the Elect-Knights Achievements before he was installed, yet were they prepared and brought to Windesor, and disposed of or i E. 3. Stat. Art. 19 set before his Stall: and in case of his not coming to receive Installation, than (being no otherwise placed) might be the easier removed without the Choir, in as decent a manner as could be, that so the honour of * Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. p. 18. Knighthood might be preserved entire; nevertheless to be thenceforth kept for | Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. p. 18. public use, and benefit of the College. Where we find mention made in the Annals of any person employed to set up the Achievements of a Knight, it is to be understood, that he was his Proctor, and installed on the behalf of that Knight whose Achievements he so hung up. And the Lord k Lib. N. p. 64. Fitz Hugh, who set up the Achievements of the King of Denmark an. 9 H. 6. took also possession of that King's Stall, for, and on his behalf, and in his name. There is but a single instance (as we remember) where one man hung up a Knight's Achievements, and another was installed for him: and this happened, an. 29. H. 6. where the Lord l Ibid. p. 105. Rivers, having been Elected to the Stall of the Lord Hungerford, the m Regist. Chart. f. 28. b. 4. of August that year, his Sword and Helm were hung up on the 8. of September next after, by William n ●ouden, ib. Bobden his Esq and Guienne Herald, and he installed the o Ibid. 30. of October following, by Sir p Ibid. William Crafford his Proctor: But this was contrary to the Law of the Order. Moreover, where the setting up of a Knights-Atchievements, is barely mentioned without taking notice of the Installation, it is to be understood, that such Knight's Installation was also solemnised at that time: as in the case of the q Lib. N. pag. 76. King of Portugal, concerning whom the Annals only r Lib. N. pag. 76. note, that he had taken care to set up over his Stall his Helm, Sword, and Banner, and all things belonging thereunto, at the Feast celebrated at Windesor, an. 2. H. 6. In what manner and order these Achievements are fixed, will partly appear from the Statutes, viz. the s E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 vide Ord. Stat. in Bibl. Hatton. Art. 9 Helm and Crest, are thereby appointed to be set over each Knight-Companion's Stall, and the Sword to hang directly underneath them. But the Plate is nailed to the Back of the Knight's Stall. And here for a Corollary to this Chapter, let us add, That as the Statutes of two of the most noted Orders of Knighthood in Christendom, have in them the substance of those of the Garter, and being of later Institution, cannot but be acknowledged Copies from this Original; so we here think it requisite, to exhibit the manner of Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order of St. Michael, of our King Edward the Sixth, Thomas Duke of Norfolk, and Robert Earl of Leicester, to the end the Reader may also observe, that the order of our Ceremonies used at the Investiture of a Knight-Companion of the Garter, is also the Precedent to theirs of St. Michael. The manner of receiving the Order of Saint Mychaell, by King Edward the Sixth. MS. penes Arthur Comit. Anglesey f. 874. a FIrst, the King's Majesty to be in his Privy Chamber, accompanied with his Noblemen, and all them of the Order of the Garter, to have their Collars about their necks, and the French King's Ambassador to enter with the Order, and so after his obeisance, the proposition to be given, and after the proposition done, the King's Majesty must put off his uppermost garment, the Ambassador shall invest him with the Robes of that, and afterwards, when the King is full invested, than all the Noblemen to proceed afore the King, and the Ambassadors which be in Commission to go afore the King, with the Noblemen, in order, to the Chapel, and after them the two French Lords, than the King of Arms, than the Sword, than the King's Majesty himself, than the Lord Chamberlain, and the Vice-Chamberlain to bear the train of the Robes, and in this order to proceed to the Chapel, and the King to go into his Stall, and the other into their Stalls, and at the Offering time the King's Majesty to Offer, and the greatest man about the King to give the King his Offering, and then the two other to offer according to their Estates; when the King is in his Stall, and when all the Service is done, they to proceed in like order, as they came to the Chapel, to the place appointed for Dinner, and none to sit at the King's Board, but only the two Knights which be of the same Order of France; and after Dinner, the King's Majesty to put off his Robes, and to near such Apparel as shall please his Majesty. Note, the King's Majesty when he passeth by the French King's Stall, is to make but only a beck with his head. Add hereunto, That King Edward the Sixth observed the Anniversary of St. Michael, after the same manner and order as Strangers were long before obliged to do that of St. George; and caused his * Collect. E. W. G. Arms, surrounded with the Order of St. Michael to be set up in his Chapel at Hampton Court, each Michaelmas-day after his acceptation of that Order, during his life. The order and manner of furnishing the Chapel at the Queen's Palace of Westminster, against Thursday the 24. of January 1565. Anno. 8. Eliz. Reginae, that the Duke of Norfolk and Earl of Leicester received the Order of Saint Michael there. ITem, MS. f. 24. b. the said Chapel, both before and behind the Stalls to the ground, was hanged with rich Arras, and the upper part from the Table of Administration to the Stalls, hanged with like Stuff, which said Table was richly garnished with Plate and jewels as followeth. First, to the wall was set in a row five gilt Basins, and afore them another row, and in the middle a gilt Cross between two gre●t gilded Cups covered, garnished with Stone, a Ship or Ark likewise garnished, a Fountain of Mother of Pearl, and a pair of gilt Candlesticks; afore that another row, in the middle whereof was set a rich Basin and Ewer gilt railed over with Gold, between two great Mawdlyn Cups with Covers, two great Leywres, two Crusts, and a Pax all gilt, and over the said Table on the wall upon the Arras was fastened a front of Cloth of silver, embroidered with Angels of Gold, and before the said Table to the ground, a front of the same suit. The Dean's Stall was garnished with Cushions, and a rich Cloth of Estate, whereon was set within a black Table, the Arms of the French King, within his own Order, under a Crown Imperial, the ground palee of 6. Blue, White and Orange Tawny, without any style. Then on the same side over the 6. Stall on the Arras hanged a like Table, with the Arms within the Order, Crest and Supporters of the Deputy, Mouns●eur Remboilliet (with a Cushion before him) the Table palee of six Ar. and Sa. the Arms, Sab. a Saulter Ar. the Crest a Lion couchant Ar. collored Or, his supporters two Woodmen with Clubs in their hands the great end downward, and under his Style written, viz. Messier jaques D'angennes Seigneur de Remboilliet Chivaler de L'ordre du Roy, & Capitaine des Cinquantes hommes des Armes de ses Ordonnances. On the other side on the Arras over the eight Stall hanged a little Table palee of six Ar. and Gu. with the Arms within that Order of the Duke of Norfolk, under a Duke's Crown, with no Crest, nor Supporters, but his Style, De treshault, puissant & tresnoble Prince, Thomas Dac de Norfolk Conte Marishall D'angleterre, Seigneur de Mowbrey Segrave & de Brews, Chivaler de tresnoble Ordre de la Jarritier, & aussi du tresnoble Ordre de St. Michael. On the third Stall beneath on the same side, hanged a like Table Palee of six, Or & Az. with the Arms in that Order of the Earl of Leicester, under an Earls Crown, without Crest or Supporters, but his Style, Du tresnoble & puissant Seigneur Robert Conte de Leicester, Baron de Denbeigh, Chivaler du tres-noble etc. & Grand Escuyer de la Royne nostre Sovereign. On the ground before the Duke and Earls Stall, stood two Chairs with Cushions for them to sit on, if they pleased, till they took their Stalls. And about the Stalls on the South side was set a Chair, Carpet, and Cushion, where the Ambassador Leger sat all the Ceremony time, And below afore the Deputy's Stall was set a Form, covered with a Carpet for Monsieur Dose alias St. Michael, to sit on; And above that on either side were Tables and Forms, for the Gentlemen and Children of the Chapel. The receiving of the said Order of St. Michael, Thursday the 24. of January, Anno 8. Reg. Elizab. Fol. 25. ITem, about 10. of the Clock the said day, the Ambassador Leger, with Mounsieur Remboilliet the French King's Deputy, together with the other Lords and Gentlemen accompanied with certain English Gentlemen, came to the Court at the Queen's Palace of Westminster, where, at the Gate, they were met by the Earl of Warwick and others, and conveyed up to the Queen's great Closet, whither after a while came the Duke of Norfolk and Earl of Leicester; And for that the said Duke and Deputy, had not till then seen either other, they then embraced each other, and then communed a while; And then the said Deputy left the same Lords there, and he with Mounsieur Dose alias St. Michael, Mr. Garter and others, went down through the Chapel into the Vestry, where he shifted him, into the Robes and Habit of the Order of St. Michael as followeth. First, Having on afore his Hose, Shoe, Girdle, and Scabbard of White Velvet, he there put on a Coat with Sleeves of Cloth of Silver, the edges laid with Gold Lace, and over that his Mantle of Cloth of Silver broad guarded with Scallop shells, environed with Clouds and Rays of the Sun, and other Embroidery of Gold very richly, lined with White Taffata, and on the right shoulder it was tied, and turned up on the left shoulder, to put his Arm underneath, at, and over that on his right shoulder, lay his Hood of Crimson Velvet, spreading all over his back, the Tippet over his breast, the end put under the Hood, on the left shoulder, guarded and embroidered like the Mantle; And over th' oder lay the Collar of Gold, made with Knots and Scallop shells, whereat hanged the Picture of St. Michael, garnished with Stones. And whiles the said Deputy was shifting him, the Duke and Earl came down into the Chapel, apparelled as followeth, And first, the Duke with his Shoes, Hose, Girdle, and Scabbard of White Velvet, his nether stockings of white Silk knit, his Coat with the Sleeves on of Cloth of Silver, the edges laid with Gold Lace, and in a short Gown of Russet Velvet, guarded with the same, surred with Leopards, and faced with Lisards, the sleeves set with eighteen pair of Agglets of Gold, and a Cap of black Velvet with a Silver band; the Earl of Leicester likewise in all points apparelled, but that his Gown was Russet Satin, guarded with Velvet, furred and faced as the other, the Sleeves set with thirty pair of Aglets of Gold, and in his Cap a White Feather, and so the Duke and Earl being come into the Chapel, stood beneath on the ground, before their Arms and Stalls, And then they there staying, proceeded forth of the Vestry into the Chapel two Noblemen, named Mounsieur Clerimont and Mounsieur de Luppe carrying the two Mantles and Hoods in their arms, after them Mounsieur Dose alias Saint Michael King of Arms, carrying the two Collars lying on a Cushion upon his arms, without any Coat of Arms, but ●earing about his neck, hanging at a Ribbon, at his breast the Arms of France, within the Order of Gold, After him followed the Deputy Remboilliet, doing reverence to his Majesty's Stall as he passed by, and there went up and stood with his back to the Communion Table, The Ambassador then standing somewhat near him; Then St. Michael went and brought the Duke and Earl to the Deputy, afore whom his Secretary read the Commission, whereby he had authority from the King his Master, to make those two Noblemen Knights of the Order of St. Michael, which read out, on Cushions they two kneeled down, and the Deputy himself read unto them their Oaths, which ended they stood up, and then Dose alias St. Michael took off their two Gowns, and they two again kneeled down, and the two Lords, Mounsieur Clerimont and Mounsieur de Lupe, presented the Mantles and Hoods to the Deputy, who put on the same. First that on the Duke, and then the other on the Earl himself, reading unto them the signification thereof, And then the said Deputy put on their Collars, likewise reading the signification thereof, which said Mantles, Hoods, Collars, and Cotes were sent them by the French King, and were in all points like to the Deputy's afore declared, and the Coats were sent them to their Chambers afore they came, where they put them on. Then the Deputy with St. Michael before him, and the other two following proceeded down, and after reverence done to the King's Stall, took theirs, the Deputy first, the Duke next, and the Earl last. Then the Prayers, as the Litany and Commemoration began, and at the Offering time, the Deputy came forth of his Stall, and stood in the middle of the Chapel, below, before his Stall, and made his obeisance both to the Table, and his Master's Stall, and then proceeded with St. Michael before him, up to the Offering, making as he passed by a beck to either of his Companions (they sitting or standing still in their stalls) which Offering ended, he returned and took his Stall. Then the Duke of Norfolk came forth making obeisance to the French King's Stall and proceeded up with St. Michael before him, and Offered and returned to his Stall. And then the Earl of Leicester likewise offered. Then the Service being ended, with reverence to the King's Stall, they proceeded forth of the Chapel, first St. Michael, than the Earl, than the Duke, last the Deputy, till they came into the Counsel Chamber, where they dined, all three sitting in three Chairs on one side of the Table, which Dinner ended, they went all three into the Privy Chamber to the Queen, and after a while came forth into the Counsel Chamber, where they put off their Coats, Mantles, Hoods, and Collars, and put on their usual Apparel; And then the said Duke and Earl brought the Deputy to the Great Chamber Door, where they took their leave of him, and they returned into the Chamber of Presence again, and so ended this Ceremony. CHAP. XIII. THE Installation OF A KNIGHT SUBJECT BY Proxy. SECT. I. The original cause of making Proxies. THere was no liberty given at the Institution of the Order, to Install a Knight-Subject by his Proctor or Deputy; but on the contrary in the Founder's Statutes, was inserted this express Prohibition, a E. 3. Stat. Art. 24. That none of the Knights-Elect should be permitted to be Installed by Proxy, unless he were a Stranger. The Law in this particular continued unaltered, till the Reign of King Henry the Fifth, when john Duke of Bedford, the Sovereign's Deputy for holding the Feast of St. George at Windesor, an. 7. H. 5. and other the Knights-Companions then present, took it into consideration, That where a Knight-Subject, Elected into the Order, was at that time employed beyond the Seas, in service of the Sovereign, and likely to continue there upon that Employment, it was concluded, that the said Duke should make an address to the Sovereign, by Letter under the Seal of the Order (he being at that time engaged in the War with France) wherein, for the reasons set down in the Letter (which we have inserted in the b Num. XLIV. Appendix) he should petition him, to remove from the Statutes, all manner of scruple, and (in cases of like hazard and danger) to Ordain, c Regist. Charrac. f. 6. b. That Knights-Subjects might be permitted to receive the privilege and favour of a complete admittance, and full possession of their Stalls and rights, by their Deputies or Proctors, no less than Strangers; notwithstanding the clause in the Statutes to the contrary. It likewise appears from that Letter, as also from the d Lib. N. p. 59 & 62. Black Book of the Order, that Sir john Grey, and the Lord Bourchier had been installed at the foresaid Feast by their several Proxies, which the Sovereign's Deputy permitted out of great tenderness to their persons, lest by an over punctual and too rigid an observance of the Statutes in this point, the foresaid Knight, through the misfortunes and casualties of War, whereunto they were daily exposed; should be snatched away by a sudden death, and so want the desired suffrages of those Masses, ordained to be sung for a defunct Knights; as had been seen in the case of divers other, prevented thereof by over much delay. Nevertheless, by that more ample and large Copy of the foresaid Letter, recorded in the Registrum Chartaceum (which we think necessary also to add in the e Num. XLV, Appendix) it appears, that the Sovereign, and Knights-Companions remaining at that time with him in France, had before (upon the Duke of Bedford's request) signified their approbation of installation by Proxy; by the favour of which Certificate, and virtue of this consent (though as yet not form into a Decree) Sir john Grey, and Sir john Robessart were installed upon their Letters missive, wherein they only named their Proctors. In this Letter it also appears, that the Lord Bourchier's Proctor (made so by a deprecatory Letter sent over to his Deputy from the f Regist. Chartley, fol. 6. b. Countess of Stafford) was only promised to be installed, in regard there was no express caution given in the Statutes, concerning the sufficiency of this sort of Proxy. But to clear all doubts, which for the future might arise, it was among other things Decreed, an. 9 H. 5. g Lib. N. p. 67. propesinem. That where any Elect-Knight was actually in the Sovereign 's Wars, or otherwise employed abroad upon the Sovereign 's affairs, he should possess and enjoy the privilege of a Stranger in this particular, namely, to be admitted to his Stall by a legal Proxy; who should do and perform all things enjoined to the Proxy of a Stranger. Which Decree we find added to h Art. 20. King Henry the Fifth's Statutes. Hereupon, it was in a short time after enjoined the Elect-Knight (upon notice of his Election) to i Regist● Char●ac. f. 14. b. take care that his Proctor should be appointed to take possession of his Stall with all possible speed; to the end he might enjoy the rights and privileges of a Founder; for such an obligation we find laid upon k Regist● Char●ac. f. 14. b. Sir john Fastolf, who at the reception of the Garter, was in France, and there employed in the Sovereign's service. But King Henry the Eighth, besides his confirmation of this Decree, for allowance of a Proxy in the foresaid two Cases, further enlarged it, to l Art. 26. such as the Sovereign should either command or permit by Licence, to be installed by Proxy, which is to be understood of Knights-Elect within the Kingdom, no less than those beyond Sea. By virtue of which clause, the Earl of Dorset, being m Lib. R. p. 28. sick, a. 1. Car. 1. obtained the Sovereign's Licence, to be Installed by n Ibid. p. 29. videses MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. his Deputy o Ibid. p. 29. videses MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. Sir Richard Young, who accordingly took possession of the Stall appointed for him. SECT. II. Letters of Procuration. WE noted before, out of the a Fol. 6. ●. Registrum Chartaceum, that Sir john Robessart, Elected into the Order by King Henry the Fifth, was Installed by virtue of his Letter missive, sent to (Sir Thomas Barr) his Proxy. But the same Register in another place, calls it a b Ibid. fol. 5. sufficient Procuration under his Seal of Arms, enabling him to c Ibid. do and perform in his name, all things which might appertain to the observance and Ceremony of his Installation. The Copy of this Instrument we have not met with, but that other Letter missive which Sir john Grey directed to Sir john Lisle, to take the possession of his Stall, and by virtue of which he was Installed, is transferred to the d Num. XLVI. Appendix. Nor have we seen the before mentioned Deprecatory Letter, sent over from the Countess of Stafford, for the Installation of Hugh Stafford Lord Bourchier, but it seems to have been esteemed so sufficient and authentic, as to obtain for his substitute the title of e Lib. N. p. 59 & Regist. Chartac. f. 6. b. Proctor. This example became a Precedent to the now Countess of Bristol, whose Lord having been Elected a Knight-Companion of this Order, by the present Sovereign, and being absent on an Embassy when the Grand Feast of St. George happily celebrated, an. 12. Car. 2. was drawing on, she wrote a Letter to Sir Richard Fanshaw Knight and Baronet, to desire him f Num. XLVII. to appear and act at that following Solemnity, in quality of her Lord's Proxy. And because there grew some doubt from the Lord Bourchier's Case, of the sufficiency of such a Nomination, the request of the said Countess was thought requisite to be strengthened by the Sovereign's Authority and g Num. XLVIII Nomination likewise, which being obtained was ratified under the Seal of the Order. And doubtless in the case of a Knight-Subject, the Sovereign may if he please, nominate and appoint a Proxy for Installation, where the Elect-Knight hath not done it himself; for here all those considerations of grand respect, form of the Oath, etc. always afforded to Strangers have no place; and this is evident from the h Collect. A. V. W. Sovereign's Letters of Summons, to the Commissioners nominated for Installation of the Lord i Collect. A. V. W. Grey, a. 4. & 5. Ph. & M. who at that time was Prisoner in France; and whose Deputy, k Collect. A. V. W. Sir Humphrey Radcliff Knight is therein mentioned to have been appointed by the Sovereign herself. The first Precedent of Letters of Procuration or Deputation, drawn into a solemn form, is that made by Sir William Philipp, whereby he (having obtained the Sovereign's Licence) empowers two Knights, namely Sir Andrew Butreley, and Sir john Henington, or either of them (as their occasions would permit) to supply his place, and take possession of that Stall which should be assigned him, in the Choir at l Num. XLIX. Windesor. This Procuration and the time of Sir William Philipp's Installation by virtue thereof, is entered in the m Lib. N. p. 62. Black Book of the Order, under the eighth year of King Henry the Fifth, but certainly misplaced; for though the year of our Lord, or of the Sovereign's Reign be wanting in the date of the Instrument, yet is there added a note remarkable enough; to wit, that it was made while the Sovereign lay in Siege before Rouen in France, which as our Chronicles report was begun the n Fabian● Chron. part 7. pag. 499. 13. of October an. 5. H. 5. and taken the 19 of january following, so that by this account, the Procuration was sealed the 11. of November, an. 5. H. 5. and aught to have been placed in the Annals under that year. Besides this, the Registrum Chartaceum expressly saith, That Sir William Philipp was Installed the o Fol. 5. same day with Sir john Robessart (and so it is also expressed in the Duke of Bedford's before mentioned p Num. XLIV. Letter) which Solemnity is there entered as held on the q Regist. Chartac. loco cit. 17. of February, and though the year be not set down (and all the former part of this Register wanting) yet in the course thereof, it may be observed, that the following year is the 7. of H. 5. Add to all this, that the Black Book itself, under that seventh year, ranks both r Pag. 58. videses Regist. Chartac. f. 6. Sir john Robessart, and Sir William Philipp, for Knights-Companions among the other Knights Installed before that year, and notes them to be then attending upon the Sovereign in Normandy; whence it may be collected, that Sir William Philipp was installed, if not in the 5. yet in the 6. year of King Henry the Fifth at the farthest. And that this Procuration made by Sir William Philipp became a Precedent in that Age, appears from the s Appendix, Num. L. Deputation given by Sir john Fastolf to Sir Henry Inghouse, and Sir William Breton, under his Hand and Seal of Arms, which is t Regist. Chartac. fol. 14. b. little different from Sir William Philipp's Procuration, in u Ibid. fol. 5. b. French, unless in the alteration of the Persons Names. SECT. III. Qualifications of a Proxy. AS touching the Qualifications of a Proctor nominated by a Knight-Subject, they are the same with those wherewith the Proxy of a Stranger is to be endowed, and of which we shall discourse * Cap. 16. anon: that permissive clause in the E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. Statutes affording the same favour to a Knight-Subject, as to Strangers, and is the ground whence he derives like Privileges. We shall only add here, that not any Deputy or Proxy for a Knight-Subject, hath at any time been admitted to be Installed for an Elect-Knight, under the degree of a Knight; it being thought fit (as in other essentials and circumstantials, so especially and chiefly in this) that a Knight-Subject should exactly observe the Rule, which the Statutes have imposed on a Stranger. And in this respect, the case is very observable, where Sir b Lib. N. p. 59 videses Regist. Chartac. fol. 6. William lisle (though one of the Alms-Knights of Windesor, yet in Degree a Knight) was not refused but allowed Proctor to Sir john Grey, a. 7. H. 5. It appears by the Characters given to the Proctors nominated by Sir William Philipp, and Sir john Fastolf, that the Qualifications required in a Proctor (viz. to be (1.) a sufficient Proctor, of (2.) unblamable Reputation, and at least (3.) a Knight) were to be found in them: for when the Sovereign was induced (by reason that the Employments of Sir William Philipp's in his service, detained him beyond Sea) to give him leave to nominate his Proctor, it may be observed, that this Licence was not granted, but under this Proviso, That his Procuration should be executed by a c Regist. Chartac. fol. 5. b. & Lib. N. p. 62. Knight at least in degree, ennobled with Arms, and of an honest and untainted reputation. And when the said Sir William did make choice of and depute his Proctors, they were Knights, and such and so nobly qualified, d Lib. N. p. 62. That there was nothing wanting in them which belonged to true valiant Knights: and the like Character is bestowed upon those two Knights nominated by Sir john Fastolf, to take the possession of his Stall; to wit, e Regist. Chartac. f. 14. b. That in them there could be found no defect of aught that should belong to magnanimous and courageous Knights. SECT. IV. Preparations for Installation. THE day for Installation of a Knight-Subject by Proxy, being by the Sovereign appointed, there are to be provided for him, and got ready against the Solemnity, these things following. First, 1. Commissions for Installation. a Commission for Installation is to be drawn up, and by the Chancellor of the Order presented to the Sovereign for his Sign manual; to which is after affixed the great Seal of the Order. The substance of the ancient Commissions may be found in b Appendix, Num. L▪ L▪ that directed to Sir john Robessart, an. 5. H. 6. to accept of Sir Henry Inghouse, one of the two Knights which Sir john Fastolf had constituted for his Proxy; himself being at that season employed in the Wars of France; the powers granted by the Sovereign to the said Sir john Robessart were these. 1. c Appendix, Num. L▪ L▪ To conduct Sir Henry Inghouse to Windesor Castle. 2. To put him in possession (as from the Sovereign) of the Stall assigned to his Principal. 3. To invest him with all the Benefits, Honours, Prerogatives, Franchises, and Liberties thereunto appertaining. 4. To receive his Mantle, Helm, and Sword; and set them up where the Earl of Westmerland's stood, in whose room he was Elected. 5. To add thereunto all usual Solemnities. 6. Lastly, this Commission contained an Injunction to all the Knights-Companions, to suffer and permit the said Sir john Fastolf, fully and peaceably to possess the said Stall, Places, Honours, Franchises, Prerogatives, and Liberties, in the same manner as the Statutes import, without any contradiction or scruple. There is another Precedent almost as ancient in a d Appendix Num. LII. Commission granted to the Earl of Essex, the Lords berner's, and Wenlock, for Installation of the Earl of Worcester, and other Elect-Knights by their Proxies, an. 2. E. 4. in regard they for the present were, and for some time would be, so far employed about the Sovereign's Person, and in his Service, that they could not receive a Personal Installation: but the Commissioners Authority in this is comprised in fewer particulars than the former, namely to e Appendix Num. LII. admit, receive, and establish with all convenient speed, the Elect-Knights by their Proctors into their Stalls at Windesor, in the same manner, as if one, and all of them had been present in their own persons, any Ordinance or Statute to the contrary notwithstanding. Of later times the Commissions granted upon such occasions, differ from those made for the Personal Installations of the Knights themselves, only be premising the cause of their Principals absence, and the Employment or Negotiation he is then engaged in, and then authorising the Commissioners to admit the Proxy, into his Stall; a Precedent of which kind is added in the f Num. LIII. Appendix to the former. In the next place, 2. Letters of notice to the Commisioners. where the Installation by Proxy is performed by two or more Commissioners; the Sovereign directs Letters to each of them, giving notice of the intended Solemnity, and requiring them to make their repair to his Castle of Windesor, by a certain day therein prefixed, to the end the Proxy may proceed, to take possession of his Principal's Stall. Of such a Letter see also a form in the g Num. LIV. Appendix. 3. And for Removal of Stalls, etc. And as there is, upon admission of an Elect-Knight, installed by Proxy, the same ground for removal of Stalls in the Choir, as for one who receives a Personal Installation; and in like cases: So is it usual to issue out the like Warrants from the Sovereign to Garter, some time before the Solemnity, to remove the Achievements and Plates, and place them in the order as his Warrant directs. Anciently the Stall for the Elect-Knight was assigned in the body of the Commission, which issueth out for his Installation; as it appears in the before mentioned i Num. L. Commission for admitting Sir Henry Inghouse, Proctor to Sir john Fastols, to whom the Stall which the Earl of Westmoreland held, while living, was k Num. L. thereby appointed for him. 4. Mantle of the Order. The rest of the particulars to be prepared against the day of Installation, are provided at the Knights own charge; and they are first, his Mantle of the Order, which, according to the injunction of the l E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. Statutes, the Proctor is obliged to bring along with him to Windesor, at the day appointed for Installation. 5. Achievements. Garter is also to be consulted with, as to the preparing the Elect-knights Achievements; namely, his Helm, Crest, Mantlings, Sword, and Banner of Arms; and to bring these to Windesor, is likewise part of the duty assigned to the Proctor by the m Locis supra citat. Statutes. 6. Plate of Arms. Besides these Achievements, the Proxy is to provide a Plate of Brass gilt, whereon is to be engraved the Arms, Crest, and Supporters, enameled in their proper Colours, together with the Style of the Elect-Knight: and this to be fixed upon the back of his Stall. 7. Velvet Cushion. A Velvet Cushion also for Garter to bear the Mantle on when the Proctor proceeds to the Choir. 8. And Lodging Scutcheons. Lastly, A dozen or more of Lodging Scutcheons to set up at the Inns by the way, and other places in Windesor. SECT. V. Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. THE next thing to be considered of, is the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse, and therein chiefly the Proxie's place; for it will be needless here, to speak of his journey to Windesor Castle, his arrival there, or ordering of this Proceeding, in relation to those Degrees whereof it is composed; since what hath been already said touching these particulars, and other circumstances, having reference to the Personal Installation of an Elect-Knight, may be made applicable to a Proxy, or else such part of them as he shall judge most conducing to the honour of his Principal. The place therefore belonging to the Proxy of a Knight-Subject in this Proceeding, is that immediately after the Provincial Kings of Arms, because as yet he hath not taken possession of his Principal's Stall, which gives him a place in his return according to its dignity; and in this place did the Proctors of the Marquis (since Duke) of Newcastle, and Earl of Bristol, proceed (bareheaded) to the Chapterhouse, an. 13. Car. 2. And though this be the Proxie's usual place, in this Proceeding, yet Sir Henry Sidney, Proctor to the Earl of Warwick, a. 5. Eliz. (and 'tis the only instance we have met with) proceeded immediately before the Alms-Knights; the order of which Proceeding was as followeth. First, MS. fol. penes W. D. N. f. 11. gentlemans Attendants. Knights. Sir Henry Sidney Proctor. Alms-Knights. Verger. Pursnivants. Heralds. Provincial Kings. E. of Northumberland, a Knight-Elect. Visc. Montague Assistants. Lord Loughborow Assistants. Black-Rod. Register. Garter. Duke of Norfolk Lord Lieutenant. Lastly, the Proxy (as in the case of an Elect-Knight) passeth into the East Isle behind the high Altar, as soon as he ariveth within St. George's Chapel (while the Sovereign, or his Lieutenant, or Commissioners proceed into the Chapterhouse) and there r MS. in Offic. Armour. [H. 2. fol. 8. b. reposeth himself, till he be sent for in; for so did the foresaid Proctors to the said Marquis of Newcastle, and Earl of Bristol. But if the Proxy pass not in the Proceeding, he than goes privately to this place before the Proceeding sets forward. SECT. VI Transactions in it. AFter the Chapter is opened, 1. Reading the Commission. the first thing done, is for a MS. in Bibl. Matson. Garter to present the Commission or Commissions, which he carried in the Proceeding thither, aswel that for b MS. penes W. D. N. f. 11. Lieutenancy (in case a Lieutenant then held the Feast) as of c Collect R C. Cl. f. 32. videses MS. f. 20. Installation (for admitting a Proxy) the order of which, and by whom read, is noted before in the d Sect. 5. precedent Chapter. 2. Receiving the Proxy. The Letters of Procuration or Deputation are in the next place read, after which, the Proxy is sent for into the Chapterhouse by Garter, who conducts him to the door, and there the Commissioners (or e Ex e●d. MS. penes W. D. N. loco cit. vide etiam Collect. R. C. Cl. fol praed. Assistants or Knights-Companions) receive him: But an. 5. Eliz. Sir Henry Sidney exhibited his f MS. penes W. D. N. loco ante cit. Deputation after he was called in: Or sometimes the Proxy produceth his Deputation before the Proceeding pass to the Chapterhouse, for so did g Ibid. f. 17. b. Sir George Howard, Deputy to the Earl of Bedford, a. 6. Eliz. and in such case, there is no need of admitting the Proxy into the Chapterhouse, but that he may rest without, till the Sovereign (his Lieutenant, or Commissioners) are passed into the Choir, and he sent for in thither; at which the Mantle was wont to be laid upon his right arm, at the Chapterhouse door, by the Knights-Companions appointed to introduce him. 3. Delivery of the Mantle. Heretofore, so soon as the Proxy was admitted into the Chapterhouse, and the Letters of Procuration read, the Mantle of his Principal was usually laid upon his k E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. right arm by the Sovereign's Lieutenant (or Commissioners) and being so laid, part of it was also l Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 32. spread upon the Proxies shoulders, the m Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 32. Scutcheon of St. George lying uppermost, and the cordon's laid fair to be seen; and in this manner he bore it in the Proceeding to the Stall of his Principal, where he h●●● it till n E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. Service was ended. But now, the present Sovereign hath directed the Mantle to be born upon the left arm. But an. 5. Eliz. the Earl of Warwick's Proctor had the Mantle born before him into the Choir by o MS. penes W. D. N. f. 11. b. Garter, in the same manner as is used to Knights Personally Installed, and not delivered him, till he had p MS. penes W. D. N. f. 11. b. taken the Oath; and at the delivery thereof the q MS. penes W. D. N. f. 11. b. words of Admonition were pronounced by the Register of the Order. So was it observed to the Proxies of the Duke of Newcastle, and Earl of Bristol, an. 13. Car. 2. SECT. VII. Proceeding to the Choir. THE Proxy proceeds from the Chapterhouse door, u H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. vide MS. penes W. D. N. f. 11. b. & MS. f. 20. & Lib. R. p. 19 between the Sovereign's Commissioners (Assistants, or Knights-Companions): Concerning the order of this Proceeding, so much is spoken w Chap. 12. Sect. 6. before, that we shall need to add but one Example, and that is an. 6. Eliz. x MS. f. 20. Verger. Alms-Knights. Officers of Arms. Officers of the Order. Lord Hunsdon. Proctor to the Earl of Bedford. Lord Clinton. SECT. VIII. Ceremonies performed there. Taking the 〈◊〉. THE Proceeding having entered the Choir the Commissioners (Knights-Assistants, or Knights-Companions) conduct the Proxy into the a MS. fol. 20. lower Stalls directly under the Stall designed for his Principal, where the b Ibid. p. 20. b. Register of the Order reads the words of the Oath, while the Proxy ( c MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 17 b. laying his hand upon the Book) d MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 17 b. repeats after him, and in confirmation thereof e MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 17 b. kisseth the Book; and this Oath his f Lib. N. p. 62. sub sinem. Deputation empowers him to take, in the g Ibid. name and behalf of his Principal. The form of the Proctor's Oath hath no difference from the Oath which an Elect-Knight himself takes; the substance of the ancient Oath is h Chap. 12. Sect. 7. already noted down; and that taken of later times may be seen in the i Num. LV. Appendix. Nevertheless some variation and enlargement (though the same in effect with the ancient Oath) do we observe to be in that Form, which Sir k Num. LVI. Thomas Barr (Proctor to Sir john Robessart) took, viz. l Reg. Chartac. fol. 5. Faithfully to keep and observe all the Articles of the Statutes whatsoever, in all things appertaining thereunto, according to the form and efficacy of the said Statutes, and to the utmost of his power. The Oath being taken in this solemn manner, 2. Giving possession of the Stall. the Proctor is led up into the Stall of his Principal, where both the Knights who conducted him into the Choir, first take the Mantle and lay it on his left (though formerly on his right) arm, next laying their hands upon him, in the m E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. M. 8. Stat. Art. 21. Name of his Lord and Master (from whom he received his Dputation) set him down therein: and so the Ceremony of Installation being fully finished, the Service of the Church begins. If the Installation be performed in the morning, 3 Offering at the Altar. than there is an Offering of Gold and Silver; at which time the Proxy in his turn comes down from his Principal's Stall, and stands before it, and when the Sovereign hath offered (or the Lieutenant for him, and for himself, or otherwise the Commissioners) as also the rest of the Knights-Companions present, in their due order, than the Proxie's n MS. in Offic. Armour. [H. 2. fol. 8. b. turn coming (being joined with the Knight sitting in the opposite Stall to that of his Principal, if he be present at this Solemnity, and having two Officers of Arms before them) he proceedeth to the high Altar, and there offereth both Gold and Silver; and afterwards returns and takes his Stall in the same order as the Knights-Companions do. In this manner an. 5. Eliz. the o MS. penes W. D. N. f. 12. b. Earl of Warwick's Proxy, joining himself with the Earl of Northumberland (installed at the same time) jointly proceeded to the Offering, with Richmond and Lancaster Heralds before them. The like did the Proctor to the p MS. fol. 20. b. Earl of Bedford, and offered together with the Lord Hunsdon, an. 6. Eliz. As soon as the Ceremony of the Offering is finished, the Service of the Church proceeds, which being ended, the Proceeding returns in the same order it came to the q MS. fol. 21. Chapterhouse, except that now the Proxy takes his place, according to the dignity of the Stall, of which he lately took possession for his Principal: But in regard the Statutes do expressly declare, r E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. That after the Proxy hath been admitted to the Stall of his Principal, he shall neither wear the Mantle, nor have any Voice in Chapter, nor presume to enter there in the absence of him that sent him; therefore hath it been the common practice to take off the Mantle from his arm, at the Chapterhouse door, in his return from the Choir, so that at this place the bearing thereof hath usually terminated, having for the most part been delivered to the s MS. praed. loco cit. Verger of the Chapel (though sometimes to the t Ex cod. MS. penes W. D. N. f. 11. b. Sexton, at other times to u Ibid. f. 13. b. Garter, so also to the w Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 33. Black-Rod) who hath taken it from off the Proxie's arm, and carried it into the Chapterhouse; this done, the Proctor retires privately out of the Proceeding to his Lodgings. Nevertheless it appears (but by what indulgence is not recorded) that though Garter took from Sir Henry Sidney, an. 5. Eliz. the Mantle at the Chapterhouse door, on the Evening as he returned from taking possession of his Principal's Stall, yet the next morning he x MS. pen. W. D. N. f. 12. road in the Proceeding to the Chapel (the celebration of St. George's Feast continuing) with the Mantle on his right arm, on the left hand of the Earl of Northumberland (the place of his Principal) and, having entered the Choir, took his Principal's Stall; afterwards he bore the Mantle in the y Lib. C. p. 45. grand Procession, at the Offering of Money, and during divine Service; and from the Chapel proceeded in the foresaid place up to the Castle to Dinner. In the Afternoon of the said Feast-day he again z Ex eod. MS. penes W. D. N. f. 13. road on horseback in the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse door, (but a Ex eod. MS. penes W. D. N. f. 13. there the Mantle was taken from him and laid within upon the Table, whilst he retired into the East Isle of the Chapel) and at the rising of the Chapter was it again delivered to him, whence he proceeded in his Principal's place to the second Vespers. The next morning after the Lieutenant and his Assistants had ended the Chapter, the b Ex eod. MS. penes W. D. N. f. 13. Mantle was again laid on his arm, and in that manner he passed into the Choir, where he entered the Stall of his Principal, and afterwards c Ex eod. MS. penes W. D. N. f. 13. Offered in the same order he did on the Feast day; and when the morning Service was finished, the Lieutenant and Assistants returned to the Chapterhouse door, where they put off their Mantles, and at the same place the Sexton of the College received the Mantle from him. SECT. IX. The Grand Dinner. AT Dinner the Proxy sits with the Lieutenant (or Commissioners) and takes the place where his Principal should sit if he were present; and this was so observed at the Installation of the Earl of Warwick, a. 5. Eliz. d MS. penes W. D. N. f. 12. b. for the Sovereign's Lieutenant sat on the left hand of the Cloth of State, his two Assistants, the Earl of Northumberland (newly installed) and the said Earl of Warwick's e MS. penes W. D. N. f. 12. b. Proxy sat on the same side. The Style of the Knight, who is installed by Proxy, is proclaimed in French or English, at the usual time, and in his due place, together with the other Styles that then ought to be proclaimed, as we find it observed an. 25. H. 8. at the Installations of the Earls of f Lib. N. p. 264. Beaumond and Newblanke by their Proctors (for they were Knights-Subjects, though not to the Sovereign, and therefore not improper to be made use of, for an instance in this case) in the order following. MS. in Offic. Armour. [L. 1] fol. 46. Du noble & puissant Seigneur le Compte d' Essex, & de Enseigneur de Bourchir, & de Loveyn, Lieutenant, & Depute de la Feste Saint George, Chevaler, Frere & Compaignon de la tres-noble Ordre de la Jartier. Du tres-noble & puissant Seigneur la Conte de Beaumond, Seigneur de Montmorency, premier Baron, grand Maistre & marshal de France, Baron de Montberon, & fere— tertenois Seigner de Lysleadam, de Compiegne, de Chantelly & de Escoven, Gouverneur & Lieutenant General pour le Roy tres-cristien au Paris de Longuedoe, Chevaler frere & Compaignon de la tres-noble Ordre de la Jartier. Du tres-noble puissant Seigneur le Conte de Neublance, Seigneur de Beron, Baron d' Aspremont, Buransay, Beaumond, Paygin, Mirebeau, & the Fonteyne Fran●ccedil; ois, Admiral de France, Gouverneur & Lieutenant General pour le Roy tres-cristien, en la Duché de Bourgoigne, Chevalier, Frere & Compaignon de la tres-noble Ordre de la Jartier. And when the forementioned Earl of Warwick was installed by Proxy, the order was thus. MS. penes W. D. N. ●. 12. Du treshault puissant, & tres-noble Prince, Thomas Duc de Norfolk, Conte Martial d' Angleterre, Seigneur Mowbray, Segrave, & the Brews, Chivalier du tres-noble Ordre de la Jartier, & Lieutenant de ceste noble Feste de saint George. Du tres-noble & puissant Seigneur Thomas Conte de Northumberland, & Baron de percy, Chivalier de tres-noble Ordre de la Jartier. Du tres-noble, & puissant Seigneur Ambrose Conte de Warwick, Baron de Lisle, Chivalier, etc. Maistre de L'artillerie de la Royne nostre Sovereign, & Lieutenant pour sa Majesty, au pais de Normandy, & Defendeur de la Ville François de grace. To conclude, the Proctor is to take care that the Achievements and Plate of his Principal be set up in the Chapel of St. George, so soon as the Installation is completed, for he is obliged to g Lib. N. p. 62. videses Regist. Chartac. f. 5. b. & f. 14. b. offer and present them to that end, according to custom, which doth further appear, not only out of the ancient Letters of Procuration, but also by Commissions for Installation, which appoint, h Regist. Chartac. f. 15. That the Sovereign's Deputy should receive from the Proctor his Principal's Helm and Sword (for we find no mention of the Banner till afterwards) and place them over his Stall. CHAP. XIV. THE Signification of Election TO Strangers. SECT. I. Within what time, and in what manner Certificate is made of their Election. FOrasmuch as Strangers Elect are for the most part Emperors, Kings, or Sovereign Princes; the necessity of whose affairs, obliged them to abide in their own Dominions, and seldom or rarely permitted them, to receive a Personal Installation in the College of the Order; therefore several Privileges 〈◊〉 thought fit, by the wisdom of the Founder of this most Noble Order, to 〈…〉 and established in their favour: as principally the giving them hon●● 〈…〉 of their Elections, allowing convenient time of consideration for Acceptance, affording to them Investiture in their own Countries, and permitting their Installations to be performed at Windesor by Substitutes, or Deputies. It was therefore by the Statutes of the Institution Ordained, a E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. That when any such were chosen into the Order, they should be certified of their Elections by the Sovereign; and besides, that at his charge, the b E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. Garter should be sent over to them, with the Mantle and Statutes of the Order, sealed with the Common Seal. And this to be done with all convenient speed, so c E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. that they might have notice thereof at least within four months, from the time of Election, to the end they might advise and determine with themselves (from consideration had of the tenor of the Statutes) whether they would receive, or refuse, the honour of this most Noble Order. In pursuance of these directions, it became customary for the Sovereign, together with his Letters to the Elect Stranger, giving signification of his Election, to send (and that by way of solemn Embassy) the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, as also a Book of the Statutes; and in case the Election were accepted, than the Elect Stranger might receive Investiture, before the return of the persons by whom the Habit was sent. And this is manifest from the direction given, upon the Election of Edward King of Portugal ( e N. Rittershus. in Tab. Reg. Portugal. edit. Tubing. an. 1658. Son of King john and of the Lady Philippe, Daughter to john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster) at the Feast of St. George celebrated at Windesor the 8. day of May an. 13. H. 6. to wit, f Lib. N. pag. 91. That because the Election then but newly transacted, was not known to the said King, it seemed good to the Chapter, g Lib. N. pag. 91. that he should be speedily certified thereof: And that Garter King of Arms should be sent over to him to signify his Election; and upon his acceptation thereof to present him with the Garter and Habit of the Order, as also with the Book of Statutes; which he was likewise appointed to carry over with him. And it may be presumed, that a Certificate of Election was sent to the Duke of Urbin, within the time limited by the Statutes; since it appears, that (being Elected the i Lib. N. p. 136. 18. of August an. 14. E. 4.) all things were fitted for his Installation against the following St. George's Feast, at which he was Installed. And upon the Election of the King of Portugal, an. 22. E. 4. the Register observes, that notice was s●nt to him of his Election, k Ibid. p. 149. within the appointed time. The purport of which Letters certifying a Stranger's Election, may be understood and known from l Appendix, Num. LVII. that which King Edward the Sixth sent to the French King Henry the Second, whereby (briefly) for his eminent Nobleness and Virtues, and to augment and improve the brotherly amity and fair correspondency between them, He had in Chapter, with the consent of the Knights-Companions, Chosen and Elected him into the number of the Society of the Garter, and therefore thought good to acquaint him therewith; desiring also the said King to give him and the Society the honour of consenting to and accepting of the Election; forasmuch as he should thereby perform that which would be very acceptable and grateful to him, as he should more fully understand by the Ambassadors who were preparing for their journey, to Invest him with the Habit. The right of bearing these Letters signifying Election, and returning the Stranger's answer, belongs to Garter; being confirmed to him by the m Cap. 4. Constitutions appertaining to his Office. We see before, that the Certificate of Election was ordained to be dispatched within four months, from the time of Election. Nevertheless to afford the Sovereign more liberty, where the nature of the Affair required it; King Henry the Eighth added this necessary Clause to the foresaid Article. That where the Sovereign had any great or high impediment, He n H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. should defer certifying the Election, till a more opportune or convenient time. But in this particular we observe, that like liberty had been taken, in times preceding, though no provision by Statute was made for it before; as namely, by King Henry the Sixth, in the case of Frederick the Third, Emperor of Germany, who having been Elected an. o Lib. N. p. 117. 35. of the said King, had not Letters sent him to signify his Election until the p 〈◊〉 pag. ●●●. following year. It likewise appears, that Letters to the 〈◊〉 pag. ●●●. same effect were then also dispatched to the King of Arragon, the Duke of Brunswick, and King of Poland, who had been Elected r Ibid. p. 105. eight years before. And yet we find it recorded, that the s Ibid. p. 114. Habit and Ensigns of the Order were sent by special Ambassadors to all three, a. 34. H. 6. viz. two years before; but perhaps this aught to be understood of their being but then designed and ordered to be sent, and upon second thoughts might be stopped, or if they were sent, might miscarry by some accident; for if they had arrived at these Prince's Courts, it would have been needless to send other Letters to give notice of their Election, t Ibid. p. 118. two years after. But to clear this doubt, we after find a u Ib. p. 119. second mention of sending the Habit and Ensigns of the Order to the King of Poland, an. 37. H. 6. by which it is sufficiently apparent, that the first Embassy took no effect. In the foresaid Memorial entered in the w Pag. 114. Black-Book of the Order, and placed under the 34. year of King Henry the Sixth, touching the King of Arragon, King of Poland, and Duke of Brunswick; we suppose the King of Arragon is mistaken for the King of Portugal, Elected an. 25. H. 6. Since the t Le Roy de Portugale est ●sluz & add ●e Ja●●●ti●r, & le Mantel envoi●z par Fetiplas, f. 32. b. Registrum Chartaceum calls him King of Portugal, and both authorities agree in sending over Mr. Fetipla●e with the Garter and Mantle, though the Black-Book doth not distinguish (as doth the u Le Roy de Portugale est ●sluz & add ●e Ja●●●ti●r, & le Mantel envoi●z par Fetiplas, f. 32. b. other) to which he was sent. It may much rather be presumed that Mr. Fetiplace was sent on this Legation to the King of Portugal (not Arragon) since w Cambd. Brit. in Aureb. Beatrix the natural Daughter of john King of Portu●●l was his Mother, and * This Gentleman was Progenitor to the Family of Fetiplace, late of B●sse sligh in Berkshire, of Swinbroke in the Country of Oxford, and many other Families of note of the same Name, now residing in those Counties. he by this relation, and being in those times a x MS. in Offic. Armour. [C. 18] f. 35. Courtier in King Henry the Sixth's Court, might the sooner obtain the honour of this Employment: And there is in the Registrum Chartaceum another particular (correlative with the former) yet more clear and full than the Black-Book; for it tells us that Mr. y Le Roy le Poleyne est Estuz, & ad le Jarretier & see mantle envoyez par Newport. f. 32. b. Newport was at the z An. 34. H. 6. same time sent in the Legation with the Garter and Mantle to the King of Poland. But to return; we have not found that King Henry the Eighth, or any of his Successors, Sovereign's of the Order, have made much use of that liberty (granted by the foresaid Article of his Statutes) for deferring the Significatory Letters of Election beyond the time appointed by the Statutes of Institution. And that it may be the better observed, how soon notice of Election hath been given to Strangers, we will insert all the instances in this kind, that have come to our knowledge. It is recorded, that the French King Francis the First was Elected n Lib. N. p. 257. Oct. 21. an. 19 H. 8. and albeit we find not the exact time, when the Sovereign's Letter for giving notice of his Election was sent him; yet must that compliment be most certainly dispatched within the time limited by the ancient Statutes, since we observe he was Installed within three months after, viz. the o Ex Aut●gr. in Bibl. C●tt●n. 25. of january following. When james the Fifth King of Scotland was Elected [jan. p Lib. N. pag. 267. 20. an. 26. ●. 8.] the Lord William Howard was q Lib. N. pag. 267. forthwith sent to inform him of his ●lection. Henry the Second of France (before mentioned) having been Elected the r Ibid. p. 305. 24. of April, an. 5. E. 6. had Letters of signification sent him in May following. Emanuel Duke of Savoy was chosen a Knight-Companion s Lib. C. pag. 14. 6. Aug. an. 1 & 2. Ph. & M. and the same day it was Decreed, t Lib. C. pag. 14. That Letters should be sent unto him with the illustrious Garter, and other Ensigns of the Order: But hereby is to be understood, the Sovereign's Credential Letters sent to accompany the Habit of the Order (the Commission for delivery whereof bears teste the 17. of October following) not the Letters signifying his Election; for it appears clearly from the said Credentials, that the Sovereign had not only before that time given him notice of his Election, but that the Duke had returned a cheerful and ready acceptance of the honour. The Election of Charles the Ninth of France, passed the u Lib. ●. p. 4●. 24. of April, an. 6. Eliz and in w Collect A. V. W. May ensuing the Lord x Collect. A. V. W. Hunsdon carried him the Habit of the Order, which he received at y MS. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 16. b. Lions the 24. of june following; and the French King Henry the Fourth, and james the Sixth King of Scotland (afterwards Sovereign of this most Noble Order) were both Elected together, the z Lib. C. p. 117. 24. of April an. 32. Eliz. to the a Collect. A. V. W. videses Hist. And. du Chesne pag. ●114. former of these, the Certificate of Election was sent by Sir Edward Stafford Knight, and to the b Collect. A. V. W. videses Hist. And. du Chesne pag. ●114. later, by the Earl of Worcester. Lastly, Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, Elected the c Lib. C. p 150. 14. of june, an. 1. jac. R. Maurice Prince of Orange, chosen the d Ibid. p. 177. 19 of December, an. 10. jac. R. Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, and Henry Prince of Orange, both Elected the e Lib. R. p. 35. 24. of April, an. 3. Car. 1. as also Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine chosen a Knight-Companion the f Ibid. p. 80. 18. of April, an. 9 Car. 1. had Letters sent to signify their Election within a few days after they were Elected. And at such times as the present Sovereign made Election of any Stranger, whilst he remained abroad; care was also taken to send his Letters, to acquaint them with their Election, g Collect. E. W. G. immediately after the Ceremony of Election had past. SECT. II. Of Notice given of an Election, before sending the Habit. HEre it is to be observed, with how much more caution than the former, the Statutes made by King Henry the Eighth do Ordain, to a Art. 21. send Letters that signify Election, and the Book of Statutes only at the first; but not the Garter and Mantle, till a return be made, whether the Stranger-Elect (after consultation had with the Statutes) will receive the Order or not. And b Art. 21. after the Certificate of Acceptance returned to the Sovereign, then, but not before is it there also Decreed, to send a solemn Embassy with the whole Habit, George, and Collar. And consonant to these directions in the Statutes hath the Practice sometimes been: As for instance, in the cases of the French King Henry the Second, a. 5. E. 6. and Emanuel Duke of Savoy, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. both remembered a little before; as also in that of c Erhard. Cellius in suo Equ. Aur. Anglo. Wirtemb. p. 107. & 108. Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, to whom Queen Elizabeth sent Letters signifying his Election, shortly after she had chosen him into the Society of the Order, to which the Duke returned thanks and acceptation, by two Ambassadors, Benjamin a Buwinkhausen of Walmeroet one of his privy Council, and Christopher ab Haugwitz Master of his Horse: who received a promise from the Sovereign, that the sending him the d Erhard. Cellius in suo Equ. Aur. Anglo. Wirtemb. p. 107. & 108. whole Habit of the Order should not be long deferred, howbeit the same was not sent during her life. SECT. III. Notice of Election sent with the Habit. WHen the Sovereign hath been well assured beforehand, that the Elect-Stranger would not refuse the Honour; upon such confidence, the same Embassy (as anciently before the adding this Clause) dispatched both Ceremonies. The Sovereign's Letter certifying Election being first presented, together with the Book of Statutes, to peruse and consider of; and if (upon consideration thereof) the Stranger declared his acceptance, then within few days after, the whole Habit of the Order was with due Solemnity delivered. And thus do we find it directed, shortly after the Election of james the Fifth King of Scotland; the Lord William Howard (sent on that Embassy) his Instructions as to this point, being as followeth. e Appendix, Num. CII. That he should within five or six days next after he had been with the said King of Scots, for his first ambassade and resort to Court there, and in most reverend fashion deliver unto the King of Scots, the Letter Missive of Certification of his Election into the noble Order of the Garter, from the Sovereign of the Order, with due commendation from his Highness. The Letter read, and the said King consenting to the Reception of the said Order, then incontinent the Book of Statutes to be delivered unto him, and a day appointed to have his consentment on the Articles of the said Statutes. In like manner were the Letters certifying Election, and the Commission for presenting the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, dispatched together to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 1. jac. R. and sent by the Earl of Rutland who went hence f Collect. A. V. W. within a fortnight after the said King had been Elected. As also to Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, and Henry Prince of Orange, within two months; their Election falling on the g Lib. R. p. 35. 24. of April, an. 3. Car. 1. and the date of the Commission for delivering the Order being on the h Collect. Tho. Rowe Eq. Aur. nup. Ord. Canc. f. 207. 24. of june following. The manner and order of the delivery of these Letters signifying Election, when the Habit is sent therewith, is thus. i Autogr●penes W. lo N. Cl. First the Ambassador and Officer of Arms, having notice given them of the first Audience, do present themselves to the Stranger-Prince, in the accustomed manner of Ambassadors; and deliver the Sovereign's Letters Missive, with all due reverence. The Ambassador therewithal signifying (after some short general Compliment from the Sovereign) how his Master and the honourable Society of the Garter, in respect of his renowned prowess, valour, virtues, etc. and for to establish and augment the amity which is betwixt them, hath Elected him into the most renowned Order of St. George; and that the Sovereigns do never Elect any Stranger, but such as they do most highly honour, and therefore desires that it may be accepted as a true testimony thereof: to which end the Sovereign hath sent him over, and his Herald there present, to perform the Ceremonies due thereunto. But of late, when through the Sovereign's multitude of Affairs (in particular the late Sovereign while engaged in the Wars) or suddenness of the occasion, they have had no convenience for the present, to send a special Commission of Legation, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order to any Stranger: They therefore thought fit, at such time as they sent their Letters signifying Election, to Commissionate their Agent, residing in that Prince's Court, and Garter Principal King of Arms, to deliver part (but the two chief and * Appendix, Num. CV. most peculiar) of the Ensigns of this most illustrious Order, namely the Garter and George, pendent at a Blue Ribbon, to the Elect- Stranger; deferring the solemn Legation till a further and more convenient time. The first Precedent we have met with in this kind, was an. 10 jac. R. when k Du Chesne Hist. p. 1138. Sir Ralph Winwood, and William Seagar Esq Garter, (afterwards Knighted) were Commissionated to deliver only at the present the Garter and George to Maurice Prince of Orange, the l Appendix, Num. LXXII. rest of the Habit being intended to be presented afterwards in their due time. And this was so done, within five days after his Election; that Ceremony being dispatched on the m Lib. C. p. 117. 19 of December in the foresaid year, and the Sovereign's Letter's of notice, and the Commission, both bearing date the n joh. Olers in Geneal●g. Com. Nass●via, p. 89. Videses Continuat. Thuani. p. 331. 24. of the same month. In like manner were the Garter and George only, sent over to Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine, and presented to him by William Boswell (then) Esq the Sovereign's Agent in Holland, and john Philpot Esq Somerset Herald, a. 9 Car. 1. So the late Sovereign, by reason of the many disturbances occasioned by the unhappy War with the Long Parliament, could not conveniently send over to William Prince of Orange, and Bernard de Foix Duke of Fspernon, other Ensigns of the Order, than the George and Garter. And lastly, during the present Sovereign's abode in Foreign parts, it was the general practice (in regard the whole Habit, could not with conveniency be provided, nor the Ceremonies of Investiture fully performed) to present the Elect-Knight in confirmation of his Election (whether he were a Stranger, or Subject) with the Garter, George, Ribbon, and sometimes a Saint George's Cross, irradiated within a Garter, to be fixed on the left shoulder of their Cloaks or upper Garments, of which we shall speak more largely in the following * Sect. 3. Chapter. SECT. IV. Certificate of Acceptation. AFter that the Sovereign's Letter signifying Election, hath been delivered by the Ambassador, and the Elect-Stranger doth readily accept the Order, and thereupon is desirous to have it confirmed to him; he is obliged by the Statutes, to return to the Sovereign a p H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. Certificate of such his acceptance, and desire of ratification. And we observe, that before this additional Clause made by King Henry the Eighth, this ceremonious course had been of ancient time practised, and both expected from, and observed by the King of Denmark; who having been q Rot. pergamen. penes Sim. Archer Eq. Aur. nup. defunct. Elected an. 6. H. 5. was an. 8. of the same King, taken notice of, for r Lib. N. p. 61. not returning (before that time) an answer whether he would accept of the honour of the Order, or not? And it appears, that before the next St. George's Feast in the following year, s Ibid. f. 64. he sent over to the Sovereign his ready acceptance, both of the honour of his Election, as also of the Ensigns of the Order; and thereupon t Ibid. f. 64. directions were then given for his Installation by his Proxy the Lord Fitz-Hugh. But for an instance (after the said additional Clause) we have one remarkable enough, in the preamble of the Sovereign's u Appendix, Num. LVIII. Credential Letters to the Duke of Savoy, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. sent together with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order; in which it appears, w Appendix, Num. LVIII. that the Sovereign having given him notice of his Election into this most Noble Order, he had returned back his cheerful and ready Acceptance of, and singular satisfaction in the said choice; and therefore cordially wished that it might attain its due effect. In succeeding times it was thought necessary (in case where the whole Habit of the Order was sent over to a Stranger, together with the Sovereign's Letters, signifying his Election) to make a provisional Decree (which passed the 18. of April an. 13. Car. 1.) x Lib. R. p. 120. That Garter, and all others (whom it pleased the Sovereign jointly to commissionate with him) should be most punctually careful, that they delivered not the Ensigns of the Order into the hands of any such Prince, till they were fully satisfied by his Letters Patent of his kind and grateful acceptance thereof, y Sir Tho. Rows journal. p. 11. or in case of refusal to forbear their presentation. And that care was taken for the due observation of this Decree (even in such case where only the Garter and George were sent) appears from the Instructions of the z Ex Autogr. penes jac. Palmer Eq. Aur. nup. hujus O●●. Cancel. 4. of March, a. 19 Car. 1. sent to Sir William Boswell Knight, he being appointed by the then Sovereign to present those two principal Ensigns of the Order, to William Prince of Orange, the said Sovereign's Son in Law; where among other things he is expressly commanded, * Ex Autogr. penes jac. Palmer Eq. Aur. nup. hujus O●●. Cancel. to take a Testimonial from the said Prince, of his kind acceptation thereof, before he should deliver those Ensigns of honour to him. The like | Ex Autogr. penes jac. Palmer Eq. Aur. nup. hujus O●●. Cancel. Clause (for demanding of a Certificate of willing and grateful Acceptance of the Order) we also find to have been inserted in those Instructions, under the same date, for the delivery of the Garter and George to Bernard Duke of sternon. SECT. V. Of an Election not accepted of. THat there hath been a non-acceptation of this honour, by the person Elected, appears in that single case of Philip the Second Duke of Burgundy; who having been Elected by King Henry the Fifth, then in France into the Stall of the a Lib. N. p. 77. Lord Clifford, (slain at the Siege of b Ib. p. 69. Meux in Brie) had not (a. d Ibid. p. 75. 1. H. 6.) sent his answer whether he would have his Election confirmed. It was therefore concluded on, at the Feast of St. George held at Windesor, in the foresaid year, by Humphrey Duke of Gloucester (than Deputy to the Sovereign) having therein the unanimous consent of the Knights-Companions present, to send e Ibid. Letters to the said Duke Elect, f Ibid. by which he might be entreated to give his Resolution, whether he would accept of the Election or not. It seems the Duke of Burgundy returned no answer to this Letter, and therefore at the next years Feast, it came again to be considered of, by the Duke of Gloucester (the Sovereign's Deputy for that Feast also) and the Knights-Companions present, and upon further debate it was thought fit, g Ibid. p. 77. that there should be those persons sent over to him with the Nomination, who should desire to receive his final answer. And then it appears, that the Duke of Burgundy, well considering the Statutes of the Order, and reflecting on the h Ibid. Quarrels between the Duke of Gloucester, and the Duke of Brabant his Uncle, made a most plaucible excuse, refusing the Election, lest i Ibid. he should be forced, either dishonourably to violate the pious Constitutions of the Order, or the obligations of Alliance. The substance of this Excuse, was afterwards represented to the Sovereign's said Deputy, and Knights-Companions, in a Chapter held at Windesor, an. 2. H. 6. k Ibid. who considering the reason and manner thereof, the long avoidance of the Stall, and the strictness of the Statutes in this case, vacated the former Election, and proceeded to a new one, which brought l Ibid. john Lord Talbot, into the room and Stall of the said Lord Clifford. This is the only instance of any Stranger, who after Election refused his acceptance of the Order. On the contrary, how desirous and earnestly solicitous some others (even of the highest rank) have been of admittance into this illustrious Society, may appear by these few Examples. Alphonsus' King of Naples, and Duke of Calabria, did with n Heylins' Hist. of St. George, part 3. Ch. 3. Sect. 6. great importunity solicit his Election into this Order, and was accordingly chosen, an. 7. H. 7. The Black-Book of the Order, mentioning the Election and Installation of Philip King of Castille, saith, that o Lib. N. p 183. he not only assented to what was offered, namely the honour of admittance into the Order; but with much gladness and infinite thanks accepted thereof. A little before, we are informed, how p Ib. p. 178. gratefully the King of Denmark, a. 20. H. 7. accepted of his Election. And in the memorial of the Sovereign's sending his Ambassadors, with the Ensigns of the Order to the French King, Francis the First, it is noted, q Ib. p. 257. that he received them with such a r Regist. Chartac. f. 66. cheerfulness of mind, as the Affair required. Some few years before this King was Elected, Ferdinand Brother to the Emperor Charles the Fifth was chosen into the Order, of whom it is said, s Eq. Aur. Anglowirtemb. lib. 1. p. 28. That he took it for a very high honour, to be made a Colleague of this most Noble Society; and that he * Baker's Chron. Edit. 1665. p. 291. received the Order at Norimberg in Germany to his great contentment. Maximilian his Son was presented with the Habit of the Order, by Thomas Earl of Sussex; MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 110. who giving the Sovereign an account by Letter of his reception thereof; affirms, that he received the Honour gladly, and with manifest satisfaction. Such is also the expression of Frederick the Second King of Denmark, in his Letters of Procuration to the Lord Willoughby, u Appendix, Num. LXVII. That he received the Order with as much gratitude, as if it had been presented to him by the Sovereign herself. But that which Erhardus Celius reporteth of w Eq. Aur. Anglo-Wirtemberg. l. 3. p. 82. Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, is beyond all; who being in England, and seeing the x Eq. Aur. Anglo-Wirtemberg. l. 3. p. 82. magnificence of the Castle and Chapel of Windesor, was induced by the sight of the illustrious Arms and Ensigns of Honour of so many great Princes and famous Personages of this most Noble Order, to wish himself one of the renowned Society. Being afterwards Elected, he expressed his acknowledgements of the Honour done him, not only by a solemn Embassy to Queen Elizabeth, but also by the z Ib. l. 5.6. & 7. great Preparations he made, the vast Expenses he was at, and his extraordinary munificence in Rewards, at his Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order; which indeed were such grand testimonies of his glad acceptation of this additional flower of Honour, as nothing could more fully evidence it to the World. To these we may add the * Ex relatione Edw. Nicholas Eq. Aur. reiterated solicitations made to the present Sovereign, on the behalf of Frederick Guillaume Marquis of Brandenburg, and his great impatience till his Election was past, though not easily nor suddenly obtained. In fine, how acceptable this Honour hath been to several other Kings and Princes, and what esteem and value they have set upon it, may be further seen, in their several Certificates, sent back to the Sovereign of this most Noble Order, after their Investitures with the Habit and Ensigns thereof. CHAP. XV. THE Investiture of Strangers WITH THE HABIT and ENSIGNS Of the ORDER. SECT. I. The Time for sending the Habit and Ensigns unlimited. ALbeit the Statutes of the Order do appoint and prefix a time, within which the Sovereign's Letters giving notice to a Stranger of his Election, aught to be sent unto him, as before is showed; yet as to the sending a solemn Embassy, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, they do not limit a certain time, but leave that wholly to the Sovereign's pleasure; wherein his conveniency, and other Interests, as also those of the Elect Stranger, are to be consulted and considered. But nevertheless, the Statutes of Institution appoint and direct, that this Legation shall be dispatched a Art. 20. with convenient speed; which must needs be interpreted with such latitude, as may refer both to the Sovereign's conveniency of sending, and the Stranger's capacity of receiving. And therefore we find it six years after the Election of the Kings of Arragon and Poland, and the Duke of Brunswick, ere we meet with the first notice of the Sovereign's determination of sending over the Habit of the Order to them: For they having been Elected the b Lib. N. p. 104. 4. of August, an. 28. H. 6. the preparations for the intended Legation were not made until the c Ibid. ●15. 34. year of the same King. And doubtless some cause, within the limits of that conveniency (allowed to the Sovereign by the foresaid Article of the Statutes) or the accident of miscarriage might fall out, particularly in reference to the King of Poland, (if not of the other) because d Ibid. p. 119. three years after the former Order for Legation had passed, we find new directions issued for sending the Ensigns of the Order to him. But in King Henry the Eighth's body of Statutes, this Clause of sending the Legation with convenient expedition, is wholly omitted, and the Sovereign is now unlimited as to the time: by which liberty it hath come to pass, that the Habit and Ensigns have been sent over, sometimes soon after the Stranger's Election, at other times not till some years after, and at all times when the Sovereign hath thought fit and convenient. Thus was it four years after Frederick the Second King of Denmark had been f Lib. C. p. 77. Elected, before Peregrine Lord Willoughby of Ersby, together with g Autogr. penes Rob. Com. Ailesbury. Sir Gilbert Dethick Garter, and Robert Glover Somerset Herald (by Order of Chapter h Lib. C. p. 87. 24. Apr. an. 24. Eliz.) were sent over into Denmark, to present him with the Habit of the Order. Maximilian the Emperor was Elected, the i Ibid. p. 52. 24. of April, an. 8. Eliz. but it was above a year after ●re the Commission issued out to the Earl of Sussex, (viz. 20. May, an. 9 Eliz.) for carrying the Ensigns of the Order over to ●im. It was seven years after the Election of the French King Henry the Third, before the k Collect. W. le. N. Cl. Warrant issued out to provide his Robes, and almost two years longer ere the l Lib. C. p. 97. Earl of Derby went over with them: in all, about nine years and something above eight months. And in another instance of a French King, namely Henry the Fourth, we find it six years and a half from the time of his Election, to his reception of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, which Solemnity fell on the m Collect. W. le N. Cl. 10. of October, an. 38. Eliz.. Lastly, we observe that it was five years and a half, after the Election of Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, before the Embassy with the Ornaments of the Order, were sent unto him: for we find he was n Lib. C. p. 134. videses Collect. R. C. Cl. p. 11. & Eq. Aur. Anglowirtemb. p. 107. Elected at St. George's Feast, an. 39 Eliz. and the Commission of Legation to the Lord Spencer, and Sir William Dethick bears Teste at Woodstock, the o Num. LXXI. vide du Chesne Hist. p. 1138. 18. of Sept. an. 1. jac. R. SECT. II. Preparations made for the Legation. IN reference to this solemn Embassy, there are several things to be provided before the Ambassadors or Commissioners take their journey; as first (1.) Credential Letters, (2.) Commission of Legation, (3.) Warrants for the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, and (4.) other Necessaries. 1. Credential Letters. The Credential Letters are (as to particulars) drawn suitable to the present occasion, by the Chancellor of the Order, and directed to the Stranger-Elect; but the substance (in general) is a Appendix, Numb. LVIII. LIX. LX. LXI. That the Sovereign having elected him into the Society of the Order, hath sent his Ambassadors with full power to present the Habit, and perform the Ceremonies in such case due and accustomed, as if himself were present. And further, to desire him, b Appendix, Numb. LVIII. LIX. LX. LXI. to give credit to all that his Ambassadors shall say or perform in his behalf, in reference to their Commission, as he would do to himself. These Letters pass under the Sign manual of the Sovereign, and c Lib. R. p. 120. Signet of the Order; but it is observable, that those sent to Emmanuel Duke of Savoy were subscribed both by d Appendix, Num. LVIII. King Philip and Queen Mary. The Commission of Legation is likewise to be prepared by the Chancellor o● the Order, 2. Commission of L●●●●●●n. fairly engrossed in Velom, and sealed with the Lib. R. p. 119. & 120. Great Seal of the Order; the substance of which (for the most part) hath been as followeth. * Appendix, Num. LXII. LXIII. etc. First, the merits and worthiness of the Elect-Stranger to deserve the honour of Election, and the reasons inducing the Sovereign to confer the same upon him: are elegantly set forth in the Preamble. Secondly, the persons nominated for this honourable employment, are ordained, authorized, and deputed (and therein styled) Ambassadors, Procurators, and special Messengers; and so are they acknowledged to be, by the Strangers-Elect in their Certificates of the Receipt of the Habit. Thirdly, their power, authority, and special command, is to address themselves to the Stranger-Elect, and to present and deliver him from the Sovereign, the Garter, Mantle, and other the Ensigns of the Order, with due and accustomed Ceremonies and Solemnities: where note, that if there were four or five joined in a Commission (as it happened sometimes heretofore) then any five, four, three, or two were of the Quorum, whereof the Principal in the Embassy was always one. Fourthly, they were impowered to require from the Stranger-Elect his Oath, according to the form and manner prescribed in the Statutes, but this clause we only find inserted in the Commissions of Legation, to Charles Duke of Burgun●y an. 9 E. 4. and Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, a. 15. H. 8. and omitted in all Commissions since that time. And lastly, to perform, accomplish, and dispatch those things, which they should judge necessary on this occasion; in like manner as if the Sovereign should or were obliged to do, if he were present in his own person. And this latitude was thought convenient, to allow the Ambassadors, in case any matter in Ceremony, or other Circumstances should be thought necessary or expedient to use (not repugnant to the Statutes of the Order) which their Instructions had not sufficiently provided for. As touching the first of these particulars, we have spoken to it * Chap. 9 Sect. 13. already, but the second particular, relating to the persons nominated in the Commission, to perform this service, we conceive most proper to handle here. The first Embassy upon this occasion, Of Persons nominated in the Commission. recorded in the Black-Book of the Order. is that to Edward King of Portugal, an. 13. H. 6. to whom, f Lib. N. p. 91. for the dignity of the Affair, Garter was thought sit by the Chapter to be sent alone with the Habit of the Order: And hence is the original of Garter's claim to this Employment. Nevertheless, in succeeding times, as the Order grew up into esteem, both at home and abroad; some one of the Knights-Companions was made choice of by the Sovereign to be the Principal in these Legations; as were Galliard Sieur de Duras, sent to Charles Duke of Burgundy, a. 9 E. 4. g Ibid. p. 25●. Arthur Pl●rta●enet Viscount lisle, to the French King Francis the First, a. 19 H. 8. William Marquis of Northampton, to the French King Henry the Second an. 5. E. 6. Edward Lord Clinton and Say, to Emanuel Duke of Savoy, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. Henry Lord Hunsdon, to Charles the Ninth French King, a. 6. Eliz. Thomas Earl of Sussex, to Maximilian the Emperor, an. 9 Eliz. Henry Earl of Derby to the French King Henry the Third, a. 27. Eliz. And Gilbert Earl of Shrewsbury to Henry the Fourth, the French King, a. 38. Eliz.. Sometimes other Noblemen, and persons of great quality (though not Knights-Companions of the Order yet) correspondent to the Degree of the Stranger-Elect, or to the esteem the present Interest begat with the Sovereign, were employed chief in these Embassies; among whom i Collect A. V. W. Sir Charles Somerset (created after Earl of Worcester) was sent to the Emperor Maximilian, an. 6. H. 7. Henry Lord Morley to Don Ferdinand Prince of Spain, Archduke of Austria, a. 15. H. 8. The k Lib. N. p. ●67. Lord William Howard, Brother to Thomas Duke of Norfolk, to james the Fifth King of Scotland, an. 26. H. 8. The l MS. quarto penes Arthur. C●m. Anglesey. p. 133. b. Lord Willoughby of Fr●●● to Frederick the Third King of Denmark. Roger Earl of Rutland to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 1. jac. R. The Lord Spencer of Wormleighton to Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, the same year. Sir Ralph Winwood to Maurice Prince of Orange, an. 10 jac. R. Sir Jacob's Spene of Wormston, to Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, an. 3. Car. 1. Dudley Viscount Doncaster, to Henry Prince of Orange, the same year. And Sir William Boswell, to Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine, an. 9 Car. 1. In Embassies of this nature, it was heretofore usual, to join some persons of rank and quality, or Office near the Sovereign, in the Commission; and such were Sir * Ibid. pag. 133. b. john Scott, Controller of the Sovereign's House, and Sir Thomas Vaughan, Treasurer of his Chamber, both joined in Commission with Galliard Sieur de Duras. Sir William Hussey with the Lord Morley; and Sir l Ibid. pag. 133. b. Nicholas Carew, and Sir Anthony Brown, with Viscount lisle. To these persons, the Sovereign thought fit sometimes to add a Doctor of the Civil Law, or an Ecclesiastical person having dignity, and such as had the Language of the Country whither they were sent; not only the better to make answer to such questions, as the Stranger-Elect might start, upon his perusal of the Statutes, but also to inform him touching the Institution of the Order, or other Historical passages, relating to the Founder, the preceding or present Knights-Companions, or honour of the Garter: all which (if judiciously and accurately rendered) might add reputation to the Order, and beget in the Stranger-Elect the better esteem of it. Besides, an Ecclesiastical person was in those times thought fittest to m Lib. N. p. 309 sub finem. administer the Oath, and to b Ibid. p. 310. pronounce the words of Signification, at the time of Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. And for these Reasons was c Appendix. Num. LXII. john Russell Doctor of the Civil Law, and Archdeacon of Berkshire, joined in Commission with the aforesaid Galliard Sieur de Duras; and d Ibid. Num. LXIII. Edward Lee Doctor in Divinity, archdeacon of Colchester, and the Sovereign's Almoner, sent over with the Lord Morley: In like manner was e Lib. N. p. 257 & Regist. Chart. f. 66. john Tailor, archdeacon of Buckingham, and f Vicechancellier D' angleterre, so called. in the Certificate of Francis the First his Receipt of the Habit. Vicechancellor, joined with Arthur Plantagenet Viscount lisle; and Doctor g Collect. A. V. W. Goodrick Bishop of Ely with the Marquis of Northampton. But of later times, the Sovereign's Ambassador, resident with the Stranger-Elect, hath supplied this place; as did h Collect. A. V. W. Sir Thomas Smith in the Legation sent over to the French King Charles the Ninth; and Sir i Collect. W. le N. Cl. Edward Stafford in that to the French King Henry the Third; and k Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sir Anthony Mildmay, when the Earl of Shrewsbury was sent upon the like Legation to the French King Henry the Fourth. Garter joined in the Legation. Besides the before mentioned persons, Garter Principal King of Arms, was always joined in these Commissions of Legation, not only to keep on foot his right to the employment, but to manage the ceremonious part of this Solemnity: and if we shall be thought over numerous in Instances to justify this particular, let our Reader excuse it, since it is to make good the Privilege of an Office, and maintain the interest of an ancient right. This reason (we presume) will also excuse our repetition here, of the ancient Precedent when l Lib. N. p. 91. Garter carried over the Habit of the Order, to Edward King of Portugal, an. 13. H. 6. to which we shall subjoin the Embassies to Charles Duke of Burgundy, where Sir m Collect. A. V. W. john Writh Garter, was joined in the Commission with Galliard Sieur de Duras, and that to n Collect. A. V. W. Guido Vbaldus Duke of Vrbyn, an. 22. H. 7. Sir o Collect. A. V. W. Thomas Wriothesley was also joined with Sir Charles Somerset, in the Legation to the Emperor Maximilian; with the p Append. Num. LXII. Lord Morley sent to Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, and with q Ex. Collect. praed. Arthur Viscount lisle, to the French King Francis the First. r Lib. N. p. 267. Sir Christopher Barker, Garter, was also sent with the Habit of the Order into Scotland (immediately after the Lord William Howard) who jointly presented the same to King james the Fifth. Sir Gilbert Dethick likewise was joined in the Commission with the Marquis of Northampton, in the Embassy to the French King Henry the Second; also with the Lord Clinton in that Emanuel Duke of Savoy; with the Lord Hunsdon in that Legation to Charles the Ninth, with the Earl of Sussex, in that to the Emperor Maximilian, and with Peregrine Lord Willoughby, in that to Frederick the Second King of Denmark. Afterwards Sir William Dethick (his Son and Successor in the Office of Ga●ter) was in like manner joined in Commission with the Earl of Shrewsbury, sent to Henry the Fourth French King, and with Robert Lord Spencer to Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg. Lastly, s Collect. E. W. G. Sir William Segar, when the Habit of the Order was sent to Henry Prince of Orange, was t MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 18.] circa medium. joined in Commission with Viscount Carleton, for the presentation thereof. And it is here further to be noted, that at such times as any other of the Officers of Arms were employed in this Affair (as hath sometimes happened, when Garter could not undertake the Voyage in person) such Officer (recommended by him to, but approved of by the Sovereign) was sent to execute his Office, nevertheless, under a particular reservation of his Rights. And therefore the Embassy to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, falling out near to the Coronation of King james (in reference to the u Collect. W. le N. Cl. preparations for which grand Solemnity, Garter could not be spared) w Collect. W. le N. Cl. William Segar Esq then Norroy King of Arms, was joined in Commission with the Earl of Rutland. When Henry St. George Esq Richmond Herald, was joined with Sir james Spens Knight, and Peter Young Esq in the Commission of Legation to a Gust●vus Ado●p●us King of Sweden, he went x See before fol. 303 Sir Ed. Walkers Pet. for the rights of his Office. Deputy to Sir William S●g●r, Garter, and was y Collect. E. W. G. accountable to him for the Rewards he did receive. Nor was I●h● Pl●●● Esq Somerset Herald any otherwise sent, than Deputy to Ga●t●r, though joined in Commission with William Boswell Esq for delivery of the Garter and George to Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine. an. 9 Car. 1. In like manner, when the Embassy was less solemn, and only part of the Ensigns of the Order sent, Garter hath been jointly employed with the other Commissioners: for so was William Segar Esq Garter, with Sir Ralph Winwood, for presenting the Garter and George to Maurice Prince of Orange, an. 10. I●c. R. But beside the ancient right, the usage and prescription on Garter's side (as is before laid down) we find it declared by a Decree in Chapter (passed the 18. of April, an. 13. Car. 1.) a Lib. R. p. 120. That the carrying of the Ensigns of the Order to Stranger-Princes, doth properly belong to Garter. Besides those persons joined in the Commission of Legation, Herald's attendant in the Legation. there hath been oft times appointed either b Collect. W. le N. Cl. Norroy King of Arms, or some one of the Heralds▪ to go in the quality of an Attendant on this Service, not only for the c Collect. W. le N. Cl. honour of the Sovereign, but of the Stranger that is to receive the Habit; in regard the d Collect W. le N. Cl. Ceremonies of Investiture with the whole Habit, require the presence and assistance of two Officers of Arms; concerning which we have met with these Precedents. f MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 106. Lancaster Herald attended the Embassy to Charles the Ninth French King. Chester Herald, and Rogue Dragon Pursuivant at Arms, waited on the Embassy, to the French King Henry the Third. A Herald also attended the Embassy to Emanuel Duke of Savoy. York Herald attended that to Maximilian the Emperor: And Somerset Herald to the French King Henry the Fourth. And whereas there went only Norroy to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark; it was because no more of the Officers of Arms could be then spared, from their necessary attendance on the Sovereign's Coronation then at hand. So in the Embassy to Maurice Prince of Orange, one Herald sufficed, g Collect W. le N. Cl. because the Garter and George only (not the whole Habit of the Order) were sent unto him, and consequently there was then but little service to be done at such an Investiture. Concerning other Companions and Attendants in these Legations, they are both for Quality and Number such and so many, as the Chief in the Legation thinks sufficient, for the honour of the Sovereign, and the reputation of the Embassy: and in what Equipage some of these Ambassadors have been attended heretofore, may be seen from the following Lists. Ex cod. MS. in Bibl. Cotton. [sub. effigy I●lit] C. 9 The Names of the Noblemen, Knights, and Gentlemen, that accompanied the Marquis of Northampton in his Legation, with the Habit of the Order to the French King Henry the Second, 15. May an. 5. E. 6. The Earls of Worcester. Rutland. Ormond. Viscounts Fitzwalter. lisle. Lords Bourgoune. Bray. Evers. Mr. Throgmorton. Mr. Sidney, both of the Sovereign's Privy Chamber. Sir William Cobham. Sir john Cutts. Sir john Perrott. Sir Anthony Guydot. Sir Gilbert Dethick. Mr. Fitz Williams. Mr. Car. Mr. Knolles. Mr. Edw. Warney. Mr. Fr. Warney. Mr. Young. Mr. William Thomas Secretary to the Lords Commissioners. Mr. Nicholas Alexander. Mr. Lucas Frugard. Chester Herald at Arms. Rougdragon Pursuivant at Arms The whole number of Noblemen and Gentlemen, with all their Trains, was 260. MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 118. The Names of the Noblemen, Knights, and Gentlemen, who accompanied the Earl of Sussex in his Legation with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, to Maximilian the Emperor, an. 9 Eliz. The Lord North, Baron of Kyrtling. Sir Egremond Radcliff, the Ambassadors Brother. Sir Thomas Mildmay. Sir Gilbert Dethick, Garter Sir Henry Cobham Two of the Sovereign's band of Pensioners. Sir Edmund powel Two of the Sovereign's band of Pensioners. William Dethick Rogue Cross Pursuivant at Arms. William Weston, one of the Queen's Servants. Gentlemen attending on the Ambassador. john Valpe Doctor of Physic. Anthony Overton Prothonotary. William Chancellor, Chaplain. George Frevill, Robert Butler. William Mesten. Henry Mildmay. Thomas Higham. Peter Gough. Arthur Hevingham. Albert Philipps. Servants to the Ambassador. Henry Eritage. james Bradshaw. William Hamlett. Thomas Gest. Simon Smith. Thomas Barber. Servants to the Lord North. Arnold Segrell Leonard Dickes: Servants to Sir Tho. Mildmay. john Strange. james— Servants to Sir Gilbert Dethick. Charles Poirett. john Rudde. john Child. john Fletcher. Servant to Sir Henry Cobham. Hans— Servant to Sir Edmund powel. Charles— The Names of the Emperor's Gentlemen, MS. penes ● O. T. f. 154. that waited upon the Lord Ambassador the Earl of Sussex, in Vienna 1567. Casper van Mynkonitz, Sewer. Seymfred van Alderston, Carver. Marquis Spiller, Cupbearer. William van Pellustrans Heralds of Arms. Hans Poyntsott Heralds of Arms. Nicholas Radode, controller of the House. George Swikle, Clerk of the Kitchin. Item 10. Archers. Item 10. Holbardiers George Weaver, Master Cook. In the Kitchen 10 persons. In the Cellar 5. In the Larder 5. In the Confectionary 5. In the Chaundry 2. In the Wardrobe 3. In the Scullery 3. And one Porter. In all 62 persons. The Names of the Noblemen, Ibid. f. 32. Knights, Esquires, and Gentlemen, who gave their attendance on the Earl of Derby, sent Ambassador with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, to the French King Henry the Third, 20 jan. an. 27. Eliz. The Lord Sands. The Lord Windsor. Mr. Scroop, Son and Heir to the Lord Scroop. Mr. Windsor, Son and Heir apparent to the Lord Windsor. Sir Richard Shirborne Knight, Treasurer Sir Randolph Brereton, Knight. Mr. Clarencieux, King of Arms. Mr. Anthony Cook, Heir to Sir Anthony Cook Mr. Gerard, Son and Heir to Sir Thomas Gerard. Mr. Fleetwood. Mr. Newdygate. Mr. Stallange. Mr. Somerset Herald of Arms. Mr. Crompton. Mr. Smith. Mr. Denton. Mr. Milles Secretary. Mr. Thomas Arderne, Steward. Mr. Fox, controller. Mr. Newton, Gentleman Usher. Mr. Philipps, Chaplain. Mr. Alexander, Gentleman of the Horse. Mr. Moorcrost, Physician. The Earls waiting Gentlemen. Mr. Dawney, Son and Heir to Sir john Dawney. Mr. james Legh, Son and Heir to Sir Pierce a Legh. Mr. Warenne. Mr. Thomas Shirborne. Mr. Stanley. Mr. Charles Doyley. Mr. Chevalier Matchett. Mr. Richard Starkey. Mr. Brereton. Mr. Thomas Hamner, Mr. Richard Lloyd. Mr. Salisbury. Mr. Richard Bussy. Mr. john Downes. Mr. Francis Starkey. Mr. Baptist. Mr. Thomas Randolph. Mr. Tusser. Mr. Anthony Chambers. Mr. Nicholas Forton. Mr. Gervase Rosell. Thomas Burscogh Clerks of the Kitchin. Roger jollibrand Clerks of the Kitchin. In the third place, 3. Warrants for the Habit. there is to be prepared for this Legation, Warrants for the Habit and Ensigns of the Order; and these are also to be drawn up by the Chancellor of the Order, who is to attend the Sovereign for his Sign manual thereunto. One Warrant is to be the Master of the Sovereign's Great Wardrobe, to deliver to Garter King of Arms, the h Appendix, Numb. LXXVI. LXXVII. LXXVIII. & LXXIX. Mantle, with a Scutcheon of St. George within a Garter, embroidered on the left shoulder, and Tassels thereunto belonging, as also the i Appendix, Numb. LXXVI. LXXVII. LXXVIII. & LXXIX. Surcoat and Hood. There is also another Warrant drawn up, for the delivery of the Ensigns of the Order to Garter; namely k Ibid. Num. LXXX. LXXXI. LXXXII & LXXXIII. the rich Garter, the Great Collar of the Order, with a George appendent, and another smaller George hanging in a Blue Ribbon: together with Cases for them, lined with Purple Velvet, and gilt on the outside. And sometimes these Ensigns have been delivered out of the jewel-house to the Herald at Arms, joined in the Legation in Garters' stead, as where those sent to Charles King of Sweden, an. 20. Car. 2. But those provided for john George Duke of Saxony to Sir Thomas higgon's, the principal in the Legation to him; for which they gave their m Ibid. Num. LXXXIV. & LXXXV. several Receipts. The Sovereign's Warrant for the delivery of those Ensigns sent to Maximilian the Emperor, was directed to the Lord Treasurer of England, for which Garter gave his * Ibid. Num. LXXX. Receipt. But for those sent to the French King Henry the Fourth, the Warrant was directed to the Master of the jewel-house: and out of this Office have all the Ensigns of the Order, before mentioned, been since delivered. There are several other Necessaries to be provided, 4. Other Necessaries. which may pass as appurtenances to the former, and are sometimes inserted into the Sovereign's Warrants for the Habit of the Order, and at other times issue forth by particular Warrants; namely, A n Appendix, Numb. LXXXVII. amp; LXXXVIII. Black Velvet Cap, with white Feathers and a Heron Sprig. A o Appendix, Numb. LXXXVII. amp; LXXXVIII. Girdle and Hangers of the same coloured Velvet with the Surcoat. A yard of Purple Velvet hath been usually allowed out of the Great Wardrobe, for covering the Book of Statutes which the Sovereign sends to the Elect-Stranger; and for the Velom, Writing, and Binding the said Book, there is a Fee paid by the Sovereign to the Register of the Order, which generally hath been proportioned according to the Degree of the Stranger, for this Officer had allowed him for the Book sent l. s. d. m Collect. W. le N. Cl. To the French King, Henry the Fourth— 5 0 0 To john Casimire Count Palatine— 4 0 0 To the Duke of Holstein, an. 3. jac.— 3 6 8 To the King of Sweden, an. 3. Car. 1.— 3 0 0 That Book of Statutes sent to the French King Henry the Third, was fairly bound in n Append. Num. LXXVIII. Crimson Velvet, and edged with Gold Lace: That to the French King Henry the Fourth was o MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 104. painted with Arms, wrought with Goldsmith's work, bound in Blue Velvet, with Laces of Gold and Silk. But to be more particular, we will insert a Transcript of the Bill of Charges for the Book of the Statutes, provided for and sent to james the Fifth King of Scotland, an. 26. H. 8. s. d. MS. vet. penes G. O. Y. f. 1. First, For Vellym— 5 0 Item, For illumyning the Arms and Letters— 10 0 Item, For writing— 20 0 Item, For Binding and Gild— 2 8 Item, For half a yard of Purple Velvet— 7 0 Item, For half a yard of Crimson Satin— 7 0 Item, For the Purple Silk for the Laces— 0 4 Item, For the white and green Silk for the Seal— 1 0 Item, For red Silk for the Strings and garnishing of the Book— 1 0 Item, For an Ounce and a half of Venice Gold— 5 2 Item, For shaping, making of the Bag, and garnishing— 3 4 Item, For the Red Sarsenet for the lining of the Bag— 1 4 Item, For a Box— 0 8 1 4 6 This Book of Statutes ought to be Sealed, with the p E 3 Stat. Art. 20 H. 5. Stat. Art. 20 H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. Common Seal of the Order; which not only the Statutes of Institution, but all the other succeeding Bodies of Statutes do appoint: Besides, at a Chapter held at Whitehall, 18. Apr. an. 13. Car. 1. this Law was confirmed, and thereupon it was again Decreed. q Lib. R. p. 120 That the Book of Statutes sent to any Stranger-Prince should be sealed with the Great Seal of the Order, affixed to a Label of Blue Silk and Gold. There is also to be provided a large Purple Velvet Cushion, to carry the Robes on, when they are to be presented; this is put likewise into the Sovereign's Warrant, and provided by the Master of the Great Wardrobe; and it usually contains r Collect. A. V. W. one yard and a quarter in length, being adorned s Ex Lib. Warr. particular in Offic. mag. Gardich. a●. an. 1593. ad an. 1603. pag. 85. with Fringe, Cauls. and Tassels of Gold and Purple Silk, and within it a t Ex Lib. Warr. particular in Offic. mag. Gardich. a●. an. 1593. ad an. 1603. pag. 85. Pillow of Fustian filled with Down. There were two Velvet Cushions prepared for the Service of the Duke of Wirtemberg's Investiture, an. 1. jac. viz. u MS. fol. penes G O Y p. 193. one of Purple for the Sovereign's State, and another of Crimson for the Dukes: So also were there carried over the same year, for the Service of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, w Ibid. p. 299. two Purple Cushions garnished with Fringe, Buttons, Cauls, and Tassels. Two Majesty Scutcheons are likewise to be provided, painted in Oil, and gilded with fine Gold; the one whereof to have the Arms of the Sovereign surrounded with a Garter, under an Imperial Crown; the other of the Stranger's Arms, within a Garter also, and such a Crown as belongs to his Dignity. Both these are to be put in Frames, painted, and gilt, with their several Styles fairly written underneath the Arms, and set upon the back of the Sovereign's Stall, under the State, as also on the back of the Stall of the Stranger-Elect. But there were x Collect. W. le N. Cl. three Majesty Scutcheons sent over in the Legation to Henry Prince of Orange, in regard that at his Investiture Frederick Prince Elector Palatine was present. And in case the chief person in the Legation be a Knight of the Order, then is he to have a like Scutcheon of his y Append. Num. LXXVIII. own Arms to set over his Stall also: for so had Henry Earl of Derby provided for him at the Sovereign's charge, when he was sent with the Habit to the French King Henry the Third. The remaining Necessaries are such as relate to the Transportation of the Habit of the Order, and what appertains to them, to wit; z Ibid. Num. LXXVI LXXXVII. LXXXVIII. One pair of fine Holland Sheets, to fold the Habit in. Two Sweet Bags of Taffeta, to lay amongst them. Two Trunks, to put the said parcels in. One Sumpter Saddle. All which are to be provided at the Sovereign's b Ex e●d. MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 97 b. charge, and is also his gift to the Elect-Prince. What further Warrants are to be obtained from the Sovereign, 5. Warrants for allowances to Garter and the Herald. relate to Garter, and such other Officer of Arms as is appointed to attend the Legation; as first, a Warrant whereby the Sovereign ascertains an allowance for their Diet and Reward, during their Journey, and till their return; and upon which most commonly, for greater certainty of the payment, the Sovereign's Privy Seal is obtained. The allowance to Garter in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth, was 10 s. a day for his diet, and 10 s. a day the Sovereign's Reward, in all 20 s. per diem. d Appendix. Numb. LXXXIX. Thus much we find to have been allowed Sir Gilbert Dethick Garter, in the Embassy to the French King Henry the Second, and appointed to e Appendix. Numb. LXXXIX. begin the 28. of April, an. 5. E. 6. The like f Ib. Num. XC. sum per diem was allowed him in the Legation to Maximilian the Emperor, and to g Ib. Num. XC. begin seven days before his arrival at the Sea side: In this service * MS fol. pene● G. O. Y. p. 159. 250 days being spent, his allowance came to 250 l. In the Voyage to Frederick the Second King of Denmark, the said Sir Gilbert Dethick, had the h Appendix, Num. XCI. same allowance given him, which i Appendix, Num. XCI. began the 29. of june an. 24. Eliz. (being the tenth day before his embarking) and ended the 2. day of October following. And when Clarenceux was sent k Collect. W. le N. Cl. in the place of Garter (that Office being void by the death of the said Sir Gilbert Dethick) with the Earl of Derby, to the French King Henry the Third, the like sum of l Appendix, Num. XCII. 20 s. per diem was also allowed him, to begin from the 17. of jan. an. 27. Eliz. though the said Earl went not till the m Appendix, Num. XCII. 26. of the same month, and returned not till the 16. of March following. We further find, that the very n MS. in Bibl. Hatton. fol. 227 b. & MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p 61. same allowance was also settled upon Sir William Dethick Garter, when the Habit of the Order was sent to the French King Henry the Fourth, which Journey began the o MS. in Bibl. Hatton. fol. 227 b. & MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p 61. 11. of September, an. 40. Eliz. and lasted till the 7. of November ensuing, in all 60. days. As also in his Voyage to the Duke of Wirtemberg, which began the p Ex eod. MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 60. 6. of September, an. 1. jac. R. and ended with his return to Hampton-Court, on Christmas Eve following, and amounted to 109 l. But an. 10. jac. upon the carriage of the Habit over to Prince Maurice of Nassau, the allowance to Sir William Segar, Garter, was increased to s Appendix, Num. XCIII. 30 s. a day: so much also was after allowed to the same Sir William Segar, when the Habit of the Order was sent over to Henry Prince of Orange an. 3. Car. 1. viz. t Ibid. Num. XCIV. 15 s. per diem, for his Diet, and the same sum per diem by way of Reward. Of this daily allowance Garter hath usually obtained an advance beforehand, for his better support by the way: For instance, he had an advance of u Ibid. Num. XC. two months pay for his Voyage towards Vienna, and when he accompanied the Lord Hunsdon into France, he had an advance also of w MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 106. 40 l. In like manner when Clarenceux went in the Legation to the French King Henry the Third, he received a x Appendix, Num. XCII. hundred Marks beforehand. When any of the Heralds were sent in Garter's place, the same allowances were made them, as if Garter had gone in person; for we find the sum of y Ibid. Num. XCV. 30 s. a day allowed to Henry St. George Esq Richmond Herald sent with the Earl of Carlisle to Charles King of Sweden, whither he began his Journey the 5. of February, an. 21. Car. 2. As also to z Num. XCVI. Tho. St. George Esq Somerset Herald, sent with Sir Tho. higgon's to the Duke of Saxony, upon the like Employment, the 27. of February following. As concerning the allowance to such Officer of Arms, not joined in, but appointed to attend any of these Legations, it was as followeth. If he were a Herald, his allowance was the moiety of what was given to Garter; to wit, heretofore 5 s. per diem for his Diet, and the like sum for the Sovereign's Reward, in toto 10 s. per diem. And if a Pursuivant at Arms was sent on this Employment, his allowance was half as much per diem as an Herald had. Agreeable hereunto was the allowance given to a Ibid. Num. LXXXIX. Chester Herald, and b Ibid. Num. LXXXIX. Rogue Dragon Pursuivants in the Embassy to the French King Henry the Second, a. 5. E. 6. and c Ibid. Num. LXXXIX. there called the old Rate. So also to Somerset Herald, in the Voyage d Ibid. Num. XCI. to Frederick the Second King of Denmark, and to the same Herald when he attended the Legation to the French King e Ibid. Num. XCII. Henry the Third, and likewise in that Embassy to f MS. in Bibl. Hatton. fol. 227. b. & MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 65. Henry the Fourth of France. Moreover the Herald or Pursuivant had also a proportionable part of their daily allowances advanced beforehand, to fit them for their Journey, like as Garter had; as in the foresaid Legation to Henry the Third, Somerset Herald a advance of an i Append. Num. XCII. hundred Nobles. Over and above the before mentioned allowances to Garter, for Diet and the Sovereign's Reward; he hath also an allowance for k Ibid. Num. XC. Postage, both outward and homeward, of himself and his Servants, and Transportation of the Habit of the Order, and other things necessary for the Voyage: and of this, because there can be no estimate made beforehand, whereby to ascertain any allowance for the same, it hath been usual to insert a Clause in the Sovereign's Warrants, including the allowances for these things, to be such as l Ibid. Num. XC. Garter (upon his return) should in a Bill of particulars, subscribed with his hand, signify to the Treasurer and Chamberlains of the Exchequer to have been disbursed by him. The Warrant to furnish Garter or the Herald with m Ibid. Num. XCVII. & XCVIII. Post-horses from place to place, is commonly had from the Lords of the Privy Council, or Secretary of State: as likewise for convenient n Ibid. Num. XCVII. & XCVIII. Shipping, for the Transportation of himself, Servants, Trunks, and other necessaries, when he passeth over Sea, either before or after the Lord Ambassador, and is not provided for in his Ship. SECT. III. The Ceremonies of Investiture. THE Ceremonies observed at a Stranger Prince's Receipt of the whole Habit and Ensigns of the Order, are highly solemn, whether we consider the manner of Investiture performed by the Sovereign's Ambassadors, or the Festivity and Triumphs added by the new Invested Stranger; and therefore that nothing may hinder a full prospect into the state and magnificence of both, we shall handle the same at large; and give such instances thereof, as may illustrate so great a Solemnity. First then, 1. First Audience. the Commissioners joined in the Legation (after their arrival at the Elect-Stranger's Court, and receiving notice of their first Audience) are to present themselves in the a Collect. W. le N. Cl. accustomed manner of Ambassadors, Garter or his Deputy going in breast with the chief in the Legation, if there be only himself joined in the Commission with the Lord Ambassador: and in that b Collect. W. le N. Cl. place is it remembered, that William Segar Esq Norroy King of Arms (sent in the place of Garter) did proceed with the Earl of Rutland, at their first audience before Christian the Fourth King of Denmark. Being arrived near the Elect-Stranger, they present the Letters c Appendix, Num. CII. certifying Election, or their Credential Letters from the Sovereign; and after some short general Compliment delivered from the Sovereign of the Order, by the chief Ambassador in the Legation, he further makes known how that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, have elected him into that most renowned Society, for the reasons which are commonly laid down in the Preamble of their Commission, and which he ought then to repeat; further acquainting him, that the Sovereign doth never Elect any Stranger into the said Society, but such as he doth most highly honour and respect; and therefore desires him, that he would accept of it, as a true testimony thereof; to which end he adds, that the Sovereign hath sent him over, together with Garter Principal King of Arms (or his Deputy) to perform the Ceremony of Investiture. And this is the substance of his address for the general representation of his Affair. But more particularly in this first speech, he is to prosecute the method and order laid down in his Instructions, concerning which we have some light from those given to the Earl of Shrewsbury upon his Embassy, with the whole Habit of the Order to the French King Henry the Fourth, which were as followeth. e Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. First, you shall let the King understand, that the King who was first Institutor of this Order, did principally dedicate the same to Noble persons, remarkable for extraordinary valour and command in martial Affairs; and as both We and Our Predecessors have usually bestowed it upon personages of highest Estate and dearest unto Us, so both these respects concurring in this Election of him (as that Prince whose preservation we have ever held most dear, and who liking personal valour and experience hath gotten to himself the greate● reputation by the same, that ever any Prince hath done in Europe) we have had no small desire long ere this time, to possess him of this further pledge of our perfect amity, being one of the greatest signs of honour, wherewith we can honour any Prince; and therefore do desire him to make no other judgement of the protraction of the same hitherto, but that his own uncertainties of residence, in regard of the continual actions of War, wherein he is daily engaged, hath given us cause to think, it would have come unseasonably unto him; when now that the Treaties and other Circumstances seem more fitting, we assure ourselves, that it shall be received with that sure measure of good will and kindness, wherewith we offer it; and as we take ourselves honoured by such and so choice a Companion, so can no Prince go before Us in Our true and perfect obligation, to the rights of all happiness in all his Fortunes. After the formality of this first address is over, and that the Stranger hath by his answer accepted of the Election, and consented to the reception of the Order; then doth the Ambassador, immediately f MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 1.] fol. 47. vide eti●m Appendix, Num. ●II. deliver to him the Book of Statutes (that so he may peruse them before he assume the Habit) and desires his consideration thereupon: Next, both the Commissioners in the Legation present him with the George and Ribbon, and put it about his Neck, for so did * Collect. E. W G. Sir james Spens and Mr. Henry St. George, Richmond Herald, to Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden the 21. of September, an. 3. Car. 1. and in the last place, the Ambassador moves him to be pleased to name both a fit time and place, for his consent to the Articles of the Statutes, and the reception of the Habit; which being appointed (after some further Compliments) the Ambassadors depart for that time. In the interim, 2. Preparations for the Investiture. before the day of Investiture, time is usually set apart for Conference between the Sovereign's Ambassadors, and some of the Elect-Princes Council, touching the ordering of the Ceremonies at this great Solemnity, and wording the Oath to be by him taken, before he is invested (in case any Exceptions shall be made to the general Oath of the Order, or that the form thereof hath not been fully agreed upon beforehand) in relation to which we shall particularly discourse in the following g Sect. 11. Chapter. h MS. in Bibl. C●ton. [sub effig. julii C. 9] Garter is likewise to consider, what places in the Elect-Princes Court (fittest to perform the Ceremonies in) are to be made ready, and in what manner; as also to instruct his Officers, what duties and services are on their part to be undertaken. If the great Hall, or other large Room, be appointed for the place of Investiture, there ought to be prepared a Table, with a rich Carpet, whereon the Habit and Ensigns of the Order are to be laid, during the reading of the Sovereign's Commission of Legation; with another Table for the Stranger, who receives the Order, and a third for the Sovereign's Ambassadors. In the Church or Chapel into which the invested Stranger is to proceed, to hear Divine Service, is to be erected a Stall (under a i Ibidem. Cloth of State) on the right hand entrance of the Choir, for the Sovereign of the Order, within which is to be fixed the Majesty-Scutcheon of the Sovereign's Arms, mentioned among ●●e preparations made for the Legation. Also another Stall placed at that distance from the Sovereign's Stall, and on the same side of the Choir, as is the Stall designed for the Elect-Stranger, in the Choir at Windesor; over which a State is likewise to be set, and within the Stall sixth the other Majesty-Scutcheon of his own Arms, brought likewise over by Garter or his Deputy. And lastly, a third Stall for the Lord Ambassador, who (if he be a Knight-Companion of the Order) hath in like manner a Scutcheon of his own Arms within a Garter, set over it; for so had the k MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 239. Marquis of Northampton, at the Investiture of the French King Henry the Second, a. 5. E. 6. and the l Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Derby at that of Henry the Third, and the Constable of France (being a Knight-Companion of the Garter) attending at the former of these two Investitures, in his whole Habit, had also a m Ex eod. MS. penes cund. G. O. Y. l●c. cit. Scutcheon of his Arms, placed over the Stall provided for him. And we are further to note, that underneath all these Scutcheons of Arms, the Styles and Titles (fairly written) of the Sovereign and each Knight-Companion are to be affixed. But where there hath followed no solemn Proceeding to Church after Investiture, the Sovereign's Scutcheon of Arms with his Titles have been set up at the upper end of the Room where the Investiture was performed, so also the Stranger-Knights at due distance: for so was it done at the Investiture of * Collect. E. W. G. Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, which he received in his Tent at the Leaguer near Darshaw in Prussia the 23. of September, an. 3. Car. 1. and likewise at the Investiture of | Collect. E. W. G. john George Duke of Saxony, the 13. of April, an. 22. Car. 2. Besides the before mentioned Preparations, the Church or Chapel into which the new Invested Stranger proceeds, is to be richly adorned: This, for instance, we find done at the Investiture of Henry the Third, the French King, the Church of Augustine Friars in Paris, being hung with rich Arras, and all the Choir and Stalls with Cloth of Gold: and how the Church of St. Vlrick at Studtgard was adorned at the reception of the Habit by Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg will appear by and by. The day whereon the Solemnity of Investiture is to be celebrated, 3. The order of Investiture. the Elect-Stranger sends his Coach, and some persons of Quality to accompany the Sovereign's Ambassadors to his Court. At the Investiture of Henry Prince of Orange, n Vide Gulielmi Segar Suprem● Relationem, inter Collect. W. le N. Cl. Frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine, sat with Viscount Charleton in one Boot of the Prince's Coach, and Sir o Vide Gulielmi Segar Suprem● Relationem, inter Collect. W. le N. Cl. William Segar in the other; who arriving at the Court, were met by the said Prince, at the foot of the Stairs, and conducted thence into his great Chamber. After such time as the Elect-Stranger and the Sovereign's Ambassadors have a while retired, the Stranger hath usually first entered the Room, appointed for the Ceremony, and stood under his own State, expecting the coming in of the Ambassadors, and notice thereof being given them (they reposing themselves in a Room near unto it) forthwith proceeded in manner following. Servants to the Lord Ambassador, two and two. The Herald in his Coat of the Sovereign's Arms, bearing the Mantle, Surcoat, Hood, and Cap on his arms, and if there be a Pursuivant attending the Embassy, he (wearing his Coat) proceeds before him, bearing part of the said Habit. Garter, vested in his p MS. in Bibl. Cotton. [sub effigii Iu●●i] C. 9 rich Coat of the Sovereign's Arms also (but at the Investiture of the Duke of Wirtemberg he wore his Robe of Crimson Satin, so did Clarenceux at the Investiture of the French King Henry the Third, and lastly Richmond and Somerset at the Investiture of Charles King of Sweden, and the Prince Elector of Saxony) bearing on a Cushion the Garter, the Collar of the Order, with the great George, the Book of Statutes, and the Commission of Legation. Lastly, the Lord Ambassador, or chief in the Embassy, who, if he be a Knight-Companion, proceedeth in his complete Habit. If there happen to be any other Knight-Companion present at this high Solemnity, he also wears his whole Habit of the Order, as did q Ex praes. Relatione. Frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine, at the Investiture of Henry Prince of Orange, an. 3. Car. 1. the like did the r MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 239. Constable of France, when the French King Henry the Second received the whole Habit at Castlebriand the 21. of june, an. 5. E. 6. The said Constable also paired in the Proceeding with the Sovereign's Ambassador, into the said Kings Privy Chamber, the place appointed for performing this Ceremony. In this Proceeding up to the Sovereign's State, they all make three Reverences, and drawing near thereunto, the Ambassador's Servants fall o●f on either side, for the Herald to pass up to the Table set before the Sovereign's State, where being arrived (with a single Reverence) he lays down the Robes thereupon. Then Garter draws near the Table also, and with a like Reverence towards the Sovereign's State, deposits there the Ensigns of the Order. The Lord Ambassador follows and makes his Reverence towards the Sovereign's State, and after turning to the Stranger-Elect, and doing him Reverence, he (or some other fit person thereto appointed) delivers himself in a short, but grave and learned, Oration; In which he not only s Lib. N. p. 309. sets forth the praises of the most illustrious Order, and of the King the Sovereign thereof (his Majesty's hearty affection and good will appearing in this Action) but also the virtues, the memorable and praise worthy Actions of the Elect-Stranger, to whom the Habit and Ensigns of the Order are sent: neither are his Ancestors (if happily any of them have attained and enjoyed the honour, reputation, and dignity of this Order) to be passed over in silence; whereby his heart (already sufficiently of itself breathing impatience and desire) may be so much the more inflamed with an earnestness to obtain the honour and favour of this so great a dignity. He adds beside, that the Sovereign having well weighed these and the like things in his mind, and maturely advised thereof with his Knights-Companions; they were persuaded and well satisfied in themselves to nominate and choose him before others, to the end that he might both himself be honoured by the choice of such a person, and also thereby give an increase and addition of Lustre to those renowned actions and virtues, which already were a chief ornament unto him. Lastly, he points towards the Ensigns of the Order, which he declares to have been sent by the Sovereign, out of great love and singular affection to dignify him therewith, as to a person unto whom he wished as well and honourably as to any other Prince whatsoever: and withal entreats him kindly to accept of, and wear them in remembrance of the Sovereign and his Order. This, w Ibid. or the like Oration being ended, the Ambassadors present their Commission of Legation to the hands of the Elect-Stranger, who delivers it to his Secretary, and he publicly reads it. At the before mentioned Investiture of the French King Henry the Second, the x MS. in Bibl. Cotton. [sub Effig. julii C. 9] Bishop of Ely, one of the Commissioners in the Legation, made the Speech, to which the Cardinal of Lorraine returned answer, in the said King's behalf, with all thankful acknowledgements of the honour of the Order. And when Henry the Third of France received the Habit of the Order, y Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sir Edward Stafford, the Sovereign's Leaguer Ambassador, performed this service. After the Commission is read, Garter presents the Oath, fairly written, which is administered to the Elect-Stranger, where if any exceptions were before made and admitted, they must be here rehearsed; as we find it directed in the z Appendix, Num. CII. Instructions given for the Investiture of james the Fifth King of Scotland. But the Oath was not taken by the French King Henry the Third, till after his Investiture, and in the Augustine Friars Church in Paris; which being before prepared and written on Parchment in Letters of Gold; the said King there * Lib. C. p. 97. signed it, by the subscription of his name [Henry] and then delivered it to his Secretary, to have his Privy Seal put to it. So also was the Duke of Wirtemberg, an. 1. jac. a Exhard Cellius Eq. Aur. Anglo-Wittemb. p. 134. & 135. first Invested in his great Hall at Studtgard, and then proceeded to the great Church, b Ibid. 153. where he took the Oath. The c Lib. N. p. 310. Ceremony of the Oath being finished, Garter takes from off the Cushion the Garter, and having kissed it, presents it to the Lord Ambassador, who kneeling down, puts it with all Reverence about the Stranger's left leg, being assisted by Garter, and therewithal d Collect. W. le N. Cl. Garter pronounceth these words of Signification. e Lib. N. p. 31● Ad laudem atque honorem Omnipotentis Dei, intemeratae Matris ejus, & Sancti Georgii Martyris; cinge Tibiam tuam hoc insigni Subligaculo, circumferens in augmentum honoris tui, & in signum ac memoriam illustrissimi Ordinis, nusquam oblivioni daturus, aut omissurus, quod eo moneris; ut valeas, inquam, & velis in justo bello, quod solùm inibis, stare firmitèr, agere fortitèr, & feli●iter omnino vincere. This being said, Garter next takes the Surcoat, and delivers it with the Ceremony of a Kiss to the Lord Ambassador, who (after the Elect-Stranger hath put off his Cloak, or upper Garment and Sword) puts it upon him in this manner: First the f Collect. W. le. N. Cl. Lord Ambassador begins at the Stranger's right arm, and Garter (or the Leaguer Ambassador if present) assists at the left shoulder. The Stranger being thus vested with the Surcoat, both the Lord Ambassador and Garter gird his Sword about him, with a Velvet Girdle of the same colour, at the doing whereof Garter saith these words. g Lib. N. p. 310. Capito vestem hanc purpuream, ad incrementum honoris, & in signaculum Ordinis accepti: quâ munitus non vereberis pro fide Christi, libertate Ecclesiae, pro jure, & oppressorum atque indigentium necessaria tuitione, sanguin●m etiam fundere, nedum fortitèr ac strenuè dimicare. After this, Garter taketh up the Mantle and Hood, which having in like manner kissed, he delivers to the Lord Ambassador, who invests the Stranger therewith, and lays the Hood upon his h MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 1. f. 47.] videses MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 239. right shoulder (the Train being given into the hands of some noble Personage, to be born up) Garter also pronouncing these words. i Lib. N. l●co cit. Accipe Clamidem hanc Coelici coloris, in Signum Clarissimi hujus Ordinis, & in augmentum etiam honoris tui, rubeo Clypeo Dominicae Crucis, uti cernis, insignitam: ut cujus virtute semper ac vigore protectus per Hostes tutus abeas, eos ubique superare valeas, & pro clarissimis denique●●ritis, post egregiam hanc hujus temporis militiam, ad aeterna veréque triumphalia gaudia pertingas. And in the last place, Garter taketh up the Collar, and with a Kiss also, presents it to the Lord Ambassador, who placeth it about the Stranger's shoulders, at which part of the Investiture Garter uttereth these words. k Ibid. 311. Torquem hunc in Collo deferes, ad augmentum honoris, & in signum quoque clarissimi Ordinis à te suscepti, cum imagine sanctissimi Martyris, & Christi Militis Georgii: cujus praesidio suffultus, Mundi hujus tàm prospera quam adversa sic pertranscas, ut animae pariter ac corporis hostibus hic strenue devictis, non temporariae modo Militiae gloriam, sed & perennis victoriae palmam denique recipere valeas. Amen. As soon as this Ceremony of Investiture is finished, the Lord Ambassador congratulateth the new invested Stranger in the Sovereign's name, and in the name of all the Knights-Companions; and then delivers to him his Velvet Cap., adorned with White Plumes, and next the Book of Statutes. By the Instructions drawn up for the Investiture of l Appendix, Num. CI. & CII. julianus de Medicis, and m Appendix, Num. CI. & CII. james the Fifth King of Scotland (though the form of the words of Admonition and Signification, are therein more briefly couched) it may be observed, that this was the ancient series and order of Investiture, and was performed n MS. in office. Arm. [L. 1.] fol. 47. videses MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 156. in the case of the Emperor Maximilian, and fol. 239. in that of the French King Henry the Second. all together, and o MS. in office. Arm. [L. 1.] fol. 47. videses MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 156. in the case of the Emperor Maximilian, and fol. 239. in that of the French King Henry the Second. before the Stranger proceeded to the Church. The Stranger being thus Invested, stayeth a while in the Room, where he received this honour, and either discourseth with the Ambassador, or else is entertained by him, with some short congratulatory Oration: which Compliment being ended, he goeth to the Church in a solemn manner, having the Train of his Mantle carried up. The Proceeding to the Chapel, after the Investiture of the French King Henry the Second. p MS. in Bibl. Coton. [sub. effig. Iuli●] C. 9 vide MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 239. Gentlemen of France and England. Noblemen of France and England. Knights of the Order of St. Michael in their Collars. Commissioners of England, where Sir john Mason placed himself with Monsieur de Omable, above the other Commissioners, because he was the Sovereign's Ambassador Resident. Chester Herald, in the Sovereign's Coat of Arms. Marquess of Northampton, and Constable of France. Sergeants at Arms. Garter in the Sovereign's Coat of Arms. The French King in the Habit of the Order of the Garter. Cardinal of Chattillion. The Cardinal of Lorraine. His Train born by the Duke of Longueville, as great Chamberlain of France. At the entrance into the Church, all in the Procession make three Reverences, the first towards the high Altar, the next towards the Sovereign's Stall, and the third towards the new-invested Stranger's Stall. The Lord Ambassador proceedeth towards the Seat assigned for him, and stands before it till the Stranger hath ascended his Stall, and after that (making his Reverences as before) he takes his; then Garter, making the like Reverences, sits down on a Chair, placed for him before the Sovereign's Stall. But the Herald at Arms ought to be often near the Stranger, or else the Lord Ambassador, to inform them of the order of the Ceremony, if there be occasion; because Garter is obliged to attend the Sovereign's Royal Stall. After a solemn Anthem sung, Garter passeth into the middle of the Choir, and by a Reverence, first to the Invested Stranger, and next to the Lord Ambassador, gives them the Signal for descending. They being both come down, Garter passeth up before the Stranger to the high Altar, where he makes his Offering of Gold and Silver, being accompanied with the Lord Ambassador, the Herald laying the Cushion whereon he knelt while he offers. But in case a Knight-Companion of the Order be sent on this Legation, than he proceeds first up to the Altar, preceded by Garter, and offers for the Sovereign, which done, he returns to his own Stall: Next the Invested Stranger proceeds up (preceded as before) and offers, and returns back to his own Stall; afterwards the foresaid Knight-Companion proceeds up again, and at this time offers for himself: and in this s MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 156. order was the Offering made, when the Emperor Maximilian was Invested at Vienna, the 4. of january, an. 10. Eliz. At the Investiture of the French King Henry the Second, there was a solemn Mass sung, and at the Offering time t Ibidem. fol. 239. Garter proceeded before the King, to the Altar, and Monsieur: Dangennes the Duke of Vendosme's Brother, presented to the King his Offering; and when he was returned to his Stall, the u Ibidem. fol. 239. Constable of France proceeded up with Garter before him, and offered; and in like manner after him the w Ibidem. fol. 239. Marquis of Northampton, with Garter also before him, made his Offering and returned to his Stall. The new-invested Stranger having offered, returns to his Stall, and the Lord Ambassador, with three Reverences takes his Seat, the Organs or other Music, playing all the while. As soon as the solemn Service is finished, the Stranger descends again from his Stall, and with the Proceeding before him, returns in the same order he came, to the Room where he received his Investiture. And it is observable that the Emperor Maximilian, out of compliance with the Protestant Religion, caused on the day of his Investiture, all x Ibid. f. 110. Prayers to Saints, Incensing, and other matters and Ceremonies, not used by the Church of England, to be wholly omitted at the service in his Chapel. At these great Solemnities, the invested Strangers have heretofore held most magnificent Feasts, but they of late are not so much in use: And when Dinner was ready they proceeded thither in their whole Habit, which they y Ex Autogr. in Bibl. Hatton. wore all Dinner while. At the Investiture of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 1. jac. the Sovereign's Styles and Titles of honour were proclaimed thrice ( z Collect. W. le N. Cl. before they sat down to Dinner) and the said Kings twice: But when * Collect. W. le N. Cl. Maurice and a MS. in office. Arm. [L. 18.] circa medium. Henry Princes of Orange received Investiture, the Styles were proclaimed immediately after they were Invested, and in the same Room, that Ceremony being performed to both in an b MS. in office. Arm. [L. 18.] circa medium. Afternoon. We have had the perusal of a fair Vellum c Penes job. Vincent gen. Manuscript, wherein there is very curiously limned the order and manner of Maximilian the First (King of the Romans) his sitting at Dinner, on the day of his Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, together with Sir Charles Somerset and Sir Thomas Wriothesley, sent on the Embassy to present him therewith. As also the order observed of sitting at Dinner by Don Ferdinand Prince of Spain, Archduke of Austria, on the like solemn occasions; the Lord Morley and Sir William Hussey sitting on his right hand, and Doctor Lee the said Sir Thomas Wriothesley on his left, these four being joined in the Commission of Legation to him; which two Draughts for Antiquity's sake, we have copied thence, and thought good here to exhibit. The Manner of sitting at Dinner of Maximilian king of the Romans, on the day of his Investiture. The Manner of sitting at Dinner of Ferdinand Prince of Spanie, on the day of his Investiture. At the Feast made on the like occasion by the French King Henry the Second, he d MS penes G. O. Y. f. 239. admitted to his Table, (beside the Marquis of Northampton, the principal person in the Legation) the before mentioned Constable of France; and all three sat in their full Robes of the Garter, which they e MS penes G. O. Y. f. 239. put not off till after Dinner: The f MS penes G. O. Y. f. 239. Cardinal of Lorraine, fate also at the King's Table, but it was on the other side. When the Investiture hath been performed in the Afternoon, than was the grand Dinner turned into a Supper; and thus it fell out at the Investiture of g Ibid. f. 1ST. Maximilian the Emperor, and two of the French Kings, namely h MS. fol. 19 Charles the Ninth, and i Collect. W. le N. Cl. Henry the Third, as also of * Genealog. Come ●assovia, p. ●●. Maurice Prince of Orange. But when Henry Prince of Orange received the Ensigns of the Order, there was no Feast at all, but purposely omitted, to prevent the difference which might have been occasioned, by k MS. in office. Armour. [L 18.] the precedency and place between Ambassadors, drinking of Healths, and other Compliments. Only the next day, the said Prince invited l MS. in office. Armour. [L 18.] Garter to Dinner, who sat on the same side with him, yet at a m MS. in office. Armour. [L 18.] convenient distance, and on the other side of the Table were placed, n MS. in office. Armour. [L 18.] Count Lodowick of Nassau, and Colonel Bogg a Scotchman. Thus have we briefly touched at the most material particulars, relating to the Investiture of Strangers; of which Solemnity, and the honour they derived from it, some have thought fit to transmit the memory to Posterity, by Medals, with Inscriptions relating thereto. Such were those of Gold and Silver, which Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg caused to be made, o Erhard Cellius Eq. Aur. AngloWirtemb. l. 7. p. 184. having on one side his Effigies, and on the other the Arms of Studtgard (his chief City) and over them the imperial Eagle crowned; some of which were preserved, and others dispersed abroad, for a perpetual commemoration of that solemn act of his Investiture, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. So also those made by Charles King of Sweden at his Investiture, emblematically pointing out the happy concord settled between the Crowns, both of this and that Kingdom, being copied out and here inserted. What is wanting in the course of the Solemnity on the day of Investiture, may be supplied from the large account we shall give of the Ceremonies on the Eve and Feast-day of St. George, from whence many things may be transferred to their use, who shall be employed abroad upon the Like Legations. Yet for their sakes, whose curiosity will like a more particular account of the Solemnities in Foreign parts, we have thought fit to insert here the Relations of some eminent Investitures, wherein several passages may seem remarkable enough, while drawn together in a continued Narrative, but perhaps would not appear so, if taken asunder; nor indeed can divers minute things (in some kind worthy of knowledge) be precisely referred to those few heads we have chosen to discourse of, without too much straining. A Relation of the manner of investing the French King Henry the Third, with the Habit and Ensigns of the most Noble Order of the Garter, An. Dom. 1585. Collect. W. le N. Cl. HEnry Earl of Derby, appointed by her Majesty, Ambassador to Henry the Third French King, and to invest him with the Order of the Garter, took his leave of the Queen's Majesty at Greenwiche the 20. of January, an. 27. Eliz. and with him, such Gentlemen as were present, were admitted to kiss her Highness' hand; Mr. Cook, Clarenceux, appointed to attend in that Voyage, in place of Garter, whose room was void, and Robert Glover, Somerset Herald, likewise appointed to that journey. On the 26. of January, the Earl, with his Train, passed from London to Gravesend, where taking Post-Horses they rid to Sittingborne, and from thence to Dover, where they embarked, and landed at Calais, on the first of February; on the third of February the Earl with his whole Train went from Calais to Boulogne to Bed, where they were very well entertained; On the fourth of February they rid to Monstrevil, on the fifth to Abbevil, where they were met with 150 shot of Hacquebusiers: On the sixth they took their journey to Amiens, being by Monsieur Crevecoeur, accompanied with 100 Gentlemen, and best Citizens, met half a Mile without the Town; that night the said Crevecoeur presented the Earl, with great store of very large and good Freshwater Fish, and the Town with Wine of divers sorts, and the day following, being Sunday, the said Crevecoeur invited the Earl to Dinner, which Dinner was highly commended; after Dinner the Earl with his Train went to Bretevil to Bed, the next night to Clerimont, where they stayed Tuesday, and Wednesday, the tenth of February he went to Luserche; on the eleventh to St. Dennis, where by the way he was met by Sir Edward Stafford, her Majesty's Ambassador, resident with the French King, who brought with him divers Gentlemen of England, to the number of thirty horse, and so accompanied him to St. Dennis, where they kept Company all the day following, being Friday. On Saturday his honour made his Entry into Paris, about two or three of the Clock at Afternoon, there being of the Lord Ambassadors Train more than two hundred horse, and midway between St. Dennis and Paris there met with them (sent from the King) the Duke of Montpensier, a Prince of the blood; the Lords Chavigny, le Chapelle, Comte de Lude, de Pienne, de Malicorne, de la Mothefelon, who had sometimes been Ambassador Leaguer in England, D'estree, d'Abin, de Fontaines de Cornusson, the Marquis of Curton, the Comte de Grignan, all Councillors to the Council, and Knights of the Holy Ghost, the Duke of Iremonille, the Counts of Brisac, de Creance, Sancerre, and of Lazure, with a great number of Lords and Barons, Gentlemen of the Chamber; these did accompany the Earl of Derby, unto hostel de Longuevill, sometime called the hostel of Anjou, there was his Lordship with the other Lords and Gentlemen lodged, where was three Tables very sumptuously furnished for them, all of the King's cost; the one Table in the great Chamber, for the Lords and Gentlemen, Servants to her Majesty; the other in the Hall, for the Earl of Derby's Gentlemen; and a third in a Gallery beneath, for gentlemen's Servants, besides livery into every Chamber, both of Wax, Wood, Wine, and such like, in as great plenty as could be desired. On Sunday, the said Earl, betwixt the hours of two and three in the Afternoon, went from his Lodging by a Postern, through the Garden, accompanied with the said Lords de la Mothefelon, de Curton, and Grignan, together with others, and and found the Captains of the Regiment of the King's Guard, making two ranks on either side of the streets, beginning from the Postern to the Lovure Gate, who welcomed ●im in the King's behalf; without the Gate of the said Lovure he was received by the Lieutenant of the great Provost of France, and his Archers; at the Lovure Gate by the Sire de Montigny, Captain thereof to his Majesty, and his Archers; which Archers, together with those of the great Provost, made two ranks from the said Gate of the Lovure to the foot of the Stairs, from which foot his Lordship was received by the Sire de Pardillon, the French Lieutenant of the Swissers, of the King's Guard, which from the foot of the said Stairs to the door of the Hall, made two ranks for his Lordship's passage; at the entrance of the Hall his Lordship was received by the Sire de Chasteau Viaux, Knight of the Holy Ghost, and Captain of Archers of the King's Guard, who likewise from the said door unto the door of the Antichamber, made two ranks; from the door of the Antichamber his Lordship was received by Sire de Combault, Knight of the Holy Ghost, Chief Master de hostel to his Majesty, and by his Gentlemen Waiters, and there in the said Antichamber all the said Earl of Derby's Officers and Gentlemen, wearing Liveries, were appointed to stay; and the Queen's Servants that proceeded next went still forward; at the Entry of the Chamber of Estate, his Lordship was received by the Sire de Lenoncourt, Knight of the Holy Ghost, chief Escuier of the King's escurie, and the other Escuiers of the Escuire, together with the Lieutenant of the hundred Gentlemen of his Majesty, who made two ranks from that Chamber door to the Chamber of Audience, every of them having Halberds in their hands; at the Entrance of the Antichamber his Lordship was received by the Duke Joyeuse, accompanied with the Gentlemen of the King's Chamber Ordinary, who made two ranks from that Chamber door, to the door of the Chamber Royal, into the said Chamber Royal. First entered all the Gentlemen, the Queen's Majesty's Servants, the Lords that had received and accompanied the said Earl, and Lords, and the said Duke de Joyeuse, accompanied the said Earl of Derby unto the Bars, that stood about the haultp●ce or mounting floor in the said Chamber, where the King stood at his Beds fe●t, accompanied with the said Barriers on his right hand, with the Cardinals of Bourbon, Vandosme, and Joyeuse, and on the left hand with the Lords, the Princes of Conty, the Comte de Soissons, and D. Montpensier, Princes of the Blood, the Dukes of Nevers, Delboeufe, de la Joinuille, de Retz, Monsieur le Chancellors Sire the Villequier, du Bouchage, de la Valette, d'Antragues, de la Chappelle aux Urfius, Chavigny, la Vivone, Comte de Mauleurier, Clermont, Denitragues, de l'Archant, and other Knights of the Holy Ghost, and Councillors of the estates in great number. The said Earl with the Lord Ambassador Ordinary of England, only entered the said halt-space within the Barriers unto his Majesty, of whom they were received with great courtesy, and as amiable countenance as could be; and the Earl delivered the Queen's Majesty's Letters unto the King, with great reverence, and then making rehearsal of that he had in charge to say, the said Ambassador presented unto the King the Lord Sands and Windsor, and other the English Knights and Gentlemen, which all one after another mounted upon the halt-pace, kissed their hands, and did reverence unto the King. Then the Earl took his leave, and was conducted by all the Lords and Captains unto the place where they had first received him. After, he went to salute the Queen Mother, and at the entrance into her Chamber he was received by Monsieur de Lansac, Knight of the Holy Ghost, and Knight of Honour unto the said Queen, whom he found accompanied with her Niece, the Princes of Lorraine standing at her Bed's head, the Princes of Conde and the Duchess of Nevers standing at the Beds feet, the Duchess of Duzez and of Retz, and other Ladies and Gentlewomen in gre●t number; from thence his Lordship was conveyed to the Queen Regent's Chamber, and at the entrance whereof he was received by the Comte de Fiesque, Knight of the Holy Ghost, and her Knight of Honour, finding her accompanied with the Duchess of Montpensier, and Joyeuse who stood at her Beds feet, the Lady of Royden her Lady of Honour, and other Ladies and Gentlewomen in great number, and then returned to the aforesaid hostel de Longueville. On Monday the 15, of February, the King by Mou●eur de Mothefelon, told the Lord Ambassador his mind, touching the receipt of the Order, that he intended to receive it on Thursday following, in the Afternoon at the Augustine Friars, which was done accordingly, the 18, day of February, an. 27. Eliz. About two of the Clock in the Afternoon, the Earl and Leaguer Ambassador, and all the other Gentlemen of their Train, in Coaches, were conducted from the house of Longueville, where the Earl of Derby was lodged, unto the house of Monsieur de Mantuliet, Provost of Paris, where the Earl did put on his Robes of the Garter, and Clarenceux then representing the place of Garter, did put on his Mantle, and made ready the King's Robes. The King also with a great number of his Nobility came from the Lovure to the same house of Mantuliet, for whom there was provided two Chambers, in the inner Chamber over the Chimney was set up a cloth of Estate, and on the left hand thereof a board covered with a rich Carpet; against the end of which board the King did stand in a short Gown of rich Taffeta, having on either hand of him some sixteen of the greatest of his Nobility, the rest abode in the outward Chamber (for so was the King's pleasure) that there might be the more room, and freer access for the Earl, and the English Noblemen and Gentlemen; all things being put in good order, the King sent the Earl word by Monsieur Lamothe, Fluelon, and Monsieur de Rhodes, Master of the Ceremonies that he stayed for him. Whereupon thirty of the English Gentlemen, accompanied with as many French Gentlemen, proceeded two and two together up the Stairs before the Earl, towards the King, then marched Somerset Herald in his rich Coat of Arms, bearing on his Arms the Kings Kittle, Mantle, and Hood; after him went Clarenceux in a Robe of Crimson Satin, having on his arms a fair large Cushion of Purple Velvet, and thereon the Collar of the Order of the Garter, and the little Chain with the George. After Clarenceux went the Earl in his Robes, and the Ambassador Resident: And being thus come before the King, Somerset (after due reverence) laid the Robe he bore upon the Table, that the King leaned unto, so also did Clarenceux the Cushion, with the jewels thereon. The Earl also being entered, and having made his due reverence, Clarenceux delivered him his Commission, who giving the same reverently to the King, he forthwith gave it to his secretary Pinart to be read, according to the form: Though at that time it was not read at all. That done, Clarenceux delivered unto the Ambassador the Garter, who gave it unto the King, who also kissing the same kneeling, did put it about the King's left leg, the Ambassador pronouncing these words following. * See before p. 402. Ad laudem atque honorem Omnipotentis Dei, etc. That being done, Clarenceux killing the Kirtle of Crimson Velvet gave it to the Ambassador, who also delivered it to the Earl, and he to the King, putting the same on with a Crimson Velvet Girdle, whereunto was put a gilt Rapier; which Girdle and Rapier was formerly provided by a Gentleman of the King's Chamber, at the doing whereof the Ambassador pronounced these words following. | Pag. 403. Capito Vestem hanc purpuream, etc. The Kirtle being put on, Clarenceux delivered the Mantle of Purple Velvet, and the Hood of Crimson Velvet, which the Earl put upon the King also with the assistance of the Ambassador, that pronounced these words following. * Ibid. Accipe Clamidem hanc Coelici coloris, etc. Lastly, Clarenceux kissing the Collar of Gold, gave the same also to be put about the King's neck, which was done by the Earl, the Ambassador using these words following. | Ibid. Torquem hunc in Collo deferes, etc. After the King was thus invested with all the Habilements of the Order as aforesaid, the Earl delivered unto him, first the Book of Statutes of the said Order fairly bound in Crimson Velvet, and Gold Lace; which Book the King gave to the Duke of Joyeuse, to carry after him to the Church; and lastly, the small Chain with the George, which was by the Earl delivered to the King, which also was delivered by him to the Duke of Joyeuse. These Duties thus performed, the King standing invested with his Robes, and the ●arl likewise by him, the Ambassador for and in the name of the Earl (for want of the Language) used a Speech to this effect. Sir, we rejoice greatly, to see your Majesty now invested into this honourable Society and Order of the Garter, desiring of God, that long and most happily you may wear and use the same to his Glory, and the advancement of your own greatness, equal with all your Predecessors, being right well assured (for so hath her Majesty commanded my Lord to say unto you) that if her Highness, and the residue of the Knights of this Order, certainly had understood of the day and time of this your Majesty's reception of the same, both she, and all they would not have failed, in their Robes, to celebrate this day, in token of the honour and prosperous success they wish unto your Royal Person. When the King had thus received the Order, and was invested as aforesaid, he proceeded to the Church of the Augustine's; some 15 or 20, score off to Evensong, being about 4 of the Clock, the way being all railed in with Timber, and gravelled with fine Sand, and guarded on each side with the King's several Guards, that the Train might not be troubled in proceeding. The body of the Church was hanged with rich Arras, and all the Choir of the same Church and Stalls with Cloth of Gold. At the entry of the Choir was erected two clothes of State, one for the Queen's Majesty, and that was over the Stall on the right hand of the same Choir, and the other for the French King, and that was over the Stall, next unto the Queen's Majesty, on the left hand; within these two States royal were affixed the Arms of these two Princes, viz. over the Queen's Stall the Arms of England and France quarterly, and over the King's Stall the Arms of France, both within the Garter, and set in Frames of Wood richly gilded. The Earls Stall was about eleven Stalls beneath her Majesties, and on the same side, whereon was also affixed the Earls Arms within the Garter, and his Style fairly written under them; directly before the Queen's Cloth of State was placed a Form, covered all with Cloth of Gold, for Mr. Clarenceux to sit upon, during the time of Evensong. At the right side of the Altar within the same Choice was made a place of boards S●affoldwise, two yards high from the Ground, covered with rich Carpets, and hanged with Cloth of Gold, whereon was placed the Queen Mother, and Queen Regnant with other Ladies and great Princes, and directly on the other side against them was another place made and erected, whereon stood the Pope's Nuntio, with the Cardinals, and all the Ambassadors that then were in Paris. All things being thus put in Order at the Church, and all persons placed therein according to their Degrees, the King proceeded thither in this sort following. First, Trumpets and Drums. Then thirty English Gentlemen, accompanied by the King's especial order and care, with thirty French Gentlemen, of equal or better degree. Then the Lord Windesor, with a French Lord. Then the Lord Sands, so also accompanied. Then Sergeants at Arms with their Maces. Then Somerset Herald at Arms. Then Clarenceux. Then the Ambassador Leaguer Sir Edward Stafford. And then the Earl of Derby Chief Commissioner. After him followed the King, his Train being born by a Brother of the Duke of Joyeuse, being a Gentleman of the King's Privy Chamber. And after the King came the Princes of the Blood Royal. Then Dukes, Marquess●s, Earls, and other Noblemen. Note, That the King had especially ordered, that for her Majesty's special Honour, none should that day proceed before him, but English and such French as were ordered to go with them, and his own Nobility to wait behind him. Note also that all personages of the Order of the Holy Spirit, went next to the King in their Cloaks of the Order, and Collars of Gold about their necks of the same Order, the person of the King was guarded all the way, by a number of Gentlemen Pensioners, with their Pool-axes in their hands. In this order, the King with his Train entered the Church, and in the entering in of the Choir, Somerset Herald in his rich Coat of Arms made his three Reverences, the first towards the Altar, as it was formerly agreed upon before by the Lord Ambassadors. Secondly, towards the Queen's Stall. Thirdly, towards the King's Stall. And after him, Clarenceux entering the same Choir did the like. Then the Ambassador Leaguer, than the Earl; which done, the said Earl went before his own Stall, and there stayed till the King had taken his Stall Royal, and then the Earl making his Reverence as before went up into his Stall. After him the Ambassador Leaguer did the like, and went into the Stall next beneath the Earl, towards the High Altar; Then Clarenceux having made the like Reverence, sat him down on his Form placed as aforesaid, directly against the Queen's Stall, where he remained till the Choir began to sing Magnificat. At which time he stepped forward into the midst of the Choir, and there making his three Reverences, as aforesaid, turned himself to the Earl and Leaguer Ambassador, than the Ambassador came forth of his Stall, and making his three Reverences, followed Clarenceux over the Choir towards the King, and there stayed afore the King's Stall, until Clarenceux returned and fetched the Earl unto him, who making his three Reverences, came also with Clarenceux before the King, to the right side of his Stall, where standing, Clarenceux delivered the Oath, fairly written in Parchment and Letters of Gold, which by the Earl was laid before the King to be Signed, the Ambassador Leaguer being ready to have read it (but that the King said it needed not, because he was privy to it before) who taking it in his hands, received of his Secretary Pinart a Pen with Ink, and therewith did subscribe his Name, only by the Name of Henry, which done, he gave the same unto the said Secretary, to have the Privy Seal put thereto, which was done accordingly, and the next day delivered to Clarenceux. After the King had thus taken his Oath, as aforesaid, the Earl and the Ambassador with Clarenceux before them, returned back to their Stalls, not omitting three Reverences, and there remained till the end of Evensong, at which time the King standing up in his Stall, being ready to depart, all the other Strangers Ambassadors, presented themselves before him, with words of special Congratulation, to whom he gave several thanks and answers, and so departing out of the Church, in the same order as he came thither, he returned again to the House of Mantuliet, where in the same Chamber as he had put the Robes on, he put them off, and after some speeches with the Earl, and Ambassador some Quarter of an Hour or thereabouts, he departed with his Nobility over the Water to the Lovure, leaving the Earl and Ambassador, and all their Trains, to return in their Coaches through Paris to the House of Longueville. The same night, the Earl with the Lord Ambassador, and all the English Gentlemen that were the Queen's Servants, did sup at the Court, the Earl and the Ambassador at the lower end of the King's Table, at which Board did also sit with the King the two Queens, and six or seven other great Ladies, among whom the Lady Sheffield was one, and at another Table in the same Chamber did sit divers great Ladies all along one side, and over against them the Lord Sands, the Lord Windesor, and the other English Gentlemen. Supper being ended, and the place ordained for dancing, the King took his Wife by the hand, and danced with her; the like did divers other great Lords and Ladies of France, and lastly, three English Gentlemen; I omit the description of the Masque, and other ●●ngular Music both costly and curious, whereby the Evening was spent till three of the Clock the next morning. On the 28. of February, the Ambassador with his Train took their leave, at whose return from the Court to his Lodging, he was presented that night with a rich Cupboard of Plate, worth 1200 l. at the least, and unto Mr. Clarenceux was given a Chain of Gold worth 120 l. and better, of 236 links; to Master Somerset a Chain of 150 links, worth 100 Marks; and to Thomas Milles a Chain of the same value. On Thursday next, the Earl with his Train set forward homeward, from Paris unto St. Dennis, and so were lodged all the way in the same Lodgings that before they had been received in, and arrived prosperously in England, from Boulogne to Dover, the 12. of March, and on the Tuesday following were brought to the Queen's Majesty's presence at Greenwich, who graciously welcomed them home. A Relation of that pompous Solemnity, celebrated at the Duke of Wirtemberg's Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the most Noble Order of the Garter, a. I. jac. R. extracted out of Erhardus Cellius his Eques Auratus Anglo-Wirtembergicus. RObert Lord Spencer of Wormleiton, and Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, Garter Principal King of Arms, were joined in Commission, bearing Teste at Woodstock, the 18, day of September, an. I. Jac. R. to present and invest Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg and Teck, with the Habit, and Ensigns of the most Noble Order of the Garter. They began their journey in the beginning of October, an. 1603, and came to the City of Studtgard the second of November following. Upon their arrival, Lib. 4. p. 12●. they presented their Credential Letters, which being re●d the said Duke began to treat the Ambassadors with the highest respect imaginable, and to put all things into a readiness for his solemn reception of the Ornaments of th● Order. To which end, he sent for his three Sons, with their Tutors, from the Ca●●●● of Tubing, where they followed their Studies, to be present at this Solemnity; likewise he ordered the Vice-President and twelve Assistants of his Ducal Consistory, an● all the principal and most noble Persons of his Court to be present. Moreover, he appointed an English Lord, and the Lord Benjamin Buwingkshausin, one of his Privy Council, to be the principal Contrivers, Directors, and Managers of all things that should belong to the setting forth of this Solemnity; for the performance of which, two places were especially allotted, prepared, and adorned, namely the great Church of Studtguard where the Investiture was to be conferred, Pag. 1●3. and the great Hall of the Castle called from hence Hypocaustrum Equestre, whence the Proceeding was to begin, and p●ss toward the Church. At the entrance of the Choir were four stately Stalls erected with their Canopie●, Footstools, and ascents on each side, and covered with Velvet; the first Stall was assigned to the Sovereign of the Order, on the back side whereof his Majesty's Arms and Stile were engraven, Pag. 12● besides his Style written underneath in French thus. Du treshault, trespuissant, & tres-excellent Prince jaques, par la grace de Dieu Roy d' Angleterre, d' Escosse, France, & d' Ireland, Defenseur de la Foy, etc. Sovereign du tres-noble Ordre de la jartier. The second Stall was placed on the right hand next to the Sovereign's, in like manner adorned and assigned to the Principal Ambassador the Lord Spencer, who in conferring the Order was to represent the Sovereign's person. The third Stall was on the left hand next to the second, assigned to Sir William Dethick, Garter, Principal King of Arms. The fourth Stall was also on the left hand over against the Sovereign's Throne, after the same manner made and adorned, assigned to the Elect Duke: and on the back side thereof his own Arms and Stile also engraven, besides his Style likewise underwritten in French thus. Du treshault, Pag. 125▪ puissant & tres-noble Prince, Frederick par la grace de Dieu, Duke de Wirtemberg & Teck, Comte de Montbeliardt, Seigneur de Haydenhemb, etc. Chevalier du tres noble Ordre de la jartier. There were also on the right and left hand of the Stall, Benches or Seats continued on either side as far as the Altar; these Seats were all covered with red Cloth, and also the stone Pavement, from the steps of the Vestry unto the Stall of the Elect-Duke, and so from the middle of the Vestry unto the Altar, in the form of a Cross. The Altar was covered with red Silk hanging down to the ground, in the middle of which three gilt Basins were set upright; the first for the Sovereign, the second for his Ambassador, and the third for the Elect-Duke. Pag. 126. The Hall of the Castle was magnificently set out with rich Hangings, and other costly Furniture. Towards the East and South were placed five stately long Tables covered with Velvet, as also the Seats and Benches about them; the middlemost of these Tables was called the Sovereign's Table, in honour of the King of England, though absent; over the Sovereign's Chair was set a stately Canopy of Silk, and on the back side of the Seat towards the middle thereof, were fixed his Majesty's Arms with his Style underwritten, after the same manner as on his Stall in the Church. Pag. 127. At the right hand of the Sovereign's Table were two other Tables, the one for the Lord Ambassador Spencer, the other for Sir William Dethick Garter, both covered in like manner with Silk, and adorned with Canopies, and their Arms. On the left hand of the Sovereign's Table were likewise two other Tables, one for the new invested Duke, covered and adorned with his Arms, and a Canopy in the same manner as in the Church; the other for the Duke's Wife and Children, who were ten in number of either Sex. Besides those that were particularly warned to be present at this Feast (which was cheerfully performed by them) there came divers of their own accord, from all parts of the Dukedom, drawn by the fame of a Feast and Solemnity, the like whereof had not been in those parts within man's memory. Pag. 128. The day appointed for this Solemnity, namely, the 6. of November, an. Dom. 1603, being come, the Peers, Nobles, and Councillors of the Duke of Wirtemberg, according to Summons, appeared at the Castle of Studtguardt, attending the Duke's coming forth. Lib. 5. p. 130. And at length be proceeded out of his Bedchamber, most splendidly clad, in very rich and sumptuous Habit; there going before him, first the Nobles of his Dukedom, the great Master of his Court, the Marshal, the great Master of his Hall, the Tutors and Attendants of the Duke's five Sons, than the five young Princes themselves, going next immediately before their Father, who thus illustriously attended entered into the said Hall, and placed himself between the Sovereign's Table and his own, expecting the coming of the Sovereign's Ambassadors. The Elect-Duke was most sumptuously habited from Head to Foot, his Hose were Ash-colour and seamless, his Breeches, Doublet, and Sleeves were of Silk pricked, slashed, and fringed, there shining all along through the Cutwork the gilt Plate upon which it was wrought; his Sleeves were wrought after the manner of a long Pretext or Senators Robe, with the finest sort of Linen, embroidered with Needlework Blue, upon his Wrists were Bracelets of costly Gems, upon his Finger's Gold Rings, most tightly wrought and inlaid with Rubies, Diamonds, Saphires, Emeralds, and other such like precious Stones, casting forth a radiant mixture of divers colours; the Collar of his Doublet was in like manner of the finest and softest Linen, and of a Blue Amethyst colour, and wrought all about with eyelet holes, his Cap was of Silk ending in a Cone at the top, and girt about with a Hatband of Gold and precious Stones, especially Pearls of a very large size, and also a Circle of white Plumes erected up towards the top, and bending a little downward at the end. His Shoes were likewise of Silk adorned with Roses, Pag. 131. artificially wrought with Precious Stones, Gold, and Pearls, a cross his middle he had a Belt very skilfully wrought, and adorned with a Sword appendent to it on the left side, and a Dagger (inserted into the Belt) the Hilt and Handle whereof were all wrought about and enameled with Gold and Precious stones, his Cloak was of black Silk, bordered about with several orders or rows of Not broad Gold Fringe. long after, the Lord Ambassador Spencer, from another part towards the South, came forth out of his Chamber, through a little Stone Gallery, into the Hall where the Duke was. There went before him Sir Gilbert Dethick, Garter, clad in a long Crimson Mantle reaching down to his heels, lined within with White Silk, and carrying in both hands a Cushion of Crimson Velvet, upon which were laid the Robes and Ornaments of the Order, as the Gold Collar of the Order, with the George hanging at it, Pag. 13●. the Blue Garter and the other Vesiments and Ensigns belonging thereunto; and making thrice a low Reverence, first to the Sovereign's Table, and next to his Highness the Duke as he drew near; he gently laid down the Cushion with the aforementioned Ornaments upon the Sovereign's Table; in the mean time the Lord Ambassador Spencer representing the person of the Sovereign, bowing himself to the illustrious Elect-Duke placed himself at his right hand, whom his Highness courteously received, as also Garter King of Arms, taking them by the hand. After which the Lord Buwingkshausen made an Oration in the Dutch Tongue, wherein he briefly touched upon all the Circumstances of the occasion of this solemn meeting, which were more at large contained in the Commission of Legation and the Sovereign's Letters, which after a low obeisance were delivered by the Lord Ambassador into the Duke's hands, who presently gave them to his principal Secretary and Councillor the Lord John Stattler, standing near him, to read them publicly in that solemn assembly. Before the Letters of Legation were read, Pag. 134 in the attentive hearing of the whole Assembly, Garter made a short speech also in French, to the illustrious Elect Duke, wherein he declared the will and pleasure of ●is most serene Master the Sovereign of the Order; which speech being ended, and the Commission read, they proceeded to the Investiture. Garter first devesied the Duke of his Cloak, Sword, and Dagger, which according to the custom of the Order, he reserved to himself as his own Fees; but presently in the room thereof he invested him with a Surcoat of Crimson Velvet lined with White Taffeta, which he girded close to his Waste with a silken Girdle, by which there hung a Falchion or shorter kind of Sword, Pag. 135. made plain after the ancient fashion: Over his Surcoat he put on the Mantle of the Order, which reached down to his heels, with a long Train behind, and buttoned before at the top; it was of Velvet, and of a mixed colour, Purple with Violet, and lined within with White Tafsaty, as also faced with the same, and very neatly fringed, and made after the ancient fashion used at the Institution of the Order, over the left shoulder whereof hung the Tippet or Hood. The Duke splendidly clad with the aforesaid Vestments of the Order, proceeded from the Hall through the four square Court of the Castle, and over the large Bridge to the Church of St. Ulrick, to receive the rest of the Ensigns of the Order, there sounding all the time of his Procession several Trumpets, and other Musicians, placed on high in the Stone Gallery of the Castle. As to the order of the Proceeding, Pag. 143. it was in this manner, First went two Trumpeters belonging to the Troops of Horse, whose Trumpets were adorned with silk Banners, painted with the Arms of Wirtemberg in their proper colours, and after them ten other Trumpeters in the same equipage: Next a Flute-player and a Drummer, the military Music belonging to the Foot. These fourteen Musicians were clad in Silk intermixed White and Red, at equal intervals, and Caps of black Velvet on their heads. After these road the Captain of the Lifeguard, habited in the same colour, but more richly, and with a gilt Truncheon in his hand, than the Troop of the Lifeguard, habited in like manner as before is specified, and carrying Pole-axes. Next, after a little interval, went the Lord Marshal Baron Princenstein, carrying in his hand a Silver Wand; then came all three together, Anwill the great Master of the Hall, Pag. 144. Hugwizt the great Master of the Horse, and Daxperg Captain of the Horse-Guard. After them road the Knights in a long Train, and then the Sovereign's Ambassador's Retinue of Knights and Gentlemen, very splendidly accoutred and adorned; next the chief Peers and Nobles of the Dukedom, together with the principal Courtiers and chief Officers of the Duke's household, after whom road the Duke's five Sons, in the richest and most splendid equipage that could be imagined; at a little distance from them came very nobly attended and also accoutred, Garter, King of Arms, carrying before him with both hands, the Cushion upon which lay the Ensigns of the foresaid Order; namely the Great Collar of the Order, with the Image of St. George, in a riding posture, hanging at it, also the Garter wrought with Gold and Precious Stones. He carried moreover the Book of the Statutes of the Order. Next after Garter, came jointly together the Lord Ambassador Spencer, Pag. 145. richly glistering with Gold and Precious Stones, and with him the illustrious Duke of Wirtemberg himself, so personable, and withal so magnificently attired, that he attracted the admiration of all upon him; some thinking his Habit to be Turkish, some Hungaric, some Imperial, others Electoral, others Pontifical: The Train of his Mantle was held, and carried after by Count Lodowick Leostein. Pag. 148. The last part of the Procession consisted of the grand Councillors and Senators of Wirtemberg, as namely, the Lord Eberard, Lord of Limpurg, hereditary Cupbearer of the sacred Roman Empire, Great Master of the Court of Wirtemberg, James Reenhard Doctor of Law, Assistant at the Imperial Chamber, and Chancellor, besides many other Councillors and Noblemen. Pag. 150. Thus nobly and magnificently attended, the Duke entered into the Church, where in the midst of the Body thereof, he and the Lord Ambassador Spencer, walking upon Red Cloth, spread for that purpose; they first made obeisance, according as the manner is in England, to the Sovereign's Royal Stall, all the rest of the Company doing the like as they passed by; then the Lord Ambassador went to his own Stall, placed at the right hand next after the Sovereign's, and seated himself therein, Garter also placed himself in his, and lastly the Duke possessed his Stall on the left hand: As soon as they were seated thus in the Church, a loud volley was discharged by 300 Musketeers. Pag. 151. The concourse of People at this Solemnity was very great, but to repress the Crowd from rushing in with too much violence, there were placed at the entrance both of the Church and the Castle, on the one side a row of Musketeers, and on the other a row of Halberdiers. Pag. 152. The Sovereign's Ambassadors and the Duke being thus seated, each in their Stalls, the Peers and Nobles that attended took their places also, the English Nobles and Gentlemen on the right hand of the Lord Ambassador Spencer, those of Wirtemberg on the left hand of their Duke; and in the first place on the foremost Seats, covered with red Cloth, sat the Duke's five Sons, vested in ducal habits. Then began a threefold sacred Music, first the Organ played to certain Anthems, next the Children of the School sung certain Psalms in Dutch, lastly the principal Musicians of the Court sung in Consort: and during the Music the Investiture of the Duke went forward. For the Lord Ambassador Spencer and Garter rising from their Seats, went upon the red Woollen Cloth towards the Duke, and making a low obeisance to him with great honour and respect, they addressed their speech to him in a certain form of words, commonly used upon that occasion, and presented unto him the Ensigns and Ornaments of the Order. Pag. 153. First they delivered into his hands the Book of the Statutes, which he again delivered unto his chief Secretary the Lord John Stattler, who stood ready at the Duke's side, according to his place, to receive it; and who thereupon delivered to the Ambassadors, Pag. 162. from the Duke an Oath, to keep and observe faithfully all the Statutes and Articles of the Order. After that, the Garter was tied upon his Highness left leg, a little beneath the Knee; Then they put the Collar about his neck. Pag. 163. All these things being performed, the Lord Ambassador Spencer, and Garter, congratulated the Duke with much respect, and a while held discourse with him; and then after a low obeisance made to the Sovereign's Stall, they returned towards their several Seats. Lib. 6. p. 164. Then the Music ceasing, that most eminent Divine John Magirus Councillor to the new invested Duke, and Precedent of Studtguardt, made a most learned and elegant Sermon, wherein he discoursed of the friendship and discord of Princes, and showed how excellent a thing the mutual concord amity and benevolence of Princes was, how much it was to be esteemed by their Subjects, and what great benefits and conveniences arose from thence. Sermon ended, Pag. 180. the Music was again renewed, which consisted of the Voices of two Youths clad in White Garments, with Wings like Angels, and standing opposite one to another; so after a Tenor, an Altus, and a Base was sung, the Organ and other instrumental Music, together with vocal, went together in 〈◊〉. After, Pag. 183. according to the Custom at the Anniversary Feast of George●t ●t Windesor, the new invested Duke rising from his seat, and thrice as he passed by making Reverence to the Sovereign's Stall, went upon the Red Cloth (Garter going b●●ore) immediately to the Altar, (his Train being held up by Count Leostene, and his Sword carried after him by his Esquire of honour) where when he was come, the Reverend Divine Faelix Bidembachin, Chaplain to his Highness, set a gilt Basin upon the middle of the Altar, into which the Duke put 50 Ducats, which he took out of a little red silk Purse, giving charge to his said Chaplain to distribute them to the Poor; which done he betook himself again to his Stall, saluting the Sovereign's in passing by as before. The Solemnities in the Church being finished, Pag. 184. this illustrious company returned to the great Hall in the Castle, in the same order and pomp as they proceeded thence, the Trumpets sounding, and the Guns going off. After several congratulations from the Lord Ambassador Spencer, Pag. 185. and Garter, and many other noble Personages, to the new invested Duke, in the said Hall, they parted and went to their several Chambers till Dinner was ready. Dinner time being come, Lib. 7. p. 190. the Duke and Lord Ambassador Spencer, with all their Train, went into the great Hall to Dine; where the preparation and order of the Feast, was after the manner of St. George's Feast in England; the Sovereign's Table was served with all manner of varieties, as if he had been there present himself, the Carver and Sewers and all other Officers attending and serving on the Knee. Also Water was presented by three that carried the Basin, Pag. 193. Ewer, and Towel, with the same obeisance as is used in England, to the Sovereign, being present. Water also was presented to the Duke after the custom of Wirtemberg, the like to the Lord Ambassador Spencer and Garter, to the Duchess and the Duke's Children. Then each one's proper place was assigned by certain Officers appointed for that purpose. Pag. 194. At the four ends of the Sovereign's Table were placed Tasters; he that was at the North side received the Dishes from the Sewers, and delivered them to him that stood opposite on the South side, who standing on the right side of the Sovereign's Chair, tasted of the meat cut off it, and put it upon a Plate that was laid as for the Sovereign, and after a while changed the Plate, giving it to him that stood at the West Side, and did the like with the rest of the Viands. The fourth Taster stood at the East side of the Table, Pag. 196. and his Office was to taste and administer the Sovereign's Wine; reaching it over to the Southern Taster, that stood by the Sovereign's Chair, in like manner as the meat was served. Likewise the Duke, Pag. 212. the Lord Ambassador Spencer, and Garter, had their several Tables as hath been said before, and sat under their several Canopies, and at another Table sat the Duchess and her ten Children. After exceeding plenty, Pag. 213. state, and variety of Dishes, there were served all manner of Curiosities in Paste, as the Figures and shapes of several kinds of Beasts and Birds, as also the Statutes of Hercules, Minerva, Mercury, and other famous persons. All Dinner time and a pretty while after, the English and the Wirtemberg Music sitting opposite to one another, Pag. 230. these on the Duke's side, the other at the Sovereign's and Lord Ambassadors side; sung and played alternately to one another. After Dinner certain Balls were danced in a long Gallery of the Castle, Pag. 233. towards the Paradise of Studtguardt. This Festivity lasted that night and the next day, Pag. 245. and afterwards the English Guests were conducted to see some of the principal places of the Dukedom; as Waltebuch, the University of Tubing, etc. where they were entertained with Comedies, Music and other delights, Pag. 259. and at their return to Studtguardt, were presented with very magnificent gifts; and being to return for England were accompanied by the Duke as far as Asperg, Pag. 260. where with great demonstration and expressions of amity and affection on both sides, solemn leave was taken. A Relation of the order observed when Maurice Prince of Orange was Invested, an. II. jac. R. johan. Olers in Genealog. Commit. Nassovia pag. 90 On the 4. of February, an. 1613. the Citizens of the Hague met in Arms, together with the Troops of Prince Maurice, of Prince Henry his Brother and the Earl of Chastilion; the Citizens, kept Guard in the outermost Court, where also several pieces of Ordinance were placed, and the three aforementioned Troops in the innermost Court. From the Palace to the Shambles were Pitch Barels placed, as also at the Sovereign's Ambassadors Lodgings. At 3 a Clock in the Afternoon the States of the United Provinces assembled in the usual place, where other person of great quality were admitted as Spectators. The first that came thither was Refuge the French Kings Ambassador, who took his Seat at the upper end of the Table; not long after came Prince Maurice, conducted by the Sovereign's Ambassador, and those deputed by the States; before them went 12 Trumpets sounding, and after several Noblemen and Persons of Honour two and two, the Guards attending on each side. After these went Garter Principal King of Arms, vested with his Coat of Arms, embroidered with the Arms of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, and carrying in his hand a Purse of Green Silk, wherein were the Garter and George; next him went Prince Maurice, and after him his Brother Henry, the Prince of Portugal, and others of his kindred, as the Earls of Nassau and Lippia; then several of the Nobility, and many others of great quality. Then Prince Maurice taking his place where these Solemnities were performed, sat at the upper end of the Table, at the left hand of the French Kings, Ambassador, but Sir Ralph Winwood the Sovereign's Ambassador, took his place in the middle over against the Precedent of the States, and began a short Oration in French to this effect. My Lords, from those things which I have in the Convention declared, by the command of the King my Master, you have sufficiently understood his purpose, of conferring the Order of the Garter upon Prince Maurice, as also the causes, wherewith he thought himself moved to do it; and whereas it hath been decreed, by the common suffrages of the Knights-Campanions of the Order, that he should be joined in Companionship with the Elector Palatine, it seemed good to the Sovereign, to command me to present him with the Ensigns of this Order, and hath confirmed this his command by the testimony of his Commission, under the Great Seal of England, which Commission I here deliver unto you, and pray it may be read. Hereupon he delivered the Commission to the Precedent, from whose hand the Secretary then taking it, read it aloud; which having finished, the Sovereign's Ambassador continued his discourse. Both the honour of this Order, and ancient Custom require, that it be sent out of England to Stranger Princes, by persons of honour peculiarly deputed to this Employment, and who are themselves Knights-Companions of the Order, or at least deserve to be so: but because that the Ceremonies there used, seem not so well to agree with the Discipline of your Church, and that the conditions thereof are not altogether consistent with the state of your Commonwealth, it hath pleased the Sovereign of the Order, for the avoiding all scandal, to confer this Order without any pomp, or external magnificence. We have therefore made choice of this place, in compliance with your pleasure, as the most commodious for the performance of our duty, in that we might present it in the presence of your Lordships, who, as being the Supreme Lords of this State, will not think much to be Eye-witnesses of that honour, which the King of Great Britain your best Friend and Ally, offers to the chief General of your Armies, and Governor of your Provinces, as also to your whole State in general, whereof each of you are a part. Nor could his Majesty have given greater testimonies, either of his affection towards the happy State of your Commonwealth, or of the joy which he hath conceived, for that he sees your Affairs, after so many troubles and storms, brought to a Haven of rest and quiet, or likewise of his most entire good will; wishing that that League of Friendship which is contracted between his Kingdoms and your Provinces, may be perpetual and inviolable. Now therefore, desiring first your good leave, we shall convert our Address to Prince Maurice. At this instant, Garter King of Arms opened the Silk Purse, and took out the Garter, set with rich Diamonds, and laid it on the Table, and then the Ambassador addressed himself to Prince Maurice in the following manner. To you my Lord, we offer in the name of the King my Master, the Order of the Garter, which we may say without boasting or flattery, is the most ancient and most illustrious Order of all Europe, which in all times hath been kept inviolable, without any spot or blemish, wherewith all the greatest Emperors and Monarches suing to be graced and adorned, have esteemed the greatest part of their felicity, that they could obtain it; his Majesty judgeth the greatness of your Family, which he acknowledgeth to be most illustrious, worthy of this Honour, your piety also and zeal to promote the Reformed Religion, likewise your warlike virtues, which the God of Hosts hath blest with so many Victories, but especially those high merits, whereby you have obliged these United Provinces, and by consequence his Realms, and so thereby the whole Christian World, his Majesty being altogether of opinion, that the quiet of Christendom consisteth much in the happy state of these Provinces, and that the condition of these Provinces what ever it be, and that of those Realms have a mutual dependence one upon the other: This is the motive and sole cause that hath induced his Majesty to confer upon you an Honour, the greatest his Kingdoms can bestow, of which behold these the Marks and Ensigns [and with these words produced the Garter] which your Excellency is to receive from us, according, to the commands of our King, and those altogether free from any Ceremonies, except such wherein you shall voluntarily and willingly consent to be engaged. This Speech being ended, Prince Maurice in brief gave thanks for the Honour offered him, and then forthwith the Ambassador and Garter having made due obeisance, tied on the Garter about his Leg; next Garter took out of the forementioned Purse, the Golden Medal, whereon was the Effigies of St. George, with the subdued Dragon under his feet, this Medal hanging upon a Blue Ribbon, Garter put about the Prince's Neck, after which he unfolded a Parchment, wherein were contained the Titles of Prince Maurice in French, which he read aloud. The high, mighty, and excellent Prince, Maurice Prince of Orange Earl of Nassau, Catzenelleboge, Viand, Dietz, Meurs, Linge, Marquis of Vere and Flushing, Baron of Grave, the Territory of Kuyke, Lece, and Nyervaert, Governor and Captain General of Gelderland, Holland, Zealand, Vtrecht, West-Friesland, Zutphen, and Overyssell, Admiral General of the United Provinces, and Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter. Assoon as he had made an end of reading these Titles, presently all the Trumpets sounded, and the Troops in order shot off their Pistols, which Volley was seconded by the Trained-Bands, after which the great Guns were discharged. These things being thus performed, and silence made, Sir John Oldenbarnevelt Lord of Tempel, making an Oration in the name of the State's General, reckoned up in brief, the Leagues contracted heretofore at several times, between the Provinces and the Kingdom of Great Britain, and thereupon rendered humble thanks to the King for the continuance of them, specially for that by this action he went about to manifest the same to all men; for as much as that so remarkable Honour, which his Majesty was conferring on those Provinces in the person of Prince Maurice, their Governor and Commander both in War and Peace, was an honour used to be shown but only to the very choicest of his Friends; but most principally of all for that he was pleased to confer this honour on Prince Maurice, without enjoining any strict obligation upon the receipt of the Order. Next he gave thanks to the Ambassadors, for the diligence they had employed in this affair; and lastly, directing his speech to Prince Maurice, he in the name of the State's General, congratulated his new honour, assuring him on their behalf, that they conceived very great joy and satisfaction, and wished him a very long and a happy enjoyment thereof, to the glory of God, and the enlargement of his Family, and the conservation of the public liberty of the United Provinces, in which thing, as hitherto they had done, so for the time to come, they would for ever afford him their best and most faithful assistance. As soon as he had finished his Speech John Utenbogard Minister of the Hague, as he had been ordered, standing at the end of the Table, made a very admirable and learned Sermon, wherein he most devoutly praised God, for what had happened, imploring him to bless Prince Maurice, in his new obtained honour, and to endue him with his Grace. The Sermon ended, the Trumpets sounded, the Muskets also, and great Guns were again discharged: Then Prince Maurice (accompanied by the Ambassadors and other Noble Persons) returned in the same order as he came, and then again the third time Volleys of great and small shot were discharged; after which the Soldiers and Trained-Bands went every one to their own homes and quarters. At Evening the pitched Barels were set on fire, and Bonfires kindled; a magnificent entertainment also was given by Prince Maurice to the Ambassadors, Princes and great Persons above mentioned, at which, while Healths were drunk to the King of France and Great Britain, all the Guns were again discharged. A Remonstrance made by Sir William Segar, Knight, Garter Principal King of Arms, joined in Commission with the right honourable the Lord Carleton, Ambassador to the high and mighty Prince, Henry Prince of Orange, for presenting him with the Noble Order of the Garter, 1627. MS. in Offic. Armour. [L. 18. circa medium.] WE took our journey from Whitehall, on a Thursday to Gravesend, being the— of April, Anno Domini 1627. and lodged there that night. On Friday morning we embarked in two Merchant's ships of London, in the one went the Lord Ambassador Carleton, Secretary of State of the King's Majesty King Charles, accompanied with the young Lord Dormer, and divers other Gentlemen, his Followers and Servants; myself embarked in the other Merchant's Ship, with my two Sons, Mr. Henry Lennard, my three Servants, Trunks, and other Provisions. We set sail about 9 of the Clock, and sailed all that day and night following, and arrived on Saturday at Delf Haven in Holland, about 6 of the Clock in the Evening; where being landed we could have no lodging in the Town, all was taken up for the Lodging of the Lord Ambassador, and his Train, and I forced to hire two Wagons for the transport of me and mine, our Trunks and baggage to the Town of Delf, whither we came about eleven of the Clock that night, and lodged at the Sign of the Golden Fleece. The next day being Monday, the Ambassador coming by water to Delf was entertained and feasted at the English House by the English Merchants, and that Afternoon was conveyed by Water, in the Prince's Barge to the Hague; and by the way was met with, by his Excellency, and divers of the States, who complemented his welcome. Myself followed his Lordship by Wagon and had my Lodging and Diet provided in the Chastelins' House in the Hague, where I was well entertained and accommodated. The day following being Tuesday, myself with my two Sons, an Mr. Lennard, went to kiss his Excellency's hands, who very kindly entertained me, and remembered he had seen me there before, upon the like occasion, with his Brother Maurice Prince of Orange; so after our humble salutations we departed. It was about nine or ten days before we could be resolved, whether the Order should be accepted of or not; for the French Ambassador there resident, opposed it by all means possible that he could, alleging it stood not with the French King his Master's honour, considering the League between him, the Prince, and States, that his Enemy the King of Great Britain, should be so much favoured and honoured by the Prince, as to have the Order of the Garter by him received, the King of Great Britain having entered his Dominions in hostile manner, surprised the Isle of Ree; slain his People, and endeavoured to relieve Rochel, which he held Rebels to him; all which by the wisdom of the Lord Ambassador Carleton, was so discreetly answered, and so far prevailed, that a day was appointed for the reception of the Order, which was to be done on the Sunday following, in the Afternoon, and was performed as followeth. The Prince of Orange his Regiment of Shot and Pikes, the English Regiment, and some Dutch Companies, having placed themselves in two Battalions, on either side of the great Court of the Prince's Palace, we proceeded between them. First went a number of Colonels and Captains, English, Scots, and Dutch, after whom followed the chief Officers of his Excellency's Household, than myself, bearing on a Purple Velvet Cushion the Robes of the Order, the great Collar, and the Garter, and a lesser jewel of the George, fastened to a Blue Ribbon, with King Charles his Commission, under the Great Seal of England: The Prince went between the Lord Ambassador and the Palsgrave, who that day wore the whole Habit of the Order of the Garter. We were conducted up the great Stairs, through the old Hall of the Palace, and so brought to the Council Chamber of the State's General, who were all placed on either side of a long Table, the whole length of the Room. The Estate of the Table was bolden in the midst thereof, where four Chairs were placed, the Prince of Orange and the Ambassador took the two middlemost Chairs, the Palsgrave on the right hand, and myself on the left. The French Ambassador, and the Venetian, sat at the upper end of the board. The Earl of Coningburg, Precedent of the Council of the States, the Treasurer, and Admiral of Holland sat opposite to the Prince, and all other of the States on either side in their degrees. Silence being made, the Ambassador Carleton stood up, and began his Harangue or Oration, signifying, that by the Example of the great love and amity long time continued; between the Queen's Majesty of England, Elizabeth of famous memory, and Prince Maurice, with the State's General of the United Provinces; King James her successor intending no less good, welfare, and prosperity to his Excellency, and the States then and still being, had presented him with the Noble Order of the Garter, as to his intimate Friend, Confederate, and Ally, which he princely accepted, acknowledged, and used during his life. And that now the high and mighty Prince, King Charles' his son, understanding of the right noble and valorous disposition of his Excellency, Henry Prince of Orange, and having a like desire, as his Father had, to continue the same amity and friendship inviolably between them, had made especial choice of him the said Prince, to be a Companion and Consrere of the said most Noble Order, which he was there by Commission to present his Excellency withal. The Oration ended, the Ambassador presented his Majesty's Commission, under the Great Seal of England, during the reading whereof, by one of the Secretaries of the States; The whole Table of the States stood up, their heads uncovered, only the French Ambassador excepted, who sat covered. Then Garter, after Reverence made, with an audible voice, pronounced in French the Style of the King of Great Britain, as is accustomed, and after it the Style of Henry Prince of Orange; which done, by a signal made at one of the Windows, the Trumpets sounded, the Drums struck up, and a thousand Musket shot were discharged in Volley. Then stood up at the Table a French Orator, who began his Harangue in the praise of the Noble Order of the Garter, relating as he said he was informed, how many Emperors, Kings, and Princes had been thereof, applauding the worthy Election and choice of both the famous Princes of Orange, Prince Maurice lately deceased, and Prince Henry then Governing; only be excepted against the patronage of Saint George, who was he said, but a Legendary Saint, and not Canonical, nor approved by general Councils, and in effect, but a moral Allegory: For every Christian man that for his Faith would fight, and defend the Church, yea and for the same suffer Martyrdom, he should conquer the Dragon, that is the Devil, and be as much holy reputed as St. George. But the Order to be styled of the Garter, was more significant, because it carried with it a bond or tie of Fellowship, as a Symbol of Amity and Friendship between Princes, being Companions of the said Order. So concluding his Harangue with a Prayer for the Sovereign's prosperity King Charles, and the whole Fellowship of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, he ended. Then the Lord Ambassador Carleton, with his Excellency the Prince of Orange, the Prince Palatine, and myself standing up, the Ambassador took the great Collar with the George, and assisted by the Palatine, put it over the head of his Excellency, and fastened it on his shoulder; for at that time he refused to wear the Robes of the Order, because he said, his Brother Grave Maurice had not done it, but laying up his leg on my Chair, the Ambassador and I put on the Garter. Which done, by another signal, six and thirty Canons reported, and so way being made, we returned that way as we came, the Trumpets sounding, and the Drums beating, until his Excellency was entered into his Court. That day or night we had no Feast, for avoiding Precedency and Place between the Ambassador, drinking of Healths, and other compliments, which might have occassioned question or difference on either party. That night Bonfires of pitched Barels were made through the Town, as is accustomed to be done in all their Triumphs. The next day following, being Monday, I was invited by a Messenger to dine with his Excellency, where, in his great Chamber, the Table ready furnished with meat, without Ceremony of other service, or attendants, but his own Pages, being half a dozen in number, his Excellency sat down, not at the end of the Board, but at the right hand thereof, and Count Lodowick of Nassaw his Uncle on the left hand side, I was placed on the Prince's side, at a convenient distance from him by his Marshal; Colonel Boage a Scottish man sat right against me, next to Count Lodowick, and these were all the Guests at the Table; during Dinner, his Excellency asked me sundry questions, namely, whether Queen Elizabeth did wear the Garter of the Order about her leg, as the Knights did? I answered, I thought not, for it was not proper for her Sex so apparently to show her leg. Then he demanded, whether the Institution of the Order was from the fall of a Blue Garter from the Lady's leg, with whom the King danced? I told him it was so holden by tradition, but the truth was otherwise, as it is recorded in the old Register Book of the Order, that King Edward the Third returning home after his conquest of France, to remunerate those Knights, that had done him the most noble service in that Expedition, did select of them the number twenty five, and gave them Blue Garters embroidered, and buckled under the Knee, with this Motto, Hony soit, qui mal y pense, as a caveat to avoid the emulation of other, who might perhaps presume, they had deserved as much honour as others. Now the question may be asked, said the Prince, why a Garter rather than any other thing should be made an Order? It is to be answered, said I, that at that time most men (especially men of Arms) wore their Boots close up gartered, and buckled with thongs of Leather under their Knees (a Custom yet used of some men for the strengthening of their Leg) so with divers other trivial questions the Dinner was spent and ended, and I with due thanks and humble salutations took my leave. Tuesday morning I delivered the Robes of the Order to the Master of his Wardrobe, and on Tuesday in the Afternoon, I with my Sons, and Mr. Lennard kissed his Excellency's hands, and took our leave, who most princely thanked us for the pains we had taken to do him honour. Wednesday in the morning, I was presented with four Chains, one for myself of the value of 240 l. sterling, two Chains for my Sons, the third for Mr. Lennard, being all lesser in value than those which I had received of Grave Maurice by 130 l. The Ambassador Lord Carleton had a standing Cup with a Cover of 500 l. being of pure Gold. The same day in the Afternoon I gave Rewards to the Chastellain, and his Wife, with the Servants of the House, and taking my leave that night of the Ambassador, with whom I supped, I took my journey on Thursday in the morning by Water to Delf, where I hired two Wagons to transport me to Maisland Sluice, where I took shipping for England, in the same Merchant's Ship that brought me thither. Friday morning, the first of June, we set sail, and on Saturday in the Afternoon we all safely arrived at Gravesend, thanked be God; Tuesday following, I went by Coach to oatland's, and delivered my Letters to the King, from the Prince of Orange, and the Lord Ambassador Carleton, making a brief relation of the performance of our Employments, which it was his Majesty's pleasure I should do. A Relation of the Investiture of Charles the Eleventh King of Sweden, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order drawn up by Henry St. George, Esq; Richmond Herald. Charles the Eleventh, King of Sweden, etc. being elected into the most Noble Order of the Garter, at a Chapter held by the Sovereign and Companions of the said Order, the 18. day of June 1668. The Right Honourable Charles Earl of Carlisle, etc. was by the Sovereign appointed his Ambassador extraordinary to the said King, and Henry St. George, Esq Richmond Herald, was commanded to attend the Ceremony of his said Majesty's Investiture, in the place of Garter Principal King of Arms. Being furnished with all Necessaries for this service, as the Robes, Collar, George, Garter, etc. and having received his Majesty's Commission, under the Seal of the said Order; they set sail from Greenwich in the Anne (a Yaght belonging to his Royal Highness the Duke of York) on Friday the 5. of February 1668. and landed at Rotterdam on Sunday the 7. of the said Month, from whence they proceeded on their journey to Stockholme, first to Hamborough, and then to Lubeck, where my Lord Ambassador having received command from the King, to go for Denmark, they took shipping at Framond (the Port of the said City) on Saturday the 20. of March, and landed at Copenhagen on Monday the 22. of the said Month. After same 10 days there, in which time his Lordship dispatched his business in that Court, they again embarked themselves in a Frigate of the King of Denmark's, and arrived at Stockholme, on Saturday the 10. of April, being Easter Eve, where his Excellency continued some weeks incognito, till the arrival of his Train and Equipage. Saturday, June the 5. the Countess of Carlisle landed at Stockholme, and about a week after arrived the Ship with my Lord Ambassador's Goods and Retinue. Wednesday the 7. of July, my Lord Ambassador made his Entry into Stockholme, and on Saturday the 10. of the said Month had his public Audience of the King. Monday the 26 of July my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George, at a private Audience, delivered their Credentials concerning the Garter; and his Majesty of Sweden received the lesser George. Thursday the 29. of July was appointed for his Majesty's public reception of the whole Habit of the Order, which Ceremony was performed as followeth; About three of the Clock that Afternoon, my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George, were by two principal Senators Count Neile Brahe, and Count John Steenbook, the Master of the Ceremonies, with the King's Coaches, Pages, and Footmen (all in new Liveries) with many Officers and Cavalier, conducted to the Castle, being come into the great Court, they were met at the Stairs foot (where they alighted) by several of the King's Servants, and so conducted up to certain Rooms, where the Robes, etc. were deposited (having been sent thither that morning) here my Lord Ambassador for a while reposed himself, whilst Mr. St. George made ready the Robes, etc. and put on his Mantle, and having now notice, that his Majesty was come into the Great Hall, they proceeded thither, Mr. St. George bearing the Robes, etc. on a Velvet Cushion: At the entrance into the Hall, they were met by the Rix-Marshall Count Gabriel Oxenstiern (having in his hand a long Staff of Silver gilded) and conducted to the upper end of the Room, which was enclosed within a Rail and Ballister. Here stood the King in a Suit and Cloak of Cloth of Silver, with a large Plume of White Feathers in his Haet, under a State of Crimson Velvet, fringed with Gold, to the back of which said State was affixed an Escotcheon of his Majesty's Arms within the Garter, and his Style underneath; on the King's right hand was erected a like State for the Sovereign, with an Escutcheon of his Arms, and his Style also underneath, with a Chair and Footstool. Opposite to the King of Sweden's Chair, was placed a Chair, like in all things to that of the King's, for my Lord Ambassador, and on the left hand of my Lord Ambassador was a Chair set for Mr. St. George, and near it, close to the Rails, was a little Table to lay the Robes on. On the King of Sweden's left hand, at a good distance, near the other end of the Rails, sat the Queen, under a lesser State of Cloth of Silver, the haut-pas was covered with Turkey Carpets, as was also all the ground within the Rails, where stood the Regent's and the rest of the Senators (all in Cloaks and Bands as is used at their Diets and most solemn Assemblies) with Chairs behind them: The whole Room was hung with Tapestry, having a great number of Scaffolds in it, filled with the principal persons of quality, both of the Courtand City. After my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George, had saluted the King, Mr. St. George placed the Robes, etc. on the Table, and having made an obeisance first to the Sovereign's State, then to the King of Sweden, stood before his own Chair, till the King and my Lord Ambassador were both of them seated; they being seated. Mr. St. George sat down on his Chair, until the Trumpets and Kettle Drum's ceased (which had beat and sounded from their first entrance in the Room) all being quiet Mr. St. George arose, and making an obeisance first to the Sovereign's State, and then to the King of Sweden, stood by the Table, than the Ambassador arising, began his Speech to the King, which ended, his Secretary delivered a Copy of it, in the Swedish tongue, to the Ambassador, who gave it to the Lord Stein Bielk, who delivered it to a Secretary, by whom it was read aloud, whereunto a Reply was made by the same Senator, in Swedish; this Reply translated into English, was given by the said Senator to the Ambassador, and by him to his Secretary, who read it in English. Then did Mr. St. George deliver the Commission under the Seal of the Order, to my Lord Ambassador, who presented it to the King, who having received it gave it to a Secretary, by whom it was read aloud. The Commission being read, Mr. St. George devested the King of his Cloak, Sword, and Belt, untying also the Silk Garter on his left leg, and delivered the Book of the Statutes of the Order to the Ambassador, who presented them to the King, then was the Garter of the Order presented to his Majesty by Mr. St. George, who at the delivery pronounced the accustomed words in Latin, which ended, my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George did both of them buckle it on the King of Sweden's left leg; in like manner was presented the Surcoat, the Girdle, and Hangers with the Sword, the Mantle, the Hood, the Collar, and great George, last of all the Cap and Feather. His Majesty thus fully invested with the whole Habit of the Order, continued standing under his State, whilst Mr. St. George descending from the haut-pas, towards the lower end of the Rails, returned, and having made three obeisances as he came up, proclaimed the Style of the Sovereign in Latin, French, and English; and afterwards the Style of the King of Sweden in French only. This being done, Mr. St. George returned and stood before his Seat, whilst my Lord Ambassador complemented his Majesty in a short Speech in English, which was afterwards read in Swedish by a Secretary; and a Reply made by the afore named Senator Stien Bielk in Swedish read in English by my Lord Ambassador's Secretary. After this another Senator, viz. Baron John Gyllenstiern, did in a long Harangue congratulate his Majesty's Election and Investiture into this most Noble Order; which ended, the King, my Lord Ambassador, and Mr. St. George took their Seats again, whilst the Trumpets and Kettle Drum's beat and sounded, being the signal for the firing 124 great Guns, from the Ships of War in the River, and several parts of the City, and of divers Volleys of small shot from Horse and Foot, purposely drawn into the Town for this occasion; after they had all fired the first time, they gave a second Volley, which being near ended, my Lord Ambassador, and Mr St. George arose, and making their obeisances to the King (who stood in his Robes under his State) they withdrew, and were conducted by the afore mentioned Senators Count Brabe and Count Steenbook, to the same Room from whence the Robes of the Order had been brought, where Mr. St. George put off his Mantle, and after a little repose, my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George were in the same manner conducted home to my Lord Ambassador's House. About eight of the Clock that Evening, my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George were again brought to Court in the King's Coach, by Count Torstenson, and the Master of the Ceremonies, to Supper; where in a fair Room, under a state of Crimson Velvet, sat the King covered, and in the Robes of the Order, on his left hand the Queen, and on her left hand my Lord Ambassador, all under the State, at each end of the Table sat two of Regent's, and on the other side of the Table near each end, sit two of the signior Senators, and between them stood two Carvers. At another Table in the same Room sat Mr. St. George, with the other Senators and the Officers of the Army; during Supper, several Healths were drank, as the Sovereign's, the King of Sweden's, the two Queens, the Duke of York's, the Companions of the Order, etc. at each of which were fired 4 great Guns, 24 being purposely planted for that service, under the Wall of the Castle: Supper being ended my Lord Ambassador and Mr. St. George, having waited on the King and Queen back again in the same manner they attended them to Supper, about three of the Clock the next morning, they were again conducted home by Count Torstenson, and t●● M●ster of the Ceremonies, in the King's Coach; and as they descended from the Castle, the 24 great Guns were all fired twice over. Sunday, the 1. of August, my Lord Ambassador, and Mr. St. George were by Count Torstenson, and the Master of the Ceremonies, in the King's Coach, brought to the Castle about 7 of the Clock in the Evening, from whence they went with their Majesties in their Barge, to see the Fireworks which had been preparing about three Months, as English mile from Stockholme (in honour of this Solemnity) this divertisement continued about two hours, and was concluded with a Banquet; which ended, they returned in the same manner, being saluted both in their going and return, with four Guns from each Ship of War in the River, besides the Guns from the Fort; At their landing, Count Torstenson, and the Master of the Ceremonies were ready to conduct my Lord Ambassador, and Mr. St. George home, in the same manner as they came. Thursday the 19 of August, Mr. St. George received his Majesty of Sweden's Letter to the Sovereign, and a Certificate of his Majesty's Reception of the said Order, both signed by the Queen and the Regent's. Sunday the 22. of August, Mr. St. George took his leave of the King and Queen, being attended by the under Master of the Ceremonies. Thursday the 2. of September, Mr. St. George was presented by the under Master of the Ceremonies, with a Chain of Gold, and a Meddal set with Diamonds, from his Majesty. Saturday the 4. of September, Mr. St. George began his journey from Stockholme to the Sound by Land, and came to Elsineur the 12. of the said Month; the 29. he took shipping for England, and landed at Hull the 20. of October, the 27. he came to London, and was the next day by the Earl of Carlisle (who was newly returned) brought to his Majesty in his Bedchamber, where be kissed the King's hand, presented the King of Sweden's Letter to his Majesty, and so concluded his Employment. The Fireworks above mentioned, which the King of Sweden caused to be prepared, to close the Solemnity of his Investiture, and manifest to the world his great satisfaction in the honour received, were ordered in the following manner. In the middle of the work was erected a great Pillar 52 foot high, on the top of which was placed a gilt Crown; 18 foot below the Crown were the initial Letters of the Sovereign 's and King of sweden Christian Names, set breast to breast: and below at the Foot were placed several Military Colours, both of Horse and Foot, filled with Fireworks. This Pillar stood in the middle of four antique Trophies, filled with Fire, and upon each side of the Pillar, 40 foot distance from it, was placed St. George on Horseback, having the Dragon under his Feet, of 24 foot in length, and 28 in height, and on each side of St. George two Pyramids of 36 foot high. In several places of the Work were set great Wind-Pipes, filled with Water, for playing of Water-Balls, and round the Work about 2000 Musket-Pipes, 60 together in a Frame, with 72 Chests in and about the Work, full of Rackets 12 foot high, besides 28 Chests with Swarmers in the Earth, 2 foot high; and above 1000 Pattroles fired by Degrees, which flying high threw from them all sorts of Figures of Fire. Lastly, at each corner a Fire Murser, which threw up all sorts of pleasant Fire-Balls, and in their breaking presented several Figures. A Relation of the Investiture of john George Duke of Saxony, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, drawn up by Sir Thomas St. George Knight, Somerset Herald. John George the Second, Duke of Saxony, was elected into the Society of the most Noble Order of the Garter the 18. of June 1668. at a Chapter held at Whitehall, and by the Sovereign and several of the Companions of the Order, Sir Thomas higgon's Knight, and Thomas St. George Esq Somerset Herald, in the place of Garter Principal King of Arms, were then appointed and ordered to carry the Garter, with the Habit and other Ensigns appropriated to the Order, to the said Duke of Saxony; which being provided and delivered unto them, on the 27. of February following they set forward from London, and arrived at Dresden the 5. of April 1669. and lodged at an Inn, from whence they gave notice to the Hoff Marshal of their arrival. Upon Wednesday morning about 10 of the Clock, being the 7. of April, the Duke of Saxony sent his Coach and several of his Servants, for them to their Audience, where Sir Thomas higgon's presented his Majesty's Credentials, and Mr. St. George the Book of Statutes, the Elector having sent to see them the day before. They were conducted from this Audience by the Duke's Servants to their several Lodgings within the Castle, where they remained and were entertained at the Duke's charges, and attended by his Servants during their stay at Dresden. Upon the 8. of April in the morning, the Duke sent a Compliment to them, acknowledging how sensible he was of his Majesty's great affection unto him, in sending him the Order of the Garter, and that he was very desirous to receive it, whereupon they desired an Audience, to which they were conducted about 4 of the Clock in the Afternoon by the Duke's Servants. Being brought to the Duke, Sir Tho. higgon's told him that he understood by his Secretary Mr. Voght, his Electoral Highness was very desirous to be invested with the Order of the Garter, and that thereupon he and Mr. St. George were come to present his Electoral Highness with the George and a Blue Ribbon, which was usually worn by the Companions of that most Noble Order, before their Investiture, whereupon he gave them thanks; and then Mr. St. George delivered to Sir Tho. higgon's the George, and by him it was presented to the Duke, who having received it, and viewed it a little while, returned it again to Sir Tho. higgon's, than he and Mr. St. George put it about his neck; which being performed, the Duke returned thanks, and declared that he intended to be invested on Tuesday or Wednesday following, whereof they should receive more particular notice. Upon the 9 of April the Duke sent to them by his Secretary, to signify that he had resolved to be invested on Tuesday following, and thereupon discoursing about the Ceremonies, said that his Electoral Highness had given order for the furnishing a stately Room for that occasion, which he was ready to show them, but that if any part of the Ceremony were accustomed to be performed in the Church, he desired that might be omitted; which being by them consented unto, they repaired to the Room appointed, and gave directions how it should be ordered. Upon Easter-day, being the 11. of April, they were attended by several of the Duke's Servants to Church first, and after to Dine with him. Upon Tuesday the 13. of April, between 10 and 11 of the Clock in the morning, the Duke sent a great number of his Servants to them, to let them know he was ready to receive the Order; whereupon Mr. St. George put on his Ro●e or Mantle, and having placed the Habit, Collar, George, Garter, and his Majesty's Commission upon a Blue Velvet Cushion, they were conducted to a little Room appointed for that purpose, where the Duke stayed for them, Mr. St. George carrying the Robes and the other Ensigns of the Order, which he presented to the Duke, and after placed them on a Table standing by him. Then Sir Thomas higgon's and Mr. St. George, having first prayed the Duke's leave, took off his Cloak, and his Sword and Belt, which the said Mr. St. George had for his Fee, and after that the Blue Ribbon and George, which they had presented to him before, which Mr. St. George delivered to one of the Duke's Servants. The Duke being in this posture, Mr. St. George took the Surcoat which Sir Thomas higgon's and he presented to the Duke, and then put it on; after that the Girdle and Hangers, which they likewise girt about him, having receive● another Sword from the Master of his Horse. Then the Duke's Secretary brought and laid upon the Table before his Electoral Highness, the Letters Testimonial engrossed in Parchment, of the presenting him with the Ensigns of the Order, which he there signed, and being sealed by him before them, they were delivered to Mr. St. George by the Duke. These things being thus performed, they proceeded to the great Room prepared, where the principal part of the Ceremony was to be accomplished, where there was a great concourse of People, and towards the upper end on the right hand was a place raised, where sat the Duchess, the Prince of Saxony and Princess, the Princess of Anhalt, and below them a great many Ladies of quality, and the Ladies of the Court. First passed the Duke's Servants two and two. Then the Cap and Feather, carried by Mr. St. George's Son. Next Mr. St. George, carrying the rest of the Habit and the Ensigns of the Order. Then Sir Thomas higgon's. After him the Duke of Saxony in his Surcoat, his Sword girt about him. On each side, and closing the Rear, were his Guard of State richly habited, with Partisans in their hands, the Staves covered with Blue Velvet, and set thick with gilt Nails. In this manner they passed through divers stately Rooms, entertained with several sorts of Music, until they came to the great Room, where there was also excellent Music of several sorts, with Kettledrums and Trumpets, placed in a high Gallery at the lower end, which entertained them as soon as they entered. In this Room was two States of Crimson Velvet, the one at the upper end for the Sovereign with a Chair and a Footstool, and an Escotcheon of the Sovereign's Arms within a Garter, having his Style underneath, set over the Chair; the other on the side of the Room on the right hand of the Sovereign's State for the Duke, with an Escotcheon of his Arms within a Garter, and his Style underneath; and on the left hand two Chairs, the one for Sir Thomas higgon's, the other for Mr. St. George. Being entered this Room, as they passed from the lower end, three obeisances were made to the Sovereign's State going up, than the Duke going to his State, and there standing, Mr. St. George placed the Robes on a Table on the Duke's right hand; which being done, Sir Thomas higgon's and Mr. St. George did go to their Chairs opposite to the Duke's, on the left hand of the Sovereign's State, making their obeisances to it as they passed by, than the Duke sat down, and they did the like. Then being entertained with Music for a little while, they rose from their Seats, and making their obeisances as before to the Sovereign's State as they passed by it, and repaired to the Duke, who standing up, they placed themselves on each side of him: being in this posture Mr. St. George took up the Commission, and holding it in his hand, Sir Thomas higgon's made a Speech to the Duke, relating to the Antiquity and Nobleness of the Order, declaring how many Emperors, Kings, and Foreign Princes had been Companions thereof since its institution, and in relation to the election of his Electoral Highness of the splendour and greatness of his Family, etc. which having ended, Mr. St. George gave the Commission to Sir Thomas higgon's who presented it to the Duke, which he caused to be read with a loud voice by his Secretary, and then received it again, and delivered it to Mr. St. George. After this Mr. St. George took the Garter, and with the assistance of Sir Thomas higgon's, buckled it about the Duke's left Leg, than they put on the Mantle, the Hood upon the right shoulder, and last of all the Collar and George. Thus being fully invested, Mr. St. George spoke to the Duke as followeth, Ayant investi vostre Altesse Electorale avec tous les habits & les autres ornaments du tres-noble Ordre de la, jartiere, Je souhaite toute sorte de prosperité de grandeur & de longue vie au treshault trespuissant & tres-illustre Prince jean George le Second, par la grace de Dieu Due de Saxe, de juliers Cleves, & des Montz, Archimareschall & Prince Electeur du Saint Empire, Landgrave the Thuringe, Margrave the Misnie, & de la haute & basse Lustre, Burgrave de Magdeburg, Conte de la March & Ravensperg, Seigneur in Ravenstein, & Chevalier du tres-noble Ordre de la jartiere; which being ended, the Trumpets and loud Music sounded. The Music ceasing, Sir Thomas higgon's congratulated his Electoral Highness' Investiture, whereupon one of his Council made a Speech in Latin, declaring his Electoral Highness' great obligation to the King of Great Britain, how highly he esteemed the Order, and his Majesty's particular kindness to him, etc. and concluded with his thanks to Sir Thomas higgon's and Mr. St. George. Then Mr. St. George took the Cap and Feather and presented it to the Duke, which he put on; and they returned in the same order as they came, to the Chamber from whence they brought him, Mr. St. George's Son bearing his Train; and there they left him and retired, being attended to their Apartments by the Duke's Servants. About half an hour after, the Duke sent his Servants again for them, they found him in the same Room where they left him, in the Habit of the Order, and in the same manner as before they passed to the Room, where the Duke's Dinner was upon the Table, and they dined with him that day, the Duke wearing the Habit of the Order, and Mr. St. George his Robe. After Dinner they attended him back to the same Room, and there took their leaves and departed. Upon Sunday the 18. of April, the Duke's chief Chamberlain came to Sir Thomas higgon's first, and after to Mr. St. George, and presented each of them with a Chain of Gold, and the Electors Picture set in Diamonds hanging at it, and also to each of them a Basin and Ewer; he also presented Mr. St. George's Son with a little jewel of Diamonds, and invited them to Dine with the Duke, and the Master of the Ceremonies presented all their Servants. On Monday the 19 of April, Sir Thomas higgon's, and Mr. St. George took their leaves of the Duke to return for England, and dined that day with him: and that Evening the Duke's Secretary brought them a Proxy, under the Duke's hand and Seal to the Earl of Bath, to be installed for him at Windesor. The next morning being Tuesday, the 20. of April (Sir Thomas higgon's and Mr. St. George, having before hired a Boat to carry them down the River of Elbe to Hamburgh) the Duke's Coaches and Servants attended them to their Boats, and there all but two of them took their leaves of them, those two that remained had laid in provision, and attended and defrayed them by the Duke's command, as long as they traveled in the Duke's Territories, which was within two Germane Miles of Magdeburgh, and there they took their leaves. Sir Thomas higgon's and Mr. St. George parted at Hamburgh, the former to go for England by the way of Holland, the other by shipping. Upon Sunday the 16. of May, Mr. St. George arrived first in England, and that day Fortnight Sir Thomas higgon's; and when Mr. St. George kissed his Majesty's hand at his return, he was pleased to confer the honour of Knighthood upon him, with the same Sword the Duke of Saxony gave him. By way of Corollary to the present Section, it will be necessary to give an account of those Transactions relating to this most Noble Order, which passed, during the interval of the late Rebellion and Usurpation. The present Sovereign, by reason of his frequent removals from several places, beyond the Seas, where his rebellious Subjects had forced him to retire, was obliged to dispense with the accustomed Ceremonies of the Order, and to such Strangers as he was pleased to Elect, to send only the George and Garter, together with the Glory or Star of Silver (to wit the Cross of St. George irradiated within a Garter, curiously wrought in rich embroidery) to be worn upon their upper Garments: Declaring also, that the Investiture therew●●● should be sufficient to style themselves Knights-Companions of this most Nob●● Order, as effectually, as if they had been formally, and with the usual Solemnities, installed at Windesor Castle, where then it was not possibly to be done. And in these Cases, instead of such formal Commissions of Legation, as had been accustomed to be made out, the Sovereign sent only his Letters a Appendix. Num. CIII CIV. CV. ● CVII. signifying Election to the Elect-Stranger, and a b Num. C●● & CVIII. Warrant to Sir Edward Walker Garter, under his sign manual, whereby he was authorised, according to his Office, to deliver those Ensigns to the Elect-Stranger, with such Ceremonies as were usual, and might be performed in the place where he was. Of this kind were the Warrants issued out to the said Sir E●ward Walker, for delivery of the Garter, George, and Star d Ex Collect. E. W. G. to Charles Prince of Tarante, to e Ex Collect. E. W. G. William Prince of Orange, to f Ex Collect. E. W. G. Frederick William Marquis of Brandenburg, and by virtue of which he invested these Princes with them. The manner and order of Investiture of a Stranger upon these occasions, was briefly thus. The Stranger-Elect, to whom the Ensigns were sent, entered into the Room, appointed to receive the Ceremony, and placed himself under the State. In the mean time, Garter, having retired into another Room near thereunto, put on his rich Coat of the Sovereign 's Arms, and placed the Garter, George, and Cloak (on the left shoulder whereof was embroidered the Cross of St. George, within a Glory of Silver) upon a Velvet Cushion; then taking them on his arms before him (together with the Sovereign 's Letters) went towards the Room, where the Elect-Stranger expected his coming, and where (a free passage being made) he proceeded up with three Reverences, and being arrived near unto him, laid down the Cushion on a Table, placed for that purpose, near the foresaid State. This done, he began his Oration, and having made an entrance, sufficient to usher in the delivery of the Sovereign 's Letters, he presents them to the Elect-Stranger, who opening the same, returned them back for Garter to read, which having done he redelivered them to him. These things being dispatched, he took the Garter from off the Cushion, and kneeling down, first buckled it on the Elect-Strangers left leg, next he took the Blue Ribbon and George, and hung it about his Neck, and lastly the Cloak, which he put likewise over his shoulders; and leaving him thus Invested, proceeded on with his Harangue: which being ended, he attended what the Invested-Stranger should please to say, by way of acknowledgement, or thanks to the Sovereign, for the Honour received: and then with usual obeisance departed the Room to put off his Coat. The Copy of Sir Edward Walker's Speech, made in delivering the Garter, to William Prince of Orange, at the Hague, on Sunday in the Afternoon, being the 4. of May 1653. May it please your Royal Highness, I Have lately received the Commands of his sacred Majesty, Ex Collect. E. W. G. the King your Brother, Charles' the Second of that name, by the Grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble and Renowned Order of St. George, called the Garter, humbly to attend his Nephew the Prince of Orange, only Son unto your Royal Highness, and to deliver unto him the Ensigns of that most Noble Order, with his Majesty's Letters of Dispensation investing his Highness with the most splendid Ornaments thereof. But because the tenderness of his Highness' age allows him not the capacity to comprehend the great honour the King hath done him, in this early electing his Highness into this most Noble Society, the Reasons whereof are best expressed in his Majesty's gracious Letter; I shall therefore humbly address myself unto your Royal Highness, his Mo●her and Tutrix, and by your permission, open and read his Majesty's Letters, and ●●all then, in obedience to his Majesty's Commands, deliver unto his Highness the Garter and George therewith sent. The Investiture being dispatched, he thus proceeded. Now that his Highness is by his Majesty's gracious Election and Dispensation Invested, and become a Companion of this most Noble Order, I should according to the obligation of my Office, represent unto his Highness somewhat of the Antiquity, Nature, and Dignity of this most famous Order; but (as I said before) the tenderness of his Highness' age denying him the notion of matters of this kind, my hopes and wishes shall supply that present de●ect, which are, that as his Highness grows in years, under the happy tuition of your Royal Highness, and observing that he wears an Order and Habit not common to others, that he will with curiosity examine the cause of that effect, and then I doubt not but he will be informed, and with delight retain in his memory, that it was the most victorious King of England, Edward the Third, his Highness' Ancestor, that 300 years passed for noble and generous ends instituted this Order, that it was the King his Uncle that elected him thereunto in his ins●ncy, That ●e is of an Order near 100 years more ancient than any other merely Military, and that it hath been so highly valued and desired, as that the greatest Monarches of Europe in their times have been Companions thereof. And to make the impression deeper, his Highness will then also find, that his great and excellent Father, your Royal Highness Husband, was a Companion of this most Noble Order, as were formerly those two most potent and fortunate Supporters of this State, his Highness most heroic Grandfather Henry, and his great Uncle Maurice, all Princes of Orange in succession; The great Examples of whose admired and noble actions, as of other his Royal and Princely Ancestors, will certainly induce his Highness with alacrity and vigour to endeavour to be equal unto them in all honour, magnanimity, and princely virtues. I shall conclude, that as your Highness hopeful Son, the Prince here present, is the youngest that ever yet was chosen into this most Noble Society, so it cannot be otherwise esteemed, than an early Omen of his future felicity and greatness, which with length of days and all prosperity, is humbly and heartily wished by me unto his Highness, the most high, mighty, and excellent Prince, William Henry of Nassau, Prince of Orange, etc. Knight and Companion of the most Noble Order of the Garter. A brief Journal of Sir Edward Walker's passage and employment, in passing from Amsterdam to Hamborough, and so from thence to Berlin, to deliver the Garter, to his Electoral Highness, Frederick Guillaume Marquis of Brandenburg, An. Dom. 1654. ON Tuesday in the Afternoon, Ex eod. Collect being the 17. of March New Style, I began my journey, and arrived at Hamborough the Monday following being the 23. I stayed there from Monday till Thursday in the Evening, and then I departed with the Messenger of Berlin. On Monday morning I came to Spanda, a good Town, where there is the strongest Fort I ever saw, of four Bulwarks, environed by the River Sprey, and a Morass towards Berlin, from which place the Elector hath caused the Wood to be felled, that he might see this Fort from his Castle at Berlin. At 11 of the Clock that day I arrived at Berlin, here I lodged myself in the Burgomaster's house, a good Inn, and that Afternoon sent for one Mr. Roe an Englishman, but an old Servant of the Electors Family; to him in general I made myself known, and desired his advice for my addresses, he presently went and acquainted the Electors Marshal with my Arrival, who presently informed the Elector, and so I had answer, if I sent to the Marshal the next day at 10 of the Clock, I should understand his Highness' pleasure; accordingly I sent, and the Marshal returned me answer, that at 11 his Highness would send a Gentleman to conduct me to the Court, and accordingly there came his Carver, in one of his Highness' Coaches, to conduc● me thither, where when I was arrived, I was brought through two or three Rooms (the Guards standing in order in the first, and Gentlemen in the rest) by the Gentleman to the Electors Antichamber; there his Chamberlain received me, and brought me into his Highness' bedchamber, to whom I presented myself in the best posture I could, and briefly gave him an Account of my Employment, and delivered him his Majesty's Letter, which he presently opened and read, and in few words of great respect acknowledged his Majesty's favour: After that I delivered him her Majesty the Queen of Bohemia's Letter, which he received with great demonstration of affection, and then returned to discourse with me about the time and manner of receiving the Order. Hereupon I having prepared a Paper of all things necessary, that so I might do my best for his Majesty's honour and service, I presented it unto his Highness, which he presently gave to Monsieur Scurein (one of the chief of his Council, and the only person, besides his Chamberlain, then present) to read, which he did, and it gave the Elector so full satisfaction, as he proposed to receive the Order the next day being Wednesday; but I being weary, and besides other particulars being to be advised, I put it off till Thursday: so I took my leave of his Highness for that instant, and the Surintendant being Hofmaster to the Electrix, brought me to her Apartment to wait upon her, to whom I likewise delivered her Majesty's Letter, she received me with great favour, and told me her Mother had given her notice of my coming, so after some questions of the young Prince of Orange, the Prince's Royal, etc. I took my leave, and was conducted into his Highness' Dining-Room, where the Dinner being on the Table, he presently appeared, leading his Mother who with her Brother the Palatine of Zimerne, his Lady, with a Son and Daughter came to this Court few days before. The old Electress, seeing me present, with high civility seemed as if I should apply myself unto her; hereupon I briefly told her, that I was assured, had her Majesty the Queen of Bohemia known I should have found her there, I should have had the honour to have brought her Letters from her Majesty, which she took in good part, so she placed herself with her Sister-in-Law, her Daughter-in-Law, the young Electress her Sister, the Princess Katherine, and the young Princess of Zimerne on the outside of the Table; in the interim the Elector, the Duke of Zimerne and his Son washed, the Chamberlain giving the Towel, than the Gentleman gave water to the Ladies, so they took their places at a long Table; at the end sat the Duchess of Zimerne, and the old Electress on the inside of the Table, the Electress, the Princess Katherine, and the young Princess of Zimerne, on the outside sat the Duke of Zimerne, than the Elector (than stood the Carver) and below sat the young Prince of Zimerne, and below him the Chamberlain, opposite to the young Prince and next to his Sister I was placed, beneath me the Master of the House to the Old Electress, and then at the end sat the Electors Master of his Horse, and another: The Table was excellently served, having at the first course 20 Dishes of gilt Plate, covered with Silver, and the Plates the same; so was the second course, and at the third, the Banquet was served in, in as many standing scalloped Cups gilded. At the second course the Elector began to me his Majesty's Health, and a while after the Duke of Zimerne the Queen of Bohemia's, and these were all the Healths passed at the Table, so as to my great joy, instead of drinking after the Germane mode, I rose from Table thirsty. Dinner being done, his Highness and the Ladies returned into her Highness' Chamber; in the interim I stayed in the Dining-Room, where the Marshal came and told me, his Highness had given order, I should be lodged near the Court, at his Stables, and should have a Coach to wait upon me to come to Court that Evening, and so constantly while I stayed. I excused the first, at least till the next day, and the last for that time, and so returned to my Lodging. The next day after Dinner, I went into the Electress Room with the Elector, and presently the old Electress applied herself to entertain me, and did so near an hour. Then I took my leave of her and the Elector for that time, and was brought by one of his Gentlemen to my new Lodging at the Stables, where (after a large half pace, at the top of a Stair) I was brought into my Stove hung with good Arras, at the upper end were two large round Tables, the one covered with a Carpet of Crimson Velvet fringed with Gold, the other of Cloth of Gold, on which stood a great Silver Bason and Ewer, out of that Room I went into my Bedchamber hung with silk Hangings, the Bed was of Cloth of Gold Damask, and the Counterpart of ri●h Cloth of Gold, and Chairs of Crimson Velvet; towards Evening I was sent to, to know whether I would sup at the Court or there, I desired the last at my Lodging, in regard I was to deliver the Garter the next day. So in the Evening Wax Candles were brought me in great Silver Candlesticks, and Wine and Beer in two great standing gilt Cups, and then eight or ten Dishes of meat in Silver Dishes, and (the Table being covered with rich Damask Linen) the meat was brought by six or eight Footmen, and a Page of the Electors to wait upon me, towards the end of Supper, five or six Plates of Sweetmeats were set on the Table, and so the Supper ended. The next morning being Thursday, the 3. of April, Stilo Novo, I made myself ready to deliver the Garter, and about 10 of the Clock went to Court conducted by a Gentleman sent of purpose, when I came there I found all things ready as I had designed, and presently the Elector came and set himself under the Cloth of State, a Table standing by him whereon to lay the Garter, etc. Then I presently retired into another Chamber, and put on my Coat of Arms, having laid on a Velvet Cushion his Cloak, the Garter, George, and his Majesty's Letter (which was again delivered me, as I had proposed, to be then publicly read) so having made my three Reverences, I approached near his Electoral Highness, and then laid down the Cushion, and applied myself by way of introduction in the French Tongue, to give an account of my Employment, and therein again delivered to his Highness his Majesty's Letter, which he re-delivered me. Then having finished my introduction, I read openly his Majesty's Letter, which done, I again delivered it to him, and kneeled down and put on the Garter, than the George, and lastly the Cloak, and so proceeded with the rest of my Harangue; which done, the Elector in few words returned humble thanks to his Majesty, for the great honour he had done him, in making him Companion of so Noble and worthy an Order, and was likewise pleased to give me thanks for the pains I had taken in bringing it unto him; so I made my Reverences and departed to put off my Coat. During the time of exercising my Function, I saw him very well pleased with it, and after, all the Company present, being his Council and Servants, congratulated his admission. Presently after his Highness came forth to Dinner with the accustomed company, and as formerly he drank to me his Majesty's Health; afterwards the Duke of Zimerne began his Highness' Health to me, and her Majesty of Bohemia's Health and the Electresses passing, Dinner was ended, so being weary I went not into the Elector's Chamber, but returned to my Lodging; where I had not been long, but the Elector accompanied with the Duke of Zimerne, and most of his Court, came to the Escure to see his Horses, so I presently went down to wait upon his Highness, who used me with high civility, causing me to put on my Hat (for by the way, at home I never saw him covered) at first I saw his Stables full of excellent Horses, at least 30 of several breeds for the Great Saddle, thence he went up Stairs, the Stable being a quadrangle well built, and the Rooms above divided into six or eight Rooms, all full of Carbines, Pistols, Swords, rich Armour, etc. of divers fashions and richness, and the two last of very rich Saddles of all fashions, and Furniture for Horses, many of them set with Turquoises, Rubies, Emeralds, etc. and one set with Diamonds; which done, his Highness took his Coach and departed. That Evening I had a Supper at my Lodging as formerly, and the Mr. de la Lane grand Esquire came to me from his Highness, telling me he had order, if I pleased, to wait upon me to show me the Fort at Spanda, and likewise that at Castrein 10 Miles off, I excused the last as being far off, and would take the opportunity of seeing the other at my return. Friday I went to Court again, and then I delivered his Highness the Copy of my Speech, and told him I had no more to do now, but to attend his Commands, resolving to depart about the middle of the week following. The next day being Saturday I dined at Court as formerly: The following day being Easter-day, I went early to the Court, and waited on the Elector to the Church, which by a Gallery is joined to the Court; I had the honour immediately to precede his Highness leading his Mother, and to have a stool set me in his Clo●●, whi●●●● at the lower end opposite to the Altar above his Chamberlain, next the young Prince of Zimerne; there I heard the Service and Sermon, which ended, the Elector an● all the Company went down to receive the Sacrament, leaving me in the Closet w●t● t●o Lutheran Gentlemen to bear me company; all being done, we returned in t●● s●●● order we came to Church, and went immediately to Dinner, which was serve● up as formerly, but the number of Dishes of all sorts surpassing other days, yet there p●st only his Majesty's health, and the Elector's at that time. That Evening I suppedit Court, where the entertainment was agreeable to the former. Monday after Dinner I represented to his Highness, that having obeyed his Majesty, in delivering the Order, I had no more to do, but to beseech his Highness' 〈◊〉 to depart on Thursday, and therefore prayed him to honour me with his Comm●●●● on Wednesday, which he granted, though at Dinner he proposed to me to go and see his strong Fort at Castrin 10 Dutch Miles thence, but I excused it, saying, I would satisfy myself seeing that at Spanda two Miles in my way back, which is of great strength both by art and situation. The next day being Wednesday, I sent to have audience, to take my leave of his Highness in the Morning, but I was put off till after Supper. Yet I waited on his Highness to Dinner, and after Dinner I waited upon the old Electress, the Duke of Zimerne, and his Lady and Children, and the Princess Katherine, and had Letters from most of them to the Queen of Bohemia and Princess Lovisa, with as great testimonies from them of their affection and good wishes to his Majesty, and respect and thanks to myself as was imaginable: After Supper that Evening, I took my 〈◊〉 of his Electoral Highness, who with all respect delivered me his Letter to his Majesty, and then with extraordinary civility he dismissed me. After that, although the electress had taken Physic that day, I had audience of her, who gave me her Letter to the Queen of Bohemia, and when I desired one to her Mother, she told me she had written by the Post, and so I returned to my Lodging. The next morning being Thursday, Mon●●eur le Cane Captain of his Highness' Guard and Master of his Horse brought me a Present of 100 pieces of Gold, weighing each 5 Daiats, which were coined of purpose for me, u●ing much Compliment from the Elector his Master in the delivery, and then presently by his Highness' Order, he brought me out of Town in one of his Highness' Coaches, there being two other Gentlemen with him: and first he showed me the place of casting Ordinance, where there were newly cast two great whole Cannons and a very large Mortar-piece, then through a very large Park we came to Spanda, where at the entry of the Fort I was saluted with three pieces of Cannon, and met by the● Governor, who showed me all the strength and provisions thereof, which are in all kinds very great both of Br●ss, Ordinance, and Arms. After that, I was very well entertained at Dinner by the Governor, and after Dinner saw the Elector's Lodgings, where only the great variety of rare Stags-horns is worth observation, and so the Messenger being arrived, I took my leave of the Governor and Mons●uer le Cane, who brought me out of the Fort, and through the Town, returning by the same way and means. Thus I came to Hamburg on Monday following, and so returned to Amsterdam on Sunday night the 20. of April. Shortly after the present Sovereign was most happily restored to his Kingdoms, he took care to send over the rest of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order (namely the Mantle, Surcoat, Hood, and Collar) to the said Prince Elector of Brandenburg, who had yet been invested but with part; these were committed to the care of Garter, who thereupon sent them to Prince Maurice of Nassau to be conveyed to the said Elector; the Receipt of which, with the Elector 's particular thankful acknowledgements to the Sovereign, may be found in the h Num. CIX● CX. CXI. CXII. & CXIII. Appendix. SECT. IV. Certificates of having received the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. THE great and magnificent Solemnity of Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of this most Noble Order, being completely finished, and the Ambassadors having fully performed their duties therein, with all circumstances of honour, as belongs to so great a Ceremony, they are yet further to obtain from the new Invested Stranger, before their departure, a public Instrument, testifying the reception of the said Habit and Ensigns, signed with his Hand, and sealed with his Great Seal. This we find anciently done, as appears from that Certificate sent back by Charles Duke of Burgundy, bearing date at Gaunt the 4. of February an. 9 E. 4. and was generally demanded and obtained since that time, as will fully appear from the several Certificates sent from those Stranger-Princes, to whom the Habit and Ensigns of the Order have been presented. Hereupon was a Clause to this effect usually added in the Instructions, given to Ambassadors in such their Legations, as appears from those to the Lord Howard and Garter, in the Embassy to james the Fifth King of Scotland; namely, b Appendix, Num. CII. That Garter should remember (after the Investiture was performed) to purchase and solicit a Certificate from the said King, of his reception of the Order, and taking the Oath, both under his Seal. The form and substance of those Certificates which have come to our view, are much alike; for k Ibid. Num. CXIV. etc. after a recital of all the powers given to the Ambassadors, named in the Commission of Legation, the Stranger-Prince first makes Certificate of his Receiving, and Investiture with the Garter, Mantle, Surcoat, Collar, and other Ornaments of the Order, and that they have been presented to him by the Sovereign's Ambassadors, with due honour, and all the Solemnities accustomed: and generally where the Letters signifying Election, and the Habit of the Order have been sent together, the Certificate of receiving them hath also contained the Strangers grateful acceptation of the Order, together with his due thanks (in such cases necessary to be returned) and an acknowledgement, how acceptable the choice, and assumption into this Society, hath been to him. And in some of these Certificates, namely from l Ibid. Num. CXV. Ferdinand Prince of Spain, an. 15. H. 8. from m Num. CXVI. Francis the First, the French King, a. 19 H. 8. and from n Num. CXIX. Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, an. 3. Car. 1. we find, the taking the Oath appointed by the Statutes to be also certified, with such qualifications and under such conditions, as had been advised and agreed upon, between them and the Sovereign's Ambassadors beforehand. Of the return of these Certificates, the Annals of the Order sometimes take notice, as in particular, that of o Lib. C. p. 89. Frederick the Second King of Denmark, which the Lord Willoughby brought back with him, p Lib. C. p. 89. signed by that King, and sealed with his Great Seal, which he presented to the Sovereign in the q Lib. C. p. 89. Chapterhouse at Windesor, upon the finishing of his Legation; as also that of the French King k Ibid. p. 97. Henry the Third, by the Earl of Derby. Moreover by a late r Lib. R. p. 120. Decree an. 13. Car. 1. care was taken to oblige the Ambassadors to produce these Certificates to the Sovereign at their return. And besides the Certificates testifying the Investiture, sometimes the Stranger-Prince hath been pleased to give therewith, a particular testimonial of Garter's punctual discharge of his duty in the Legation, or of the Officer of Arms employed in his stead; as did s See the Letter inserted at the beginning of E●h. Ce●●us his Eq. Aur. Anglowirtemb▪ in the Sovereign's Library at St. James'. Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, in a Letter to the So●●raign, an. 1. jac. R. The like did Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, in the preamble of his t Seld. 'tis of Honor. p. 459. Diploma, whereby he testifies the bestowing upon Henry St George Richmond Herald, the honour of Knighthood. Of those Gratuities given to Garter by Strangers, after they had received their Investiture, notice of some of them have come to our hands, which we therefore think fit to mention here. Ferdinand Archduke of Austria gave him a u Ex Collect. E. W. G. Cup worth 22. l. and 100 Rhenish Guilders. The French King Francis the First w Ex Collect. E. W. G. 250 Crowns. james the Fifth King of Scotland x Ex Collect. E. W. G. 100 Crowns of the Sun. john Casimire Count Palatine of the Rhine, a Gold Chain and a Cup worth 30 Pounds. Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, a y Eq. Au● A●glo-Wirtemb. p. 2●9. rich Sword and Dagger, a Chain of Gold with his Picture hanging at it, and lastly 1000 Rix Dollars. Maurice Prince of Orange a z MS. penes ●. O. Y. p. 132. Chain of 6 pound weight, and a Medal with his Picture thereat, set about with Diamonds. Charles Prince of Tarent a a Ex Relatione E▪ W. G. Diamond of 200 l. value. William Prince of Orange b Ex Relatione E▪ W. G. 1200 Dollars. Frederick William Elector of Brandenburg c Ex Relatione E▪ W. G. 100 pieces of Gold, each of the value of 10 Rix Dollars. john Gasper Count Marching about d Ex Relatione E▪ W. G. 2●0 l. in Gold. Charles the Eleventh King of Sweden gave to Henry St. George Esq at his Investiture, a e Ex Relatione E▪ W. G. Gold Chain and a Medal pendant thereto, worth 200 l. And lastly, john George Duke of Saxony bestowed on Thomas St. George Esq a f Ex Relatione E▪ W. G. Silver Bason and Ewer, a Gold Chain and Medal, and a Sword with a Cross Hilt of Agat, adorned with Gold. CHAP. XVI. THE Installation OF A Stranger by Proxy. SECT. I. Touching the Choice and Nomination of a Proxy. THE Invested Stranger, of what Dignity, State, or Condition soeever, is enjoined by the Statutes (after such his Investiture) to send hither a a Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 20. Proctor or Deputy (for we find both Titles indifferently applied to one person) to be installed on his behalf, in the Seat assigned him within the Chapel of St. George at Windesor. The time limited by the Statutes of Institution, for sending him hither, is b Ed. 3. Stat. Art. 20. eight Months after Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. Yet in King Henry the Fifth's Statutes it is but c Art. 20. seven Months; and those of King Henry the Eighth allow only d Art. 21. seven Months and no more, and that not only after Investiture, but after the Stranger hath e Art. 21. certified the Sovereign of his Reception of the Order. The French King Francis the First, was so earnest for the completing this honour, that he f Lib. N. p. 257 speedily (after he had received the Habit and Ensigns) dispatch● his Proctor hither, to perform what the Statutes required in this particular. And for the general we observe so little slackness in Stranger-Princes, nay so great a forwardness to obtain the accomplishment of this Honour, that their Deputies have been installed for them within the limited time. But King Henry the Eighth's Statutes have further provided, g Art. 21. That in case a Stranger do not send his Deputy or Proctor within seven Months, without having a reasonable excuse, and such as should be allowed by the Sovereign or his Deputy, the Election (notwithstanding his former acceptation) should be also void, except so it be, that the Stranger be hindered or disturbed by great Affairs, and then might he send his Excuse to the Sovereign or his Deputy, within one month after; and according as the Sovereign or his Deputy should allow or disallow of ●is Excuse, that then the Sovereign or his Deputy might give unto him four months of respite more, within which time, if he neither come nor send his Deputy to be installed for him, than the said Election should be void for that time. And sometimes it hath fallen out, that through the multiplicity of Affairs, Strangers could not punctually observe the ancient Law of the Statutes in this point; nevertheless, by virtue of the limitation in those Statutes of King Henry the Eighth, upon a sufficient cause, the Sovereign hath been pleased to excuse the delay; but the instances are very few, as that of the French King Charles the Ninth, who was h Ex Collect A V. W. invested at Lions, an. 6. Eliz. but not installed till the i Lib. C. p. 5. 22. of january, in the eighth year of the same Queen. And when of late the Garter and George only were sent to a Stranger, the Ceremonies of Installation have also been dispensed with till a more convenient time, as appears from the l Ex Autogr▪ penes praef. jac. Palmer▪ Instructions of the 4. of March, a. 19 Car. 1. given at the sending these two Principal Ensigns of the Order to William Prince of Orange, and Bernard de Foix Duke d' Espernon (in regard of the interruptions then given by the Rebellion here) nevertheless m Ex Autogr▪ penes praef. jac. Palmer▪ then to be performed with all usual Rites and Honours due to persons so nearly allied unto, and so much esteemed by the then Sovereign of the Order. Such Dispensations, and for the same reason, was the present Sovereign necessitated to give those Strangers, whom he honoured with Election into this most Noble Order, while he remained in Foreign parts. And upon his Majesty's happy Restauration, among many other things relating to the Order, this particular was at several Chapters, taken into serious consideration, in reference not only to the Duke d' Espernon and Prince Maurice, that were dead, but those Strangers also then living, both wanting the full compliment of their Honour by a formal Installations; for at a Chapter held at Whitehall the 10. of April, an. 13. Car. 2. n Lib. Carolin● p. 27. directions were given to Garter, to place the Banners, and other Achievements of the surviving Strangers over their respective Stalls: The Sovereign then also did by his Supreme power (induced by divers considerable reasons) o Collect. E. W. G. dispense wholly and absolutely with their Installations, nevertheless declared them and every of them to be esteemed Companions, and to enjoy all privileges of the Order, as if they had been installed Personally, or by Proxy; with this further declaration notwithstanding, That as the like necessity and conjuncture could never happen again, so he would not upon any motion or pretence whatsoever give the like Dispensation. Finally, at another Chapter, held at Whitehall the 20. of February following, it was concluded, and the Sovereign again declared his pleasure, to dispense with the said Strangers Installations by a formal Act, thereupon commanded to be drawn up by the Chancellor; which he having performed, read it in a subsequent Chapter, where it received approbation. A Copy whereof here follows. WHereas it is expressly provided by the Statutes of the most Noble Order of the Garter, Ex Lib. Collect. Hen. de Vic. Bar. nuper buju● Ord. Cancel. p. 23. That no Companion Elect of the same, shall enjoy the privileges of a complete Knight thereof, before he be actually installed, either in his Person o● by his sufficient Proxy, within the accustomed time, and according to the usual Rites and Formalities, which some of those noble Persons, who though Elected, could not possibly perform and receive, during the late troubles, nor legally since our return into our Dominions, by reason of the space of time elapsed since their Election, beyond that which is allowed and prescribed by the Statutes, as also for the many difficulties and encumbrances, through which the performance of their Installations must pass, in some of them who are Strangers, and have their abode in Foreign and remote parts; which we taking into our consideration, and that if not all, most part of the foresaid Knights were admitted into our said Order, without those Formalities, which at other times, to have omitted had been an unexcusable breach of Statute: We conceiving it no more irregular to pass by the Statutes, in matter of their Installation, than it was in point of their Election, the observation of the usual forms in either of them having proved equally difficult or rather impossible; for these and other reasons, particularly for the avoiding that prejudice, which some of the said Companions, who are now dead, and have a like interest therein, with those that survive them, would have undergone (who for want of being installed, would have been left out of the Catalogue of the Founders in the Register-Books of our Order) as we heretofore declared our pleasure to be, That such of them as are dead, should not for want of being installed, be deprived of the honour of being called Founders, and for those that are yet alive, that they should not suffer likewise in that respect, or in point of their Ranks and Precedency: And accordingly with the advice and consent of our other Companions, in the Chapter held the 10. of April last, we did regulate the Stalls, and command their Hatchments to be set up in the Chapel of St. George, in our Castle of Windesor, according to their Elections in point of time, We continuing in our former purpose, for the putting an end to the irregularities which the late troubles occasioned in our foresaid Order, and the many questions and difficulties which have ensued thereupon, and especially in this particular, We have thought good to dispense with the Installation of all the said Knights, whether they be Subjects or Strangers, dead or living, and whatsoever omission of, or contravention to the Statutes, may have happened upon that account, And that the same notwithstanding, they all shall be held and reputed for complete Knights of our foresaid Order, and enjoy all the privileges and advantages of it, with the rest of the Companions, in as full and ample manner, as if they had installed and performed all the Rites, and Ceremonies, usual upon such occasions. But it seems to rest in the pleasure of the Stranger, whether he will choose to send over hither any person of his own Court, or give his Procuration to some one of the Sovereign's Subjects, to receive his Stall, and in his name to take possession of it; the later of which hath been several times done, out of desire to favour some of our Nobility, or other persons of quality at Court, with this honour: For instance, Frederick the Second King of Denmark; gave his Procuration to the p Append. Num. CXXI. & CXXII. Lord Willoughby (principal in the Legation, for the carriage of the Habit of the Order to him) to be installed for him; and in like manner, q Append. Num. CXXI. & CXXII. john Prince Palatine of the Rhine, deputed Sir Philip Sidney to the same Employment: r Lib. R. p. 41. Viscount Dorchester was installed for Henry Prince of Orange, to whom he (and Sir Williams Segar, Garter) had before carried the Habit and Ensigns: and this was done by virtue of a Deputation penned in s Lib. R. p. 41. French, and sent him hither from the said Prince. The Earl of Carlisle received his Deputation from Charles King of Sweden at Stockholme; and the Prince Elector of Saxony sent his hither to the Earl of Bath. But it hath sometimes happened, that a Proctor for the installation of a Stranger, hath been appointed and nominated by the Sovereign of the Order, though the Principal had named another before, perchance induced thereto by some extraordinary necessity. Thus it happened in the case of Maurice Prince of Orange an. 10. jac. R. who having deputed t MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. Count Henry his Brother to be installed for him, and he having put to Sea in order thereto, but by reason of u MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. contrary winds, not arriving in England before the day appointed for his Installation, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions ordered, that w MS. penes Edw. Fanconbridge. Lodowick of Nassau, Kinsman to the Elect Prince, should take possession of his Stall on his behalf; to the end that the honour designed the said Prince, in accompanying Frederick Prince Elector Palatine to his personal Installation, might not become frustrate. A case somewhat like to this, was that of john George Duke of Saxony; for having sent over his Procuration to john Earl of Bath, and he being detained in the West by extraordinary occasions, when St. George's Feast was held at Windesor, an. 23. Car. 2. wrote to the Chancellor of the Order, to obtain the Sovereign's Dispensation for his not appearing there in the name of his Principal; who * E● Praef. li●. Collect. Hen. ●●●ic. p. 159. representing his humble request to the Sovereign, in Chapter held on the Eve of the said Feast, he was pleased to grant it, and appointed Heneage Earl of Winchelsey to be the Duke's Proxy, who performed the whole service. And there is an ancient Example in this kind, x Lib. N. pag. 164. an. 9 H. 5. where the Sovereign nominated the y Lib. N. pag. 164. Lord Fitz-Hugh, Procter for the King of Denmark; which yet was not done, till after the Sovereign had been certified, that the said King had been invested with the Habit and Ornaments of the Order, and also z Lib. N. pag. 164. obliged himself by Oath to the observation of the Statutes. In like manner it is recorded, a Lib R p. 40. that the Earl of Cleveland was by the Sovereign appointed Deputy, for the Installation of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden; and yet not unlike but this might be by consent of the said King, though the Annals herein are silent; (as is very usual, and sometimes in circumstances and passages of note) for if we look towards the end of the said King's Certificate, returned of his Receipt of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, we shall there find he desired, b Appendix▪ Num. CXIX. that the Qualifications therein before mentioned, might be admitted into his Oath, when any solemn attestation should be made by his Proctor in his Name; whence it may be well enough (and without much wresting) inferred, that he had not then named his Proctor, but probably either by a private Letter, or verbal message, returned by those (or some of them) joined in the Legation with the Habit, might leave him and the time to the choice and appointment of the Sovereign. But suppose the Sovereign (being loath to defer this King's Installation too long, considering the hazards of War) did appoint a Deputy for his Installation, without his direction; as the case stood he might do it, and not entrench upon that leave given a Stranger by the Statutes, to choose his own; because in the body of the said King's Certificate, there is set down the very qualifications wherewith his Oath should be taken by his Proctor, which being allowed and admitted by the Sovereign, any further concern in this Affair was but matter of indifferency. But if the Sovereign, having nominated a Proctor, should also cause him to take the ancient Oath, in its absolute nature and form, not allowing those qualifications, which the interests of his Principal, to his Religion, or to other Prince's Orders, and such like, might justly exact (which without consulting an invested Stranger, cannot well be known or set down) and such an Oath as his Principal had neither allowed of, nor consented unto: this might seem good cause of exception, and be esteemed done in prejudice to his preingaged interests. SECT. II. The Proctor's Qualifications. BUT whether the Proctor be nominated by his Principal, or by the Sovereign, the Statutes of the Order put some qualifications upon the person so sent, or appointed as aforesaid: and first, That he be * E. 3. Stat. Art. 20 Procurator sufficiens, & a Ib. Art. 24. idoneus; that is, b Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 19 such a person who hath been always accounted of an unblamable conversation, not branded with any note of infamy, but altogether irreproveable. And such as one was Dominus Franciscus— Deputy to Hercules Duke of Ferara, who in the Black-Book of the Order, is characterised to be c Pag. 147. a Knight of an incorrupt Fame; nor are we to doubt, but that other Proctors to Strangers were such, though the testimonials of their virtue do not appear in the Annals of the Order. Secondly, the Proctor ought to be a person d E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. Vide●i● H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. & H. ●. Stat. Art. 21. correspondent to the State and Dignity of that Stranger which doth depute him; so that answerable to the dignity of the Invested Knight, aught to be (in some Proportion) the quality of the Proctor. And how this Injunction hath been observed, will sufficiently appear in the following Scheme. Knights. Proctors. Emperor. Maximilian the First. Marquess of Brandenburg. An. 6. H. 7. Kings. Ericus King of Denmark. Lord Fitz-Hugh. An. 9 H. 5. Kings. Francis the First of France. Andrian de Tercelin Lord of Bross. An. 19 H. 8. Kings. james the Fifth King of Scotland. Lord john Erskine. An. 26. H. 8. Kings. Charles the Ninth of France. jaques Lord Remboilliet. An. 8. Eliz. Kings. Frederick the Second King of Denmark. Peregrine Lord Willoughby of Ersby. An. 24. Eliz. Kings. Henry the Fourth of France. Sire de Chastes Vice-Admiral of France. An. 42. Eliz. Kings. Christian the Fourth King of Denmark. Henry Ramell, hereditary Lord of Wosterwitz and Beckeskaw. An. 3. jac. R. Kings. Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden. Thomas Wentworth Earl of Cleveland. An. 4. Car. 1. Kings. Charles King of Sweden. Charles Howard Earl of Carlisle. An. 23. Car. 2. Arch Duke Ferdinand Archduke of Austria. George de Halwyn, Baron of Gomyns. An. 16. H. 8. Dukes. Peter Duke of Conimbero. john Lord Typtost. An. 6. H. 6. Dukes. Guido Vbaldus Duke of Urbin. Sir Balthasar de Castilian Knight. An. 22. H. 7. Dukes. Emanuel Duke of Savoy. johan Thomas Langusts des Contes de Stropiane. An. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. Dukes. Adolph Duke of Holstein. Walter Devereux Viscount Hereford. An. 3. Eliz. Dukes. Henry Prince of Orange. Dudley Carleton Viscount Dorchester. An. 4. Car. 1. Dukes. john George Duke of Saxony. Heneage Finch Earl of Winchelsey. An. 23. Car. 2. Earls. Anne Montmorency Earl of Beaumond. Sir Amye de Courteney Knight Sire de Villert. An. 25. H. 8. Earls. Philip Chabot Earl of Newblank. Sir james Deschateners' Knight Sire de Beaulion. An. 25. H. 8. Thirdly it is provided, Ibid. that he be a Knight, and without any manner of Reproach; and if it so happen, that he have not received the degree of Knighthood, the Sovereign is to bestow that honour, before he be allowed to take upon him the execution of his deputative power; for none but f Nam f as non est alios quam Milites munus istud in se suscipere, R. pag. 20. Knights are capable of this Honour, or g Ibid. p. 159. permitted to bear the Ensigns of so great an Order. Hereupon the Lord Willoughby of Ersbie, Proctor for Frederick the Second King of Denmark, and Sir Philip Sidney, for john Count Palatine of the Rhine; were * Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 30. both Knighted by the Sovereign at Windesor Castle, the morning before they proceeded to take possession of their Principals Stalls. Notwithstanding, there was a reason why this particular was not strictly stood upon (though moved) in the case (and it is the single case) of h Lib. C. p. 1ST Henry Ramell, Deputy for Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 3. jac. R. for it being taken notice of, that he was not a Knight, certain persons were sent from the Sovereign to signify his pleasure, that he should be advanced to the honour of Knighthood, before he took upon him the Ensigns of the Order, in his King's behalf; to which he made answer, i 〈◊〉. R. p. 1ST. that he appeared here not in his own, but in the name of the King of Denmark, and that such a Degree of honour was unusual in his own Country (being born in Pomerania) and therefore humbly desired that he might be excused for receiving the honour. Upon which answer the Sovereign was pleased to k Ibid. dispense with him, and forthwith the said Deputy (but no Knight) l Ibid. received the Ornaments of the Order, and was admitted to take the Stall assigned to the said King his Principal. SECT. III. His Letters of Procuration. THE authority wherewith an Elect-Stranger invests his Proxy, is chiefly deduceable from the words in his Letters of Procuration or Deputation, which ought to pass under the Hand and Seal of his Principal, and do generally contain these particulars. First, m Appendix▪ Num. CXXI. CXXII. & CXXIII. he premiseth the Sovereign's Election of him into the Order of the Garter, and his Receipt of the Habit and Ensigns thereof; then takes notice of the obligation which the Statutes of the Order put upon him, for sending a Proxy to take possession of his Stall, in regard the dignity whereunto he is advanced in his own Country, will not permit him to repair personally to Windesor; and being not only desirous, that the Election and Investiture should obtain its due effect, but to fulfil, as far as in him lies, the Injunctions of the Statutes, in what concerns the assuming of his Stall, and taking the Oath appointed, He therefore ordains, authorises, and deputes, a person fitly qualified (named in the Deputation) his sufficient Proctor and special Deputy, to appear at the Castle of Windesor on his behalf, and in his Name at the next Solemnity that should be held there, to supply his room, and receive possession of the Stall assigned him, according to the usual form; and to perform in all respects those Ceremonies and things, in his behalf, due and accustomed, or should appear to belong any way to the splendour or ornament of the Order: As also to take the accustomed Oath, with those qualifications, and in that form, as had been (or should be) agreed upon; and further to fulfil all other things, which he should think necessary, to be performed on this occasion, or whatsoever thing might require a more special command, than was contained in the Letters of Procuration; and as fully as the Stranger should be obliged unto, and would do, if he were there present in his own person. Lastly, there is usually added a Clause of Ratification and Confirmation of all such things, as the Proctor should say or do, in reference to the Solemnity of Installation. SECT. IV. Of the Proctor's Reception. SOon after the arrival of the Proxy, and that the Sovereign is acquainted with the occasion of his coming, he at some convenient time a Collect. W. l● N. ●l. giveth him Audience; after which a day for Installation is assigned, (where the Sovereign or his Lieutenant are present) the Sovereign nominates some of the Knights-Companions his Commissioners to perform the Ceremonies. Heretofore, the Sovereign hath caused the Proctor to be received with very great state; for so was b Ex ve●. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. p. 24. b. Sir Balthasar Castilian, sent hither from the Duke of Urbin, an. 22. H. 7. whom Sir c Ex. ve●. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. p. 24. b. Thomas Brandon, with a goodly company of his own Servants, well horsed, met at the Sea side; and thence continually kept company with him, till they came near Deptsord in Kent, where, by the Sovereign's command, he was met by Sir d Ex ve●. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. p. 24. b. Thomas Dokara, Lord of St. john's, and Sir Thomas Wriothesley Garter: The said Sir Thomas Dokara had attending him e Ex ve●. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. p. 24. b. 30 of his Servants all in new Liveries, well horsed, every Gentleman bearing a Javelin in his hand, and every Yeoman a Bow, and a Sheaf of Arrows, and so they conveyed him to his Lodging. The next day they conducted him to London, and by the way there met him divers Italians, and Paulus de Gygeles the Pope's Vice-Collector, to whose house he was conveyed and there lodged. The Reception also of james Lord Rambovillet, Proctor for the French King Charles the Ninth, was very noble; to whom, as soon as the Sovereign heard of his arrival at Gravesend (being f Collect. W. le N. Cl. Tuesday the ●8. of january an. 8. Eliz.) she sent thither g Collect. W. le N. Cl. Arthur Lord Grey of Wilton, Mr. Midlemore, and other Gentlemen, who the next day landed him at the Tower-Wharf, where all taking Horse, they conducted him to his Lodgings, near St. h Collect. W. le N. Cl. Mary's spital, without Bishopsgate; within which place lay the Ambassador Leaguer of France. SECT. V. The Preparations for Installation. THE Preparations for the Installation of a Stranger by Proxy, are the same as for the Proxy of a Knight-Subject, and mentioned as before, namely the (1.) Commission for Installation, (2.) Letters of notice to the Commissioners. (3.) Warrants for removal of Stalls, (4.) for the Strangers Achievements, and (5.) some other particulars of less note: All which are to be obtained by the Chancellor of the Order, under the Sovereign's Sign Manual, to which the Signet of the Order is to be affixed. 1. Commission for Installation. The form of the Commission is much the same, with that drawn up for Installation of a Knight-Subject, both as to the material and circumstantial parts; whereof we have a Chap. 11. Sect. 3. already discoursed. The b Appendix. Num. CXXIV. CXXV. CXXVI. CXXVII. Preamble constains the same matter, and the authority wherewith the Proxy is impowered, and is penned with like words; the variation lies only in those expressions, which lay down the causes of the Stranger's absence, and for the most part are generally expressed, but if in particular, then are the words fitted with alterations suitable to the occasion. 2. Letters to the Commissioners. The Letters sent from the Sovereign to each of the Commissioners appointed for Installation, c Ibid. Num. CXXVIII. & CXXIX. giving them notice and information of the Solemnity, and requiring their attendance at Windesor, on the day assigned, are of the same nature with those prepared against the Installation of a Knight-Subject by his Proxy; the necessary alterations being taken in, where the occasion requires. 3. Warrants for removal of Stalls. Thirdly, a Warrant for the Removal of Stalls, is likewise to be obtained from the Sovereign, and sent unto Garter, to see it put in execution, according to its tenor, whereby a Stall being assigned to the Stranger, his Proxy having taken possession thereof, may set over it the Achievements of his Principal. The ground of this Removal, and the practice thereupon, in relation both Strangers and Knights-Subjects, is discoursed of at large, among the d 〈…〉 11. Preparations made for the Personal Installation of a Knight-Subject. In the last place, 4. Warrants for Achievements. a Warrant is to be drawn and signed by the Sovereign, for providing the Stranger's Achievements at the Sovereign's charge; namely, his Helm, Crest, Mantlings, and Sword, together with a Banner of his Arms and Quartering; and these the Proctor is * E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. H. ●. Stat. Art. 20. H. ●. Stat. Art. ●1. enjoined to bring along with him to Windesor. Sometimes a Warrant hath been directed to the M●●ter of the Wardrobe, to provide but some part of these Achievements; and another Warrant to the Lord Treasurer of England, to deliver Garter money to provide the other part; in each of which, the particulars relating to either are enumerated. For so were the Warrants drawn up, for the Achievements of the French King a Ap●endix, Num. CXXX, & CXXXI. Henry the Second. At other times the direction hath been to the Master of the Great Wardrobe, to provide and deliver to Garter the whole, who thereupon put the charge upon account; as were those Warrants for Achievements for the b Ibid. Num. CXXXII. & CXXXIII. Duke of Chevereux and King of Sweden. Sometimes particular Warrants have been directed to the Master of the Wardrobe, to deliver forth several parcels of the Materials, for the making up these Achievements, to the persons employed in the work, or oversight thereof, as were those Warrants to deliver the c Ibid. Num. CXXXIV CXXXV. CXXXVI. ● CXXXVII. Sovereign's Embroiderer, and to d Ibid. Num. CXXXIV CXXXV. CXXXVI. ● CXXXVII. Garter so much Velvet, Cloth of Gold, etc. for making the great Banner and other the Achievements of Charles the Ninth, and Henry the Third the French Kings, and Christian Prince of Denmark. But it appears that Garter hath sometimes laid out the money, for making all, or part of the Achievements, and then he delivered his Bill of disbursements into the Wardrobe, as is manifest from those Bills drawn up for the Achievements of e Ex Collect. A. V. W. Frederick the Second King of Denmark, f MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 160 & 156. john Count Palatine of the Rhine, and the g MS. penes G. O. Y. f. 160 & 156. Duke of Holstien. Besides the Achievements, 5. Some other particulars. some other things used at the Solemnity, are commonly included in the foresaid Warrants, as (1.) a Plate of Brass gilt, whereon are engraven and enameled in Colours the Stranger's Coat of Arms and Quartering, within a Garter; as also his Helm, Crest, and Supporters, and underneath these his whole Style and Titles of Honour: (2.) A Majesty Scutcheon, to be set over the Sovereign's Stall, and another over the Strangers, there to remain during the time of Installation. And when Prince Henry was constituted the Sovereign's Lieutenant for St. George's Feast, at which time also Christian the Fourth King of Denmark was installed; he likewise had a h Ex Autogr. penes ●uil. Knight, a. 1657. Majesty Scutcheon placed 〈◊〉 his Stall: (3.) Some Lodging Scutcheons of his Arms, marshaled in the same order as they are in his Plate: and (4.) a Cushion of Crimson Velvet, whereon to lay the Mantle, when Garter bears it before the Proctor into the Choir, in case the Proctor doth not carry it on his own arm. Lastly, for the carriage of all these things to Windesor, a Trunk is likewise to be provided. We do not think it needful to place the Mantle of the Order here, with those things that are to be prepared at the Sovereign's charge against this Solemnity; for the i E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. vide etiam H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. & H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. Statutes of Institution appoint the Proxy to bring one with him, not that the Sovereign should provide it, having done that before at the k Ibid. Legation with the whole Habit: Nor have we found in the Rolls or Books of the Sovereign's Great Wardrobe, any account made for providing a second Mantle, when the Proxy of a Stranger came hither; which, had the Sovereign been at such charge, would not have been omitted. SECT. VI The Proctor's Cavalcade to Windesor. THE day appointed for the Installation drawing on, the a Lib. N. p. 316. Proxy was heretofore accompanied on Horseback, from London to Windesor, with the Sovereign's Lieutenant and his Assistants (if the Feast of St. George were then also celebrated) or otherwise the Sovereign's Commissioners, with a very great Retinue. Amongst the rest, when Adrian de Tercelin, Deputy for the French King Francis the First, rode to Windesor, the day before his Installation (being the 24. of jan. an. 19 H. 8.) b Autogr. in Bibl. Coton, vide MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 21. all the Knights-Companions that were in Commission for that Solemnity, assembled at the Lord Sandys his Place, near St. Paul's Church in London, whence they road to the Deputies Lodging, then at the Dean of Paul's his House; and thence accompanied him in good order and gallant equipage, to the Castle of Windesor; where Lodgings were prepared for him at the Dean's House. In like manner on Tuesday the 15. of january an. 8. Eliz. the c MS. penes W. D. N. f. 24. b. Earls of Sussex and Leicester and Lord Clinton, ( d Lib. C. p. 50. three of the four Commissioners appointed for the Installation of the French King Charles the Ninth) with other Lords and Gentlemen, took their Horses at the e Ex MS. praed. Court Gate at Westminster, and with a great Train rode to the Lodging of the said King's Proxy (being then at St. Mary's spital in London) whence they took their way through Holborn towards Windesor, the Earl of Southampton, Viscount Montague, Sir Henry Lea, and Sir Edward umpton met them at Langford near Colebrook with their Hawks, and there showed the Proxy variety of sport, with which he being exceeding well pleased, they road to Windesor; where he was accommodated with Lodgings in the Dean's House, f Lib. N. p. 316. for that hath usually been the place to entertain the Stranger's Proxies, when they came to Windesor, upon this solemn occasion. SECT. VII. Supper after his arrival there. THE Evening of their arrival passeth with a Supper, for the most part costly and sumptuous; but the principal entertainment is reserved to set forth the magnificence of the following days Dinner, in case the Instalment be appointed to be solemnised on the next morning. At the Installation of the French King Francis the First, all the g Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Commissioners met at the Marquis of Exceter's Lodgings, and went together to the Dean's House, where they were entertained by him at h Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Supper, all at one Table, at another Table sat i Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Garter, with certain of the Deputy's chief Gentlemen, and some of the Heralds; and at a third Table sat the k Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. rest of the Heralds, and other of the Proxy's Servants. The l MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. Commissioners, and other Noblemen, who also accompanied Charles the Ninth's Proctor to Windesor, supped (the Evening of their arrival) with him; he m MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. himself sitting at the upper end of the Table, than the Earls of Sussex and Leicester by him, one against the other, next the Earl of Southampton, and Viscount Montague, than the Lord Clinton, and Lord Herbert of Cardiff, after them two Strangers, namely Monsieur Clerimont, and Monsieur de la Lupe, then lower sat the Lord Grey, and other Strangers, and last of all sat Monsieur Dose alias St. Michael, the French Herald, at the lower end, opposite to the Proctor. n MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. Garter, Black-Rod, and divers Strangers, supped with the Dean; and in the Parlour and Hall sat divers Pensioners, Gentlemen, and Strangers. SECT. VIII. Of the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. WHat hath been before set down, touching the public Proceeding to the Chapterhouse, at the personal Installation of a Knight-Subject, and other particulars relating to that Ceremony, will extend hither, both as to order and circumstances; and there needs no further instruction here, but to look back to the * Chap. 12. Sect. 4. Discourse thereupon: Nevertheless, this general rule is to be born in mind, That the place of a Stranger-Prince's Proctor here, is a Collect. W. le N. Cl. next after the Provincial-Kings (unless the Proctor of a Knight-Subject happen to intervene) and b Collect. W. le N. Cl. before the junior Knight-Companion (unless a Knight-Subject Elect pass then in the Proceeding) of which we have an instance at the Installation of the Dukes of * Lib. R. p. 29▪ Brunswick and Chevereux, and the Earl of Dorset by their Proctors, but the Earls of Salisbury, Carlisle, and Holland, with Viscount Andover, in person, an. 1. Car. 1. when the Proceeding was ordered as followeth. ‖ MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. gen▪ First, two Waiters of the Sovereign's Hall in their Livery Coats, bearing white Rods. Alms-Knights. prebend's of the College. Officers of Arms. Proctors to the absent Elect-Knights. Elect-Knights in person. Knights-Companions. Black-Rod. Register. Garter. Chancellor. Prelate. Sovereign's Lieutenant. Courtiers and Gentlemen in the Rear. Only in the single case of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 3. jac▪ (as an extraordinary respect and honour) his Proxy went in the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse, c MS. fol. penes E. W. G. fol. 146. b. next before the Sovereign's Lieutenant. As we had an example before, of a Proctor to a Knight-Subject, who passed in this Proceeding before the Alms-Knights and Officers of Arms, namely, Sir Henry Sidney, Deputy to the Earl of Warwick, a. 5. Eliz. so here (in the case of a Stranger) the Viscount Hereford, Proxy to the Duke of Holstien, d Lib. C. p. 37. installed the 15. of December, an. 3. Eliz. who went in the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse before the Officers of Arms also: which Proceeding was ordered in this manner. e Collect. W. l● N. Cl. Gentlemen, and Knights. The Proctor, and Ambassador of Holstein together. Officers of Arms. Register and Garter. Lord Hastings Commissioners. Lord Paget Commiccioners. If the Proxy of a Stranger pass in the Proceeding which the Sovereign, or his Lieutenant, or Commissioners make to the Chapterhouse, then doth he for the most part give his attendance in the Presence-Chamber, or in that Room, from whence the Lieutenant or the Commissioners do proceed, and there joineth himself thereunto. But sometimes the Commissioners, after their setting forth (as an act of grand respect) have taken the Proxie's Lodgings by the way, and there received him into the Proceeding. Instances in this, are first Prince Henry, Lieutenant at the Installation of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, who proceeded from the f Ex eod. MS. penes eund. E. W. G. loco citato. Presence-Chamber, down to the Deans House (where the said King's Proxy lodged) and g Ex eod. MS. penes eund. E. W. G. loco citato. received him at the Door, from whence the Lieutenant passed to the Chapterhouse. And at the Installation of the Duke of Wirtemberg, h Lib. C. p. 153. 19 April an. 2 jac. R. the Commissioners proceeded from their i Ex. MS. praed. Lodgings (having the Alms-Knights and Officers of Arms before them) unto the Dean's House, where k Ex. MS. praed. Grave van Eveston his Proctor likewise lodged; and from whence to the Chapterhouse, the now full Proceeding passed. We observe, that the Proxies of Strangers have not always gone in the Proceeding, but sometimes stayed at their Lodging in the Castle, till the Commissioners were ready to send for them into the Chapterhouse. And thus it was at the Installation of the French King Charles the Ninth, for on the r MS. penes ●▪ D. N. f. 25. 16. of january, an. 8. Eliz. in the morning (at the Earl of Leicester's Lodgings in the Castle) the other three Commissioners met, where they and the three inferior Officers of the Order, robed themselves, and went thence to the Proxie's Lodging; and having a while conferred with him, took leave and s MS. penes ●▪ D. N. f. 25. proceeded to the Chapterhouse. After some time of consolation there, they t Ex Collect. A. V. W. sent out Garter to the Proctor, with desire to repair to them, who, upon the delivery of the message, was forthwith conducted by u Ex Collect. A. V. W. Garter (attended with the Earl of Southampton, the Lords Herbert and Grey, and many others) to the Chapterhouse door; where being arrived, the Earls of Sussex and Leicester (being the two signior Commissioners) received him between them. Sometimes the Proxies have passed privately to the East-Isle of St. George's Chapel, and there rested, before the Sovereign and Knights-Companions went into the Chapterhouse (or proceeded into the Choir, without entering thereinto, for ●o it hath sometimes happened) as did the w Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Cleveland, and Marquis Dorchester, Proxies for Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, and Henry Prince of Orange, an. 4. Car. 1. The like did the x Lib. R. p. 84. Earl of Dover Proxy to Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine, an. 9 Car. 1, and of late, Sir George Carteret, Proxy to Christian Prince of Denmark, a. 15. Car. 2. So also the Earls of Carlisle and Winchelsey, Proctors to Charles King of Sweden, and john George Prince Elector of Saxony, an. 23. Car. 2. SECT. IX. The Ceremonies performed therein. WHen the Proceeding hath arrived at the Chapterhouse door, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions (or the Lieutenant and his Assistants, or Commissioners) with the Officers of the Order before them, enter to hold their Consultation: but first the Stranger's Proctor is a Lib. N. p. 316. entreated to stay without, until his Deputation or Letters of Procuration be read, to the end they may understand the elect thereof. To this purpose we find it also b MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 2. fol. 8. b. directed, (under an ancient hand) that where any Knight is installed by his Deputy, he ought to stay without the Vestry (or Chapterhouse) door, until he be brought in by two Knights-Companions: Hereupon the c Collect. A. V. W. Lord Pagit, one of the Commissioners for installation of the Duke of Savoy, when the Proceeding was come to the Chapterhouse door, acquainted his Proxy with this Custom and Injunction, and desired him to walk aside, which he accordingly did. The East-Isle behind the High Altar, is the d MS. fol. penes E. W. G. accustomed place for the Proxies to walk or repose themselves in, till they be called into the Chapter; as it is also for the Deputies of Knights-Subjects, where Chairs and Cushions are ready prepared for this occasion. The first thing done, 1. Reading the Commissions. after the Chapter is opened, is e Collect. W. le N. Cl. Reading the Commission for Installation, by the Register of the Order (but if the Sovereign be present at the Installation, no Commission issues) and next the Letters of Procuration; this being as the most proper, so the most accustomed place for this act. Nevertheless, at the Installation of the French King Francis the First (we know not by what (but certainly a most unusual) compliance, the f Autogr. in Bibl. Haton. Commissioners went from the Chapterhouse, after they had called in and invested the Earl of Oxford (than also present to receive his Installation) with his Surcoat and Hood, unto the Deans House, where the Proctor was lodged, and in the great Chamber there, g Autogr. in Bibl. Haton. showed him the Sovereign's Commission, and in it the authority for admitting him into the Stall of his Lord and Master: Whereupon the Proctor h Autogr. in Bibl. Haton. presented them with his Procuration, by which he was impowered to take the possession of his Principal's Stall, and further to do and perform all such Ceremonies, as to the Order of the Garter did appertain, which Instrument was forthwith read before them, by the Register. This Ceremony being ended, they all proceeded to the Chapel; where entering, they waved their return into the Chapterhouse, and passed directly into the Choir. After some time of consultation in the Chapterhouse, 2. Receiving the Proxy into the Chapterhouse. the Proxy is sent for in thither by Garter, who conducts him to the Chapterhouse door; and his i Collect. W. l● N. Cl. Reception there by the Commissioners, is after the same manner, and with the same circumstances of respect and ceremony, as is used to the Knight-Elect, or to his Proxy. But whether he ought to enter into the Chapterhouse, or be admitted any further than the door or Porch thereof, (and to pass thence immediately into the Choir) hath been. some question; because the practice seems to have been sometimes one way, and sometimes another. All that we find to prohibit his entrance thereinto, is an expression in the k Lib. N. p. 31●. short Ceremonial of Installation of Strangers by Proxy, entered in the Bla●k-Book, where it saith, That the Mantle is to be laid on the Proctor's right shoulder in the Porch of the Chapterhouse, l Ibid. because he is not to enter into it. And there are two instances, where the Mantle was delivered to the Proctor at the Chapterhouse door, from whence some may infer, that the Practice also of those times was agreeable to the aforesaid direction; namely, that of the Proctor of the French King m Ex A●●ogr. in Bibl. Haton. Francis the First, a. 19 H. 8. where n Ex A●●ogr. in Bibl. Haton. Garter stood at the Chapterhouse door, with the Mantle, and as the Proceeding passed by presented it to the two Signior Knights-Companions (the Marquis of Exeter and Viscount lisle) who placed it upon the Proctor's right arm, and of the Proctor to o Ex Collect. A. V. W. Emanuel Duke of Savoy, an. 1 & 2. Ph. & M. who entered not into the Chapterhouse, but had the Mantle of his Principal, laid on his arm and spread upon his shoulder at the p Ex Collect. A. V. W. door. But these instances (if duly weighed) cannot properly or with advantage, be alleged to prove the assertion, because the affairs relating to both, received dispatch in the Proctor's Lodging, a little before, and where the Proctor himself was present; which Convocation or meeting of the Commissioners and Proctor, cannot be called less than a Chapter (though not held in the Chapterhouse) from the Transactions which passed therein, namely producing the Sovereign's Commission, and the Proctor's Instrument of Deputation, which were both read before them by the Register, and the Proctor accordingly admitted, which being finished, nothing referring to the present occasions, required their passing into the Chapterhouse, or remained to be done till they came into the Choir▪ But the general practice runs strong on the contrary side, for we find, that the Proxy for u Lib. C. p. 5. & MS. pene● W. D. N. f. 25. Charles the Ninth of France, an. 8. Eliz. was met at the Chapterhouse door, by the Earls of Sussex and Leicester, who took him w Lib. C. p. 5. & MS. pene● W. D. N. f. 25. in thither between them; where after the Register had read as well the Sovereign's Commission for Installation, as his x Lib. C. p. 5. & MS. pene● W. D. N. f. 25. Letters of Procuration, and the Commissioners had admitted him Deputy for the said King, they all came forth and laid y Lib. C. p. 5. & MS. pene● W. D. N. f. 25. his Principal's Mantle on his right arm and shoulder, the z Lib. C. p. 5. & MS. pene● W. D. N. f. 25. Train whereof was born by the Earl of Southampton, assisted by the Lord Herbert of Cardiff. Again it is remembered, an. 25. Eliz. that Garter conducted the Proxy of a Ex Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 30. sub finem. Frederick the Second King of Denmark, to the Chapterhouse door; and at that place the Earl of Leicester and Lord Hunsdon, received and led him in. So also was Christian the Fourth's Proxy c MS. fol. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. led in thither, by the Earls of Nottingham and Dorset; and an. 10. jac. R. d MS. fol. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. Lodowick Count Nassaw, Proctor to Maurice Prince of Orange, was e MS. fol. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. called into the Chapterhouse and there f MS. fol. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. left, while the Sovereign and Knights-Companions proceeded into the Choir: And so in like manner was Sir George Cartret Vice-Chamberlain, Proctor to Christian Prince of Denmark, a. 15. Car. 2. and the Proctors to the King of Sweden and Duke of Saxony, an. 23. Car. 2. Nor are these instances, and the practice in this latter case (in truth) derogatory to the Statutes, which though it prohibit the Proxies entrance into the Chapterhouse, yet doth not this Prohibition extend to any time before, but after the Ceremony of Installation is finished; for the Article of the Statutes having first directed the delivery of the Mantle to the Proxy, and next the assumption of his Principals Stall, in these words, Dictus Procurator installatus, it immediately subjoins i E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. videses H. 5. Stat. Art. 20. & H. 8. Stat. Art. 21. that from thenceforth (namely the time of installation) he shall neither wear the Mantle, nor enter into the Chapter, nor have any voice there, by virtue of any power granted unto him: all which are prohibitions, plainly relateing to the future, and after such time as the Ceremonies of Installation are past, and not to any time preceding. And it seems the Law hath been thus understood, in regard the greater stream of Practice hath gone along with it; for not only the Proxies of Strangers (as before is observed) but generally of Knights-Subjects, have been called into the Chapterhouse, and there received the Mantle before they proceeded into the Choir. 3. Delivering him the Mantle. The Ceremony of delivering the Mantle to the Proctor is performed by the k Ibid. & loc. sequent. Sovereign, his Deputy, or the Commissioners (Garter presenting it to them) and the manner thereof was heretofore, by putting it upon the Proxies l Ibid. & loc. sequent. right arm, * Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 19 or shoulder, in the name of his Lord and Master, there to hold it until the end of Divine Service. But as there hath happened some doubt, touching the entry or not entry of Proctors into the Chapterhouse, before they proceeded to Installation; so likewise here, concerning the receiving of the Mantle, viz. whether in the Chapterhouse, or Stall allotted to their Principal, of which there are Examples. That part of the Article of the Statutes of Institution which concerns this point runs thus, That the Mantle m E. 3. Stat. Art. 20. tempore Installationis Procuratoris, shall be laid upon his Arm. etc. but whether this shall be strictly limited to that instant of time, when the Proctor is brought to the Stall of his Principal, or with some greater latitude construed, to be during the time of Installation (including the very first action, or beginning of the Ceremony of Installation, namely, the being called to the Chapterhouse door, and entrance into it) is the question; because there are instances in both, but the latter is more warrantabale by the Statutes and general practice. The w 21. Article in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, being much more large in description, and passing further in setting down the Ceremonies of Installation, than any of the former (the particulars of which, as in the rest, so to this point, we take to be as well placed in a true series and order of action) having mentioned the Sovereign (or his Deputy's) laying the Mantle on the Proxies Arm; it immediately follows (as the very next thing to be performed in course of time) That afterward he shall be led by two Knights, from the Chapterhouse door, unto the Stall, and there being shall make his Oath, and be installed; but it saith nothing of laying the Mantle on the arm of the Proctor, now at the instant of installation in the Choir; for that was directed to be done before. It is also recorded in the Black-Book, where the order of this Ceremony is more fully and particularly set down, That x Lib. N. p: 316 Garter shall take the Mantle upon his Arms, and deliver it to both the Knights-Commissioners, and that they (according to the tenor of the Statutes) shall lay it on the Proctor's right shoulder, in the Porch of the Chapterhouse. Besides which, and the ancient usage of receiving the Mantle in the Chapterhouse, or at the Chapterhouse door, either before or in the Proceeding to the Choir, by the Proctors of the French King Francis the First, of Emanuel Duke of Savoy, * Ex Collect. A. V. W. of Charles the Ninth the French King, and ‖ Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 30. Frederick the Second King of Denmark; we have likewise the Examples of later times, as that of the Proctor for Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, an. 4. Car. 1. who y Lib. R. p. 40. proceeded into the Choir with the Mantle upon his arm; and that at the Installation of Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine, the z Ibid. p. 83. 5. of November, an. 9 Car. 1. where the Earl of Dover his Proxy bore the a Collect. W. le N. Cl. Mantle on his right shoulder into the Choir, and Garter carried the b Collect. W. le N. Cl. Collar of the Order, before him, on a Velvet Cushion. But there are several modern instances, where the Mantle hath been born to the Choir (and sometimes the Collar of the Order with it) not by the Proctor but by Garter before him, and delivered in his Principal's Stall; as in the Proceeding of the Proxy for the Duke of Wirtemberg, an. 2. jac. when e MS penes E. W. G. f. 145. b. after he had taken the Oath and was led into the Duke's Stall (not before) was the Robe laid upon his arms and so was it done in the following year, at the Installation of f Ib. f. 146. b. Christian the Fourth King of Denmark. So also at the Installation of g Ere fol. 151. Maurice Prince of Orange, an. 10. jac. Garter performed the like service for him, and in the very same manner, and after he had taken the Oath appointed, the Mantle was laid upon his arm. And lastly, h MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. after the Proxies of the Duke of Brunswick and Chevereux, had taken the Oath, not only the Mantles but Collars were placed on their arms. Which manner hath so far prevailed, as to be continued in practice since the Restauration of the present Sovereign; for at the Installations of the Prince of Denmark, Charles' King of Sweden, and Duke of Saxony, Garter carried the Mantle on a Cushion before their Proctors into the Choir, nor was it laid on their arms, till they had taken their Oaths, and so laid, that the Cross of St. George might be conspicuous. SECT. X. Of the Proceeding to the Choir. BUT let us pass on to the Proxie's proceeding into the Choir, concerning which, King Henry the Eighth's Statutes direct, (as is remembered a little before upon another point) d Art: 21▪ That he shall be accompanied and led by two Knights-Companions of the Order, from the door of the Chapterhouse, unto the Stall assigned to his Principal; agreeable to which is that passage in the short Memorial of Installation entered in the Black-Book, That as soon as the two Knights have placed the Mantle on his arm, e Pag. 316. they shall take him between them, and conduct him to the Stall of his Lord: and thus assisted have all Proxies proceeded to the Choir. But in relation to the order of the rest of the Proceeding, it will be necessary to exhibit a Scheme or two. The ordinary Proceeding into the Choir, the Installation being celebrated when the Sovereign's Lieutenant holds the Feast of St. George. Alms-Knights. Collect. W. le N. Cl. Verger of the Chapel. prebend's of the College. Officers of Arms. Black-Rod. Register. Garter. The Proxy between two Knights-Assistants. The Lieutenant having his Train born. The Proceeding into the Choir, at the Installation (by Commission) of Charles the Ninth the French King, a. 8. Eliz. MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. b. vide etiam Collect. A. V. W. Gentlemen, attendants on the Sovereign's Commissioners. Gentlemen, attendants upon the Proctor. Verger of the Chapel. Alms-Knights. Officers of Arms. Black-Rod. Register. Garter. Viscount Montague the two junior Commissioners. Lord Clinton the two junior Commissioners. The Proctor, between the Earl of Sussex and Earl of Leicester (the two signior Commissioners) his Train being born by the Earl of Southampton, assisted by the Lord Herbert. Since the Custom of receiving the Collar in the Chapterhouse was laid aside, if the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) was present at an installation of a Stranger, so soon as the Mantle was delivered to the Proctor, or (as of late) that he hath been admitted, according to the purport of his Deputation, the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) proceeds to the Choir with the Knights-Companions present, and leaves the Proxy behind him in the Chapterhouse, and after he and the Knights-Companions have taken their Stalls, directs two of the Knights-Companions to descend; who taking the Alms-Knights, Officers of Arms, and the three inferior Officers of the Order before them, pass to the Chapterhouse, and bring thence the Proxy to his Installation. Thus was it done an. 4. Car. 1. at the Installation of the King of Sweden, when f Lib. R. p. 40. vide MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. William Earl of Penbroke, and Philip Earl of Montgomery, proceeded forth of the Choir, and introduced the Earl of Cleveland, Proctor to the said King: In like manner, the g Lib. R. p. 84. Earls of Penbroke and Arundel went out to conduct in the Earl of Dover, Proctor to Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine. So also were the Duke of York and Prince Rupert sent out, to introduce Sir George C●rterett Proctor to the Prince of Denmark an. 15. Car. 2. and the Earl of Carlisle Proctor to the King of Sweden, an. 23. Car. 2. And where there are more than one Stranger, at the same time to be installed by Proxy, there the two next signior Knights pass out, as did the i Lib. R. p. 40. Earls of Kelly and Salisbury, who brought in Sir Dudley Carleton, Proctor to the Prince of Orange, an. 4. Car. 1. and the Dukes of Ormond and Buckingham, the Earl of Winchelsey, Proctor to the Duke of Saxony an. 23. Car. 2. In this Proceeding the Proxy goes bareheaded, for so did the before mentioned k Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Dover, Sir George Carterett, the Earl of Carlisle, and the Earl of Winchelsey. SECT. XI. The Ceremonies of Installation. WHen the Proceeding hath entered the Choir, and a Collect. W. le N. Cl. paid the accustomed Reverences, both towards the Altar and the Sovereign's Stall, and the Alms-Knights, Officers of Arms, and of the Order, taken their usual Stations; the two Commissioners (Knights-Assistants or Knights-Companions) and Proctor make their Reverences together, and then is he conducted by them into the b Collect. W. le N. Cl. lower Stalls, directly before the Stall appointed for his Principal, the foresaid Officers of the Order standing below in the Choir. If the Installation pass by more than two Commissioners, than the two g Collect. W. le N. Cl. signior Knights-Commissioners bring him to the foresaid lower Stalls, and perform the Ceremonies belonging to his Installation, while the rest of the Commissioners at their entrance, take their Station h Collect. W. le N. Cl. below in the Choir, before their proper Stalls, and there Stand until the Installation be finished. And the like do the Lieutenant's Assistants, except the two signior that are employed in the Ceremonies of Installation. The Proxy thus introduced into the lower Stalls, Taking the Oath. o Sedere Deputato non licet. Lib. R. p. 40 circa finem. stands there while the Register p Collect. W. le N. Cl. pronounceth the Oath of the Order to him, after whom he q Lib. R. p. 41. repeateth the words distinctly; during all which time he r Ex Collect. R. C. Cl. p. 32. layeth his hand upon the New Testament, and lastly kisseth the Book. The ancient Oath, s Art. 24. appointed by the Statutes of Institution, to be taken by a Stranger's Proxy, is short, absolute, and without limitation or exception, and in all points the same with that, which a Knight-Companion himself took, at his Personal Installation, viz. t Art. 24. Faithfully to observe to the utmost of his power, the Statutes of the Order. But afterwards the Sovereigns and Fellows of those other Orders of Knighthood, whereof Kings of Free-Princes are Sovereigns, (as the Golden-Fleece, Monsieur St. Michael, and the Annuciade) before their admission into the Order of the Garter, sued for, and obtained the allowance of some relative exceptions or provisoes, to be added to the foresaid Oath; which commonly were such as stood with the interest of their Religion, their great state or dignity, or precedent obligation to the Orders they had before accepted. There is a Precedent entered in the a Pag. 311. Appendix, Num. CXXXVIII. Black-Book, of the Oath to be taken by an Emperor; whereby he is obliged to b Pag. 311. Appendix, Num. CXXXVIII. promise upon his Royal word, and give his Faith, upon his honour and the holy Evangelists, c Pag. 311. Appendix, Num. CXXXVIII. That he will faithfully and truly, to the utmost of his power, observe the Statutes of this most Noble Order, and that particularly in every branch and Article thereof; d Pag. 311. Appendix, Num. CXXXVIII. at least so far as they can or aught to be observed by him, and so far as they shall not be contrary or derogatory to those, whereunto he hath before given his name and sworn, and saving all other conditions agreed on. Besides this, there are also two other Precedents lodged in the e Pag. 312. Ib. Num. CXXXIX, Annals, the one of the form of the Oath, as it is fitted for the Proctor of an Emperor or a King; the other for the Proctor of a Prince, Archduke, and every other inferior degree to a Knight, including him also. By the first of these, the f Pag. 312. Ib. Num. CXXXIX, Proctor is to oblige himself in the name and behalf of his Lord, g Pag. 312. Ib. Num. CXXXIX, and with a sincere heart and true faith shall promise and swear, that his said Lord shall well and faithfully fulfil and observe, all and every the Statutes, Ordinances, and Decrees of this Order, according to the force, form, and effect; any way thereunto belonging, saving the conditions before agreed on between him and the Sovereign. By the second he is h Ibid. Num. CXL. also in the name and behalf of his Lord, with a real heart and sincere faith, to promise and swear, That his said Lord shall faithfully observe and fulfil the Statutes, and every several Branch and Article thereof, according to the force, form, and effect of the same, i Ibid. Num. CXL. at least so far as the Sovereign's Dispensation shall limit and appoint. But we have not found any of these Precedents made use of, because being rather too general, they have otherwise and more particularly fitted the Oath to the present interest and occasion, at least so far, as they could obtain the Sovereign to condescend unto. And hereupon Philip King of Castille and Leon (Sovereign of the Order of the Golden Fleece) when he received a Personal Installation at Windesor, an. 22. H. 7. though the Oath he took was absolute and without limitation, viz. p Lib N. p. 184 Append. Num. CXLI. To observe all the Statutes of the Order of the Garter, according as they were contained in the Book then lately sent unto, and accepted by him; as faithfully, as if every one of the Articles were then rehearsed unto him, and to fulfil them from Article to Article, at faithfully and readily as he looked for help from God and all his Saints. Yet nevertheless, soon after he obtained the Sovereign's free and full Dispensation, in these two things only; first, q Lib. N. loc. cit. that the use of the Collar, and the other Ensigns of the Order, might be left to his pleasure; and secondly, that he might not be obliged to be present at future Chapters. Not long after, some other Exceptions were admitted, but such were obtained with very great difficulty, and much debate had between the Sovereign's Council, and the Stranger-Princes Ambassadors, lest otherwise the dignity and reputation of the Order should (instead of being kept up) be lessened; because, where the forbearance or omission of any circumstance, either in the Investiture or Ceremony of Installation, hath been yielded unto, it hath sometimes or other been taken notice of, and brought into Precedent, to the prejudice of the Order. Therefore great circumspection ought to be taken, in yielding to the omission of any part of so grand a Ceremony: And the standing upon terms hath not been without good success, since known, that though other Interests (different or contrary to the Sovereign's) have sometimes assaulted Strangers desirous of this Honour, yet their present necessities of obtaining his Friendship, by receiving this Order, have caused them (though with some unwillingness) to accept of this obliging Tie from him. The Exceptions that were allowed to Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, when he took the Oath at his Investiture at Noremberg, the 8. of December, an. 15. H. 8. were these that follow. t Append. Num. CXLII. Not to wear the Garter and Collar, but at some certain times in the year, at his own pleasure. That if he were not in place convenient, to go to hear Mass on St. George's day, he should cause a Priest to say it in his presence. Not to be obliged, if busied in weighty Affairs, to wear the Garter, Collar, or whole Habit of the Order on St. George's day, longer than during Divine Service: Nevertheless he promised, if he could not then wear it, for a whole day together he would willingly wear it upon some other solemn day, within the compass of the year. And much to the same purpose is that Proviso, added in the Oath of Emanuel Duke of Savoy, taken the 6. of November, an. 1. & 2. Pb. & Mar. viz. To u Ibid. Num. CXLIV: observe the Statutes of the Order, so far forth as they might be conveniently observed by him, and were not inconsistent with those things, wherein he had formerly bound himself by Faith and Oath; yet not to be obliged to wear the Garter and Habit of the Order, but when he should see good, and have convenience so to do, and never else. Of another nature were the Exceptions which Francis the First of France procured to be admitted into the Oath, taken by Adrian Tercelin his Proctor, an. 19 H. 8. viz. w Ibid. Num. CXLV. To observe the Statutes of the Order of the Garter, so far as they were consistent with, and not contrary or prejudicial to the Statutes of the Order of St. Michael, and other Orders, which his Principal had before taken of other Princes. And like to this, was the Oath of Charles the Ninth, adding only an exception of any thing contrary to his royal dignity, which was received from him in the Church of the College of St. john's at Lions in France, the 24. of june in the morning after Mass, an. 5. Eliz. namely, x Ibid. Num. CXLVI. To observe the Statutes of the Garter, so far forth as they were not contrary or derogatory (1.) to his greatness Royal, (2.) the Statutes of St. Michael, nor (3.) to any other Oath, which he had before taken. Near to these, were the Prouisoes allowed in the Oath made by Maximilian the Emperor at Vienna, the 4. of january an. 10. Eliz. y Ibid. Num. CXLVII. To observe the Statutes, so far forth as they were not contrary or derogatory to his (1.) Greatness and Majesty Imperial, nor to the (2.) Statutes of any other Order, nor any (3.) Oath which he had before taken. But by the French King Henry the Third, because now our Church was reform, the Exception of the Catholic Religion, was thought of consequence to be gained from the Sovereign, and thereupon the Proviso in the Oath, which he took in the Chapel of the Augustins in Paris, an. 27. Eliz. runs thus, z Ibid. Num. CXLIX. so far forth as the Statutes of the Order should not be found contrary (1.) to the Catholic Religion, his (2.) Greatness and Majesty Royal, and (3.) the Statutes and Ordinances of the blessed Holy Ghost, and St. Michael. And this was the form of the Oath word for word, which a Ibid. Num. CL. Henry the Fourth of France took at Roan, an. 38. Eliz. And when Monsieur de Chastes came over four years after, to be Installed for him, viz. an. b Lib. C. p. 14● 42. Eliz. his Oath then taken, referred to the c Appendix, Num. CLI. form of the foresaid Oath, which Henry the Fourth himself had before made, and upon the Conditions agreed on, between the Sovereign and his Master. Such like Exceptions were allowed, in the Oath of Gustavus Adolphus and Charles Kings of Sweden; d Ibid. Num. CXIX. & CXX. To observe the Articles of this Order in all things, which should not be any way derogatory to the Religion by him professed, his Dignity and Majesty Royal, or contrary to any other Articles or Orders. Frederick the Second King of Denmark at his reception of the Habit of the Order, * Lib. C. p. 90. took in effect the usual Oath, and to observe the Statutes of the Order, ‖ Num. CLII so that they were not derogatory to those he had before sworn unto, or other conditions whereunto he had been formerly obliged: And yet I find that his Proctor, e Lib. C p. 89. an. 25. Eliz. obtained a larger latitude both in point of Religion, and particular Interest, being admitted to take the Oath with these reservations, f Append. Num. CLIII. so far forth as the Statutes of the Order, concerned the said King, and should be agreeable to the Word of God. And the same Oath was taken by Sir Philip Sidney, Proctor to john Count Palatine of the Rhine; But h Lib. R. p. 160 Henry Ramel, Proctor to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, a. 3. jac. R. took it with the salvo of those i Append. Num. CLIU Conditions and Covenants, wherein his Master had been already pre-ingaged. But the Princes of the Empire have allowed them another manner of Exception, as appears by that Oath of Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, an. 1. jac. R. viz. k Ibid. Num, CLV. To observe the Statutes, so far as they were not inconsistent with the Constitutions of the sacred Roman Empire, and faith which he owed to the Roman Emperor and his Empire. And with a like Salvo did Frederick Prince Palatine of the Rhine (personally installed at Windesor, l Lib. C. p. 178▪ an. 10. jac. R.) take this Oath, viz. m MS. penes E. W. G. f. 151. Salvis sacri Imperii constitutionibus. But as touching the Proxies of such Strangers, not Sovereign Princes, but Subjects; the form of their Oath is usually framed (by the indulgence and dispensation of the Sovereign) with just limitations, not only relative to their obligation to the Statutes of any other Order, which they had before accepted, or any Oath formerly taken, but sometimes to the fidelity and allegiance, which they owe to their Sovereign Lord and Prince. And hereupon the Earl of Newblank's Deputy, an. 25. H. 8. was sworn to the observation of the Statutes, n MS. so far forth as they were not contradictory to the Statutes of the Order of St. Michael, his Principal being one of the Fraternity of that Order. After the o MS. ●in Offic. Arm. [H. 2. fol. 8, b. Oath hath been administered to a Stranger's Proxy (with such or the like exceptions before set down) the two Knights-Commissioners p Collect. W. le N. Cl. pass up with him into the higher row of Stalls, and so to that assigned for his Principal; where being arrived, they take the Mantle from Garter, and lay it upon the Proctor's left arm, with the Scutcheon of St. George uppermost; for so was it ordered to be born, in a Chapter held at the Feast of St. George the 28. of May, an. 23. Car. 2. and to be a standing Rule for the future; and the Proxies to both the King of Sweden and Duke of Saxony did so observe it the same day, at and after Evening Service. The next thing that follows is the act and ceremony of Installation, which is briefly thus; first, the Commissioners, who conducted the Proxy into the Choir, jointly embrace him; next, the Proxy makes his t Ex Colle●●. A. V. W. double Reverence, and lastly the Commissioners, according to the custom of Installations, u Lib. N. p. 316 set him down in his Principal's Stall, where he hath used to remain during the time of Divine Service. But by the foresaid Order in Chapter held the 28. of May, an. 23. Car. 2. the Proxies are prohibited for w Ex eod. Lib. Collect. H. de Vic. loco cit. sitting in their Stalls during the time of Divine Service, but on the contrary directed to stand before them, in the uppermost Row of Stalls ( x Lib. R. p. ●4. uncovered) holding their Mantles on their right arms until it be ended. And thus this great Ceremony of Installation with all its Circumstances being finished, the two Knights (between whom the Proxy proceeded to Installation) descend into the Choir, and stand before their own Stalls, and after a while ascend up into them with usual Reverences, but the signior Commissioners first; and then begins the celebration of Divine Service. SECT. XII. The Proctor's Offering. THE Proctor having now received the possession of his Principal's Stall, performs his part in all the following Ceremonies, while he stays in the Choir, as if his Lord and Master were present, until he hath surrendered up his Mantle; the chiefest of which is, the Offering of Gold and Silver, and this he doth according to the a MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 2. fol. 8. b. degree and seniority of his Principal's Stall, in case the Installation be in the morning. If the Installation be celebrated when St. George's Feast is held by the Sovereign's Lieutenant, the Proxy ought not to offer, until the Lieutenant have first offered for the Sovereign. And in case the Lieutenant's Stall be higher than the Stranger's for whom the Proctor is installed, than the Lieutenant also offereth for himself before him. As to the order observed in Offering by the Proctor, he doth it with all the circumstances of Ceremony, as if his Lord were present. First, when the Knights-Companions descend from their Stalls (which Ceremony begins with the junior Knight) he also descends in his turn and course, and placeth himself below in the Choir, before the Stall of his Principal. Then in case he have an opposite Knight-Companion present, he joins himself unto him, and so proceeds up towards the Altar to the Offering, taking the Officers of Arms before him; but if not, he than proceeds alone without him, having his Train born, and a Knight-Companion, or some other great personage, suitable to his degree, attending on his left hand, to give him the Offering, with Carpets and Cushions spread to kneel upon at the time of Offering; after whom the c Lib. N. p. 316. rest of the Knights-Companions present offer, every one according to the seniority of their Stalls. The Proctor to Francis the First of France, was d Ex Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. served in all respects, as if himself had been there present, and at the time of the Offering, e Ex Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Sir Richard Sands (who was of greatest quality there present excepting the Knights-Companions) gave him his Offering, f Ex Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. after whom the residue of the Knights-Companions offered in their due order. Charles the Ninth's Proctor proceeded up to the Offering first, (no Feast of St. George being then solemnised, and consequently no Lieutenant to offer for the Sovereign) with the g MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. b. three inferior Officers of the Order before him; he had his h MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. b. Train carried up, and the i MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. b. Earl of Sussex (the principal Commissioner) following, delivered him the Offering; for whom also a k MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. b. Carpet and Cushion was laid, and assay thereof taken by Mr. Monk, Servant to the Earl of Leicester, l MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 25. b. instead of a Gentleman Usher, with the assistance of a Yeoman Usher. Henry Ramel, Deputy to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark, was ushered up to the Offering by m MS. penes E. W. G. f. 146. b. Garter, and the Black-Rod ( n MS. penes E. W. G. f. 146. b. still bearing the Mantle of his Principal on his arm) and having his o MS. penes E. W. G. f. 146. b. Train born up by a Gentleman. When the Proxy hath offered, he returns back to his Lords Stall, in the same manner as do the Knights-Companions, that is, by the p Ex. Collect. W. le N. Cl. East end of the Stalls (not through the body of the Choir) and so along till he arrive at the Stall of his Principal, as did the foresaid q Ex eod. MS. penes E. W. G. loco cit. Henry Ramel. Divine Service being finished, and like honour in all respects showed to the Proxy, as would have been done to his Principal, had he received a Personal Installation; the Poxie ought to remain in his Master's Stall, until his next junior Knight have left his Stall, and then is he to descend after him, and stand below before his Stall, until his turn come to join himself again to the Proceeding, and so to pass out of the Choir. Where note, that sometimes the Proctor hath been received at his coming down from his Lords Stall by the two Knights-Commissioners, who installed him; for so were the r Ex Collect, R C. Cl. p. 31. Proctors of Frederick the Second King of Denmark, and of john Count Palatine of the Rhine, between s Ex Collect, R. C. Cl. p. 31. whom they also proceeded to the Chapterhouse door, in the same manner as they were conducted to the Choir. But rather the Proctor ought, in this his return, to take the place of his Principal (as he did at the Offering, and which in truth is his right) as we find it allowed to the Proctor of Francis the First of France, who went t Ex Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. behind alone, in his Principal's place, and followed the Knights-Commissioners from the Choir, to the place where he lodged. In like manner Viscount Hereford, Proxy to the Duke of Holstien, an. 3. Eliz. who though in his Proceeding to the Choir, he went before the Officers of Arms, yet in his return from Installation, passed u Collect. W. l● N. Cl. behind the Knights-Commissioners, in the room and place of the Duke, and the Ambassador of Holstien followed him, because the said Duke's Stall was higher than any of the Commissioners, as many be seen by the following Scheam. Alms-Knights. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Officers of Arms. Garter and Register. Lord Loughborough Commissioners. Lord Pagit Commissioners. The Proctor. The Ambassador of Holstien, and Sir Henry Pagit. Knights and other Gentlemen. The like did the Proxy for Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, and Henry Prince of Orange, an. 4. Car. 1. who as they returned from the Choir, w MS. p●nes Edw. Fa●conbridge held the rooms of their Principals, among the Knights-Companions in the Proceedings: So also the Proctor to Charles Prince Palatine of the Rhine, in his x Collect. W. le N. Cl. return; but was then commanded by the Sovereign (present in the Proceeding) to y Lib. R. p. 8●. put on his Hat, which he had kept off in all the preceding parts of the Ceremony. As the Proctor passeth along by the Chapterhouse door, he hath usually heretofore delivered up his Mantle there, and so is it directed in the z Pag. 316. Black-Book of the Order; as did the Proctor to the French King Francis the First, a. 19 H. 8. So also the Duke of Savoy's b Ex Collect. A. V. W. Proctor, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. And at the same c Collect. W. le N. Cl. place did the Verger receive the Mantle from the Duke of Holstein's Proctor an. 3. Eliz. But of later times when the Sovereign hath been present at the Installation, some Proxies have been permitted to go along in the Proceeding to the Presence-Chamber, covered, as were the Proxy to d MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, to e Lib. R. p. 85▪ Charles Count Palatine of the Rhine, to f Ex Lib Collect. praef. Hen▪ de Vic p. 158. Charles King of Sweden (the Train of whose Mantle was born by Monsieur Leyonberg, the Swedish Resident) and to john George Duke of Saxony, whose Train likewise was carried up by Mr. Richard Richaut, one of the Earl of Win●helsey's Gentlemen. SECT. XIII. The Dinner. WHen the Installation hath passed in the morning, there hath usually been prepared a great Dinner at the Sovereign's charge; we shall need here only to mention such particulars as are peculiar to the Proxy of a Stranger, or different from the Instances set down in our discourse of this particular, in the c Chap. 12. Sect. 10. Personal Installation of a Knight-Companion. And first, d Lib. N. p. 316. before Dinner (if the Installation pass by Commissioners) the Proxy (representing the State of his Principal) shall wash alone he shall sit at the chief place of the Table, and alone, and shall be served alone; but the other Knights-Commissioners shall sit at the end of the Table. Thus was it observed at the Installation of e Ex lib. vocat. Dalton. p. 105. b Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, a. 14. H. 8. and of f Ibid. p. 112. Francis the French King, a. 19 H. 8. for when the later of these was Installed, the Dinner was held at * Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. the Deans-house, and his g Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Proctor washed alone, and sat down to Dinner in a Chair: nor did any of the h Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Knights-Commissioners sit at his Mess. The services were all performed to him in every particular, as i Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. though his Principal had been present, saving his k Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Cloth of State. The Lord l Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Coton. Marquis of Exeter, and all the other Knights-Companions (having first washed) sat on both sides the same Table, yet beneath the Proctor, and in their whole Habits of the Order. The Dinner was likewise prepared in the Dean's great Chamber, at the Installation of Charles the Ninth the French King, whose Proctor was served with Water and a Towel by the m MS. penes W. D. N. f. ●6. Earl of Southampton, and Lord Herbert; Sir john Radcliff performed the Office of n MS. penes W. D. N. f. ●6. Sewer, Henry Brooks alias Cobham Esq was o MS. penes W. D. N. f. ●6. Carver, and Mr. Francis Hervy, Cupbearer. This Proctor had a p MS. penes W. D. N. f. ●6. Cloth of State allowed him, under which he sat at Dinner, the Mantle lying by him all the while on a Stool and Cushion; at the q MS. penes W. D. N. f. ●6. Table's end, on the r Ex Collect. A. V. W. right hand, sat the four Commissioners in their Robes, being served s Ex Collect. A. V. W. apart from the Proctor. But if the Sovereign's Lieutenant be present, the Proctor dines at the same Table with him, and then a little before the second course is brought in, is the Sovereign's Style proclaimed in t MS. penes E. W. G. Latin, French, and English with usual Ceremony: but otherwise, only the Style of the new Installed Prince, and but once. The Style and Titles of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark were proclaimed in u MS. penes E. W. G. Latin, and of Maurice of Orange in w MS. penes E. W. G. French. Dinner being ended, all rise in x MS penes W. D. N. fol. 26. order and wash; first the y MS penes W. D. N. fol. 26. Proxy alone, and after him the Knights-Commissioners; and thence they accompany the Proctor to his Chamber, where having left him, they retire to their own Lodgings, and z MS penes W. D. N. fol. 26. there put off their Habits. The Proctor to Charles the Ninth took the Mantle of his Principal, on his arm into his Chamber, when he rose from Dinner; and * MS penes W. D. N. fol. 26. there delivered it to Garter. So soon as the Solemnity of Installation is over, the Proctor is to take care, that Garter forthwith set up the Achievements of his Principal over his Stall, and fix the Plate of his Arms upon the back thereof; in memorial of the Honour done him, by this Ceremony of Inauguration into the most Noble and most Honourable Order of the Garter. And sometimes we find the Proxy hath, upon his request, obtained an Instrument under the Sign manual of the Sovereign, and Seal of the Order, attesting his being conducted to St. George's Chapel at Windesor, and placed in, and taken possession of the Seat assigned to his Principal, in whose name he hath also taken the Oath, attested by his subscription, and performed all the Ceremonies in due form as the Statutes direct; for so did the ‖ Append. Num. CLVI: Sieur de Chastes, Proctor to the French King Henry the Fourth, an. 42. Eliz. In close of all, let us here remember, that the present King of Sweden, against his late Installation, caused both Gold and Silver Medals to be made in memory of that Solemnity, and to perpetuate the honour so received: Those of Gold were bestowed upon the Knights-Companions present, and other persons of quality, and those of Silver distributed among some of the Officers attending at the Installation, and others. The Devise was suitable to the occasion, and present interest of both Kings, as may be observed from the Representation here exhibited▪ CHAP. XVII. THE Duties and Fees PAYABLE BY THE KNIGHTS COMPANIONS AT THEIR Installations. SECT. I. Touching the Fees due to the College of Windesor. SUch was the piety and bounty of our Ancestors, that they thought no work well performed, without being attended with some charitable donation, especially if it had relation to the Church, whereunto they generally bore a venerable esteem. Hence was it, at the Installation of this Order, ordained, a E. 3. Stat. Art. 22. H. ●. Stat. Art. 22▪ H. 8. Stat. Art. 24. That every Knight-Companion should at his entrance bestow a certain sum of money, according to his quality and degree, That is to say, l. s. d. The Sovereign of the Order— 26 13 4 A Stranger-King— 20 0 0 The Prince of Wales— 13 6 8 Every Duke— 10 0 0 Every Earl— 6 13 4 Every Baron— 5 0 0 Every Knight-Batchelor— 3 6 8 What use these sums were employed in, and how distributed, appears by the appointment there set down, viz. b E. 3. Stat. Art. 22. H. 5. Stat. Art. 22. H. 8. Stat. Art. 24. Towards the relief of the Canons of Windesor, the Alms-Knights, and augmentation of the Alms deeds there appointed perpetually to be done. To the end c E. 3. Stat. Art. 22. H. 5. Stat. Art. 22. H. 8. Stat. Art. 24. That every one entering ●nto this Military Order, might thereby more worthily obtain the Name, Title, and Privilege of one of the Founders of the order: d Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 21. It being supposed a worthy and just thing, that whosoever obtained this Privilege, should add some small increment to this Foundation. Not long after establishing the Statutes of Institution, the Titles of Marquis and Viscount, came to be special dignities, for Robert Vere Earl of Oxford, was the first among us, who as a distinct dignity, received the title of h Cart. an. 9 R. 2. m. 13. Marquis, the first of December, an. 9 R. 2. and john Lord Beaumond the first here also that had the Title of i Pat. 18. H. 6. part 2. m. 21. Viscount conferred on him, as a distinct Title of Honour, the 12. of February, an. 18. H. 6. And whereas both these Degrees of Honour, at their Creations, were settled as intermediate, the first between a Duke and an Earl, for so saith the k R●t. Parl. an. 9 R. 2. m. 3. n. 17. Roll (where it speaks of the Marquis his precedency) the Marquis was commanded to sit among the Peers in Parliament, in a higher place (than his Degree as Earl of Oxford could justly challenge) viz. l R●t. Parl. an. 9 R. 2. m. 3. n. 17. between Dukes and Earls; and the Viscount between Earls and Barons, as the said Viscount Beaumond, is by his first▪ Patent ranked, to wit, m Pa●. 18 H. 6. ut supra. above all Barons; and afterwards in another Patent, to render his place more certain and apparent, n Pat. 23. H. 6. part 2. m. 20. above all Viscounts afterwards made and created, and before and above the Heirs and Sons of Earls, and immediately and next to E●rls, both in all Parliaments, Councils, and other Places. Upon these grounds, and suitable to the ranks of Honour thus settled, ●ere the Fees of Installation to the College, from Knight-Companions of these Degrees proportioned, for shortly after the precedency so granted and settled to the said Viscount Beaumond (his latter Patent bearing date the o Ibid. Pat. 12. of March, a. 23. H. 6.) the Sovereign with the unanimous consent of the Knights-Companions, at the Feast of St. George held at Windesor the p Lib. N. p. 95. 12. of May following, Decreed, q Ibid. p. 97. That a Marquis, forasmuch as his Degree of Honour was above an Earl, and intermediate between him and a Duke should therefore contribute more than an Earl. Now the sum for an Earl, being (as appears above) set at 10 Marks, the Marquis was by this Decree, obliged to pay 33 s. 4 d. more than the Earl; viz. in toto 8 l. 6 s. 8 d. And for the same reason also, was a Viscount enjoined, to give the proportion of ●6 s. 8 d. more than a Baron; and so his whole Fee amounted to 5 l. 16 s. 8 d. The Installation Fees of these two Degrees, being thus added to the former, were with them confirmed by King Henry the Eighth's r Art. 24. Statutes. And though in all the Bodies of the Statutes, the Sovereign of the Order is charged with payment of Fees to the College, no less than the rest of the Knights-Companions, yet is it to be understood only of those Sovereigns, who were not (before the assumption of their Stall) elected into this Order: for we see in the case of King Henry the Sixth (the first Sovereign that had not before his being so, been elected a Knight-Companion) there past an order in Chapter, s Lib. N. p. 75. an. 1. H. 6. for payment of his Fees, upon assuming his Stall, according to the appointment of the Statute. The case also of the Lord Weston is here observable, who although at the time of his Installation (the 5. of October, an. 6. Car. 1.) he was seated in no higher a rank of Nobility, than the Degree of a Baron; yet being then by an honorary Title Lord Treasurer of England, did (for the honour of his Office) not only pay as much as an t Lib. R. p. 66. Earl ought by the Statutes, but in all other customary Fees and Duties bore a proportion to that Dignity. But the matter of Installation Fees, w Lib. Carat. p. 48.49.59.66.67.73. & 74. being by several Petitions represented to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions in Chapter, since the present Sovereign's happy return, was referred to the standing Committee of Knights-Companions, to make enquiry and take into their examination, all the pretensions and demands thereunto: in relation to which, much time having been spent in a diligent and full examination thereof, through the zealous endeavours, and continual solicitations of the Register, out of respect to his Successors, the College and Choir of Windesor, so also of Garter on behalf of his Successors, the Officers of Arms, and other the Sovereign's Officers and Servants claiming Installation Fees, and due consideration had of the reasons and proofs to justify the same, as also to the reasonableness and equity of the whole matter: Finally, a Report was made the x Ib. p. 84. 5. of March, a. 22. Car. 2. by the Duke of Ormond, the Earls of Sandwich and Manchester, whereby such Installation Fees were thought reasonable and requisite to be paid by the Knights-Companions, as were contained in an annexed Schedule, ascertaining the sums, proportioned according to the Dignities and Degrees of the Knights-Companions; which, both y Append. Num. CLVII. Report and Schedule being afterwards z Ibid. p. 87. read over and approved by the Sovereign, part of it containing the Fees due to the Dean and Canons, Choir, and Alms-Knights of Windesor, the Register, Garter, Black-Rod, and Officers of Arms, were commanded to be entered upon the Register of the Order, in perpetuam rei memoriam, to prevent all future questions and controversies that might otherwise arise; the other part, wherein was set down the Fees payable to the rest of the Sovereign's Servants, was appointed to be only signed in Garter's Bills, with all the other Fees as they became due. In this Decree the Installation Fees made payable to the Dean and Canoni are these, l. s. d. a Ex ipso Autogr. A Stranger-King 20 00 00 A Stranger-Prince 10 00 00 The Prince of Wales 20 00 00 A Duke 10 00 00 A Marquis. 08 06 08 An Earl 06 13 04 A Viscount 05 16 08 A Baron. 05 00 00 A Knight-Batchellor 03 06 08 These Fees ought to be paid b E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 2● H. 8. Stat. Art. 24. at the time of the Knight's Installation, whether Personal or by Proxy, so also for a Stranger; and as to the practice, it hath been thus; c See before, p. 367. to pay them by the hands of some one of the Knights-Companions Servants, so soon as the Ceremonies of Installation were ended; and in truth, that which quickened their care herein, was the strict injunction repeated in all the Bodies of the d Vide etiam Lib. Carol. p. 81. Statutes, which do expressly prohibit the setting up of their Achievements, till payment be made. That anciently the Alms-Knights shared in the Fees paid to the College, Alms-Knights▪ is manifest from the Statutes of Institution, the use for which they were given, being therein expressed to be e E. 3. Stat. Art. 22. towards relief of the Alms-Knights, no less than the Canons, and so say the f H. 3. Stat. Art. 22. H. 8. Stat. Art. 24. succeeding bodies of the Statutes. Howbeit, since their re-establishment by Queen Elizabeth upon a new Constitution, they have received Installation Fees apart from those paid to the College, which by the foresaid Establishment of Installation Fees, an. 22. Car. 2. are made g Ex ipso Autogr. equal and alike to those thereby payable to the Dean and Canons. The Choir of Windesor, Choir, etc. under which not only the Vicars, but the Vergers, Choristers, Sextons, and Bell-Ringers, are comprehended, reap some benefit by the Installation of a Knight, and have in all times been thought deserving of Fees among others, who performed service at these Solemnities: Hereupon were they taken into the Establishment made, an. 22. Car. 2. which has settled on them these following Fees, viz. l. s. d. h Ex ipso Autogr. A Stranger-King 16 00 00 A Stranger-Prince 08 10 00 A Prince of Wales 16 00 00 A Duke 08 10 00 A Marquis 06 15 00 An Earl 05 10 00 A Viscount 04 00 00 A Baron 04 00 00 A Knight-Batchellor 03 00 00 SECT. II. Fees due to the Register, Garter, Black-Rod, and Officers of Arms. Register. IN the rank of those Officers to whom Installation Fees are due, stands first the Register, who by the Constitutions of his Office, is to have of every Knight-Companion i Lib. N. p. 235. 13 s. 4 d. in money, and a Robe. After that Doctor Matthew Wren had enjoyed this Office for some few years, and supposing himself defrauded by the concealment of part of his Fees, he petitioned the Sovereign, that the Fee anciently due to his place, might be restored and settled, with the allowance of a Robe, or composition for it from the new installed Knight; the grounds of which address were set forth in the following Petition. To the Kings most sacred Majesty, Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. The humble Petition of Matthew Wren, Register of the said Order. Shows, Autogr. penes Doct. Chr. Wren nuper Ordinis Regist. THat at his first entry into this Office, the Black-Book (wherein the chiefest Records of the Order are) being in the custody of Sir William Segar then Garter, he was forced to receive from him the Instructions which concerned his place: And whereas at the Installation of any Knight, the said Sir William Segar did use to make a Bill of such Fees as were to be paid, wherein of later years, he would set down for the Register but half as much as for himself, upon whose authority the Register for a while rested, and knowing no other had no more; Copies of which Bills are privately transmitted from one Lords Officer to another. But since the Black-Book was by the honourable Chapter remanded to the Registers custody, upon survey of the Records, and view of the Statutes (in the Book by him latey exhibited to your Sovereign Majesty) the rule for the Registers Fee in more express Text, than for any Officer else, appears; That as oft as any Knight chosen into the Order, is installed, the Register shall have of him thirteen shillings and four pence, and a Robe. [Statut. de Officialibus Ordinis, cap. 6.] He therefore most humbly beseecheth, on the behalf of his place, that, according to every Lord's Oath, not wittingly to break the content of any Statute, this Statute may be without question observed, and the Robe be allowed him; and that Sir John Burrowes, no● Garter, may have order to reform this Error, with such of the Companions or their Officers, as have not yet paid the Register an Installation Fee. But in case that any Lord, shall rather choose to compound with the Register for the said Robe▪ That it may now please your sacred Majesty, for the avoiding of all exception to the said Register, to set down a proportion meet to be demanded for the same by him; who both in the order of his place is before Mr. Garter, and in the proportion of his Annual Fee from your Sovereign Majesty above him. At the Court at Greenwich, the 6. of May 1634. It is his Majesty's pleasure, that all Fees due to the Officers of the Order, by the Institution, shall be precisely paid; and that this particular of the Register shall be satisfied, according to the words of the Institution, and not according to the custom lately used, of which Mr. Garter is to give notice, as there shall be occasion. Fr. Crane, Cane. But it seems that nothing was done in his time, upon the Sovereign's Answer to this Petition, besides its entry into the k Pag. 98. Red-Book; and thereupon afterwards, when his Brother Doctor Christopher Wren had succeeded him in the Register's place, and the Robe assigned him out of the Sovereign's Wardrobe at his entrance into his Office, being of the value of p Ex. Collect. praed. Dr. Chr. Wren. 28 l. 1 s. 0 d. according to this valuation of his Robe, a q Ex. Collect. praed. Dr. Chr. Wren. like value was proposed (by way of Composition) upon the Knights-Companions Bachelors (the lowest Degree among the Knights of the Order) to be paid him in lieu of the said Robe, supposing they could not give him less: and from hence was raised the r Ex. Collect. praed. Dr. Chr. Wren. proportions, for each several Degree of honour, upon those who should be admitted into this most Noble Order, thus s. d. l. s. d. s Ex. Collect. praed. Dr. Chr. Wren. Imprimis for a Knight-Batchellor 13 04 and 28 00 00 Item for a Baron 13 04 and 30 00 00 Item for a Viscount 13 04 and 32 00 00 Item for a Earl 13 04 and 34 00 00 Item for a Marquis 13 04 and 36 00 00 Item for a Duke 13 04 and ●8 00 00 Item for a Prince 13 04 and 40 00 00 Afterwards, taking occasion from the Instalment of the present Sovereign than Prince, a. 14. Car. 1. the Dean desired the Deputy-Chancellor, to know the Sovereign's pleasure once again, and to t Palm. large journal, p. 23 & 24. represent, that the Registers Fees were anciently 13 s. 4 d. in money, and the Robe in kind; and seeing that the Sovereign was pleased to allow increase of Fees, to the other Officers of the Order, particularly to Garter King of Arms 40 l. at the Installation of the said Prince, and every other Officer in proportion; and that it stood both with the honour of the Prince, to give as honourable a Fee, as any Prince Stranger, at his Installation, and also with the Dignity of the Registers place, to expect no less than others, that were not above him in rank; that it would therefore please the Sovereign, to think the Register worthy to make the like Plea. Thus much the Deputy-Chancellor represented to the Sovereign at Greenwich, sometime after the Prince's Installation, and thereupon the Sovereign was graciously pleased, to think it most reasonable, on the Register's behalf, and Ordered, u Palm. large journal, p. 23 & 24. that at every Installation of a Prince, the Register should receive for his Fee 13 s. 4 d. and 40 l. in lieu of his Robe; and that Prince Charles (then newly installed) should pay him the said sums, which was accordingly done; and the same were since settled on this Officer by the Establishment of Installation Fees, made w Ex. ips● Aut●gr. an. 22. Car. 2. to be thenceforth paid, not only by the Prince of Wales, but for the Installation of a x Ex. ips● Aut●gr. a Stranger-King; whereto is added for a y Ibid. Stranger-Prince 38 l. 13 s. 4 d. But those thereby made due from Knights-Subjects of other Degrees, are the same as were proposed by Doctor Christopher Wren, mentioned a little above. Next to the Register doth Garter claim both Droits and Fees, Garret. for his service and attendance at this Solemnity, who in reference to its preparations, and employment at the time, hath a greater share of business than any other Officer of the Order: As to the first of these, it was Ordained by the Constitutions of his Office, a Lib. N. p. 236. That as often as any Knight should happen to be Installed, he might challenge for himself the Garments worn by him, immediately before his Investiture with the Surcoat of the Order. And the constant practice hath interpreted this, to be the Knight's upper Garment, anciently a short Gown, of later times a Cloak, but now a Coat; which he puts off in the Chapterhouse, when the Investiture begins. When Garter had received the Gown of Philip King of Castille, immediately before his Investiture with the Robes of the Order, an. 22. H. 7. he came before the Sovereign, and b MS. veter. penes W. le N. Cl. f. 295. humbly besought him to give thanks to the King, who, for his sake, had bestowed it on him, which the Sovereign accordingly did. Heretofore, when Garter had received the Knight's Gown, he immediately put it on, and wore it during the whole Ceremony of Installation, and therefore the Gown of Henry Duke of York, second Son to King Henry the Seventh, d MS. fol. penes Io. Vincent, p. 151. though he was very young when installed, was made large enough for Garter's use. But because this short Gown hath been so long out of fashion, as to be well nigh forgotten, we shall therefore mention several of the kind, wherein their description will appear remarkable enough, both for their materials, and the then fashionable Trim. King Henry the Seventh's Gown, at his assumption of the Sovereign's Stall, was made of e Ex amplo Codice MS. penes praef. Io. Vincent p. 151. Black Velvet, and lined with Cloth of Gold, full of red Roses. Prince Arthur wore a Gown of f Ex amplo Codice MS. penes praef. Io. Vincent p. 151. Crimson Velvet, lined with Black Velvet, when he proceeded to his Installation. And the Gown made for the foresaid Henry Duke of York, was of g Ex amplo Codice MS. penes praef. Io. Vincent p. 151. Crimson Velvet, lined with Black Satin. In the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, the materials of some of the Knight's Gowns, were as followeth. The Lord Dudley's, of i Ex eod. MS. p. 157. Tinsel Satin Violet, lined with Black Sarsenet. The Lord Howard's of k Ex eod. MS. p. 157. Tawny Velvet, furred with Leopards. The Lord Ware's, of l Ex eod. MS. p. 157. Tawny Velvet, lined with Black Bogye. The Earl of Devonshire's, of m Ibid. p. 158. Cloth of Silver, lined with Cloth of Gold. The Viscount Lysle's of n Ibid. pag. 159. Black Velvet, furred with Black Bogye. The Lord Walter's, of o Ibid. pag. 159. Black Damask, and double Black Velvet. Henry Fitz Roy Duke of Richmond, of p Ibid. pag. 159. Black Satin, with Buttons and Aglets of Gold on his Sleeves, and furred with Sables. The Earl of Arundel's of Tawny Velvet, lined with Black double Sarsenet. The Earl of Westmerland's of q Ibid. pag. 159. Black Velvet, lined with Satin, with Aglets of Gold. The Earl of Oxford's, of r Ibid. p. 160. Black Satin, lined with Jennets. The Lord russel's of s MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 1.] f. 19 Black Velvet, lined with Black Satin. The Coat of King Philip (installed an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar.) was t MS. penes praef. G. O. Y. p. 132. embroidered on Velvet, with Gold-Wire, of Goldsmith's work, and lined with White Taffeta: His Gown was made of u MS. penes praef. G. O. Y. p. 132. Purple Velvet, garnished with the same, and twisted Silver Lace laid on the Guard; his other Coat of Velvet embroidered with Silver, lined with White. This kind of upper Garment or Gown continued also in fashion, a great part of Queen Elizabeth's Reign, for we likewise find, that the Earl of Leicester's Gown was made of w MS. penes praef. G. O. Y. p. 132. Velvet, guarded with four guards of the same, and thereon 38 pair of Aglets. The Lord Burghley's of x MS. penes praef. G. O. Y. p. 132. Taffeta, with three guards of Velvet, and three dozen of great Buttons of Gold. The Lord Buckhurst's of y Ibid. Velvet, with a broad embroidery guard, and Buttons of Gold. The Lord Shandos z Ibid. of Satin, with a broidered guard of Velvet, and two dozen of Gold Buttons. The Earl of Worcester's of a Ibid. Velvet lined with double Sarsenet, with a paceman Lace about it. The Duke of Norfolk's of b Ibid. Black Satin, furred with Squirrels, faced with Sables, with— pair of Aglets. The Earl of Bedford's such another Gown, but had a Silver Lace about it. The Lord Hunsdon's of Satin, furred with Luzarts, and guarded with— The Earl of Warwick's of Russet Satin, embroidered all over with Russet Lace, and furred with Coney. The Duke of Northumberland's was a loose Velvet Gown, furred with Pavilion, and had a falling Cape. But at length, the fashion of this upper Garment began to alter, and by that time john Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, was received into the Order, it was converted to a Cloak, for such was his upper Garment (and of Velvet) faced and furred with Sables, and two Gold Laces guarded thereon, cut, with Buttons and Gold Lace, where the Sleeves were wont to be. And ever since, till of late, hath the Cloak been most in fashion, for an upper Garment, but very much varied both as to materials, lining, and ornament. Sometimes Garter had not this Garment in kind, but received a Fine in lieu thereof; and this by virtue of a Decree made in Chapter, an. 25. H. 6. wherein it was ordained, c Regist. Chart. f. 2●. b. to be at the pleasure of every Knight-Companion, at the time of his Installation, whether Garter should have the Garment which each Knight did then wear, or a composition in money according to his Estate. Since when the Compositions grew higher, as this upper Garment was made richer; for d Ex. Collect. E. W. G. Algernon Earl of Northumberland bestowed on Garter upon this occasion for Fees and Droits e Ex. Collect. E. W. G. 200 l. in Gold, and Henry Earl of Danby, the Habit he wore on the day he road from London towards his Installation with * Ex. Collect. E. W. G. 100 l. in the Pockets, and by the late Sovereign's order, at the Installation of his Son Prince Charles our now Sovereign, Garter received for his Fee f Ibid. 40 l. and for the composition of his upper Garment 60 l. in the whole 100 l. The like sum was given the present Garter, by the Dukes of Ormond and Albemarle, and the Earls of Sandwich, Lindsey, and Manchester, shortly after their Installations, by particular agreement; but herein his Fee for signification of their several Elections was included. Finally, by the Establishment of Installation Fees, an. 22. Car. 2. the composition set upon each Knight-Companion, for his upper Garment, was thus rated, proportionably less than what was paid for the said Prince, a. 14. Car. 1. viz. l. s. d. g Ex ipso A●togr. A Prince of Wales 60 00 00 A Duke 55 00 00 A Marquis 50 00 00 An Earl 45 00 00 A Viscount 40 00 00 A Baron 35 00 00 A Knight-Batchellor 30 00 00 Besides this Droit or Composition, there hath in all times been paid to Garter, by every Knight-Companion a Fee for his Installation, proportioned also to his state and dignity, which was likewise brought to the following certainty by the said late Establishment. l. s. d. h Ibid. A Stranger-King 30 00 00 A Stranger-Prince 20 00 00 A Prince of Wales 40 00 00 A Duke 35 00 00 A Marquis 30 00 00 An Earl 25 00 00 A Viscount 20 00 00 A Baron 15 00 00 A Knight-Batchellor 10 00 00 The Fee anciently due to the Black-Rod at the Installation of a Knight, Black-Rod. like all other Fees, hath in succeeding times received augmentation; for the Fee paid him at the Installation of Prince Charles, a. 14. Car. 1. was 40 l. and by the foresaid Establishment an. 22. Car. 2. he hath allowed him l. s. d. From a k Ex ipso Autogr. Stranger-King 20 00 00 From a Stranger-Prince 20 00 00 From a Prince of Wales 40 00 00 From a Duke 20 00 00 From a Marquis 18 00 00 Earl 16 00 00 Viscount 14 00 00 Baron 12 00 00 Knight-Batchellor 10 00 00 Officers of Arms. As Fees were in all times paid to the Register, Garter, and Black-Rod for their particular services, at the Feasts of Installation, so likewise have the Officers of Arms accustomably received Fees, in reward of their attendance and service at those Solemnities; which having been increased by the bounty of the Givers, were by the said late Establishment (pursuant to the Fees, paid them for the Installation of the now Sovereign when Prince) brought to the * Ex ipso Autogr. same thereby allowed the Black-Rod, only in the Fee of a Stranger-King, they have an addition of 10 l. more, his Fee to them being 30 l. Besides these Installation Fees, when the Elect-Knights road publicly from London to Windesor, to their Installations, they were accustomed to bestow upon the Officers of Arms, that attended them thither, Scarves, Hats, and Feathers, as did the Earls of Danby and Moreton, an. 10. Car. 1. viz. to l Ex lib. Part. in Offic. Armour. [3] f. 155. b. each of them 9 els of rich Taffeta, and a black Beaver Hat and Feather. And the Earl of Northampton, upon the like occasion, an. 5. Car. 1. allowed m Ib. f. 70. b. 35 l. to the seven Officers of Arms, that attended him to Windesor, in lieu of Taffeta Scarves of his Lordship's Colours, and Beaver Hats, and gave each of them besides, Feathers worth 20 s. a piece. Lastly, at the Installation of Charles Prince of Wales, a. 14. Car. 1. there was given to the 13 Officers of Arms, for the like allowance 10 l. a piece, in all n Ex Autogr. penes E. W. G. 130 l. SECT. III. Fees belonging to other of the Sovereign's Servants. TO these forenamed Officers, we have seen added in the Lists of Installation Fees of former times, some other here set down, who gave their attendance at these Solemnities, with the several sums received: some were then accounted Fees, and other run under the Title of Benevolences; all which nevertheless were admitted into the List of Installation Fees established, an. 22. Car. 2. and though not entered in the Register of the Order, yet are to be given in, under the hand of Garter, with the other Fees payable at Installations, and to be paid by every Knight, to all persons concerned respectively, according to ancient custom. Ex ipso Autogr▪ Viz. The Prince A Duke A Marquis An Earl A Viscount A Baron A Knight-Batchelor l. s. d. l. s. d. l. s. d. l. s. d. l. s. d. l. s. d. To the Wardrobe— 06 00 00 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 01 15 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 To the Trumpets— 12 00 00 06 00 00 05 00 00 04 00 00 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 To the Sergeant Trumpeter— 02 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 To the Musicians 4 Companies.— 16 00 00 08 00 00 07 00 00 06 00 00 05 00 00 04 00 00 03 00 00 Knight-Harbenger— 03 06 08 03 06 08 03 06 08 03 06 08 03 06 08 03 06 08 03 06 08 Drums and Fifes— 04 00 00 02 00 00 01 15 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 To the Porters— 06 00 00 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 02 00 00 01 10 00 01 00 00 Master Cook— 03 00 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Sergeant Porter— 06 00 00 03 00 00 02 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Vestry— 02 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Yeomen Harbingers— 06 00 00 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 02 00 00 01 10 00 01 00 00 Ushers of the Hall— 02 00 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Grooms of the Chamber— 03 00 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Yeomen Ushers— 06 13 04 03 06 08 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 01 10 00 01 00 00 Quarter Waiters— 08 16 00 04 08 04 03 16 08 03 06 08 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 Sewers— 08 00 00 04 08 04 03 16 08 03 06 08 03 00 00 02 10 00 02 00 00 Buttery— 03 00 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Pantry— 03 00 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 Cellar— 03 00 00 01 10 00 01 05 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 SECT. IV. Fees payable for Strangers. AND because it was thought unfit (the dignity of the Order considered) that on the one side Strangers should be liable to the demand of Fees, and on the other, that charitable disposals should be defeated; provision was made in the a Art. 22. vide etiam H 5. Stat. Art. 22. & H. Stat. Art. 24. Statutes of Institution, by obliging the Sovereign to pay the respective Fees, for every Stranger that should be Elected, at the time of his Installation, either Personally or by his Proctor. And the first example pursuant thereto (that we have met with) is an Order made in Chapter at Windesor, an. 1. H. 6. which appointed, b Lib. N. p. 75. That the usual Fees due for the Installation of the King of Denmark, should be discharged by the Sovereign, as the Statutes did enjoin. To which purpose, in after times have Privy Seals accustomably issued forth, directed to the Lord Treasurer for the time being, to pay the Fees due for Strangers Installations, unto the Register of the Order (and sometimes to him and Garter) out of the Sovereign's Exchequer; but those due to the Alms-Knights, since their Establishment by Queen Elizabeth, were paid to themselves by particular Privy Seals. And thus were the foresaid Fees paid out of the Exchequer, as they became due, until the late Sovereign King Charles the First, did by Letters Patent, bearing date the 23. day of june, in the 13. year of his Reign, settle an annual Pension of c Lib. R. p. 121 1200 l. unto and upon the Order; and by a d Rowe's journal, p. 40. Commission dated the 3. day of May the following year, was the Chancellor of the Order, and his Successors impowered to pay out of the same, not only the ordinary, but also extraordinary Charges of the Order, wherein the Fees for Installation of Strangers are included. But notwithstanding which, yet did f Ex Collect. E. W. G. Sir Henry de Vic the late Chancellor make some scruple to pay the Fees due to the College, upon the Installation of Strangers, since the happy return of the present Sovereign; whereupon it occasioned the h Lib. Carol. p. 48. Dean, Canons, Choir, and Alms-Knights, as also the Register, Garter, and Black-Rod, to petition the Sovereign at the Feast of St. George, an. 15. Car. 2. for the continuance of some rights, and payment of their Fees, which being i Ib. p. 49. referred to three or more of the Knights-Companions of the Order, upon full examination of the matter, they made the following Report. At the Court at Whitehall, the 16. of May 1663. WHereas your Majesty, Ex Collect. E. W. G. vide et●am Lib. Carol. p. 49, 50. etc. Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, in a Chapter held in the Castle of Windesor, the 23. of April past, where were present divers Companions of the said most Noble Order, was graciously pleased to receive a Petition, humbly presented in the name of the Dean, Canons, Chaplains, Choir, and Poor-Knights, belonging to your Majesty's Free Chapel of St. George in Windesor, wherein they, in all humility, desired to have some Rights and Fees (which are contained in a Schedule thereunto annexed) to be continued unto them; which Petition, your Majesty was then graciously pleased, to refer unto any three or more Companions of the said most Noble Order, to consider of, and examine the particular, and accordingly to make Report unto your Majesty, what they conceive proper to be done thereupon: And in like manner the said Lords Referrees upon a Petition delivered the 24. of April, were to consider, examine, and report the humble desires of the Register, Garter Principal King of Arms, and the Gentleman-usher of the Black-Rod, Officers of the Order in relation to the Fees demanded by them from your Majesty, for the Installation of all Princes, and other Strangers, that are and have been, lately admitted and declared, Companions of the said most Noble Order. Hereupon, we the Knights and Companions of the said most Noble Order, whose names are hereafter subscribed, meeting in the Council-Chamber at Whitehall, upon Saturday the 8. of this instant May, being then attended by Sir Henry de Vic Knight and Baronet Chancellor, Dr. Bruin Ryves, Dean of Windesor Register, and Sir Edward Walker, Garter Principal King of Arms (all Officers of the said most Noble Order) have fully considered and examined, the pretences and demands of the Dean and Church of Windesor, as also of the Officers of the said most Noble Order, whereby the ensuing particulars, were then made to appear. First, That every Knight-Companion of the most Noble Order, within one year after his Election, shall bestow for the use of St. George's Chapel at Windesor, 20 l. in Plate at the least. Secondly, That the Obits moneys, upon the death of every Knight-Companion of the Order, aught to be paid according to custom, and the Statutes of the Order. Thirdly, That the Fees for Installation of all Strangers, are to be paid by the Sovereign; and that those desired by the Register, Garter, the Officers of Arms, etc. have been proved, to have been paid their Predecessors, by several Privy Seals, for the Installation of divers Prince's Strangers, and are no other for them, and the College of Windesor, than have been heretofore, and lately, paid by the honourable Companions your Majesty's Subjects, at their Installations (the old Installation Fees to the Canons and Poor-Knights being therein comprised) not including therein other Fees and Gratuities, usually paid unto many others of your Majesty's Servants by the Knights your Majesty's Subjects (though not by your Majesty for Strangers) for any thing appears, nor the Gratuities unto Garter for signification of Elections, or composition for the upper Garments of the Companions, according to ancient Custom. This being the true state of the whole matter, and we having met again thereupon this 16. day of May, do humbly hereby Report the same unto your Majesty, and do thereupon offer our opinion unto your Majesty, That we conceive it may be fit for your Majesty (seeing the Sovereign is to pay for the Installation of all Strangers) to give your Warrant unto Sir Henry de Vic, Chancellor of the most Noble Order of the Garter, to pay unto the Register, Garter, Usher of the Black-Rod, Canons, Poor-Knights, Choir at Windesor, and Officers of Arms the several sums hereafter mentioned, for the six Foreign Knights lately declared installed; as also for the Prince of Denmark, installed by Proxy the 22. of April past; out of such Moneys, as he the said Sir Henry de Vic hath, or shall have in his hands, of the 1200 l. yearly assigned for the use of the Order, since his first receipt thereof, viz. For the Installation of the Prince of Orange. l. s. d. To the Dean of Windesor as Register 38 13 04 To Garter Principal King of Arms— 20 00 00 To the Usher of the Black-Rod— 20 00 00 To the Officers of Arms— 20 00 00 To the Canons— 10 00 00 To the Choir and Choristers— 6 00 00 To the Vergers, Sextons, and Bellringers 2 00 00 To the Poor-Knights— 10 00 00 126 13 04 l. s. d. For the Prince Elector of Brandenburg for all as above 126 13 04 For Prince Edward Count Palatine, etc.— 126 13 04 For the Duke of Espernon— 126 13 04 For the Prince of Tarent— 126 13 04 For the Prince of Denmark— 126 13 04 For Count Marching— 93 06 08 853 06 08 All which we humbly submit unto your Majesty's gracious determination. Albemarle. Lindsey. Manchester. Sandwich. Some few days after, the k Ex Colle●●. praef. E. W. G. Chancellor, accompanied with the Register and Garter, attended the Sovereign, and fully represented and read unto him the Report above inserted, whereupon he was graciously pleased to approve the same, and accordingly l Ex Colle●●. praef. E. W. G. ordered the Chancellor to make payment of the several sums mentioned in it, which he shortly after performed; among which, the m Ib. 18. of November following, Sir Edward Walker Garter received from him the Fees due to himself, as also those other due to the Officers of Arms, for their attendance at the Installation of the Knights-Strangers, mentioned in the said Report, amounting to the sum of 133 l. 6 s. 8 d. which he forthwith brought into the Office of Arms, and there * Lib. Part in Offic. Arm. [4.] divided according to Custom. Now, though the Sovereign hath discharged the Installation Fees due from Strangers, as appears before, yet did they besides, or their Proctors for them, always bestow particular Largesses and Rewards upon the College, the Officers of the Order and of Arms, the Alms-Knights, and some others who attended and performed their duty at this great Solemnity; and in particular, Garter had anciently bestowed on him a rich Gown, to wear at the time of Installation, or, as of late, presented with some other thing of considerable value. For it appears, that Maximilian King of the Romans, at his Installation an. 6. H. 7. gave unto him for his Largess n Ex MS. ver. pergam. penes I. V. gen. f. 1●1. 100 Rhenish Guildings. That Philip King of Castille (personally Installed at Windesor, an. 21. H. 7.) gave him besides a large o Ibid. Gown of Cloth of Gold, lined with Black Damask, p Ibid. 40 Crowns of Gold for a Doublet. And Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, installed by Proxy an. 16. H. 8. bestowed on him a q Ib. Crimson Velvet Gown furred with Luzarts, a r Ex Collect. E. W. G. Cup of 22 l. value, a 100 Rhenish Guilders, and 60 Crowns of the Sun. The French King Francis the First, gave him a s Ibid. Robe of Blue Velvet lined with Cloth of Silver, with Buttons of Gold enameled, and 80 Crowns of the Sun. james the Fifth King of Scotland, t Ib. Gown of Black Velvet furred with Black Budge, with 16 pair of Aglets of Gold, an 100 Crowns of the Sun, and another Gown. Lastly, Charles King of Sweden gave him one of those Gold Medals bestowed on the Knights-Companions at his Installation, but set about with three rows of large Faucet Diamonds, and at the he●d an imperial Crown set also with Faucet Diamonds; it was hung in a Gold Chain of excellent and curious workmanship, and worn by Garter before his breast at the said King's Installation: this rich Jewel and Chain cost 404 l. To the Officers of Arms, Strangers were also liberal, as appears by the Largesses given by several of them, or by their Proctors, besides their Installation Fees received from the Sovereign, viz. Maximilian King of the Romans gave them u Ex MS. verust. pergam. penes Io. Vincent. gen. 100 Guildings. The King of Portugal— w Ex MS. verust. pergam. penes Io. Vincent. gen. 30 Crowns. Philip King of Castille— x Ex MS. verust. pergam. penes Io. Vincent. gen. 100 Crowns. Francis the French King— y Ex lib. Partition. in Offic. Armour. [1] fol. 19 60 Crowns. King Philip of Spain— z Ibid. f. 169. 38 l. 7 s. 0 d. Emanuel Duke of Savoy— a Ib. f. 172. 10 l. 0 s. 0 d. Adolph Duke of Holstien— b Ib. f. 220. 25 Crowns. Charles the Ninth of France— c Ib. f. 272. 30 Crowns. Francis Duke of Montmorency— d Ib. f. 314. 40 Crowns. Frederick Prince Palatine— e Ex lib. Partit. [2] fol. 177. b. 13 l. 6 s. 8 d. And not only to Garter and Officers of Arms, but likewise to several others, did the Proctors bestow Gratuities, as doth appear from what Monsieur de Tercelin Proctor to Francis the First of France, gave an. 19 H. 8. To Garter for his Gown— g Ex Collect. praef. W. le N. Cl. 60 Crowns. To the Black-Rod— 6 Crowns. Officers of Arms— 60 Crowns. Gentleman-ushers, Guard, and other of the Chamber 20 Crowns. Master of the Household, and other Officers of the Household— 30 Crowns. The two Sextons— 2 Crowns Choristers— 3 Crowns. Vicars and Clarks— 6 Crowns. Vergers of the College— 8 Nobles Besides it is evident from a Bill of particulars, which Prince Henry of Nassau (Brother to Maurice Prince of Orange) paid to Sir William Seagar, that the Alms-Knights, Trumpets, Drums, Fifes, and Musicians, received Gratuities also upon the foresaid account. CHAP. XVIII. OF THE Grand Feast OF THE Order. SECT. I. The Grand Feast, appointed to be annually celebrated on St. George's day. AT the Institution of this most Noble Order, it was Ordained, That its high and solemn Festival (commonly called St. George's Feast) should be annually celebrated on the a E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 9▪ H. 8. Stat. Art. 8. 23. day of April, or Saint George's day, in honour of that Saint made choice of for its peculiar Patron. And it is very observable, that the Founders of several other Military Orders (whose Institutions bear later date than this of the Garter) settled also the Anniversary of their Festivals upon the Feast-day of their Patrons. Thus Philip Duke of Burgundy, upon his erection of the Order of the Golden Fleece, making choice of St. Andrew for its Patron, ordained the Grant Festival to be kept on St. b Ordinances du tresnoble Ordre de la Toison d' Or Art. 22. Andrew's day. The like did Lewis the Eleventh of France, in appointing c Stat. de l'Ordre de Mons. St. Michael Art. 32. Michaelmas day for holding the Feast of the Order of St. Michael. So also the Solemnities of the Duke of Savoy's Order of the Annunciade, are annually held upon our d Heylin's Geogr. Lib. 1. p. 138. Lady-day in Lent. And the Festival of the Duke of Bourbon's Order of Knights of our Lady, on the day of the e Andr. Faoin in le Theat. d' Honneur, lib. 3. Conception of our Lady, being the 8. of December; in which kind more instances might be produced, were it needful. Since then the Founders of Knightly Orders, have generally appointed the celebration of their Solemnities, on the days set apart by the Church, for commemoration of those particular Saints, whom they had pitched upon for Patrons; it will not be besides our subject to inquire, upon what grounds those days were advanced into Festivals for the honouring such Saints. The Church saith f Divin. Offic. Lib. 7. c. 1. nu. 1. Edit. Lugd. 1612. Durand, celebrates the Feasts of Saints for several causes; first by way of return of thanks to them for keeping a continual Feast for us, forasmuch as there is joy among the Angels and holy Souls, in regard of on● penitent sinner. Secondly, because in honouring them, we are highly concerned ourselves, their cause of Festivity being indeed ours; for charity makes all things common. A third reason he will have to be, that we may the better engage them to intercede for us. Fourthly, in imitation of them, since by their examples, we are the better incited to imitate their virtues. Fifthly, for confirmation and advancement of our hopes, seeing mortal men, like ourselves, advanced to that height of glory; whereupon we have the less cause to despair of the like, since the hand of the Lord is no way shortened. Sixthly, for the honour of the Divine Majesty; because in them we honour and exalt God himself, who sanctified and glorified them. Seventhly, that upon the contemplation of their beauty and felicity, men may be weaned from their sins, and learn to contemn worldly things. But the eighth and principal for our present purpose is, because the keeping of the Anniversary Feasts of Saints, brings their actions and examples the better to our memory, for our profit and edification; not that they stand in need of our Prayers, being themselves perfectly happy, but that we should give thanks and honour to God for them. Nor hath it been the practice only of later Ages, but even of the primitive Christians also, to make Anniversary Commemorations of deceased Martyrs, as appears from Rodolph Hospinian, who saith, g Hospin. de Origine Festorum Christianorum, cap. 3. fol. 9 a. That the ancient Christians, as they had an affectionate care and respect to the Saints and Martyrs, while they were yet in the flesh, so neither were they unmindful of them after their decease; for on those days, whereon, by suffering Martyrdom▪ they were deprived of this life, they meeting at their Sepulchers, celebrated their memorial; and this they did not only once, but every year, namely, as often as that day came about, whereon they suffered. But to resume the prosecution of our present discourse; the next thing to be considered, is the Day whereon the Patron of this most Noble Order suffered Martyrdom, and which was thereupon designed to be his Anniversary Festival. SECT. II. The Anniversary of St. George fixed by the Church unto the 23. of April. THat the 23. day of April was the day whereon St. George suffered Martyrdom, by beheading, appears from the Greek Hexamiter before his Commemoration, among other Testimonies given us in that most elaborate Work, the h Pag. 795. Titles of Honor. Therefore on that very day, both the Greek and Latin Church, from ancient time, appointed and observed the Natalis Sancti Georgii Martyris, in commemoration of the Passion of that famous and victorious Martyr; as may be seen in the ancientest Martyrologies, remembered both by our learned i Tit. of Hon. p. 807. Selden and Doctor k Hist. of St. George, part 2. c. 5. sect. 3. vide Bed. in Marty●olog. Heylin. And on this day also was the Natalis of St. George observed by our Predecessors the Saxons, as appears by the old Saxon martyrology (remaining now in l Tit. Honour, p. 81●. Benet College in Cambridge) whence may be also collected the estimation Saint George had gained, even in the Saxon times. But that we may the better understand the acception of this word Natalis and Natalitium, in the matter of Martyrology, Durand tells us, That m Rationale Lib. ●. c. 1. ●. 18. Natalis or Natalitium, is said to be the departure of Saints out of this life, as being then born to God, and a state of Glory, by a Nativity tending to eternal life. By which it plainly appears, that in the Saint's Calendar, the day of their Martyrdom or death, hath been accounted their true Natalis, their Nativity or Birthday, rather than that generally so accounted; namely, the time of their first coming into the world. And with this the forecited Hospinian agrees, affirming, n Cap. 3. f. 9 That the Chritians of the primitive Church, appointed not the days of Martyrs Nativities to be celebrated as the Ethnics used, but those of their death or suffering. To which effect he citys St. Ambrose, and a little after adds, that those days, whereon Martyrs resolutely underwent death for Christ's sake, they used to call their Genethlia, their Natalia or Natalitia, by the testimony of Origen and Tertullian. And this kind of second birth, is also known by several other names, as Festum transitus, so called o Durandus, loco cit●to. Because their souls departing from their bodies, pas● through divers and unknown places, through the airy, aetherial, and crystalline Hea●en, that at length they may come to the empyreal. It is called also Obitus, p Durandus, loco cit●to. Because then the Angels come to meet the Soul. Sometimes it is termed Passio, because then the soul and body suffer most, as being violently separated one from the other. The transitus of the blessed Virgin Mary is called her Assumption. Deposition, is properly belonging to St. john the Evangelist, who entered alive into the place of Sepulture, and as it were deposited himself. Obdormition is the refreshment, of the Saints after sleep, because Saints in their glorified bodies, rise as it were newly awakened out of sleep. By all these several Names are the Festivals of the Saints celebrated, which plainly denote, the day of the second Birth or going out of the world, and not of the first or coming into the world. And it is further observable, that the Church, among the many Saints, who have days appointed for their Commemoration, does not celebrate the Nativities of any, but our blessed Saviour, and St. john the Baptist: whereto those of the Romish persuasion have added that of the blessed Virgin Mary. SECT. III. St. George's day made Festum duplex. AFter that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, had given increase of honours to this their Patron's ●estival, our Church began to take a greater regard to his day, because he was also esteemed amongst us, the Patron of our Nation, and therefore bestowed an q Titles of Hon. p. 814. addition of honour thereupon. For whereas it had anciently been accounted, only minus duplex, or, inferius duplex (as beside the Testimonies, both of our learned Selden and others, may also be deduced from the interdiction of the minora servilia opera upon this Saint's day, by a Synod held at Oxford, in the year of our Lord 1222. cited by r De Orig. Fest. Christ. C. 4. f. 17: a. Hospinian) it was petitioned in a Convocation, held under Archbishop Arundel, an. 1. H. 4. s MS. in Offic. principal. Cantuar. v●cat▪ Arundel. part. 1. f. 53. b. Art. 2●. that it might be observed and solemnised sicut caeterae Nationis suorum Patronorum facta colunt; which though it took no effect, yet after at the t Constitutionem ha● edidit Hen. Chicheley ad excitationem Regis Henrici Angliae quinti, in par●es Normanniae transitum. Linwode in Glossa verbo ineffabilis Provincialis, Lib. 2. C Ineffabilis de Feriis. instance of King Henry the Fifth, this day was (in the u Selden's Titles of Honour. p. 814. 3. year of his Reign) made w MS. in Offic. Principal. C●ntuar. vocat Chicheley, part. 2. f. 2. Festum duplex, ad modum majoris duplicis, by a Canon of the Convocation, of the Province of Canterbury: And so we find it noted to be observed, a long time after, in the Calendar, set before the Horae beatissimae Virginis Mariae, secundum usum Sarum, Printed at Paris, by Francis Regnault, anno Domini 1526. But this is found so noted, only in some of the Missals used here in England, for in the Roman Breviary and Missal, it appear● to be but Semiduplex. Now the better to explain, the abovementioned distinction of Festa majora duplicia, & minora duplicia, Durand, as being very particular in this point, may fitly be consulted herein, who saith, x Rati●n. Diu. Offic. lib. ●. c. 1. num. 31. vide etiam Gavant. Comment. in Rubricas Brev. Roman, Sect. 3. c. 2.3. & 4. Quaedam festa dicuntur in totum duplicia, quaedam simpliciter duplicia, quaedam semiduplicia, & c Some Feasts are said to be totally double, some simply double, some half double: The totally or greater double are so called, because in them the Responsories, as well the greater as the shorter, as also the Verses are sung by two, and because the Antiphones, both at Matins and Vespers are doubled; of this sort, are the Feasts of the Nativity of our Lord, of St. Stephen, of St. john the Evangelists, Epiphany, Purification, & c The lesser double Feasts are the second and third Feriae before the Octaves of Easter and Penticost, the Commemoration of St. Paul, and in brief every Feast which is ordained to be celebrated double in all Churches, whereas the greater double Feast are kept in some particular Churches only. The half double Feasts are such wherein the Responsories are sung by two, but neither are they begun by two, nor are the Antiphones sung double, yet the Verses and short Responsories are said, and these are the Feasts of St. Andrew, Nicholas, Lucy, Thomas the Apostle, & c And the reason of this variety observed in the celebration of these Feasts, is for that as St. Paul saith, y 1 Cor. cap. 15. ver. 21. One Star difers from another in glory; so according to the degrees of merit (saith the same z Loco jam citato. Durand) their praise is so much the more or less celebrated in these Feasts. This division of Durand appears to be the same in effect, with that taken notice of by our learned Selden; where a Tit. Hon. p. 816. Majora duplicia, answers to Durandus his duplicia in totum, the Minora, to the simpliciter duplicia, and the Inferiora to the Semiduplicia; only herein Selden notes this difference, that the grand and high Feast of all, as Christmas, Easter, and Penticost, etc. are not comprehended under the notion of Majora Duplicia, but by the title of Principaliora. And as for the Festival of our particular Patron St. George, however after-Custom had slackened that due honour which was decreed unto it, by the above mentioned Canon; yet how great a veneration it was thought worthy of, plainly appears, both by that part of the said Canon, wherein it is Decreed to be one of the Festa majora duplicia, and also by the reasons given at large for it, in the Preamble thereof, which are these. b MS in Offic. Principal. Cantuar. vocat. Chicheley part. 2. f. 2 & f. 114. vide etiam Concil. Spelmann. Tom. 2. p. 669. Upon consideration therefore of this appointment, proceeding from the favourable and bountiful mercy of our God and Saviour the faithful of the English Nation, although at all times obliged to worship God in all his Saints, yet as is testified by the general vote of the World, and the experience of grace given from above, the best interpreter of all things, are they more particularly bound to extol him with high acclamations, to sound forth his praises, and to give him veneration and special honours, in the people of his most glorious Martyr Saint George, as Patron and Protector of the said Nation, since by his intercession, at we verily believe, not only the Military Power of the English Nation, is strengthened, and made capable of repelling all hostile incursions, in the time of War, but also our Spiritual Militia, the flourishing estate of our Clergy, is under the tutelage of so great a Patron manifestly, fortified in the prosperity of a holy and peaceful estate. To this may be added, the division of Feasts into Generalia, which are called Solemnitates, and Particularia, which are peculiar to one Church only, one Parish or one Bishopric, and also into Mobilia, such as are not limited to one certain day of the Month, as Easter-day, Whitsunday, etc. and Fixa, such as constantly fall upon a certain day of the Month, as Christmas-day, Lady-day, and several others: which, as falling into this subject of Feasts, we thought fit to mention out of the before mentioned c De Orig. Fest. Christian. c. 5. f. 19 a. Hospinian, rather for satisfaction to the curious, than as necessarily relating to the present discourse. SECT. IV. The Place for celebrating the Grand Feast, assigned to Windesor Castle. AND as King Edward the Third, Founder of this most Noble Order, had fixed the day of its Feast, to that of the Passion (or, according to the Church phrase, the Nativity) of his Patron; so as to the place, wherein to perform its Solemnities, he made choice of that of his own Nativity, the Castle of d H. 8. Stat. Art. 8. Froisard, l. 1. c. 100 Polid. Virgil. Angl. Hist. l. 19 p. 378. Windesor, and appointed the observation of this Grand Festival, in a solemn manner, and with due Ceremonies to be celebrated there, which for a long time after was inviolably observed, either upon the very day by the Church made sacred to St. George, or else upon some other appointed by Prorogation, not long after: for which way of Prorogation, allowance was given by the e E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 H. 5. Stat. Art. 9 H. 8. Stat. Art. 4. Statutes of the Order, and of which the Registers are full of instances. SECT. V. St. George's day kept apart from the Grand Feast, and how then observed. HOW this Noble Order spread its roots and flourished, from its first plantation to the time of King Henry the Fifth, we can give no account, since the Annals thereof are wanting unto his Reign; certain it is, that then it was of a considerable growth; but afterwards, the Civil Wars, towards the end of King Henry the Sixth's Reign, caused it to stand at a stay. Under the benevolent aspect of King Edward the Fourth, it seemed to recover; and whilst King Henry the Eighth reigned, to have attained a greater height than at any time before. But though the several Branches of the Order received some augmentation, from the favourable influence of this last mentioned Sovereign, yet the principal, to wit, the Grand Festival, began to flag, by a removal of the observation of St. George's day from Windesor (the place particularly appointed for it) and a prorogatory celebration of the Grand Feast to other times. By which means, the honour of that princely Seat, and the advantages accrueing by the performance of the Solemnities there, were diverted to those other places, whereto the observation of St. George's day was translated. The Article of the Statutes causing this great alteration, and which clashed so much with the design of the first Institutor, may be seen in the f See Henry the Eighth's Statutes, Art. 4. Appendix, where it is manifest, that when the Sovereign saw occasion, to prorogue the celebration of the Grand Feast, he might legally do it; but when he did so, 'tis there also evident, that the day of St. George, was nevertheless ordained to be duly observed, singly by itself, in what place soever the Sovereign (if within this Realm) should then reside; Windesor hereby being not excluded. It further implies the sacred Rites and Offices to be performed, with sundry other concerns of the Order, for besides the particulars therein innumerated, we may observe thence this general clause, that what other urgent Affair soever (relating to the Order) should offer itself to be performed, the same might be treated of, and receive dispatches in the Chapter held, where the Sovereign than should be, as fully as if he were at Windesor Castle. So that hence forward, all things began to be ordered, both on the Eve, the Day of St. George, and the Morrow after, with full as great state, all Affairs as legally dispatched, and all Ceremonies as magnificently performed (except that of Offering up of Achievements, which is peculiar and local to the Chapel of St. George in Windesor Castle) as could be observed, at the Grand Festival itself. And how (by virtue of this Article) and with that Ceremonies St. George's day was held, when the Grand Feast was prorogued to some further time, is evident, from a full and ample Precedent (an. 22. H. 8.) now remaining in the Office of Arms. For albeit the Sovereign, with h Lib. N. p. 258. thirteen Knights-Companions, were at Windesor, upon the 22.23. and 24. of April that year, yet did they at that time observe only the Feast day of St. George (with the Eve and Morrow after) but deferred (by i Lib. N. p. 258. Order in Chapter) the celebration of the Grand Feast, unto the 8. day of May ensuing; the Memorial whereof follows. k MS, in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 32. The King went not to the Chapter before the first Evensong, but immediately to his Stall (viz. in the Chapel of the l Ibid. Sovereign's Lodgings in the Upper Ward of the Castle of Windesor, not in the Chapel Royal of St. George) The Bishop of London Lord Cutberde Tunstall elect of Duresme did the Divine Service, and at Magnificat he and the Dean first censed the Altar, and after the King; both the high Altar and the Altar which was made before the King, were richly garnished with Images and over garnishments of Gold, and Silver, and Gilt, etc. The Evensong the King returned to his— and his Grace, and the Knights of the Order were served of the void, etc. And on the Morn at 9 of the Clock— to be at Matyns, which was done above the Ordinary, the King ordained in the honour of St. George, a right noble Procession, whereat was 35 Copes of rich Cloth of Gold; after the Procession the King went immediately to his Stall, and High Mass, and offered as accustomed, That done; Dinner, and 4 of the greatest Estates sat at the king's boards end. And the residue sat all along at the two Tables all on the one side, as accustomed, and before Evensong the King went to his Closet to the Chapter, and appointed the Duke of Suffolk to be his Lieutenant at the Feast, which was appointed to be kept the eight day of May then ensuing, accompanied with the Earl of Rutland, the Lord Sandys Lord Chamberlain, Sir William Fitz Williams. Memoramdum, That the low Evensongs that were said before the King. were of St. George. Also the first low Mass in the morning song by the Lord George Grey of Dorset; two oder Masses of the day, of the which Lord John Longland Bishop of Lincoln sang the third Mass, the fourth low Mass was of Recordare, and was appointed that the high Mass done, the Mass of Requiem should begin. Thus here we have (1.) The attendance of the Knights-Companions upon the Sovereign. (2.) the Chapter, which accustomably was held on the Eve of the Feast, implied, by observing, that the Sovereign went not unto it. (3.) The Ceremonies at the first Vespers. (4.) The Morning Service on St. George's day. (5.) The Grand Procession. (6.) The Solemn Offering. (7.) The Grand Dinner. (8.) The Chapter held before the second Vespers. (9) The day for celebrating the Grand Festival appointed. And (10.) The Mass of Requiem, on the morrow after St. George's day celebrated. SECT. VI The Grand Feast neglected by King Edward the Sixth. BUT King Edward the Sixth assuming the Sovereignty of this Noble Order, the days became more gloomy, in as much as during his Reign, there was no Anniversary of St. George kept at Windesor, by a Grand Festival. Under what churlish Fate this noble place then suffered, we cannot guests, other than the common calamity of that Age, wherein most Ceremonies, solemn or splendid, either (chiefly such as related to Divine Services) came under the suspicion of being superstitious, if not idolatrous. Insomuch as at a Chapter held at Greenwich, upon the m MS. fol. pen. Rob. Com. Ali●b. p. 24. b. 22. day of April, in the second year of his Reign (an abolition being intended of all such Ceremonies, as were not consonant to the King's Injuctions then lately prescribed) it was Ordained and Decreed, that n MS. fol. pen. Rob. Com. Ali●b. p. 24. b. then and for ever from thenceforth (at the Feast of this most Noble Order) no other Ceremonies should be observed, than such as were appointed in the following Letter. Which was at that Chapter agreed upon, and a little before the next years Feast day of St. George, sent from the Lords of the Council to the Knights-Companions, attributing the whole procedure, to the great piety of the then Sovereign, and the care he took, that certain abuses and preposterous Ceremonies of the Church, should be reform: Whereby the Solemnity, State and magnificence of this Grand Festival was very much eclipsed. o MS. 4. penes E.W.G. AFter our most hearty commendations; For as much as the King's Highness hath appointed a most godly Reformation of divers abuses and rites in the Church, to a more convenient and decent Order, of the which some hath been used heretofore, in the most honourable and amicable Order of the Garter, and being not reform, there should make a disagreeing from his Majesty's most godly proceedings. Therefore it is his Majesty's will and pleasure, by the advice of us the Lord Protector, and other his Highness' Council, that all such things, as be not conformable and agreeing to his Majesty's Injunctions, Orders, or Reformations, now of late prescribed, should be also in that most Noble Order and the Ceremonies thereof lest undone, and reform as hereafter followeth. First, that no Procession be made with going about the Church or Church-yard, but the King's Majesty's Procession, lately set forth in English to be used. His Majesty and other Knights of that honourable Order sitting in their Stalls, at the entry such Reverence to be made to the King's Majesty only as was heretofore. The Offering to be in the Box for the Poor, without any other Reverence or kissing of any Paten or other thing, but only at the return due Reverence to the King's Majesty as was used before. The Mass of Requiem to be left undone, but yet both upon St. George's day, and the next day a Mass to be sung with great Reverence; in the which immediately after the words of Consecration is said, the Priest shall say the Pater Noster, and so turn and communicate all, or so many of the Order or other, after they have done, as shall be disposed godly at the same time to receive the Communion, according to such order as is prescribed in his Highness' Book of Communion, and without any other Rite or Ceremony after the said Communion to be used, except it be some godly Psalm or Hymn to be sung in English, and so to end the said Service. All Chapters and other Rites concerning the said Order, not being contrary to these, to remain as they have been prescribed and used, the which we have thought good to signify unto you, that you may follow the same accordingly, From Greenwich the 20. of April 1548. This Decree we observe, signified not less than a Prohibition to the holding the Grand Fe●st at Windesor (although it spoke not so plain) at least the neglect of its celebration there, whilst King Edward the Sixth lived, makes it to seem so. And albeit towards the end of this Sovereign's Reign, some care was or seemed taken, for a permissive holding of the said Feast, either upon the day of St. George, or some other day appointed by Prorogation, yet was it without any regard had to the ancient and usual place, the Castle of Windesor. For when the p An. 5. & 6. Ed. 6. ca 3. Act of Parliament passed, q An. 5. & 6. Ed. 6. ca 3. commanding the days therein mentioned to be kept holy, and none other (whereby the celebration of many days besides, which in former time, by the Canons of our Church appointed to be kept holy, were prohibited, and among the rest the Feast day of St. George, it being not found among those Feast days at that time established) It was considered, That a Proviso and allowance should be entered in the aforesaid Act, for the celebration of this Feast, particularly by the Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order, in these words. Provided always, and be it enacted by the Authority aforesaid, that it shall be lawful to the Knights of the right honourable Order of the Garter, and to every of them, to keep and celebrate solemnly the Feast of their Order, commonly called St. George's Feast, yearly from henceforth the 22.23. and 24. days of April, and at such other time and times, as yearly shall be thought convenient, by the King's Highness his Heirs and Successors, and the said Knights of the said honourable Order, or any of them, now being, or hereafter to be, any thing in this Act heretofore mentioned to the contrary notwithstanding. Which Act, although it suffered a r An. 1. Mar. cap. 2. Repeal by Queen Mary, yet strands it at this day in force, being s An. 1. jac. R. cap. 25. revived by King james, his repealing of that Statute of the first of Queen Mary, Cap. 2. SECT. VII. Removed from Windesor by Queen Elizabeth. BUT that which gave the greatest and almost fatal blow, to the growing Honour of this no less famous than ancient Castle of Windesor, and severed the Patron's Festival from the Place, was a Decree made at a Chapter held at Whitehall, upon St. George's day an. 9 Eliz. with the consent of the Knights-Companions then present, being 12 in number (namely, the Earls of Arundel and Penbroke, the Lord Clinton, Marquis of Northampton, Lord Howard of Effingham, Earl of Sussex, Lord Loughborow, Viscount Montague, Earls of Leicester, Northumberland, Warwick, and Lord Hunsdon) to the effect following t Lib. C. p. 54. That if on the Vigil and day of St. George, the Feast were not held at Windesor according to the usual Custom, it should nevertheless be sufficient, if the observation thereof were kept in the same place, where the Sovereign should then happen to be, where also all the rest of the Knights-Companions were obliged to be present, no less than if the Feast had been to be celebrated at Windesor. And henceforward the glory which Windesor Castle had alone possessed for some Ages, began to be distributed to other places, nay, so severe was the later part of this Decree, to the interest of so flourishing a place, that it well-nigh extended to a prohibition of all other Celebrations there, since it also commanded, u Ibid. That no other Solemnity under the notion of St. George's Feast, should thenceforth be celebrated at Windesor, except upon occasion of the Installation of some illustrious personage, and then also, not without the leave and appointment of the Sovereign. And to say truth, this Statutes was but too strictly observed, all the remainder of her Reign; for we meet not with one Feast of St. George, held simply and peculiarly as a Feast in honour of the Order Patron at Windesor (unless you mistakingly account any of the Feasts of Installation for those of St. George, which for the most part were held at the charge and expense of the Knights Installed) until the first year of King james: But then the Sovereign (as yet in Scotland) taking notice that the w MS. quart. penes W. le N. Cl. day of the Celebration of the Feast of St. George approached, and his Affairs hindering him from the observation of the just day, because he could not be so soon present, at any of his Houses of Residence, where the same was meet to be kept, he therefore thought good to defer the Celebration thereof for a time, until he could conveniently honour the same with his own presence. To that purpose, by Commission dated the x MS. quart. penes W. le N. Cl. 5. of April in the first year of his Reign, he appointed Charles * Lib. C. p. 147. vide etiam MS. pen. E. W. G. f. 12. Earl of Nottingham his Lieutenant, for the Proroguing thereof unto the 3. day of july next ensuing, Declaring also, that on that day he intended to a Lib. C. p. 147. vide etiam MS. pen. E. W. G. f. 12. keep the said Feast and Ceremonies personally at Windesor. This b Lib. C. p. 147. Commission being read (upon the Knights-Companions assembling at Whitehall, on St. George's c Lib. C. p. 147. Eve following) they forthwith proceeded to Vespers, which being finished, all the Knights-Companions present went up to the Closet, and there Decreed, d Ibid. That the foresaid Festival should be celebrated upon the day, which the Sovereign had appointed. And the Sovereign arriving at Windesor the e Ibid. p. 150. 25. day of june following, shortly after constituted the said Earl of Nottingham his Lieutenant, by Commission bearing date the second day of july following, thereby impowering him to perform the Ceremonies of the Feast (which it seems himself could not personally observe as was intended, though then in the Castle) on the 2.3. and 4. days of the said Month, upon which days it was with all pomp and state solemnised. And thus after a long interval did the honour of the Feast then return, which had this effect (towards the end of the same Sovereign's Reign, and in that of his Son and Successor King Charles the First) that it begat a reunion of the Feast and Place; whereby that ancient Fabric, famous for the Institution of this most Noble Order, retrived the honour of having its Solemnities celebrated within its Walls. SECT. VIII. Of Prorogation of the Grand Feast. HAving thus noted, that from the beginning of King Henry the Eight's Reign, until of late years, the Grand Feast was seldom observed upon the precise day of St. George; and that the occasion how both day and Feast, came to be celebrated apart, took its rise from the indulgence of the Statutes, in point of Prorogation: we shall further observe, that this Prorogation is of two sorts, either absolute, as being enjoined by the Statutes of the Order, or else arbitrary at the Sovereign's pleasure, when for some reason he saw just occasion therefore. To the first of these it is said, Prorogation by Statute. f E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 If the Feast day of St. George shall happen within 15 days next after Easter day, it shall be g E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 prorogued to the Sunday fortnight or 15. day next after Easter day, and the reason of this is there set down, viz. h E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 That every of the Knights-Companions might have the opportunity of coming thereunto, without being constrained to ride upon any of those three holy days, immediately following Easter day. The same rule for Prorogation, where there is a concurrence of these two Feasts, is likewise enjoined in the Statutes of King Henry the Fifth, and King Henry the Eighth. And we observe, that when the Grand Feast (in this case of Easter) hath been kept before the expiration of the said 15 days, the Knights-Companions then absent (to avoid the penances incurred for their non-attendance) have laid hold of this following excuse, i Lib. N. p. 171. That the ancient Statutes of the Order were violated, in keeping the Feast within fifteen days after Easter; and this was so alleged, when Sir k Ibid. pag. 170. john Denham (than also Lord Treasurer) held, as Precedent, the Feast of St. George at Windesor, the l Ibid. pag. 170. 24. of April. an. 8. H. 7. Anciently, where the Register mentions the Grand Feast to be held at Windesor, beyond the day of St. George, we find upon Calculation, that Easter day (in those years) fell too near the 23. of April, to celebrate the Festival on, without breaking the Law, which was the real cause of those Prorogations: As for instance in the m Lib. N. pag. 90. 13. n Regist. Char●ac. fol. 24. 24. and o Lib. N. p. 115. 35. of King Henry the Sixth, when Easter day fell upon the 17. of April, and consequently St. George's day within the following week. In like manner in the p Ib. p. 106. 29. and q Pag. 111. 32. of the said King's Reign, Easter day happened yet nearer to St. George's day, in the one upon the 25. and in the other upon the 21. of April. And in all of these cases, care was taken to Prorogue the celebration of the Grand Feast, until some further day in the Month of May, immediately following, as from the before cited places doth appear. Again an. 11. H. 8. r Ib. Pag. 208. Quia festa dies Divi Georgii Paschatis in vigilia contigit, because the Feast day of St. George happened upon Easter Eve, therefore the Sovereign summoned a Chapter to be held, upon the s Ib. Pag. 208. Thursday before Easter day at Richmond, where it was then held; and although there is nothing spoken, as to the Prorogation of the Feast, or when it was to be celebrated, yet doubtless something there was to this purpose then enacted, in pursuance of the foresaid Statute; else, why should it there be noted with the word quia, if it were not out of respect to the Feast of Easter, and that thereupon the said Chapter was then called. To this place may be referred a Commission of Lieutenancy, made to Thomas Earl of Arundel, for holding the Grand Feast at Windesor, upon the t Lib. N. p. 179. 24. of May, an. 21. H. 7. (the Sovereign keeping the day of St. George that year at Cambridge) the Prorogation being grounded upon the falling of St. George's day, within the excepted 15 days of Easter, as appears by the than Sovereign's Letters of notice to the said Lieutenant; which for the antiquity thereof, as that it is a testimony of the punctual observance of the Statutes, we have inserted in the u Num. CLIX Appendix. And as the Knights-Companions had prohibitions put upon the solemnisation of their Feast, in case of its interfering with Easter; so had the Church of England in their observation of the day of St. George. For by the ordinal of the Church of Salisbury, published an. 1508. it appears to have been the usage of that Church, that when the Feast day of St. George fell upon Easter day or Easter Eve, the celebration thereof was then deferred to the 9 day or some other day of May, as the case required in their Ecclesiastical Discipline: And our learned Selden observes it noted in the end of an old Manuscript Ordinal of the Province of York, w Tit. Honour, p. 816. That when St. George's day happened to fall upon Easter Eve, the celebration was anticipated, and cast into the 8. or 9 day preceding, or into the 16. or 17. days of April. Hereunto may we subjoin, that in the Solemnities of the Order, there hath sometimes been an omission (in part or in all) of the Service and Office appointed by the Church to be used upon the day of St. George, when it happened near to Easter, as it was an. 22. H. 8. St. George's day falling upon x MS. in office. Armour. [M. 17.] f. 32. Saturday in Easter-week (the Sovereign then at Windesor celebrating the y MS. in office. Armour. [M. 17.] f. 32. day there, though the Grand Feast, was prorogued to the 8. of May following) wherefore the z MS. in office. Armour. [M. 17.] f. 32. Service of the Feast of Easter and not of St. George was celebrated on the Vigil (in the a MS. in office. Armour. [M. 17.] f. 32. Chapel above, in the upper Quadrangle next St. George's Hall, not in the College) but the low Evensongs said before the Sovereign, were of St. George. In like manner b Lib. N. p. 296. an. 38. H. 8. Good Friday falling upon the 23. of April (the day used to be kept sacred to St. George) the Service together with the Ceremonies wont to be performed to the honour of God, and in memory of St. George, were prorogued to Sunday the c Lib. N. p. 296. 3. of May, being Low-Sunday, and the d Lib. vocat. Dalton, p. 128. Service of the day took place. So reverend a regard was anciently had for the Feasts appointed by the Church to be kept holy, and the Vigils thereof, as also to the Divine Service, ordained to be celebrated thereon, that this Feast of St. George, was by King Henry the Fifth's Statutes expressly prohibited to be held, if through the Prorogations aforesaid, it should chance to fall out upon the e Lib. N. p. 66. 24. and 25. days of April But in all other Rolls and Copies of these Statutes, that have come to our view, we find the 26. day of April added to this place, (and so afterwards in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes) which was very requisite, because otherwise the second Vespers of St. Mark, might from the first Vespers of St. George receive interruption. With these, the like Prohibition was enjoined, if the Feast fell upon the f H. 5. Stat. Art. 9 last of April, the first, second, third, and fourth of May, in honour of the double Feast of St. Philip and jacob, and of the Feast of the Invention of the Cross of our Lord jesus Christ; for which cause in the 9 and 10. years of King Henry the Eighth, the celebration of the Grand Feast was prorogued to the 10. and 16. days of May at Windesor, which were the Sundays g Lib. N. p. 205. & 207. next following the Feast of the Invention of the holy Cross, in those two years. So likewise if it fell on the Feasts of the h H. 5. Stat. Art. 9 Ascension, and Penticost. Thus far in reference to these enumerated Festivals, did the Statutes of the Order provide; as also where the case might fall within the compass of any i Idem, vide etiam H. 8. Stat. Art. 8. other solemn Feast ordained by the Church, when the first or second Vespers thereof might (through such Prorogations) be hindered or disturbed; which were for aught we find, until the time of our Reformation of Religion (begun by King Edward the Sixth) duly observed: But since upon passing the Act of Parliament before mentioned, for singling some few days, out of those many, that were before kept holy, there hath been no due observation given to these Injunctions, but that the Grand Feast of St. George, hath by Prorogation, been celebrated upon any of them indifferently, the Feast of Easter only excepted. And in this case of Easter, after such time as the Statutes were new modelled by King Henry the Eighth, the time for Prorogation of the Grand Feast was left more arbitrary (so also when it fell out upon any Fish or Fastingday) k Ibid. even at the Sovereign's pleasure; and therefore since then (when the said two Feasts happened to concur) the adjournments have passed but for some few days. As for instance, St. George's day, an. 18. Eliz. fell upon Easter-Monday, and thereupon the Sovereign appointed a Chapter to be held in the Privy Chamber at Whitehall, on l MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 123. Easter Eve, wherein it was Ordered: That the Feast of St. George should be adjourned, until Tuesday the m MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 123. 24. of April (being Tuesday in Easter week) and by this appointment, the very day celebrated by the Church, for that of St. George, became the Eve to the Grand Feast, and was so observed by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions. Of later times, viz. o MS. penes E. W. G. f. 151. b. an. 12. jac. R. when St. George's day fell upon p MS. penes E. W. G. f. 151. b. Easter-Eve, the celebration thereof was deferred until q MS. penes E. W. G. f. 151. b. Thursday than next following. Lastly, his late Majesty of ever sacred memory, being a great restorer of the ancient Solemnities and Discipline of this Order, punctual even in circumstances of Honour, and extraordinary tender of infringing any of the Statutes, having prorogued the Feast of St. George from the r Palmer's Iourn. p. 32▪ & 33. 8.9. and 10. days of February, in the 18. year of his Reign, to the s Palmer's Iourn. p. 32. & 33. 18.19. and 20. days of April following, at the City of York; and the time falling out to be within 15 days of Easter, although he might (by the power of King Henry the Eighth's u Art. 8. Statutes, and those Precedents before recited) have kept the same upon the days designed: Nevertheless without a particular Dispensation drawn and made authentic, by the Great Seal of the Order, and his own Royal Signature, would not proceed to the Ceremonies of that celebration. We come now to the second sort of Prorogations, Prorogation● at pleasure which are merely arbitrary, and wholly dependent upon the Sovereign's pleasure, yet warranted sufficiently from the words [Causa postulante] set down in the beginning of the Fourth Article of King Henry the Eighth's Statutes; as also by the great latitude given unto the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order, out of compliance with their urgent Affairs, in the 8. Article following, quo Supremus volet prorogabitur. But we observe, that long before the making this Statute, something of like nature had been practised, and the Grand Feast prorogued at the pleasure of the Sovereign (the day of St. George being nevertheless observed) albeit the Registers render not the cause: To manifest which, we shall instance in a few Examples. The first thing memorable in this kind (of which any Record is extant) is that an. 5. H. 5. when about the w Lib. N. pag. 57 18. of August (near 4 Months after St. George's day) the Sovereign (then engaged in War with France) having reduced to his obedience the not inconsiderable Town of x Lib. N. pag. 57 Caen, and made the Duke of Clarence Governor thereof; y Lib. N. pag. 57 took order as far as the present exigency of Affairs would permit, to have the Feast of St. George there celebrated, and with great solemnity created 15 Knights into the Order. So a Ex lib. vocat. Dalton. an. 22. E. 4. the Sovereign with the rest of the Knights-Companions, kept all the Solemnities of the Order in b Ex lib. vocat. Dalton. St. Paul's Church London, and dined in the Bishop of London's c Ex lib. vocat Dalton. Palace (at which time he received from the Pope a d Ex lib. vocat. Dalton. Sword and Cap of Maintenance) and albeit the mention of St. George's day occur not expressly in the place, whence we have this account, nevertheless, observing both out of the e Pag. 148. Black Book, and the f Fol. 49. Registrum Chartaceum, that the Grand Feast, itself, was by the Lord Matrevers held at Windesor, within few days after St. George's day, that very year, viz. the 29. of April. Therefore these Solemnities at St. Paul's, may most probably be thought to have been observed upon the very day of St. George; for they could not be celebrated in any part of the year following the aforesaid 29. of April, because the Grand Feast itself was then already past. In like manner King Henry the Seventh, in the 20. year of his Reign, went on g Lib. N. pag. 177. St. George's day in solemn Procession and very great State, to the forementioned Cathedral, yet notwithstanding on the 4. of May following, the Grand Feast was observed at h Lib. N. pag. 177. Windesor, by the Earl of i Lib. N. pag. 177. Arundel (deputed by the Sovereign) and four other of the Knights-Companions appointed for his Assistants. Again, an. k Regist. Chart. f. 53. b. & Lib. N. p. 204. 8. H. 8. the Sovereign being at Eltham on St. l Regist. Chart. f. 53. b. & Lib. N. p. 204. George's day, it was in a Chapter there held, Decreed, That the accustomed celebration of the Feast of St. George, should be observed at m Regist. Chart. f. 53. b. & Lib. N. p. 204. Windesor, upon Sunday next after Trinity Sunday, being the n Regist. Chart. f. 53. b. & Lib. N. p. 204. 25. of May ensuing; and the Marquis Dorset was then also appointed Lieutenant to the Sovereign for holding thereof, and the Earl of Essex (in whose room the Lord o Regist. Chart. f. 53. b. & Lib. N. p. 204. Poynings was afterwards substituted) with the Lords La Ware, Mountegle, and Lovel his Assistants. And from this time it became annually customary, especially all the subsequent years of King Henry the Eighth's Reign, Queen Mary's, and unto the 9 of Queen Elizabeth, to keep the day of St. George, wheresoever the Sovereign at that time abode, which for the most part was at Greenwich, or Whitehall, on which day (as also on the Eve and morning after the day) the usual Solemnities were observed, and a noble Feast provided, as hath been said: But as to the celebration of the Grand Festival itself, that was in one of the Chapters, held during the foresaid celebrations, and most commonly on St. George's day, adjourned unto some further time, and then solemnised at Windesor by Prorogation, not by the Sovereign's themselves, but by their Lieutenants and their Assistants, especially deputed and appointed for that purpose. But to proceed with the causes of Prorogation, which were either for some considerable reasons, or upon emergent occasions. An. 1. Mariae, the Sovereign celebrating the day of St. George, at her Manor of St. p Lib. G. p. 7. James', Philip then Prince of Spain, and Henry Earl of Sussex, were on the q Ibid. p. 9 morrow after elected into the Order; whereupon it was also decreed, r Ibid. p. 9 That the inauguration of these two Knights-Elect, should be prorogued until the Prince came over into England, which happening upon the 21. day of july following, the Grand Feast, together with that of the Elect-Knights Installations, were appointed to be celebrated together; to which purpose a s Appendix, Num. CLX. Letter was afterwards sent unto the Knights-Companions for their repair thither, against the 5. of August than next following. Again, an. t Lib. C. p. 19 3. & 4. Ph. & Mar. at a Chapter held at Westminster upon the 22. of April, the u Ibid. pt. 20. Feast of St. George (together with the Installation of three Knights at that time Elected) was appointed to be held at Windesor, on the w Ibid. pt. 20. 9 day of May following, and by a Chapter summoned at the same place, the x Ib. p. 21. 3. of May before the appointed day for keeping the Feast, the same was prorogued unto the y Ib. p. 21. 5. of December following, z Ib. p. 21. because of the manifold and urgent affairs of the King and Queen. But before that designed time, another Chapter was held at Saint James', upon the a Ibid. pag. 22. last day of October in the 4. and 5. years of their Reigns, wherein it was again prorogued unto the b Ibid. pag. 22. first Sunday after Twelfth-day, viz. the 9 of january then following, c Ibid. pag. 22. if by that time the King (who it seems was gone out of Flanders) should return into England; but there appearing afterwards no hopes of his coming over against that prefixed time, another Chapter was summoned and held at Greenwich the d Ibid. pag. 22. 5. of january, wherein it was Decreed, e Ibid. pag. 22. urgent Affairs requiring, that the said Feast should be further prorogued, unto the f Ibid. pag. 22. 20. of February next coming, and then the Lieutenant and Assistants appointed to the first Prorogation, should celebrate this solemn Feast at Windesor, in manner as it was Decreed, the 22. of April preceding. Nevertheless, the g Ibid. p. 23. sixth day of February after, in another Chapter, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions Decreed, to prorogue the last mentioned Prorogation unto h Ibid. p. 23. St. George's day, than next following, i Ibid. p. 23. Because both in respect of the meeting of the Parliament, and other Affairs of great importance, as also by reason of the War that was begun, the said Feast could not conveniently be before observed. In like manner, a. 2. Eliz. upon the k Ibid. pag. 33. 24. of April, it was Decreed, that on Sunday the l Ibid. pag. 33. 5. of May the Feast of St. George should be observed with the accustomed celebrations; but that morning in a Chapter held at Whitehall, m Ibid. p. 34. for very high and important causes, was it prorogued until Sunday the 12. day of May immediately following, on which day it was solemnised at Windesor. Again, King james having designed his Journey into Scotland (to begin the n Ib. p. 189. 20 of March, a 14. regni sui) he assembles a Chapter at Whitehall, the second day of that Month, and therein, by reason that for the cause aforesaid, o Ib. p. 189. Saint George's Feast for the year ensuing, could not conveniently be kept on the accustomed day and place, decreed to celebrate the same at Windesor the p Ib. p. 189. 13. day of September next following, where it was accordingly observed. So also for causes of another, but sadder nature, an. 17. jac. R. viz. Queen Anne's q Ib. p. 192. death, and the Sovereign's dangerous r Ib. p. 192. sickness, which had brought him also near to the gates of death, was the Grand Feast prorogued from St. George's day, to the s Ib. p. 192. 26. of May in the same year, and then celebrated at Greenwich. And an. 1. Car. 1. the Sovereign not thinking sit t Lib. R. p. 26. for several causes, at that time to keep the Grand Feast, prorogued it from the u Lib. R. p. 26. 22.23. and 24. days of April, unto the 16.17. and 18. of August following, thence again until the w Ibid. pag. 28. 4.5. and 6. of October, and lastly to the 23. 24. and 25. of November in the same year, and then observed it at x Ibid. pag. 28. Windesor. Sometimes this Feast hath been put off, out of a respect unto the day, whereon it fell, as y Ibid p. 17. an. 22. jac. R. St. George's day then happening upon a Friday, the Sovereign therefore prorogued it until the 26. 27. and 28. days of April, at which time it was celebrated at Windesor: And the authority unto which regard was had in this place, was that Clause in the 8. Article of King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, wherein the keeping of St. George's Feast was prohibited, if it fell upon any z Lib. N. pag. 218. Fish or Fasting days. So also a Lib. Carol. p. 82. an. 22. Car. 2. it falling upon a Saturday, was prorogued to the 27. 28. and 29. days of April following. And albeit in times past this Feast hath been, for the most part upon Prorogations, observed upon a Sunday, yet of late in veneration to this day, it hath been likewise prohibited, as an. 2. Car. 1. St. George's day falling upon a b MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. Sunday, thereupon the Solemnity was put off until c MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday following, being the 26.27. and 28. of April, upon which days it was observed at d MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. Whitehall. But where the e MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. Eve happened upon a Sunday (as it did the f MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. next year after) there the Feast received no g MS. penes Ed. Fauconbridge, gen. Prorogation. In the year of our Lord 1636. the Sovereign was moved, by reason of the h Row's journal, p. 4. Contagion and Sickness, dispersed into several places of the Kingdom, and to avoid the danger of the concourse of much People, during the Infection aswell for other great and important Affairs, to give several Prorogations to this Feast, from the 22.23. and 24. d●ys of April (being the usual days of this Solemnity) first to the i Ibid. 8.9. and 10. days of july following, then again to the 26.27. and 28. of September, and from that time unto the 13.14. and 15. of December, and lastly to the 17.18. and 19 of April in the 13. year of his Reign; upon which last appointed days it was solemnised at k Ibid. Whitehall. Where on the l Lib. R. p. 125. morrow after the Feast, it being considered in a Chapter, that the day of St. George was near at hand, and for other special reasons, the Sovereign was there pleased to defer the Celebration of the approaching Feast, unto the m Lib. R. p. 125. 25.26. and 27. days of September ensuing: And on the 13. day of the said September, prorogued the Prorogation unto the n Row's journal, p. 22. 2.3. and 4. of October next following, to Windesor, where it was accordingly observed. Within few Months after, the Sovereign having determined to create the then Prince (now most happily the present Sovereign) a Knight, and to propose him in Election, as a Companion of this most Noble Society, did for the more conveniency of his Installation (the o Ibid. p. 38. 25. of February, an. 13. Car. 1.) defer the celebration of the Grand Feast from the 22.23. and 24. days of April then coming on, to the 21.22. and 23. days of May, when the same was observed with high Solemnity. This being the third Grand Festival, which had been celebrated personally by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, within the Revolution of one year, and something more, and to keep up the honour of Windesor Castle, two of them were solemnised within its Walls. And before the return of the next Anniversary of St. George, the Sovereign upon consultation had (in q Palmer's journal pro an. 1639. p. 2. February, an. 14. Car. 1.) with divers of the Knights-Companions, about the Prorogation of the Feast, which was supposed could not (by reason of his important occasions to repair into the North) be celebrated at the usual time in the next ensuing April; thereupon he thought fit to adjourn the same, (which was done the r Ibid. pag. 3. 26. of February aforesaid) unto the s Ibid. pag. 3. 2.3. and 4. of july next coming (York being the place the Sovereign thought most convenient to hold the Feast at) but afterwards being in his Camp near Barwick, and taking into consideration, the impossibility of keeping the Feast at York upon the before designed days, and conferring with some of the Knights-Companions, that then attended on his person, he the t Ibid. pag. 7. 22. of june, an. 15. Car. 1. adjourned the same until the u Ibid. pag. 7. 8.9. and 10. of October following to Windesor, at which time it was w Pag. 16. there celebrated. After this, the troubles and tempest of War approaching, the Prorogations became more frequent, and such places appointed to hold the Feast in, as the Sovereign thought most convenient, or had occasion to reside at. Nevertheless the adjournments passed always regularly under the Great Seal of the Order, and the Sovereign's Sign Manual. SECT. IX. Of Commissions for Prorogation. WE have not met with any Precedent of Commissions for Prorogation of the Grand Feast of St. George, more ancient than that of the * Append. Num. CLVIII. 11. of December, an. 12. Car. 1. left us by Sir Thomas Rowe, wherein is notice taken of all the former adjournments of the Grand Feast, from St. George's day preceding until that time, with the reasons thereof, and chiefly upon consideration had of the then spreading Sickness, together with a command to the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order, to attend upon the Sovereign on the new assigned days, viz. the 17.18. and 19 of April following, for the celebration of the said Feast. As to the substance hereof, the succeeding Commissions do very near agree, yet with some small difference; as first, the Preambles are general and run thus: Whereas upon special Reasons, and other important Affairs, etc. except only that Commission issued the 25. of February a An. 13. Car. 1. 1637. whose Preamble being fitted to the particular occasion, was this, b Row's journal, p. 38. Whereas we have determined to create the Prince our eldest Son a Knight, and to propose him in Election, as a Companion of our most Noble Order, for the more conveniency of his Installation, we have thought fit to defer the celebration of the Feast of St. George, etc. But in the Commissions of Prorogation of the Grand Feasts, dated the c Ibid. p. 16. 19 of April, and the d Pag. 38. 25. of February, an. 19 Car. 1. the place appointed for Celebration is omitted, which defect we find in the above mentioned Precedent also. Nevertheless, afterwards that material part came to be inserted, and first of all in that Commission of the 26. of February, an. 14. Car. 1. where the place (being the City of York) is put into the body of the Commission. And when the late War drew on, and consequently the Sovereign could not so well ascertain the place beforehand, because of his continual and uncertain motion, according as occasion and advantages offered themselves: Then we observe, that the Grand Feast was appointed to be kept at any such place, as (when the time appointed by Prorogation was near expired) should seem to the Sovereign most convenient. But from the body of the Commissions, the nomination of Place, afterwards slided downwards into the close, and showed itself in that part, where the Injunction was given, for the Knights-Companions and Officers to attend upon the days before appointed, being expressed either thus, e Com. 20. Apr. an 18. Ca●. 1. Wheresoever we shall then be, etc. or else thus, f 13 Feb. 18.2. Apr. 19 & 20. jan. 20. Car. 1. at such Places as we shall timely appoint, etc. which later way of signification was first used in Commissions issued forth, after the Sovereign came to settle at Oxford. Now the most ordinary course, preparatory to the issuing forth such Commissions of Prorogation, hath been by the Sovereign's Declaration in Chapter, or otherwise the signification of his pleasure, to the Chancellor of the Order at any other time, who thereupon drew up the Commission, and presented it to the Sovereign, for his Sign Manual, and then affixed thereunto the Great Seal of the Order. Nevertheless, where the Chancellor was not at hand, to receive the commands for adjournment, immediately from the Sovereign, we find his pleasure in this particular, was then signified to him by some other hand, with command to summon the Knights-Companions and Officers accordingly. For so was it done by Sir g Row's journal, p. 22. Francis Windebanke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of State, by his Letters from oatland's, directed to Sir Thomas Row, dated the 11. of September, an. 13. Car. 1. for Prorogation of the Grand Feast, from the 25. of September then near at hand, unto the 2.3. and 4. of October following. And as all the preceding Adjournments of the Grand Feast, have been either Decreed in Chapter, or directed immediately from the Sovereign: So have we also seen a Precedent that hath impowered a Lieutenant, to prorogue the same, nevertheless to the time and place before appointed by the Sovereign, and mentioned in the Commission of Lieutenancy. And this was a Commission directed to Charles Earl of Nottingham, an. h MS. quart. penes W. le N. Cl. 1. jac. R. wherein, after the Sovereign had premised the impediments, which hindered him from his personal observation of the said Feast, upon the prefixed day then near approaching, he thereby made choice of the said Earl to be his Lieutenant, and impowered him to assemble in Chapter, upon the Vigil of St. George, such of the Knights-Companions, as might be conveniently gotten together, and then and there to intimate unto them the great causes that withheld him from keeping the Feast at the set time, and by virtue of the said Commission to defer the same until the 3. of july following. Furthermore charging and requiring all the Knights-Companions not to fail to be present at that day, wheresoever the same should happen to be, to perform and celebrate with him the said Feast, according to the laudable Orders and Institutions of the Order. And lastly, he required the said Lieutenant to give warning of his pleasure to all other Knights-Companions, who should not be present at the Chapter by him assembled. SECT. X. That the Grand Feast ought to be celebrated once every Year. AND though Prorogations of the Grand Feast have been occasionally made use of, upon the several and important reasons above discoursed of, and sometimes a necessity hath fallen out to appoint two, three, or four of them in a year, by proroguing the Prorogations; yet is no such Adjournment legally to be enlarged beyond the next St. George's day ensuing, because that every year, that is, once before the revolution of the year determine (the year in this case entering upon St. George's day) the Grand Feast ought to be solemnised. For so we see it was not only ordained at the i E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 Institution of the Order, but confirmed by the succeeding k H. 5. Stat. Art. 9 H. 8. Stat. Art. 3. Statutes. And where our Historians take notice of the Grand Feast, they speak the same thing, to wit, That it ought l Froisard. l. 1. c. 100 & Polid. Virg. Aug. Hist. lib. 10. p. 378. annually to be observed; Hence it is frequently called in the Registers, Annua Festivitas, Solennitas annua, Celebritas annua, Epulum quotannis, Convivium quotannis, and the like. Of late times an occasion happened, which br●●ght this Clause of the Statutes into a solemn debate in Chapter, which for the result thereof became very remarkable: And the Order thereupon drawn up, being full and positive, not only as to the occasion, but also as to the circumstances, and determination, may not unfitly come in here. m Ex ipso Autogr. pen. jac. Palmer nuper Cancel. At a Chapter held in Whitehall the 26. day of February 1640. Present. The Sovereign. The Earl of Penbroke and Montgomery. The Earl of Salisbury. The Earl of Holland. The Earl of Lindesey. The Prince. The Earl of Arundel and Surrey. The Earl of Dorset. The Earl of Berkshire. The Lord Marquis Hamilton. The Duke of Lenox. The Chancellor. Garter. The Sovereign proposed unto the Knights of the Order, that having prorogued the Celebration of the Feast of St. George from time to time, unto the first, second, and third of March, so near unto Lent, that if the Feast were not held on those days, it could not be held within the year, because the 23. of April for the next year did fall upon Good-Friday, and so consequently must have been kept in Lent for this Year, or not at all: And considering the great and important Affairs of the Parliament, he moved this Question, Whether if there were no Feast kept this year, it would be any blemish unto the Honour of the Order, or not? And whether he might not dispense with the Statute, and defer it until the next Year? requiring the Knights and Companions to consult and to give their opinions therein: The result whereof was, that though they did all confess an absolute power to dispense in the Sovereign, yet some of the Knights proposed unto him, that seeing from the Institution until this day, there was not found any year wherein the Feast was wholly omitted, but that some of his Ancestors, though engaged in War beyond the Seas, either solemnised the Feast in their own presence, or by Commission in England, which was averred by the Chancellor to be both the fundamental Statute and constant practice. They humbly besought the Sovereign, not to begin to make a breach in that constant order, which hath been so long and uninterruptedly continued; whereupon it was resolved by general Vote, that the Feast should be celebrated upon those afore appointed days in the last Prorogation. By which determination it sufficiently appears, of what concernment the then Sovereign and Knights-Companions, conceived it to the Honour of the Order, and observation of the Statutes, for the Grand Feast to be celebrated once within the year. Besides we may observe, that it was not thought expedient to be dispensed with, albeit the weight of important Affairs were justly alleged to balance the Law, and ground a further Prorogation. Nay, rather than the Statutes should suffer violation, the said Feast was n Palmer ● Iourn. p. 29. accordingly solemnised on the said first, second, and third days of March, although so straitened in time, that there was not above two days space, to make preparation and provision for the doing of it. But within a few years after, the unhappy distractions had prevailed so far, that the Sovereign was necessitated to assume his power of dispensation in this particular, and by continued annual Prorogations from the 22.23. and 24. days of April, an. 18. of his Reign (being then at York) to defer the Solemnity from year to year; so that during the remainder of his Reign, this Grand Celebration had never the fortune to be again observed. And here the glory of this solemn Feast began first to set with us, unto which succeeded a long night: But blessed be God we have lived to behold it rise again, and seen the Royal Sovereign and most Illustrious Knights-Companions fill those too long vacant Stalls, and late languishing Fabric with wont lustre. CHAP. XIX. OF Preparations FOR THE Grand Feast OF THE ORDER. SECT. I. Of Letters giving notice of the Time and Place. TOwards the setting forth and celebration of this Grand Festival, there are several things to be prepared beforehand, chiefly such as are usual and of course; nevertheless among these we shall have opportunity, now and then, to touch upon some things extraordinary, where the occasion hath invited the Sovereign, to give any additional lustre to the state and glory of the Feast. The things therefore to be prepared of course, are (1.) Letters directed to all the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order, resident within the Kingdom; to give them notice of the time and place, when and where the Feast is to be celebrated. (2.) Letters of Dispensation to such Knights-Companions as the Sovereign shall please to excuse from their attendance at the Feast. (3.) Commissions of Lieutenancy (and sometimes of Assistance) when the Sovereign cannot personally solemnize the same. (4.) Warrants for the Removal of Achievements, if at this time there be any such occasion. (5.) Scutcheons and Styles to be set upon the back of each Knight-Companion's Stall, if the Feast be held elsewhere than at W●●desor. (6.) The Chapel to be decently adorned. (7.) the Great Hall (or 〈◊〉 place where the Grand Dinner is to be prepared) to be likewise very no●●●●●●nished. And (8.) last, Officers to be appointed (besides those of the Or●●● and of Arms) who are to give peculiar attendance upon the Sovereign at 〈◊〉 Grand Solemnity. As touching the first of these particulars, the Chancellor of the Order is to attend the Sovereign, in convenient time before the approach of St. George's day, to know his pleasure, whether he will hold the Grand Feast on that day▪ or otherwise prorogue the Solemnities to some further time, and whether it shall be celebrated at Windesor, Whitehall, or what other place. If the Sovereign shall be induced to Prorogue the Feast from St. George's day to some further time, then is the Chancellor to draw up a Commission to that purpose, of which we have discoursed in the preceding a Sect. 9 Chapter. After this, Letters issued out, anciently under the Sovereign's Sign Manual, both to his Lieutenant (when he held not the Feast in Person) as also to each of the Knights-Companions, giving them notice of the time and place; some of which are placed to the b Num. CLIX & CIX. Appendix; but of late, the Chancellor hath been appointed to dispatch these Letters of notice in his c Num CLXI. & CLXII. own name. But whether the Feast be held upon the day of St. George, or on any other day by Prorogation, the Sovereign's pleasure was usually known so long before the appointed time, that these circular Letters sent from the Chancellor, issued out, sometimes d Ex Collect. W. le N Cl. six, e Row's journal, p. 16. five, f Ib. p. 5 & 20. four, g Ib p. 39 three, two or h Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer. one Month at least, before the assigned day. And in cases where Prorogations have been yet further adjourned, care hath been taken to issue out new Commissions in like convenient time before the old were expired; as may be observed in the cases of adjournments mentioned in the last Chapter, that so those Knights-Companions, who are most remote from Court, may have sufficient time to prepare, either for attendance at the day assigned, or upon just occasion procure the favour of Letters of Dispensation for absence: And further, that the absent Knights may thereby take notice of the day set, because such are obliged to hold the Feast in their own Houses at the same time. Besides, the Letters directed to the Knights-Companions, the Chancellor is likewise to write his Letters to each of the i Append. Num. CLXIII. Officers of the Order, to give them the like notice. SECT. II. of Dispensations for not attending at the Grand Feast. IT having been complained of, by the Chancellor of the Order, and taken notice of by the Sovereign, and Knights-Companions, in a Chapter held at the Celebration of the Grand Feast, at Whitehall the 18. of April, an. 13. Car. 1. k Rowe's Iourn p. 10. ●●de etiam Lib. R. p. 119. That of late years, divers Knights-Companions of this most Noble Order, had neglected both their attendance upon the Sovereign at the Feast of St. George, or to send under their Seals of Arms, their probable Excuses, and Petitions, for Licence and Dispensation, contrary to the most ancient Statutes and their duty: It was therefore then among many other things Ordered and Decreed, l Rowe's Iourn p. 10. ●●de etiam Lib. R. p. 119. That from thenceforth every Knight of the Order, should be bound to attend upon the usual days, or such as should be assigned by Prorogation. But in case of Sickness, or other important business, by reason whereof they might have cause to be excused, they should send under their Seals of Arms to the Chancellor, the reasons of their desire for leave of absence, twenty days at least before the usual or assigned time, to be presented by him to the Sovereign; and whosoever should neglect so to do, except in sudden accidents, should not be dispensed with, but incur the penalty of the Statutes. And it is evident, that this way of enjoining the Knights-Companions, to send the cause of that impediment, which should hinder their said attendance, under their Seals of Arms, hath been very ancient; for the Black Book records an Order in Chapter, held at the Grand Feast, an. 1. H. 6. m Lib. N. pag. 79. to this very purpose; it further enjoining, that n Lib. N. pag. 79. when such absent Knights were present at the next Feast, they should be obliged then to render the reason, why they should not undergo the penalty of their former absence, since the Statutes enjoin it. In pursuance of the before mentioned Decree of the 18. of April, Sir Thomas Rowe, than Chancellor, added to those his Letters, dated the 18. day of May 1637. and directed to the Knights-Companions under the Seal of the Order (which signified, that for special reasons and other important Affairs (in a Chapter held at Whitehall, on the 19 of April in the foresaid year) the Sovereign had prorogued the Grand Feast, from the 22.23. and 24. days of April, an. 14. Car. 1. to the 25.26. and 27. of September than next ensuing) this following Postcript. o Row's Iourn. pag. 20. According to two Acts made in Chapter, in the presence of the Sovereign, the 18. of April 1637. concerning the neglect of the Knights and Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, in their attendance upon his Majesty at the Feast of St. George, and a command expressly received, to signify so much to your Lordship: I have sent to your Lordship, the true Copy of the p See Chap. 22. Sect. 4. Acts themselves; it being resolved in case of omission of your lawful and timely excuse, under your Seal of Arms, and in occasion of absence, of keeping the Solemnity in your own house, that no dispensation shall be given, but your Lordship shall incur the penalties of the ancient Statutes, which are; You q Videses E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 shall not be admitted to the Chapter, nor to your Seat the next year; but shall stand before it as do the Choristers: In Procession you shall march before, and not in your place among the Knights, and shall Offer last; and that this Penance being done, you shall come before the Seat of the Sovereign, and ask absolution; but if two years successively your Lordship shall omit your attendance and timely suit for Dispensation, you shall pay Twenty Marks, and that sum be doubled for every year of such omission, until you be reconciled, and pardoned by the Sovereign; whereof I beseech your Lordship to take knowledge. It afterwards appears, by an r Palmer's Iourn. pro an. 1639. p. 61. Order passed in Chapter, of the 9 of October, an. 15. Car. 1. that this early notice to be given, from such of the Knights-Companions, as upon the causes before mentioned should be absent, was appointed in favour chiefly of the s Palmer's Iourn. pro an. 1639. p. 61. Officers of the Sovereign's Household, who (by knowing in due time, who should be absent and who not) t Palmer's Iourn. pro an. 1639. p. 61. might make timely and certain provision for the said Feast. Upon notice sent by the Chancellor to the Knights-Companions as aforesaid, if any of them should happen to be sick, weak, infirm, or have any other lawful impediment or occasion, which might justly hinder or excuse their repair to the Court, and attendance at the Feast; they may acquaint the Chancellor therewith; whose duty it is to represent the same to the Sovereign, and thereupon to procure his Letters of Dispensation for their absence, if the Sovereign be so pleased. Which Letters are to be conveyed by Garter, or carried by whomsoever he shall appoint; for which there was a Fee by the Mile allowed him, by the following Order, passed at a meeting held by the Knights-Commissioners, for regulating things relating to the Order, the first of October an. 13. Car. 1. u Row's Iourn. pag. 37. Whereas it having anciently been the Office of Garter King of Arms, to disperse and send Letters for Prorogation, Dispensation, and other Commands of the Sovereign, unto the Knights absent from the Court, which in many cases must be chargeable, it was this day Ordered, That if he should send any Act of favour or Dispensation to any Knight absent from his Majesty's Court, or four Miles from the City of London; he to whom such Dispensation should be sent, should pay to his Servant or Messenger, for every days Travel, as much as is allowed and paid to any other Messenger of his Majesty's House or Chamber. Variety of occasions and accidents, as grounds to move the Sovereign, and inducements to obtain his Dispensation, we have seen in several Letters sent to Sir Tho. Row, when Chancellor, upon the before mentioned Injunction. Decreed an. 13. Car. 1. and always the causes have been inserted in the Preambles of the Dispensations, some of which are to be seen in the w Numb. CLXIV. CLXV. CLXVI. & CLXVII. Appendix. SECT. III. Of Commissions of Lieutenancy and Assistance. TOuching the third particular, namely, the preparing Commissions of Lieutenancy, in such cases where the Sovereign cannot personally celebrate the Feast; as also Commissions for those, whom he thinks fit to appoint for his Assistants; we shall transfer the Discourse thereof from hence to that head in the x Sect. 5. next Chapter, under which we shall speak of the constituting a Lieutenant; and only note here, that the Chancellor is to draw up these Commissions, and attend the Sovereign for his hand, and afterwards to pass them under the y Lib. R. p. 120. Great Seal of the Order. SECT. IV. Warrant for the removal of Achievements. IF there be occasion for the removal of any of the Knights-Companions Achievements, at the Grand Feast (which hath seldom happened, unless an Installation were at the same time celebrated) then doth the Chancellor obtain the Sovereign's Warrant, directed to Garter, for the doing thereof: Concerning which (as also the cause and reason of such removal) we have already, and at large discoursed, among the z Chap. TWO▪ Sect. 6. Preparations to be made for the Personal Installation of a Knight-Companion; that place being most proper, in regard the removal of them doth chiefly concern that Ceremony. SECT. V. Scutcheons of Arms and Stiles. HEretofore when the Celebrations of St. George's day were kept at any other place besides Windesor-Castle, it was thought most necessary to provide large Paper Scutcheons; wherein were marshaled the Arms and Quartering of the Sovereign and each Knight-Companion, in Metal and Colour, encompassed with a Garter; and thereon Crowns, Caps, or Coronets peculiar to each Dignity, with their Styles and Titles fairly printed underneath (but without Crests or Supporters) to be set on the back side of their Stalls, on the Eve of the Feast: But the Sovereign's Arms were impaled with those of St. George, over which an Imperial Crown was placed, and these (in defect of the Plates and Banners, set over their Stalls in the Choir of St. George's Chapel at Windesor) did serve for directions to the Knights-Companions, that by the view of them, they might the more readily and certainly know their proper Stalls. We have not met with any memorial of this usage, that reacheth higher than an. 21. H. 7. when the Sovereign holding the day of St. George at Cambridge, a Ex ipso Autogr▪ King's College Chappel was furnished with Scutcheons of the Knights-Companions Arms; but to show the use was ancient, there is this note put into the memorial, [as was yearly accustomed.] An. 22. H. 8. the Sovereign being at Windesor on the Eve of St. George, b MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 17.] p. 32. appointed the Service of the Church to be celebrated in his c MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 17.] p. 32. Chapel, in the upper Quadrangle of Windesor Castle; and there being present with him 13 Knights-Companions, d MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 17.] p. 32. each of them had set over their heads a Scutcheon of their Arms. This manner of adorning the Stalls was afterwards solemnly established, and enlarged to absent Knights, by an Order of Chapter held at Greenwich, an. e Lib. N. p. 302. 3. E. 6. wherein by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions it was agreed, f Lib. N. p. 302. That from thenceforth, every Stall upon St. George's Eve, should have an Escotcheon of the Arms of them which were absent, as well as those that were present, at their several costs and charges. But this cannot be understood of the Stalls situate in the Chapel of St. George at Windesor; for besides, that we have met with no ancient account of any such custom in that place, we find a memorial rather implying the contrary, when Queen Elizabeth, in the 6. year of her Reign, held the Feast of St. George upon its proper day at Windesor Castle; namely, g MS. fol penes W. D. N. f. 14. That there was no Scutcheons of the Knights-Companions Arms set up there, but only the Plates: And without all doubt, had it been the usage to fix Scutcheons in the Choir of that Chapel, as at other places, they would not at that time especially have been omitted, because then the Sovereign appeared upon an extraordinary occasion, and where many things were added to heighten the glory of that Grand Feast, by reason the h Ib. f. 15. b. Peace between England and France was to be proclaimed at this Festival, in the presence of the French Ambassador; and was accordingly done with great Solemnity on St. George's day in the morning, at the East entrance into the lower Ward of the Castle, at the top of the Hill towards St. George's Chapel; and to which place the Sovereign i Ib. f. 15. b. in her whole Habit of the Order (the French Ambassador being near her) with the five Officers of the Order, and Knights-Companions before her, and before them the Officers of Arms and Trumpets, proceeded in a stately and well ordered Cavalcade; and after Clarenceux King of Arms had k Ib. f. 15. b. ended the Proclamation, they continued the Proceeding thence to the Chapel, in the same state and order. As to the practice and constant usage of setting up Scutcheons of Arms, since an. 3. E. 6. and at such time as St. George's day was held elsewhere than at Windesor, we have seen variety of Testimonies. The care of ordering and providing of which belonged to Garter, but the Sovereign of the Order was at the charge (notwithstanding the said Order, an. 3. E. 6.) which heretofore l Append. Num. CLXVIII. CLXIX & CLXX. we see was paid out of the Treasury in the Exchequer; and since the establishment of 1200. l. per an. (settled by the late Sovereign King Charles the First, to discharge the ordinary and extraordinary expenses of the Order) the allowance issued m See Sir james Palmer's Accounts. thence, and was paid by the Chancellor of the Order. But now the charge is placed upon Garter, he having an allowance therefore included in the augmentation of his Pension, an. 15. Car. 2. We find Privy-Seals to have issued as high as the n Ex Collect. praef. W. le N. Cl. 15. of Queen Elizabeth, for the annual allowance of 7 l. Scutcheons, employed for the use aforesaid, and that the price sometime before, was much about that rate; for the three and twenty Scutcheons, provided against St. George's Feast, an. 1 & 2. Ph. & Mar. came to o Apend. Numb. CLXVIII. 6 l. 1 s. 8 d. and those five and twenty set up the following year, to p Apend. Numb. CLXVIII. 6 l. 11 s. 8. d. some difference then also being in the work, which enhanced the price, viz. those provided for Princes at q Apend. Numb. CLXVIII. 6 s. 8 d. a piece, and each of the rest at r Apend. Numb. CLXVIII. 5. s. The Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and Stranger Kings and Princes, have accustomably had, at these times, Majesty Scutcheons set up over each of their Stalls, but the rest of the Knights-Companions Lodging Scutcheons only; and we have seen an account of s Collect. praef. W. le N. Cl. four Majesty Scutcheons, prepared for every St. George's Feast, from 1613. to 1619. to wit, one for the Sovereign, another for the King of Denmark, a third for the Prince of Wales, and a fourth for Frederick Count Palatine of the Rhine, at 6 s. 8 d. a piece; but so many Knights-Companions as attended the Sovereign at those Feasts, had each a t Collect. praef. W. le N. Cl. Lodging Scutcheon at 2 s. 6 d. From the marshalling of Arms, quartered in the Knights-Companions Scutcheons, and ordering their Styles (printed always in French) there are several things, no less useful than worthy observation: for, First, though the Plates of Arms and Quartering, fixed in each Knights-Companions Stall at Windesor, continue there without alteration, or very seldom changed from that order, wherein they were marshaled at the time of their Installation; yet these Scutcheons and Styles annually set up, do admit of frequent alteration, as there is occasion; either by adding more Quartering, altering the Styles, or amending any thing that is amiss. For instance, Whereas the Duke of Savoy before 5. Eliz. bore u MS. fol. penes W. D. N. f. 9 a. Gules a Cross Argent, it was then altered into w MS. fol. penes W. D. N. f. 9 a. 5 Coats, that is to say, in the first quarter Westpahli●, Saxe modern, and Angry, in the second Chablais, in the third Aouste, the fourth as the first, and over all, in the middle, the foresaid Scutcheon of Savoy. When the Lord Hunsdon was installed, an. 3. Eliz. he had x Ibid. ●. 6. ●. 12 Coats of Arms, thus marshaled in his Plate, 4, 4, and 4, the first Carey, the second Spencer, the third Somerset, the fourth Bullen, the fifth Ormond, the sixth Hoo, the seventh Rochfort, the eighth Seyntomer, the ninth Malmains, the tenth Wichingham, the eleventh St. Leger, and the twelfth Hangford: But an. 7. Eliz. his Scutcheon received an addition of y Ib. f. 19 a. four other Coats, viz. Beauchamp, Warwick, Berkley, and Gerard, and these were inserted next to Somerset, the third Coat in his said Plate. But on the contrary, where Ambrose Earl of Warwick had z Ib. f. 13. b. 21 Coats put into his Plate, an. 5. Eliz. and they marshaled in this order, 5.5.5. and 6. namely, 1. Sutton. 2. Paganell. 3. Grey of Ruthin. 4. Hastings. 5. Quincy. 6. Malpas. 7. Somery. 8. Valence. 9 Talbot. 10. Warwick. 11. Beauchamp. 12. Berkley. 13. Lisle. 14. Gerard. 15. Guildford. 16. holden. 17. West. 18. and 19 quarterly de la Ware and Cantilupe. 20. Mortimere of Wigmore. and 21. Greely: at the Feast of St. George held at Whitehall, an. 9 Eliz. his Scutcheon contained but a Ib. f. 27. a. 16. viz. 4.4.4. and 4. namely, 1. Sutton. 2. Paganell. 3. Somery. 4. Malpas. 5. Grey of Ruthin. 6. Hastings. 7. Valence. 8. Ferrer. 9 Quincy. 10. Chester. 11. Talbot. 12 Beauchamp. 13. Warwick. 14. Berkley. 15. Gerard. and 16. Lisle. So that here was seven Coats taken out of the former, namely, Guildford, Holden, West de la Ware and Cantilupe quarterly, Mortimere and Greely, and two added, viz. Ferrars and Chester. But the greatest and most frequent variations are in the Styles and Titles of Honour, set under the Scutcheons, and these relate unto, and are occasioned principally from their attaining or resigning of Offices or Dignities. We find that the Style set under the Scutcheon of Ferdinand the Emperor, at St. George's Feast, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. was as followeth, b Autogr. penes praef. W. le N. Cl. Du treshault tres-excellent & trespuissant Prince, Ferdinand par la grace de Dieu Roy des Romans', de Hungary, & Bohemia, Archiduc d' Austrie, Duc de Bourgoigne, etc. Chevalier du tresnoble Ordre de la jarretiere. But an. 5. Eliz. in the said Emperor's Style, the Titles of c MS. fol. penes praef. W. D. N. fol. 9 King of Hungary and Bohemia were left out, because Maximilian his Son, had a little before obtained (and at that time enjoyed) both those Kingdoms. In the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, the Styles of Philip King of Spain (who while Queen Mary lived was Co- Sovereign of this most Noble Order) run thus, d Autogr. penes praef W. le N. Cl. Du treshault tres-excellent & trespuissant Prince, Philip par la grace de Dieu, Roy d' Espaigne, des Deux Cicels, & jerusalem, Arch-Duc d' Austriae, Duc de Bourgoigne, Milan, & Brabant, Comte de Hapsburge, Flanders, and Tyroll; Chevalier du tres-noble Order de la jarretiere. But at the Feasts of St. George, an. 28.29. and 30. Eliz. the Title of Catholic Prince was also given him, viz. e Sir Will. Ne●e● MS. of 〈◊〉. Du treshault tres-excellent trespuissant & Catholic Prince Philip, etc. And till an. 26. Eliz. we observe the Title f Sir Will. Ne●e● MS. of 〈◊〉. des Deux Cicils were continued to him; but g Sir Will. Ne●e● MS. of 〈◊〉. an. 28. Eliz. and so forward, the word Deux was omitted, nevertheless h Ibid. an. 36. Eliz. that word is again added; but withal we find this marginal note entered over against the said Style, i Ibid. This was forbidden to be set up at Greenwich, the 22. of April, an. 1594. If we proceed with a few instances, relating to Knights-Subjects, we shall find that among them, there hath happened the most frequent alterations, and almost every year some additions or omissions. In the Duke of Norfolk's Style, an. 3. Eliz. the k MS. fol. penes praef. W. D. N. f. 2. Lieutenantship of the North was omitted. In the Earl of Rutland's, at the same Feast, l MS. fol. penes praef. W. D. N. f. 2. Precedent of the Council in the North, was added. The Marquis of Winchester, a. ●. Eliz. caused the Title of m Ib. fol. 2. b. B●ron of St. john to be omitted, because his eldest Son, than bore that honour. In like manner was the Title of n Ib. fol. 2. b. Lord Strange left out of the Earl of Derby's Style, an. 4. Eliz. in regard his Son was then so called, and a Baron of Parliament. As to these and such like particulars, a multitude of Examples might be cited, but let these suffice. We shall close this point, with this further observation; That where a Stranger-Elect, hath received the Habit and Ensigns of the Order (though not installed he hath been allowed the honour, of having a Scutcheon of his Arms set on the back of that Stall designed for him, on the Eve of St. George, next after such his Investiture: an instance whereof we have in the French King o Ib. f. 19 a. Charles the Ninth, an. 7. Eliz. the Lord Hunsdon having took his journey into France, in May before, with the Habit of the Order, and therewith invested the said King. But on the contrary it is observed to our hand, that the Emperor Maximilian, having been p Ibid. fol. 26. b. Elected the 24. of April, an. 8. Eliz. had not any Scutcheon placed in his Stall the next St. George's Feast; and the reason is there given, q Ibid. fol. 26. b. because he had not as then received the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. SECT. VI Of adorning the Chapel. THE Chapel where the Divine Services are to be celebrated at this Grand Feast, whether it be that of St. George's at Windesor, or the Sovereign's at Whitehall, or elsewhere, in what place soever the Sovereign is pleased to keep the day of St. George, is usually set forth and adorned with peculiar and most rich Furniture; the care and oversight whereof at Windesor, is committed to the Dean of the College, but at other places, to the Dean of the Chapel at Whitehall. The Altar, as the principal place in the House of God, hath been thought worthy (in all times and Churches, where decency and reverence have been retained) of the richest and most costly furniture; and in particular, this in St. George's Chapel at Windesor, from time to time, by the addition of pious Benefactors hath been adorned with Vessels, sumptuous both for materials and workmanship: How plentifully it was stored an. 8. R. 2. (which was within 36 years after the Institution of this most Noble Order) with Plate, jewels, and other Church Ornaments, is evident from an Inventory, of all the rich Furniture of the Chapel, then taken by Walter Almaly, the second Custos (or Dean) there. But a great part of these, and other succeeding Contributions towards the Furniture, both of the high Altar and this sacred Chapel, were in the a MS. penes Peregr. Ho●y de Bisham in Com. Berks at. 2.3. and 5. years of King Edward the Sixth, sold by the mutual consent of the Dean and Canons, for the sum of b MS. penes Peregr. Ho●y de Bisham in Com. Berks at. 1489 l. 8 s. 0 d. (besides Copes, Vestments, clothes of Arras, Altar-Cloaths, Albes, Frontlet's, and other Ornaments, which they distributed among themselves) alleging a necessity so to do, for c MS. penes Peregr. Ho●y de Bisham in Com. Berks at. defraying the building of some part of the Castle Wall, taking down the high Altar, paying the Tenths and Subsidies of the inferior Officers of the College, bringing Water to their Houses, the charges of Visitations, and loss by the fall of Money: taking themselves only to be owners and disposers thereof, by virtue of the first Article in the Statutes of Foundation of the College. What was left (being but a small portion in comparison of what was there, when one d Ibid. Mr. Henly took an Inventory of them an. 36. H. 8. appears from an Inventory taken the e Ibid. 16. of july 1552. by Sir Philip Hoby, Sir Maurice Berkl●y, Mr. Tho. Welden, and Mr. john Norrys, Commissioners impowered by the King to survey the jewels, Plate, and Ornaments of all kinds, within the College of Windesor; as also to take an f Ibid. account from the Dean and Canons of what things had been sold, alienated, distributed, or made away since their first coming to the said College. We find very little of Plate or other Ornaments, since this time, bestowed upon this Chapel, until King james of blessed memory became Sovereign of this most Noble Order. But he taking into his pious thoughts the nakedness of this Altar, and considering how decently sacred Utensils would become the Service of God, made some convenient provision for the adorning thereof, which at length was best resolved on and effected, by the free Contributions of the Knights-Companions themselves. For at a Chapter held at Whitehall, April 23. an. 16. jac. R. it was Decreed, That every of the Knights-Companions (as well those already of the Order, as such afterwards admitted into it) should give to the use of the Altar, in the said Chapel, a g Lib. C. p. 191. piece of Plate, of the value of 20 l. at the least. And it is evident that whatever had been done in former times, for the greater Ornament of this Chapel, was by a general contribution, of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, whose Benevolences were always correspondent to their several Degrees: For thus were the contributions ordered, for the erection of the h Lib. N. p. 118. Statue of Saint George on Horseback, an. 36. H. 6. and for finishing the i Ibid. p. 204. Rood-loft, and Lantern of the Chapel, an. 8. H. 8. k Lib. R. p. 30. This was again proposed by the late pious Sovereign, at another Chapter held at Windesor the l Ibid. p. 29. 24. of November, an. 1. Car. 1. and agreed unto by all the Knights-Companions present, the reverend m Epi●copus L●ndinensi● liberrimè suscepit se si●niliter tan●undem da●urum. Ib. p. 30. Doctor Land, than Bishop of London (who at that Feast officiated in the absence of the Prelate, and a zealous promoter of all pious designs) freely and liberally undertaking to bestow a piece of Plate of the like value. But it seems, notwithstanding all this ready concurrence, the work went on but slowly; for in a Chapter held at Windesor, the n Ibid. p. 41. 24. of September an. 4. Car. 1. the Feast of St. George being then celebrated there, the want of the designed Plate being signified, it was therein further Decreed, o Lib. R. p. 43. That all the present installed Knights, should take care before the following Feast of St. George (and all other within a year after their Election) to send every one of them 20. l. at the least to the Dean of Windesor, to be bestowed in Plate, for the use of the Altar. And the p Lib. R. p. 43. Sovereign being humbly entreated by the Knights-Companions, that He himself (in way of example to all) would bestow some gift, most readily and willingly condescended. This pious Decree was again confirmed at a Chapter held at Windesor the q Lib. R. p. 63. 6 of October an. 6. Car. 1. and r Numb. CLXXI Commissionary Letters therewithal ordered to issue out forthwith, under the Seal of the Order; whereby the Dean and Canons of Windesor were not only impowered, but commanded, either by themselves or their Deputy, to demand and receive the sums of Money, so decreed to be paid to the use aforesaid; not only from the Knights-Companions then living, but also from those who died after the 24. of November an. Dom. 1625. And that we may observe, the zeal towards this religious design slept not with the Sovereign, on the s Lib. R. p. 70▪ 13. of February following, he gave the said Dean order to demand t Ib. p. 72. 100 l. out of the Privy-Purse, as his own free gift; which was paid the next morning, being u Ib. p. 72. an eternal monument of his Kingly piety and devotion. And that it might appear what was given, by whom, and how bestowed, towards the furnishing of the Altar, it was also appointed, that a short w Ib. p. 72. Historical account of these sacred Offerings and Gifts, should be made and preserved in the Chapterhouse at Windesor. The Book designed for this purpose is now with his Majesty, being a large thin Folio in Vellum, wearing this Title. Σ Υ Ν Θ Ε Ω Memoriae Veritati, Virtuti Sacrum, Altar liberae Capellae Regiae Sancti Georgii Martyris, infra Castrum Regale Windesoriense, Amplissimis donariis, Deo Opt. Max. per Augustiss●mum Supremum, & Honoratissimos Commilitones Nobilissimi Ordinis (à Periscelide dicatis) recentèr adauctum. Describit humilimus Ordinis illius Servus Scriba C. Wren Decanus Windesoriensis, An. Dom. 1637. It contains the Orders made in Chapter the 24. of November 1625. the 24. of Septemb. 1628. the 6. of Octob. 1630. with the Commissionary Letters which thereupon issued, and the Order of the 13. of February following, together with the Names of all the Knights-Companions present at each Chapter. After these follow the Arms and Quar●erings, very fairly limned in Metal and Colour, within a Garter, over each a Coronet suitable to the dignity of the person, and underneath are entered the Styles of all the Knights-Companions, who were of the Order an. 1625. or admitted after, to the time of making the Book; as also the sum which each Knight paid to the Register. But as to any account of Plate provided upon the Sovereign and succeeding Knights-Companions Contributions, there is none, though probably intended, to fill up the many blank leaves that followed. The x Ib. p. 68▪ first that presented his Offering; was Thomas Earl of Arundel and Surrey, Earl Marshal of England, therein giving the rest a noble example, by a delivery of his 20 l. into the hands of the Dean of Windesor: So that a competent sum being afterwards collected, and the money decreed by King Henry the Eighth to y An. 32. H. 8. Lib. N. p. 284. pious uses, instead of celebrating the Obits of deceased Knights z Ex Collect. D. Chr. Wren. nuper Ordinis Regist. added thereunto by Order of Chapter, all was wholly employed towards Plate for the foresaid Altar. To hasten the payment of these Contributions, the Dean and Canons deputed William Ryley, then Blue Mantle Pursuivant, afterward Lancaster Herald at Arms, to collect the Moneys to be raised, both upon the Order of the 6. of October an. 6. Car. 1. and also upon the Obits; and for his pains therein he was allowed * See Sir james Palmer's accounts for Obits Money 2 s. in the Pound. But notwithstanding all his diligence and solicitation, it appeared to the Chapter held at Windesor, the ‖ Lib. R. p. 86. 6. of November an. 9 Car. 1. that there were several of the Knights-Companions; and the Executors of others yet in arrear, and to the end the same might be speedily collected, there was set (in the said Chapter) a penalty in the nature of a nomine poenae, of * Lib. R. p. 86. twenty shillings a Month, to be levied upon those, who should longer delay the payment thereof. And now at length (a considerable sum having been collected) the work began to be set on foot, and the Workman made choice of, was one Christian Van Vianan of utrect, a man excellently skilled in chase of Plate: and to give him due praise in this undertaking, he discovered a rare ingenuity and happy fancy, as the skilful did judge while the Plate was in being, and the designs of each piece yet to be seen (among the present Sovereign's rare collection of Draughts and Sketches) can sufficiently manifest. The agreement with him, made by the forementioned ‖ R●w's Iourn. p. 21. Earl Marshal, Sir Francis Windebanke, and Sir Francis Crane, than Chancellor of this most Noble Order, was at 12. s. the Ounce: Whereupon (24. Apr. an. 10. Car. 1.) the Sovereign gave command under the Signet of the Order, to pay unto him a Lib. R. p. 97. 600 l. by way of impress, towards making the Plate, after the receipt of which, he forthwith disposed himself to the work. And before the Month of june 1637, he had finished and made ready for the use of the Altar, nine pieces of Plate, which the b Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. P●●mer Cancel. vide porro Row's Inurn. p. 21. 3. of july following, were delivered into the Chapterhouse at Windesor, Sir Thomas Rowe then Chancellor, Doctor Stokes Lieutenant for the Dean, Doctor Some, Doctor Elly, and Doctor colens then Canons of the said College, being present; the particulars whereof with their weight here follows. ounce. d. weight c Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. P●●●mer Cancel. vide porro Row's Inurn. p. 21. Two little Candlesticks, chased and gilt, for Wax Candles 92 06 Two Chalices, with four Patens— 113 1 Two great Candlesticks neat, for Tapers— 553 15 * These thr●● Bas●n● contained the whole History of Christ, in chased work. Two little Basins— 251 15 One great Basin— 210 00 1220 17 l. s. The value at 12 s. the Ounce came to— 732 10 Besides nine Cases— 9 10 742 00 Of which he received by way of d Lib R p. 97. impress— 600 00 The rest, being— 142 00 was paid unto him by Doctor Stokes, the foresaid 3. of july. But notwithstanding all the foresaid care taken by the then Sovereign, to promote the work; and a subsequent Order passed in Chapter the f Row's Iourn▪ p. 13. 18. of April an. 13. Car. 1. commanding the Chancellor to signify the Sovereign's commands, for due payment of the Obits, and other sums due according to the Statutes, yet were some of the Knights so visibly backward in their payments, That, at a Chapter held the g Lib. R. p. 133. 14. of june following, when the first parcel of Plate before mentioned was finished (an account being given by the Chancellor to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of h Lib. R. p. 133. 784 l. received upon the two Orders aforesaid, and that 774 l. thereof had been disbursed) there appeared to be i Lib. R. p. 133. 389 l. not undemanded, but unpaid; and which the k Lib. R. p. 133. Dean of Windesor could not receive, some of the Knights-Companions l Row's Iourn. p. 27. deferring, and others refusing, etc. m Litera ad Cancel. May 24.1637. although there had not wanted diligence both in taking several journeys, and giving many solicitous attendances at London. This Affair being thus represented to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions present in Chapter, their names being also read over who were in arrear, it was thereupon Ordered, n Lib. R. p. 133. That the Chancellor should write in the Sovereign's name a peremptory Letter to every Knight-Companion, so behind in payment, to command present satisfaction, and signify in case of omission the Sovereign's displeasure, which very much hastened the bringing in of the Arrears, a Copy of which Letter here follows. My Lord, I Am commanded to put your Lordship in mind of two Statutes of the most Noble Order of the Garter, Row's Iourn. p. 31. whereof you are a Knight and Companion, the first being one of the Foundation, that every Earl should pay 50 s. to the Treasury in Windesor, for pious uses, upon the death of any Knight and Brother of the Order; and that the money being unpaid one whole year, should be increased one third part, as a Fine, or mulct; the other made in a Chapter the sixteenth year of King James of blessed memory, and confirmed by three several Acts, of the first, fourth, and sixth years of his Majesty now happily reigning, That as well all the Knights of the Order then living, as all that should be chosen and admitted then after, should give and pa●. 20 l. to the use and ornament of the Altar, and Chapel of Saint George in Windesor; according to which Constitutions, there having lately been made divers pieces of rich Plate, presented, and consecrated in that Chapel, to the near value of 800 l. the Dean of Windesor, and Register of the Order, being by Statute Collector of such moneys received and disbursed, did bring in his full account unto his Majesty, the Sovereign and the Knights of the Order, at the Solemnity of the Feast of Saint George for this year, held by prorogation upon the 2.3. and 4. of October; upon the view whereof your Lordship being found behind, and not having paid the sums expressed in the enclosed paper, with the Reasons how they did grow due, taken out of his account in writing, it was resolved in full Chapter, and registered among the Acts of the Order, that those several sums should be called for, and collected before the next Feast. In pursuance whereof, I then received command from his Majesty, with the approbation and consent of all the Knights then assembled, to signify to your Lordship, under the Signet of the Order the Sovereign Will, That you make present payment of your arrearages, and to deliver it unto the bearer hereof, who is appointed Collector for this service; which if your Lordship shall delay, or refuse to do, being only the observance of the Statutes, to which you are obliged, both in honour and by your Oath; I have also express order to return your answer, and to signify to you the displeasure of his Majesty, of all which respects I am confident your Lordship will be most tender. And so I humbly take my leave. Your Lordships in all due observance Tho. Rowe. St. Martyns-Lane 9 Nou. 1637. And yet notwithstanding all these Injunctions, in the List of the Knights-Companions, who ought to have paid, the o See Sir james Palmor's account. Earls of Somerset, Sussex, and Marr, were at last returned insolvent. All this Plate was p Vasa argentea tertium deaurata, Operis vere Dae▪ dalci. treble gilt, and thereon were the Scripture Histories rarely well designed and chased; and especially the great Basin, and the Covers of two Books; hereafter mentioned; for I find the said Van Vianan q See his Accounts. complaining, that he was a great loser, at the rate agreed upon; so much and so good work had he bestowed on them above the rest. Upon the r Row's Iourn. p. 22. 22. day of july, after the delivery of this Plate into the Chapterhouse, order was given by the Sovereign to the Chancellor, to remove and carry the afore recited parcels, to Croyden or Lambeth (whither the Dean of Windesor, or some of the prebend's should also go) there to be consecrated by his Grace Doctor Land, the then Archbishop of Canterbury; and from thence, they to see it returned, and safely delivered into the Treasury of the Dean and Chapter of Windesor. But they went not thither according to the appointment; for this solemn and sacred action was deferred till the next Feast of St. George, celebrated at Windesor; wherein at a Chapter held the 2. of October in the year aforesaid, the said Plate was ordered to be s Ibid. p. 24. offered the next morning at the Altar, and there to be consecrated to God and his Service for ever, by the Prelate of the Order. And because the whole Ceremony was performed with great veneration, and all due reverence, his late Majesty being a high promoter of Ecclesiastical decency and holy discipline; we think fit to present it here at large. On the 3. day of the said Month of October, being the Feast day (held by Prorogation at Windesor-Castle) in the time of the t Row's Iourn. p. 24. vide R. p. 128. Second Service, at the Versicle, Let your light so shine before men, etc. Walter Bishop of Winchester, than Prelate, standing before the middle of the Altar, read certain select Verses out of the Old Testament, concerning the dedication of Solomon's Temple, and the Riches thereof, the first of which was taken from the 35. Chapter of Exodus ver. 4. the second being the 21. vers● of the same Chapter; and the third taken out of the second Chapter of St. Matthew's Gospel verse 11. and afterwards fitted himself for the Offering. At which time, the Sovereign descended from his Throne, as in the manner of Offering, and thrice bowed down towards the Altar, u Ibid. worshipping and adoring God in the middle of the Choir, and so passed to the Degrees of the Altar; where humbly kneeling, did present and offer to God, the before mentioned great Basin, devoutly saying, w Ibid. Part of thy bounty to us, O Lord Almighty, I offer to thee and to thy Service. The Offering was forthwith received by the Prelate, and set upon the Altar; which done, every one of the Knights-Companions present (after the example of this holy King) in their due ranks and single, did offer his piece of dedicated Plate, x 〈◊〉 with the same words, and in like manner. And that their ordinary Offering of Gold and Silver might not be interrupted or omitted; all the Knights-Companions at the time of offering the Plate, y 〈◊〉 made the same in another Basin, held by one of the prebend's. Every of these holy Vessels being thus offered, and decently placed upon the Altar, the Prelate with his hand touched every piece severally, z Lib. R. p. 129. as on God's part receiving them; and after made the following Prayers of Consecration and Benediction. O Lord God, Heavenly Father, we thy most humble servants do earnestly entreat thee, that thou wilt graciously vouchsafe to accept these sacred Offerings, by th● hands of our most gracious Sovereign Lord King Charles, and the most honourable Companions, which are here present dedicated to thee. Grant me beseech thee, and cause, that whatsoever is this day offered unto thee, may be preserved from all profane use, and may for ever abide consecrated to thy service, through jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Let us bless thee our most glorious Lord God, for that it hath pleased thee to put into the heart of our most gracious Lord Charles, and of these Princes, to dedicate these oblations to thy service. Regard we beseech thee, from the Highest Heavens, and power out thy blessings upon the head of his most gracious Majesty: Bless him in his Royal Person, in hi● most gracious Queen Mary, in the most illustrious Prince Charles, and in all the rest of the Branches of the Royal Stock. Bless we pray thee, all those whose donations offered to thee, we have here this day received: Let thy blessing fall down (as the dew of Heaven) upon them, and upon their posterities, and upon all things which they have from thee; and grant that by the holy and debout use of these things, which are here offered, the glory of thy name may ever he proclaimed, and thy Majesty may by these our due observances be exalted, through jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. These sacred Ceremonies being * Ib. p. 130. completed, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions marched to the great Hall to Dinner. But to make some further addition to the Glory of this Altar, his Majesty that now is, at the time of his Installation into this most Noble Order (being the 22. of May 1638. a Palmer's Iourn p. 17. offered two large gilt Water-pots, chased with Histories also, weighing 387 Ounces 10 penny weight, wrought all by the hand of that ingenious Artist, the before mentioned Christian Van Vianan, which amounting (at 12 s. the Ounce) to the sum of 232 l. 10 s. besides 2 l. 16 s. for the Cases, and his journey to Windesor, in to●● 235 l. 6 s. Od. was paid by b Sir. Tho. Row's Accounts. Warrant from the Sovereign, dated the 20. of November, 1638. These sacred Vessels were afterwards delivered by c Palmer's Iourn. p. 17. Indenture, one part remaining with the Chancellor, and the other with the Dean and Chapter of Windesor, to be kept for the service of the Altar. And yet the bounty of this pious Sovereign, King Charles the Martyr, rested not here; he thought the Altar was not with all these sufficiently furnished, and therefore finding, by an d Ib. p. 28. Account rendered by the Chancellor in Chapter, the 23. of May 1638. that there had been collected (upon the aforementioned Letter of the 9 of November 1637. sent from the Chancellor) 137 l. 4 s. more, to the end it might be also employed, in further addition towards this so pious a work, and so religious a design; e Ex Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer the said Money was by Sir Philip Palmer, than Deputy Chancellor, immediately given to the said Christian Van Vianan, by way of impress, for the providing of more Plate for the use also of the said Altar; and the 25. of March following, a f Penes praef. jac. Palmer. Warrant issued under the Sovereign's hand, and Signet of the Order, for the advancing 200 l. more to the said Van Vianan, for finishing this additional Plate, bespoken by the Sovereign, as aforesaid; which sum was paid unto him, the g See Vianans Acquit. 27. of March following. The Plate made upon the last advance, was two great Candlesticks, weighing together h See Vianans Accounts. 471 Ounces; on the foot of the one, was excellently chased, the Histories of Christ's preaching in the Mount; and on the other, those of the lost Groat and Sheep. Two Covers for Books, both weighing 233 Ounces; the one for a Bible, contained the Histories of Moses and the Tables, David and the Ark on the one side, and on the other, Christ's preaching on the Mount, the sending of the Holy Ghost, and St. Paul falling from his Horse. The ot●●r Cover was for the Common-Prayer; having the Angel of Incense on the one si●● and the King healing the Evil, the manner of our Preaching and Christening on the other: and two great Flagons, whereon were the Histories of Christ's Agony and Passion, weighing 268 Ounces; all being Silver gilt. And now if we sum up the number, weight, and value of all the before mentioned parcels of Plate, wrought by the said Van Vianan, for the service of the Altar, we shall find them to be 17. pieces, weighing 3580 Ounces, 7 Penny weight, and amounting (with some other small Charges) to the sum of 1564 l. 6 s. These last mentioned Parcels were finished against the Feast of St. George held at Windesor, the i Palm. Iourn. pro an. 1639. p. 16. 8.9. and 10. days of October 1639. upon the last day of which Feast, in the time of the Second Service, the Knights-Companions descended from their Stalls, and k Ibid. p. 63. Offered the same at the Altar; and thereupon, after the usual manner, and with the accustomed words, were they consecrated by the Prelate of the Order; and the l Ex. Autogr. penes praef. jac. Palmer. 19 of November following, delivered to the custody of the Dean and Canons of Windesor. And doubtless, this pious King would have bestowed much more in honour of this sacred place, had not the late unhappy times drawn on; an Age indeed so wicked, that the most solemn dedication to God, could not protect these holy Vessels from profane hands; for a Generation rose up, who would have us think, they did God good service, when they stripped his Church, of all that the piety of our Ancestors, for his sake, had endowed it with: and among other sacred places, this Chapel of St. George received not the least share of misfortune. For on the 23. of October 1642. (Sir john Seyton having that day seized on Windesor Castle, for the Parliament) one m Ex Autog. penes D. Chr. Wren ●●per. Ord. Regist. Captain Fog came immediately to the College, and demanded the Keys of the Treasury; but not finding the three Key-Keepers, he caused a Smith to make strong Bars of Iron, who with them broke down the stone jaums, forced open two doors, and n Ex Autog. penes D. Chr. Wren ●●per. Ord. Regist. carried thence all the aforesaid rich chased and other Plate, made sacred and set apart for the service of God; (except two double gilt Chalices weighing 62 Ounces, and two double gilt Flagons, weighing 98 Ounces one half) an action to be stigmatised with an indelible Brand! o Ex alio Autogr. penes praef. D. Chr. Wren. About the end of May following (not long before the Recess of the College) Colonel Venus, than Governor of Windesor Castle for the Parliament, was instant with the Dean of Windesor, and the Officers there, that he might see, what Goods were in the Chapterhouse and Vestiaries; which having viewed, he within a few days after demanded all the Keys, and kept them; saying, p Ex alio Autogr. penes praef. D. Chr. Wren. The Charge of them, as well as of the Castle, lay on him, and he would keep them. How he afterwards disposed of the Ornaments and rich Goods, hitherto safely deposited there, for holy uses, and service of the Chapel, I cannot tell; but this I can assure, that the Inventory following, is a perfect transcript, from the Copy thereof made by the hand of Doctor Chr. Wren, the late reverend and worthy Dean, out of the College Book, and by him delivered to me, of all the particulars, Colonel Venus so possessed himself of. A Memorial of the Goods and Monuments belonging to the King's Majesty's Free Chapel and Treasury at Windesor. Imprimis, 6 Long Cushions of Cloth of (wire) Gold, fringed and tasseled suitably. Item, 2 other long Cushions of Cloth of Gold, interwoven with tufted Flowers of Crimson Velvet fringed, and tasseled suitably. Item, One other long Cushion of Cloth of Gold, backed with Blue wrought Velvet, fringed and tasseled, Gold and Blue. Item, 4 Long Cushions of rich wrought Velvet, Blue, fringed and tasselled suitably. Item, 8 Cushions of wrought Velvet Azure, upon a yellow ground bottomed suitably. Item, The Hangings of the head of the Choir, 12 foot deep, of Crimson Velvet and Gold. Item, The great Bible ruled, covered with Purple Velvet, with thick Silver bosses double gilt, strung with Blue Ribbon, fringed with Gold. Item, Another large Bible embossed. Item, 13 Rich Copes, embroidered and wrought in Gold. Item, 2 Rich Copes of Wire-Gold. Item, A Pulpet-Cloth and long Cushion of Crimson tusted Velvet, interwoven with Gold. Item, Another larger Pulpet-Cloth, Crimson Damask, interwoven thick with Flowers de Lis, Portcullises, Roses, and Crowns of Gold. Item, The Blue Velvet Robe of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, embroidered with the Garter, Pearl and Gold, with the strings and Tassels suitable, Blue and Gold. Item, 4 Other rich Robes of Purple Velvet, with like Embroideries, Strings, and Tassels. Item, 2 Large Pieces of Cloth of Gold, never used (designed for State clothes) given out of the Wardrobe to the College. Item, A large Carpet of Wire-Gold, for the Communion Table. Item, A large Cushion of the same suit. Item, The Cloth of State of rich Baudekin, over the King's Seat, and at the back. Item, Another of Crimson and Gold Velvet, chequered. Item, A great Brass pendant Candlestick, with 12 Branches. Item, One lesser, with 6 Branches. Item, 6 Great Brass spouts, to quench Fires. Item, 12 Leather-Buckets. Item, The great Brass Bason, given by the Founder, with a foot to it for Christen. Item, 2 Fair standing Brass Candlesticks, double gilt. Item, One Brass Lamp, to hang in the body of the Church. Item, The great Brass Desk in the middle of the Chapel, with the Bible in two Volumes, on each side fairly bound and embossed. Item, 13 Seats of the Poor-Knights, lined with Scarlet, etc. Besides all the long Wainscot Pews movable, serving at the Sermons and Divinity Lectures, thrice in the week. Item, 19 Wainscot Seats, with Balisters, etc. But no less pious than his Predecessors, hath the present Sovereign manifested himself, who finding (shortly after his happy Restauration) that through the licentious barbarism of the late times, the sacred Utensils formerly dedicated to the use of the Altar, had been sacrilegiously plundered, and being religiously earnest to set again on foot, so laudable a way of provision, for supply of all things necessary to its service and ornament, upon the q Lib. Carol. pag. 32, & 33. Petition of the Dean and Canons of Windesor, exhibited in Chapter held at Whitehall the 20. of june, did with the cheerful and ready consent of the Knights-Companions, revive the foresaid Decrees, for raising the like sums of money, both from Himself, and the present and future Knights-Companions, which by virtue of the foresaid Decrees had been formerly collected. Hereupon, his r Lib. Carol. pag. 32, & 33. Highness james Duke of York, bestowed a fair piece of Plate of 100 l. value, and the s Lib. Carol. pag. 32, & 33. Earl of Southampton gave not only what the Statutes required, but half as much more, towards the Plate designed to be bought with the rest of the Knights-Companions Money. And to enable Dr. Brune Ryves the now Dean of Windesor, to collect and receive, not only from the rest of the present Knights-Companions, but all other, wit●in one year after their Election, the sum of 20 l. a piece, and thereof to give an account at the following Chapter, and so successively of slackness or failer if any should be, the Sovereign in November following, issued out his Warrant unto him, under the Sign Manual and the Signet of the Order. How the money hereby collected was bestowed, as also what other Plate was added to the Furniture of the said Altar, by some other piously disposed persons, will appear by the following Inventory, taken by Dr. Browne Chanter, and Dr. Evans Steward of the College, the 20 of july 1667. and from them transmitted to my hand. A pair of plain gift Flagons, bought with the money collected from the Knights-Companions, weighing 150 Ounces. A pair of wrought Flagons, with great Bellies, having the Figure of St. George on Horseback on their Covers, the rest all Feather-work, bought with the Knight's money, weighing 414 Ounces. One plain small Basin, wrought and gilded only in the middle of it, weighing 25 Ounces and one half. A pair of plain gift Chalices and Covers, bought also with the Knight's money, both weighing 163 Ounces and one quarter. A large embossed Basin, with the Figure of Mary Magdalen, washing our Saviour's Feet, weighing 198 Ounces. A pair of large Taper Candlesticks embossed, with Nozles to them, weighing 264 Ounces. These Chandlesticks and Basin were obtained of her Highness' Princess Mary about November 1660. by Dr. Brown, but she dying before the following Christmas, the charge (being 233 l. odd money) lay upon the College. A pair of large Basins gilded and embossed with the History of Christ, at his last Supper upon one; and on the other, of Christ blessing the young Children coming to him, being obtained by Dr. Brown of her Highness the Duchess of York 1661. both weighing 305 Ounces. A plain gilt Corporas, the gift of Sir Richard Fanshaw, weighing 24 Ounces. A double gilt Chalice and Cover, with a broad Foot, having a Cross on the Cover, and another on the foot; the gift of the Lady Mary Heveningham, weighing 33 Ounces. We see in the foregoing Inventory, taken 1643. that formerly there was belonging to the Altar a large Carpet of Wyre-Gold, this we find mentioned in the Inventories taken the 4. of February, an. 43. Eliz. the 9 of November, an. 17. jac. R. and the 12. of December 1638, an. 14. Car. 1. and being seized on by Colonel Venus, as aforesaid, is now supplied in a Covering, given by the present Sovereign, consisting of seven panes of Cloth of Gold, and purple Velvet, with a fair broad Gold Fringe towards the Front, and a narrow Gold Fringe on the two sides. There is now also two Diaper Table-Cloths, Diamond work, made to lie upon the Altar, and two fine Holland clothes, with great Buttons and red Crosses in the middle, to cover the consecrated Elements, in the time of the Communion. If we should pass hence to the ancient Ornaments of the Chapel, we shall find them many and rich, even so early as t See the Inventory of ●●em taken by W●lter Almaly. an. 8. R. 2. but because their particular mention will better suit with the larger Discourse, we intent upon the Chapel itself, we shall refer it to that work, and here remember only these two, namely the Image of our Lady, and Equestrian Statue of St. George. There is notice taken of an u (MS. vet. penes Sil. Taylor gen. fol. 159. Image of the blessed Virg●● Mary, given to this Chapel by King Henry the Fifth, in the first year of his Reign, which weighed 117 pound Troy weight. He liking the workmanship, caused w (MS. vet. penes Sil. Taylor gen. fol. 159. john Cause a skilful Dutch Goldsmith, to give some additional ornament thereto; after which, it then weighed Troy weight 165 pound and one quarter; and this Image, in the x (MS. vet. penes Sil. Taylor gen. fol. 159. 9 year of his Reign, he commanded to be set up in St. George's Chapel, there to remain for ever. As to the other, there is an Order of Chapter, an., 36. H. 8. entered in the y Pag. 118. Black-Book, by which it appears, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions. (to increase the honour of their Patron) agreed to raise money and employ it towards making his z Pag. 118. Statue sitting on Horseback; the Sovereign's proportion of this contribution was 5 l. every Duke gave 2 l. an Earl 1 l. 6 s. 8 d. a Baron 1 l. and a Bachelor Knight 13 s. 4 d. These two being thus mentioned, we need insert no more here, seeing that Inventory taken an. 8. R. 2. and the others since, will afford plenty of such like rich and excellent pieces of work, which heretofore belonged to this sacred place. The East wall of the Chapel is now adorned with 22 panes of Cloth of Gold and Purple Damask, the gift of the present Sovereign: But those in the late Sovereign's Reign were of Crimson Velvet and Gold. In the middle of these Hangings over the Altar, have been heretofore placed very rich Altar-clothes, concerning some of which, we have met with a Memorial, which informs us, that it pleased the late Sovereign, in a Chapter held at Windesor the a Lib. R. p. 88 6. of November an. 9 Car. 1. to give command, that two little pieces of Arras Hangings, then hanging over the Altar (in one of which was wrought the b Lib. R. p. 88 Picture of St. George on Horseback, and on the other, of the Assumption of the c Lib. R. p. 88 blessed Virgin) should be preserved in such places where the Dean and his Lieutenant should think be●● for the use of the said Altar at the Grand Feast, and other Festivals of the Order: Hereupon they were d Lord Chamberlains Book of Warrants, ab an. 1634. ad an. 1641. p. 56. fetched from Windesor, to set over the Altar in the Chapel at Whitehall, an. 11. Car. 1. the Feast of St. George being then celebrated there. There are now two other pieces of Arras, which are appointed to that use; the one hath the Pictures of Christ's and his Disciples at Supper; given by the late Right Reverend Father in God Bryan Lord Bishop of Winchester, Prelate of the Order; the other, of Christ and the two Disciples at Emmen, wrought after Titian's Original, given by the right Honourable, the Lady Mordant, Wife to the Lord Mordant, late Constable of Windesor. As to the Sovereign's Royal Stall, it hath in all times had over it a rich Canopy, the back and forepairs adorned with materials of the same suit, with a long Velvet Cushion before, to lay his Books on, another shorter for his Seat, and a third to kneel on. The Canopy prepared against the Grand Feast, an. 13. Car. 2. and which now adorns it, is made of two panes of Purple Velvet, and one of Cloth of Gold, having a broad Gold Fringe at the bottom, a narrow one at the top, and an inner Valance of the same, with a Purple Silk Fringe; the back and fore piece is of three panes also, one of Gold, the other two of Purple Velvet, with a narrow Gold Fringe about it. The three Cushions are of Purple Velvet, garnished with Gold Fringe, and Tassels of Silk and Gold. Each of the Knights-Companions Stalls, are also furnished with the like number of Cushions. Lastly, The Pulpit is hung with Crimson Damask, inwrought with small Flowers of Gold, Portcullises, Flowers de Lis and Roses, all crowned; this Pulpe●-Cloth was preserved from the ravenous hands of Colonel Venus, and now restored to its former use. It may be judged how other of the Sovereign's Chapels, wherein the solemn Services at the Grand Feast were celebrated, besides this of St. George at Windesor, have been set forth and adorned, by one or two Examples in that kind; for e MS. in office. Arm. M. 17 fol. 3●. an. 22. H. 8. though the Sovereign held the Feast of St. George at Windesor, yet on the Evening, he went not to St. George's Chapel, but heard Divine Service in the Chapel above in the upper Quadrangle (at the West end of St. George's Hall) which f MS. in office. Arm. M. 17 fol. 3●. Chapel was hanged on both sides, a rich Cloth of State set up, and a haut pas of a foot high for the Sovereign, as also a little foot pace, 13 inches broad, and 7 inches high for him to kneel at. The g MS. in office. Arm. M. 17 fol. 3●. High Altar and that set before the Sovereign, were richly garnished with Images and other Ornaments of Gold and Silver gilded, etc. We also find, that at the Feast of St. George held at Whitehall, h MS. penes W. D. N. f. 9 b. vide etiam MS. f. 20. an. 5. Eliz. the i MS. penes W. D. N. f. 9 b. vide etiam MS. f. 20. Chapel was hung with Cloth of Gold, and the Stalls both before and behind with Cloth of Tissue, set with Scutcheons at their back. The Sovereign's Royal Stall was adorned with a Cloth of State, and furnished with Cushions, as were the Emperor's, the French King's, and the Sovereign's Lieutenant's. But k Ibid. f. 20. an. 7. Eliz. all the Stalls of the same Choir were hung with Carpets, both before and behind. At the Feast held there an. 19 Car. 2. the Chapel was hung with the rich Hangings of Silk and Gold, wherein the twelve Months were with excellent skill described. The Altar was furnished with chased gilt Plate, viz. one large B●son in the middle, and two less on either side, two fair Candlesticks with unlighted Tape●s, and two large Water-Pots; on the lower rank was set another Basin, four Flagons and two Service-Books, covered with like gilt Plate; and lastly, the Sovereign's Stall had the rich Furniture of Cloth of Gold and Purple Velvet fetched from Windesor to adorn it. SECT. VII. The furnishing of St. George's Hall. THE care of making ready and furnishing St. George's Hall (or other Room, either there or elsewhere, set apart for the Grand Dinner) is committed partly to the Gentleman-usher of the Black-Rod, and partly to the Sovereign's Surveyor General of his Works. The Surveyor-General, upon directions given him by Warrant from the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, causeth a Floor to be raised at the upper end of the Hall, whereunto is an ascent of three steps, and thereon he raiseth a Table 12 Foot long, and 3 foot and a half broad for the Sovereign to dine at. On the left hand of this Table, is set a Cupboard for Plate, and a side Table for Glasses, etc. to serve the Sovereign's Table, as occasion shall require. Upon the uppermost step of the raised Floor, is set a strong Rail with Banisters cross the Hall, to keep off the Crowd from the Sovereign's Table, that so the Officers appointed to attend thereat, may with more liberty perform their several Duties and Services. On the right hand of the Sovereign's State, and below the Rails, are Tables placed for the Knights-Companions to dine at, which sometimes hath been but l MS. in office- Armour [M. 17] f. 28. one Table, continued to the lower end of the Hall, with a long Form on the back side; but of late the same space hath been taken up, and furnished with several small Tables; those set up an. 23. Car. 2. were 6 foot long, and 4 and a half broad, and set at two Foot distance, each from the other. At the Grand Feast held at Whitehall, m Lib. R. p. ●●. an. 8. Car. 1. the Tables for the Knights●Companions were (like the Sovereign's) fenced in with Rails; within which the Waiters only being admitted, the Dishes of Meat and the Banquet, were thereby handsomely freed from the troublesome (yet usual) crowd and rapine of the people; the like hath been done at all times since, with Bars to open and shut against every Table. Opposite to these, between the Hall Windows, are set so many side Tables, each 5 foot long, and 2 and a half broad, all raised in with Bars, as are the Tables provided for the Knights-Companions; so that each of theirs hath a side Table, furnished with Plate, Glasses, Wine, Beer, etc. to serve it. The Hall being thus far prepared, the Black-Rod receives the Lord Chamberlain's Warrant, for taking into his Custody such rich and costly Furniture, both for the Sovereign's State, and hanging the Hall, as is thought worthy to contribute to the honour of this Festival. The St●te, placed at the upper end of the Hall before the Sovereign's Table, is usually the richest; the Hanging of the b●st sort: and such were the four pieces of Arras, wherein were wrought the History of St. George, bought by n Cot●. p. in Offic. Madge Ga●drob. f. ●●. b. King Henry the Sixth. The Story of Abraham and Lot (most curious for design and workmanship, most costly for Silk and Gol●) with the rich o Lor● Chan▪ berlayn's R●● of Warrants from 1634. ●o 1641. p. 16. State, Chair, Cushions, and Stools belonging to the Queen's Privy-Chamber, did adorn the Presence-Chamber at the Feast held at Whitehall, an. 11. Car. 1. And the same Hanging were made use of in the Banqueting House there, a. 19 Car. 2. And in case the appearance at Windesor, of the Nobility and great Personages, with their Trains, be extraordinary, then doth the Sovereign, upon such an occasion, direct his Letters to the Dean and prebend's, desiring them to give way, that the Black-Rod may survey their Houses, and therein appoint Lodgings for so many as may be entertained there; and thus was it done, upon the coming hither of the Emperor Sigismond, p Lib. N. Pag. 57 an. 7. H. 5: for the Sovereign being desirous that their Servants and Attendants, as well as others of his own Retinue, might be in all respects handsomely accommodated, and because the Privilege was granted to the Dean and Canons, in the Charter of 27. E. 3. That no person, of what state or condition soever, might upon any colour lodge or tarry in their Houses without their consent; he thereupon wrote his q Appendix N. CLXXII. Letter to them, thereby desiring liberty and allowance, for the Black-Rod to take up Lodgings in their Houses, in such an extraordinary case; yet withal signified, it was not his intention, that under colour of this they should be so charged for the future. In r A Book entitled St. Georg's Feast, in the Lord Chamberlayns Office. May an. 23. Car. 2. a little before the Grand Feast was held at Windesor, there fell out some dispute between the Gentleman-ushers daily Waiters, and the Knight-Harbenger, who should appoint Lodgings in the Dean and prebend's Houses, for any of the Knights-Companions, or other persons of quality of the Court. The s A Book entitled St. Georg's Feast, in the Lord Chamberlayns Office. Knight Harbinger, alleged that by his Patent he ought to assign Lodgings for all persons, that are not lodged in the King's Palace, and that the Gentleman-ushers have nothing to do either without the King's House, or with those who are not the King's Houshold-Servants, as some of the Knights-Companions are not. But after much discourse on both sides, before the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, which occasioned a further enquiry into the matter, the only person for this Affair, appeared to be the t A Book entitled St. Georg's Feast, in the Lord Chamberlayns Office. Gentleman-usher of the Black-Rod, who is an Officer of the Order within the College, and whose Predecessor carried the before mentioned Letter from King Henry the Fifth, to the Dean and Canons; besides he is one, whom they have since willingly admitted of in such occasions, and consequently not been invaded by a strange Officer, and thereupon were the u A Book entitled St. Georg's Feast, in the Lord Chamberlayns Office. pretensions of the Knight-Harbinger set aside. SECT. VIII. Officers and Servants appointed to attend at the Grand Feast. THE Names of those Noblemen, which the Sovereign appoints to the principal Offices of this Grand Feast, are put into a List, signed by the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, and delivered to the Black-Rod, who is to give them notice some convenient time before the Feast begin, that thereupon they may fit themselves to perform the duty of their several places. w Lord Chamberlains Book of Warrants, from 1634, to 1641. pag. 256. A List of those Lords that gave attendance at the Grand-Feast, an. 14. Car. 2. when the present Sovereign was Installed. A List of those Lords that attended the Sovereign, at St. George's Feast held at Windesor the 8. of October, an. 15. Car. 1. For the Sword. For the Sword. Earl of Northampton. Earl of Denbigh. The Great Basin. The Great Basin. Earl of Bedford. Earl of Denbigh. Earl of Hertford. Earl of Monmouth. Earl of Clare. Lord Edward Howard. Earl of St. Albon. Lord Herbert of Cardiff. Lord Herbert of Ragland. The Cupbearer. The Cupbearer. Lord Herbert of Cardiff. Earl of Essex. The Carver. The Carver. Lord Wharton. Earl of Carlisle. The Sewer. The Sewer. Lord Grandison. Earl of Dover. The Surnap. The Surnap. Lord Edward Howard. Earl of Elgin. The Ewer. The Ewer. Lord Slego. Earl of Devonshire. The Train. The Train. Duke of Buckingham. Lord Russel. Earl of Oxford. Lord Herbert. Lord Buckhurst. Lord Cranborne. The Gentlemen of the Sovereign's Privy-Chamber, who bear the Canopy, are those that are at the time of the Feast in waiting; and these that follow performed that service at the Feast held in October, an. 15. Car. 1. x Ibid. p. 340. Mr. Gilbert North. Mr. John Carey. Mr. John Frecheville. Captain John Tyringham. Mr. Edward Tyringham. Sir Peter Kellegrew. Mr. Henry Wentworth. Sir William Berkeley. Sir Henry Bruce. Sir Richard Young. Sir Robert Wind. Sir John Weldram. Besides these, several other of the Sovereign's Officers and Servants have notice from the Lord Chamberlain, to give their particular attendance at the Grand Feast, and of what quality they usually are, will appear by the List of those appointed to attend at Windesor the 29. of May, an. 23. Car. 2. y A Book entitled St. George's Feast in the Lord Chamberlains Office. Lord Chamberlain, and Servants. Mr. Vice-Chamberlain. Groom of the Stool. Gentlemen of the Bedchamber. Bedchamber-men. Privy-Purse. Secretaries of State. Secretaries of Scotland. Gentleman-ushers of the Privy-Chamber. 12 Gentlemen of the Privy-Chamber in waiting 4 Gentleman-ushers daily Waiters. 2 Carvers. 2 Cupbearers. 2 Sewers. 8 Quarter-Waiters, Gentleman-ushers. 2 Pages of the Presence. 2 Chaplains. 2 Esquires of the Body. 2 Physicians. 2 Apothecaries. 2 Surgeons. 4 Sergeants at Arms. Mrs. Sempstress and Landress to his Majesty. 8 Sewers of the Chamber. 4 Grooms of the Chamber. Pages of the Back-Stairs. 14 Lords to attend his Majesty. Captain of the Guards. Officers of the Guard. Officers of the Robes. Yeomen of the Guard. 2 Grooms of the Privy-Chamber. 3 Masters of the Tents. Groom-Porter. Master of the Ceremonies. Marshal of the Ceremonies. Aid of the Ceremonies. Removing Wardrobe. jewel-house. Gentlemen of the Chapel. Musicians. 5 Messengers. Yeomen of the Bows and Guns. 16 Trumpeters. Captain Cook, and the Children of the Chapel. Serjeant-Trumpeter. Drum-Major, 4 Drummers and a Fife. St. Alban. CHAP. XX. THE ORDER OF THE Ceremonies ON THE Eve OF THE Grand Feast. SECT. I. Of the beginning of the Grand Feast. HAving in the precedent Chapter spoken somewhat of the Institution of the Grand Festival, which the Statutes of this most Noble Order have fixed to the day of St. George; we come now to treat of its Celebration, with the Ceremonies performed throughout this great Solemnity, devised to set forth and illustrate the glory thereof: In the observation of which, both the first Institutor, and all succeeding Sovereigns have shown the utmost of their provision and care: well knowing, that what is once slightly observed, will soon fall into disesteem, if not contempt. And here, what first occurs to our consideration, are the Day, the Hour, and the Place, when and where the Sovereign and Knights-Companions are to meet, in order to the beginning of the Feast. As to the first, although St. George's day (or such other day as the Sovereign shall please to nominate and appoint, by Prorogation in lieu thereof) be indeed the principal and Grand day of the Feast, yet does the Feast take commencement upon the Eve, and determines not until the third day following; and so the whole Solemnity takes up, inclusively, three days. And this is clear from several Articles of the Statutes, wherein the course of the Ceremonies, to be observed at this Grand Solemnity, are set down; whether performed on the Eve, the Feast-day, or the Morrow after: And these three days together did the Sovereigns hold the Grand Feast, whether they personally celebrated the same, or deputed other of the Knights-Companions to that Employment, the Clause in the Commissions of Deputation, limiting their power, either in general, during the time of the Feast; or in particular, upon the d●y of St. George, the day going before, and that following, viz. the last day of the Feast. In like manner, when in succeeding times, Commissions of Prorogation of the Grand Feast were made use of, we find the three days continuance of the ●east to be particularly mentioned in the body of those Commissions, namely, the day wherein (by such appointment) the Feast was to begin, the Grand day itself, and the day whereon it ended. The directions given in the Statutes, for the order and course of this Solemnity, to begin with the Eve, run ●hus, a E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 Every year, upon St. George's Eve, shall be an assembly or meeting of all the Knights-Companions of the Order, at Windesor Castle, etc. and the same is positively enjoined by all other b H. 5. Stat. Art. 9 H. 8. Stat. Art. 3. Bodies of the Statutes. And as the Grand Feast is generally, and for the most part, said to take commencement, c An. 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 22, 25, & 2●. H. 6. & 1. Mar. & 9, 11, 13, 20, 29, 30, 31, 33, & 34. Eliz. in Vigilia Sancti Georgii, or, as it is otherwise expressed in the d An. 23. H 6. Black Book, in Vigilia future celebritatis, or, e An. 14, & 15. Eliz. Vigiliis Divi Georgii, or, f An. 2 & 4▪ jac. R. in Vigilia Festi: So hath the time of this preceding day several other denominations given unto it in the same Register, as g An. 17, 18, & 19 Eliz. Vesperi ante diem Sancti Georgii, h An. 43. Eliz. in Vesperiis Georgianis, i An. 42. Eliz. & 3, 14, & 15, jac. R. in Vesperiis Festi, k An. 38. Eliz. in Vesperiis Commitionum, and other whiles l An. 3, 8, 12, 32. Eliz. Pridie Divi Georgii, m An. 27. H. 6. Pridie Georgianae Solemnitatis, n An 38, & 39 Eliz. Pridie Festi, o An. 6. Eliz. Pridie feriarum Divi Georgii, and sometimes p An. 18, & 20. jac. R. Pervigilia, and lastly in plain English, q An. 5. E. 6. St. George's Even. All which signify one and the same thing, and are but various names given to the Evening of the day foregoing, either that of St. George, or that whereon the Grand Feast is appointed to be held by Prorogation. Thus we see, the Founder began his Solemnity upon the Eve of the Feast day; which doubtless was in conformity to the Custom of the Church, who made the Vigils and Eves part of the ensuing Festivals, and as Ushers to the Grand Solemnities. And because the meaning of the word, and first occasion of observing also the Eves of Solemn Days, or great Feasts, by the Church, may haply be to many unknown; it will be here proper enough, to give a touch upon the original of this Custom. Hospinian handling this particular, in his Book De origine Festorum Christianorum, draweth the antiquity of Vigils out of the Epistle of Plinius secundus and the authority of Ecclesiastical Writers, from the Apostles times, and the next succeeding Age; for saith he, r Cap. 7. fol. 25. b. In the Apostles days, and sometime after, when the Christians durst not appear in public, because of the continual snares, Treacheries, and persecution of Tyrants, and Enemies of their Religion; they were forced to meet in the night time, and early before day, for the exercise of their devotion. And in the first Church after the times of the Apostles, when they stood not in fear of any persecution, they s Cap. 7. fol. 25. b. watched and fasted in their Churches all the week before Easter, or Passion-week; but especially on the Eve of the Resurrection; whence grew the Custom, both for Christian men and Women, to t Cap. 7. fol. 25. b. watch and fast on the Eves of great Solemnities, in their Churches; and at the Sepulchers of Saints and Martyrs. And Durand gives a reason, why these meetings were called Vigils, u Rationale div. Offic. lib. 6. cap. 7. Nu. 8. Edit. Lugd. 1612. because anciently in the principal Feasts two Nocturnal Offices were performed [probably Watching and Praying] for the People which came to the Feasts, watched all night in the Churches, spending their time in the praises of God. But as the best things may be abused, even Virtue and Religion itself, so it happened in this religious duty, as Hospinian thus further relates, w Loco supra citato. That forasmuch as in process of time, these Nocturnal Watchings occasioned much wickedness, therefore were the Women forbidden access thereto; x Can. 35. Ellbertine Concilii:. because under pretence of Prayer, great abuses were oftentimes committed. Whence it came, that these kinds of Vigils, as a Loco supra citato. Durand affirms, were also at length prohibited; which prohibition received confirmation from b Hospin. dé Orig. Fest▪ Christ. cap. 7. pag. 26. ● Pope Innocent the Third, in the year of our Lord 1210. and in the room thereof jejunia, or Fasts, were appointed. c Hospin. dé Orig. Fest▪ Christ. cap. 7. pag. 26. ● Nevertheless those sorts of Fasts still retained the name of Vigils, as most properly implying the Duty originally enjoined. And Durand further informs us, that this Institution was also called Dispensatio, d Loco sup cit. because the Fast was put in the place of the Vigil. And yet to show the antiquity of Vigils, it appears that, before Christianity, the ancient Greeks and Romans had the same kind of preparations, to some of their grand or solemn Feasts; and particularly at the e Dioscor. lib. 1. cap. 136. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, or Feast of Ceres. f I. jonston de Fest. Hebr. & Grec. pag. 93. Vratislawe excus. an. 1660. For, three days before this Feast, the Women were to abstain from all manner of Venery, to which end they strewed Agnus castus, and such Herbs, under their Beds, as g Loco sup. cit. Dioscorides, speaking of that Herb, testifieth. h Nat. Hist. lib. 24. cap. 6. Plin● also saith the same; and much to that purpose, the Scholiast of Nicander, i I. jonst. loc. sup. citato. and on the third day they fasted; and this kind of profestum, k Prologue. Aulul. Plautus plainly calls Vigilae where he saith, l Prologue. Aulul. Is adolescentis illius est avunculus Qui illam stupravit noctu Cereris vigiliis. And this the Uncle is of that young man Who her by night at Ceres' Vigils ravished. In the m Ho●pin. de Orig. Fest. Christ. f. 26. a. Temples of Isis and Aesculapius, the like nocturnal Vigils were also celebrated: Analogous to which were those n Ho●p. de Festis jud. & Ethnic. fol. 158. b. Nocturnal Rites of Cocytto, kept by the Corinthians, mentioned by Suidas, Hesychius, and o Lib. 1. satire 2. juvenal. Talia secreta coluerunt Orgia taeda, Cecropiam soliti Baptae lassare Cocytto. p Sir Rob. Stapleton's Translation. At Athens such the Baptists Orgies were, When they their public Torches did advance, And tired out their Cocytto in a Dance. Which likewise for the same kind of abuses above mentioned, were condemned by several, chiefly by Eupolis, an ancient Comedian in his Baptae, as the nocturnal of Bacchus by q In Bacchi● Euripides. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 To women's honours dangerous and unsafe. And for this cause were the Vigils many times r Hospin. de Orig. Fest. Christ. p. 26. a. prohibited by the wisest of the Ancients, though Heathens, among whom Romulus was one, who made a Law, that no night Vigils should be kept in any Temple at Rome. An account of their wicked and beastly Ceremonies used in the Nights, and why they were likewise afterwards banished out of Rome and Italy, may be seen at large in s Lib. 39 sub. finem. Livy. But to proceed to the second Point, the Hour; as the Eve was appointed by the Founder, for the commencement of the Anniversary of this Grand Feast, so to make the time yet more certain, the Statutes express the exact Hour of meeting, for beginning the Solemnities, to be at the Hour of Tierce, which in many other places is called u Lib. N. p. 74, 82, 142, & 218. Regr. Chartac. fol. 9 g. Hora tertiarum. But this seemed not sufficient, to express clear enough, the meaning of a Law, wherein the punishment for late coming was enjoined, and by the strength of which, the penalty might be levied; and therefore in a Chapter held at Windesor, upon the w Lib. N. pag. 142. 10. day of May, an. 17. E. 4. A scruple being raised among the Knights-Companions then assembled, concerning the Exposition of these words x Lib. N. pag. 142. Hora tertiarum, the day before the Feast; whether it were intended at three a Clock in the Afternoon, or at the Hour of the Church, accustomably used after Prime, before Noon. y Lib. N. pag. 142. Because it seemed most agreeable to the Statute, and to the reason of the Statute, and to the penalty there enjoined that it should be taken for the, Hour after Prime before Noon; it was determined, that thereforth it should inviolably be so observed. The a Fol. 46. Registrum Chartaceum recordeth the same interpretation of the words; and to let us see that this was immediately put in practice, in it there is entered down the Names of those Knights-Companions, present in the Chapterhouse with the Sovereign, both in the Morning and Evening of the said 10. day of May (being the Eve of the Feast of St. George) that is to say b Ibid. before Noon, Thomas Marquis Dorset, William Earl of Arundel, Henry Earl of Essex, Anthony Earl Rivers, john Lord Scrope, Thomas Lord Mantravers, john Lord Dudley, and Sir john Astley; and in the c Ibid. Afternoon, the Prince, George Duke of Clarence, Richard Duke of York, james Earl Douglas, john Lord Howard, Sir William Parr, Walter Lord Ferrars, and Sir Thomas Montgomery. Another instance of which Practice, we again meet with, a. d Lib. N. pag. 166. 3. H. 7. on the Eve of the Grand Feast, held by Prorogation at Windesor; where the Sovereign (in regard of the arrival of several Ambassadors there, and treating about the Affairs concerning which they came) e Lib. N. pag. 166. put off the usual Chapter until Noon. Whence it evidently appears, that the custom at this time also, was to begin the Solemnity in the Morning, and then to hold a Chapter as the first thing; which although (for the reasons before mentioned) the Sovereign though fit to defer until Noon; nevertheless, he commanded in the mean time, that the f Lib. N. pag. 166. Earl of Shrewsbury should be installed, which was accordingly performed at the Mass of the Virgin Mary. As to the express acception therefore of the Hora tertia, so far as it relates to the entrance upon our Grand Festival, and how near the same, expounded and practised as above, agrees with that hour of Tierce, celebrated by the Church, and reckoned as one of the Canonical Hours, set apart for Divine Worship; may best be deduced from what is discoursed at large by g Lib. 3. cap. 3, 4, 5. etc. Durant, de Ritibus Ecclesiae Catholicae, and by h Lib. 5. Cap. 2▪ 3, 4, etc. Durand in his aforesaid Rationale, speaking both of them concerning the Canonical hours of the Church, which though agreed on by both to be the same in effect, are by Durant most positively delivered, to be seven in Number, viz. Matutinae laudes, or Matins, the Prima Hora, or Prime, the Hora tertia, the Hora sexta, the Hora nona, Vespers, and the Completorium, besides the Nocturnum Officium, the Office for Nights; which is also divided into four Vigils, the Conticinium, Gallicinium, Intempestum, and Antelucinium; which several hours, after what manner they divided the day, it is pertinent to our purpose to inquire, since from thence may be collected, what time of the day was their hour of Tierce, seeming to be the same (determined by King Edward the Fourth, as aforesaid) in some respect. And though these Authors do not very punctually determine the course of these Hours, yet it may well enough be implied, that since their Matins was performed about break of day, and their Prime, by consequence, at 6 a Clock in the morning, the hour of Tierce was most probably 9 a Clock in the Morning, and so the rest at 3 hours' distance one after the other; and this determination is clearly confirmed by my late worthy friend Mr. Somner, in his Saxon Dictionary, from an old i Birthfrithus Ramesiensis MS. verbo Kyppiole. Saxon Author, whose words, he having cited in that Language, thus renders; Sacram horam diei (veterum) tertiam (nostram) autem Nonam ante meridiem, Archiepiscopi cum Clero sestiva celebrant bilaritate: The Archbishop with the Clergy, celebrate with feasting and mirth, the sacred hour of the day, which among the Ancients was the Third, but with us the Ninth hour, before Noon. This Hora tertia, or hour of Tierce, was by our Ancestors the English-Saxons, called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, as we find in venerable Bedes History of the Church of England, k Lib. 4. c. 22. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i.e. à Tertia Horae quando Missae fieri solebant; and so is it rendered by the said Mr. Somner, l Dict. Sax. Lat. Anglicum● verbo 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Tempus ante meridianum, hora diei veterum tertia, nostra nona, the Forenoon, the third hour of the day, that is nine of the Clock with us. So in like manner is it used in an old Manuscript of the holy Festivals of the Church, composed in meeter about the Reign of King Edward the First, in the life of St. Brandon. m Penes Sil. Taylour gen. fol. 72. This Fowls longes her Matyns; well right though it was time, And of the Sauter sede verse; and seithe also Prime, And Undarne seithe, and Midday; and afterward seith non. And each tide of the day long as cristenemen schooled don. Of the Third, six, and Ninth Hours, n Lib. de Iejun. adversus Phychic. c. 10. Tertullian takes notice, as the most remarkable in humane Affairs, for the division of the day, the distinction of business, and more peculiarly to be solemnised by Prayers and Divine Service; but especially of all the rest the o Durantus de Rit. Eccl. Cathol. pag. 909. Hora Tertia, is by pre-eminence called the Golden hour, and in the Canon Law p Canon. fin. distinct. 44. & concilio Mart. Papae, Can. 61. & 65. Hora sacra, doubtless, as being most peculiarly dedicated to some celebration of Divine Service. But notwithstanding the foresaid declared and decreed Exposition made by King Edward the Fourth, we find it an. II. H. 8. declared to be meant and intended for the hour of three in the q Ab horâ primarum Vesperarutn post meridiem. Lib. N. pag. 209. Afternoon; and when King Henry the Eighth came to model the Statutes of the Order, he in two several Articles, declares and expounds this Hora teria (which the English Version of those Statutes, renders the Hour of Tierce) to be r Lib. N. pag. 216. Art. 3. Hora tertia post meridiem, three a Clock in the Afternoon; and in another Article of the same Statutes, s Ex eod. Lib. p. 218. Hora tertiarum, id est Hora teria post meridiem; and elsewhere t Lib. R. 107. Hora tertia Vespertina vel Pomeridiana, which Hour as it was then settled to be the punctual time for the Knights-Companions meeting, to enter upon the Solemnity of the Feast, so hath it ever since continued unaltered, and usually observed. Thirdly, the Place of Assembly, which, for the Sovereign and Knights-Companions hath been in such of the Sovereign's Privy Lodgings, both at Windesor or elsewhere, as he hath appointed, and for the most part, either in the x Lib. R. p. 5.94.107. & 117. Privy, y Ib. pag. 38. Rows journal, p. 8. Palmer's journal pro an. 1639. p. 16. See his large journal, p. 2. & 29. Withdrawing, or z Lib. C. pag. 194. Bedchambers. To this appointed Room do the Knights-Companions repair, to give their attendance on the Sovereign, first having invested themselves in full Robes, either in their a Collect. W. le N. Cl. own Lodgings, or some other convenient Room at Court, where b Lib. R. p. 5. Garter is to attend them, with notice of the approaching hour. The Knights-Companions being come to the Sovereign, so also the Officers of the Order, habited in their Mantles, and bearing in their hands the Symbols of their several Offices, they wait the Sovereign's being vested in his Robes, and until he pass into the c Rows journal, p. 23. Lib. R. pag. 126. Palmer's journal pro anno 1639. pag. 16. and his large journal, p. 36. Presence-Chamber, or d Lib. R. p. 5. & 39 give beginning to the Feast, by opening the Chapter at this their meeting, before he go thither. About the same time, the Provincial Kings, Herald's, and Pursuivants, wearing their Coats of the Sovereign's Arms, so also the Band of Pensioners, armed with their Pole-Axes, assemble in the Presence-Chamber; but the prebend's of the College, vested in their Taffeta Mantles over their Surplices, and Alms-Knights in their Mantles and Surcoats, come no nearer than the Guard-Chamber. Lastly, the Servants and Attendants of the Knights-Companions meet without the Guard-Chamber door, whence spreading themselves down the Stairs, through the Stone Gallery, into the upper Ward of the Castle, or as far as their number will reach, all wait the Sovereign's coming forth into the Presence. And here we think it needful (once for all) to inform our Reader, in regard not only the Feast-day of St. George, but the Grand Feast held in honour of the Order, hath been kept in several other places besides Windesor Castle, more especially Whitehall, St. James' Greenwich, and York; that there are many Ceremonies and other particulars (hereafter falling under our discourse) which alter not with the Place, but appertain to the Festival, and are therefore to be observed every where alike; as for instance, the form of Proceeding, the manner of holding Chapters, the Ceremony of Offering Gold and Silver, the order of Electing Knights-Companions, Swearing of Officers, and such like: But others there are precisely local and particular, as the prebend's and Alms-Knights, going in the Proceedings, the Offering up of Achievements, etc. to Windesor only; when therefore we speak of any of the former fort, which properly belong to the Feast, and not to the Place; it is to be understood, that as heretofore they have been, so now ought they to be performed in the celebrations thereof, wheresoever solemnised. For since the withdrawing of the Grand Feast from Windesor, some of the Officers of Arms, curious in the observation of these Solemnities, performed in other places, have afforded us greater plenty of Memorials, relating to the ceremonious part thereof, than any in former Ages did, while the same was continued at Windesor, and therefore, when the true place where the instance lies, shall be also cited by us, we would not have our Reader mistakingly conclude, that the Precedent urged, doth not full enough answer our purpose, unless it had been also fetched from Windesor. But that in these cases, the Ceremony or Example in such as is peculiar to the Feast, not the Place, where it is held; and aught to serve, and be used without alteration at any Place, where it shall please the Sovereign to keep the Grand Feast. And for those things appertaining to each other place, where the Feast hath been observed, aswell as at Windesor Castle, we shall at all times note them with sufficient difference of place, as oft as we have occasion to draw them into Example. SECT. II. Of setting the Proceeding in order. IN setting forth the order of Proceeding to the Chapterhouse on the Eve of the Grand Feast, We are to consider the Persons, who constitute and make up the same, together with the course observed in putting them in their due place and rank: In order to which, we shall pursue our wont method, and as a forehand satisfaction, note down and make observation of what materially relates thereunto, as we first meet with the Persons and Degrees that so they may afterwards become applicable (if need be) when the same thing returns again into our discourse. The particulars whereof we shall handle in the order and series as they proceed, whether it be in Bodies or Single, beginning with those of inferior rank and so upwards and therein consider, first the Persons, who peculiarly and more immediately relate to this most Noble Order, and who customarily and of duty do, and are obliged to attend, to make up the ordinary and constant Proceedings; and secondly, such who have now and then been occasionally or accidentally received thereinto ad augendam pompam, or otherwise, in regard their employments entitle them to a near attandance upon the Sovereign at other times; both which sorts, we shall (as occasion is offered) again consider, either as among themselves, or in relation to the other Degrees who go in the Proceedings, next before or after them. And all this, to the end that the pretensions to precedency, among and between all Persons and Degrees herein concerned, may be the better made known and understood, and consequently without much difficulty be decided. First then, we think fit for methods sake, to begin with those of the lowest rank and quality, namely the Servants and Attendants of the Knights-Companions; and thence rise upwards with the next higher Degree, according to the rule and right of precedency. We are to consider therefore, that in times past the Knights-Companions appeared at the Grand Feast, attended with a goodly and numerous Train; but that having been removed from Windesor to other places, (as hath been before remembered) much of this glory was laid aside: Nevertheless, within a few years after that King james became Sovereign of this most Noble Order, the lustre of Attendants began to revive; for we find it entered upon the Register, in the 4-year of his Reign, c Lib. C. p. 163. That the ancient Custom, which for some years had been intermitted, wherein, at the Solemnity of this Feast, all the Knights-Companions were wont to go attended, each with a large Train; was recalled and brought back again into use. Which height of gallantry, made splendid in the number of Attendants, and richness of their Apparel, within ten years after grew up to such excess, or rather exorbitancy, that it stood in need of a restraint, wherefore The Sovereign by the unanimous advice of the Knights-Companions, Ordained, Decreed, and Commanded, f Ibid. p. 189. That every one of the Knights-Companions of the Order, should have to attend upon his person, at the yearly solemnisation of the Feast of the Order, 50 persons, and no more: The reason whereof we find elsewhere noted to be, g MS. pen E. W. G. fol. 153. for saving of charge, and avoiding of emulation. But in the beginning of his late Majesty's Reign of ever blessed memory, the gallantry of Attendants, began again to increase and augment, insomuch that at the Grand Feast held at Whitehall the 22, 23. and 24. of April an. 8. Car. I. we find it observed, h Lib. R. p. 77. That the Knights-Companions came forth attended, each with a Train of Servants very richly clad. But to return, and enter upon the Proceeding; to the end the Servants and Attendants of the Knights-Companions may be exactly marshaled, the Usher of the Hall (whose i Collect. W. le N. Cl. duty it is to rank them) ought to call for a Lift from Garter, of such Knight-Companions as are to be present at the Grand Feast, noted with their several places in the Proceeding, for his better directions, in assigning the Attendants their due places, the order whereof is thus: First, the k Ibidem. junior Knights Attendants, proceed one before another, on the left hand upon whose right hands the second eldest Knights Attendants go in equal rank with them; for this we observe to have been the general rule; where the Knights-Companions proceed in pairs, their Attendants go together; those belonging to the signior Knight of the two, on the right hand, and to the junior upon their left. But the order is otherwise, where any of the Knights-Companions proceed single and alone (which often falls out, as shall be noted in its due place) for then the Attendants belonging to that single Knight, go two and two, on both sides the way, opposite one against another. But when the Grand Feast is celebrated at Whitehall, there the l Ibidem. Knights-Companions Attendants are marshaled by the said Usher, on both sides the passage, from the outward door of the Guard-Chamber down into the Hall, taking up all the room as far as the old Chapel; and because here they do not proceed in regard of the shortness of the processional way, but only make a stand for the Proceeding to pass through them, they are ranked in a way different from that used at Windesor; nevertheless relating more especially to the order observed by their Masters: which method, in the Sovereign's Proceeding to the Chapel, at the before mentioned Feast, held at Whitehall an. 8. Car. I. we find thus described, m Ibid. The eldest Knights-Companions Servants, were ranked on the right hand of the passage, the chiefest of them nearest unto the old Chapel door; and the second Knight (being Companion to the eldest) his Attendants stood on the left side, the chiefest of them also next to the said old Chapel door. And in case the eldest Knights Fellow or Companion be not present in this Proceeding, than the eldest Knights Servants ought to be placed opposite one against another, upon each side of the said old Chapel door: The like order is to be taken in marshalling the Servants of the other Knights of this most Noble Order, whose Companions are then absent. Secondly, the order of Proceeding amongst the Alms-Knights (who an. 1. Car. 1. had n MS. pen Edw. Fauconbridge gen. two Waiters of the Sovereign's Hall, in their-Livery Coats, bearing white Rods in their hands, to proceed before them) is in general two and two together; the junior in place foremost on the left hand, and his next signior on his right. And if sickness, or other lawful impediment, chance to hinder one or more of them, from going in the Proceeding, his junior is advanced into his place, and consequently all the other juniors do in like manner alter their places, and advance, to the end the superior place be still-supplied, according to the right rule of marshalling the singles that compose a gross Body; but in this case, if their Number that attend happen to be odd, the Governor of the Alms-Knights goeth last of all, and alone. Thirdly, the Verger of the College hath his place next o Collect. W. le N. Cl. after the Alms-Knights, and immediately before the prebend's of the College; who being habited in a Gown, beareth a Silver Verge, the Ensign of his Office. Nevertheless, heretofore when the Prehends went not in the Proceeding, on the Eve of the Grand Feast, the Verger proceeded first of all, p MS. pen. W. D. N. f. 15. a. before the Alms-Knights, for so was it observed on the Eve of St. George at Windesor, an. q Ibid. 6. Eliz. and in this manner we see it expressed, in the Proceeding set forth by Marcus Gerchard. Fourthly, under the general Rule, relating to the Alms-Knights, are comprehended the Prehends of the College, the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings; insomuch, that where either of the said Kings are absent, the r Ex Collect.. praefat. W. le N. Cl. signior Herald is advanced, and goeth in breast on the left hand of him who is then present: So also where any of the Heralds are wanting, his next junior ascendeth into his place, whereby it sometimes falls out, that the signior Pursuivant is joined to the left hand of the junior Herald. And if through these defects and absence, the number of the Officers of Arms be odd, then (with this difference in the foresaid rule observed among the Alms-Knights) the youngest Pursuivant goeth single by himself. Touching the right of precedency, between the Officers of Arms and prebend's of the College, in proceeding before the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, we find there hath been heretofore not only some question started, but the place contended for; insomuch that at the Installation of the Earls of Shrewsbury and Cumberland, an. 34. Eliz. the s MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 106. prebend's took place, and upon the 24. of May, an. 39 Eliz. at the Installation of Thomas Lord Howard of Walden, and others, the prebend's again endeavoured to pass t Ex Collect. Rob. C. Cl. fol. 33. between the Officers of Arms, and Officers of the Orders; but Charles Lord Howard of Effingham then Lieutenant to the Sovereign, delivered his opinion on the u Ibid. 34. fol. behalf of the Officers of Arms, against the prebend's. Yet did not this so settle the order of Precedency, or quiet the prebend's, but that the contention again broke out, a. 1. jac. R. at the Installation of the Earls of Penbroke, Marr, Southampton, and Duke of Lenox which happened on the w Lib. C. pag. 151 ninth, not x MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. second of july, in the foresaid year) even to such a height, that the prebend's, Pursuivants, and Heralds contended in the Proceeding; but the controversy was on the next morning composed, by the Lord Admiral (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) the Lord Treasurer, and the Earl of Worcester, and the order in proceeding thus settled; first, that the y MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. Alms-Knights should go foremost, the Pursuivants next, than the prebend's, and then the Heralds and Kings of Arms. And this Order in Proceeding, was afterwards observed on the z MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. 2I. of May an. 4. jac. R. at the Installation of the Earl of Salisbury, and Viscount Bindon, as also the * MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 151. a. 19 of May an. 6. of the same King, at the Installation of the Earls of Dunbar, and Montgomery. Howbeit an. 9 jac. R. and so afterwards, we do not find the Pursuivants mentioned in the Proceeding by particular name, nor otherwise, than in this following order, viz. Alms-Knights, prebend's, Heralds, etc. but it may be presumed that the Pursuivants then joined again in Body with the Heralds, (though for some years before divided from them, by the interposition of the prebend's) aswel as the Provincial Kings, and all of them under the Title of a An. 9 jac. R. Heralds, and sometimes b 14. & 15. jac. R. Officers of Arms. And though at the Grand Feast held by Prorogation, on Sunday the c Lib. C. pag. 190. 14. of September, in the said 15. year of King james, it is noted, that the Prince (being then the Sovereign's Lieutenant) proceeded to Morning Service on the Feast day, with the d Lib. C. pag. 190. Alms-Knights, Heralds, prebend's, and Officers of the Order before him; from which manner of expression, it may perchance be supposed, that the Heralds went at that time next after the Alms-Knights, and before the Prehends nevertheless, e MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 154. b. elsewhere we find them on the Eve of the foresaid Feast ranked in this following order. The Alms-Knights. The prebend's. The Officers of Arms. The Knights of the Order, etc. And doubtless, they proceeded in the same order to the Chapel on the next morning, notwithstanding what is before said to the contrary, those expressions being interwoven with the general account given of the Ceremonies of the whole Festival, and more subject to mistake, where the Relation of the Proceeding is carried on in a continued Discourse, than where ranked (as is before exhibited) in particular lines, and in the order and form of a Proceeding: Besides, we no where meet with any Order or Decree, nulling the foresaid determination, made an. 1. jac. R. which placeth the prebend's before the Heralds. Finally, to give an end to the disputes in this point, we find, that upon the Eve of the Feast, held at Windesor the 23.24. and 25. of November an. 1. Car. 1. the f MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge. prebend's proceeded next before the Pursuivants, and the Pursuivants immediately before the Heralds and Provincial Kings; that is to say, all the Officers of Arms (except Garter, whose place is elsewhere) proceeded in one entire Body together; which order we find to be the same in all Proceedings after, that we have met with, and was so observed at the Grand Feast held at Windesor g Lib. Carol. pag. 39 an. 13. Car. 2. and ever since. But to proceed, All the before mentioned Attendants wait in their several stations, till the hour of Tierce, when the Sovereign (having the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order before him, and his Train carried up) passeth towards the Presence Chambers; notice of whose coming being given, the Band of Pensioners make the accustomed Guard and Passage, along the Presence-Chamber, the seniors standing towards the Lobby door; within which Guard, on either side, do the Officers of Arms place themselves: Upon the same warning, the Yeomen of the Guard clear a like passage from the Presence-Chamber door, along the Guard-Chamber, unto its outward door, for the Proceeding to pass through. At the Sovereign's approach, one of the Gentleman-ushers attending with the Sword of State (the point resting upon the ground) delivereth it to such one of the Nobility (not being a Knight of the Order) whom the Sovereign, as an honorary favour, hath before nominated, to bear it from thence before him in all the Proceedings of the Feast; during which action the Knights-Companions proceed forward, and being entered the Presence-Chamber, h Collect. W. le N. Cl. flank on each side the State, with some small distance between them, and there make a stand. The Sovereign being also entered, passeth to the step before the State (the i Collect. W. le N. Cl. Nobleman who beareth the Sword, and the five Officers of the Order, retiring a little on his right hand) and then turning himself towards the Knights-Companions, standeth there a while, until they have made their k Sir Tho. Rows Iourn. pag. 23. See also Sir james Palmers large Iourn. pag. 11. & his Iourn. pro an. 1639. pag. 16. Reverences unto him; which being performed, he re-saluteth the Knights-Companions by l Sir Tho. Rows Iourn. pag. 23. See also Sir james Palmers large Iourn. pag. 11. & his Iourn. pro an. 1639. pag. 16. putting off his Cap. This done, the Sovereign putteth his Cap on again, whereupon every of the Knights-Companions put on theirs, and immediately rank themselves, according to their due place, on both sides the State. For the right understanding whereof, we are in the fifth place to note, that the order and method wherein the Knights-Companions are ranked (if they be all present) is two and two together, the m Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. junior foremost on the left hand, for that is his place in all Proceedings. But where any of them be absent, the Rule is different from that appropriate to the before mentioned Degrees; for although it be recorded, that upon the Eve of the Grand Feast held at Windesor, an. 7. H. 5. The Knights-Companions, n Lib. N. p. 58. went together in order into the Chapterhouse and Choir. Yet this being expressed but in general terms, how it ought to be understood, will more fully appear, from the particular directions given for the order of the Knights-Companions proceedings in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes; where the * Art. 2. Law directs each Knight-Companion to proceed alone, at such time as his Fellow (who possesseth the Stall opposite unto him) is absent; but the order of such Proceeding will by a Scheme be made more evident. The Proceeding of the Knights-Companions, present on the Eve of St. George, to the Closet at Whitehall, an. 3. Eliz. o MS. fol. pen. praesat. W.D.N. The Lord Hunsdon. The Lord Robert Dudley. The Lord Loughborow. Void. The Viscount Montague. The Earl of Shrewsbury. The Earl of Sussex. Void. The Marquis of Northampton. The Lord Clinton. Void. The Lord Howard of Effingham. The Earl of Westmoreland. Void. The Duke of Norfolk. The Earl of Penbroke. In this Proceeding there are four Knights-Companions who proceeded alone, first the Lord Hunsdon, then being the junior Knight, because the Lord Grey his Fellow on the right hand, was in this Proceeding absent, and consequently his Stall became Void. Secondly, the Earl of Westmoreland, in regard the Earl of Rutland, his left hand Companion, was then also warting. Thirdly, the Marquis of Northampton, whose right hand Fellow, the Lord Pagit, was likewise absent: and lastly, the Earl of Penbroke, because the Stall opposite unto him was then void by the death of the Earl of Huntingdon. And to avoid all questions and disputes, touching precedency of the Knights-Companions among themselves, at Feast, Installations, Chapters, or other occasional meetings, relating to the Affairs of the Order, and to settle an indisputable rule for them to observe, it was in the 16. year of the said King Henry the Eighth Decreed, in affirmation and explanation of the foresaid Article of the Statutes, that p Lib. N. p. 318 Each Knight-Companion should take place in Procession, Station, or sitting at the Table, thenceforward, as he had his Seat or Stall in the Choir, and not according to the degree of his birth or condition, unless the Sovereign were pleased that any should be made choice of, according to the Nobility of his Family, to sit at the end of his own Table, and perform any other thing by the by. And this is the Law, which settled the precedency among the Knights-Companions. Sixthly, the manner of Proceeding among the Officers of the Order, differeth from all before spoken of; for, being five in number, the three inferior Officers (when they are all present) march in breast, and (of later times) in this following order: The Register in the middle, Garter on his right hand, and the Usher of the Black-Rod on his left. But we find the form and course of Proceeding among these three Officers, hath anciently been observed otherwise, and therein we meet with much diversity, as for instance; in the Proceeding of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, fairly limned and inserted in the Black-Book of the Order, at the beginning of the Acts of King Henry the Eighth's Reign, there Garter is placed in the middle, having the Register on his right hand, and the Black-Rod on his left, (so also at the Installation of the q Ex lib. vocat▪ Dalton. pag 119. b. Lord Cromwell, a. 29. H. 8.) Nevertheless, in another Proceeding of the Sovereign, the Knights-Companions, the Officers of the Order, and the Alms-Knights, designed and etched by M●rcus Gerch●rd r See Ch. 21. Sect. 3. sub. finem. hereafter inserted; there the Register is put in the middle, Garter upon his right hand, and Black-Rod on his left, as is the order at this day. And in truth, all Relations described in writing, of the manner of Proceeding since (which hath come to our view) are in this point delivered very imperfect and promiscuous; having neither distinction of the right hand man, or which of the foresaid three Officers went in the middle, to guide us with any certainty. For sometimes, when they come to speak of this very point (and here we take in what we find of proceeding upon other occasions, besides those used at the Grand Feast, in regard they ought to be alike in all) they thus deliver themselves.— Then followed the Usher, Garter, and the Register, as it is set down in the a MS. fol. penes. W. D. N. 2.3.4.5.6. and 7. years of Queen Elizabeth: At other times thus,— then went Garter, the Register, and Gentleman-usher, b MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 1. fol. 19 b.] an. 31. H. 8. c MS. pen G.O.Y. fol. 87. 1. E. 6. and 1. Car. 1. and again thus,— then the Register, Garter, and Black-Rod, as in the d Collect. A. V. W. 5. and e MS pen. praef. G. O. Y. f. 203. 34. of Queen Elizabeth, and the f MS. penes E. W. G. 6. and g MS. penes E. W. G. 15. of King james: And lastly thus,— then Garter, Black-Rod, and the Register, as an. h Collect. A. V. W. 16. Eliz. and i MS. praef. pen. E. W. G. f. 147. 4. jac. R. Other Examples there are which may be reduced to one or more of these heads, or the like uncertain manner of placing these three Officers; but these are the most obvious, and we need not be more particular. And seeing the error, or at least inadvertency of the Relators, have left the matter so confused, we cannot confidently enough say to what method such contrariety in ranking them heretofore can refer; in regard they agree not in position of place, nor doth that clear enough set forth where, how, or in what particular, the right appears due to the priority of their several Offices. After these 3 Officers the two superior proceed together, the Prelate on the right hand and the Chancellor on the left; yet an. 11. H. 8. we find that Garter and Black-Rod proceeded ‖ MS. between the Prelate and the Sword, but the very same morning at the Grand Procession, the Prelate proceeded * MS. in Offic. Arm●r. [M. 1●.] pag. 26. b. next before the Sovereign, affirming that was his room and place, and the other Officers of the Order went before him. After the Officers of the Order follows the Sword, which is carried immediately before the Sovereign. In the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign, it was born on the Eves of St. George, solemnised at Whitehall by some of the Baronage, for instance, an. 3. Eliz. by the k MS. penes W. D. N. Lord Wentworth, an. 5. Eliz. by the l MS. penes W. D. N. Lord Scroop, a. 7. Eliz. by the m MS. penes W. D. N. Lord Shandos, an. 9 by the Lord n MS. penes W. D. N. Cobham, and an. 10. by the Lord o Collect. W. le N. Cl. Herbert. But of later times, the employment hath been conferred upon persons of higher rank, as an. 4. Car. 1. upon the Earl of p Collect. W. le N. Cl. Dover, an. 8. Car. 1. upon the Earl of q Collect. W. le N. Cl. Stanford, an. 9 Car. 1. upon the Earl of r Collect. W. le N. Cl. Danby, and an. 13. Car. 2. upon the Lord Viscount Mordant, than Constable of the Castle of Windesor. A Proceeding of the Sovereign, and Knights Companions, at the Feast of S. George. designed by Ma●●●●rd and set forth in the 20 year of Queen Elizabeth by Thomas Daws sometime Rougecroix Purs●● 〈◊〉 Before we pass further, it will be necessary to observe, that from the Presence-Chamber, called in the Statutes the * E. 3. H. 5. Sta● Art. 3. Great Chamber, and elsewhere, the h Lib. in Offic. Armour. [M. 1●] sol. 26. b. Chamber of Estate, or the King's Dining-chamber, this first Proceeding to the Chapterhouse, and all that follow during the Feast begin, and there take ending. And now to close up the Ordinary Proceeding, the Band of Pensioners having stood▪ in the Presence-Chamber, and made a spacious Lane for the Proceeding to pass through, so soon as the Sovereign and the Attendants upon his Train, are passed by, they (with the Captain of their Band or his Lieutenant before them) immediately fall in, two and two, from each side of the way, after the Proceeding, the seniors first, and so accordingly in order; and follow thence the Sovereign to the Chapterhouse door: but at the Feast held i Ex Colle●●. praesat. W. le N. Cl. an. 8. Car. 1. they went in guard, on k Ex Colle●●. prasat. W. le N. Cl. each side the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, the Lord Goring their Lieutenant (for the Earl of Sussolk their Captain was absent) going in the head of them. Having under these precedent heads spoken as much as we conceive needful, to usher in the ordinary and usual Proceeding, upon the Eve of the Grand Feast; we think fit to exhibit a Scheme thereof here. The Attendants on the Knights-Companions. Alms-Knights. Verger of the Chapel. prebend's of Windesor. Officers of Arms. Knights-Companions. Black-Rod. Register. Garter. Chancellor. Prelate. The Sword. The Sovereign. Train-bearers. Captain of the Pensioners. Pensioner. To the foregoing Proceeding, we shall touch upon those persons of quality, who to increase the pomp and state of it, have occasionally been received thereinto; as also such, other eminent in place and degree, as (though their Offices do not particularly relate to this most Noble Order) have nevertheless been taken into the Proceeding, merely by reason of their requisite attendance upon the Sovereign, in his Proceedings upon all other occasions. On St. George's Eve an. 3. Eliz. the l MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 2. old Ambassador of Sweden was present, and being accompanied by the Earl of Hertford, went in the Proceeding to the Closet at Whitehall. He had place assigned him next after the Train-bearers, and immediately before the Lady's Attendants upon the Sovereign; and the next morning, when the Sovereign proceeded to the Chapel, the m MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 2. new Ambassador of Sweden went in the same place. So also the French Ambassador an. 6. Eliz. had place o Ibid. fol. 17. ●. near the Sovereign, at her proceeding to Morning Service on the Feast-day at Windesor. As to those admitted upon the account of their Offices, we observed Henry Earl of St. Alban, the present Lord Chamberlain of the Household (being not hitherto a Knight of the Order) was allowed place on the right hand of the Sovereign, somewhat behind, in the Proceeding to the Chapel, at the Grand Feast an. 23. Car. 2. and the Vice-Chamberlain on his left hand. The Vice-Chamberlain (who in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign was taken in to assist at the bearing up the Sovereign's Train) went on the n Collect. W. le N. Cl. left hand the Sword of State, on the Eves of St. George at Whitehall, an. o Collect. W. le N. Cl. 3. & p Collect. W. le N. Cl. 8. Car. 1. and 19 Car. 2. The Dean of the Sovereign's Chapel at Whitehall, attends the Sovereign in the Proceedings thither, and the place he goes in is a q Collect W. le N. Cl. little behind the Sovereign towards his left hand. Next the Dean goes the r Collect W. le N. Cl. Clerk of the Closet; and then the s Collect W. le N. Cl. Master of the Robes; so also of late one of the Masters of Requests, and then the t Collect W. le N. Cl. Gentleman of the Robes. SECT. III. Of Proceeding to the Chapterhouse. HAving treated at large under the precedent head, concerning the due rank and place of all those persons, that ordinarily or occasionally have gone in the Proceeding; wherein all saving the Sovereign and Knights-Companions pass bareheaded, we now pass to the Place whither the Proceeding is directed. The first solemn action, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions are obliged to perform, at the entrance upon the Grand Feast, is to celebrate a Chapter; and therefore it hath been most usual for them, to proceed from the Presence-Chamber, w Lib. R. p. 23, & 126. Rows Iourna● p. 23. See also Palmers Iourn. pro an. 1639. pag. 16. Every one in their due place and order; first to the Chapterhouse, to consult of things of course, and next into the Choir, to hear Divine Service. And though it be not positively set down in the Statutes, which of these two shall precede, yet that the Chapter ought to be held before the first Vespers, is naturally enough to be deduced out of that branch of the Statutes, where the penances and penalties to be inflicted on such Knights-Companions, as come late to the Feast, are laid down. For there we find it provided, x E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 of the Knights-Companions appear not on the Eve, precisely at the hour of Tierce, they shall not be permitted for that time, either to enter into the Chapter, or to have voice in any thing done therein; and then (the Article proceeding with other penalties upon other defaults) it immediately follows; That if any of them come not before the beginning of Vespers, they shall not be allowed to enter into their Stalls. So that hence it is evident, that the course and order intended was, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions should first celebrate a Chapter, therein to dispatch the business of the time; and after that broke up, than next proceed into the Choir to Vespers. Moreover, the general practice in all succeeding times (beginning with King Henry the Fifth's Reign) doth most fully demonstrate, that a Chapter was of custom held before the first Vespers; whereof we shall urge these following Examples in the point, as being recorded in the Registers of the Order. When john Duke of Bedford, Deputy to the Sovereign, celebrated the Solemnities of St. George at Windesor, an. 7. H. 5. he and the Knights-Companions present, at the designed hour, on the Eve, entered together into the a Lib. N. p. 58. Chapterhouse and Choir. Again an. 5. E. 4. the Lord berner's, the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and other Knights-Companions, b Ibid. p. 129. met at Windesor, in an honourable equipage, for the accustomed holding of Chapters, and the solemn celebration of Divine Service. An 7. Car. 1. Oct. 4. (after the celebrations of the Grand Feast began to be restored to Windesor) we find it recorded more fully to our purpose, viz. that c Lib. R. p. 74. before Vespers, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions went first to the Chapterhouse; but business being put off till the morrow, they all proceeded to the Choir. So an. 9 Car. 1. the Sovereign and Knights-Companions are said d Lib. R. p. 84. first to go to the Chapterhouse, and by and by it follows, as soon as they came to the Choir, etc. Lastly, we find there are recorded by Sir Thomas Wriothesley sometime Garter King of Arms, in an e Pen. G. O. Y. old Velom Manuscript of his, the Chapters accustomably held, during the celebration of the Grand Feast, in the following order. 1. Upon the Even of St. George, before Evensong. 2. The next day, either before Matins or before the Grand Pro●ession. 3. The same day also before Evensong. 4. And lastly on the next morning before the Mass of Requiem. At all which times, Chapters have (for the most part since) been held by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions: and herein the Chancellor of the Order is not only to know the Sovereign's pleasure, but also whether he will hold any of them publicly in the Chapterhouse, or privately in any Room of his Privy-Lodgings, or in the Closet, before the Proceeding pass to the Chapel. As this ancient Custom of holding a Chapter on the Eve of the Grand Feast, was constantly observed, when celebrated without prorogation; so also hath a Chapter been in like manner held before Vespers on the Eve, at such time as the Feast-day of St. George only hath been observed, when (for any cause) the Anniversary of the Grand Feast received Prorogation; as for instance, an. 1. Mar. a Chapter was held at the Manor of St. James', on the f Lib. C. pag. 7. Vigil of St. George, before the first Vespers; whereunto is fixed this note, g Lib. C. pag. 7. Vt moris est; and the Grand Feast for that year received h Ibid. pag. 9 adjournment, until the coming of Philip then Prince (after King) of Spain. So an. 8. Eliz. the day of St. George being celebrated at Greenwich, it appears that a Chapter was holden there i Pag. 50. on the Eve before Evening-Prayer; and the Grand Feast for that year prorogued to the first k Pag. 52. Sunday after Trinity Sunday, to be kept at Windesor. In like manner, though the celebrations of the Grand Feast were by Queen Elizabeth removed from Windesor, and observed at other places (as hath been before discoursed) yet this usual Custom of holding a Chapter on the Eve, was in such cases constantly practised; after which the Proceeding to Evening Prayer succeeded, as is manifest by these following Testimonies. An. 29. Eliz. After a relation entered in the l Ibid. pag. 105. Blew-Book of the Order, of what had passed in Chapter, held on the Eve of the Feast at Greenwich, it m Ibid. pag. 105. there follows, that the Sovereign's Lieutenant and Knights-Companions proceeded to Evening Prayer. So also an. 39 Eliz. n Ib. pag. 133. on the Eve of the Feast, the Lord Charles Howard, was by the Sovereign (in Chapter) constituted Lieutenant; which done, they in a solemn manner straight way went to Prayers. And the o Pag. 136. next year, when in a Chapter called on the Eve of the Feast at Whitehall, after the Earl of p Pag. 136. Shrewsbury had been made Lieutenant for the holding of that Feast, and other customary things dispatched therein, the Register notes, that q Pag. 136. Vespers were solemnly celebrated. And because the Processional-way to the Chapterhouse, as also to the Chapel, both public and private, as well at Windesor, as elsewhere, are fit to be known and remembered; we shall in the next place trace them out. The public Processional-way to the Chapterhouse at Windesor, The Processional way. used time out of mind, led from the Presence-Chamber, down through the Cloister, and the great Gate of the King's Lodging, into the upper Ward of the Castle, thence through the middle Ward, and part of the lower, to and through the passage, between the East-end of the Chapel, and Tomb-house, and thence into the Chapterhouse, situate at the North-East Corner of St. George's Chapel. But sometimes the Sovereign hath thought sit, to wave this public Processional way, and pass along the private way, which leads from the King's Privy-Chamber, down the Stairs into the Terrace, viz. through r Lib. R. p. 39, & 61. that most stately Walk lying on the North side the Castle, and entering again at a door, heretofore made through a part of the Castle Wall, into one of the Canon's Lodging adjoining to Winchester Tower (now made up) went thence through the Cloisters, into the Chapterhouse; nevertheless proceeding in the order before showed, as it was on the Eve of the Feasts, held in the s Collect. W. le N. Cl. 4. t MS. 7. and u Ex Collect: praesat. 9 years of King Charles the First. But when the Grand Feast was (heretofore) celebrated at Whitehall, the Chapter was usually held in the Sovereign's w MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. fol. 7. b. 20, 26, & 27. b. & intra Collect. W. le N. Cl. de an 2. Eliz. vid. etiam MS. f. pen G. O. Y. pag. 1ST. Closet, built over the entrance into the Chapel; and then the Processional way thither, lay from the Presence-Chamber into the Guard-Chamber, and through the Gallery, thence into the outward Closet, or Ante-camera, and so to the Sovereign's Closet. But the Sovereigns of this most noble Order, or their Lieutenants, have not always (though generally) proceeded upon the Eve of the Grand Feast, first to the Chapterhouse, and thence into the Chapel; but sometimes gone immediately into the Chapel, to Evening Prayer, without entering the Chapterhouse at all: and at these times, the Processional way at Windesor, differed from the former only in this, that when the Procession arrived near unto the forementioned passage, at the East end of the Chapel, instead of entering thereat, it went on to the South door of the Chapel, and thence into the Choir, In like case, when the Sovereign went not to the great Closet at Whitehall, to hold the usual Chapter before Vespers, the public processional way then led from the Presence-Chamber into the Guard-Chamber, and so down the great Stairs into the Hall, thence into the old Chapel, and lastly, in at the door of the new Chapel. And at Greenwich, from the x MS. fol. pen. W. Dugdale Norr. Presence-Chamber down into the Hall, and thence into the Chapel. But these ways we take to be used at such time only, when the Sovereign hath held a Chapter in some of the Privy Lodgings, before the Proceeding set forward; which Chapter being ended, there was then no need of going to the Chapterhouse or Closet, but immediately into the Choir. And thus we find it to have been observed at Windesor, upon the x Ibid. fol. 15. a. 22. day of April an. 6. Eliz. where after the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order, were assembled in the Queen's Privy-Chamber, a Chapter was there called, and the Earl of Arundel constituted her Lieutenant for holding the Feast; at the breaking up whereof, the Proceeding begun (the said Lieutenant supplying the place of the Sovereign) which passed along the public processional way, directly unto the y Ibid. fol. 15. a. South door of the Chapel, where they entered, and went thence into the Choir, z Ibid. fol. 15. a. without going to the Chapterhouse at all. So was it an. 20. jac. R. at Whitehall, where the Prince had been constituted the Sovereign's Lieutenant in Chapter, a Lib. R. p. 1. He and the Knights-Companions proceed to the Chapel to Evening Prayers, according to the Custom. So also upon the b Lib. R. p. 29. 23. of November, an. 1. Car. 1. being the Eve of the Grand Feast, celebrated at Windesor by Prorogation, before the Proceeding began, a Chapter was held, wherein the Earl of Worcester was c Lib. R. p. 29. constituted Lieutenant, and the Sovereign dispensed with the non-appearance of the absent Knights-Companions; after which, the said Lieutenant, and the rest of the Knights-Companions, together with all the Officers of the Order, proceeded from the Presence-Chamber, immediately into the d Lib. R. p. 29. Chapel, to hear Divine Service. In like manner on the e Lib. R. pag. 38. 23. day of September (the Eve of the Grand Feast) an. 4. Car. 1. a Chapter was called f Lib. R. pag. 38. in the Sovereign's Bedchamber at Windesor, where the new Officers were sworn; and when that was ended, the Proceeding began to the g Lib. R. p. 39 vide etiam Collect. W. le N. Cl. & Autogr. pen. Edw. Fauconbridge. Chapel, and so into the Choir. And lastly, 17. Apr. an. 13. Car. 1. at the Hour of h Palmers Iourn. p. 8. Tierce in the Afternon, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions opened the Chapter in the i Lib. R. p. 117. Privy-Chamber, and thence proceeded to the Chapel; this day being the Eve of the Feast, held by Prorogation for the 12. year of his Reign. And although upon the Eve of the Grand-Feast an. k Lib. R. p. 5. 21. jac. R. after the Sovereign had held a Chapter in the l Lib. R. p. 5. Privy-Chamber at Windesor, and thereat sworn Sir George Moor into the Office of Chancellor to this most Noble Order; the Sovereign's Lieutenant (the m Lib. R. p. 5. Earl of Worcester) together with the Knights-Companions, proceeded to the Chapterhouse, and there held another Chapter; yet was not this second Chapter called for Affairs appertaining to the Grand Feast (they being dispatched in the Privy-Chamber before) but only in reference to the calling in, and investiture with the Surcoat, of n Ibid. p. 6. james Marquis of Hamilton, who was that evening installed. We shall close this head, with acquainting our Reader, that though the Proceedings to the Chapterhouse or Chapel on the Eve of the Feast, have most commonly been on foot; nevertheless, now and then, upon an extraordinary occasion, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions have proceeded on Horseback; as an. 3. H. 7. the Grand Feast being then held by prorogation at Windesor, on o MS. penes Arth. Cam. Anglesey, fol. 167. ●. Sunday following the Feastday of St. George, at which time several p MS. penes Arth. Cam. Anglesey, fol. 167. ●. Ambassadors being arrived here from Foreign Kings and Princes, they, and many of the Nobility of this Kingdom, with the King's Council, the two Archbishops, the Bishops of Lincoln and Exeter, and the Chief justice of the King's Bench repaired also thither. On the Eve the Sovereign accompanied with the Knights-Companions in their Mantles, and the Gowns or Surcoats of the Livery of the q Ibid. preceding year, rode from the upper Quadrangle down to the College. The Queen and the King's Mother, in like r Ibid. Gowns of that Livery, rode in a Chair covered with a rich Cloth of Gold, drawn by six Coursers, harnessed with the same Cloth of Gold, and 21 Ladies habited in Crimson Velvet, rode upon white Palfreys, their Saddles of Cloth of Gold, the Harness Goldsmith's work, with white Roses demy-trapper-wise. Sir Rogér Cotton Master of the Queen's Horse, riding upon a Courser trapped with Goldsmith's work, led her Horse of State in his hand, being furnished with a Saddle of Cloth of Gold, and thereon three Crowns of Silver gilt, with Fimbres of the same Cloth hanging down to the Knees on both sides, and harnessed with Goldsmiths work demy-trapper-wise: as soon as they alighted, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions proceeded to the Chapterhouse, and thence to Evensong; which ended, they returned in the order they came. King Henry the Eighth on the 28. of May in the 11. year of his Reign, s MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 26. b. at a Clock in the Afternoon, with all the Knights-Companions in the Habit of the Order, proceeded from the Presence-Chamber in Windesor Castle, till they came to the Quadrangle, where they took their Horses, and road according to their Stalls, not after their Estates, next before the King; t MS. the reverend Father in God the Bishop of Winchester Prelate of the Order, wearing on him a Mantle of Morrey, with a Scutcheon of the Arms of St. George on the left shoulder, following all other the Knights of the Garter, the Sword was born by the Earl of Westmoreland next before the King, and Garter King of Arms, and Sir William Compton Usher of the Black-Rod, went betwixt the Prelate and the Sword, and all Gentlemen and Knights, Barons and Earls before the Knights of the Garter, and thence road to the u Ex Lib. pra●●▪ M. loco cit. middle door of the Chapel, and there alighted, and so proceeded without the Choir unto the Chapterhouse. Lastly, The Grand Feast being held at w MS. fol. penes W. D. N. f. 15. a. Windesor, an. 6. Eliz. and the Earl of Arundel chosen the Sovereign's Lieutenant, x MS. fol. penes W. D. N. f. 15. a. he and the Knights-Companions proceeded on the Eve on Horseback, from the Sovereign's Lodgings in the Castle, to the South door of the Chapel, and after Evening Service returned in the same order. SECT. IV. Of the opening of the Chapter. THE Proceeding being arrived at the entrance into the Chapel, first the Attendants upon the Knights-Companions divide themselves as they enter, beginning at the outward door, and flank on each side the North Isle of the Chapel, and so forward towards the West door of the Choir, making a stand along the Isle for the Alms-Knights, Verger, prebend's, and Officers of Arms to pass through them, who go on towards the said West door; and when the junior Knights-Companions are entered into the Chapel, the Proceeding makes a stand, while all the Knights-Companions following turn aside on the right hand into the Chapterhouse, next the Officers of the Order, and lastly the Sovereign; but the Nobleman that carries the Sword, the Train-bearers, Pensioners, etc. stay without the Chapterhouse door in the North Isle, none being admitted in but the Sovereign, the Knights-Companions, and the Officers of the Order; who being all entered, the door is shut by the Gentleman-usher of the Black-Rod, and every person severally takes his due place and station, whereupon the Chapter immediately opens. As the Chapterhouse is a place of public Convention, wherein all the Affairs of the Order are transacted, having been made the more famous for those many Laws, Acts, and Decrees of Honour and Nobless, which have received life and confirmation therein: So doth it seem to challenge as great a regard in the order and method of setting out the Places of those Persons, who not only assemble to consult, but such as are admitted to give attendance, as doth the Proceeding thither. In what manner and order the Sovereign, Knights-Companions, and Officers of the Order are ranked at the holding of a Chapter, and during its continuance, we shall find most fully and particularly described, in the order observed upon the 28. day of May, an. 11. H. 8. when the Sovereign and Knights-Companions most solemnly assembled in the Chapterhouse at Windesor, to consult upon Reformation and Explanation of the Statutes of the Order. First, the Sovereign upon his entrance, immediately d Lib. M. 17. in Offic. Arm. pag. 16. proceeded to the midst of the North end of the Table (here called the e Lib. M. 17. in Offic. Arm. pag. 16. Vestments board) whereat his Chair, Cushions, and Cloth of State had been prepared; next the Knights-Companions, whose Stalls in the Choir were on the Sovereign's side, took the right hand of the Table, and those of the Prince's side the left; then the Prelate of the Order came and stood at the corner of the Table, upon the Sovereign's right hand, the Register and Garter went down to the lower end, and stood there, whilst the Black-Rod kept the Chapterhouse door on the inside. And albeit the Chancellor of the Order be not here mentioned (as being not present at that time) yet his place in Chapter is on the Sovereign's left hand of the Table, at the upper end, in regard the nature of his Employment requires that he be near the Sovereign. It hath seldom happened, but that upon opening of the Chapter, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, fell immediately upon debates relating to the business of the time: Nevertheless, upon some peculiar and greater emergencies, all such Affairs have been adjourned until the following Chapter, as it was an. Lib. R. p. 73. 7. Car. 1. the Feast for that year having been prorogued unto the Month of October, and it falling out to be very late, before the Sovereign and Knights-Companions arrived at the Chapterhouse; after the Chapter was opened they proceeded no further, than to f Ibid. R. p. 74. adjourn the discussion of Affairs, relating to the Order, until the next morning, which otherwise would have put off the celebration of Vespers beyond the canonical hour. The like was done upon the Eve of the Grand Feast, an. g Palmer's large Iourn. pag. 12. 14. Car. 1. for after the Sovereign had entered the Chapterhouse, and was set down under the State, the Chancellor offering to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions the business of the time, the Sovereign moved, h Palmer's large Iourn. pag. 12. in regard it was then late (besides the Ceremonies of the Prince's Installation were to be performed at the ensuing Vespers) that the matters depending should be i Palmer's large Iourn. pag. 12. adjourned until the next Chapter; which being agreed upon, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions advanced to the Chapel in their accustomed order. SECT. V. Transactions in the Chapter held before the first Vespers. BUT now to proceed to the Affairs treated of and transacted in the Chapter, held before Vespers, on the Eve of the Grand Feast; which being opened as before is showed, and no adjournment given thereunto: All things are then to be debated, consulted of, and provided for, which concern the Lib. C. p. 93. Honour and Dignity of this most Noble Order, and necessary conservation of the interest thereof; and among these, some particulars are ordinary, and of course, others extraordinary and occasional. The matters of course (and indeed the proper business of the time) are first, swearing and admitting Officers; secondly, debating about the Knights-Companions then absent, and either dispensing with, or inflicting penalties upon them; and thirdly, constituting or appointing an Officer, to carry on the state and solemnity of the Feast in the Sovereign's absence. But the other particulars, viz. those of extraordinary nature and occasional, cannot so well be brought within Rule, seeing they are things wholly accidental, whose contingency only begets a necessity of proposal or discussion, and besides are usually adjourned to the next days Chapter: therefore we have already touched upon them in their proper places, as we had occasion offered. As to the first, 1. Swearing of Officers. we shall chiefly consider such Officers of the Order as happen to be nominated since the Chapter, immediately preceding the Grand Feast. And touching these, it hath been thought most proper, to introduce them soon after the Chapter is opened, that so (their respective Oaths having been administered unto them) they might be ready to perform the duty of their several places, during the session of the Chapter, and thence forward. Thus on the b Lib. R. pag. 5. Eve of the Grand Feast, solemnised at Wind for an. 21. jac. R. the Sovereign appointed a Chapter to be held in the Privy-Chamber (before the Lieutenant's proceeding to the Chapel) whereat c Lib. R. pag. 5. Sir George Moor was sworn Chancellor of the Order. In the same Chamber, an. d Ibid. p. 38. 4. Car. 1. upon the 23. of September, being the Eve of the Grand Feast held by Prorogation (and before the Sovereign proceeded to Vespers) was Doctor e Ibid. p. 39 Nele Bishop of Winchester sworn Prelate, Sir f Ibid. p. 39 Francis Crane Chancellor, and Doctor g Ibid. p. 39 Matthew Wren (late Bishop of Ely) Register, Moreover, in the Chapter held on the h Lib. C. p. 85. Eve of the Feast, celebrated at Whitehall an. i Lib. C. p. 85. 23. Eliz. did Doctor Watson Bishop of Winchester make Oath, for his faithful Execution of the Prelate's Office, as also Doctor k Ibid. pag. 33. Thomas Cooper (his Successor in that See) who was admitted an. 26. Eliz. The like did l Pag. 127. William Wickham, an. 37. of the same Queen: and in the same place, a. 40. Eliz. m Pag. 136. Doctor Bilson also Bishop of Winchester, was sworn into this Office, at which time was Richard Conisby admitted Gentlemen-Vsher of the Black-Rod. In like manner n Lib. R. pag. 107. an. 11. Car. 1. did Doctor Christopher Wren, (Brother and Successor in the Registers place, to the aforementioned Bishop of Ely) take his Oath, at a Chapter held in the Privy-Chamber at Whitehall, on the Eve of the Grand Feast there celebrated. Again Sir Francis Walshingham, and Sir Amias Paulet, were both sworn Chancellors, on the Eve of the Feast, kept at Greenwich, the one o Lib. C. p. 75. an. 20 and the other p Pag. 107. an. 30. of Queen Eliz. And lastly q Pag. 194. an. 18. jac. R. at the same place was the Bishop of Windchester sworn Prelate, the Bishop of Spalleto Register, and james Maxwell Esq Black-Rod. Yet hath it happened now and then, that some of the Officers of this Order, have been sworn at other times, to wit, at Chapters next ensuing their Nomination or Choice, whether such have been held on the Eve of St. George, or on the Grand Feast-day, or otherwise called upon particular occasions; at which time nevertheless, the administration of the Oath hath been one of the first things done therein, for the reason before mentioned. Those Officers, whom we have observed to have taken their Oaths on the Eve of St. George, that is to say, when only the day of St. George hath been solemnised, and the Grand Feast prorogued, were, first Owen Oglethorpe admitted r Lib. C. p. 7. an. 1. Mariae, in a Chapter called at the Manor-house of St. james. Secondly, George Carew at Whitehall, s Pag. 32. an. 2. Eliz. who immediately succeeded john Boxhall, Successor to the said Oglethorpe, in that Office. Next Doctor Horn, Bishop of Winchester, called t MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 2. b. a. 3. Eliz. into the Chapter, then sitting in the Queen's great Closet at Whitehall, and there took the Prelate's Oath. Such Officers of the Order, as were sworn into their places, on the Grand Feast-day, are Sir john Wooley Cahncellor, an. 31. Eliz. u Lib. C. p. 112. before Morning Prayers; so w Ibid. pag. 130. an. 38. Eliz. Sir Edward Dyer, and Doctor Robert Benet, who were admitted, the one Chancellor, and the other Register, x Ibid. pag. 130. at a Chapter held before the first Morning Service, because they were not nominated before the beginning of the Celebrations on the Eve; but either the night following, or in the morning immediately before their admittance. Lastly, those who have taken their Oaths at Chapters, called for peculiar purposes, in the intervals of Feasts, were y Ibid. p. 7. Sir William Peter, and Sir Thomas Rowe, both Chancellors, of the Order; the one at the first Chapter that Queen Mary called, being the z Ibid. pag. 5. 27. of Sept. an. 1. Mar. and the other at a Chapter celebrated at Windesor, upon the a Lib. R. pag. 114. & 115. 5. day of December, an. 12. Car. 1. As also Sir james Palmer, who, after the Execution of the Office of Deputy Chancellor, for the space of six years and an half, was upon the b Palmers Iourn. pag. 58. 17. day of january, an. 20. Car. 1. sworn Chancellor, in a Chapter held at Oxford, at which time Sir Edward Walker Successor to Sir Henry St. George, in the place of Garter, was also sworn thereinto. Dispencing with or inflicting of Punishments. Touching the second Particular, debated in the foresaid Chapter, viz. the dispensing with, or punishing of absent Knights; we are herein to consider, that the Statutes of the Order enjoin, c E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 all the Knights-Companions to be present at the Celebration of the Grand Feast; that is to say, d E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 those who are then within the Kingdom, or elsewhere, e Hen. 8. Stat. Art. 3. although the Service of St. George, according to the Rites of the Church, be not at all celebrated: as in some cases we have already instanced, where the f Chap. 18. Sect. 8. Service of the day, whereon that of St. George hath fallen, as Good-Friday, etc. and not that of St. George hath been preferred. But with this limitation; g E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 9 H. 8. Stat. Art. 8. So that they be in a capacity, or may conveniently repair thither, and in particular at the beginning of the Feast, viz. the hour of Tierce on the Eve, as hath been before observed. And therefore the next thing usually entered upon in the said Chapter, is for the Sovereign and Knights-Companions to take notice, whether any of the Fellowship make default of coming at the hour assigned for their meeting, as aforesaid: If so, then are such to be considered, under one of the three general heads following. First, Stranger Princes: secondly, Late Comers, who are by this time arrived at the Castle, or every minute expected; and thirdly, such as have given notice, that they cannot be present during the continuation of of the Feast: and in relation to Offenders of these three natures, Excuses of Course, verbal Apologies, or Letters of Excuse, are or may be offered, or presented on their behalf; and in case they be approved and admitted, than the Penance, which by the Statutes ought otherwise to be inflicted, is remitted; all which ought to be recorded. Stranger Princes. As to Stranger Princes, their default of appearance is excused, upon their necessary residence in their own Territories, and the management of their Affairs there: And of their Excuses of Course, and accustomed Dispensations, we have divers instances in the Registers of the Order, as an. 7. H. 5. where it is said, h Lib. N. p. 58. That Strangers indeed who are not obliged to leave their own Dominion, but with their own consent, as the Kings of the Romans, Portugal, and Denmark's, were (according to the custom) for that reason excused. So the following year, the i Ibid. pag. 61. & 68 same persons were out of affection and respect excused, as busied in their own Affairs; k Ibid. pag. 78. and, as afterwards, because they could not be spared from their own Kingdoms. In the first year of King Edward the Fourth, in reference to the Kings of Portugal and Denmark, and the Earl of Longueville, it is said, l Ibid. p. 125. They were excused (as always before in the same case) upon the account of being Strangers. And lastly to the same effect of the King of the Romans, and Duke of Ferrara, an. 19 H. 7. m Ibid. p. 176. They (because Strangers) were excused, as at all other times in the like case. The like expressions are entered almost annually in the Reigns of King Henry the Eighth, King Edward the Sixth, and downwards still upon the like occasions. Late-Comers. As to Knights-Companions comprised under the second general Heads, viz. those who are tardy in their journey, or being come to the Castle, fall short of the hour, or of attending the Sovereign to the Chapterhouse, either through negligence, or want of timely notice, or other accident; the Penance set on them by the Statutes of Institution, is, n E. 3. Stat. Art. 9 That they shall so far incur punishment from the Sovereign and Chapter for their offence, as not to be permitted, for that time, to enter into the Chapter, but shall tarry without at the door, and not have voice in any thing that shall happen to be done there, unless they can allege a just excuse, or render o H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 such a sufficient cause, as the Sovereign or his Deputy shall approve of. But we have observed few Defaulters in this kind, beside the Lord Bourchier, p Lib. N. pag. 116. an. 35. H. 6. who being noted to come thither before Vespers, it seems to imply, that his appearance was short of the Hour enjoined as aforesaid. Concerning the third sort of Delinquents, Absent, during the whole Feast. being those Knights-Companions, who are not only absent at the Hour of Tierce, but likely to be so during the whole Feast; the Proceedings in the Chapter relating to them are either upon what is presented and offered, in excuse of their absence; or determined upon their neglect or default, of making Apology for it. Where Excuses for absence are offered, they are either by Letters, or word of mouth; if by Letters, then are they sent either from the absent Knights themselves, and directed to the q See before Chap. 19 Sect. 2. Chancellor of the Order, or else from the Sovereign to his Lieutenant on their behalf, and both produced by the Chancellor. But it Excuses be made by word of mouth, than they are delivered, either by the Sovereign himself; or upon motion made, by some of the Knights-Companions present in Chapter. In order to the first of these ways, Excuse by Letters. of presenting the absent Knights-Companions excuses, we find the Custom of sending Letters to that purpose, to have been very ancient: For at the Grand Feast held at Windesor, by Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, the Sovereign's Deputy, an. 8. H. 5. it appears that the Lord Powis his r Lib. N. p. 61. Letter under his Hand and Seal (wherein he certified his present infirmity and indisposition of Body) was produced in Chapter. And the following year the Dukes of York, Norfolk, and Buckingham, with the Earls of Salisbury, Shrewsbury, and Penbroke, Viscount Bourchier, the Lord Rivers, and Sir john Fastolf, being all absent from St. George's Feast, s Ib. pag. 119. they declared the reason of their absence, by their Messenger. So an. 5. E. 4. we find that the Lord Beauchamp sent his t Pag. 1●9 Excusatory Letters, which were received. Again an. 19 of the same King, it is noted, u Pag. 144. That all that were absent from this Solemnity, excused their absence by Letters to that purpose, signed and sealed with their Arms. And this hath been the use in following times, whereunto several Memorials entered in the late Sovereign's Reign concur; and among others, that an. 13. Car. 1. when on the Eve of the Grand Feast, held by Prorogation upon the 17.18. and 19 days of April, the Earls of Moulgrave, Lindesey, Suffolk, and Exeter, having w Rows journal, pag. 9 signified by Letters under their Seals of Arms, their several excuses of sickness and disability to attend, the Chancellor producing them in Chapter, they were dispensed with by the Sovereign. The like Excuses made by x Palmer's journal pro an. 1630 pag. 17. Letters were accepted from the Earls of Suffolk, Danby, and Lindesey, an. 15. of the same King. There are entered in the Registers several Memorials of Letters, Letters from the Sovereign. sent from the Sovereign to his Deputy, when himself hath not been present in Chapter; wherein his excusing and pardoning the defaults of absent Knights-Companions hath been signified. As an. 22. H. 6. the Duke of Buckingham being Lieutenant, the Dukes of Gloucester and Exeter, with the Lord Hungerford, y Lib. N. p. 94. were excused by the Sovereign's Letters. So an. 36. of the same King, Viscount Montague being reckoned up amongst the absent Knights-Companions, the Register saith, z Pag. 118. he was excused by the Sovereign 's Letters. The a Ibid. p. 142. like is noted of the Dukes of York and Gloucester, and six other Knights-Companions, absent from the Feast held an. 18. E. 4. the Lord Sovereign's Lieutenant. And so an. b Pag. 148. 21. E. 4. concerning other absent Knights-Companions. Moreover an. 18. H. 7. the c Pag. 174. Sovereign (it being his pleasure to be absent) sent his Letters thereupon to the Earl of Derby his Deputy, to excuse also some others that were absent: So also in the d Pag. 179. 21. e Pag. 180. 22. and f Pag. 186. 23. of the same King. But an. 20. H. 8. we find no less than g MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 30. b. 17 Knights-Companions at one time, excused and pardoned for their absence, by the Sovereign's Letters sent unto the Marquis of Exeter, his Lieutenant for the Grand Feast kept at Windesor the 27. of May in the foresaid year, viz. three Dukes, six Earls, two Viscounts, five Barons, and one Knight Baneret. And hitherto may be referred, what is spoken of the Dukes of Clarence and Gloucester, and six other Knights-Companions an. 14. E. 4. that their absence was excused h Lib. N. pag. 134. by the Sovereign's authority; the like expression is used in the case of the Earl of i Ibid. p. 143. Northumberland, and others an. 19 of his Reign. And from many Precedents, which we have seen, of Letters sent from the Sovereign, and directed to his Lieutenant to accept of Knights-Companions excuses, whose absence he had beforehand dispensed with; we observe those Dispensations excused not the sending of their own particular Excuses; for it is evident they were also expected, and that such allowance of absence was not absolute, but in a manner conditional, the clause running thus. k Appendix Num. CLXXIII. That you [the Sovereign's Deputy] allow these excuses, so far as they are consonant to reason. And in all other Letters of the same nature, a Clause to this effect hath been inserted, l Num. CLXXIV. & CLXXV. That as the Sovereign thought good to advertise his Deputy, that for certain causes he had dispensed with their attendance for that time; so he willed him to accept their reasonable excuses in that behalf accordingly. The Sovereign's verbal Excuses in Chapter. Secondly, The absent Knights-Companions have had their Excuses frequently made by word of mouth, either of the Sovereign, or some other of the Knights-Companions present in Chapter. This favour of the Sovereign is either done by himself, when present in Chapter, or by giving order to his Lieutenant before the Feast begin. In relation to what he hath personnaly done in this case, we have many Examples; as an. 6. H. 6. the m Lib. N. p. 84. Sovereign declared the reason of the Duke of Norfolk's absence. So on the Eve of the Feast kept at Windesor an. 26. H. 6. the Duke of York, the Earl of Salisbury, Viscount Beaumond, the Lords Hungerford, Willoughly, and Sir john Fastolf were absent, n Pag. 101. but excused by the Sovereign. Again, in a Chapter held on the Eve of the Grand Feast, celebrated at Windesor an. 36. H. 6. the Duke of York, Earl of Salisbury, and Viscount Bourchier, being absent, o Pag. 117. were excused by the Sovereign's own mo●th: the p Pag. 168. like is said on the behalf of the absent Knights, a. 3. H. 7. So an. 17. E. 4. on the Eve of the Feast held by Prorogation, the Dukes of Gloucester, Buckingham, and Suffolk, with the Earl of Northumberland at that time absent, q Pag. 141 were excused by the Sovereign. And to his Deputy before. At other times, the Sovereign (not being present in Chapter) hath before hand verbally, (instead of Letters) given his Deputy or Lieutenant direction to excuse the absence of several of the Knights-Companions. Thus it was in the case of the Prince, the Earls of Surrey and Shrewsbury, and Lord Daubeny, who an. 19 H. 7. r Lib. N. p. 176. were excused by the Sovereign, by word of mouth (to the Marquis of Dorset his Lieutenant) because they were then employed in his service. And as touching the Earls of Arundel, and Devonshire at the same time, the Register saith, the s Lib. N. p. 176. Sovereign with his own mouth excused them to his Dputy. Whereto we may add what is recorded, an. 26. H. 8. t Pag. 265. All others absent were by the Sovereign at that time excused (to the Duke of Richmond his Lieutenant) by word of mouth, and afterwards by his Letters. Excuses made by Knights Companions. Of the latter sort, to wit, such as have been excused, upon the motion made by some of the other Knights-Companions present in Chapter, we find that on the Vigil of St. George an. 1. H. 6. Humphrey Duke of Gloucester being then the Sovereign's Deputy, Sir William Harington's absence u Lib. N. pag. 74. was excused by the Chancellor, at that time Sir w Lib. N. pag. 74. john Robessart, one of the Knights-Companions. So an. 2. H. 6. x Pag. 76. The Deputy took upon him the Earl of Warwick's excuse. But ere we proceed any further, it will not be amiss here to observe, what effect the Excuses, presented on the behalf of absent Knights, have usually produced; in reference whereunto we find the just and reasonable, favourably admitted, some suspended, and divers disallowed. Excuses allowed, and in what cases. Excuses easily allowed, were first Sickness (for those of the Knights-Companions who have either been sick, far spent with age, or intent upon public Affairs, have readily obtained excuse) which we meet with in the Examples of the a Lib. N. p. 61. Lord Powis an. 8. H. 5. the b Pag. 76. Duke of Exeter, an. 2. H. 6. c Pag. 85. Sir Thomas Erpingham a. 6. H. 6. as also the d Pag. 136. Lord Dudley an. 15. E. 4. And of later times the e Lib. C. p. 97. Earl of Bedford, a. 26. Eliz. f Ibid. p. 107. Viscount Montague, and the Earl of Warwick in the 30. of the same Queen, with many others. Secondly, The not recovery of Wounds received in the Sovereign's Service; for such was the condition of Sir William Harington, an. 7. H. 5. whom we see excused g Lib. N. p. 58. for his illness, occasioned from the Wounds, then lately received at the Siege of Rouen and elsewhere. Thirdly, Impotency and old age; for which cause the h Lib. N. p. 58. Lord Burnell, an. 7. ●. 5. at the last mentioned Chapter, the Earls of i Li●. c. p. 112. Shrewsbury and Warwi●k, and Lord Burghley an. 31. Eliz. and the k Lib. R. pag. 126. Earl of Moulgrave, an. 13. Car. 1. So also the Earl of l Ex praef. lib. N. p. ●9. & 78 Westmoreland, an. 2. & 3. H. 6. and the Earl of m Lib. R. p. 126. Suffolk a. 13. Car. 1. for the n Rows Iourn. pag. 24. weakness of his Limbs; were all of them excused for absence at those several Feasts. Fourthly, employment in the Sovereign's service; either abroad or at home: Of the first sort was the case of Sir Robert Vmfrevile, excused an. 7. H. 5. o Lib. N. p. 58. because he had been sent towards Scotland, to defend the Borders. So the Lord Scroop engaged in the like Service, p Lib. C. pag. 107. an. 30. Eliz. his absence was immediately excused. As was that of the Duke of Bedford and the Lord Tal●ot, a. 6. H. 6. q Lib. N. pag. 84. & 85. both being employed in the Wars of France, whilst the Grand Feast was celebrated at Windesor. Again, the Earl of r Ibid. p. 103. Salisbury and Lord Faucombridge had such another Apology, an. 28. H. 6. And lastly, the Earl of Essex an. 41. Eliz. s Lib. C. p. 137. who according to his Commission, was endeavouring to subdue by Arms the Irish Rebels; and therefore deservedly excused. Of the second sort of employment, to wit, at home, was that of the Earls of Shrewsbury, and Hungtington, an. t Ibid. pag. 81. 22. & u Pag. 97. 26. Eliz. the first of whom was taken up in the managery of certain Affairs enjoined him by the Sovereign; but the other being w Ib. pag. 81. Precedent of the Council in the North, his absence was for that, and several years following, favourably admitted. And a like case was that of the Earl of Danby, an. 13. Car. 1. who x Lib. R. p. 126. for his necessary attendance at the Seat of justice in Eyre, was excused of his waiting on the Sovereign, at the Grand Feast held by Prorogation on the 2.3. and 4. days of October in the foresaid year. Fifthly, When the Grand Feast hath received Prorogation, and any of the Knights-Companions have not had notice of the day whereunto it was prorogued; and for non-attendance for want of such notice, Sir Simon Fehbridge an. 8. H. 6. (the Feast for that year, having been prorogued unto the y Lib. N. p. 86. 22. of May) was excused by Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, than the Sovereign's Deputy. Sixthly, When any of the Knights-Companions have been employed upon Embassy or other Civil Affairs; as Sir Here Tank Clux, who an. 3. H. 6. a Ibid. p. 78. was by the Sovereign sent in Legation to the Emperor of Germany, and also for that an. 5. & 6. H. 6. b Pag. 83. he yet remained in the Emperor's Court by the Sovereign's command. In like manner the Indulgence of the Sovereign excused the Earl of Derby and Lord Cobham an. 30. Eliz. d Lib. C. p. 107. they being sent Ambassadors into the Low-Countries, to treat with Philip King of Spain about a Peace. To like purpose is that Entry made in excuse of the Earl of Marr's absence in Scotland, and Earl of Carlisse's Embassy abroad, e Lib. R. p. 37. an. 4. Car. 1. Seventhly, When any of them have been in Captivity; as was f Lib. N. p. 77. Thomas Earl of Salisbury, and the Earl of Huntingdon, both Prisioners in France an. 2. H. 6. So also the Earl of g Ibid. p. 85. Suffolk, the Lord Talbot, and Lord Scales a. 7. H. 6. the h Pag. 10● Lord Fauconbridge an. 30. & 36. H. 6. and Earl of i Pag. 111. Kendal an. 32. H. 6. and lastly, in the 4.5. and 6. years of Edward the Fourth, k Pag. 129. & 130. Sir john Astley who was Prisoner there also. Eighthly, When any of them have obtained the Sovereign's Letters of Dispensation, of which sufficient is spoken before. Lastly, some other just and lawful occasion, as well as accident, having fallen out (not relating to those under the former heads) the Sovereign upon information given in Chapter, hath been pleased to allow of, as sufficient to excuse the non-appearance and non-attendance of the Knights-Companions at the Grand Feasts; in which rank, the foresaid Lord Fauconbridge's care of his domestic Affairs, an. 32. H. 6. was readily admitted, l Pag. 111. because having been lately in Prison, he had obtained leave to go to see his House and Lands in the Country. And the Earl of Arundel's absence an. 15. Car. 1. was pardoned, by reason of the Duchess of Richmond's m Palmers Iourn. pro an. 1639. pag. 17. Death, who died on the Eve of the Grand Feast, that so (he being the chief of her Family) might be at hand to advise and assist, in all things conducing to the honour of the deceased Duchess. And as the Knights-Companions have been often excused, for not appearing at the Grand-Feast, upon lawful and sufficient grounds, so hath the Sovereign, for like reasons, been pleased to licence and dispense with their departure from the same. Of this we have met with an Example an. 6. Eliz. in the Lord Hastings of Longhborough, n Lib. C. p. 46. who falling ill a o MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. f. 16. a. little before the Offering on St. George's day, obtained licence from the Sovereign, to depart out of the Choir; and came no more abroad that day, nor during that Feast. As also another in the Duke of Lenox an. 15. Car. 1. who being forced to go back to London, by reason of the aforesaid Duchess of Richmond's p Palmers. Iourn. pro. an. 1639. p. 20. death, had his excuse made in Chapter held the morning of the Feast day, by the Deputy Chancellor; whereupon he obtained the Sovereign's q Palmers. Iourn. pro. an. 1639. p. 20. allowance for such his departure. We are next to consider Excuses, which though sent in due time, yet upon debate and consultation in Chapter were suspended, rather than allowed; to this head may be referred that case of several of the r Pembr. & Montg. Salisbury, Dorset, Holland, Berks. Northumberland. Knights-Companions, who were members of the Lords house in the Long Parliament. For an. 18. Car. 1. the Deputy Chancellor, having by command of the Sovereign, and in discharge of the duty of his Office, sent unto each of them a several Summons, for their attendance at the celebration of the Grand Feast, to be held for the preceding year at York, upon the 18.19. and 20. days of April; and notice thereof being given to the House of Lords, they immediately made the ensuing Order. Die Martis, 22. Maii 1641. WHereas the Lord Chamberlain of his Majesty's household, and some other Lords of Parliament, Knights of the Garter, have been summoned to give their attendance, and repair unto the City of York, for the celebration of St. George's Feast; who acquainting this House with the Summons aforesaid, it is this day Ordered by the Lords in Parliament, that they attend the weighty Affairs of the Kingdom, discussed in Parliament, whereunto they are obliged by his Majesty's Writ, and the Law of the Land. Jo. Brown Cleric Parliament. Whereupon, every one of the said Knights-Companions, before the days appointed by Prorogation for holding the Feast, sent their Petitionary Letters of excuse to the Deputy Chancellor, wherein they professed their desire and readiness to attend, in obedience of the said Summons; nevertheless, pleaded the foresaid Order for the ground of their stay at London, and therefore desired him to obtain for them the Sovereign's gracious Letters of Dispensation: But when the said Letters were severally presented in Chapter, s Palmer's journal, p. 36. held before Vespers on the Eve of the said Feast, the Sovereign would not at present either admit or disallow of their Excuses; but t Pag. 38. deferred the consideration thereupon until the next Chapter, to be held by Prorogation. Of excuses which have not been allowed, the most remarkable is that of the Duke of Norfolk, and the Lord Scales, a. 36. H. 6. who, in regard the causes alleged to excuse their absence at the Feast, u Lib. N. p. 118. were not approved in a Chapter held on the Eve, were adjudged to the penalty of the Statute; the latter being particularly fined by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, in a w Lib. N. p. 118. jewel to the value of 20 Marks, to be offered in the College: whereby the rigour of the Statute appears to have been more strictly executed upon him, than on the Duke (whose contempt might be of a less nature, though it seems great enough to shut out his excuse) probably because the Lord Scales, having been absent the year before, and no cause thereof being then showed in Chapter, x Pag. 117. was therefore to suffer penalty for his absence, according to the Statute; so that this it seems was the second fault. But now to enter upon the second Branch of the third general head, which relates to the proceedings upon the absent Knights-Companions neglect, or default of sending their Excuses: We shall therein observe that some of them have with difficulty been remitted, some left in suspense, and others sentenced and referred, either to the Sovereign's pleasure, or the punishment assigned by Law. Of the first kind are those, Defaulters pardoned. who having such a plea for their absence, as might induce the Chapter to dispense therewith; yet were with much ado excused, because they neglected giving the due intimation thereof, according to the Statutes. Such was that of the Earl of Westmoreland, an. 10. H. 5. who y Lib. N. p. 69. though not very well, yet had much ado to be excused; because he signified not the cause of his absence, as the Statutes required. So an. 12. Car. 1. The Earls of z Rows journal, pag. 9 Derby and Kelly, having made no Excuse nor Petition for Dispensation, were for that omission unblamable; but by the grace of the Sovereign for that time pardoned. Of the second sort are such, Suspended. who through the indulgence of the Sovereign, or his Lieutenant (where probable cause hath induced it) have not had sentence passed on them at that present, but were deferred, in expectation of some satisfactory cause to be showed: As in the case of the Prince, the Duke of Tuckingham, and five other of the Knights-Companions absent from the Feast held an. 18. H. 7. concerning whom, * Lib. N. pag▪ 175. no cause of Excuse was showed, but there was an expectation of one to be alleged. But as for those of the third sort, Sentenced and le●t to mercy. upon whom sentence hath passed, for default of sending their Excuses, they have been left either to the pleasure of the Sovereign, or to those penalties and penances which the Law of this Order doth inflict: And first of such Offenders as are left by the Chapter to the mercy of the Sovereign, we have several Examples. Of the Earl of Essex, a. 18. H. 7. it is recorded, a Lib. N. pag. 175. That his absence was referred to the Sovereign's indulgence. So an. 21. of the same King, upon occasion of the absence of the Earls of Northumberland, Oxford, Devonshire, Kent, together with the Lord Stafford, and no cause thereof assigned, b Ibid. p. 179▪ they were left to the Sovereign's indulgence. To the c Pag. 180. like effect is the entry made of the Earls of Essex, and Kent, absent the following year, without cause shown to the Chapter. Lastly, Punished. touching those on whom judgement hath passed, divers instances may be given, among which are these that follow. An. 10. H. 5. the Lord Willoughby, Sir Robert Vmsrevill, Sir john Cornwall, and Sir William Harington, were in no wise excused for their absence, d Lib. N. p. 69. because being within the Kingdom, they sent not the cause of their absence. And an. 2. H. 6. the said Sir Robert Vmsrevile, was also found culpable, e Pag. 77. in regard no cause of his absence had been showed. Moreover, seeing the reasons of the Duke of Norfolk's, the Lord Scales, and Fastolss absence an. 33. H. 6. were not made known to the Chapter, f Pag. 113. they were left to the judgement of the Statutes. And of the same Lord Scales, a. 35. H. 6. it is recorded, g Pag. 117. that he gave no reason of his absence, therefore underwent the punishment thereof. Lastly, The Duke of York, the Earl of Salisbury, the foresaid Lord Scales, and Lord Willoughby, for presuming to be absent from the Grand Feast, an. 30. H. 6. h Ibid. p. 107. without showing any allowable cause, they were adjudged to the certain and deserved penalties (of the Statutes) against the next Feast. And the said Duke being again absent the very next year (and also the Lord Hastings) i Pag. 108. They were both adjudged to certain Penalties, as daring to be absent without sufficient cause shown. Besides these grounds for assigning Penances already mentioned, Penances where Knights are absent at other times of the Feast. there are (upon a few other causes, set down in the before recited ninth Article of the Statutes of Installation) other Penances appointed, that is to say, if the Knights-Companions be absent at other times beside the hour of Tierce; which (if we were strictly tied to pursue the series and order of time) would fall out to be spoke of, a little hence. Nevertheless, having had occasion to discourse so much already of this subject, it will become further beneficial to the concerned Reader, to bring all the Injunctions which are included in the said Article, and muster up the Penalties for breach thereof, in view together: nor will this anticipation at all interrupt our method, or become improper for this place, if well considered, and therefore we shall proceed with them here. The Knights-Companions are further punishable, if they are absent at any of the times here spoken of, viz. First, at the beginning of the first Vespers. Secondly, at the beginning of the Morning Service, on the Feast day. Thirdly, at the beginning of the Second Vespers. Fourthly, during the whole Feast. And fifthly, at the Grand Feast next following. For the first, admitting any Knight-Companion hath failed of meeting and attending on the Sovereign at the hour of Tierce, and thereupon suffered the punishment of non-admittance into the Chapterhouse, and deprivation of Vote, nevertheless if at the rising of the said Chapter, he be not ready to proceed with the Sovereign, and other the Knights-Companions into the Choir, to the beginning of the first Vespers; he ought not only to suffer the former, but this additional penalty, k E. 3. Stat. Art. 10. That he shall not presume to enter into his Stall at that time, but tarry in that part of the Choir, where the Taperbearers are wont to stand, nevertheless before his own Stall, until the holy Offices be ended. And the Law of the Order is the same in King Henry the Fifth's and King Henry the Eighth's l H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 Statutes, only they render the place for the delinquent Knight to stand in, to be before their Stalls in the Choristers places. And now how the penalty hath been inflicted, upon breach of the Law in this particular, we shall see by the following instances. At the Grand Feast celebrated at Windesor, an. 21. H. 7. when it seems the Lord Kildare, Sir Gilbert Talbot, and Sir Richard Goulford came late to the Chapel, we find this Memorandum fixed to their names, m Lib. N. pag. 179. They stood without (before their Stalls) by the Sovereign's permission, or rather command. But yet this is not all the punishment which hath been inflicted upon the Knights-Companions for this offence (though it be all that is set down in the foresaid Article) for an. 25. H. 6. upon the Eve of St. George, the Marquis of Dorset not coming to the first Vespers, and being convicted of his late coming, n Ibid. p. 99 was prohibited joining in the Nomination then made, for th● Election of the o Pag. 100 King of Portugal, into the room of the Duke of Gloucester. Offenders in the second and third case, being such as neglect to come p E. 3. Stat. Art. 10. before the beginning of the high Mass, or the q E. 3. Stat. Art. 10. second Vespers, called also the r Hen. 8. Stat. Art. 9 Vespers on St. George's day, have the like punishment with the former assigned them, throughout all the Bodies of the Statutes; viz. Exclusion from their Stalls, and station in the Choristers range. An. 1. H. 6. we observe the Lord Willoughby noted to be absent upon the s Lib. N. p. 74. Eve of the Grand Feast, but present on the day; and consequently he incurred no further penance, than what his absence on the Eve drew on him. The t MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 123. Earl of Derby a. 18. Eliz. coming too late to the first morning Service, on the Feast day, did for some short time undergo the aforesaid penance, but soon after upon u MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 123. Dispensation from the Lieutenant, went up to his Stall. In like manner an. II. Car. 1. the Earl of w Lib. R. pag. 107, 108. Exeter came not to the Chapel, in the morning of the Feast day, till after the Grand Procession; and so the Penance for his tardiness, should have been according to the Statutes, stare Paviamento; but, upon consideration of his age, and the soul weather, whereby it was occasioned, the Sovereign permitted him to enter into his Stall. And though absence at these times also be occasioned by Sickness, or some unexpected accident, yet notice is to be given thereof to the Sovereign or his Lieutenant. For instance, the Lord Burghley falling ill was absent x Lib. C. pag. 127. from the first Morning Service on the Feast day, an. 37. Eliz. but upon notice given thereof, with the consent of the Lieutenant and Knights-Companions, he obtained leave of absence. The Earl of Dorset a. 15. Car. 1. (the Grand Feast being then celebrated at Windesor) y Palmer's journal. pro an. 1639. p. 22. suddenly falling ill, before Evening Prayer, on the Feast day, besought the Sovereign to excuse his attendance for the present; but the z Ibid. pag. 33. next morning being recovered, he attended the Sovereign, with the rest of the Knights-Companions to the Chapterhouse. The Penances inflicted upon any Knight (for the foresaid defaults) he is in like manner to undergo, if he happen to offend in the like kind, when the Grand Feast is prorogued a H. 8. Stat. Art. 4. from St. George's day, in what place soever it be celebrated. But if he offend in all, and have neither licence, nor reasonable or allowable excuse for his absence, he is then b H. 8. Stat. Art. 4. prohibited entering his Stall, at the next St. George's Feast, where ever it be kept; and moreover to pay, as a pecuniary mulct c H. 8. Stat. Art. 4. 10 l. to be employed towards the Ornaments of the College. And we find the former kind of Penance, to have been inflicted, upon Late Comers to Divine Service, as well upon the Morrow after the Feast day, as on the Eve or Feast day itself. For the Earl of Lindsey coming into the Chapel on the morrow after the Feast d Collect. W. le N. Cl. held at Whitehall an. 8. Car. 1. after the Sovereign was entered, he suffered the punishment of e Collect. W. le N. Cl. standing before his Stall a while, until the Sovereign signified his licence, that he might ascend thereinto. In like Manner, the Earl of Northumberland coming somewhat late unto morning Service, on the last day of the Feast, held by prorogation at Whitehall the 17.18. and 19 days of April an. 13. Car. 1. did undergo the assigned Penance, f Lib. R. p. 125. Rows. journal, p. 16. of standing beneath his Stall in the middle of the Choir, but g Lib. R. p. 125. Rows. journal, p. 16. upon the gracious permission of the Sovereign he was soon admitted thereunto. But touching the fourth degree of offence, as it is far greater than any yet named, so are there variety of Penances appointed to expiate the fault; and therefore, if any Knight-Companion shall be so negligent, as not to come h E. 3. Stat. Art. 10. to the celebrations of the Grand Feast, and yet have no justifiable reason of his absence, such as may be allowed by the Sovereign or his i H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 Deputy, he shall not (at the Feast to be held the ensuing year) enter into his own Stall, but stand below before it, in the place above mentioned: (2.) he shall walk alone by himself, before the three Crosses, which in ancient times were born in the Grand Procession. (3.) When the Grand Procession returns to the Choir, he shall stand in the place before mentioned, the following part of the Mass, until the time of the Offertory. (4.) He shall Offer last of all by himself alone. And after the humble sufferance of all these Penances, he shall forthwith approach the Stall of the Sovereign, or his Deputy, and there humbly desire absolution for his Offence: Whereupon the Sovereign, or his Deputy, shall restore him to his Stall and first estate. But we have not hitherto met with any Record or Memorial, where the particulars of this punishment were executed upon any of the Knight's Offenders; albeit we too often find, where many have neither appeared all the time of the Feast, nor sent Letters of excuse, nor obtained licence for their absence. As for instance an. 9 H. 6. k Lib. N. p. 88 Sir Robert Vmsrevile, Sir Simon Felbrigg, and Sir William Harington, signified not the cause of their absence: neither did the Duke of l Pag. 177. Buckingham, nor Earl of Northumberland, give any reason at all of their absence. The like hath been observed of many others, but without further memorial of what the Chapter did thereupon. Fifthly, and lastly, the Statutes ordain. That m E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 if any Knight-Companion remain within the Kingdom, and not having a sufficient excuse, to be allowed upon humble suit as aforesaid, shall presume to absent himself the n E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 next following year, and thereby become culpable of an omission of two years successively, from the Solemnity before mentioned, he ought thereupon to be so long o E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 interdicted his own Stall, until, in the said Chapel, he shall have offered at Saint George's Altar, a p E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 10. H. 8. Stat. Art. 9 jewel to the value of 20 Marks, of lawful money of England; and thence forward every year, so long as he shall continue guilty in that nature, the mulct must be doubled until he be reconciled and pardoned. By virtue of this last Clause of the foregoing Article, was the Lord Maltravers an. 15. E. 4. q Lib. N. pag. 137. for such his absence, fined at 20 Marks. And the Lord Scales, a. 36. H. 6. in a Jewel of r Ibid. p. 118. 20 Marks value, which as probably may be collected, was the following year endeavoured, either to be mitigated or taken off; nevertheless we find the sentence confirmed, and he s Pag. 119. left to pay the Fine imposed. Of later times the greatest Offender, that we observed, against this Statutes, was Ferdinand Earl of Derby; who having made no excuse, nor Petition for his absence in two years, was at a t Lib. R. pag. 126. Chapter, held on the Eve of the Grand Feast, an. 13. Car. 1. accordingly fined, and that with some further u Rows journal, pag. 24. note of negligence, but at the mediation of the Earl of Penbroke and Montgomery, he was for that time remitted. Yet was he not guilty of any future neglect; for, the following year, upon his humble Petition setting forth his w Ibid. p. 39 age, weakness, and inability to Travel, he obtained a Dispensation for attendance on the Sovereign at the Feasts of St. George during his life. But the most memorable case in the prosecution of a contempt, was that against the Earl of Arundel, who in a Chapter held x Lib. N. p. 134. an. 14. E. 4. was fined y Lib. N. p. 134. 40 Marks, to be paid to the College of Windesor, for being absent from the Solemnity of the Grand Feast, for two years together without any approved cause: and the following year still continuing his Contempt, the mulct (by virtue of the aforesaid Statute) was doubled, and he fined in the sum of z Ibid. p. 136. 80 Marks. 3. Of constituting an Officer to hold the Grand Feast. Touching the third particular, amongst those things done of course, in the Chapter held before the first Vespers, to wit, the nominating and constituting an Officer for holding the same (if the Sovereign be not present) we are beforehand to note the occasion and cause thereof, which was briefly this. At the time of Instituting this Order, the Sovereign being engaged in Wars with France and Scotland, which he then, and for some time after, personally managed, thought fit to make provision for supply of his room, no less than in case of sickness or other urgent occasion, where he should be hindered from affording his personal presence, at such time of the year, whereon the Grand Feast should happen; and hereupon allowance was given by the * E. 3. S●t. Art. 8. vide H. 5. Stat. Art. 8. H. 8. Stat. Art. 7. Statutes to depute another in his stead. When therefore such occasion afterwards happened, a Commission was made out to one of the Knights-Companions, some reasonable time before the approach of the Feast; to the end, that by such a representation of his Person, none of the ancient Ceremonies might be omitted, or any defect happen through his absence. For till the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign, we meet not with any Commissions that stayed for the Sovereign's fiat so long as until the sitting of the Chapter, held before the first Vespers. Nevertheless, seeing from thence it hath been for the most part thus practised, we think it not improper to give our account thereof here, amongst those things of course, which (if at this day the appointing such an Officer shall be thought requisite) are usually dispatched at the foresaid Chapter. And herein we shall speak, (1.) Of the Person Nominated to this Office, (2.) his Title, (3.) the Ceremonies used at his Constitution, (4.) the nature of his Employment, (5.) and the Dignity of his Office. 1. Of his Nomination. As to the Person Nominated, we observe, That (most usually) he hath been one, if not the chief of the Knights-Companions (we mean in Authority, Eminence, or Birth) next to the Sovereign himself. Such were a Lib. N. p. 58.68. & 80. john Duke of Bedford, Regent of France, and b Ex eod. lib. pag. 61.86.87.92. & 93. Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, c Ibid. p. 74. styled also Earl of Henalt, Zealand and Penbroke, Lord of Frizland, Protector and Governor of England; both, Sons to King Henry the Fourth, Brothers to King Henry the Fifth, and Uncles to King Henry the Sixth. d Ibid. p. 103. Humphrey Stafford Duke of Buckingham (Son and Heir of Edmund Stafford, by Anne Plantagenet, Daughter of Thomas of Woodstock) made e Chart. 25. H. 6. nu. 31. Primer Duke of England 22. Maii, an. 25. H. 6. f Lib. N. pag. 174.175. Thomas Earl of Derby, Father-in-Law to King Henry the Seventh, the Dukes of g Ibid. p. 258.268. & 292. Suffolk and h Pag. 265: Richmond, with i Pag. 245, 246. Marquesses of Dorset and k Pag. 274. Exeter, in King Henry the Eighth's time. The l Lib. 6. p. 44. Duke of Norfolk, m Ibid. p. 50. Marquess of Northampton, n Pag. 68 Earl of Leicester, and o Pag. 119. Lord Treasurers Burghley, and p Pag. 140. Buckhurst, under Queen Elizabeth. And in King james his Reign, the Sovereign's eldest Sons the Princes of Wales, first Prince Henry, and after his death Prince Charles, the late Sovereign of blessed memory. Next we shall consider the Time, and Place, when, and where he hath been appointed to this Employment: Concerning the Time, we observe it anciently to have been uncertain, but so long before the Feast day, as that this Officer might make preparation, suitable to the state and grandeur this great Solemnity required: For so when Henry the Sixth had deputed his Uncle (the aforesaid john Duke of Bedford) to hold the Grand Feast at Windesor, on St. George's day, in the fourth year of his Reign, we see the Commission bears date at Leicester, s Lib. N. p. 80. the first day of April preceding. In like manner the same Sovereign, having appointed john Earl of Shrewsbury to the same employment, the 14. of May an. 35. regni sui, his Commission bears date at Hereford, the t Pag. 116. 18. day of April preceding. Again, that Commission given to the Marquis of Exeter, for holding the Feast at Windesor, upon the 17. day of May, an. 20. H. 8. is dated at Richmond the u MS. in Offic. Armour. [M. 17] fol. 30, & 31. 24. of April, which was above three weeks before. But in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, the most accustomed time for this Nomination, was in the Afternoon of St. George's day; the day for holding the Anniversary of the Grand Feast, being in those days always appointed together with this great Officer▪ Nevertheless in the w Lib. N pag. 212. 13. x Pag. 261. 24. y Pag. 279. 31. and z Pag. 294. 36. years of his Reign, the appointment of the Feast, and Nomination of this Officer may be observed to happen on the morrow after the day of St. George; as also a Lib. C. p. 18. an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. and an. b Pag. 23. 4. & 5. of the same King and Queen; and for the most part it was so ordered, until the 9 of Queen Elizabeth, in which year the Grand Feast was removed from Windesor unto other places, as hath been before noted. Afterwards it became customary to nominate him immediately before the first Vespers, which hath continued in use ever since. Now the reason why so many days passed heretofore, between the date of the Commission, and the time appointed for celebrating of the Feast, was because this Officer (in those times) held the Feast at his own charge; and therefore was it thought fit and reasonable, that he should have notice of the day assigned early enough, to the end he might provide all things suitable to his own honour, and the dignity of the person he was to represent. But afterwards when he was not named, till he entered upon the Execution of his Office, to wit, immediately before the first Vespers, there needed no warning, the Sovereign being at the charge of the Feast. As to the place, where this Officer received the honour of Nomination, that we always find to have been in Chapter, held at any the times aforesaid, and wheresoever called. Secondly, 2. His Title. the person designed to this employment, is in the c Art. 8. Statutes of Institution, and those that d H. ●. Stat. Art. 8. H. 8. Stat. Art. 7. follow, called Deputy: The first we find to have been made so, was john Duke of Bedford a. 7. H. 5. and the reason thereof given in the Registrum Chartaceum is e Fol. 6. Because the Sovereign being then in Normandy, was employed in the recovery of his right to that Dukedom. And albeit the Title given by the Statutes to this Officer, be not particularly mentioned in the f Pag. 58. Black-Book, where it speaks of the said Dukes holding the Feast of St. George at Windesor, for the aforesaid year, but rather implied in the words Regiae sublimitatis locum implevit; yet in the Registrum Chartaceum among other memorial of that same year, it is expressly set down, and the said Duke there styled g Loco citat. Depute del Ordre de jaritier: wherein also the very same h Ibid. fol. 7. Title is given to Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, he being appointed to celebrate the Anniversary of the Feast at Windesor, the year following. And when the foresaid Black-Book comes to inform us (an. 1. H. 6.) that the said Duke of Gloucester did execute his Office, and hold that Feast, we find him therein called i Pag. 74. Deputatus Ordinis; which Title is given him also at other times, upon the like occasion, as also to the k Ibid. p. 103. Duke of Buckingham a. 28. H. 6. to the l Ibid. p. 106. Earl of Exeter the year following, to m Pag. 115. john Earl of Shrewsbury, the 35. year of the same King, and to many others in the Reigns of King Edward the Fourth and King Henry the Seventh. Sometimes also, we find other Titles given to this Representative of the Sovereign, as an. 10. H. 5. john Duke of Bedford (the second time of his being such) is styled n Ibid. p. ●● Praeses Clarissimi Ordinis. Equivalent to this, is that expression of the Black-Book, where it says, that at the Chapter begun at Windesor, an. 15. H. 6. o Pag. 92. Praesidebat Nobilis Dux Gloucestriae. And in another place of it, that the Grand Feast was observed at Windesor an. 8. H. 7. per johannem Denham Angliae The saurarium p Ibid. p. 170. ibi Presidem; the like is said of the q Ibid. p. 207. Earl of Worcester, a. 10. H. 8. In the Exemplar of the Statutes registered in the Black-Book, the Title of Vicegerent is first mentioned, and indifferently used with that of Deputy; this great Officer being in some of those Articles called Deputy, and in others Vicegerent. But from that time to the 8. year of King Henry the Eighth we find no further remembrance thereof. And then the Commission granted to the Marquis of Dorset, for holding the Grand Feast at Windesor that very year, invests him with such authority, t Pag. 246. as the Sovereign's Vicegerent ever used to have, and might claim by right; whence it may be inferred, that some of the Knights-Companions had before that time held the said Feast, under the Title of Vicegerent, though we have not met with any of their Commissions. Afterwards, an. 24. H. 8. the Feastival was appointed to be held at Windesor, upon the 12. day of May, u Pag. 261. in qua Comes Arundeliae Supremi vicem gereret, or as it is expressed an. 28. H. 8. w Pag. 272. Northumbriae Comes Supremi vicem gerens. And that this Title was at other times placed upon this Officer, may be implied from some other places of the foresaid Register, where he is said, x Pag. 274. Supremi vices tenere, y Pag. 279. administrare, z Pag. 283. supplere, etc. About the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, the Title of Locum tenens, or Lieutenant, began to be taken up; for at a Chapter held at Eltham, the a Regist. Chart. fol. 53. 23. day of April an. 8. H. 8. it was determined, that the celebration of St. George's day should be held at Windesor, upon the 25. of May following, b Regist. Chart. fol. 53. Et quod potens vir, Marchio de Dorset, erit ad tunc regiae Majestatis Locum tenens. And a little after, the same old Register, speaking of the Chapter held on the c Fol. 54. 25. and 26. days of the said Month of May, saith they were celebrated d Fol. 54. per praedictum Nobilem Marchionem, Locum Regis tenentem, sub Sigillo Garterii legitimè deputatum: Which Title of Locum tenens, this Book also gives to the Earl of Arundel, the ensuing year; and frequently to others, afterwards nominated to this Office. But the first time we find this Title expressly mentioned in the e Pag. 294. Black-Book of the Order, is an. 36. H. 8. where the Sovereign f Pag. 294. constituted the Earl of Essex Locum tenentem, during St. George's Feast; albeit it is before in the same Book, many times used, in a way somewhat different; as for Example, such a one of the Knights-Companions (naming him who is appointed to this Office) Regiae Majestatis locum g Pag. 204. impleret, or i Pag. 253. adimpleret, k Pag. 258. occuparet, l Pag. 267. suppleret, m Lib. C. p. 23. obtineret, and the like. Lastly, this Office hath been for the most part conferred, under the Title of Lieutenant in all succeeding times, and the other Titles of Deputy, President, and Vicegerent laid aside, as is manifest from the Blue and Red Books, and sundr● original Commissions which we have seen under the Seal of the Order. But besides the usage of these Titles of Deputy and Lieutenant severally, we have met with them sometimes joined together in one person, as in the Style of Henry Earl of Essex, proclaimed at the holding of the Grand Feast an. 25. H. 8. as followeth; f Autogr. Du noble & puissant Seigneur, le Conte d' Essex & de Yew, Seigneur de Bourgchir, & de Loveyn, Lieutenant & Depute de la Feste de Sancte George, Chevalier, Frere, & Compaignon, de le tresnoble Ordre de la Jarretier. As also in another of like nature, when Henry Courtney Marquis of Exeter and Earl of Devonshire held the Feast an.— H. 8. wherein he amongst his other Titles, is also styled g Autogr. Lieutenant & Depute de la Feste de Saint George. And in the Blue Book also, there is taken notice of the like conjunction of these two Titles, for an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. the Grand Feast having been prorogued unto the 25. day of May, it is there recorded, h Lib. C. p. 18. that then the Sovereign appointed the Earl of Shrewsbury, Deputy and Lieutenant. To conclude, the Titles of this great Officer are sometimes expressed not so much positively, as by way of Periphrasis, and that in several manners; as i Lib. N. p. 103. Deputatus à Rege praesuit. k Pag. 111. Assignatus ore Regio praesedit. l Pag. 142. Virtute Regiae Commissionis Assignatus. m Pag. 148. Cui Supremus eam potestatem commiserit. n Pag. 155. Regiae sublimitatis commissione ac authoritate communitus. o Lib. C. p. 19 Regias vices subiret, p Pag. 93. gerebat, q Pag. 99 praestabat, r Pag. 132. suscepit, s Pag. 108▪ cui vices ejus demandatae sunt. Also t Pag. 88 Supremae absentis vice sufficitur. u Pag. 101. Suprema absentis potestatem reserebat. w Pag. 112. Supremus surrogatur. x Pag. 143. Ejus (viz. Supremi) absentis Officio fungeretur, with several other variations, much of the same nature. As to the third particular, 3. The Ceremonies of his Constitution. the Ceremonies used at the constituting the Sovereign's Lieutenant, they were these three; (1.) The reading of the Commission. (2.) Delivery of it to the Lieutenant. And (3.) his taking an Oath. For the Commission being engrossed in Parchment, and prepared ready by the Chancellor, it is brought into the Chapter by him, and there read in the presence of the Lieutenant and Knights-Companions, before it be delivered; for thus we find it recorded an. 19 H. 7. y Lib. N. pag. 176. The illustrious Lord Thomas Marquis Dorset, was impowered (to hold the Feast) by the Sovereign's Letters of Commission which were read in Chapter. And at the meeting in Chapter, on the day prefixed, for celebrating of the Grand Feast an. 17. H. 8. by the Duke of Norfolk, it is said, that z Ibid. p. 249. in the presence of the said Duke (the rest of the Knights-Companions attending him on either side) the King's Letter was read, wherein the power committed to the Duke was declared. So also, when the Earl of Penbroke (Lieutenant for the Grand Feast, held the 3. day of june an. 1. Eliz.) was arrived at Windesor with his Assistants, a Lib. C. p. 31. and a Chapter being held, the Sovereign's Letters were read, wherein she conferred the Lieutenancy on the said Earl. So an. 3. of the same Queen, the Earl of Arundel being Lieutenant, and the Grand Feast kept at Windesor, b Ibid. pag. 40. The Letters of Legation (for so the Commission of Lieutenancy, and Letters of Notice to the Lieutenant's Assistants are here called) were openly read in Chapter. And sometimes we find the Officer taken notice of, who reads these Commissions; as when the Earl of Shrewsbury was constituted Lieutenant, at a Chapter held in the Privy-Chamber at Greenwich, on the Eve of the Feast, an. 27. Eliz. his Commission was read by the Dean of Windesor. But an. 37. Eliz. the Lord Cobham's c MS. pen. G.O.Y. fol. 20. Commission of Lieutenancy, and the d Lib. C. pag. 192. Prince's an. 19 jac. R. were both read in Chapter by the Chancellor of the Order; which being finished, in the next place the e Ex pref. MS. pen. G.O.Y. & vide Coll. R.G. Cl. fol. 9 Sovereign (if present in Chapter) delivereth it f Lib. C. p. 41. propriâ manu, to the Lieutenant, who receives it upon his g MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. Knees; as did the said Lord Cobham in the great Closet at Whitehall, an. 37. Eliz. Thirdly, the Lieutenant is to take an h MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. Oath, for the due Execution of his Office (but the form thereof we have not hitherto met with) before the Ceremonies of his Constitution are fully dispatched. This Oath the Lieutenant takes in Chapter upon his i MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. Knees, when sometimes the k MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. Prelate and sometimes the l MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. Register have read the words, whilst the m MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. Black-Rod held the Book; in attestation of which the Lieutenant n MS. pen: G.O.Y. fol. 20. kisseth the same, and then ariseth. And we find that in the aforesaid 27. year of Queen Elizabeth, the Lieutenant when he proceeded to Chapel (after the Ceremonies of his Constitution were over) gave his Commission to o Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 9 Clarenceux (who then waited in the p Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 9 place of Garter) to bear it before him thither. And albeit, it hath been the most usual way, for the Sovereign to constitute his Deputy or Lieutenant for holding of the Grand Feast, or any part thereof, by Commission, and to add thereunto the foresaid Ceremonies of Creation; yet sometimes in great exigencies and sudden occasions, he hath appointed this great Officer by word of mouth; whereunto no other Ceremony hath been adjoined, than that of taking the usual Oath: as for instance, an. q Lib. N. p. 111. 32. H. 6. the Sovereign being then at Windesor, and falling sick a little before the Feast, the Duke of Buckingham was assigned his Deputy, r Lib. N. p. 111. Ore Regio, by word of mouth. But before we take leave of this head, we shall observe, that, in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, though in some one of the Chapters, held during the observation of the day of St. George, both the Grand Feast hath been prorogued to a further time, and the Lieutenant nominated for holding the same: yet upon just cause, or for some reasons urged, or excuse made, which the Sovereign hath approved of; some other of the Knights-Companions hath been appointed to the execution of this Office, instead of him who had been first nominated: Thus it chanced an. 9 H. 8. when at the Celebrations of the day of St. George at Greenwich, the s Pag. 206. Earl of Arundel was chosen the Sovereign's Lieutenant for holding the Anniversary of the Grand Feast at Windesor, upon the 10. of May following, but he t Pag. 206. not thinking himself able to perform the Duty, humbly objected his infirmity of body, and disability otherways, and the Sovereign graciously admitting of his alleged excuse, substituted in his stead the Marquis of Dorset. So also when St. George's day was observed at the same place, in the 20. year of the same King, at which time Charles Duke of Suffolk, was u Reg. Chartac. fol. 66. b. nominated to keep the Grand Feast at Windesor, upon the w Reg. Chartac. fol. 66. b. 17. day of May ensuing, the Black-Book saith, x Lib. N. pag. 257. & 258. That afterwards for certain causes, moving the Sovereign thereunto, that Office was transferred from the aforesaid Duke, to the Marquis of Exeter, who executed it consonantly to the dignity thereof. Again an. 32. H. 8. the Grand Feast being prorogued unto the 9 of May, at a Chapter held on St. George's day preceding, the Earl of Cumberland was appointed to celebrate the same. y Ibid. p. 283. But in regard the said Earl could not be present by reason of some urgent Affairs; his excuse was accepted, and the Earl of Southampton supplied his room. But what happened z Ibid p. 272. an. 28. H. 8. was more remarkable; for the Earl of Northumberland (than the Sovereign's Deputy) was in the time of the first Vespers suddenly taken with the Vertigo, or diziness in his head, and that accompanied with a distemper over his whole body. a Ibid p. 272. From hence arose a great scruple, what was hereupon to be done; it being conceived, that they could not conveniently proceed, without the presence of the Deputy, and that another could not rightly be substituted in his room, without new authority from the Sovereign: b Ibid p. 272. But whilst they were in the midst of this controversy, he recovered, and came again among them, and performed all that was to be done, both on the Vigil, and on the day itself. But this may clearly be inferred, from this procedure of theirs, that if the Deputy had not recovered, the Ceremonies of the Feast had been adjourned till the Sovereign had nominated a new Officer. And not unlike, but upon reflection had on this accident, and prevention of the like afterwards, occasioned what was done, An. 3. & 4. Ph. & Mar. to wit, the nomination of c Lib. C. p. 21. two Knights-Companions to be Deputies, namely, the Earls of Derby, and Huntingdon; the second being designed to supply the place, in case the former should be obstructed by d Lib. C. p. 21. indisposition, or weighty affairs. 4. The nature of his Employment. The Authority and Obligations annexed to this Office of Deputy (or Lieutenant) are deducible from the Statutes of the Order, which give him power e E. 3. Stat. Art. 8. to hold a Chapter at the hour of Tierce, on the Eve of the Feast: as also on the day itself, and punish Offenders against the Statutes. And though he be thereby expressly prohibited, the h Ibid. making of any new Decrees or Ordinances, nevertheless he may i H. 8. Stat. Art. 7. correct and reform all points of the Chapter as shall seem necessary. And now to show that the powers granted by the Commissions, are, as derivative from, so pursuant to the Statutes, we shall insert in the k Num. CLXXVI. Appendix first, the most ancient Commission of Deputation that Record hath preserved, being that which King Henry the Sixth gave to his Uncle john Duke of Bedford, in the fourth year of his Reign, to supply his place, when by reason of his abode at l Lib. N. p. 79. Leicester, in expectation of the Parliaments sitting there, he could not personally hold the Grand Feast at Windsor that year. First then, in the Preamble, the reason and cause of making such a Commission, is set down in general words. Next the Sovereign takes notice of the allowance given him by the Statutes to constitute a Deputy, and thereupon sets down the particulars wherewith he empowers him, namely, to hold Chapters, to reform what is amiss, to make Elections, and by a general Clause, to perform all other things which should be any way pertinent to the necessary observation of the Statutes: to the end his Deputy, in one and the same Instrument, might both understand the duty of his place, and be empowered to put the same in execution. Such like particulars are also inserted in the Commission made to m Ibid. p. 116. john Earl of Shrewsbury, an. 35. H. 6. But in later Commissions they are omitted, and supplied by a general Clause, which gives this Officer the same authority as had been allowed him, or such as he of right might claim. Then follows the words of Constitution (which in succeeding Commissions are expressed with some variety * As Eligimus, Assignavimus, Nominavimus, Constituimus, Instituimus, and the like. ) and last a Clause commanding obedience from the Knights-Companions present. In the Commissions of Lieutenancy, (though not at all in the Deputational Commissions) we find the Title of this great Officer, inserted immediately after the words of Constitution, in this following manner. We therefore by these presents name, constitute, appoint, and ordain you to be our Lieutenant, at the said Feast: Giving you full Power and Authority, to do and accomplish every thing in the same, which to our Lieutenant there, in such cases belongeth, and hath been accustomed, as it is expressed in that Commission of Lieutenancy, given to the Marquis of * MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 30. b. Exeter, dated at Richmond the 24. of April, an. 20. H. 8. and that other to the a Collect. A.U.W. Marquis of Winchester, and dated at St. James' the 14. of May, an. 2. & 3. Ph. & Mar. for celebrating the Grand Feast at Windsor, the 26. of the same month: and not only in this, but in all other since, that have come to our view. In the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and King james, when the Grand Feast was held, either at Whitehall, or Greenwich, and the Sovereign present only at some part of the Solemnity (as in the Chapters, or at the Chapel in the morning of the Feast-day, and sometimes proceeded publicly to the Closet (not down into the Chapel) to the first and second Vespers) but by reason of some weighty affairs, could not conveniently be present in person, at all parts of Divine Service, and other Ceremonies and things to be done and executed at the Feast, neither on the Eve, nor on the day of St. George, nor the next day following; in such case the Clause in the Commission, which constituted the Lieutenant, was put after this manner, b Rows journal, fol. 209. We do therefore name, etc. you in our absence, to be our Lieutenant for that purpose, etc. Or, as it is in that Commission made unto Prince Henry, an 4. jac. R. c Autogr. pene● W. D. N. We have made choice of you to supply Our Peace, whensoever we shall have cause to be absent, at any time of the said Eve, Day, or Morrow: And do give unto you full power and authority, to do and accomplish all things in Our absence, incident and meet to be performed, for the honouring and celebration of this Feast, as by the Statutes, and laudable usage, and Customs of Our said Order doth appertain. Now how the Sovereign is to constitute such an Officer, appears from the directions given in the Statutes of Institution, to wit, by his d E. 3. Stat. Art. 8. Letters; and that these Letters since, do carry the style of Commissions, and aught to pass under the Seal of the Order, and the Sovereign's sign manual, is evident from divers passages in the Registers, and from the Commissions themselves: For instance, The before recited Deputations, made to john Duke of Bedford, a. 4. H. 6. is said to be done, e Lib. N. p. 79. by a sufficient Commission delivered unto him, under the Common Seal of the Order. So an. 8. H. 6. Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, etc. was deputed f Ibid. pag. 8●. by a certain Commission, signed by the Sovereign under the Common Seal. And for holding the Feast, an. 1. E. 4. Viscount Bourghier was also Deputed by the Sovereign, g Ibid. p. 125. By a fit and sufficient Commission. So also the Earl of Essex, a. 14. E. 4. h Pag. 134. by the authority of the Sovereign's Commission. In like manner an. 18. E. 4. i Pag. 142. The Lord Dudley was assigned by virtue of the Sovereign's Commission, to observe the yearly Feast of St. George, and to perform all things according to custom. It may be further observed, that the Commissions of Lieutenancy (as ancient as the Reign of King Henry the Eighth) are said in the close to issue forth k Pag. 2●0. under the Seal of this most Noble Order. So was that to the Duke of Norfolk, a. 17. H. 8. And also that other to the Marquis of Exeter, an. 20. H. 8. which runneth thus, Yeoven under the Seal of Our Garter, etc. and according to the Modern expression, Given under the Seal, etc. These Commissions of Lieutenancy, m Lib. G. p. 64. an. 14. Eliz. and the six following years run under the title of Letters Patent, and are so called in the Blue Book; but how justly, is to be questioned. For in one of these Commissions, made to the Earl of Lincoln, a 15. of the said Queen, the conclusion is the same with those other Commissions of like nature, of former years, viz. Yeoven under the Seal of Our Order, at, etc. and wanteth that Clause, or conclusive period, from which such instruments (as we are informed) derive the n Cook's second part Instit. p. ●8. name of Letters Patent, to wit, In cujus rei testimonium has litter as nostras fieri fecimus Patentes. Again, an. 12. Eliz. and for seven years after, we observe from the said Blue Book that this Officer was made o Pag. 60. with the consent of all the Knights-Companions, a Phrase much like that used elsewhere, touching the Election of Knights, as hath been before taken notice of. But, if duly examined, we shall find this expression of no more strength to entitle the Knights-Companions to a joint power with the Sovereign, for the constituting of a Lieutenant, than the other is to make them Coelectors; where though something requisite to the obtaining of their consent, may seem to be implied in the aforesaid words, yet we conceive those expressions were used by the Register, as of his own choice, rather than such as the Law of the Order will allow of. 5. The Dignity of his Office. The Dignity of this Officer, as he p Lib. N. pag. 246. represents the Sovereign's person, and supplies his place, is very great. Which, that we may the better set forth, we shall distinguish the Honours annexed to this eminent Place, as they are essential, and necessarily consequent thereto; or personal, that is, such as may additionally be conferred upon him, at the pleasure of the Sovereign. That this Officer, as an essential Honour to his Place, hath from ancient time, had some of the Knights-Companions assigned him for his Assistants, during the whole Feast, is evident enough throughout the Registers; yet the first mention of Assistants, as to the Title particularly given unto such persons, we find in the q Fol. 53. b. Registrum Chartaceum, in the Decree made at a Chapter, called at Eltham, on St. George's day, an. 8. H. 8. (wherein after the Anniversary of the Grand Feast, had been appointed to be observed at Windsor, upon the 25. of May, than next ensuing, and the Marquis of Dorset nominated the Sovereign's Lieutenant) the r Fol. 53. b. Earl of Essex, the Lord de la Ware, the Lord Monteagle, and Sir Thomas Lovel, were appointed Assistants to the said Marquis. Another instance in the same Register concerning the celebration of the Grand Feast at Windesor, the following year, upon the 10. day of May (the Earl of Arundel being appointed Lieutenant) affirms that the f Fol. 53. b. Lords de la Ware, and Monteagle, and Sir Thomas Lovel, and Sir Henry Marney were also appointed Assistants to the said Earl. The number of Assistants were in those times uncertain, here above we see they were four; Anno 21. H. 8. we find but t Ibid. f. 66. b. three: and afterwards, an. 32. H. 8. they were reduced unto w Lib. N. pag. 283. two: which number, following times exceeded not, except once, and that was the last year of the aforesaid King, when there were x Pag. 298. three appointed. These Assistants were always appointed in Chapter, when the Lieutenant himself was Nominated; and afterwards had Letters of notice sent, to each of them, from the Sovereign, requiring their repair to Windesor, a Transcript whereof see in the y Num. CLXXIX. Appendix; of which form have we seen several other Letters, sent upon the same occasion, to each of the Assistants, after they had been appointed to the said Service. And as before we have noted in the case of Lieutenants themselves, it hath sometimes chanced, that others were afterwards upon occasion, put in the places of those first named; so here amongst the Assistants, it hath in like manner happened: for the a Lib. N. pag. 204. Lord Poynings an. 8. H. 8. b Registr. Chartac. fol. 53. b. by the Sovereign's Commission was appointed Assistant to the Lieutenant, in the room of the Earl of Essex, who had been before nominated. And the Earl of Rutland being named one of the Assistants an. 22. H. 8. was afterwards excused by the King's Letters, c Ibid. f. 66. b. whose place the Lord Montjoy executed. So an. 29. H. 8. the aforesaid Earl of Rutland falling sick, after the time of his nomination, and before the approach of the Feast day, the d Lib. N. pag. 274. Earl of Sussex was substituted Assistant in his place. And sometimes a Quorum of Assistants have been nominated, as an. e Lib. C. pag. 22. 3. & 4. Ph. & Mar. in case some of them should be absent: for the Lord Pagit, the Lord Clinton, the Lord Howard of Effingham, and Sir Edward Hastings, having been appointed Assistants to attend the Lieutenant at the following Feast, it is added, f Lib. C. pag. 22. that at least any two of them, who at that time were nearest to the King's Court, should be there present, to assist the Sovereign's Deputy, according to his Majesty's pleasure, as the Custom and their duty obliged. Another Honour, essential to the Dignity of the Lieutenant is, that the Sovereign lays an Injunction upon the rest of the Knights-Companions then present, to yield Assistance and Obedience to him in all things, as if himself were personally present: For so is it enjoined by the Commission to the aforesaid k Lib. N. p. 80. john Duke of Bedford. And generally all Forms of Commissions since, close with such like Injunctions of Obedience, in the execution of the Sovereign's Authority. To these Honours before spoken of, we might add some other of the like nature, viz. that this great Officer possesseth the Sovereign's Place, in all Proceedings, and at the Table, that he hath his Train carried up, that a Reverence is given him by the Knights-Companions, an essay taken for him of the Offering, and offereth with Carpet and Cushion; but these we reserve to speak of at large by and by. In reference to personal Honours (though generally all Lieutenants sit in their own Seats in the Chapel) we find the Marquis of Northampton had assigned to him a higher Stall than his own, during the whole Festivity of St. George: For in the Chapter held on the Eve, an. 3. Eliz. the Celebration of the day of St. George, being that year observed at Whitehall, the Sovereign decreed, k Lib. C. pag. 38. that the foresaid Marquis, during only the time of his Deputation, should take the Stall of the Earl of Shrewsbury, then lately deceased. Now the Marquesses own Stall was at that time the l MS. fol. penes W D. N. fol. 2. a. eight Stall on the Prince's side, but that which the Earl of Shrewsbury then lately possessed, was the m MS. fol. penes W D. N. fol. 2. a. fourth on the same side, and next below the Duke of Holstein, whose Seat was the n MS. fol. penes W D. N. fol. 2. a. lowest among the Stranger Princes then alive. To conclude; it seems in time, the Duty incumbent on both the Lieutenant and his Assistants, grew so burdensome, that the Sovereign took their attendance and charge into consideration, and therefore in their favour decreed (at a Chapter held on o Registr. Chartac. fol. 65. b. St. George's day at Greenwich, an. 19 H. 8.) p Registr. Chartac. fol. 65. b. That the Knights-Companions Appointed or Deputed [Lieutenants or Assistants] to be present or to keep the Feast of St. George in the College of Windsor one year, should not be Appointed or Deputed to be present, or to keep it the year next following, unless the Sovereign should please to be present at the day or Feast. And to the same effect, though briefly, is this Decree recorded in the q Pag. 255. Black Book. But more large and particular is it thus entered in one of the MS. now remaining in the Office of Arms. r Lib. M. 17. fol. 33. b. Memorandum, That the Sovereign of the Order King Henry the Eighth our Sovereign Lord, by the advice of the Knights of the said Order, the 19 pear of his most noble Reign, by virtue of a Chapitre holden at his Manor of Greenwich the 23. day of April, Ordained and enacted by Act of Chapitre, that all such Knights of the Order from thenceforth, which should be appointed by his Highness to be his Lieutenant or Deputy at the Feast of St. George kept at his Castle of Windesor, and all such other Knights as was to the said Lieutenant, Attendant, and Assistant at that time, should, for the next year ensuing, be clearly discharged and excused for their attendance at the said Castle; unless any Knight of the Order upon his own devotion would be at the said Feast of St. George at Wyndesor, then be to be there at pleasure. Nor was that yet thought a sufficient indulgence to the q Ibid. Lieutenant and Assistants, to be absent from the next Grand Feast, and therefore the said Ordinance was afterwards an. 23. & 24. H. 8. extended to the space of r Ibid. three years, from and after the said Feast. And herewith we are to note, That this Officer always held the Feast, at his peculiar charge and cost; and gave liberal Rewards to s Collect. A. V. W. vide etiam MS. penes G.O.Y. fol. 155. ● 190. Garter, and for his Scatcheons, as also to the Officers of Arms, the Gentleman-ushers, the Alms-Knights, the Ushers and Grooms of the Chamber, the Clerks of the Kitchen, the Harbinger, and Groom-Porters, with the rest of the Sovereign's Servants, Waiters of several Offices in the House, to the Choristers, the Vergers, etc. that kept the Robes, and the Sexton, even to those who made clean the Seats, and laid the Cusheons. And because all things relating to the Feast, were set forth with exceeding State and Nobleness (which was commonly every year augmented, each Lieutenant striving to outvie his Predecessor in magnificence and liberality) his Expenses became very great: In consideration whereof, the aforesaid Privilege was granted, that so by a Licence of Non-attendance, for the three following years, the Persons who had undergone the charge and trouble of these Offices, might be in some measure eased. Nevertheless the generous Lord Fitz Williams was so far from taking advantage of this indulgence, that he was one of the Assistants to the Sovereign's Lieutenant, for the t Regist. Chartac. fol. 66. & 67. vide etiam Lib. N. sub an● 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, & 25. H. 8. six years' next ensuing the Decree past, an. 19 H. 8. SECT. VI The Ceremonies relating to the first Vespers. WE have now finished our Discourse upon the Particulars managed in the first Chapter, held on the Eve of St. George; which being broke up, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, do immediately proceed from the Chapterhouse into the Choir, to hear Vespers. In handling and describing the Ceremonies relating thereunto, we shall consider, first, those performed before the Vespers begin; secondly, the Course of Divine Service; and lastly, those used after it is ended. Wherein we shall be particular and exact, not only in regard the State thereof is both solemn and sacred; but because the same Order of Ceremony is to be repeated, so often as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions enter the Chapel, or depart thence, or go up into, or come down from their Stalls. Proceeding to the Choir. First then we are to presuppose, that the Officers of Arms, prebend's of the College, and Alms-Knights, having attended in the North Isle of the Chapel, during the sitting of the Chapter, do now upon the rising and coming forth of the Sovereign, Knights-Companions, and Officers of the Order put themselves into Rank, and continue the Proceeding (through the passage and Guard made by the Knights-Companions Attendants, and the Sovereign's Band of Pensioners) from the Chapterhouse door, along the said North Isle, and so to the West door of the Choir, in like manner and order as they did proceed from the Chamber of Presence to the Chapterhouse. The Organs then beginning to play, and continuing on, till Vespers begin. When the a Collect. W. le N. Cl. Alms-Knights be arrived at the West Door, Entry thereinto. they first enter in a whole Body, (while the rest of the Proceeding makes a short stand) and pass forwards near to the b Collect. W. le N. Cl. middle of the Choir, where they make a joint and low obeisance, first towards the Altar, next (all c Collect. W. le N. Cl. turning about by the left hand) to the Sovereign's Royal Seat; then still turning from the right to the left hand, they d Collect. W. le N. Cl. ascend the Haut Pas' even to the Rails set before the Altar, and forthwith divide themselves, flanking on each side, (the Juniors standing nearest to the Rails) and e Collect. W. le N. Cl. at such a spacious distance, that the Altar may be discerned by all that follow in the Proceeding, when they draw near to make their Reverences. Assoon as the Alms-Knights have made their obeisance, the prebend's of the College enter in a whole body also, and having turned on the left hand, and made the like double obeisances in the middle of the Choir, they divide themselves, and take their Seats, every one in their Order. The Seats appointed for them at this Solemnity (and at other times when any of the Knights-Companions are present in the Chapel) is in the lower range of Seats, and so ordered by f Art. 14. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes; albeit in their absence, the prebend's are permitted to sit in the higher Seats, between (but not in) the Stalls of the Knights-Companions. While the prebend's are entering their Seats, the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings of Arms (in a Body) enter also the Choir; and after their double Reverences made, pass up towards the Altar, and join to the Alms-Knights. But sometimes heretofore, Collect. W. le N. Cl. to enlarge the Ceremony, as g Collect. W. le N. Cl. an. 3. & 8. Car. 1. the Pursuivants have by themselves advanced into the Choir, and proceeding into the middle, there i Collect. W. le N. Cl. made their Reverences, first towards the Altar, and then turning about by the left hand, did the like to the Sovereign's Stall, then, they ascended unto the second Haut Pas before the Altar, where also k Collect. W. le N. Cl. dividing themselves on each side, (the Junior Pursuivants joining near to the Signior Alms-Knights) l Collect. W. le N. Cl. kept the like spacious Lane between them, as the Alms-Knights did, to the end also, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions might have the Altar in full view, as they made their several Reverences towards it. Next, the m Collect. W. le N. Cl. Heralds proceeded in a Body by themselves, up to the middle of the Choir, and there having likewise made the like double Reverences, ascended the first Haut Pas before the Altar, and divided themselves, flanking even with the Pursuivants. In like manner the two Provincial Kings made their Entry, (doing their Reverences) and placed themselves on each side upon the n Collect. W. le N. Cl. edge of the lowest Haut Pas, towards the Stalls. Thus they divided themselves, not only here at their first entrance, but at all other times when they passed up and down, or in, or out of the Choir, during the foresaid Feasts. But for shortening of the Ceremony, (as of late hath been the usual course) the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings join all in a Body, and perform this part of the Ceremony together. Afterwards, the two o Collect. W. le N. Cl. Junior Knights-Companions enter, and passing on till they come near their own Stalls, there make their p Collect. W. le N. Cl. double Reverences together, first towards the Altar, next the Sovereign's Royal Stall; then they divide themselves, and take their stand q Collect. W. le N. Cl. directly before their Stalls. Thus also do the rest of the Knights present, at their entry into the Choir, and in the same order as they passed in the Proceeding to the Chapterhouse; taking their several stations under their proper Stalls, until the Sovereign shall have ascended his Seat. But where any of the Knights want his r Collect. W. le N. Cl. opposite Companion, in such case he enters the Choir alone. And this manner of doing Reverence and Obeisance, Manner of doing Reverence, and when introduced. was introduced in the Reign of Henry the Fifth, and hath continued in use ever since. For whereas from ancient time, the Knights-Companions at their entrance into the Choir, and taking of their Stalls, gave Reverence to God, and towards the high Altar, john Duke of Bedford, a. 6. H. 5. holding the Feast of St. George at Windsor in absence of the Sovereign: It was then in Chapter decreed, s Lib. N. pag. 65. That all the Companions of the Order, whensoever they entered into the Choir, and at their going forth, as likewise at their descent from their Stalls, should do Reverence to the Sovereign, if present; or if absent, to his Stall: t Lib. N. pag. 65. by which Ceremony they should own him as their Sovereign, and acknowledge all manner of subjection and obedience to be due unto him. But when the Sovereign returned out of France, he signified to the Knights-Companions, as, much more reasonable and convenient, u Ibid. That at the Entrance and Departure aforesaid, the devout Obeisance due to God's honour, should be first paid to God, and towards his Altar, after the manner of ecclesiastics; and then, what of Honour was due to him, to pay it next to Himself, or in his absence, to his Stall. Next to the Knights-Companions doth the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register w Collect. W. le N. Cl. enter in Breast, who proceeding also to the x Collect. W. le N. Cl. middle of the Choir, do their double Reverences together, and then pass to their Form, placed on the South side of the Choir y MS. penes W. D. N. f. 7. b. & 15. a. before the Sovereign's Stall, and stand before it. After them come in the Chancellor and Prelate, who having made their double Reverences also, go from the middle of the Choir, and stand before their Form, set between the Sovereign's Royal Seat, and that other but now mentioned. As touching these two Forms whereon the Officers of the Order sit in the Chapel, there is a special Decree for the allowance of them, entered at the end of the Constitutions of their Offices, which is this; z Lib. N. pag. 238. Within the Choir of the Chapel, during the Celebration of Divine Service, there shall be placed before the Sovereign's Seat two other Seats or Forms, one before another; upon one of which shall sit the Prelate and Chancellor of the Order, on the other the Register, Garter, and Usher of the Black-Rod. Last of all, the f Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sovereign entereth, (having the Sword born before him, but his Band of Pensioners stay at the Choir door, to keep off the press) who coming to the g Collect. W. le N. Cl. steps which ascend to his Royal Seat, makes there a Reverence towards the Altar, and then ascending thereinto, makes a h Collect. W. le N. Cl. second Reverence and seats himself. And when (in the Sovereign's absence) his Lieutenant proceeds to the first Vespers, he goes in the Sovereign's place, and assoon as he hath entered the Choir, and is come near the Sovereign's Stall, he stands, and makes a little pause there; then i MS. penes W. D. N. f. 3. a. & 7. b. vide MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 123. doing his Reverences, first towards the Altar, next towards the Sovereign's Stall, after he hath again stood a while before it, he k MS. penes W. D. N. f. 3. a. & 7. b. vide MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 123. ascends his own (which like unto the Stall of the Sovereign (Emperors, Stranger Kings and Princes when present) is garnished with a l MS. penes W. D. N. f. 3. a. & 7. b. vide MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 123. Carpet and Cushion laid before it) where being arrived, he makes the double Reverence a second time, and then sits down. And now, in order to placing the Knights-Companions in their Stalls, Garter (so soon as the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) is set down) maketh again his usual Reverences, in the middle of the Choir, then turneth to the two Signior Knights, and doth his Reverence to each of them; whereupon, at one instant, they make their double Reverences m Collect. W. le N. Cl. below, where they stood, and forthwith ascend at the n Collect. W. le N. Cl. first or Western entrance, that goeth to the side Stalls; where being o Collect. W. le N. Cl. arrive, they make again the double Reverence, and seat themselves. But when the Sovereign's Lieutenant is present, each Knight adds a p MS. penes W. D. N. f. 7. b. & 20. a. third Reverence to him, both when they ascend to, and descend from their Stalls. And this third Reverence, not only they, but all the persons who pass in the Proceeding add to their double Reverences, so often as there is occasion to make it, after such time as the Sovereign's Lieutenant is entered his Stall, and so long as he continues therein, both on the Eve, the Feast day, and the Morrow after. In like order, and with like Reverences do all the rest of the Knights-Companions (having each waited the seating of his signior fellow) ascend their Stalls, where they proceed by pairs; otherwise they take their Stalls singly. But the place appointed for all but the two signior Knights-Companions to enter into, and come out of their Stalls, is the q Collect. W. le N. Cl. middle entrance, or that at the r Collect. W. le N. Cl. East end of the Stalls, which of them fall out to be next below each Knight's respective Stall, to avoid the trouble and inconvenience of passing before any of their signior Companions. The Knights-Companions being all seated, the s Collect. W. le N. Cl. Prelate and Chancellor of the Order pass into the middle of the Choir, and having made double Reverences, return to their Form and sit down. After them doth the Register, Garter, and Black-Rod, pass thither, there make their Reverences, and then sit down on their Form, in the order as they proceeded. As touching the Sovereign's other Attendants, we have observed, that the Nobleman who carries the Sword retires before the Sovereign's Stall a little on the right hand, and the Lord Chamberlain of the Household (if not a Knight of the Order) and the Vice-Chamberlain on his left, until the Sovereign give them leave to sit down; the Clerk of the Closet stands at the Sovereign's right hand; but the young Noblemen that carry up the Sovereign's Train, and the Gentleman of the Robes, sometimes repose themselves upon the Steps going up to the Sovereign's Stall. This great Ceremony of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions entry into the Choir, and taking their Stalls being finished, preparation for the Vespers begin; in reference to which the Prelate ascends to the Altar; it being appointed among other things relating to the duty of his Office, That c Lib. N. p. 233. Whensoever the Sovereign should think fit to keep the Solemnity of St. George at Windesor, he should be obliged to be present to celebrate divine service; which if he purposely omitted, it is there provided, that d Lib. N. p. 233. for such omission he should be fined 20 Marks to the College, to be laid out upon the Reparations that are there to be made, e Lib. N. p. 233. unless he allege to the Sovereign and the Knights-Companions some reasonable and just cause of his being absent. And therefore, in case of Vacancy of the See of Winchester, Sickness, or other lawful occasion for absence, the Sovereign hath dispnesed with this penally, and appointed some other Bishop to officiate for him. The Proceeding to the Altar on this occasion is in manner following. First the x Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sergeant of the Vestry makes a double Reverence, Prelates going up to the Altar. then comes before the Prelate and makes a single one to him, who thereupon ariseth from his Seat, and the Sergeant y Collect. W. le N. Cl. proceedeth before him into the middle of the Choir; where standing a little on the one side, the Prelate z Collect. W. le N. Cl. there makes a double Reverence, and from thence passing forward after the Sergeant, and having ascended the uppermost Haut-pas before the Altar, he makes a Collect. W. le N. Cl. one single Reverence towards the same, and so goes to the b Collect. W. le N. Cl. North side of it. In his ascent to the Altar, he hath sometimes made c Collect. W. le N. Cl. an. 11. Car. 1. three double Reverences, viz. one before his Seat, a second in the middle of the Choir, and the third on the first Haut-pas, and after these, the single one above the Haut-pas's; all in a direct line before the Altar. After the Prelate hath arrived at the Altar, the two d Collect. W. le N. Cl. Provincial Kings, Heralds and Pursuivants, leaving their forementioned Station, join together, and pass along the Choir, until the Kings come near to the Form, whereon the Register, Garter, and Black-Rod sit, where all making their double Reverences together, they divide themselves again on each side, and there stand. Lastly, the Alms-Knights come down into the Choir in a Body, and there make their joint double Reverences, and then take their Chairs. The like in every thing is performed in the Chapel at Whitehall, and other places, where the Solemnity of the Feast is observed; where because the Alms-Knights are absent, the Pursuivants at Arms ascend nearer the high Altar than when they are at Windesor, that there may be room enough for the rest of the Officers of Arms to stand in rank, yet so that the Provincial Kings stand not further from it than the lowermost Haut Pas, to avoid pressing upon the Junior Knights. All these Ceremonies being finished, The Course of Divine Service and the several Degrees in the Proceeding duly placed, the Choir, resembling the celestial Spheres, where the Sovereign of this most Illustrious Order sits as Sun, among the Planets and Stars, the Divine Office is begun by the Prelate in a most solemn manner; which is now celebrated according to the Order of the Book of Common Prayer, established by the Acts of Parliament made an. 1. Eliz. & 14. Car. 2. being the same appointed in the Rubric for the Evening of the 22. day of April, or for the Evening of such other day, whereon the Feast by Prorogation hath been celebrated: Where sometimes to shorten the Ceremony, the Prelate hath omitted the Confession and Absolution, and began with the Pater Noster; and frequently instead of the Magnificat, or Nunc dimittis, or one of them, some choice-composed Anthems are sung to the Organ: and after proceeding on with the Creed, and the rest of the Prayers in the accustomed order, to that of St. Chrysostom, before which in the Reign of King james, was the following Prayer used throughout the Feast. O Lord, save our King, And mercifully hear us, etc. Almighty and most merciful Father, we humbly beseech thee in the Name of thy Son Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour, to direct and endue King James our most worthy Governor, with the continual and plentiful grace of thine holy Spirit, that as be is anciently and rightly descended from the valiant and prudent Princes of this Realm, the first Founders and Cre●ors of this most noble Order of the Garter, So be may abound and excel in all things acceptable to thee, namely in the maintenance of piety, peace, justice, and unity, to the support of good Learning, relief of the poor and oppressed; and grant most gracious Lord, that all the Noble men of this Realm, especially such as be Companions of this most honourable Order, may be truly deboted to godliness, balour, and bertue, in such sort, that God may be thereby the better honoured, their Soberaigne serbed, the Commonwealth secured, and the memorial of their well-doing remain to their posterity. And that we all may live and die in thy faith and fear, and walk in these good works, which thou hast appointed us through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. O Lord, long preserve James our King, and all the Companions of this most noble Order of the Garter, Amen. Next follows the Prayer of St. Chrysostom, and last of all the Blessing. After the pronouncing of which, at the Feast of St. George celebrated at Windsor, in the 15. year of the present Sovereign, there was an Anthem composed for the present Solemnity, sung to the Organ and other Instrumental Music, placed in the Organ loft: and this was the first time, that Instrumental Music was introduced into the said Chapel. When the Vespers are ended, the a Collect. W. le N. Cl. Prelate goes to the middle of the Altar, and there before it (with great reverence) makes an obeisance; and thence ( b Collect. W. le N. Cl. taking the Sergeant before him) descends to the middle of the Choir, where he makes his double Reverences, and so c Collect. W. le N. Cl. returns to his Seat; whereupon all make ready to pass out of the Choir in the following manner. And first, Proceeding out of the Choir. The Alms-Knights come from their Seats, and draw together into the middle of the Choir, and having made their double Reverences, in manner first above described, they ascend in a body upon the highest Haut Pas before the Altar (the Junior near to the Rails) and there dividing themselves again, make a Lane, and stand in the same places they did before. Next them, the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Kings make their double Reverences, & ascend to the Altar, where dividing themselves, they stand where they did before. All which is done, to the end the body of the Choir may be wholly cleared, for the Knights-Companions to descend into, and stand over against their Stalls. After this, Garter rises from his Seat, and passing into the middle of the Choir, makes there a double Reverence, then going forward till he d Ex eod. Collect. W. le N. Cl. come over against the Junior Knights Stall, (for when they descend from the Stalls, he is the first) he there bows towards him, and ( e Ex eod. Collect. W. le N. Cl. if his Companion be present) then turns himself towards the opposite side of the Choir, and immediately bows to him also, and then gives the f Ex eod. Collect. W. le N. Cl. usual Signal or Summons for the Knights-Companions to descend, by the waving or bending of his Sceptre towards them; which done, he draws back to his Seat without any other Obeisances. And the Reason given is, g Ex eod. Collect. W. le N. Cl. for that at this time while Garter is retiring, the Junior Knights are making their Reverences, and therefore it were not proper for him to be also doing his. Assoon therefore as Garter hath given the aforesaid Signal, the two h Ibid. Junior Knights-Companions (if both be present, otherwise the Junior alone) rise from their Seats, and standing above before their Stalls, make their double Reverence i Ibid. both at one time, and then descend into the Choir by the way they went up; where making a second double Reverence, they forthwith place themselves directly over against their own Stalls, and k Ibid. stand there. Then the l Ibid. next Junior Knights (or Knight, if he be not paired with his Companion) arise, and descend with like Reverences; and in like order, do all the rest that are present at the Ceremony, each with his opposite Companion; but if he be wanting, than he performs the Ceremony alone. When all the Knights-Companions are come down, and placed before their Stalls, the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register step forth, make their double Reverence all at once, then retire before their Forms, and stand there. After whom, the Chancellor and Prelate do the like. Assoon as they have done, the Alms-Knights descend into the middle of the Choir (the Puisnes going foremost) and there, turning about by the left hand, as before, make their double Reverences together, and so pass out through the West door of the Choir, and at some convenient distance thence, stand, till the prebend's be also come out and joined to them, and moving a little further, when the Officers of Arms are come forth, all than attend the coming out of the Knights-Companions, and they, that of the Sovereign. Whilst the Alms-Knights are passing out, as aforesaid, the prebend's of the College came forth of their Seats into the Choir, and in the middle thereof make likewise their double Reverence, and then pass out (the Verger of the Chapel going before them) and join themselves to the Alms-Knights. Next the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Kings descend into the middle of the Choir, and there making a double Reverence, pass likewise forward Then the two Junior Knights (or Knight, if his Companion be absent) make their double Reverence in the middle of the Choir, over against their proper Stalls, and proceed forth, and so do all the rest in order, the Seniors last. And here (and all other times when the Knights-Companions pass out of the Choir, except in the Grand Procession) do the m Collect. W. le N. Cl. Choristers step in, and bear up their Trains to the Presence-Chamber, which piece of Service, was so at first permitted, to entitle each of them to the favour of a half-piece gratuity, which the Knights-Companions have usually bestowed upon them, in recompense of their officious Attendance. After the Knights-Companions, the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register make their double Reverences, and pass forward. The like do the Chancellor and Prelate, and follow them. Then doth the Sovereign rise out of his Royal Seat, and having made his obeisance towards the Altar above in his Stall, he descends, and doth the like again being descended. But when the Sovereign is absent, his Lieutenant descends from his Stall n MS 4. pen. E. W. G. with usual Reverences; and when he comes to the Sovereign's Royal Stall, he o MS 4. pen. E. W. G. stands a while before the entrance into it, and then making his accustomed Reverence, proceeds out of the Choir. The Sovereign having made his Reverences, proceedeth forthwith out of the Choir, (the Sword being born before him) thence he passeth through the South door of the Chapel, into the lower Ward of the Castle, and presently enters into the same way, by which he came to the Chapterhouse; and as the Statutes do ordain, p E. 3. Stat. Art. 3. returns in the very same order, viz. per modum Processionis back to the Presence-Chamber. When the Servants and Attendants of the Knights-Companions are arrived at the great Gate, in the upper Ward of the Castle, entering into the Sovereign's Lodgings; (or to the same place, as far as their number reached, to make the Lane for the Proceeding to pass thorough, when the Sovereign proceeded to the Chapterhouse) then do they begin to divide, and rank themselves on either side the passage, through the Stone-Gallery, up the Stairs to the Guard-Chamber door, in the same order, as they were marshaled at the beginning of the Proceeding; that so the whole Proceeding may again pass through them. The Alms-Knights having entered the Guard-Chamber, and being come near to the middle, the Juniors begin to fall off on both sides the Room; the next Seniors, (and so forward to their Governor) following in due order, do place themselves up further in the Room. Whereupon the prebend's pass through the Lane so made, and assoon as they are passed the Alms-Knights, fall off on either side the Room, to the Presence-Chamber door. Then the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings proceeding through the Lane made by the Alms-Knights and prebend's, do forthwith enter into the Presence-Chamber, and immediately fall off on either side, towards the State, the Kings of Arms standing uppermost. Then enter the Knights-Companions, and place themselves q Collect. W. le N. Cl. on each side of the State, in such order r Collect. W. le N. Cl. as they sat in their Stalls, the eldest nearest the State; but such whose Companions are absent, stand alone. After whom follow the s Collect. W. le N. Cl. Officers of the Order, disposing themselves conveniently near the State. Lastly, the Sovereign (attended as before) passeth to the step before the State; where being arrived, he t Collect. W. le N. Cl. turns his Face towards the Knights-Companions, who immediately make their Reverences u Collect. W. le N. Cl. jointly to him, and he thereupon puts off his Cap, and re-salutes them, which done, the Sovereign and they withdraw into the Privy Lodgings, until Supper time. But in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, when the Feast of St. George was kept at Whitehall, or at Greenwich, and the Sovereign (as was usual for the said Queen) proceeded no further on the Eve to Vespers, than to the great Closet, the ordinary way, and thence sent her Lieutenant into the Choir: Then in such case, when Vespers were ended, the Lieutenant returned from the Choir orderly through the great w MS. penes W.D. N. f. 3. a. 7. b. 9 b. & 26. a. Vide etiam MS. penes praefat. Geo. O. Y. 123. & MS. 4. penes E. W. G. Hall, and so back to the said x MS. penes W.D. N. f. 3. a. 7. b. 9 b. & 26. a. Vide etiam MS. penes praefat. Geo. O. Y. 123. & MS. 4. penes E. W. G. Closet, and stood at the Door thereof attending the Sovereign's coming forth, from whence they all proceeded before her into the y MS. penes W.D. N. f. 3. a. 7. b. 9 b. & 26. a. Vide etiam MS. penes praefat. Geo. O. Y. 123. & MS. 4. penes E. W. G. Presence-Chamber, and there the Ceremony (for that time) ended. But in King james his Reign, when the Supper on the Eve, as also the following Meals, were prepared in the Banqueting-House, the Sovereign's Lieutenant frequently returned from the Closet by the Lobby over the Terrace (since pulled down) to the said z MS. penes E. W. G. Banqueting-House, (the Nobleman's Servants standing on either side the way) instead of goin● to the Presence; and passing up to the State, gave an end to the Ceremony till Supper time: and so do we find it observed in the 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, and 16. of the said Sovereign's Reign. When the Sovereign and Knights-Companions are retired, they are not to put off any part of their Robes till after Supper; for that is prohibited by the Statutes, * E. 3. Stat: Art. 3. not only to those that do not sup, no less than those which do. And hereupon the 22. of April, An. 19 Car. 2. the Grand Feast being held at Whitehall. The Sovereign having a desire to take the Air, after he had taken leave of the Knights in the Presence-Chamber, took Coach, and went into Hyde-park, taking the Duke of Monmouth and Earl of Oxford with him, and all three in their whole Habit of the Order. The Duke of York also at the same time, went in another Coach, his Duchess accompanying him, but habited in full Robes likewise; and so returned to Supper. SECT. VII. The Supper on the Eve. WHen the Sovereign is pleased to Sup publicly, on the Eve of the Feast at Windesor, the Supper hath been always prepared in St. George's Hall; and was accordingly done an. b Palmer's large journal. pag. 14. 14. & c Palmer's journal, pro an. 1639. pag. 19 15 Car. 1. & 13.15. & 23. years of the present Sovereign. The usual place at Whitehall for this first Meal, was heretofore the Presence Chamber, d MS. penes W. D. N. f. 3. a. 7. b. 20. a. of latter times the Banqueting-House; and at Greenwich either the e MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 114. Presence or f MS. praef. W. D. N. penes f. 26. b. Council-Chamber; where the Sovereign or his Lieutenant were always present. But when the Feast of St. George was celebrated at York, a. g Palmer's large journal, pag. 38. 17 Car. 1. The Sovereign and Knights-Companions marched after the first Vespers ended, to an h Palmer's large journal, pag. 38. House prepared for that purpose, and Supped there; and thence returned to his own Palace to Bed. But if the Eve of the Feast fell out to be on a Fasting Day, as it did an. 22. H. 8. upon i MS. in Offic. Arm. M. 17. fol. 32. a Saturday, and an. 11. jac. R. upon a k MS. penes E. W. G. f. 151. a. Friday; the Supper was always omitted, and the Sovereign or his Lieutenant and Knights-Companions were served of the Void only; concerning which Term, more shall be spoken immediately. Nor doth the Sovereign when he suppeth publicly, pass privately to the place: but as soon as notice is given that the first Mess is set upon the Table, he forthwith entereth the Presence-Chamber, whence the Officers of the Order and of Arms, the Knights-Companions in their full Robes (for so the l E. 3. Stat. Art. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 3. H. 8. Stat. Art. 3. Statutes of the Order direct in particular) having put themselves into their usual and due Order, proceed before him into St. George's Hall. Where being entered, the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings, fall off all upon the right hand, m Collect. W. le N. Cl. opposite to the Knights-Companions Table, the junior Pursuivant standing towards the lower end of the Hall. Then the Knights-Companions passing up beyond them, formerly n Collect. W. le N. Cl. divided themselves on either side, according to the Decree * Lib. N. p. 31●. an. 16. H. 8. and made a stand, each taking place, o Collect. W. le N. Cl. according to the order of their Stalls. But at the Feast held at Whitehall an. 19 Car. 2. the Sovereign directed, that they should stand all on the right hand side, facing their Table. Next the five Officers of the Order follow, who ascending p Collect. W. le N. Cl. beyond the Signior Knight, retire on the right hand; After them the Sovereign, who coming up last (all the Officers of Arms q Collect. W. le N. Cl. doing him reverence as he passeth by) goes directly to the Haut-pas, before his own Table, where turning himself towards the Knights-Companions, and r Collect. W. le N. Cl. putting off his Cap, they return their Reverences jointly to him. After this, in order to the Sovereign's sitting down to Supper, he is first served with Water by some Noblemen appointed for that Service. Next Grace is said by the Prelate, and then doth the Sovereign place himself in his Chair, set in the middle of the Table. After whom the Signior Knight, conducted to his Table by two Officers of Arms, sits down, and so do all the rest in due order, at the Tables appointed for them. Whereupon the Officers of the Order and of Arms, retire out of the Hall to Supper. Now in regard all these last mentioned particulars are ordered alike, and in the same manner, at the other Meals of this Grand Feast, as here at this: We choose rather to transfer the further enlargement upon them, to our Discourse of the Dinner on the Feast day, where these, and such things and services as are also common to every Meal, are once for all brought to view, and handled at large. If a Lieutenant be constituted, he s MS. f. pen. praef. W.D.N. f. 3. a. vide etiam MS. penes G.O. ●. p. 114. proceeds to Supper in full Robes, and in the same order as doth the Sovereign, whether it be to St. George's Hall, or elsewhere, and sits t MS. f. pen. praef. W.D.N. f. 3. a. vide etiam MS. penes G.O. ●. p. 114. alone at the Sovereign's Table, yet on the u MS. f. pen. praef. W.D.N. f. 3. a. vide etiam MS. penes G.O. ●. p. 114. left hand of the Cloth of State; being served in all points with w MS. f. pen. praef. W.D.N. f. 3. a. vide etiam MS. penes G.O. ●. p. 114. Water, and by a x MS. f. pen. praef. W.D.N. f. 3. a. vide etiam MS. penes G.O. ●. p. 114. Cupbearer, Carver, and Sewer, as is the Sovereign himself. This, and the other Meals were usually heretofore closed with Comfits, Spices, and Wine, and of late times with a costly Banquet: which, after the Sovereign hath washed, is brought in and placed upon the Table. This Banquet after Supper, The Void, what? is that which in some places is called the Void, as an. 31. H. 8. it is observed, that Supper being ended, the Pnesident and Knights-Companions had a y Lib. L. 1. in Offic. Arm. p. 19 Void of Comfits and Hippocras, and an. 4. Eliz. a z MS. pen. W.D.N. fol. 7. b. Void of Spices and Wine. So * Ibid. f. 15. a. & 20. a. an. 6. & 7. of the same Queen, it is said, they were served of the Void and departed, and an. 20. Eliz. it is likewise said, Supper being ended, and ‖ MS. pen. G.O.T. pag. 114. voidance brought, they departed for that night. So also is it phrased in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, Art. 3. But somewhat more fully an. 5. Eliz. when St. George's day falling upon a Friday, at the return from the second Vespers, instead of a Supper (it being a fasting night) the Lieutenant a MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 10. a. standing in the middle before the Cloth of State, and the Knights along on either hand, the Comfits, Spices, Sugar, and Wine were brought in, and in several Bowls (or Chargers) presented; first b MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 10. a. a Bowl to the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and then a Bowl to each two of the Knights-Companions; and the Relator, at the close, noting also the posture they took the Banquet in, calls it a Void; for he says, they had the c MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 10. a. Void standing. And lastly, the Feast happening on a Friday, an. 27. of the same Queen, celebrated at Greenwich, it is noted by d MS. quar●. penes E. W. G. fol. 9 Robert Cook then Clarenceux, that when the Banquet was brought in, the Lieutenant and all the Knights-Companions standing in order, were served of the e MS. quar●. penes E. W. G. fol. 9 Void, because they had no Supper. When Supper is ended, and the Banquet taken away, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions f Palmer's large Iourn pag. 14. proceed back (in the same order as they came) into the Presence-Chamber; where the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) standing on the step before the State, saluteth them as before, and then g MS. 4. penes E. W. G. fol. 2. appoints the hour and place for the Knights-Companions to attend him the next morning; which commonly is about h MS. in Offic. Arm lib. M. 17. fol. 32. b. 8 a Clock, after which they make their Reverences, and all depart to their several Lodgings. The like if Supper be prepared in any other place besides the Presence-Chamber; for from thence (when it is ended) doth the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) and the Knights-Companions proceed to the Presence, because the Ceremony ought to end there. So we find it observed an. 17. Car. 1. when the Feast was solemnised at York, where, though the i Palmer's large journal, pag. 38. House appointed to sup at, was somewhat remote from the Sovereign's Palace, yet the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order attended the Sovereign thence, after Supper, to the k Palmer's large journal, pag. 38. Presence-Chamber in the foresaid Palace; and there, he taking leave of them, they immediately retired to disrobe themselves. In like case an. 27. Eliz. the Feast being then held at Greenwich, and the Sovereign's Lieutenant and Companions supping in the l Collect. R. C. Cl. Great Chamber, (at the neither end of the Guard-Chamber) they thence attended the Lieutenant to the m Collect. R. C. Cl. Presence after Supper; where the Lieutenant taking his place at the upper end, and the Knights-Companions their places in due order, they stayed a while there, and then departed. The like did they the next day, both after the Grand n Collect. R. C. Cl. Dinner, and at night after Supper, because the Lieutenant dined and supped in the said Great Chamber. But when Supper was prepared in the Presence-Chamber, at any of the Sovereign's Courts, the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) and Knights-Companions did take their leave one of another in the same Room, there being no occasion for any formal Proceeding further. Nevertheless, if any of the Knights-Companions accompanied the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) to his Lodgings, they then went o Collect. E. W. G. after, not before him, in regard the p Collect. E. W. G. state of that night's Service ended in the Chamber of Presence; and after they are retired to their several Lodgings, they have permission to put off their Robes. When the Sovereign or his Lieutenant do not sup in St. George's Hall on the Eve of the Feast, or the following night, the Officers of Arms have formerly had the liberty to eat their Suppers there; and this privilege and assignment of a Table, was given them by a Decree in Chapter held the 16. of june, an. 8. Eliz. as followeth. q Lib. C. p. 53. videses lib Partit. in Offic. Arm. [1. fol. 275.] & MS. penes G. O. Y. fol. 93. That forasmuch, as the Officers of Arms had formerly no certain place assigned them, wherein they might eat their meat, the night next preceding the day of St. George, and also on the Evening of the Feast day, they should from thenceforth hold, within the Hall at Windesor, that Table, which was before that time appointed for the Chancellor and Register, and other Officers of the Garter, to sit at, on the day of the said Festival. But how they came to lose the privilege, hereby granted, we cannot learn; for now instead of sitting in the Great Hall, they are necessitated to eat their Meat in such Rooms of the Castle, as upon the score of friendship they can obtain; and among others, at the Grand Feasts held at Windesor an. 13. & 15. Car. 2. Captain Burgh, one of the Alms-Knights, very courteously befriended them with the use of his lower Room, to dine and sup in; and in the 23. year of the same King, Captain Hull, another of the Alms-Knights, did them the like kindness. CHAP. XXI. THE ORDER OF THE Ceremonies ON THE Feast Day. SECT. I. The Proceeding to the Chapel in the Morning. ALbeit the Celebrations of the Feast of St. George take up three days inclusively, that is to say, part of the 22. all the 23. and part of the 24. days of April; yet the 23. day [the day of St. George] is the Grand day, wherein the chiefest and most solemn Ceremonies are celebrated; all things being set forth after the noblest order that can be devised, for the greater honour and lustre of this Princely and Ancient Order of the Garter. The Ceremonies of this Grand day may be divided, into Sacred and Civil; the former solemnised in the Chapel, the latter in St. George's Hall. The Sacred (as is most requisite) are first celebrated; in reference to which, the Knights-Companions then present at Windesor, repair to the Sovereign in his Privy Lodgings, about the hour he had appointed them the night before, vested in the whole Habit of the Order; and thither also repair all the Officers of the Order. In the mean time, the rest of the Degrees and Persons, which completed the Proceeding to the Chapel, on the Eve of the Grand Feast (and before remembered) do repair to the several stations that were then appointed for them, and there attend the Sovereign's coming forth into the Chamber of Presence, viz. The Attendants on the Knights-Companions To the Passage from the Guard-Chamber door, down into the Cloister and upper Ward. Alms-Knights and prebend's Into the Guard-Chamber. Officers of Arms Into the Presence. And in these several places, do they all rank themselves, in the very same Order, as is before set down, and directed to be observed on the Eve. Here it will be proper to note, that though the Sergeant Trumpeter, and the Trumpets, do not pass in this Proceeding, nor in that on the Eve; yet at the Feast held an. 23 Car. 2. they stood ranked one by one, when the Proceeding came forth of the great Gate, in the Upper Court to Morning Service, on the right hand against the Wall, but ●ounded not. When the Sovereign (having the Knights-Companions, and Officers of the Order before him) hath entered the Presence, the Sword is delivered to the Nobleman appointed to bear it; and after the Sovereign's usual Salutation, and Knights-Companions Reverences returned, the whole Proceeding sets forward towards the Chapel in the same Order, as on the Eve; the Knights-Companions having their Trains born by some of their own Gentlemen. At the a Palmer's large Iourn. p. 14. & 15. foot of the Stairs, entering the Cloister or Stone-Gallery, do b Palmer's large Iourn. p. 14. & 15. twelve Gentlemen of the Privy-Chamber attend, with a rich Canopy of Cloth of Gold; who, when the Sovereign approacheth receive him under it, and bear it over his head, c Palmer's large Iourn. p. 14. & 15. until he arrius at the Choir Door of St. George's Chapel; and this Canopy is carried over the Sovereign only in the Morning of the Feast Day, not in the Afternoon, nor on the Eve, nor the Day after the Feast. The Processional way to the Chapel, is the same they traversed on the Eve, if the Sovereign and Knights-Companions march to the Chapterhouse first; for d Ex Vetust. MS. pen. G.O.Y. anciently it was the Custom to hold a Chapter in the Morning of the Feast Day, either before Matins, and sometimes when e MS. f. p. 12. an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. Matins was finished before the Grand Procession set ●orward. This course received interruption in Queen Elizabeth's time; during which no Chapter was held in the Morning, but in the f Lib. C. p. 94. 26. g Ibid. p. 111. 31. & h Pag. 130. 38. years of her Reign, and then only for admitting of some of the Officers of the Order. But the time of holding this Chapter, was restored by King Charles the First, who several times held it before the first Service began, as in the i Lib. R. p. 48. 5. k Ibid. p. 140. See Palmers large journal, pag. 14. 14. & l Palmer's journal, pro an. 1639. pag. 20. 15. Years of his Reign. But if no Chapter be at this time held, then as soon as the Proceeding comes near to the Chapel, instead of entering the passage between the East end of the Chapel, and King Henry the Eighth's Tomb-House, (as it doth on the Eve, because the Sovereign goes first to the Chapterhouse) it proceedeth strait on to the South Door of the Chapel, and thence into the Choir. Yet the present Sovereign An. 15. of his Reign, appointed the whole Proceeding to pass by the said South Door, along the Southside of the Chapel, and then to enter in at the West Door, which was then, and since, so observed. When the Alms-Knights are come to the West Door of the Choir, they enter, and pass up above the steps to the Altar, in the very same manner and Order, as is at large described and mentioned to be observed, upon the entry of the Proceeding into the Choir, on the Eve of the Feast. Then do the prebend's take their Seats, and The Officers of Arms pass to the Haut Pas' of the Altar. After this, the Knights-Companions proceed, and stand before their Stalls. The Officers of the Order before their Forms, and The Sovereign ascends his Royal Seat, as also The Knights-Companions their Stalls. Then the Prelate, conducted by the Sergeant of the Vestry, goes up to the Altar, The Officers of Arms descend into the Choir, and lastly The Alms-Knights retire to their Seats. All which being done, the Prelate begins the Morning Service; wherein he proceeds according to the order prescribed in the Book of Common Prayer, save only that the first Lesson, being made proper to the Festival, is taken out of the 44 Chapter of Ecclesiasticus. This solemn Proceeding to the Chapel in the Morning of the Feast day, is, and hath been most usually performed on Foot; nevertheless sometimes heretofore, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions have proceeded on Horseback, to enlarge the state and gallantry of the show. For it is remembered, that an. m Vide Lib. vocat. Dalton. 16. E. 4. the Feast of St. George being then celebrated at Windesor, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions n Vide Lib. vocat. Dalton. road to the Chapel on Horseback, to hear Mass that morning: and with them also road the o Vide Lib. vocat. Dalton. Queen, the Lady Elizabeth the King's Daughter, and the Duchess of Suffolk the King's Sister, the Lady Marchioness Montague, the Marchioness Dorset, and divers other Ladies, in p Vide Lib. vocat. Dalton. Gowns embroidered with Garters; concerning which Habit we have q Chap. 7. Sect. 5. already spoken. So also r Lib. N. p. 166. an. 3. H. 7. on the Morning of the Feast-day, did the Sovereign and Knights-Companions proceed on Horseback to Matins, with equal splendour, or rather more glorious, than on the Eve to the first Vespers: For the Knights-Companions were vested in Surcoats of * MS. penes Arth. Com. Anglesey, fol. 167. White Cloth, embroidered with Garters, (the Livery of the new year) the King's Courser was trapped with a Trapper of St. George, of white Cloth of Gold, and the Lord berner's bore the King's Sword, his Courser being trapped with St. Edward's Arms. This Proceeding was augmented by the presence of the s Lib. N. p. 166. Queen, and the King's Mother, attended with a splendid Train of Ladies, and others that waited on them, themselves being attired in the Livery of the Order, and their Horses most richly accoutred with Foot-Cloths, Trappings, and all other Furniture correspondant, in like State as on the Eve. Again, in the 20 year of the same Sovereign, who then held the Feast of St. George at t MS. Baynard's Castle in London, he proceeded on Horseback to St. Paul's Church (in like order as on the Evening before) where he heard Matins. And King Henry the Eighth, at the Feast held at Windesor in the u MS. in Offic. Armour. [M. 17] fol. 27. 11. year of his Reign, rode with the Knights-Companions, about eight a Clock in the morning, down to the College to hear Matins, in like manner as on the Eve, and alighted at the South door of the Chapel. The like did w MS. pag. 12● King Philip an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. And Queen * MS. f. penes W.D.N. f. 15. b. Elizabeth in the sixth year of her Reign, proceeded also on Horseback to the Morning Service, in her whole Habit of the Order. Lastly, an. 6. Eliz. the x Lib. C. p. 46. vide MS. f. pen. W.D.N. p. 17. b. & etiam MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 12.] fol. 142. Sovereign in the whole Habit of the Order (the French Ambassador riding near her) and all the Knights-Companions with the Officers of the Order, and Officers of Arms, proceeded on y Lib. C. p. 46. vide MS. f. pen. W.D.N. p. 17. b. & etiam MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 12.] fol. 142. Horseback to the Chapel on the Morning of the Feast-day. And in like manner did the Sovereign's Lieutenant, at the same Feast, ride to the z Lib. C. p. 46. vide MS. f. pen. W.D.N. p. 17. b. & etiam MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 12.] fol. 142. first and second Vespers, and to the Morning Service the day after the Feast. It was a Custom begun by Queen Elizabeth, and used when she celebrated the Feast of St. George, either at Whitehall or Greenwich, for the a Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. Sovereign's Lieutenant and the Knights-Companions in full Robes, attended with the Officers of the Order and of Arms, to b Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. meet in the Presence-Chamber, (about 9 a Clock in the Morning of the Feast day) and thence to c Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. proceed as they did the Evening before, through the Guard-Chamber down into the Great Hall, and thence into the Chapel, where they took their Stalls as on the Eve; after which, d Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. Morning Prayer, according to the order established in the Church of England, was begun and continued so far as the Litany; and this was called the e Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. first Service; which done, they all descended from their Stalls, in the accustomed order, and f Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. proceeded back to the Presence, in the same manner, and by the same way as they went to the Chapel, and there waited the coming of the Sovereign; before whom they proceeded a second time to the Choir, where the Litany and Grand Procession begun, (called the g Ex eod. MS. pen. W. D. N. vide et●am MS. f. penes G.O.Y. p. 113, & 123. & Collect. R. C. Cl. second Service) at which the Sovereign was usually present, but never at the first Service. And the first memorial that we have met with, of this double proceeding to the Chapel in the Morning of the Feast-day, is recorded in the h Pag. 32. Illustrissimus Comes Arundel (constituted the Sovereign's Lieutenant for that Feast) cum reliquo Ordinis comitatu slipatus, Matutinis Precibus intersuit. Postea verò omnes celeberrimi Ordinis Commilitones, illustrissimae Reginae dederunt operam seduli, quae Sacellum est ingressa, inibique Regis sed●●l recepta, quod reliquum erat celebritatis gratiosè peregit. Blue Book of the Order, an. 3. Eliz. And this double Proceeding and dividing of the Service, continued throughout the Reigns of Queen Elizabeth and King james, not only when the Feast of St. George was celebrated at Whitehall or Greenwich, an. i MS. pen. E.W.G. 7.8.10.12.13.14. and 16. jac. R. but also an. k Eod. MS. 15. l Lib. C. p. 1. 20. m Ibid. pag. 6. 21. and n Pag. 19 22. of the same Sovereign, when solemnised at Windesor, and also the o Pag. 30. first year of King Charles the First. But from that time, the Sovereign went to the Chapel to the p Lib. C. pag. 41.62.74.85.107.117. & 127. beginning of Divine Service, and the celebration thereof continued on, without any interruption, to the end; and this latter Custom hath been ever since duly observed by the present Sovereign. But when it was known (before the Lieutenant proceeded to the first Service) that the Sovereign did not go the Grand Procession, (as, when either through indisposition of Body, or some other occasion, she could not come abroad) there the Service being begun, continued; and at the usual time the Grand Procession began, wherein the Sovereign's place was supplied by the Lieutenant. Nevertheless once we observe, that the Sovereign's Lieutenant, at the q Lib. R. p. 1. & 2. an. 20. jac. R. finishing of the first service, proceeded back to the Sovereign's Lodgings (the Feast being then kept at Windesor) not knowing of the Sovereign's indisposition, which understanding to be such, as permitted him not to go in the Grand Proceeding, he with the rest of the Knights-Companions, r Lib. R. p. 1. & 2. an. 20. jac. R. returned to the Chapel a second time, to celebrate the rest of that Morning's Ceremonies. SECT. II. The Proceeding to the second Service. BUT when the Feast hath been celebrated elsewhere than at Windesor, as soon as the Prelate was come down from the Altar, upon finishing the first Service, the Knights-Companions a MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. descended from their Stalls in usual order, and then the b MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. Sovereign's Lieutenant, with the Officers of the Order, and of Arms, proceeded before him to the c MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. Presence, to conduct the Sovereign to the second Service. This second Proceeding to the Chapel was disposed in the d MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. same order, as was that in the Morning to the first Service; only, in the latter, because the Sovereign proceeded, the Sword also was carried. Here follows a Scheme of one of these Proceedings, viz. an. 19 Eliz. Pursuivants e MS. pen. G.O.Y. pag. 113. . Heralds. Provincial Kings. f This Lord and the three following Knights wanted their opposite Companions, therefore went single. Lord Howard of Effingham. — — Earl of Penbroke. — Earl of Worcester. — Earl of Bedford. Lord Viscount Montague. Earl of Leicester. Lord Clinton. Earl of Sussex. The Vsher. Mr. Dean of Windesor, in place of the Register. Garter. One Gent. Vsher. The Bishop of Winchester. Sword, born by the Earl of Southampton. One Gent. Vsher. The Sovereign. g The year preceding the Sovereign had her Mantle born up in like manner from her shoulders by the Earl of Northumberland on the right hand, and the Lord Russel on the left. Ex eod. MS. pag. 123. The Earl of Ormond (on the left hand) assisted the Robe on her shoulder. The Earl of Rutland (on the right hand) assisted the Robe on her shoulder. The Train of the Robe born by the Earl of Oxford, The Train of her Kirtle by the Countess of Derby. The Processional way from the Presence to the Chapel at Whitehall, is at this time, the same as it was in the Morning to the first Service, viz. through the Guard-chamber and Great Hall. And as soon as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions had ascended their Stalls, after the usual manner, in the g MS. penes W. D. N. f. 3. b. 3. h Ibid. f. 8. a. 4. and i Fol. 10. a. 5. years of Queen Eliz. a Psalm was sung (the Feast being celebrated those years at Whitehall, at the ending of which) the Knights-Companions descended, and stood before their Stalls, and then the Grand Procession began. Sometime afterwards, as an. 18. & 19 Eliz. instead of a Psalm an k MS. fol. pene● G. O. ●. p. 123. Anthem was sung by the Choir, in praise of the Sovereign's presence there, with her Knights-Companions; which custom of singing an Anthem immediately before the Grand Procession, was observed an. l MS. pene● E.W. G. 9 m MS. pene● E.W. G. 14. & n MS. pene● E.W. G. 16. jac. R. and probably theuse continued long after. But an. 4. Eliz. by reason that the Sovereign was not well, she somewhat altered the usual processional way to the Chapel, proceeding from the Presence, o MS. fol. pe● praef. W.D.N. fol. 8. b. first to the great Closet, where she reposed herself, while the Choir was making ready to advance in the Grand Procession; and when the Sovereign was gone into the Closet, the Lieutenant and Knights-Companions leaving her there, p MS. fol. pe● praef. W.D.N. fol. 8. b. proceeded through the great Hall into the Chapel, where they took their Stalls in due and solemn order, while the Choir sung a Psalm. After which the Litany begun, and then the Knights-Companions descended from their Stalls in usual order, and q MS. fol. pe● praef. W.D.N. fol. 8. b. went the next way up to the Closet, having the Officers of the Order and of Arms before them; where waiting the Sovereign's coming forth, they returned before her again to the Chapel (the Choir having by that time advanced forward in the Grand Procession) and proceeded through the body thereof. SECT. III. Of the Grand Procession. WE are now arrived at the Grand Procession of this Noble Order, which is indeed the most solemn and most illustrious part of the whole Ceremony; to usher in the state and magnificence whereof, it seems here both proper and necessary, to premise somewhat concerning Procession in general, and by reason of their correspondency, to say something of Triumphs, Cavalcades, and Ecclesiastical Proceedings; those glorious and pompous Solemnities, which the wisdom of all Ages, and custom in most parts of the World for all, or in all parts for some, have thought most necessary to exhibit upon particular and remarkable Occasions. Procession is so called as it were * Durant. de Ritibus Eccl. Cath. p. 427. progressio à procedendo in publicam. The original of Processions some deduce from the ancient jews in the Old Testament; and well may we do so too, since we observe the Israelites removal from Sinai to Paran, was a N●mb. c. 10. v. 13. according to the commandment of God, and the order and manner of their Proceeding thus recorded. b Cap. 10. ●. 14. usque ad ver▪ 2●, First went the Standard of the Camp of the Children of judah, where Nahshon the Son of A●inadab commanded in Chief. Next that of Issachar. Thirdly, that of Zebulon: and after these The Tabernacle born by the Sons of Gershon and Merari. Then followed the Standards of Reuben, Simeon, and Gad: and after them, The Kohathites bearing the Sanctuary. Afterwards the Standards of the Camps of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin: And lastly in the Rear came The Standards of Dan, Asher, and Naphtali. A second and most solemn Proceeding we have in the Book of c Cap. 6. joshua, at the famous encompassing the Walls of jericho; where d Ver. 8. & 9 first the Army proceeded on before the seven Priests, who sounded the seven Trumpets of Rams horns, than the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord followed them, and lastly the Rear came after the Ark. Again, when the e 2 Saln cap. 6. 1 Chron. c. 13. Ark was fetched from Kiriath jearim by David, unto the House of Obed Edom, it was brought thither with great Ceremony, the King, and all Israel joining with him in the Procession: And to be more particular as to the order thereof, David himself informs us out of the 67. Psalms (which most Interpreters agree to be penned upon this solemn occasion) that in this Proceeding, f Ver. 25. The Singers went before, the Minstrels followed after, and in the midst were the Damsels playing with the Timbrels. Moreover, for the setting forth of this Solemnity and celebration of the glory of God, not only vocal Music [Psalms] namely the 47. and 67. Psalms, as the Rabins are of opinion, were composed and sung; but Musical Instruments to the honour of God, were also introduced, g ● Sam. c. 6. ver. 5. even all Instruments made of Fir Wood h 1 Chron. cap. 13. ver. 8. And David and all Israel played before God, with all their might, and with singing, and with Harps, and with Psalteries, and with Timbrels, and with Cymbals, and with Trumpets. All which is not only our Warrant but Precedent. Now in respect of the correspondence and alliance between the State of Processions and Triumphs, and that a Triumph seems but to be a Military Procession, We think it not amiss in speaking of Processions to divide them into Military, Civil, and Ecclesiastical: Under the Military may best be comprehended Triumphs, and the Transvection of the Roman Knights; under the Civil, the pompous Entries or Cavalcades of Princes, into or through any great City; and the Ecclesiastical are those generally so called, wherein the Church proceeds upon a solemn account of Supplication or Thanksgiving: To all which, in the last place, shall follow the order of the Grand Procession of this most Noble Order; which in reference to the Degrees of the Persons appearing therein, is composed of a mixture of such as are to be seen in each of the three former. Triumphs. It is evident enough out of the sacred Story, that Triumphs were of ancient time celebrated after the obtaining Victory over Enemies; and the Triumphal Songs of i Exod. cap. 15. Moses, made upon the destruction of Pharaoh and his Armies in the Red Sea, and of k judg. cap. 5. Deborah and Barak, after the discomfiture of Sisera and jabin, seem to inform us so much. But a more particular account of a Triumph, with the order of Proceeding, is recorded in the second Book of the l Cap. 20. Chronicles, where jehosaphat having taken the spoil of the Children of Ammon and Moab, it is said, that m Ver. 27. every man of Judah and Jerusalem returned, and Jehosaphat in the forefront of them, to go again to Jerusalem with joy; and they came to Jerusalem with Psalteries, and Harps, and Trumpets, unto the House of the Lord. Besides the ancient jews, the Grecians and Romans did oftentimes, upon the gaining of signal Victories, ordain and celebrate Triumphs; which led to their Temples, where Sacrifices were made, and there the Solemnity terminated. It is a received opinion, that n Pancir. li. rerum deperd. Cap. de Triumphis. Bacchus first triumphed after his Victory over the Indians; and that at Rome, Romulus was the first, who, at his return to the City, after a Victory, sending his captived Enemies before, himself followed on foot, and after him marched the whole Army in due order. o Mart. de Guichard. de antiq. triumph. spect. pag. 72. But it is thought by some, that there was never any absolute Triumph celebrated at Rome, till the time of Tarqvinius Priscus, who triumphed over the Sabins, and ancient Latins, as p Lib. de Vir. illustr. p. 385. Plinius secundus relates, and subdued 12 several Nations of the Tuscii. And thence first came the q Mart. de Guichard. pag. 73. Fasces, the Trabeae, the Sellae curules, the Annuli, the Phalerae, the Paludamenta, the Praetexta, the Currus Triumphalis, drawn with four Horses, the Togae pictae, the Tunicae palmatae, and all other Ensigns of Triumph, mentioned by r Lib. 1. cap. 5. Lucius Florus. As concerning the word, t Lib. 5. de lingua Latina. Varro affirms that Triumphare hath its appellation, for that such of the Soldiers as returned with the Emperor, all the way as they marched from their very entrance into the City, unto the Capital, used to cry out unto him in his passage, with a loud voice, Iò triumph, Iò. This u Mart. de Guichardo de antiq. triumpspe●● aculis, pag. 21. Triumph was the highest honour the Roman City could bestow, and given to a General when he had gained a Victory, with little loss to his own Army, and great loss to the Enemy: And among the Roman Writers w Lib. 2. c. 3. Valerius Maximus observes, that it was provided by Law, that none should have a Triumph granted, but upon the slaughter of 5000 of the Enemy in Battle. These Triumphs were either x M. Guich. de antiq. Triumph. spect. pag. 24. Triumphi minores, termed also Ovations, or Majores, which were perfect and entire Triumphs. In Ovations (granted upon putting an Enemy to flight without effusion of blood, or obtaining a Victory against an Enemy of mean quality, as Slaves, Pirates, or the like) y Perot. in Cornucopia. fol. 74 col. 1. the General either went on foot, or was drawn through the City with one Horse only, and conducted to the Capital by Plebeians, or at most by Roman Knights; the Sacrifice was only of Sheep, and thence called Ovation; whereas in a just and complete Triumph, the General was drawn in a Triumphal Chariot by four White Horses, and conducted into the Capital by the whole Senate going before him, and the Sacrifice was of Oxen. Moreover in an Ovation the General wore a plain z Salmuth. in Pancir. lib Rerum d●perd. Cap. de Triumph. purple Gown without any Gold or embroidery, and a Garland of Myrtle; but in the greater Triumph (called properly Triumphus) he wore the Trabe●, or Garment of State, and had his Temples adorned with a Wreath of Laurel. What the order and state of these Triumphs were, will partly appear by the description at large of that famous Triumph of Scipio the elder, out of Appianus Alexandrinus: But for a general description of a Roman Triumph, it is best seen from Onuphrius Panvinius, who hath most accurately collected it out of a Lib. 2. & 5. Dionysius Halicarnassaeus, b Lib. 2. cap. 8. Valerius Maximus, c Lib. 7. c. 24. josephus de bello judaico, d In vita Pauli Aemilii. Plutarch, the aforesaid e De Bello Lybico. Appianus Alexandrinus and others. And to perpetuate the memory of these glorious shows to posterity, and cause them not only to outlive the triumphal day, but also that Age; The Romans in public places of the City erected Statues, Columes, and Arches; and caused the memorial thereof to be inscribed on Marbles, etc. We also meet with great variety of emblematical Devices referring hereunto, in the Roman Coins, both of Gold, Silver, and Brass, as will appear out of Hubertus Gol●zius, Antonius Augustinus, Franciscus Angelonus, Octavianus Strado, Adolphus Occo, and divers others, who have illustrated that Subject. Which Custom being revived, hath been often used (especially in this and the last Century) among the European Princes; in the former of which f Sylloge Numismatum, elegantiorum Edit. Argent. 1●20. johannes jacobus Luckius affords us variety of Examples, among those which he calls the Nummi Triumphales. And for a description in painting, there is now to be seen in the Sovereign's Gallery at Hampton Court in large pieces, the Triumphs of Caesar, done with great Art by the famous and admirable Painter Andrea Montegua, which are also extant of g Evelins Sculptura, pag. 52. Transvection of the Roman Knights. his own Engraving. But to remember somewhat else, which more particularly suits with those Proceedings of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, especially when celebrated on Horseback; we shall bring hither a prospect of the stately Transvection or Cavalcade of the Equestrian Order among the Romans, annually celebrated in Rome, on the Quintilian Ides, which answers to our 15. day of july, concerning which, Dionysius Halicarnasseus affords this commendation, that h Lib. 6 p. 351. certainly it was a gallant sight, and worthy the greatness of the Empire. This solemn show was first instituted by i Liv. Dec. 1. lib 1. extremo, vide etiam Val. Maxim. Q. Fabius, that the pomp and glory of the Equestrian Order, might thereby be the more fully observed; not for mustering the Knights before the Censors, who were thereupon to note their defects or neglects; for that was done at another time of the year, namely, on the 18. Calends of October, and the 18. Calends of December, as may be seen among Gruters Inscriptions in a Marble Table of the m Inscript. jan▪ Gruteri, p. 133. Calendar of the Roman Fasts published by Cn. Flavius, and mentioned by n Lib. 33. c. 1. Pliny; which Table was, at the time that Gruter published his work, in the House of Cardinal Mapheus. The occasion of its Institution, the foresaid o Loc. citat. Dionysius Halicarnasseus doth refer to the honour of Castor and Pollux, in memory of a Victory, which the Romans had obtained over the Latins, near the Lake Regilius, in the 357. year after the Foundation of the City; where those two Gods seemed to lead on and assist the Roman Army against the Latins, and when the Victory was gained vanished out of sight; but immediately appeared to the Roman Citizens in the Forum at Rome, in that very place thereof, where afterwards the Temple (dedicated to their Names) was erected, and in the Habit of Knights on Horseback; who having told the News of the foresaid Victory, forthwith disappeared, and were no more seen. Now the manner and order of this gallant Transvection, is likewise thus related by the said learned Author, the p Dion. Halicar. loco cit. Sacrifice was first performed by the chief of the Equestrian Order, which being finished, all the Knights who had Horses bestowed on them at the public charge, (distinguished by Tribes and Centuries road in order, as returning from Battle) crowned with Olive Leaves, and apparelleled in Purple Mantles, embroidered with branches of Palms, the Symbol of Victory. The beginning of this solemn show being made from the Temple of Mars, erected without the City (others say, from the Temple of Honour) and thence (leaving the other parts of the City) they road through the Forum, and passing by the before mentioned Temple of Castor and Pollux, proceeded to the Capitol. They were sometimes not less than 5000 Knights in this Proceeding; and as an augmentation of their honour, they carried and exhibited to view, whatsoever had been bestowed on them by their Commanders, as the reward of Valour in fight. Turnebus explicating a piece of julius Capitolinus in q Vid. Hist. Aug. Veteres, pag. 163. Antonini Philosophi vita, is of opinion, r Advers. lib. 25. cap. 18. That this gallant Cavalcade was led on by an eminent Commander, who was called Sevir, whom he there interprets to be the chief of the six Classes of Knights, in such manner that every Classis had his Sevir; they relating as we suppose to the six ancient Decuriae of Knights, instituted by Romulus, viz. the Rhamnenses, Tatienses, and Luceres, all three being a little after doubled, and so became six: For the said Author having ( s Lib. 11. cap. 9 in another place) mentioned these very six Decuriae, he also saith, They who commanded them were called Seviri. Now Mar. Aur. Antoninus, whom Capitolinus saith, was then created, t Hist. Aug. Scriptores, pag. 163. Sevir of the Troops of the Roman Knights, had been before by Antoninus Pius, designed Consul with himself; whence it is very apparent, that the dignity of Sevir was most honourable and eminent, since it was placed upon a Consul, and had the command of all the Roman Cavalry. In the year after Christ 1578. there was a Marble digged up in Saint Peter's Church at Rome, whose Inscription (taken by jos. Castalio) doth relate to such a Commander, and was this. u Vide Gruter Inser. of't. Rom. p. 456. Inser. 4. C. POMPUSIDIO FABIO FRATERNO X. VIR w Stlitibus judicandis, id esi, super lites judicandos.. STL. IVD. VI VIR. EQVITUM. ROMANOR. Vrsinus hath also transmitted to posterity an Inscription of one of the Equestrian Order, yet but a very young Knight; who having received the honour of a public Horse, he also road in this famous Cavalcade before he was a man; for he lived not beyond the age of 16 years. The Inscribed stone is noted by x Inscr. ant. Rom. pag. 1026. Inscr. 4. janus Gruterus to be in a private House at Montefiasco y Inscr. ant. Rom. pag. 1026. Inscr. 4. DIIS MANIBUS SEX. GAVI. SEX. F. PROCULI. VIX. AN. XVI. EQVO PUBLICO TRANSVECTUS EST. To conclude, this grand Ceremony is mentioned also by Pliny, who speaking of the Olive, saith, z Lib. 15. c. 4. The Roman Majesty did afford great honour to the Olive, crowning therewith the Troops of the Knights in the Ides of July. As also by Suetonius, who writing of Augustus saith, that * In vita Aug. Cap. 38. He frequently reviewed the Troops of the Knights, reviving the custom of Transvection on Horseback, after a long interruption. The Civil Processions or Cavalcades, Cavalcades. are the solemn Entries of Princes, into, or riding through any great City, which in all Ages have been set forth, with exceeding state and Pomp; being for the most part solemnised (especially in these latter Ages) at Inaugurations, Interviews, and Marriages of Emperors, Kings, and great Estates: as also at the Entries of Ambassadors, and upon such like extraordinary occasions, of which a few Instances. a Quint. Curt. Amsterl. 1650. lib. 5. pag. 95. Alexander the Great after the taking of Arbella, proceeded on towards Babylon, and upon his approach to the City, had it surrendered to him in a suppliant manner by Mazaeus, a person of very great Fame and Eminency among the Babylonians; by whose Example many went forth to meet him, amongst whom b Quint. Curt. Amsterl. 1650. lib. 5. pag. 95. Bagaphanes the King's Treasurer and Governor of the Castle, that he might not come short of Mazaeus in his respect to Alexander, strewed all the way with Flowers and Garlands, and on each side thereof were placed Altars of Silver, which fumed with Frankincense and all manner of Odours. After him followed divers great Presents, droves of cattle and of Horses, Lions also and Leopards were brought forth in Coops, after these came the Chaldeans, and both the Poets and Artificers of the Babylonians, with a sort of Musical Instruments, wherewith they were wont to sing forth the praises of their Kings; the Chaldeans, describing the motions of the Stars and the vicissitudes of times; next the Babylonian Troops, so richly adorned both Men and Horses, that it inclined rather to Luxury, than Magnificence. Lastly the King himself came attended with his Lifeguard, and ordered the multitude of Citizens to follow after in the Rear of his Foot, entering the City in his Chariot. We might here extend our observation to the Entrance of our Saviour into jerusalem: at which, c Matth. c. 21. v. 8. the multitude spread their Garments in the way for him to ride on, (a Rite ordinary among the jews, at the Inauguration of a King, as we find the d 2 Kings c. 9 v. 13. Captains did when jehu was proclaimed King) and they e Matth. 21. vers. 9 that went before, and that followed after cried Hosanna, that being the solemn form of Acclamations, used by this people, especially f Godw. Moses & Aaron, pag. 134. in the Feast of Tabernacles. How sumptuous and stately the Ceremonies used in this last Age are, to set forth and adorn the Cavalcades and Grand Proceedings among the Astatick Princes (who very much exceed in this kind of Pomp and Magnificence) may be conceived from that which Io. Albert Mandeslo relates, in his g Pag. 122. See also Io●st Schanten's Descript. thereof, an. 1636. Travels into the Indies, concerning the King of Siam's annual Procession in October, both by Land and Water, through his principal City (seated in an Island on the River Menam) to one of his Chief Mosqueys; the greatness whereof deserves particular relation, and is thus set down by him. h Pag. 122. See also Io●st Schanten's Descript. thereof, an. 1636. In the head of this Procession march about 200. Elephants, each of them carrying three Armed Men; then come the Music, consisting of Oboes, Tabours and Cymbals; next come about a thousand men completely Armed, divided into several Companies that have their Colours and Banners. Next to these follow the Noblemen of the Kingdom on Horseback, and amongst them, many with Crowns of Gold upon their heads, each attended with a Train of fourscore or a hundred persons on foot. Betwixt these Noblemen and the Lifeguard, march two hundred Soldiers, Japoneses, all very well appointed, who go immediately before the Horses and Elephants, which are for the King's Lifeguard, their Harness is adorned with Buckles and studs of Gold, set with Diamonds and other precious stones. The Servants who bear the Fruits, and other things for the Sacrifice, march before certain Grandees of the Kingdom, whereof one bears the King's Standard, the other the Sword of Justice. These walk on foot immediately before the King, who sits mounted on an Elephant in a Chair of Gold. The Prince his Son, or some other Prince of the blood, followeth next after him, and then comes the Queen and the Kings other Women on Elephants, but not to be seen, as being in certain wooden Closets guilt. The rest of the Household and six hundred of the Guard, follow in the Rear, which by this means consisteth of fifteen or sixteen thousand persons. As to their Procession upon the River, the Order following is observed. First, in the head of this Fleet passeth about two hundred Noblemen, each in his several Barge, where they sit in a gilt Cabin, and each Barge is rowed by three or fourscore slaves. Then follow four Barges assigned for the Music; and next follow about fifty Banks of State, each having fourscore, or fourscore and ten Rowers, and after these come ten other gilt Barges, in one of which the; King is seated in a Throne of Gold, attended by divers Noblemen, all upon their knees before him, and amongst them, one of the chiefest Grandees who bears his Standard. The Prince followeth after him in another Barge with his Train, and after him comes the Queen and the Concubines each in their Barges apart; and lastly, in a great number of other Barges follow the Household Servants and the Guards, so as this Procession consists of twenty five or thirty thousand persons. Together with this great Ceremony, the ordinary Proceeding of the King of japan, either on Horseback or on men's shoulders, in a Palanquin (related by the said Mandeslo, as also by Fr. Charon in his i Pag. 18. description of japan) may be fitly remembered. Whether we regard the numerous Train and Attendants, or the manner or order thereof: k Idem, p. 182. all of them marching with such gravity and so orderly, that there is not only any one man to be seen out of his Rank, but a man hears not so much as a word spoken; which may well deserve our wonder and admiration. There is in the Sovereign's Privy Lodgings at Whitehall, the order of the King of Gulcandale his Ordinary Proceeding, when he goes abroad, set forth in Figures about a foot long, it is of that Country's manner of Painting, and an extraordinary piece of Oriental Rarity, being sent thence to Sir Martin noel Knight, and by him presented to his now Majesty. But we may not yet take leave of the Grandeur of these Oriental Princes, in relation to these pompous shows, before we have referred our Reader to Conraed Krammer's description of the magnificent and unparalleled Proceeding of the Deyro, (who indeed is the true Prince of japan) when he passed from his own Court in the City of Meaco, to the Emperor of japans Palace in the same City, on the 25. of Oct. 1626. which is to be seen at large, l Pag. 109. Printed in English at the end of the foresaid Description of japan; nor may we omit this; That the preparation for the said Emperors usual progress from jedo his present Imperial City, to Meaco, (the former Metropolis and as yet the Court of the Deyro, (being 125. Dutch Miles) to visit the said Deyro, (which happens once in 5. or 7. Years) takes up a m Ibid. p. 20. whole Year, before the Orders are given out, on what Day, and with what Train every man shall go. And to draw somewhat nearer Europe, the State and Pomp among the Turks, however barbarous enough in other things, yet in these Ceremonies are exceeding regular and stately; as may be seen in the Grand Signors Cavalcade to Sancta Sophia, cut in Copper Plates by n Evelyn's Sculptura, pag. 84. Peter van Aelst, as also in the order of his Ordinary o Penes eund. I. Evelyn. Cavalcade, etched by Anthony Tempest. But enough of these. We now come to give some Account of the Gallantry of our Christian Princes, in this particular. Among whom the Triumphal p Evelins Sculptura, pag. 70. Entry of Maximilian the First, Emperor of Germany, into Noremburg, is excellently well designed, and cut in Wood by Hans Brossehaemer. The Entry of the Emperor Charles the Fifth, and Pópe Clement the Seventh into Bononia in Italy, an. 1530. in Order to his being Crowned King of Lombardy there, is q In Musaeo nostro. graved in 40. Copper Plates with large Figures, excellently well designed, by Nicholaus Hogenbergus. Io. August. Pastorius in his r Pag. 271. Acta Publica, hath exactly described the solemn Cavalcade, of the present Emperor Leopold his Entry into the City of Francfort upon the Main, the 19 of March 1658. where the 18. of july in the same Year ( s Io. justi Winkelmani Caesareologia, p. 119. non sine difficultate & invidiâ tandem unanimi Octoviratus consensu) he was Elected Emperor of Germany; and the first of August following had his Inauguration solemnised there also. The Order of this Gallant show is to be seen cut in brass by Gasper Merian, in a thin t Plate 14. Folio, Printed at Fran●fort the same Year. In the same Acta Publica, are also described at large, the several Entrances into that City, of the Electors of u Pag 257. Mentz, w Pag. 278. Tryers, x Pag. 284. Collen, the Duke of y Pag. 280. Saxony, Count Palatine of the z Pag. 286. Rheyne, as also the Deputies or Substitutes of the two other Electors a Pag. 262. Bavaria and b Pag. 282. Brandenburg: and the order of each Cavalcade is likewise particularly set forth in Copper Plates, cut by the said Gasper Merian, and collected together in the foresaid Book. We could here insert the particulars of divers other solemn Cavalcades, exhibited upon like occasions, but we are unwilling to dwell longer upon them, since many of them are to be met with. Here in England it hath been the ancient usage for our Kings and Queens, the day before their Coronation, to ride from the Tower through the City of London, in a most noble and magnificent Equipage▪ they being at those times attended on by all the Nobility, Officers of the Household, and a gallant and splendid Train. Among these, Proceedings, the order and pomp of that magnificent and numerous Cavalcade of the present Sovereign, from the Tower to Whitehall, the day before his most happy Inauguration is worthy observing, in that his Majesty's Entertainments described by Mr. Ogilby, together with the sumptuous Arches which then adorned the Streets; and how well that ingenious Artist Mr. Weneslaus Hollar hath merited both in designing and etching the same, is obvious to every ingenious Eye. Besides these, relating to the Inauguration of Princes, many other solemn and particular occasions have been honoured with sumptuous Cavalcades; such was that of our King Henry the Eighth, when he entered Boulogne, and is to be seen in the Sovereign's Gallery in Whitehall, being painted by a Disciple of Hans Holben. Such was that brave Cavalcade of the late Duke of Florence, celebrated at his Nuptials; which, together with the Scenes and other Representations, were etched by the most excellent james Callot, an Artist of incomparable skill and fancy in things of that kind. So also that of Lewis the Fourteenth, the French King, with his Queen Maria Theresa of Austria, into Paris, the 26. of August 1660. shortly after their marriage, which was as full of splendour and magnificence as could be devised. But among these, and indeed above all, none ought more deservedly to be celebrated, than that which passed through London upon the 29. of May 1660. a day since made venerable amongst us to posterity, upon the safe and most happy return of the present Sovereign, to his Crown and Kingdom, to the unconceivable joy of all his loyal Subjects. In the last place, touching those Cavalcades made at the reception of Ambassadors, we have met with two (and those very solemn ones) described at large in the foresaid c Pag. 260. & 263. Acta publica of I. A. Pastorius, namely the entrance of the French and Spanish Ambassadors into Francfort, that, upon the 19 of August 1657. this, upon the 24. of March 1658. when the Election was to be made of the present Emperor; both which are likewise cut in Copper Plates, by the before mentioned Gasper Merian. Adam Olearius in his Voyages and Travels of the Ambassadors from the Duke of Holstein to the great Duke of Muscovy, as also to the King of Persia, makes mention of such Cavalcades, they being ordered according to the manner of those Countries with very great Ceremony; Namely that of the d Pag. 21. Turkish Ambassadors entrance into Musco 17. Sept. an. 1634. he being met with 16000 Horse, besides the persons who made up the Cavalcade. Likewise that of the Duke of e Ibid. p. 13. Holstein's Ambassadors entry into the same City 14. Aug. immediately before-going. As also the entrance of the same Duke's Ambassador into f Pag. 270. Ispahan in Persia, the 2. of Aug. 1637. To conclude, the Cavalcade of the Polish Ambassador upon his Reception into Rome an. 1633. was a most magnificent Ceremony; it being made public in Aqua Fortis, by the incomparable hand of Stephen della Bella a Florentine. And now to come within the Verge of the Order of the Garter, we shall here present to the Readers view, some few, yet stately Cavalcades, made upon the Sovereign's entrances, not only into Windesor Castle, but other places upon account of its Grand Solemnities, and of which we have happily met with these following Memorials. The 20. Year of King Henry the Seventh, the Feast of St. George was celebrated at Baynard's Castle in London; and the Sovereign (being at the Tower on the Eve) Proceeded thence on Horseback to St. Paul's Church to Vespers, in the following Order. g Ex ipso Autographo. First, all the Noblemen after their Estates and Degrees, than the Officers of Arms next before the knights of the Ordre, than the knights of the Ordre, riding in their Gowns of the Garter only, with their Collars without mantels, which Lyvery is of crymosin velvet lined with white, next following them the bishop of Winchestre Prelate of the Ordre, than the Ambassadors, than the Secretary and Aulmoner, than Gartier King of Arms of the Ordre, the Mayor of London bearing the Mace road on the left hand of the Kings' Coat, than the Sword borne by then the King, Sovereign of the Ordre, then followed the Prince, and after certain Nobles, and then the Guard all on foot, the Aldermen and all the Crafties of London standying in their Lyveries in places accustomed. And when the King came to the West Door of Paul's he did on his Mantell, and all the knights did on theirs, and so entered the Church, where somewhat within the Church, there was ready the bishop which did the Divine Service, with the Dean and Canons, etc. where they sensed and receyved the King as accustomed; and from thence proceeded to the Queer, and entered their Stalls, and there herd Evensonge; and after Evensonge, the King with the odyr Knyghts rode to Baynard's Castle his Logging, where his Hyghness remained that night. The h Ex alio Autogr. 16. of April in the following Year, the Sovereign began his Pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Blessed Lady of Walsingham, and took Cambridge in his way thither, where he arrived the i Ex alio Autogr. 22 of the same Month, and was in this manner received. k Ibid. First, the Mayor with his Brederens road to meet the King, two or three mylle out of the Town; Also Mr. Molory then Shereff of the Shire bore his rod, and gave his attendance, and as he approached ne'er the Unyversyte, within a quarter of a mylle, there stood, first, all the four Ordres of Freres, and after odir Religious, and the King on horseback kissed the Cross of everyche of the Religious, and then there stood all along, all the Graduatts, after their Degrees, in all their Habits, and at the end of them was the Unyversyte Cross, where was a Form and a Cushion, etc. as accustomed, where the King did alight, and there the bishop of Rochestre Doctor— then being chancellor of the Unyversyte, accompanied with odir Doctors, sensyd &c. the King, and after made a little Proposition, and welcomed him; and then the King took his Horse again, and rood by the Blackfriers, thoroughe the Town, to the Queen's College, where his Grace was at that time lodgged, and there rested the space of a Hour, and then did on his Gown and Mantell of the Gartier, and all odir knights of the Ordre there being present, gave their attendance in the Habit of the Ordre, as appertaineth, and rood from the Kings Logginge to the Chapel of the Kings' College, which was for the same cause ready appointed with Scochins etc. as is yearly accustomed. The bishop of Rochestre, being there chancellor, did the Divine Service, both the Even, the Day, both at Matins, etc. and sang the Mass of Requiem on the Morrow. With these, we shall remember the same Sovereign's noble reception of Philip King of Castille at Windesor, on Saturday the 31. of january, next ensuing the foresaid Feast, where he was Installed Knight of this most noble Order, the 5. of February following; which we find thus reported. l MS. penes W. le N. Cl. p. ●88. vide Lib. N. p. 182. His Highness (King Henry the Seventh) having notice of the King of Castile's approach, rode towards him a mile or two out of Windesor, and there in an Arable Field (where the King of Castille by the King's pleasure tarried his coming) met with him. And when the King's company approached near to the said King of Castyll, some stood on oon part, and sum on the odir part, and so made a lanne, that the two Kings might meet together; and when the King of Castyll perceyved the King, he took of his hat, and in like manner the King took off his, and with a loving and glad countenance, everych salved and embraced odir. The King with many odir good wordies welcomed him to his realm, and the King of Castyll with humble and loving wordies smiling, thanked the King of the great honours that he did him, and alsoo for the great plesirs and kyndness, that the King had showed and done unto him, sython his arrival, and at divers times before; and the King took the King of Castyll on his left hand, and in good ordnance Road towards the said Castyl of Windsor, the Officers of Arms bearing their Cots of Arms, and the King's Trumpets blew at the meeting, and so by the way, etc. the Earl of Derby bar the Sword right before the King. Hit is to be noted, that there was many Noble men verily well appointed, both in Cloth of Gold and Goldsmyth work, as my Lord Marquis, th'earl of Kent, therll of Derby, the Lord Henry Stafford, with many and divers odir Noble and Gentlemen, which all for the most part, were in Velvet, and oder silks, right honourably apparelled; and when the Kings entered the furst yate of the Castyll, the Mynstrells and Shack●uth played, and when they approached near the place where they alighted, the King of Castyll tarried, and would have alighted before the King, but the King would not suffer him, but took him forth with him, and so lighted booth at oons, the King of Castyll sumwhat got before the King, and in like Order, the Lords and odir Noble men, went before the Kings through the Nedar Galarie towards the Hall, and as the King perceyved that the King of Castyl's hat was off, he took of his hat, and would not do hit on again, till the King of Castyl was almost ready to do on his; and so went up the Stairs, and passed through the upper Galarie to the King's great Chamber, which was richly hanged with Cloth of Arras, and a great rich Bed in the same Chamber, where remained the Knights and Esquires, and from thence to the 2d. Chamber which was alsoo richly hanged, where remained Barons and Sic. Baronetts and from thence to the 3d Chamber, which was hanged with a very rich Arras, in the which there was a Cloth of Estate, and as rich a Bed as I have seen, where remained the bishops, Erlls and Officers that attended upon him; and from thence would have conveyed the King of Castill to the 4th Chamber, which was all hangen with rich Cloth of Gold, the bordure above of Cremosin Velvett, and broidered upon the King's Arms, with other the King's devyces, as Roses, Portecolys etc. but the King of Castill excused him, and said, that the King should not take the pain to convoye him to his Logging, then the King showed him, that all that he had passed through was and should be his Logging, and that the King thowght that place honoured by his coming, and called him Son, and said that he was as welcome unto him, as though he had been his own Natural Son, and that his coming was not only agreeable and joyful unto him, but also to all his Subjects, and that that Rome, and all his Servants should be at the Commandment of the said King of Castill, and that he should think that he were come to his own Faders House, and so desired him to go at his plesir to Dyner, or to shuft him: but when the King of Castill perceyved, that that great Logginge was for him, he thanked the King bore headed, for he had taken off his hood a little before, and said, that he was sorry that the King had taken so much labour and pain for him, and for any words or thing that the King might do, he would convoye the King to his Lodging, and so he did; and after the King had showed him his Chamber, and would he should take no further pain, the King would somewhat have reconvoyed him, but the King of Castill would not suffer hit, and so they enter salved the one the odir and departed. Another most magnificent Cavalcade, was that of King Henry the Eighth, and the Knights-Companions into Windesor, upon the 27. of May, in the 11. year of his Reign, being the day preceding the Eve of the Grand Feast (during which he begun his Reformation of the Statutes of the Order) which was ordered as followeth. o MS. in Offic. Armour. [M. 17] fol. 25. On the 27. day of May being Friday, the King removed from Richemont towards his Castle of Windesor, and appointed them about one a Clock at Afternoon the same Friday, that all Noblemen, and oder which should wait upon his Grace, should be ready between Richemont and Honslowe to attend upon him, and in consideration of a scarcity and straitnes of Lodgings, as well as in avoiding and eschewing of the corrupt air, every Nobleman was taxed and rated to a certain number of Horse, that is to say, every Duke at 60 Horses, a Marquis at 50 Horses, every Earl at 40 Horses, every Baron at 30 Horses, every Knight of the Garter Bachelor at 20 Horses, and no odre Knight or Nobleman to have above 16 Horses, with their Carriages and all. And the King, thus right nobly companyed, rode to Colebroke, and at the Sign of the Katherine's Wheel the King took his Courser, and his Henchmen richly apparelled followed, and also the King's Horse of State led, Gartier King of Arms wore his Coat of Arms, the Lord Richard Fox Bishop of Winchester and Prelate of the Order, with many odre great Estates, gave their attendance upon his Highness. The Queen and the Ladies, and their Compaignies stood in the field at the Towns end, besides the high way towards Windesor, to see the King's noble company pass by, and then the Queen road to the Ferry next way to the Castle. The King road by Slow, and so to Eton College, where all they of the College stood along, in manner of Procession, receiving his Grace after their custom. p MS. The King entered Windesor with his great Horses, that is to say nine Coursers with nine Children of Honour upon them, and the Master of the King's Horses upon another great Coursers back, following them, having and leading the King's Horse of Estate in his hand, that is to say, a rich Courser with a rich Saddle, and trapped and garnished following the King, and so entered the Castle. q Ex Lib. praed. M. fol. 26. At the Castle Gate, the Ministers of the College received the King with Procession, and the King and Knights of the Ordre, at the Church door, took their Mantles, and entered the Quere, and stood before their Stalls, till the Sovereign had Offered and returned to his Stall; then every Knight offered according to his, as by the Statute is ordained, and entered their Stallies, which was a long Ceremony or ever they had all offered, because of the great number of Knights that then was present, which were 19 in number besides the Sovereign. r MS. The Offering Doon, the Sovereign and all the foresaid Knights of the Ordre, (putting of their Mantles at the Church Dore) with the Prelate and odre Officers of the Ordre, as the Register, King of Arms, and Huishier of the Ordre, called the Black Rodd, borne by Sir William Compton, according to his Office of Hueshier; all thes road before the King from the College, unto the Quadrate of the Castle, and so conveyed his highness to his Lodging. s MS. The King had attendant on him, all his Officers of Arms, wearing their Coats of Arms; and all his Trumpets, which blew the Entry of the King, all the time of the said Entry. The Lord Montague, Henry Poole, hare the Sword before the King, and Garter King of Arms road next before the Sword, and Sir William Compton road on his left hand, bearing the Black Rodd. t MS. p. 10. & 11. Another Cavalcade offers itself here, namely that of King Philip and Queen Mary, who, after the Marriage solemnised between them at Winchester the 15. of July 1554. arrived at Windesor the 3. of Aug. following, where, at the nether end of Pescod-street, they were met by the Major of Windesor and his Brethren, and thence (the Trumpets sounding) they Proceeded with the Officers of Arms before them, into th● Castle, till they arrived at the West door of the Chapel, where was prepared a Form with Carpets and Cushions, and at their entry, the Bishop of Winchester sensed them. The Queen having received the Mantle of the Order, with a reverential kiss from the Earl of Derby and Penbroke (to whom it had been presented by the Register of the Order) put it upon the King (assisted by the said Earls) the Earls of Arundel and Penbroke, receiving the Collar of the Order from Garter, presented it to the Queen (with the like Ceremony as was the Mantle) who put it about the King's Neck. Then all the Knights Companions put on their Mantles, within the Chapel Dore, and Proceeded into the Choir, and stood before their Stalls according to ancient Order. Then the Queen went into her Stall, taking the King by the Hand, and setting him in the same Stall with her, and after a little space, they both descended and Proceeded up to the High Altar (the Queen keeping the right hand) and there Offered; after which, they returned to their Stall, where they reposed themselves, while all the Knights Companions present did Offer, according to their Degree, and had taken their Stalls according to their ancient Custom. Then was Te Deum, and de Profundis sung, which being finished, they came all down from their Stalls, and Proceeded to the Chapter House Door, where the King, and all the Knights Companions put off their Mantles; and immediately going out of the Chapel, they took their Horses at the Chapel Dore, and Proceeded in Order, up to the Castle, where they reposed themselves that night. In the last place, we may properly add the duty of the College of the royal Chapel of St. George, touching their Reception of the Sovereign, upon special occasions; to wit, the manner to be observed by them in their Proceeding, to meet the Sovereign of the Order, at his first coming thither in his royal State, or in his return after some great Victory, or extraordinary Action performed, or some Foreign or unwonted Achievement; according to the most decent manner there observed, by the most invincible Prince King Henry the Fifth, in the 9 year of his Reign: at which time he ordained, that this his Ceremonial should be firmly observed for ever, in the like cases. The same in u Lib. N p. 307▪ effect is also appointed by King Henry the Eighth, only the direction is put into other words, and where the title of Custos is in the former Precedent used, in the latter, that of the Dean is inserted instead thereof, and is as followeth. w Regist. Char. tac. fol. 9 b. In the first place, a Form or Bench decently adorned, being placed after the usual manner, in the midst between the Chapel of the College and the uttermost gate of the Castle, the Custos and Canons are there to meet with all the Officers of the College, each in their proper order and Habits, having a handsome Cross carried before them, with two Torchbearers, and two Censers. The Register of the Order bearing the King's Mantle, is to present it to his Majesty, who being therewith invested by the Custos, assisted by the signior Canon, the King is to be Censed five times, and then taking the Cross to kiss, from the hand of the Custos, or some one of the more eminent Prelates then present, he is to be conducted, in way of Procession, to the Chapel, the Knights-Companions present vested with their Mantles, going orderly immediately before the King, until he hath arrived at the Faldstool before the high Altar, for that purpose adorned, and there kneeling, till the end of the Responsory, to be sung by the Choir, at his arrival, by appointment of the Preceptor, to wit, Honour Virtus, or some such like, answerable to the Affair in hand, with a Prayer also correspondant▪ And then kissing the venerable part of the Cross of our Lord, and the Heart of St. George, he is to offer, and then to betake himself to his Stall, and there to sit, till the Knights of the Order have also offered, each in their turns, and placed themselves again in their Stalls, and until the Anthem De Profundis hath been sung by the Canons, with the accustomed Prayers; then the Knights-Companions are to descend from their Stalls into the Choir, each of them bowing himself towards the Altar, every time they so come down, and thence proceed through the middle of the Choir,, unto the place where the Chapter is to be celebrated, at the hour of Tierce, the Sovereign of the Order following in the last place, as in all other Processions, and consequently in his absence, his Deputy doing the same. These things thus performed, they are to get up on Horseback, and conduct the Sovereign into the place appointed by the Statutes; and the Proceeding being finished, the Bells are to ring at convenient seasons. Ecclesiastical Processions. As touching Ecclesiastical Processions, they are of great antiquity in the Christian Church; some are ordinary and stative, other extraordinary or indictive. The Ordinary, are those celebrated on Ascension-day, mentioned by x Hom. 28. & S●●m. ad Ascen. D●m. St. Chrisostom, and on the Purification, by y Serm. 172. & 173. St. Austin, Rabanus, St. Bernard, and divers others. The Extraordinary are commanded and appointed by authority on several occasions; such was that which z Lib. 7. Hist. Eccl. cap. 10. Sozimus makes mention of, at the translation of the Relics of St. Miletus. So also that of a Ruffinus li 2. c. 5. Socrat. l. 3. c. 19 Theod. li. 3. cap 9 the Christians of Antioch (when julian the Apostate commanded the Coffin of St. Babilas to be removed) who went a Procession with their Women and Children, rejoicing and singing David's Psalms, and removed the Relics of St. Babylas, from Daphney to Antioch. A like Procession do we find celebrated, within the most Noble Order of the Garter, on b Collect Tho. Wriothesley Mil Garter. penes W le Neve Cl. p. 3. Wednesday in Easter week, being the 27. of March 1504 at Greenwich, upon reception of that noble Relic the c Collect Tho. Wriothesley Mil Garter. penes W le Neve Cl. p. 3. right Leg of St. George, sent to King Henry the Seventh, then Sovereign, from the Cardinal of Rowen being Lega●, by a Chaplain of his own, an Augustine and Abbot of— by Meaux; which was most solemnly ordered in the following manner. d Collect Tho. Wriothesley Mil Garter. penes W le Neve Cl. p. 3. First, as the Orator of the Legate was landed, which landed before the Friars yat of Greenwiche, he did on a surplis and a cope, holding St. George's Leg in his hand, which was goodly garnished in Silver, like a Knight's Leg armed with a gilt Spor, etc. and immediately upon his arrival, there went to meet the said Relic, first the King's Chapel, all in Copis, with Cross etc. and on every side of the Chapel, were divers Yeomen of the Guard in their beaten Cotys of Goldsmith work, bearing certain Torches brenning, then the Bishop of Chestre in Pontificalibus, the Dean on his left hand, and on every side of them certain of the Officers of Arms, than followed the Kings of Arms, and next them the Knights of the Order, bearing their Mantle and Collars of the Ordre, that is to say, the Marquis of Dorset, the Erll of Surrey, the Erll of Shrewysbyry, the Erll of Essex, the Lord Dawbeny the King's Chamberlain, the Lord Herbert, Sir Thomas lovel Treasurer, and Sir Rich. Gilford Controller of the Household, and next the Knights of the Order, followed the odir Lords and Noblemen, after their Estates and Degrees in great nombre; and when the Bishop approached near the Legates Orator, which was assisted by two Doctors, being Chappellyns to the King. The Bishop censed the Relic, and then the Legates Orator, bearing the Said saint George's Leg, went between the Bishop and the Dean, and returned in lick ordre till they came to the King's Chapel, where the Leg was set on the high Aultre, and then the Choir sange O George, Pag. 4. etc. that done the Knights and Officers went up into the Gallery, and there did off their Mantles, and the Officers of Arms their Cotys of Arms, and from thence all the Noblemen went into the King's great Chambre, to attend upon his Grace, which immediately went to Mass, and at Offering time his Highness kissed and offered the Leg, and so the second Relic remained in the King's Chapel; and after Mass the King returned to his great Chambre where he dined, etc. with God's blessing and Saint George. Again, of Processions some are called e Synod. August. cap. 20. & cap. 23. Lugubres, i. e. mournful; which seems to us to be properly termed Supplications, being to implore some help, or to avert some evil impending, wherein Litanies were also used, as that of The do●us the younger, who instituted a Litany to supplicate for fair weather, and a mild temper of the Air; wherein, as f Lib 14. cap 2. Nicephorus saith, the Supplicants went in Procession with Hymns and Adorations, Theodosius himself going before them in a mean Habit, singing of Psalms; and thereupon the face of the Heavens changed, the troubled Air grew calm and serene, and plenty of all things ensued; and whilst the Litany in our Book of Common-Prayer was used, the Grand Procession of the Order might well be cast among the Lugubres, and in some places of the g An. 28 & 30. Eliz. & 14. jac. R. Blue Book we see it is so called; being only upon this occasion sung walking; h See Dr. tailor's Preface to his Collection of Offices. a gesture more anciently used, than the posture of kneeling or standing. Others are called Letae, i. e. joyful; which are to give thanks for blessings received: And such is the nature of the Hymn, appointed (by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions command) to be sung in the Grand Procession of the Order, an. 15. Car. 2. instead of the Litany, and since continued. Having immediately before delivered somewhat of Proceedings, Military, Civil, and Ecclesiastical; we shall now pass on to the Grand Procession of this most Noble Order itself, which consists of persons Military, Civil, and Ecclesiastical: The Military are the Sovereign, the Knights-Companions, and Alms-Knights; the Civil are the Officers of the Order, Officers of Arms, and other Attendants; and lastly, the Ecclesiastical are the prebend's of the College, the Choire-men and Choristers. And in reference to this magnificent Solemnity (whether it fell out to be celebrated at Windesor, or at any other place, where the Sovereign kept his Court) we are to consider, the (1.) Time, when this great Ceremony took its beginning; next, the proper (2.) Place or Processional way; then the (3.) Order and Manner of the Solemnity; and lastly, the (4.) Pomp and State thereof. The Grand Procession hath been always celebrated, 1. The time when the Grand Procession begins. in the morning of the Feast day of St. George, or upon such other day, as the Sovereign hath appointed to hold the same by Prorogation; but as to the instant of time when it began, we find it divers and uncertain; but those variations make no very great difference, having been ordered and appointed with considerations had to conveniency, and at such a part of the Church Service, as was conceived most proper, and generally after the end of the last Collect, appointed for the morning, in our Book of Common-Prayer, immediately before the Litany. Nevertheless an. 6. Eliz. the Feast being then held at Windesor, we find it began g MS. fol. pen. W.D.N. f. 15. a. presently after the Te Deum was sung, and an. 20. of the said Queen's Reign (at Greenwich) h MS. pen. G. O.Y pag. 114 after the reading of the second Lesson. Again an. 22. jac. R. it is said to begin i Lib. R. p. 20. when the second Morning Service was celebrating, and almost half done. And to come nearer our times, the Grand Procession set forward an. 8. Car. 1. when k Collect. W. le N. Cl. the first Service was finished, and an. 17. Car. 1. l Palmers Iourn. p. 40. after the Sermon. But at the Grand Feast solemnised at Windesor in the 13. year of the present Sovereign, and since, it took beginning at the most usual and accustomed time, viz. when the Prelate (then officiating at the Altar) came to that part of the Common Prayer where the Litany was next to begin. Who there making a pause, was conducted from the Altar by the Sergeant of the Vestry, down to his Seat. We come next to the second consideration, 2. The Processional way. which is the compass of the Proceeding, or the Processional way; and that we observe, not to have been always one and the same at Windesor; for sometimes we find it confined within the walls of St. George's Chapel, but at other times enlarged through the lower Court of the Castle (in divers places of the Registers called also the Churchyard) a few memorial in both cases are left unto us, though none of very ancient date: as An. 15. jac. R. o Lib. C. p. 190. The Sovereign and whole assembly of the Knights-Companions, going out at the West door (of the Chapel) in remarkable pomp and order, proceeded about the bounds of the Churchyard; that is, (as is elsewhere of the same Procession more particularly expressed) p MS. penes ●. W. G. from the Choir through the middle Isle (or Nave of the Chapel) out at the West door, down to the Castle Gate, so through the passage into the Cloister, and by the Chapterhouse door again into the Choir. To which purpose, doth the q Pag. 41. Red Book briefly describe the passage of the Grand Procession an. 4. Car. 1. and yet more particularly, the Grand Procession (celebrated at Windesor in the 15. year of the present Sovereign's Reign) passed down the Middle I'll of the Chapel, through the West door, and so along the lower Ward of the Castle, near unto the Castle Gate; from whence ascending towards the Alms-Knights old Lodgings, unto, and through the passage, between the East end of the Chapel, and the Tomb-house, into the Cloister, it entered into the Chapel, by the door near the Chapterhouse, and from thence proceeding down the North Isle unto the West door, and up through the aforesaid Middle I'll, it reentered the Choir. But when the Sovereign hath pleased to shorten this great Ceremony, which, either through his r Lib. R. p. 20. indisposition of health (as an. 22. jac. R. when being so extremely taken with the Gout, that he was s Lib. R. p. 20. carried, during the Grand Procession, in a Chair) or, upon other like occasion he has sometimes done, than the Grand Proceeding hath passed out at the East door of the Chapel, and going through part of the Churchyard, hath entered the Chapel again at the South door, and so into the Choir; or else t Lib. R. p. 62. through the South door, and returning by the Cloister, at the East end of the Chapel, hath passed thence to the West door, then up the Nave, and so ascended again into the Choir, as an. 6. of the same King. Moreover, upon foulness of Wether, the Grand Procession hath been celebrated within the coverture of the Chapel, as u MS. penes Edw. Fauconbridge gen. an. 1. Car. 1. But more fully for the same cause (abundance of Rain) doth the Register observe, that an. 9 Car. 1. it w Lib. R. pag. 85. passed from the Choir to the West door of the Chapel, whence turning to the left, it proceeded through the South I'll, and coming about by the East door, descended at length by the North I'll again to the West door, and thence through the Nave of the Chapel it returned into the Choir. And this x Ex Collect Io. Vincent. gen. Processional way was in like necessity made use of, both by the Duke of Norfolk, the Sovereign's Lieutenant for the Feast holden an. y Ex Collect Io. Vincent. gen. 5. Eliz. as also by the present Sovereign, an. z Lib. Carol. pag. 29. 13. Car. 2. And because it is necessary to know, which is the way where the Grand Procession hath usually passed, in other places honoured with the celebration of the Feast of St. George, aswell as the Castle of Windesor, it will be requisite here to describe the same, and set them down; and first we shall show how it lies at Whitehall, the whole passage having been (both a MS. penes G.O.Y. p. 113. & 123. formerly and of b Collect. W. le N. Cl. late) strewed with Rushes upon this occasion. Here, the Grand Procession sets forth from the c MS. penes W. D. N. middle of the Choir (as in all other places) and so on, to the outward Chapel door, thence through the Hall, and the left entrance of the Screen towards the Thames, then to the Hall Porch, and so along on the right hand of the great Court (sometimes called the Utter, or outwardmost Court of the Palace, as an. d MS. penes G.O.Y. loco cit. vide etiam Collect. R. C. Cl. 2.3.5.7. and 26. Eliz. and e Lib. R. p. 94. & 107. 10. & 11. Car. 1.) towards, and beyond the Signet Office, then turning on the left hand towards the Court Gate, and yet on the left hand (on that side of the Court which formerly lay towards the Terrace, but now near the covered Walk) it passeth in at the Hall Porch, and enters the Hall at the right entrance of the Screen, and thence into the old Chapel, and so into the New. Where note, that in all solemn Processions, where the return is to the same place, the regular turning is on the left, not right hand; and this the present Sovereign well understood, when at the Grand Feast held at Whitehall, an. 19 Car 2. the Foot Guards having made a Lane on the left hand of the great Court, along by the covered walk, for the Proceeding to pass through, and a great part of the Proceeding had gone that way, so soon as the Sovereign came to the steps descending into the Court, (for by reason the Hall was shut up, being employed for Masks and Scenes, the Proceeding passed from the Chapel up Stairs into the Guard-Chamber, and so into the Court) He discovering the Error, caused all to come back, and proceed on the right hand of the Court, towards the Hall Porch and Signet Office, and make their return upon the left hand, according to the right rule of turnings in solemn Proceedings. At Greenwich we find the Grand Processional way an. 20. Eliz. f MS. penes W. D. N. led out of the Chapel, through the Hall, beneath the Screen, and thence going round about the 2 d. Court, came in at the South Door, in the upper end of the Hall, and so along the Hall again into the Chapel. And when the Feast was celebrated at the City of York an. 17 Car. 1. The g Palmers Iourn. pag. 40 Grand Proceeding passed out of the Choir, and marched round the inside of the Church only, and then returned back into the Choir, as it is usually observed at Windesor, in rainy weather. Once, viz. an. 20 H. 7. the Grand Procession was solemnised in St. Paul's Church London, of which the Black Book of the Order gives but this short account. h Pag. 177. The most Illustrious Sovereign of the ●arter solemnly made his Procession in St. Paul's Church London. But i Ex ips. Au●eg●. an old memorial calls this the Grand Procession, and notes it to pass about the Church as the Custom was, k Ex ips. Au●eg●. to which solemnity there flocked as great a multitude of People, as had been seen in that Church, at any time before. Lastly, The way through which the Grand Procession passeth, (wheresoever Celebrated) is fenced in by the Yeomen of the Guard, and the Knights-Companions Attendants and Servants, who standing on both sides, make a spacious Lane for it to pass through, and keep off the Crowd, from pressing upon it. The third consideration relating to the Grand Procession, 3. The Order in Proceeding. is the Order and Manner thereof; and herein (as to particulars) the more ancient times afford us very little light. Nevertheless, that the same hath been Celebrated (even from the Institution of the Order) as part of those Ceremonies used to set forth the solemnity of St. George's Feast, we have collective Evidence enough; and that, not only at Windesor, but other places, where the Anniversary of St. George hath been kept and observed. To proceed then; What the Order of this Ceremony anciently was, may be collected from that which an Old Relator saith (where he sets down the order of the solemn Procession made the l Ex Lib. M. 17. in Offic. Armour. pag. 27. 29. of May, an. 5 H. 8.) namely, that it was Ordered m Ex Lib. M. 17. in Offic. Armour. pag. 27. as of old time accustomed. Now the Proceeding he speaks of, was marshaled in this manner. n Ex Lib. M. 17. in Offic. Armour. pag. 27. First went the Alms-Knights, two and two on either side the Choir, than the Officers of Arms, next after whom, came the Knights-Companions, after them the Officers of the Order, and then went the Prelate of the Order, bearing the Heart of St. George, under a Canopy honourably assisted, four Noblemen at the Corners bearing each a Torch, and last of all the Sovereign. And though here is no mention made of any ecclesiastics that joined in this Proceeding, yet if we consider, that throughout this Grand Ceremony, some part of the Divine Office of the Church was Sung (which until of late was Gither the Litany, or Te Deum,) it cannot be supposed, that the Chaplains and Priests were left out. And to clear this doubt, we have happily met with another Old Observator, who informs us, That the o Ex lib. L. 1. in Offic. Arm. pag. 17. Priests not only went in the Grand Procession, but had a place assigned in it, where the Gentlemen of the Sovereign's Chapel and Choir of Windesor, now go. But it must be confessed, that the Records of the Order, are defective in this particular relating to the Grand Procession, and speak not otherwise of it, then in general, or at most, take notice but of some of those Degrees, that attended in it, and this, but of late time neither; amongst which an. 23 Eliz. it is said, that p Lib. C. p. 8●. they all Proceeded in order, as the Custom was, the Sovereign following in the Rear of the Procession. As to Place and Precedency, not only among them who Proceed here in Bodies, but also those that walk singly by themselves, it is the same, in all points, with the Sovereign Proceeding to the Chapel, on the Eve of the Grand Feast: (Concerning which we have q Chap. 20. Sect. 2. already spoken largely enough) only here are some Persons added, which go not in that, namely the Gentlemen and Choristers of the Sovereign's Chapel at Whitehall, and the Petty Canons, Vicars, and Choristers of Windesor; the whole Order is as followeth. The Morning Service having proceeded to the end of the second Lesson, and the Prelate conducted by the Sergeant of the Vestry from the Altar to his Seat, with usual Reverences, The Alms-Knights rise from their Seats and pass to the middle of the Choir, and after their accustomed Reverences, go up to the sides of the Altar. Next, in like manner, do the Officers of Arms pass up. Hereupon Garter riseth from his Seat, and makes his Reverences, then waving his Rod, summons the junior Knights-Companions to descend. Whilst they and the rest of the Knights are leaving their Stalls, with usual Reverences, the Gentlemen of the Chapel, Petty Canons and Vicars of Windesor put on Copes, and make themselves ready to proceed. Then the Knights-Companions being all come down, and having made their accustomed Reverences, stand each under his proper Stall. Then the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register rise, and after Reverences made, stand before their Forms. So do the Chancellor and Prelate. This done, the Alms-Knights came down from the Altar, and passing into the middle of the Choir, make again their double Reverences, and proceed out of the Choir. After them, all the Choristers pass in a body to the middle of the Choir, and having made their double Reverences (so do all that follow) proceed forth, two and two. So do the Vicars of Windesor. Next four of the Petty Canons come from their Seats, into the middle of the Choir, and there begin to sing the Hymn. Then followeth the Sergeant of the Vestry, bearing his gilt Rod. After whom, the Gentlemen of the Chapel at Whitehall. Next, the Verger of Windesor Chappel, bearing his Silver Rod. Then the prebend's of Windesor. After whom, the Officers of Arms come down from the Altar, and pass on. Then the Knights-Companions, the juniors first. Then the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register. The Chancellor and Prelate. The Nobleman that bears the Sword of State. Then the Sovereign above in his Stall, makes a Reverence towards the Altar, and being descended, another below, then passeth out and enters under the Canopy, which waits him at the Choir door, having his Train carried up; the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, if he be not a Knight of the Order, attending somewhat behind the side of the Canopy, on the Sovereign's right hand, and the Vice-Chamberlain at the like distance on his left, for so they waited in the Grand Procession an. 23. Car. 2. And lastly, the Band of Pensioners, who attend in Guard on each side the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, with their Captain in the head of them. In this order (at this day) they proceed with great devotion, the whole Choir singing the Office appointed, which heretofore was the Litany; but that Supplicational Procession, is now converted into a Hymn of Thanksgiving, composed by the Reverend Doctor Brune Ryves, the present Dean of Windesor, and Register of the Garter, at the command of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions in Chapter, held the 17. of April an. 13. Car. 2. which follows here. An Hymn to be sung in the Procession at St. George's Feast instead of the Litany. judg. 5. ● HEar, O ye Kings; give ear, O ye Princes: I, even I will sing unto the Lord; I will sing praises unto the God of Israel. The Lord is my Rock, Psal. 18.2. and my Fortress, and my Deliverer, my God, my Strength, in whom I trust: my Buckler, the Horn of my Salvation, and my high Tower. The Lord is my Strength, Exod. 15.2. and my Song: and he is become my Salvation. The Right hand of the Lord is become Glorious in Power: The Right hand of the Lord hath dashed in pieces the Enemy. In the greatness of thy Excellency thou hast overthrown them, that rose up against thee: who is like unto thee, O Lord, amongst the Gods: who is like unto thee, glorious in Holiness, fearful in praises, doing Wonders. Sing aloud therefore unto God, Psal. 81.1. our Strength: make a joyful Noise to the God of Jacob. CHORUS. I will sing unto the Lord: for he hath triumphed gloriously: Exod. 15.1. To day will we sing this Song, We have a strong City: Salvation will God appoint for Walls, and Bulwarks: Isay 26.1. The Princes of the People are gathered together, Psal. 47.9. even the People of the God of Abraham: for the Shields of the Earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted. We will therefore rehearse the righteous Acts of the Lord: judg. 5.11. even his righteous Acts towards the Inhabitants of the Villages of Israel. We will not hide them from our Children, Psal. 78.4. showing to the generations to come the praises of the Lord: and his Strength, and his wonderful Works, that he hath done. That the generation to come might know them, even the Children, which should be born: who shall arise, and declare them to their Children. That they may set their Hope in God: and not forget the works of God, but keep his Commandments. Sing unto the Lord therefore, Psal. 30.3. O ye Saints of his: and let us give thanks for a remembrance of his Holiness. Sing aloud unto God, Psal. 81: 1. our Strength: make a joyful Noise unto the God of Israel. CHORUS. The Lord is my Strength, and my Song: and he is become my Salvation: Exod. 15.2. We will be glad, Psal. 31.7. and rejoice in thy mercy, O Lord: for thou hast considered our trouble, and hast known our Soul in Adversities. For our Sins thou didst cast our Crown to the Ground: Psal. ●07. 40. thou powredst contempt upon our Princes, and causedst them to wander in the Wilderness, where there is no way. Thou gavest us like Sheep appointed for slaughter: Psal. 44.11. and didst scatter us among the Nations. Thou madest us a reproach to our Neighbours: ae Scorn, and a Derision to them, that are round about us. Thou madest us a Byword among the Heathen: a shaking of the Head among the People. Thou didst deliver thy Strength into Captivity, Psal. 78.612 and thy Glory into the Enemy's hand. Thou gavest thy People over also unto the Sword: and w●st wroth with thine Inheritance. Nevertheless, Psal. 106.44. thou didst regard our Afflictions: and heardest our Cry, and didst repent, according to the Multitude of thy Mercies. But, Psal. 32.7. as the Lord was our hiding-place, and did preserve us in the midst of our trouble: so at last he hath compassed us about with Songs of Deliverance. For the Lord did awake, Psal. 78.65. as a man out of sleep: and like a Mighty man, that shouteth by reason of Wine. His anger endureth, Psal. 30.5. but a Moment; in his favour is life: Weeping may endure for a Night; but joy cometh in the Morning. God hath turned our Mourning into Dancing: he hath put off our Sackcloth, and girded us with Gladness; To the end, that our Tongues may sing praises unto thee, O Lord; and not be silent: O Lord our God, we will give thanks unto thee for Ever. CHORUS. The Salvation of Israel is come out of Zion, the Lord hath brought back the Captivity of his People: Therefore shall jacob rejoice, and Israel shall be glad: Psal. 14.7. O! that men would therefore praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wondrous Works to the Children of Men: Psal. 107.8. Psal. ●. 4. Thou, O God, hast maintained my Right, and my Cause: thou sattest in the Throne, judging right. Thou hast rebuked the Rebellious: thou hast destroyed the Wicked; and hast put out their Name for Ever and Ever. Psal. 37.35. I have seen the Wicked in great power: and spreading himself like a green Bay-tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo! he was not: I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the End of that Man is Peace. Psal. 85.1. Lord, thou hast been favourable unto thy Land: Thou hast brought back the Captivity of thy People. Thou hast forgiven the Iniquity of thy People: Thou hast covered all their Sin. Thou hast taken away all thy Wrath: Thou hast turned thyself from the fierceness of thine Anger. Psal. 18.49. Therefore will we give thanks unto thee, O Lord; among the People: and sing Praises unto thy Name in the great Congregation. Psal. 81.1. Sing aloud unto God, our Strength: make a joyful Noise unto the God of Israel. CHORUS. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his Mercy endureth for Ever. Let the Redeemed of the Lord say so: whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the Enemy: Psal. 106.1, 2. Psal. 46.8. O come hither, and behold the Works of the Lord: what Desolations he hath made in the Earth. He maketh Wars to cease unto the ends of the Earth: He breaketh the Bow, and cutteth the Spear in sunder, and burneth the Chariots in the fire. Psal. 65.7. He hath stilled the noise of the Seas: the noise of their Waves, and the Tumult of the People. Psal. 68.30. He rebuked the Company of the Spear-men, the Multitude of the Bulls with the Calves of the People: till every one submitteth himself with pieces of Silver: He hath scattered the People, that delight in War. Psal. 75.3. He hath broken the Arrows of the Bow: the Shield, the Sword, and the Battle. Psal. 98.1. O! come therefore, let us sing unto the Lord a new Song; for he hath done marvelous things: His right Hand, and his holy Arm hath gotten him the Victory. Psal. 60.4. For he hath given a Banner to them, that fear him: that it may be displayed because of the Truth. CHORUS. The Lord is a Man of War: the Lord is his Name: Exod. 15.3. The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of jacob is our refuge: Psal. 46.11. O! clap your Hands therefore, all ye People: shout unto God with the voice of Triumph: Ps. 47.1. Great deliverance giveth he to the King: Psal. 18.50. and showed mercy to his Anointed, and to his Seed for evermore. Then he made him, judg. 5.13. that remained, to have Dominion over the Nobles among the People: the Lord made him have Dominion over the Mighty. And he shall be as the Light of the Morning, 2 Sam. 23.4. when the Sun riseth, even a Morning without Clouds: as the tender Grass springing out of the Earth, by clear shining after Rain. Thou, Psal. 18.43. O Lord, that hast delivered him from the strive of his People: Thou, that hast made him head of those, that rose up against him: Let his Glory be still great in thy Salvation: Psal. 21.5. increase daily that Honour, and Majesty, which thou hast laid upon him. Fasten him as a Nail in a Sure place: Esay 22.23. and let him be for a Glorious Throne to his Father's house. And hang upon him all the Glory of his Father's house: the Offspring, and the Issue. And let all the People say Amen. CHORUS. The Lord hear him in the day of his trouble; the Name of the God of jacob defend him: Psal. 20.1. Send him help from the Sanctuary, and strengthen him out of Zion. 2. Grant him according to his own Heart's desire: and fulfil all his Counsel. 3. We will rejoice in thy Salvation, O Lord, and in the name of our God will we set up our Banners: The Lord fulfil all his Petitions. 4. The King shall joy in thy Strength, Psal. 21.1. O Lord: and in thy Salvation how greatly shall he rejoice? Thou hast given him his heart's desire: and hast not withheld the request of his Lips. For thou preventest him with the Blessings of Goodness: Thou hast set a Crown of pure Gold upon his head. Thou hast made him most Blessed for ever: Thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy Countenance. For the King trusteth in the Lord: and, through the mercy of the most high, he shall not miscarry. Thou wilt prolong the King's life: Psal. 61. ●. and his Years, as many Generations. CHORUS. O satisfy him with a long life: and show him thy Salvation: Psal. 91.16. Keep thy mercy with him for evermore: and let thy Covenant stand fast with him: Psal. 89.28. Make his Seed also to endure for Ever: and his Throne as the days of Heaven. 29. clothe his Enemies with shame; but upon himself let his Crown flourish: Psal. 132.18. How excellent is thy loving kindness, Psal. 36.7. O Lord: therefore the Children of men put their trust in the Shadow of thy Wings. Whom have we in Heaven, Psal. 73.25. but Thee, and there is none upon Earth, that we desire, besides Thee. Many, Psal. 40.5. O Lord our God, are thy wondrous Works, which thou hast done: and thy Thoughts, which are to usward, they cannot be reckoned up in order to Thee. If we should declare, and speak of them: they are more, then can be Numbered. Psal. 68.35. O Lord our God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: The God of Israel is he, that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God. CHORUS. Rejoice, rejoice, O ye People: for the Lord will be merciful unto his Land, and to his People: Deut. 32.43. The Lord will give Strength unto his People: the Lord will bless his People with Peace: Psal. 29.11. For who is God, save the Lord? or who is a Rock, save our God? Psal. 18.31. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say Amen, Praise ye the Lord: Psal. 106.48. Glory be to the Father, etc. Amen. The Grand Procession, when it hath been celebrated at Whitehall (or elsewhere beside Windesor) is for the most and principal part, ordered after the foresaid manner, as may be seen by the following Scheme. Sergeant of the Vestry with his gilt Rod. Choristers, in Surplices. Gentlemen of the Chapel, in Copes. Subdean, in a Cope. Dean of the Chapel, in a Cope. Officers of Arms. Knights-Companions. Officers of the Order. The Sword. Sovereign, under a Canopy, with his Train carried up. The Pensioners, as before. But in what this Grand Procession differs from that celebrated at Windesor, we shall here note. 1. Here the Sergeant of the Vestry leads the Proceeding, and is followed by the Choristers. 2. The prebend's and Choir of Windesor, and the Alms-Knights are here wanting. 3. The Subdean, and Dean of the Chapel, are r Collect. W. le N. Cl. taken in, and proceed next to the Gentlemen of the Chapel, to whom sometimes the Sovereign's s Collect. W. le N. Cl. Almoner hath joined himself. 4. Whilst the Knights-Companions are descending from their Stalls, the t Collect. W. le N. Cl. Gentlemen of the Chapel go into the Vestry, to put on their Copes; but the u Collect. W. le N. Cl. Dean of the Chapel hath his brought into the Choir, which he puts on below under his Seat. 5. Lastly, in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, the w MS. fol. pen. praef. W. D. N. fol. 20. b. 4. The State and Pomp whereof. Lady's Attendants went with the Pensioners on either side the Sovereign. The State and Pomp of this Grand Procession, appears both solemn and magnificent to the Eyes of the beholders, since the glory thereof is much augmented, by the (1.) splendour of the Sovereign's Apparel, Canopy, and Train; the (2.) Lustre in which the Knights-Companions shine; the (3.) various Habits of the rest of the Proceeding; the (4.) rich Apparel of the Retinue attending thereupon; and (5.) last, the solemnity of the vocal Music. We have already drawn into this x Chap. 7. discourse, Sovereign's Under Habit. an account of the Sovereign's whole Habit of the Order, and set forth the glory of his Robes, the richness of his Garter, Collar, and George; what falls to have place here, is only the Apparel or Under Habit, provided for him against this high Festival, and this was heretofore made of Cloth of Gold, Cloth of Baudkin, and other the richest materials, which in their several times were most in fashion and use; the same being set out and adorned with costly Embroideries of Gold, Pearl, and precious Stones, and suitable thereunto were the ornamental Trim. If we look so far back, as to the time of the Institution of the Order, we shall see, that the Founder caused to be made for him, against the fir●t Feast of St. George, these Garments following. A a Ex Cor●po●. Io. Coke Cler. magna Ga●drob. à an. 21. ad an. 23. E. 3. m. 9 joump containing 4 els of Blue Taffeta b Ex Cor●po●. Io. Coke Cler. magna Ga●drob. à an. 21. ad an. 23. E. 3. m. 9 powdered with Garters, the Buckles and Pendants Silver and gilt, and no less than c Ex Cor●po●. Io. Coke Cler. magna Ga●drob. à an. 21. ad an. 23. E. 3. m. 9 72 Buckles were used about it, and as many Pendants to adorn it. As also another d Ex Cor●po●. Io. Coke Cler. magna Ga●drob. à an. 21. ad an. 23. E. 3. m. 9 joump of Blue Satin, containing 3 els, powdered with e Ex Cor●po●. Io. Coke Cler. magna Ga●drob. à an. 21. ad an. 23. E. 3. m. 9 Blue Garters, and fitted with as f Ex Cor●po●. Io. Coke Cler. magna Ga●drob. à an. 21. ad an. 23. E. 3. m. 9 many Silver and gilt Buckles and Pendants as the former. Besides these, there was also provided for him a g Mem. 11. Satin Coat, a Cloak and Hood, with h Mem. 11. 100 Garters, fitted with 100 Silver Buckles, as many Silver Pendants, and i Mem. 11. 300 Bars of Silver. But let this suffice; for in recounting things of this nature, the task would be endless, and the satisfaction but to a few: Nevertheless those who are curious to be informed, of the Robes and Habits of our Kings, throughout the last f●●● Centuries, may meet with sufficient satisfaction (even in the qualities and particulars of all the Materials) among the Accounts of the Great Wardrobe, in the Exchequer at Westminster. The Registers of the Order have in them but light touches of this concern, and not frequent neither; yet such as they afford shall here follow. Upon Saint George's day an. 13. Eliz. it is noted, that the k Lib. C. p. 62. Sovereign wearing the Collar of the Order, and the rest of the Habit, was pleased, to the great applause of the Spectators, and satisfaction of all Strangers that were there, to grace the Grand Procession itself with her own presence. In the 26. year of her Reign, she went the Grand Procession, wearing the whole Habit of the Order, and a l MS. pen. G. O. Y. pag. 113. Diadem of Pearl on her head; and an. 28. Eliz. m Lib. C. p. 103. being gorgeously attired, in the rich Habit of the Order, went about the Palace (at Whitehall) according to the custom, in Processional Pomp and Supplication. But it must be confessed, that this Queen (and only she, of all the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order) did sometimes publicly proceed to the Chapel (aswell as to the great Closet) and also passed in the Grand Procession, without wearing the whole Habit of the Order, as in the n MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 6. 8. o Collect. R. C. Cl. pag. 9 27. p Ex Collect. 29. and q praef. W. le N. Cl. 30. years of her R●ign. the Feast day of St. George, being then held at Greenwich, and so did she the r MS. fol. pene● W. D. N. fol. 27. following year, when it was kept at Whitehall. But this may admit of some excuse; first as a Woman, she thought herself not so strictly tied, to the exact observation of the Rules of so martial an Order; next, notice is often taken of her indisposition of health, at such times, and the whole Habit, being thought a little too heavy and cumbersome, she only wore the s An. 4. Eliz. Collar of the Order. Howbeit her other Apparel, splendid attire, and the Lustre of her Jewels, (at these Solemnities) exceeded both in richness and glory, all that she wore at other times. Among those things which contribute to the Pomp and State of this great Ceremony, The Canopy. the rich Canopy is not the least; which is born by Knights and Gentlemen of Quality, over the Sovereign's head, while he passeth in the Grand Procession, and till he return to the Choir door. That which was carried an. 18. Eliz. while this solemn Ceremony was in motion, was a certain t Ex e●d. MS. penes ●raefat. G. O. Y. p. 12●. round Canopy of green Taffeta, and born on the sunny side, to shadow the Sovereign from the heat of the Sun: by which description it should rather seem to be an Umbrella, than a Canopy; for generally Canopies are of another Figure, viz. an oblong square, and made either of Silk and Gold rich Cloth of Gold, or Cloth of Tissue; and to suit with both, it is sometimes called u Lib. C. p. 178.185. Umbrella aurea, w Ibid. p. 190. Vmbraculum aureum, x Ibid. p. 99 or Canopium vel Coelum portatile auri, to which there are affixed y Lib. R. p. 30. 6 Golden Staves, wherewith it is supported. The persons appointed to carry the Canopy an. 11. H. 8. were z MS. 4 Knights of the Body, when 4 other Knights bore 4 Wax Tapers; but since, they are the a Collect. W. le N. Cl. Gentlemen of the Sovereign's Privy Chamber in Ordinary, who at the time of the Feast are in waiting. Concerning whom, there is this mention made in the Blue Book, an. 26. Eliz. The g Lib. C. p. 94. Sovereign was pleased to follow the Grand Procession, certain persons being placed already at the Choir door, who wear to bear the Canopy (woven of Gold and Silk) for her to walk under. In her Reign, there were not above b Lib. C. p. 99 & Lib. R. p. 30. 6 appointed for this c A sex Equitibus in altum extenso. service, but of later times they have been increased to double that number; the first mention whereof, that we have met with, is an. d Ex praesat. Collect. W. le N. Cl. 8. Car. 1. The most usual place at Windesor, where the Canopy bearers attend, to receive the Sovereign, when he enters upon the Grand Processions, is at the Choir door (yet once we find they received him e MS. penes E. W. G. sub an. 16. jac. R. without the outer door of the Chapel) and they who bear it make a stand, when the Sovereign returns to the same place, where they received him, while he passeth from under the same into the Choir, to his Royal Stall. At Windesor the Canopy is aswell used, when the Sovereign descends from the Presence Chamber, in the Proceeding to the Chapel, on the Feast day in the Morning, as during the time of Procession; but at Whitehall, it is carried over the Sovereign's head, during the time of the Grand P●●cession only. The Train. In this solemn Proceeding (and at all other times of Public Proceeding, during the continuance of the Feast) the Sovereign hath the long Train of his Mantle, carried up by several of the young Nobility, appointed to this Service; concerning which we shall observe, That this Custom, of holding up the Train, is a very ancient kind of honour; and derived (some think) from the f Erbard. Cellii Aur. Equit. Anglo Wirtemb. Lib. 5. p. 145. Roman Emperors, others from the Popes, Cardinals, and Bishops; who, as they used to kneel down to offer at the Altar, or perform any other part of Divine Service, had the end of hindermost part of their Stoles, or long Robes, held up behind from the ground, by their Arch-D●aecons, in token of great veneration and honour. But what Erhardus Cellius affirms, as more peculiar to our purpose, is this; g Ibid. That as Kings have anciently been accounted Priests, so King Edward, the Founder of this most Noble Order, ordained this sacerdotal honour of the Train, to be added to the Habit of the Order. Which Ceremony of carrying up the Train, as it hath been anciently afforded to Kings, both in England, France, and elsewhere, so at length, it was drawn down into use, by great Personages of both Sexes, at grand Solemnities, Assemblies, Marriages, etc. whereof the foresaid Author gives h Ibid. p. 146. & 147. sundry Examples. A description of the Train, together with the manner of bearing it up, as of the Fashion and Figure, wherein it then shows itself, is also given us by him; for speaking of the Duke of Wirtemberg's Train, that was carried up (according to the English Fashion) at his solemn reception of the whole Habit of the Order of the Garter, he takes occasion to tell us, that this Appendix or Supplement, trailing from the hindermost part of his Mantle, is commonly called Syrma, as being i Ibid. pag. 145. in the likeness of the Tail and Wings, which Nature hath given for ornament to the Peacock. The k Pag. 147. Lady Isabella, Daughter to the French King Henry the Second, when she was married by Proxy to Philip the Second King of Spain, l Retterbusius. an. 1559. had her Train carried up from the ground, by Mary Queen of Scotland (who had been lately married to the Dauphin of France) and two other young Ladies, Sisters of the Bride. This being premised, the Persons, together with their quality, who have had the honour to bear up the Sovereign's Train, at the Grand Festival, or other solemn Assemblies, relating to this most Noble Order, fall in now to be spoken of; they being appointed by the Sovereign, and notice thereof sent unto them, by the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, to the end they may give their attendance accordingly. The ancientest Example we have met with, of performing this Service, in relation to the Solemnities of the Order, is that of m Ex veteri MS. penes W. le N. Cl. cujus faciei inscribitur, The Entertainment of the King of Castille fol. 295. b. an. 21. H. 7. at the Installation of Philip King of Castille, when the Sovereign's Train, as he went to make his Offering at the high Altar, was n Ex veteri MS. penes W. le N. Cl. cujus faciei inscribitur, The Entertainment of the King of Castille fol. 295. b. born up by one of the Canons of the College. Queen Elizabeth had (for the most part) her Train carried up by great Ladies, when she proceeded to the Closet at Whitehall, on the Eve of St. George; and in particular, by the o MS. penes W. D. N. f. ●. b. Lady Marchioness of Northampton, in the third year of her Reign, an. 4. by the p Idem f. 7. b. Duchess of Suffolk, a 5. by the q Fol. 9 b. Duchess of Norfolk an. 6. by the r MS. f. 17. b. Lady Margaret Clifford, Wife to the Lord Strange, in the 7. and 9 years by the s Ibid. fol. 20. & 30. b. Duchess of Somerset, a 8. by the Countess of Rutland, and an. 10. on the Eve of the Grand Feast, by the foresaid Duchess of t Ibid. fol. 30. Suffolk. At other times, this service hath been performed by persons of honour, both men and women together, as on the Grand Feast day an. 19 Eliz. the u MS. fol. penes G. O. Y p. 113. Earl of Oxford bore up the Train of the Sovereign's Robe, and the w MS. fol. penes G. O. Y p. 113. Countess of Derby that of her Kirtle. But an. 5. Eliz. the Duchess of Norfolk carried up the Train both of the x Ex praefat. MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 10. Robe and Kirtle. Sometimes the said Sovereign had her Train carried up by the Register of the Order, as on St. George's day an. y Collect. W. le N. ●l. 2. & z MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 3. b. 3. Eliz. But of late times young Noblemen have performed this Office, the most honourable person, going on the right hand, as a. 3. Car. 1. * Collect. W. le N. Cl. the Duke of Lenox, and Earl of Caernarvon, an. 8. Caer. 1. ‖ Collect. W. le N. Cl. Visc. Grandison, the Lord Wentworth, and the Lord Carew of Leppington. So 8. Oct. an. * Collect. W. le N. Cl. 15 Car. 1. the Duke of Buckingham and his Brother, with the Lord Buckhurst, and Lord Cavendish. Assistants have been usually appointed, to those honourable personages, who carried up the Sovereign Train; and in this quality an. 18. Eliz. the a MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 123. Earl of Oxford, Lord High Chamberlain of England, assisted the Countess of Derby, which service the Vice-Chamberlain had before discharged, for many years together, viz. in the b Videses MS. penes praef. W. D. N. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 th' Years of Queen Eliz. and since the Gentleman of the Robes, for so did c Collect. W. l● N. Cl. Mr. Kirke an. 8, 9, & 11 Car. 1. The place of the Assistant, in the Proceeding, is upon the left hand of the Train-Bearers. This honour of bearing up the Train, hath been in like manner afforded to Stranger Kings, at such times, as they have personally been present at Windesor, and in particular to Philip King of Castille, an. 21. H. 7. who in his approach towards the High Altar, to make his Offering, had his d Collect. Tho. Wriothesley Mil. Garter, fol. 295. b. Train carried up by his own Chamberlain. In like manner the Lieutenants or Deputies to the Sovereign, constituted for holding the Grand Feasts of St. George, (and consequently his representatives) have had their Train carried up, in the Proceedings; For instance, the Earl of Arundel, being the Sovereign's Lieutenant for holding St. George's Feast, an. 31. H. 8. after such times as he had offered for the Sovereign, his e MS in Offic. Arm. [L. 1.] fol. 19 ● Train was let down, when he came to offer for himself, in the quality of a Knight-Companion. And this hath been the usage in all times since. And not only the Train of the Sovereign's Lieutenant or Deputy, but sometimes that of a Stranger Kings Mantle, hath been carried up, when his Proxy proceeded to Installation; as in the case of the French King f MS. fol. 25. b. Charles the Ninth, an. 8. Eliz. when Monsieur Rambovillet, bearing the Mantle of his Principal upon his right Arm, had the Train thereof carried up, by g MS. fol. 25. b. Henry Earl of Southampton, assisted by the h MS. fol. 25. b. Lord Herbert. Furthermore, this Ceremony of bearing up the Train, hath been also performed unto Stranger Princes, in their own Countries, (and that in reference to the Custom of England) at those solemnities relating to this most Noble Order, whereof i Aur. Equiz. Anglowirtemb. Lib. 5. pag. 145. Erhardus Cellius gives us an instance, in Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg, who as soon as he was invested with the Surcoat and Mantle, in the great Hall at Studgardt, proceeded thence to the great Church of St. Vlrick, to receive the rest of the Habit of the Order, having his k Aur. Equiz. Anglowirtemb. Lib. 5. pag. 145. Train born from the ground, by the Noble and Illustrious Count Lodowick Leosten; l Ibid. who likewise carried it after him, throughout the whole Ceremony. And lastly the Knights-Companions have (in this Proceeding) their Trains carried up by their own Gentlemen. Another piece of Ceremony, in the State of this Grand Proceeding, we find m An. 18. Eliz. once added, and that was the bearing of Queen Elizabeth's n MS. praefat. pen●● G. O. Y. pag. 113. Cloak and Hat along with her; the one by Sir William Howard, the other by Sir Christopher Hatton, than Captain of her Guard: but as this was the first, so was it the last time that either of these, are mentioned to be thus publicly carried. 2 Apparel of the Knights-Companions. In the second place, the clothes and Apparel (or under Habit) of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, have for many years past, been made of white Satin, and in the fashion of the times; which the present Sovereign observing to be laid aside, and others introduced, He, to prevent profuseness in Apparel, and emulation among the Knights-Companions, as also to beget an uniformity and equality, among them in the under, no less than in the upper Habit of the Order, thought ●it to appoint a set, and constant Habit of Cloth of Silver, made in the fashion of Trunk Hose, with white silk Stockings, to be worn by himself and them, upon all solemn occasions, relating to the Order; for the observation of which, an o Appendix Num. CLXXX. Order passed in Chapter, an. 13 Car. 2. As to other Ornaments the chiefest are the variety of rich Jewels, which surround or adorn their Caps, and where else they may appear most conspicuous. But besides the glory and splendour, which shoot from the Habits and Ornaments of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, who are principal in this grand Ceremony, there are others, that make up the body of the Proceeding, and may fitly be compared to Stars of the middle and lesser magnitude, since we find them adorned in Robes particular to their Offices, to distinguish and set off the lustre of the show; among whom are, first, 3. The Officers of the Order. The five Officers of the Order, namely the Prelate, Chancellor, Register, Garter and Black Rod; of whose Habits we have sufficiently spoken p Chap 9 before. The Provincial Kings, Herald's, and Pursuivants, habited in their rich Coats, and going together in one Body, 4. Officers of Arms. appear more conspicuous, from the Royal Arms of the Sovereign of this most Noble Order, richly embroidered upon them with fine gold, purls, and twist; the ground of the Provincial King's Coats, being at this day blue Velvet, the Herald's blue Satin, and the Pursuivants blue Damask. 5. Canons. The Habit in which the Canons of the College proceed, is also peculiar, and more remarkable, because of their particular reference to this most Noble Order: for though as Clergy men, they are vested in Linen Surplices, at all times of Divine Service, or the Celebration of Sacred Offices, yet at the Solemnities peculiar to the Order, they wear a Mantle over those Surplices, which is a Habit appointed for them, from the foundation of the Order. These Mantles are of Taffeta and of the ancient colour, to wit q E. 3. Stat. Art. 5. H. 5. Stat. Art. 5. Murry; upon the r Ord. Stat. in Lib. N. Art. 5. right shoulder of which is a Scutcheon of St. George's Arms within a Rundelet, embroidered with Gold and Silk●; and bought at their own charge, for we do not find them entered among the Liveries of the Garter, provided by the Sovereign. 6. Gentlemen of the Chapel, etc. In Habits yet more glorious, do the Gentlemen of the Sovereign's Chapel at Whitehall, the Petty-Canons, and Vicars of Windesor appear; who at this time are also joined in one Body, to augment the Solemnity: for they are all (or the most part of them) Vested in Rich Coaps of Cloth of Gold, Cloth of Bodkin, or most costly Embroideries: But the Children of the Chapel, and Choristers do always proceed habited, in Surplices of fine Linen. By a memorial we have met with, a. 22 H. 8. we find how well stored this College than was, with such sacred Vestments; when at one Procession appointed by the Sovereign in honour of St. George, there were s MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 32. b. 35. Copes of rich Cloth of Gold made use off. These kind of Vestments, have been in all times worn in the Grand Procession, whether the Grand Feast was kept at Windesor, or at Whitehall, or Hampton-Court, or Greenwich, even to the beginning of the late Wars, in which the covetous barbarism of the then Reformers, sent most of them to the fire; Besides, they are sometimes taken notice of, in the Registers of the Order, to be used in the Grand Procession; as in particular, an. 15 jac. Reg. it is noted, that the t Lib. C. p. 190. whole Choir, being adorned in Copes, (for so we suppose the word Orarium may signify, as well as Dalmatica Vestis) descended from the Altar, and sung the Litany; and to like purpose is that recorded, an. u Lib. R. p. 7. ●ide etiam p. ●0. 21. of the same King. Alms-Knights. 7. Lastly, the Habits of the Alms-Knights [a Mantle and Kirtle] are not unremarkable; they being grave and civil, and both for colour and materials, appear suitable to their Age and Degree. The Mantles are of Cloth, which the Statutes appoint to be of a w E. 3. Art● H 5. Art● H. 8. Stat. Art. 16. Red Colour, with a Shield of the Arms of St. George, but without any Garter to surround them. In conformity whereunto, when Queen Elizabeth's Orders and Rules, for the establishment of good Government, among these Alms-Knights were x An. 1. Eliz. made; It was therein Ordained, that each of them should have yearly for their Livery, a y Artic. 4. Gown of Red, and a Mantle of blue or purple Cloth, with a z Art. 5. Cross of St. George embroidered in a Scutcheon, (without the Garter) but to be set upon the left shoulder. In this Grand Proceeding, we observe the Habits so ordered, that the more grave and civil, being placed between those that are rich and gallant, entertain the Beholders with a more delightful prospect. For such we see are the Officers of the Order, who proceed between the Sovereign and Knights-Companions; the Canons of the College, who pass between the Heralds and Gentlemen of both Chapel; and lastly, the Alms-Knights who go immediately before the Choristers. The Registers of this Noble Order make frequent mention of divers persons of rank and quality, 8. The Sovereign's and Knight's Retinue. who at this Solemnity of St. George, put themselves upon the duty of attendance on the Sovereign, because, otherwise, related to his Service, although in reference to the Order not so concerned, as to be taken into the Proceeding. Such are divers of the Nobility, sometimes great Ladies, many considerable Officers of the Household, and other Courtiers; all richly habited and attired, thereby adding to the Gallantry of this solemn Ceremony. Concerning these it is remembered, an. 35. Eliz. that the Sovereign's Proceeding in public to the Chapel, was not only attended in all points by the Knights-Companions, and a Lib. C. p 123. other of her Nobles, but accompanied also with a great Train of her Ladies of Honour, and a numerous concourse of Foreiners and Dowesticks, looking on and wishing all happiness. Nor may we here omit some other Servants, who attend upon the Sovereign and Knights-Companions at the Feast, they deserving notice, both for their number and rich Liveries. Such were the Henxmen anciently (now called Pages of Honour) who waited on the Sovereign; Upon the Knights-Companions attended divers Gentlemen, wearing Blue Coats, and on their left Sleeves the Cognisances of those Lords whom they waited upon, adorned with valuable Gold Chains: to these we shall add, both Pages and Footmen, always clad in exceeding gallant and rich Liveries. At the Feast of St. George, an. 11. Car. 1. there was Exceptions taken by the Earl Marshal, at the Earl of Berkshires' Servants, for that their Cognisances were adorned with b MS. Coronets set over them, and it was thereupon c MS. Ordered, to be amended against the next occasion of wearing them, upon a public account. And by special directions from the late Sovereign King Charles the First, in the beginning of his Reign, d MS. the Coats of the Footmen, belonging to the Knights of the Order, were then, and for the future, forbid to have the Garter embroidered about their Badges, as being too great an abasement of that first and chiefest Ensign of the Order, to be worn by persons of so mean rank; which excess, for the same reason, deserves reformation, in the Watermen's Badges, too frequently worn within a Garter, in this Age. The Henxmen followed, in the Grand Procession, near to the person of the Sovereign, but the Gentlemen, Pages, and Footmen belonging to the Knights-Companions, did not go in this Proceeding, but were e Collect. W. l N. Cl. marshaled before it set forward, from the Choir door, on both sides the Processional way, and here and there intermixed with the Yeomen of the G●rard, to keep off the Press. The Habit wherein the Henxmen were usually dressed, was rich and gay, as could be devised, being oftentimes embroidered with ingenious and pretty Devises, such as best liked the fancy of the Sovereign. We have seen the f Ex Lib. ●●cat. C●tom, in Offic. mag. Gardrob. Regis, fol. 74. account for the Apparel of 12 Henxmen, who attended on the Sovereign at St. George's Feast, an. 11. H. 6. the Sleeves of their Gowns being embroidered, each with three sprigs of Broom, and three Peacocks' Feathers bound together, wrought with Silks of divers Colours, and the Sovereign's Motto [Dieu & mon Droit] embroidered thereupon. 9 The Music. To complete the pomp of this great Ceremony, we may (in the last place) fitly remember the Music as a part thereof; it being particularly taken notice of, in most places of the Register, where the Grand Procession is recorded. The Choires both of the Sovereign's Chapel at Whitehall, and this at Windesor, being here (as before is noted) united; all singing the sacred Hymn together, while the Grand Procession devoutly passeth on. This Hymn was composed and set with Verse and Chorus, by Captain Cook Master of the Children of the Sovereign's Chapel; by whose direction some Instrumental loud Music was at that time introduced, namely two double Sackbots, and two double Courtals; and placed at convenient distance, among the Classes of the Gentlemen of both Choires, to the end, that all might distinctly hear, and consequently keep together, in both time and tune. For one Sackbot and Courtal was placed before the four Petty Canons, who begun the Hymn, and the other two, immediately before the prebend's of the College. And now behold the Sculp of the Grand Procession, as it was ordered upon this solemn occasion, an. 23. Car. 2. designed and etchedy Mr. Wineslaus Hollar; in which, the Postures and Habits are expressed with singular spirit and freedom. Return of the Grand Procession into the Choir. Upon the return of the Grand Procession to the Choir door, the Alms-Knights first advance into it, and after double Reverences, ascend above the Haut Pas' to the Altar. Next the Choristers, and in like manner the Vicars, Petty Canons of Windesor, Gentlemen of the Chapel, and prebend's go to their Seats. Then the Officers of Arms pass up, and join to the Alms-Knights. After this, the Knights-Companions enter and stand before their Stalls. The like doth the Black-Rod, Garter, and Register. As also the Chancellor and Prelate. Then doth the Sovereign take his Royal Stall. The Knights-Companions ascend their Stalls. The Officers of the Order sit down on their Forms: And all this is done in the same manner and order, and with like Reverences, as at their entrance into the Choir on the Eve of the Feast. Then the Prelate, with two prebend's (appointed to read the Epistle and Gospel) are conducted, the one by the Sergeants of the Vestry, the other by the Verger, up to the Altar (which they approach with usual Reverences) the Prelate passing to the North side, and the prebend's to the South, to finish the remaining part of Divine Service. Whereupon the Officers of Arms descend into the Choir, and, The Alms-Knights go down to their Seats. Which, while they are so doing, the two prebend's put on their Copes, at the South side of the Altar, This done, the Prelate begins the second Service. SECT. IV. The order of the Second Service. THE GRAND PROCESSION OF THE Sovereign and knight's Companions ANNO 23 CAROLI 2 The Office appointed to be used on this Feast day in the Chapel of St. George, in Windesor Castle, before the Reformation, may be seen in the breviary and Missale ad usum ac consuetudinem Sarum, which we have transcribed hither; for (in regard that the College of Windesor was situate within the Diocese of Salisbury) the Statutes of the College did appoint and ordain, k Cap. 21. that the use and custom of singing, pronouncing, and celebrating Divine Service, of attending in the Choir and at the Altar, or of celebrating about it the Masses peculiar to the day, or of the Virgin Mary, as also for the dead, as well in celebrating as reading, singing, standing, sitting, both in the Choir and without it, and all things whatsoever, which were observed in the Church of Salisbury, should be observed in this Chapel of St. George, according to the conveniency of place and exigency of persons: To the observation of this Statute, they were also obliged by the l Cap. 6. Injunctions of john Archbishop of York, Chancellor of England, under the penalty of paying 12 d. to the Treasury of the College, by every one, that should be guilty of violating or infringing the same. What difference there is between the foresaid Office, and that appointed to the use of the Church of York (in regard it is but small) we shall also note, and then close this Section with the Hymn and Prayer, out of the primer of Salisbury. If any be further curious to know, what alteration hath been made since our Reformation, in this Office in the Roman Church (for since then, they have seen cause to mend and refine divers things, in their public Liturgy) they may have recourse to the Breviarium Romanum and Missale Romanum, Ex decreto Concilii Tridentini restitutum, wherein the Service is m Heylins' Hist. of St. George, Part. 2. Sect. 8. noted to be very solemn, and (for the honour of St. George) scarce any Festival there, is celebrated, with more variety of proper and Divine Offices. Officium proprium Sancti Georgii, prout extat in Portiforio (seu * Nota, Quod Breviarium hoc Salisburiense Bedam sequitur, qui in suo Martyrologio, ad diem 23. Aprilis, ait Georgium Martyrium fuisse passum sub Daciano Rege Persarum: Et Vsuardus in Martyrologio suo ad diem etiam Apr. 23. ait, Georgium Martyrio coronatum in Perside, civitate Diospoli. Breviario) Salisburiensi Londini excuso 1555. In proprio de Sanctis, In Breviario Sancti Dominici. Paris. 1512. p. 44. In Oficio Sancti Georgii occurrit eadem Oratio, quae hic habetur in Breviario Salisburiensi, & tres Lectiones (ex gesti Sancti Georgii s. cuntum Ecclesiam Gallicanam, ita enim habet Rubrica) quae quoad sensum, ut penè quoad verba ipsa, eaedem sunt cum his Lectionibus Ecclesiae Salisburiensis. Part. Hiemali, ad diem April 23. Rubrica. Sancti Georgii Martyris. Tres Lectiones, cum regimine Chori, duplex Festum. Capitulum. Iste sanctus qui pro Lege Dei sui certavit usque ad mortem: & à verbis impiorum non timuit: fundatus enim erat supra firmam petram. Oratio. Deus qui nos beati Georgii Martyris tui meritis & intercessione laetificas; concede propitius, ut qui ejus beneficia poscimus, dono tuae gratiae consequamur, per dominum nostrum jesum Christum. Lectio 1. Vide Nicephorum Callist. Hist. Lib. 7. c. 15. de Martyrio S. Georgii sub Dioclesiano. Sanctus & verus Dei Cultor Georgius Cappadociae regionis oriundus, cum videret multos Deum blasphemantes, & cum Daciano daemones adorantes, spiritu sancto repletus in hanc vocem prorupit: Omnes dii Gentium daemonia, Dominus autem caelum fecit. Dacianus ait ei, qua temeritatis andaciâ, nobis injuriam irrogans, Deos nostros daemonia vocas? fatere tum ex qua Provinciâ huc advenisti, vel quo nomine vociferis. Lectio 2. Sanctus Georgius dixit: Christianu● & Dei servus sum, Georgius nuncupor, genere Capadocus, patriae meae comitatum gerens. Elegi verò temporali dignitate carere, & immortalis Dei imperio servire. Dacianus ait ei: erras Georgi, accede & immola Deo Appollini. Beatus Georgius respondet, Domino enim meo jesu Christo exhibeo culturam, Regi omnium seculorum, non Apollini auctori Daemonionum. Lectio 3. Iratus Dacianus jussit S. Georgium in Equuleo levari, & extensum membraetim ungulis lacerari. Deinde lateribus ejus lampades ardentes applicari; salem verò in vulnera aspergi, & cilicio plagas ejus fricari; plumboque bullienti Georgium immitti, extractumque per vicos ut reum fecit trahi. Cumque traheretur ad locum supplicii, flexis genibus gratias egit Deo; & sic capitalem pro Christo subiit sententiam. Rubrica. Caetera de Communi unius Martyris de Pasc. temporis. What is set down above, is proper to St. George, but the rest of the Office used on St. George's day (being common to him with other Martyrs) is not set down, but referred to that part of the Portiforium, called Commune. Sancti Secundum usum Sar●m, Mi●sa. Psal. 63. Georgii Martyris Officium. Protexisti me Deus à conventu malignantium, Alleluia; à multitudine operantium iniquitatem. Alleluia, Alleluia. Psalmus. Ibidem. Exaudi Deus orationem meam cum deprecar: à timore inimici eripe animam meam. Oratio Deus qui nos beati Georgii martyris tui, meritis & intercessione laetificas: concede propitius; ut, cujus beneficia poscimus, dono tuae gratiae consequamur. Per Dominum nostrum jesum Christum. Lectio beati Jacobi Apostoli. 1. Cap. 1. Carissimi, omne gaudium existimate, cum in temptationes varias incideritis: Scientes quòd probatio fidei vestrae, patientiam operatur: Patientia autem opus perfectum habeat: ut sitis perfecti & integri, in nullo deficientes. Si quis autem vestrum indiget sapientiâ, postulet à Deo qui dat omnibus affluenter, & non improperat: & dabitur ei. Postulet autem in fide nihil haesitans. Qui enim haesitat, similis est fluctui maris, qui à vento movetur & circumfertur. Non ergo existimet homo ille, quod accipiat aliquid à Domino. Vir duplex animo, inconstans est in omnibus viìs suis. Glorietur autem frater humilis, in exaltatione suâ: dives autem in humilitate suâ, quoniam sicut flos foeni transibit: Exortus est enim sol c●m ardore: & arefecit foenum, & flos ejus decidit: & decor vultûs ejus deperiit: Ita & dives, in itineribus suis marcescit. Beatus vir qui suffert temptationem: quoniam cum prob●tus fuerit, accipiet coronam vitae, quam repromisit Deus diligentibus se. Alleluia. Laetabitur justus in Domino, & Psal. 63. sperabit in eo: & laudabuntur omnes recti corde. Sequentia. Organicis canamus modulis Georgii solennia. Omnigenis Domino vocibus reddentes odas debitas: Qui in suis sanctis mirabilis nimis, multiplici virtutum flore eosdem decorat, ac mirificè adornat. Nam & in ipsis quasi in quibusdam musicis instrumentis, digito proprio fides agitat, fides virtutum sonoras; his numerosè percurrens singulas. Permiscet singulis diatessaron mellifluam melodiam; quam generat virtutum mater illa, quae aliis decenter composita reddit suavem symphoniam, qua sine cuncta fiunt dissona, necnon & frivola; qua cum omnia sunt consona, necnon utilia: qua justi benè morati, rite petentes excelsa poli sidera alacres decantant nova cantica, in Cithara Threiciâ: quorum agentes festa, consortia mereamur in coelesti patria. Evangelium secundum Johannem. In illo tempore, Chap. 13. dixit Iesus Discipulis suis, Ego sirm vitis vera, & pater meus agricola est; Omnem Palmitem in me non ferentem fructum tollet eum, & omnem qui fert fructum purgabit eum, ut fructum plus afferat. jam vos mundi estis propter sermonem quem locutus sum vobis. Manete in me, & ego in vobis. Sicut Palmes non potest ferre fructum à semetipso nisi manserit in vite: sic nec vos nisi in me manseritis. Ego sum vitis; vos palmites. Qui manet in me, ego in eo, hic fert fructum multum, quia sine me nihil potestis facere. Si quis in me non manserit, mittetur foras sicut palmes & arescet: & colligent eum & in ignem mittent & ardet. Si manseritis in me, & verba mea in vobis manserint, quodcunque volueritis petetis, & fiet vobis. Offertorium. Confitebuntur coeli mirabilia tua Domine: Psal. ●●. & veritatem tuam in Ecclesia Sanctorum. Alleluia Alleluia. Secreta. Offerimus tibi Domine solemne sacrificium pro venerandâ Sancti Georgii martyris tui passione, deprecantes clementiam tuam: ut per haec sacrosancta mysteria: antiqui hostis temptamenta, te triumphante, vincamus: & aeternae remunerationis primum, te largiente consequamur per Dom. Communio. Laetabitur Iustus in Domino, Psal. 3●. & sperabit in eo: & laudabuntur omnes recti corde. Postcommunio. Mensae caelestis satiati dulcedine; humiliter te rogamus omnipotens pater: ut intercedente beato Georgio martyre tuo: resurrectionis ejus simus participes cujus sumus morte redempti. Qui tecum, etc. Here note, that it belonged to the n Lib. N. p. 109. Abbot of Tower-hill to read the Gospel, and to the Prior of Medemenham in Norfolk to read the Epistle; for upon them was this duty imposed, until the Reformation; and in whose absence, a o Ibid. p. 112. Canon, and a Vicar of the Chapel, supplied their place ( p Ibid. p. 113. He that read the Gospel, (after censing by the Epistoler) presented the Heart of St. George, bestowed upon King Henry the Fifth by q Ibid. p. 26. Sigismond the Emperor) to the Sovereign and Knights-Companions to kiss. The difference between the Office appointed for St. George's Day, secundum Sarum, & Ebor. is as followeth. The Office of the Church of York hath the same Officium, Psalmus, Oratio▪ with Salisbury; but it hath another Epistle, viz. 2 Cor. 5.1. beginning scimus quoniam si terrestris; and ends with the fourth verse. And other verses follow the Epistle, viz. Versus. Confitebuntur coeli mirabilia tua Domine, etenim veritatem tuam in Ecclesiam Sanctorum. Versus. Angelus Domini descendit de coelo & accedens revolvit Lapidem & sedebat super eum. The Sequentia, is the same with Salisbury, But the Gospel is 16 Math. beginning at the 24. verse. Si quis vult post me venire, etc. to the end of the Chapter. The Offertorium and Communio, are the same also with Salisbury. But the Secreta and Postcommunio, the same with the Roman Missal now in use. The Office secundum Sarum, hath the same Officium, Psalmus, Oratio, Offertorium, Communio and Gospel, with the Roman Missall. But it differs in the Epistle, the Verse following, the Secreta, and Post-Communion. In the primer according to the usage of Salisbury, otherwise called Horae beatissimae Mariae Virginis, secundum usum Sarum. Printed in a small Volume by Winandus de Worde, an. 1529. there is this Hymn to St. George among the Suffrages. De Fol. 54. De Sancto Georgio. Antiphona. Georgi martyr inclite, te decet lans & gloria, praedotatum militiâ: per quem Puella Regia existens in tristitiâ, coram dracone pessimo salvatae est. Te animo rogamus & corde intimo, ut, cum cunctis fidelibus, coeli jungamur civibus, nostris ablutis sordibus, ut simul cum letitiâ tecum simus in gloriâ, nostraque reddant labia, landes Christo eum gloriâ. Vers. Ora pro nobis beate Georgi Christi miles. Resp. Ut hostes visibiles & invisibiles sint contra no● valdè debiles. Oratio. Omnipotens sempiterne Deus qui deprecantium voces benignus exaudis, majestatem tuam supplices exoramus: Vt sicut in honore beati ac gloriosissimi martyris tui Georgii Draconem à Puellâ superare voluisti: Ita ejusdem intercessione hostes nostr●s visibiles & invisibiles, ne nocere valeant, à nobis superari concedas, per Dominum nostrum. Pater noster. Ave Maria. The same Prayer I find in the Primmers Printed in a Large Quarto at Paris, by Francis Regnault in the Years 1516, 1526, 1527, 1534. and in a small Volume at Roven, an. 1538. SECT. V. The Offering of Gold and Silver. Preparations for the Offering. BEing now to speak of this solemn and sacred Ceremony, we shall premise; That, whether it be performed in the Sovereign's Chapel at Windesor, or in any other Church or Chapel whatsoever, the Ceremony is one and the same, having not any thing peculiarly local to Windesor (except the Sovereign's Offering of Gold and Silver instead of the Bezant) or otherwise varying with the place. The accustomed time of Offering Gold and Silver on the Feast day, is mentioned an. 22. H. 8. to be after the a MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 32. b. Sovereign's return to his Stall, from the Grand Procession, in the time of high Mass; and at this day begins, immediately after this first Sentence of the Offertory is pronounced by the Prelate, Let your light so shine before men, etc. This said, the Organs begin to play (continuing so throughout the whole Ceremony) and forthwith a Groom and Page of the removing Wardrobe (with Reverence first made) unroll a long Carpet, and spread it from before the Altar, downward, upon the Haut pas, ascending thereto, and then stand on each side thereof. Which being done, the Alms-Knights first, next the Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings ascend in usual order, to their wont Stations before the Altar, and dividing themselves, flank the Carpet on both sides. Then Garter steps from his Seat, and, after his double Reverences, and the usual manner of waving his Rod, the Knights-Companions descend in their accustomed and regular order, and stand before their Stalls. After this, the Black Rod goes from his Seat, makes his double Reverences in the middle of the Choir, and ascends near to the Altar, towards which, making a single Reverence, he turns his back, and immediately the Groom of the removing Wardrobe, delivereth unto him a little Carpet, anciently of Silk, now of Cloth of Gold, which he (the said Groom assisting) spreads over that before mentioned, lying on the Haut Pas' to the Altar. Moreover the said Groom holds upon his arms, a fair Cushion of Cloth of Gold, for the Sovereign to kneel upon, at the time of his Offering, which the Black Rod forthwith lays upon the upper Haut Pas, before the Altar. And note, that aswell in delivering as receiving the Cushion, each of them take the Assay thereof, by kissing it. These preparations for the Sovereign to offer, being made, the Prelate of the Order takes a large gilt Basin into his hands, to receive the Sovereign's Offering, and placing himself in the middle of the Altar, stands before it with one of the prebend's to assist him. The Sovereign at this instant arising from his Royal Seat, The Order of the Sovereign's Offering. makes his Reverence towards the Altar, and then descending makes a like Reverence below, and ascends towards the Altar, attended as followeth. Garter. Register. Chancellor. The Nobleman that bears the Sword. The Sovereign, having his Train born up. The Knight-Companion, who is to give him his Offering, goes a little behind on his left hand. Being come into the middle of the Choir, he makes another Reverence, and at the first Haut Pas his last. And albeit, in other matters of Ceremony, the Sovereign performs his part b E. 3. Stat. Art. 13 H. 5. Stat. Art. 13 last, yet at the Offering, first, and before all the Knights-Companions. And in this point, Errhard Celius discoursing of the Duke of Wirtemberg's Offering, is mistaken, where he saith, the Sovereign or his Deputy Offer c Eq. Aur. Anglowirtemb. fol. 183. after all the Knights-Companions, and in the last place. The Officers of Arms were anciently wont to lead on this Proceeding, and pass before the Officers of the Order, and so we find it remembered d Ex Veteri MS. pen. W. le N. Cl. f. 295. b. an. 22. H. 7. an. e MS. pag. 12. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. f Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. 2. & g MS. G O. ●. pag. 113. 19 Eliz. and the like attendance was in those times given to the Sovereign's h MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. fol. 5. b. & fol. 12. Lieutenant by them; but this is now altered, and they directed to proceed up next towards the Altar after the Alms-Knights, as before, and together with them, stand in flank on both sides the Carpet, while the Sovereign approacheth the Altar. He that bears the Sovereign's Offering, is either the signior Knight, the Prince, or the greatest Estate among the Knights-Companions then present, and no other person (of what Degree soever) if he be not one of this most Noble Fraternity, doth perform this service. And once we find the signior Knight had an Assistant for this service, namely an. 18. Eliz. when the Earl of i MS. penes G.O.Y. pag. 123. Arundel went on the Sovereign's right hand, and the Earl of Sussex on her left, to give her the Offering. The Sovereign being come to the upper Haut Pas, knelt, at which instant, the Black Rod on his Knee delivers (with Assay) the Sovereign's Offering to the signior Knight, and he, kneeling, presents it to the Sovereign, which he immediately offers into the Basin, held by the Prelate, assisted as before, who at this instant heretofore also kneeled; but at the Feast celebrated an. 15. Car. 2. the present Sovereign gave command, that the Prelate and Canon should * Lib. Carol. pag. 47. stand, while himself, in the humble posture of kneeling, should make his Offering. Which having done, he ariseth and passeth down the Haut Pas', where turning about he makes a Reverence towards the Altar, and thence conducted and attended, as when he came up to Offer, at the entrance into his Stall, he turns about and makes another Reverence, at both which times the Attendants bow towards the Altar also, and ascending into his Stall, doth the like again, and then reposeth himself in his Seat. In that interim the Black Rod takes up the rich Carpet and Cushion, and delivers them to the foresaid Groom, and so descends (with Reverence) to his Form, and stands before it. In Queen Elizabeth's Reign, it appears the Bezant was Offered by her, and redeemed of course (so also at sundry times since) and noted (an. 2. Eliz.) to be of * Collect. W. le N. Cl. 7 l. value. But at the Installation of the Duke of York at Windesor, an. 11. jac. R. there was a question proposed to the Dean and Canons, k Collect. D. Chr. Wren nuper Ord. Regist. whether if the Sovereign should offer his Bezant, it might be redeemed or not? Their answer then was, l Collect. D. Chr. Wren nuper Ord. Regist. that whatsoever was there offered, became the Dean and Canons without redemption, whereupon the Sovereign waved offering his Bezant, and offered m Collect. D. Chr. Wren nuper Ord. Regist. both Gold and Silver. And besides, concerning this thing, there is an Entry made of a passage (upon the Register of the Order) which happened an. 6. Car. 1. n Lib. R. p. 62. That whereas in other places (besides Windesor) the Sovereign is wont to offer a certain golden piece (vulgarly called a Bezant) to be redeemed afterwards, at a certain price; o Lib. R. p. 62. The Usher of the Black Rod having sometime been admonished, that in these services there is no redemption to be made, never presents the Bezant at Windesor to the Sovereign, but Gold and Silver of English money. When the Sovereign is absent, The Lieutenants Offering and his Lieutenant offers for him, he performs the Ceremony in manner and order following. First (after the preparations made for the Offering, as aforesaid, and Garters double Reverence towards the Altar and the Sovereign's Stall, with a third to the Lieutenant) he descends from his Stall with his usual Reverences, and goes to the steps ascending the Sovereign's Stall, and there stands a while; then making his double obeisance, he proceeds towards the Altar (the Officers of the Order going before him) with one other Reverence in the middle of the Choir, and another at the first Haut Pas of the Altar, having his Train carried up. The q MS. penes praef. G.O.Y. p. 114 vide MS. 4. pen. W. le N. Cl. f. 11. Carpet and Cushion is spread and laid for him, by the * Collect. A. V. W. Black Rod, and Yeomen of the Wardrobe, with Assay, and the Offering given also with Assay, by the r MS. penes praef. G.O.Y. p. 114 vide MS. 4. pen. W. le N. Cl. f. 11. Black Rod, to the signior Knight, or one of the Knights-Companions of highest dignity, at that time present, who attending the Lieutenant up to the Altar, delivers it upon his Knee, and he having put it, kneeling also, into the Basin (held by the Prelate) returns back through the body of the Choir to the s MS. penes praef. G.O.Y. p. 114 vide MS. 4. pen. W. le N. Cl. f. 11. Sovereign's Stall, in the same order, and with like Reverences as he came, where standing a while again before it, he makes his single Reverence towards it, and then goes up into his own Stall, where (if it fall out that the Lieutenant is not the signior Knight) he stays to t MS. in Bibl▪ Coton. [sub Effig. Iulii● E. 11. receive the Reverences of all the Knights-Companions his seniors, as they go up to offer, and when his own turn and course comes to offer, he descends with a double Reverence, and proceeds up with his Fellow (if present) and u Ibid. offers for himself in his own place, and as one of the Knights-Companions; but his w MS. in Offic. Armour. [L. 1.] p. 19 & MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 12. Train is now let down, the Assay not given, the Carpet and Cushion taken away, and only two Officers of Arms (but none of the Order) proceeds before him; and assoon as he hath thus offered for himself, he returns to his Stall, by the * Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. East end through the Stalls. But it seems an. 7. jac. R. that x MS. penes E W. G. fol. 148. b. Garter alone on the Feast day, brought up the Prince (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) when he came to offer for himself, which some of the Knights-Companions observing, alleged that the service ought to have been performed by y MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 148. b. Clarenceux and Norroy (he being the signior Knight) yet because Garter had so brought him up the day before, it was thought good he should so continue And this we look on as an oversight in Garter, if not ignorance, since at the same time we find him guilty of another, as great an Error; for he brought down the Knights-Companions out of their Stalls to offer, z MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 148. b. before the Epistle and Gospel were read, which the Relator notes to be done, * MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 148. b. contrary to the use of former times, and in truth very absurd and inconvenient; inasmuch as, besides their long time of standing below in the Choir, while the tedious Ceremonies of the Offering were preparing and performing, the Knights-Companions were now put to exercise their patience, by the inconvenience of a longer standing there, even while the Epistle and Gospel were read, and the Creed sung, and all this before the Offering did begin. But the foresaid mistake was an. 11. jac. R. rectified, and when the Prince (being the a Ibid. f. 1●1. b. Soveraing's Lieutenant) came to offer for himself, he was then brought up by Clarenceux and Norroy, and not by Garter. When the Sovereign's Lieutenant hath offered for himself, he b MS. in Offic. Armour. ut supra. returns to the lower end of the Stalls, and passeth thence towards his own, where having paid his usual Reverences, he enters it again, and is there ready to receive the Reverences of all the rest of the Knights-Companions, his juniors. This ceremonious course of the Lieutenant's returning up to his Stall, after he had offered for the Sovereign, and there remaining, until his own turn came to offer, and then to descend again, and offer for himself, and so return to his Stall, was first appointed to be observed by c Collect. A. V. W. Decree in Chapter an. 7. Eliz. though the entry thereof into the Register of the Order, was (we know not how) neglected; and this return hath been since duly observed, albeit the signior Knight (as very usual) was made the Sovereign's Lieutenant, and then (there being no other Knight that possessed a higher Stall than himself, to offer before him) he, resting a while there, arose, and with usual Reverences came forth a second time from his Seat, and went up to offer for himself, attended as is before mentioned. Assoon as the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) is returned to his Stall, The Knights Offering. the two Provincial Kings pass down into the middle of the Choir, where making a Reverence jointly towards the Altar, and next to the Sovereign, Clarenceux turns himself to the signior Knight, and makes him a third Reverence, while Norroy, at the same instant, doth the like to the next junior Knight, and to both, as an intimation of their going up to Offer; then each King retires a little backward, towards the Stalls. In the mean time, the two signior Knights-Companions draw near together, and make their double Reverence, and upon the last turning of themselves, Clarenceux and Norroy step forth and pass up before them, until they arrive near to the Prelate (but where the signior Knight wants his opposite Companion, the two Kings bring him up alone, and he Offers single) then making their Reverences, first towards the Altar, next to the two Knights, Clarenceux retires to the right side, and Norroy to the left, and make themselves ready for a present return, before the Knights-Companions; who in the interim are kneeling together, on the upper Haut Pas before the Altar, making their Offering. This humble posture in Offering, was not (it seems) heretofore generally observed by the Knights-Companions, and therefore an. 4. Car. 1. it occasioned the passing a Decree to this effect; That in all Offerings to be thenceforth made d Lib. R. p. 44. every one of the Knights-Companions (in honour of God, and in testimony of their obedience and Christian Piety) should most humbly bow their knees. The Knights-Companions Offerings are both of Silver and Gold, which they put into the foresaid Basin, held to them by the e MS. penes E. W. G. sub an. 1 jac. R. vide Lib. R. pag. 52. & 8●. two prebend's beforementioned, or by ‖ Collect. D. Ch. Wren nuper Ord. Regist. one Prebend and the Chantor, and anciently by the * Stat. Colleg. Art. 37. Chantor only, when the Offering is made at Windesor; but by the f Ex Collect. Rob. C. Cl f. 2. Subdean of the Chapel, when they Offer at Whitehall. The Offering being made, the Knights-Companions rise, and forthwith divide themselves, Clarenceux conducting the Signior Knight to the g MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 113. lower end of the Stalls, on the Sovereign's side, and there at parting from him makes a Reverence to him; and Norroy conducting the next Junior Knight to the lower end of the Stalls, on the Prince's side, with a Reverence also leaves him, and forthwith both King's return to their Stations, before the Altar. As soon as the Knights-Companions are h MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 113. entered in, at the nethermost end of the Stalls, they make their double Reverences together; and then pass along the Stalls, till they come to their own, where making the like Reverences, they take their seats. But if any Stranger King be present at the Offering, he retires not to his Seat (after he hath offered) by the lower end of the Stalls, as is before observed, by other Knights, but along the Choir (like as doth the Sovereign) the same way that he proceeded up: for so did the i MS, fol. endorsed Patents, pen. eund. Geo. Owen. Y. King of Denmark, a. 4. jac. Regis, but the k MS, fol. endorsed Patents, pen. eund. Geo. Owen. Y. Prince and all the other Knights-Companions, who Offered at the same time, went back to their Seats by the nether end of the Stalls: viz. at the end nearest the high Altar, which sometimes is called the l MS. penes E. W. G. upper end, and sometimes the m MS. penes E. W. G. East end, and often the lower end; for so did Prince n Lib. N p. 174. Arthur an. 15. H. 7. and o Ex Collect. R C. Cl. fol. 27. Francis Duke of Montmorancy, an. 14 Eliz. the like did p MS. penes E. W. G. f. 155. b. Prince Henry an. 16 jac. Reg. and the Duke of York a 19 & 23 Car. 2. The Ceremonies of the two Signior Knights Offering being finished, the two Signior Heralds, observing the end of the said Knights last Reverences, pass down into the Choir, after the same manner as did Clarenceux and Norroy, to bring up the two next Senior Knights-Companions to Offer, (for all Offer q MS. pag. 12. according to the Seniority of their Stalls) who ascend in the same manner, and with the same Reverences, as did the two Signior Knights, and after they have Offered, are conducted to the lower end of the Stalls, and with usual Reverences take their Seats. In like manner, do the next two Signior Heralds go down, and bring up the two next Senior Knights to Offer in the beforementioned Order; which being done, they return to their Stalls as aforesaid. And after them the two Junior Heralds descend, and bring up the two next Knights to the Offering, who return as did their Seniors. And if there be yet more Knights-Companions to Offer, than Clarenceux and Norroy begin again, and go down to bring them up to Offer also. After them the Heralds, again by turns, fetch up the rest of the Knights, who proceed up, paired or single, as they have or want their Fellows, until all have made their respective Offerings: for we find not, that the Pursuivants at Arms have at any time performed any part of this Service. But to make the Ceremony more apparent, we shall insert the Order in which the Knights-Companions were conducted up to the Offering, at the Grand Feast, celebrated at Windesor, an. 13. Car. 2. together with the Officers of Arms that proceeded before them. Duke of York. conducted to the Offering by Clarenceux and Norroy. Earls of Salisbury and Berkshire. conducted to the Offering by York and Lancaster. Earl of Northumberland. conducted to the Offering by Windesor and Richmond. Dukes of Ormond and Buckingham. conducted to the Offering by Chester and Somerset. Earl of Southampton. conducted to the Offering by Clarenceux and Norroy. Duke of Albemarle. conducted to the Offering by York and Lancaster. Earls of Sandwich and Oxford. conducted to the Offering by Windesor and Richmond. Duke of Richm. and Earl of Lindsey. conducted to the Offering by Chester and Somerset. Earls of Manchester and Strafford. conducted to the Offering by Clarenceux and Norroy. And it is to be noted, that where any Knight hath his opposite Companion absent, he goeth up to Offer singly and alone, and so returneth; nevertheless with two Heralds before him (as may also be seen by the precedent Scheme) who conduct him to the lower end of the Stalls, and there, with a joint Reverence take their leave. In this solemn Ceremony, the order wherein the Knights-Companions Offer, is always according to the Dignity of their Stalls, wherein they sit; for they obtain the honour and title of Seniority, according as their Stalls stand in Order, nearer to the Sovereign's Stall. As touching the Offerings themselves, The Offerings belong to the Dean and prebend's. which the Sovereign and Knights-Companions do at any time make, in the Chapel at Windesor, they, of right, belong to the Dean and prebend's of that College; having been conferred on them by the s A. t. 33. Statutes of the College. And it was also Ordained, that t Art. 37. the Chantor should see, that all the Offerings there made should be received, collected, and faithfully kept, and at the end of every Month, or weekly if the College required it, give a faithful account of what was so received. By which it appears, that they were not only given to the Dean and prebend's, but care was also taken, by whom they should be received, and when an Account should be rendered. All which was confirmed by King Edward the Third, by the Bishop, and Dean, and Chapter of Salisbury, to whose Jurisdiction the College of Windesor doth belong, and also by the Bishop of Winchester, Prelate of the Garter, the last Day of November, 1352. Nor do we find but that in pursuance of these Statutes, the Dean and prebend's of the said College, have constantly enjoyed them, until Dr. Montague came to be Bishop of Winchester and Prelate of the Order; who, it seems, challenged a right to the Offerings, which he had received at the Feast of St. George celebrated at Windesor an. 21 jac. Reg. Whereupon in a Chapter held on the last Day of the said Feast, the w Lib. R. p. 10. Dean and Canons made their complaint against the said Prelate, for not only receiving the Knights-Companions Offerings, but for detaining them, as also the Sovereigns and Princes Offerings: Of which, the said Prelate being demanded, by the Sovereign's Lieutenant and Knights-Companions present in the said Chapter, he acknowledged, and further answered, that he had left them in the hands of the Subdean of the Chapel, tanquam in deposito. But the Chapter being ready to rise, the matter was not then further debated, but referred to the next Feast. x Autogr. in Ae●a●. Coll. Winds. Bishop Andrews did also the facto, both receive and keep the Offerings, whensoever he, as Prelate, Officiated at Windesor; but his Executors to avoid Suit, y Autogr. in Ae●a●. Coll. Winds. compounded for them. It appears by the a Pag. 43. Red Book of the Order, upon Complaint of the Dean and prebend's of Windsor, in a Chapter held the 24. of Sept. an. 4. Car. 1. that b Pag. 43. power was given to the Knights-Commissioners of the Order, to determine this contention about the Offering, and withal it is there noted, that Bishop Neyle the c Pag. 43. then Prelate himself also desired, that a Chapter might determine the matter. But we have not met with any account of what these Commissioners (so empowered) did, though by an Expression in the d Pag. 52. same Book, an. 5 Car. 1. one would guests, as though the thing had been determined against the Prelate. For an Offering having been then made in the Chapel at Windesor, and the Sovereign's Offering received by the e Pag. 51. Bishop of Norwich, that Officiated for the Prelate, and the Knights-Companions Offering by the two prebend's, who assisted at the Altar, it is added: f Ibid. pag. 52. That what was Offered, fell according to Law of the place, to the share of the Dean and prebend's: And yet it appears, that the controversy was not ended, since by a subsequent Order of Chapter, (6 Oct. an. 6 Car. 1.) h Lib. R. p. 64. & 65. the matter was again referred to the nine Knights-Commissioners of the Order, or any four of them, who were to hear both Parties, and make their Report, that so the same might receive a determination. But here also it is immediately noted, That the i Ibid. next Morning the Prelate (nequid nimis denique suae sententiae tribuere videretur) voluntarily delivered to the Dean, 9 l. 4●. that sum being the moiety of the Offerings he had received from the Sovereign and Knights-Companions. The next Feast after held at Windsor, viz. l Pag. 73. 4. Oct. an. 7 Car. 1. the controversy was again m Pag. 74. resumed, and after some arguments urged by the Prelate, and answered by the Register, it was n Pag. 75. Decreed, that the Dean should attend the Knights-Commissioners, at their next sitting, with the Statutes, and other Grants to the College, and that from them the controversy should be determined. After this, there is another Memorandum made in the same Register, which informs us, that the o Pag. 91. Prelate by the hands of the Chantor delivered all the Offerings received at the Feast p Pag. 91. an. 9 Car. 1. to the Canons, upon condition of restitution, if it chanced they q Pag. 91. should be adjudged to him, and not to the Canons. And whether any final determination was afterwards made herein, we have not hitherto found. But since the return of the present Sovereign, the Offerings received at the Feast of St. George at Windesor, an. 13 Car. 2. were divided between the Dean and Canons resident, the Prelate not disputing the right. And now that we may see, what hath ordinarily been Offered in Gold and Silver, this following Account of the Offering received by the Bishop of Winchester, (attested under his hand, and delivered to the Dean and prebend's of Windesor) will give us some Information. * Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. praedict. Coll. Sept. 24.1628. The Offering at St. George's Feast at Windesor, besides the Kings Offering of the Bezant not yet redeemed. l. s. d. The whole Offering of the eight Knights— 04 15 00. Viz. in Gold. in Silver. s. s. The Lord Steward 10 01. Lord Chamberlain 10 02. Earl of Kellie 10 02. Earl of Salisbury 10 02. Earl of Dorset 10 02. Earl of Holland 10 02. Earl of Suffolk 10 02. Earl of Berk-shire 10 02. 04 15 00. The Offerings on Thursday the 25 th' Day. s. s. His Majesty's Offerings 20 10. Lord Steward 10 01. Lord Chamberlain 10 02. Earl of Kellie 10 02. Earl of Salisbury 10 02. Earl of Dorset 10 02. Earl of Holland 10 02. Earl of Suffolk 10 02. Earl of Berk-shire 10 02. 06 05 00. l. s. d. The sum of both, besides the Kings Besant unredeemed is— 11 00 00. Of which, given to Mr. Cotton who waited at the Altar by me 5 s. for the rest I am answerable. R. Winton. When all the Knights-Companions have Offered, and are returned to their Stalls, then doth the Chancellor of the Order make his Reverences; and after him the Register, Garter, and Black Rod, theirs together, and take their Seats. Upon this the aforementioned Groom, and Page of the removing Wardrobe, roll up the long Carpet (spread for the Knights to kneel on) close to the foreside of the Altar; which done, the Provincial Kings, Herald's, and pursuivants next, and last of all the Alms-Knights, make their Reverences, and pass down into the Choir, and take their stands before the Stalls, where they remain until the Prelate hath finished the Second Service: and then the Prelate, conducted by the Sergeant of the Vestry, comes down from the Altar, with his accustomed Reverences to his Seat. After whom, the two prebend's are brought down by the Verger of the Chapel, who make a Reverence towards the Altar before they descend, next a double Reverence below the first Haut Pas; and lastly another towards the lower end of the Choir, and so take their Seats. SECT. VI The Return to the Presence. IMmediately after, all prepare to pass out of the Choir, and to proceed back to the Presence-Chamber, which is done in every point and circumstance, as is set down to have been observed, in the Sovereign's return from the first Vespers. That is to say, The Alms-Knights ascend to the Rails before the Altar, and divide themselves on either side. The Pursuivants, Heralds, and Provincial Kings pass up to their usual station, on the Haut Pas' before the Altar, and there divide themselves likewise. Then Garter summons down the Knights-Companions, who orderly descend into the Choir. Next, the Officers of the Order stand up before their Forms. All this being done, The Alms-Knights descend, and pass out of the Choir. The prebend's follow. Next, the Officers of Arms. Then the Knights-Companions. After them the Black Rod, Garter, and Register. Next, the Chancellor and Prelate. Then the Sword; and lastly The Sovereign himself, being attended, as when he entered the Choir; at the Choir door he is received under the Canopy, by the Gentlemen that bear it, and from whence the Band of Pensioners follow his person. The Proceeding passeth on through the South door of the Chapel, and here, the Trumpets are taken in, and placed before the Alms-Knights, who found all the way up, till they arrive at the stairs foot, going up to the Guard-Chamber: and assoon as they cease, the Drums and Fises begin to beat and play. Thence the Proceeding passeth into the Presence-Chamber, whither it first ought to go, before the Sovereign pass into the Great Hall to Dinner, and being there arrived, the Knights-Companions take their stands as usually, and after the Sovereign's salutation and their Reverences, the Sovereign retires into the Privy-Chamber for a little while, and the Knights likewise retire themselves, till notice be given that Dinner is ready. When the Feast was heretofore held at Whitehall, the return of the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) and Knights-Companions, from the f MS. pen. G. O Y. pag. 113. second Morning Service on the Feast day, was through the great Hall and Guard-Chamber into the Presence, and thence they retired into the Privy Lodgings till Dinner was ready. But since the Grand Dinner hath been prepared in the Banqueting house there, the Proceeding hath passed from the Chapel, through the said great Hall, over the Terrace (while it stood) and since, from the Chapel, up the Stairs into the Guard-Chamber, down into the Great Court, and so through the covered Walk into the said Room; where being entered, and the Sovereign arrived near the State (after Salutation and Reverences made, as usually done in the Presence-Chamber) the Sovereign and Knights-Companions retired till Dinner was ready; and hereupon in this Room now, as formerly in the Presence, doth the Proceeding from the Chapel take its termination. SECT. VII. Of the Dinner on the Feast Day. THE Sovereign and Knights-Companions having for a while retired, after their return from Morning Service on the Feast day, they make ready to go into St. George's Hall to Dinner; where all things are prepared against their coming. But more particularly, the Sovereign's Proceeding to the Hall is, when he hath notice given him, that the a Collect. W. le N. Cl. MS. pen. eund. W. le N. fol. 20. & 27. & MS. penes G. O. Y. p. 113. first Mess is set upon his Table: the Dishes being brought up in the following order; Wind Instruments, from the Gallery at the lower end of the Hall (where the rest of the Sovereign's Music is placed) sounding all the while. 4 Sergeants at Arms, two and two. Controller. Treasurer. Sewer. The Messes carried up by the Pensioners. Master of the Household. A Clerk Controller. Second Clerk of the Kitchin. Cofserer. A Clerk Controller. Chief Clerk of the Kitchin. But in the Plate representing the Sovereign's sitting at Dinner, the Sergeants at Arms, and Clerks that usually follow the Messes, are omitted, for want of room. This Dinner hath several Names given to it in the Registers of the Order, all describing and setting forth its magnificence, as b Lib. N. p. 166. Mensa splendida, c Lib. C. p. 108. Regium Eputum, d Ibid. p. 194. Epulum solemn, and the like: and for the Provisions made for it, they are said to be e Ibid. p. 184. most costly and delicate, f Lib. R. p. 108. completely royal, and set forth with all befiting state and grandeur. Upon the foresaid notice, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions come forth of the Privy-Lodgings into the Presence-Chamber, with the Officers of the Order before him, and passeth to the g Collect. W. le N. Cl. middle of the State; where turning about, he makes a stand, while the Knight's place themselves on either side, in their h Collect. W. le N. Cl. usual order, the Officers of the Order i Collect. W. le N. Cl. retiring a little on the one side and on the other. And assoon as the Knights-Companions have put themselves into rank and order, they make their k Collect. W. le N. Cl. Reverences to the Sovereign, according to the usual manner, who thereupon re-salutes them, as is accustomed. It seems, the prebend's of the College had, in King Henry the Eighth's Reign, discontinued the duty of their attendance on the Sovereign, aswell at the Grand Dinner, as at other the Services of the day, which caused an Order to pass for the performance of their accustomed services, particularly at such times; for at a Chapter holden at Windesor, the l Ex Lib. M. 17 f. 25. b. in Offic. Arm. 12. day of May, the 24, year of the said King, it was Ordained by the Earl of Arundel, then being the King's Lieutenant, with the assent and advice of the Knights of the Order there present; m Ex Lib. M. 17 f. 25. b. in Offic. Arm. That the Canons of the College of Saint George, being present at the Feast, should have their Mantles according to the Statutes of the Order, and give their attendance the day of the Feast, as well at Dinner and Grace, as at other the Divine Service, and as of old time hath been accustomed, in avoiding the displeasures of, etc. Immediately after the Knights-Companions have made their Reverences, the Alms-Knights, prebend's, and Officers of Arms pass on before the Knights-Companions, through the Guard-Chamber into St. George's Hall, the Officers of the Order following; after whom comes the Sovereign, having his Train carried up as at other times. And being entered a little way therein, the Alms-Knights first, next the prebend's, and then the Officers of Arms, fall off one after another, on the side opposite to the Knights-Companions Table, Clarenceux nearest to the State. Then the two junior Knights pass a little above Clarenceux, and there facing their Table make a stand, and the rest of the Knights-Companions coming up after, do in like manner make a stand, according to their seniority, the signior nearest the State; through which Lane, the Officers of the Order proceed, conducting the Sovereign till he draws near to the State, and then do the said Officers n Collect. W. le N. Cl. retire, as did the former part of the Proceeding on the side opposite to the Table; the Sovereign in the mean time passeth on to the o Collect. W. le N. Cl. State, and there turning himself about, receiveth the Reverences of the Knights-Companions, and re-salutes them as usually. After this the Sovereign, yet standing directly before the State, hath p Collect. W. le N. Cl. Water brought him up with three Reverences, by the Noblemen assigned to that service: the Lord Chamberlain, if he be not a Knight of the Order, otherwise the Vice-Chamberlain, going before them; for so did the Earl of St. Alban at the Grand Feast, an. 23. Car. 2. so also did Sir George Carteret an. 19 Car. 2. But an. 3. H. 7. some of the q MS. penes Arth. Com. Anglesey, fol. 167. Knights-Companions served the Sovereign with Water. And to be more particular in the Ceremony of the Sovereign's washing, it is noted an. 2. Eliz. that the r Collect. W. le N. Cl. Earl of Arundel held the Towel, the Earl of Pembroke the Water, the Earl of Derby, and Marquess of Winchester Assistants, the Basin, and the Earl of Derby gave the Sovereign the Assay of it. Again an. 7. of the same Queen, the s MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 20. b. Duke of Norfolk held the Towel, the Earl of Derby received it, the Earl of Sussex brought the Water, and the Earls of Northumberland and Shrewsbury Assisted; all these being Knights of the Order. In like manner also, is the Sovereign's Lieutenant served with Water before Dinner (but not by any of the Nobility) of which there are many Examples: among the rest, that an. 3. Eliz. when Sir t Ibid. fol. ●. Tho. Berenger gave him the Water kneeling, and Sir— Radcliff the Towel; as also an. 7. Eliz. when Sir u Et fol. 20. Nicholas Poynes brought him the Towel, and Sir Tho. Berenger the Water. When the Sovereign hath washed, the w Collect. W. le N. Cl. Prelate of the Order says Grace, being assisted with some of the Sovereign's Chaplains; an. 7. Eliz. the x MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 20. b. Register of the Order assisted him, and an. 9 Eliz. the y Ibid. f. 27. b. Bishop of Rochester, than the Sovereign's Almoner. Grace being said, the Sovereign sits down in his Chair, placed in the middle of his Table under the State; for there is the most honourable Seat, and the place where the State is held: And here we have occasion to offer to the Readers view, a draught of the old Wooden Chair, said to be the Founders, yet remaining in St. George's Hall at Windesor, in which the Sovereigns heretofore sat at Dinner. Most usually the Sovereign sat alone, though sometimes heretofore, he hath been pleased to admit some of the Knights-Companions to sit at his Table with him: For instance in a few, Sigismond the Emperor, when he received a Personal Installation at Windesor, at the Grand Feast held there an. 4. H. 5. it is remembered, that the Sovereign out of great civility a Lib. N. p. 57 offered the chief place at the Table to him (which hitherto the King, as Sovereign, had retained in the b Lib. N. p. 57 Chapel, and c Lib. N. p. 57 in all the Proceedings) which whether the Emperor accepted of it or not, is not clear enough expressed in the * Pag. 57 Black Book, but we have met with an ancient memorial which is more particular, and faith, that at Dinner the Emperor d MS. in Offic. Armour. [F. 9 Interments] fol. 12. b. kept the State, that is, sat in the middle, and another that saith the * MS. in Bibl. Cott. sub effig. Vitell. A. 16. sub an. 4. H. 5. King sat on the Emperor's right side, and the Duke of e Collect. Tho. Rowe nuper Canc. Bedford, the Lord Chancellor, the Bishop of Duresme on the Emperor's left hand; the Duke of Briga, and f Collect. Tho. Rowe nuper Canc. another Duke of the Emperor's Train, sat both on the Sovereign's side, and all of them on one side of the Table. Moreover an. 11. E. 4. (the Sovereign then keeping the Feast at Windesor) the g MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 15.] fol. 12. b. Prelate of the Order sat on his right hand, and the Duke of Gloucester and Earl of Essex on his jest. So an. 3. H. 7. the h Lib. N. p. 166. Prelate sat alone on the Sovereign's right hand, at the end of the Table. And in the 24. year of the same King (who then celebrated the Feast at Greenwich) there sat with him at the Board's end the Dukes of i MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 35. b. Norfolk and Suffolk▪ the Marquis of Exeter, and the Lord Stephen Gardiner Prelate of the Garter. It is also noted, that at the Feast held at Windesor an. 11. H. 8. only the Lord k Ex eod. MS. fol. 27. b. Richard Fox then Prelate, sat on the right hand of the Sovereign, near to the Board's end, being served with his * MS. Carver, Sewer, and Cupbearer, Mess, Course, and Service, as the Sovereign had. In which ‖ MS. p. 13. place sat also the Bishop of Winchester, a. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. And an. 22. H. 8. l Ibid. fol. 32. b. four of the greatest States (being Knights-Companions) sat at the Sovereign's Table, and the residue of the Knights at their own. An. 2. Eliz. the Sovereign admitted the Earls of m Collect. W. le N. Cl. Arundel and Derby, together with the Marquis of Winchester, to her Table, who sat at the end thereof on the left hand; and the following year the Duke of n MS fol. penes W. D. N. fol. 3. Norfolk, the Marquis of Northampton, and Earl of Arundel, sat also at the Tables end. So an. 7. Eliz. the Duke of o Ibid. f. 20. b. Norfolk, and Marquess of Winchester; and an. 9 the Earls of p Et fol. 27. b. Arundel and Pembroke, whilst the other Knights-Companions sat at their own Table. But this favour and honour was not afforded to any of the Knights-Companions, since her Reign, no, not at the Installation of the present Sovereign, though a Ceremony carried on with designed indulgence and honour; but we find him then placed at the same Mess with the q Palmer's large Iourn. pag. 14. signior Knight, at the upper end of the Knights-Companions Table. Assoon as the Sovereign is sat down, the Knights-Companions r Collect. W. le N. Cl. put on their Caps, and remaining so covered, forthwith retire against the Tables prepared for them; where standing a while, Water is brought to them, and they also s Collect. W. le N. Cl. wash; there being to t MS. pen. W. D. N fol. 20 & MS pen. G.O.Y. pag. 123. each pair a Basin and Ewer, and a Towel allowed, which are brought in by Gentlemen of quality; and having washed, they all sit down. The order of passing to their Seats at the Table an. 19 Car. 2. was on this manner (and appointed so to be observed for the future) first his Highness the Duke of York entered within the Rails at the upper end of the Table, and so passed down the hither side, to the lower end, and thence up along the Bench side to his place; in like manner followed all the other Knights, according to the seniority of their Stalls; for it is ordained, that they shall sit in u Hen. 8. Stat. Art. 11. that order, not according to their Estates or Degrees (except the Sons or Brethren of Stranger Kings, Princes, and Dukes, who shall keep their place● or rooms after their Estates) and all on the w Lib. N. pag. 166. Hen. 8. Stat. Art. 11. & MS. p. 13. right hand or further side of their Tables (not one over against another) two and two at a Table, to one Mess. But those whose Companions are wanting sit alone, and have a whole Mess allowed to each of them. Their meat is usually brought up by the Yeomen of the x Collect. W. le N. Cl. Guard, y Collect. W. le N. Cl. and are attended by some of the Gentlemen Pensioners, and others of the Sovereign's Servants; two to each Table. And now to descend to the Officers of the Order, 3. Officers of the Order had a Table in the great Hall. who though they sit not at this day in the great Hall at Dinner, yet anciently it appears, they had a Table allowed them there. For first the a Lib. N. p. 166. Black Book rendering an account of the magnificent Feast of St. George, held at Windesor an. b Lib. N. p. 166. 3. H. 7. and having spoken somewhat of the Sovereign's splendid and sumptuous Table, as also of that, of the Knights-Companions, placed on the right side of the Hall, ●it tells us, that a c Lib. N. p. 167. little beneath the said Knights-Companions, there sat on both sides the Table, the d Lib. N. p. 167. Dean, the Register of the Order, the prebend's, the Choir and Alms-Knights. The said Register informs us further, that at the Table set in the e Lib. N. p. 167. middle of the Hall, sat the Lord Bothville Ambassador from the King of Scots, the Lords Edmond of Suffolk, Grey, Morley, Latimer, La Ware, and Barness; a little beneath whom sat the Choir of the Sovereign's Chapel. At another Table, on the f Lib. N. p. 167. left hand side of the Hall, sat the Precedent Kussemburg, with the Ambassadors of the King of the Romans, and the Duke his Son; over against whom on the other side sat the Lord Malpart, Ambassador from the Duke of Britagne, the Lord Housey and others, * MS. penes A●th. Com. Anglesey, f. 167. ● Knights, Esquires, and Officers which had given their attendance at the high Mass. Moreover at the Feast holden at Windesor, g MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. an. 11 H. 8. we meet with an account of several other Tables set in St. George's Hall, beside those of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions: For on the h MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. Southside, opposite to the Knights-Companions Table, was a Table placed for the Lord Steward, at which then sat certain French Gentlemen, being Hostages of France, accompanied with Earls and Lords, and none at that Board under the Degree of a Lord. At i MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. the second Table of the said Southside, sat the Dean of Windesor, Doctor Vescy Register of the Order, the Abbots of Tower-hill and Medemenham (who that Morning read the Epistle and Gospel) and the Choir or Chapel. And at the k MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. West end of the same Table (which was all joined together as far as to the Choir) sat the other Officers of the Order, as l MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. Register, Garter, and Usher of the Black Rod, accompanied with the Lega●s Brother, and four other Strangers, and beneath the Strangers sat divers Knights, next to them sat the m MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. Officers of Arms, then several other Gentlemen filled up the Table, unto the Chapel adjoining to the Hall; the residue of Officers sat in the n MS. in office. Ar●●●. [M. 17.] fol. 28. Chapel at divers Tables. In the eighth year of King Charles the First, the Dinner being then prepared in the Banqueting-House at Whitehall, we find a particular mention of a Table for the Officers of the Order, and in what part of the Room it was then set, namely on the o Lib. R. p. 78. right hand side of the Banqueting-house, over against the Table of the Knights-Companions: who all sat after the manner of the Knights-Companions on the further side of the Table; having their Meat brought and served up to them by the Yeomen of the Guard, and some of the Soveraigns-Servants. And at the Sovereign's command, signified by the Treasurer of the Household, they sat covered all Dinner while, the Prelate and Register in their four cornered Caps, and the other three in their Hats. So also at the next Great Feast viz. an. * Ibid. p. 8●. 9 Car. 1. at Windesor, these Officers (Dining in the Great Hall) sat covered, but not till such time as the Sovereign (by the Treasurer of the Household) had given command for it. And though it was by the Sovereign's command that they sat covered at this time also, yet the following Afternoon it was moved against in Chapter, as a thing unfit to be permitted; ‖ Ibid. pag. 98. because some of the grand Nobility always served the Sovereign at this Feast uncovered, and therefore not sitting that the Officers (being all of far lower Degree excepting the Prelate) should sit with their Hats on. Whereupon it was Ordered, p Lib. R. p. 88 That it should be referred to the further consideration of the Knights-Commissioners. Afterwards we find it was Ordered in Chapter on the Eve of the Feast, an. 10 Car. 1. q Ibid. pag. 94. That these Officers should be at their choice, either to keep the Feast privately by themselves, or sit uncovered where the Sovereign Dined. They thereupon thence forward, forbore sitting in the Hall, or where else the Sovereign and Knights-Companions sat; and at the Grand Feasts, celebrated at Windesor, since the present Sovereign's Happy Return, they had their Messes served up into the Chapel, at the end of St. George's Hall, and there Dined. By what is before spoken, touching the order of sitting at Dinner, an. 11. H. 8. it appears, that the Officers of Arms did then also sit at a Table in St. George's Hall, which joined to that, where the Officers of the Order also sat. And among the memorial of the Feast held an. 19 Eliz. it is noted that on the r MS. pen. praefat. G.O.Y. pag. 113. Eve thereof, the Heralds had at Supper, their allowance as accustomed, viz. 16 Dishes of Meat at the first course, and 8. at the second. A s Collect. W. le N. Cl. little before the Sovereign's second course is sent for, all the press of People (which throng towards the Knights-Companions Tables, out of curiosity to behold them sitting at Dinner and observe their Services) are to be removed away towards the side Tables; whereby a place may be left spacious enough, for the Sovereign to take all the Knights-Companions in view; which being done, the Sovereign t Collect. W. le N. Cl. stands up and drinks to them (and so is it remembered to be done by u MS pag. 13. King Philip and Queen Mary) they standing all the while uncovered, and which they do altogether, till they have pledged him. And w Collect. W. le N. Cl. immediately before the said course is brought in, The manner of proclaiming the Sovereign's Style. the Press is again removed, from the Knights-Companions Table, to make another spacious lane from the lower end of the Hall up to the State. At which x Collect. W. le N. Cl. lower end the Officers of Arms assemble, and there make themselves ready to proceed up in the following Order. Garter, Clarenceux and Norroy. Heralds, two and two. Pursuivants, two and two. Having put themselves in the foresaid Order, they a Ibid. altogether make their Reverence to the Sovereign, and proceed near the side of the Knights-Companions Table, until they come to the b Ibid. middle of the Hall, where after another Reverence made, they go still forward, and when Garter hath passed about c Ibid. two yards beyond the Knight's Table, and come near the Haut Pas ascending the Sovereign's State, they jointly make the like Reverence again. Then Garter with a loud and audible voice, cries Largesse thrice, (though anciently but d Collect. W. le N. Cl. & MS. fol. pen. G.O.Y. pag. 114. twice.) Upon Garters beginning to cry Largess, e Lib. C. p 193. all the Knights-Companions (except Kings and Great Princes, if any be present) stand up uncovered (so did the f Lib. R. p. 85. Officers of the Order when they Dined in the Hall) until he hath made an end. Which Custom it seems had been, an. 7 Car. 1. for some years g Ibid. pag. 74. discontinued. Then Garter proceeds, and proclaims the Sovereign's Styles and Titles of Honour; first in Latin, as followeth. Serenissimi, Excellentissimi, & Potentissimi h First Introduced at the Feast, an. 19 Car. 2. the word Princip●● being used before. Monarchae Caroli Secundi Dei Gratia Magnae Britanniae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Regis, Fidei Defensoris, & Supremi Nobilissimi Ordinis Garterii. Which done, He and all the Officers of Arms, make another Reverence, and Garter Proclaims the Sovereign's Style in French. Du Treshault, Tresexcellent & Trespuissant Monarque Charles le Second par le Grace de Dieu, Roy de la Grande Britain, France, & d' Ireland, Defenseur de la Foy, & Sovereign du Tres-noble Ordre de la I●rtiere. Then Garter and the rest of his Fellows, make another Reverence, and lastly he Proclaims the Sovereign Styles in English. Of the most high, most Excellent, and most mighty Monarch Charles the Second, by the Grace of God King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Ordre of the Garter. At the end of which (but not before) Garter and the rest join together, in crying Largess thrice, and then they all make Reverence together. Hereupon, sometimes the Treasurer of the Household puts the Sovereign's Largess, (which is 10 l. in Gold) into Garter's Hat; and this is afterwards divided among the Officers of Arms, according to Custom. But an. 23. Car. 2. the Lord i Book entitled St. George's Feast, in the Lord Chamberlain's Office. Chamberlain sent his Warrant to Sir Edward Griffin Knight, Treasurer of the Sovereign's Chamber, to deliver this Largess Money to the Black Rod, and he put it into Garter's Hat, so soon as the last Largess was cried. The proclaiming the Style being finished, all the Officers of Arms retire about k Collect. W. le N. Cl. 3 yards backward, keeping their Faces towards the Sovereign, and there make another Reverence, and then retiring yet backward, about the same distance, they jointly make another Reverence, after which they retire out of the Hall and go to Dinner. This Ceremony ended, the Sovereign's second Course is brought up, in the following order, first the Sergeants at Arms, next the Treasurer and controller of the Sovereign's Household, next the Sewer, than the Gentlemen Pensioners bearing the Messes, than the Cofferer and Master of the Household, the two Clerks of the Greencloth, the two Clerks Controllers, and lastly the two Clerks of the Kitchen following all in the rear, habited in their Gowns, and holding their Caps in their hands; and after the Sovereign's Table is completely furnished, then is the second Course served up to the Knights-Companions Tables, by the Yeomen of the Guard, in such order as was the first. The order of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions sitting at Dinner on the Grand Feast day, an. 15. Car. 2. The order in proclaiming the Style, and bringing up the second Course, with an exact prospect of the inside of St. George's Hall at Windesor, we have here drawn together for the Readers better view. But where any Knight-Companion happens to be Installed at this Grand Feast, and is present at Dinner, than Garter, and the Officers of Arms, proceed in order (after they have proclaimed the Sovereign's Style as before) from the lower end of the Hall, till they come before the new installed Knights Mess, and there he cries Largess once, and proclaims his Style in English only, after which they retire backward, and go to Dinner. Concerning which, we had a full and remarkable instance in the 13. year of the present Sovereign, when the Duke of York and other Knights were Installed: For after Garter had proclaimed the Sovereign's Style, and he, together with the Officers of Arms, had retired to the lower end of the Hall, they all proceeded again, as at proclaiming the Sovereign's Style, to the upper end of the Knights-Companions Table, where his Highness the Duke sat, and there Garter cried Largess twice, and proclaimed his Style in English; then after a joint Reverence made, Garter and the Heralds now joining with him cried Largess twice. This done, they went backward, as before, to the next senior Installed Knight, and proclaimed his Style, and cried Largess but once, the like to all the rest installed at that Festival, and so they departed out of the Hall to Dinner. It seems to have anciently been the custom of other great Feasts, besides this of St. George, at the second Course, when the Sovereign's Style was to be proclaimed, for Garter and the Officers of Arms, to proceed in order up to the King's Table, and there to cry Largess, and upon the receipt of the King's Largess (in the name of all the Officers of Arms) first to make some short Oration to the King, and then to proclaim his Style; for so z MS. intitul. King Hen. ●. Proceedings pen. ●und. W. l● Neve. an. 20. H. 7. when the King kept his Easter in great State at Greenwich, have we met with the following Speech (among some Collections of Sir Thomas Wryothesley then Garter) made to the King in humble thankfulness, for the Largess at that time bestowed upon the Officers of Arms. Most high mighty and excellent Prince, most victorious and Christian King and also our most dread Sovereign and naturel Lord, by whom, through God's provision, virtue is greatly incressed and vice oppressed, juxta illud sapientis abhominabiles Regi agunt Impii qui Justitia formatur solium, the which to your Highness is, Prov. 16. viz. Incressing of virtue and honour perpetual, and to your subjects continual Wealth teste Salustio, quia diviciarum & form gloria fluxa atque fragilis est virtus clara perpetuaque habetur and as concerning us your Officers of Arms, and Servants of honour and of Noblesse, in as much as in us is, we humbly thank your good grace of the great and abundant Largess given unto us, in the honour of God and of his most glorieuse Resurrection: and for as much as we suffice not to give graces condign unto your Highness, Nam quod praestare tanto, etc. We meekly beseech almighty God long to preserve maintain and increase your most noble and royal Estate, which is the singular wealth and comfort of this your realm, and of all your true subjects; and to send you the perfict knowledge and victory over all your enemies. Nor was it unusual for Poets, in former times, to present the Sovereign with the issue of their Fancies, having a subject so noble as this of the Grand Feast; among whom, the following Verses were presented to King Henry the Seventh, at the Feast of St. George celebrated at Windesor in the 3. year of his Reign, probably by Mr. john Skelton (after made Poet Laureate) who about that time began to be of some esteem. * MS. penes Arth. Com. Anglesey, fol. 169. O most famous Noble King! thy Fame both spring and spread, Henry the Seventh our Sovereign in eiche Regeon, All England hath cause thy grace to love and dread, Seing Embassadores seethe fore protection, For Aid, help, and succore, which lieth in thy Ele●yone. England now Rejoice for joyous mayess thou be, To see thy King so florethe in Dignetye. This Realm a Seaforte stood in great jupardie, When that Noble Prince deceased King Edward; Which in his Day's gate honore full nobly, After his decease nigh hand all was marred, Eich Regione this Land despised mischief when they hard: Wherefore Rejoyse for joyous mayst thou be, To see thy King so floreth in high dignetye. France, Spain, Scoteland, and Britanny, Flanders also, Three of them present keeping thy Noble Feast, Of St. George in Windsor, Ambassadors comying more, Eich of them in honore both the more and the less, Seeking thy grace to have thy Noble begesse; Wherefore now Rejoise and joyous maisse thou be, To see thy King so flourishing in dignetye. O Knightly Ordere clothed in Robes with Gartere, The Queen's grace and thy Mother clothed in the same; The Nobles of thy Realm rich in array, after Lords, Knights and Ladies, unto thy great same, Now shall all Ambassadors know thy Noble Name, By thy Feast Royal; now joyeous mayest thou be, To see thy King so flourishing in dignety. Here this day St. George Patron of this Place Honoured with the Gartere, these of Chevalrye, Chaplenes singing procession keeping the same, With Archbushopes and Bushopes beseen nobly, Much people present to see the King henry; Wherefore now St. George all we pray to thee, To keep our Soberaine in his dignetye. At the Grand Feast held at Windesor, a MS penes Ed. Fauconb. gen. an. 4. Car. 1. the Queen (her Ladies attending) was conducted into St. George's Hall, a b MS penes Ed. Fauconb. gen. little before the Sovereign's Styles were proclaimed, to see the Sovereign and Knights-Companions sit at Dinner. At the Feast there celebrated by the present Sovereign, The Queen's coming into the Hall, to observe the Order of the Feast. in the 15. year of his Reign, the Sovereign's Styles were not proclaimed (as many times heretofore) until the second Course was set upon the Table, but it was by the Sovereign's special direction, because he expected the Queen's coming into the Hall, to see the state and glory of the Feast; who staying something long, and the second Course being already brought to the lower end of the Hall, and the Sovereign seeing it stand there, gave command it should be set upon the Table, but that the proclaiming of his Styles should be yet forborn. Immediately after, the Queen attended with her Ladies, entered St. George's Hall, and passing up the middle, came to the Sovereign's Table, where she was seated on his right hand. Hereupon Garter, accompanied by his Fellow Officers of Arms, proceeded up the Hall, and with usual Ceremonies proclaimed the Sovereign's Styles, in Latin, French, and English. In like manner, when the Duke of York was Installed at the Grand Feast, an. 13. Car. 2. his Duchess, desirous to see the order and grandeur of it, was brought into the Hall, assoon as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions were set, and passing to the upper end of the Table, where the Duke sat, she stood on his left hand all Dinner while. And it appears to be no new thing, that the Queens of England, have been desirous to behold the magnificence of this solemn Feast; since we also find it recorded an. 11. H. 8. that a c MS. in office. Armour. [M. 17.] f. 28. little while before the second Course was carried in, Queen Katherine and her Ladies came to the d MS. in office. Armour. [M. 17.] f. 28. Gallery, at the end of the Hall (which was nobly prepared for her) to see the honourable Services and Ceremonies there performed. But besides the Queens of England, the Ambassadors of Foreign Kings and States have counted it an honour, to have view of this Grand Feast; and amongst others, we find the e Sir john Fenets Observe. touching foreign Ambassadors. p. 34. French Ambassador was an. 15. jac. R. conducted into the Banqueting-house at Whitehall, by Sir john Fenet (than Assistant Master of the Ceremonies) about the f Sir john Fenets Observe. touching foreign Ambassadors. p. 34. middle of Dinner, where he placed himself at the left hand of the Sovereign; and having stayed there about an hour, he descended to the Knights-Companions Table, and there saluted the Prince, and the rest of the Knights of the Order, as he passed along before them, and so departed. At the Grand Feast kept at Whitehall an. 19 jac. R. to the sight of which the g Ex eod. lib. Observ. p. 79. Polonian Ambassador Osalinskie, Count Palatine of Sindomerskie, having received an invitation, he went, about the middle of Dinner, to see and h Ex eod. lib. Observ. p. 79. salute the Sovereign, the Prince, and Knights-Companions as they sat at the Table; and thence retired into the Council Chamber, where he and the i Ex eod. lib. Observ. p. 79. Arch Duke's Agent, Van Mab, had been before treated. The next following year, on the k Ibid. pag. 106. 22. of May, which was the day assigned for holding the Grand Feast at Whitehall, the Prince (being the Sovereign's Lieutenant) supplied his place in the Banqueting house at the Table, whither l Ibid. pag. 106. Don Carlos de Coloma the Spanish Ambassador, and m Pag. 102. Philip a second Son to the Landgrave of Hesse (sent hither on a negotiation of his Father) were conducted: the Spanish Ambassador n Pag. 1●8. standing at his Highness right hand, and the young Landgrave at his left, most part of the Dinner. An. 3. Car. 1. the o Pag. 107. Ambassador of Denmark, Paul Rosenkrantz, and joachimi, and Monsieur Catz, the Ambassadors and Deputies of the States, were conducted altogether, in the p Pag. 107. time of the second Course, to the Sovereign's Table, and there presented themselves, at that side next the Sovereign's left hand; and after, passed down along before the Knights-Companions (with their respects bestowed personally on each Knight as they deemed fitting) and then returned by the way they entered. But in this last instance, where there were more Ambassadors than one, and from several Princes, a Question arose, q Ibid. whether they were to perform this Ceremony of seeing the Feast, and presenting themselves at the Dinner, singly and alone, or jointly and together; insomuch that the Danish Ambassador was of the mind to perform it by himself, r Ibid. which course was approved by the Lord Chamberlain: But the State's Ambassador joachimi, telling him that he and the French Ambassador had been joint spectators, at a Feast two or three years before, at which time he was employed a Commissioner hither, the Ambassador of Denmark came in along with the others. Lastly (for we would not be over tedious with Instances) when the Grand Feast was held at Whitehall an. 19 Car. 2. the Swedish Ambassador had not only a place assigned him in the Choir, at the North side of the Altar, to behold the Solemnities on the Feast day in the Chapel, and when the Grand Procession passed into the Court, he also went out at the little door on the North side of the Chapel, up to the Greencloth Chamber, whence he had a fair prospect of it, and thence returned to behold the Ceremonies of the Offering. But when the Sovereign was at Dinner, he entered the Banqueting-house from the Privy Gallery, and passing to the Sovereign's Table, stood there on the left hand of the Queen, thence he went to salute the Knights-Companions at their Table, beginning with his Highness the Duke of York; and at all these places was attended by Sir Charles Cotterell Master of the Ceremonies. In the last place comes in the Banquet, brought up to the Sovereign's Table by the Pensioners, in the same order, and with the same Attendants as are the Sovereign's Messes; only, in the place of the Clerk of the Kitchen, the chief Clerk of the Spicery waits, but the Banquet for the Knights-Companions, is brought up by the Yeomen of the Guard. And now, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions have dined, the Knights s Collect. W. le N. Cl. first rise, and having washed, place themselves a little below the State, in their usual order, and there make their Reverences to the Sovereign; and hereof we find particular mention made an. 24. H. 8. in these words, t MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 17.] fol. 35. The Knights-Companions sat upon their Forms, notwithstanding their Board's were taken up, and until the Lords, which at that Feast sat at the Soveraign' s Table, were also taken up, and then they immediately arose, and went together, and made their obeisances to the Sovereign. After this, the Sovereign hears Grace, said by the Prelate, then is u Collect. W. le N. Cl. Water brought up with the usual Ceremony, and the Sovereign washeth. The Sovereign's return to the Presence. This being done, the Knights-Companions making again due Reverence to the Sovereign, he puts off his Cap, and salutes them as usually, and forthwith proceeds back to the Presence-Chamber, with the Knights and Officers of the Order before him, and being arrived at the step before the State, he again saluteth the Knights-Companions; who having made their Reverences to him, he appoints the w MS. pen. G.O.Y. pag. 114. Hour for their attendance again, to go to the second Vespers, and forthwith passeth thence into his Privy Lodgings, taking the Officers of the Order before him, and the x Collect. W. le N. Cl. Knights-Companions following after; thus they all retire till the time appointed, to go to the second Vespers. In like manner doth the Sovereign's Lieutenant proceed from the Presence to the Hall, or such other Room where the Dinner is prepared; only his place of Session at the Table, is y MS. pen. G.O.Y. p. 114. & MS. pen. W. D▪ N. fol. 8. b. a little on the left hand the Cloth of State, or at the z Col. Rob. C. Cl. fol. 7. end of the Table; and after Dinner he returns to the Presence, in the same order as doth the Sovereign. But what order was taken in King Henry the Eighth's Reign, for the entertainment of the Sovereign's Deputy at Windesor, during the continuance of the Feast, may be seen by these following directions, which, to this particular, are very observable. * MS. penes Rob. Com. Aylesbury. Memorandum, that the Saturday at Wyndesor, the Lords and Knights of the Garter keep the Chamber, and in like case the Sunday at Souper. First the Precedent, at the Board his mess alone. Item, the Lords or Knights at the said Bordesende 2. Messe or 3. as the case requireth, Wafers and hippocras the said Night's. Item, the said night there is oon halle kept for the Lords Servants, and so servede when the Lords be at Soupere. Item, the Sunday following, the Precedent, with all the knights of the Garter, do break their falls with the Dean of Wyndesor, at his Gods, except 2. or 3. Chines of Beif, which be send from the Castle thythere. Item, the said Sondaye, when the Precedent with the knights be at height mess, than there is a fyrste halle kept in the Castle for their Servants and other. Item, the said Sunday at Dinner, the Precedent keepeth the hall, with the knights at the Boardsend at Dinner; but the Precedent sitteth not in the There of Estate, but by. Item, the said Sunday, the Dean of the College with those College, sitting in thall at the lattere dynere, and no more. Item, the said day and dinner, the Lords and the Dean with the College, the Heralds and the Marshal be served with Wafers and hippocras. Memorandum, that the Precedent, and the knights of the Garter, have both the Saturday at night and Sunday, void. Memorandum, that there be sent the Monday following to the College for the Knyghts' brekefasts, Brede, Ale, Wine, a certain. 3. Chines of Beife, a Sirloin of Beif, 4. Capon's good, 18. Rabbetts, 18. P●gions, 18. Chyk. And other such, as the Steward of the Feast thin●● be●●. And all the rest, to be at the charge of the Dean. SECT. VIII. The Ceremonies belonging to the second Vespers. SInce the Ceremonies relating to the second Vespers at Windesor, are but the Repetition of those, which have been performed on the Eve of the Feast; we shall pass them over with more brevity, being very unwilling to cloy the Reader with needless recitals. The time for Proceeding to the Chapterhouse, hath most usually been about four a Clock in the Afternoon of St. George's day, but sometimes not before five; and so long did the services of the Dinner hold, when the Feast of St. George was celebrated at Windesor, the a MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 154. b. 14. of September, an. 15. jac. R. that the Knights-Companions proceeded by b MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 154. b. Torch light to the Chapterhouse. The place from whence the Proceeding begins is (as at other times) the Chamber of Presence; in reference to which the Sword is there laid in readiness, on the Chair under the State, and all other things put in order, as on the Eve of the Feast. The Persons whereof the Proceeding is composed, the manner and order thereof, the public Processional way to the Chapterhouse, is the very same as on the Eve; and when the Sovereign and Knights did at any time proceed to the Chapel on Horseback, on the Eve and Morning of the Feast day, c MS. penes Arth. Com. Anglesey, fol. 167. MS. in Offic. Armour. [M. 17. b.] & MS▪ pen. W. D. N. fol. 16. b. they have, in like manner, proceeded to the second Vespers. It hath been customary, for the Sovereign and Knights-Companions to hold a Chapter before the second Vespers, and therein, for the most part, have been transacted all Affairs relating to this most Noble Order; as the making new Constitutions, regulating things amiss, reading Petitions, making Orders thereupon, determining Controversies and Disputes referring to the Officers of the Order, Alms-Knights, etc. and such like matters, either ordinary or extraordinary; for instance, An. 28 H. 8. we find it recorded, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions (having performed all the Ceremonies of the Feast (then held at Greenwich) viz. on the Eve, Matins, and solemn Offering on the Feast Day, in the Morning) d Lib. N. pag. 69. at the second Vespers, before they entered the Choir, they went aside to the Sovereign's Closet, and there debated the ordinary affairs relating to the Order: but besides this Instance, many other are scattered up and down the Registers. And frequently, both at Whitehall and Greenwich, (this Feast being there celebrated) hath this Chapter been held in the Sovereign's f MS. penes W. D. N. vide etiam MS. penes G.O.Y. pag. 113. & Collect. praefat. R C. Cl. fol. 9 Closet, near the Chapel; from whence, at the breaking up thereof, the Sovereign hath now and then in g MS. penes W. D. N. vide etiam MS. penes G.O.Y. pag. 113. & Collect. praefat. R C. Cl. fol. 9 Person, proceeded into the Chapel, to the second Vespers. But generally h Ex eod. MS. penes eund W. D. N. fol. 8. b. remained in the Closet, during the celebration of those Divine Offices: and in such case, the i Ex eod. MS. penes eund W. D. N. fol. 8. b. Lieutenant supplying the place of the Sovereign, hath proceeded from the Closet, through the Hall into the Chapel. Where note, that the k Ex eod. MS. penes eund W. D. N. fol. 8. b. Proceeding from the Presence to the Closet before the Sovereign, and thence into the Chapel l Ex eod. MS. penes eund W. D. N. fol. 8. b. before the Sovereign's Lieutenant (as also the returns thereof) are ordered in all points, as on the Eve of the Feast. But, if the Sovereign do not proceed to the second Vespers, then is this Chapter held, in some convenient Room of the Sovereign's Privy Lodgings, before the Proceeding begin, for so it was an. m Ex eod. MS. penes eund W. D. N. fol. 8. b. 6 Eliz. and an. n Palm. Iourn. pag. 25. 13 Car. 1. when (at the hour of Tierce) many things were Decreed in a Chapter there celebrated. As soon as the Chapter riseth, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, proceed to the West Door of the Choir, where the Alms-Knights being arrived, first they, after them the whole Proceeding enters, in the usual order, and with the accustomed Reverences and Ceremonies; all placing themselves, as they arrive at the Stations and Seats formerly mentioned, and in that manner and Order, as they did at their Entry into the Choir, to the first Vespers. Which Ceremony of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions entrance and Session in their Stalls, being finished, the Prelate ascends to the Altar as before, and begins the Divine Service, during which, the Scrutiny for Election of Knights is most commonly taken; of which we have spoken at large in the Chapter of Elections. When the second Vespers are finished, the Proceeding passeth out of the Choir, the Knights-Companions and the Sovereign following, and returns to the Presence Chamber, whence He and the Knights-Companions retire till Supper be ready; all things being done, as when they passed out of the Choir, and Proceeded to the Presence at the finishing of the first Vespers. But an. 15 Car. 1. it happening to be late, ere the second Vespers were ended, the Sovereign went o Palmers Iourn. pro an. 1639. p. 33. not to the Presence Chamber from the Chapel, but marched directly to the great Hall to Supper, by Torch light. When the Feast hath been kept at Whitehall or Greenwich, if the Sovereign went p MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 10. & 26. b. into the Chapel to the second Vespers, the return of the Proceeding was immediately thence through the great Hall, and up into the Presence. But if the Sovereign proceeded no farther than the q Ex fol. 8. b. vide etiam MS. penes G.O.Y. pag. 113. & 114. Closet, and there stayed, both holding the Chapter and during Divine Service; then the Sovereign's Lieutenant as he came from the Chapel, passed also through the Great Hall, and up into the Guard Chamber and thence to the Closet, where receiving the Sovereign, they all proceeded thence before him into the Presence in the usual order; where the Proceeding ending, all retired till Supper was ready. Nevertheless if the Supper on the Feast Day at night was prepared in the Banqueting-house; then the Sovereign's return from the Chapel or Closet, was over the Terrace, into the said Room, and up to the State there. SECT. IX. Of the Supper on the Evening of the Feast Day. IT hath been very seldom seen, that the Sovereign hath supped publicly in St. George's Hall, on the Feast Day; but when he doth (as r 〈…〉 an. 14 Car. 1.) the Proceeding thither, the Ceremonies and attendance there, and return thence, are in all respects performed, as at the Supper on the Eve. But if the Sovereign's Lieutenant hath on this night supped publicly (as formerly it often happened at Whitehall) than this Meal was made in the s MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 4. & 8. b. & MS. pen. G.O.Y. pag. 113. Presence Chamber, where the Lieutenant sat alone at the Sovereign's Table, on the left hand of the Cloth of State, as was usual at other times, and the Knights-Companions at a Table set along the side of the Room; all being served after the accustomed manner. Sometimes, at Greenwich, the Sovereign's Lieutenant and Knights-Companions have supped in the t MS. penes W. D. N. fol. 4. & 8. b. & MS. pen. G.O.Y. pag. 113. Council Chamber, as an. 8. Eliz. (and also in the u Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 9 Great Chamber, at the end of the Guard-Chamber on the Eve, as an. 27. of the same Queen) And when Supper was ended, they all proceeded back to the Presence-Chamber, and there (having appointed the Hour of meeting the next morning) took leave one of another, and departed to their several Lodgings, to put off their Robes. CHAP. XXII. THE Ceremonies OBSERVED ON THE Last Day OF THE FEAST. SECT. I. Of Proceeding to the Chapterhouse in the Morning. IT is observed by the Author of the Rationale, upon our Book of Common-Prayer, a Pag. 128. That great Solemnities have some days after them, to continue their memory in Prorogationem Festi, which are b Ibid. 174. added as Attendants in honour of the Feast. And it may be well enough presumed, that upon this ground, the Founder lengthened out the Feast of St. George with part of the following day; one being too little to contain all the Ceremonies, designed by him to set forth the State of this high Festival. Among the * job. 7. v. 39 jews, the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles was taken for the greatest day; but though it be not so to be understood here, yet doth this last day share in a very great part of the Solemnity of the Feast; for in the distribution of the Ceremonies, there are appointed to it particulars, both Civil and Solemn. As first, the Affairs transacted in Chapter, chiefly concerning the Election of Knights, with their Proceeding to the Chapel; and secondly, the Services used in the Chapel, viz. the Offering of Gold and Silver, and Hatchments of deceased Knights-Companions. The bringing of the c Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sword into the Presence, the setting the Proceeding in order, and the manner of the Sovereign and Knights Proceeding to the Chapterhouse, is performed in the same sort as it was on the Eve of the Feast; the Solemnity differing only in this, that then the Sovereign and Knights-Companions are obliged by the Statutes, to proceed in full Robes; here, by the indulgence of King Henry the Eighths' d Art. 12. Statutes all are dispensed with, saving the upper Robe or Mantle: and where then, the Image of St. George was worn pendent at the Collar of the Order, now a blue Ribbon sufficeth; and in lieu of their Caps and Feathers, they now wear only their ordinary Hats. First, therefore the e Collect. W. le N. Cl. Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order, repair to the Sovereign's Privy Lodgings, and there attend his going into the Presence Chamber. The Officers of Arms, prebend's, and Alms-Knights, as also the Knights-Companions Servants, (habited as the Day before) meet in the several places they then did, and there wait the Sovereign's coming forth. The Sovereign attended with his Train-bearers, enters the Presence, and takes his Stand before the State. The Proceeding advanceth towards the Chapterhouse, in the accustomed Order. Generally, and for the most part, the Proceeding passeth on foot (and sometimes on Horseback) the public way: yet the late Sovereign King Charles the First, used now and then, to pass the private way, f An. 7. Car. 1. MS. & an. 14. Car. 1. Palm. Iourn. pag. 20. over the Terrace. But an. 15 jac. Reg. there was no solemn proceeding at all, for the public way was so g MS. penes E. W. G. f. 154. b. pestered with Carts, that the Sovereign and Knights-Companions were constrained to pass to the Chapterhouse in their ordinary Apparel, and put on their Mantles there. It was the ancient Custom, to celebrate a Chapter in the Morning of the last Day of the Feast, before the Sovereign proceeded to the Chapel, whereinto the Sovereign and Knights-Companions entering and opening the same, have given dispatch to such affairs relating to the Order, as were, either not finished or treated of in the Precedent Chapters: but the chief business then is to make Election of Knights, where any Stall is void. Which Chapter, hath sometimes (when the Sovereign did not go to the Chapel) been kept in the h Collect. W. le N. Cl. Privy Chamber, and the present Affairs dispatched in that Room; and then the Sovereign's Lieutenant waving the Chapterhouse, hath proceeded strait on to the Chapel, and entered in at the South Door thereof. SECT. II. Of the Elect Knights Proceeding into the Choir. WHere an Election hath been made of a Person then present at Court, he is called in to the Chapterhouse by Garter according, to the usual manner. Where the Garter is buckled about his Leg, and the George put about his Neck; (of which particular Ceremony we have i Chap. 10. already spoken) this being done, it hath been usual for the Elect▪ Knight to receive the further honour of passing immediately in the Proceeding to the Chapel, whether it were from the Chapterhouse, or Presence-Chamber, which he doth in his k Ex Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. ●. vid. etiam MS. pen. E. W. G. ordinary apparel, always bareheaded, as did the l MS. Earl of Northumberland, a 11 Car. 1. and without any other Ornaments of the Order, saving the foresaid Garter and George: and the place allowed him in the Proceeding, is between the Knights-Companions and the Officers of Arms, of which there are a multitude of Precedents. In this place m MS. fol. pen. W. D. N. fol. 16. b. Sir Henry Sidney road, in the Proceeding to the Chapel at Windesor, an. 6 Eliz. and here went the Lord n Ibid. MS. fol. 3. b. Hunsdon immediately after he was elected, an. 3. Eliz. so also the o Ibid. f. 10. b. Earl of Northumberland the 5 th' of the same Queen. But where two Knights have been Elected, they then proceed together before the Knights-Companions, (the Senior being taken on the right hand) as did the Earl of p MS. penes E. W. G. Arundel and Visc. Rochester, a 9 jac. Reg. and the Earl of q MS. penes E. W. G. Rutland and Sir George Villars, an. 14 jac. Reg. Howbeit Charles Duke of York, being elected at the same time, went in the Proceeding r MS. penes E. W. G. next before the Prince his Brother, than the Sovereign's Lieutenant. When the Proceeding is arrived at the Choir Door, the Alms-Knights, prebend's, and Officers of Arms, the Knights-Companions and Officers of the Order, enter with usual Ceremony, and take their several Stations, as on the Eve; and lastly, the Sovereign, if present. The Elect Knight also enters in turn as he proceeded, and is s Ex Collect. A. V. W. placed by Garter next before the lowest Stall; or if there be two newly Elected, and both proceed to the Chapel, the one is placed under the lowest Stall on the Prince's side, the other under the lowest Stall on the Sovereigns. But if any great State pass in the Proceeding, he than is placed before such Stalls as is designed for him; and so was t MS. penes E. W. G. f. 149. b. Charles Duke of York, a 9 jac. Reg. to wit, before the Stall next below the Princes. Being thus placed, they are there to u Collect. A. V. W. stand all Service time; for so did the Earl of w Lib. R. p. 35. Suffolk, a 3 Car. 1. the Earl of x Ibid p. 46. Northampton, an. 4 Car. 1. and the Earl of y MS. Northumberland, a 9 Car. 1. nor are they to make any more Reverences than at their z MS. coming into the Choir, and passing out, unless a Stool be brought in and they permitted to sit down, and then are they obliged to make their Reverences * MS. upon all occasions, when they either sit or rise. Nevertheless, by reason of the length of the Ceremonies, and in case of Age or Infirmity, the Knights Elect, have obtained Licence from the Sovereign, or his Lieutenant, to sit down and be covered. So, for like cause, the Lord a MS. Burleigh in Queen Elizabeth's Reign, and the Earl of Southampton, an. 13 Car. 2. were permitted to sit. The like indulgence had the Earls of b MS. penes E W. G. fol. 147. b. Dunbar and Penbroke, an. 6 jac. from the Prince, (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) and also the Earl of c MS. penes E W. G. fol. 147. b. Rutland, and Sir George Villars from the Sovereign, an. 14 jac. Reg. and lastly james Duke of York, d Palm. large Iourn. pag. 421 an. 17 Car. 1. But, though the favour of reposing at this time is allowed, the e MS. Stool may not to be brought into the Choir, before the Sovereign has been pleased, by some public signal, to give him leave to sit down, and then to be called for and not before; though it ought to be in readiness, in some place near and unseen. SECT. III. Of the Ceremonies performed at Divine Service. AND now to pass on: When the Sovereign, hath ascended his Royal Seat, The Knights-Companions in due order take their Stalls. The Officers of the Order their Seats; and then The Prelate (with the Sergeant of the Vestry before him) goes up to the Northside of the Altar, and begins the Morning Service. After him, the Verger of the College proceeds up before two prebend's; who put on their Copes on the Southside of the Altar, and assist in the Divine Offices. But whereas the late Sovereign King Charles the First, of ever Blessed Memory, had throughout all his Reign, a Sermon preached before him, on every Tuesday Morning, it sometimes fell out that this latter Feast day, happened to be on a Tuesday, (as it did an. 8. of the same Sovereign at Whitehall) and then f Collect. W. le N. Cl. at such time as the Prelate was otherwise to proceed up to the Altar, the Pulpit was brought into the Choir, and placed in the g Collect. W. le N. Cl. middle of the lowermost Haut Pas, and immediately the Sermon began: which being ended, it was removed, and forthwith the h Collect. W. le N. Cl. Prelate proceeded up to the Altar as usually, and began Service. Mass of Requiem. In this Morning Service (before the Reformation of our Church) was the i Lib. N. p. 109. Mass of Requiem solemnly sung by the Abbot of Tower-hill, for the Souls of the Knights-Companions and all faithful Souls departed; and this was taken care for by the k E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 14. H. 8. Stat. Art. 12. Statutes. As also, that at the Celebration thereof, l E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 14. H. 8. Stat. Art. 12. all the Knights at the Feast should be present, unless any one were hindered by some reasonable cause, or in special manner Licenced by the Sovereign. At this Celebration were the deceased Knights-Companions Achievements also Offered, with solemn Ceremony; concerning which we shall discourse at large m Chap. 25. anon. Offering of Gold and Silver. Another Ceremony belonging to the service of this Morning, is the Offering of Gold and Silver, which when the first Sentence of the Offertory hath been pronounced, is again performed by the Sovereign (or his Lieutenant) and Knights-Companions present. The Ceremonies and Circumstances appertaining thereunto at this time, are the same throughout in all particulars, as are set down to be observed at the like Offering on the Feast Day; and therefore for avoiding Repetition, we shall refer the Reader to the place where that is treated on n Chap. 21. Sect. 5. before. Proceeding out of the Choir. After all the beforementioned Ceremonies in the Chapel, and Divine Service are ended, the Prelate descends from the Altar to his Form; Whereupon all prepare to go out of the Choir (which is exactly performed in the usual order, as on the Eve of the Feast) from whence, the Sovereign and Knights-Companions most commonly proceed to the Chapterhouse, where being entered, they immediately p MS. pen. W. D. N. fol. 16. b. & MS. penes E. W. G. de an. 15. jac. R vide porro Lib. R. p●g. 20. & 30. MS. pag. 14. put off their Mantles, and therewith the Ceremonies of this Grand Feast take ending. Heretofore, when the Feast was held at Whitehall, the Sovereign's Lieutenant and Knights-Companions were accustomed, to put off their Mantles q Ex eod. MS. penes W. D. N. f. 3. b. & 26. b. vide etiam Collect. W. le N. Cl. de an. 10. Eliz. Et MS. penes G.O.Y. pag. 113. without the Chappel-Door, assoon as they returned from Morning Service. But an. 13 Car. 1. at the finishing of this Morning Service, the r Lib. R. pag. 126. Proceeding went back before the Sovereign to the Presence-Chamber, so also an. 19 Car. 2. and in like manner an. 17 Car. 1. s Palm. Iourn. pag. 45. it marched before the Sovereign in order, from the Cathedral Church in York, to the Sovereign Palace, before they put off their Mantles. SECT. IV. The Diets at some of the Grand Feasts. WE were unwilling to interrupt the Course of the Ceremonies relative to this Grand Feast, with what some will esteem perhaps improper, if not trivial: nevertheless since others judge it may contribute to the setting forth the Grandeur and Magnificence of it, if the particulars of the Diets be made known, we shall add for corollary, an account of some of them here. An Ordinance for the King, the Lib. MS. penes Rob. C●●. A●lesbury, fol. 1. Queen, and the Knights of the Garter at Windesor, for Saturday Supper and Sunday Dinner, the 28. and 29. days of May, an. 11. Reg. Henrici Octavi. Saturday Supper Sunday Dinner first Course. first Course. Canell. Soppus to Pottage. A George on Horseback. Organs of Ling Standard. Chikins in brewel. Salmon Calver. pestle of Heart for gr. sh. Pike in Erblade. Capons in Erblade. Plece. Cignets. Bremes mar. Carp of Venison. Cunger gr. Capons of halt gr. souls in solemsauce. Herons. Moletts in grave. Pike in Latum sauce. Tenches in Gresell. sauce. Salman Calver. Carp in sharp sauce. A made Dish. Creves mar. Pies of Paries. Dowsetts desire. Custard planted with Garters. Tart covered. A Tart closed with Arms. Fritor Lion. Prewne Orangs. Vno eq. per pero Leche. Second Course. Second Course. Mainem● Royal. A Sotelte. Halebut in engrailed. jely hippocras. Fresh Sturgeon. Kind Kid. Base. Pheasants. Sour Moletts. Brews, or Mews. Bremes aque dulc. Godwits. Perches in soil. Birds of the Nest. Eliis gr. roast. Chickens. Chines of Salmon r. Peions. Porpos in Armour. Rabbits. Creves— dozen. Peres made. Orangs back. Sturgeon r. Tart melior. Creves dd. Leche comfort. Quales. Venison in past. Tart party. Orangs back. Leche. For the Knight's Dinner on Sunday. First Course. Second Course. Chikins in brewel. jely Yppocras. Pestles or gr. schare. kid or Lamb peru. Capon in Erblade. Fesaunts. Cignets or Green-geeses. Quales. Carpis of Venison or Veal. Chikins. Herons or Gullies. Pigeons. Pike or Lampre p. Rabbits. Salmon Calver. Sturgeon r. Pies of Paris. Creves dd. Custard Plancyd. Venison in past. Fryttors. Tart party. Bawdrets or Orangs back. Leche. This Fare followeth the Knights at the second Table. First Course. Second Course. Pottage. A viand. Gr. Schare. Lamb. Capon boiled. Chikins or Pigeons. Green Geese. Venison back. or Tart. Veal roasted. Creves dd. Pies or Custard. leech or Frittor. Lampre pr. Frittor or leech. This Fare is for the first Hall. First Course. Second Course. Pottage. A Viand. Gr. Schare. Lamb. Capon boiled. Chikins or Pigeons. Green Geese for 12 or 16 Mess. Venison back. Veal. leech or Frittor. Pies or Custard paru. Frittor. Waste to be given by the great Officers Cxx, Mess. Ibid. fol. 3. Beef, Veal, Geese, and Capon. Waste to be dealt at Gate, viz. CCCC. Mess. Beef, Veal, and Bakemeats, Venison or other. This course for giving Waste, was continued until an. 12. Car. 2. that the Purveyances and Provisions for the King's Household, were taken away by Act of Parliament. A Proportion made for the foresaid Feast of St. George. Ibid. fol. 4▪ Beef 24 Moulton 92 Veals. 74 Pikes 24 Lampre pr. 240 Cygnets 3 does. Green Geese 18 dd. Herons 8 dd. Pheasants 4 dd. Brewz or Gullies 6 dd. Goddwitts 5 dd. Birds of the Nest 200. Pigeons 50 dd. Chikins 52 dd. Rabits 36 dd. Capon of gr. 12. Capon k. 8. dd. Capon cos. 16. dd. Hens. 40. dd. kids 14 Lambs Sukkers 14 Lambs gr. 96 Young Cranes 3 does. Dottrells 5 dd. Quails 15 dd. cream 16 gall. Crude 60 g. Milk 60 g. Butter and Eggs plenty. Peacocks with their Tails Pastry. 16 cream 24 g. Crude 80 g. Milk 76 g. Apples 200. Oranges. 300. Butter to serve the said Feast. Eggs to serve the said Feast. l. s. d. The charge of the whole came to 431 03 09 For the Feast of St. George, held at Whitehall, on Monday the 22. and Tuesday the 23. days of April, in the 19 year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord King Charles the Second, An. Dom. 1667. The Supper for the Sovereign on the Eve (being Monday night) was prepared and set upon the Table in the Banqueting-House, two by two, beginning at the East end of it, and the rest of the Dishes were set upon the other Dishes, as Rinders in the middle. First Course. 1. Ducklings boiled xij. 21. Petty Paties. 2. Veal Arago. 3. Salmon boiled i. case. 22. Rabbits fried xij. 4. Pigeon Pye. 5. Green Geese xij. 23. Salad. 6. Gammon Bacon with iiij Pullet's greatcourse. 7. Pike with Prawns, Cockles, and Oysters. 24. Capon good per Salads iiij. 8. Bisk Pigeons xij. 9 Venison Pye. 25. Rabbits marrionated 10. Chines Mutton and Veal iij. 11. Chickens boiled xij. 26. Hashed Salad. 12. Hens with Eggs hasht vi. 13. Carp Great iij. 27. Cold Sparagrasses. 14. Oyster Pye. 15. Tongues and Udders iiij. 28. Pickled Salads. 16. Capon's boiled ij. 17. Kid i. case. 29. Sweet breads Arago. 18. Pullet a Granow iiij. 19 Beatilia Pye. 20. Capon's fat. v. Second Course. 1. Veal Soused ij. 21. Tongues iiij. 2. Salmon col. 3. Pullet's Great vi. 22. Leich. 4. Tongue Pye. 5. Ducklings xij. 23. Anchovies, Caviar, and pickled Oysters. 6. Leverets vi. 7. Lobsters vi. 24. Eggs of Portugal. 8. Chickens fat xij. 9 Pheasants with Eggs vi. 25. Blamange. 10. Skerret Pye. 11. Partridges xij. 26. Cream Pistache. 12. Turkey Chicks xij. 13. Crabs buttered vi. 27. Sparragrass. 14. Tarts sorts. 15. Gammons Bacon ij. 28. jelly. 16. Pigeons tame xij. 17. Chickens marrionated xij. 29. Prawns. 18. Lamprey Pye. 19 Pullet's Soused vi. 20. Salad. Four Mess of Fare served to Supper on the Eve to the Knights-Companions Tables, viz. one to the Duke of Yorks Table, and three to the other six Knights then present, and one Mess of the same fare to the Prelate and the other Officers of the Order. First Course. Second Course. Capon's boiled ij. Pullet's great vi. Wildboar Pye. Gammon Bacon ij. Kid i. case. Ducklings xij. Carp great iij. Carp Soused ij. Chicken Pie frosted. Partridges viij. Gammon Bacon with 4. Pullet's great. Lamprey Pye. Oyster Pye. Bisk of Shelfish. Turkey Chicks xij. Venison Pye. Prawns. Bisk Pigeons xij. Pigeon's tame xij. Tongue and Udders iiij. Tongues iiij. Pike great. Chickens fat xij. Capon's fat iiij. Tongue Pye. Turkey Pye. Rabbits xij. Jegot Multon ferst. Anchovis Caviar and pickled Oysters. Veal Arago. Green Geese x. Leich. Beatilia Pye. Lobsters vi. Chickens boiled xij. Sparagrass. Sweet Breads Arago. Tarts Sorts. Salads. jelly. Salads. Blamange. The Sovereign's Diet on St. George's Day Dinner. First Course. 1. Wild-Boar Pye. 21. Line Veal larded and col. iij. 2. Veal Arago. 3. Chine of Beef. 22. Cold Sparagrass. 4. Haggest Puddings. 5. Beatilia Pye. 23. Hasht Salads. 6. Capon's fat v. 7. Ducklings boiled xij. 24. Almond Pudding. 8. Gammon Bacon and Pigeons. 9 Chines Multon and Veal iij. 25. Sweet Breads. 10. Capon's boiled ij. 11. Venison boiled. 26. Salad. 12. Pikes roasted ij. 13. Carp great iij. 27. Petty Pattyes. 14. Pigs roasted ij. 15. Venison Pye. 28. Puddings white and Black. 16. Green Geese xij. 17. Turbut. 29. Rabbits fried xij. 18. Chicken Pye. 19 Turkey Pye. 19 Chicken marrionated xij. Second Course. 1. Pullet's Soused vi. 21. Pickle Salad. 2. Tongue Pye. 3. Salmon col. 22. Tongues iiij. 4. Blamange. 5. Rabbits roasted xij. 23. Eggs Portugal. 6. Crabs buttered vi. 7. Pheasants with Eggs vi. 24. Shardoones. 8. Pigeon's tame xij. 9 Chickens roasted xij. 25. Leach. 10. Bisk shell fish. 11. Oysters, Skerets, and Sweetbreads. 26. Luke Olives. 12. Ducklings roasted xij. 13. Tart sorts. 27. Sparagrass. 14. Lobsters roasted vi. 15. Gammon Bacon. 28. Pickled Oysters. 16. Pigs soused. 17. Lamprey Pye. 29. Prawns. 18. Veal hasht. 19 Salmon boiled i. case 20. Peacock Pye. Four Mess of Fare served to the Knights-Companions, and one Mess to the Prelate, etc. on St. George's Day Dinner. First Course. 1. Salad. 17. Green Geese x. 2. Chickens boiled xij. 3. Loin of Veal larded with coll. 18. Carp great iij. 4. Turkey Pye. 19 Haggest Pudding. 6. Salmon i. case. 5. Pigs ij. 20. Beatilia Pye. 8. Venison Pye. 7. Chine Beef. 21. Pullet's great vi. 10. Shoulder Multon in blood with Steaks. 9 Gammon Bacon and iiij. Pullet's great. 22. Sallett. 12. Capon's fat iiij. 11. Bisk Pigeons xij. 14. Kid i. case. 13. Chicken Pie frosted. 16. Veal Soused. 15. Wild Boar Pye. Second Course. 1. Salad. 17. Leach. 2. Pigs Soused. 3. Gammons Bacon ij. 18. Sparagrass. 4. Salmon col. 5. Ducklings xij. 19 Crabs buttered vi. 6. Chickens fat xij. 7. Oysters, Skirrets, and Sweetbread. 20. Lamprey Pye. 8. Bisk Shelfish. 21. jelly. 10. Lobsters vi. 9 Pigeon's tame xij. 22. Blamange. 12. Tarts sorts. 11. Rabits xij. 23. Salad. 14. Pullet's soused. 13. Peacock Pie in Pride. 16. Anchovies, Caviar, and Pickled Oysters. 15. Dried Tongues iiij. The Banquet served at the Feast of St. George, the 22. and 23. of April an. 19 Car. 2. Supper on the Eve. For the Sovereign's Table, 8 Basins, 20 Boxes in each Basin, one pound in each Box. Preserves 4 Dishes, two pound in a Dish. Creams 2 Dishes, and one pound of Eringoes, and one pound of Rocks to garnish each Basin. For 4 Mess of the Knights-Companions, and one Mess for the Prelate, etc. to each Mess 2 Basins, 16 Boxes in a Basin, 3 quarters of a pound in a Box. 2 Dishes of Preserves, 2 pound in a Dish, and 2 Dishes of Creams, and half a pound of Eringoes, and half a pound of Rocks to garnish each Basin. The like for Dinner on St. George's Day. After Dinner and Supper, when the Sovereign and Knights-Companions wash, 6 Bowls, one for the Sovereign of 6 pound of Comfits, and ● other Bowls for the Knights-Companions and Prelate, etc. 4 pounds in each Boul, ●arnished with Eringoes, and Rocks and Violet Cakes, half a pound of each to each Boul. We have seen several Bills wherein the Diets belonging to the Officers of Arms are set down, both for their Supper on the Eve, and Dinner on the Feast Day, which were not less than 20 Dishes, and sometimes 24 Dishes besides the Banquet: These Bills were usually given to the Junior Pursuivants, by the Clerks of the Kitchen, by which they called for the Dishes. Among the memorials of the Grand Feast held an. 19 Eliz. it is noted, that on the * MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 113. Eve, the Heralds had at Supper the Diet as was accustomed, viz. ‖ MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 113. 16 Dishes at the first Course and 8 at the second: but see here their Diets at the Grand Feast at Whitehall, an. 19 Car. 2. Monday Supper 22 April. First Course. Second Course. Salads. Pullet's great iij. Veal and Capon boiled. Chickens fine viij. Chickens boiled viij. Pigeon's fat. xij. Multon roasted. Rabbits vi. Veal Roasted. Lobsters iiij. Turkey. Prawns CCC. Capon's good two. Turkey-pie. Lamb, side. Tart Sorts. Pigeon-Pye. Sparagrass CC. Stump-Pye. Gammon Bacon. Green Geese vi. Tongues two. jelly. Manchets fine x. Cheat fine vi. Course x. Beer viij Gallons. French Wine two. Gallons. Sack two. Quarts. Ale iiij. Bottles. The same served the next day Dinner, only the roast Veal was exchanged for boiled Beef. For Supper on Sunday night, at Windesor, the 28. of May 1671. being the Eve of the Grand Feast, there was prepared for the Sovereign, the Diet hereafter mentioned, and set upon his Table in St. George's Hall, in the order following, two by two, beginning at the South end of the Table; which being filled, the rest of the Dishes were set upon stands in the midst. First Course. 1. Chickens boiled xii. 21. Petty Patties. 2. Salmon boiled. 3. Veal Arago. 22. Rabits fried viij. 4. Lamb stewed. 5. umble Pye. 23. Salad of Herbs. 6. Bisk Pigeons xii. 7. Green Geese vi. 24. Mullets soused vi. 8. Pikes with Pawns, Oysters, and Cockles. 9 Chine Multon & Veal iv. 25. Rabits marrionated viij. 10. Venison Pye. 11. Ducklings boiled xii. 26. Hasht Salad, with iv Capons. 12. Carp great iii 13. Hen's hasht v 27. Soles marrionated two pair. 14. Turkey's aladob vi. 15. Venison boiled q. 28. Salad of Pickles. 16. Bisk Shelfish. 17. Capons boiled two. 29. Sweet breads arogo. 18. Pullet's a granoul vi. 19 Beatilia Pie with Patties. 20. Capon's fat v. Second Course. 1. Pullet's fat roasted vi. 21. Tougues iv. 2. Veal and Pigs soused. 3. Cold Salmon. 22. Pease. 4. Ducklings x. 5. Tongue Pye. 23. Anchovis Caviar & pickled Oysters. 6. Leverets vi. 7. Chicks fat xii. 24. Eggs of Portugal. 8. Lobsters roast vi. 9 Pheasants with Eggs vi. 25. Blamang. 10. Turkey Chicks xii. 11. Gaudwitts x. 26. Cream Pistache●. 12. Crabs buttered vi. 13. Quails xxiv. 27. Scollops. 14. Pigeons tame xii. 15. Tarts sorts. 28. jelly. 16. gamon's Bacon two. 17. Crawfish buttered. 29. Prawns. 18. Egg Pies. 19 Ruffs xii. 20. Pullet's soused vi. Seven Mess, or several Services of Fare, served on the Eve of the Feast to the Knights-Companions; each Knight having a several Mess to Supper, and one Mess of the same fare to the Prelate, etc. First Course. Capons boiled ij. Chickens boiled xij. Crabs vi. Salads Pickles. Pikes great ij. Jegget Multon ferst. Chicken Pye. Rabbits fried viij. Pullet's hasht iv. Buck baked q. Capon's fat iv. Salmon. Second Course. Quails xviij. Turkey Pye. Tarts sorts. jelley. Tongue Pye. Carp large iij. Rabbits xij. Anchovies, Caviar and pickled Oysters. Blamang. Chicks fat xij. Lobsters vi. Pullet's great vi. The Sovereign's Diet on the Feast day, when the Table being made less, the Diet was reduced as followeth. First Course. 1. Wild Boar Pye. 2. Salmon. 3. Chine of Beef. 15. Salad. 4. Haggest Puddings. 5. Beatilia Pie with Patties. 16. Sweetbreads. 6. Gammon Bacon with xij tame Pigeons. 7. Ducklings boiled xij. 17. Almond Pudding. 8. Chickens boiled xij. 9 Chine Multon and Veal iv. 18. Petty Patties. 10. Pikes roasted ij. 11. Buck baked q. 19 Hasht Salad with 4 Capons. 12. Green Geese vi. 13. Carp great iij. 20. Chicks marrionated. 14. Chicken Pie frosted. Second Course. 1. Pullet's soused vi. 2. Tongue Pye. 3. Rabbits roasted xij. 15. Salads of Pickles. 4. Cream Tarts. 5. Pheasants with Eggs vi. 16. Eggs of Portugal. 6. Crabs buttered vi. 7. Quails xxiv. 17. jelly. 8. Pigeons tame xij. 9 Lobsters vi. 18. Luke Olives. 10. Chicks fat xij. 11. Gammon Bacon with ij Tongues. 19 Pease. 12. Ruffs xij. 13. Tarts sorts. 20. Prawns. 14. Ducklings xij. Seven Mess, or several Services of Fare served to the Knights-Companions, and one Mess to the Prelate, etc. First Course. Ducklings boiled xii. Chicks boiled xii. Rabbits fried viij. Carp great iij. Chine of Beef. Gammon of Bacon with iiij Pullet's great. Buck baked q. Stump Pye. Salads of Pickle. Wild Boar Pye. Shoulder of Multon in blood with Steaks. Capon's fat iiij. Second Course. Pheasants iiij. Quails xviii. Artichokes. Anchovis Caviar and pickled Oysters. Chicks fat xii. Tarts sorts. Ducklings vi. and Green Geese vi. Lamprey Pye. jelly. Gammon Bacon with two Tongues. Pigeons tame xii. Red Dear Pye. A Diet served to the Lords, that attended the Sovereign at Supper, on the Eve of the said Feast. First Course. Second Course. Capons boiled ij. Quails xviij. Chicks boiled xij. Turkey Chicks x. Crabs buttered vi. Tarts sorts. Salads of Pickle. jelly. Pikes Great ij. Tongue Pye. jegget Multon ferst. Carp large iv. Chicken Pye. Rabbits xij. Rabbits fried viij. Anchovies Caviar, and pickled Oysters. Pullet's Hasht iv. Blamang. Buck baked q. Chickens fried xij. Capon's fat iv. Lobsters vi. Salmon. Pullet's greese vi. Veal. Ducklings xij. Sols large ij pair. Pigeons tame xij. For the same Lord's Dinner on the Feast day. First Course. Second Course. Ducklings boiled xij. Pheasants iv. Chicks boiled xij. Quails xviij. Rabbits fried viij. Artichokes. Carp great ij. Anchovies Caviar and Pickled Oysters. Chine Beef. Chickens fat xij. Gammon Bacon with iv Pullet's. Tarts sorts. Buck baked q. Ducklings vi. and Green Geese vi. Stump Pye. Lamprey Pye. Salletts of Pickles. jelly. Wild Boar Pye. Gammon Bacon. Shoulder of Multon in blood with Veal. Tongues two. Capon's fat iv. Pigeons tame xii. Veal. Red Deer Pye. Pullet's of Greese iv. Crabs buttered vi. Blamang. The Banquet served at the said Feast. The Sovereign's Table on the Eve. One Charger of China Oranges, containing 50. Seven Chargers of Confections, in each Charger 20 Boxes; in each Box one pound of dried Confections. Two Plates of Duke Cherries, 4 pound in each Plate. One Plate of Red Strawberries, containing one Gallon. One Plate of White Strawberries, containing two Gallons. One Plate of Ice Cream. Three Plates of liquid Sweetmeats, in each Plate 3 pound. The same for the Feast day at Dinner. To each of the 7 Tables for the Knights-Companions, on the Eve. Two Chargers of Confections, in each Charger 14 Boxes. One pound of dried Confections in each Box. One Plate of Duke Cherries, containing 2 pound. One Plate of Red Strawberries, containing 1 Gallon. One Plate of liquid Sweetmeats, containing 3 pound. The same for the Feast day. For the Prelate of the Garter, etc. on the Eve. Two Chargers, 14 Boxes in each Charger. One Plate of Duke Cherries, containing 2 pound. One Plate of Red Strawberries, containing 1 Gallon. One Plate of liquid Sweetmeats, containing 3 pound. The same Service to the Lords who attended the Sovereign, And so the same to the Prelate and Lords the next day. One Charger of Confections for the Heralds, containing 10 Boxes each Meal. The Diets provided for the Officers of Arms at Supper and Dinner, were at each Meal 20 Dishes: The same Diet served in the same manner. To the prebend's xx Dishes. To the Alms-Knights xx Dishes. To the Petty Canons xx Dishes. To the Choristers xx Dishes. The Diet served to the Officers of his Majesty's Board of Greencloth was xiv Dishes. To the Chief Clerk of the Kitchen seven Dishes To the Gentlemen of the Chapel xiv Dishes To the second Clerk of the Kitchen seven Dishes To the Vestry iij Dishes To the Officers of the jewel-house iij Dishes. To the Yeomen Ushers x Dishes. To the Children of the Chapel vi Dishes. To the Officers of the Confectionary iii Dishes. The Total of the Proportions of Provisions for the foresaid Feast. Beef xx Mess. Chines Beef ix. Multon xvij. Cases. Veal x. Cases. Tongues and Udders xxxij. Pigs xlv. Lambs xx. Capon's fat lxxx. Capon's good ix does. Pullet's fat xx does. Hens and Pullet's course vi. does. Chickens fat xx. does. Chickens fine Lviij. does. Pigeon's tame twenty-four. does. Green Geese xv. does. Ducklings xxxv. does. Turkey Chickens ix. does. Gaudwits ij. does. Quails xxx. does. Ruffs twenty-four. Pheasants iiij. does. Leverets vi. Rabbits xxxv. does. Kids xvij. cases. Coxcombs and Stones ij. does. Peas xx Bushel. Sparagrass vi. M. Artichokes CC. Beef for Gravy, CCxlix l. Multon ij. Cases. Veals iiij. Pork i. case. Bacon Lxxiiij l. Lard Cxxiiij l. Sweet Breads xviij. does. Lambstones xx. does. Palates x. does. Marrowbones seven. does. Sheep's Tongues ix. does. Veal Cauls' fourteen. Haggest bags xij. Galves Caldrons xviij. Ox Suet Lxviij l. Sheeps-feets vi. Gang. The small Guts of an Ox. Neats-feets vi. Gang. Cawls and blood vi. Salmon fourteen. Sols large twenty-four. pair. Lobsters large Cxxxuj. Crabs large Cxviij. Mullets Lx. Prawns xij. M. Cockles viij. Quarts. Scollops iiij. C. Lampry Pies xij. Sturgeon xxij. Mess. Whelks vi. Quarts. Pikes great fourteen. Carp great Lxxx. Trout large twenty-four. Crawfish MD. Oysters xij. Quarts. Westphalia Gammons Lxx. Dried Tongues C. Pickled Oysters xuj. Barrels. Anchovis xij l. Caviar viij l. Butter CCCLxx l. Eggs MM. Barberies ij. Gallons. Onions xij. Ropes. Cream ij. Gallons. Milk vi. Gallons. Bake-meats for the said Feasts both hot and cold. Hot. Steak Pies xiij. Hot. Stump Pies xxj. Hot. umble Pie i. Hot. Beatillia Pies with Patties vi. Hot. Venison Pies xviij. Hot. Petty Patties ij. Dishes. Hot. Tarts sorts xxxviij. Hot. Single Tarts xx. Hot. Egg Pies ix. Hot. Chicken Pies frosted ix. Hot. Cream Tarts i. Cold. Tongue Pies xxvij. Cold. Capon Pies xxvij. Cold. Lamprey Pies xij. Cold. Wild Boar Pies xij. Cold. Red-Deer Pies xij. l. s. d. The whole charge of this Grand Feast amounted to— 2394 17 08● CHAP. XXIII. THE OBSERVATION OF THE Grand Feast BY Absent Knights. SECT. 1. Absent Knights enjoined to observe the Grand Feast. WIth what state and magnificence, and in what solemn order, the Grand Feast of St. George hath been, and aught to be observed, by the Sovereign and Knights-Companions, either at Windesor Castle, or any other place, where the Sovereign than happens to keep his Court, hath been already laid down at large; yet were not all the honours due to this high Festival, paid to those places alone, but communicated sometimes (though in a less measure) to such other, where any of the absent Knights resided at that time, and had obtained the Sovereign's Letters of Dispensation, for non-attendance with the rest of the Knights-Companions. We have also shown how strictly the Statutes oblige the Knights-Companions to appear annually at the Grand Feast, and what severe penalties they inflict upon such as are absent: Yet lest the honour of the Order might receive diminution, from too small an appearance at its public Solemnities, when perhaps some of the Knights might then be employed in the Sovereign's service, both in remote parts of the Kingdom and beyond Sea, or others sick, or not without a reasonable excuse: it was further at the Institution of the Order Decreed, a E. 3. Stat. Art. 28. H. 5. Stat. Art. 29. That none of them should depart out of the Kingdom, without first acquainting the Sovereign, and obtaining his special leave and licence. Nevertheless such as disposed themselves to undertake any military Expedition, or other honourable design in the service of Foreign Princes, whence any glory of Knighthood might be hoped for, upon such renowned undertake, the b Ibid. Sovereign of his special grace, and for his favour towards and confidence in the Knights-Companions, was wont to give them preference before the rest of his Subjects, and grant them Licence to go beyond Sea. But whatsoever the occasion of absence might be, it was then also ordained, c Art. 11. That wheresoever any of the Knights-Companions resided, during the said Feast, they should wear their Mantles of the Order, from the hour of the first Vespers, on the Eve of St. George, till the second Vespers on the Feast day were finished: as they should have done, had they been present in person with the Sovereign or his Deputy, during the whole celebration of the Feast (in case they were not deprived of their Liberty) the d H. 5. Stat. Art. 11. Prorogation of the Feast notwithstanding. SECT. II. More particular directions for their observation of it. BUT perchance, because the custom of these Celebrations at home began to be neglected, at least seemed indifferent to the absent Knights-Companions, either to observe or not to observe them, it was thought needful by King Henry the Eighth to revive, as also to enlarge the Law in this particular, and therefore in the 11. year of his Reign, first in explanation of the said 11. Article of the Statutes of Institution, He declared, and enjoined the wearing of the whole Habit upon the Eve of St. George, viz. the 22. day of April, whether it should happen to fall within the Feast of Easter, or without, if the Knight-Companion were at liberty, and not under restraint. Then he enumerated the times for wearing it, to wit, on the Eve, at all times of Divine Service, Dinner, and Supper; and all this to be observed, unless in case of War, Sickness, journey, or other just impediment, when if the absent Knight did wear the Garter and George, either in a Gold Chain, or Silk Ribbon, it should be accounted sufficient. About three years after, when the same Sovereign made a general reformation and explanation of the Statutes, he enjoined some other particulars to be done and observed by the absent Knights-Companions (whether, by e Hen. 8. Stat. Art: 3. Licence or otherwise, any of them were in his own House, or any other place, and not under restraint) that is to say, he should be bound to prepare a Capital Stall in the Church or Chappel, where he designed to hear Service, to the honour of the Sovereign: In which Capital Stall should be set up the Arms of the Order within a Garter. He should be likewise bound, to erect another f Collect. W. le N. Cl. Stall, that should be as far in distance (according to the proportion and length of the said Church or Chappel) from the Stall of the Sovereign, and on the same side, as was the said absent Knights Stall in the Castle of Windesor, and therein should place his own Arms. Moreover he should wear the g Collect. W. le N. Cl. whole Habit of the Order, and should hear h Collect. W. le N. Cl. Divine Service, such as by the Church is ordained for the said time; aswell the Even, the Morning, as the Afternoon on the Feast day. Then, that he should first do i Collect. W. le N. Cl. Reverence towards the Altar, in the honour of God, and after towards the Stall, wherein was fixed and set up the Arms of the Sovereign, aswell and as often at his coming in, as at his going out of the said Church or Chapel; as also as often as he should pass before the said Arms. But k Collect. W. le N. Cl. Emperors, Kings, Princes, or Electors, are excepted, who may in this case so place their Seats, and Stalls, as it shall seem most convenient to them. In which Decree (being still in full force) we may observe, first the Injunction upon an absent Knight, that doth oblige him to celebrate the Feast of Saint George, wherever he shall be, even then when the Sovereign and the rest of the Knights-Companions hold the same; and next, the manner and order thereof, that being at large set down, both in reference to the preparations made in the Church, and his own deportment during the whole Ceremony. In relation to which, it is to be understood, that much of the ordering and adding to the glory of the Festival, and the absent Knights peculiar Honour, is left to his own pleasure and disposal; as namely, 1. The l Collect. A. V. W. vide MS. pen. Arth. Com. Anglesey, fol. 237. a. adorning the Church or Chapel with Arras, or other rich Hangings, and furnishing the Sovereign's Stall; nevertheless with this caution, that it be always prepared on the right hand the entrance into the Choir, but if there be no Choir, then ought a partition of Hangings to be made, reserving an entrance in the middle, and on the right hand a Cloth of State, whereon to be fixed the Sovereign's Arms (impaled with those of St. George) and Style, the Seat furnished with Cushions, and a Carpet and long Cushion, to lie on the Desk before it. 2. In placing his own Stall (with his Arms over it) at its just distance from the Sovereign's; to which purpose it is necessary, that Garter send him a Scheme of the Stalls on both sides the Choir. 3. In proceeding to the Church, both at 3 a Clock on the Eve of the Feast (where, habited in full Robes, he must behave himself in all things, as if he were at Windesor) and all other times while the Solemnity continues. That he be attended by a convenient number of Gentlemen before him, well habited, with the Officers of his Household, and also his inferior Servants in Liveries; two and two together, according to their Qualities and Degrees, bareheaded; who are to return in the same order as they go; the Gentleman-ushers also are to go bareheaded, and the Herald, if present, to take place next before the Knight's person. 4. In his Dinner on the Feast day, that it be noble, and his Attendance at the Table suitable; and that he dine and sup alone at all times, unless there happen to be a Knight-Companion with him. 5. In his Offering of money, that he make it not only on the Feast day in the morning, but the next morning also, assoon as the first sentence of the Offertory is pronounced. 6. That at Evening Prayer on the Feast day, and also at the Supper following, he observe all things, as on the Eve. 7. In wearing his Habit of the Order, until after Supper on the Eve, and all the Feast day, until supper be ended at night. 8. That on the Morrow after the Feast, he proceed to the Church in his Mantle only, and when Divine Service is finished, then to put it off at the Church door. And if any thing else, in the before recited Article seem short or obscure, the large account in the Preparations for the Grand Feast, and course to be observed in the celebrations thereof (before laid down and handled) will sufficiently clear and explain, without the assistance of any further Comment. But here we must note, that though the Statutes seem not to oblige the absent Knights-Companions, to hold the Ceremonies of the Feast, longer than the Evening on the Feast day, yet by the practice of ensuing years, they were extended to the Morrow after, and consequently observed by the absent Knights, so long as the Sovereign and Knights-Companions performed them at Windesor, or elsewhere. If the absent Knight be a person of eminent Degree, he is to be attended by a Herald, or Pursuivant at Arms, or both, during the Solemnity of the Feast; to add the greater lustre thereto. Thus was m Lib. N. pag. 173. Prince Arthur an. 15. H. 7. attended at Hereford; and the like honour was designed to the Earl of n Collect. W. le N. Cl. Leicester, when he kept the Solemnity of the Feast in the Low Countries, and had been performed, but that the Herald died before St. George's day. The nature of this Officers Employment on such an occasion, will partly appear out of the Instructions, given by o Ex Autogr. pen. Rob. Com. Aylesbur. Sir Gilbert Dethick Garter (pursuant to the directions of the Statute) to Henry Rees alias Berwick, Pursuivant at Arms, the 3. of April an. 1565. which were to this effect. 1. That he should see a Capital Stall provided for the Sovereign (though not there) with a Cloth of State, and before it a Carpet and Cushion, with a Scutcheon of the Sovereign's Arms, impaled with those of St. George fixed thereon. 2. That the Knight's Stall should be decently trimmed, with a Scutcheon of his own Arms, fixed at the back of it, and that this Stall should be placed a good distance from the Sovereign's Stall, according to the largeness of the Chapel. 3. That he should go before the Knight-Companion, to and from the Church, both on the Even of the Feast, and Feast day, in his Coat of Arms; using such Reverence as is meet and convenient, and sit on a Form before the Sovereign's Stall. 4. That on the Feast day at Dinner, after the second Mess shall be served up (having on his Coat of Arms) he shall proclaim the said Knights Style in French. 5. And lastly, when the Knight puts off his Mantle, either in the Church, or where Service is said, than he to put off his Coat also, and return home (in his ordinary Apparel) with him. SECT. III. How to be observed in case of Sickness. BUT in case of Sickness, and such as hath confined the absent Knight to his Bed, or would not permit him with safety to go out of his Chamber; the custom was to prepare a Capital Stall for the Sovereign of the Order, with a Cloth of State, Carpet, Cushions, and a Scutcheon of the Arms of the Order, impaled with the Arms of the Sovereign, and his Style underneath, in the q Ex MS. pergam. penes johannem Vin●ent gen. Chamber where he lay; as also another Stall for himself, placed according to the before mentioned directions, which were there to remain during the Feast. In which Room also were the Divine Offices celebrated, both on the Eve, the Feast day, and the Morrow after. And if the r Ib. see also Rows Iourn. pag. 10. absent Knight were so sick that he kept his Bed, than was his whole Habit of the Order laid thereon, during the time the rest of the Knights-Companions are enjoined to wear theirs, s More Majorum, Lib. C. pag. 119. according to the ancient Custom and Statutes; and upon this account, Ambrose Earl of Warwick falling ill at Greenwich, when St. George's day was there celebrated an. 30. Eliz. retired to his Chamber, and there t Collect. W. le N. Cl. sat in his Robes. SECT. IV. In what manner the Feast hath been observed by absent Knights. IN relation to the Celebrations performed by absent Knights, the Black Book gives us a punctual account in a considerable Precedent; namely, of the Feast of St. George holden in the Palace of Hereford, by h Lib. N. p. 173. Prince Arthur, a. 15. H. 7. he being then in the Government of his Principality of Wales, and had with him Sir Richard Pool, one of the Companions of the Order, than his Highness' Chamberlain; this worthy Knight took care, that all those things, which the Solemnity of the Feast required, and the Sovereign and Knights-Companions did observe, according to the form of the Statutes and accustomed manner, should be most exactly performed; and indeed i Lib. N. p. 173. there was nothing intermited in the Mass, in the first and second Vespers, which solemn custom required should be done, in Censing, Fuming, Proceeding and Offering, aswell the Prince as the said Sir Richard, but it was undertaken and performed with much exactness. Besides, the Prince's Sword was born and held before his Stall, and his Herald performed his Service with all ●●●●gence; also the Sovereign's Herald stood all the while before the Sovereign's Stall, which was adorned with accustomed Ornaments: and lastly, the k Ibid. p. 174. Bishop, who celebrated Divine Service, had his Seat erected near to the high Altar. But the public memorial of Sir Henry Sydney's holding two several Feasts of St. George, the one at Shrewsbury, and the other at Ludlow, is worthy of a place here; since these two Corporations, have caused them to be conspicuously recorded in their Town Hall; and from whence I made Transcripts, when I accompanied William Dugdale Esq Norroy King of Arms, in his Visitation of Shropshire, An. Dom. 1663. That at Shrewsbury, being written in large Letters, upon a pain of Wainscot over the Chimney, in the Chamber of Concord, in the Town-Hall, is as followeth. Be it remembered, that in the Year of our Lord 1581. and in the 23d. Year of the Reign of our most dread Sovereign Lady Queen Elizabeth, the Feast of the most noble Order of the Garter, was right honourably kept, in the good and right renowned Town of Salop, by the Right Honourable Sir Henry Sidney, than Lord Precedent of the Council, established in the principality of Wales and Marches of the same, one of the Companions of the same Order: the Arms of the Sovereign and others, Kings, Princes, and Nobles, then Installed, in the said Noble Order, were fixed in the Church of the same Town, during the Service and Ceremonies, belonging to the same Order. Be it further remembered, that at that time than was Elected but not Installed, these Princes following, Rudolphus the 2d. of that name Emperor of the Romans, King of Hungary and Bohemia, Archduke of Austria, Henry the 3 d. French King, Christian King of Denmark, and the most Noble Prince John Casimire Duke of Bavaria and Palatine of the Rhien; then being Bailiffs, William Jones, and William Hearing, who together with the Chieftains of the several Companies of that good Town, did in most decent sort attend upon the said Lord Precedent, during the said Feast, together with the Aldermen and Bailiffs, Peers, in their Scarlet Robes, and other Chieftains. In the Gallery of the Newhouse at Ludlow are yet remaining, the several Scutcheons of those Knights-Companions, which were set up in the Chancel of St. Laurence Church in Ludlow, in the 24. Year of Queen Elizabeth, when the Feast of St. George was solemnised there; before which the following memorial is also fairly written. Be it remembered, that in the Year of our Lord God— and in the 24 th' Year of the Reign of the most Excellent and Famous Princess, Elizabeth by the Grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland; The Feast of the most ancient and most Noble Order of the Garter, was honourably kept in the Town of Ludlow, at the usual days for keeping of the said Feast, by the Right Honourable Sir Henry Sidney Knight, Lord Precedent of the Council established in the principality of Wales and Marches of the same, and one of the Companions of the same Order. The Arms of the Sovereign, and all the Princes and Nobles, being Companions of the same Noble Order, and Installed, were fixed in the Church of the said Town; and there remained during the Ceremonies. And be it further remembered, that before the same Feast there were Elected and not Installed, these Princes whose names follow, Rudolphus the Second Emperor of the Romans, King of Hungaria and Bohemia, Archduke of Austria, Henry the Third the French King, Christian King of Denmark, and the most Noble Prince John Casimire Duke of Bavaria, and Palatine of the Rhien,— manifestly fixed in the Church— then Bailiffs in their own persons did honour the Feast, with their attendance. Moreover the Town of Ludlow, to show their due respects to Sir Henry Sidney, and readiness to contribute to the Triumphs of this Solemnity, met and drew up the following Order, which we found entered in the Town Register. 10 th' day of March 1581. an. 24 Eliz. IT is agreed upon by this Assembly, that Mr. Bailiffs shall call before them, the six persons undernamed of their Brethren, as soon as conveniently may, and they all to confer and lay down a place, how my Lord Precedent shall be gratified by the Town, towards the keeping of St. George's Feast, if it be kept here, and the said Bailiffs and their Associates, have Commission upon their meeting, to call afore them at convenient time, two out of every Occupation in the Town, and confer with them how the charges may be levied, and the same two to be of this Company, or other of the best sort of every occupation. Thomas Blashfield. Richard Farr. Thomas Cauland. William Poughnell. Richard Rascal. Thomas Langford. Richard Bayly. In pursuance of which we also found, there was delivered out of the Treasury to Mr. Bailiffs, the very same day, 10 l. and the 18 of April fol. 10 l. 19 s. 2 d. more, towards defraying the charges of such Preparations, as the said Town made, upon that solemn occasion. As to the manner used at the observation of the Feast by a Knight beyond Sea, we have an instance in Robert Earl of Leicester, l Grimston's Hist. of the Netherlands, pag. 982. Lieutenant for Queen Elizabeth, Governor and Captain General of the United Provinces, who kept the Celebration of St. George's Feast in the Netherlands An. Dom. 1586. of which we have met with these broken Memorials. He had a m Collect. W. le N. Cl. Scutcheon of the Order impailed with the Sovereign's Arms, fixed to the front of his House, so also upon the back of her Stall in the Church; and his own Arms at the back of his Stall. He Proceeded on Horseback to the Church, William Seager, than Portcullis Pursuivant at Arms, (by his appointment) riding before him wearing a n Collect. W. le N. Cl. King of Arms Coat, which john Cock Lancaster Herald, (both of them o See Wevers funeral Monuments, p. 676. & 682. & MS. fol. pene● E. W. G. fol. 144. employed to attend the said Earl) had brought over thither, for that days service, but it seems he died a little before St. George's Day. After Sermon, Portcullis proceeded before him to the p Collect. W. le N. Cl. Offering, which the Earl made for the Sovereign and returned, and stood a little while before the Sovereign's Stall, and then Offered for himself; which done, he returned by the lower end of the Desk to his own Stall, with his due obeisances. Service being ended, he returned to his own Lodgings, and there dined. At the q Collect. W. le N. Cl. second Course, Portcullis went up before it, between the Gentleman Usher, and proclaimed only the Sovereign's Style and retired; during which Proclamation, the Earl (sitting at a Table alone, on the left hand of the State) and divers eminent persons (who sat at a side Table) stood up and were bare. The r Collect. W. le N. Cl. Sovereign's Trencher was laid under the State, and the whole Service performed to that, with due Reverence, by divers of her Servants there present, and the Earl took his meat therefrom, as by the by. Lastly, a learned s Io. Leslaeus de rebus gestis Scotorum, Lib. 9 p. 439. Romae 1578. quarto, vide johannem jac. Chester. in sais luminibus novis praerogativis ad Vindictas Hispanica●. ●umine 13. p. 439. Scotch Historian takes notice, that King james the Fifth, having been honoured, not only with the Order of the Garter by King Henry the Eighth, but next with that other Order of the Golden Fleece (by the Emperor Charles the Fifth) and not long after of St. Michael (by the French King Francis the First) kept the several Feasts of the Patrons of those Orders, with great Solemnity an. 1534. And to signify to the several Sovereign's, as also to proclaim to the world, the great account he made of those Honours, he not only adorned himself on those solemn Festivals, with the Ensigns of each Order, but fixed on the Gates of his Palace at Lithgoe his Royal Arms, encompassed with the Collars of each of them, together with that of St. Andrew, Patron of the Kingdom of Scotland. SECT. V. Dispensation for Absence granted during life. SOmetimes upon special favour of the Sovereign, and where Age or Infirmity of any of the Knights-Companions hath been made known to him by Petition, they have obtained Letters of Dispensation for absence, not only from the Feast approaching (of which we have t Chap. 19 Sect. 2. before discoursed) but also during life. Such indulgence was granted to the Lord u MS. in Offic. Arm. [H. 12.] Dacres an. 26. H. 8. and to the Earl of Derby a. 14. Car. I. both which Precedents we have thought fit to insert in the w Num. CLXXXI. & CLXXXII. Appendix. The like with that to the said Earl of Derby, was likewise granted to the Earl of Moulgrave, and under the same date, but both upon the following conditions, as they are contained in a Decree passed in Chapter, the 18. of April an. 13. Car. 1. which was this, x Rows journal, pag. 10. vide Lib. R. pag. 119. That no Dispensation shall be granted, but with condition, that the absent Knight shall send to Garter King of Arms, for his Scutcheons, at the same time that he sends his excuse, and Petition for Dispensation. And shall solemnly keep in his own House or abiding, the Feast, with all the sacred Rites and Ceremonies, in his Robes and other Ornaments, if health permit; and in case of Sickness, upon his Bed, according to the ancient Statutes. This Act was thought of so great importance to be observed, that the then Chancellor was commanded to transcribe and y Rows I●urnal, pag. 10. send it (with the Sovereign's pleasure) to each of the Knights-Companions within the Realm, not only to remind those, who were present at making the Decree, but also to inform the rest of the Fellowship, who were absent, of what had been done. The execution of which command was accompanied with a z See before pag. 486. Postscript of a Letter, whereby he acquainted them with the Penalties they should be liable to, for their neglect and omission of due observation. And we find, that in the following year, when the Sovereign (being at Berwick) had prorogued the Feast to Windesor, the Letters of Notice, which Sir james Palmer (than Deputy Chancellor) issued out, to the Knights-Companions, contained a Clause to the foresaid purpose; * Palm. Iourn. pro an. 1639. pag. 8. That those Knights-Companions, who could not then come to Windesor, should take notice of the prorogation, and solemnize the said Feast at their own Houses. CHAP. XXIV. THE Degradation OF A Knight-Companion. SECT. I. Of the Degradation of a Knight-Batchellor. SO heinous an Offence as that of High Treason, hath been thought deserving the loss, not only of Life and Estate, but Honour also: and thereupon when Sentence hath been to be given against a Knight, for so great a Crime, sometimes Degradation from his Degree hath preceded: and this as our Learned Selden faith, is done a Titles of Honour, pag. 787. as a respect of Honour to Knighthood in general; lest so much ignominy as accompanied the judgement for such an Offence, should lie on any that were a Knight, when he suffered it. In the Example of Sir Andrew Harclay, created Earl of Carlisle by King Edward the Second, whose Degradation is reported in the b Pag. 788. Titles of Honour, it may be observed, that the principal part of the Ceremony was, a solemn taking from him his Sword, and chopping off his Spurs, the chief Ensigns of his Honor. And in that of Sir Ralph Grey, a. 4. E. 4. (one of whose Crimes was for c MS. in Offic. Arm. [L. 15.] fol. 33. betraying Sir john Astley, a Knight of this Order, into the hands of the King's Enemies, where he remained Prisoner for many years) besides the striking off his Spurs, the tearing his Coat of Arms from his Body, and putting on another Coat, whereon his Arms were reversed, was appointed to be done; but by the King's favour, the judgement was not pronounced: To these, Sir William Segar adds the d Honour Milit. & Civil. Lib. 2. cap. 13. bruising every piece of the Knight's Armour, and casting it aside: beside which, some e Lib. 2. C. 4. other Ceremonies of Degradation are mentioned by him, to have been more anciently used. SECT. II. The manner of Degrading a Knight-Companion of the Garter. THE Ensigns of this Noble Order, are not to be withdrawn from a Knight-Companion so long as he lives, unless he be found guilty of some of those points of Reproach, set down in King Henry the Eighth's f Art. 8. Statutes, to wit, Heresy, Treason, or flying from Battle: We also find, that Prodigality was made a fourth Point, where a Knight had so wasted his Estate, that he was not able to support his Honor. And the not being a Gentleman of Blood, both by Father and Mother, was the pretence, for divesting William Lord Paget, an. 6. E. 6. But Felony comes not within the compass of this Statute, as not being particularly specified among the Reproaches there reckoned up, and so it was adjudged in a Chapter held the 6. of july an. 14. jac. R. in the case of g MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 153. Robert Earl of Somerset, then lately condemned for that Fact; whereupon his Hatchments were not removed. When a Knight-Companion is found guilty of any the Offences mentioned in King Henry the Eighth's Statutes, he is usually degraded at the next Chapter after; and therefore, where the Sovereign intends to have this Ceremony put in Execution, after he hath acquainted the Knight-Companion therewith, he commands Garter to attend such of them, as are appointed to go to the convict Knight, who in a solemn manner, first takes from him his George and Ribbon, and then his Garter. And at the following Feast of St. George (or sooner if the Sovereign appoint) Publication of his Crimes and degradation is made by Garter (a * Appendix, Num. CLXXXIII. Warrant in the mean time issuing out to him, for taking down the Achievements of the Knight) in the ensuing order. First Garter, in his h Lib. N. pag. 316. vide Collect. A. V. W. Coat of Arms, (usually before Morning Prayer, if the Grand Feast, or Feast of Installation be then held) standing on the highest step ascending to the Brazen Desk, placed in the middle of the Choir in St. George's Chapel at Windesor, the Officers of Arms standing about him, and the i MS. vet. pen. G. O. Y. f. 71. b. Black Rod also present, reads aloud the Instrument for Publication of the Knight's Degradation; a Precedent whereof we have placed in the k Num. CLXXXIV. Appendix. In which form, run all other Instruments in this kind, that have come to our view, and only varied in the Preamble, where the nature of the Offence is particularly set down for which he hath deserved Degradation. This being read, l Lib. N. loco citat. one of the Heralds deputed thereunto (a Ladder being raised to the backside of the convict Knights Stall, and he, in his Coat of Arms, placed there before hand) when Garter pronounceth the words, Expelled and put from among the Arms, etc. m Collect. A. V. W. takes his Crest, and violently casts it down into the Choir, and after that his Banner and Sword, and when the Publication is read out, all the Officers of Arms spurn the Achievements out of the Choir into the Body of the Church, first the Sword, than the Banner, and last of all the Crest, so out of the West-Door, thence to the Bridge, and over into the Ditch, and thus was it done at the degradation of n Ibid. Edward Duke of Buckingham the 8 of june, an. 13 H. 8. In reference to the degradation of Thomas Percy Earl of Northumberland, he was first o MS. in Offic. Arm. [M. 6.] fol. 85. Proclaimed Traitor (the 26 of November an. 12 Eliz.) at Windesor Castle: which Proclamation was directed to the Constable of the Castle, and made by sound of a Trumpet and the voice of an Herald, other of his Fellows assisting: and on the day following, the Sentence of his degradation was published, and Chester Herald (after Rogue Croix Pursuivant had read the Sentence) threw down the Achievements, p Ibid. first his Banner, next his Sword, than his Crest, and lastly his Helm and Mantlets, which Garter, assisted by the Officers of Arms, spurned out of the West-Door of the Chapel into the Castle Ditch. But in the case of q Lib. C. p. 145● Robert Earl of Essex (25 of May, an. 43 Eliz.) his Achievements were only thrown down; and those of r Ibid. pag. 153. Henry Lord Cobham (12 Febr. an. 1 jac. Reg.) only spurned out of the Church Door, but by the King's Clemency not into the s Ibid. pag. 153. Ditch. But Degradation was not alone thought sufficient, and therefore an. 32 H. 8. it was considered in Chapter, t Lib. N. p. 283. what course should ●e taken with the Names of such of the Order, as were convicted of High Treason, and whether they should remain in the Registers, or be razed out; for it seemed just, that Traitors, who had deserved to have their Achievements disgracefully thrown down, should also have their Actions and Names extinguished, and the Books wherein they were entered, to be esteemed as polluted. This being debated before the Sovereign: He, keeping a mean between both extremes, determined, u Ibid. That wheresoever the Actions and Names of such Offenders should be found, these words [vah Proditor] should be written in the Margin; by which means the Registers would be preserved fair, and not defaced with razures and blots. SECT. III. Of Restauration into the Order after Degradation. SOme of the Knights-Companions, who have injuriously suffered Deprivation of the Ensigns, and Degradation from the Order, have lived to enjoy the Honour of Restauration, and both re-elected and re-invested, and their Achievements again set up, as were the Lord Pagits, an. 1 Mar. and the Marquis of Northampton's, an. 1 Eliz. whose Cases we have w Pag. 28●● & 287. before Reported. Another Instance there is of Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk, who being Degraded by King Edward the Sixth, was, upon Queen Maries' coming to the Crown, restored into this Noble Fellowship, as will fully appear by the Order for his Restauration, which was this, By the Queen. Trusty and wellbeloved we greet you well; And whereas our Right Trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin and Counsellor the Duke of Norfolk, for the good and valiant service by him of long time done to the King our Father, of most famous memory King Henry the Eight, as well here within the Realm as abroad with Foreign Princes, both in Peace and in War, and in respect of other his good qualities and virtues, was by our said Father elected into the Company of the most Honourable Order of the Garter, and duly invested in the same, from which nevertheless afterward, in the time of our late Brother King Edward the Sixth, whom God assoil, the said Duke was by our said late Brother and other the Companions of our said Order of the Garter, through wrong information and accusation clearly expelled and removed, and his Hatchments to his no small slander and dishonour openly cast down, and taken from the Stall appointed for him in our Chapel at Windesor. We let you wet, that we, minding to do justice to all men, have sithence our coming to the Government of the Realm, called a Chapter for the redress of the Injuries aforesaid, and such like, and at the same holden at our Manor of St. James the 27. day of Sept. last, by the advice and consent of the Companions of our said Order, have restored the said Duke of Norfolk to his former room and place, among other the Companions of our said Order, as one that was injuriously put from the same, wherefore like as we have willed him to use and wear the Garter, Collar, George, Robes, and other the Apparel of our said Order, in such sort as he was wont to do before his said wrongful deprivation. So have we also thought good to will and require both you the Register of our said Order, to cancel and utterly to put out of your Register all Writings, Records, or other mynyments making mention of the said deviation: And you also Garter King of Arms for our said Order, to see his Hatchments honourably set up in the place appointed for them, and his Banner to be of such Arms as his Father bare and had set up aforetime, being late Knight of the said Order, there to remain and continue among the Hatchments of other our Companions of our said Order, according to the ancient Ordinances and landable usages heretofore accustomed, at the setting up whereof, our Pleasure is these our Letters shall be openly read, for a more plain Declaration of our pleasure in the premises. And these our Letters shall be to you and either of you, for the doing of the premises, and every part thereof a sufficient Warrant and discharge. Given under our Signet of our said Order, at our Palace of Westminster the 7. of March, the first year of our Reign. To our Trusty and Wellbeloved the Dean of our Chapel at Windesor, Register of our Order of the Garter, and Sir Gilbert Dethick alias Garter Knight King at Arms for our said Order, and to either of them. CHAP. XXV. Honours PAID TO DECEASED Knights-Companions. SECT. I. Of the celebration heretofore of Masses, for the defunct Knights-Companions. WE observe it to have been the Custom in all Religious, and most Military Orders, that, a A. Men●● Disq. 16. n. 8.9, etc. when any of the Knights departed this life, the several Members of them should contribute their devotions, for the benefit of their departed Souls, according to their different qualifications; some in celebrating M●sses, or causing them to be celebrated; and others in the recitation of Divine Offices, and almsgiving; as it were to satisfy the World of the honour they had, from their being enroled in their several Fraternities and Societies. But the Order of the Garter hath outvy'd all others in this particular; for as the reputation which the Knights-Companions, while living, derived from their admission into so renowned and illustrious a Body, specially Knights-Subjects, who were thereby advanced to a Fellowship with their King and Supreme Lord, and made Companions to Emperors, Kings, and Princes, was very great; so were the several Honours paid to their memory after their decease, particularly in the Royal Chapel of St. George at Windesor, very remarkable; not including the Solemnities at their public Funerals, many times happening elsewhere; and these we find reducible to five heads. (1.) The number of Masses celebrated for their Souls departed. (2.) The fastening Plates of their Arms, at the back of their Stalls. (3.) Offering up their Achievements at the Altar, and (4.) Depositing Mantles in the Chapterhouse at Windesor. As to the celebrating of Masses for the deceased Knights-Companions, though it might suffice to say, that it was done consonantly to the persuasion of those times, yet we shall not think it much to give the reasons thereof, as we find them laid down in the Preface to the Black-Book of the Order, in direct relation to this solemn Ceremony performed for them. b Lib. N. p. 8. It was the general opinion then, That Monasteries, Convents, and Colleges, were founded out of this motive, that, among devout, charitable, and well disposed Christians, there should be a continual harmony of Prayer, as well for the living as the dead. For the Living, that, in Peace and War, they might manage all their Affairs with piety, prudence, and good success: For the Dead, that having obtained remission, they might reign together in eternal bliss. c Ibid. pag. 9 And not knowing what dangers might surround them, the living thought themselves obliged the more servently to assist them with their Prayers; supposing it uncertain, whether they were in glory or torment. d Pag. 11. That by pious Prayers, they might endeavour to turn God's vengeance, due for the many sins committed in this life, into clemency; inasmuch as continual supplication was indeed very prevalent, and might reach the ears of the Almighty. That this kind of commemoration moved the greatest Princes, to be so expensive in sumptuous Structures, for the assembling such as should continually pray therein, as also inferior persons, according to their abilities, to promote their own and others salvation. And that the Princes reflecting on the uncertainty of their own lives, and considering, that many were in their Services cut off, amidst the hazards of War, and how doubtful such a departure was, endeavoured to assist them in the next World, since they could no longer do it in this; which, if by any thing, was to be performed by Prayer. Out of these persuasions, that this was availaable, they had their recourse thereto, and so began to institute persons and places, for the making of Prayers to that end. With what hath been delivered concerning the motive of this Office for the dead, it may be also observed, that the Founder of the Order admitted into its Institution, the commemoration of the departed Souls of the Knights-Companions; and thereupon it came to be ordained, e E. 3. Stat. Art. 17 H 5. Stat. Art. 17 Lib. N. pag. 223. That assoon as the Sovereign should have true and certain intelligence brought him of the Death of any of the Knights-Companions, he should cause to be celebrated for the Soul of a Defunct Knight a thousand Masses. And that all the rest of the Knights-Companions might (upon like notice) contribute to the relief of the Soul of their deceased Fellow and Companion, the Proportions were in like manner stated in the same Article of the Statutes, thus. A Stranger King 800. Masses. The Prince 700. Masses. Every Duke 600. Masses. Each Earl 300. Masses. Every Baron 200. Masses. And a Knight Batchellour 100 Masses. Afterwards, when the Titles of Marquis and Viscount were introduced among us, the proportion of Masses imposed upon the former was 450. as being a Degree of Dignity between those of a Duke and an Earl, on the latter 250. And the numbers of all these Masses were f Lib. N. p. 97. rated proportionable to the Fees, enjoined to be paid, for setting up the Knights-Companions Achievements over their Stalls. Now to prevent the neglect in performance of this duty incumbent upon the Sovereign, and surviving Knights-Companions, by this Article of the Statutes; it was thought fit to set down for penalty, a complete g E. 3. Stat. Art. 17. H. 5. Stat. Art. 17. & Lib. N. p. 223. doubling of the number of those Masses, to which at first they were enjoined (according to their qualities and Degrees) if they were not celebrated within three Months, after notice given of the deceased Knights Death, as aforesaid. And if the neglect extended to half a year together, they were obliged, to h E. 3. Stat. Art. 17. H. 5. Stat. Art. 17. & Lib. N. p. 223. quadruple their number, and i E. 3. Stat. Art. 17. H. 5. Stat. Art. 17. & Lib. N. p. 223. so from time to time, until the years end. But if after all this, they should not within the whole year perform what they were so enjoined; the Statute further bound them, to k E. 3. Stat. Art. 17. H. 5. Stat. Art. 17. & Lib. N. p. 223. double the Masses from year to year, after the foresaid manner. But to provide against any omission of the Sovereign's part, it was added to the Registers Duty, an. 31 H. 8. to l Lib. N. pag. 109. put the Sovereign in mind, of giving Order herein, if at any time it should happen, to be forgotten by him; to the end he might forthwith take care to have the Masses celebrated, according to the said Injunction. And because it was at length thought convenient, to withdraw this burden from Stranger Kings and Princes, that branch of the Statute relating to them, was made null, and in a Chapter held at Windesor, the 8. of May, an. 13 H. 6. the same was by the m Lib. N. p. 91● Sovereign placed upon himself and his Successors, Sovereigns of this most Noble Order. But because all the surviving Knights-Companions, might the better perform this Injunction, and cause the full number of Masses to be celebrated, care was taken by the Sovereign to send Letters to every one of them, (at first, as well to Knights-Strangers as Subjects) immediately after the decease of any Knight, to signify the time of his Death, and put them in mind of the Injunction, which the Statutes laid upon them. Of which Letters, some Precedents may be seen in the n Numb. CLXXXV. CLXXXVI. & CLXXXVII. Appendix. The difference between those Letters sent to the Knights-Companions beyond Sea, and these at home, was only this, that in these directed to the latter, (in regard of their nearness to the Court, and consequently in greater readiness to appear at an Election.) The Letters contained a summons also, to come to the Election of a new Knight, on such a day as the Sovereign had therein appointed. And it seems it was the custom for those Religious Houses, whether the Sovereign sent directions, to celebrate either part or all the Masses due to each deceased Knight, to make a formal o Numb. CLXXXVIII. return in writing, under their p Lib. N. pag. 254. Common Seal, of what they had done therein: which Certificates, were, also by the Register, reported in Chapter to the Sovereign or his Lieutenant. For an. 18 H. 8. we find q Lib. N. p. 254. & Regist. Chartac. fol. 65. him acquaint the Sovereign's Lieutenant, with several such Certificates, signifying the Celebration of 1000 Masses (upon the Sovereign's account) for each of these Knights defunct; namely the Earls of r Lib. N. p. 254. & Regist. Chartac. fol. 65. Arundel, Shrewsbury, Essex, and Rutland, the Viscount Fitzwalter, and Lord Abergaveny, and at other times, (sitting the Chapter) there w●re brought in s Ibid. p. 171.268. & 272. such like authentic Letters, certifying the celebration of the Masses, for the Souls of other defunct Knights. This course of celebrating these Masses for defunct Knights, was constantly observed and so continued, until the 32 d. year of King Henry the Eighth; at which time, upon a motion made concerning those suffrages for the Dead, in a Chapter held in his Palace at Westminster, on the 24 th' of May, in the aforesaid year this Decree passed. t Lib. N. p. 283. See also H. 8. Stat● in English, Art. 18. That every one of the Knights-Companions, in lieu of the said Masses, should for the future, after the Death of any of their Brethren, according to the rates of their Degrees hereafter mentioned, and immediately upon demand made for the same, by the Register and Dean of Windesor, or one of them, pay the several sums of money here specified. l. s. d. u Lib. N. p. 283. See also H. 8. Stats in English, Art. 18. The Sovereign, 08 06 08. A Stranger King, 06 08 04. The Prince, 05 16 08. A Duke, 05 00 00. A Marquis, 03 16 00. An Earl, 02 10 00. A Viscount, 01 01 08. A Baron, 01 13 04. A Bachelor Knight, 00 16 08. The moneys collected upon this Account (called Obits moneys) were by the aforesaid Decree, appointed w Lib. N. p. 283. to be distributed and employed in Alms Deeds; of which sort, (as they are there mentioned) are the x Lib. N. p. 283. reparation of Highways, the relief of the Poor, and other things of like nature, as the Sovereign should from time to time limit and appoint. And of the y Ibid. receipt of these sums, and their disbursements, it was also decreed, That the Dean and Register, or either of them, should yearly in Chapter, present his Account to the Sovereign under the penalty of Ten pounds, to be employed, for such like use, for every such default. And, z Ibid. p. 284. that Knight-Companion whose portion did appear to be then unpaid, should by way of penalty or fine, add unto his former duty, another third part of the same; and so for every year that he should be behind, to pay a third part more, than he was at first enjoined to pay, according to the rate before set down. This charitable distribution, in a Chapter held at Greenwich, the 24. of April, an. 5. E. 6. was enlarged to the a Lib. N. p. 306. relief and succour of the Poor, where most need was, in the Town of Windesor, and other Towns, Villages, and Places, at and by the discretion of the Dean of Windesor, b Lib. N. p. 306. he advising with some honest men, who could best give an account of such as were truly poor and indigent. To the bringing in of these Collections, the Sovereigns have sometimes vouchsafed to cast their eyes, and an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. by an Order in Chapter, a c Lib. C. p. 14. Schedule was appointed to be made, of all the moneys due and in arrear, upon the decease of Knights-Companions, to the end they might be employed to public and pious uses. But though the foresaid Decree was confirmed by d Lib. R. p. 87. King Edward the Sixth, Queen Marry, and Queen Elizabeth, yet for many years, had the Collection of these Obits moneys been neglected, even till the 9 of King Charles the First; and then the noble Earl of e Ibid. pag. 86. Portland, inflamed with zeal, for the restoring of so pious a work, did in full Chapter held at Windesor, on the f Ibid. pag. 83. 5. of Nou. in the aforesaid year, put the Sovereign in mind of the Decrees, anciently made in this case. Whereupon it was ordained by the Sovereign, with the consent of all the Knights-Companions present, g Ibid. p. 87. That the said Constitution, so honourable and charitable in itself, and to which they were all sworn, at their entrance into the Order, should be revived, and put in practice, and for ever hereafter observed, under the penalty contained in the Statutes, both towards the Knights that were to pay the same, and towards the Dean of Windesor, who was to collect it: And further, h Ibid. p. 87. That the same should begin for the five Knights, whose Achievements were at that Feast offered: that is to say, for the King of Sweden, the Prince Elector Palatine, the Earls of Northumberland, Banbury, and Rutland. And concerning i Ibid. p. 87. Stranger Princes, it pleased the Sovereign to express himself, That, as by the Statutes they are left to perform these payments by themselves, if they would, so, if the same were not done by them, that them, and thenceforwards the same should be paid by the Sovereign himself. The Sovereign, whose total for these five deceased Knights, amounted to 129 l. 3 s. 4 d. caused the same to be paid to Doctor Christopher Wren, the then Register of the Order: so did the Earls of Arundel and Surry, Salisbury, Dorset, Holland, Berks, Portland, and Lindsey, the Total of each of theirs amounting to 12 l. 10. s. But from the rest, (as the said Register himself complained in his k Dated 24. May 1637. Letters to Sir Tho. Rowe, the then Chancellor of the Order) all his endeavours could not obtain their proportions. Afterwards, l Ex Collect. Doct. Chr. Wre●●aper Ord: Regist. all the Sums of money, to be collected by virtue of this Decree, (together with the Knights-Companions duties, at their first entrance into this Order) were employed, towards the providing Plate for the Altar, within St. George's Chapel in Windesor Castle; of which we have m Chap. 19 Sect. 6. already treated. SECT. II. Of fixing on the Stalls, Plates of their Arms, and Stiles. THE next thing, provided for by the Statutes of Institution, was the deceased Knights Honour; in commemoration whereof, among other things conducing thereunto, it was ordained, * E. 3. Stat. Art. 23 H. 5. Stat. Art. 23 That when any one of the first Founders should die, there should be made in metal a Scutcheon of his Arms, with his Helm or Crest, and fastened at the back of his Stall, for a a Ord. Stat. in Bibl. Ha●●on. Art 23. mark of Honour to him that bore them. b E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 2●. And in like manner, that their Successors, should have a like Scutcheon fixed on the backs of their Stalls; and to difference them, from those of the first Founders, they were appointed to be made in bigness, c E. 3. H. 5. Stat. Art. 2●. less than theirs, and to be placed somewhat underneath them. But this Article relates only to the Knights-Companions, not to the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order; nor do we find, that any of them had Plates of their Arms and Stiles set upon the back of their Stalls, in manner as is before prescribed, to the rest of the Knights-Companions. King Henry the Eighth in his Body of Statutes, altars this Article in three particulars; first, as to the time of setting up their Plates, he appoints it to be (not after their death, but) d Art. 25. within a year after the Installation of every Knight-Companion: Secondly, as to the nature of the Metal, that it may be such e Art. 25. as the Knight shall please himself: And lastly, as to the size, though he also restrains the Knight's Subjects to a lesser, than those of the first Founders, yet gives he liberty to Knights Strangers, to f Art. 25. use their Plates and fashions at pleasure. As to the first of these, we find not, but that it hath been duly observed. But the last (the size of the Plates) as will appear upon sight, hath been little regarded: For the very Plates of those Knights, who were installed soon after the confirmation of these Statutes, and thence downwards, are bigger than those of the first Founders. As to the other, relating to the Metal they are off, it is to be acknowledged, that the succeeding Knights-Companions, did prudently follow the example of their Predecessors, who appointed their Plates to be of Copper, and thereby unexpectedly defeated the design of Avarice and Rapine. Of which we have an instance in the Duke of Wirtemberg's Plate, for that being of Silver and large withal, gave so great a temptation, that in the late Wars it was forced from the back of the Stall whereto it was fixed, with some difficulty sure, since they could not get it thence, without carrying away some part of the Wainscot along with it. But if the Metal of these Plates, were of small value, the workmanship about them, was extraordinary, especially of late; the Plate itself being gilded over, and the colours of the Armoury and Supporters richly enameled: all which, though it added much lustre to the Shield, yet did it nothing contribute to the advantage of the Thief. In tract of time, many of these noble and remarkable Memorials were by sacrilegious hands torn off and embezzled; which the late Sovereign of ever pious memory having taken notice of, and desirous to put a stop to a mischief, not in his power to prevent, as also to preserve the remembrance of the precedent Knights-Companions, commanded the Dean of Windesor to describe the Styles of those that remained in a Book, which he accordingly did, and laid it up in the College. But what became of this Book, our most diligent enquiry, could never find out. So that in May, An. Dom. 1659. by the civil permission of Colonel Whichcott, than Governor of Windesor Castle, all we could do, was, to draw the Arms and copy out the Styles, engraven on the Plates, then remaining (whilst Mr. Wineslaus Holler was employed by us to take several Prospects of the Castle and Chappel) from which, we have drawn these following observations. First, That for many years after the Institution of the Order, the Plate whereon the Shield was engraved, bore no other Inscription, but the deceased Knights name set at the foot thereof, under the Scutcheon of his Arms. Afterwards his Chief Title of Honour began to be added, though now and then in these first and elder times, both were omitted, as also their Crests. But about the beginning of King Henry the Eighth's Reign, not only the Knights chief Title, but all other his Titles of Dignity, whether Honorary, or Officiary, (and every thing in that kind due) were drawn together in one Inscription, concluding with that of Knight of this most Noble Order, and which, about the same time, the Knights-Companions used to insert into both public and private Instruments of writing, wherein any of them were concerned, a custom observed by the Knights of other Sovereign Orders abroad. For in an g MS. in Offic. Arm. M. 14. fol. 49. b. Instrument, dated at Bulloign, the 20 th' of Febr. an. 1549. by the Noblemen and others that were appointed to treat of a Peace, between King Edward the Sixth, and the French King Henry the Second, we find, that such of them, as were Knights of the Orders of either Kingdom, had the additions of their Orders, (as also the Register of the Order of St. Michael, that title of his Office) joined to their other Titles, in this manner. john Earl of Bedford, Knights of the Order. William Pagit, Knight also of the Order. Francis de Mountmorency Signior de Rochepot, Knight of the Order of France. Gaspard de Colligny Signior de Chastillon, Knight also of the Order. Guilliame Rochetell Signior de Sassy, one also of the French Kings Council, chief Secretary, and Register of the Order. At first, the Knights-Companions gave their Paternal Coats of Arms, singly and without any Quartering, but towards the beginning of King Henry the Fifths Reign, they began to add their Quartering, as may appear from the Scutcheons of Hugh Lord Burnell, who died h Lib▪ N. p. 67. an. 9 H. 5. Sir Lewis Robessart Lord Bourchier, Robert Lord Willoughby, and others. Yet was not the same generally used, but left to the pleasure of the Knights-Companions: But of latter times, this very thing was thought of such concernment, and honour, that where a Knight hath been elected, who wanted Quarterings, the Sovereign hath been pleased to grant him another Coat of Arms, to quarter with his Paternal Coat, lest otherwise his Banner (which ought to hang over his Stall) should seem too naked: as in the Case of Robert Viscount Rochester, and Thomas Earl of Kelley, in the Reign of King james. Shortly after the beginning of the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, the Knights compassed their Shields, with the Royal Garter; and thereon (if Noblemen) placed the Coronet belonging to their Dignity, continuing the use ever since. Thus adorned do we find the Scutcheon of Charles Duke of Burgundy, elected in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth, and yet we do not observe it used in all the Reign of King Henry the Seventh. For though a Plate for Frank van Hall, (a Knight elected by the Founder) is hitherto standing in his Stall at Windesor, surrounded with a Garter, yet is not this Plate the workmanship of that Age, but engraved and set up of late times; as may easily be observed, from the work itself. As touching Supporters; 'tis true, we observe two Plates to which Supporters are added, the one of john Beaufort the first Duke of Somerset of that name, elected an. 20 H. 6. the other of Anthony Woodvill Earl Rivers, elected an. 5. E. 4. and besides these, until the Reign of King Henry the Eighth, there is not one other example. But than it grew into a common usage; as also the engraving their peculiar Mottoes or Devises upon the Plates. SECT. III. The Offering of Achievements. A Third honour done to the defunct Knight, is a most solemn Offering up of his Achievements at the High Altar, according to the magnificence of so great an Order; namely the Banner of his Arms, his Sword, his Helmet, and Crest, with its Mantlings: all which had been set up over his Stall, when he was Installed. The Ceremony of Offering these Ensigns, does not appear to have been so Ordained at the Institution of the Order, but rather an additional honour, instituted by King Henry the Fifth, and the manner and order thereof, set down in the 14 th' Article of his body of Statutes. This solemn Ceremony is local to the Chapel of St. George, within the Castle of Windesor, and not to be celebrated, until certain notice be given to the Sovereign of the Knights-Companions Death, or that he shall receive a Certificate thereof. This appears in the case of the Duke of Ferrara; where at the Feast of St. George, an. 20 H. 7. the vulgar report run for currant, that he was dead, nevertheless a Lib. N. p. 178. See also Tho. Wriothe●●eys's old MS. penes W. le N. Cl. pag. 7. because the Sovereign had not then received any Certificate of the same, his Achievements were not Offered up at that Feast. There fell out a question, at the Feast of St. George held at Windesor, the 23 d. of May, an. 1 E. 6. which held some debate, viz. b Collect prafat. W. le N. Cl. Vide etiam MS. 4. penes E. W. G. fol. ●●. whether the Achievements of King Henry the Eighth, which yet hung over the Sovereign's Stall, should be taken down and Offered at the Mass of Requiem ensuing, or not? in regard his Banner, Sword, Helm, and Crest, with Mantles, had been offered up th● 16 th' of Febr. before, at his Interment within that Chapel: whereupon it was determined, c Collect prafat. W. le N. Cl. Vide etiam MS. 4. penes E. W. G. fol. ●●. That the said Achievements should not again be Offered, but remain over the Sovereign's Stall for his Son King Edward the Sixth. The Relator for justifying the legality of this determination, saith, there was found a like Precedent, in the case of King Henry the Sixth, who lieth buried in that Chapel; but we suppose him mistaken, and that instance (being in truth much different from that of King Henry the Eighth,) not well considered by him: For the case was this; When King Edward the Fourth came to the Crown, he thought it unfit, that the Achievements of King Henry the Sixth (who could not be accounted Sovereign of this most Noble Order, because no longer King of England) should be continued over his Stall, They therefore by the express command of King Edward the Fourth, signified by d Lib. N. pag. 126. Letters sent to his Deputy and the Knights-Companions, were by Garter taken down and carried out of the Choir into the Vestry, and, in their place were set up the new Achievements of King Edward the Fourth, and this was done at the Feast of St. George held at Windesor e Lib. N. pag. 126. an. 1. E. 4. and long before the Death of King Henry the Sixth, which when it happened, he was first buried at Chertsey Abbey in Surrey, and by King f Concilia Britann. Vol. 2. p. 712. & 713. Richard the Thirds Command Reinterred on the Southside of the High Altar, in St. George's Chapel at Windesor, and therefore this cannot suit with King Henry the Eighths' Case, whose Achievements were not taken down at all. But when the Sovereigns of this most Noble Order are not interred at Windesor, then are their Achievements offered up at the next ensuing Feast, according to the usual manner, as were those of Queen Elizabeth, which the Blue Book notes to be done at * Lib. C. p. 152 vide etiam MS. fol. penes E. W. G fol. 155. Morning Prayer, the 11. of july, an. 1. jac. R. The Banner being offered by the Earl of Nottingham Lord Admiral (than the Sovereign's Lieutenant) and the Lord Buckhurst, Lord Treasurer; the Sword by the Earls of Shrewsbury, and Cumberland; and the Helm and Crest, by the Earls of Northumberland, and Worcester; and also of King james her Successor, an. g MS. pen. Ed. Fauconbridge gen. 1 Car. 1. both these Sovereigns being buried at Westminster. As to the time for performing this Ceremony, it was ordained to be on the h Lib. N. p. 66. vide H. 8. Stat. Art. 12. Morrow after the Feast, when the i Lib. N. p. 66. vide H. 8. Stat. Art. 12. Mass was sung, for the soul of the Knights-Companions, and of all the Faithful deceased; and k H 5 Stat. Art. 14. vide porro Collect. W. le N. Cl. & MS. in Offic. Armour. [H. 2. fol. 8. b.] before the Offering of Money. Thus was it ordered even, in the l Lib. N. p. 67. first precedent we have of this solemn Ceremony, and so was it duly and constantly performed in succeeding times, till that of the Reformation, at which the Mass of Requiem being abolished, this Solemnity was nevertheless performed in the Morning Service on the Morrow, immediately after the Offertory. But after Queen Elizabeth had removed the Feasts of St. George from Windesor, and left those of Installation only to be held there, that Solemnity was commonly dispatched in one day, and the Achievements of the defunct Knights offered, before they went out of the Choir, as in the 16. year of her Reign, at the Installation of the m Ex Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 29. Earls of Derby and Penbroke, n Ex Collect. R. C. Cl. fol. 29. when assoon as the Morning Service was ended, in which the Ceremony of Installation was performed, the Commissioners, appointed for that Solemnity, came down from their Stalls, and offered the Achievements of the Earl of Derby, Lord William Howard of Effingham, and Lord Chandos. And this was the first time, we observe this Ceremony to have been translated from the Morrow after the Feast of St. George, to any other time, and the ancient rule (as to the time) being thus broken, was never after restored, but o Ib. pag. 33. vide etiam lib. C. p. 111.121.124.135.140.164. generally thence forward, the Offering of the defunct Knights Achievements was performed the very same Morning, wherein the Elect-Knights were Installed. For p Ib. pag. 33. vide etiam lib. C. p. 111.121.124.135.140.164. the Installation being fully completed, towards the end of the second Service, viz. at the time of the Offertory, the Achievements were offered, after which, succeeded the Offering of Money. And yet once, when the Solemnity of Installation was celebrated at Evening Prayer, being that of Frederick the Second King of Denmark, and john Casimire Prince Palatine of the Rhine, the 13. of january an. 25. Eliz. q Lib. C. p. 90. immediately after their Proctors had taken possession of their Stalls, and an Anthem been sung, the Achievements of r Lib. C. p. 90. Maximilian the Emperor, Emanuel Duke of Savoy, Francis Duke of Montmorency, Henry Earl of Arundel, and Walter Earl of Essex, were with wont honour, as the Statutes of the Order required, severally Offered; but not without the sad and sorrowful view of all the standers by. Sometime before the day was thus changed, an intermixture of both the Offerings together, viz. of Money and Achievements began to be introduced; when after the Offertory was read, the Sovereign's Lieutenant descended from his Stall, and proceeded to the Altar, and there Offered both Gold and Silver for the Sovereign, and so returned to his Seat; after which, the Offering of the defunct Knights Achievements began, and that Ceremony being ended, the Sovereign's Lieutenant proceeded again to the Altar, and there offered Money for himself; and lastly, all the rest of the Knights-Companions present offered Money in order. Thus we find these Ceremonies managed s MS. fol. penes praef. W. le N. Cl. fol. 13. an. 5. Eliz. at the Offering of the Achievements of the Lord Grey, and an. t MS. f. 18. b. 6. Eliz. when the Achievements of the Earls of Westmoreland and Rutland, and the Lord Paget, were offered; the Earl of Arundel being the Sovereign's Lieutenant at both these Feasts. But not long after, this course was altered in part, and the u Ex Collect. praef. R. C. Cl. f. 25. sub. an. 14. Eliz. Lieutenant Offered not for the Sovereign, till after such time as the Achievements of the defunct had been completely offered. And albeit the day was thus changed, for performance of this Ceremony, yet was not the Ceremony itself begun till after the Installation was finished, that Solemnity having at all times the precedency; until an. w MS. fol. pen. E. W. G. Et Lib. C. p. 173.178. 9 jac. R. when he, observing a kind of incongruity in the order of the Ceremony, namely to Enstall a new Knight (and who, being thus installed, frequently became one of those Knights, that offered part of the defunct Knights Achievements, as may be seen in divers and sundry Examples) before his Predecessor had been fully discharged of his Stall, gave order for Offering the Achievements of x Ibid. Sir Henry Lea, the Lord Scroop, Viscount Bindon, and the Earl of Dunbar, first, and before the Instalment of the Elect Knights, Charles' Duke of York, Tho. Earl of Arundel, and Robert Viscount Rochester, which was accordingly performed; as also at the Installation of y Ibid. Frederick Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Henry Prince of Orange, an. 10. jac. R. And two years after, at the a Ibid. Installation of the Earl of Rutland, Sir George Villars (afterwards created Duke of buckingham) and Viscount Lisle, the Lord Admiral b Ibid. going out of the Choir, to fetch in the said Earl of Rutland, to his Installation (according to the old manner, before the Offering of the Achievements, and as had been done the c Lib. C. p. 184. year before) the Sovereign remanded him, and again d MS. ordered, That the Achievements of the Earl of Shrewsbury should be first Offered, before any of the Elect Knights should be Installed. Not long after, it was thought convenient, to perform this Ceremony on the Eve of the Feast, presently after the first Vespers begun, and next to proceed on with the Installation of the Elect Knight, whereby as much as possible, the Stalls of the Knights-Companions might be supplied, and consequently the places among them filled up, in all the rest of the Solemnities of the Feast: Thus was it ordered, at the Installation of e Lib. 3. p. 6. Marquis Hamilton, an. 21. jac. R. when the Achievements of the Earl of Exeter were Offered. In like manner, the following year, were the Achievements of the f Ibid. pag. 18. Duke of Lenox first offered, and an. 4. Car. 1. those of the g Ibid. pag. 40. Duke of Brunswick, and the Earls of Suffolk and Leicester, before the King of Sweden, Prince of Orange, and Earl of Suffolk were installed; and at h Ibid. pag. 61.84.127 vide etiam Palmers Iourn. pro an. 1639. pag. 19 all times afterwards during that pious King's Reign, the Offering of Achievements was the first Ceremony performed on the Eve of the Feast, next after the decease of a Knight, though no Installation followed; as were those of the Earl of Carlisle, a. 13. Car. 1. and of the Earl of Kelly, in the 15. year of the same Sovereign. But if at that time any of the Elect-Knights were introduced into the Choir, before the Offering of Achievements began, they were appointed to i Lib. R. p. 90. sub finem. stand there, under the Stalls designed for them, till that Ceremony was finished. Thus the practice continued, of Offering the defunct Knights Achievements, before the Ceremony of Installation began; from the 9 year of King james until an. 15. of the present Sovereign, when it was performed, at the time anciently accustomed; for the Prince of Denmark (by his Proctor Sir George Carteret) and the Duke of Monmouth were both Installed, before the first Vespers began, and the Achievements of Bernard de Foix Duke of Espernon, and Edward Count Palatine of the Rhine, were not Offered till the Morrow after the Feast day, immediately before Divine Service began; so also was it observed at the Feast held an. 23. Car. 2. As to the manner and order of this Ceremony, among other Institutions of King Henry the Fifth, it is thus appointed, m H 5. Stat. Art. 14. vide porto Lib. N. pag. 66. That, as often as through the vacancy of any Stall, the Swords, Helms, with the rest of the Achievements ought to be Offered, the Sword of the deceased Knight shall be first Offered, being carried up to the high Altar, by two of the Knights-Companions, whom the Sovereign or his Deputy shall assign to that purpose, and afterwards the Helm, with the Crest and Mantlings (for which we sometimes find one general word [ n Lib. N. pag. 101. & C pag. 111.140. & 163. Insignia] used) by two other Knights-Companions, named also by the Sovereign or his Deputy; and this Offering is to be made for them, o Lib. R. p. 84. in the order as they were Installed, not as they died. But of the Offering of a defunct Knight's Banner, we find no express mention, till the 18. year of King Henry the Seventh, at which time the p Lib. N. p. 175. Banner of the Lord Brook was Offered, by Sir Edward Poynings, and Sir Richard Pool; his Sword by the Earl of Surrey and Lord Strange; and in the last place his Helm, with its Appendices, by the before named Sir Edward Poynings, and Sir Richard Pool: But afterwards the direction for Offering this Ensign of the defunct Knight's honour, was taken into King Henry the Eighth's Art. 12. body of Statutes. And note, that since the Offering of the Banner was introduced, it was (in the order of Ceremony, and according to the before mentioned Precedent) to be offered r Ibid. first, and so hath it been observed; only once we find this course inverted, viz. an. t Lib. R. p. 18. 22. jac. R. (but upon what account there is no mention) where, at the Offering of the Duke of Lenox his Achievements, the Helm and Crest were offered in the first place, the Sword in the second, and the u Lib. R. p. 18. Banner in the third. Immediately after the entrance of the before mentioned Constitution of King Henry the Fifth, in the Black Book, a Precedent for the order of this Ceremony doth also follow, which extended itself to future times, and was thus, w Lib. N. p. 67. On the Morrow after the Feast of St. George (an. 9 H. 5.) the Sovereign and Knights-Companions assembled according to custom, to celebrate the Mass pro defunctis, at which time the Sword of Thomas Duke of Clarence (who was slain at x Trussels Hist. pag. 92. Bougy-bridge, in his return out of Anjou, on y Ibid. p. 122. Easter Eve preceding) was born to the Altar and offered up, by John Duke of Bedford, and Humphrey Duke of Gloucester (Brothers to the defunct Duke) but his Helm with its Appendices, were offered by the hands of the Sovereign, and the said Duke of Bedford. Besides this honour, thus paid to the deceased Duke of Clarence, there past the like at that time, upon several other defunct Knights-Companions, namely on z Lib. N. p. 67. Sir john Grey, whose Sword was offered up by Sir Thomas Erpingham, and Sir Walter Hungerford, and his Helm and Crest by Richard Earl of Warwick, and the Lord Fitz Hugh; and next on the a Lib. N. p. 67. Lord Burnell, whose Sword was offered by Sir Lewis Robessart, and Sir Simon Felbrig; and his Helm, etc. by Sir john Cornwall, and Sir john Robessart. In the fourth place, the Sword of the b Lib. N. p. 67. Lord Cameux, was offered up by Sir Lewis Robessart, and b Lib. N. p. 67. S●● Here Tank Clux, and his Helm by Sir john Cornwall, and Sir john Robessart. This solemn Ceremony being finished, in the order as is set down; the Sovereign and Knights-Companions presently after decreed; d Ibid. That the Rites to be observed at the Offering of Achievements, should for the future be in the foresaid manner performed. The appointment of the Statute is before noted to be, e H. 5. Art. 14. Lib. N. pag. 66. that the Sovereign shall nominate and assign the Knights-Companions, who are severally to perform this Ceremony; and so is the direction set down in f Art. 12. King Henry the Eighth's Statutes. But generally heretofore, so few of the Knights-Companions have used to attend the Feasts of Installation (at which time most commonly were the Achievements of the defunct Knights offered) that there hath not been much choice, nay, for the most part not enough for the interchange of all the Achievements, but that those who have offered the Banner, have been constrained to assist at the Offering, if not of the Sword, yet of the Helm and Crest. Nay, yet less, for the Feast of St. George an. 1. E. 4. was solemnised at Windesor, by two Knights-Companions only, viz. Viscount Bourchier, the Sovereign's Deputy, and the Lord berner's, at which time there being the Achievements of six deceased Knights to be offered; namely the Dukes of York and Buckingham, the Earls of Salisbury and Shrewsbury, of Viscount Beaumond and the Lord Scales, these g Lib. N. pag. 126. two Knights-Companions performed the whole Ceremony, according to the ancient Custom. Moreover, an. 32. H. 6. there were but h Ibid. p. 111. three Knights-Companions that then held the Feast, namely the Duke of Buckingham Deputy to the Sovereign, the Lord Sudely, and Viscount Bourchier; the i Ibid. p. 112. two latter of which offered both the Sword and Helm of the Earl of Salisbury, the Duke of Buckingham not interchanging. But notwithstanding these Examples, at another time, viz. an. 8. H. 7. k Ibid. p. 171. because the number of the Knights-Companions, present at the Feast, were fewer than the l H. 8. Stat. Art. 14 & Lib. N. pag. 171. Statute required; therefore the Offering of Achievements was then prorogued; john Lord Denham, than Lord Treasurer of England, being Precedent, and only the Lord Scroop joined with him. Again, when the number of Knights-Companions present, have been sufficient to perform all the Ceremony severally, yet do we not observe the same anciently executed by Knights-Companions, according to the series of their Stalls, which is an argument, that the Rule of the Statute took place, and that the Sovereign's choice and nomination, rather than the Knight's seniority in the Order, was observed. But since the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign, the Knights have generally proceeded to this Offering, according to their m Lib. R. p. 18. vide Coll. W. le N Cl. & A. V. W. seniority, and where the course ended, than the Seniors began again: Besides, there is variety of Examples, where the Sovereign's Deputy or Lieutenant have joined in the Ceremony (though the instances where they have not, are more numerous) so that thence it appears to be no diminution to their Honour, to assist the other Knights, if it be also considered, that they are Companions and Fellows, in all the concerns of the Order; nor was it anciently thought otherwise, as is manifest from the Example which King n Lib. N. p. 67. Henry the Fifth gave, at the performance of this Ceremony, to the memory of the Duke of Clarence, by himself and the Duke of Bedford, who then bore his Helm and Crest up to the high Altar, and there offered it. There is a memorial entered in the o Ibid. pag. 84. Red Book of the Order, an. 9 Car. 1. which chargeth it as an error, that the Earl of Holland was more than once joined with the Earl of Berkshire (who then wanted his opposite Companion) in Offering the then defunct Knights Achievements; and withal, implies, that it had been more rightly done, if the Earl of Berkshire had gone alone (in the last place) to offer the remaining Ensign. But, with submission, this direction was not only contrary to the p H. 5. Stat. Art. 14. & Lib. N. pag. 66. Article of the Statute, which positively enjoins, That every part of the Achievements should be offered by two Knights-Companions (not by any one singly or alone) but also to constant practice: For there is not one Example throughout all the Registers of the Order (excepting this now mentioned) or any other authority we have ever met with, where a Knight proceeded singly to the Offering of Achievements. On the contrary, when a Knight-Companion happened to want his opposite Fellow, commonly the next junior Knight present (how much lower soever his Stall was placed) was joined with him, in assisting at this solemn Ceremony, and of this there are many Examples; though we acknowledge it to be otherwise, both in the direction and practice at the Offering of Gold and Silver. By what hath been delivered, we see the principal persons concerned in this solemn action, are the Sovereign and Knights-Companions of the Order: Nor may a Proxy or Deputy be admitted, to perform any part of the Ceremony (though in the Offering of q MS. in Offic. A. m. [H. 2 f. 8. b.] Money he ought) as is clear from the Examples r Collect. A. V. W. of john Thomas l' Angust, Proctor for Emanuel Duke of Savoy, an. 1. & 2. Ph. & Mar. and of the Deputies to s Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 31. Frederick the Second King of Denmark, and john Count Palatine of the Rhine, an. 25. Eliz. who descended not from the Stalls of their Principals, with the rest of the Knights-Companions into the Choir, at the time of Offering the Achievements; but t Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 31. remained therein during that Ceremony. S●r u Ibid. fol. 33. Thomas Scroop, Deputy also for the Installation of his Father the Lord Scroop, a. 26. Eliz. intermeddled not in this Offering, though he came down and w Ibid. fol. 33. stood below in the Choir, before the Stall of his Principal, till the Ceremony was finished, and then returned up again into it, in his due order. We shall now proceed to the duties of the Prelate of the Order, the prebend's of the College, and the Officers of Arms; as their services severally or jointly relate to this Ceremony. First then the x Lib. R. p. 40. & 84. vide etiam MS. penes E. W. G. & Collect. A. V. W. Prelate, and two of the prebend's, aught to proceed up to the Altar, immediately before Garter summons down the Knights-Companions to the Offering, and there stand ready to receive the Achievements, as they are severally offered up. It is next the duty of the Provincial Kings and Heralds, to conduct the Knights-Companions, when they proceed up to the Altar, bearing any part of the defunct Knights Achievements, the whole of the Ceremony is briefly thus: ( y MS. fol. 18. b. the Sexton having beforehand taken down the Achievements, and made them clean, and (before service begin) placed them in readiness on a Form or Stool, set directly under each defunct Knight's Stall) z Collect. W. le N. Cl. First, Garter rises from his seat, and proceeds into the middle of the Choir, where after his usual obeisances, he summons the Knights-Companions to descend; who forthwith in their accustomed order, and with the usual Reverences, come down, and place themselves before their Stalls; whereupon Clarenceux and Norroy (or in the absence of either, the signior Herald, or of both, the two eldest Heralds) pass down from the Steps of the Altar, into the body of the Choir; in the interim, Garter takes the Banner of the eldest defunct Knight into his hands, (for its a general rule, that all the Knights Achievements be offered, according to the seniority of their Instalment) and presents it a Collect: R. C. Cl. fol. 29. & Collect. A. V. W. half rolled up to the two signior Knights-Companions; the two Provincial Kings, being by this time come near to the too signior Knights, there make their double obeisances, and afterwards another to the Knights-Companions, and then step a little aside: in the mean time, the Knights having took the Banner between them, make their double Reverence, and (preceded by the Kings) pass up to the Altar, bearing it with the lower end of the Staff foremost, and at the first Haut Pas make another double Reverence. The Provincial Kings being arrived at the uppermost Haut Pas before the Altar, after an humble obeisance, divide themselves to make way for the Knights-Companions to offer, and bowing to the said Knights as they pass by, the Knights forthwith raise the point of the Banner upwards, and (after a single Reverence towards the Altar) present it upon their knees, to the Prelate of the Order, who forthwith receives it from them, and delivers it to the two Canons (standing on each side him) and they deposit it upon Cushions laid before the Altar. This done, the two Provincial Kings, conduct the foresaid Knights-Companions back into the Choir, who with usual Reverences retire to their Stations, under ( b MS. fol. pen. E. W. G. not to) their Stalls, and the Provincial Kings to their places, on either side the Altar. Next, the two signior Heralds pass down into the Choir, as did the Provincial Kings, while Garter, taking up the Sword, presents it also to the two next signior Knights, who proceed up to the Altar with the said two Heralds before them, in the same order as did the former Knights-Companions, and bearing the Sword between them, offer the same with the Pommel or Hilt upward, and then return to their Stations below in the Choir, conducted as before. In the third place, the two next signior Heralds go down as before, Garter in the mean time presenting the Helm and Crest, to the two next signior Knights, who likewise proceed to the Altar, and there offer it in the same manner, and with like Ceremony, as had been the Banner and Sword. And if there be more Achievements of defunct Knights to be offered than one, the Knights-Companions present, by course, two and two, perform the rest, in manner before described; but the Pursuivants at Arms do no part of this duty, only the Provincial Kings and Heralds, each in their turns and by couples. When there are the Achievements of several Knights to be offered, and that the junior Heralds have done their duty, the Provincial Kings begin again, and so continue the course, till all the Achievements be offered; the Organs playing while the Offering lasteth. In the before mentioned order, were the Achievements of the Duke of Espernon, and Prince Edward offered, at the Grand Feast of St. George, celebrated at Windesor an. 15. Car. 2. and the Provincial Kings and Heralds, as their turns came to officiate, took each of the Achievements and presented them to the Knights-Companions. The Duke of Espernon's Banner, was offered by the Duke of York and Prince Rupert, being conducted to the Altar by Clarenceux and Norroy. His Sword, by the Dukes of Buckingham and Albemarle, attended by York and Lancaster. And his Healm and Crest, by the Earl of Oxford and Duke of Richmond, brought up by Windesor and Richmond. Prince Edw●rd's Banner, Sword, and Helm were likewise severally offered, by the very same Knights who offered the Duke of Espernons Achievements, each pair being conducted to the Altar, by the foresaid Officers of Arms. Heretofore we find, that Garter hath not only begun this Solemnity, and presented the Banner to the first pair of Knights-Companions, but also conducted them up to the Offering; for so was the Banner of the c MS. fol. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 13. Lord Grey, delivered by Garter to the Lord Loughborow, and Viscount Montague an. 5. Eliz. and by him were they brought up to the Altar. He also performed the like service to the Earl of Penbroke and Lord Clinton, when they offered the Banner of the d MS. fol. 18. b. Earl of Westmoreland, the following year; and to the Lord Admiral and Earl of Ormond, an. 34. Eliz. at the Offering of the Banner of e MS. fol. penes G. O. Y. p. 206. john Count Palatine of the Rhine. And at the Solemnity celebrated for the Earl of Derby, to the Lord Howard of Effingham, and Lord Chandos an. 16. Eliz. f Collect. R. C. Cl. f. 29. Garter himself, and no other Officer of Arms, conducted the Knights-Companions to the Altar; the like did he an. 30. Eliz. at the Offering of the Hatchments of the g Collect. W. le N. Cl. Duke of Holstien, Earl of Bedford, Sir Henry Sidney, and the Earl of Rutland. It was also the usage heretofore, for the Prelate to deliver the offered Achievements, to some of the Heralds, before appointed to receive them, which they immediately deposited upon (and sometimes near) the Altar. In this manner h MS. fol. penes W le N Cl. fol. 13. Clarenceux and Norroy, an. 5 Eliz. (who stood on either side the Prebend) received the Lord Greys Achievements, and placed them near the Altar. Clarenceux, and Somerset, received likewise the Achievements of the i MS. fol. 18. b. Earls of Westmoreland, Rutland, and the Lord Pagit, from the hands of the Prelate, and laid them on a Form, set beside the Altar for that purpose. And an. 34 Eliz. Norroy, and Windesor, assisted to receive all the Achievements, of k MS fol. pene● G. O. Y. 2●6. john Count Palatine of the Rhine, the Earls of Shrewsbury, and Warwick, and Sir Christopher Hatton; which they deposited upon the Altar. But the present Sovereign, ( l Lib. Ca●ol. p. 47. an. 15 Car. 2.) gave command, that the Achievements should then and after be laid below before the Altar; judging it indecent to place them, where the sacred Mysteries of the Body and Blood of our Saviour are with great reverence Consecrated. He also commanded at the Feast held an. 23 Car. 2. that when the Ceremonies of Offering were ended, the Achievements should be disposed, part on the South, and other part on the North-side of the Altar, till Service was finished. Besides these things already noted, there is nothing further observable, but what relates to the Achievements themselves, as they are become by this Ceremony of Offering them in so solemn a manner, parcel of the goods of the Chapel, and included within the words of the m Art. 33. vide etiam Li● N. pag. 126. Statutes of the College, whereby the Sovereign granted to the Dean and Canons, all Oblations; concerning which, we have already spoken, when we n Chap. 21. Sect. 5. treated of the Offering of Gold and Silver. Hereupon, because they could not be alienated or sold, they were commonly deposited, by the Dean and Canons, in the Chapterhouse: and there o Ex R●t. Pergam. an. 8 R. 2. upon the taking of an Inventory, of all the Vestments, Ornaments, etc. of the Chapel; we find among them three Swords, one of the Founder's King Edward the Third, another of the Earl of Suffolke's, and the third of Sir Thomas Banisters, as also six Helms. We also find more afterwards added, viz. the Swords of King Richard the Second, of King Henry the Fourth, when he was Earl of Derby, of john a Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, and the Earl of Salisbury. But the Helms and Swords, p Autogr. in Aer●●. Coll. Windesor. because they were at first forged, (for this very purpose) of an extraordinary greatness and size, therefore have they been commonly redeemed, that they might serve again afterwards. And because it belongs to Garter, to provide the Achievements for the new installed Knights; he usually hath compounded with the Dean and Canons, for the defunct Knights-Atchievements: To which purpose, (among other compositions) there was an Agreement drawn up in writing, dated the 20 th' of May, 1606. q Ex alio Antogr. in codem Aeraer. between William Segar Garter, and Giles Thompson then Dean of Windsor, William Wilson, Erasmus Webb and Henry Beaumond, three of the then Canons, to this effect, r Ibid. That Garter should pay to them or their Successors, when it should happen, for the Helmets, Crests, Swords, Mantles, and Banners, of the deceased Knights, the sums following; viz. for those of all Batchellor-Knights, Barons, Earls, and Dukes, the sum of twenty Shillings; but of Kings, and absolute Princes, being embroidered, the sum of three pounds. We shall conclude this Section, with another kind of Offering, ordained also to be made in honour of the deceased Knights-Companions, and Registered in King Henry the Eighth's Body of Statutes; which as it begun not many years before our Reformation in Religion, so was it of no long continuance, but then took ending, the words of the Statute are these. s Hen. Stat. Art. 12. That if any Knight-Companion shall decease, the year before (the Celebration of St. George's Feast) than every Knight being in the Castle of Windesor, at the Mass of Requiem, shall offer a Taper, armed with a little Escutcheon of the Arms of the Knight deceased; and if there be more than one deceased, that there be made for every of them, an Escutcheon of Arms, and a Groat, set night to the light of the Taper; which Escutcheon and Taper, shall be made at the cost and charges of the Knights of the said Order. SECT. IV. Of depositing the deceased Knights Mantles, in the Chapterhouse. THere past a Decree, an. 9 Eliz. a Ex autogr. Sacramento D. Ch. Wren nuper Ord. Regist. attestatur, 12. Mar. 1651. That the Knights-Companions should be bound by their Oath, to take care by their last Will, that after their decease, all their Ornaments, which they had received, should be restored, the Robes to the College, the Jewels to the King that gave them. Hereupon b Collect. praef. D. ●br. Wren. Sir Christopher Hatton sometime before his Death, commanded that his Mantle should be delivered to the Dean and Canons, and accordingly it was sent to Windesor after his decease. But the c Collect. praef. D. ●br. Wren. Mantle of Sir Henry Lea, being left to the disposal of others, and not sent to the College, happened at length, to come into the hands of Brokers, and openly exposed to sale in Long-lane, to the great dishonour of the Order. This Decree was in aftertimes but slackly observed; and therefore, (in a Chapter held at Windesor the 24. of September, an. 4. Car. 1.) the Knights were admonished, d Lib. R. p. 43. That where the Sovereign should vouchsafe to bestow upon a Knight the Mantle of the Order, the said Knight should take care at his death to have it sent to the Chapel [at Windesor] according as the Statutes do provide. But this taking little effect, the same Sovereign thought fit to restore to life and vigour the Law in this particular, by a Decree made in Chapter held also at Windesor the 18. of April in the 13. year of his Reign, which obliged all the Knights-Companions receiving the Ensigns of the Order from the Sovereign, e Ibid. p. 120. to take care (according to the obligation of their Oath) that these (together with the Book of Statutes) should be restored into the hands of the Sovereign, after their Death. And a command was therewithal given, That certain Books, Mantles, and Surcoats then lying at Whitehall, should be delivered to the Register of the Order, to be laid up at Windesor, in honourable memory of them to whom they belonged. In observation of these Decrees, where the Habit or Ensigns of the Order, were either wholly or in part bestowed by the Sovereign, order was taken (in either case) to send for them in, after such Knight's decease. Accordingly at a Chapter held the 10. day of October, an. 15 Car. 1. the f Palmer's Iourn. pro an. 1639. p. 36. Garter and George of the Lord Treasurer Weston, being sent back, was then presented to the Sovereign (by g Lib. R. pag. 57 & 58. whom it had been accustomed) and affirmed to be all that the Sovereign had given the said Earl, whereupon the same was accepted, and delivered to the Dean and Chapter of Windesor to be preserved. And at the same Chapter it was h Ib. p. 62. ordered that the Earl of Kelley's Robes and Ornaments of the Order, should be sent for by the Chancellor: as having been given him by the Sovereign; to wit, the Garter and George immediately after his Election, and the Mantle and Surcoat, against the Installation of the present Sovereign. These former Decrees were yet thought needful to be confirmed by the present Sovereign, and therefore in a Chapter held in the Yellow-Chamber at Whitehall, the 4. of Febr. 1669. it was decreed, i Lib. Carol. p. 79. That the Mantle of each Knight-Companion (so also the Book of Statutes) should be sent to Windesor immediately after their Death; and that the Chancellor of the Order, should be obliged by Letters to their Heirs and Executors, to put them in mind of sending them thither. Nevertheless it is to be understood, that where the Mantle hath been provided at the Knights own charge, there lies no obligation for sending it to Windesor after his decease. And it appears upon the Death of Philip Earl of Penbroke and Montgomery, that the trusties for sail of the late Kings Goods, having sent and made demand of his Mantle, and Surcoat, his Executors making it appear, that they were bought with his own money, of Sir Peter Richa●t, by the than Sovereign's command, signified (not only to him but the rest of the Knights-Companions) an. 14 Car. 1. they desisted, from further prosecution. There is a memorable Instance in the return of the Habit and Ensigns of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, being sent back in a solemn Embassy from k Lib. R. pag. 105. Christina Queen of Sweden, his Daughter and Successor to that Crown. The Reception of which, having been ordered with considerable State and Ceremony, will most fitly be here remembered. Saturday the 18. of April, an. 11 Car. 1. was the day appointed, for the resigning them up into the Sovereign's hands; on the Afternoon of which day, john Baron Skiite, Ambassador from the said Queen, came to Whitehall, and was conducted to the Council Chamber, to retire himself, till he was sent for into the Chapter. The l Ex Autogr. penes E. W. G. Chapter was upon this occasion held in the Presence-Chamber, where as soon as they were set, the Sovereign assigned the Earls of Penbroke, and Arnudel, (attended by Garter and Black Rod) to go for the said Ambassador, who was conducted to the Chapter, in the order following. First, the Ambassadors Followers, two and two. The Officers of Arms in their Coats, two and two. Garter, carrying on a Velvet Cushion, the deceased King's Mantle, Surcoat, Hood, Garter, Collar, and great George, and the wearing George. Earl of Arundel. The Ambassador. Earl of Penbroke. The Ambassadors Followers, and the Officers of Arms, having proceeded in this order as far as the Presence-Chamber door, there divided themselves on each side, and made a stand, Garter going before, and the Ambassador between the said two Knights-Companions entered the Chapter, making the usual Congees in coming up to the Sovereign. Then Garter kneeling down, held the Ornaments and jewels of the Order on the Cushion, whilst the Ambassador made the following Oration in Latin. Serenissime, Potentissimeque Rex, Domine clementissime. NEmini potest esse obscurum, quod ab omni aevo, omnibus omninò Populis & Nationibus in more & usu positum fuerit, homines ob praeclara facta, variis premiis atque honoribus afficere; tum ut fortitudinem acuerent, & virtutem c●nservarent, tum ut robur & disciplinam tuerentur; Quâ quidem re procuratum videmus, ut Equestris etiam dignitas inde, & ex hâc occasione originem ceperit, & postmodum per omnes ferè aetates validissimo roboris incremento aucta, & amplificata fuerit, rit, ac licèt in tantâ ejusdem copiâ & varietate difficile videatur judicare, quae species alteri praevalere debeat, & quasi palmam praeripere. Siquis tamen paulò altiùs hoc ipsum ponderaverit, deprehendet veterum illorum honores dignitates, ac privilegia cum Garterio Ordine non esse comparanda. Permit mihi Serenissime Rex, ut in Augustâ & Nobili hâc coronâ Ordinis Periscelidis decora accuratiùs contempler, & quid mihi insuper in mandatis sit datum humilimè referam. Edwardi tertii incredibilem virtutem atque fortitudinem omnis posteritas in hunc usque diem est admirata semper, qui cum à vetustissimis Angliae Regibus Originem traexerit, nulli veterum tum rerum gestarum gloria, tum invictissimi animi magnitudine tum summae faelicitatis admira●tione videtur esse postponendus; ab hoc inquam Heroë laudatissimo & fortissimo cum Ordo hic Garterius excogitatus sit, & inventus, quid tanto Instituto potest esse Nobilius? quid praeclarius? Summa quoque dïgnitas huic Ordini ex eo aboritur, quod non modò praecipuae Nobilitatis viri, Potentissimi Deuces, ac Principes, verùm etiam Imperatores, Reges eorumque liberi pulcherimo hôc honore semper fuerint cumulati Magnificentiam dicti Ordinis commendavit tum quod candidatus egregiis & admirandis Ornamentis investiatur, installetur, & amiciatur, tum quod ipso die Georgii honorificentissimo, Superiorum & inferiorum concursu mirificè condecoretur, illustretur. Quemadmodum verò sacra vestra Regia Majestas, evidentibus rationibus commota, clementissimae meae Reginae parentem, Invictissimum Heroem hoc ipso Periscelidis splendore cumulandum judicârit ita exhibitio illa vel hôc nomine longè fuit clarissima, quod spectante universo penè exercitu, inter vehementissimam bellicorum tormentorum displosionem per vestros deputatos, & quidem in ipsius Dorussiae visceribus facta sit, ad omnem itaque posteritatis memoriam commendatissimum erit quod licet exiguum tum temporis extiterit intervallum, inter nostrum & hostilem exercitum adeo ut convenientiùs tanto Heroi fuisse nonnullis visum fuerit de corporis defension, quam de honoris alicujus accessione cogitare, rejectis tamen omnibus periculis passus sit, sibi, & tribui honorem condignum & in Ordinis hujus Clarissimi Societatem se cooptari. Nec facile dixerim utrum huic accessioni plus dignitatis illatum, ex eundem Ordinem offerente, an verò recipiente. Ita enim utrarumque vestrûm Majestatum dignitas hic elucet, ita aequabili lanci innititur, ut discrimen non facilè attendatur ac licet immensus mihi jam porrigatur Campus, in laudes utriusque Serenissimae vestrae Regiae Majestatis expatiandi, cum tamen ita comparatum sit, ut quò quisque laude dignior est, eò minus patiatur laudes suas celebrari, non velificabor impraesentiarùm tantis Majestatum vestrarum virtutibus, sed ea tantùm referam, quae sine summâ ingrati animi notâ non possunt praeteriri. Successit Sacra vestra Regia Majestas parenti suo gloriosissimae recordationis, in tot regnorum administrationem, & quidem ita successit, ut non solùm paternis vestigiis laudabilitèr inhaereat, verùm etiam paternarum virtutum dignissimum se ostendat haeredem; pacem, rem beatissimam, omni studio complectatur, subditis suis & quietem & omnium rerum affluentiam benignissimè procuret, & quid sit quod Serenissimam vestram Regiam Majestatem infinitis hominibus amabilem magis reddere possit, quam omnium bonorum de eâdem singulare judicium? Etenim cum omnibus pateat, eandem naturali & prope divinâ quâdam propensione in eas virtutes & ornamenta quibus vita haec humana fulcitur ferri: & ab omnibus iis vitiis quibus contaminetur, seriò abhorrere; cumque vita vestra omnis sit candoris, integritatis, castitatis & honestatis plenissima, nòn potest mihi vitio verti, si oblatâ hâc occasione illud ipsum jam commemorare aperteque dicam nullum praeter Serenissimam vestram Regiam Majestatem tum extitisse excellentiorem Regem, & digniorem qui ista amplissimorum & à proavis fortissimis acceptorum honorum ornamenta tanto Regi tribuere & confer potuerit. Regis deinde hujus incomparabilis qualitates si●accuratiùs contemplati fuerimus, nemo inficiabitur quin omni honorum genere fuerit dignissimus. Habuit is Patrem & Auum qui indefesso studio ea semper consilia tractârunt quae non solum ad pacis tranquillitatem, togaeque foelicitatem in antiquissimis Suecorum & Gothorum Regnis conservandam, verum etiam ad armorum benè gerendorum gloriam, bellicarumque rationum & militaris disciplinae administrationem fovendam pertinent. His cum Progenitoribus ortus esset, industria & labour incredibili, atque adeò brevi temporis spatio eò pervenit, ut nòn solum illis pax verum etiam longè clarior & celebrior fuerit. Cumque horrendae cujusdam virtutis amore, inter omnes mortales teneretur, talem se in vita suâ exhibuit, ut omnes virtutes numeros quoad ejus ab homine fieri potuit, explere conatus sit, & tanta quidem constantia iis sudoribus & vigiliis ut eum à tàm laudabili proposito, nec rei magnitudo deterrere, nec ulla voluptas avocare potuerit ab incunabulis, praeclarissimarum artium & linguarum study, ità vehementèr invigilavit, ut postquam ad adultiorem aetatem pervenisset, ad miraculum usque se iis oblectârit, nec honorum & optimorum authorum lectione, in ipsis Castris atque adeò in bostium suorum quasi conspectu abstinuerit. Tantus praetereà in hôc Heröe fuit amor, & sollicitudo conservandae Religionis & libertatis in Germanniâ; ut cum ejusdem Principes in tolerando quodam servitutis jugo praemerentur, eos non solum adversus hostium ferociam tutatus est, verum etiam in avitos ducatus, unde expulsi fuerant, magnâ suâ gloriâ, magnâ ipsorum laetitiâ, magno cum hostium dedecore, per vim fortissimè reduxerit, pristinamque dignitatem reddiderit, quam si iidem jam voluerint deserere sibi suaeque socordiae inposterum imputabunt, ac licet praeter ipsam Dei benignitatem aliae etiam possint exhiberi rationes quibus Heros hic innixus tam arduum opus aggredi voluit, nulla tamen accommodatior & certior co●stitueretur quam scientia rei Militaris & fortitudo quaedam invicta. Etenim cum post mortem laudatissimi Parentis triplici bello putà Danico, Polonico & Muscovitico distineretur, ita se bellicis artibus totum consecravit, ita mancipavit ut cum summis Imperatoribus non immerito suerit comparandus. Ad hanc rem promptius expediendum ita eum Deus & natura finierant, ut visis hostibus vel in summo vitae periculo constitutus, nunquam trepidarit, nunquam expalluerit, nunquam aufugerit, quin potius exigua Militum manu saepe hostibus se objecerit, eos sustinuerit, iisdem maximas Clades intulerit, & Strages horrendas confecerit, atque adeo nobilissimas provincias, incredibili robore extortus, Regno Suecorum (per se longe amplissimo) gloriosissime adjecerit. Eximiâ hâc Militaris Disciplinae administr●tione, ita orbi terrarum innotuit, ut & Reges Principesque complures, infiniti praetereà homines ad eum amandum & colendum sint inflammati. Non inficiaberis, Serenissime Rex, quin cum ob alias rationes, tum potissimum ob rei bellicae gloriam Ordinis Garterii decora illi tribueris. Serenissimo Daniae Regi placuit filium suum Uldaricum Gustavo huic Magno de meliori notâ commendare, quo sub illius ductu in Dorussiâ tyrocinia militaria addisceret. Serenissimo item Regi Bohemiae commodum valdè fuit in castra hujus Herois pervenisse, ut eo citiùs provincias sibi ereptas recuperaret. Uladislaus Rex Poloniae, licet hostis, eam de agnato suo fortitudinis Militaris conceperat opinionem, ut nisi humanis rebus ereptus fuisset Magnus hic Gustavus, operâ illius uti voluerit, in sopiendis dissidiis inter se, & Magnum Muschoviae Ducem. Idem verò Muschoviae Dux, cum patre Patriarchâ, quem Muschovitae Sanctissimum appellant, tanti aestimavit Regis nostri bellicas rationes, ut eos haud puduerit, eodem uti Ductore. Quorum quidem Principum benevolentia in Regem Gustavum tam vehementèr apparuit, ut cum iidem accepto nuncio de Lipsensi pugnâ immensos triumphos in ejus honorem per Imperium Muschoviticum instituissent, ab omni aevo tale quid in ejusdem visceribus contigisse, vix, ac ne vix quidem, sit animadversum. Et quae res alia Christianissimum Galliae Regem Ludovicum XIII. commovit, ut huic Heroi arctissimo foederis, & amicitiae vinculo copulaeretur, quo Austriacae Domus, omnibus Regibus ac Principibus potentiam reformidandam comprimeret, & afflictae Germaniae succurreret, nisi quod eum fortissimum, & ad tantam Provinciam obeundam accommodatissimum esse, suo etiam suffragio comprobaret, totique terrarum Orbi declararet? Foedera quae Rex noster inierat cum praepotentibus Ordinibus Belgii, cum Principibus & Rebus publicis Germaniae, quid aliud testantur? quam summam in eo extitisse animi magnitudinem, & robur convictum ut interim silentio involvam Bethlemi Gaboris, Transylvahiae Helvetiorum, & quorundam Italiae Principum in eundem propensionem singularem; Magnus ille Praecopiensium Tartarorum Chamus, triginta hominum millia in usum Regis nostri, se ex finibus suis educturum obtulerat, si iis uti voluisset. Fando denique exprimi non potest quomodo incomparabilis hujus Regis fama, per Othomancum Imperium fuerit pervagata. Acquisivit Suecis ac Gothis, hâc ipsâ, ut eos & à contemptu aliorum Populorum vindicaverit & effecerit simul, ut pro fortissimis militibus ab ipsis hostibus agniti, & celebrati fuerint. Tot itaque & tanta cum fuerint Magni Gustavi Regis ornamenta, cum nomen ejusdem per infinita terrarum spatia inclaruerit, cum denique facta illius tot hostibus debellatis ac prostratis, Suethici nominis gloriam ubique circumtulerint, nun dignissimus judicabitur, cui hic honos, hic splendor conferri debuerit? Verum enimvero cum Deo visum sit, invictissimum hunc Regem, & cujus parem septentrio nunquam vidit, bellatorem, Triumphatorem, perpetuum rebus humanis eripere, eumque Ordinis Garterii Statuta jubeant, ut post excessum unius cujusque signa & ornamenta remittantur, in mandatis idcirco mihi dedit Serenissima mea Regina, ut non solum Legibus praescriptis satisfacerem, verum etiam moram excusarem. Agnovit abundè Serenissima sua Regia Majestas eum gente Suecorum universâ Serenissimae vestrae Regiae Majestatis, in deferendis hisce honoribus, affectionem inusitatam, & benevolentiam singularem nunquam intermittet, & procurare, quae ad vestrum & Britannicae gentis splendorém amplificandum conducent. Inter alia sacra sua Regia Majestas exoptat à Deo immortali, ut quemadmodum hic Ordo, ab exiguis initiis, in maximum dignitatis culmen ascendit, ita etiam per longissima annorum spacia, foelicissimo & duraturo incremento ad omnem posteritatem, roboretur, conservetur, propagetur. When the Ambassador had done speaking, Garter delivered each particular Ornament to him, which he forthwith presented to the Sovereign, who put them into the Chancellor's hands, and he having received them, in answer to the Ambassadors Oration, made this other in French. Le Roy mon Maistre (Sovereign de l' Ordre de la Jartiere) m'a commandé de vous dire, qu'il recoit de vostre main, avec fort grand regret, ces Enseignes de l' Ordre. else renowellent à sa Majesté, & luy font resowenir la grand perte qu'il a fact, en la personne du Roy de Suede, son bon frere. Il estock Prince dont l'amitié estoit fort chere à sa Majesté comme celuy qui pour la rendre plus estroicte, avoit monstré un desir affectioné d'estre receu au nombre des confreres de cet Ordre. Durant la vie de ce grand Roy, vostre Majesté, sa Majesté a fait une grand, & digne estime de sa personne, à l'esgal de son merit, & de ces virtues, qui furent urayement Royales, & depuis sa mort, sa Majesté a fait le mesme de sa memoire. Et a fin que la posterité peult aussi prendre cognoissance de l'amitié & affection qui a esté entre sa Maejesté, & ce grand Prince, le Roy a donné un commandement express, qu'aux Archives de l' Ordre sa memoire fust conseruée au rang des plus grands, & des plus valereux Princes, qui l'ont devancez, & qui ont rendu par tant de Siecles cet Ordre si Auguste. C'est (Monsieur) le Sommaire de ce que j'avois a vous dire de la parte du Roy mon Maistre le Soverain de l' Ordre pour ce qui est des aultres confreres, & principalement de Messeigneurs les Chevaliers icy presents, sa Majeste m'a donné permission de vous dire de leur part, qu'ils regrettent avec le Roy leur Maistre, la perte d'un si grand Prince comme a esté le vostre, & tascheront pour le dernier debvoir qu'ilz doibvent à sa vertu, de rendre à sa memoire autant de respect, & d'honneur qu'ils eussent volontiers rendu à sa personne. Et pour mon particulier, la coustume qui est obseruée en tells occasion, me commandoit de dire quelque chose à la louange de ce grand Roy, qui estant confrere de l' Ordre est mort victorieux entre les arms. Mais quand je considere que vous l'avez desja si bien fact, par vostre belle oraison (qui a esté par tout remplie d'autant de verité que d'eloquence) qu'il me seroit impossible d'en parler apres sans faire tort à moy mesme, & sans grand prejudice à une si haulte vertu j'ay pensé doncques qu'il seroit convenable tant pour le Subject, que pour mon devoir, de laisser entierement à la renommée, ce qui m'est tellement impossible d'exprimer en paroles. This Speech being ended the Chapter broke up, and the Sovereign departed in the order he came thither, having first * Lib. R. p. 106. Knighted Sir james Skijtte the Ambassadors Son, Sir john Krue, Sir Gustavus Banir, and Sir Gabriel Oxensterne, who were of his followers. But the Ambassador and the two Earls Conductors returned in the same order as they came to the Council-Chamber, and there took leave. And in May following, the said Sir john Skytte junior (whom I find styled Baron of Buderof, and Colonel of a Regiment of Scots in Sweden) was sworn a m Lord Chamberl. Book of Warrants ab an. 1634. ad annum 1641. pag. 58. Gentleman of the Sovereign's Privy-Chamber extraordinary. After the Chapter was ended, the Sovereign * Lib. R. pag. 106. commanded the jewels to be delivered to the Master of his jewel-house, and the Robes to be sent to the Dean of Windesor, to be deposited there. Notwithstanding which Command, yet was not the * Collect. Chr. Wren nuper Ord. Regist. Mantle brought thither, till the Instalment of the present Sovereign, at which time, by order in Chapter, and the Sovereign's liberal donation, not only the Mantle, but the Garter, Collar, and Great George of the foresaid King, (the value whereof we have n Chap. 7. Sect. 1. & 7. before noted) were o Palm. large Iourn. pag. 21. & 22. ordered to be committed to the custody of the Dean and Chapter of Windesor, and accordingly then brought down from the Court (in the Castle) by p Ex Collect. praed. Mr. josee, Mr. Maxwell, and some others belonging to the Sovereign's Bedchamber, and delivered to them to be laid up in their Treasury, for a perpetual memory of that renowned King, who died in the field, wearing some of those jewels; to the great renown of the Order, and as a true martial Prince and Companion thereof. The Diamonds, set in the Garter and George, at the humble request of Doctor Christopher Wren, the then Register, were q Ex ●od. Iourn. loco cit. Ordered to be viewed and numbered, by Sir james Palmer Deputy Chancellor; which being done, an r Ex Collect. praesat. D. Chr. Wren. Inventory was made, the 24. of May following, and a Duplicate thereof being drawn, the one part was signed by the Dean and prebend's, which remained with the Deputy Chancellor; the other by the Deputy Chancellor, and left in the Treasury with the Jewels; the number upon the great Garter and George, amounting to 498 Diamonds. And in the s Ex Collect. praesat. D. Chr. Wren. Floor of the said Treasury did these jewels remain (hid there by the said Register) till about the beginning of March, a 1645. that Colonel t Ex Collect. praesat. D. Chr. Wren. Venus, the then Governor of that Castle, took them thence; and it should seem, they were afterwards delivered unto Colonel Whitchcott, who succeeded him in that Government; for I find, that Mr. john Hunt Treasurer to the trusties (appointed by the Long Parliament, for Sale of the late Kings Goods) did receive them from the hands of the said Colonel Whitchcott. CHAP. XXVI. OF THE Founder, THE FIRST Knights-Companions, AND THEIR Successors. SECT. I. Of what Number the Institution consisted. THE main part of our design, relating to the Institution, Laws, and Ceremonies of the most Noble Order of the Garter, is now brought to a period; what else we intent, with the end of our journey, lies now within our prospect, and concerns the Founder the first Knights-Companions and their Successors. For King Edward the Third having Instituted the said Order, and set down Rules and Statutes for the government and regulation thereof, he a Lib. N. p. 38. next resolved to Elect from among the flower of his own Chivalry, 25 noble and valiant Knights, who, together with himself should make up the number of 26. (for of so b E. 3. Stat. Art. 3. many doth the Order, by his appointment, consist) and indeed that Age furnished him with large choice of gallant men, made famous by martial Exploits, performed in the Battles of Sluice, Crescy, and Durham. The first that he Elected into this Noble Order, was Edward, his eldest Son, who had already in part deserved, and afterwards obtained the title of a valiant and renowned Prince; and the rest of those accomplished Colleagues were these that follow, and thus placed in their Stalls. On the Sovereign's side. On the Prince's side. 2. c Lib. N. p. 38. Henry, Duke of Lancaster. 2. Thomas, Earl of Warwick. 3. Piers, Capitow de la Bouch. 3. Ralph, Earl of Stafford. 4. William, Earl of Salisbury. 4. Roger, Earl of March. 5. Sir john Lisle. 5. Sir Bartholomew Burghersh. 6. Sir john Beauchamp. 6. Sir john Mohun. 7. Sir Hugh Courtney. 7. Sir Thomas Holland. 8. Sir john Grey. 8. Sir Richard Fitz-Simon. 9 Sir Miles Stapleton. 9 Sir Thomas Wale. 10. Sir Hugh Wrottesley. 10. Sir Nele Loring. 11. Sir john Chandos. 11. Sir james Audeley. 12. Sir Oats Holland. 12. Sir Henry Eam. 13. Sir Sanchet Dabrichcourt. 13. Sir Walter Paveley. We once intended a full and entire History of the Lives of these Noble Founders, and to that purpose made a large and chargeable Collection out of the Records in the Tower of London, and elsewhere, of all that we could find worthy to be remembered of them: in which we spent most part of the years 1657.1658. and 1659. But this our design being d 20. Febr. an. 14. Car. 2. afterwards represented to the present Sovereign and Knights-Companions, by the late Chancellor of the Order, through the wrong end of the Perspective, we thereby received so great discouragemement, as caused us to wave it, and indeed resolved wholly to lay it aside. Nevertheless, upon other thoughts (here being a proper occasion) we are content to let in a glimpse, of what may be improved to a far greater light; and, from that stock of Collections, drawn out some few things relating to the Founder and first 25 Knights-Companions, particularly their Honours, Martial Employments, famous Exploits, Matches, Issues, and Death; therein laying down only matter of Fact, and Materials for History, without deductions or observations. All which we shall deliver with the plainness there found, being unwilling to add other Rhetorical flourishes, lest we might withal cast some blemish upon the native beauty of Truth. And in this undertaking, the Reader may see what Furniture (though it lie dispersed) our Public Records will afford for History; and how plentifully our own may be supplied and improved, if pains were taken therein: for what is hitherto made public, hath been collected, chiefly out of old Annals, and they filled with few things but such as were very obvious, nay the Annalists themselves (for the most part residing in Monasteries) too often byass'd with Interest, and Affection, to Times and Persons: But on the contrary, in our public Records lie matter of Fact, in full truth, and therewith the Chronological part, carried on, even to days of the Month. So that an industrious Searcher may thence collect considerable matter for new History, rectify many mistakes in our old, and in both gratify the world with unshadowed verity. SECT. II. A short view of the Founder's Wars. TO begin then with the Founder, the most Noble King Edward the Third; He was eldest Son of King Edward the Second, and Isabel Daughter to Philip the Fourth, King of France, whose Sons Lewis, Philip, and Charles, (all Kings of France one after another) dying without Issue Male, this Prince challenged the Crown of France, as the next Heir male to it. He was born in Windesor Castle, the 13. day of November, being e Claus. 6. E. 2. m. 22. Dorso. Monday next after the Feast of St. Martin, the Bishop in Winter, (and the day of St. Brice, Bishop, and Disciple of St. Martin) in the year of our Lord God 1312. an Astrological Scheme of whose Nativity, hath been long since painted in Glass, in one of the Windows of the prebend's Lodgings at Windesor, belonging to the Reverend and Worthy Divine, Doctor Hever, late one of the Canons of that College. Whence it appears, that he was born at 40 minutes after five in the morning of the said day, the 6. Degree of the Sign Scorpio Ascending, and the 18. Degree of Leo Culminating. The places of the Planets, as there posited, followeth. gr. ♄ in 5 ♑ ♃ in 27 ♉ ♂ in 21 ♍ ☉ in 28 ♍ ♀ 18 ♍ ☿ in 8 ♍ ● in 8 ♉ ♁ in 26 ♉ The Thursday after his birth, he was Christened in the Chapel, then of St. Edward, in Windesor Castle, by A. Priest Cardinal, by the Title of Sancta Prisca, and his Godfathers were f Ibid. Richard Bishop of Poitiers, john Bishop of Bath and Wells, William Bishop of Worcester, Lewis Earl of Eureux, the g Tho. Walsingh. sub an. 1312. Queen's Brother, john de Britannia Earl of Richmond, Aymer de Valence Earl of Penbroke, and Hugh le Despenser. Within a few days after, the King his Father granted him the h 24. Nou. Chart. 6. E. 2. n. 21. & n. 44. County of Chester, except the Manors of Mekklesfield, and Shotwyke, to hold to him and his Heirs Kings of England for ever. And likewise the County of Flint, and Cantred of Englefield, with the Castles of Flint and Rothelan, to hold as before, except the Manor of Overton, the Lands of Mailor, Seysnoke, and the Castle and Manor of Holt; after which he was thus styled by the King, i Claus. 7. E. 2. m. 1. Chart. 8. E. 3. m. 2. Edwardus Comes Cestriae filius noster Charissimus. So pleasing to his Father 〈◊〉 the birth of this Prince, that the 16. of December following, he gave to k Pat 6. E. ●. par. 2. m. 5. john Launge Valet to the Queen, and to Isabel his Wife, and the longer liver of them, for bringing to him so desirable News, 24 l. per annum, to be paid out of the Farm of London. But leaving his Infancy, we will now proceed to his youth, and the occurrences that attended his riper years. King Edward his Father, having been often summoned to the Court of France, to do homage for the Dukedom of Aquitaine, and other his Lands held in that Kingdom, and still delaying, till the French King had seized thereon, it was at length concluded, that he should give to this Prince that Dukedom, who then should do the Homage, and enjoy the Lands. Hereupon preparation was made for his passing into France, and a little before at Langedon Abbey, near Dover, the King on the 2. of September in the 19 year of his Reign, first gave to him, his Heirs, and Successors Kings of England, jure haereditario imperpetuum, the l Pat. 19 E. 2 p. 1. m. 25. Counties of Ponthieu, and Monstroile; and on the 10. of the same month (at Dover) granted to him the m Pat. 19 E. 2 p. 1. m. 25. Dukedom of Aquitaine, and all the Lands he had, or aught to hold, in the Kingdom of France, Habendum as before; n Claus. de eod. an. m. 28. Dorso. two days after, this new Duke took shipping at Dover, thence passed into France, and made his Homage: in which Journey it was likewise thought fit, that the Queen should accompany him, in regard her Lands in that Kingdom had also been seized on. Shortly after his return into England, he was unanimously chosen o Claus. 20. E. 2. m. 3. Dors. 20. Oct. Custos of the Kingdom in his Father's absence (then fled into Wales, with Hugh le Despencer the Son, Robert-Baldock and others) by divers of the Bishops, Nobility, Barons, and Knights, de assensu totius Comitatûs dicti Regni ibidem existentis, and at Martley, the p Ib. 26. Nou. Great Seal (sent from the King) was delivered to him. Not long after, his Father ressigned his Crown, upon which, great preparations were made for this young Prince's Coronation, which was solemnly performed at Westminster, by William Archbishop of Canterbury, on q Claus. 1. E. 3. pars prima membr. 25. die Kalendas Febr. Hen. Knighton in Hist. Anglic. Script. Col. 2550. Sunday after the Conversion of St. Paul, being the 1. of Feb. an. 1327. His first Martial Attempt, but unsuccessful, (for more than what appertains to his Wars we shall not here discourse off) was the r Chroni●. Io. Froisard mil. L. 1. c. 15. raising an Army to march against the Scots: For Robert Bruce King of Scotland, having sent him a defiance about Easter next following his Coronation, shortly after invaded England, s Claus. 1. E. 3. p. 1. m. 2. dorso. notwithstanding the Truce between the said King Robert, and King Edward the Second, was yet on foot, and an agreement for further Treaty of Peace (to be held in the Marches) on Sunday next before Ascension day than next coming. The King's Army was appointed to Rendezvouz at t Rot. Scotiae 1. E. 3. m. 9 Newcastle upon Tyne, on Monday next before the Ascension of our Lord, though u Loco supra cit. Sir john Froissard saith it was at York, upon Ascension day, whence about three weeks after Trinity Sunday, he marched towards the Enemy: but the w Claus. 1 E. 3. par. 2. m. 16▪ dorso. Scots (having exceedingly wasted the Northern parts, and declined to fight) slipped from him at Stanhop Park in the Bishopric of Durham, and withdrew towards their own Country: nor could the King engage them, though he endeavoured it for 24. days together. I confess the first Actions of Princes are looked upon by all Eyes, and not seldom, with many Observators, taken as the Radix, whence to calculate their future, either Successes or Miscarriages. If, at these undertake, a full Age entitle them to the sole management of Affairs, we are inclined to think a judicious Eye may partly discern the strength of their Fortune: But while they reside within Tutorage, and their designs are carried on under the conduct of others, the Event of things will manifest a dependency upon the strength or weakness of the Genius of those persons, who are the chief managers of their Concerns. And this was fully made good in this Prince, whose Martial undertake were very unsuccessful, specially while the Government of the Kingdom was committed to others (and sometimes afterwards, when he was tied up and hampered by his Allies in Flanders) but he no sooner arrived at full Age, but his Affairs showed themselves as if disposed by his own Genius; and the first remarkable experiment was verified even upon the Scots themselves, from whom before, he had received some affronts and indignities. For having sent Ambassadors to the x Froiss. Chronic. L. 1. C. 26. Custos, and chief Nobility of Scotland, He demanded the Homage of David Brus their King (and these were probably Ralph Lord Basset of Drayton, and William de Denum, for it appears y Rot. Pat. 6 E. 3. p. 3. m. 3. they were employed thither the 14. of Decemb. an. 6 E. 3. z Rot. Pat. 6 E. 3. p. 3. m. 3. touching the Affairs of the King and Kingdom) and the doing of Homage denied. He forthwith raised an Army, in assistance of john Balliol, Son of john Balliol, sometime King of Scotland, against David Brus the then King: which being appointed to meet at a Claus. 7 E. 3. m. 19 dorso. Newcastle upon Tine, on Trinity Sunday, an. 7 E. 3. King Edward entered Scotland, and wasted the Country as far as Scone, for six months together: Insomuch that the Scots were forced to fly to their Fastnesses in the Forest of Gedworth, where they abode for many years, and as the King returned, he encountered an Army of theirs at Hallidown Hill, which he defeated, and killed about b holinsh. Chron. pag. 350. a. 32000. common Soldiers, 7. Earls, 90. Knights and Bannerets, and 400. Esquires. In memory of this great Victory (happening on the c Rot. Scot 7. E. 3. m. 2. Eve of St. Margaret the Virgin, being the 13. of july) he repaired the Church and Convent of Nuns, near the place where the Battle was fought, (upon that occasion destroyed and burnt) and caused an Altar to be therein erected, and dedicated to that Virgin. He further granted to those Nuns, and their Successors, 20 l. per annum, out of the Issues of the Town and County of Berwick, until Lands to that value should be conferred upon them; to the end, that annually on the Eve and day of St. Margaret for ever, they should commemorate the goodness of God for his so prosperous success. On the d Holinsh. Chron. pag. 350. a. Morrow after this great Victory, the King had the Town and Castle of Berwick surrendered to him, and on the e Ib. a. 8. L. 3. 19 of june, in the following year, did Edward Balliol, King of Scots, make Homage and Fealty to him at Newcastle, as to his Superior and Chief Lord of the Realm of Scotland, who then granted to the King, and annexed to the Crown of England, for ever, the Counties next adjoining to England, namely, Berwick, Roxbourgh, Peples, and Dunfres', the Towns of Hadington and Gedworth, with the Castle and Fortress of Silkirke, Etherick, and Gedworth. By the assistance, which King Edward afforded to Edward Balliol, f Ib. p. 351. he gained the most part of Scotland: nevertheless divers Castles refused to surrender, which occasioned the King to make another expedition thither, and about Allballontide, he arrived at Newcastle upon Tyne, and thence marched into Scotland, towards the end of November, and at Christmas entered Ethrick Forest: but the Scots were fled, whereupon having prosecuted his design as far as he thought good, he returned into England. The next year, g Ib. an. 9 E. 3. he raised new Forces, and himself from Carlisle, and Edward King of Scots from Berwick, both entered Scotland on the 12. of july, burning and wasting the Country on both sides, beyond the Scottish Sea. This Expedition brought the Earl of Athol, and divers of the Scotch Nobility, to a Submission; upon which the King came back into the Northern parts, where he wintered, and kept his Christmas at Newcastle. About h Ib. an. 10 E. 3. Twelfth-tide, he was provided to pass again into Scotland, when Ambassadors from the Pope and King of France, found him at Berwick, ready to enter that Kingdom, and by their earnest solicitation (about Candlemas) obtained of both Kings a Truce till Midlent following: but no Peace ensuing, Edward King of Scotland, and divers of the English Nobility (at Whitsuntide) entered Scotland again: and finding St. john's Town slighted by the Scots, they fortified it. Shortly after this, King Edward followed them thither, and thence passed with his Army unto Elgen in Murrey, and Innerness. In his return, he took Aberdeen, and burned divers Towns, and destroyed the Country. About which time the Earl of Cornwall entered Scotland also, and destroyed the Western parts, and met the King his Brother at St. john's Town, where the King stayed not long, but marched to Striveling, built the Fortress called the Pile, and returned home. About the Feast of St. Luke, he marched again with a fresh Army into Scotland, and repaired Bothuill-Castle, and returned into England before Christmas, leaving Edward King of Scots, at St. john's Town, settled in the Government of that Kingdom. The Affairs of Scotland being thus quieted for some years, gave King Edward the leisure to look towards France; which Kingdom afterwards became the Scene of all his Martial Glory. For Robert d' Artois, Earl of Beaumond in France, being discontented at the Sentence wherein Philip King of France had given the Earldom of Artois from him, to Maud Countess of Burgundy, let fall some dangerous words, and they being laid hold on, forced him to fly into England, where he was kindly received by King Edward; who after he had been here sometime, i 23 April. Pat. 11 E. 3. p. 2. m. 5. afforded him the use of the Castles of Guildford, Wallingford, and Somerton, whensoever he pleased to retire thither for his recreation, and afterwards assigned him k 26 Mar. Pat. 12 E. 3. p. 1. m. 18. 800 l. per annum for his support; the one moiety to be received out of the Revenues of certain Priories Alien, seized into the King's hands, and the other moiety, out of his Exchequer. Soon after his coming over, he advised the King to l Froiss. Chron. l. 1. c. 28. set on foot his claim to the Crown of France● whereto the King was willing enough to hearken, and to be persuaded by him; but the Affair being of so great concern, his Council advised him, to take the opinion of his Father-in-Law, the Earl of Henault, before he attempted any thing therein: Hereupon (a m Holinsh. Chron. p. 353. Comet with long and terrible streams, ushering in this grand Affair) he employed thither, with all privacy, n Froiss. ut supra. Henry Burghersh, Bishop of Lincoln, with two Banerets, and two Doctors, to gain him to his party (with all other persons of note, as they should find inclinable to assist the King) who laying before the Earl, King Edward's pretensions to the Crown of France; he not only approved of his design, but advised the King to contract other Alliances, and gain to his party some of his neighbouring Princes thereabouts. The PORTRAITURES of King EDWARD the 3. with the first 2● KNIGHTS COMPANIOS' in the HABIT of the ORDER, and SURCOATS of their ARMS, In April following, a like Commission was issued to q 19 April Pat. 11. E. 3. p. 1. m. 11. Henry Bishop of Lincoln, William Earl of Salisbury, and William Earl of Huntingdon, and they immediately dispatched into Flanders, where they found business so well prepared by the Commissioners before named, that by the 24. of May ensuing, r Rot. Alman. 11. E. 3. m. 9.10.11. they had fully engaged divers of the Nobility and others in Henault, Geldres, and the Marquisate of juliers, to appear in the King's assistance against the French, and withal settled the proportion of Men and Arms, each of them were to furnish the King with in that Service, together with the stipends and wages to be paid them in lieu thereof. This done, the said s Froiss. Chron. Lib. 1. cap. 29. Bishop went to Gaunt, and there won so much upon the humour of jaques Dartuell, that he gained him also to the King's party. Within a few days after t Ret. Alman. 11. E. 3. m. 10. Renaut the Second Earl of Guildres, and Zuitphen (who had married Leonora, the King's Sister) and William Marquis of juliers ( u Rittersbusius in Tab. Com. Hollandiae & Seland. Husband to joan Sister to Queen Philippe) entered into the Association, and next w Vlt. junii Rot. Alman. 11. E. 3. m. 9 Rupert, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Duke of Bavaria, signed an Agreement at Frankfurt, whereby he obliged himself to assist the King, for the recovery and maintenance of his Inheritance, against all persons whatsoever, except Lewis the Emperor, his Uncle (which several Contracts, made by the foresaid Ambassadors with these Princes, were x Ibid. confirmed by the King under the Great Seal of England, the 26. of August following.) Between this y Ibid. m. 11. Emperor and the King, and their Heirs, passed also an Union and Confederacy, which obliged them to use all their power particularly against Philip de Valois (who carried himself as King of France) and his Successors in that Kingdom, for the recovery and defence of their Honours, Inheritances, and Possessions. The 13. of july was z Ibid. m. ●. john Duke of Lorraine, Brabant, and Lemburgh retained for the King, and with the assent of the Emperor, was the Confederation made with a 2. Sept. Ib. m. 6. Lewis his eldest Son, there styled Marquis of Brandenburg Count Palatine of the Rhine, Duke of Bavaria, and Arch-Chamberlain to the Emperor. With these, the King retained, for his intended Expedition into France, several other noblemans of those Countries, as namely b Ibid. m. 9 Adolph Earl of Monte (who having made Fealty and Homage to the King, he in reward thereof, settled on him a Pension for life, of 1200 Florins of Gold per annum, out of his Exchequer) c Ibid. m. 6. Everhard, eldest Son to Thideric Earl of Lymborg; d Ibid. m. 6. Adolph, Earl of Marlia; e Ibid. m. 6. Robert de Touburgh, Lord of Warnich; f Ibid. m. 5. Theodorick, Earl of Loosen and Heuseberg, and Lord of Blatikenburgh; and Theodorick de Montjoy, Lord of Valkenborgh: besides divers valiant Knights, and Commanders of eminent note. But Philip de Valois was so alarmed at the report of these Alliances, that he used all endeavours to interrupt the foresaid Ambassadors, in their passage home, both by g Froiss. Chron. lib. 1. cap. 30. placing a Garrison in the Isle of Cogaunt, and setting out several men of War to Sea: Of which the King having intelligene, directed his Writ to h 20. junii Rot. Vasc. 11. E. 3. m. 30. & 22. vide Rot. Franc. 11. E. 3. m. 30. john de Ros, Admiral of the Fleet, from the River of Thames Northward, to fit up a Convoy of 40 stout Ships well manned, to be at Dort in Holland, on Monday after Midsummerday, to secure their return, where they lay ready for their coming. And whereas these Ambassadors, in making these Alliances and Retainers, upon the King's account, had obliged themselves to pay sundry great sums of money; the King i Rot. Alman. 11. E. 3. m. 4. indempulfied them, their Heirs, and Executors, of all those sums, and other things whereto they were so engaged. This great Affair, of strengthening the King with Alliances and Friends in Germany and Flanders, was again set on foot, and to that purpose, another k 3. Oct. Rot. Alman. 11. E. 3. n. 10. Commission was issued to the said Bishop of Lincoln, and Earl of Salisbury, to whom was added Robert de Vfford Earl of Suffolk, and john Darcy Steward of the King's Household, with power to any three of them, to treat thereupon with Lewis the Emperor. Another l Ibid. n. 11. Commission of the same date, was made out to them, and to Richard de Winkele, john de Offord, Paul de Monteflorum, john de Montgomery, and john Wauwyn, impowering them to treat with, and retain all persons, aswell Nobles as others, for the King's Service. And as the King did endeavour by these means to gain assistance, for the recovery of his right to the Crown of France, so did he not neglect all methods of Peace: among which he thought fit to m 7. Oct. Ib. n. 13. constitute the foresaid Bishop of Lincoln, the Earls of Salisbury and Suffolk, and john Darcy, his Agents, to treat cum magnifico Principe Domino Philippo Rege Franciae illustri, or his Deputies, touching his right to the said Crown; to wit, whether it ought to remain to him, or King Edward: And by another Commission, they were impowered to treat upon all Controversies and Demands whatsoever, relating to the Dukedom of Aquitaine, or other parts beyond Sea, and also of a happy and perpetual peace. The same day, he n Ibid. m. 1. constituted john Duke of Brabant and Lorraine, his Lieutenant, Captain, and Vicar General in the Kingdom of France: where it is worthy note, that the King in this Commission (challenging the Crown of France, as devolved to him by right of succession, and consequently become his lawful Inheritance) did assume the Title of that Kingdom, and styled himself, Edwardus Dei gratiâ Rex Angliae & Franciae, Dominus Hiberniae, & Dux Aquitaniae: And by another Commission bearing even date, made of these Officiary Dignities to the said Duke, he put France in the first place, thus, Edwardus Dei gratiâ Rex Franciae & Angliae, etc. but it was not long ere he voluntarily laid this Title of France aside, nor did he solemnly assume it again, till the 14. year of his Reign over England. By several other o Ibid. Commissions of the same date (wherein the Titles of England and France were so transposed) did the King constitute into the same Dignities, William Marquis of juliers, William Earl of Henault, his Father-in-Law, and William Bohun Earl of Northampton; and by another then dated and directed to the Archbishops, Bishops, Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, Barons, and all other persons in the Kingdom of France (having therein the Titles of England and France transposed as before) they are commanded to receive the said Duke, as if it were the King in his own person, as also the Marquesses and Earls. And further, the said Marquesses and the Earls were by other Commissions severally constituted the King's special Ambassadors, to make known his said Title to all whom it should concern, to challenge and prosecute his right, to require every unjust detainor, to render to the King whatsoever he so withheld from him, to displace and punish such as they should think meet; and lastly to do and execute all other things, which should be most necessary for the recovery and preservation of his right. The King of France had in the beginning of this year sent Forces into p Claus. 11. E. 3. p. 2. m. 29. Dorso, vide Hist. Anglic. Script. Coll. 2569. Gascoigne, and seized upon many of the Kings, Castles and Fortresses; upon notice hereof the King gave q Rot. Vasc. 11. E. 3. m. 40. command to arrest 20 Ships in the Port of Southampton, and thereabouts, and to press men to be ready at Portsmouth, to set forward for Gascoigne on Whitson-Eve following; for he had raised a great Army to send thither. (It may not here be forgotten, what is recorded of r Rot. Vasc. 11. E. 3. m. 4. Reymond Cornely Lord of Abertha a Gascoigner, who made an offer to the King of France, to fight in defence of King Edward's right to those Countries; for which s 6. jan. ibid. he sent him very great and particular thanks.) But withal made several applications, by his Ambassadors, to the Court of France, for restitution of what had been seized on, and prevention of a War. His Offers were these. 1. t Claus. 11. E. 3. p. 2. m. 28. Dorso. To marry his eldest Son the Duke of Cornwall to the King of France's Daughter, without Dowry. 2. The marriage of his Sister, the Countess of Geldres to his Son, with a great sum of money. 3. The marriage of his Brother the Earl of Cornwall, with any of the Blood Royal. 4. To make restitution for any damage, he tendered him as much money as he could in reason demand. 5. He also proffered to take a Voyage to the Holy Land with the King of France, if he would restore his Lands to him. 6." To go the Voyage, if he would restore but half, or some of those Lands. 7. To take the Voyage with him, if he would make restitution after his return; or lastly, 8. To take the Voyage singly himself, so that at his return, he would restore him his right. These Overtures with many others, which the King or his Council could think off, were offered to the King of France, in order to a Peace, with this general proposal beside; That if any one could think of any other way tending thereunto, he would be ready to accept thereof. But all in vain; for, on the contrary, King Philip excited and maintained the Scots against him, and his Navy also did great mischiefs at Sea. Whereupon the Pope perceiving that the War was likely to proceed, sent into England P. Priest Cardinal of St. Praxid, and B. Deacon Cardinal of St. Mary in Aquiro, to use their best endeavours, to compose the differences now growing high between the two Kings. Upon whose mediation with King Edward, though Peace could not be obtained, yet that things relating to Peace might the better be effected, a u Rot. Franc. 11. E. 3. m. 2. Dorso. Truce was agreed on, to the Morrow after Candlemas day, an. 12. E. 3. and thence prorogued to the w Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. p. 1. m. 36. vide Pat. de eod. an. p. 1. m. 24. first of March, and lastly, a further enlargement of it to x Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. p. 1. m. 36. vide Pat. de eod. an. p. 1. m. 24. Midsummer following, in case the King of France should consent to it, and give Security that it should be observed; but he it seems refusing, the King was advised to revoke this later cessation (which he did the y Ibib. m. 16. 6. of May) and to take a Journey into Flanders, personally to confer with his Allies, in pursuance of his design against France, and thereupon he took shipping at the Port of Orewell the 16. of july, and went to Antwerp: But before he went, upon the Cardinal's further importunity, a z 21. june Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. p. 1. m. 5. Commission issued to I. Archbishop of Canterbury, R. Bishop of Durham, R. de Vfford Earl of Suffolk, Sir Geoffry le Scrop Knight, and Mr. john Vfford Archdeacon of Ely, with power to treat and agree, touching all things in difference between them, in reference to a full and final Peace. And by another a Ibid. Commission, bearing the same date, the Duke of Brabant, Earl of Hanow and Gueldres, the Marquis of juliers, and Sir William Dunort Lord of Oustrehout, Knight, are added to them. These Commissions were double, and of two several Styles; in the one, the King calls Philip de Valois Consanguineus noster Franciae, only; and in the other, Excellentissimus Princeps, Dominus Philippus, Rex Franciae, illustris Consanguineus noster charissimus. At Antwerp the confederate Princes gave the King a meeting, and here he b 22. july Rot. fact. apud Antuerp. 12. E. 3. m. 7. & 3. expressly revoked all the powers he had given the forementioned Commissioners, to treat with Philip de Valois, as King of France. At length it was resolved, that the c Froiss. Chron. lib. 1. cap. 32. Duke of juliers should be sent Ambassador, from the King to the Emperor; which Embassy obtained a promise to the King, of the Vicar-generalship of the Empire; whereupon, about the beginning of September he took a Journey to d Walsingh. sub an. 12. E. 2. Colen, where the Emperor publicly defied the King of France, and constituted King Edward his Vicar-General, who at his return into Flanders, e Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 34. entered upon the execution of that Office. In the 13. year of this King's Reign, at the instance of the foresaid Cardinals, f Primo julii Pat. concess. hominib. Augl. & Vasc. 13. E. 3. m. 17. john Archbishop of Canterbury, Richard Bishop of Durham, Henry Bishop of Lincoln, the Earls of Derby, Salisbury, and Suffolk, and some others, were impowered to treat with Philip de Valois, or his Deputies, upon the Dignities, Honours, Lands, and Rights, belonging to King Edward, and all other controversies whatsoever. The Deputies on the other part, were the g Holli●sh. Chron. p. 355. Archbishop of Roven, the Bishops of Langres and Beauvais, and the place for treaty, Arras; but nothing of Peace being thereby effected, the King prepared effectually for War; having h 16. Febr. Patentes inter Regem Angl. & diversos Magnates German. de an. 13. E. 3. m. 2. some time before, made an alliance with Albert and Otho, Dukes of Austria, Stiria, and Karinthia; and received Homage as King of France, from Reiginald, Duke of Gueldres and Earl of Zutphen, for which he afterwards granted him i Ib. m. 4. 1000 l. sterling per Annum, for his life. He likewise made alliances with other Princes, who were to furnish him with men, to be employed in his intended expedition into France: as also with k Ib. m. 4. Lewis the Emperor: after which, he sent a Letter from Antwerp to the Pope, asserting his claim to the Crown of France, which is to be seen in l Sub an. 13. E. 3. Thomas Walsingham's History of England. All things for War being now in readiness, the King (with the assistance of his Allies) first besieged Cambray (an Imperial City, and then in the hands of the French) but it being too well fortified and provided, to be suddenly taken, he raised his Siege, and passed into France, first m Froiss. Chron. l. 1. c. 34. sending his defiance to Philip de Valois (then at Paris) by the Bishop of Lincoln. Sir Walter Many was the first, who, after the defiance made, n Ibid. c. 36. entered France with 40. Horse, burnt Mortaigne, took the Castle of Thine, garrisoned it, and returned to the King at Mechlin. The King having passed the River Skell, entered France upon o Knighton in. Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2574. St. Matthews Day, and burned the Country before him. And not long after, at the request of the Duke of Brabant, to admit of a Treaty of Peace, the King, at Markoyne, p 4. Oct. Pat. concess. hominib. Angl. & Vas●. 13 E. 3. m. ●2. grants the said Duke power, in his name, to give safe conduct to such persons as he should think fit, to meet at any place within two or three Leagues from his Camp, to treat of Peace, the same to continue till Friday following, and all that day; but nothing was effected. The q Knighton loco cit. Saturday before St. Luke's Day, the King with his Army passed the River Oyze, and marching forward till he came between Vyronfoss, and Flamengery, the two Armies drew near each other, where the Day of Battle was agreed on to be the Friday after. But in the interim a r Froiss. Chron. l. 1. c. 42. Letter of advice was brought to the French King, from Robert King of Sicily a famous ginger, to dissuade him from fight, since he had by his Science found, that if he fought with the King of England, he should be vanquished, and lose the day. This Letter so prevailed with the King of France, that though he had the greater power, and that both Armies stood ranged for Battle, yet was there not a blow struck on the appointed Day. The Monday following, intelligence was brought to the King, s Knighton Hist. Angl. Coli. 2575. that the French were dispersed, and returning homewards, whereupon he withdrew his Army, and marched back into Brabant. At his return to Antwerp, he t 15. Nou. Pat. inter Regem & diversos Magnat. German. 13. E. 3▪ m. 3. issued out another Commission, to john Archbishop of Canterbury, R. Bishop of Durham, H. Bishop of Lincoln, W. Earl of Salisbury, Sir Bartholomew Burghersh, and Sir Geoffry le Scrop, Knights, and john de Offord Archdeacon of Ely, to treat of Peace with Philip de Valois, or with Commissioners from him, and a u 16. Dec. Ib. m. 2. month after this Commission was renewed, upon adding Robert de Vfford, Earl of Suffolk, to the beforenamed Commissioners. Here also, the King was advised to engage the w Froiss. l. 1. c. 43. Flemings to his further Assistance, who were willing enough (for, by the means of jaques D'artuell, he had gained a great influence upon them) but considering they stood engaged in the Pope's Chamber in two Millions of Florins, not to make War against the King of France, they proposed, that the King would quarter the Arms of France with those of England, and call himself King of France, as he ought of right to do, and then they would take him to be the rightful King of France, and receive from him a discharge of that Obligation, and afford him their assistance. To this proposal the King agreed, and solemnly assumed both the Arms of the Kingdom, and Title of King of France. He also caused his Great Seal to be changed, and brought it with him at his return to England (landing at x Claus. 14. E. 3. p. 1. m. 42. dorso. Orewell the 21. of Febr. at 9 a Clock in the Morning) and the first of March delivered it to Sir john de St. Paul, in a Chamber called the Cage Chamber at Westminster. The old Great Seal, was then delivered up to him by the said Sir john, which he gave to William de Kildesby to be kept in his Wardrobe: But, that the New Seal might be made more public, he caused y 21. Febr. Ib. m. 33. dorso. Impressions thereof, and of his Privy Seal, to be made and sent to all the Sheriffs in England, to be published in the several Counties, in regard he intended at the meeting of the Parliament on the Wednesday next after Midlent Sunday; to z Vide Rot. Parl. 14. E. 3. n. 10. acquaint them with the cause, wherefore he had added to his Style, the title of King of France. That day being come, he under his New Great Seal, as King of France, a Pat. 14. E. 3. p. 2. m. 36. vacated all Papal Processes made at the instance of the French King, against the Inhabitants of Flanders; and granted to the Earl of Flanders, his Heirs and Successors for ever, the Towns of lisle, Douai, Bethune, and Orchies, with the County of Artois, and City of Tournay, and to their Inhabitants, divers Privileges. And by another Instrument of the same date under the said Seal, with the consent of the Parliament, he granted, b Ib. m. 35. & 37. that the staple of Wools should be settled at Bruges. A little before his return into England, he wrote a c Rot. Franc: 14. E. 3. m. 1. Letter from Gaunt (which bore Teste the 8. of Febr. in the first year of his Reign over France, and 14. over England) to the Prelates, Peers, and Commons of France, thereby signifying, that Charles, late King of France, his Mother's Brother, being dead, that Kingdom was fallen to him by manifest Law; and that Philip de Valois, Son to the Uncle of the said King, had by force intruded into it in his Minority, and yet detained it. Lest therefore he should seem to neglect his own right, he thought good to own the Title of France, and take on him the defence and Government thereof, and having offered the said Philip divers friendly conditions of Peace, to which he refused all condescension, he was therefore necessitated to defend himself, and recover his right by force of Arms; and therefore all such Subjects as would submit to him as true King of France, by Easter then next ensuing, should be received into his grace and protection. Having dispatched his Affairs with the Parliament, which had given him a d Rot. Parl. 14. E. 3. n. 7. great Supply, to go on with this War, and wherein an Act passed e Ib. n. 34. that he might, with the assent of his Allies, condescend to any reasonable terms of Peace: And having created the Marquis of juliers, f n. 35. Earl of Cambridge, and given him 1000 l. per annum until he were provided for of so much Land of Inheritance, He got in readiness an Army to go beyond Sea, and prepared his Navy to transport it, and on the 22. of june (horâ diei quasi primâ) set sail from Orewell. The French King had laid g Froiss. l. 1. c. 50. 120. great Ships, beside Genoeses, Normans, and Picards, Manned with 40000. Men, to intercept his passage; But after a fierce and bloody fight on Midsummer Eve, the h Claus. 14. E. 3. p. 3. m. 6. dorso. King got the Victory, before Sluice, destroying most of the Enemy, and taking the greatest part of their Fleet: and on Midsummer day landed at Sluice, and went forthwith to Gaunt. Of this Signal Victory an account, by i Rot. Parl. 14. E. 3. n. 6. Letter was sent from the King to the Bishops and Prelates, by the Earl of Arundel, and Sir William Trussell. Not long after the k Froiss. l. 1. c. ●2. King held a Council with his Allies at Villenort, where it was resolved, that the King should besiege Tournay, before which he brought 120000. Men. l 27. july. Thence, he sent a Letter sealed with his Great Seal, to Philip de Valois, signifying, that he had fairly requested him to render him his lawful right to the Crown of France, but perceiving he meant to persist in detaining it, without returning him any answer, He was therefore entered Flanders, as Sovereign Lord thereof, to pass through that Country, for recovery of his Inheritance so detained; yet to avoid the effusion of Christian blood, and determine the right, he challenged him to fight body to body, or else 100 chosen Soldiers on each side, or if both were refused, then to pitch upon a day for both Armies to fight near Tournay; But the French King returned no answer to this Letter. The Siege continued eleven weeks, wanting three days, in which time, by the mediation and effectual endeavour of jane de Valois, the French Kings Sister, a Treaty was set on foot, m Claus. 14. E. 3. p. 2. m. 32. dorso. john, King of Bohemia, Adolph, Bishop of Liege, Reynel Duke of Lorraine, Am Earl of Savoy, and john Earl of Arminiack, being Commissioners for the French King, the Dukes of Brabant, and Gueldres, the Marquis of juliers, and john of Henault Lord Beaumond for King Edward; who on the n Walsingl. pag. 136. 25. of September agreed upon a Truce, between both Kings, to endure till Midsummer following (of which publication was made in England the 6. of October) and thus both Armies retired. But this was much against the King's Will, though not against those of his Allies, who were very desirous to return home. The Siege being raised, the King went to Gaunt, and thence returned into England, where he arrived (at the Tower Wharf) on the o Claus. 14. E. 3. pag. 2. m. 12. dorso. Feast of St. Andrew about Midnight. At this Treaty before Tournay, it was among other things agreed, that another Treaty should be held at Arras, within that year, whither both Kings and the Pope should send Commissioners; but that meeting produced only another year to be added to the Truce. The King's Commissioners were the p Frois. lib. 1. cap. 63. Bishops of Lincoln and Durham, the Earl of Warwick, Sir Robert d' Artois, Sir john Henault, and Sir Henry of Flanders. This year produced some other Overtures for the amicable composure of all Controversies, and concluding a Peace between the two Kings; to which purpose a q 9 April R●t. Alman. 1●▪ E. 3. m. 27. Commission issued to R. Bishop of Durham, Hugh Earl of Gloucester, William Fitz, Warren, Nicholas de Flisco, and William Trussell. Another r 24. May Ib. m. 20. Commission issued to john Duke of Brabant, Reignold Duke of Gueldres and Zuthphen, William Marquis of juliers, and Earl of Cambridge, and William Earl of Hanaw, and john de Hanaw Lord Beaumond, to treat and agree with Philip de Valois, upon a Truce, to the Feast of the decollation of St. john Baptist then coming on, which it seems became so far hopeful, as to s 21. Aug. Ib. m. 19 vide Claus. 15. E. 3. p. 2. m. 38. dorso. produce a prorogation till the Feast of the * 14. Sept. Ib. m. 12. Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and thence till t Ibid. m. 7. Midsummer in the following year. Another Commission was made forth to u Rot. Alman. 15. E. 3. m. 13. William Earl of Huntingdon, Bernard Dominus de le Brett, Bartolomew de Burglersh, john de Offord, Archdeacon of Ely, and Michael de Flisco, to treat with the 〈◊〉 Philip de Valois, aswell touching the Kingdom and Crown of France, as divers other questions and controversies between them, and to compose the differences by a full Peace, or otherwise a Truce; and one of these Commissions was to treat, by the advice of john Duke of Brabant, and other the King's Allies in ●landers. While the King lay at the Siege of Tournay, the w Frois. lib. 1. cap. 55. Knighton Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 258. Scots (excited by the French King) invaded England, and passing by Berwick marched into Northumberland, and thence to D●●●●m, foraging the Country still as they went, and after returned home. 〈◊〉 this incursion they recovered all the Castles formerly lost, except those of Ede●●urgh, Striuling, and Roxborough, the first of which, within a short time after, was taken by stratagem. But in the Truce made at Tournay, the Scotch were by a particular Article included, and so all hostility ceased during that Truce; yet after the expiration thereof, and some new provocations given the King, he rai●ed an Army to enter Scotland, but being engaged in the War with France, could not go with it himself, and therefore x Primo Aug. Rot. Scot 15. E. 3. m. 9 constituted Edward, King of Scotland his Captain and Lieutenant of his Army: and in another y Ibid. Commission of the same date, gave him power nevertheless to treat with the Scots, and to admit them to Peace, and pardon their offences. In these Commissions the King styles him, Magnisicus Princeps, Edwardus Rex Scotiae, fidelis & consanguineus noster char●simus. The z Rot. Scot 16. E. 3. m. 12. following year he was again constituted the King's Captain and Commander in chief, of the Army designed against Scotland, for defence of the Kingdom of England, and destruction of his Scotch Enemies; and further commissionated to a Ibid. m. 9 raise men in all the Counties beyond Trent, aswell within Liberties as without, for that Expedition. Upon which preparation, a b Knighton Hist. Ang. Scrip. Coll. 2581. Truce was made for one year; before the ending of which, the Truce concluded at Vannes in Britagne, between the King and his Adversary of France, took commencement, being to hold from Michaelm●s 17. E. 3. for three years: And in the mean time the Bishop of Durham, and others, were appointed by the King to c Rot. Scot 17. E. 3. m. 4. treat and conclude with the Scots, touching the manner, form, and conditions appointed by the said Truce, and the mutual commerce of the Subjects of both Kingdoms, as also to reform and punish the breakers of the Truce. The Truce made with the French at Tournay, and enlarged at Arras, gave the King time to see his Allies in Flanders, aimed chiefly at the accomplishment of their own designs by his hands, rather than the advancement of his interest in France by their assistance; and the two fruitless Expeditions, in attempting to enter that Kingdom through Flanders, showed they would do little for him; besides, he now judged it a more easy and advantageous passage thither through Britagne, which he hoped to gain, by laying hold of the occasion offered him, to protect and assist john Earl of Montsort, Duke of Britagne; whose Title to that Dukedom, and the occasion of the War between him and Charles de Bloys, are set down at large by d Lib. 1. t. 64. Sir john Froissard. This e Froiss Chron. lib. 1. cap. 72. john Montfort being taken Prisoner at Nants, by Charles de Bloys (whom the French King had assisted with an Army to enter Britagne) was sent to Paris, and there died in Prison, his Widow ( f Pa●. 16. E. 3. p. 1. m. 25. joan of Flanders being of a manlike courage) nevertheless maintained the War, and, to gain further ai● and supplies from King Edward, proposed (by g H●lli●sh. Chron. p. ●62. Sir Emere de Clisson, a Nobleman of Britagne) to marry her Son to one of his Daughters, which taking effect, the King s●nt h Ro●. Alman. 15. E. 3. m. 4. & 7. vide Fr●issard. li. 1. cap. 79. Sir Walter Many (in November) with 3000 Archers into Britagne, who though they wandered 40 days at Sea, by distress of weather, i Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 81. yet came timely to her assistance. The King in the 16. year of his Reign raised a great Army, and, by k May 20. Claus. 16. E. 3. m. 20. dorso. Proclamation made, appointed his Soldiers in all Counties of England, except Yorkshire, Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmoreland, to be in readiness by Midsummer following, to go along with him, and l Ibid. p. 3. m. 28. dorso. after directed his Letters to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Bishops, for public Prayers to be made, and the divine goodness sought to, for a blessing upon his Armies, which now he designed both against France and Scotland. The m P. 2. m. 23. dorso. 4. of October following he took shipping at Sandwich, in a Ship called the George, and sailing towards France met with the French Fleet, where after a fierce Encounter, they were separated by Tempest; at length he n 29. N●v. Hollensh. Chron. pag. 364. landed near Vannes in Britagne, and laid Siege thereto; and here, leaving the Lord Stafford, he marched to Rheims and Nantes, laying Siege to both Towns, as also to o Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 96. Dynan and took it; after which he returned to Vannes, and then p Ibid. cap. 97. drew off his Forces from Nantes thither: and there the q Rot. Pa●l. 17. E. 3. n. 8. vide etiam Claus. de e●d. an p. 1. m. 25. dorso. Bishop Cardinals of Penestrina and Tusculan, sent from Pope Clement the Sixth, obtained of him (19 jan. 1343.) a Truce for r Kinghton Col. 2583. 3 years, which the King gave way to, in hope of an honourable Peace. This done, the King returned into England, and s Claus. 16. E. 3. p. 1. m. 31. set forth a Proclamation, to give public notice of this Truce. But the Truce expiring, the t Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 142. War was again renewed, between Charles de Bloys and the Countess of Montfort, to whose assistance the King s●nt Sir Thomas Dagworth, from the Siege of Calais, with a supply of men; and the English having Rochedaren surrendered to them, Charles' de Bloys laid Siege to it, to relief of which, the Countess sent Sir u Ibid. c. 143. Thomas Dangorne, and Sir john Artwell who ( w Hollirsh. Chron. p 376. 20. june 1347.) took Charles de Bloys with the Britagne and Norman Lords, that were on his part, Prisoner's, and raised the Siege; which x Froiss. c. 147. Charles was sent into England, where he remained in custody a long time. The y Claus. 17. E. 3 p. 1. m. 25 dorso. 24. of February, an. 17. E. 3. the King summoned a Parliament to be held die Lunae proximò post Quindena Paschae, wherein Sir Bartholomew Burghersh, present at the making of the Truce near Vannes, declared that the King consented thereto, z Rot. Parl. de eod. an. n. 8. ● provided it might be honourable and advantageous for his Allies, and was content to have the Peace made before the Pope, as before a Friend, but not as a Judge; otherwise he would pursue his Quarrel. And that as the King did not undertake this War without the assent of Parliament, so without it he would conclude no Peace, and therefore it rested, whether it were best for the King to take this Offer, and send Ambassadors to the Pope instructed for this Affair, before Midsummer, or not? Hereupon both Lords and Commons answered, That it was good to pursue the Peace, and to send Ambassadors, as was proposed. Those who were first sent to the Pope's Court upon this Affair, were a 20. May Ro●. Franc. 17. R. 3. m. 1●. Hugh le Despenser Lord of Glamorgan, Ralph Lord Stafford, William de Norwich, Dean of Lincoln, Sir William Trussel, and Andrew de Offord, a Civilian. The Authority given them was to Treat in presence of the Pope, not as a Judge, but private Person and Friend to both parties, with the Agents of his Cousin the Lord Philip de Valois, upon the Kings Right to the Crown of France, as also upon whatsoever Dominions, Dignities, Honours, Lands, Possessions, Places, and Rights appertained to him, concerning which any controversy had risen between them, or was like to arise. After this another b 19 Aug. Ib. Commission issued containing the same powers, to Henry of Lancaster Earl of Derby, Thomas de Beauchampe Earl of Warwick, Robert de Vfford Earl of Suffolk, Hugh le Despenser Lord of Glamorgon, Ralph de Nevil, Bartholomew de Burghersh, john le Grey de ruffian, Reginald de Cobham, and Thomas de Brodiston, Barons, William de Norwich Dean of Lincoln, john de Offord Archdeacon of Ely, Robert Herward Archdeacon of Taunton, and Andrew de Offord Professor of the Civil Law, or to any 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, or 3. of them. But this Treaty had only the effect of continuing the Truce, yet that so ill kept on the French side, that the following year it occasioned a c 4. Aug. Rot. Franc. 18. E. 3. m. 3. solemn complaint, sent from the King to the Pope, by john Offord, Dean of Lincoln, Hugh de Nevil, and Nicholas de Flisco, to require reformation, and security for the observance of the said Truce, until the time it was to end, and in case that were not done, than they to surrender it into the Pope's hands, and defy Philip de Valois, as the King's Enemy. It seems, the desires of the King met with a dilatory answer, for the d Ib. m. 2. 20 of October following, William Bishop of Norwich, john de Offord Dean, and john Thoresby Canon of Lincoln, Sir Hugh Nevil, and Sir Ralph Spigurnell Knights, and Nicholas de Flisco were commissionated to declare before the Pope, in what particulars the Truce had been broken, and to demand reparations: but after all this, no satisfaction being given to the King, and the Truce manifestly and notoriously violated, the King gave e ●4. April Rot. Franc. 19 E. 4. p. 1. m. 24. Commission to William de Bohun, Earl of Northampton to defy Philip de Valois, as a Violator of the Truce, an unjust Usurper of his inheritance in France, and his Capital Enemy. And f 14. june. Ib. m. 10. shortly after, he set forth a Manifesto touching the dissolution of the Truce, wherein the causes were declared at large: being the same with the g Rot. Ron. 19 E. 3. m. 2. n. 4. Letters sent from him to the Pope and four Cardinals, the 26. of May preceding. This being done, the King with all diligence h Froissard Chron. l. 1. c. 121. provides an Army to enter France the following year, and the i Stow's Chron. p. 241. b. 5. of july in the 20. year of his Reign, took Shipping at Southampton; but instead of sailing towards Goscoigne, whether he at first intended, (upon the advice of Sir Geoffry de Harecourt) he diverted his course, and made towards Normandy, and landed at Hoges Saint Wast, in the Isle of Constantine not far from St. Saviour's le viscount, the k Cart. & Pat. factae in Franc. 20. E. 3. m. 1. 12. of july after. Upon his arrival he ordered his Army in l Froissard Chron. l. 1. c. 122. three Battles, the one marched on his right hand along the Seaside, the second on his left; both which exceedingly enriched themselves with the spoils of the Country: and himself with the third in the middle. This Battle consisted of 3000. men at Arms, 6000. Archers, and 10000 Common Soldiers. The first Town he took was m Ib. c. 123. St. Lo, in Constantine, rich in Drapery, and next n Ib. c. 124. Caen; the plunder of it, and other places, consisting o Ib. c. 125. of Cloth, Vessels of Silver and Gold, Jewels, and more than 60. Knights and 300. Burgesses, made Prisoners, were sent to the Ships, and transported into England. After this the King marched on, wasting and burning the Country and entered Lisieux, the Chief City of Normandy, for Wealth and Merchandise, and plundered it. And hence, he gave p Rot: Norman. 20. E. 3. m. 21. Letters of Protection and safe conduct to the Cardinals of Tusculan, and St. john, and St. Paul, sent from the Pope to mediate a Peace. From thence he marched into the Country of Eureux, and spoilt it, and leaving Rouen, he passed to Gaillon, and burned it, with Vernon, Pont de Lache, and all the Country thereabouts, and went over the River Seyne to Poissy. Hence (having thus overrun and wasted Britagne and Normandy) the English Marshals road towards Paris, and burnt St. german en Say, Mountjoy, St. Clou, Petty Bolayne near Paris and the Bourg lafoy Rein, which caused the French King to retire to St. Denys. Sir Godfrey de Harecourt encountered a considerable party of the Burgesses of Amiens, going to the assistance of the French King, of whom he killed 1200, and defeated the rest, and took their Carriages and Baggage. About this time the q Rot. Norman. 20. E. 3. m. 21. Dus●. French King had sent notice to King Edward, that he would give him Battle, the Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, or Monday after, betwixt St. Germains de Preez, and Valgirart de là Paris, or between Franconville and Ponthoise; in answer to which, (from Ants 15. Aug.) the King sent him word, that he was come thither, to put an end to the War by Battle, but that the said French King had broken down all the Bridges, so that they could not come at each other. That he had come to Poissy, and repaired that Bridge, and there stayed three days expecting him, and that the French Forces might have come on, either on the one side or the other, at his pleasure. But forasmuch as they did not, he could not then give him Battle, and therefore now resolved to pass further into the Kingdom, and there stay till he had ended the War, or advantaged himself, and disabled his Adversaries: Nevertheless if he would combat him, to save those which he challenged for his Subjects, upon notice of the Hour, he should find him ready for the Encounter, and this he principally desired for the benefit of Christianity, since he had refused to accept of, or propose any reasonable way for effecting Peace. This answer was not liked by the French King; therefore the King having stayed at r Froiss. Chron. loco cit. Poissy, and there kept the Feast of our Lady in August, marched thence into the Country of Beauvosyn, burning and destroying all before him. One night having lodged in an Abbey, and next morning after his departure, looking behind him, he saw it on fire, but he hanged 20 of his Soldiers, that had done the mischief; because at his first entrance into France, he had caused Proclamation to be made throughout his Army, that no man, upon pain of death, should violate a Church, or burn a Religious House. As he passed by Beauvois, he fired the Suburbs, and went thence to Granvillers. He also took and fired the Castle of Angers, and the Town of Pork, and the two Castles; and drawing near to s Froiss. lib. 1▪ cap. 126. Abbeville, he endeavoured to pass the River of Somme, but sounding several places found no Ford; at length one Gobyn a Grace (a Prisoner) brought him to Blanch-taque. This Ford was guarded on the other side by 12000 men, commanded by Sir Godmar du Foy; t Ibid. cap. 127. here the King forced his passage, and defeated Sir Godmar, and after he had passed his whole Army over, he marched to Crescy in Ponthieu, where he form his Army into three Battles, the u Ibid. c. 128. first of which was led by the Prince of Wales, accompanied with divers of the English Nobility, the second by the Earl of Northampton, and the third by the King himself. And here, before the Battles joined, he created 50 Knights, among whom were w Cart. Pat. Rege existente in Fra. 20. E. 3. m. 21. Robert de Maule, Guy de Brian, john de Ravensholm, Peter de Brews, Thomas de Lancastre, Henry Dengayne, and john the Son of Guy de Beauchamp; to whom the King gave annual Pensions for their lives, to support these Honours. The Battle was fought x Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 130. between Bray and Cressy, on Saturday the y Ex Lib. Monast. de Lac●ck in Com. Wilts. 7. of the Calends of September, viz. the 26. of August an. Dom. 1346. and the Victory fell to King Edward. There were killed on the French part, the King of Bohemia, the Duke of Lorraine, the Earls of Alencon, Flanders, Harcourt, Almor, Bloys, Auser, and St. Paul; but the French King fled to Bray Castle with 5 Barons only, and thence to Amiens. On the day after the Battle, there were z Froiss. c. 131. four times as many slain (coming to the assistance of the French King, but knew nothing of his defeat) as on the day on which the Battle was fought. After this Battle, the a Ibid. c. 132. King forthwith carried his Army towards Calais, and sat down before it the b Knighton Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2595. 7. day of September, continuing his Siege all the Winter ensuing. The next Summer the French King came down with an Army of 200000 men to raise the Siege, and on c St●we● Chron. pag. 244. Monday after St. Iame's day, drawing near to the Castle of Guisnes, and finding the King so strongly entrenched, that he could not attempt him, he, on the 2. of August, returned; whereupon the Town was surrendered to the King's mercy, the d Knighton loco cit. 4. of August following; and the King having settled his Affairs there, returned into England the e Stowe loco cit. 14. of October. The f Ibid. p. 242. 7. of October an. 20. E. 3. which was within a Month after King Edward had laid Siege to Calais, David King of Scots invaded England, with g Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 137. 50000 men. The h Ibid. c. 138. Queen being then at York raised an Army to oppose him, and marched towards Newcastle, near which, on i Knighton Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2590. St. Luke's Eve she encountered the Scots, flew 15000 of them, and vanquished the rest. Their King was taken Prisoner at k Ib. Coll. 2591 Meryngton, by john Copland, an Esquire of Northumberland, and (according to the Kings command signified to l 20 Dec. Rot. Scot 20. E. 3. m. 2. Thomas Rokely, high Sheriff of Yorkshire, who had received him by Indenture from Monsieur Ralph Nevil) was delivered by Indenture, dated the m Claus. 20. E. 3. p. 2. m. 1. Dorso. 2. of january after, unto john Darcy Constable of the Tower of London, there to be kept in safe custody. After this Victory, the English entered Scotland, and took the Castles of n Hollenish. pag. 376. Roxburgh and Hermitage, and subdued the Counties of Anandale, Galloway, Mers, Tividale and Ethrick Forest, extending their March as far as Cockburns p, and Sowtray hedge, Tralnilips, and Cross Cave. Shortly after the defeating of the King of Scots, upon the mediation of the Cardinal of Naples and Clermont, a o 22. Oct. Rot. Norman. 20. E. 3. m. 18. Commission was made out to William Marquis of juliers, William de Bohun Earl of Northampton, Constable of England, Thomas Beauchamp Earl of Warwick, Marshal of England, Bartholomew de Burghersh, Richard Talbot Steward of the King's House, Thomas Bradewardyn Chancellor of London, john de Thoresby, Canon of Lincoln, and Andrew Offord Canon of York, or any 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, or 3 of them, to treat of, and conclude with the said Cardinals, upon all Quarrels and Controversies depending between the King and Sir Philip de Valois, and their Allies; but this meeting came to nothing. Nevertheless, after Calais, was taken, the Earls of Lancaster and Huntingdon were p 25 Sept. Rot. Calesis. 21. E. 3. m. 4. commissionated to treat of a Peace, with the said Sir Philip de Valois, which upon the interposition and mediation of the foresaid Cardinals, produced a Truce, to endure from Michaelmas Eve an. 21. E. 3. to the Qninzeme of St. john Baptist next ensuing. Lewis of Bavaria the Emperor being dead, about this time Henry Archbishop of Mentz, Arch-Chancellor of the Empire in Germany, Rudolph and Rupert Counts Palatine of the Rhine, and Dukes of Bavaria, Lewis Marquis of Brandenburg and Lusatia, and the Dukes of Saxony assembled at Collen, whence they sent Ambassadors to King Edward, with the offer of Electing him Emperor of Germany; in return of which he q 10. May Claus. 22. E. 3. m. 20. Dorso. sent to them Sir Hugh Nevil, and Ivo de Glynton Canon of St. Paul's London, with full information of the King's intention, which contained a refusal of that Imperial Dignity, but with r holinsh. pag. 412. great thanks for the honour they designed him. The Truce made at Calais as aforesaid, now growing towards an end; the King was prevailed with, upon the Pope's Letters, to s 15. May Rot. Franc. 22. E. 3. m. 13. depute Thomas Fastolf, Arch Deacon of Wells, john Carleton Canon of Wells, both Doctors of Law, and Friar john de Reppes of the Order of Mount Carmell, who had Commission to prorogue the Truce, and to treat of a final Peace, the former of which was concluded on for t Ibid. m. 19 6 weeks in Picardy, Normandy, Artois, Boulogne, and Flanders, and to commence the 13. of September an. 22. E. 3. But the King well seeing the delay, and unwillingness of the French to close with him, either for Truce or Peace, drew down his Forces in October to u Claus. 22. E. 3 p. 2. m. 8. Dorso. Sandwich, intending to pass the Sea; which quickened the French to w 18. Nou. Rot. Franc. 23. E. 3. m. 10. Dorso. agree to the prorogation of the Truce, from the 18. of November till the first of September, an. 23. E. 3. upon which he returned to London. No sooner was this Truce concluded, but the x Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 150. Lord Geoffry Charney attempted to corrupt Sir Amery de Pavy, an Italian, than Governor of Calais, to betray the Town to him for 20000 Crowns, of which the King having notice, came privately the night before the delivery was agreed on. The Lord Geoffry had paid his money, and expected the surrender of the Town, y 31. Dec. 1348 when the King issued out, disguised under the Banner of Sir Walter Many, and fought on foot among the Common Soldiers; and within a while he encountered the Lord Eustace of Rybemont, a Valiant Knight, who having struck him twice on his Knees, was at last Mastered by the King, and made his Prisoner. The encounter being over, and the a Froissard c. 1.52. King desirous to view the Prisoners, caused a great Supper to be prepared for them, at which time he came in, wearing a Chaplet of Pearls, and passing to Sir Eustace of Rybemont, took the Chaplet off his own head and placed it upon the head of Sir Eustace, with the commendation of a valiant Knight, and one that had performed best in the late Action, and with all forgave him his ransom. Thomas of Walsingham placeth this famous exploit to the year 1349. and consequently to be done in the 23 d year of King Edward the Third. But we rather judge Sir john Froissard to be in the right, since we find Sir john Beauchamp made Captain of Calais, the z Rotsie▪ Franc. 22. E. 3. m. 1. first of january an. 22. E. 3. which according to Froissard's Account, was the next day after this defeat of Sir Geoffry Charney: And though the French Writers affirm, that Sir Aymery de Pavy, discovered the design to the King, yet Froissard saith not, tell the King had otherwise first heard of it, and therefore not unlike, but there might rest so much suspicion upon Sir Aymery, as induced the King to appoint a new Governor of the Town, before he went thence. It having been agreed on at the last Truce, that Commissioners on both sides should meet at Boulogne on Sunday, in medio Quadragesimae following, the King b 10 Mar. Rot. Franc. 23 E. 3. m. 7. appointed William Bishop of Norwich, William Bohun Earl of Northampton, William Clinton Earl of Huntingdon, Regnold de Cobham, Robert de Bourghcher, and john de Carleton, Doctor of Laws, his Commissioners to Treat of and conclude a Peace (or prorogation of the Truce) and League of perpetual friendship, between him and his Adversary of France. But no final Peace could be agreed on, while Philip de Valois lived, nor after, till King john, his Son and Successor, was taken Prisoner at the Battle of Poitiers, only several c Froissard Chron. l. 1. c. 154. Truces were made from time to time, and the last consented to in February an. 28. E. 3. to hold till Midsummer following. While these Truces were on foot, endeavours were made for the Release of David King of Scots, the King's Prisoner, and at length it was agreed, that upon the coming into England of d Rot. Scoti● 25 E. 3. m. ●. john, the Son and Heir of the Steward of Scotland, and several other young Noblemen Hostages for the said King (who when they came, were disposed into the Castles of York and Nottingham) King David should be permitted to go into Scotland, and upon his return back, the Hostages should be delivered. The King's * Ibid. Letters as well of safe conduct to the Hostages, as of power to receive them, and to take King David's Oath for his return, and the Command for his safe Custody at Newcastle till the Hostages were come, bear Teste the 5. of September, an. 25. E. 3. to continue unto the Quindena of the Purification next following, and the 3. of November after, were they renewed to the Feast of St. Philip and jacob ensuing. It seems King David returned back into England about half a year after; for the 28. of March, a. 26. E. 3. a e Rot. Scotiae, 26 E. 3. m. 3. Command was sent to the Sheriff of Yorkshire to conduct the Hostages to Berwick, to be there in Quindena Paschae, it being the day set for King David's return to that Town. On the same 5. of October, i Rot. Scot 25. E. 3. m. 3. command was sent to john Coupeland, Sheriff of Northumberland, who had then the Custody of the said King, to deliver him to the Bishops of Duresm and Carlisle, William Earl of Northampton, Henry de Percy, and Ralph Nevil, or to any 4, 3, or 2. of them: and likewise another command issued to them, to deliver him upon the conditions, and under the form agreed on. Whilst the foresaid Truce, agreed on in February an. 28 E. 3. was on foot, the Pope undertook to do what he could, to further the effecting of a Peace, and to that purpose he sent again to both Kings, to obtain their Authority to bring it about; but it doth not appear, that any thing was done before Midsummer while it was in being. Nevertheless, we find, that k 28 Aug. Rot. Franc. 28 E. 3. m. 3. whereas in the Treaty between them held at Guynes, among other things, it was agreed, that Ambassadors from King Edward should be sent to Pope Innocent in Kal. Octob. following; the King did accordingly empower William, Bishop of Norwich, Henry Duke of Lancaster, and some others, his special Ambassadors, to treat with his Adversary of France, or his Deputies, touching a final Peace between them; but they returned without effecting any thing, all, but the l Stow, p. 254. Bishop of Norwich, who died at Avignion, and was there buried. Towards the latter end of the following Summer, the King having intelligence, that john the French King was drawing down with an Army towards St. Omars, m Walsing. sub an. 29. E. 3. in the beginning of November passed over to Calais with Lyonel of Ulster, and john of Gaunt his two Sons, and a considerable Army, where he arrived the 2. day of November, and immediately marched against him; but upon notice of his approach, King john retired, ( n Knighton Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2610. breaking down all the Bridges behind him) whom King Edward followed as far as Heyden, and the Country being wasted by the French, he, for want of Provision for his Army, returned to Calais, and thence into England. And whilst in his absence, the Scots had broke out and taken the o Ibid. Town (but not the Castle) of Berwick he immediately marched thither, and (13. january) recovered the Town, passing further into Scotland, and on the 25. of the same Month, being then at Roxbrough, King Edward Balliol there made a solemn resignation of his Crown and Kingdom to him by his Letters Patent; after which, he marched with his Army to Hadington, burning and wasting the Country on each side as he went; and having laid it waste, returned into England, and took Edward Balliol along with him. The King having notice in the precedent year, that john the French King had given to Charles Dauphin of Vienvois the Dukedom of Aquitaine, p 10. july. Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 16. constituted the Prince of Wales his Lieutenant in that Dukedom, and sent him with an Army thither, where he q 19 Sep.. Claus. 30. E. 3. m 3. Dorso: fought that memorable Battle at Poitiers, and took john the French King Prisoner, whom he brought into England in May following. King john was lodged at the Savoy, and there continued all the Winter, and in the Spring after was removed, from thence to w holinsh. p. 390. Windesor Castle, where he and his youngest Son spent their time in Hawking and Hunting, and towards Winter returned to the Savoy. And it appears, that the 12. of December, x Rot. Liberarae 32. E. 3. m. 1. an. 32. E. 3. He was (again settled at this House) under the Custody of Roger Beauchamp, and several Knights, Esquires, and other Attendants, appointed for his Guard. The French King had not been long in England, ere the Pope sent hither y Pat. 31. E. 3. p. 2. m. 25. Talairand, Bishop of Alba (commonly called the Cardinal of Pyergort) and Nicholas Priest Cardinal, by the Title of St. Vital, to assist at the Treaty of Peace to be held about Midsummer, an. 31. E. 3. the King's Letters of safe conduct for them, and their Train, consisting of 200 Horse, were dated the 3. of june that year. The Bishop of St. Gean de Maurienne in Savoy came also hither to the Treaty, having like Letters for himself, and a Train of 30 Horse, dated the 26. of May preceding; and though a final Peace was not concluded, yet several Truces were made one upon another, in hopes of it, till Midsummer an. 33. E. 3. Before this, there had been z Rot. Scot 25. E. 3. m. 3. & Rot. Sooc. 26. E. 3. m. 3. great endeavours used for the Release of David King of Scots, the King's Prisoner, and several addresses made to the King from King a Rot. Scot 28. E. 3. m. 6. David himself, as also the Prelates, Peers, and Commons of Scotland, seconded by the zealous solicitations of b holinsh. pag: 391. joan his Queen, Sister to King Edward. But this affair (though often treated of) came not to an issue, till the c Rot. Scot 31. E. 3. m. 2. dorso. 3. of Octob. an. 31. E. 3. when, at a meeting of Commissioners on both sides at Berwick, namely d Rot. Scot 31. E. 3. m. 2. dorso. john Archbishop of York, Thomas Bishop of Duresme, Gilbert Bishop of Carlisle, Henry de Percy, Rauf de Nevile, Henry le Scrope, and Thomas Musgrave deputed by King Edward on the one part, and William Bishop of St. Andrews, Thomas Bishop of Catness, Patrick Bishop of Brethin, Chancellor of Scotland, Patrick Earl of March, Robert de Irskin, and William de Levington Knights, Deputies of Robert Steward Guardian of Scotland, the Prelates, Lords, and Commons of Scotland on the other party, it was agreed, * Ibi●▪ that King David should be delivered out of Prison, and ransomed for the sum of 100000 Marks Sterling, to be paid by 10000 Marks annually at Midsummer, the first payment to begin at Midsummer following. It was also agreed, that the Truce should be kept and observed in England, Scotland, and the Isle of Man, until the money was paid, and that Edward de Balliol, and all the King's Allies should be comprised in the said Truce. That for payment of the said sum, King David should leave 20 Hostages (who are named in the conditions set down for their delivery) that King David, the Peers, Bishops, and Prelates of Scotland, should be obliged by writing and oath, for payment of the said Ransom, and observing the Truces: That if there were a failer of payment, they should be also obliged after the foresaid manner, to render the Body of King David within three Months after failer, of any term, and he to remain Prisoner till the sum due at the said term were paid; and for the true payment thereof 20 Hostages were to be left in England; besides which there were several other conditions agreed upon, that made up the consideration of his Release. The Truces between England and France being expired, as aforesaid, without obtaining Peace, and all endeavours of others becoming ineffectual, the e Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 201. two Kings themselves began to confer, and fell at length upon such terms, as it was hoped would produce a Peace; of which an account was sent into France, but the French determined rather to let their King lie in Prison, than to agree to them: upon notice of which refusal, the King resolved upon a War, and the following Winter to enter France, and either make an end of the War, or obtain Peace and honour at his pleasure. And having designed his Expedition, he next provided for the security of the Kingdom in his absence, and f 10. & 12. Febr. Rot. Claus. 34. E. 3. m. 40. dorso. issued out Writs to the Sheriffs of the several Counties, to summon both Knights and Burgesses to treat with his Council at London, as also with certain Bishops and Earls in other parts of the Kingdom, how that might best be done. He next caused all the g Froiss. c. ●06. French Prisoners to be disposed into several safe places: and the French King having been secured in the Castle of Hereford, under the custody of h Claus. 33. E. 3. m. 2●; dorso. Roger de Beauchamp, was afterwards by the advice of his Council, sent to the Castle of Somerton in Lincolnshire, on i Claus. 33. E. 3. m. 2●; dorso. Monday the 29. of july, and conducted thither by William Deyncourt, William colvil, john Kirketon, john Deyncourt, and Saier de Rocheford, with a strong Guard of Horse and Foot. Nevertheless upon the k ●at. 34. E. 3. p. 1. m. 28. & 38. first of March following, upon a spreading rumour that the French were at Sea, with a design to deliver their King from Imprisonment, command was given that King john and all the French Prisoners should be removed thence to Berkhampsted, and john de Buckingham Keeper of the Privy-Seal to Thomas the King's Son, Custos of England, and Ralph Spigurnell were appointed to conduct them thither. But it seems john de Buckingham went not as was designed, for it appears by a l 8. Mar. Ib. m▪ 22. dorso. Writ of assistance, directed to all Mayors, etc. That Thomas de Baddely was put in his room; nor afterwards was either of them employed in this Service, nor Berkhampsted, but London, the place whither King john was brought, for we have met with a m 14. Mar. Claus. 34. E. 3. m. 38. dorso. later Writ, whereby William de Ayremynne, john de Buscy, and Thomas de Meaux were commanded to be at Somerton, on Friday the 20. of March, to bring the said King to Grantham, and the like Writs were sent to others, to conduct him from place to place, till he was brought to London, to wit, the 21. of March to Stanford, the 22. to Higham Ferrars, the 23. to Wooburn Abbey, the 24. to St. Alban, and the 25. to London. The King, having raised his Army, n Froiss. lib. ●. cap. 205. first sent over to Calais Henry Duke of Lancaster, and himself presently followed, taking Shipping at Sandwich, in the o Claus. 33. E. 3. m. 9 dorso. Dertmouth the 28. day of October, inter auroram diei & ortum solis; with him went the Prince of Wales, and his other Sons Lyonel and Edmund, and many of the Nobility, and landed that Evening at Calais, circa horam Vesperarum. This Army (than which never before departed from England, one greater or more gallant) marched through the very heart of France, and laid all waist before it: for the French, not daring to encounter the King in all his March, kept themselves within their fortified Towns, and relinquished the Country to the spoil of this Army: and to the end, the Reader may observe the course of this Expedition, we will here set down from Froissard the most notable places it passed through. From Calais (on the p holinsh. p. 392. Froiss. l. 1. c. 209. 4. of November) he marched through the Country of Artois, by Arras, and so to Beauvois thence into Thierach, and so to Reims, to which he laid Siege for 7. weeks, but provision growing scarce thereabouts, he departed towards Chaalons in Champagne, and thence towards Troy's, Tonnerre, Noirs, Mont-royal and so to Avallon, q Ib. c. 210: where he stayed from Ash-Wednesday to Midlent. During this time the young Duke of Burgoigne sent some Noblemen to the King, who made a Composition with him to preserve his Country from plundering, for 3. years: after which the King dislodged his Army, and marched towards Paris, and sat down within two Leagues of it at Bourg lafoy Rein. The King of Sicily was not the only ginger that prognosticated of King Edward's success; but one r Ib. c. 211. Friar john de Rochtaylade (as Froissard calls him) whom Pope Innocent the Sixth kept Prisoner, had foretold many notable things, which about that time came to pass, among others (being demanded an account of the War) he affirmed, that all the misery that had been seen, was not like that to come, and for the wasting of France, assigned the years 1356, 1357, 1358, and 1359. which happened right enough: for so great desolation and devastation was made by the Sword and Famine in those years, that when King Edward entered France an. 1359. he met with exceeding great scarcity of provision of all kinds, and in all places where he passed. While the King lay at Bourg lafoy Rein, he sent his Heralds to Paris, to demand Battle of the Duke of Normandy (eldest Son to King john, and then Regent of France) to which he would not consent; whereupon the King dislodged, and went to Manto le herry (where he arrived on s Holinsh. pag. 393. Tuesday before Easter, being the last of March) intending to enter the Country of Beausse, and stay part of that Summer in Britagne, and about August to return, and besiege Paris: but the Pope sending into France, the Abbot of Cluygny, and Simon de Lengres, Provincial of the Friars Preachers, with Hugh de Geneve Knight, Seigneur d'Auton, the Duke of Normandy dispatched them to King Edward, to propose a Treaty of Peace, who required things so great, they could not be yielded to. Howbeit they still followed the King to Chartres, where a meeting for Commissioners, on both sides, was consented to, and they brought demands to such moderation, that, (with the Duke of Lancaster's effectual persuasion) the King was content to accept of Peace. But what inclined the King to hearken thereto (as t Ib. l. c. 211. Froissard tells the story) was this; That while the Commissioners on both sides were upon Treaty, and the King wholly untractable, there fell in the King's Army so great a Tempest of Thunder, Lightning, Rain, Hail, and Stones of such bigness, that killed both Men and Horses; at which time the King, beholding the Church of our Lady of Chartres, vowed devoutly to condescend to Peace. This prodigious storm happened on Easter Monday, which falling that year on the u Stow pag. 264. 14. of April, near a Month before the conclusion of the Treaty, was from its dismal effects, called w Stow pag. 264. Black Monday, which name it retains to this day. The Treaty was managed between x Rot. Cales de Negotiis communibus an. 34 E. 3. m. 6. Edward Prince of Wales, and Charles' Regent of France, their Proctors and Agents, in the y Rot. Cales de Negotiis communibus an. 34 E. 3. m. 6. name of both Kings, these two z Rot. Franc. 34 E. 3. par● unica m. 11. dors. Princes, and all the Subjects of France. Those deputed on the English part, were Sir Reginald de Cobham, Sir Bartholomew Burghersh, Sir Francis Hale, Bannerets, Sir Miles Stapleton, Sir Richard la Vache, and Sir Neel Loring, Knights, and others of the Council of the King of England. Those other on the French side were the Ellect of Beawes, his Chancellor Charles Lord Momorency, Monsieur john le Meingres Marshal of France, Monsieur Aynart de la Tour Lord of Vivoy, Monsieur Ralph de Ravenal, Monsieur Simon de Bucy, Knights, Monsieur Stephen de Paris, and Peter de la Charite, his Councillors, with many others of his Council deputed by King john and Himself. At first a Truce was agreed on (the a Rot. Cales de Nego●. come. an. praed. m. 6. 7. of May, An. Dom. 1360. in the 34. year of King Edward over England) to continue till Michaelmas following, and thence till Michaelmas an. 35 E. 3. which upon the return of the King into England, was, by Writs bearing Teste the 24. of the same Month, commanded to be published throughout all the Seaports in England; and by a like Writ, notice was given to the Duke of Lancaster, to proclaim it in Gascoigne. And the next day (viz. 8. of May) were the Articles referring to a final Peace, agreed to on the behalf of both Kings. This was that Famous Treaty of Renunciation, of both Kings, so much spoken of by Writers (to which their eldest Sons were parties) in regard the King of France renounced the Sovereignty of several Territories to King Edward; and he in like manner renounced his Title to France, and some other Places, all which we shall here briefly mention. First it was agreed, b Rot. de Tractatu Pac●● Francia, an. 34 E. 3. m. 10. that King Edward with what he held in Aquitaine, and Gascoigne, should hold perpetually to him and his Heirs, in the same manner as the King of France or his Son, or any of his Ancestors held the same, (to wit, that in Sovereignty, in Sovereignty, and that in Demain, in Demain) the City, Castle, and County of c The Names of Towns and Countries are here written as in the Record. Poytiers, with the Fees of Tho●ars, and Land of Belleville, the Cities and Castles of Xaintes, Again, Pierregort, Lymoges, Caours, Tarbe, Angolesme, and Rodeis, and the Land and Countries of Poytou, Xaintonge, on this and the furthest side of the River of Charente, with the Town and Fortress of Rochel, Agenoys, Pierreguis, Lymosyn, Caorsyn, Tarbe, Bigorre, Gaure, Angolesmoys, Rovergue, the Counties of Pierregort, Bigorre, Gaure, and Angolesmoys. And that such Earls or Lords, as had Lands within the forementioned places, should do their Homages and Services to him. That King Edward should have in Demain, all that any of his Predecessors anciently held in the Town of Monstrereul, on the Sea; As also all the County of Ponthieu (with some few exceptions) the Town and Castles of Calais, the Towns, Castles, and Lordships of Merk, Sangate, Coloigne, Hames, Wale, and Oye, with their appurtenances, as likewise all the places lying within the Jurisdictions and bounds following; that is to say, from Calais to the border of the River before Gravelinges, and so by the same River round about Langle, and by the River that runneth beyond the Poil, and by the same River that falleth into the great Lake of Guynes to Freton, and thence by the valley about Calculy Hill, enclosing that Hill, and so to the Sea, with Sangate, and all the appurtenances, that the King should have the County of Guynes, with all the Lands, Towns, Fortresses, Places, Men, Homages, Lordships, Woods, Forests, and Rights thereunto belonging, in as ample manner as the then late Earl of Guynes, or his Predecessors held the same; and likewise all the Isles adjoining to the Lands aforesaid, and all other Isles he then held. That the King of France, and his eldest Son the Regent, should before Michaelmas 1361. give and deliver to the King of England his Heirs and Successors, all the Honours, Obediences, Homages, Liegeances, Subjections, Fees, Services, Recognizances, Rights, and all manner of Jurisdictions high and low, Resorts and Saveguards, Advowsons' and Patronages of Churches, and all Lordships and Sovereignty's, with all the right they had and belonging to them, by any Cause, Right, Title, or Colour, or to the Crown of France, in the said Cities, Counties, Castles, Towns, Lands, Countries, Isles and Places, and of their appurtenances and appendencies, without holding any thing to them, their Heirs or Successors, or Crown of France. And also to give notice to all Archbishops, Bishops, and Prelates, and all Earls and other Noblemen, and Citizens, by Letters-Patent in all the said places, to yield obedience to the King of England, his Heirs and Successors, in the same manner as they had obeyed the Kings and Crown of France, and thereby also to quit and absolve them of all their Homages, Fealties, Oaths, Obligations, Subjections, and Promises made to the Kings and Crown of France. And that the King of England, his Heirs, and Successors, should have and hold all the forementioned Cities, Counties, Castles, Lands, Places, and Persons, perpetually and freely in their Lordship, Sovereignty, Obedience, and Subjection, as the Kings of France had or did hold them in times past, and all the Countries with their appurtenances in all Freedoms and Liberties perpetually, as Lords and Sovereigns, and as Neighbours to the King and Kingdom of France, without any acknowledgement of Sovereign, or making any Obedience, Homage, Resort, or Subjection, Service, or Recognisance in time to come, to the Kings or Crowns of France, of the Places or Persons aforenamed, or any of them. The Renunciation on the King of England's part, was as to the Name and Right to the Crown and Kingdom of France, to the Homage, Sovereignty, and Demain of the Dutchies of Normandy and Thouraine, of the Earldoms of Anjou and Maine, to the Sovereignty and Homage of the Duchy of Britagne, and Earldom and Country of Flanders, and all other demands that King Edward made, or might make to the King of France, for what cause soever, except such things as by the said Treaty ought to be delivered to him and his Heirs. It was also agreed, that the King of France should be brought to Calais, within three weeks after Midsummer following, and should pay for his Ransom three Millions of Escuts of Gold; two of which should be worth one Noble English. And that there should be paid to King Edward 600000 Escuts of Gold, within four Months, accounting from the time of the King of France's arrival at Calais, and within one year ensuing 400000 Escuts more; and from that year, every year following, 400000 Escuts, till the said three Millions were paid. And it after appears in the same Roll, that King Edward had received 400000 Escuts (part of the first 600000) the 24. of October 1360. and for payment of the other 200000, he gave time till Christmas and Lady-day following. Furthermore, that certain of the Nobility of France (aswel of those who were made Prisoners at Poitiers as others) should remain Hostages in England for the King of France, namely, Lewis Earl of Anjou, john Earl of Poitiers, both Sons to King john, the Duke of orleans his Brother, the Duke of Bourbon, the Earl of Bloys, or his Brother the Earl of Alencon, or the Lord Peter of Alencon his Brother, the Earls of St. Pol, Harecourt, Pontieu, Valentynois, Brene, Vandemont and Forest, the Viscount Beaumond, the Lords of Cousy, Fienles, Preaux, St. Venaunt, and Garenciers, the Dauphin of Auvergne, the Lords of Hangest and Montmorency, Sir William of Craon, Sir Lewis of Harecourt, and Sir john Ligny. And the Names of the Prisoners were these, Lord Philip of France, the Earls of Yew, Longuevil, Pontieu, Tankarvile, jeigny, Sanceurre, Dampmartin, Ventadour, Salebruche, D'auceurre, and Vendosme, the Lords of Craon and Deruale, the Marshal Dodenham, and the Lord Daubyny. Besides these, the King of France was obliged to deliver at Calais, within three Months after he departed thence, in further pledge for the accomplishment of this Treaty, four Persons of Paris, two of each of the Towns here named, to wit, St. Omer, Aras, Amiens, Beauves, Lisle, Dovay, Tournay, Reyms, Chaalons, Troy's, Chartres, Thoulouse, Lions, orleans, Compeigne, Roven, Caen, Tours, and Bourges, and these to be of the most sufficient and best Burgesses of these Towns. It was moreover agreed, d Rot. de Tract. Pacis Fr. 34. E. 3. m. 9 That the King of France, and his Heirs Kings of France, should quit the Alliances they had with the Scots, and never give to that King, Kingdom, or Subjects, present or to come, any aid or assistance against the King of England, his Heirs or Successors, his Realm or Subjects, nor make any alliance with the Scots, in time to come, against the King and Realm of England. And the like Article was agreed to by the King of England, in reference to his Alliance with the Flemings. There were divers other particulars agreed to, on the behalf of both Kings, and set down in this Treaty of Peace, which we (designing brevity) do omit; but these are the main and principal to our present purpose. All things thus finished, King Edward immediately left France, and e Rot. Claus. 34. E. 3. m. 30. dorso. landed at Rye the 18. of May following in the Evening, and thence the next day came to Westminster. And shortly a Writ f 17. Iu●tiRot. Franc. 34. E. 3. m. 6. issued to Sir john Beauchamp then Constable of Dover, forthwith to arrest and fit up a sufficient number of Ships, to carry over King john and his Family to Calais within the time agreed on, and whither he was conducted the g Hollinshed, pag. 394. 8. of july after. The h Hollinshed, pag. 394. 9 of October King Edward followed, where the foresaid Treaty, with some few alterations, was there ratified and confirmed by Oath of both Kings, and several Instruments relating to the full accomplishment of the several Articles thereof, were drawn up and sealed, with the Great Seals of both Kings; all bearing date at Calais the 24. day of October, an. Dom. 1360. Here also were the Renunciations, on either side both i Rot. de Tract. Pacis Fran. 34. E. 3 m. 8. absolute and k Ibid. m. 7. conditional, to all the Towns, Castles, Countries, etc. to the Resort and Sovereignty, etc. comprehended in the Articles of Peace, drawn up, sworn to, and sealed, at the same time, but not exchanged; because the King of France was as yet in Calais, and Prisoner to King Edward, and the Towns, etc. not as yet delivered. But it was then nevertheless agreed and promised, that they should be surrendered to the special Deputies on both sides, by Midsummer following, if it might be; and the Renunciations sent at the Assumption of our Lady next ensuing, to the Church of the Augustine Friars at Bruges, to be delivered to those Deputed to receive them. Or if they were not surrendered till Alhollantide after, than the Renunciations were to be delivered in the said Church, on St. Andrews day following, at which time and place, both Kings engaged to send thither, and cause to be delivered to the Deputies on both sides, theirs, and their eldest Sons Renunciations likewise; but if they were not accordingly mutually delivered, than not any thing agreed on was to take effect. But it seems, things were not made ready against Midsummer, the first of the appointed times for completing these matters, for the 15. of November following, King Edward l Rot: Franc. 35. E. 3. m. 3. constituted Sir Thomas Vnedale Knight, and Thomas de Dunclent, Licenciate in the Laws, his Agents (whom he sent to Bruges) with power to make request to the King of France, for the effectual accomplishment of all things concluded on as aforesaid, and to require that He and his Son should make the Renunciations and Transports, according to all the foresaid Agreements made at Calais, and upon reception of which, he was thereby enabled to give Acquittance in King Edward's name. But there was another Instrument dated at Calais the said 24. of Oct. 1360. whereby m Rot. praed. de Tract. Pacis Franc. m. 5. King Edward was obliged to deliver up to the French King on this side Candlemas, an. 35. E. 3. the Castles and Fortresses, which he held in other parts of France, than in those, surrendered to him by the French King, viz. (as they are written in the Record.) In Champagne, and in Brie. Bursant and joinville upon the Marn, Bourt in Champagne, Ochie, Sye upon the Seine, the Mote de Triesreine, Brugelemens', and all other Fortresses taken in these Countries. In Nivernois. Cornallour, Gueillons, Anlesy, Villers, and Mont Epny. In Anceurrois, and Burgoigne. Regennes, Legny, Malecorne, and the Mote de Chauloye. In Aurelenoys and Gastinoys. The New Castle upon Loire and Mereau au Boys, and all other Fortresses in Orlenois, in Gastinois, in Messien, in Because, and in Wenguesin le Francois. Within a month following, the County of Ponthieu was to be surrendered to King Edward, or else Hostages. King Edward was also to deliver up the New Castle in Tynerois, Beaumond, le Choistif, Nogent, le Rotron, and the Ferte de Ville Nevil, and all other Fortresses in France, and in the Country of Perche, and of Chartain, and of Drovais. And then all the County of Montsort to be surrendered to King Edward, within a Month after. Or otherwise Hostages. In Berry and Bourbonoys. The Fortresses of Brisansoys, of St. Torete le Priague, also Chabries, Espunell, Beamein, Briance Masbres, the Abbey of Diverlaks, Thos, Bruyll, Ameron, Vierson, Mausey, Bourseront, the Roche Tnay, Blotueres, Villers, Montempny, Beawoirs, Beau, jen, Voderon. In Tourrayne. Lisle, Bouchart, the Roche of Fowsey, Piry, Milieres, Roulet, Piergu. Vere's de Desrubay the Pleyssers Dinone, Langere, Osem, Palnau, and all other Fortresses in the party of Auvergne, of Bourbonoys, d' Amascon, of Lion, of Berry, and of Touraine. And within a Month after, the French King was to deliver up the Country of Angoulesmois; or Hostages. In Normandy, Anjou, and maine. The Fortresses the Donefront in Passais, Nevim, Mirebel upon the Loire, the Towers de Villers, Saintwast, the Brois Demaine, Conde upon Noire, and another Fortress thereby called Mess, Tynchebray Annillers, the new Bower, the Ferte freswel, the Roche Doryvall, the Morle Racul, the Tower of St. Christopher, Villerais Husron, Honnesfleth, Trisenay, the Viscount of Plessoys, Buret la Rouche, dire le Port, joulein, la Flesche, Willie, Viez, Passavant, Roussailes. And within one Month, the French King was to surrender Santes, and the County of Santoigne; or Hostages. And all the Fortresses in Pierregort, Coursin, and Agenoys. For the surrender of all which, the King made forth Commissions to several persons, bearing date as aforesaid at Calais. The two Kings then also made a n Ibid. m. 6. League for them, their Heirs, and Successors, of perpetual friendship, and alliance, to become faithful friends, to assist each other, against all persons whatsoever, except the Pope and the Emperor; and moreover made a solemn Renunciation to all Wars against each other, their Heirs, and Successors, Realms, and Subjects; to both which League and Renunciation, their eldest, and other Sons signed, and divers of the Nobility on both sides were sworn. A Proclamation then also issued from King Edward, directed to Thomas Holland, Earl of Kent, and all other Captains of Towns, etc. held for the King in France, to give notice (to all places within their Command) of this Peace and final accord made as aforesaid. All things relating to this Peace being thus concluded, and the French Hostages arrived at Calais, King Edward entertained King john at a great Supper in the Castle, where the King's Sons, the Duke of Lancaster, and other of the chief Nobility of England, served the King's bareheaded; and when Supper was ended, both Kings took leave of each other. The o Ibid. m. 3. next morning King john, and his Attendants, went a foot on pilgrimage to our Lady of Bouloigne, the Prince of Wales and his Brothers accompanied him thither, where, in the Church of our Lady, they all made their Offerings, and thence went to the Abbey, and having taken leave of King john, they returned to Calais the next day: Soon after, King Edward, the Prince, and French Hostages took shipping for England, where they arrived on the Eve of the Feast of All-Saints. The Peace thus settled, endured all the life of King john, who took all possible care to have it entirely preserved, and himself ever after kept good correspondence with King Edward, to whom he gave all evidence of affection and love; insomuch, that about the end of the year 1363. he came into England p Bakers Chro. only upon a visit to King Edward. After his landing, he road first to Eltham, and there dined with the King ( q Hollinshed. pag. 396. 24. jan. 37. E. 3.) and thence that afternoon to the Savoy in the Strand, where he lodged, and was entertained with all possible kindness; but about the r Hollinshed. pag. 396. beginning of March following he fell sick, and died the 8. of April, an. 38. E. 3. for whose death the King s Ex verasto Cod. de Episc. & Priorib. Dunelm. Ecclesiae. appointed solemn obsequies in divers places, and conducted his Body out of England with a Royal magnificence. About these times, the Reputation of the King grew so great▪ that several foreign Kings and Princes came hither to his Court, either to visit him, or congratulate his Victories, or to obtain his assistance and relief: and these were the foresaid King john, Peter King of Cyprus, and David King of Scots, t holinsh. loco cit. an. 37. E. 3. as also u Pat 38. E. 3. p. 2. m. 37. Wuldemer King of Denmark, and Albert Duke of Bavaria, his Letters of safe Conduct being dated the w Pat. 39 E. 3. p. 2. m. 7. 6. of Dec. and to continue in force till Midsummer after. But Charles King john's Son, and Successor (who had sworn to, and sealed the Treaty at Chartres) was soon persuaded to violate the Peace, though with great artifice he dissembled his intentions for some time. For though he readily gave ear to the Complaints of some of the discontented x Earls of Armaignaco and Comminges and Visc. Cormain. Baker. Nobility of Gascoigne, who, quitting their Homage to the Prince, fled to Paris, and complained to him as their Supreme Lord of the Fovage imposed on that Country by the Prince, pretending that King john had not power to release them of their Homage to the Crown of France, or deliver over their Country to the King of England: Yet he forbore laying hold on this occasion, at least for one year after their complaint. But then, all of a sudden, King Edward, not suspecting any fraud, but thinking himself sufficiently secured by the Treaty of Peace made at Britagne, the French King sent him a defiance, and by the time it was thought to be delivered, y Froiss. Lib. 1. cap. 247. Guy Earl of St. Paul, one of the French Hostages (who z Hollinshed, pag. 401. had slipped out of the Kingdom, without taking leave, as had also the Duke of Anjou, and some others of them) and Sir Hugh de Castilion, entered Ponthieu with an Army, and were received into Abeville, afterwards took St. Valery and Crotoy, and immediately all Ponthieu revolted. Hereupon the King assembled a a Claus. 43. E. 3. m. 18. dorso. Parliament at Westminster, and about the b Walsingham. end of May, the Lords and Commons declared, c Rot. Parl. de eod. an. n. 2. That whereas the French King had broke the foresaid Peace (in not delivering the Countries, nor paying the moneys agreed on there) and had usurped the Resort and Superiority, which ought to appertain to the King of England and his Heirs, in the Lands surrendered to him by the foresaid agreement, by summoning the Prince and some of the Nobility of the King's Allies, to answer certain Appeals at Paris, and surprised and taken divers Castles, etc. in Ponthieu and Gascoigne, and was setting forth a Fleet to invade England, contrary to his Oath and the form of the Peace; therefore with their whole consent it was agreed, That the King should resume the name of King of England and France, as he had done before the Peace, and for the future so call himself in his Letters, and under his Seals. Hereupon on Monday (being St. Barnaby's day) there were several new Seals provided, in one of which was inscribed Edwardus Rex Angliae & Franciae, etc. and in another Edwardus Rex Franciae & Angliae, etc. Shortly after, he d An. 43. ●. 3. Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 249. sent an Army under the Command of the Earls of Cambridge and Penbroke into Aquitain, who landing in Bretagne, passed through that Country to Angoulesme, where the Prince lay with 3000 men, and entered the Country of Piergort, and overran it. He sent also a Letter to the e Rot. Vasc. 43. E. 3. m. 2. Nobility of Gascoigne, wherein he acquainted them with the reasons why he re-assumed the Name and Title to the Kingdom of France, as he used it before the Treaty of Peace to which he condescended, not without a manifest diminution of his right. f Walsingh. sub an. 43. E. 3. john, Duke of Lancaster, and several others of the English Nobility, were sent with another Army into France about Midsummer, who landed at Calais, of which the French King receiving advertisement, called back his Forces designed for the Sea to invade England (to meet with whom, as also to secure g Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 247. Southampton, the Isle of Wight, and Garnsey, King Edward had set forth a considerable Fleet) and sent them under the Command of the Duke of Burgoigne, to oppose the Duke of Lancaster: but upon report of the h holinsh. pag. 404. Earl of Warwick's coming by Sea, to the Duke of Lancaster's assistance, the French withdrew. The following year, the i Ib. cap. 275. French King raised two Armies, and sent them into Aquitaine, one under the Command of the Duke of Anjou, to enter Guienne, by Reol and Bergerac, and the other under the Duke of Berry, to enter that Country by Lymoges and Quercy, and both Armies to meet at Angoulisme, to besiege the Prince, then in those parts. k Ib. c. 277. King Edward, considering the unsetledness of these Countries, raised likewise two Armies; That for Aquitaine was Commanded by the Duke of Lancaster, of which we shall make further mention, when we speak of the Prince and the other designed for Picardy, by Sir Robert Knowles. In relation to which latter expedition, l 6. May. Claus. 44 E. 3. m. 1●. douso. Proclamation was sent forth, That all Soldiers designed for Normandy and other parts of France, under Sir Robert's Command (being m Rot. Franc. 44 E. 3. m. 14. constituted the King's Lieutenant in those parts of France) should be at Southampton, in the Octaves of St. john Baptist following, ready fitted to take Shipping there with him. Nor was the King slack in strengthening himself by Allies from abroad, and therefore n 18. May. Pat. 44 E. 3. p. 1. m. 8. Sir john atte Wooed, and Mr. Robert de Wykford Archdeacon of Winchester, and Doctor of Laws, were sent beyond Sea, having power to treat with Wenceslaus Duke Brabant and Lorraine, Marquis of the Empire, about furnishing the King with Men and Arms, to serve him in these Wars. He also secured the back Door, to wit, Scotland, by a o Froiss. l. 1. c. 278. Treaty of Peace for 9 years, in which nevertheless the Scots were at liberty to serve either English or French, without breaking the Peace, and lastly p 4. Aug. Pat. 44 E. 3. p. 3. m. 1. confirmed the Treaty with the Earl of Flanders and the Towns of Gaunt, Bruges, and Ipres. Sir Robert Knowles with q Holinshed p. 405. 12000. Men being landed at Calais, and resting there 7. days, forthwith took the Field, and, marching through the Country of r Froiss. l. 1. c. 278. Guynes, and Fauconbridge, came to Turwin, and thence into Artois, drawing near Arras, and so to Vermandois, wasting the Country all the way he went. He thence marched to the City of s Ib. c. 281. Noyen, and into Champagne, and turned to Bry and so on the t Holinshed. p. 405. 24. of September, to Paris; before which he stayed a day and two Nights. After this, u Froiss. c. 285. (Sir Bertrand de Guesclin, having defeated a straggling party of his) he marched to Dorvel Castle in Bretagne: This Army, w Walsingham sub an. 44 E. 3. so long as it submitted to their General prospered, but towards Winter, some of them growing disobedient, and slighting his Commands, became a prey to the French, whilst his policy and prudence preserved those safe who stuck to him, in his march into Bretagne. This year the x Froiss. l. 1. c. 292. but Walsingham placeth this Action to an. 46. E. 3. Flemings set upon part of the King's Navy, under the Command of Sir Guy de Bryen at la Bay in Bretagne, but he got the Victory, and took 25. of their Ships with their Captain Sir john Peterson, and many other Prisoners, whom he brought with him into England; which caused the King y Ib. c. 293. to set forth a Navy against the Flemings, but the Towns of Bruges, Ipres, and Gaunt, hearing of his preparations made such applications to the King, that they obtained Peace. The Fortune of the War in Aquitaine at this time standing fair on the English side, the following Winter the King designed z Ib. c. 296. two fresh Armies to enter France, yet endeavoured before (upon the Pope's request, both by Letters and Messages) to lay hold of an honourable Peace, to which end a 19 Febr. Rot. Franc. 46 E. 3. m. 47. power was given, to treat thereon, to Simon Bishop of London, Guy de Bryene, Roger de Beauchamp, Bannerets, Sir Arnold Savage Knight, john Appleby Dean of London, and john de Branketre Treasurer of York; and the b Ib. m. 48. next day he granted Letters of safe conduct for the Ambassadors of France to come and treat about that Affair. One of the foresaid Armies were designed for the defence of c Froiss. loco cit. Aquitaine, and the other to land at Calais, whence the Duke of Lancaster and Earl of Cambridge were appointed to enter France by the Plains of Picardy. But john Earl of Penbroke ( d Rot. Vasc. 46 E. 3. m. 4. constituted the King's Lieutenant in Aquitaine) was ordered to go into Poictou, and, in pursuance of that design, took Sea and arrived at Rochel, the 22. of june, 1372. where he found the e Froiss●c. 297. Spanish Fleet, who fought him two days, and at last took him Prisoner, the f Ib. c. 298. Rochellers having refused to assist him: and in that engagement the Ship, which carried a g Ib. c. 299. great Treasure to pay the English Army, was unfortunately sunk. The King designing also the relief of Tho●ars, raised an Army of 3000. Men of Arms, and 1000 Archers, and with the Prince took Shipping at Sandwich, on h Claus. 46 E. 3. m. 12. dorso. Monday the 30. of August, about nine a Clock, in a Ship called the Grace de Dieu, directions having been given for making public Prayers in all Churches for good success in this Voyage; and so sailing towards Rochel, the i Froiss. c. 305. Walsing. p. 183. Winds and Tempests kept him at Sea 9 Weeks, and when he saw he could not arrive in France by Michaelmas, being the time limited for relief, or otherwise surrender of the Town (he returned to England, and had the Wind at will. The consequence of this improsperous Voyage (with the miscarriage of the Earl of Penbroke) was the loss of all the Country of Poictou, Xantoigne, and Rochel. After these misfortunes, a Treaty of Peace was again set on foot, and k 8. of jan. Rot. Franc. 46 E. 3. m. 2. Simon Bishop of London, Edmond Earl of March, Richard de Stafford, Roger de Beauchamp, Rauf de Ferrieres Bannerets, Simon de Molton Doctor of Law, and Io●n de Branketre Treasurer of York, were constituted the King's Commissioners for the management of this Affair; and l Ibid. m. 5. Letters of safe conduct granted (the same day) to the Cardinal of Beauvez (and other Agents from France) who with the Cardinal of Canterbury were by the Pope commissionated to be the chief managers of this Treaty. The Duke of Lancaster ( m 16. june Class. 47 ● 3. m 〈…〉 public Prayers having been made also for his good success) arrived at Calais (in n Ho●ir●h. 〈◊〉 408. july an. 47. E. 3.) with 3000 men of Arms, and 10000 Archers, which he divided into three Battles, and marched by Land through France to Bourdeux, and there he arrived about Christmas; in which Voyage, though the French durst not fight him, and all the way avoided the hazard of a Battle, yet through the scarcity of Victuals many died, not to mention the loss of o Walsingh: p. 183 30000 Horse. About the beginning of the following Summer, at the p Holinsh. loco cit. Pope's instance, a Truce was made by this Duke and the Duke of Anjou, to continue till the last of August; wherein it was agreed, that in the beginning of q Ibid. p. 409. September there should meet in Picardy, on the English part, the Duke of Lancaster and other Commissioners, to treat of Peace with the Duke of Anjou, and others on the French part, where also the Pope's Legate should appear as Mediator; and in pursuance thereof the Duke of Lancaster took Shipping the 8. of july, an. 48 E. 3. after whose departure r Walsingh. sub an. 48 E. 3. all Poictou and Aquitaine fell from their Allegiance, except Bourdeux and Bajon. In this year the Earl of Cambridge, and the Duke of Bretagne were s Rot. Franc. 48 E. 2. m. 6. constituted the King's Lieutenants in France, after which, t 18 Nou. m. 7. Commands were sent forth to arrest Ships for their passage thither, to be at Dertmouth and Plymouth with all speed. But notwithstanding these preparations, yet they went not till the following u Claus. 49 E. 3. m. 46. Spring, having then in their retinue many of the English Nobility, and for whose good success w 8. May Ibid. m. 36. dorso. public Prayers were appointed to be made. In this Expedition the x Froiss. l. 1. c. 313. Duke recovered many of his Towns; but being y Walsingham sub cod. an. included in the Truce made by the Duke of Lancaster, he was thereby obliged to lay down his Arms. For upon the mediation of the Bishops of Rouen and Carpentras, the Pope's Nuncios, there had been a z Rot. Franc. 49 E. 3. m. 2. & 16. Treaty set on Foot at Bruges in Flanders this Year, managed chiefly by john Duke of Lancaster, who, with a Ibid. m. 24. Simon Bishop of London, William Earl of Salisbury, Sir john Cobham, Sir Frank de Hale, Sir Arnold Savage, Mr. john de Shepeye, and Mr. Simon de Molton, were b 20 Feb. Ib. commissionated to carry on that Affair on King Edward's part; and by Philip Duke of Burgundy, on the behalf of his Brother Charles the French King: which though it brought not forth a complete Peace, yet in effect it put an end to the present War, for c 27. june Ib. m. 16. it produced a Truce, to hold for a year, viz. to the last of june, an. 50 E. 3. to give notice of which to the English Subjects, a Proclamation was d 15. july. Claus. 49. E. 3. m. 80. dorso. set forth. And e 12. March Rot. Franc. 50 E. 3. m. 16. & 21. a quarter of a year before its expiration, at another meeting at the same place, this Truce was enlarged to the first of April, an. 51 E. 3. and thereupon another f 7. Aug. Claus. 50 E. 3. p. 1. m. 3. dorso. Vide Rot. Vasc. de eod. an. m. 8. & Rot. Franc. m. 10. Proclamation issued to make it known. But it appears that the French were gotten to Sea, g Claus. 51 E. 3. m. 16. sometime before the expiration of this latter Truce, and had done much hurt upon the Seacoasts. Of this design of theirs the King had timely intelligence, and therefore he endeavoured to enlarge the Truce, to which end he h 20. Febr. Rot. Franc. 51 E. 3. m. 7. empowred john Bishop of Hereford, Sir john de Cobham of Kent, john Monteacute Bannerets, and john Shepeye Doctor of the Laws, to Treat with the Earl of Salebruch, Monsieur Chatillon, and Philebert le Spoit, where the Pope's Legates were also present as Mediators. But nothing was done thereupon; only the i Holinsh. pag. 411. Legate proposed a Marriage between Richard Prince of Wales, and the Lady Mary Daughter to the French King; which begot a private meeting shortly after at Montrevile by the Sea, and there Sir Richard Dangle, Sir Richard Stan, and Sir Geoffry Chaucer, Commissioners for King Edward, with the Lord Coucy, and other Commissioners for the French King, spent the time chiefly to found one another's intentions, and so departed without any other effect, saving that of Proroguing the Truce to May day following. The k Rot. Franc. 51 E. 3. m. 3. 26, of April, another Commission was made for the same purpose, to Adam Bishop of St. David's, john Bishop of Hereford, William Earl of Salisbury, Robert de Ashton the King's Chamberlain, Guichard Dangle Banneret, Aubrey de Vere, Hugh de Segrave Knights, Walter Skirlow Dean of St. martin's le Grand, and the foresaid john Shepeye, which gave them power to treat and compose all differences, Wars, and contentions. They thereupon came to Calais, and the l Holinshed loco cit. Lord Coucy, and Sir William Dormer Chancellor of France came to Montrevile; but by reason of the suspicion the Commissioners had of each other, they could not agree of an indifferent place to meet at, and so the time limited by the Truce spinning on, absolutely expired. And in this posture the Affairs relating to France stood (to wit in open hostility) till the Death of King Edward. Thus we see, that from the breach of the Treaty, and Entry upon King Edward's Territories, to the time of his Death, he all along steered against the Tide of adverse Fortune, and what with Invasions, Revolts, and disastrous accidents (though no pitched Battle was fought) nothing of his great Conquests remained to him, but only Calais, and the small Territory adjoining. But of the strange unsuccessfulness of these subsequent years, there might be three main causes: First, the loss of so many stout and well disciplined Soldiers, as, upon their disbanding after the Peace made near Chartres, joined themselves to the m Le grand company. Companions, and marched into Spain, Italy, and Germany (to which number may be added those who perished in the Prince's expedition into Spain, of whom scarce the n Knighton Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2629. fifth man returned) a sort of people so inur'd to War, and such as had gained so great experience therein, that the very Common Soldiers among them were men of good conduct. The French King knew well enough, how much King Edward's power was weakened, through the want of those men, and that, as to such as might be raised anew (few of them having been trained up in the former Wars) he thought he might the better deal with them, in regard that many of his own disbanded Soldiers, were still within his Kingdom, and lay ready at his service. A second cause might be, that the King declining in years, and the Prince of Wales growing daily worse and worse of a linger sickness, without hope of Recovery, the French King took the more heart, and began now not to fear, either them or their Fortunes, which before had proved so terrible to France. And therefore he supposed if he could make a shift but to keep his Forces on Foot, against their declining power, he might deal well enough with those who should succeed them: none of King Edward's other Sons, having given such proof of their success in martial affairs as to be feared by him, and much less was any such thing to be expected, when an Infant King was likely to succeed. Lastly, His supplies of Money from his Subjects, who before had freely enough opened their Purses to carry on the War, began to fail him: For being tired out, with the prosecution of it, they complained of Poverty; and thence it came, that the Forces raised to recover what was lost, were inconsiderable, in comparison of the former Royal Armies levied for his own and the Prince's expeditions. During the Minority of this King, His Wife. there were several Matches proposed for him, though none took, but the last: and first, his Father designed to marry him to the Lady o Rot. Rom● 12.13. & 14. E. 2. m. 10. Margaret, Daughter of William Earl of Hanow, Holland, Zealand, and Lord of Frisia; who, being in the third degree of Consanguinity, a Letter was dispatched to the Pope, dated the 10. of December, in the 12. year of his Father's Reign, for obtaining his Dispensation, because of their nearness of blood. Secondly, with the Lady p Ibid. m. 7. Sibilla, Daughter to Robert Earl of Hanow and Zealand, Lord of Frisia, as appears from a like Letter to the Pope, dated the 2. of November in the following year. Thirdly, with the q Rot. Vasc. 17. E. 2. m. 5. n. 9 Daughter of james, King of Arragon, for which affair were commissionated Alexander Archbishop of Dublin, Edmund Earl of Kent, King Edward the Second Brother, and William de Weston Canon of Lincoln, Doctor of Laws: the Commission bore Teste the 30. of March, a. 17. E. 2. It appears by the King's r Pat. 18. E. 2. p. 1. m. 19 Letters of the 16. of February following, that her name was jolant, and King james her Father styled, s Claus. 18. E. 2. m. 12. dorso. Rex Aragoniae, Valenciae, Cors●ae, Comes Barch, & Sanctae Rom. Ecclesiae Vexillarius, Admirallus & Capitaneus Generalis, to whom the King then also sent Sir Edmund Bacon, Sir Robert Thorpe, Mr. john Heldesley Canon of Chester, to proceed further in this matter. Fourthly, with the Lady Alonar, Sister to Alphonsus' King of Spain, to which purpose, t Pat. 18. E. 2. p. 2. m. 22. john Stoner, William de Berne, Lord of Lescune, William de Weston, Canon of Lincoln, and Peter de Galicano, Canon of Rouen, were impowered by a Commission dated the 6. of April an. 18. E. 2. as also to treat and conclude a marriage between the said King Alphonsus, and Elinor King Edward's Sister. Besides these, the King of Portugal sent Ambassadors over hither, to propose a marriage between this Prince and his Daughter, to whom the King by Letter, dated the u Claus. 19 E. ● m. 9 dorso. 15. of April an. 19 E. 2. directed thus, Magnifico Principi, Domino Alfonso Dei gratiâ Portugaliae & Algarbiae Regi illustri, amico suo charissimo, acquainting him with the Treaty of marriage begun, between his Son and the King of Spain's Sister, and that because of nearness of blood, he had dispatched a Letter to the Pope for his Dispensation; that he had received no account as then, of the issue of that Affair; that his Son was gone into France, to do Homage for the Dukedom of Aquitaine, during all which, it was not fit for him to begin any new Treaty: but if that succeeded not, he would then confer with his Ambassador in this particular. But last of all, in the following year, the Queen and Duke having left France, went to the Earl of Henault's Court, where a Contract passed between him, and one of the Earls Daughters, and, not long after his Coronation, the marriage was consummate; in reference to which, R. Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, was w 8. Oct. Pat. 1. E. 3. p. 3. m. 15. constituted the King's Ambassador, to contract either espousals or marriage in the King's Name, with Philippe that Earls Daughter, who forthwith took his Journey to Valenciens, and (the Pope's Dispensation being gained) she was there married to King Edward by Proxy. By this Lady he was Father to 7 Sons, Children: all (except two that died young) men of great renown in that Age; namely, Edward Prince of Wales and Guyenne, signally famous all over Europe, and commonly called the Black Prince; William of Hatfield, Lionel of Antwerp, Duke of Clarence and Earl of Ulster, john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and Aquitaine, King of Castille and Leon, Edmund of Langley, Earl of Cambridge, and Duke of York, William of Windesor, and Thomas of Woodstock, Earl of Buckingham and Duke of Gloucester. His Daughters were five, Isabella Wife to Ingelram de Coucy, Earl of Bedford; joan married by Proxy to Peter, eldest Son to Alphonsus' King of Castille and Leon, but died in her journey thither; Blanch died young, Marry Wife to john Montford, Duke of Britagne, and Margaret Wife to john de Hastings, Earl of Penbroke. Besides these, he had a natural Son named x Cod. M9. Miscel. R. Glover. Somerset. fol 135. Nicholas, who was Abbot of Westminster, and lies buried in Westminster, before the Altar of St. Blaze. His y Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 267. Queen fell sick at Windesor Castle, and there died before him, viz. z Walsingham, pag. 179. on the day of the Assumption of our blessed Lady, a. 43. E. 3. whose Exequys and Interment he caused to be solemnised with great magnificence. and Death. He himself died the * Ib. pag. 189. 21. of June, at his Manor of Shene in Surrey, after he had reigned 50 years 4 Months and 28 days, and lies interred on the South side of St. Edward's Chapel in Westminster Abbey, under a stately Monument, having thereon his Portraiture at full length. SECT. III. Some account of the first 25 Knights-Companions. (1.) Edward Prince of Wales. THis Noble and Valiant Prince, was born at a Ex Chron. Tho. de la Mare. Woodstock, the 15. of june, An. Dom. 1330. at ten a Clock in the Morning, in the Scheme of whose Nativity (found among the Collections of that famous Mathematician Mr. Thomas Allen of Gloucester-Hall in Oxford) the 9 degree of Virgo ascends, the 3. of Gemini culminates, and the Planets are thus posited. gr. ♄ in 16 ♌ ♃ in 12 ♏ ♂ in 11 ♉ ☉ in 1 ♋ ♀ in 19 ♊ ☿ in 18 ♊ ♃ in 10 ♊ ● in 22 ♋ ● in 22 ♑ ♁ in 19 ♌ So welcome to his Father was the News of his Birth, that he b 4. Febr. Pat. 5. E. 3. p. 1. m. 33. granted to Tho. Prior who brought it 40 Marks per annum, out of his Exchequer for life, until he should settle on him Lands to that annual value. Afterwards, he c 16. Apr. Pat. 10. E. 3. p. 1. m. 30. gave to joan de Oxenford, this Prince's Nurse, 10 l. per annum out of his Exchequer during her life, until he or his Heirs should settle that yearly value in Lands or Rents upon her. And the d Ibid. next day a yearly Pension of 10 Marks out of his Exchequer also for life, on Matilda Plumpton Bersatrix, or Rocker, to this young Prince, till Lands of that value were in like manner provided for her. Before he was three years old, the King intended to make some considerable provision for him (though he had e Pat. 4. E. 3. p. 2. m. 42. Rot. Liberat. 5. E. 3. m. 8. Claus. 10. E. 3. m. 26. & 12. before made him an annual allowance for the expenses of his House, and several Gifts, did by his Charter dated 18. May, in the 7. year of his Reign, f Cart. 7. E. 3. m. 4. grant to him by the Title of Edward his most dear and eldest Son, the County of Chester, the Castles of Chester, Beston, Rothelan, and Flynt, and all his Lands there, as also the Cantred and Land of Englefield with their appurtenances, to him and his Heirs Kings of England, together with all Knights Fees, Advowsons', Liberties, Royalties, and all other things belonging to the said Country, Castles, Lands, and canters, aswell in England as in Wales, and the Marches thereof, as fully and under the same conditions, as himself received them before he was King: And thence forward he had the Title of Earl of Chester added to his Style. But intending to provide yet better for him, the next day he g Pat. 7. E. 3. p. 1. m. 13. gave him all the Corn, as well in Granges, as growing on the Ground, as also the Arms, Victuals, cattle, Goods and Chattels in all the said Castles, Lands, and other places to him before granted, together with the Debts, Arrearages of Accounts, and other Services due to himself. In the Parliament held at Westminster, a 11 E. 3. he was created Duke of Cornwall, as appears by his h Chart. 11. E. 3. n. 55. Charter of Creation, bearing date the 17. of March the same year, and invested by the Sword only; and this is the first Precedent for the Creation of the Title of Duke with us in England. Herewith also, the King settled on him divers Manors and Franchises, expressly set down in the said Charter, for the better support of the State and Honour of Duke; all which, though some lay in other Counties, were thereby made part of the Duchy of Cornwall. And further, by Letters Patent dated the same day, he granted to him the i Pat. 11. E. 3. p. 1. m. 19 Stannaries in Cornwall, together with the Coinage of Tin, and all the issues and profits thence arising; as also the profits and perquisites of the Courts of the Stannaries, except only 1000 Marks formerly granted to William Montague Earl of Salisbury, and his Heirs, out of the Issues thereof, till Lands were provided for the said Earl, of that yearly value; and afterwards * 29. Se●●. Pat. 17. E. 3▪ p. 2. m. 24. granted, That all the Castles, Honours, Manors, Lands, and Tenements, belonging to the Dukedom or Earldom of Cornwall, which were held in Dower or for term of life or years, whose Reversions belonged to the King, should remain to this Prince as Duke, still as they fell, and to the eldest Sons of him and his Heirs, as Dukes of the foresaid Dukedom. In the Parliament held an. 17. E. 3. the King k 12. May Chart. 17. E. 3. m. 24. n. 27. created him Prince of Wales, and invested him with a Coronet, a Gold Ring, and a Silver Rod: and the better to support his State as Prince of Wales, gave him several Lands, which are all particularly enumerated, in a l Pat. 17. E. 3. p. 1. m. 8. Writ directed to William de Emeldon, to deliver them unto this Prince or his Attorney, with this Dignity: The King also m 20. Sept. Extract. donat. 17. E. 3. m. 4. gave him all Debts and Arrears of Foreign Rents due to himself, for what cause soever, in North Wales and South Wales, to the time of his being created Prince of Wales, as also all Victuals, Arms, Horses, Oxen, Cows and other things in all the Castles and Lands which he held by the King's Grant. He was constituted n Pat. 12. E. 3. p. 2. m. 12.14. E. 3. p. 2. m. 28.16. E. 3. p. 2. m. 6. & 46. E. 3. p. 2. m. 25. Custos Angliae divers times, when the King had occasion to be absent out of the Kingdom, to which the Title of Locum tenens Regis was sometimes added; and in his younger years, the King appointed the o Pat. concess. hominib. Angl. & Vasc. 13. E. 3. m. 13. Archbishop of Canterbury to be the chief of his Council, to direct him in all Affairs; the powers belonging to this Great Officer being recorded in Rot. Pat. de an. 14. E. 3. pars 2. m. 28. The first time this Prince entered upon the Stage of War, was at the beginning of his 16. year of age, at which time he accompanied his Father into France; where at his landing at p Rot. Parl. 20. E. 3. n. 45. m. 4. Hoges in Normandy, he received the honour of q Stow's Chron. pag. 241. b. Knighthood, from that martial King's hands. Thence he marched in the body of the Army with the King toward Cressy, at which Battle (fought an. 20. E. 3.) he led the r Froiss. cap. 130. Van, and after a fierce encounter with the French, was somewhat distressed from the Enemies breaking in among his Archers, but the rest of his men timely advanced to their Assistance; nevertheless notice of his condition being sent to the King (who commanded the Rear) he asked if the Prince were dead or wounded, the Messenger said no, but stood in need of his Assistance; well said the King, s Froiss. cap. 130. return, and bid them send no more to me, so long as my Son lives, for I will have him this day win his Spurs, since I design him the honour of this Expedition: and it cannot be denied, but the compleatness of the Victory then gained, fully conferred it on him, so also did his Father's acknowledgement; for after the Battle was ended, he embraced the Prince and kissed him, and said t Ibid. cap. 1●1. fair Son, God give you resolution to pursue Honour, you are my dear Son, and have acquitted yourself nobly, you are worthy to govern a Kingdom. The following year, a Truce being agreed on at Calais, was spun on by several Prorogations, but without effecting any thing of Peace, till an. 29. E. 3. in which year both Kings provided for War. Hereupon the King u 10. july Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 6. constituted this Prince his Lieutenant in the Dukedom of Aquitaine and other places in France, whither he should happen to march, both for Reformation of the State of that Dukedom, and other places in France, and the recovery of his Lands and Right possessed by the Rebels. And by another Commission of the same date, he w Ibid. gave him power to make Alliances with all persons, of what Nation, Dignity or Condition soever, to retain men, and pay them Wages and Rewards. A third Commission x Ibid. m. 4. gave him Power (in the King's stead and name) to receive Homage and Fidelity, from the Nobility and others within this Dukedom, and the Kingdom of France. Armed with their Powers and accompanied by the Earls of y Ex Lib. Miscellan. R. Glover, Somerset. fol. 29. Warwick, Oxford, Salisbury, and Suffolk, and a good Army attending him, he took Shipping and safely arrived in Gascoigne: for whose passage thither the King had before assigned z Rot. Franc. 29. E. 3. m. 12. Richard de Corte●hale, and Robert de Baildon Sergeants at Arms, to arrest, array, and equip all the Ships of 20. Tun and Upwards, in all Ports and Places from the River of Thames unto Lynn, as well within Liberties as without, to furnish them with men and other necessaries, and to bring them to Southampton by St. Barniby's Day at the furthest; as also to Press Mariners for the Voyage at the King's Wages; and had given Commission to * 27● May. Ib. Thomas de Hoggeshaw Lieutenant, to john de Beauchamp Admiral of the Sea Westward, to carry him over: with power to hear and determine all Crimes and Transgressions committed on Shipboard, and to punish them according to Maritine Law, and to do all other things appertaining to the Office of Admiral. Having entered the River a Froissard c. 155. See the Names of all the places they marched through in Stow's Chron. 256. etc. Garronne, he marched into the South-part of Languedock, and burned the Great Town of Carcassone, situate near the Mediterranean Sea, thence passed to Narbon, burning and wasting the Country; after which, he returned to encounter the French Forces which marched out of Tolouse, under the Command of the Marshal Clerimont, and Earl of Armaignac; but upon his approach they retired, and so in November after 8. Weeks he returned to Bourdeaux with great store of Pillage and Prisoners. A more particular account of which Voyage, with the Towns and Castles taken and destroyed, and several other actions done after the Prince's Return to Bourdeaux, to the 21. of january following, are reported in Sir Iohn Wingfield's Letters, Printed in b Ib. p. 384.385. Hollinshead's Chronicle. Intelligence of the Prince's taking the Field the c An. 30. E. 3. Froiss. c. 157. following Summer, being brought to King john, he resolved to fight him, for now the Prince (with about d holinsh. p. 387. 8000. Men) had entered the Country of Berry, as far as Issoudun, Bourges, Vierzon, and e Froissard c. 158. Remorentin, which two last Towns and their Castles the Prince took by Assault: and passing into f Ib. c. 159. Anjou, and Touraine, (having wasted all the Country where he passed) intended to return for Bourdeaux. But after this long and wearisome Voyage, drawing near to Poicters, he was informed, that the g Ibid. c. 62. French Army was not far from him, (and here the Cardinal of Poicters used means to have brought both sides to some composition, but the French being high in their demands, his endeavours took no effect.) The Prince thereupon fitted himself for fight, and the Battles joining (in the Fields of i Ib. c. 64. Beawoir and Malpertuse two Leagues from Poitiers. Holinsh. Beaumond and Malperteus) after some space, they broke the Van of the French Army, when the main Body, led by the Duke of Normandy coming on, and finding the other routed, fell into disorder also. This encouraged the Prince to fall in upon the Rear led by the King, at whose approach, the main Body of the French Army left the Field, as their Leader himself did, with Charles, Lewis, and john, the King's Sons, the Earls of Poicters and Tourayne. King john behaved himself very valiantly, and maintained the fight for some time, but was at length taken Prisoner by k Froiss. c. 64. Sir Denys Morbeck a Knight of Arthois (to whom the Prince gave afterwards l Ibid. c. 169. 2000 Nobles to support his Estate) whilst the chase continued to the Gates of Poitiers, and a complete Victory obtained, the particulars whereof are related by Froissard. The French Kings Army consisted of m Hollinshed Chron. p. 389. 60000. fight men, whereof there were above 3000. Knights. The Prince had but n Hollinshed Chron. p. 389. 8000. whereof 3000. were Archers, though Froissard in one place saith 6000. in another 4000 The names of some of the Prisoners of Note, and those that were slain, are mentioned by o In Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2613. & 2614. Vide Stow p. 263. & Holinsh, loc● cit. Knighton: in a word, the Flower of France fell here, and so many Noblemen were there slain, or made Prisoners, that there were but few left to manage the Affairs of France; the Soldiers had p Froiss c. 166. twice as many Prisoners as themselves were in number, nay divers of them 4. or 5. Prisoners a piece, all which they put to ransom in the Field, upon promise to return before Christmas with their Ransoms to Bourdeaux. The spoil was exceeding rich, so were also the Arms they took, and whatsoever the Booty was, it remained to him that took it. The q Ibid. c. 169. Prince bought of the Gascoigners for ready money those of the French Nobility, whom they had taken: And of these, namely Philip Son to King john, the Earl of Sanceir, and the Lord Craon, he sold to the King r 22. Oct. Pat. 33. E. 3. p. 3. m. 14. afterwards for 20000 l. This Battle was sought the s Rot. de Tract. Pacis Franc. 34. E. 3. m. 9 vide Claus. 36. E. 3. m. 3. dorso. 19 day of September, an. Dom. 1356. it beginning in the Morning and ending at Noon; but it was night ere they returned from the Chase. When it was ended, the Prince (who saith Froissard, was therein courageous and cruel as a Lion, and took great delight in the Fight and Chase) commanded his Standard to be pitched on a high Bush, as a signal to the dispersed Forces to retire to him thither; and then sent out the Earl of Warwick, and Sir Reynold Cobham, to make enquiry after the French King, who in a short time brought him Prisoner to the Prince. The t Froiss. c. 168. Prince entertained this Noble Prisoner at a Supper, at which himself, with all respect, served him; nor could be prevailed upon to sit down at the Table. The next day the Prince dislodged his Army, and marched through Poicton, Santonge, and at Blaye passed the River Garronne, and so to Bourdeaux, where in one part of the Abbey of St. Andrew he lodged his Royal Prisoner, and in the other himself; and upon the News of this great Victory and Success, the King appointed u 10. Octob. Claus. 30. E. 3. m. 3. dors●. public thanks to be given to God throughout England. In w Holli●sh pag. 39●. April following, the Prince took shipping for England, and brought along with him the French King (and divers other Prisoners of quality) the x Walsingh. pag. 164. 5. of May he arrived at Plymouth, for whose reception there, john Dabernoun Sheriff of Devonshire, was y 20. March Pat. 31. E. 3. m. 3. dorso. commanded to make provision of Victuals, and Carriages. and Horses, and attend him in all parts through that County. The z Walsingh. l●co cit. 24. of May, the Prince, in a stately Cavalcade, rode through London, his Royal Prisoner by his side, on a White Courser, and himself on a Black Hobby, and so proceeded to a holinsh. loco cit. Westminster Hall, where he presented King john to his Father, and from whence King john was conducted to his Lodging; but within a short time, the Savoy was furnished for his entertainment. After some few years, the King (a. 33. E. 3.) preparing for another Expedition into France, this b Froiss. c. 207. Prince went along with him (so also his three Brethren) and commanded the Rear of that Army, which making its way through the Bowels of France, at Bretigny, near Chartres, a Peace was concluded, in which this Prince (and some other of the King's Council) on the King's part, having treated with the French Lords, on the part of the Dauphin of Viennois Governor of France, brought all controversies, touching that Realm. to a happy composure. The King (desirous to proceed to the effect and accomplishment of that Treaty) gave him another c Rot. Cales de Negorii● communibus 34. E. 3. m. 6. Commission, with authority to treat further upon any thing that concerned or was comprised therein, either in general or special; to demand and receive the Hostages, Money, Castles, Cities, and Fortresses, and what ever else was to be delivered to the King, by virtue thereof; with a general Clause, to add and supply the power granted, if any solemn or substantial thing should be omitted, through much business or otherwise, or were expedient or advantageous, as to the premises. After the confirmation of this Peace, and King Edward in possession of a considerable part of the Territories, both of his own inheritance, or invested in him by the said Peace (which he was to enjoy without resort or Sovereignty to the Crown of France) The Nobility of these Provinces desiring to be governed by a Prince of their own, rather than by the King's Lieutenants as before; they addressed themselves to the King, to confer the Government thereof on this Prince, and send him thither, where he had so great Possessions and Revenues to maintain his State and Dignity. Hereupon the King d 19 july Rot. Vasc. 36. E. 3. m. 16. Created him Prince of Guyenne, and gave him Guyenne and Gascoigne by the name of a Principality during his life: and also granted to him those other Countries, Towns, and Castles near adjoining (delivered into the King's possession, by virtue of the foresaid Treaty) together with the Government of them also, retaining nevertheless the Resort and Sovereignty over all, thereby given and granted to himself. This done, he forthwith prepared for his Voyage thither, taking along with him his e Froiss. c. 216. Lady the Princess, with whom, being arrived at Rochel, they were both joyfully received. Thence he went to Poicters, whither the f Ibid. c. 217. Barons and Knights of Poictou and Santonge repaired, doing him Fealty and Homage; then he departed for Bourdeaux, thither the Nobility and Knights of Gascoigne came to wait on him: after which he settled English Officers in all places of his Principality, and there kept his Court with great state and magnificence. Immediately after the Election of Pope Vrban the Fifth, g Ibid. Peter of Lusignan King of Cyprus and jerusalem, came to Avignon, and there engaged john King of France in a Crusade; he thence went to the Emperor at Prague, and afterwards into Flanders and England, whence after he had been nobly entertained, he returned to King john then at Amiens, and h Ibid. c. 218. thinking he had not yet seen any thing, till he had seen the Prince of Wales, took a Journey to Poicters, and so to Augoulesme, where the Prince held a Royal Justs of 40 Knights, and as many Esquires, in honour of the birth of his Son Edward; and here the King of Cyprus was received with great honour, and nobly feasted while he stayed. Not long after, this Noble Prince was induced to re-establish i Ibid. cap. 231. Don Peter King of Castille, who had k 39 E. 3. Hollinsb. Chron. p. 397. made a personal application to him in so great distress, being driven out of his Kingdom by his Bastard Brother Henry, with the assistance of some part of the late disbanded Army, called the late Comers, or Companions, under the command of Sir Bertrand de Guesclin, and some English and Bretagn Forces that went along with them, commanded by Sir Eustace Dabrichecourt, and other Knights: Hereupon the Prince first sent his Letters to remand them back, and after (which strengthened his undertaking) l Froiss. c. 233. he received aid from the King his Father, commanded by john of Gaunt his Brother. james Son of Ferdinand, King of Mojorca (whom the King of Arragon had imprisoned at Barcelona, and there put to death) made also address to the Prince for assistance in the recovery of his Realm; which the Prince promised after his return out of Spain (whither he was then engaged) and towards which he began his Voyage the m Ibid. c. 234. Sunday after Epiphany, an. Dom. 1366. Upon his n Ibid. c. 237. entry into Castille (with 30000 Horse and Foot) Don Henry prepared to give him Battle with 86000, the Armies joined between o Ibid. c. 238. Navarr and Naveret, on Saturday the 3. of April, p Walsingh pag. 176. an. 40. E. 3. and here the Prince got a Victory, which reestablished Don Pedro in his Kingdom: q Froiss. c. 239. thereupon Don Pedro went to Sevill, r Ibid. c. 245. and promised to return the Prince money to pay his Army, but after four months' stay and expectation, the Prince was constrained to return into Aquitane without any; so forgetful was Don Pedro of the courtesies he had received from him. This Victory got the Prince great renown throughout the Empire, and the repute of being the valiantest Prince in that Age, even worthy to govern all the World; but in this Voyage he contracted a sickness he never recovered, which his Physicians and Surgeons judged to be an incurable Dropsy; others, that he was poisoned. In an Instrument dated about this time, to wit 8. October 1366. (whereby he granted to his Brother john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, the Village and Castellaine of Roche sur jon, to him and his Heirs males) I find him thus styled: s Cod. MS. in Offic. Ducat. Lancastr. sub titulo de partibus transinarinis. Edward ainsne filz du Roy de France & d' Engleterre, Prince d' Aquitaine & de Gales, Duke de Cornwall, Conte de Cestre, Seigneur de Biscaie, & de Castre de Dordiales, but after he had resigned the Principality of Aquitaine, his Titles were these only, t Ex alio Cod. MS. sub Tit. Com. Cestr. cap. 24. Edwardus Regis Angliae & Franciae primogenitus Princeps Walliae, Dux Cornubiae, & Comes Cestriae 6. Feb. 49. E. 3. so an. 47. E. 3. vide Lib. Miscell. R. Glover Somerset, p. 111. Some time after his return into Aquitaine, the discontented Gascoigners and French (taking occasion to rebel upon raising a Subsidy, called w Froiss: c. 141. Fovage, for 5 years, consented to by most of his Subjects, viz. the Poictovins, and they of Xanctonge Limosin, Rovergue, and Rochel, but other parts of Guine refused) entered (in a hostile manner) the Prince's Territories, whereupon Sir Hugh Caurel coming out of Arragon to the Prince, was made Captain of the Companions, whom he had sent for out of Normandy, and ordered to x Ibid. c. 249. march with them into the Country of the Earl of Armaignac, and the Lord d' Albret (two of the great Ringleaders of the Rebellion new begun) to waste those parts. He also had sent before a body Commanded y Ibid. c. 245. by Sir john Chandos to Montauban, and a third under the Command of the z Ibid. c. 250. Earl of Cambridge, and Penbroke, into Perigort, and which took Bourdeilles after 11. Weeks Siege. After this, the Prince a Ibid. c. 277. receiving Intelligence that two Armies under the conduct of the Dukes of Anjou and Berry, were designed to enter Aquitaine, and besiege him in Angoulesme, resolved his Enemies should not find him there; and therefore summoned in the Nobility, and appointed a Rendezvouz at Cognac, leaving his Princess at Angoulesme, but taking his young Son Richard with him. The King of England (having upon this great rupture of the Peace concluded at Bretigny, resumed his Name and Title to the Crown of France) b 19 jun. Rot. Vasc. 43. E. 3. m. 3. sent forthwith to the Prince, to give him notice that the Parliament at Westminster had Ordained, that all his Subjects of what Nation or condition soever, should maintain his Interest against his Enemies in the Realm of France, to recover and conquer the same. And likewise directed his Letters to the c Ibid. m. 2. Nobility of Gascoigne, desiring their assistance herein. The year following, he sent over john Duke of Lancaster his third Son, to the assistance of this Prince, and gave him d 1. july Rot. Vasc. 44. E. 3. m. 5. Commission to receive into favour, and wholly pardon, such of his Cities, Castles, Towns, and Inhabitants, aswell in Aquitaine as other parts of France, as should return to his Obedience, and to do and exercise all powers given in his said Commission, with the consent of the Prince, if present, and in his absence, what the King could do in his assistance, if personally there. And that care might be taken in Civil Affairs, the King (having reserved to himself the Sovereignty and resort in those Territories) sent a blank e 10. june preceding Ibid. Commission for the Prince to insert the names of such as he should think fit to appoint for Judges or Delegate, to hear all Causes as well Criminal as Civil, upon Appeals from the Prince's Courts. f Froiss. c. 279. The Duke of Lancaster shortly after arrived at Bourdeaux, and came to the Prince at Cognac, but the Duke of Anjou thought better to withdraw his Forces into Garrisons, than to fall into action. The Duke of Berry took g Ibid. c. 280. Lymoges, which the Prince h c. 283, 284▪ retaking, put the Inhabitants to the Sword, and burned the Town. But the Prince's disease growing daily upon him, he was i Ibid. c. 287. advised by his Physicians and Surgeons, to return into England, for the recovery of his health, which caused him to assemble the Nobility of Aquitaine, Gascoigne, Poictou, and Santonge, at Bordeux, to whom he communicated his intentions, and withal that he would leave the Duke of Lancaster in Chief Command behind him, to whom they did fealty and Homage in the Prince's presence, and kissed his mouth. The Affairs of these Countries being thus Ordered, the Prince and Princess, their young Son Richard, the Earls of Cambridge, and Penbroke, took Shipping for England, and arrived at k Walsingh. sub an. 44. E. 3. pag. 181. Plymouth about the beginning of january, whence they road to the King at Windesor, where after some stay he took his leave and retired to his own House, and about two years after l Rot. Vasc. 461. E. 3. m. 2. surrendered the Dignity of Prince of Guynne, and his whole right therein, to his Father King Edward. While he was yet in Minority, Of his Wife and Children. there were several matches designed for him, as first, being but a year old, m 15. july Pa●. 5. E. 3. par. 2. m. 28. a Commission was given to john Darcy, and William Trussell Knights, to treat and agree with Philip King of France, or his Deputies, upon espousals and Matrimony between this young Prince and King Philip's Daughter; but the quarrel breaking out afterwards with that King, there was no further progress made in his Affair. The next proposal was for Margaret, one of the Daughters of john Duke of Brabant and Lorraine, to which purpose a n 12. May Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. p. 1. m. 17. Commission was made out to Henry Bishop of Lincoln, and William de Bohun Earl of Northampton, to trea● with the said Duke or his Deputies upon this matter, and for which, in regard they were both within the third Degree of Consanguinity, the Pope's Dispensations was several times endeavoured to be obtained by o Rot. Rom. 14. E. 3. m. 2. & 18. E. 3. m. 2. & 19 E. 3. m. 3. & 4. Letters sent from the King; but he could not be induced to do any thing therein. Another match was proposed with a Daughter of the King of Portugal, and thereupon the King p 8. Nou. Pat. 19 E. 3. part 3. m. 11. Commissionated Mr. Andrew Offord, Richard de Soham, and Philip de Barton, to treat of a Marriage, not only between the Prince, but any other of his Sons, and any one of the Daughters of the said King; That also taking no effect, there was q 6. july. Pat. 21. E. 3. part 2. m. 13. another Commission issued to Robert de Stratton Canon of Chichester, and Richard de Soham, to treat with the said King concerning a marriage between the Prince and his Daughter Leonora. But none of these which were of others providing took effect, but at length r Walsingham p. 171. an. 35. E. 3. he married with a Lady of his own choice, namely joan Countels of Kent, Sister and Heir to john Plantagenet Earl of Kent, and the Relict of Sir Thomas Holland (one of the first Founders of this most Noble Order) commonly called (for her Excellent Beauty) the fair Maid of Kent. And because the Prince had married her, notwithstanding nearness of Kindred between them, and of his Christening her eldest Son, it was thought requisite to have a Papal Absolution from Excommunication, and Dispensation for Marriage; s 7. Id. Sept. Ex Lib. in office. Princip. Cantuar. vocat. Islip. fol. 177. b. & 178. a. both which were obtained from Pope Innocent the Sixth, in the 9 year of his Popedom. By her he had two Sons, namely Edward the Eldest, born at Angoulesme, in t Holinsh. pag. 397. a. Feb. 1365. ( u In Collect suo. Leland saith 1364.) who died in Gascoigne, at 7. years of Age; and Richard the second Son born at Bourdeaux, on Twelfth-Day being Wednesday, at three a Clock in the Afternoon, x Walsingh. p. 175. 1366. and had three Kings to his Godfathers, viz. y Ex Chron. W. Thorn, Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2142. of Spain, Navarre, and Portugal. Besides these he had two Natural Sons, z Bakers Chro. p. 143. john Sounder, and Sir Roger de Clarendon, to the latter of these he gave by his Will a Silk Bed, with all thereunto belonging; This Roger was after made one of the Knights of the Chamber to King Richard the Second, to whom the said King * Claus. 14. R. 2. m. 13. the first of October, 13. R. 2. gave for life 100 l. per annum, out of the Issues of his Subsidies in the Counties of Bristol, Gloucester, Somerset, Dorset, and Cornwall. His Death. His Disease contracted in Spain grown now uncurable, and he drawing near to his end, made his Will in the King's great Chamber at Westminster, the a Lib. in office. principal. Cantua●. vocat. Sudbury f. 90. b. 7. of june, an. 50. E. 3. and disposed of his Body to be buried in the Cathedral Church of the Trinity in Canterbury. And such was his care of those who had done him service, that he charged his Son Richard by his Will, b Lib. in office. principal. Cantua●. vocat. Sudbury f. 90. b. to continue the payment of those Pensions which he had given them. The Executors nominated therein were his c Lib. in office. principal. Cantua●. vocat. Sudbury f. 90. b. Brother of Spain the Duke of Lancaster, William Bishop of Winchester, john Bishop of Bath, William Bishop of St. Asaph, Robert de Walsham his Confessor, Hugh de Segrave Steward of his Lands, Aleyn de Stokes, and john de Fordham. The next day after his Will was made (being d Walsingh. p. 186. Trinity Sunday) this Noble Prince (the Flower of Chivalry and delight of the English Nation) departed the World; his body being imbalmed, was wrapped in Lead and kept till Michaelmas (the Parliament being then to meet) to be interred with greater Solemnity, which was performed at Canterbury, near the Shrine of Thomas Becket, over whose Grave a stately Monument was erected for him, which yet remains undefaced. (3) Henry Earl of Lancaster. THE second Stall on the Sovereign's side, was assigned to Henry then Earl of Lancaster and Derby, Son to Henry Earl of Lancaster (Brother and Heir of Thomas Earl of Lancaster Beheaded at Pontefract, on e Pat. 16. E. 2. part. 1. m. 25. Monday before our Lady-Day, an. 15. E. 2.) and Maude Daughter and Heir to Sir Patrick Cadurces (or Chaworth) Knight, Lord of Kidwelly and Ogmore in Wales. The first considerable Military Honour conferred on him, was that of f 7. April Rot. Scot 10. E. 3. m. 28. Commander in Chief of all the King's Forces sent into Scotland an. 10. E. 3. for the g Ibid. m. 30. Truce with the Scots having been upon the request both of the Pope and King of France, and earnest solicitation of their Ambassadors, several times prorogued, between the 23. of Nou. an. 9 E. 3. and the Sunday next after Ascension day following, it then expired; before which, the King had intelligence of their confederacies abroad, and great preparations for War, and being engaged to assist and defend Edward Balliol King of Scots, who had done him Homage for that Kingdom, he thereupon raised an Army for that purpose, and gave this noble Knight command thereof, by the name of Henry de Lancaster only, though I find him in h Claus. 11. E. 3. p. 1. m. 22. another place relative to this employment; called Henry de Lancastre Banneret. And by another Commission he i 10. Apr. Rot. Scot 10. E. 3. m. 28. gave him power to receive to Faith and Peace, the Scots or their adherents, and to grant them pardon. Shortly after, k 4. May Rot. Scot 10. E. 3. m. 26. he a●● Tho. Beauchamp Earl of Warwick, Henry de Bellomont Earl of Bogham, and William de Bohun had Commission given them, to treat with Sir Andrew Murrese a Scotch Knight, about a Truce between the King and his Subjects in Scotland, and the said Sir Andrew and other the Scots, to hold till Midsummer following. Towards the latter end of this year, l Rot. Scot 10. E. 3. m. 3. David Bruys (then in France) had obtained that King's assistance, and gotten together a great Navy, with which he did much mischief to the Merchants about the Isle of Wight; besides, he had entered the Isles of Gerusey and jarsey, and killed divers of the Inhabitants. The King therefore m 11. Dec. Ib. gave Commission to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and others, of whom this Henry was one (himself being then at Bothevill in Scotland, so busied in the War, that he could not be at the meeting appointed) to treat on his behalf, with certain Prelates and others, whom he had commanded to meet at London, on Wednesday after New-year's day following, upon the defence and safety of the Kingdom, repulsion of the Enemies, and other things relating to the State of the King and Kingdom; as also seriously and fully to acquaint them with the King's intentions, to ordain and do all things referring thereunto, and to his honour, as if he were there personally present. The following year he was n 16. Mar. Chart. 11. ●. 3. created Earl of Derby, and invested by girding him with the Sword, his Father yet living; by the Charter of his Creation did the King grant to him and his Heirs, an Annuity of Honour of 20 l. out of the Farm of the County of Derby; and to the end he might better maintain the State of an Earl, he also o 18. Mar. P●● 11. E. 3. p. 1. m. 27. granted him an annual Pension of 1000 Marks during his Father's life, out of the Customs in London, St. butolph's, and Kingston upon Hull, until the King should provide for him 1000 Marks per annum in Lands or Rents; and in case the issues of the said Customs fell short of that annual sum, than was it provided, that it should be made up out of the Exchequer, and for more surety out of the Custody of his Wards. The p Pat. 11. E. 3. p. 3. m. 26. third of October following, the King granted to him the Manor of Wyghton and Hundred of Northgreneho, with their appurtenances, in the County of Norfolk, as also the Manor of Laghton in Morthynges, with its appurtenances, in the County of York, which Ralph Earl of Eu had lately held, and were then seized into the King's hands, to hold also during the life of his Father, at the annual value of 72 l. 7. s. 6 d. q. (at which rate they were extended) in part of satisfaction of the said annual Pension of 1000 Marks. But the Letters Patents of the 18. of March, were resigned up to be canceled the 24. of October an. 13. E. 3. and the King thereupon, by other Letters Patent, dated the * Pat. 13. E. 3. p. 2. m. 20. 20. of September preceding, granted him (during his said Father's life) all the Issues of the small Customs in London, for the payment of 891 Marks 5 s. 9 d. ½ q. above the extent of the Manors and Hundred aforesaid (both which sums made up the foresaid annual Pension of 1000 Marks) and in case the small Customs fell short of 891 Marks 5 s. 9 d. ½ q. then, what they wanted was to be paid him out of the great Customs of the said City; but if they exceeded that sum, than the surplusage to be paid into the Exchequer: which Lands and Pension out of the small Customs, reverting to the King upon the death of this Earls Father, were q 26 Sept. Rot. Pat. 19 E. 3. p. 2. m. 12. then granted to the Queen, for the support and maintenance of her Children, until the King should otherwise provide for them. In the 11. year of King Edward the Third, the King having sent over the Bishop of Lincoln, and others, into Flanders to make Alliances for him with Flemings, the r Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 30. French King had laid a Garrison in the Isle of Cagaunt, with design to take these Commissioners in their return home; but they having notice thereof, and the friendship and assistance of jacques Dartuel, took their way to Dort in Holland, and so escaped that snare. And the King resolving to clear that Island of this Garrison, designed for this Service the Earl of Derby, who raised part of his men in Staffordshire, a Country where he was exceedingly beloved, in which his Father had then great Possessions, that after his death descended to him, and of which for the better conservation of the Peace there, the King made him high s Extract. Donat. 19 E. 3. m. 3. Sheriff during lif●▪ These men, levied by the King's Writ, he was t 28. june Rot. Vasc. 11. E. 3. m. 23. commanded to have in readiness with h●●self at London, on the Feast of St. Margaret the Virgin next ensuing. At the u Froiss. c. 31. arrival of the English in the Haven, they found the Town of Cagaunt well garrisoned, and therein divers stout Commanders chosen by the Earl of Flanders for its defence, well armed, and ready to forbid their Landing, so that with great difficulty and some loss they got ashore; and here our Earl pressing on, and fight for his passage, was struck down to the ground, but relieved by the Lord Manny. In fine, the Town (on w Holli●sh▪ Chron. p. 354. Sunday before the Feast of St. Martin) was taken by the English, and above 3000 Flemings slain; after which, they plundered and burnt it, and brought their Prisoners to their Ships, among whom was Sir Guy the Bastard of Flanders, who after made Fealty to the King, and sided with him in the War. The x Rot. Alman. 13. E. 3. m. 16. Dorso. 16. of February an. 13. E. 3. he was put in Commission with others, to array men in the County of Leicester, against the Invasion of Enemies; and the y Pat. Concess. h●minib. Angl. & Vasc. 13. E. 3. m. 17. 3. of july after made one of the 8 Commissioners to treat with Philip de Valois, upon all Controversies between the King and him: and also one of the z H. Bishop of Linc. H. Earl of Derb. W. Earl of Salisb. W. de Exon. & Alex. de Oneby. 5 Commissioners constituted the second of january following, to treat with the said Philip, as also with the Cardinals of St. Praxide, and St. Mary in Aquiro upon the same Affair. The a Rot. Alman. 14. E. 3. m. 29. Dorso. 6. of March a. 14. E. 3. he had Commission given him, to raise men in the Counties of Derby, Leicester, Staffordshire, and Lancashire, to pass over Sea with the King or himself, at the King's next Voyage beyond Sea. This Earl attended the King in his first Expedition into France, and had b Froiss. cap. 41. Command in the Battle ready pitched to fight the French near Vyronfoss, as also at the c Ibid. cap. 50. Battle of Sluice an. 14. E. 3. and the d Rot. Alman. 14. E. 3. m. 8. 10. of August the same year, command issued to Robert de Morley, Admiral of the Fleet from the Thames towards the North, to send forth 10 Ships to Orewell, to take in his Troops of Horse, that were to pass over into Flanders after him. In the e 27 july Pat. 15. E. 3. p. 2. ●. 29. following year He, and Henry de Percy, Ralph de Nevil, and Robert de Dalton had Commission given them to treat with the Bishops, Earls, and all other persons, as well Ecclesiastic as Secular, in the Northern parts, touching the defence of the Kingdom against the Scots; and to solicit them, who had Lands in those parts, to dwell there, or otherwise to assign other persons there to remain in their stead. He was again made the King's f 7. Oct. Rot. Scot 15. E. 3. m. 4. Lieutenant in the North parts of England and in Scotland, as also General of the Army sent against the Scots, who had invaded England; having power given him to defend the Marches, to march into Scotland, to create Stewards, Constables, Marshals, and other Officers necessary for the Government of the Army, and g Ibid. m. 5. three days after had a Commission given him, and power to treat and agree with the Scots about a Cessation of Arms, to admit such of them as were willing, to the King's Peace, to receive their Fealty, to grant them pardon, and restore their Lands. The h Rot. Scot 16. E. 3. m. 14. 3. of April in the following year, he and i R. Bishop of Durham, Hen. Earl of Derby, Ralph de Nevil, john de Strivelin, Will. de Careswell Governor of Berwick, Walt. de Creyk, Rob. de Mavers. 6 other, whereof he was to be one, were commissionated to treat with David Brus, and other Scotchmen his Adherents upon a final Peace or Truce, as also upon all debates and differences whatsoever between the King and them, and amicably to compose them. And the same day he had power likewise given him to grant to * Rot. Scot 16. E. 3. m. 14. Adam Bishop of Brechin, to Patrick Earl of March, Sir William de Douglas, and Sir Thomas de Caruato, Knights, and William Bullock, and other Scotch Men, as he should see cause, the the King's special Letters of safe Conduct and Protection for so long time, as this Earl thought fit, to come into England, with as many Horse as he should appoint, to treat either of a Truce or Peace with this Earl, and others deputed thereto by the King. Having in this expedition undertaken upon certain conditions, the Custody of the Marches of Scotland, the King k 10▪ Octob. Extract. donat. 16. E. 3. m 10. gave him in reward, the 1000 Marks which Io. de Wesenham stood engaged to pay the King for Wool. He went over with the King in his Voyage into l Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m. 20. & 23. Claus. de eod. an. p. 2. m. 31. Bretagne, having under his Command 5. Bannerets, 50. Knights, 144. Esquires, and 200. Archers on Horseback. The daily Wages allowed him for himself was 8 s. for each Banneret 4 s. each Knight 2 s. each Esquire 1 s. and each Archer 6 d. At the Siege of Vannes he was m Hollinshed Chron. pag. 3.264. constituted one of the King's Commissioners (the other being the Earls of Northampton, and Salisbury, the Lord Stafford, Burghershe, Cantelowe, Cobham, Manneys, and Berkley, and Mr. john Vfford Archdeacon of Ely) where a Truce was concluded for three years. The n Rot. Vasc. 18. E. 3. m. 9 24. of March, a. 18. E. 3. The King by his Letters Patent constituted this Noble Earl, and Richard Earl of Arundel, his Lieutenants in the Dukedom of Aquitaine, and the Countries adjoining, to govern and defend those Territories, to demand and receive the possession of the Castles, Places, and Rights, unjustly detained from him, to recover and retain the same by force of Arms, if need should be, and to receive such as should return to their Obedience, to the grace and favour of the King, as also the Homage and Fidelity from whomsoever in those parts due; and generally to do all things for defence and recovery of the King's Rights, and good Government of those Countries and his Subjects, with Command to the Archbishops, etc. to yield Obedience to them. And whereas the King upon false suggestions, had been deceived in many of his Grants and Donations in that Dukedom; He by other o Ibid. Letters Patents of the same date, gave him power to seize into his hands all the Castles, Lands, Liberties, and Profits, formerly granted by him, and those that should appear to have been obtained upon untrue suggestions, to retain without Restitution, but upon true, to restore entirely. A like p Ibid. Commission was given them which extended to the grants made by his Father King Edward the Second, upon like pretences, as well as by himself. They also had a General Commission q Ibid. to treat and conclude with all persons of whatsoever state or condition, Kingdom or Nation, for the settling of Alliances, and mutual Assistance between the King and them, to retain men for the King's Service, and to agree about Fees, Wages, and Rewards to be paid unto them. By other r Ibid. Commissions of the same date, these two Earls had power to treat and conclude with Alphonsus' King of Castille, (there styled Alphonsus Rex Castiliae, & Legionis, Toleti, Galiciae, Siviliae, Cordubiae, Murciae, Gyennii, & Algarbiae, & Comes Molmae) or his Deputies upon all differences arising between their Subjects, especially Mariners, and amicably to compose them, as also of a perpetual League of Friendship between them, etc. their Subjects, and to afford each other their mutual assistance, with Power to make Substitutes in their stead. The said Earls had like s Ibid. Commissions, with the same Power, to treat with the King of Portugal, therein styled, Alphonsus Rex Portugaliae & Algarbiae. And with the King of Arragon, styled therein, Petrus Rex Aragoniae, Valenciae, Majorcae, Sardinii, & Corsicae, Comes Barthon. Sir t Cap. 102. john Froissard tells us, that some of the Gascoigne Lords came hither about this time, to acquaint the King, with the weak condition of that Country and City of Bourdeaux, and to desire relief, and that in this Earls company went also the Earls of Penbroke and Oxford, the Lord Stafford, Sir Walter Manney, the Lord Frank de la Hall, and divers others of note, being about 500 Knights and Esquires, and 2000 Archers, and having landed at Bayon the 6. of june * 18. E. 3. 1344. went thence to Bourdeaux. His first attempt was upon the u Froiss. c. 103. Town of Bergerac, which surrendered to him, and next w Ibid. c. 104. Longo Castle and le Lake, Mandurant he took by assault, so also the Castle of Mountgyse, Punache, and the Castle de la Lewe, Forsathe, and Pondayre, he won with little opposition, and the great Town of * Beaumond in Layllois. holinsh. Laylloyes after three days, the chief Town appertaining to the Earl of Laylle (who lived as King in those parts of Gascoigne) was delivered to him after some dispute. After this success he marched to x Froiss. c. 105. Bonu, this he assaulted and took, he also took the Castle of Auberoche, and the Town of Libourne yielded themselves to him. Auberoche being presently after besieged by 12000 French, this Earl on St. Laurence Eve assaulted the Enemy in their Tents with 300 Spears and 600 Archers, and took the Earl of Laylle, and 8 other Earls and Viscounts, and 200 Knights, and so many Esquires, and other Soldiers, that each Englishman had 2 or 3 Prisoners, many of whom they let go upon their paroll to return to Bergerac or to Bourdeaux on a certain day, and others they carried with them to Bourdeaux; and by this valiant Exploit having relieved the Castle, he afterwards disposed of his Army into Winter Quarters, and returned into England. Upon these great successes, the King y 1●. May Rot. Vasc. 19 E. 3. m. 6. & Rot. Fr. E. 3. m. 6. made him his sole Lieutenant and Captain in the Duchy of Aquitaine, and the parts adjacent, with power to do and execute all things that belonged to that Command: and gave command to all Archbishops, Earls, Barons, Viscounts, Castellans, and other persons throughout that Dukedom, and adjacent Countries, to yield obedience to him as the King's Lieutenant. z Ibid. Five days before, the King gave him Commission with power to treat and conclude with all persons of whatsoever state or condition, Kingdom or Nation, for settling firm alliances and mutual assistance between the King and them, as also to retain men for the King's Service, and to agree about their Fees, Wages, and other Rewards. The a Claus. 19 E. 3. p. 1. m. 12. 11▪ of june following, Command was sent to the Sheriff of London, that forasmuch as the Earl had shipped most of his Horse at Southampton, and was ready to depart, to make proclamation, that all the men at Arms, Archers, and others who were to go with him, should march to Southampton with all possible speed. b Froiss. c. 108. Immediately after his arrival in Gascoigne he took the Field, and laid Siege to Bosyll which surrendered to him. The Castle of Rochemyllone being well fortified, he took by assault, and slew all but those that fled into the Church: the next day he laid Siege to the Town of Mountsegur, and battered it with great Engines for 15 days together, and at length it was c Ibid. c. 109. yielded to him upon Composition. After this the strong Castle of d c. 108. Aguillon was yielded up to him, and then he laid Siege to e c. 109. Reole, which surrendered on mercy, but the Castle stood out 11 weeks, and then also f c. 111. surrendered. After his taking of Reole, he marched to g c. 112. Mountpesance Castle which he took by Storm, and then he sat down before Mauleon, and took it by the stratagem of an Ambush: He took also the Ville Franche in Agenois, with its Castle by assault, after which he marched through the Country, and took many other Towns and Castles, with little difficulty. At the end of three days Siege h c. 113. Myremont yielded to him, and some of his Forces took * Tonneins. Thomynes on the River Garonne, and the strong Castle Damasan. Last of all i c. 114. Augoulesme yielded to him after a Month's Siege, and thence he retired to his Winter Quarter at Bourdeaux. This Winter the Duke of Normandy entered k c. 118. Gascoigne, with 100000 men, and shortly after Christmas took the Field; in this Expedition he regained several places from the English, and sat down before Aiguillon; but after the l 20. E. 3. Battle at Cressy, being sent for back by the French King, he was constrained to raise his Siege. m Froiss. c. 136 Shortly after the retreat of the Duke of Normandy, this Earl (the King having sent to the n 6. May Claus. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 11. dorso. vide Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. Prior of the Order of the Friar's Preachers in London, to offer up Prayers, that God would please to protect and defend him, and give his Forces Victory over his Enemies) with 1200 men at Arms, 2000 Archers, and 3000 Foot passed the River Garonne towards Xantonge and took * Myrembeau. Myrabel by Storm, as also the Town and Castle of * Aunay Holli●sh. Alaay, and Sargeres and Benon. He likewise took Mortagne on the Sea side in Poictou by assault, and burned Lusignen, and took the Town and Castle of Taillebourge; at length he lay Siege to St. jean d' Angely, which surrendered to him upon Conditions, after which he took Maxinent by assault, and won the o holinsh. pag. 375. Town of Monstrevil Bonnin; he thence marched to Poicters, and that he took by Assault, where 700 of the Inhabitants were slain, and some Churches spoiled, and more had been, but that this pious Earl commanded the contrary on pain of death: Nevertheless they plundered the Town, and left it desolate, and here the Soldiers got so great Wealth, that nothing was of value but Gold, Silver, and Feathers for the Troops. From hence he returned to St. jean d' Angely, and thence to Bourdeaux, and in this Expedition, he gained so great esteem, that he was reported to be the Noblest Prince that ever road on Horseback. Having behaved himself so gallantly and faithfully in prosecuting and recovering of the King's right in these parts, the first of Febr. an. 21. E. 3. the King sent for him, back to be near unto himself for the future, upon all occasions, and to direct and assist in his Martial and other Affairs, whereupon he returned into England, and because King Edward understood: that the French King was making great preparations to draw down to Calais about Whitsuntide, he p 14. May Rot. Fr. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 10. enjoined him speedily to repair to his assistance, in reference to whose passage, q 19 May Ibid. m. 6. Command was sent to Io. de Montgomery Admiral of the Fleet Westward, to provide Ships in readiness at Sandwich and Dover, for the Transportation of the Army he had raised, with all speed; and immediately upon his coming thither, and consideration had of his victorious Successes and good Services, done the King in the Dukedom of Aquitain and parts adjoining, the King r Primo junii Rot. fact. ap●d Calais 21. E. 3. m. 13. granted to him and his Heir Males by Charter, the Castle, Town, and Place of Brageriac (in Diocese. Petragoriensis) with the whole Castellany and all jurisdiction high and low, Royal Authority, absolute and mixed, as also the Coinage of Money there. To which he afterward added a s 14. Mar. Rot. Vasc. 23. E. 3. m. 8. grant of the Examination of the Assay, with both the Criminal and Civil punishment of all Offenders for coining Money. And because this Town and Castle stood upon the Frontiers of the Enemy, the King t 17. junii Rot. Calefy 21. E. 3. m. 16. granted, that during the War, there should remain in that Garrison 100 men of Arms, and 200 Foot at the King's pay, subject nevertheless to the Command of the Steward of Gascoigne, to be drawn out upon occasion by him, leaving sufficient strength to defend the same. This Earl having taken divers Prisoners at the Town of St. john d' Angely, and reduced it to the obedience of the King, he therefore u 3. Oct. Ibid. m. 4. granted to him all the Lands, Tenements, Vines, and other Goods of those Prisoners, until their Ransoms were fully paid. And a w 8. Oct. Ibid. m. 1. little after granted unto him and his Heirs for ever, the Houses, Lands, etc. of Bernard Barram Burgess of that Town, to hold by the Service, of rendering to the King and his Heirs one Rose annually at Midsummer. Moreover, on the 10. of November following, he had further x Extract. Donat. 21. E. 3. m. 10. granted the Castle of Horston with the appurtenances in the County of Derby, and 40 l. per an. out of the Farm of the Town of Derby, to him and his Heirs Males, than the same to revert to the King and his Heirs. All these Grants were made to him upon the account of his good and grateful services formerly performed. Upon the y Froiss. c. 144. French King's coming towards Calais (in july before) with design to relieve it, the King appointed him to keep Newland bridge, for by securing that passage, the French could not pass on that side, unless through the Marches, which were not to be attempted without danger. z Ibid. c. 145. His order in keeping this place was much commended by the four French Commissioners, who passed by it when they came from their King to King Edward, to demand a place to fight in. At this time the a holinsh. pag. 377. Pope having sent two Cardinals to the King, they obtained his condescension to treat with King Philip, whose Commissioners were the Dukes of Burgoigne and Burbone, the Lord Lewis de Savoy, and the Lord john of Henalt, otherwise called Lord Beaumond; and on King Edward's part were the Noble Earls of Derby and Northampton, the Lords Cobham and Mannie: but three days being spent without coming to any conclusion, the Treaty broke up, and the Cardinal Mediators departed. b 5. Sept. Rot. Franc. 22. E. 3. m. 11. dorso. He was after made choice of by the King, and Ralph Earl of Eu and Guynes, Constable of France by the French King, to agree upon a Truce, in hopes of a Peace to hold for 6. Weeks, throughout Picardy, Normandy, Artois, Boulogne, and Flanders, to commence the 13. of the same September. The c Rot. Franc. 22. E. 3. m. 1. Vide Claus. 22. E. 3. p. 2. m. 8. dorso. 25. day of September following, he was constituted the King's Lieutenant, as well in the parts of Flanders and Calais, as elsewhere in the Kingdom of France, and therein power was given him to treat and agree with any of the King's Adversaries, or their Adherents, or other persons whatsoever. And after, by a particular d 11. Oct. Ibid. m. 4. Commission, he and William Bishop of Norwich, the Earls of Suffolk and Huntingdon and others, were empowered to Treat and agree with the Earl of Flanders and his Allies, touching any difference between the King and them; and it seems their Endeavours took so good effect, that an Agreement was made with that Earl the e Ib. m. 3. dorso. 10. of December following: whereupon he was sent to Denemere, and there received the said Earls Fealty and Homage. As to his transactions relating to France, f 18. Nou. Rot. Franc. 23. E. 3. m. 10. dorso. He with the Bishop of Norwich, the Earl of Suffolk, and Sir Walter Many agreed to the Prorogation of the Truce from the 18. of November, to the first of September following. Upon the Death of his Father, which fell out g Pat. de eod. an p. 2. m. 12 & Escaet 20. E. 3. an. 19 E. 3. he succeeded him in the Titles of the Earldoms of Lancaster and Leicester; and, for that a great part of the Lands, sometimes the Earl of Lincoln's, were come to his possession, the King h 20● Aug. Chart. 23. E. 3. m. 3. Created him also Earl of Lincoln. He had by his Charter of Creation granted unto him the Creation annuity of 20 l. to be paid him by the Sheriff of Lincolnshire for the time being, in lieu of the third penny of that County for ever, as Thomas late Earl of Lincoln his Uncle had, to enjoy whilst he lived. About 8. days after, the King renewed his Commission for being his i Rot. Vasc. 23. E. 3. m. 3. Captain and Lieutenant in Aquitain, and the parts adjacent, with all Powers requisite for the better Government of those Dominions, k Pat. 23. E. 3. part 2. m. 6. & 7. whether he shortly after passed. And by other Letters Patent he l Ibid. 18. Oct. constituted him his Captain and Lieutenant in Poicters, with full power to exercise all things which appertained to that Command. But for further increase of Honour, the King m 6. Mar. Pat. 25. E. 3. part 1. m. 18. Created him Duke of Lancaster, and granted, that during life he should have within that Country his Chancellor and justice, as well to the Pleas of the Crown as other Pleas whatsoever, to be held according to Law, and the Executions of them; and likewise all other Liberties and Royal Jurisdiction to a County Palatine appertaining, as freely and wholly as the Earl of Chester was known to enjoy in the County of Chester; the tenths and fifteenths, and all other payments granted by the Clergy or Canons, and pardons for life and members to the King, excepted. The n R●t. Franc. 25. E. 3. m. 15. 8. of March ensuing, he was constituted Admiral of the Fleet from the mouth of the River Thames Westward, and two days after the King Assigned him several Lieutenants; namely, Reginald de Ferers on the River Thames and Medway, Robert Ledred Sergeant at Arms within the Cinque-Ports, Philip de Wetton, and Walter de Harewell Sergeants at Arms in the Port of Seford, and in every part and place thence by the Sea-Coast to Fowy, Richard Lengles in the Port of Fowy, and thence to Bristol, and there, and in the Port of Chepstow, and River of Severn, and Ralph de Lullebrock in all places and Ports, from Chepstow to Chester, and there; and in all Parts and Maritine places in Wales. Upon a Rumour that the French had provided an Army and Navy to invade England, among the Maritine Counties on the South of England, Hants, Wilts, Somerset, and Dorset, were o 14 I●n. Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. m●. committed to this Duke to secure and to resist the Enemy. So also was the p I●●● Maritine parts of Lancashire. And because the King had occasion to raise men for Land Service, he q 〈…〉 gave him Commission to array 300. Archers within that Duchy, before the Quindena of the Holy Trinity than next following, to be ready to march in the King's Service. The Scots also designing to invade England the following year, this Duke had r ●0. Oct. R●●. Scot 27. ●. ●. m 1. Commission to array all able men in Lancashire, between the Age of 1● and 60 to march against them, in case they should presume to enter the Kingdom. The like s R●t. S●●t. ●9. ● 3. m 13. Commission was given him the 26. of February an. 29. ●. 3. The t R●●. 1. ●●an●. 29. ● 3. m●. 14. of September an. 29. E. 3. this noble Duke was constituted Lieutenant for the King, and john Duke of Bretagne, then under age. And by other u I●id. Letters Patent of the same date, Command was given to Sir Thomas Holland, the King's late Lieutenant, to deliver up to him all the Castles, Forts, Cities, Towns, and other Places, Lands, Tenements, and Rents in the said Dukedom under his custody, with all the Corn, Victuals, Money, and Issues of the said Dukedom, as also all Victuals, Engines, Arms, and other Ammunition in the said Castles, etc. which belonged to the King in Bretagne. The w Ibid. 30. E. 3. m 1. 8. of August, an. 30. E. 6. he was by the King's Letters Patent constituted Lieutenant and Captain in the Dukedom of Bretagne and parts adjacent, for the good Government thereof, both for the King and the said john de Montford Duke of Bretagne then under age, and in the King's custody, from Michaelmas following for one year. x Cap. 170. Froissard saith, this Duke was in Normandy, and with him the Lord Philip of Navarre, and the Lord Godfrey of Harecourt, carrying on the War in that Country, under the Title of the King of Navarre, at such time as the Prince was foraging of Berry, and used all endeavour to have joined his Forces with the Prince at Poicters; but the passages being so well kept on the River Loire, he could not pass, and having heard that the Prince had got the Victory there, he returned into England. In y Holli●s● pag. 385. this Voyage, being 4000 strong, they marched to Lisieux, to Orbed, to Ponteau, and relieved that Castle, besieged above two Months; but the Enemy hearing of the approach of the English, raised their Siege in such haste, that they left behind them their Ensigns and Artillery. This Duke then marched to Bretevil which he relieved, next to Vernevil in Perche, took both Castle and Town, and burned a great part of it. Upon the information of which, the French King raised a mighty Army, with design to fight him, but he withdrawing to Laigle, and the King being come within two Leagues of it, found the Forest so thick and hazardous, that he thought it not safe to pass further; and in his return took from the Navarrois the Castles of Tilliers and Bretevil, and so marched forward towards the Prince, then harrasing Berry. About the z ●●iss c. 175. middle of May an. 31. E. 3. he took the Field in Bretagne with 1000 men at Arms and 500 Archers, and laid Siege to Rennes, * Ho●●nsh. Ch●on. p. 291. which though well defended, was at length surrendered; and the a Rot. Franc. 31. E. 3. m. 10. 25. of july his Commission of Lieutenancy, both for the King and Duke of Bretagne, was renewed for another year, to commence at Michaelmas following; but the b Rot. Franc. 32. E. 3. m. 8. 8. of August before the expiration thereof, Sir Robert Herle and john de Buckenham Clerk, were appointed to succeed him, being jointly and severally constituted Captains and Lieutenants both to the King and Duke for the following year, from Michaelmas than next ensuing. c Ibid. At that time Tho. Douvedale was the Duke's Lieutenant in that Dukedom, to whom command was given, dated the d Ibid. 5. of August preceding, to deliver up all things in his custody there, and belonging to the King, to such as the King had appointed to receive them; in like manner as they were formerly delivered up to the Earl by Sir Thomas Holland, late Captain there. In the Expedition made by the King into France, in the 33. year of his Reign, this Duke e H●lli●sh. pag. 392. was sent before to Calais, with 400 Spears and 2000 Archers, where being arrived, he took with him those Lords of the Empire, and other Commanders, who there waited the Kings coming to Calais, and marched to St. Omars, Cambray, and other places; wasting all the Country as he passed, until he heard of the arrival of the King, and then returned to Calais. This Voyage with the King into France, was the last Martial Employment this Great Duke undertook; and as he had manifested to the World, the wisdom and valour of a great Commander, and succeeded happily in Martial Affairs, so was he no Enemy to Peace, but as ready to lay hold of it on fair and honourable terms, as he was forward to draw his Sword in defence of the King's honour and right: And this was most evident at the Treaty of Bretagne near Chartres, where f Froiss. c. 211. though the King was very unwilling to accept of a Peace, upon terms offered by the French, yet moved by the persuasive Arguments of this worthy Duke, he condescended thereunto. It was also upon his g Ibid. c. 213. motion, both to the King and King john of France, that the Truce made at Rennes between Charles de Bloys, and the Earl of Montfort, which was to expire the first of May, was enlarged to Midsummer following, in hopes of a final Peace to be by that time made between them. His Wife. He married h Brook in Lancaster. Isabel Daughter of Henry Lord Beaumond, Cousin-german to Queen Isabel, Wife to King Edward the Second, and by her had two Daughters and Heirs; Manned his eldest Daughter, was Wife * Claus. 21. E. 3. p. 2. m. 6. first to Ralph, Son of Ralph Earl of Stafford, and next to i Esc. 35. E. 3. n. 122. William Duke of Bavaria, Earl of Henault, Holland, and Zealand, Lord of Friesland, styled also Earl of k Pat. de eod. an. p. 3. m. 19 Leicester; and Blanche the youngest, to john of Gaunt created Duke of Lancaster, a. 36. E. 3. His l Lib. in Offic. principal. Cantuar. vocat. Islip. fol. 172. Will was made in his Castle at Leicester the 15. of March 1360. in which he is styled Duke of Lancaster, His Death. Earl of Derby, Lincoln, and Leicester, Steward of England, Lord of Bergerac and Beaufort: and by which he appoints his Body to be interred in the Collegiate Church of our Lady at Leicester, where his Father was buried. He died within few days after, viz. on m Esc. 35. E. 3. n. 122. Tuesday next before Easter an. 35. E. 3. and was buried at Leicester, according to the appointment of his Will. (4.) Thomas Beauchamp Earl of Warwick. THis noble Earl was eldest Son to Guy Earl of Warwick, and Alice Sister and a Rot. Fin. 3. E. 2. m. 7. Heir of Robert Toney. He was born in b Rot. joh. Rows. Warwick Castle, and had to his Godfathers c Rot. joh. Rows. Thomas Earl of Lancaster, Henry his Brother, and Thomas de Warington Prior of Kenilworth. On d Claus. 3. E. 3. m. 35. New-year's day, in the second year of King Edward the Third, he was made Knight, though then within age; and the e Claus. 3. E. 3. m. 35. 20. of February following, having made his Homage, had Livery of his Father's Lands. In the fifth year of the same King, the Government of the Isles of f Pat. 5. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. Gernsey, Sark, and Aureney was conferred on him. About two years after, he attended g Claus. 7. E. 3. m. 16. dorso. King Edward the Third, in that famous and successful Expedition against the Scots; and in h holinsh. Chron p. 351 a. Christmas holidays, an. 8. E. 3. he and the Earl of Oxford were sent with Edward King of Scots, to secure Carlisle, and defend the West Marches of England: who, with some Forces raised in Lancashire, Westmoreland, and Cumberland, entered Scotland about Twelvetide, wasted Gallaway, and returned to Carlisle. He attended the King again into Scotland, i Rot. Scot 9 E. 3. m. 27. an. 9 E. 3. when King Edward, by Carlisle, and Edward King of Scots, from Berwick, entered again that Kingdom: after which he was one of those Noblemen to whose trust the King committed the k Walsing. pag. 118. Guardianship of the Marches. The following year l holinsh. pag. 352. he and other of the Nobility of England, entered Scotland about Whitsuntide, and passed as far as St. john's Town, which they fortified; and in this Kingdom he m Rot. Scot 10. E. 3. m. 27. remained all the year. About the beginning of n holinsh. pag. 353. Sept. an. 11. E. 3. he again entered Scotland with an Army by Berwick, whilst the Lords Wake and Clifford entered by Carlisle; and within two days both their Forces united, whereupon they wasted Tividale, Moseteidale, and Nidesdale, whilst Anthony Lord Lucy wasted Gallaway; but not being able to prosecute their Voyage, by reason of the great Rains, they returned within twelve days to Carlisle: and so much to the satisfaction of the King did he behave himself in this Expedition, that the o Pat. 11. E. 3. m. 9 19 of March following, he made Letters obligatory to him for p Pat. 11. E. 3. m. 9 500 Marks as a gift, to be paid him at Michaelmas following. When the King undertook his first Expedition into France, an. 13. E. 3. (by the way of Flanders) he likewise attended him thither, and had q Froiss lib. 1. cap. 41. Command of a Wing in the field pitched between Vyronsos' and Flamengery, in which, among others were the Earl of Penbroke, the Lords Berkley, and Moulton. He went over with the r Rot. Alman. 14. E. 3. m 25. King into Flanders, when by the way, that memorable Naval fight happened before Sluice, where the King obtained a signal Victory against the French: and was s Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 63. one of the Commissioners nominated at the Treaty agreed on at the Siege of Tournay, to be sent to Arras, in order to a further Treaty; where after 15 days debate, nothing was agreed on, but the Surrender of the County of Poictou (seized on by the French King the preceding year) and a prolongation of the Truce for two years. An. 16. E. 3. he was one of the t Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m. 39 Commissioners nominated to treat with the King's Allies in Brabant and Flanders, about his designed Expedition into France: in which, he after attended the King with u Claus. 16. E. 3. p. 2. m. 32. 80 men at Arms, 1 Banneret, 18 Knights, 60 Esquires, and 100 Archers on Horseback; for whose passage a Writ issued to w 30. Aug. Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m. 30 dorso. john de Montgomery, Admiral of the Fleet Westward to provide Ships. At x Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 95. Nantes in Bretagne (to which the King had laid Siege) he behaved himself so gallantly upon a Sally made by the Town, that they were forced to retreat with great loss. Not long after his return into England, he marched into y Tho. Walsing. pag. 150. Scotland, with Henry of Lancaster Earl of Derby, to raise the Siege laid against Louhmaban Castle, whereof the Earl of Northampton was Governor; and when he came back, was employed with z 19 Aug. Rot. Franc. 17. E. 3. m. 12. the said Earl of Derby, and some others to the Pope, to treat about King Edward's right to the Crown of France, which produced nothing but an enlargement of the Truce. The following year he was constituted a 10. Feb. Pat. 18. E. 3. p. 1. m. 18. Marshal of England during pleasure. In that great Expedition b Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 121. first designed for Gascoigne, an. 20. E. 3. he was made Admiral of the Fleet; but the c Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 121. King altering his course upon the advice of Sir Godfrey de Harecourt, took into his own Ship the Admiral's Colours, and sailed towards Normandy. Where landing at Hoges, this Earl made the first attempt with d ●podig. Neustr. p. 118. n. 30. one Esquire and six Archers, against 100 Normans, whereof 60 were slain upon the place, and, by this valiant action, made way for the King's Army to land. Upon this he was constituted one of the e Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 122. Marshals of the King's Army, and Sir Godfrey de Harecourt the other. And upon the Kings advance to Cressy, he was one of the f Ibid. c. 128. Commanders under the Prince of Wales, who led the Van of his Army in that famous battle. He attended the King at the Siege of Calais, with g MS. 3 Bannerets, 61 Knights, 160 Esquires, 154 Archers on Horseback: and upon its surrender, h Froiss. c. 128. he with the Earl of Stafford and Sir Walter Manny had the Keys of the Town delivered them by the King, and were appointed to take possession of it for him. And for his great services in this Voyage into France, the King i 15. Dec. Pat. 21. E. 3. p. 3. m. 13. gave him 1366 l. 11. s. 8 d. and after assigned him k Pat. 22. E. 3. p. 2. m. 5. 1000 Marks per annum for life, out of the Customs of London, Lynn, and St. botolph's; and these, partly in recompense for his great services, and partly for wages due for attendance on his person with 100 men at Arms, according to certain Indentures of Covenants made betwixt them. He was also in that l Stow p. 230. Naval fight against the Spanish Fleet near Winchelsey quarto Calendas Septembris, an. 24. E. 3. where the English m Walsing. pag. 160. took 26 of their best Ships, the rest fled or were sunk. King Edward having received intelligence, that the French King threatened an Invasion, this Earl was constituted Admiral of the Sea, from the River Thames, Westward, and n 23. Feb. Rot. Franc. 26. E. 3. m. 13. Philip de Witton made his Lieutenant. The same year he was o Ibid. m. 5. constituted one of the Commissioners assigned for the Arraying all able men, as well Knights and Esquires, as others within the Counties of Warwick, Leicester, and Worcester, for defence of the Realm. The Prince being constituted the King's Lieutenant in Aquitaine, he p Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 7. attended him thither: and there q Ibid. 30. E. 3. m. 4. stayed with him that year, and the year r Ibid. 31. E. 3. m. 16. after. And that the Town of Vattes in Bretagne might be made defensible, he had s Rot. Franc. 32. E. 3. m. 13. command to take care of the fortifying it, and to furnish the Magazine with stores. In the Battle at Poitiers, the t Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 162. French King and his eldest Son encountered the Battle of the English Marshals, led by the Earls of Warwick and Suffolk: And after the Victory, the Prince sent this u Ibid. c. 164. Earl and Sir Reignold Cobham, to discover what was become of the French King, who after some time espied a Company of Soldiers together, and riding towards them, found the French King on foot in great danger, between the English and Gascoigners (for they had taken him from Sir Denis Morbeck, to whom the King first yielded himself, and in token thereof had given him his right Gauntlet) there being above 10 Knights and Esquires among them, who challenged him for their Prisoner; but this Earl entering the throng, commanded the Soldiers to fall back, and brought King john to the Prince. In this Battle, the Earl himself took William de Melleun Archbishop of Seinz Prisoner (for whose Ransom he after received w Pat. 37. E. 3. p. 1. m. 25. 8000 l.) and therein behaved himself most valiantly, and got great renown; having fought so long, that his x MS. in Bibl. B●dl. [Cant●ar.] K. 84.123. hand was galled with the management of his Sword and Poleax. This Earl was in the y Rot. Vasc. 31. E. 3. m. 16. Gascoigne War, an. 31. E. 3. he also attended the King in his Expedition into France, a. 33. E. 3. And after the Peace was agreed upon at Bretigny near Chartres, and the King returned to England, he gave this Earl the z holinsh. pag. 394. Command of all the Forces he left behind him in Guyenne, or any other place on that side the Sea. a Froiss. lib. ●. cap. 207. An. 36. E. 3. he marched in the Retinue of b Rot. Franc. 36. E. 3. m. 5. john Duke of Bretagne: The following year he attended the c Ibid. 37. E. 3. m. 4. Prince of Wales into Gascoigne, and had an allowance of d Liberate 37. E. 3. m. 3. 452 l. in recompense of his expenses and loss sustained, by stay of himself and Men at Arms at Southampton. After he had been a while in Gascoigne he began his e Autogr. pene Rob. Com. Aylesbur. Travels into other Countries, having a Train of 300 Horse, consisting of Knights, Esquires, Archers, and Servants. In this Journey he spent f Hist. MS. joh. Rows, pag. 253. 3 years, having made great proof of his Valour in the East Countries against the Pagans; and in his return for England, brought along with him the King of Lituania's Son, to whom, being g Hist. MS. joh. Rows, pag. 253. christened in London, this Earl was Godfather, and named him Thomas. His Commission for h 16. Oct. Pat. 40. E. 3. p. 2. m. 16. Marshal of England was renewed to him an. 40. E. 3. and the following year i Rot. Scot 41. E. 3. m. 5. he and the Bishop of Durham, and some others, were impowered to supervise the Marches of Scotland, and to treat with David de Bruys about the rupture of the Truce formerly made at Berwick, and several injuries done by the Scots. His Wife and Children. He married k Dudgales' Antiq. of Warwick shire, pag. 319. a. Katherine, one of the Daughters of Roger Mortimer Earl of March, who died some few weeks before him. He had by her these l Ib. 321. a. Children; Guy his eldest Son, who died in France; Thomas, who succeeded him in his Earldom; m Ib. 321. a. Reynburn; William Lord Bergaveny; and Roger. His Daughters were Maud, the Wife of Roger Lord Clifford; Philippe, of Hugh Earl of Stafford; Alice, of john Beauchamp of Hach; joan, of Ralph Lord Basset of Drayton; Isabel of john Lord Strange of Blackmere; Margaret, of Guy de Montfort; Agnes, of— Cokesey; julian, and Katherine. His Death. This noble Earls last action was in the Isle of Caux, an. 43. E. 3. for n Walsingh. p. 178. n. 20. passing over to Calais in assistance of the Duke of Lancaster (as is mentioned) the French having intelligence of his coming, presently withdrew in great confusion from Chalke-hill where they had pitched their Tents, and upon his arrival, understanding that the English had only faced the French, and not fought them, he could not forbear to condemn their slackness, and out of a high sense and indignation thereof, said, I will go on and fight, before the English bread which we have eaten be digested; and forthwith past into the Isle of Caux in Normandy, which he entered with Fire and Sword: but returning to Calais, he fell sick of the Pestilence (than vulgarly called the Third Mortality) and died on the o Esc. 43. E. 3. p. 1. n. 19 13. of November. His Body was brought over into England, and interred in the middle of the Choir of the Collegiate Church at Warwick; the Sculp of whose Monument is to be seen in the p Pag. 318. Antiquities of Warwickshire. (5) Piers Capitow de la Bouch. We are yet to seek who this person was, notwithstanding there hath wanted no pains in the search. That his name was Peter is most evident from the Inscription under his Plate, yet remaining in Windesor Chappel, in these very Syllables, Le Capitow de la Bouch Monsieur Piers: But whether Peter de Greilly Viscount Benanges, mentioned in the following Pedigree be the same person is some question. For first, in all those Records, where he is remembered, the Title of Capitow de la Bouch is not given him. Secondly, we cannot trace him beyond the 22. year of the Reign of King Edward the Third; and the Order of the Garter was not Instituted till the following year. Thirdly, john his Son is called Capitan de Bou●h, q Rot. Vasc. ●. E. 3. m. 24. an. 5. E. 3. and so till he died. And if he should prove the people (as some do take him to be) it is a strange mistake committed in the Engravement of the Plate, which seems to be as ancient as any of the rest, set up in the Chapel at Windesor. Of this john Capitan de Buch, there are many things noted by Sir john Froissard, relating to both his taking King Edward's side against the French, and his valiant actions in those Wars: But in regard we doubt of his being one of the first Knights-Companions of the Garter, we have thought fit (for the present) to wave the Historical account of him, and entreat the Reader in lieu of it, to content himself with that of some part of the descent, whereby he may guests at the greatness, yet unsuccessfulness of our pains, in endeavouring to ascertain the person. johannes de Greilly dominus Benanges, Senescallus totius Aquitaniae. Rot. Vasc. 6. & 7. E. 1. m. 9 Claramonda filia & haeres Galliardi de Mota domini de Laudirons. Rot. Vasc. 6. & 7. E. 1. m. 9 Petrus de Greilly miles. Rot. Vasc. 14. E. 3. m. 2. (r) She by her Will, made her Brother Peter, and john his Son her Nepheu, the Captain de Buch her Heirs. Rot. Vasc. 14. E. 3. m. 2. & 17. E. 3. m. 11. dorso. Katherine de Greilly Domina Locorum Saint Blasii & de Laudiron. Rot. Vasc. 14. E. 3. m. 2. Petrus de Greilly Vicecom: Benangiarum & Castellionis. Rot. Vasc. 14. E. 3. m. 2. & 16. E. 3. m. 13. & 22. E. 3. m. 25. Assalita soror & haeres Petri de Burdegal. Rot. Vasc. 5. E. 3. m. 24. Petrus de Burdegal. dominus de Puypaulini. (s) Petrus de Burdegal. dominus de puypaulini and Petrus Amanenus Captain de Bugh, were Uncles to this john. Rot. Vasc. 5. E. m. 7. he was heir to them both, and Executor of their Testaments. Rot Vasc. 2. E. 3. m. 4. this johns Will is dated the 6. of March. 1368. Rot. Vasc. 7. R. 2. m. 10. johannes de Greilly ac Capitaneus de Buch. Rot. Vasc. 5. E. 3. m. 24.14. E. 3. m. 2.16. E. 3. m. 13. & 29. E. 3. m. 6. Blanch de Loup. Archambaud de Greilly Capitalis de Bogio ac Vicecomes Benangiarum & Castillionis, (t) It appears in this Roll that john his Father used these Titles also. ac dominus de Podiopaulini, & Castri novi, in Medulco. Rot. Vasc. 7. R. 2. m. 10. (6.) Ralph Earl of Stafford. THis Noble Earl was Son unto Edmund Lord Stafford, first summoned to Parliament, a Glaus. de eod. an. Dorso. a. 27. E. 1. and b Fin. levat. Octob. Mich. 27. E. 1. War. Margaret, c Esc. 14. R. 2. n. 9 Daughter to Ralph Lord Basset of Draiton: His Father died d Esc. 2. E. 2. n. 63. an. 2. E. 2. and e Claus. 17. E. 2 m. 25. and a. 17. E. 2. being of full age he did his Homage, and had Livery of his Father's Lands. The first military employment that he undertook, was an. 1. E. 3. being f Claus. 1. E. 3. p. 1. m. 2. dorso. summoned to be at Newcastle upon Tine on Monday next before Ascension day, to go against the Scots. The g Rot. Scot 10. E. 3. m. 31. 12. of February, an. 10. E. 3. the King sent his Writ directed to him, Philip Chetwind, and Philip Somervill, to raise in Staffordshire (Lichfield excepted) 60 Hobelars, and 200 Archers, and to bring them to Berwick upon Tweed, before the following Octaves of Easter. In his absence it seems there was some attempts made, to seize upon his Lady, and carry her away; but making his complaint to the King, he received her under his protection, and h 28. Oct. Ibid. m. 6. directed his Writ to the Sheriff to protect her, so long as her Lord remained in his service. I find this noble Lord was an. 15. E. 3. i Extract. Donot. 15. E. 3. m. 6. Steward of the King's House, and one of those who went over k Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 91. into Bretagne l Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m. 36. an. 16. E. 3. with Robert d' Artous, to the assistance of the Countess of Montfort. He behaved himself bravely in the Sea-fight near the Isle of Gernsey with the French and Genoeses, who endeavoured to interrupt their passage thither: but after they had been a while engaged, a violent storm parted the two Navies, and the English landed safely; the first Town taken by them being Vannes, and that by m Ibid. cap. 92. assault. Soon after, this Town was n Ibid. cap. 93. retaken by Sir Henry de Leon, and the Lord Clisson; but o Ibid. cap. 94. the latter end of the Summer, King Edward landed with an Army, and laid a new Siege to it, and perceiving the Country was much wasted, he left the Earl of Arundel, with this Lord, before it, and went to Rennes. p c. 95. It happened that one day upon an assault, this Lord ventured so far, that he was got between the City Gate and the Bars, and there taken Prisoner, but at another side of the Town, Sir Henry de Leon and the Lord Clisson, were both taken Prisoners by the English, and so q c. 99 he was afterwards exchanged for the Lord Clisson. In this Expedition he had▪ Wages allowed him for r Claus. 16. E. 3 p. 2. m. 32. 50 men at Arms; viz. himself, two Bannerets, 16 Knights, 31 Esquires, and 50 Archers on Horseback. An. 17. E. 3. was a year of much action, for first, this Earl with the Earl of Lancaster, and other Noblemen, went into s T. Walsingh. pag. 150. Scotland, to raise the Siege laid by the Scots to the Castle of Louhmaban; and being returned, was joined in t 20. May Rot. Franc. 17. E. 3. m. 12. Commission with Hugh le Despenser, Lord of Glamorgan, William de Norwich Dean of Lincoln, Sir William Trussell, and Andrew de Offord, to treat in the Pope's presence with the Agents of Philip de Valois, concerning the King's right to the Crown of France; but we suppose he went not on that Embassy, for the u Ibid. m. 12. 19 of August there was another Commission for that Affair, made out to Henry of Lancaster, Earl of Derby and others, wherein he and Sir William Trussell were omitted, and they the w Ibid. m. 12. first of july preceding, with Philip de Weston Canon of York, and john Wawayn, were sent to treat with the Noblemen, Burgomasters, etc. in Flanders, about the setlement of the Staple of Wool there, and touching the Coining of Gold and Silver, such as might be current both in England and Flanders; and whatsoever by any 3 or 2 of them should be agreed on, this Ralph Earl of Stafford being one, the King promised to ratify. x Ibid. They had another Commission, wherein power was granted them, to treat with the Princes, Nobles, and People of Almain, upon Alliances between the King and them, and to gain their assistance for him. The following year he went in the Expedition into y Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 102. Gascoigne, with the Earl of Derby; and z Ibid. c. 103. commanded the Party that assaulted Bergerac by Water, who behaved themselves so valiantly, that through their Valour the Town was forced to surrender to the Earl. a Ib. c. 104.107.109. & 111. He was very active in this Gascoigne War, and almost in continual Service: and in b c. 112. sealing the Walls of Mountpesat Castle, Richard Pennenort an English Gentleman that bore his Banner was slain. For his Great Services in this War (after his return into England) he was made Seneschal of Gascoigne, and had the c 25. Feb. Rotsie▪ Vasc. 19 E. 3. m. 8. King's Letter sent to the Prelates and Nobility of that Country, to obey and submit to his Authority, while he continued in that Office. Within a d 1. Mar. Rot. Franc. de eod. an. p. 1. m. 33. few days after, the King directed his Writ to Richard Earl of Arundel, Admiral of the West-parts, to arrest 13. stout Ships, each of 80. Tun Burden at least, to bring them to Bristol, before the Octaves of Easter, for the passage of this Lord, his men at Arms, and Archers, into that Country. After a years enjoyment of this great Office, he became desirous to resign it, and to that purpose made an address to the King, who e 15. May. Rot. Vasc. 20. E. 3. m. 2. sent directions to the Earl of Derby, to confer with him about his continuance in it, to which, if he could not be persuaded to consent, than he gave the Earl power to take his resignation, and substitute some other fit person in his room to hold it, during the King's pleasure. This Spring f Stow● Chron▪ p. 240. john de Valois Duke of Normandy, laid Siege to Aiguillon, of which Town this Lord was Governor, and then within it; and though the Earl of Derby relieved him, yet had the Duke so strongly entrenched himself, that he could not raise the Siege, so that it was continued by the Duke, to the Decollation of St. john Baptist in August; at which time, being called away to assist King Philip his Father against King Edward, who had entered France with a puissant Army, he raised his Siege. Upon which, the Lord Stafford sallying out of the Town, fell upon his Rear, cut off a great part of it, and having joined his to the King's Forces, he had given him a Command in the g Froiss. l. 1. c. 128. Van of the Army under the Prince, at the Battle of Cressy. And after the Victory h Ib. c. 132. was sent with Sir Reignold Cobham, and 3. Heralds, to view the slain, who made report of 11. great Princes, 80. Bannerets, 1200. Knights, and above 30000. Common Soldiers. When Calais was surrendered, he was one of those appointed to take possession of it for the King: and had i Ib. c. 147▪ many fair Houses given him in that Town, to place Inhabitants in. Shortly after the rendition, the Cardinals of Naples and Clerimont, mediated a Peace between both Kings, whereupon this Lord, with Reignold de Cobham, Io. Darcy, and Robert de Bourghcher, were k 25. Sept. Rot. Cales. 21. E▪ 3. m. 4. nominated by the King to treat of a Peace, or Truce, between them, their Subjects, Allies, and Adherents. And for his good Services done to the King in France, He l 6. Sept. Rot. Pat. 22. E. 3. p. 3. m. 37. gave him a Pension of 600. Marks for life, out of the Customs of London and St. butolph's. The King also bestowed on him as a gift m Ib. p. 2. m. 25. 573 l. towards his expenses in his service beyond Sea. He was with the n Froiss. c. 151. King, in the Encounter with Sir Geoffry Charney at Calais. And went into o Stow p. 247. Goscoigne with the Earl of Lancaster, and other Lords, to stop the Progress of the Duke of Normandy made there with his Army. And growing more and more in the King's favour, by his meritorious Services, he advanced him to the Dignity of an p 5. Mar. Chart. 25. E. 3. m. 31. Earl; and for the better support of that Honour, and towards the defraying of his charge, in attending the King with certain men at Arms, both in Peace and War, he granted him q 5. Mar. Chart. 25. E. 3. m. 31. a Pension of 1000 Marks per Annum, during life, out of his Customs in London, till he could settle on him the said annual sum in Lands or Rents. The next day he was s 6. Mar. Rot. Vasc. 25. E. 3. m. 7. constituted the King's Lieutenant and Captain in the Dukedom of Aquitaine, and parts adjacent; and the t Ib. m. 7. 3 d. of April following, the King gave him power to appoint a Seneschal of Gascoigne, and a Constable of Bourdeaux; and these to be such persons as he should think fit, to enjoy those Offices, during the King's pleasure. The next year, the King empowered u 8. Mar. Rot. Vasc. 26. E. ●. m. 6. him by a Commission to treat and agree with all persons of what Kingdom, Nation, or Degree soever, upon a firm friendship and mutual assistance between the King and them, and to retain them against all men, to agree with them, upon Fees, Wages, and rewards, to receive security from them, and give the like to them, and what he did herein, the King obliged himself and his Heirs to observe and perform. Being ready to take another Journey into Gascoigne, a Writ w 14. May. Rot. Franc. 26. E. 3. m. 11. issued to Thomas Beauchamp (Earl of Warwick) Admiral towards the West, to arrest all Ships of 50. Tuns and upwards, for this Earls passage thither, and to bring them to Sandwich, by Quindena Trinitatis following; and upon his Entry into that Country he x Stow p. 253. b. defeated the French that sallied out of the Fortress of Gagent: and among them was taken seven Knights of the Star. An. z Rot. Franc. 29. E. 3. m. 5. 29. E. 3. he went over with the King to Calais, at the latter end of Summer, and marched along with him in pursuit of King john as far as Heyden. And a Rot. Franc. 33. E. 3. p. 2. m. 2. an. 33. E. 3. he attended him in his Voyage into France; which terminated with the Peace agreed on at Bretigny near Chartres. Two years after he was designed for b Rot. Pat. 35. E. 3. p. 2. m. 7. Ireland, in the Company of several other persons of Quality upon the King's Service. But after this Voyage being much broken with Age, and wasted with Sickness, he became uncapable of public Employments. This Noble Lord Married c Esc. 16. E. 3. n. 36. & Esc. 21. E. 3. n. 59 Margaret Daughter and Heir of Hugh de Audeley, Earl of Gloucester, and Margaret his Wife, who died the 7. of September, an. 21. E. 3. and by whom he had Issue, * Claus. 21. E. 3. p. 2. m. 6. Ralph his eldest Son, who married ‖ Claus. 21. E. 3. p. 2. m. 6. Maud Daughter of Henry de Lancaster Earl of Derby, but died about 21. E. 3. d Esc. 46. E. 3. n. 62. Hugh, who succeeded him in his Earldom; and e Brook in Stafford. Sir Richard Stafford Knight; f Brook in Stafford. Beatrix, the Wife of Maurice fitz Maurice Earl of Desmond; g Brook in Stafford. joan, of john Charleton Lord Powes, and h Brook in Stafford. Margaret, of john Stafford, Patron of the Church of Bromhall in Staffordshire. He died the i Esc. 46. E. 3. n. 62. last of August, an. 46. E. 3. and lies buried at Turnbridge in Kent. (7.) William Montacute Earl of Salisbury. THis Earl was Son unto k Brook in Salisbury. William Montacute, first Earl of Salisbury, of that Family, and l Brook in Salisbury. Katherine, one of the Coheirs of William Lord Grantson. He was born the m Esc. an. 18. E. 3. n. 51. Morrow after Midsummer day, an. 2. E. 3. for at the Death of his Father (found to be the n Esc. an. 18. E. 3. n. 51. 30. of january, an. 18. E. 3.) he was o Esc. an. 18. E. 3. n. 51. 15. years old the Midsummer before. The p Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 6. 24. of May, an. 20. E. 3. the Wardship of his body was committed to john de Somerton, and Thomas Waryn, until Christmas following, and then q Ib. p. 2. m. 4. renewed till Whitsuntide, and thence till Michaelmas ensuing: and being within Age, he r Ib. p. 1. m. 11. attended the King in that memorable expedition into France, an. 20. E. 3. So also did his younger Brother s Ib. m. 6. john. He was in the t Stow's Chron. p. 250. Sea Fight against the Spaniards, near Winchelsey, an. 24. E. 3. and going into Gascoigne, in the u Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 11. retinue of the Prince of Wales, a. 29. E. 3. he obtained w 8. july. Ib. m. 5. Letters directed to the Seneschal there, with Command, that he should not be sued or molested, for any of his own or Ancestors debts, during the space of two years. x Froiss. c. 207. An. 33. E. 3. he attended the King in his Royal expedition into France, and from that time to the 43. of Edward the Third, we find little mention of his Martial employments; but that year, he went over with y Holinsh. pag. 404. john Duke of Lancaster, in his Voyage into France, against whom the Duke of Burgoigne was sent with so great an Army, that the z Froiss. l. 1. c. 268. English were but as a handful to them, and having pitched his Tents near Calais, within a Mile of the English Army, after 19 days stay he dislodged and went to St. Omars, not with much honour as some observe. After whose departure the Duke of Lancaster returned to Calais, and having refreshed his Army for three days, and marched thence to a Froiss. l. 1. c. 269. St. Omars, and the County of St. Paul, then passed the River Some, and entered the Countries of We xin and Ewe, within the Archbishopric of Rouen, thence to Deep and Harflew, with design to burn the French Fleet which lay there, but the Earl of St. Paul was entered the Town before, and so secured the Haven. Whereupon he returned through Ponthieu, where, before Abeville, Sir Hugh de Chastelon Master of the Crossbows in France, was taken, who with the Earl of St. Paul had before entered Ponthieu, and took it from the King of England; and having wasted the Country with Fire and Sword as they passed along to Calais, stayed there a while, and then took shipping for England, where he arrived about the Feast of St. Martin the Bishop in Winter. This Earl b Froiss. l. 1. c. 305. attended the King, when he took his Voyage to relieve Thovars, an. 46. E. 3. who directing his course towards Rochel, was not able to land by reason of contrary Winds and Tempests, but forced to return after nine weeks being tossed upon the Sea. The year following, c Ibid. c. 308. he, with William Nevil, and Sir Philip Courtney, was sent to Sea, upon a rumour that jevan, Prince of Wales, Son of Prince Aymon, was upon the English Coast with 6000 men, designing to land. The Earl had 40 Sail of Ships besides Barges, and 2000 men of Arms, besides Archers, and departing from Cornwall sailed to Bretagne, and coming to St. Malo, burned seven great Spanish Ships in that Haven. Thence they sailed to Breast, and there relieved the Garrison (where Sir Robert Knolls was besieged by the Constable, Sir Bertrand de Guesclin) with men and provisions; which having done, they took shipping, with design to keep the Frontiers of Bretagne and Normandy, about which time the King had recruited them with 1000 men of Arms, and 2000 Archers. Hereupon he again went to Breast, with a resolution to fight the French that lay before it; but before he got thither, the Constable had withdrawn most of his men, to other Sieges, upon a Composition made with the Garrison, to surrender in case they were not relieved within 40 days, for performance of which they had taken Hostages. Upon the d Ibid. c. 309. Earls arrival, he sent to the Constable either to fight, or to return the Hostages, but he refused both; so the Earl having Victualled the Castle departed to Sea, and kept the Marches and Frontiers as before. In the 50. year of King Edward's Reign, he was e 16 july Rot. Franc. 50. E. 3. m. 14. constituted Admiral of his Fleet, from the River Thames, towards the Western parts. And the following year, a f 2 jan. Rot. Franc. 51. E. 3. m. 8. Commission issued to him and some others, to Array all able men from 16 to 60 years of Age in the County of Dorset, to be ready on occasion, to withstand an Invasion, and defend the Kingdom, there being apprehensions that the French would land. The first year of King Richard the Second, the French being on the Sea, this Earl was assigned to secure the Sea Coasts in the Counties of Southampton and Dorset; to which purpose, g 2 july Pat. 1. R. 2. p. 1. m. 29. Command was sent to the Knights and Gentry of those Counties, to be assistant to him▪ It appears also, that he was this year employed in h Rot Franc. 1. R. 2. m. 17.19. & 21. Sea service, and an. 2. R. 2. i 2 Febr. Rot. Franc. 2. R. 2. m. 9 constituted Governor of Calais. An. 8. R. 2. he, with divers others of the Nobility, had k 13 june Claus. 8. R. 2. m. 3. dorso. Summons to appear at Newcastle upon Tyne, the 14. of july with Horse and Arms, thence to march against the Scots. The l 19 Aug. Pat. 9 R. 2. m. 36. custody of the Isle of Wight and Castle of Carbroke, with the whole Demesne thereunto belonging was granted to him during his life, with all the profits, liberties, and advantages, as the King enjoyed them, without rendering any thing therefore; only, that he should maintain the Castle, and undergo all Charges of the Isle and Castle, as the Governors thereof usually had done. He design dto marry joan Daughter to Edmund Plantagenet, His Wife and Children. Earl of Kent, and gained a Contract from her; but Sir Thomas Holland, in his m Lib. in Offic. Princip. Cantuar. uccat. Islip. f. 178. Petition to Pope Clement the Sixth, alleging a precontract from her with him, upon which carnal copulation followed, and being after in Foreign parts, this Earl contracted with her again, and unjustly withheld her from him, thereupon the Pope gave judgement against the Earl, who complying therewith, married another noble Lady, namely, n Brook in Salisbury. Elizabeth eldest Daughter, and after one of the three Coheirs of john Lord Mohun (another of the Founders of this most Noble Order) who outlived her Lord, and had her Dower o 9 Dec. Claus. 21. R. 2. m. 3. assigned an. 21. R. 2. By this Lady he had William, his only Son and Heir, unfortunately p Brook. loco cit. slain at Windesor, an. 6. R. 2. by his own hand, in a Tilting; a place fatal also to his Father, who at the q holinsh. p. 366. jousts held there, a. 18. E. 3. was so sorely bruised, that he died soon after; so that r Esc. 21. R. 2. n. 35. Claus. 21. R. 2. m. 8. & 16. And Death. john Montacute, his Cousin and Heir, Son and Heir of his Brother john, succeeded him in his Earldom. This Earl died the s Esc. 21. R. 2. n. 35. Wilts. 3. of june an. 20. R. 2. having survived all the first Founders of this most Noble Order. (8.) Roger Mortimer Earl of March. HE was the Son of t Brook, in March. Edmund Mortimer (Son and Heir of Roger Mortimer, first Earl of March) and u Esc. 30. E. 3. Buck. Elizabeth his Wife, Daughter of Bartholomew de Badlesmere, Baron of Leeds, (who after her Husband's death was married to William Bohun Earl of Northampton) born w Esc. 5. E. 3. n. 79. towards the latter end of the first years Reign of King Edward the Third. In the Voyage which this King made into France, in the 20. year of his Reign, he attended him, being yet under age; but before he went, the King x 20 june Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3. admitted Sir Peter de Grandison, and William de Newenham Clerk, to be his Guardians, and to prosecute and defend his Suits in any of the King's Courts. Upon his y Rot. Parl. 28. E. 3. Petition in Parliament, an. 28. E. 3. he obtained a revocation of the Judgement against his Grandfather (attainted of and executed for Treason, an. 4. E. 3.) and thereupon was restored in Blood, and to the Earldom of March, and to all his said Grandfathers Lands, Honours, and Possessions. The next year he was made z 8 Aug. Fines 29. E. 3. Custos of the Castle of Dover and the Cinque-Ports, for life; and afterwards went beyond Sea in the King's Service, in the Voyage which john of Gaunt made into France, upon the French Kings drawing down an Army towards Calais. And in the King's Expedition into France, (an. 33. E. 3.) upon which a Peace ensued, he a Froiss. l. 1. c. 207. attended him with 500 men at Arms, and 1000 Archers. He married b Brook. loco supra citato. Philippe Daughter of William Montacute, first Earl of Salisbury, and Sister to William Earl of Salisbury, one of the first Founders of the Garter, whose Will bears date the first day of November, an. Dom. 1378. in which she appoints her body to be buried, in the Conventual Church of the Holy Trinity, in the Priory of Bistleham, vulgarly called Bysham Mountagu in Berkshire; c Ex Codice M.S. Miscell. Rob. Gloveri. Somerset. f. 150. b. where an. 1381. she was accordingly interred. He died at d Ex Codice M.S. Miscell. Rob. Gloveri. Somerset. f. 150. b. Rovery in Burgundy the 26. of February e Esc. 34. E. 3. n. 86. an. 34. E. 3. as the King was upon his march in those Countries; and his f Ex Codice praed. body, afterwards brought into England, was buried at Wigmore with his Ancestors. (9) Sir john Lisle. SIR john Lisle, was the g Cod. M. S. R. Glover. nuper Somerset. fol. 111. b. Son of Robert Lord Lisle (first summoned to Parliament an. 5. E. 2. by the Title of Robert de Lisle de Rubemont) and of h Cod. M. S. R. Glover. nuper Somerset. fol. 111. b. Margaret, the Daughter of— Peverell. His Father Robert being disposed to give to him 400 Marks per annum of Land, to serve the King with 6 men at Arms in his War, the King to gratify the said Robert, and the better to support his Son, i Pat. 10. E. 3. p. 2. m. 9 granted that the said Robert might give him his Manor of Harwood, with its appurtenances in Yorkshire, with other Lands to the annual value of 400 Marks, during his life, but afterwards to return to the said Robert and his Heirs: and some years after, his Brother Robert k Claus. 18. E. 3. p. 1. m. 16. released to him and his Heirs, all his right in the said Manor, and in the Advowson of the Church there. Being thus provided for, he attended the King in his first Voyage into France, by the way of Flanders, an. 13. E. 3. and as l Hist. l. 1. c. 41. Sir john Froissard observes, was in the Battle designed to be fought near Vironfosse. Two years after he went into m Rot. Vasc. 15 E. 3. m. 15. Aquitaine in the King's Service. And the n Rot. Franc. 16. ●. 3. m. 27. year ensuing, he attended the King in Bretagne, where he was one of the o Froiss. l. 1. c. 94. Commanders left at the Siege of Nants in Bretagne, while the King foraged the Country, and laid Siege to Dinant. For his good services done the King, he granted him a Pension of p 26. Aug. Rot. Pat. 20. E. 3. p. 3. m. 29. 200 l. per annum for his life, to support his Degree of Banneret. This Pension was first appointed to be paid him out of the q Ibid. Exchequer, until a Provision of Lands or Rents, to that yearly value, were made for him: but after there was assigned to him out of the Priory of r Pat. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 21. St. Neat's, then of s Pat. 29. E. 3. p. 1. m. 29. Stoke nigh Clare, and of Fie, to wit, 120 l. per annum out of the Priory of Stoke, and 80 l. per annum out of that of Eye. Then 100 Marks was taken out of the Rend charge upon the Priory of Eye, and laid upon the Issues of the Counties of Cambridge and Huntingdon. And lastly, it came to be thus settled, viz. t 4 Feb. Ibid. That he should receive out of the Issues of these two Counties 200 Marks per annum, and out of the issues of the Counties of Bedford and Bucks, the remaining sum of 100 Marks per annum. And having given him besides, for like services, another Pension for life of 40 l. a year out of his Exchequer also, he u 〈…〉 20. E. ● m. 6. appointed the payment of it out of the Farm of the Priory of St. Neat's, during the War. An. 25. E. 3. the King made him w Extract. ● donat. 25. E. 3. m. 2. Sheriff of the Counties of Cambridge and Huntingdon, and granted him the x Extract. ● donat. 25. E. 3. m. 2. Custody of the Castle of Cambridge for life. He had by Maud his Wife two Sons, Sir y Collect. A. V. W. Robert Lisle Lord of Rouge-mount and Wilbraham (whose Heir male hath now his dwelling (as I am informed) at Wilbraham in Cambridgshire) and z Collect. A. V. W. Sir William Lisle Lord of Cameldon and Shefford, who died without Issue. In the Prince's Expedition into Gascoigne, an. 29. E. 3. he a Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 8. attended him, and had Command given him in the b Stow. p. 256. main Body of the Army: But in the three days march into the Enemy's Country, he was unfortunately hurt with a c Holinsh. p. 384 Quarrel or Bolt shot out of a Cross-bow, of which he died the d Esc. 20. E. 3. n. 40. 14. of October in the same year, his Son Robert being then about e Esc. 20. E. 3. n. 40. 22 years of age. (10.) Sir Bartholomew Burghersh. SIR Bartholomew Burghersh was Son to Bartholomew Lord Burghersh (frequently distinguished by the Title of Senior) and Elizabeth one of the Daughters and Coheirs of Theobald de Verdon. His Father was first summoned to Parliament, a. 1. E. 3. a person of great Council, and Valour, which laid a strong foundation for his Son's Honour, having been several times constituted f Rot. Fin. 20. E. 2. m. 3. Pat. 1. E. 3. p. 3. m. 20. Pat. 19 E. 3. p. 1.22. E. 3. p. 1. m. 32.23. E. 3. p. 1. m. 17.25. E. 3. p. 3. m. 1. Constable of Dover, and the Cinque-Ports, he was also made g Pat. 5. E. 3. m. 7. Seneschal and Custos of Ponthieu and Monstriell, h Rot. Vasc. 11. E. 3. & Rot. Vasc. 12. E. 3. m. 15. Admiral towards the West, i Pat. 21. E. 3. p. 2. dorso. m. 24. Chamberlain to the King, k Pat. 28. E. 3. p. 3. Lieutenant of the Tower of London, l Pat. 29. E. 3. p. 2. m. 11. one of the Custos' of England, and frequently employed in Embassies, and by m Camb. ●rit. ● 227. some (through mistake) made one of the first Founders of the Garter. But among these, enumerated in the preamble to the Statutes, both of Institution, (with their Exemplars) and those of King Henry the Fifth, he is called Bartholomeus de Burghersh filius, and Bartholomew de Burghersh le filz. (and so in divers places of our public Records) though we have seen some transcripts of these Statutes, wherein the point hath been at the end of the Surname, and filius (so also le filz) joined to Dom. johannes de Beauchamp. But this was a plain mistake of the Transcriber, since this john was never married. His first martial Service was, when the n Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m. 20. King went into Bretagne, an. 16. E. 3. Next he went with the o Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 6. Prince in the King's Expedition into France, a. 20. E. 3. where he p Rot. Franc. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 6. stayed with him at the Siege of Calais. And for recompense of his Expenses, in this Voyage▪ the King granted him the q Rot. Pat. 22. E. 3. p. 2. m. 33. Custody of all the Lands and Tenements, which had belonged to john de Loveyne deceased, till his Heir should come of Age, without rendering any thing therefore. The 23. year of King Edward, he went along with him into r Rot. Vasc. 23. E. 3. m. 1. Gascoigne. And again s Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 8. thither with the Prince of Wales, a. 29. E. 3. and had t Stow p. 256. command in the main body of the Prince's Army. The following year, as the u Froiss. l. 1. c. 157. Prince retired from foraging the Country of Berry, and was got near Romerentyne, this Knight (whom Froissard in several places calls the Lord Bartholomew Breeches, Sir Bartholomew w Ib. c. 208. de Bounes, de x Ib. c. 209. Brennes, and de y Ib. c. 219. Brunes, but such mistakes are too frequent in that Author in this and other men's names, as also in the names of Places) was set upon by a French Ambushment, but he and his Troops so gallantly behaved themselves, that they kept the French in play, till the Prince drew near, upon the sight of whom they fled to Romerentyne (pursued by the English) and got into the Castle, which the Prince commanded Sir john Chandos to Summon; but they refusing to yield, after two desperate but fruitless assaults, the English set it on fire, which caused them speedily to surrender. He z Ib. c. 207. attended the King in his expedition into France, an. 33. E. 3. and towards the end of the year, an. 37. E. 3. a Froiss. c. 219. He and divers other Knights of the Court were sent to Dover, to wait upon john King of France, who, coming over to Visit King Edward, landed there the 4. of january, and was conducted by them to Caenterbury, where having offered a rich Jewel at the Shrine of Thomas Becket, he after road to Eltham to the King, and thence to the Savoy, where he was honourably entertained. Half a year before this, we find the b 22. junii. Liberate 37. E. 3. m. 3. King appointed the Treasurer of his Chamber to give him 200 l. upon the Debt due to him from the King, for the Count de Vendedour his Prisoner. He had two Wives, the first was c Claus. 9 E. 3. m. 27. Cecily Daughter and Heir to Richard Weyland, by whom he had divers Lands in the d Claus. 9 E. 3. m. 27. Counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridge, Huntingdon, Essex, and Hertford; by her he had e Claus. 43. E. 3. m. 1. Vide Esc. 2. R. 2. n. 12. Elizabeth his Daughter and Heir, married to f Claus. 43. E. 3. m. 1. Vide Esc. 2. R. 2. n. 12. Edward le Despenser. His second Wife was g Ex Collect. praef. R. Glov. S. Margaret, Sister to Sir Bartholomew Badlismere, whom he lest a Widow; but she afterwards married h Claus. 18. R. 2. m. 21. William de Burcester, and died about the 18. year of King Richard the Second. The i Esc. 43. E. 9 p. 1. n. 14. 5. of April, an. 43. E. 3. he died, leaving Elizabeth his Daughter and Heir, then about 24 years of age. (11.) Sir john Beauchamp. HE was a k Rot. Io. Row dorso. younger Son to Guy Earl of Warwick, by Alice his Wife, and Brother to Thomas Earl of Warwick, one of the Founders of this most Noble Order of the Garter. He attended King Edward the Third into l Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. p. 1. m. 7. Flanders in the 12. year of his Reign, and was in the m Froiss Chron. l. 1. c. 41. Battle pitched between Vyronfosse and Flamengery, an. 13. E. 3. So also the following year in the n Ibid. c. 50. Naval fight at Sluice. A●. 15. E. 3. I find him styled o Claus. 1●. E. 3. p. 1. m. 39 Banneret; towards the support of which Dignity, he had a considerable Pension given him. He attended the King in his Voyage into p Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. m. 5. France, an. 20. E. 3. and, at the Battle of Cressy, q Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 1. m. 2. carried the King's Standard Royal. The following year, he r Rot. Franc. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 29. continued with the King at the Siege of Calais, till it was taken: And an. 22. E. 3. he was t Primo jan. Rot. Franc. 22. E. 3. m. 1. constituted Captain of that Town. The next year made u Rot. Franc. 23. E. 3. m. 1. Admiral of the King's Fleet, from the River of Thames Westward. And having his Commission again w 24 Mar. Rot. Franc. 25. E. 3. m. 11. renewed for the custody of Calais to commence the first of April, an. 25. E. 3. he marched out of the Town with a Party of x Knighton, in Hist. Angl. Script. Coll. 2602. 200 Archers, and 300 Men at Arms, and foraged the Country for 10 miles round: where meeting with 2000 Men at Arms, commanded by the Lord Bealren, encountered them, and slew the said Lord. But fresh Supplies coming in to the assistance of the French, they overpowr'd the English, and took this noble Knight Prisoner, who was exchanged within a short time after. This year the y Pat. 34. E. 3. p. 1. m. 45. Constableship of the Tower of London being resigned to him by john Darcy, who had a former Grant of it for life, the King confirmed the resignation to him, and for the Custody thereof, allowed him z Liberat● 26. E. 3. m. 2. 100 l. per annum. He was again a Rot. Franc. 29. E. 3. m. 2. constituted Captain of Calais, an. 29. E. 3. and of the Castle of Guynes, the Forts of Merk, Colne, Eye, and Sandgate; as also b ● Mar. Ibid. m. 14. Admiral from the River Thames Westward. An. 31. E. 3. he had his Commission again c Rot. Franc. 31. E. 3. m. 18. renewed for Custody of Calais, Guynes, and those before mentioned Forts. Two years after, he d Rot. Vasc. 33. E. 3. m. 8. attended the King in his Voyage Royal into France, and, upon the death of Roger Earl of March, was e Rot. Franc. 34. E. 3. m. 45. constituted Constable of Dover-Castle and the Cinque-Ports, the King's Letters Patent bearing Teste f Rot. Franc. 34. E. 3. m. 45. primo Martii apud Goillioun in Burgundia. This year he was made g Pat. 34. E. 3. m. 6. p. 1. m. 35. Constable of the Tower of London, and also h Rot. Franc. de ●ad. an. m. 6. Admiral of the Seas, for the South, North, and West Coast of England He was a man of eminent esteem with the King, and by his services deserved so well, that he conferred on him both considerable Pensions, and several gifts, and from an. 24. E. 3. so long as he lived, received i Claus. de iisdem an. dorso. Summons to Parliament. The first donation we have met with, was k 21 Mar. Pat. 10. E. 3. p. 1. m. 31. an. 10. E. 3. when the King bestowed on him the Marriage of Margaret, the Relict of john de Bohun Earl of Hereford. An. 19 E. 3. the King granted him a Pension of l ●6 Oct. Pat. 19 E. 3. p. ●. m. 12. 30 l. per annum out of his Exchequer, towards his expenses in his service, (over and above 20 l. per annum formerly given him) till he should have Lands settled on him to that yearly value. The m 18 Dec. Pa●. 20. E. 3. p. 2. m. 31. following year, the King gave him the Manor of Oddingle, which Thomas de Haukeston held for life, after whose death it was to remain to this Sir john, and his Heirs for ever. An. 22. E. 3. he had the n 18 Mar. Pat. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 19 custody of the Lands of Allan la Zouche granted him, till his Heir came to ●ull age, without rendering any thing theretofore. The King had also given him out of the Exchequer a Pension of o Pat. 22. E. 3. m. 12. 180 l. per annum, to support his Degree of Banneret, beside 20 l. per annum out of the Customs, until he should have 200 l. per annum in Lands, or Rents provided of that yearly value for his life. And upon his resignation of several Letters Pa●ent of Pensions amounting to 280 l. per annum, he had the same annual sum p 17 Mar. Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 3. m. 24. granted to him out of the Customs of London and St. Botolphs●or ●or his life also. The next year, the King q Pat. 23. E. 3. m. 24. granted to him the Bailyweek of Cors in Gloucestershire, till the full age of the Heir of Edward le Dispenser Knight, Cousin and Heir of Hugh le Dispenser then deceased. And lastly there being an Arrear of 50 l. at Michaelmas before he died, of the said 280 l. per annum formerly granted to him out of the Customs, as aforesaid, a Writ r Claus. 35. E. 3. m. 7. issued to the Collectors of the Customs of St. botolph's, to pay the same to john, the Son of Giles Beauchamp his Executor. He lived a Bachelor, and died the t Esc. a. 35. E. 3. n. 34. 2. of Dec. an. 34. E. 3. and was buried on the South side of the Body of the Cathedral of St. Paul London; a Sculp of whose Monument is yet preserved in the u Pag. 52. History of St. Paul's, by William Dugdale Esq now Norroy King of Arms; which vulgarly (but falsely) was called Duke Humfry's Tomb. (12) Sir john Mohun. HE was Son to john Mohun and w Claus. 4. E. 3. m. 9 Sibyl, the Daughter of john de Segrave, which john his Father died before his Grandfather, in Scotland, an. 4. E. 3. and lies buried at York. Shortly after his Grandfather, john Lord Mohun x Esc. 4 E. 3● n. 34. died, at which time he was about y Esc. 4. E. 3● n. 34. 10 years old; the custody of all his said Grandfathers Lands (he being by Inquisition found to be his Cousin and Heir) as also of his Marriage, was granted to a Pat. de eod. an p. 1. m. 4. Henry Burghersh, Bishop of Lincoln, till he came of full age; the b Claus. 18. E. 3. p. 1. m. 2. 28. of May an. 18. E. 3. he did homage to the King, whereupon he had Livery of the said Lands. In the 16. year of King Edward the Third, he went over in the King's Service into Bretagne, with Sir c Rot. Fr. 16. E. 3. m. 24. Bartholomew de Burghersh; as he did also with the said Sir d Rot. Fr. 19 E. 3. p. 1. m. 13. Bartholomew, an. 19 E. 3. The following year he attended the e Rot. Fr. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 14. Prince of Wales, when King Edward entered France by Normandy, and f Rot. Franc. de eod. an. p. 2. m. 11. & Rot. Franc. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 13. continued in service at the Siege of Calais; and the g Rot. Fr. 22. E. 3. m. 19 following year was again sent into France. The last Martial service we find him employed in, was h Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 3. an. 29. E. 3. when he attended the Prince of Wales into Gascoigne. An. 16. E. 3. which was soon after he came of age, he was summoned to Parliament, from whence the summons were k Claus. de iisdem an. dorso. continued till an. 47. E. 3. He married joan, Daughter to Sir Bartholomew Burghersh the elder, Sister to Sir Bartholomew Burghersh, one of the Founders of this most Noble Order (who died on * Esc. 6. H. 4. n. 33. Saturday next after the Feast of St. Michael an. 6. H. 4.) and had by her three Daughters and Coheirs, namely Elizabeth, Wife to William Montague Earl of Salisbury, another of the Founders of the Order; Philippe, Wife to Edmond Duke of York and Albemarle; and Maude, Wife of john Lord Strange of Knoching; whose Son Richard came to inherit a large Estate after the death of his Aunts, Elizabeth and Philippe, they dying without Issue. (13) Sir Hugh Courtney. THis Hugh Courtney, was elder Son of Hugh Courtney, second Son of Hugh Courtney, first Earl of Devonshire of that name (his eldest Son l Monast. Angl. vol. 1. pag. 789. a. john having taken on him a religious life, was made m Monast. Angl. vol. 1. pag. 789. a. Abbot of Tavestock) and n Esc. 51. E. 3. n. 6. & Esc. 15. R. 2. n. 10. Margaret ( o Monast. Angl. loco cit. Daughter of Henry Bohun, Earl of Hereford) his Wife. He was born 11. Cal. Apr. an. 1. E. 3. and commonly called p Rot. Fin. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 13. Hugh Courtney junior, in regard his Father was living. ●e q Rot. Fr. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 13. attended the Kingin his Expedition into France, a. 20. E. 3. and in the following year, being among other brave Martialists in the Tornament at Eltham, he had r Compot. job. Coke Cler. mag. Gardrob. R. in Scacc. penes Remem. Regis. given him by th● King a Hood of White Cloth, embroidered with men in the postures of dancing, buttoned with large Pearls. He had a Son named s Esc. 51. E. 3. n 6. Hugh, who married Maud, Daughter to Thomas Holland Earl of Kent, one of the Founders of the Garter, but had no Issue by her; and she after his death became Wife to t MS. in Bibl. B●●l. K. 84. (inter Cod. Cant.) p. 147. b Waleran Earl of St. Paul. He died u Esc. 48. E. 3. n. 7. an. 40. E. 3. and his Son also died; Hugh Courtney second Earl of Devonshire, Father to the former, and Grandfather to the later, surviving both; after whose death, w Esc. 51. E. 3. n. 6. Edward, Son to his Brother Edward, Nephew and Heir to his Father, succeeded him in the Earldom. (14) Sir Thomas Holland. HIS Father was Robert Lord Holland of a Collect. A. V.W Holland in Lancashire, first summoned to Parliament b Claus. de cod. an. an. 8. E. 2. and he his second Son by c Cod. MS. Miscel. R. Glover Somers. Maud, Daughter and Heir of Alan la Zouche. An. 16. E. 3. he, with d Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 90. Sir john Dartuell were sent to Bayon, with 200 men at Arms, and 400 Archers, to keep the Frontiers; the e R●t. Fr. 17. E. 3 m 13. following year he went again into France. The King having granted to him 40 l. per annum, for his good service, till Lands of that yearly value were provided for him, f 21. Oct. Claus. 19 E 3. p. 2. m. 10. appointed it to be paid him out of the Farm Priory of Hailing, during the War with his Adversary of France. The next year he gave his Mother Maud g 28. june Pat. 20. E. 3. p. 2. m. 28. licence to infeoff him of the Manors of Hals, Brackeley, and King sutton, to hold to him and his Heirs for ever. And shortly after h Rot. Fr. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3. he attended the King into Normandy, where he had a command under the i Froiss. c. 122. Earl of Warwick: At the taking of Caen (in this Expedition) the k Ibid. c. 123. & cap. 124. Earl of Eu and Guynes, Constable of France, and the Earl of Tankervile (who defended it for the French) seeing this Knight (whom Froissard notes to have but one Eye) as having formerly known him in Prusia, Granada, and other places, called to him, and yielded themselves and 25 Knights his Prisoners. After he had secured them, he again took Horse and road into the Streets, where he preserved the lives of many Ladies, Maidens, and Religious Women. l Rot. sact● apud Cales. 21. E. 3. m. 8. Afterwards the King bought of him the said Earl of Yew, for m Rot. sact● apud Cales. 21. E. 3. m. 8. 80000 florence de Scuto, six of which went to a Pound English money. Not long after, when the n Ibid. c. 125. Army left Poysy, he with Sir Reginald Cobham having command of the Rear, upon the townsmen's revolt, and killing some few of the English Soldiers that stayed behind, returned, and burned the Town, razed the two Castles, and flew most of the Inhabitants. At the Battle of o Ibid. c. 128. Cressy he had command in the Van, under the Prince of Wales; and was at the p Rot. Fr. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 1. Siege of Calais. The q Pat. 26. E. 3. p. ●. m. 13. 24. of August, an. 26. E. 3. the King granted to him and joan his Wife na annual Pension of 100 Marks out of his Exchequer, towards her support during her life; but in case her Brother john Earl of Kent died without Issue, and she enjoyed his Estate, than the payment of the said Pension to cease. An. 27. E. 3. he was summoned to Parliament: and the next year r 18. Mar. Rot Franc. 28. E. 3. m. 8. constituted the King's Lieutenant and Captain in the Dukedom of Bretagne, and in the parts of Poictou adjoining to that Dukedom, and of all other places belonging to john Duke of Bretagne then a minor, and under the Guardianship of the King; and s 18. Mar. Rot Franc. 28. E. 3. m. 8. towards his expenses and the maintenance of his Army while he stayed there, he had allowed him all the profits and issues of the said Dukedom, without rendering any account or profit to the King. The 11. of November following, this Commission was renewed, and thereupon he t Ibid. m. 3. continued in Bretagne all that Winter; and the u Rot. Fr. 29. E. 3. m. 14. 8. of February following it was again renewed to him, to hold from the w Rot. Fr. 29. E. 3. m. 14. 13. of April than next coming for one whole year; but before half that time was expired, Henry Duke of Lancaster was constituted the King's Lieutenant there, and the said x Ibid. m. 6. Thomas command to surrender to him or to his Deputy, all that was within his command. It appears, y Rot. Fr. 29. E. 3. m. 14. that his servants, making provision at Totnes in Devonshire, for his, and his Lady's passage for Bretagne, were robbed of as many of his Goods as were valued at 200 l. which accident retarding his passage, the King upon his complaint, z 26. Mar. Pat. 28. E. 3. p. 1. m. 18. dorso. sent forth his Writ to john de Stonsord, john de Ferers, Knights, and Roger Pyperell, to inquire into the matter. Afterwards, he had a 18. Nou. Rot. Franc. 31. E. 3. m. 5. granted to him the custody of the Fort and Place of Cruyck in Normandy, part of the King's late Conquests, with all the Revenues and Profits thereto belonging, to hold during pleasure: and a command was given to Donald Aselrig, Lewis Clifford, and Waelter Mewe, to deliver them up to him or his Lieutenant. b Rot. Fr. 32. E. 3. m. 7. An. 32. E. 3. he and his Lady went into Normandy, and the ensuing year the c 7. Febr. Rot. Fr. 33. E. 3. m. 19 custody of the Castle and Fort of St. Saviour's le Viscount, and of all the d 6. Oct. Ib. m. 7 Castles, etc. that were Sir Geoffry de Harecourts was committed to him; as also that of ᵉ Barflu in Normandy. And shortly after, Philip of Navarre Earl of Longueville, Lord of Casell, and this Noble Lord were f 28. Oct. Ro●. Franc. 33. E. 3. p. 2. m. 6. constituted the King's Lieutenants and Captains in Normandy, conjunctim & divisim during pleasure: But the * Rot. Fr. 34. E. 3. m. 5. following year these Dignities were committed to him alone. He married joan, Daughter of Edmund of Woodstock Earl of Kent, Sister and g Esc. 26. E. 3. n. 54. Heir of john Earl of Kent, in whose right he sat in h Claus. 34. E. 3. m. 4. dorso. Parliament an. 34. E. 3. as Earl of that County; after whose death Edward Prince of Wales married her, whose Widow she remained till an. 9 R. 2. and then i Esc. 9 R. 2. n. 54. died. By this Lady he had Issue, two Sons; * Boork in Kent & Huntingdon Thomas Holland Earl of Kent, and john Holland Earl of Huntingdon and Duke of Exeter; as also two Daughters, joan and k Pat. 39 E. 3. p. 1. Esc. 48. E. 3. n. 14. & Esc. 51. E. n. 6. Maude, the later was Wife to Hugh Courtney, eldest Son to Sir Hugh Courtney, one of the Founders of this Order, an. 39 E. 3. This noble Earl, after the performance of many brave acts in the King's Service, died the l Esc. 35. E. 3. n. 104. 26. of December, an. 34. E. 3. Thomas his Son and Heir being then much about the tenth year of his age. (15) Sir john Grey of Codnore. HE was m Claus. 11. E. 3. p. 1. m. 21. dorso. eldest Son of Richard Lord Grey of Codnore in Derbyshire (by n Claus. 11. E. 3. p. 1. m. 21. dorso. jane his Wife) who had been o Rot. Vasc. 6. E. 3. m. 1. Seneschal of Gascoigne, in the Reign of King Edward the Second. In that notable and famous Expedition made into Scotland, p Rot. Scot 7. E. 3. m. 31. an. 7. E. 3. he had Command, where his valour was so far taken notice of, that not long after, the King in q Claus. 9 E. 3. m. 8. Dorso. part of recompense thereof, and of his r Claus. 9 E. 3. m. 8. Dorso. great expenses in those Wars, acquitted him of all such debts as he then owed unto his Exchequer. Towards the end of the s Rot. Scot 9 E. 3. m. 33. 9 year of E. 3. he went again to the Wars of Scotland (being of the Retinue of Hugh Andley) and t Rot. Scot 11. E. 3. m. 4. two years after, in another Expedition than made thither. An. 12. E. 3. he u Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. m. 6. attended the King into Flanders, and w Rot. Alman. 14. E. 3. m. 6. an. 14. E. 3. went over thither, when by the way, that famous Naval Fight happened near Sluice. The following year he undertook employment in the x Rot. Scot 15. E. 3. m. 2. Scotish Wars. An. 18. E. 3. he with Nicholas de Langford and Edward de Chandos were y Rot. Scot 18. E. 3. m. 9 assigned to Array all able men in Derbyshire, from 16 to 60 years of age, and to have them in readiness to march with them, or others whom the King should appoint, within three days warning against the Scots, then ready to invade this Kingdom. The following year, he went in the z Rot. Fr. 19 E. 3. p. 1. m. 15. Retinue of Henry Earl of Derby into Gascoigne; and in regard he stayed there the next year in the King's Service, his a Rot. Fr. 20. E. 3. m. 10. Dorso. Lands in Kent were exempted from finding men for guarding the Seacoasts. With this Earl he returned to England, and went to Calais in his Retinue, b Rot. Fr. 21. E. 3. m. 8. an. 21. E. 3. and stayed there the c Rot. Fr. 22. E. 3. m. 4. following year. There being an Invasion threatened by the French an. 26. E. 3. he was d Rot. Fr. 26. E. 3. m. 5. joined in Commission with the Lord Deyncourt, to Array all able persons in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, and to conduct them to such places, as might stand in need of them, for defence of the Realm. He went in the Expedition which the foresaid e Rot. Fr. 29. E. 3. m. 5. Earl made into Bre●●gne, an. 29. E. 3. And after attended the f Rot. Fr. 33. E. 3. m. 6. King in his Voyage royal into France, an. 33. E. 3. and the same year was g Rot. Fin. 33. E. 3. m. 9 constituted Governor of the Town and Castle of Rochester for life. More of his Military Services we find not, before he obtained the King's Licence h Pat. 39 E. 3. p. 1. m. 7. an. 39 E. 3. to go on Pilgrimage. And an. 45. E. 3. being grown i Pat. 45. E. 3. p. 1. m. 16. very aged and not able to endure Travel, he obtained a special k Pat. 45. E. 3. p. 1. m. 16. Dispensation (wherein his many and great Services performed with much fidelity and valour, are by the King acknowledged) to exempt him from coming to Parliaments (to which he had received Summons, from the time of his Father's death, which happened l Esc. 9 E. 3. n. 45. an. 9 E. 3.) and Councils; and charging him with setting forth of Soldiers in the Wars for the future. He married m Collect. W. D. N. Alice de Insula, by whom he had n Collect. W. D. N. Henry his eldest Son, who married o Collect. W. D. N. joan Daughter of Reginald Cobham of Sterborough, but died before his Father, and john his second Son, who both went in the p Rot. Fr. 45. E. 3. m. 13. & 15. Retinue of john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, in his Expedition into France, a. 43. E. 3. and Alice, a Daughter, Wife of q Collect. R. Glov. Somers. William, Son of Sir Adam de Everingham, of Laxton in the County of Nottingham. (16.) Sir Richard Fitz Simon. WE have met with little concerning this Noble Knight; but that he had command under r Rot. Franc. 19 E. 3. p. 1. m. 15. Henry of Lancaster Earl of Derby, in Gascoigne, an. 19 E. 3. The following year he went with s Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 11. Robert Vfford Earl of Suffolk, when he attended the King in his Expedition into France, t Rot. Franc. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 14. An. 21. E. 3. he was employed in the King's Service beyond Sea; and lastly, he was in command under the u Rot. Franc. 22. E. 3. m. 4. Prince of Wales, a. 22. E. 3. and in these Expeditions he performed so great Services, that he was thought worthy to be Elected one of the first Founders of this most Noble Order. (17.) Sir Miles Stapleton. THis Sir Miles Stapleton was Son and Heir to Sir Miles Stapleton, of bedal in the County of York Knight. His first employment in the Wars, was, when King Edward the Third made his Expedition into w Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m. 20. Bretagne. He also x Rot. Franc. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 14. attended the King in his Voyage Royal into France, y Rot. Franc. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 15. an. 20. E. 3. and lay at the Siege before Calais. z Rot. Franc. 23. E. 3. m. 6. An. 23. E. 3. about the Month of july he was employed in the King's Service beyond Sea; and the like a Rot. Franc. 29. E. 3. m. 8. an. 29. E. 3. In the 30. year of King Edward the Third, b Froissard l. 1. c. 258. Philip, Brother to the King of Naevarre (taken Prisoner by the French King the year before) came over into England, and obtained assistance for recovery of his Lands in Normandy: whereupon the King joined to him this Sir Miles Stapleton, a man of great integrity and in martial affairs very skilful, as Froissard Characterizeth him. These two, with 2000 men passed through Normandy, and, as they marched, took and burnt several Towns and Fortresses, till they came within 9 Leagues of Paris, and did not retreat, till they had forced the French to enter into Truce for a Year. For this Expedition the said Philip of Navarre, was c 16. jan. Rot. Franc. 31. E. 3. m. 2. constituted the King's Captain and Lieutenant in the Duchy of Normandy. In consideration of the d 21. june. Pat. 34. E. 3. p. 2. m. 30. constant fidelity and eminent valour of this Noble Knights, as also his great service in the Wars, the King e 21. june. Pat. 34. E. 3. p. 2. m. 30. granted to him a Pension of 100 l. per annum out of his Exchequer for life, until he had that annual value in Lands or Rents provided for him. And shortly after, Upon information that several injuries and damages had been done to the French by the English, after and against the Truce taken near Chartres, the King, desirous that it should be kept without violation, and the infringers thereof punished: f 3. july. Rot. Franc. 34. E. 3. m. 5. constituted him with Sir Nele Loring, and Sir Richard Stafford, his Commissioners, g 3. july. Rot. Franc. 34. E. 3. m. 5. to inform themselves of the way and manner how these injuries might be discovered and repaired, and gave them power to arrest and imprison, to seize and confiscate their Estates, and to punish them according as they deserved. He married h Pat. 2●. E. 3. p. 2. m. 22. joan the Daughter and Heir of Oliver de Ingham, and i Ib. m. 21. Relict of Roger le Strange; and died on k Esc. 1. R. 2. n. 32. Wednesday next before the Feast of St. Nicholas, an. 38. E. 3. leaving his Son Miles, then about 20 years of age. The Custody of his Lands was l 21. Feb. 39 E. 3. granted to the Queen, who m 12. May following. granted it to Bryan Stapleton Knight, john de Boys, and Roger de Boys, till his said Son came of age; which Grant the King confirmed the same day by his Letters Patent. He and his Wife were both buried at the House of n Collect. Fr. Thynn Lancast. penes Will. Peirpoint Ar. Ingham founded by his Mother's Ancestors. (18.) Sir Thomas Wale. HE was the Son of o Esc. 17. E. 3. n. 40. Sir Thomas Wale, and p Esc. 17. E. 3. n. 40. Lucy his Wife; which Lucy held the Manor of Wedon-Pinkney, in the County of Northampton, with its appurtenances, in her Demesne as of Fee of the King in Capite, as of the Fee Pinkney, by the service of one Knights Fee: and long before her death she settled the said Manor on this Sir Thomas and his Heirs, as appears by the * Ibid. Inquisition taken after her death, wherein the said Sir Thomas is found to be her next Heir, and then about 40 years of age. He attended the King into q Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3. Flanders, an. 12. E. 3. and had command under William de Bohun Earl of Northampton, in the Expedition which the King made into Bretagne, r Rot. Fr. 16. E. 3. m. 36. an. 16. E. 3. so also beyond Sea in the King's service, with Richard Earl of Arundel, s Rot. Fr. 18. E. 3. m. 23. an. 18. E. 3. We find not that he had any issue by his Wife t Esc. 26. E. 3. n. 21. North. Nichola, who outlived him; but that his three u Esc. 26. E. 3. n. 21. North. Sisters were his Heirs, namely, w Esc. 26. E. 3. n. 21. North. Margaret, the Wife of— Malorre; Alice, of Thomas Chamberlain; and julian. He died in Gascoigne, on x Ibid. Tuesday next after the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, an. 26. E. 3. being a y Hist. Thomas de la Mare, vide Stow, Chron. p. 253. Knight of great virtue and worthiness: so that, of all the Stalls of the first Founders, his first became void; into which succeeded Reginald Lord Cobham, of Sterborough. (19) Sir Hugh Wrottesley SIR Hugh Wrottesley was Son to a Ex Autogr. penes Walt. Wrottesley de Wrottesley in Com. Staff. Baronet. 9 Apr. 1663. Sir William Wrottesley of Wrottesley in the County of Stafford Knight. It appears, that b Pat. 8. E. 3. p. 1. m. 21. an. 8. E. 3. he designed a Voyage to the Holy-Land, and to that end had obtained the c Pat. 8. E. 3. p. 1. m. 21. King's Letters for appointing Peter de Hoe and Thomas de Chency his Attorneys, during his absence, to prosecute his Suits in any Court of England. An. 12. E. 3. he went in the King's Service into d Rot. Alman. 12. E. 3. m 3. p. 1. Flanders, when the King went over thither to confer with his Allies. And at the e Rot. Chart. & Pat. apud Cales. 21. E. 3. m. 5. Siege of Calais, he had the King's Licence to enclose his Wood at Wrottesley, and make a Park. f Rot. Pat. 23. E. 3. p. 3. m. 33. Two years after, for his good service, he granted to him the Custody of the Lands and Tenements which were William de Pilate●hall deceased, till his Heirs came of age, with the marriages of them, without rendering any thing theretofore. An. 24. E. 3. the King g 16. Oct. Pat. 24. E. 3. p. 3. m. 17. granted him a Pension of 40 l. per annum out of his Exchequer, for his life; upon the surrender of which Letters Patent, he h 20. May Pat. 25. E. 3. p. 2. m. 21. granted him 40 l. per annum to be thus received, viz. 16 l. 4 s. 4 d. out of the Farm of the Villages of Mere and Clent, 11 l. 10 s. out of the Farm of the Village of Swinford, 11 l. out of the Farm of the Village of Kinefare and Tetenhale, and 1 l. 6 s. 8 d. out of the Farm of the Foresters Fee of Tedesley, to hold for life, or till he had 40 l. per annum in Lands or Rents, settled on him for life; yet to be answerable for the overplus being 1 s. 8 d. These last Letters Patent were i 27. jan. Pat. 1. R. 2. m. 31. confirmed to him by King Richard the Second, in the first year of his Reign. He married k Esc. 43. E. 3. Mabill, the Daughter of Sir Philip ap Rees, and joan his Wife, by whom he had issue l S. Eardswicks view of Staffordshire. john, whose heir male in a direct line is Sir Walter Wrottesley of Wrottesley, in the County of Stafford, Baronet, now living. He also had to his second Wife m Ex ipso Autogr. penes praef. Walt. Wrottesley. Isabel, Daughter of n MS. in Offic. Arm. [C. 10.] fol. 126. john Arderne of Aldeford, Aderlegh, and Edds. And died the o Esc. 4. R. 2. n. 61. Heref. Monday after the Feast of St. Vincent, an. 4. R. 2. (20.) Sir Nele Loring. AT the Naval Fight before Sluice, his Valour was so remarkable, that it gained him the Honour of Knighthood, to which the King immediately added a q Vide Comun. de Ter. Trin. 15. E. 3. m. 3. dorso, & Pat. 31. E. 3. p. 3. m. 6. Donation of 20 l. per annum, to him and his Heirs males, for the better support of that Dignity, till Lands of the like annual value were provided for him and them: These Letters Patent bear Teste at Sluice, r Vide Comun. de Ter. Trin. 15. E. 3. m. 3. dorso, & Pat. 31. E. 3. p. 3. m. 6. 26. of june, in the 14. year of the King's Reign over England, and his first of France. In the King's Expedition into s Rot. F●●●●. E. 3. m. 24. Bretagne, he attended him thither, and an. 18. E. 3. went beyond Sea in his Service. In the beginning of the following year, t Rot. Rom. 19 E. 3. m. 4. he and Michael Northburgh, Canon of Li●hfeild and Hereford, were sent to the Pope's Court, with the King's Letter (dated 23. Feb. an. 19 E. 3.) to obtain a Dispensation for the marriage of the Prince of Wales, with the Daughter of the Duke of Brabant. At his return he went with u Rot. Fr. 19 E. 3. p. 1. m. 15. Henry de Lancaster Earl of Derby, into Gascoigne, where he w Rot. Fr. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 6. stayed the following year: After which coming over into England, he within a short time x Rot. Fr. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 20. returned to his Commands in Gascoigne. An. 29. E. 3. he y Rot. Vasc. ●9. E. 3. m. 8. attended the Prince of Wales in his Expedition into Gascoigne, and being z Pat 33. ●. 3. p. 1. m. 20. specially assigned to attend his person in the Battle at Poitiers, he performed his duty so well, that he received both * Pat 33. ●. 3. p. 1. m. 20. acknowledgements and rewards from the Prince, for that days service. He was afterwards a Prim● july, Rot. Vasc. 35. E. 3. m. 8. appointed by King Edward, to be one of his Commissioners, for receiving the possession of all Countries, Cities, Forts, etc. that by the Treaty of Peace near Chartres were to be delivered to him. When the Prince of Wales was created Prince of Guyenne, he b Rot. Vasc. 36. E. 3. m. 4. & 6. attended him thither again, and there c Rot. Vasc. 39 E. 3. m. 5. continued four years; whence returning into England he stayed not long, but d Rot. Vasc. 40. E. 3. m. 14. went back again, and remained there three years. After which, coming into England, and being again sent into Aquitaine, e Rot. Vasc. 43. E. 3. m. 4. Writs were directed to Robert de Ashton, Admiral towards the West, for the passage of him and Sir john de la hay, their Soldiers and Retinue; and this year he was one of those Knights of the Prince's Retinue, sent to meet f holinsh. pag. 402. Sir Robert Knolls, at his coming out of Bretagne, whom they met at Quercy, and assisted at the Sieges of g Ibid. 403. Durmel and Domme, both which, though they thought fit to break up, yet marching further into the Country, they took Gavaches, Freins, Rochmador, and Ville Franche, upon the marches of Tholouze. He was an active man, and did King Edward great services, which induced him to confer many favours on him, in recompense thereof; as first, he h 6. Oct. Pat. 9 E. 3. m. 19 granted him a Pension of 5 l. a year, during his life, to be paid him by the Abbess of Burnham, out of the 15 l. per annum she was to pay into the Exchequer, for the Fee Farm of the Manor of Bollestrade. Next, he i 24. Sept. apud An●werp. Pat. 12. E. 3. granted him a Pension of 20 Marks per annum for his life, out of his Exchequer, until Lands of the yearly value of 10 l. should be settled on him. The following year he k Pat. concess. hominib. Ang●. & Vasc. 13. E. 3. m. 10. granted him all the Lands and Tenements belonging to john, the Son of Henry de Morff, in Alnetheley in Shropshire, which, by forfeiture of the said john Escheated to the King, to hold to him and his Heirs for ever. Besides these, the Prince having retained him in his service, as well in Peace as for War, granted to him for life a Pension of 50 l. per annum, and that it might be more certainly paid, he after granted to him his Manors of Nevyn and Purchely in North Wales for life, which the King l 30. Apr. Pat. 23. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3. confirmed. Afterwards, Henry Earl of Lancaster, the King's Lieutenant in Aquitaine, for the good service this Knight had formerly done the King in England, Scotland, and elsewhere, and also to himself in Gascoigne, by Letters Patent dated the 12. of November an. Dom. 1346. gave him for his life Pedalium Sancti Macharii, with all the profits thereto belonging; which grant the King m 26. Apr. Rot. Vasc. 22. E. 3. m. 34. confirmed to him, a. 22. E. 3. This noble Knight was Son and Heir of n Rot Vasc. 43. E. 3. m. 3. Roger Loring and o Coll. A. V. W. Cassandrae, Daughter of Reginald Perot. He married p Coll. W. D. N. Margaret, Daughter and Heir of Sir Ralph Beauple of Cnubeston, in Devonshire, by q Coll. A. V. W. Elizabeth his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Alan Bloyho (the relict of Stephen Tinterne Esq) by whom he had Issue, two Daughters and Heirs, namely r Esc. 9 R. 2. n. 20. Isabel Wife to Robert Lord Harington; and s Esc. 9 R. 2. n. 20. Margaret Wife to t Inscript. Tumuli apud Tuddington. john Peyure of Tuddington, in the County of Bedford. He died u Esc. 9 R. 2. n. 20. an. 9 R. 2. and was buried in the w I●iner▪ Io. Leland. part 6. fol 7●. Priory of Dunstable, to which he had been a great Benefactor. (21.) Sir john Chandos. THE first Martial Action of his, was at St. Quintin's; for while King Edward (in the 13. year of his Reign) lay at siege before Cambray (being the first Town he sat down before, upon his first entrance into France) the Earl of Henault made an assault upon St. a Froiss. Chron. lib. 1. cap. 38. Quintin's, where this Esquire (so then called by Sir john Froissard) fought valiantly with john de St. Dagger an Esquire of Vermandois, between the Bars and the Gate, both manifesting great Courage and Gallantry. And in this Expedition, he was ranged in the b Ibid. cap. 41. third Battle, led by the King, which was pitched between Vironfosse and Flamengery, to encounter the French. For his Valour shown in this Expedition, the King bestowed on him the honour of Knighthood, and at his return to Antwerp, c 15. Nou. Patentes concess. hominib. Angl. & Vasc. 13. E. 3. m. 10. granted him 20 Marks per annum out of his Exchequer, to support that Dignity, till he should settle on him Lands to that yearly value for his life. When the King led another Army into Flanders, designed also against the French, he attended him, and fought valiantly in the Naval Engagement before d Froiss. cap. 5. Sluice. He was in the Voyage Royal made into e Ibid. c. 121. Normandy, an. 20. E. 3. and in its march at f Ibid. c. 125. Poisy, he and Sir— Basset, preserved two of the Lord of Poisy's Daughters from violation, and brought them to the King; who caused them to be safely conducted to Corbe, whither they desired to go. At the Battle of g Ibid. c. 128. Cressy he commanded in the Van, led by the Prince of Wales; and when this Prince was h An. 29. E. 3. constituted the King's Lieutenant in Aquitaine, he attended him in that Expedition; and by his command, summoned the Castle of i Froiss. c. 158. Romorentine, which held out a while, but was at length forced to surrender. Marching on with the Prince, the Battle of Poitiers approached, and on the k Ibid. c. 161. day before, (a Truce for that day being obtained by the endeavours of the Cardinal of Piergort) this valiant Knight coasted about to make discovery of the French Army, as did also the Lord Clerèmont, one of the French Marshals; and as they returned, they met, and observed that both of them bore the same device, to wit, a Lady in blue, irradiated with the Sunbeams. Clerimont demanded how long he had born his device, Chandos answered, you bear mine; I deny that, replied Clerimont; and did not the Truce hinder, I would make it good. To morrow, said Chandos, you shall find me ready to justify it to be mine as well as yours, and so they parted. The next day the Fight begun, during which St. john l Ibid. c. 162. never parted from the Prince's side; and when he perceived that the French Marshals was discomfited, he advised the Prince to advance towards the King's Battle, telling him there was all the hazard and the glory; which he accordingly did. At the end of this famous Battle, when no more French Banners were left in the field, he prevailed with the Prince to set up his Standard in a Bush near him, to give a signal to his dispersed Army to rally, while he took some refreshment. An. 33. E. 3. he m Ibid. c. 207. attended the King in his Expedition into France, and being at the siege of n Ibid. c. 208. Rheyms, he and Sir james Audeley, and the Lord Mucident, a Gascoigne, with their Troops, road near to Chalons in Champagne, and drawing near to Chargny, in Dormois, where was a strong Castle, they gave an assault to it, at which the Lord Mucident being slain, they in revenge made a resolution to take it ere they went away, which they did, putting all to the Sword, and demolishing the Castle. He was constituted Captain and the King's Lieutenant in the Dukedom of Normandy, and the parts of France, and had o 5. Feb. Rot. Franc. 35. E. 3. m. 18. power given him to grant Pardons for Treason, Murder, etc. and whatsoever he did in this case, the King promised to ratify under his Great Seal. After the Peace near Chartres, Sir john Chandos was p Primo july Rot. Vasc. 35. E. 3. m. 8. constituted one of King Edward's Commissioners to take possession of the Duchy of Aquitaine, where Sir james de Bourbon q Froiss. c. 214. delivered him the possession of divers Lands, Towns, Cities, Castles, and Fortresses, whereupon he received the Fealty and Homage of all the Nobility and others. Shortly after he was r 30. july Rot. Vasc. 35. E. 3. m. 5. made Captain and Commander in chief of the Castle and Town of Rochel, and all the Country of X●ntonge, and a command was therewithal sent to s 30. july Rot. Vasc. 35. E. 3. m. 5. john de Monte Ferandi, Custos of the said Castle and Town, to deliver them up to him, with all the Arms, Provisions, and other the King's Stores in his possession. And the following year, when the Prince of Wales (now created Prince of Guyenne) took a Voyage thither, he was made t Froiss. c. 217. Constable of Aquitaine, and Sir Guischard d' Angle Marshal. When the King of Cyprus came into Aquitaine, upon a visit to the Prince, he was u Ibid. c. 218. sent to receive and conduct him to Angolesme, where the Prince kept his Court: He also waited on him through w Ibid. c. 219. Xantonge and Poictou, to Rochel, to view the Country, whence he returned to Angolesme; where having taken leave of the Prince, he yet attended him to the confines of the Principality. x Froiss. c. 224. Charles de Bloys, having gained new strength from the King of France, and entered Bretagne, this Sir john with some few Forces left Aquitaine, and came to the assistance of john Earl of Montford, who received him with great joy, having so great an opinion of his Valour and Conduct, that he conceived no misfortune could fall upon him while he stayed with him. By his advice and valour (as all acknowledged) the French were defeated, Sir y Ibid. c. 226. Bertrand de Guesclin, taken Prisoner by an English Esquire under Sir John's Standard, Charles de Bloys there slain, and the Enemy pursued 8 Leagues, even to the Gates of Rennes. This Battle was fought on z Walsingh. p. 174. Michaelmas day an. 38. E. 3. where were taken two Earls, 27 Lords, and 1500 men at Arms. The news of the Victory being brought to the King (then at Dover) by a a Froiss. c. 227. Pursuivant of Arms, who had been in the Battle, the King for his good service, created him a Herald by the name of Windesor (there was also an Herald who had the addition of b Ibid. c. 257.260. & 264. Chandos given him in honour of this noble Knight, whom he employed in Aquitaine, upon several occasions.) This good success begat a Treaty, which settled the c Ibid. c. 229. Earl of Montfort in the Dukedom of Bretagne by the King of France, to whom he did Homage, as the Dukes before had done. In the Prince's Voyage to Spain he had command in the Van, led by the Duke of Lancaster, and immediately before the joining of the Battle, this noble Knight was created d See before pag. 42. Banneret; which honour was not only well bestowed, but by his valiant carriage in the Fight, as well deserved; for e Froiss. c. 237. he and his men happening to encounter Sir Bertrand de Guesclin (who had been ransomed from his former imprisonment at 100000 Franks) and the Marshal Sir Arnold Dandrehen, they took them f Ibid. c. 238. both Prisoners, and defeated their Battle. After his return out of Spain, he obtained leave to reside at St. Saviour le Viscount; but when the French invaded Gascoigne, the Prince sent for him back, and employed him in the conduct of that War, wherein he behaved himself most valiantly, and in a word g Ibid. 270. recovered and kept Aquitaine, the particulars of whose famous actions from hence to his death may be seen in h Lib. 1. c. 245.251.256.258.264.265.268. & 270. Sir john Froissard, out of whom we are loath to cloy our Reader with too much of transcription, and shall therefore only note, that in this time he was made i Froiss. lib. 1. cap. 263. Constable of Poictou and k Vide Pat. 48. F. 3. p. 1. m. 7. Marshal of Aquitaine. He had the l 12. May Pat. 34. E. 3. m. 35. Barony of St. Saviour's le Viscount, of Domvers and Dongeville, and the Lands and Tenements of St. Marry de Monte de Farsellis, and the Romelly, and all the Lands which were formerly Sir Godfrey de Harecourts in Normandy, given him and his heirs for ever, by King Edward (to whom the said Sir Godfrey had sold them, to be possessed after his death) which being not comprised in the m Froiss cap. 213. Treaty of Peace near Chartres, the Homage for them became due to the King of France; but there having passed so great Testimonies of affection and respect, between King Edward and King john, the latter, at the request of King Edward, before he went from Calais, n Froiss cap. 213. sealed to Sir john Chandos, a confirmation of King Edward's grant to possess them as his inheritance for ever. Whereupon command was sent to o Pat. 34. E. 3. p. 1. m. 35. Sir Thomas Holland, than Captain and Custos thereof, forthwith to deliver the Castles, Baronies, and all the Lands and Tenements to the said john. And hereupon he was sometimes styled p Pat. 35. E. 3. m. 3. Baro Sancti Salvatoris le Viscount, and at other, q Pat. 48. E. 3. par. 1. Vicecomes Sancti Salvatoris in Normania. The last martial action of this most famous Knight, and which proved fatal to him, was r Froiss. c. 270. near to St. Salvin, an Abbey in Poictou, which having been betrayed to the French by a Monk who hated the Abbot, he endeavoured to recover it the s Ibid. last of December in the night, t Walsingham p. 181. an. 44. E. 3. but missing of his design, and intending to return to Poictou, he encountered a party of the French at Lusach-bridge, where the way being slippery, he fell down, and as he was rising one jaques de St. Martin an Esquire, struck him under his Eye into the brain with a Glave; for having * Froiss loc. cit. lost the sight of that Eye five years before, as he was hunting a Hart near Bourdeaux, he saw not the blow come. The French knew him by his Surcoat of Arms, and endeavoured to get his body, but his Uncle Edward Clyfford bestrid him, and defended it; and other relief coming in, the French men were taken Prisoners. He was thence carried to Mortymer Fortress, where he lay a day and night speechless, and then died, and lies there buried. His death was exceedingly lamented by all, and when the French King heard of it he was very much troubled, saying, u Walsing. loco cit. there was now no Knight left alive, that was able to make Peace between the Kings and Kingdoms of France and England; so much was he feared, so highly esteemed, and so generally beloved. He was never married, but we find he had three Sisters; w Communia Ter. Mich. an. 3. H. 5. Elizabeth, who died 9 R. 2. Alionora, the Wife of Roger Colinge; and Margaret. (22.) Sir james Audeley. THis noble Knight was Son and Heir of Nicholas Lord Audeley, and of jane, Sister and Heir of William the Son of William Martin, and was born an. x Collect. W. D. N. 7. E. 2. He was no sooner come of age, but he entered upon Martial Employments, wherein for several years he became engaged in the Wars against the Scots, and there did the King so great service, that in recompense thereof, and the great charge he had been at in supporting himself in those Wars, he forgave him the sum of y Pat. 9 E. 3. p. 2. m. 13. 10000 Marks, which he was engaged to pay Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, by whose attainder it became forfeited to the King. An. 16. E. 3. he was made z 4. Aug. Rot. Scot 16. E. 3. m. 10. Custos of the Town of Berwick upon tweed during pleasure; and by other Letters Patent of the same date, constituted the King's * 4. Aug. Rot. Scot 16. E. 3. m. 10. justice of the said Town, and of all other the King's Lands in the parts of Scotland, to execute all things appertaining to that Office, according to the Law and Custom of Scotland. Not long after, he was engaged to go beyond Sea, in the King's Service, with Nicholas Audeley Earl of Gloucester, and thereupon the King's Letters of Protection were a 4. Sept. Rot. Franc. 16. E. 3. m 25. obtained for him, to hold till Easter following. The b Ibid. m. 11. 20. of December after, the King's special Letter was directed to him, to provide 20. Men at Arms, and 20. Archers, to be sent to Portsmouth by the first of March ensuing, and thence to pass in the King's Service with the Earls of Arundel and Huntingdon. An. 18. E. 3. he went into c Rot Fr. 18. E. 3. m. 19 Gascoigne with the Earl of Derby, in his Expedition thither. The following year he received Command, personally d Rot. Fr. 19 E. 3. m. 4. to attend the King, and to serve him with his Retinue, for defence of this Kingdom against the French, at the King's charge. And when the King made his Royal Voyage into France, an. 20. E. 3. he e Froiss. Chron. l. 1. c. 121. attended him thither. He was sent over from the Siege of Calais, with f 2 Apr. Rot. Franc. 21. E. 3. p. 1. m. 17. Command to raise what Forces he could, and to bring them to Sandwich, by Ascension-Day, well armed, to pass over to Calais, in regard the French King was drawing together a vast Army, with intention to raise the Siege. In the Prince of Wales' Expedition into Gascoigne, an. 29. E. 3. He g Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 11. attended him thither, and at the Battle of Poctiers, gained everlasting Fame. For immediately before the Battles joined, h Froissard l. 1. c. 162. he acquainted the Prince, that he had served his Father and him faithfully, and had made a vow, to give the onset, or die in the attempt, at the first Battle that the King or any of his Sons should personally be engaged in, and therefore begged his Licence, to place himself there, where he might be in the best capacity to accomplish his Vow; which the Prince giving way to, he put himself into the Front of the English Army (accompanied with his 4. Esquires, (viz. i Lib. MS. penes W. Flower nuper Norroy R. Armour. Dutton of Dutton, Delves of Doddington, Fowlehurst of Crew, and Hawkeston of Wrinehill) who had obliged themselves to stick close to him) and encountered with Sir Arnold Dandrehen, who commanded in the French Marshals Battle, and was sorely wounded by him, but taken Prisoner by others; for this valiant Knight and his Esquires refused to take Prisoners, but spent their time in execution: In this Battle he was most dangerously wounded, in the Body and Face; and at the end of it his 4. Esquires brought him out of the Field, and laid him under a Hedge, to refresh him, where they took off his Arms and bound up his Wounds. His k Holinshed p. 263. valour and stout performances were greatly wondered at by the French Commanders, as they acknowledged the following night, when they sat at Supper in Poitiers, and it is reported by Wal●ingham, l p. 164. that by his extraordinary courage he broke through the Enemy's Battle, and made great slaughter among them. m Ib. c. 16●. As soon as the Prince had sent to find out the French King, he enquired after this Knight, and being told where he lay wounded, he sent to know if he could be brought to him, otherwise he would come to visit him: this being told Sir james, he caused 8. of his Servants to carry him in his Litter to the Prince, who took him in his Arms and kissed him, acknowledging he ought to honour him, for by his valour he had gained great renown; and to enable him to pursue martial affairs, he retained him to be his Knight, with 500 marks Land of Inheritance. Sir james being departed from the Prince, sent for his Brother Sir Peter Audeley, with some other of his nearest Relations, and called before them his 4. Esquires, to whom he declared, that seeing the honour he had that day gained was by his Esquires valour, he gave them the said 500 marks per annum as freely as the Prince had bestowed them on him. This generous action the n Ibid. c. 169. Prince being acquainted with, sent for Sir james, who being brought to him in his Litter, the Prince told him, that he had been informed of his Gift to his Esquires, and would therefore know, whether he liked his kindness? or why he gave it away? To whom he gave a particular account of their fidelity and services, which he thought himself obliged to reward, affirming it was by their assistance he accomplished his Vow, and had his life preserved, and therefore humbly desired pardon for doing it without his knowledge. Herewith the Prince was so well satisfied, that he o 3. May Pat. 33. E. 3. p. 2. m. 14. afterwards gave him 600. Marks per annum more, in like manner as he had done the former; this grant was p 6. Aug. Ibid. confirmed to him by the King, during life, and for a twelve Month after, to be received out of the Coinage of the Stanneries in Cornwall, and the King's Lands in that County. This valiant Knight did afterwards q Rot. Vasc. 33. E. 3. p. 2. m. 8. attend the King in his Royal expedition into France, an. 33. E. 3. And was in the action with r Froiss. c. 207. Sir john Chandos, and the Lord Mucident, when the strong Castle of Dormoys was taken by assault. When the Prince undertook a voyage into Spain, to restore Don Pedro, he constituted him s Froissard ●● 239. Governor of Aquitaine in his absence, and afterwards made him t Ibid. c. 259. great Seneschal of Poictou about this time he raised a great Army there, and marched to Berry, and wasted that Country, and thence passed to Tourayn, keeping the Field; and then to the Lord of Chauuigny's Country (he being lately revolted to the French) and destroyed it; afterwards he took the Town of Breuse by assault, and burned it, and so returned to Poitiers. He was with Sir john Chandos at the Siege of Ib. c. 258. Dome, and of the strong Castle of w Ib. c. 262. Roche sur jon in Anjou, which at length was surrendered, and thence he retired to fresh Quarters in the County of Fontney. And here Sir john Froissard puts a period to his life, and faith he was buried at Poitiers: but he mistakes james the Father for james the Son, who in truth died in Gascoigne, an. x Esc. an. 45. E. 3. n. 1. 43. E. 3. which was near about Froissard, time, after whom his Father lived many years; having received Summons of Parlialiament, an. 4. E. 3. and thence to all ensuing Parliaments, to the time of his Death. This Noble Lord married to his first Wife, y Monasticon Angl. Vol. 2.224. b. Vide Pat. 4. E. 3. joan, Daughter to Roger Mortimer Earl of March, by whom he had z Collect. W. D. N. Nicholas, his Son and Heir, * Collect. W. D. N. Roger, and Rowland, who died without Issue, and two Daughters, joan the Wife of john Tochet, and Margaret Wife of Roger Hillary, who upon their elder Brother's Decease also without Issue, became Heirs to a fair Patrimony, but the Barony came to john Tochet, Son to the eldest Daughter. By his second Wife, a Esc. 20. E. 3. n. 58. Vide Pat. 27. E. 3. p. 1. m. 1. Isabel, he had b Esc. 20. E. 3. n. 58. Vide Pat. 27. E. 3. p. 1. m. 1. james, and Thomas, who died without Issue, and Margaret the Wife of Fulk Fitzwaren. And having lived to a very great Age, he died c Esc. an. 9 R. 2. n. 1. Staff. the first of April, an. 9 R. 2. leaving Nicholas his Son and Heir, than 50 years of Age, having a little before made his Will at Heligh Castle, by which he d Ex Lib. in Offic. principal. Cantuar. vocat. Courtney. f. 121. b. appointed his Body to be buried in the Choir of his Abbey of Hilton, before the high Altar in case he should die in the Marches, but if in Devonshire, or Somersetshire, then in the Choir of the Friar's Preachers, at Exeter, before the high Altar. (23) Sir Otho Holland. HE was one of the younger Sons of Robert Lord Holland, and Brother of Sir Thomas Holland, one of the first Founders of this Noble Order. The e Term. Trin. 24. E. 3. rot. 32. Angl. Earl of Ewe, Constable of France, being Prisoner of War to the said Thomas, the King bought him of him for a certain sum of Money, and afterwards by Indenture delivered the said Earl to the Custody of the said Sir Otho Holland, under condition, that the Earl should not go out of England, nor wear Arms publicly, until he had paid his full Ransom to the King. But it seems Sir Otho took the Earl with him to Calais, where he went up and down armed; upon which, information being given to the King, Sir Otho was brought to the King's Bench Bar, before the Chancellor, Treasurer, the Earls of Arundel, and Huntingdon, Sir Bartholomew Burghersh, Mr. Nicholas Northburgh, Clark of the Privy Seal, William Basset, and other the King's Justices, and being not able to deny the premises, he put himself upon the King's favour, and was thereupon committed to the Custody of john de Long Marshal of the King's Bench. We have met with little else concerning this Knight, save that he went over into f Rot. Fr. 29. E. 3. m. 7. Bretagne, with his said Brother Thomas, a. 29. E. 3. and had been g Claus. 33. E 3. m. 19 dorso Governor of Gernsey, jarsey, Sark, and Aurney. We also find, that a h Term. Trin. 24. E. 3. Rot. 32. Angl. Fine was acknowledged at Westminster on the morrow after the Purification of our Lady, a. 33. E. 3. between him and the said Otho Querent, and Robert de Holland the elder, Knight, and Robert de Holland the younger, Deforcients, of the Manor of Yokeshale, and the Advowson of the Church there, to the use of the said Otho for life, and after his death to return to the said Sir Robert the elder, and Robert the younger, and the Heirs of the said Sir Robert. But he lived not to enjoy the benefit of it long, for he died in Normandy the i Esc 34. E. 3 n. 37. 3. day of September following, being seized also for life of the Manors of k Esc 34. E. 3 n. 37. Kersey in Suffolk, Taleworth in Surrey, and Chesterfield in Derbyshire, and these of the gift of his Brother Thomas, and the Lady joan his Wife; as also of the Manor of l Esc 34. E. 3 n. 37. Dalbery in the said County of Derby for life, by the Grant of Robert de Holland. (24.) Sir Henry Eam. ALL we have met with relating to this noble Knight, is only what the following Instrument (made to him by the Prince of Wales, of an Annuity of 100 marks, and confirmed by the King) doth inform us of: whereby it appears, that he was a Native of Brabant, and received the Honour of Knighthood from the said Prince's hands. m Pat. an. 23. Edw. 3. par. 2. m. 24. Rex omnibus ad quos, etc. Salutem. Inspeximus Literas Patentes dilecti & fidelis nostri Edwardi, Principis Walliae, Ducis Cornubiae, & Comitis Cestriae, filii nostri Charissimi in haec verba. Edward eisné filz au Noble Roy d' Engleterre & de France, Prince de Gales, Duc de cornwall, & Count de Cestre. A tous ceux qui cestes Lettres verront on orront, Saluz. Sachez que come nostre trescher & bien ame Monsit Henri Eam au temps qil avoit pris de noz meins l' Ordre de Chivaler, see of●rist & premist de sa fraunche volunté, destre entendant à noz services à terme de sa vie, & qeu temps qe no●s luy ferrions sufficialment garnir, d'aler ovesqe nous queu part que nous vourrions, avessi bien pur la pees, come pur la guerre, & destre arms odd nous à noz volontez countre toute gent forpris le Ducs de Brabant son Seigneur lige en la defense de ses terres propres: Nous acceptantz celles offer & premesse & voillantzes pour son dit service avoir, & qil soit le plus tennz à nous servir devant nul antre, tiel regard fair à luy dont il se purra le mieltz contenir à l'avenance de son estate, lui avons doné un annuele rent de Cent marez à terme de sa vie, à receiure de nostre Manoir de Bradenash en Counte de Deveneshire chesoun an à les termes de Pasques & de saint Michael per oveles portions per les meyns des gardeins de mesmes le Manoir qi pur les temps serront les offer & premesse dussusditz en toutz pointz tenuz & gardez, & volons que à qule heure, & à quant des foitz son dit paiement soit aderrier en party, ou en tout à nul terme assigné, il lise au dit Monsir Henri destreindre en le dit Manoir, & les destresses tenir tanqil soit pleinement paiez de quanqe lui serra à derriere, come dessus est dit. En Tesmoignance de quel chose, nous avons fait fair cestes' noz Lettres overtez. Donné souz nostre Seal à Westm. le xviij. jour de Jenever, l'an du Regne nostre trescher Seigneur & Pier le Roy d' Engleterre vintisme primer, & de France octisme. Nos autem concessionem praedictam ratem habentes & gratam, eam pro nobis & haeredibus nostris quantum in nobis est praefato Henrico ad totam vitam suam, tenere praesentium concedimus, & confirmamus, sicut Literae praedictae rationabilitèr testantur. In cujus, etc. Teste Rege apud Westmonasterium xxviij. die junii. Per ipsum Regem. (25) Sir Sanchet Dabrichcourt. n Lib. 1. c. 9 SIR john Froissard takes notice, that Queen Isabel, Wife to King Edward the Second, being driven out of France, was courteously entertained at the Castle of Amberticourt in Henault, by a Knight of that name, whose then it was, and that thereupon the Queen and the Prince brought him, his Lady and Children, over with them, where they all received advancement in the Court of England. 'Tis very probable then, that this Sir Sanchet might be Son to that Knight; and yet Ralph Brooke, York Herald, makes him to be the Son of Eustace Dabrichcourt, and Elizabeth, Daughter of the Duke of juliers, the Relict of the john Plantagenet, Earl of Kent. But this is a great mistake, and overseen by Augustine Vincent, Windesor Herald, in his correction of Brooke. For it is clear, o Ex Lib. in Offic. principal. ●antuar. v●cat. Islip. f. 166. b. that, after the death of that Earl, his Widow vowed chastity in the Monastery of Waverly, where she continued some years, and that on Michaelmas day an. Dom. 1360. which was above 11. years after the Institution of this Order of the Garter, she was clandestinely married to Eustace de Abrichescourt, by one john de Ireland, and therefore he could not be Son of these two persons, whose marriage was so long after the Institution of that Order, whereof he was one of the first Founders. We find mention of a p Pat. 19 E. 3. p. 2. m. 10. gift, which King Edward the Third made to this Knight, of all the Chattels belonging to john Wardedien, who had fled for killing of Robert Poteman, but nothing else. (26) Sir Walter Paveley. THis Sir Walter was Son and Heir of q Collect. A. V. W. Walter Paveley, and r Collect. A. V. W. Maud, Daughter and Heir of Stephen Burghersh: His said Father died, a. 1. E. 3. at which time he was about s Collect. A. V. W. 8 years old. He was also t Rot. Fin. m. 4. Cousin and next Heir to Henry Burghersh Bishop of Lincoln. He went into Bretagne in the u Rot. Fr. 16. E. 3. m. 24. King's Service, with Sir Bartholomew Burghersh signior, an. 16. E. 3. so also the w Rot. Fr. 17. E 3. m 3. & 15 following year; and again x Rot. Fr. 19 E. 3. p. 1. m. 8. an. 19 E. 3. The y Rot. Fr. 20. E. 3. p. 1. m. 3. 20. of King Edward the Third, he went with him in the Expedition the King made into France, and therefore had his Lands in z Ibid. m. 16. Dorso. Northamptonshire and * Ibid. m. 16. Dorso. Wiltshire discharged from finding men at Arms, etc. to serve the King in that Expedition. And the next year it seems he had command abroad under a Rot. Fr. 21. E 3. p. 1. m. 10. Sir Bartholomew Burghersh le fitz: So also b Rot. Fr. 23. E. 3. m. 2. an. 23. E. 3. Two years after, the Duke of Lancaster being made Admiral, he c Rot. Fr. 25. E. 3. m. 4. went to Sea in the Fleet: Afterwards he went with the d Rot. Vasc. 29. E. 3. m. 8. Prince of Wales into Gascoigne; and e Rot. Fr. 32. E. 3. m. 4. an. 32. E. 3. into Bretagne. These were the Expeditions this noble Knight made, which sufficiently denote his being continually employed abroad in the King's service. He died f Esc. an. 49. E. 3. n. 21. 28. of june an. 49. E. 3. leaving Edward Pavely his Son and Heir. SECT. IV. A Catalogue of their Successors, with Scutcheons of their Arms. KNights elected in the following part of the Reign of King Edward the Third, as the Stalls became void. 27. Richard of Bourdeaux, afterwards King of England, of that name the Second. 28. Lyonel of Antwerp Earl of Ulster, and Duke of Clarence. 29. john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, after created Duke of Aquitaine. 30. Edmund of Langley Earl of Cambridge, after Duke of York. 31. john de Montford Duke of Bretagne, and Earl of Richmond. 32. Humphrey Bohun Earl of Hereford, and Constable of England. 33. William Bohun Earl of Northampton. 34. john Hastings Earl of Penbroke. 35. Thomas Beauchamp Earl of Warwick. 36. Richard Fitz Alan Earl of Arundel and Surrey. 37. Robert Vfford, Earl of Suffolk. 38. Hugh Stafford, Earl of Stafford. 39 Ingleram de Coucy, Earl of Bedford. 40. Guiscard d' Angolesme, Earl of Huntingdon. 41. Edward Spencer, Lord Spencer. 42. William Latimer, Lord Latimer. 43. Reynold Cobham, Lord Cobham of Sterborough. 44. john Nevil, Lord Nevil of Raby. 45. Ralph Basset, Lord Basset of Drayton. 46. Sir Walter Manny, Bannert 47. Sir William Fitz Waren, Knight. 48. Sir Thomas Vfford, Knight. 49. Sir Thomas Felton, Knight. 50. Sir Franc Van Hall, Knight. 51. Sir Fulk Fitz Waren, Knight. 52. Sir Allan Boxhull, Knight. 53. Sir Richard Pemburge, Knight. 54. Sir Thomas Vtreight, Knight. 55. Sir Thomas Banester, Knight. 56. Sir Richard de la Vache, Knight. 57 Sir Guy de Bryan, Knight. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Richard the Second. 58. Thomas of Woodstock, Earl of Buckingham, after Duke of Gloucester. 59 Henry of Lancaster Earl of Derby, afterward King of England, of that Name the Fourth. 60. William Duke of Gelderland. 61. William of Bavaris, Earl of Ostrevant, after Earl of Holland, Henault, and Zealand. 62. Thomas Holland Earl of Kent, after Duke of Surrey. 63. john Holland, Earl of Huntingdon, after Duke of Exeter. 64. Thomas Mowbray, Earl of Nottingham, after Duke of Norfolk. 65. Edward Earl of Rutland, after Duke of Albemarle. 66. Michael de la Poole, Earl of Suffolk. 67. William Scrope, Lord Scrope, after Earl of Wiltshire, and Lord Treasurer of England. 68 William Beauchamp Lord Bergaveny. 69. john Beaumond, Lord Beaumond. 70. William Willoughby, Lord Willoughby. 71. Richard Grey, Lord Grey. 72. Sir Nicholas Sarnesfield, Knight. 73. Sir Philip de la Vache, Knight. 74. Sir Robert Knolls, Knight. 75. Sir Simon Burley, Knight. 76. Sir john de Evereux, Banneret. 77. Sir ●ryan Stapleton, Knight. 78. Sir Richard Burley, Knight. 79. Sir Peter Courtney, Knight. 80. Sir john Burley, Knight. 81. Sir john Bourchier, Knight. 82. Sir Thomas Granston, Knight. 83. Sir Lewis Clifford, Knight. 84. Sir Robert Dunstavill, Knight. 85. Sir Robert de Namur, Knight. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Henry the Fourth. 86. Henry Prince of Wales, after King of England, of that Name the Fifth. 87. Thomas of Lancaster, Earl of Albemarle, and Duke of Clarence. 88 john Earl of Kendal and Duke of Bedford, after Regent of France. 89. Humphrey, Earl of Penbroke and Duke of Gloucester. 90. Thomas Beauford, Earl of Dorset, and after Duke of Exeter. 91. Robert Count Palatine, Duke of Bavaria, after Emperor of Germany. 92. john Beauford, Earl of Somerset, and Marquess of Dorset. 93. Thomas Fitz Alan, Earl of Arundel. 94. Edmund Stafford, Earl of Stafford. 95. Edmund Holland, Earl of Kent. 96. Ralph Nevil, Earl of Westmoreland. 97. Gilbert Roos, Lord Roos. 98. Gilbert Talbot, Lord Talbot. 99 john Lovel, Lord lovel. 100 Hugh Burnell, Lord Burnell. 101. Thomas Morley, Lord Morley. 102. Edward Charleton, Lord Powis. 103. Sir john Cornwall, Knight, after Lord Fanhope. 104. Sir William Arundel, Knight. 105. Sir john Stanley, Knight. 106. Sir Robert de Vmfrevill, Knight. 107. Sir Thomas Rampston, Knight. 108. Sir Thomas Erpingham, Knight. 109. Sir john Sulbie, Knight. 110. Sir Sandich de Trane, Knight. Hitherto we have ranked the Knights of this most Noble Order, as they are placed in other Catalogues, and according to their greatest Dignities, because the certain years of their Elections cannot be found: but these that follow, are marshaled in an exact series of their Elections. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Henry the Fifth. 111. Sir john Dabrichcourt, Knight. 112. Richard Vere, Earl of Oxford. 113. Thomas Camoys, Lord Camoys. 114. Sir Simon Felbryge, Knight. 115. Sir William Harington, Knight. 116. john Holland, Earl of Huntingdon. 117. Sigismond Emperor of Germany. 118.— Duke of Briga. 119. Sir john Blount, Knight. 120. Sir john Robessart, Knight. 121. Sir William Philip, Knight, after Lord Bardolf. 122. john King of Portugal. 123. Ericus King of Denmark. 124. Richard beauchamp, Earl of Warwick; after Lieutenant General and Govenor in France and Normandy. 125. Thomas Montacute, Earl of Salisbury. 126. Robert Willoughby, Lord Willoughby. 127. Henry Fitz-Hugh, Lord Fitz-Hugh. 128. Sir john Grey, Knight, Earl of Tankervile. 129. Hugh Stafford, Lord Bourchier. 130. john Mowbray, Lord Mowbray, Earl Marshal. 131. William de la Poole, Earl of Suffolk; after Marquis and Duke of Suffolk: 132. john Clifford, Lord Clifford. 133. Sir Lewis Robessart Knight, after Lord Bourchier. 134. Sir Heer Tank Clux, Knight. 135. Sir Walter Hungerford Knight, after Lord Hungerford, and Lord Treasurer of England. 136. Philip, Duke of Burgundy. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Henry the Sixth. 137. john Talbot, Lord Talbot, after Earl of Shrewsbury. 138. Thomas Scales, Lord Scales. 139. Sir john Fastolf, Knight. 140. Peter, Duke of Conimbero, third Son of john the First, King of Portugal. 141. Humphrey Stafford, Earl of Stafford, after Created Duke of Buckingham. 142. Sir john Ratclyff, Knight. 143. john Fitz-Alan, Earl of Arundel. 144. Richard, Duke of York, the King's Lieutenant in France and Normandy. 145. Edward, King of Portugal. 146. Edmund Beaufort, Earl of Moriton, after Earl of Dorset, and Duke of Somerset. 147. Sir john Grey, Knight. 148. Richard Nevil Earl of Salisbury, after Lord Chancellor of England. 149. William Nevil, Lord Fauconbridge, after Earl of Kent. 150. Albert, Emperor of Germany. 151. john Beaufort, Earl of Somerset, after Duke of Somerset, and Earl of Kendal. 152. Ralph Butler Lord Sudeley, after Lord Treasurer of England. 153. Henry Duke of Viseo, fourth Son of john the First King of Portugal. 154. john Beaumond, Viscount Beaumond, after High Constable of England. 155. Gaston de Foix, Earl of Longevile, and Benanges, Captan de Buch. 156. john de Foix, Earl of Kendal. 157. john Beauchamp, Lord Beauchamp of Powik, and after Lord Treasurer of England. 158. Alphonsus, the Fifth King of Portugal. 159. Albro Vasques d' Almada, Earl of Averence in Normandy. 160. Thomas Ho, Lord Hoo. 161. Sir Francis Surien, Knight. 162. Alphonsus, King of Arragon. 163. Casimire the Fourth, King of Poland. 164. William, Duke of Brunswick. 165. Richard Widvile Lord Rivers, after Created Earl Rivers. 166. john Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk. 167. Henry Bourchier Viscount Bourchier, after Lord Treasurer of England, and Earl of Essex. 168. Sir Philip Wentworth, Knight. 169. Sir Edward Hall, Knight. 170. Frederick the Third, Emperor of Germany. 171. john Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury. 172. Lionel Wells, Lord Wells. 173. Thomas Stanley, Lord Stanley. 174. Edward, Prince of Wales. 175. jaspar Earl of Penbroke, after Duke of Bedford. 176. james Butler, Earl of Wiltshire. 177. john Sutton, Lord Dudley. 178. john Bourchier, Lord berner's. 179. Richard Nevil, Earl of Warwick. 180. William Bonvill, Lord Bonvill. 181. john Wenlock, Lord Wenlock. 182. Sir Thomas Kyriell, Knight. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth. 183. George, Duke of Clarence. 184. Sir William chamberlain, Knight. 185. john Typtoft Earl of Worcester, after High Constable of England. 186. john Nevel Lord Montague, after Earl of Northumberland, and Marquess Montague. 187. William Herbert, Lord Herbert, after Earl of Penbroke. 188. William Hastings, Lord Hastings. 189. john Scrope, Lord Scrope. 190. Sir john Astley, Knight. 191. Ferdinand King of Naples, Son of Alphonsus King of Arragon. 192. Francis Sfortia, Duke of Milan. 193. james Douglas, Earl of Douglas. 194. Galeard, Lord Duras. 195. Sir Robert Harcourt, Knight. 196. Anthony Widvile, Lord Scales and Nucelles, after Earl Rivers. 197. Richard Duke of Gloucester, after King of England, of that name the Third. 198.— Lord Mountgryson of Apulia. 199. john Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk. 200. john de la Poole, Duke of Suffolk. 201. William Fitz-Alan, Earl of Arundel. 202. john Stafford, Earl of Wiltshire. 203. john Howard, Lord Howard, after Duke of Norfolk. 204. Walter Ferrars, Lord Ferrars of Chartley. 205. Walter Blount, Lord Mountjoy. 206. Charles, Duke of Burgundy. 207. Henry Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, after Constable of England. 208. Thomas Fitz-Alan, Lord Matrevers, after Earl of Arundel. 209. Sir William Parr. 210. Frederick, Duke of Urbin. 211. Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland. 212. Edward Prince of Wales. 213. Richard Duke of York, second Son to King Edward the Fourth. 214. Thomas Grey, Earl of Huntingdon and Marques Dorset. 215. Sir Thomas Montgomery, Knight. 216. Ferdinand, King of Castille. 217. Hercules, Duke of Ferara. 218. john, King of Portugal, Son to Alphonsus the Fifth. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Richard the Third. 219. Sir john Coniers, Knight. 220. Thomas Howard, Earl of Surrey, after Lord Treasurer of England, and Duke of Norfolk. 221. Francis Viscount Lovel. 222. Sir Richard Ratcliff, Knight. 223. Sir Thomas Burgh, Knight, after Lord Burgh. 224. Thomas Stanley, Lord Stanley, after Earl of Derby. 225. Sir Richard Tunstall, Knight. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Henry the Seventh. 226. john Vere, Earl of Oxford. 227. Sir Giles d' Aubeny, Knight, after Lord d' Aubeny. 228. Thomas Fitz-Alan, Earl of Arundel. 229. George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury. 230. john Wells, Viscount Wells. 231. George Stanley, Lord Strange. 232. Sir Edward Wydevile, Knight Banneret. 233. john Dynham, Lord Dynham, Lord Treasurer of England. 234. Maximilian the First, Emperor of Germany. 235. Sir john Savage, Knight. 236. Sir William Stanley, Knight, Lord Chamberlain. 237. Sir john Cheney, Knight Baneret. 238. Alphonsus, Duke of Calabria. 239. Arthur, Prince of Wales. 240. Thomas Grey, Marquess Dorset. 241. Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland. 242. Henry Bourchier, Earl of Essex. 243. Sir Charles Somerset, Knight Baneret, after Earl of Worcester. 244. Robert Willoughby, Lord Brook. 245. Sir Edward Poynings, Knight. 246. Sir Gilbert Talbot, Knight Baneret. 247. Sir Richard Poole, Knight. 248. Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham. 249. Henry Duke of York, second Son to King Henry the Seventh, after King of England, of that name the Eighth. 250. Edward Courtney, Earl of Devonshire. 251. Sir Richard Guildford, Knight Baneret. 252. Sir Edmund de la Poole, Earl of Suffolk. 253. Sir Thomas Lovel, Knight Baneret. 254. Sir Reginald Bray, Knight Baneret. 255. john, King of Denmark. 256. Guido Ubaldo, Duke of Urbin. 257. Gerald Fitz Gerald, Earl of Kildare. 258. Henry Stafford, Lord Stafford, after Earl of Wiltshire. 259. Richard Grey, Earl of Kent. 260. Sir Rys ap Thomas, Knight Baneret. 261. Philip, King of Castille. 262. Sir Thomas Brandon, Knight Baneret. 263. Charles, Archduke of Austria, Prince of Spain's, after Emperor of Germany. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Henry the Eighth. 264. Thomas Darcy, Lord Darcy. 265. Edward Sutton, Lord Dudley. 266. Emanuel, King of Portugal. 267. Thomas Howard, Lord Howard, eldest Son to Thomas Duke of Norfolk. 268. Thomas West, Lord la Ware. 269. Sir Henry Marney Knight, after Lord Marney. 270. George Nevil, Lord Abergaveny. 271. Sir Edward Howard Knight, second Son to Thomas Duke of Norfolk. 272. Sir Charles Brandon, after Duke of Suffolk. 273. julian de Medici's, Brother to Pope Leo the Tenth. 274. Edward Stanley, Lord Mounteagle. 275. Thomas Dacres, Lord Dacres of Gyllesland. 276. Sir William Sands Knight, after Lord Sands. 277. Henry Courtney, Earl of Devonshire, and after Marquis of Exeter. 278. Ferdinand, Prince and Infant of Spain, Archduke of Austria, after Emperor of Germany. 279. Sir Richard Wingfield, Knight. 280. Sir Thomas Bullen Knight, after Viscount Rochfort, and Earl of Wiltshire and Ormond. 281. Walter d'Euereux, Lord Ferrars of Chartley, after Viscount Hereford. 282. Arthur Plantagenet; Viscount Lisle. 283. Robert Radcliff, Viscount Fitz Walter, after Earl of Sussex. 284. William Fitz-Alan, Earl of Arundel. 285. Thomas Manors, Lord Roos, after Earl of Rutland. 286. Henry Fitz Roy, after Earl of Nottingham, and Duke of Richmond and Somerset. 287. Ralph Nevil, Earl of Westmoreland. 288. William Blount, Lord Montjoy. 289. Sir William Fitz William's Knight, after Earl of Southampton. 290. Sir Henry Guildford, Knight. 291. Francis the French King. 292. john Vere, Earl of Oxford. 293. Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland. 294. Anne, Duke of Montmorency. 295. Philip Chabot, Earl of Newblanche. 296. james, the Fifth King of Scotland. 297. Sir Nicholas Carew, Knight. 298. Henry Clifford, Earl of Cumberland. 299. Thomas Cromwell, Lord Cromwell, after Earl of Essex. 300. john Russell, Lord Russell, after Earl of Bedford. 301. Sir Thomas Cheney, Knight. 302. Sir William Kingston, Knight. 303. Thomas Audley, Lord Audley of Walden, Lord Chancellor of England. 304. Sir Anthony Browne, Knight. 305. Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, after Duke of Somerset. 306. Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey. 307. Sir john Gage, Knight. 308. Sir Anthony Wingfield, Knight. 309. john Sutton Viscount Lisle, after Earl of Warwick, and Duke of Northumberland. 310. William Paulet, Lord St. john of Basin, after Earl of Wiltshire, and Marquis of Winchester. 311. William Parr, Lord Parr of Kendal, after Earl of Essex, and Marquess of Northampton. 312. Sir john Wallop, Knight. 313. Henry Fitz-Alen, Earl of Arundel. 314. Sir Anthony St. Leger, Knight. 315. Francis Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury. 316. Thomas Wriothesley, Lord Wriothesley, after Earl of Southampton. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth. 317. Henry Grey, Marquess Dorset, after Duke of Suffolk. 318. Edward Stanley, Earl of Derby. 319. Thomas Seymour, Lord Seymour of Sudely. 320. Sir William Paget, Knight, after Lord Paget of Beaudesart. 321. Francis Hastings, Earl of Huntingdon. 322. George Brook, Lord Cobham. 323. Thomas West, Lord La Ware. 324. Sir William Herbert, Knight, after Lord Herbert of Cardiff, and Earl of Penbroke. 325. Henry, 2. the French King. 326. Edward Fynes, Lord Clinton, after Earl of Lincoln. 327. Thomas Darcy, Lord Darcy of Chiche. 328. Henry Nevil, Earl of Westmoreland. 329. Sir Andrew Dudley, Knight. Knights Elected in the Reign of Queen Mary. 330. Philip, Prince of Spain, after King of England. 331. Henry Radclyff, Earl of Sussex. 332. Emanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy. 333. William Howard, Lord Howard of Effingham. 334. Anthony Browne, Viscount Montague. 335. Sir Edward Hastings, Knight, after Lord Hastings of Loughborow. 336. Thomas Radcliff, Earl of Sussex. 337. William Grey, Lord Grey of Wilton. 338. Sir Robert Rochester, Knight. Knights Elected in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth. 339. Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk. 340. Henry Manors, Earl of Rutland. 341. Sir Robert Dudley, Knight, after Earl of Leicester. 342. Adolph, Duke of Holstein. 343. George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury. 344. Henry Carey, Lord Hunsdon. 345. Thomas Percy, Earl of Northumberland. 346. Ambrose Dudley, Earl of Warwick. 347. Charles 9 the French King. 348. Francis Russell, Earl of Bedford. 349. Sir Henry Sidney, Knight. 350. Maximilian, the second Emperor of Germany. 351. Henry Hastings, Earl of Huntingdon. 352. William Somerset, Earl of Worcester. 353. Francis, Duke of Montmorency. 354. Walter d'Euereux, Viscount Hereford, after Earl of Essex. 355. William Cecil, Lord Burghley, after Lord Treasurer of England. 356. Arthur Grey, Lord Grey of Wilton. 357. Edmund Bruges, Lord Chandos. 358. Henry Stanley, Earl of Derby. 359. Henry Herbert, Earl of Penbroke. 360. Henry 3. the French King. 361. Charles Howard, Lord Howard of Effingham, after Earl of Nottingham. 362. Rodolph, Emperor of Germany. 363. Frederick, the Second King of Denmark. 364. Ioh● Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Duke of Bavaria. 365. Edward Manors, Earl of Rutland. 366. William Brook, Lord Cobham. 367. Henry Scroop, Lord Scroop of Bolton. 368. Robert d'Euereux, Earl of Essex. 369. Thomas Butler, Earl of Ormond. 370. Sir Christopher Hatton, Knight, after Lord Chancellor of England. 371. Henry Radcliff, Earl of Sussex. 372. Thomas Sackvile, Lord Buckhurst, after Lord Treasurer of England, and Earl of Dorset. 373. Henry 4. the French King. 374. james, the Sixth King of Scotland, after King of England, France, and Ireland. 375. Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury. 376. George Clifford, Earl of Cumberland. 377. Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland. 378. Edward Somerset, Earl of Worcester. 379. Thomas Burogh, Lord Burogh of Gainesborough. 380. Edward Sheffield, Lord Sheffield, after Earl of Mulgrave. 381. Sir Francis Knolles, Knight. 382. Frederick, Duke of Wirtemberg. 383. Thomas Howard, Lord Howard of Walden, after Earl of Suffolk, and Lord Treasurer of England. 384. George Carey, Lord Hunsdon. 385. Charles Blount, Lord Montjoy, after Earl of Devonshire. 386. Sir Henry Lea, Knight. 387. Robert Radcliff, Earl of Sussex. 388. Henry Brooke, Lord Cobham. 389. Thomas Scroop, Lord Scroop of Bolton. 390. William Stanley, Earl of Derby. 391. Thomas Cecil, Lord Burghley. Knights Elected in the Reign of King james. 392. Henry, Prince of Wales. 393. Christiern, the Fourth King of Denmark. 394. Lodowick Stewart, Duke of Lenox, and after Duke of Richmond. 395. Henry Wriothesley, Earl of Southampton. 396. john Erskin, Earl of Marr. 397. William Herbert, Earl of Penbroke. 398. Vlrick, Duke of Holstein. 399. Henry Howard, Earl of Northampton. 400. Robert Cecil, Earl of Salisbury. 401. Thomas Howard, Viscount Bindon. 402. George Hume, Earl of Dunbar. 403. Philip Herbert, Earl of Montgomery. 404. Charles Stewart Duke of York, after Prince of Wales, and King of England, by the Title of Charles the First. 405. Thomas Howard, Earl of Arundel and Surrey, after Earl of Norfolk. 406. Robert Car, Viscount Rochester, after Earl of Somerset. 407. Frederick Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Prince Elector of the Empire, and after King of Bohemia. 408. Maurice, van Nassau, Prince of Orange. 409. Thomas Ereskin, Viscount Fenton. 410. William Knolles, Lord Knolles of Gray's, after Viscount Walingford, and Earl of ●anbury. 411. Francis Manors, Earl of Rutland. 412. Sir George Villers Knight, after Baron of Whaddon, than Earl and Marquis of Buckingham, and lastly Earl of Coventry, and Duke of Buckingham. 413. Robert Sidney, Viscount Lisle, after Earl of Leicester. 414. james Hamilton, Marquis Hamilton, and Earl of Cambridge. 415. Esme Stewart, Duke of Lenox. 416. Christian, Duke of Brunswick. 417. William Cecil, Earl of Salisbury. 418. james Hay▪ ●arl of Carlisle. 419. Edward Sackvile, Earl of Dorset. 420. Henry Rich, Earl of Holland. 421. Thomas Howard, Viscount Andover, after Earl of Berkshire. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Charles the First. 422. Claude de Lorraine, Duke of Chevereuse. 423. Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden. 424. Henry Frederick van Nassau, Prince of Orange. 425. Theophilus Howard, Earl of Suffolk. 426. William Compton, Earl of Northampton. 427. Richard Weston, Lord Weston of Neyland, Lord Treasurer of England, and after Earl of Portland. 428. Robert Barty, Earl of Lindsey. 429. William Cecil, Earl of Exeter. 430. james Hamilton, Marquis Hamilton, Earl of Cambridge, and Arran. 431. Charles Lodowick Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Prince Elector of the Empire, and Duke of Bavaria. 432. james Stewart, Duke of Lenox, after Earl of March. 433. Henry D●nvers, Earl of Danby. 434. William Douglas, Earl of Morton. 435. Algernon Percy, Earl of Northumberland. 436. Charles, Prince of Wales, now King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, of that name the Second, and present Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. 437. Thomas Wentworth, Earl of Strafford. 438. james Stewart Duke of York and Albany, second Son to King Charles the First. 439. Rupert Cas●mire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria, after Earl of Holderness, and Duke of Cumberland. 440. William van Nassau, Prince of Orange. 441. Bernard de Foix, Duke d'Espernon. Knights Elected in the Reign of King Charles the Second. 442. Maurice Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria. 443. james Boteler, Marquis of Ormond, since Earl of Brecknock, and Duke of Ormond. 444. Edward Casimire, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria. 445. George Villers, Duke of Buckingham. 446. William Hamilton, Duke of Hamilton. 447. Thomas Wriothesley, Earl of Southampton, after Lord Treasurer of England. 448. William Cavendish, Marquis of Newcastle, since Duke of Newcastle. 449. james Graham, Marquis of Montross. 450. james Stanley, Earl of Derby. 451. George Digby, Earl of Bristol. 452. Henry Stewart Duke of Gloucester, third Son to King Charles' the First. 453. Henry Charles de la Tremoille, Prince de Tarente. 454. William Henry van Nassau, Prince of Orange. 455. Frederick William, Prince Elector of the Empire, Marquis of Brandenburg. 456. john Gaspar Ferdinand de Marching, Count de Gravil. 457. Sir George Monck, Knight, after Duke of Albemarle. 458. Sir Edward Montague, Knight, after Earl of Sandwich. 459. William Seymour, Marquis of Hertford, after Duke of Somerset. 460. Aubrie de Vere, Earl of Oxford. 461. Charles Stewart, Duke of Richmond and Lenox. 362. Montague Barty, Earl of Lindsey. 363. Edward Montague, Earl of Manchester. 464. William Wentworth, Earl of Strafford. 465. Christian, Prince of Denmark, since King of Denmark. 466. james Scot, Duke of Monmouth and Bucclugh. 467. james Stewart Duke of Cambridge. 468. Charles, the Eleventh King of Sweden, Goths, and Vandals. 469. john George, the Second, Duke of Saxony, juliers, Cleves, and Monts, and Prince Elector of the Empire. 470. Christopher Monck, Duke of Albemarle. 471. john Maitland, Duke of Lauderdale. To close up all, here follows a Catalogue of the Officers of this most Noble Order. Prelates of the Order. William de Edyngton, Bishop of Winchester, Lord Treasurer, and after Lord Chancellor of England. William de Wykham, Bishop of Winchester, Lord Chancellor of England. Henry Beaufort, Bishop of Winchester, Priest Cardinal of St. Eusebius, and Lord Chancellor of England. William de Waynfleet, Bishop of Winchester, and Lord Chancellor of England. Peter Courtney, Bishop of Winchester. Thomas Langton, Bishop of Winchester. Richard Fox, Bishop of Winchester, and Lord Privy Seal. Thomas Wolsey, Bishop of Winchester, Priest Cardinal of St. Cecily, and Lord Chancellor of England. Stephen Gardiner, Bishop of Winchester. john Poynet, Bishop of Winchester. Stephen Gardiner restored, and made Lord Chancellor of Englan● john White, Bishop of Winchester. Robert Honne, Bishop of Winchester. john Watson, Bishop of Winchester. Thomas Cooper, Bishop of Winchester. William Wy●ham, Bishop of Winchester. William Day, Bishop of Winchester. Thomas Bilson, Bishop of Winchester. james Montague, Bishop of Winchester. Lancelot Andrews, Bishop of Winchester. Richard Neyle, Bishop of Winchester. Walter Curl, Bishop of Winchester. Brian Duppa, Bishop of Winchester. ●eorge Morley, Bishop of Winchester. Chancellors of the Order. Richard Beauchamp, Bishop of Salisbury, and Dean of Windesor. Lionel Woodeville, Bishop of Salisbury. Thomas Langton, Bishop of Salisbury. john Blyth, Bishop of Salisbury. Henry Dean, Bishop of Salisbury. Edmund Audeley, Bishop of Salisbury. Sir William Cecil, Principal Secretary of State. Sir William Peter, Principal Secretary of State. Sir Thomas Smith, Principal Secretary of State. Sir Francis Walsingham, Principal Secretary of State. Sir Amyas Paulet, Privy Counsellor. Sir john Woollee, Secretary for the Latin Tongue. Sir Edward Dyer. Sir john Herbert, Principal Secretary of State. Sir George More. Sir Francis Crane. Sir Thomas Rowe. Sir james Palmer. Sir Henry de Vic, Baronet. Seth Ward, Bishop of Salisbury. Registers of the Order. ●● john Coringham, Canon of Windesor. john Deepden, Canon of Windesor. james Goldwell, Canon of Windesor, and Secretary of State. Oliver King, Canon of Windesor, Secretary to Prince Henry Son of King Henry the Sixth, to King Edward the Fourth, to King Edward the Fifth, and King Henry the Seventh. Richard Nix, Canon of Windesor. Christopher Urswick, Dean of Windesor. Thomas Wolsey, the King's Almoner. William Atwater, Canon of Windesor, after Bishop of Lincoln. Nicholas West, Dean of Windesor. john Ves●y, Dean of Windesor. Richard Sydnor, Canon of Windesor. Robert Aldridge, Canon of Windesor. Owen Oglethorp, Dean of Windesor. john Boxall, Dean of Windesor, and Principal Secretary of State. George Carew, Dean of Windesor. William D●y, Dean of Windesor. Robert Benet, Dean of Windesor. Giles Tomson, Dean of Windesor, and Bishop of Gloucester. Anthony Maxey, Dean of Windesor. Marc Antonio de Dominis, Archbishop of Spalleto, Dean of Windesor. Henry Beaumond, Dean of Windesor. Matthew Wren, Dean of Windesor. Christopher Wren, Dean of Windesor. Brune Ryves, Dean of Windesor. Garters, Kings of Arms. Sir William Brugges, Knight. john Smert. Sir john Writh, Knight. Sir Thomas Wriothesley, Knight. Sir Thomas Wall, Knight. Sir Christopher Barker, Knight. Sir Gilbert Dethick, Knight. Sir William Dethick, Knight. Sir William Segar, Knight. Sir john Borough, Knight. Sir Henry St. George, Knight. Sir Edward Walker, Knight. Ushers of the Black-Rod. William Whitehorse. john Cray. Thomas Sye. William Evington, and Edward Hardgyll. Robert Marleton. Ralph Ashton, and Hugh Dennys. Sir William Compton, Knight. Henry Norresse, Esquire. Anthony Knyvet, Esquire. Sir Philip Hobby, Knight. john Norres and William Norres, Esquires. Anthony Wingfeild, Esquire. Richard Coningsbye and George Pollard, Esquires. james Maxwell, Esquire. Peter Newton, Esquire. Sir john Ayton, Knight. Sir Edward Carteret, Knight. APPENDIX. The Statutes of Institution of the most Noble Order of the Garter. AD honorem omnipotentis Dei, Sanctae Mariae Virginis gloriosae & Sancti Georgii Martyris, Dominus noster Supremus Edwardus tertius Rex Angliae, anno regni sui post conquestum xxiii. Ordinavit, stabilivit, & fundavit quandum Societatem five Ordinem militarem, infra Castrum suum de windsor, in hunc modum. Primo scipsum statuit dictae Societatis sive Ordinis Superiorem, filium suum seniorem Principem Walliae, Ducem Lancastriae, Comitem Warwici, Capitaneum de Buche, Comitem Staffordiae, Comitem Sarum. Dominum de Mortimer, Dominum Johannem Lisle, Dominum Bartholomeum Burghersh filium, Dominum Johannem de Beauchamp, Dominum de Bohun, Dominum Hugonem de Courtenay, Dominum Thomam de Hollande, Dominum Johannem de Grey, Dominum Richardum de fitz Symond, Dominum Milonem de Stapulton, Dominum Thomam Wale, Dominum Hugonem de Wirteslay, Dominum Nelelatum Loryng, Dominum Johannem Chandos, Dominum Jacobum Daudele, Dominum Otonem de Hollande, Dominum Henricum de Em, Dominum Sauchetum Dabrichecourt, & Dominum Walterum Pavelay. I. Concordatum est quod Rex Angliae, qui pro tempore fuerit, inperpetuum erit Superior hujus Ordinis Sancti Georgii, sive Societatis Garterii. II. Item, concordatum est, quod nullus eligat●r in socium dicti Ordinis nisi generosae propaginis existat, & miles, careus opprobrio, quoniam ignobiles aut reprobos Ordinis institutio non admittit. III. Et xxvi. Commilitones & Consocii hujus Ordinis praenominati deferent mantella & garteria apud dictum castrum ordinata quociens ibidem praesentes fuerint, videlicet quâlib●t vice quâ capellam intrant Sancti Georgii aut domum Capitularem, pro capitulo celebrando, aut aliquid statuendo quod ad Ordinem pertinebit. Et simili modo incedent in vigiliâ Sancti Georgii, per modum processionis, proficiscentes cum Superiori Ordinis, aut suo Deputato, de magnâ camerâ regiâ usque ad Capellam, vel domum capitularem, & eâdem serie revertentur. Sedebunt itaque cum Montellis & Garteriis in dictâ vigiliâ tempore coenae tam illi qui coenare volunt, quam etiam alii non coenantes, quousque de magnâ camerâ praedictâ consuctum tempus fuerit separandi. Sic eciam induti in●●dere debent in crastino versus dictam Capellam, & abinde revertentes, ac etiam tempore prandii & postea, quosque Superior, ●ut suus Deputatus sua Ordinis Insignia deposuerit. Sic etiam proficiscentes ad secundas vesperas & revertentes (a) forte nee non. nec nec tempore coene & posteâ, sicut in vigiliâ induentur; quoad usque Superior Ordinis tempus esse decreverit separandi. IV. Et ordinati sunt xiii. Canonici seculares, qui tempore Institutionis suae aut infra annum proximum teneantur ad sacerdotium promoveri▪ sic eciam xiii. Vicarii, qui tempore admissionis suae erunt Sacerdotes, aut saltem tempore proximae collationis Ordinum extunc sequentis, celebraturi continuè pro animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum. Isti autem praenominati Canonici praesentabuntur per fundatores Ordinis supra dictos, viz. quilibet fundatorum modernorum Custodi Collegii suum Canonicum praesentabit. Ita tamen quod si quis Canonicorum moriatur, nec ipse qui eum ultimo praesentabat nec quispiam alius Sociorum Garterii postea praesentabunt, sed solus superior Ordinis ad eundem Canonicatum extunc in ante pro perpetuo praesentabit. Et sic est unanimiter concordatum de praesentationibus omnium aliorum Canonicorum (b) f. soli superiori. solo Superior Ordinis reservandis. V. Item concordatum est, quod praedicti Canonici habeant suam mantellam de panno coloris purpurii, cum unâ circumferenciâ Armorum Sancti Georgii. VI Item Ordinatum est quod xxvi. Milites veterani, non habentes unde vivant, ibidem ad honorem (c) f. Dei. do & beati Georgii competentem habebunt exhibitionem, continuè Deo in orationibus servituri. Et de electionibus eorum veteranorum ordinatum est modo simili sicut & de praesentationibus Canonicorum praedictorum, sic quod veteranorum electiones quemadmodum Canonicorum praesentationes soli Superiori Ordinis reservabuntu●. VII. Item concordatum est, quod dicti Milites veterani habebunt sua mantella de rubeo cum uno Scuto Armorum Sancti Georgii carente tantum tam●n Garterio. VIII. Item concordatum est quod si Superior hujus Ordinis, sive Societatis, fortassis esse non poterit apud solemnizationem festivitatis Sancti Georgii, Capitulum tenebitur, horâ terciarum ad solemnizandum festivitatem in Crastino, sumptibus Superioris Ordinis. S●d novas observancias aut Ordinationes non faciet deputatus hujusmodi: Corrigere tamen & reformare sibi licebit transgressores Statutorum Ordinis quae sequuntur. IX. Item singulis annis in vigiliâ Sancti Georgii fit una congregatio omnium consociorun● Ordinis Sancti Georgii apud dictum castrum de windsor, sive sint infra Regnum Angliae, sive extra, dum ●ame●illìc commodè ve●ire valeant, & ibidem debent apud servicium ecclesiasticum interesse, & sua mantella tempore celebrationis divinorum defferent seriatim in suis stallis existentes. Et quilibet eorum babebit in capella supra Stallum suam galeam & ensem quae in sui memoriam & ecclesiae tuicionem ibidem pro tempore vitae suae remanebunt, quemadmodum militaris Ordo nobilis hoc exposcit. Sed in casu quo festivitas Sancti Georgii contigerit infra quindecim dies proximos post diem Paschae, sit dicta festivitas Sancti Georgii prorogata usque ad illam diem dominicam quae semper erit dies quintadecima post diem Paschae, ad finem quod quilibet sociorum Ordinis illic valeat apud dictam festivitatem rationabiliter convenire, non equitando per aliquem trium dierum proximò sequentium diem Paschae. X. Item quod conveniat in dictum locum in vigiliâ Sancti Georgii horâ tertiâ, & si qui non veniant hujusmodi tempore assignato (d) Nec. ne habeant excusationem Superiori Ordinis aut suo Deputato acceptabilem, per Superiorem Ordinis & Capitulum taliter puniri debent, quòd propter hujusmodi necligentiam, non intrabunt ad Capitulum illâ vice, sed foris ad hostium expectabunt, nec vocem habebunt in aliquo quod in dicto Capitulo fieri (e) Contigerit. contigere illâ vice. Et siqui ad vesperas ante Principium non veniant, sua Stalla nullatenus tunc intrabunt, sed in basso, ante Stalla sua, in consueto Loco Ceroferariorum se constituent, durantibus vesperis supradictis, ad quas nòn venerant tempestive. Et paena similis statuitur contrà non venientes ante inchoationem Missae solempuis aut vesperarum in crastino. Et quisquis est qui ad celebrationem festivitatis non veniat, non habens excusationem Superiori Ordinis acceptabilem, sibi praecipiatur nomine poenae quod stallum suum non intrabit festivitate proximâ tunc sequente, sed se tenebit ante & extrastallum, in loco quo supra tempore primarum vesperarum, & tempore processionis in crastino perante tres cruces processionales transibit, & redeundo in chorum stabit in loco basso quo supra toto tempore Missae usque ad Offertorium, novissimè oblaturus. Et hujusmodi paenitentiis sic peractis, incontinenti veniet ante stallum Superioris aut sui Deputati superindè veniam petiturus. Et deindè dictus. Superior aut suus Deputatus cum ad Stallum suum & primaevum statum restituet. Quod si à secundo secto Sancti Georgii anno proximo tunc sequente absque excusatione Superiori acceptabili, aut ejus Deputato, denuo se absentet existens infra regnum Angliae, extunc Stallum suum non intrabit, quoadnsque infra dictam capellam apud Altare Sancti Georgii unum Iocale optulerit valoris xx. marcarum Monetae Anglicanae; Et extunc singulis annis inantea ipsam mulctam, donec reconciliatus fuerit, duplicabit. XI. Item quod omnes Consocii Ordinis, ubicunque locorum constituti, deferent Mantella sua de blodio singulis annis, ab horâ primarum vesperarum in vigiliâ Sancti Georgii, usque ad secundas vesperas in crastino inclusiuè, quemadmodum facturi essent, si cum Superiori Ordinis aut suo Deputato personalitèr interessent, toto tempore hujus festivitatis celebrandae, dum tamen sint in loco ubi gaudeant propriâ libertate. XII. Item, concordatum est quod siquis dictae societatis incedat publicè sine Garterio, quantocius fuerit exinde ammonitus aut notatus, custodi & Collegio solvet dimidiam marcam, sicut alii antè solverunt qui in eâdem culpâ fuere constituti. XIII. Item, concordatum est, quòd, tempore Offertorii apud altam Missam, semper duo ex sociis qui sunt in suis stallis oppositi simul ad offerendum incedant. Et si ex eis quenquam contigerit absentari, socius suus, qui sibi deber●t esse oppositus, solus & per se ad offerendum transibit. Et notandum quod Superior Ordinis tempore Processionis in dictâ capellâ transibit retro totam sociorum commitivam, XIV. Item, concordatum est, quod, in quolibet crastino Sancti Georgii, antequam socii mutuò separentur aut recedant, celebretur una missa de Requie, pro animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum, & quod tota societas sit tunc ibidem integraliter, si non fuerit eorum aliquis rationabiliter praepeditus, vel si non habeat licentiam Superioris Ordinis aut sui Deputati, antequam ab illic recedat. XV. Item, concordatum est, quod quilibet sociorum dimittet ibidem suam clamidem, pro accessibus hujusmodi repentinis, & pro observandis praeceptis & monitis salutaribus Superioris praedicti. XVI. Item, conventum est, quod si quenquam ex dictâ socictate sive Ordine per dictum Castrum de windsor i●inerare contigerit, pro honore loci intret, si commode poterit, nec sit ex justâ & rationabili causâ praepeditus. Et quod antequam capellam ingrediatur, omnino clamide se induat, ita quod non nisi clamide indutus intret, & Canonici per tunc ibidem praesentes sibi venient in obviam, & ipsum in capellam devotè conducent. Et si fortassis ipsum contigerit illic accedere horâ Missae, expectet ad honorem Dei & Sancti Georgii, & audiat ipsam Missam. Quod si post meridiem veniat, intret modo & formâ expressatis, & tunc expectet donec Canonici semel dixerint Psalmum de Profundis, pro animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum, & ibidem offerat, Psalmo dicto. Siquis autem ex dictâ societate per medium villae equitaverit & Capellam nòn intret & offerat veluti concordatum existit, quâlibet vice quâ hoc non faciat pedester transeat, virtute Obedientiae, unum miliare versus dictam capellam, & offeret unum denarium, ob honorem Sancti Georgii. XVII. Item, concordatum est, quod Superior Ordinis, incontinenti postquam mors alicujus Sociorum sit sibi cognita, faciat celebrari pro animâ ipsius mortui Mille Missas, & quilibet Rex foraneus pro animâ illius mortui faciet celebrari DCCC. Princeps Walliae DCC. quilibet Dux DC. quilibet comes CCC. quilibet Baro CC. & quilibet Miles Bacallarius C. Missas. Et si Superior Ordinis aut alius quispiam hoc fieri non faciat, infra unum quarterium anni postquam sit certificatus de morte, numerum missarum in toto ad quas ab initio juxta status sui conditionem tenebatur, duplicare, & si medieta● anni sic a retro sit, etiam eodem modo duplicare debet, & it a de tempore in tempus usque in finem ●nni, & si infra annum fieri non faciat, annos eodem modo duplicabit. XVIII. Item, concordatum est, quod quocies aliquis consociorum Ordinis fuerit sublatus de medio, Superior Ordinis aut suus Deputatus certificato sibi de merito faciat omnes consocios existentes infra regnum suum Angliae qui accedere poterunt, per suas literas admoneri, quod, pro eligendo novo Consocio, coram eo conveniant, infra sex ebdomadas postquam certificati fuerint de morte in loco ydoneo quem Superior ad hoc duxerit assignando. Quibus omnibus sic congregatis, aut sex eorum ad minus praeter Superiorem aut suum Deputatum, quilibet eorum qui praesens in electione fuerit novem de sufficientioribus, quos omni ignominiâ & opprobrio crediderit expertes, siuè fint de subditis Superioris Ordinis aut alii foranei, sibi non subjecti, Dum tamen partem dicto Superiori adversantem non faveant aut defendant, nominabit, viz. tres Comites aut de statu sublimiori, tres Barones, & tres Milites Bacallarios, & istas denominationes seribet Principalis Praelatus Ordinis, scilicet Episcopus Vintoniensis qui pro tempore fuerit, & in suâ absenciâ Decanus Collegii, vel Registrator, & in (f) Eorum absentia. eos absentibus antiquior Recidenciarius Collegii supradicti, & denominationes sic factae per omnes Consocios aut sex eorum ad minus ut praefertur, per eum qui eas scripsit, Superiori Ordinis aut suo Deputato monstrabunt, qui de nominatis hujusmodi eum praeeleget & admittet cui major vocum pluralitas suffragatur, & quem sibi ad honorem Ordinis & utilitatem regni & Regis magis videbitur expedire. Et in casu quo nullus sociorum ad electionem veniat modo sequenti, veniet puniendus saltem si non justâ de causâ fuerit impeditus. Si tamen causam absentiae justam & probabilem allegaverit, per Superiorem, aut suum Deputatum debet approbari. Quod si causa absen●iae reperta forsan fuerit minus justa, & accitus ad electionem non veniat, ut praefertur, concordatum est, quod custodi & Collegio, nomine poenae solvat unam marcam, & cum proximò fuerit in Capitulo sedebit ante Superiorem Ordinis aut suum Deputatum, & totam societatem, in medio Capituli super terram, quousque per Superiorem aut suum Deputatum & societatem fuerit reconciliatus. XIX. Item, concordatum est, quod in casu quo aliquis Militum dictae societatis Garterii moriatur, & in ejus locum alius eligatur, quantocius post electionem electus habebit Garterium, in signum quod est unus sociorum Garterii, & habebit Mantellum sibi pro suo habitu liberatum, quando in stallum suum inducetur, & nòn antè Et in casu quo moriatur priusquam fuerit installatus, non nominabitur unus fundatorum ex quo nòn babet plenariam possessionem sui status, ymmo habebit medietatem Missarum praedictarum, pro eo quod habuit liberatam Garterii, & penitus nichil magis. Et si talis electus non veniat ad dictum locum cum omni celeritate accommodâ post receptionem Garterii, ut installetur, & signanter infra annum post ejus electionem, si sit habitans infra regnum Angliae, & nòn habeat excusationem Superiori aut suo Deputato & societati Garterii acceptabilem, electio de eo facta sit prorsus irrita & inanis, & exinde Superior Ordinis aut suus Deputatus, unà cum societate, ad novam electionem procedat. Et nec ensis nec galea alicujus electi quousque veniat infra Castrum supra stallum suum figentur, sed exteriùs ante suum stallum; ad finem, quod si ipse electus ad Castrum non veniat, ut praefertur, c●sis suus & galea nòn indecenter erunt dep●sita de sublimi, sed ut Militaris honor servet (g) Servetur. illibatus, removebuntur extra chorum curialiter & honestè, & remanebunt extunc ad opus publicum & usum Collegii supradicti. XX. Item, concordatum est, quod omnes foranei qui in socictatem dicti Ordinis Garterii elligentur (h) Elegentur. per Superiorem Ordinis de suâ electione certificentur, & Garterium atque Mantellum & Statuta Ordinis, sub communi Sigillo, cum omni celeritate accommodâ sumptibus tamen Superioris Ordinis, transmittantur; Et omnia (i) Omnino. certificentur foran●i infra quatuor menses continuos à tempore electionis de se factae; Ad finem quod deliberare valeant ex tenore Statutorum, si electioni hujusmodi voluerint consentire. Et etiam quod omnes hujusmodi foranei, sie electi, cujuscumque conditionis statûs aut dignitatis existant, infra spacium octo mensium post certificatam sibi electionem per Superiorem Ordinis aut suum Deputatum & receptionem Garterii, mittant unum Procuratorem sufficientem, secundum quod ●tatui electi hujusmodi videbitur convenire; proviso tamen quod Procurator hujusmodi, installandus in locum suum, sit Miles, expers omnis opprobrii, qui tempore sui adventûs ex causa hujusmodi secum d●feret ex parte mittentis unum Mantellum Ordinis, de serico blodio, & etiam ensem & galeam, penes Collegium ipsum remansura, Quod quidem Mantellum ponetur super brachium dextrum Procuratoris hujusmodi, per Superiorem Ordinis aut suum Deputatum, tempore installationis suae supradictae, et illud tenebit super dictum brachium suum ad horas Canonicas proximas post installationem accipiendam, nomine Domini sive Magistri sui supradicti. Dictus autem Procurator installatus Mantellum hujusmodi postea non portabit, ne● debet Capitulum intrare, nec ibidem vocem habere, virtute cujuscumque potestatis sibi attributae. Et sciendum est quod hujusmodi favor Installatio nis per Procuratorem solis foraneis exhibetur, qui quidem non poterunt hâc de causâ personaliter advenire, adfinem quod sint participes Missarum & devotarum Orationum Ordinis, quarum mediate (k) Medietate. carerent, si installati nòn essent antequam morerentur. XXI. Item, concordatum est, Quod si aliquis Comes, Baro, aut Miles Bacallarius dicti Ordinis decedat; Ipse qui successurus est in locum suum, sive sit Comes, sive Baro, aut Miles Bacallarius, tenebit idem stallum quod tenuit suus Praed●cessor, cujuscunque suerit dignitatis, necullus eligendus hanc seriem mutabit, praeter Principem Valliae, qui semper tenebit stallum ex opposito Superiori Ordivis, postquam fuerit electus, Ita quod ex casu Comes occupare potest stallum Militis, & è contrà. Et istud est Ordinatum, ut sciatur qui fuerint Primaevi Fundatores Ordinis. XXII. Item, concordatum est, quod quilibet Sociorum Ordinis, primo tempore sui ingressus, dabit aliquid certum, secundum eminentiam sui statûs, in sustentationem Canonicorum & pauperum Veteranorum Militum, ibidem commorantium, ac etiam in augmentum elimosinarum, quae inibi perpetuò Ordinantur; scilicet Superior Ordinis xl marcas. Rex foraneus xx libras; Princep● Walliae xx marcas; quilibet Dux x lib. quilibet Comes x marcas; quilibet Baro, centum solidos, & quilibet Miles Bacallarius v. marcas. Et ista donaria pia sunt ideo constituta, ut ingrediens hunc Ordinem Militarem per hoc dignius optineat nomen, titulum, & privilegium unius fundatorum. Dignum enim & conveniens arbitratur, ut qui aggregatur numero Fundatorum (l) Aliquid hujus rei seu nominis intuitu. aliquid hujus rei se nominis in tutu largiatur. Et quousque summae hujusmodi pecuniarum per quemlibet juxta divisionem istam in primo ejus (m) Introitu. intractatu sint solutae, nec galea nec ensis ingredientis hujusmodi supra stallum figentur. Et est sciendum quod Superior Ordinis tenebitur solvere pro sumptibus introitus cujuslibet Extranei qui eligetur, tempore installationis suorum Procuratorum. XXIII. Item, Concordatum est, quod quamtocius quo aliquis societatis sive Ordinis hujus, ex primaevis Fundatoribus moriatur, Scutum ni●em Armorum suorum factum de Metallo, & galca sua, sint fixa retro tergum in stallo suo. Et alii Fundatores qui posteà succedunt habebunt scu●ae sua & galeas modo conformi situata; subtus tamen aliqualiter primaevos Fundatores. Sua etiam Scuta & galeae nòn erunt (n) Precii ita magni. precie ita magno, sicut primorum Fundatorum. XXIV. Item quod quilibet ingrediens promittat & juret personaliter, vel per Procuratorem ydoneum & sufficientem, nomine suo installandum, de bene & fideliter observando pro viribus statuta Ordinis. Et advertendum est, quod ●ullus, per Procuratorem installationem recipiet nisi duntaxat Foranei, qui ob hanc causam commodè accedere non poterint in personis. XXV. Item, concordatum est, quod in casu quo Superior Ordinis sit extra regnum suum Angliae tempore Installationis alicujus sociorum Garterii, vel forsan peragere non poterit personaliter, quae tunc sibi ex officio incumbunt, committere possit uni Sociorum ejusdem Ordinis suas vices (o) Ac. ad plenariam in hac parte potestatem, ea perficiendi & exequendi, quae, si prefens esset, suo proprio ministerio pertinerent. XXVI. Item, concordatum est, quod siat commune Sigillum, quod erit in custodia illius quem Superior Ordinis ad hoc voluerit assignare. XXVII. Item quod quilibet Consociorum praedicti Ordinis de cetero habeant Statuta Ordinis, fub communi Sigillo supra dicto. Et quod Originale Statutorum sit cum eodem consignatum, quod infra (p) Thesaurum. thesauream dicti Collegii imperpetuum remanebit, & post mortem cujuscunque Consocii Ordinis supradicti teneantur sui executores ipsa Statuta Ordinis Collegio remittere, & Gardiano Collegii liberare. XXVIII. Item, concordatum est, quod nullus Militum Ordinis Sancti Georgii & de societate Garterii exeat Reguum Angliae, absque (q) Scitu. situ & licencia dicti Superioris. Et est ideò concordatum, quod si aut aliqua expeditio Militaris contingat, aut aliquid aliud quod ad honorem Militarem cedere conspicitur, Superior Ordinis, de suâ gratiâ, Consocios Ordinis hujuscemodi actibus Militaribus ceteris quibuscumq, tenebitur anteferre. XXIX. Item quod nullus Sociorum Ordinis contra alium Consocium levet arma, nisi in guerra Domini sui legei, vel in propriâ justá querelâ. Et si contingat quod aliquis Sociorum Ordinis retineatur cum aliquo domino, aut alicujus domini partem teneat vel querelam, & pars adversa posteà fortè desideret aliquem alium sociorum Ordinis ad defensionem suae causae contrariae secum retinere: nullus talis Socius secundariè desideratus ad hoc consenciat, sed semetipsum teneatur exensare pro eo quòd Consocius suus primitus ex parte adversá retentus fuerit velarmatus; & tenebitur propterea quililibet Sociorum Ordinis, quando cum aliquo retinetur, excipere & pacisci, quod de omni servicio guerrae movendae aut exercendae absolutus sit penitus & quietus si & quatenus aliquis Consociorum suorum societatis Garterii sit perantea cum adversâ parte retentus & ibidem armatus. Et si ipse secundariè retentus nòn cognovit, (r) Quod aliquis. aliquis Sociorum suorum Garterii fuerat primitus ex parte adversâ retentus, vel armatus, quantocius hoc ad ejus noticiam devenerit, teneatur omne hujusmodi Servicium penitùs relinquere, & seipsum totaliter excusare. XXX. Item, omnes licenciae Commilitonibus dictae Societatis concedendae terras circuire volentibus, honoris adipiscendi gratiâ, per exercitium actuum militarium, & etiam omnia alia scripta tam Certificatoria quam praeceptiva, quae Ordinem (s) Concernere. cosernere videbuntur, per Superiorem Ordinis emanare debent, sub communi Sigillo, quod remanebit in custodia unius Sociorum Ordinis ad voluntatem Superioris praedicti. Et si ille qui Sigillum custodit de presenciâ Superioris ex cansâ rationabili se transferat, dimittet ipsum Sigillum in custodiâ alterius Sociorum ejusdem Ordinis, praesentis tamen cum Superiore, quem idem Superior ad ipsius Sigilli custodiam duxerit assignandum. Ita quod Sigillum commune nullo unquam tempore sit de praesenciâ Superioris ablatum, quamdiu ipse Superior fuerit infra Regnum suum Angliae. Et simili modo in absenciâ Superioris Ordinis cum praedicto Sigillo fieri faciet suus Deputatus. XXXI. Item, concordatum est, si aliquis alius Miles dictae Societatis sive Ordinis, ductus devotionis spiritu desideret apud dictum Castrum de Wyndesore continuè trabere suam moram, pro necessariis vitae suae & suâ habitatione de proprio peculio faciat ordinari. XXXII. Item, concordatum est, quod in casu quo aliquis Miles qui non est dictae societatis Garterii, aut persona alia quaevis donare velit aliquod annum xl. i aut amplius, dicto Collegio, ad participandum orationum suffragia ibidem fiendarum: nomen Datoris hujusmodi intitulabitur in Kalendari Benefactorum (ut Canonici & Milites veterani pro eo valeant inperpetuum) deprecari. XXXIII. Item, concordatum est, quod si aliquis Canonicorum moriatur, & Superior Ordinis sit extra Regnum suum Angliae, Gardianus sive Custos Collegii, qui pro tempore fuerit, exinde mittet literas suas ad Superiorem Ordinis & Superior quem velit ad eundem Canonicatum valeat praesentare. XXXIV. Item sit unus Registrator Ordinattus per Superiorem & societatem Ordinis, qu, inter caeteros de Collegio sit scientior, & interesse debet in quolibet Capitulo Ordinis celebrando, ad registrandum & inactitandum Electiones singulas, & nomina Electorum, punitiones inflictas, & punitionum causas, ad dictum Ordinem pertinentia, de Capitulo in Capitulum annuatim. Et sit dictus Registrator juratus in receptione sui officii de fideliter registrando, Et quae in Principio ●ujuslibet Capituli in Vigiliâ Sancti Georgii annuatim celebrandi, sint omnia Registrata auni proecedentis ibidem publicè lecta, coram Superiore & societate Ordinis; Ad finem quod siquid sit malè conceptum & correctione dignum, valeat in formam debitam reformari. An Exemplar of the Statutes of Institution remaining in the Lord Hattons Library. AD honorem Dei, Sanctae Mariae Virginis gloriosae, & Sancti Georgii; Rex Angliae, Dominus noster Edwardus tertius post conquestum anno regni sui 23. Ordinavit, stabilivit & fundavit unam Societatem in Castrò suo de Windsore sub formâ quae sequitur. Imprimis, ipsemet constituitur Superior Comitivae, deinde senior ejus filius princeps Walliae, Dux Lancastriae, Comes Warwici, Piers Capital de la Bouch, Comes Staffordiae, Comes Sarisburiae, Dominus de Mari-mortuo, Dominus Johannes Lisle, Dominus Bartholomeus de Bourghier Filius, Dominus Johannes de Beuchampe, Dominus de Mahune, Dominus Hugo de Courtny, Dominus Thomas de Holande, Dominus Johannes de Grace, Dominus Ricardus Fitz Simond, Dominus Milo de Stapilton, Dominus Thomas de Wale, Dominus Hugo de Wrottesly, Dominus Neel de Loring, Dominus Johannes Chandoyse, Dominus Jacobus Audley, Dom●nus Otho de Holland, Dominus Henricus Eme, Dominus Sanchett D'abrigecourt, Dominus Walterus de Pavely. I. Imprimis, est Statutum & pro perpetuo ordinatum, quod Dominus noster Rex Angliae praedictus, & haeredes sui Reges Angliae superioritate perfruentur Comitivae praedictae. II. Item, est decretum quod in praedictum Ordinem & consortium nullus admittetur, nisi qui praecinctus fuerit irreprobato cingulo militiae, sanguinisque generositate dotatus ex origine. III. Et xxvi. Milites proenominati, quotiens praesentes fuerint in castro praedicto, portabunt pro habitu Mantellos & Garteros ordinatos ad boc ibidem, scilicet quotiesunque contigerit eos Capellam intrare Sancti Georgii, seu domum Capituli pro Capitulo celebrando, vel quicquid ali●d faciendo ibidem, quod Ordini pertinebit. Et consimiliter illi induentur insigniis vigiliâ Sancti Georgii, egrediendo cum Superiore, vel cum suo Deputato, de Magnâ Camerâ per modum processionis usque ad Capellam praedictam, seu domum Capitularem, Et ex post facto eodem ordine revertentes continuè sic induti, tam videlicet in Coenà, hi qui coenare decreverunt, quam ceteri non coenantes, usque dum Superior, seu ejus Deputatus, sumptis speciebus & vino, cunctis decreverit valefacere, consimilem modum in omnibus observantes, de mane veniendo ad Capitulum, & revertendo ad prandium, & continuè usque dum Superior, seu suus Deputatus, singula compleverit, quae suo st●tui, pro tunc ex congruo pertinent observari. Ac etiam iterum veniendo ad secundas vesperas, & revertendo ad coenam, & usque dum completa fuerit & le voyde finita. IV. Item ordinati sunt ibidem tredecim Canonici, qui in suis receptionibus, vel saltem infra annum posteriùs sacerdotes erunt. Tredecim, erunt etiam ibidem Vicarii, qui in introitu illorum Sacerdotes fore obligantur, vel ut in ordinibus proximis ad Sacerdotii gradum valeant promoveri, qui divina celebrabunt ibidem pro animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum. Qui quidem Canonici per praedictos fundatores erunt praesentati. Ita viz. quod unusquisque eorundem suum praesentabit Canonicum Custodi Collegii, Sic quod postquam aliqua vacaverit posteriùs praebenda, neque ille qui prius praesentaverat, nec aliquis alius ex tunc alium ad illam presentabit, sed solus Superior ex post facto jus habebit quemcunque praesentandi quae ad hoc decreverit limitandum, & sic de singulis vacaturis earumdem unanimiter est decretum. V. Item, concordatum est, quod Canonici praefati habebunt Mantellos murrii coloris, cum unâ figurâ rotundâ, viz. ●na roundletta de Armis Sancti Georgii. VI Item, Ordinati sunt ibidem xxvi. Milites adversitate fortune ad tantum vexati, quod de propriis minimè valeant sustentari, qui in collegio praedicto conveniens percipient emolumen●um pro suis devotis effundendis precibus, ad Laudem Dei, & honorem Sancti Georgii, & quod ad eorum electionem eodem modo ordinatum est per omnia, quo prius refertur de admissionibus Canonicorum, sic quod omnis posterior electio perpetuò remanebit penes Ordinis Superiorem. VII. Item, Statutum est, quod singuli Pauperes Milites praefati suos portabunt Mantellos de colore rubro, cum uno Scuto de Armis Sancti Georgii absque aliquo Gartero in ejus circuitu. VIII. Item, concordatum est, quod si Superior in solempnitate Sancti Georgii praesens esse non poterit, per suas Literas, suum faciat Deputatum, qui Capitulum horà tertiâ teneat in vigiliâ, ac in die singulâ studeat adimplere quae ad festunt pertinent, pro tempore, sumptibus Superioris; Ita quod interint nulla nova praesumat affirmare Statuta, immò potestatem plenariam habeat corrigendi & reformandi singula puncta Capituli quae sequuntur. IX. Item, quolibet anno, in vigiliâ Sancti Georgii, convenire habent ex Statuto, apud Castrum de Windsor omnes Milites praedicti Sancti Georgii, qui viz. infra regnum fuerint, vel alibi accedere valentes, ad effectum quod ibidem Divina insimul solempnizent, portando M●ntellos durante servicio interim ordinatim singuli in suis stallis, super quae unusquisque posita habebit suam galeam, cum Cresta, & gladium directè subpendentem, quae ibidem statuitur permanere ad tempus suorum possessorum, unumquodque viz. in signum & honorem ipsa deferentium, & etiam in signum defensionis Ecclesiae, secundum quod vota deposeunt Ordinis Militaris. Verumtamen in casu quo festum Sancti Georgii infra quindenam Paschae contingit evenire, prorogari debet usque in illam diem dominicam quae continuè dies xv. paschae fore computabitur, ut sic unusquisque Ordinis consocius opportunitatem accedendi habeat ad festum praelibatum, absque hoc quod equitare arceatur aliquo dierum illorum trium solempnitati Paschae festivae annexorum. X. Item, quod singuli & uniti simul in vigiliá praedictâ ac horâ & loco prius deputatis convenire minimè postponant. Quod si tempus neglexerint veniendi & horam, poenam subibunt ex concordiâ Capituli inferius limitatam, super quo extat decretum, quod illâ vice capitulum non intrabunt, immò expectabunt foras ad hostium, nullam habituri vocem in Capitulo, evique valituram, in re expediendâ ibidem, illâ scilicet vice tantùm. Et si ad initium primarum vesperarum quis illorum negligat accedere, de facto ad tunc Stallum suum intrare nòn praesumat, sed expectabit in loco illo Chori, quo Choristae residere solebant; scilicet coram Stallo proprio, usque ad finent illarum. Et idem Ordinatum est de negligentibus venire, ante principium altae Missae, & vesperarum in dei Sancti Georgii. Et siquis non veniat ad festum praedictum, absque boc, quod causam suae absentiae allegaverit, à Superiore acceptandam, poenam subibit hanc, viz. Quod proximo festo celebrando stallum suum non intrabit, sed totaliter tenebit se in imo, quò prius dictum est, de negligentibus praevenire principium vesperarum & Missae in die. Quod si ita fuerit negligens, quòd ad proximum festum celebrandum minimè accesserit, nullam interim caussam suae tardationis Superiori significans acceptabilem, poena sua erit, quod stallum suum non intrabit in proximo festo celebrando, immo residebit in basso modo quo prius statuitur, &, ultra hoc, in processione tunc fiendâ, tenebít se totaliter ante tres Cruces ibidem deportandas. Et in regressu se reponet in loco basso priori usque ad tempus Offertorii, & offeret solus postremò per se. Ac post has sic peractas poenitentias, se convertet ad stallum Superioris, seu sui Deputati, ibidem de Commissis humilitèr sibi petens pardonari. Quo facto, quisquis illorum interfuerit ipsum commendabit ad stallum, Statum pristinum sibi restituendo & gradum. Quod si ad secundum festum Sancti Georgii, minimè accesserit, dummodò in regno permanserit, nullam interim significans causam sui impedimenti, à Superiore, vel suo Deputato, meritò allocandam, eo facto posteriùs stallum suum nunquam intrabit, quoad usque obtulerit altari Sancti Georgii, in Capellâ praedictâ jocale aliquod valoris xx. Marcarum seu verum valorem ejusdem. Quod si de anno in annum permanserit sic culpabilis, secundum lapsum temporis, multiplicabit & sumptus, usque dùm de commissis fuerit reconciliatus. XI. Item, cadit sub Statuto, quod singuli Milites societatis praedictae Mantellos portabunt ordinis praedicti de. colore blodio, omni anno, scilicet à primis vesperis usque post secundas in festo Sancti Georgii, ubicunque pro tempore illo continget ipsos residere, ac si praesentes forent pro tunc cum Superiori Ordinis in loco ad boc specialiter deputato, dummodò sibi unà occurrerint temporis opportunitas & Libertas votiva. XII. Item, Statuitur, quod siquis de Comitiuâ praedictâ invenietur in aperto absque usu Garterii debito, & consueto, quam citò ●e h●c sibi veraciter fuerit objectum, noverit se firmitèr astrictum per Statuta, ad persolvendum, hâc de causâ, Custodi & Collegio, dimidiam marcam, modo quo consimiliter defectivì solvere consueverunt. XIII. Interim, est decretum, quod singuli de Comitiuâ in altâ Missá Sancti Georgii se disponant ad offerendum, unusquisque viz. cum suo socio sibi directè opposito, & hoc ordinatum secundum quod in suis stallis reponi dinoscuntur, ita quod si cujuscunque consors absens ab hoc actu fuerit, consocius ex opposito offeret per se, Ita quod in omni processione fiendâ ibidem in Capellâ praedicti Ordinis, Superior postremus incedat, cunctos subsequendo per se Ordinis consocios. XIV. Item, concordatum est, quod in Crastino solemnitatis Sancti Georgii, priusquam Societas praedicta decreverit inter se mutuò valefacere, Decantari facient unam Missam de Requie, pro animabus suorum Consodalium, qui de hoc seculo decesserunt, & omnium fidelium defunctorum, in cujus celebratione singuli qui praesentes pridiè extiterint, tenen● interesse, nisi forte quis causà ad hoc movente rationabili fuerit per Superiorem in speciali licentiatus, seu excusabiliter aliundè turbatus. XV. Item, decretum est, quod unusquisque Sodalium Ordinis saepedicti, relinquet ibidem unum mantellum, ad effectum quod in singulis subitaneis accessibus & insperatis, illum paratum inveniat, pro observandis statutis in hac parte, singulisque Superioris jussis & decretis. XVI. Item concordatum est, quod si quis de societate praedictâ itinerando equitaverit per Castrum praedictum, ob reverentiam Loci se debet disponere ad intrandum Capellam praefatam, s●mendo sibi primitùs suum M●ntellum, sine quo illam nusquam intrare praesumat. Cui ad obviandum se disponere habent Canonici residentes, ad ipsum conducendum devotiùs quo noverint, in capellam praedictam. Et si intraverit pro tempore altae Missae, expectare tenctur ad finem ejusdem, ob honorem Dei, & Sancti Georgii. Et si post nonam ipsum contingat introire, expectabit usque dum Canonici praesentes dixerint de proundis, pro animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum, & obtulerit ibidem. Quod si quis de Sociis praedictis per medium equitaverit villae, & recusaverit capellam intrare praefatam, ad offerendum, mod● quo praefertur per Statuta, Noverit se sub paenâ suae obedientiae f●rmiter astrictum, ad proficiscendum peregre & predester totieus quotiens, de Castro, unum miliare, usque ad Capellam praedictam, ob honorem Sancti Georgii, & pro quâlibet vice quá sic fecerit & fuerit defectivus, offerre tenetur unum denarium. XVII. Item, diffinitum est, quod quam citò ad veram & indubiam Superioris pervenerit notitiam, de decessu cujuscunque Consortis Comitivae praedictae, ipse faciet celebrari, pro animâ sic defuncti, mille missas; unus Rex extraneus celebrari faciet octingentas Missas; Princeps septingentas; quilibet Dux, sexcentas; quilibet Comes trecentas, quilibet Baro, Ducentas; quilibet Miles, Centum. Et si istas non compleverit intra quarterium anni, seu compleri fecerit, post notitiam mortis habitam, ut praefertur, duplicabit quarterium integri totius. Et si per dimidium anni à retrò permanserit, de eisdem tenetur ad duplum, ●t praefertur. Et sic de tempore in tempus usque ad finem anni. Et consimilitèr de anno, si ad tantum permanserit defectivus, & de anno in annum ipsos duplicabit. XVIII. Item concordatum est, quod siquis decesserit de praefatâ comitiuâ, Superior, seu ejus Deputatus, habitâ de hoc verâ notitiâ, cunctis sociis Comitivae in regno existentibus, per suas Literas eisdem super eo directas, facti veritatem significare tenetur, singulos interim accedere valentes praemuniendo, quatenus infra sex septimanas post hujusmodi citationem praehabitam in loco idoneo quocunque quem ad hoc duxerit limitandum, se disponant convenire. Qui quidem onmes & singuli sic uniti, ita viz. quod ad minus ultra Superiorem, vel suum Deputatum sint ibi sex alii Ordinis Consocii, novem Mi●itaris Ordinis personas nominabunt, & q●ilib●t eorum nominabit pro se, juxta videre proprium, qui praesens pro tun● fuerit, honorabili●res ac sufficientiores quos noverit Milites, in suis famis minimè violatos, irreprobatos undique & subjec●os Superiori, seu alios, dummodo partem ejus adversam nascantur non favere, viz. tres Comites, seu tres alios majoris dignitatis, tres Barones, & tres Milites. Quas quidem denominationes unà cum votis singulorum reportabit, & seribet Praelatus Ordinis, viz. Episcopus Wintoni●n●●● existens pro tempore, seu in absentiâ suâ, Custos Collegii, seu Registrarius deputatus ad hoc, vel senior Residentiarius Collegii praedicti, in absentiis corundem; Ac denominationes praedictae & vota per omnes, seu ad minus per sex illorum facta, ut praefertur, postquam reportaverit & scripserit incontinenter ostendere tenetur Superiori ordinis, qui ipsum eligere debet Militem, seu denunciare pro electo, quem pluribus viderit Eligentium vocibus abundare, & honorabiliorem judicaverit, sibique ac coronae suae, ac regno ex verisimili in posterum decreverit magis pr●futurum. Et siquis de Comitiv● praedictá voluntariè se subtraxerit ab electione hujusmodi, absq, hoc, quod causam habuerit justiorem, puniatur sub f●rmâ quae subsequitur, causam insuper suae tardationis justam, si qu●m allegaverit, debitè allocando. Quod si nullam valeat ostendere justam sui impedimenti, seu quòd non venerit citationi parendo prius exhibitae, decretum est, quod tunc solvet Custodi & Collegio unam maream, ad effectium, quod ipsi orent pro animâ socii defunctii, & in proximo suo advent● ad Capitulum praedictum, ipse expect●bii super terram in medio Capituli, coram Superiore, & totá praesente Comitiv●, usque dum per ipsos fuerit reco●●iliatus. XIX. Item, decretum est, quod cum contigerit aliquem Militem praesatae Societatis in fata decedere, ac deinde alium per electionem succedere in locum suum, sic electo transmittetur Garterus, in signum quod ipse est unus de praedicto consortio Ordinis Garteri; Et quam citiùs decreverit possessionem recipere sui Stalli, tunc primò & nòn ante recipiet Mantellum Ordinis pro suo habitu. Et in casu quo decefferit priusquàm suo habitu indui videatur, nequaquam tunc nominabitur ut unus fundatorum, eò quòd sibi deficiat plenitudo possessionis suae & statùs, veruntamen medictatem percipiet missarum praenominatarum, causâ liberati Garteri, sibi sic transmissi, ut statuitur, absque pluribus. Quod si sic electus post ipsius Garterii susceptionem, omnem congruam non adhibuerit diligentiam, quatenus installari vale●t, ita specialiter quòd installetur infrà annum suae electionis, si fuerit Miles expectans infra Regnum, si de hoc minime causam assig●are voluerit, à Superiore, & tota Comitiv● merito allocandam, eo facto cassa judicabitur electio illa & vana, in tantum quòd liceat eis, ex tunc, ad novam celebrandam procedere electionem; Et medio tempore, sua galea cum Crestâ & gladio nequaquam figi debent super per stallum sibi limitatum, sed ambo reponi debent, usque adventum cujusvis sic electi, ad Castellum praedictum, ne si ipsum, ut praefertur, infra tempus limitatum accedere non contingat, nouâ factâ electione ipsa insignia militaria devellari judicabitur merito, seu deponi, sed potius sic in imo posita honestiùs & secretiùs de choro exportari, deinde ad opus Collegii perpetuò permansura. XX. Item, concordatum est, quòd omnes Extranci in hanc electi Comitivam, de suis electionibus certificari debent per Superiorem, quibus interim transmitti debent, sumptibus Superioris, Garterus cum Mantello, & Statutis Ordinis, signatis Sigillo ipsius communi, & hoc omni celeritate congruâ, ita quòd, ad ultimum, notitian inde habeant infra quatuor menses post electionem, ad finem, quòd visis statutis Ordinis, se avisare valeant, antequàm ipsam recipere decreverint seu refutare. Quam si receperint Extranei praedicti, cujuscunque dignitatis fuerint, conditionis, seu statûs, tenentur ad transmittendum, infra octo menses proximè tunc sequentes, unum sufficientem Procuratorem, unusquisque juxta statum suae dignitatis, sic ad minùs quòd sit Miles irreprobatus, qui nomine suo valeat installari, qui secum adducere tenetur unum Mantellum sericum de blodio colore Ordinis, ex parte ipsum transmittentis, interim galeam cum crestâ, & uno gladio, quae continuò posteriùs morabuntur in Collegio. Qui quidem Mantellus, tempore installationis ipsius Procuratoris, nomine Domini seu Magistri sui, per Superiorem reponi debet super brachium suum dextrum, quem retinere tenetur ibidem usque finem horae divinae, ex tunc ibidem proximè celebrandae, postquam sic, nomine Domini, seu M●gistri sui, fuerit installatus, ita quòd posteriùs ipsum non portabit, neque vocem aliquam habebit in Capitulo, neque illuc intrare praesumet, in absentiá transmittentis ipsum. Et est sciendum, quòd tantus favor Extraneis sic electis ab hoc praestari jubetur, qui in suis personis minimè valeant installari, quo facere valeant per suos Procuratores quatenus ipsi particepes effici mereantur Missarum & Orationum integrarum Ordinis praelibati, quarum medietate privarentur, si, priusquam ipsos installari contingat, viam ingrederentur universae carnis. XXI. Item, statuitur, quod siquis Comes, Baro, seu quivis Miles in fata decesserit, ipse qui post ipsum venturus est, cujuscunque conditionis fuerit, seu Statûs, ipse tenebit eundem Stallum quem tenuit suus Praedecessor, absque mutatione aliquâ, nisi solummodo ratione Principis, qui Comitivae obtinebit stallum primum ex opposito Superioris, quam citò electus fuerit ipse. Et sic in casu continget, quod unus Comes succedet uni Militi in stallum suum, & etiam è converso. Et hoc ideò permittitur sic fieri, quatenus per hoc, primi Ordinis Fundatores ab aliis valeant discerni. XXII. Interim Statutum est, quod unusquisque praedictae Societatis, in introitu suo primo, aliquid administrabit de bonis suis, unusquisque viz. juxta substantiam suae dignitatis, in relevamen Canonicorum, pauperum Militum, & eleemosinarum ibidem pro perpetuo ordinatarum, viz. Superior Ordinis 40. Marcas, unus Rex extraneus 20 l. Princeps 20 Marcas, quilibet Dux 10 l. quilibet Comes 10 Marcas quilibet Baro 100 solidos, & quilibet Miles, quinque Marcas solvere statuitur. Et quousque unusquisque illorum juxta statum suum has persolverit summas, galeae suae cum gladiis nequaquam erigi permittentur supra stalla sua; pro quo sciendum, quòd Superior Ordinis tenetur ad satisfaciendum in his; pro quolibet Extraneo sic electo, viz. tempore installationis suae per Procuratorem suum; Et ista Dona pro tanto ordinantur, ut omnes hunc intrantes Ordinem, digniores reddantur ad habendum sua nomina intitulata ac privilegiata, velut Fundatores Ordinis praedicti. XXIII. Interim est statutum quòd quam citò aliquis primorum Fundatorum debitum solverit naturae, fieri debet de Metallo Scutum Armorum suorum, & galeae cum Crestâ ejusdem, quae figi statuuntur in dorso sui stalli, in signum gestantis ipsa. Et consimilitèr eorum Successores, Scuta Armorum suorum cum galeis & crestis fixa habebunt, in dorso stallorum suorum subtus prima tamen, quae etiam de Metallo erunt, veruntamen ad differentiam primorum fundatorum, minora erunt. XXIV. Item unusquisque praefatum Ordinem ingressurus promittere habet personaliter ac jurare, seu per Procuratorem quem suo nomine, ut praefertur, continget installari, se observaturum juxta posse fideliùs quo valebit, statuta omnia & singula Ordinis praelibati, Et de caetero nullus installari permittetur per Procuratorem, nisi fuerit extraneus, qui, ut in propriâ personâ installetur, accedere non valet tempore limitato. XXV. Item, in casu quo Superior de regno fuerit absens seu alibi, ita quod commodè in personâ propriâ accedere non valeat, ad perimplendum ea quae ad installationem Militis sic electi dignoscuntur ex congruo pertinere, sibi licebit vices tunc suas in hâc parte committere cuicunque duxerit socio praedictae Comitivae, qui cuncta suo nomine huic actui pertinentia valebit authoritateque peragere. XXVI. Item concordatum est, quod ad hunc Ordinem pertinere debeat unum commune Sigillum, in praesentiâ Superioris continue permansurum, vel in custodiâ illius quemcunque ad hoc duxerit limitandum. XXVII. Item, unusquisque de caetero Ordinis praedicti habere t●netur penes se Statuta praesentia, signata Sigillo praefato, quorum Originale pro perpetuo remanere statuitur infra Thesanrariam Collegii saepedicti, praedicto Sigillo prius debitè consignatum. XXVIII. Item, post decessum cujusque Militis Ordinis Garterii Executores ejus firmiter astringuntur ad remittendum Collegio praedicto Statuta praefata suis Dominis & Magistris tradita, prius ut praefertur, Custodi tradenda Collegii pro tempore existenti. XXIX. Item concordatum est, quod nullus de caetero Miles Ordinis Sancti Georgii regnum exire presunat, absque Superioris licentia speciali petitâ super hoc pariter & obtentâ, super quo communiter est decretum quod si aliquod Militare viagium seu aliud quoddam honorificum, per Superiorem fieri dispanatur, quod Ordinis militarem famam possit promovere, Superior, ex suâ gratiâ speciali, ad peragendum dicti Ordinis Commilitones prae caeteris subditis dignabitur anteferre. XXX. Item, Statutum est, quod nullus Militum praedictorum contra alium praesumat militare, nisi solùm in casu quo à suis & superioribus Dominis idem & ex jussu legis s●cere arceatur, seu in propriâ caus● justâ. Quod si sic eveniat quod aliquis eorudem cum quocunque Domino, seu cum favente suam partem stipendiis retineatur, ad Arma militaribus, & ejus pars adversa alium Ordinis Garterii militem optaverit retinere; in isto casu ipse qui sic secundò fuerit requisitus, eò quòd noverit sui Ordinis Commilitonem praeviè praearmari cum adversâ parte, de requisitione hac ultimatè te●etur excusari; Ac insuper in quibuseunque suis hujus●odi retentionibus ad Arma obligari satis arctè ad specialiter praeexcipiendum, cum ad hoc primò fuerint inclinati. Quod si quem de Ordine suo Garteri cum adversâ parte ipsius retinentis ipsum praeviè contingat retineri, quod tun● ille secundo sic retentus, habitâ hujus rei perfectâ notitiá, isto non obstante, suas liberè valeat habenas exercere, ac de hujusmodi retentione ad guerram penitùs absolvi eo fact●● Quod si in hujusmodi ut praefertur, retentione ipsum secundariè sic retentum non constiterit, de aliquo sui Ordinis consocio cum parte retento adversâ, sed posteriùs si devenerit ad notitiam, incontinenti se noscat firmiter obligatum ad se excusandum erga dominum seu Magistrum suam▪ Et ad querelam suam & quamlibet hujusmodi penitùs relinquendum. XXXI. Item quod omnes & sing●●● Licentiae literales consortii Militibus de caetero conced●ndae per Superiorem, ad finem quod mare pertranseant, ut fines visitent alienos, & exteras nationes, pro honoribus militiae quoquo m●do perquirendis, ac insuper & Literae mandatoriae, seu aliàs certificatoriae, quovis modo Ordini pertinentes cuique transmittendae, prius debite consignentur praedicti Ordinis communi Sigillo, quod manere statuitur penes aliquem de Ordine, quem ad hoc Superior viderit assignandum. Quem si ex rationabili causâ de praesentiâ Superioris recedere contingat, tunc Sigillum post se relinquet, cum illo quem ad hoc Superior decreverit limitare, ita quod Sigillum praedictum, extra suam praesentiam, dummodò infra regnum expectaverit, minimè relinquatu●. Quod etiam omninò observandum fore statuitur, ab intento pro Superioris in absentiâ ejus Deputato, quoad Sigillum praelibatum. XXXII. Item statuitur, quòd siquis Miles Ordinis praedicti, ob devotionem propositum receperit infra Collegium praedictum continuè permanendi, quòd ipse de suis propriis & nòn Collegii se disponat interim sustentari. XXXIII. Item siquìs Miles alius extraneus ab ordine ob dovotionem etiam ibidem optaverit residere, juxta decretum Superioris Ordinis & ipsius Comiti●ae, pro ejusdem morê poterit provideri. XXXIV. Item conceditur ex decreto, quod siquis Miles, vel quaevis alia persona, ab hoc Ordine, ex devotione tribuere decreverit x l. annui reditus, seu terrarum, vel magis, ad effectum quòd particeps valeat sicri omnium precum devotarum ibidem fundendarum, pro benefactoribus praecipuis Collegii saepedicti, nomen suum eo facto inscribi statuitur inter nomina ibidem benefactorum ejusdem, quatenus pro ipso inter caeteros ab ipsius ministris continuè in speciali valeat deprecari. XXXV. Interim est decretum, quòd si aliquis de Canonicis praedicti Collegii in absentiâ Superioris decesserit in fata, custôs tunc Collegii ejus decessum Superiori significare tenetur ex statuto, per suas literas, ad effectum, quòd ipse alium, quem ad hoc decreverit limitandum, in locum ipsius valeat subrogare. XXXVI. Item, deputandus est interim, per Ordinis Superiorem & ejus Comitivam, unus Registrarius, qui viz. scientior ad hoc fore existimatur Canonicorum ibidem in Collegio residentium, qui praesens esse poterit in omni Capitulo Ordinis celebrando, ad fideliter reportandum insuper & registrandum, electiones fiendas ac nomina electorum, poenas infligendas, & causis paenarum, reconciliationes punitorum praeviè delinquentium, cum singulis actibus aliis & causis eorundem Ordini pertinentibus, & hoc de Capitulo in Capitulum, & de anno in annum; super quo praefatus Registrarius, in sua primâ receptione ad officium suum, Iurame●tum tenetur praestare, ad sideliter registrandum materias ibidem ministrandas, modo quo praefertur. Quae omnia, ut inactitantur, in principio Capituli proximò sequentis, in vigiliá Sancti Georgii, coram Superiore & totá Comitiuá integrè debeat recitare, ad effectum, quòd, si quae occurrant corrigenda, pro tunc, juxta rei exigentiam, dignè valeant emendari. Another Exemplar of the said Statutes, entered in the Black Book of the Order. I. QVisquis in Angliâ Regni solio potietur, is ipse perpetuis ab hinc temporibus hujus illustrissimi Ordinis Supremus & erit, & appellabitur. II. Nullus in hanc clarissimam societatem ascribetur nisi qui generis ac militiae nomine dignus fuerit, ut qui moribus ac famâ splendidus, & Eques antè ut minimùm auratus; ignobiles autem & improbi repulsam hîc omninò patientur. Improbitates etenim & probra haec probitatis & honorificae virtutis Ordo minùs admittet, aut sustinebit. III. Commilitones egregii hujus Ordinis & ornatissimi Collegae viginti sex erunt: qui Trabeas ac Subligaria apud Windesorum habeant, in usum & splendorem Ordinis aptè parata, ut quoties utendum sit, his illic utantur. Vtendum autem quotiescunq, Divi sui Georgii Sacellum ingrediuntur, seu domum sue suorumque Sacerdotum consultationi dedicatam, vel ad conventum ibi celebrandum vel quid aliud agitandum, vel constituendum, quod Societatis hujus interesse poterit; eodem habitu celebrique orn●tu, sub vesperi● vigiliae Divi Georgii, ante meridiano Crastinae diei solemni, & secundis deinde vesperis, cum Supremo, vel in locum ejus assignato de magno Regis Cubiculo, ad Sacellum & domum, quam de rebus consulturi subintrat, ibunt ac redibunt. Trabeis itidem ac subligaribus illic suis induti considebunt, tam in praudio diei Divi Georgii, quam in Caena vigiliae ejus, pariter & diei, comedentes simul ac abstemii, neque se illis exuent, donec ipse Supremus ejusve loco constitutus exuerit, exuendive tempus esse decreverit. IV. Et quia Militiae decus honore Divino nititur, & quae geruntur, oratione pia fulciuntur: illis viginti sex Equitibus, totidem infra Deo dedicandi respondebunt Canonici seculares tredecim, Vicarii totidem; jam jam Sacerdotes, vel brevi ●●st futuri. Canonici nimirum intra annum subsequentem, Vicarii vero proximò deinceps Ordinationis tempore. Horum intererit pro Regis ac Regni ac singulorum in eo conviventium, presertìm hujus Ordinis foelici Statu, proque defunctorum animabus jugiter ac suppliciter exorare. Praese●tabuntur autem Canonici, per Fundatores Ordinis, ut suum quisque Canonicum Custodi jam Collegii praesentet. Quod siquis eorum moriatur, nec ipse qui proximè praesentavit, nec alius quisquam Sociorum Ordinis ultrà praesentabit: sed convenit omnibus unanimitèr, ut imposterum omnium praesentatio Canonicatuum uni Supremo reservetur. V. Omnes Canonici suum purpurei subrubrive coloris pallium habere debent, insignium Divi Georgii, hoc est Sanguineae Crucis circulo, dexteris subindè brachiis superinducto. VI Si forte Supremus non potuerit interesse solemnitati Divi Georgii, Deputatus ab eo locum ejus supplebit, & consilium nihilo minùs horâ tertiarum inibitur, Crastinaque festivitas de more servabitur, idque sumptibus ipsius Supremi. Verum ab eo designatus ille, novas interìm observationes aut institutiones haud faciet. Statutorum autem transgressores corrigere, & malè sarcta resarcire licebit. VII. Annis singulis vigiliâ Divi Georgii fiet una congregatio Sociorum omnium hujus Ordinis in Castro Windesoriensi, siuè tum sint in Anglia ipsi, siuè foris: modò commodè valeant advenire; ubi tum divinis intererunt, seriatìm coassidentes, in Sedili quisque suo, Trabeis & caeteris insignibus ornati. Supra unuscujusque Sedile, Galea atque Ensis cum appendicibus, ad ornatum Ecclesiae, nobilisque viri condignam memoriam, quoad Superstes erit, propendebunt; prout Ordo Militaris efflagitat. Si verò festivitas illa Divi Georgii intra quindecim à Paschate dies obtigerit, deferetur ad quintam decimam pòst diem & quae circiter erit Dominicam; Vt nullus Sociorum justè causam absentiae praetendere debeat, nec equitare cogatur sub aliquo trium dierum, solemne Pascha proximè subsequentium. VIII. Prefatae vigiliae horâ tertiarum simul ibidem aderunt, si qui verò designato tempore non venerint, nec, quod Supremo vel ejus Vicemgerenti justè ac probabilitèr excusent, habeant, pro tempore illo prohibebuntur ab introitu Consilii, neque suffragii conferendi facultatem habebunt in ullis rebus, quae tum fient, aut statuentur in Consilio. Sìn ad utrarumque vesperarum & solemnis Missae principium non accesserint, à suis exclusi sedibus, infra stabunt, ubi Ceroferarii solent: donec illa sacra de more finita fuerint. Quisquis autem ad eam celebritatem non veniet, nec habet quod jure causari possit, quod & Supremus approbabit, eâdem anni sequentis festivitate Sedili suo deprivatus tempore primarum vesperarum ut suprà, ante id Sedile substabit, dum solemnitèr in Crastino Chorus procedet, tres processionarias Cruces antecedet: & reversus in eodem infimo loco perstabit, usq, ad eam, Missae partem, quâ ritè offerunt, tumque ipse novissimus offerre debet. Post bumilem istiusmodi pene tolerantiam è vestigio veniet ad clarum Sedile Supremi sui, vel in ejus loco constituti, veniam oraturus. A qui●us Statui priori restitutus, remittetur ad Sedile proprium. Si verò remanens intra Regnum, altero nibilominùs anno supra memorate celebritati citra excusationem hujuscemodi laudabilem, abesse non formidârit, à Sedili proprio eousque prohibebitur, donec intra Sacellum ante Altare Divi Georgii unum Donarium viginti Marcis probatae in Angliâ Monetae, valens obtulerit. Et singulis deinceps annis quoadusque reconciliatus ipse fuerit ea mulcta geminabitur. IX. Omnes Socii, ubicunque locorum extiterint, quotannis in illa Divi Georgii festivitate caeruleas suas trabeas ab exordio primarum vigiliae vesperarum usque ad secundarum dici terminum cum res poscat induentur, perinde ac si cum ipso Supremo vel ejus Vicemgerente, quoad ea festivitas agitur, praesentes esse● i nisi fursitan libertate tunc suâ destituti fuerint. X. Si quis Socius absque nobilitato Subligaculo publicitùs incedat, inde notam incurret, & ammonitus Custodi ac Collegio dimidium Marcae persolvet, sicut persolvendi mos semper ante fuit. XI. In supremo Sacrificio, quum sit solemniter offerendum, Socii, quemadmodum in sedibus suis è regione consistunt, ita bini procedent ad offerendum, si vero quenquam abesse contigerit, Socius ejus qui sedet ex opposito, solus ad offerendum ibit. XII. Quando solemni more Processio fiet in Sacello, postremus omnium Supremus incedet. XIII. Postridiè Divi Georgii, priusquam Socii vale sibi dicant invicem, una solemnis Missa celebrabitur pro defanctis: à qua nemo Sociorum aberit, nisi, necessarium impedimentum ostendens, Supremo vel ejus Vicemgerente recedendi copiam impetrârit. XIV. Trabeam suam seu Clamidem Socius unusquisq, Windesori relinquet: ut ibi paratam semper inveniat, si repentè forsan accesserit, aut aliquid ex salutari monitu praeoeptoque Principis adimplendum acciderit. XV. Si quisquam è Sociis, iter ingressus, Windesoriense Castrum fortè pretervebatur, ob honorem loci, (nisi legitima causa praepedicrit) divertat illuc. Prius autem quam aedem introcat, Clamidem induat. Indutum Canonici, qui tune affuerint obviàm venientes, in Chorum reverenter adducent. Si Missae celebratio tunc instet, ad honorem Dei, Sanctiq, Georgii, venerabundus illam audiat. Sin alias accesserit, tantisper immoratus, dum Canonici c●m reliquis sacrificiis Psalmum De profundis, pro desunctis absolverint, ibidem offerat. Quod si quis mediam urbem transiens haud diverterit in aedem oblaturus, quoties id ita praetermiserit, ut obedientem se demonstret, unum milliare pedes illuc accedet, vel unum denarium offeret. XVI. Supremus Ordinis, ubi primum significata sibi fuerit mors alicujus è Sociis, pro salute animae ejus mille Missas celebrari faciet, Rex externus, qui de numero fuerit, Octingentas; Princeps Walliae, Septingentas; Dux unusquisque sexcentas; Marchio, quadringentas quinquaginta; Comes, Trecentas; Vicecomes, Ducentas quinquaginta; Baro, Ducentas; Eques alius quisque Centum. Quod si Supremus, aut Eques alius id, intra tres menses postquam certior fuerit factus, non perfecerit, numerum Missarum ad quas ante tenebatur conduplicabit. Sin medium annum id ipsum omiserit, rursum congeminari debet. Et pari forma de tempore in tempus usque ad anni finem. Quod si intra annum integrum, quod debet, non impleverit, annos eodem modo duplicabit. XVII. Quoties Sociorum aliquis ab hác vita excesserit, Supremus, aut ab co designatus, certior inde factus, alios omnes qui tum fuerint intra Regnum accedere valentes, literis actutum commonebit; ut intra sex bebdomadas post, in locum ab his sibi statuendum conveniant, ad electionem novi Socii. Quibus omnibus ita congregatis, vel (adminimum) sex corum, ultra Supremum aut ab eo Deputatum, presentium quisque novem de magis idoncis, ut quos ignomini● probroque vacare crediderit; seu sint de Supremo subditis, seu quivis exteri (dummodo non sint ipsi●s adversarii, vel adversariorum ejus fautores, aut ultronei defensores) nominabit, tres viz. Comites, aut excelsioris Conditionis homines, tres Barones, & totidem Bachalaureos Equites. Ipsa haec autem nomina conscribet Ordinis Prelatus, scilicet Wintoniensis tum Episcopus, sin abfuerit ipse, Collegii Decanus, vel Scriba Ordinis. Quin immò si nullus horum interfueri●, è residentibus antiquissimus id effectum ibi dabit. In hunc modum conscriptos qui scripsit ad Supremum, aut ab eo Designatum afferens ostendet; Is vero de nominatis cum pre●liget, cui plura suffragia consenserint, & quem sibi Regnoque s●iet aptiorem atque utiliorem fore. Si quis (ut oportuit) praemonitus, ad electionem tamen non advenerit, punietur: nisi justam absentiae causam, & Supremo vel ejus locum implenti probat●m preostenderit. Si causam minùs approband●m a●tulerit, nec vocatus tamen adesse curavit, mulctabitur, ut unam Collegio maream persalvat, & inito proximè Consilio super terram ante Supremum sen Designatum abipso, totamque societatem in medio sedebit, quousq, cum ●is rediens in gratiam restitutus fuerit. XVIII. A morte cujusvis Equitum, electus in cam societatem illicò praenobilis Sub●ibuli usu donabitur: quo fiet ut Sociorum unus habeatur. Trabeâ vero sibi necessariâ non pri●s ornabitur, quam in Sedile suum fuerit introducendus. Sique is ante moriatur quam fuerit in sede propriâ collocatus, haud fundatorum unus appellabitur, cò quòd plenam status sui possessionem non habuerit. Attamen Missarum de quibus diximus, medictas illi debebitur, quod ornamentum Subligaris obti●uerat. Siu autem Electus non celeriter accedat ut Sedile suum occupet, vel saltem intra Annum non iter arripiat ut illud ipsum adimpleat, modò manserit in Regno, nisi Supremo, seu gerenti vicem ejus, totique societati, gratam ac sufficientem excusationem apposuerit, inanis erit illa prior electio, nec quid erit impedimento, quo minus inde Supremus aut ab co designatus, cum caeterâ Societate liberè procedat ad novam electionem. Ensis ejus atque Galca non antè supra Sedile suum affigentur quam venerit ad Arcem; sed ante sedile foris, ob id nimirum ut dedecori nulla detur occasio, quae sic utique vitari non possit. si de locis editioribus subito tollerentur. Verùm ut Equestris honor servetur illibatus, extra Chorum, modo, quo poterunt, honestiori removebuntur, ad opus publicum & militatem Collegii remansura. XIX. Socii de funibus remotis atque externis eligendi de sui electione per Supremum certiores ficri debent, cele●rime missis ad eos sub Sigillo communi, illustri Subligaculo, & cae●uleá Trab●â, cum Statutis Ordinis ipsius, certè Supremi sumptibus. Intra quatuor autem menses ab electione factâ, de hâc sunto certiores: ut perpendere possint è Statutis electionem illam gratam ac ratam, necne velint habere. Tum hujuscemodi omnes, qualiscunque conditionis & honoris electi, postquam certò id intellexerint, & grataenter acceperint, prout honor conditionis exigit, idoneum remittant Procuratorem, qui sibi sedem occupet. Idoneum interpretamur qui vitâ famâque sit incorruptus, nec antea notatus, sed irreprehensus. Is caeruleamê serico Trabeam, Ensem atque Galeam, Windesorum secunt afferat, ut ibidem ea permaneant. Adducta vero Trabea ponetur à Supremo vel Vicem ejus gerente, super dexterum Procuratoris humerum, quando sub nomine Domini sui in sedem introducetur; nec inde dimovebit post clari sedilis ingressum, usque dum Canonicarum horarum celebratio terminetur. Vltràvero non gestabit eam, neq, Consilium introibit, aut suffragium ullum ibi conferet, ullius authoritatis aut potestatis argumento. Ea sanè facultas per Vicarium occupandae sedis, solis est exteris concedenda: quod illuc hii commodè satis baud possent advenire. Fit autem haec potestas illis eâ praesertim de causâ quo Missarum orationumque piarum, quarum alioqui dimidio privarentur, jam mortuiplene participes essent. XX. Si Comes, Baro, vel Eques Bacchalaureus obierit; qui succedet, sive Comes, Baro, vel Eques tantum extiterit; eandem omnino sedem quam & praedecessor obtinebit. Nec eligendus quisquam seriem istam interrumpet, aut demutabit, praeter unum Walliae Principem, qui sedile Supremi semper è Regione situm vendicabit. Itaque fieri potest ut Comitis sedem Eques, & hujus è diverso. Comes occupet juréque teneat. Sic nimirum est institutum, ut qui fuerint primarii Fundatores Ordinis intelligamus. XXI. Vnusquisque Sociorum in ingressu Ordinis, dabit in Eleemosynas imperpetuum illie institutaes, & insustentationem Canonicorum, pauperumque Militum, Supremus scil. Quadraginta Marcas, Extraneus Rex, viginti libras, Princeps Walliae, viginti Marcas, quisque Dux, decemlibras, Comes totidem Marcas, Baro centum solidos, & Eques Bacchala●reus quinque Marcas. jussa sunt haec ideo donari, ut qui donat, unius è fundatoribus meritò nomen accipiat. Rem dignam etenim & justam arbitrabantur, ut fundationi huic commodi tantillum adderet, quisquis privilegii nomen obtinens, numero fundatorum accederet. Nec alicujus Ensis aut Galea supra sedile suum ante defigetur, quam ista pecunia fuerit rite persoluta. Externi reverà quod debent ob introitum, pendetur id à Supremo. XXII. Vt primùm è primevis Fundatoribus ullus expiraret, Scutum è metallo in quo notae compingentur Armorum, cum Galea, fixunt extabit, in sedili proprio, post tergum sedentis. Et qui succedent, Scuta cum Galeis atque armis sumili modo collocabunt: tamen sub illis primariorum Fundatorum. Neq, etiam ipsorum haec omnino tam magna fient, quam erunt illa primorum Fundatorum. XXIII. Ingressurus jam dignitatem hujus insignissimi Ordinis, vel ipsemet pollicebitur, vel ejus nomine Procurator, & jurabit, quòd haec Statuta fideliter atque integre pro viribus observare vellet. Procuratores autem loco suo statuendi facultas, solorum (uti diximus) exterorum erit. XXIV. Si quando Supremus Regnum peregrè vel aliter exiens abfuerit, quo tempore Socius aliquis in sedem suam est solenniter introducendus, ut (quae suae partes sunt) perficere nonposset, unicuilibet è Sociis potestatem suam ex arbitrio committat, qui, quidvis exequi perficereq, debeat, quod & Supremus ipse, si jamjam preseus esset. XXV. Fiet unum Commune Sigillum Ordinis, quodillius, quem Supremus assignârit, custodiae commendabitur. XXVI. Ordinis Statuta sibi descripta Sigilloque communi consignata, quisque Sociorum habeat. Originale verò Statutorum eodem Sigillo munitum permanebit in erario Collegii, dilige●tissime reconditum. Defuncti nimirum Socii haeredes ex asse, Statuta quae vivens apud se retinuit, remittent ad Collegium, & Presidi seu Decano reddenda curabunt. XXVII. Nullus istorum Equitum Regnum exibit, nisi premonito Supremo, qui exeundi potestatem faciet. Si qua vero Militaris expeditio contingat, vel quid ejuscemodi, sub quo gloria speratur Equestris, suis hic istius Ordinis Equitibus clementissimus Rex Supremus beneficus & gratiosus erit; ut quos in actis isitiusmodi decoris, quibusvis aliis anteferre debeat. XXVIII. Nullus Equitum hujus Ordinis contra Sociorum ullum Arma movebit, nisi vel Supremi sui, vel propria causa juste compulerit. Sique Sociorum aliquis in alicujus Domini famulitium acciderit, ejusque partes sibi defendendas assumpserit; Et postmodum adversarius alium ex eisdem Sociis lateri suo conjungere cupiat, qui posterior expetitur haud ullo pacto consentiet. Quisquis itaque Sociorum ab ullo petitur ut sibi militet: initio pacisci debet, quòd eatenus sua conventio nonstabit. Si Sociorum aliquis antea cum adversâ parte militare ceperit, sique jam retentus ad militiam ignoravit, quòd alter Sociorum sub adversâ parte prius ad arma descenderit: Vbi primum id resciverit, servicium abdicans, illud excuset. XXIX. Omnes Equites hujus Ordinis, qui terras circumcursare volent, bonoris inveniendi gratiâ perfacinora Militaria, Literas in id scriptas habere curabunt: quae quidem & omnes aliae spectantes ad hunc Ordinem Sigillo Communi consignari debent, quod custodiet unus Sociorum, quem ex arbitratu Supremus assignabit. Eum quem si causa fecerit absentem à Supremo, Sigillum illud intereà Sociorum alteri relictum ibit, quem viz. & Supremus ipse nominabit; it a quidem, ut Sigillum id commune nullo unquam tempore de Supremi praesentià tollatur, quamdiu Supremus intra Regnum Angliae remanserit. In ejus autem absentiâ, faciet illud ipsum cum Sigillo, designatus à Supremo. XXX. Si quis Equitum hujus Societatis, pietatis instinctu tractus, apud Arcem Windesoriensem commorari velit, suis illic impendiis vivere debet. XXXI. Si quis etiam alius praeter buju● Societatis Equites aliquid annuum, decem viz. libras aut eo ampliùs, Collegio donare voluerit, ut orationum ibi dicendarum particeps esse, queat; nomen ejus numero benefactorum ascribatur, ut perpetuò cum eis memoriae commendetur. XXXII. Quando Canonicorum aliquis moritur, si Supremus intra Regnum non sit, Collegii Custos ad eum Literas emittet, ut quem voluerit, ad Canonicatum illum nominet. XXXIII. E. Canonicis, unus, moribus & scientiâ maximè conveniens, per Supremum ae Societatem eligetur, qui Consiliis inter eos celebrandis interesse debet; ut electiones, & electorum nomina, punitiones & causas earum, caeteraque in Consiliis illis administranda, probè, ae fidelitèr annotet, & tanquam in indicem redigat. Cumq, sit admittendus, jurabit quod officium in bisce rebus suum fideliter exequetur; Principio sanè eujusque Consilii vigiliâ Divi Georgii quotanuns ineundi, cuncta superioris Anni gesta fidelitèr annotata coram Supremo Societateque recitabuntur. Quòd si quid haud benè sit conceptum, & correctionis egeat, revocabitur ad incudem, & suae reddetur perfectioni. In consummatum. XXXIV. Et quoniam Eleemosyna Orationi conjuncta multum juvat ad salutem Anime, clarissimis illis Equitibus totidem veterani Milites egeni substituentur, ad orandum, habituri quidem illic, cum de suo nequeant, unde vivere potuerint. Horum autem Electio, sicut & anteposita Canonicorum spectabit ad Supremum. Habebunt item isti Milites sua palliola rubra, Scuto Divi Georgii similiter assuto. The Statutes established by King Henry the Fifth. AL'bonneur de Dieu, Sainte Marie la glorieuse Vierge, & Saint George. Si a le Roy d' Angleterre nostre Seigneur Edouard trosieme apres la Conqueste d' Angleterre, l'an de son regue vingt & trois, ordonné & estably & fondé une Compagnie en son Chasteau de Windesore, en la maniere qui s'ensuit. Premierement luy mesme Sounerain, son aisné filz le Prince de Galles, le Duc de Lancastre, le Comte de Warwyk, le Capitaine de Bouche, le Comte de Stafford, le Comte de Salesbury, le Sire de Mortimer, Monsieur Jehan Lisle, Monseigneur Bartholomeu de Bourghersh le filz, Monsieur Jehan de Beauchamp, le Sire de Mahun, Monsieur Hugh de Courtenay, Monsieur Thomas de Holland, Monsieur Jehan de Grey, Monsieur Richard le Filz Simon, Monsieur Miles Stapelton, Monsieur Thomas Wale, Monsieur Hugh de Wriottesley, Monsieur Neele Loring, Monsieur Jehan Chandos, Monsieur James d'Audelay, Monsieur de Holland, Monsieur Henry Eme, Monsieur Sanchet de Prichecourt, Monsieur Walter de Pauely. I. Il est accordé, que le Roy, & ses heirs, Rois d' Angleterre seront pour tousiours Souerains de la dite Compagnie. II. Item est accordé, que nul ne soit eleu Compagnon du dit Ordre, s'il n'est Gentilbomme de Sang, & Chevalier sans reproche. III. Item que les xxvi. dessus nommez porteront les Manteaux & les Gartiers ordonnés au dit lieu, quand ils seront presens audit Chastel, c'est assavoir à toutes les fois qu'ils entreront dans la Chapelle de Saint George, ou au Chapitre, pour tenir Chapitre, ou illec faire aucun acte appartenant à l'Ordre. Et semblablement porteront leur manteaux dés la veille Saint George, avec le Souuerain ou son Deputé en maniere de procession, de la grande Chambre, jusqu'a la Chapelle, ou au Chapitre, en retournant en semblable maniere, & aussi les porteront au souper de la dite Veille, ceux qui souper voudront, & les autres aussi jusques apres laver. Et le lendemain en venant en ladite Chapelle & retournant au disner, & apres, tant que le Souerain, ou son Deputé, aura tenu son estat; E● en venant aux secondes vespres, & en retournant, & en souper, tant que la Vuide soit faicte. Et que chacun des xxvi. Compagnons dessus-nommez, chacua à leur entrer dedans le Chaeur, ils devotement obeiront, premierement à l'autel, en l'bonneur & maniere des gens de Sainte Eglise; & apres au Sowerain, ou à son Estal, en son absence, devant qu'ils entreront en leur Estals, & pareillement en leur departir d'icelle. IV. Et seront ordonnez xiii. Chanoines Seculiers, qui seront Prestres en leur entrée, ou dedans l'an prochain ensuivant; Et xiii. Vicaires, aussi Prestres à leur entrée, ou aux prochains Ordres, chantant pour toutes ames Chrestiennes, lesquels Chanoines seront presentez par les Fondeurs dessus dicts; C'est assavoir, chacun des Fondeurs, qui à present est, presentera son Chanoine au Guardien du College; ainsi que si aucun de Chanoines meurt, celuy qui le presenta ni nul autre presentera, mais le Souuerain du dit Ordre pour tousiours apres. Et en telle maniere est accordé pour tous autres Chanoines. V. Item est accordé, que les Chanoines auront leurs Mante aux de Murrey, avec un Rondelet des armes de Saint George. VI. Et sont ordonnez xxvi. pa●ures Chevaliers qui n'ont dequoy viure, pour avoir en celle maison leur soustenance convenable pour leur bonne priere, à l'honneur de Dieu & de Saint George; Et de l'election est ordonné des presentemens des Chanoines dessus-nommez, ainsi que l'election remaindra toujours par devers le dit Sowerain. VII. Item est accordé, que les povures Chevaliers auront leurs Manteaux de Rouge, & un Escusson des armes de Saint George, sans Gartier. VIII. Item est accordé, que si le Souuerain ne peut estre à la Feste, qu'il fasse son Deputé par ses Lettres, pour tenir, en la veille de Saint George, le Chapitre, à l'heure de Tierce, & le iour de Saint George, pour tenir, aux coustages du Sowerain, ladite Feste, pour le temps dessusdict, saus autres noùvelles ordonnances, aiant pouvoir de corriger & radresser les points de Chapitre qui ensuivent; par ainsi que le Souuerain aura avis que le nombre des Compagnons de l'Ordre avecques luy requis par les Estatuts, affin que telle election soit vaillable. Et si en celuy temps y a aucune vuidance des Compagnons, qu'adonques l'election appartiendra audit Sowerain, & d'icelle sera le dit Deputé suffisamment certifié par iceluy Sowerain. Et pareillement que le dit Deputé signifie au Souuerain des vuidances si aucunes soient en Angleterre: affin que si pour le temps de la dite vuidance en la presence du Souuerain n'est trowé le nombre desdits Compagnons comme dessus est dit, que ledit Deputé en soit certifié par le dit Sowerain, & des merites & noms des gens d'armes & d'honneur, qui selon l'advis du dit Souuerain seront aucunement dignes, à cause de leur vaillances, d'estre nommez pour estre de ladite Compagnie; & adonques l'election appartiendra audit Deputé selon la forme des Estatutz. IX. Item, que chacun an, la veille de Saint George soit faite une assemblée de tous les Compagnons de Saint George dessus nommez, au dit Chastel de Windesore qui sont dedans la terre, qui venir y pourront, & illec auront leur service de Saint George, & auront leurs Manteaux durant le service, estant ordonnement en leurs Estalz, & chacun aura son Heaulme & son Espée par dessus son Estal, qui à tout leur vivant demourront à la Chapelle illecque en signifiance de celuy qui les porte, & defense de Sainte Eglise, comme l'Ordre de Chevalerie le vent. Mais en cas que la Feste Saint George vienne dedans xv. iours prochains apres Pasques, soit proroguée jusques au Dimenche, qui à toutesfois sera le quinziesine iour apres le iour de Pasques, affin que chacun Compagnon dudit Ordre puisse estre à la dite Feste sans Chevauchier trois iours prochains ensuivant le iour de Pasques; par ainsi que le iour de la Feste dessus dite ne soit ordonné ni assigné les xxiv, xxv, xxvi me ni le derrain iour d' Auril, ni sur les iiii. premiers iours de May, à cause de l'impediment du Service divin ordonné par Sainte Eglise, pour doubles Festes de Saint Marc, Philippe, & Jacob, & de Sainte Croix nostre Seigneur Jesus Christ, ul à nuls tels iours que peuuent venir les Festes de l' Ascension ou Penthecoste, ou aucune autre Feste solenmelle ordonnée par Sainte Eglise, dont les premieres ou secondes vespres par telles prorogations pourront estre destourbées. X. Item, q●a'ils viennent audit lieu, la veille de Saint George, à l'heure de Tierce; & s'ils ne viennent au temps assigné, ils auront leur penance selon l'accord du Chapitre. Et aceordé est, qu'ils n'entreront point au Chapitre à celle fois, mais se tiendront par dehors à l'huis, & n'auront point de voix en rien qui sera fait audit Chapitre, à celle fois tant seulement. Et s'ils ne viennent aux vespres deuement au commencement, ils n'entreront point en leurs Estalz, mais se tiendront au bas desdits Estalz, aux lieux des Choristes durant les dites Vespres. Et semblable penance est accordée pour les non-venants par temps devant la haute Messe & Vespres le iour de Saint George. Et s'ils ne viennent à la dite feste, sans excusation acceptable par ledit Sowerain, ou son Deputé, sa peine sera qu'il n'entrera en son Estal la prochaine feste apres, mais se tiendra tout en bas, comme dessus, les premieres vespres, & ira à la Procession tout devant les trois Croix, & setiendra tout en bas, comme dessus, toute la Messe, jusqu' à l'offrande, & offrira le derrenier. Et apres ces penances ainsi faites, il viendra incontinent devant l'Estal du Sowerain, ou son Deputé, & demandera pardon. Et apres, ledit Sowerain, ou son Deputé luy commandera d'aller en son Estal, à son premier estat. Et s'il ne vient à la seconde feste, & soit demeurant au Royaume, sans excusation alouable au Sowerain, ou a son Deputé, il n'entrera en son dit Estal deslors en avant, jusques qu'il aura offert unjoyau à l'Autel de Saint George dedans ladite Chapelle, de la value de xx. Mares; & deslors en avant il doublera la peine chacun au, tant qu'il soit reconcilié. XI. Item, que tous les Compagnons dudit Ordre porteront leurs Manteaux du Bleu dudit Ordre à l'heure des premieres vespres jusques apres les secondes, en la feste de Saint George chacun au, quelque part qu'ils soient, en telle maniere comme ils feroient, s'ils estoient presens en la feste auec ledit Sowerain ou son Deputé, par ainsi qu'ils soient en lieu à leur liberté, non obstant la prorogation de la feste. XII. Item est accordé, que si aucun de ladite Compagnie soit trowé en appert sans Gartier, qu'il paye, tantost apres la chalange, au Gardien & College, demy Marc; excepté quand il est housé pour Chevauchier, que adonques il sera tenu porter, soubz son houseau, en signifiance du jartier, un fil bleu de soye; & pourveu aussi que nul Chevalier dudit Ordre doresnavant entre au Chapitre sans jartier. XIII. Item est accordé, que les Compagnons de Saint George voisent pour offrir à la haute Messe chacun avec son Compagnon à l'opposite de luy, ordonnement comme ils sont mis en leurs Estals; Et s'il advient que l'un ne soit à la journée, son Compagnon, qui est à l'opposite de luy, ira par soy à l'offrande; Et que le Sowerain, ou son Deputé voise derriere toute la Compagnie, tant que Procession soit faite en allant à ladite Chappelle. XIV. Item est ordonné, que chacun an, lendemain de la feste Saint George, devant le departement de la Compagnie, avant dite, une Messe de Requiem sera là chante pour les ames des Compagnons, qui sont moris, & tous christians; Et que toute la Compagnie soit illecque, finon que aucun soit destourbé raisonnablement, ou qu'il ait congié du Souuerain ou de son Deputé, devant son departir. Et quand il advient qu'a cause des vnidances des Compagnons soient aucuns Heaulmes, Tymbres, & Espées qui doivent estre offerts, que devant l'offrande des Monnoyes, les Espées soient offertes premierement, par deux Compagnons, que le Souuerain ou son Deputé vondra nommer; & depuis, le Heaulme, avecques le Tymbre, pareillement, par deux autres de l'Ordre, par ledit Sowerain, ou son Deputé assignez. XV. Item est accordé, que chacun de ladite Compagnie laissera son Minteau illecques pour telles soudaines ven●es, & pour les point tenir du commandement du Sowerain. XVI. Item est accordé, que si aucun de ladite Compagnie vienne en cheminant prés le dit Chastel, qu'il voise dedans, pour l'bonneur de ladite place, s'il pourra bonnement, & s'il ne soit destourbé à juste cause, & qu'il prenne son Manteau avant qu'il entre en ladite Chapelle; par ainsi qu'il n'y entre point sinon qu'il ait son Manteau sur luy. Et illecques les Chanoines, qui y sont, viendront à luy, pour l'encontrer, & le mener en ladite Chapelle devotement; Et s'il soit à l'beure de Messe, qu'il demeure là pour ovir ladite Messe, en bonneur de Dieu, & de Monsieur Saint George, Et si c'est apres Nonne, d'entrer en la maniere dessus dite, & ouir vng De profundis des Chanoines, pour les ames de tous Chrestiens, & offrir illec. Et si aucun des dits Compagnons, chevauche parmy la ville, & ne veulle offrir comme accorde est, que sur son obedience, par chacunes fois qu'il fauldra, qu'il voise à ladite Chapelle, en l'honneur de Saint George, une lieue à pied, & aussi chacunes fois qu'il sa●t donner à l'offrande, XVII. Item est accordé, que au plutost que la mort soit cognue de qui que foit de la Compagnie dessus dite, que le Souuerain fera chanter, pour l'ame de celuy qui est mort, mille Messes, vng Roy estranger, buict cens Messes; le Prince, sept cens Messes; chacun Duc, six cens; chacun Comte, trois cens; chacun Banneret, deux cens; & chacun Bachelier, cent Messes. Et s'il ne face iceulx dedans un quartier d'an apres la mort certifièe, qu'il double le quartier de l'entier; Et st demy-an soit au derriere, soit doublé, comme dit est. Et ainsi de temps en temps jusques à la fin de l'an, & s'il n'est accomply en l'an durant, soient les ans doublez. XVIII. Item est accordé, que fi aucun de ladite Compagnie meure, que ledit Sowerain, ou son Deputé, face, apres sa mort à luy certifiée, garnir tous les Compagnons estans en Angleterre, par ses Lettres, qui pourront venir, qu'ils soient devant luy, ou que s'il luy plaira assigner lieu convenable dedans fix semaines apres la certification de la mort dessus dite. Lesquels tous ainsi assemblez, ou au moins six, outre le Sowerain, ou son Deputé dessus dit, chacun d'iceulx, qui sont venus à l'election, nommerae neuf des plus suffisans Chevaliers sans reproche qu'il connoist, subjectz du dit Sowerain, ou aultres, pourveu qu'ils ne tiennent son adverse partie; c'est assavoir, trois Contes, ou de greigneur estat, trois Bannerets, & trois Bacheliers. Lesquelles nominations escrira le chief Prelate du dit Ordre, c'est assavoir, l'Evesque de Winchestre pour le temps estant, ou en son absence le Dean, ou Registreur, ou le plus avant Residencier, en leur absence du dit Colliege; Et la nomination ainsi faite par tous, ou six au moins, sera, par luy, qui l'aura escrite, ●eoustrée au Sowerain, ou á son Deputé, lequel estira celuy des nommez qui aura le plus de voix, & qui luy semblera le plus honourable au dit Ordre, & profitable à sa Couronne, & au Royaume. Et en cas que aucuns de ladite Compagnie ne vienne à l'election, s'ils ne sont destourbez par juste cause, & ladite cause signifiée dessous leurs seaux d'armes, acceptée par le Sowerain, ou son Deputé; siladite cause ne soit juste, ou ne vienne aux semonces dessus dits, est accordé qu'il paye an Gardien & Colliege, pour chanter pour celuy qui est mort, vng Marc; & à sa prochaine venue au Chapitre, sera devant le Sowerain, ou son Deputé, & la Compagnie sur la terre, au milieu du Chapitre, tant qu'il soit reconcilié par le Sowerain, ou son Deputé & la Compagnie. XIX. Item est accordé, que en cas si aucun des Chevaliers de ladite Compagnie meure, & vng aultre est eleu, il aura tantost apres l'Election le jartier, en signifiaence qu'il est vng des Compagnons du jartier, & le M●nteau luy sera deliuré pour son habit, quand il sera mis en son Estal, & non devant. Et en cas qu'il meure devant qu'il ait receu son habit, il ne sera mie nommé pour vng des Fondeurs, puisqu'il default avoir pleniere possession de son estat. Mais il aura la moitié des Messes dessus nommez pour la liurée de son Gartier, & rien oultre cela. Et si iceluy eleu ue vient en toute bonne haste, apres la reception du Gartier, au dit lien pour estre estallé, & par especiall dedans l'an de son election, s'il soit Chevalier demourant dedans le Royaume, s'il n'a excusation acceptable au Sowerain, ou à son Deputé & la Compagnie, soit l'election unidée de celuy, & voise le Sowerain, ou son Deputé, & la Compagnie à nounelle election; Et ne seront l'Espée ni le Heaulme, mis sur son Estal, devant la venne de l'esleu dedans le dit Chastel, affin que s'il ne vient comme dessus, que ses dits Espée & Heaulme ne soient abatus ny devallez, mais honnestement mis bors du Chaeur, & remaindront à l'usage du dit Colliege. XX. Item est accordé, que tous Estrangiers, qui seront esleuz Compagnons du dit Ordre, seront certifiez par le Souuerain de leur election, & que leur Gartier, leur Manteau, & les Estatutz de l'Ordre, soubs le commun Seel, leur seront envoyez au constages du dit Sowerain, en toute bonne haste, & au plus tard soient ils certifiez dedans quatre mois apres l'election, affin qu'ils se peuuent par les dits Estatutz aviser, s'ils veulent recevoir le dit jartier, ou non, & que tous tels Estrangiers de quelque dignité, estat, ou condition qu'ils soient, envoyent, dedans sept mois apres ladite certification à culz faite par le Sowerain, & la reception de la jarretiere, un Procureur suffisant, selon l'estat de son Seigneur & Maistre, pourveu qu'il soit Chevalier, & sans reproche, pour estre estallé eu son lieu, qui apportera avecque luy vng Manteau de soye bleuë de l'Ordre, de par celuy qui l'envoyera, & son Heaume, son Tymbre, & son Espée, pour demourer au Colliege pour toujours; lequel Manteau par le Sowerain, ou son Deputé, au temps que ledit Procureur sera estallé, luy sera mis sur son bras dextre, à le tenir sur son dit bras, à l'heure divine prochaine, apres qu'il sera estallé au nom de son dit Seigneur & Maistre, sans plus le porter en aucun temps, & sons avoir voix en Chapitre, ou y entrer, en l'absence de celuy qui l'envoyera. Et est asscavoir, que cette faveur est faite aux Estrangiers, qui ne peuuent bonnement venir en leurs propres personnes, qu'ils peuuent estre estallez par Procureur, affin qu'ils soient participans ez Messes & Prieres entieres du dit Ordre, car ilz failleroient de la moitié, s'ils n'estoient estallez devant la mort. Et pareillement est ordonné des gens du dit Ordre esleuz de noweau estants en la guerre du Roy, ou ailleurs, de son commandement, de recevoir le benefice du dit estat en ce qui appartiendra seulement à leur Estallation. XXI. Item est accordé, que si aucun des Contes, Bannerets, ou Bacheliers, meurt, celuy qui viendra en son lieu, soit il Conte, Banneret, ou Bachelier, tiendra le mesme Estal que son Predecesseur tenoit, & ne changer a point, for sprins le Prince, qui tiendra le premier Estal, à l'opposite du Sowerain, si tost comme il sera esleu; ainsi que par ce cas, vng Conte tiendra l'Estal d'un Bachelier, & le Bachelier d'vng Conte: & c'est pour cause de seavoir qui furent les premiers Fondeurs. XXII. Item est accordé, que tous les Compagnons du dit Ordre, à leur premiere entrée, donneront chascun vng certain prix selon son estat, en maintenance des Chanoines & poures Chevaliers demourants au dit lieu, & des aumosnes qui y sont perpetuellement ordonnées illec; C'est ascavoir, le Sowerain, quarante Marcs; vng Roy estranger, vingt Liures; le Prince, vingt Marcs; chascun Duc, dix Liures; chascun Conte, dix Marcs; chascun Banneret, cent Solz; & chascun Bachelier, cincq Marcs. Et ne seront leurs Heaulmes ny leurs Espées mises sur leurs Estalz, jusques qu'ils auront payé à leurs entrées les sommes dessus dites, selon l'estat de celuy à qui il appartient. Et est ascavoir, que le Souuerain sera tenu de payer pour l'entrée de chascun Estrangier esleu à l'estallement de son Procureur. Et ces dons pour ce sont ordonnez, affin que chascun qui entre en cet Ordre soit le plus digne d'avoir le nom, titre, & privilege d'un des Fondeurs du mesme Ordre. XXIII. Item est ordonné, que si tost que l'vng de la Compagnie soit mort, que son Escu fait de metal de ses Armes, & son Heaulme soient fichez au dos de son Estal; & les aultres Fondeurs qui viendront apres auront leurs Escus & leurs Heaulmes en la mesme maniere dessoubs les premiers Fondeurs. Mais leurs Escus ny leurs Heaulmes ne seront pas si grands comme ceulz des premiers Fondeurs. XXIV. Item est accordé, que chacun entrant au dit Ordre promette par luy, & jure par son suffisant Procureur, qui sera estallé au nom de luy, de loyaument garder & observer les Estatutz du dit Ordre, à son loyal powoir; Et ne sera nul estallé par Procureur s'il n'est Estrangier, qui bennement ne peut venir en sa propre personne pour estre estallé. XXV. Item est accordé, qu'en cas que le Souuerain soit hors du pais, ou qu'il ne pourra en propre personne faire ce qui appartient à l'estallation, qu'il pourra donner powoir à l'vng des Compagnons, pour faire la mesme chose en son nom. XXVI. Item est accordé, que vng commun Seel soit fait, lequel demourra en la garde de celuy que le Souuerain vouldra nommer & assigner. XXVII. Item, que chascun des Compagnons du dit Ordre doresnavant ait les dessus dits Estatutz soubs le commun Seel avant dit; & que l'Original soit seellée avee le dit Seel, & demeure en la Tresorerie du dit Colliege á tousiours. XXVIII. Item, & apres la mort de chascun Compagnon du dit Ordre, ses Executeurs seront tenus de renvoyer les Estatutz du dit Ordre au dit Colliege; & les delivrer au Gardien d'iceluy pour le temps estant. XXIX. Item est accordé, que nul des Chevaliers de Saint George, de la Compagnie du Gartier, ne voise hors de la terre, sans le sceu & congié du Sowerain. Et pour ce est aussi accordé, que si aucun voyage se fait, ou autre chose quelconque, qui appartient à l'honneur de Chevalerie, le Souuerain du dit Ordre, de sa grace, preferera les Compagnons du dit Ordre devant tous aultres. XXX. Item, que nul du dit Ordre ne soit armé l'vng contre l'aultre, si ce n'est en la guerre de son Souuerain Seigneur, ou en son droict & juste querelle. Et s'il advient que auscun du dit Ordre soit retenu avec son Seigneur, ou tenant sa partie & querelc, & la partie adverse desire avoir aucun aultre Compagnon du dit Ordre avecque luy; Ence cas ne sera tel Compagnon retenu, mais sera tenu de soy excuser tout oultrement, à cause de ce que son Compagnon est armé de l'autre costé, & fut retenu devant luy. Et sera chascun Compagnon du dit Ordre tenu d'excepter quant il fera sa retenue qu'il soit deschargé tout entierement de son service de guerre, si aucuns des Compagnons sont paravant retenus ou tenants la partie adverse; Et si celuy qui est secondement retenu aucunement ne cognoist que aucun de ses Compagnons soit devant luy retenu, ou armé avec sa partie adverse; soit tenu l'avant dit Compagnon à la premiere cognoissance qu'il en pourra avoir, de soy excuser envers son Maistre, & laisser celle querele. XXXI. Item, que toutes les Licences des Chevaliers de l'Ordre qui iront hors pour acquerir honneur, & toutes Certifications, ou Mandements, a faire touchant le dit Ordre doresenavant par le Sowerain, seront faits soubs le commun Seel, lequel remaindra en la garde d'un des Compagnons du dit Ordre, à la volonté du dit Sowerain. Et si celuy qui l'aura en garde depart pour cause raisonnable, hors de la presence du dit Sou●erain, qu'adonques il laissera le dit Seel en la garde d'un aultre Compagnon du dit Ordre, estant present avec le Sowerain, & par son assignement. Ainsi que le dit Seel ne soit nulle fois bors de la presence du dit Sowerain, tant qu'il sera dedans le Royaume: Et pareillement en son absence fera son Deputé avec le dit Seel. Et si ainsi est que le dit Sowerain pourpose de soy absenter, & aller hors du Royaume pour cause raisonable, il est ordonné par assent de la dite Compagnie, qu'il aura vng Signet convenable a l'Ordre du Gartier pour mettre au dos du commun Seel de l'Ordre, qui sera avecque luy ou qu'il soit, & sera mis en tous les Actes qui seront faits debors par le dit Sowerain, en difference de ceulx qui seront faits en Angleterre. XXXII. Item est accordé, qui si aucun Chevalier de la dite Compagnie par devotion veult demourrer en la dite maison continnellement, qu'il ordonne pour son viure, & pour sa demeure, du sien propre. XXXIII. Item, si aucun aultre C●evalier qui ne soit mie dela dite Compagnie y veult demourrer par devotion, soit ordonné pour sa demeure selon l' accord du dit Sowerain & dela dite Compagnie. XXXIV. Item est accordé, que si aucun Chevalier, ou anltre personne venlt donner aucunes terres ou rentes, pour estre participans de toutes les bonnes Oroisons & prieres qui seront faites en la dite maison, son nom sera entré, & les Chanoines & poures Chevaliers prieront pour luy perpetuellement: parainsi que le dit Gardien & les Chanoines du dit Colliege doresenavant ne prendront sur iceluy Colliege aucune charge, sans l' advisement du dit Sowerain, ou son Deputé & les Compagnons de l' Ordre presens a●●●ques eu l' absence du Sowerain. XXXV. Item est accordé, qui si ancun des Chanoines meure, & le dit Souuerain soit hors du pais, que le Gardien, qui pour le temps sera, envoyera ses Lettres au dit Souuerain pour vng aultre, que le Souuerain vouldra nommer & y ordonner. XXXVI. Item sera fait vng Registre, de par le Sowerain & la Compagnie, qui soit le plus scachant du dit Colliege, pour estre present en chacun Chapitre de l'Ordre, & en registrer loyaument les Elections, & les noms des esleux, les peines, & causes des peines, les reconciliations des punis, & tous aultres actes & leurs causes, appurtinants audit Ordre, de Chapitre en Chapitre, & d' an en an. Et soit le dit Registre loyaument sermenté de loyaument registrer a la reception de son office, & que au commencement de chacun Chapitre la vigille de Saint George, soit le Registre de l' an precedent leu devant le Sowerain, ou son Deputé, & ladite Compagnie, affin qu'il puisse estre corrigié, si besoin en estoit. The Statutes established by King Henry the Eighth, recorded in the Black Book of the Order. UBI clarissimus, invictissimus, & inter fortunatissimos hujus Mundi Principes meritissimè numeratus, Edoardus Tertius, Angliae Rex & Franciae, Dominus Hiberniae, etc. Ad honorem Omnipotentis Dei, beatissimae virginis Mariae, praeclari Martyris Divi Georgii, nobilissimi Regni Anglorum insignissimi Patroni, & Sancti Edoardi Confessoris, ob stabilitatem atque incrementum Catholicae fidei, bonorum morum augmentum, & omnigenae virtutis exercitium, intra Castrum Windesori, viginti sex nobilium ac fortium Equitum societatem atque ordinem instituit, quem, à praelustri Subligaculo cognominatum, Divo quoque Georgio nuncupavit, & ad tutamen decus, atque complementum ejusdem laudabiles Ordinationes ac Statuta condidit, à Collegiis & coordinatis illis inviolabiliter observanda, in quibus obscura quaedam, ambigua, & lucidae explanationis atque interpretationis egena extiterunt, quaedam verò addenda atque amplificanda visa sunt; potentissimus, invictissimus, atque excellentissimus Princeps Henricus Octavus, auspice Deo, Rex Angliae & Franciae, Defensor fidei, Dominus Hiberniae, etc. hujus Ordinis optimo jure Supremus, per eum amorem, quem erga Militiae statum & nunc habet, & semper babebat, cujus splendorem indies auctum iri ardentissimè desiderat, & ob frequens Sociorum ejusdem Ordinis desiderium, consilium, & assensum; vicesimo quarto die Aprilis, Anno gratiae Millesimo quingentesimo vicesimo secundo, Regni verò sui quarto decimo, obscuritates istas quorundam in quibusdam è Statutis illis Articulorum atque ambiguitates interpretatus est, & elucidavit, quaedam insuper (ut res ferebat) adjiciens atque amplificans. Que profecto statuta, Ordinationes, interpretationes, declarationes, reformationes, & explanationes, cum additamentis, secundum verum ac germanum sensum à Supremo cum Collegis omnibus ejusdem Ordinis imposterum observari debent, juxta modum qui subsequitur. I. Decretum inprimis est, quod Rex, heredes, & Successores ejus, Angliae, post eun, Reges, erunt imperpetuum praefati Ordinis & amicissime Societatis Supremi. Ad quos deinceps pro suo cujusque tempore declaratio, interpretatio, decisio, correctio, solutio, & dispensatio Statutorum, sicubi nodus extiterit, aut ambiguitas animos indiversum traxerit, omnino spectabunt. II. Nemo deligetur in Socium hujus Ordinis, nisi qui nomine, Armis, ac sanguine generosus, & eques irreprebensus existat, nec aliquis collega hujus Ordinis abhinc eum (dum electio suscipitur) nominabit, quem ex animo notâ non vacare judicat. Generosus autem nomine, Armis, & Sanguine, is intelligitur, qui, preter Patrent ac Matrem, avos & proavos quoque generosi sanguinis habuerit. Irreprehensus & sine notâ judicatur qui nullum ex tribus hiis sequentibus incurrisse probatur. Prima nempe species est, si quis Eques condemnatus hereticâ pravitate fuerit, minùs Catholicè senserit, aut pùblicam eo nomine penam dederit. Altera, si lese Majestatis convictus fuerit. Tertia, si de bello fugiat, quod Supremus, vel ab●eo designatus, & authoritatem ejus habens, gerit, postea quam vexilla protensa sunt & pagna occepit iniri. Qui tam turpiter illine aufugerit, meritò reprehendendus existimari debet, nec in presentem Ordinem eligendus. Et si continga● (quod absit) aliquem antea electum rem posthàc tam ignominiosam committere, is, ut commeretur, ab hoc Ordine deponetur, in proximi Consilii coelebratione, si ita Supremo ac Societati visum fuerit. III. Quotannis vigiliâ divi Georgii, hoc est, vicesimo secundo Aprilis, & si juxta ritum Ecclesiae divina tùm Georgio minimè celebrentur, omnes equites hujus Ordinis, ubi fuerint, modo suâ libertate gaudeant, Trabeâ, Tunicâ, Humerale & Torque, debito seilicet hujus Ordinis habitu, ritè induentur horâ tertiâ post meridiem, donec officia vespertina cum cenâ & Missa post cenam persoluta fuerint. In matutinis itaque diei sequentis solenni processu, summo sacrificio, secundisque vesperis, immo diem●totum usque dum Cena cum Missâ post cenam finiantur, simili modo incedent. IV. Si vero (caus'a postulante) prefata solemnitas prorogari debeat, vel Supremus eam prorogandam esse censeat, ibi Commilitones omnes qui fuerint intra Regnum, vigiliâ paritèr ac die Sancti Georgii, aderunt in obsequium Supremi, quocunque Regni sui loco manserit. Ubi tum inservientes eidem Officia Sancti Georgii solemniter observabunt modò ritus Ecclesiae Sanctae id ita permittat. Quod si mos Ecclesiae aliud judicat nibilominus eodem tempore Supremo inservituri aderunt, biis cum eo d●vinis interfuturi, quae tunc celebranda statuuntur, Ceremonias item alias ad unam impleturi, tam ut consilium ineant praedictâ vigiliâ post meridiem, ante vesperas, die sequente post matutinas ante Missam, & ●odem meridie ante secundas vesperas, quam ut habitu suo toto solemniter induti in suâ quisque sede se componant, primas vesperas in vigiliâ, & in die Matutinas, ac Missam cum secundis reverenter audi●uri, & postridiè Missam solennem pro defunctis; ad quam venientes trabeis ex more supertegentur, sed togis subtus ut libebit, ante cujus initium si qua Electio vel res alioquin ardua peragenda tum instet, ad Consilium se recipient, illic omnia de more facturi, ac si Windesori forent. Quod si Supremus ad Consilium ingressus fuerit, & Commilitonum aliquis cum eo minùs affuerit, ob eam negligentiam omne id temporis quo tum Supremus cum aliis intus erit, foris ipse manebit. Si verò quis eorum ad vesperas in vigiliâ, matutinas, Missam, aut vesperas in die tardior accesserit, is, quoad illud divini Officii peractum fuerit; vel stabit vel genna flectet in eo loco quo Choristae solent. Sin praedictâ vigiliâ cum die sequente quivis eorum non advenerit, ut Supremo serviat, nec potestatem praeobtentam aut justam alioquin absentie causam Supremoque placentem obtendere queat, ille proximo Georgianae solennitatis observandae, sedile suum in praesentiâ Supremi non intrabit, nec id etiam Windesori, & decem praeterea libras in Ornamenta Collegii dependet. V. Quicunque Commilitonum ipsorum praedictâ vigiliâ ac die potestatem adeptus, aut alioquin absuerit domi suae, vel alibi commoratus intra Ecclesiam aut Sacellum illic ubi tunc divinis aderit, praecipuum unum sedile ad honorem Supremi faciet adornari, in quo quidem Ordinis hujus insignia intra praelustre subligaculum illocabit: Deindè sedem aliam apparabit ab illâ Supremi (quoad conjecturâ pro modo ac formâ Templi colligere potest) ita distantem, ut & Windesori cernitur, ubi propriis insignibus appensis se pro tempore constituet. Integro tum ex more contegetur habitu, divinis (ut prius ostensum) interfuturus, quae ritus Ecclesiae servanda signabit. Ingrediens atque egrediens, & quoties alioqui pretergredietur, tàm summum Altare, in honorem Dei, quam Sedile Regium, ad honorem Supremi, debitâ genuflectione reverentiâque consultabit: nisi hic Imperator, Rex, Princeps, aut Elector extiterit, quibus, ut cordi erit, sedes erigere ceteráque ritè peragere licebit. VI Si verò annua Georgii solennitas haud prorogetur, sed ipsa vigilia diesque divi Georgii, prout moris est, observata fuerit Windesori, neque Supremo liceat aut saltem collibeat illic adesse, tum ubi locorum intra Regnum suum fuerit; horum Equitum quoslibet assignare poterit ad obsequium sibi prestandum, & quicquid est Ceremoniarum oportunè perimplendum, ac si Windesori presentes essent; id quod qui ritè perfecerint, ab eâ festivitate, quae servanda est Windesori, veniunt excusandi. VII. Sique Supremus Georgianâ solennitate haud queat interesse, loco sui deputabit alterum Literis suis ad id destinatis, qui cum sibi coassistentibus vigiliâ Concilium inibit, horâ tertiarum, hoc est, horâ tertiâ post meridiem, & reliquam postridiè solennitatem adimplebit, Regiis duntaxat impensis, pro tempore supra nominato. Novas autem Ordinationes haud instituet, sed delicta corriget, & quicquid arbitrio Concilii necessarium factu visum fuerit, ipse faciet. VIII. Quotannis vigiliâ Divi Georgii, hoc est, vicesimo secundo die Aprilis, convenient omnes Equites Georgiani intra Castrum Windesori, five in regno seu foris extiterint, modò commodè possint, divinis Georgianis illic interfuturi, & pleno habitu Ordinis induentur, quamdiu divina celebrantur seriatim in locis considentes. Habebit autem ipsorum quisque vexillum & Ensem cum Galeâ atque appendicibus supra sedile suum confixa, que permanebunt illic quoad vixerit, ad honorem ejus, & in argumentum quod Catholicae fidei & Sanctae Ecclesiae certus propugnator ipse sit futurus, uti Equestris Ordo deposcit. Quod si festivitas illa intra quindecem dies à Paschate, vel die quo abstinetur à Carnibus, evenerit, quo Supremus ipse volet, prorogabitur, dum●odo dies assignandus quartus, quintus, aut sextus & vicesimus nec ultimus Aprilis fuerit, neque ullus è primis quatuor Maii, ne fieret impedimento celebrationi Divinorum ab Ecclesiâ constitutae, in honore Divi Marci, Philippi, & Jacobi, & Inventionis Sanctae Crucis: nee talis item dies quo Festum Ascensionis, Penthecostes, aut alioqui solenniter institutum primis aut secundis suis vesperis posset destitui vel interturbari. IX. Quod si qui tempestiuè (quomodo praesignatum est) non advenerit, neque satis idoneam absentiae causam habeant, quam Supremus aut deputatus ab eo probabilem esse judicabit, vel nisi Supremus absentiam ejus temporis illis condonaret, literis suis ob id ipsum eo destinatis, in quibus eorum nomina cum causis absentiae contineantur: penas ea de re luent arbitrio presidis & Concilii tum collecti. Formula Supplicii talis erit. Non ingredietur quisquis ita dereliquerit concilii suscepti locum, sed in hostio foris expectabit, neque suffragii in ullâ reconferendi facultatem habebit eo tempore. Sin ad Principium vesperarum non affuerint, ad sedes suas ingredi non licebit, sed subtus ante sedes suas in locis Choristarum stabunt, donec illae vesperae sint finitae par poena manebit iis qui ad solennem diei Missam & posteriores vesperas tempore non accesserint. Siquis autem sine probabili causa à toto festo abesse praesumpserit, is anno sequente, dum festivitas agetur, à sede suâ probibebitur, & stabit interim, ut praefatum est, dumque procedens chorus supplicabit, tres cruces, quae feruntur, antecedet, & subtus deinceps, ut antea, perstabit, usque dum ad offerendum Ordo conscendat, ubi hic postremus offeret. Quâ peractâ penitentiâ, veniet è vestigio ad Supremi sedem aut ab eo designati, veniam rogaturus. Tumque Supremus, aut ab eo Deputatus, remittet eum ad sedem suam, ut antiquum jus ibi retineat. Si verò deinceps altero festo abesse non formidârit, manens intra regnum, nec legitimam alioquin excusationem babens, per Supremum aut ab eo designatum approbandam (uti praenotatum est) ad sedem illam suam haud introibit, donec apud Supremum Altare Sancto Georgio dicatum, monumentum unum argenteum viginti marcarum obtulerit, & deinceps annuatim idem adgeminabit, usque dum reconciliari procurârit. X. Quisquis Equitum istorum palàm foris incedens subligar suum tybiae non circumligarit, ubi primùm deprehensus fuerit per quemvis quinque Officialium Ordinis, aut Rectorum Collegii, duos aureos illicò monitori dependet; nisi cum ad Equum ocreis indutus se accinxerit. Tunc enim sat erit si filum caerulei coloris è serico subter ocream ad subligaris indicium habeat: par omnino supplicium infligetur ei qui citra subligar objunctum tibiae Concilii domum introibit. Quisquis autem Officialium aut Decanus delictum istiusmodi compererit, ad cum ipsum precium penè pertinebit. XI. Quoties Equites isti de more trabeis induentur, Supremum bini precedent, eo ipso ordine quo è regione consident. Si quis illinc abfuerit, Socius qui è Regione sedet, solus incedet. Id quod observari oportet tàm in processu ad supplicandum, quam temporibus & ●ocis aliis. At quum sit offerendum, Supremus aut ab eo designatus, primus omnium ascendet, & ceteri deinceps, Officiales autem eundo Ordinem suum usualem observabunt in omni processu, tàm intra Sacellum & Concilium, quam in quibusiis locis aliis. Nimirum Equites cum sit epulandum, omnes insimul ex una parte mensae recumbent, eo Ordine quem & in Templo sedentes aut stantes habent, & no● secundum natalitiae dignitatis gradum ant honoris, nisi filii Regum sint, Regum fratres, Principes, aut Duces externi, qui loca sortientur ex dignitate sui praeclari Statûs. Et consurgentes codem Ordine constabunt, quo & antè sedebant. XII. Postridiè festivitatis, ad honorem Divi Georgii, Windesori servatae, Commilitones, antequam in discessu valedicant, in hostio Concilii Trabeas quibus volent indumentis aliis superinduent, & deinde Missam pro defanctis solenniter in sacello percantandam audient, pro defunctis inquam omnibus Christianis, sed praesertim illis, qui anteà fuerant hujus Ordinis, simul omnes interesse debent, nisi forsan aliquis probabilem absentiae causam habeat, vel à Supremo aut ejus Deputato potestatem abeundi praeobtinuerit. Et cum contingat per mortem alienjus ipsorum, ut vexillum, gladius, & Galea cum appendicibus veniant offerenda, ante pecuniam offerri debent. Ordo nimirum offerendi talis erit, ut vexillum inprimis à duobus Commilitonibus per Supremum, aut ab eo designatum, assignandis offeratur, mox Ensis similiter à duobus aliis. Postremò Galea, cum annexis similiter, à duobus. Siquis autem anno praecedente obierat, quotquot Equitum Windesori aderunt, in eâ Missâ pro defunctis singulatim cereum unum offerent, cum Scutello, in quo pingentur insignia desuncti. Si plures uno mortui fuerint suum cuique Scutellum affigetur, habens argenteam laminam quatuor denariorum prope lumen appositum. Qui quidem cerei cum Scutellis sumptu ips●rum Equitum conficientur. XIII. Decretum est insuper ut in hoc Windesoriensi Collegio sit inperpetuum Decanus unus, cum duodecim Canonicis Secularibus, ●uos Sacerdotes oportebit esse cum ingrediuntur, vel (ut multum) intra annum sequentem. Erunt preterea tredecim Sacerdotes alii, quorum pars una Canonici minores, altera Vicarii vocabuntur. Qui si Sacerdotes in ingressu non fuerint, citra omnem excusationem, intra annum erum. Erunt itidem Clerici tredecim totidemque Choristae, qui cum Canonicis minoribus & Vicariis, de quibus antè diximus, quotidiè in choro ministrabunt, canentes & orantes, ut tempus & res ipsa postulabunt. Nimirum omnes tam Majores quam minores Canonici, Vicarii, Clerici, & Choristae, precari tenebuntur, ut Supremus cum cunctis Commilitonibus hujus Ordinis vivat, valeat, & omnia ●aelicit●r agat, utque defunctorum Equitum animae in pace requiescant. Praesentatio verò Canonicorum ubi contigerit, ad Supremum solummodo spectabit. Cúmque Commilitonum aliquis Windesorum veniens intra chorum ad sedem suam ex more se receperit, Canonici reliquúsque Chorus stabunt in suis infrà sedibus, ubi in festis Divi Georgii solent. Dum absint Equites, benè licebit Canonicis & ceteris è choro Sacerdotibus, superiores sedes occupare. XIV. Vnisquisque Socius hujus Ordinis Trabeam unam relinquet intra Collegium Windesori, ob diversas occasiones quae possent obvenire, viz. ut observare queant atque adimplere si quas Ordinationes praecepta & mandata Supremus excogitârit, & excogitata proposuerit in Concilio: qui consensu sex Commilitonum praesentium p●terit, quando & ubi libebit, concilium instituere in causas singulas quae sibi visae fuerint. XV. Quinque Ministri Officiales ad hunc Ordinem speciatim attinentes ●runt; Praelatus, viz. Cancellarius, Scriba, Rex Armorum, cui est à Subligari cognomen additum, & Hostiarius, qui à Nigella virga, quam gestabit, agnomen habebit; qui cum recipiendi sint Sacramento obvincientur, quod, velut à secretis, fideles ac taciturni erunt, in omnibus quae spectabunt ad hunc Ordinem negotiis. Horum juramenta requirentur expressiùs in Libello, qui Ordinationum inscribitur. XVI. Stabilientur ibidem Pauperculi tredecim Equites, qui minus alioquin habent undè vivant, habituri victum competentem & vestitum. Qui solùm ad hoc obligabuntur ut in honorem Dei, beatae Mariae, Divi Georgii, omniumque Sanctorum, & pro salute animarum, quotidianas ibi preces fund●nt. Horum impensae necess●riae cum privilegiis eorum infrà describentur, post praedictas Ordinationes. Sanè Electio ipsorum, ut & prefatae Canonicorum, omninò referetur ad Supremum. Haebebunt Equites ipsi pauperculi Colobea coccinea rubrìve coloris cum Scutello Divi Georgii super humerum, sed sine subligari quocunque. XVII. Si quis Sociorum hujus Ordinis intra duo paessuum Millia Castello appropinquet, illud ipsum introibit, ad honorem loci, modò possit, nec alium justum habeat impedimentum. Introiturus autem sacellum induetur anteà Trabeâ sine quâ non licebit ullo pacto introire. Introeuntem Ganonici praesentes accipient, & reverentèr in Sacellum adducent. Quod si celebrandae Missae tempus extiterit, eandem ipse audiet, ad honorem Dei, Sanctique Georgii; sin post meridiem, aut aliàs advenerit, chorum (ut praefatum est) introibit, ubi Canonici, cum ceteris, Psalmum pro defunctis absolvent, dum ipse offeret & ad sedem sese suam recipit. Quòd si quisquis illorum pertranseat oppidum, nec ingrediatur, ut offerat, uti praefixum est, tùm sub obedientiae vinculo, quoties ita deliquerit, à Sacello ad e●m locum pedester ibit, & Statherem offeret. Distantia certè non amplior intelligitur quam duorum duntaxat milliarium, ut ostensum antea. XVIII. Vbi primùm mors alicujus horum Equi●um certò significata fuerit, mox Supremus unum Missarum mille animae defuncti celebrari efficiet. Rex externus, octies centum; Princeps, septies centum; Dux unusquisque sexcentas; Marchio, quadriugentas & quinquaginta; Comes, trecentas; Vicecomes, Ducentas quinquaginta; seu Baro, seu Baronettus, Ducentas; Bacchalaureus Eques, Centum. Siquis autem, post mortem ●andem Regiis Literis indicatam, a●te tres menses exactos non id ipsum perfici curâvit; quartam partem praedictae summae geminabit; si non ante medium anni praeteritum, missas adduplicabit; sicque deinceps in finem anni. Quod si intra annum minus absolverit, in hanc formam annos adgeminabit. XIX. Vbi primùm Supremus, aut ab eo designatus, certior factus fuerit de morte istiusmodi, illicò literas emittet ad Commilitones omnes hujus Ordinis, qui fuerint intra regnum Angliae, ut omninò secum assint in loco congruo sibique viso, ante sex hebdomadas post significationem hanc ad se factam. Qui quidem omnes ita congregati, vel (ut minimum) sex corum, cum Supremo, aut ipsius Deputato, Ordine quisque suo, nominabunt novem è dignissimis atque electissimis Equitibus, qui Supremo fuerint subditi, vel ei nullatenus adversarii; tres viz. primos, Duces, Marchiones, aut Comites, vel hiis Conditione Superiores; tres alios Barones aut Baneretos; tres sanè postremos Bachalaureos Equites. Nomenclaturas hasce súmmus Praelatus, Episcopus scilicet Wintoniensis, si Praesens fuerit: sin abfuerit, Cancellarius, Decanus, Scriba, vel maximè Senex è residentibus conscribet: & conscriptas Supremo, vel ejus Gerenti vices, quâ oportet reverentiâ commonstrabit. Is verò deinceps illum pronuntiabit electum qui pluribus suffragiis adnitatur, seu quem Supremus ipse digniorem, honorabiliorem, utiliorem, Regnoque suo & Coronae magis idoneum esse judicabit. Si quis autem Equitum hujus Ordinis admonitus haud affuerit, nisi justam absentiae causam habeat, quam & sub Sigillo insignium suorum significatum iverit, ●deò justam inquam & rationabilem, ut Supremus eam, vel ab eo designatus, approbârit, & talem esse judi●●rit, ut approbari debeat, poenas dabit. Nam si minùs justam aut idoneam esse causam, Supremus aut Deputatus existimabit, Decano ac Collegio persolvet viginti solidos legalis monetae, quos in celebrationes pro defuncto oportebit impendi. Itaque cum proximè venerit ad Concilium, ibidem in medio coetu coram Supremo procumbet, donec per Supremum aut Deputatum, & reliquum omne Sodalitium reconciliatus fuerit. XX. Quando post mortem alicujus istorum Equitum alter in defuncti locum surrogatur, è vestigio qui eligitur ornatu Subfibuli decorabitur, in planum argumentum quòd dehinc illius Ordinis Equestris sit unus habendus. Deindè cum ad id facta Commissio in Concilio Windesori lecta fuerit, coram Supremo, vel ipsius vicem gerente, caeterisque eâ de c●usâ congregatis, Trabea cum Humerali inferetur. Mox ipse deducetur medius duobus Equitibus aliis ejusdem Ordinis, quos Officiales antecedent, & alii Nobiles atque obsequiosi stipabunt, Trabeam autem gestabit ante eum Commilitonum unus, vel Garterus Rex Armorum, donec veniat ad locum sedis occupandae. Infra quam accepto juramento, indutus Trabeâ revertetur ad'Concilium, ubi de manu Supremi, vel ejus Deputati, Torque coornabitur. Sícque pleno insignitus habitu cum caeteris incedet, sedebit, stabit. Ceterùm magni Principes externi benè poterunt (uti jam ante consueverunt compendii causâ) ●mictum integrum intra concilium indui. Quod si quis ante mori●tur quam habitum hunc acceperit, minimè fundatorum 〈◊〉 denominabitur, eo quod plenam status sui possess●one●● haud obtinuerat. Habebit autem Miffarum medietatem, quia Subligaris ornamentum ante susceperat, & nihil suprà. Electus verò, Subligaculoque donatus (quod in se est) festinabit ad locum, ut in sedem sibi debitam introducatur. Si intra a●●●m minùs advenerit, & in Regno m●userit, nec excusationem aliquam condignam, & à Supremo vel ejus Deputato, probandam habuerit: ejus electio praedicta non valebit, sed irrita manebi●; & Supremus aut ab eo designatus c●m reliquo Commilitonum c●tu novam electionem incboabit. Quapropter vexillum, ensis, & Galea, cum appendicibus ejus, ut prius electi, non appendentur Sedili suo intra Castellum, usque dum eò venerit, e● propter quòd si non advenerit, Ornamenta praedicta ●anquam non citra dedecus baud deponantur, sed extra chorum honestè deponantur, ad utilitatem & emolumentum Ordinis & Collegii remansura. XXI. Exteri quique, ad praeclaram hanc Societatem admissi, certiores inde fieri debent per Supremi literas, quae festinanter ad eos dirigentur, cum statutis sub Sigillo communi Ordinis, Supremi nim●●um impensis, ut multùm intra quatuor menses ab electione certi fient, ut iidem Principes perlectis illisce literis deliberare quea●t, Ordinem illum nec ne suscipere libeat, aut expediat, nisi forsan idem Supremus, intereà temporis, per res alioqui graves atque arduas impedimentum habeat. Tunc enim pote●●●st●m electionis hujus significationem in aliud ●●●pus ex sententiâ prorogare. At ubi significatio certa facta, & ei ad quem missa fuerit grata atque accepta intelligitur; ibi Supremus, per Oratores suos, amictum integrum cum ●ubligari & Torque destinabit ad eundem. Ips●●●ò sic electi & donati, cujuscunque Conditionis statûs aut honoris extiterint, intra septem menses postqu●m praefata susceperint insignia, & illud ipsum quod agitur sibi perquàm gratum fore significatum iverint, Procuratorem remittent idoneum, Majestati ●ive honori sui Domini benè respondentem, ut debitam eidem suo Domino sedem praeoccupet, eiq●●●●●dere incipiat. Praefixum est sanè ut Eques om●inò fit irreprebensus▪ nec illaudatus, qui Trabeam secum afferet ostream cerulei Coloris, à Domino suo cum Vexillo, Ense, Galeâ, & appendicibus, ut suis in locis intra Collegium quamdiu Dominus ille suu● superstes fuerit, honorifice remaneant. Trabea vero sic allata quando vice Domini sui in sedem illius est introducendus, per Supremum, aut ab eo designatum, in brachi●m illi dexterum imponetur: Ind per duos Equites ejusdem Ordinis ab hostio Concilii deducetur, ad sedile Domini, infra quod persistens, nomine praefati sui Domini, Sacramento vincietur & paulo mox in sedem illam introducetur, in qua sedens, stans, aut procumbens quanto tempore divina celebrantur, Trabeam illam super eâdem dexterâ gestabit. Quam nunquam gestare debet, nec ull●●●n concilio suffragium conferet, aut absente Domino suo illùc introibit. Sin autem intra septem hos menses Procuratorem s●●m non miserit (ut praef●●●● est) neque sufficientem excusationem Supremo illiusve Deputato, satis acceptabilem habeat: tunc illius electio praemissa evacuabitur; nist forsan Eques ille prae magnis ●rduisque rebus ali●● irretitus esse comprobetur. In boc enim articulo, intra unum adhuc mensem post, ad Supremum, aut ab eo designatum, excusationem emittere licebit. Sin itaque talia causari posset impedimenta quae Supremus aut ab eo Deputatu● honesta, laudabilia, necessariáuè judicabit, quatuor ultra Mensium mora concedi poterit. Intra quos si minùs advenerit, ejus vici● electio omninò vaçabit. Caeterùm hic est animadvertendum quòd iste favor est Extraneis exhibendus qui non possunt ipsi adventare, sed necesse habent Procuratores suos mittere, ut sedes ipsorum vice possideant. Idque i●primis est eâ de causâ constitutum, ut Missarum & Orationum aliarum, quae defunctis Ordinantur, plenè participes evadant. Mediâ námque parte privarentur, si non antè mortem suain in suas sedes introducti forent. Sed nec extranei solùm eo privilegio congaudebunt, verum illi etiam qui d●m eliguntur extra Regnum sunt Regis jussu belligerantes, aliisve negotiis intenti: Hii quantum ad sedis sue possessionem captandam, fimile cum extraneis privilegium vendicabunt. XXII. Si qui● Ducum, Marchionum, Comitum, Vicecomitum, Baronum, (a) Bannere●torum. Barenetorum, aut Bacchalaureorum hujus Ordinis, obierit, qui succedet ei, cujusvis harum Conditionum extiterit, cam duntaxat sedem obtinebit, quam Praedecessor s●us antè possederat, nec demutabit illam citra peculiarem Supremi concessionem, nisi forsan Imperatorum aut Regum aliquis, vel Princeps Regni fuerit, quorum unusquisque juxta sublimitatem suam, sedem Supremo proximam accipiet. Quo pacto Dux aut Comes interim in sedem Bacchalaurei reponi poterit, atque diverso; ad Argumentum manifestum formae per primores ibi fundatores inchoatae sinceritèr observatae. XXIII. Et si quando sedes ulla vacârit, Supremus benè poterit ad eam quemlibet horum Equitum ex arbitrio promovere, superior autem esse debet eâ sede, quam ante tenuerat. Nimirum semel in vitâ suá poterit Supremus generalem omnium sedium translationem ex sententiâ perficere, solis Caesarum, Regum, Principum, & Ducum sedibus exceptis, quae permanebunt immutabiles; nisi fortassè superius ulli sedile contingat. In eâ profecto translatione generali, longitudo durationis in hoc Ordine, decus ac clari●udo gestorum, laus Equitum, & praestantia meritorum perpendi ac considerari debet, ut honos virtuti respondeat. Omnes autem Equites isti quoties Trabeis ornati sedebunt, stabunt, aut simul incedent, ordinem illum observabut●●, quem per sedes suas in choro tenent, neque tamen generis aut nobilitatis rationem ullam habebunt, nifi quatenus ante monstratum est XXIV. Equites singuli, quando ad ordinem hunc illustrem admittentur, certam pecuniae summam Collegio numerabunt, in usum Canonicorum Deo servientium & pauperculorum Militum, ibi commorantium; Supremus certè quadraginta Marcas legalis monetae Angliae, Rex externus, viginti Libras; Princeps, viginti marcas; Dux, decem libras; Marchio, oct● libras, sex solidos, & octo denarios; Comes, decem Marcas; Vicecomes, quinque Libras, sedecem solidos, & octo denarios; Baro seu (b) Bannerettus. Baronettus, quinque Libras; Bachalaureus Eques, quinque marcas. Eleemosinae verò hujus Statutum esto perpetuum. Vexilla sanè, Enses, & Galeae, cum annexis non antè propendebunt in locis suis, quam praefixas, suam quisque pro statûs honore summas persolverint. Quod ad Externos attinet, pro hiis Supremus respondere constituit. Et haec munera atque Eleemosinae propter id ita conceduntur, ut Eques unusquisque qui deveniet in hunc Ordinem tantò dignior inveniatur, ut qui titulo, nomine, ac privilegio Fundatorum hujus Ordinis exornetur. XXV. Eques unusquisque istius Ordinis, intra annum primum sedis acceptae, faciet post tergum ubi sedem habet, laminam cujus voluerit metalli, in quâ cum scuto ac caeteris annexis sua compingentur insignia: Et omnes deinceps successuri similiter efficient, nisi quòd sua lamina curtior & minutior esse debet, quam quae primorum Fundatorum; exterorum laminis cum rebus aliis istiusmodi duntaxat exceptis, quae, quales ac quantae voluerint, fieri poterunt. XXVI. Nullus horum Sodalium per Procuratorem est admittendus atque in sedem introducendus, nisi duntaxat Extraneus, qui nequit ipse interesse, vel qui negotiis Regiis occupatus ac retentus fuerit, aut cui denique Supremus id vel perceperit vel permiserit, uti praetactum est. XXVII. Vnusquisque in ingressu suo fidelitèr & sub juramento promittet se velle conservare hos Articulos qui sequuntur. Primùm, jurabit quòd quamdiù vixerit, & istius Ordinis unus esse perduraverit, pro viribus adjuvabit Supremi & sustentabit honorem, jura tuebitur, & querelas ejus omninò defendet & prosequetur. Deindè quòd omni conatu hunc Ordinem, in quem ascitus est, juvare, augere, atque ornare parabit. Sique aliquid contra tentatum, aut excogitatum iri senserit, pro virili resistet & defendet. Pretereà singula Statuta, & Statutorum Articulos sidelitèr adimplebit. Pro hiis inquam omnibus sinceritèr explendis generale juramentum in admissione suâ praestabit, per sacrosancta Evangelia, Supremo vel ejus gerenti vicem, quod etiam tàm benè sit observaturus quòd si punctim atque articulatim tùm sibi perlegerentur, & juramento quidem tanget atque exosculabitur oblatam sibi crucem. Quo facto in hunc modum electus Eques praenobile subligar perquàm reverenter accipiet, quod in sinistram ejus Tybiam Supremus, aut ab eo designatus inducet, ista verba dicens, Domine, amicissimi Socii hujus Ordinis a Subligaculo nominati te nunc in amicum sibi fratrem, ac collegam, admiserunt. In cujus rei fidele signaculum, (b) Bannerettus. hoc & tibi Subligar impartiunt ac condonant, quod det Deus ut meritò suscipiens, ritè conteras, ad Dei gloriam, ad honorem praeclari hujus Ordinis & tui. XXVIII. Quod si Supremus Regnum exierit, aut aliâ de causâ nequeat interesse, quatenus hoc ipsum ipse perficiat, duos aut eo plures hujus Ordinis Equites sufficere benè poterit: quibus plenam in istiusmodi introductione sui potestatem atque authoritatem committat, ut eam suo nomine exerceant. XXIX. Commune Sigillum paritèr ac signaculum Ordinis insignibus exornata fieri debent, & in custodiâ Cancellarii Ordinis, vel ejus Equitis ac Commilitonis, quem Supremus nominare voluerit remanebunt. Si verò qui Custos est assignatus viginti Milliaria vel eo ampliùs abierit à Supremo quâcunque de causâ, Sigilla Supremo tradet, ante recessum, vel ejusmodi Commilitoni aliíve personae, quam Supremus ad id eodem tempore designabit; eam ob rem certe, quo Sigilla praedicta minùs absint à Supremo, quamdiù manet intra Regnum. Sin foris esse contigerit, signaculum solum sufficiet interim ad acta quaeque consignanda, & degerenda, quae spectabunt ad hunc Ordinem. XXX. Commilitones hujus Ordinis semper imposterum apud se Statuta retinebunt, collata prius cum Originali per Scribam Ordinis, & Communi Sigillo signata. Si verò quis corum insignia quaeuìs appingi disponique voluerit in eo Libello, Regi Armorum reddetur, ut is quod suâ interest aptè ritéque perficiat. Originale quoque in Aerario Collegii perpetuò remansurum Sigillo communi consignabitur. XXXI. Post obitum cujusque Sociorum hujus Ordinis, haeredes ex asse (quos & Executores appellant) obligabuntur ad reportanda intra tres menses Statuta praesentis Ordinis, quae donata sunt ei per Supremum aut ipsius impendio. Reportabuntur autem ad Decanum Collegii vel Scribam, aut alioqui praecipuum ejus loci Officialem. XXXII. Nullus Eques hujus Ordinis Divo Georgio dedicati Supremi sui Regnum, terram, aut Dominium exibit, nisi prius exeundi impetratâ copiâ. Quapropter unanimi consensu decretum est, quòd si gerendarum rerum illustrium iter ullum appetat, unde Militaris honor & Equestris gloria sperari possit, Supremus, ex suâ gratiâ singularique favore, quem erga Commilitones hujus Ordinis in pectore semper habebit, illos istiusmodi stratagemmatis, honorificisque negotiis aliis viris omnibus anteponet. XXXIII. Horum Equitum nemo contra ullum suum Commilitonem Arma induet, nisi fortasse propugnandum Supremi jus impendeat, aut ipsius alioqui justam causam defendi oporteat. Sin autem acciderit aliquem hujus Ordinis à quoquo Principe, seu Duce, teneri, & Adversarius illius alium ejusdem Ordinis ad parem sui defensionem habere postea desideret: is qui posterior exoptatur, omninò sic retineri detrectabit, nec aliam excusationem obtendet, quam quòd collega ●●us anteà rete●tus in adversâ parte depugnet. Horum etiam unusquisque quando incipit ab aliquo teneri, hâc solummodò conditione se teneri velle promittet, si nullus Commilitonum anteà retentus in adversariâ parte fuerit, alioquise in eo vinculo minimè permansurum. Sin anteà retentus fuerit quam impedimentum hujusmodi resciverit, posteà tamen ubi primùm intellexerit, unum aut alterum è Sociis suis in adversà parte militare, & ad militandum ibi prius obvinctum, proponet excusationem suam apud eum Dominum qui se conduxerat quòd ultrà ipsi militare non potuerit, ejúsve causam defendere. XXXIV. Omnes facultates Equitibus concessae & Regnum exeant, ad inquirendum honorem, & gloriam procurandam, omnes Literae, mandata, caeteraque scripta ad hunc Ordinem attinentia, altero Sigillorum imperpetuum consignari debent. XXXV. Si quis horum Commilitonum, pietate ac Religione permotus, sedem sibi deligere volet intra Castellum Windesori, Domus in qu● poterit immorari signabitur à Supremo; victus autem illius suis sumptibus atque impensis propriis providebitur. XXXVI. Si quisquam Eques ali●s quam sit hujus Ordinis causá Devotionis animum habuerit ibi commorandi, sedes ex arbitrio Supremi eidem assignabitur, consensu Commilitonum antecedente. XXXVII. Si quis horum Equitum, aut alius quisquam, terras, haereditates, redditus, aut proventus impartire, donaréve volet, ut precum illarum quae dicuntur ibidem particeps habeatur: ejus nomen in Registrum ascribetur, & Canonici caeterique Ministri cum Militibus pauperculis, semper in futurum pro eo deprecabuntur. Decanus autem aut Custos & Canonici nunquam Collegio novum pondus aut curam imponent, citra Supremi consensum, aut ab ipso designati, & ceterorum Commilitonum in suscepto tentóque manifesto Concilio. XXXVIII. De●iquè, quò Discrimen Equitum hujus Ordinis, à caeteris cui non sunt ●jusdem, tantò clariùs eluceat: Supremus, ex consens●● Commilitonum omnium, vult, Ordin●t, & instituit, ut abbinc imperpetuum, quicu●que fuerit Eques istius Ordinis circum cervicem utatur ●ureo Torque triginta unciarum Trojani Ponderis, nihil suprà. Conficietur autem ille Torques è laminis in formam Subligaris, una laminarum duas intùs rosas habebit, alteram rubram, superiorem alb●m, altera inferiorem albam, & superiorem rubram. In fine verò Torquis illius pendebit Imago Divi Georgii. Quo Supremus & omnes Ordinis hujus Equites uti tenebuntur, praesertim in maximis & praecipuis Anni solennitatibus. Aliis autem diebus Cathenula utantur Aurea, quae Divi Georgii gestabit imaginem in fine: nisi ger●tur bellum, aut gerendum ingruat, aegritudo urgeat, aut longum iter ineundum sit. Tunc etenim sufficiat uti Fibulâ sericâ, quae Divi Georgii duntaxat imaginem in fine pendul●m habebit. Si vero Torques resarciendus sit, tradi poterit ●●rifici, ut emendetur. Nec debet ille Torques stipari gemmis aut ditari, nisi forsan id Imagini fiat, quae benè poterit, ex arbitratu illius Equitis, gemmis aut alitèr exornari. Cavendum autem ne Torques hujusmodi vendatur, mutuò tradatur, aut alienetur ullo modo, seu donetur, ex ullâ causâ vel necessitudine, sed ad cohonest amentum Ordinis & Equitis Ordinati conservari debet. Here follow the same Statutes as they were put into English shortly after their Establishment; wherein some of the Articles are transposed, and the 18. Article wholly changed. But in all the Copies of them given forth since the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's Reign, King Henry's Title of Supreme head of the Church of England in Earth under Christ, is omitted, and some few words (noted with an Asterisk) altered to those inserted at the foot of the Page, whither the Asterisk directs. The Statutes and Ordinances of the most Noble Ordre of Saint George, named the Gartier, Reform, explained, declared, and renewed by the most High, most excellent, and most puissant Prince Henry the viij. by the Grace of God King of England and of France, Defensor of the Faith, Lord of Irland, etc. WHereas the moost famous, most happiest, and victorious Prince, Edward, the thirde of that name, his Noble Progenitor sometime King of England and of France, and Lord of Irland etc. To th' onno●re of almighti God, and of the blessed and immaculate Virgyn Marie, and the blessed Martyr saint George, Patron of the right noble royalme of England; and of Saint Edward, King and Confessau●; To the exaltation of the holy Faith Catholic Drdeyned, Established, created, and founded, within the castle of windsor, a company of xxvi. Noble and worthy Knights, for to be of the said moost Noble Drdre of Saint George, named the Gartier, and for the honourable continuance, augmentation, and interteyning of the same. The said most victorious King did device and institute divers honourable Estatuts, and laudable Ordinances for to be observed and kept by the cobretherns and confreres Knights and Compaynons of the said moost Noble Order; among the which Estatutis been certain doubtis and ambiguities, which to be more plainly declared, interpreted, and extended, it is thought right necessary and expedient. And that certain other new Ordinances and Articles be to the said Statutes added and adjoined. Wherefore the said moost excellent and victorious Prince Henry the viij. King of England and of France Defensor of the Faith and Lord of Irland, and Soveragne of the said moost Noble Order, and for the right singular love, good zeal, ardent and intier affection, that his royal Majesty hath and bearith to the said moost Noble Order, and to the estate of Chivalry and knighthood: And for the honorabl● continuance and increasing of the same: And also at the humble request and instant destre of the knights and Companions of the said Noble Order, And by their advise, council, and assent, the xxiii. day of April, in the year of grace M.D.XXII. and of his moost noble reigh the viij. year, made interpretation and declaration of the Obscurities, doubtis, and ambiguities of the said Estatutes, Ordinances, Interpretations, declarations, reformations, with their additions aforesaid, after the ●rew intention of them, shall be from henceforth observed, kept, and ensued, by the sovereign and the Knights Confreres and Companions of the said Noble Order, in manner and form following. I. first, It is ordained and accorded, that the King, and his Heirs and Successors Kings of England, shall be for evermore Soveraynes of the said moost Noble Order, and amiable Company of Saint George, named the Gartier, to the which sovereign, and to his Heirs and Successors shall appertain the declaration, solution, determination, interpretation, Reformation, and disposition of all causes concerning and touching any thing of obscurity or doubt contained in the Statutes of the said moost Noble Order. II. Item, it is accorded that none shall be elected and chosen for to be Fellow or Companion of the said moost Noble Order, except that he be a Gentleman of blood, and that he be a knight, and without roproche. And that the Knights of the said Noble Order from henceforth shall not name any person in their Election to be Fellow or Companion of the said Noble Order, in whom they shall think or extiem in their conscience to have spot of Reproach: And as touching the declaration of a Gentleman of blood, it is declared and determined, that he shall be decended of three decentis of Noblesse, that is to say, of name and of arms, both of his Father's side, and also of his Mother's side, and as touch or concerning any manner of reproach, forasmuch as there be divers and many sundri p●yntis of reproach, there shall be here declared but three poyntiss of them oonly, as is declared in manner and form folowying. The first point of Reproach is, that if any Knight, (os God defend) be convaynqued, or attainted of error against the Cristen Faith Catholic, or had for any such Offence suffered any pain or punition public. The second point of Reproach is, that if any Knight (as God defend) had been ararayned, convicted, or attainted or High Treason. The third point of reproach is, that if any Knight depart, or flee away from battle, or journei, being with his sovereign Lord, his Lieutenant or Deputy, or other Capetayne, havyng the Kyng's power Royal and authority; and whereas Banners, Estandatz, or Pennons have been displayed, and that they preceded to fight, he that then renioufly and cowardly flieth or departith away from thence, aught to be estieme● and judged to have reproach, and never worthy to be elect Knight, or Fellow of the said Company. And if it fortune, that any Knight of the said Company (as God forbid) do commit any such reproach, that then he shall be departed and disgraded of the said Order, at the nexte Chapter ensuing, if it so shall please the sovereign and the Company. III. Item that every year, upon the vigil● of Saint George, that is to say, the xxii. day of the month of April, on what day soever it fall on, and though no service of Saint George be celebrate or done, all the knights of the said Company, being in any place or places of their liverties, in what places soever it be, shall ve bound for to were the bowl habit of the said Order. That is to wit, Robe, mantel, Hudde, and Choler, from the hour of the fyrst Evensonge at the hour of tierce, that is, at three of the Clock at afternone, until the said Evensonge and other devyne service, ●ouper, and voidance, be done and accomplished; And likewise on the morrow, on Saint George's day at matins, procession, * Morning Service. mas●, and the seconde Evensonge, and all the said day, until that souper and voidance be done, as is aforesaid. IV. Item, that if for any causes, it should please the said sovereign to prorogue the said Feast and solemnity of Saint George, or that the said Feast should be prolonged and prorogued, to another day, that all the Knightis of the said Order, that shall be within the Realm of England, shall give their attendance the even and the day of Saint George, on the parson of of the said sovereign, and shall found themselffes in his company, in what place soever he be within the said Realm of England; and they so gyveing their attendance upon his said parson, the said even and day, shall observe and keep the servyce of Saynte George, is the Ordnance and commandment of holy Church doth suffer and permit it. And if th'ordinance of the Church doth not permit it, in this behalf, they be bound to tarry with the sovereign, and hear such servyce as shall be than limited and ordained by the holy Church to be done and celebrated the said even and day of Saint George, in observing and keeping, during the said days, of all other ceremonies, aswell in going to the Chapter upon the● said even, before Evensong at afternone, and the said day of Saint George at afternone, before the last Evensong; As also in wearing their hole habit, and every Knight being in his own Stall, in keeping the Divine Servyce from the time of the fyrst Evensonge of the said even, matens, and * Divine Service. Mass, unto the last Evensong of the said day, and the morrow after ensuing, before the * Divine Service. Mass of Requiem, they shall take their mantels, upon such Gowns as shall please them, and shall enter into the Chapter, if there be eny election or other great affairs, before the said * Divine Service. Mass of Requiem in using such Ceremonies to this accustomed, as though they were present in the said Castle of windsor. And in case that the said sovereign be come and entered into the said Chapter, and that some of the said Fellows of the said Order be not entered, or come with him and s●ulde tarry behind, in case they that have not given and done dew attendancce upon him, shall abide without the doors of the said Chapter, without entering in to it, during all the time that the said sovereign and other Knights shall be in the said Chapter for that tyme. And if so be that eny of the abovenamed Knights come to late to the first Evensong of the said even, or Matins, * Divine Service. Mass, or last Evensong, the said day of Saint George, he shall have for penance, that during the time and space of such devyne ser●yce, he shall knee or stand before his Stall, in the Place of the Oueresters; and if he come not to give attendance upon the parson of the said sovereign, the said Even and day of Saint George. as is aforesaid; And that he have no licence or other Reasonable excuse, and that it be acceptable to the said sovereign for his absence in this case; the said Knight, that so shall have done, for his penance, shall not come in his Stall at the next Feast ensuing in the presence of the sovereign, nor in his said Stall in the said College of windsor. And farthermore shall pay xl. for to be converted and bestowed to the use of the Ornaments of the said Collage. V. Item if it chanced that any of the Knights of the said Order, by leave or licens or otherwise, were in his house or in any orber place, at his liberty and fraunchise, the said even and day of Saint George, be shall be bound to cause to be prepared a Capital Stall, in the Church or Chappel, in the which he shall hear divine Service. In the Capital Stall shall be set and elevated the Order of Saint George, named the Gartier, being within a Garter; and his proper arms within the Garter, also shall be set at a Stall, that shall be asmuch in distance, after the proportion and quantity of the said Church or chapel, from the Stall of the said sovereign, as is his Stall in the Castle of windsor, and shall were his said habit hole, and shall hear the devyne service, such as by the holy Church is ordained and limited for the said day, aswell the first evensong, Matins, * Divine Service. Mass, as the latter evensonge. In doing by him first Reverence to the Altar in the honour of God, and after to the Stall where is fired or set up the Arms of the said Order, as well and as often at his coming in as at his going out of the said Church or chapel; And also as often as he shall pass before the said Arms, always except the Emperors, Kings, Princes, Electors, The which may in this case so ordain their Seats and Stalls as it s●all seem them beast, and at their pleasure. VI Item if it were so that without any prorogation the said Feast and Solempnyte of Saint George were kept and celebrated the said Castle or windsor, and if it were not t●e pleasure of the said sovereign for to be present, or that conveniently he may not be there in parson, the said day and Feast, at his said Castle of windsor, That in this case, in what place that his pleasure shall be teing within this his Realm of England, his Majesty may appoint and command such Knights of the said Order, as best shall seem him, there for to keep Company and give attendance upon the parson, and to keep all and like Ceremonies as though they were at the said Castle of windsor; And they doing the things abovesaid shall be excused for their absence of the Feast of Saint George holden at the said Castle of windsor for that year. VII. Item, it is agreed, that if the Sovereign cannot be at saint George's Feast, that he shall make his Deputy, by his Letter●, for to keep the Chapter upon Saint Georg●'s Even, at the hour of tierce, the which is at three of the Clock at after none, and on Saint George's day for to keep the said Feast, at the costs of the said sovereign, for the space abovesaid, without any new Ordnance to be made, having power to correct and redress all points of the said Chapter, as for then shall seem necessary. VIII. Item, that every one on Saint George's Even, that is to wit, the xxii. day of April, a gathering together shall be made of all the Knights of Saint George within the Castle of windsor, That is to wit, of all them that shall be within this Realm, of England, or without, that conveniently may come. And there they shall have the service of Saint George, and also shall were their hole habit of the said Order, during the said servyce, being ordinarily in theyre Stalls; And every of them shall have his Banner, Sword, with his Helm, and Crest above his Stall, the which during his life shall abide in the said Chapel, for his honour, and in sign and knowledge, that he bears them in defence of holy Church, as the Order of knighthood requireth. But in case that the said Feast of Saint George happen to fall within xv. days after the Feast of Easter, or upon any Fyshe-daye, or Fasting day, than it shall be prorogued and prolonged at the Soverayne's pleasure, as above is said, if so be that the day of the said Feast be not assigned ne ordained to be kept the xxiv. xxv. xxvi. nor the last day of April, nor upon the four first days of May, for by cause of the impediment or let of devyne servyce ordained by holy Church for the double Feasts of Saynte Mark, Philipp and Jacob, and the Invention of the Holy Cross of our Lord Jesus christ, nor at such days as shall fall the Ascension, or the Feast of Penthecoste, or any other Feast of solemnity, as is ordained in holy Church, whereby the fyrst or seconde Evensonge by such Prorogations might be letted and distorbed▪ IX. Item that all the knights of the said Order shall come yearly in the said place of the said Castle of windsor on Saynte George's Even at th'owre of tierce, the which is at three of the Clock at afternoon, as it is aboveseid. And if they come not at the time assigned without having a just and reasonable excuse, that may be acceptable to the said sovereign or to his Deputy, or otherwise pardoned by the said sovereign of their absence by special Letters of excuse, in the which Letters their names and causes shall be written, or otherwise shall have their penance after th'ordinance and agreement of the said chapter. And the said ordinance is such that they shall not entre into the chapter for that time, but shall bide without the door. And shall have no voice in any thing that is done in the said chapter, at that time alonely. And if they come not to Evensonge, before the begynnyng of the said Evensonge, they shall not enter into their Stalls but shall bide below affore the said Stallis in the Queristers places during the said Evensonge. And like penance is ordained for them that come not to the high * Morning Service. mass betyme and at Evensonge on Saint George's day. And if there be any that come not to the Feast, and have not a reasonable excuse toward the sovereign or his deputy, as it is above declared, his penance shall be that he shall not enter within his Stall t●e next Feast after, but shall bide below as it is said at the first Evensong, and shall go in the procession before all the * Queri●ters. three Crosse●. And shall sit below as affore is said all the * Service. mass time until the Offering. And he shall offer last. And after his penance so done, incontinent he shall come before the Soverayne● Stall or his Deputy, and there he shall ask pardon. And after that the sovereign or his Deputy shall command him to go unto his Stall in his fyrst estate, and if he come not at the seconde Feast, and be dwelling within the ●ealm, without having any excusation allowable to the sovereign or to his Deputy, as is abovesaid, he shall not entre in his Stall from thereforth, until the time that he have given and offered a ●ewell unto Saynte George's Altar within the said Chapel of the value of xx marks of Sylver of Troy, and fro thence forward he shall double every year the Penalty, unto the time ●e be reconsciled. X. Item it is agreed, that if any Knight of the said Company be found in apperte without his Garter, That he pay anon after that the challenge he made to him by any of the five Officers of th'Order or of the Warden of the Seid College, a mark of Mony. Except he be voted for to ride, that then it shall suffice to were under his vote a blue ●i●ande of Silk, in signyfying of the Carter, and also provided that no Knight of the said Order from henceforth do entre into the chapter without his Garter upon the pain abovesaid. And whosoever of the said Officers or Warden shall make the first challenge shall have the penalty for his labour. XI. Item it is agreed, that the knights of the Order of St. George, always and as often as they shall were their mantles, they shall go before there sovereign every of them with his Fellow, that is for aneynst him, ordinarily as they ●e set in their Stalls: And if it should happen that eny of them were not there present, his fellow for aneynst him shall go alone. The which Order shall be kept and observed as well in going in procession as elliss where in other places. But at the Offering the Soverayn or his Deputy shall go before all the Company, and the ordinary Officers of the said Ordre shall goo as they have been accustomed, when any procession shall be done in the Chapter, Chapel, or ellis where. And for the ordre of the said Knightis for to sit at the Table, for to take their resection by it, at Dinner at or Souper, they shall sit all along on one side after their Stalls, and not after their state, except Children and Brothers of Kings, Princes, and Dukes that be Strangers, the which shall keep their places and rooms a●ter their estate; and at their voiding and ●●ing out shall abide and go in order so as they sat at the Table. XII. Item it is agreed, that every one of them, at the Cas●ell of Windesore on the morrow after the Feast of Saynte George, before the departing of the Company, th●t the said Knights, upon such Gowns as shall please them at the Chapter door, shall take their Mantles and shall go into the said chapter, and after that shall go and here a * Divine Service. mass of Requiem, the which shall be solemn song for the souls of all the Fellows of the said Order, which be departed and deceased, and for all Christian sowiles, and that all the Company be there present, without eny of them be let by a reasonable cause, or have lysence of the Soberayne or his Deputy before the departing. And when it happens that for any cause of the voiding of eny of the said Fellowship, there shall be certain Banners, Swordis, Helmets, and Crests, the which ought to be offered up before the offering of eny Sylver; the said Hachements ought to be offered, fyrst the Banner, by two of the said Fellowship such as the sovereign or his Deputy shall appoint or name, and after that the Sword shall be offered by two other, and likewise his Helmet and Crest by two other Knights of the said Order, assigned by the sovereign or his Deputy, and if any Knight of the said Order should decease the year afore, than every Knight being in the said Castle of windsor, at the said * Divine Service. mass of Requiem, shall offer a Taper armed with a little Scuchion of the arms of the Knight departed. And if there were more than one deceased, that then be made for every of them a Scuchion of Arms and a groat set nigh to the light of the tapre, the which Scuchions and tapers wall be made at the cost and charge of the knights of the said Ordre. XIII. Item, it is agreed, that all strangers, that shall be elect Fellows of the said Order, shall be certified by Letters of the sovereign of their election. The which letters of Certification, with the Statutes of the said Order, under the common Seal shall be sent unto them at the cost and charges of the said sovereign, in all diligence, and at the farthest they shall be certified of this within four months after the said Election, to th'end that the said Elect may advise them by the said Statutis, if they will receyve the said Order, or no. But if the said sovereign ha●e great and high lets and business, that then he may defer the certification of the said Election at his good pleasure, unto time of opportunity and convenient. After that the Certification have been delivered, and that the sovereign shall be certified, that the said Elect will receyve the said Order; Then the sovereign shall send unto the said Elect, by his Ambassadors, his hole habit, with the Garter and Coller. And that all such strangers, of what estate, dignity, or condition that they be of, shall send within seven. months after the reception of the said Gartier, Coller and Habit, and that he have certified the sovereign to have re●●yved those things, a sufficient Deputy or attorney after th'astate of his Lord and Master, so be that he be a Knight without Reproach, to be stalled in his place, the which shall bring with him a Mantell of blue Welbett of the order of that which he shall send him, and also his Banner, Sword, Helm, and Crest, for to be and abide within the said College during his life. And that the Mantell in the time that t●e said Deputy or Attorney shall be stalled, by the said sovereign or his Deputy, put upon his right arm for to hold the said mantle upon his arm, and shall be accompanied and led by two of the Knights of the said Order, from the door of the chapter unto the stall, and there boyeng shall make hi● oath, and shall be stalled for and in the name of his said Lord and Master, and the said mantel abovesaid, the said Attorney or Deputy shall bear it upon his right arm during the devyne service, being set in the stall of his said Master and Lord, without bearing of it at any time after. And to have no manner of voice in the chapter, or to come in it, in th'absence of him that hath sent him. And if he send not his said Attorney within seven. month's abovesaid, without ●avying a reasonable excuse which shall be acceptable to the sovereign or his Deputy, the election shall be void of him. Except so be that the said Knight be let and destorbed by great affairs. Then he may send his excuse to the said sovereign, or to his Deputy, within a month after, and after his excuse is, as the sovereign or his Deputy will allow it or accept it, that then the said sovereign or his Deputy may give on to him four months more of respite, and if he came not or sent not his Attorney before that the time of the four months he finished, that then in this case the election shall be h●le void from him for that tyme. And it is to be known, that this favour is done and showed to the strangyers, the which may not well come in their proper parsons, that they might be stalled by Attorneys. To th'end that they may be part takers of the * Divine Service. masses, and all the prayers of the said Ordre, for they should fail of the half if they were not stalled before their death. And likewise it is ordained for them that be new chosen and elect of the said Order, being in the Kings' Wars by his commandment, for to enjoy of the benefits of the said statutes, to that that shall appertain allonly to their stallation. XIV. Item there is also ordained a Dean and Warden with xii. Canon's seculers, the which shall be pristz at their entering in, or else within a year nexte foloshing; and also viil. Peticanons, and xiii. Vicars, also priests at their entering in, or else at the g●vyng of the next Orders, or at the furthest within a year after their presentation. Also xiii. Clerks, and xiii. Queristes', for to 〈◊〉 and pray unto God for the prosperity of the sovereign and all the Knights of the said Order lyhing, and also for the souls of all the knights of the said Order departed, and for all christian souls, and the presentation of the said Cannons that belong all●ey to the sovereign of the said Order. And the said Canons when any Knight of the said Order is there present, within the choir of the said Chapel, shall sit in the lowermost seats, where they be wont to sit at the Feasts of St. George. And in th'absence of the said Knights the said Canons may sit in the high seats nexte unto the stalls of the said Knights. XV. Item there be ordained v. Officers appertaining to the said Order, That is to wit, Prelate, Chancellor, Register, and King of Arms, named Gartier, and an huyssher at Arms, named the Black Rod. The which shall he receyved and sworn to be of the Council of the said Order, the secrets with alsoo their chargies and privileges shall expressly be declared in the Book of the ordinances of the said Officers. XVI. Item it is also ordained, that xiii. poor Knights, that have not where withal to lyhe, for to have in that place their living and sustentation conveniently, for their good prayers in the honour of God and Saint George, of the which the charges and privileges hereafter shall be declared following the ordinances of the Officers, and of their election is ordained as of the presentation of the Canons, so that always the Election shall abide to the said sovereign. And it is agreed, that the pour Knights shall have their mantels of Scarlett, and a scuchion of th' arms of Saint George without a Garter. XVII. Item it is agreed, that every Knight of the said Company shall leave his mantle within the said College, for any sudden chances that might happen for to keep, hold, and observe all such Ordinances, Precepts, and commandments, which may be advised in chapter by the said sovereign. The which sovereign by the consent and agreement of vi. Knights of the said Order may, at all times and places, at his pleasure, summon and make to be kept chapter, for all such causes, as it shall please to the said sovereign to name touching the said Order. XVIII. Item, it is agreed, that if it fortune, that any of the said Company should come within two. mile of the Castle, that he shall go in, if he may, for the honour o● the place, if he be not busyed or let by some just cause, and that he take his Mantell before he entre within the said Chapel. And alsoo that he entre not in, but he have his mantle upon tym. And the Canons there being present for that time shall come to receyve him, and devotly shall bring him into the said Chapel; and if it be in time of * Divine Service. Mass, he shall tarry and he●re * Divine Service. Mass in the honour of God and of St. George; and if it be at afternone, he shall come in in manner abovesaid: And there shall be said by the Canons De profundi●, for all Cristen souls, and there shall offer and return unto his stall. And if any of the said Company ride thorough the Loon, and will not offer as it is agreed, that, upon his obedience for every time that he faileth, he shall goo one mile on foot from the said Chapel, unto the said place, in honour of Saint George; And also for every time that he shall so fail, he shall give a groat for his Offering. The which distance, for to come nigh unto the said Castle, is two mile's allonly and no more. XIX. Item it is accorded, the xxxii. year of our Sovereign Lord King Henry the Eight, by the grace of God King of England and of France, Defensor of the Faith, Lord of Irland, etc. upon saint George's day, the xxiii. day of April, at a Chapter holden at the Paleys of Westminster, by the Sovereign and the Companions of the said Noble Order then there assembled; That as soon as the death of any of the Company of the said Order shall be certainly known, every of the rest, being no strangers, shall according to the rates of their Degrees hereafter specified, immediately upon a demand to be made for the same by the Register, and the Dean, or one of them, to be by one of them employed in Aulmes deeds, as in mending of High ways, or such other works of charity, as the Kings' Majesty from time to time shall lymite and appoint, the several sums of Money ●n●yng: Furst the Souveraign viij l. vi ●. viij d. A King of another Realm, vi l. xiii ●. iv d. The Prince, v l. xuj s. viij d. A Duke, v l. A Marquis, iii l. xv s. An Erie, l s. A Visconte, xli s. viij d. A Baron, xxxiii s. iv d. A Bachelor Knight, xuj s. viij d. Of all which sums thus to be receyvyd, the said Dean and Register, or either of them, shall yearly at the Chapter present his account to the Kings' Majesty with ●is true and just declaration of the dysbursing again and defraying of the same. In that cause the party, whose Porcyens shall apere to be unpayde, shall in the name of a pain add unto his former duty another thirde part of the same, and so for every year that he shall be behind, to pay a thread part more than he should pay, if he should satisfy his ordinary according to the rate before expressed. And if the Dean or Register or any of them shall not at every such Chapter present the Certificate of the Receipts and Payments in form aforesaid, whereby the same may apere to the Souverayn and Companions of the Order then pre●ent, or at the leest he in whom the defawlt shall rest, shall in the name of a pain content and pay immemediatl●, to be employed about like purpose as afore the some of x●. for every such default. XX. Item it is agreed, that if eny of the said Company die, that the sovereign or his Deputy after that they shall have certification of his death, shall be bound for to send and give knowledge by their Letters to all the Fellowship of the said Ordre being within England, for to come and be with the said sovereign or his Deputy in what place soever it be, where it shall please him to assign convenyently within vi. wekies after the certification of the death or decease of the said Knight. The which allsoo assembled or at the lest vi. with the sovereign or his Deputy abovesaid, every of them that there shall be present come to the election shall name ix. of the worthiest and sufficient Knights without Reprosse that he shall know subjects to the said sovereign or others, so be that they hold no contrary party or be against him. That is to wit, three Dukes three Marquis, Earls, or of greater estate, three Barons, or banerettis, and three Bachelors. The which denominations the chief prelate of the said Order shall write, Chat is to wit the Bishop of Wynchester for the time being; or in his absence the Chancellor, or the Dean or Register or the most ancient Recidencer of the said College in their absence; and the denomination so done by all, or vi. at the leest, by him that have written shall be showed to the said sovereign, or to his Deputy, that then shall choose of them that be named, be that shall have the most voices, and also he that the sovereign shall exteme to be most honourable to the said Order, and most profitable to his Crown and to his Realm. And if there be any Knight of the said Order that doth fail for to come to the said Election, if he be not let by a just cause; and that the said cause of his excuse showed under his seal of arms be found by the sovereign or his Deputy to be just and reasonable, than his excuse to be accepted and allowed, and that if his cause be not just, and that he come not to the ceremonies abovenamed, it is agreed that he shall pay to the Warden of the College for to sing for him that is departed xx s. sterling, and at his nexte coming to the chapter, he shall be before the sovereign or his Deputy and the company, and shall knee upon the ground in the mids of the chapter, until the time that he be reconciled by the sovereign or his Deputy, and the said Company. XXI. Item it is agreed, that if any Knight of the said Company should depart, and another is chosen and elect, he shall have soon after his election the Garter, in signyfyeng that he is one of the Knights and Fellows of th' Ordre of the Garter, and his Robe and Node shall be delivered him in the Chapter-howse incontinently, after that his Commission hath been red before the sovereign or his Deputy and the Company; and after that shall be led by two Knights of the said Order accompanied with the other noblemen, And the Officers of the Order shall also be present, and his Mantell shall be borne before him by one of the knigths of the said Order, or by the King at Arms of the Order. The which Mantell shall be delivered to him for his habit, after that he shall have made his oath before his Stall and not before. And this done he shall return unto the Chapter house, where he shall reseyve by the sovereign or his Deputy, The collar, and so he shall have the full possession of his habit holy, except great Prince's strangers, the which may receyve their habit holy within the Chapter house, as it hath been used and accustomed in times past, for the shortening of tyme. And if he die before he have Receyved his habit, he shall not be named one of the Founders, sing that he lacketh to have full possession of his estate. But he shall have the one half of the * Divine Service. Masses abovenamed, for the delyverance of the Garter, and none other thing above it. And if he so chosen come not in all good diligence after the reception of the said Garter in the said place for to be stalled, and in specially within the year of his Election, if he be a Knight dwelling within the Realm, and hath none excuse reasonable, allowable, and acceptable to the said sovereign or to his Deputy, and the Company, Then the Election shall be void of him, and the sovereign or his Deputy and the Company shall go and make another new election, and neither the Banner, the Sword, nor the Helmet, nor Crest of him so chosen be put upon his Stall within the Castle before his coming. To th'end that if he come not, his said Hachementis, as Banner, Sword, Helmet, be not taken down nor abated, but honestly put out of the Choir, and the rest of other things shall abide to the profit and use of the said Order. XXII. Item it is agreed, that if any of the Dukes, Marques, Earls, Vizcontes, Barons, Banerettis, or Bachelors die, That he that shall come after, and succeed in his place and room, be he Duke, Merques, earl, Vizcounte, Baron, Baneret, Bachelor, or any of the astates abovenamed, he shall have the self same stalle that his Predecessor had, and shall not change it without he have especial licence or Warrant of the said sovereign, allweyes all Emperors, Kings, and Princes be excepted, the which shall keep and hold their Stalls after their estate, and very nexte unto the sovereign. And then by this mean a Duke shall take the stall of a Bachelor, and a Bachelor the stall of a Duke, in sign and knowledge of the fyrst Founders. XXIII. Item, if there be eny place or stall void, the sovereign at his pleasure may advance and translate, by his special licence, any Knight of the said Company, in the said stall, so be it that it be more higher than the stall that he was in afore. Alsoe the sovereign ovys in his life may, if it please him, make a general translation of all the states at his pleasure, except of Emperors, Kings, Princes, and D●kes. The which allwey shall keep their places and stalls, if not that they be translated in more higher room and stall, in the which translation the long continuance in th' Ordre, and the praises, worthiness, and merits of the Knights ought to be considered and remembered. The which Knights from henceforth in going and sitting at all times, that they shall were their Mantles, shall keep their places after the Order of their stallis, and not after their astatis, as is aforesaid. XXIV. Item it is agreed, that all the Felowiss abovesaid at their first coming in shall give every of them a certain somme, after their estate, for the entertaining and maintenance of the Canons and Poor Knights dwelling in the said place, and for the alms deeds that is there perpetualli ordained. That is to wit, the sovereign xl. marks, a stranger King xxl. The Prince xx marks, every Duke xl. every Marquis viij l. vi s. viij d. every Earl x. marks, every Vizcounte exvi s. viij d. every Baron and Baneret c s. every Bachelor v. marks, and their Banners, Helmetts, Crestis, and Swordis shall not be set over their stalls, until the time that they have paid at their entering the foresaid sums, every one after his estate and degree whereof he is. And it is to wit that the sovereign is bound to pay for every stranger that shall be chosen and elect, when he shall be stalled in his proper parson, or by procurement, or attornay, and these gifts be gieven to th'intent that every one of them that shall entre into th' Ordre be more worthy to have the name, title, and privilege, of one of the Founders of the said Order. XXV. Item it is agreed, that every Knight within the year of his stallation shall cause to be made a Scouchon of his arms, and hachementis in a plate of metal such as shall please him, and that it be merly set upon the back of his stall. And the other that shall come after shall have their Scochons and Hachements in like manner; but their Plaits of metal nor there hachements shall not be so large nor so great as they of the first Founders were, except strangers, which may use their plates and fashions at their pleasure. XXVI. Item it is agreed, that no Knight chosen and elect for to be Fellow of of the said Noble Order shall not be stalled by procurement or attorney, except he be a stranger, and may not well come hither in his proper parson for to be stalled, or other that is busied without the Realm for the affairs of the sovereign, or by his commandment and licence as it is above declared. XXVII. Item that every Knight, entering in the said Order, shall promise and swear faithfully to observe and keep the poyntiss and articles that here followeth, That is to wit, that to his true power he shall help, during his life, and during the time that he shall be Fellow of the said Order, for to keep, defend, and sustain the honour, quarrels, rights, and lordships of the sovereign of the said Order. Item that with all his power he shall enforce himself, and take pain honourably to entertain and augment the said Order. And if it happen him for to know any thing that were imagined or procured to the contrary of the defence and resistance of this, with all his true power he shall put himself in more greater endevorment. Item that well and truly he shall accomplish and entertain all the Statutes, points, and ordinances of the said Ordre, and of all this shall make a general oath, all and so as though it were red unto him from point to point, and article to article, and shall make the said oath to the sovereign of the said Order or his Deputy, in swearing and promising upon the holy Gospellis for to keep them and entertain them, without any fraud or delation. And upon this he shall touch the Book and kiss the Crosse. Item this done the said Knight so chosen with due reverence shall receyve the Garter, the which the sovereign or his Deputy shall put it about his left leg in saying these words, Sir, the loving Company of th' order of the Garter hath receyved you their Brother, lover, and Fellow, and in token and knowledge of this they give you and present you this present Garter. The which God will that you receyve and were from henceforth to his praise and pleasure, and to th'exaltation and honour of the said Noble Order and of yourself. XXVIII. Item it is agreed, that in case that the sovereign be out of the Country, to the which he can not in proper parson do that shall appertain to the stallation, he may give power and authority, by his Letters of Commission, to two of the Fellows, or to dyverse for to exercise it in his name. XXIX. Item it is agreed that a common Seal, a signet of the arms of the Order, be made, the which shall rest in the custodi and keeping of the chancellor of th' order, or of such a Knight and Fellow of the said Order, as shall please the sovereign to name and assign; and if he that shall have the Seals in keeping or custodi should depart or go forth for any cause, xx miles far from the sovereign, than he shall deliver the said Seals to the sovereign, or to such Knight of th' Ordre, or to any other parson, that it shall please the said sovereign for to ordain and appoint. To th' intent that at no time the said Seals be out of the presence of the said sovereign, he being within his Realm. And if he be out of his Realm, The signet shall suffice for to seal all such acts and writings, touching the said Order, that there may be concluded and made. XXX. Item it is agreed, that every Fellow of the said Order from henceforth shall have the Statutes of the said Order, first collected and oversene by the Register, and after that sealed with the common Seal afforesaid. And if the Knight will have any arms devised, or cognysance made within the Book of the said Statutes, than the said Book shall be delivered to the King at Arms of th' Ordre, for truly to ordain of it as it shall appertain. And the original to be likewise signed and sealed, the which shall shall abide in the Treasury of the said College for evermore. XXXI. Item it is agreed, that after the death of eny of the Knights of the said Company, his Executours shall be bound for to send again, and to delyver the Statutes of the said Order, within three months after, if so be that the Statutes hath b●en delivered unto him by the sovereign, or to his charge. The which Statutes shall be delivered again to the Warden or Register of the said College, or to one of the principal Officers for the time being. XXXII. Item it is agreed, that none of the Knights of Saint George, of the said Company of the Garter, shall not go out of the Country nor Dominion of the sovereign, without having leave and licence of the sovereign: And therefore it is agreed, that if eny voyage be made, or any other noble act appertaining to the honour of knighthood, The said sovereign, of his grace, for the great love, favour, and confidence that he hears toward the Knights of the said Order, will prefer, advance, and present the said Fellows and Knights of th' Order of Saint George before all other. XXXIII. Item that none of the Knights of the said Order shall not arm themselves the one against the other, but in the Wars of his sovereign Lord, in his right and just quarrel, and if it should happen, that any of the said Order were retained with any Lord, and holding his party and quarrel, and th' adversari party destreth alsoo to have another Fellow of the said Order with him: In this case, such a Knight and Fellow shall not be retained, but may excuse him from all such things, because his Fellow is armed against him on the other side, and was retained before him, and every Knight of the said Order shall be bound to except when he shall be retained, that he may be holy discharged from his servyce of War, if any of the fellowship before him retained or holding the contrary and adversari party. And if he that is the second retained know that any of his Fellows he retained before him, and armed with his adversari party, Then be that is seconde retained, at the fyrste knowledge that be shall have thereof, shall be bound to excuse him toward his Master, and leave that quarrel. XXXIV. Item that all the lycencis given to the Knights of the said Ordre, that go out of the Realm for to seek and obtain honour, and all certifications, or sending letters and writings concerning the said Order, ●rom henceforth, shall be sealed with one of the Seals of the said Ordre. XXXV. Item it is agreed that if eny Knight of the said Order, for his devotion, will dwell within the said Castle continually, There shall be orden●d for him a dwelling place convenient, by th' assignment of the sovereign, and he of his proper goods and at his costs and chargies shall provided for his lyveyng. XXXVI. Item if any other Knight, not being of the said Order, hath any will to dwell there for his devotion, there shall be ordained for him a dwelling place, after the will and pleasure of the said sovereign, and with the consentment of the said Company. XXXVII. Item it is ordained, that if any Knight, or other parson, wylle give any Lands, heritage, or rents, for to be participant of all the good orisons and prayers that shall be said in the said place, also his name shall be Registered, and the Canons and poor knights shall pray perpetually unto God for him, and also the said Deane, Warden, and Canons of the said College from henceforth shall not take any manner of charge upon the said College, without the advise and consentment of the said sovereign, or his Deputy, and the Fellowship of the said Order, in presence, and by them concented and agreed in plain Chapter. XXXVIII. Item for to have better knowledge of the knights that shall be of the said Order, the sovereign of it willyth and ordaineth by the Wills and consentment of all the hole Company, that from henceforth, that every Knight of the said Order shall have and were apertly and openly a Choler of gold about his neck, waing wherein ounces of Troy weight and not above, the which Choler shall be made by pieces in fashion of Garters, in the mids of which Garters shall be a double Rose, the one Rose of Red, and the other within White, and the other Rose White, and the other Rose within read, and at the end of the said Choler shall be put and fastened the Image of Saint George. The which Choler the said sovereign, his Successors, and amiable Company of the said Order shall be bound to were, and in especial, in principal and solemyne Feasts of the year, and in other days of the year shall be holden to were a small Chain of Gold with the Image of Saint George depending at the end of the said Chain, except in time of War, sickness, long voyage; Then it shall suffice him to were alonely a lase of silk with the said Image of Saint George. And if the said Choler have any need of reparation, it may be put in the hands of the Goldesmyth and workman unto the time that it be repared, the which Choler also may not be made more richer with stones or other things, reserving the said Image: The which may be garnished and enriched at the pleasure of the said knight: Also the said Choler may not be sold, engaged, aliened, nor given, for any need, cause, or necessity whatsoever it be. The Constitutions relating to the Officers of the Order. Lib. N. p. 232. CAP. I. HOrum primus erat Praelatus Ordines. Quisquis autem Praesul Wintoniensis, ac Southamptoniae Comes etc. eo tempore fuerit, is & Praelatus esse debet. Qui cum praesens sit, denominationes electionum Equestrium appositè conscribet, Et quod reliquum fuerit, ibi defungetur Officio. Id quod illo absente Cancellarius, Decanus, aut Scriba (quemadmodum est praeostensum) èxplebit. Quoties Supremo ipsi visum fuerit solennitatom Divi Georgii servare Windesori, tenebitur & Praelatus simul adesse, ut Divina celebret. Quod si volens praetermiserit, viginti marcas eâ de causâ Collegio persolvet, nisi rationabilem & justam absentiam, & Supremo ac Sodalitio benè probabilem causari posset, quae conferentur ad reparationes inibi faciendas. Item Praelatus habitum superinduet, cujus exterior facies subrubri coloris è serico villoso, interior autem albi serici, quod Taffeta vocant, circumpositis (ut Supremo videbitur) sumptuosis insignibus & scuto super humerum, quod Ordinis intra praelustre subligar habebit insignia. Fibula vestimenti, quae de pectore propendebit, partim aurei fili, partim cerulei serici debet esse. Eodem habitu tenebitur uti singulis vigiliis festivisque diebus Divi Georgii, ubi modò liber extiterit. Aliàs item, ut dum celebre concilium, quod & Parliamentum, agitatur maxime, vel in aliis festivitatibus, ad libitum uti poterit. Qui propter honorem & Praelationem hujus Ordinis summum inter Episcopos nostros ubiquè locum vendicabit, Archiepiscopis duntaxa● concedens, quibus sedium suarum praeeminentia constabit, utque tantò magis honoretur, poterit idem Praelatus illustre Subligaculum suis semper insignibus circumponere. Et quotiès proceditur, poterit habitu praedicto tectus Supremum antecedere, Cancellarium Ordinis sibi sinistrum habens. Habebit etiam intra Castrum nostrum Windesori sibi locum designatum ad manendum, quoties illuc accesserit. Cumque illuc advenerit vel ad alium quemcunque locum ex jussu Supremi, ut Divi Georgii festivitatem observet, vel ut acta conscribat, aliauè quaecunque peragat, quae spectabunt ad hunc Ordinem, intra Atrium nostrum pro se sibique ministrantibus habebit ad victum, quae per nostrum praeceptum Comites in Aula residentes habere solent. CAP. II. Officium Cancellarii, quoniam praenobile est, ac permagnae Curae, exigitur in id administrandum vir praeclari nominis, tantoque dignus honore. Quamobrem Supremus vult & instituit, quod nemo provehatur ad id Officium, nisi vel Praelatus Ecclesiae fuerit, velut Archiepiscopus, Antistes, aut notabilis alioqui dignitatis: vel si vir laicus, Eques omninò non ignoti sanguinis, expertus, doctus, & bonâ famâ notus. Ad hunc spectabit Concilii suscipiendi manifestatio, ac declaratio, sub eâ formâ quam Supremus & Sodales Ordinis praeconceperint, omni tempore quo conveniet aut oportebit, ad honorem, utilitatem, atque incrementum ejusdem Ordinis. Idem quotannis solennitate Divi Georgii in Concilio proponet, atque enarrabit acta egregia laudéque digna ipsorum Equitum hujus Ordinis, quotquot ita meriti sunt: qui verò contr● commeruerunt & illorum quoque probra, siqua fuerint, recensebit, ●t Scriba tantò faciliùs ea sub scriptis redigat in memoriam nunquam desituram. Habebit hic itaque, scilicet cum Praelato intra Castrum nostrum Windesori mansionem, scilicet habitum, & omninò similem victùs assignationem. Cancellarius apud se commune Sigillum Ordinis, cum Signaculo, servabit, ad Statuta, Commissiones, facultates, certificationes, mandata, suffragiorum literas, aliasque causas ad praedictum Ordinem attinentes, suo quasque tempore consignandas. Si verò, legitimam ac rationabilem causam babens, ultra decem milliaria recesserit à Supremo, relinquet interim ea Sigilla, prout Supremus assignabit in custodiâ unius è Sodalibus, qui commorabitur in Aulâ cum Supremo. Habebit hic ipse Cancellarius annuum stipendium, Officii sui nomine, Centum libras Legalis Monetae Angliae, vel in feodis, Officiis, aliisuè promotionibus tantundem, hiis de quibus ante diximus nihil hic obstantibus. CAP. III. Erit insupèr hujus Ordinis unus Scriba, qui si vir Ecclesiasticus extiterit, Literatus erit, & Theologiae vel alterius juris, Can●nici aut Civilis Professor, habens itaquè dignitatem aliquam in Ecclesia Cathedrali, quem Supremus etiam ad Prebendam intra Sacellum suum Windesori curabit sublimandum, & veluti decebit eo nomine promovebit. Si verò Secularis aut Laicus ipse fuerit, vir honestus atque insignis erit, & Eques, experientiae doctrinaeque nomine commendatus. Qui stipendium habebit annuum quinquaginta libras monetae legalis Angliae, ●el in feodis, Officiis, aut emolumentis aliis tantundem. Quoties item Eques aliquis in hunc Ordinem ascitus ad sedem suam introducatur, ab eòdem Equite, Scriba recipiet tredecem solidos cum quatuor denariis & habitum— Oportebit autem hunc Scribam duos conficere Libellos, sive Indices, aut potius Annales, è Pargameno, in quibus Ordinationes & Statuta caeteraeque caus● spectantes ad Ordinem conscribentur. Quorum alter Windesori recondetur in Aerario, ubi perpetuò manebit: alter verò in custodiâ Scribe, quem ubilibet Supremo, si quando poscat, sit ostensurus. Prior appellabitur Index Windesoriensis, p●sterior Aulae Registrum. Hujus intererit Electiones factas, & Elect●rum nomina, stratagemmata, res gestas, & acta notatu fidéque digna tàm Supremi, quam Commilitonum Ordinis, prout per seipsum suâque scrutandi diligentiâ, vel per industriam Regis Armorum intelligere poterit, & habere comperta describere & redigere in memori●m. Primitùs, ut singulis anuis accident, annotabit, & scriptis commendabit, q●●● in eo quod proximè suscipietur concilio legentur Equitibus ibi congregatis, ut si quicquam correctionis aut emendationis indigeat, ibi corrigatur, similitèr iterum in altero concilio, & deindè venustè conscribenda curabit in praedictis libris aut annalibus ad perpetuam sui memoriam. CAP. IU. Hiis accedet Rex Armorum unus, qui Garterus Rex Armorum Angliae vocitabitur, quem Supremus & Commilitones, ob dignitatem Ordinis, virum generosi sanguinis, honesti nominis insignia gerentem, intra regnum Angliae natum, & caeteris Armorum Officialibus, qui nobili Coronae Angliae subjecti sunt, superiorem esse volunt. Habebit hic à Supremo stipendium annuum quadraginta libras monetae legalis Angliae; praetereà unusquisque Sociorum pro sui statûs honore singulis annis donabit eidem, Dux, quatuor libras; Marchio quinque marcas; Comes, quatuor marcas; Baro, quadraginta solidos; & Eques Bachalaureus, viginti sex solidos atque octo denarios, ut tantò honorificentiùs ad decus Ordinis vitam agat, & Officium administret. Quotiès autem Creatio Principis, Ducis, Marchionis, Comitis, Vicecomitis, aut Baronis obtinget, idem Garterus vestes ejus vendicabit quibus utetur priusquàm togam illius dignitatis & praeclari statùs accipiat. Ad eundem spectabit correctio Armorum atque insignium quorumcunque, quae usurpantur & gestantus injustè authoritas insuper & potestas Arma bujusmodi atquè insignia concedendi talibus qui per Acta sortia ac laudabilia, virtutesque & status, honores merebuntur juxta antiquam consuetudinem, Literasque Patentes super eâ re faciendi. Is ubique quando Supremus solenniter incedet, E●sem ejus proximus antecedet, nemine intercedente; nisi forsan Constabularius & Mareschallus, qui virgas illas ad Officium suum attinentes ipsi gestabunt. Per eum quoque vel ab eo designatum juramentum ministrabitur omnibus Armorum Officialibus, Supremo Subjectis, recepturum ob id quod consuetum est. Habebit itidem habitum Scribae similem, & Baronis Ferculum in Aulâ, cui post Decanum Sacelli nostri mensa ponetur, & ferculum i●feretur, caeteraque sui victius, ut mos fuit, & domum cubandi Windesori intra Castrum nostrum accepturus. Cumque solennitas Divi Georgii celebretur, & Supremus assit, idem Garterus portabit albam virgam, cujus ambo fines deanrabuntur, & vexillum modicum insignium Ordinis supra. Quando Dominus etiam ingredietur Cubiculum nostri Parliamenti, ipse locum ei designabit juxt a dignitatis & clari statùs honorem ex antiquo more recepturus, ob id uti Domino illi visum fuerit. Et quotienscunque, mittetur aut legabitur in Supremi negotiis, quinque Equ●s habens recipiet pro laboribus accipiendis, singulis quibusque diebus decem solidos. Idem Garterus, Rex Armorum, diligentèr ac sedulò perquiret acta fortia ac fortunata praeclaráque gesta tàm Supremi, quam Commilitonum hujus Ordinis, quae fidelit●r ac verè ref●ret Scribae, quatinus in seripta per ●um aeternámque memoriam opportunè redigi possent. Hic Garterus etiàm perferet, aut curabit perferendas omnes Literas, quae spectabunt ad Confratres & Sodales hujus Ordinis: & significatum ibit Supremo vel Scribae mortem cujusl●●●t Equitis ijtius Ordinis, ut literae suffragiorum conficiantur ac deportentur, quemadmodum oportet, deferet & deferri faciet Electiones eorum qui nominati fuerint, & ipsorum responsa reportabit. Deniquè faciet, aut sieri procurabit, quicquid spectans ad hunc Ordinem Supremus vel Praelatus, aut Cancellarius (qui praecipui sunt Officiales) faciendum injunxerit. CAP. V. Postremò debet esse unus Hostiarius, quem Supremus ac Commilitones volunt esse generosum, Armis ac Sanguine clarum, & in ditione ipsius Supremi progenitum, is qui pro dignitate Ordinis atque hon●re omnium Hostiariorum ipsius Regni summus erit. Habebit itaque curam & custodiam & custodiae praeheminentiam penetralium nostrorum, Domus ubi Concilium agitatur, & omnium hostiorum ubi concilium inibitur, tàm in sublimi Curiî quae Parliamentum appellitatur, quam in quibusque locis aliis, Cujus Annuum stipendium erit Triginta Librarum. Quòd si jussu Supremi ac Commilitonum, quem bujus Ordinis Equitem nigrâ virgâ tetegerit, & reum egerit sceleris admiss●, propter quod sit abdieandus ab ho● Ordine, quinque libras eo facto percipiet: si levioris offensae causâ quem admonuerit, ex praecepto Regis & Concilii, vendicabit ab eodem câ de causâ viginti solidos. Et quandocunque quis Electus in sedem introducitur, decem solidos accipiet; intra Castrum nostrum Windesori cubandi l●cum sibi selectum, ejusdem Castri & duorum saltuum coadjacentium custodiam habebit. Habebit etiam habitum S●ribae & Garteri Regis Armorum, scilicet, fercula Baronum & reliquum victum attinentem in Aulâ. Qui si nòn fuerit Eques in ingressu, tum fieri debet. Vbicunque verò singulis annis Supremus extiterit in Festo Divi Georgii, die vel festivitate sequente, ante eundem Supremum aut Deputatum, virgam nigellam aut ipse deferet, vel alius ab eo sufficientèr assignatus. Et supra virgam Leo stabit, Anglorum insigne. Virga nimirum loco clavae gestabitur, cujus & authoritatem habebit, hiis modò deserviens qui deliquerint & in Ordinationes ac Statuta peccârint. Hii tres hujus Ordinis Officiales, Scriba videlicet, Garterus Rex Armorum, & Hostiarius ab atrâ virgâ nuncupatus, ipsi cum suis ta●rebus quam ministris in suis Officiis permanentes, sub perpetuâ Supremi protectione ac propugnaculo securè durabunt. Vnde si quaevis injuria seu violentia ipsis inferatur, vel ab eis qui Supremo subjecti sunt, vel exteriùs, quotiès causas suas arbitrio Supremi submittent, ipse cum Sodalibus exhibebit eis justitiam, aut exhibendam ex aequo & congruo procurabit. Si verò pars adversae causam suam Supremo submittere detrectabit, ipse cum Commilitonibus eum erga Officiales hos animum habebit, ut ipsorum causam quoad justum atque aequum erit cum debito favore tueri velit. Intra Chorum praedicti Sacelli, dum solennia peraguntur, ante Sedem Regiam praetereà statuentur Sedilia duo, unum ante alterum, in quorum altero sedebunt Praelatus & Cancellarius Ordinis; in altero, Scriba, Rex Armorum & Hostiarius. The Names of the first Founders, and other Knights-Companions, who succeeded in their Stalls, after the ancient manner; as they are exemplified in two TABLES remaining in the Chapterhouse at Windesor. TAB. I. 1. Le tres noble Roy Edward tiers, & premier Fondeur. APres luy vint le Roy Richard, filz, Edward le Prince de Galls. Apres luy ●int le tres-noble Roy Henry, filz de Johan Duc de Lancastre. Apres luy vint le noble Prince & vaillant, le Roy Henry 5. Heritier & Regent de France, & Conquereur de Normandy. Apres luy vint son filz Henry de Windesore le 6. courronné à Paris Roy de France. Apres luy & en son temps, entra en son droit tiltre, le tres noble Roy Edward 4. la fleur de Chivallerie. [ * Note that all put within Vneus' at the end of each Stall, is added in the Tables by a later hand. Apres luy vint le Roy Richard le 3. Apres luy vint le tres-noble Roy Henry le 7.] 2. Le Duc de Lancastre, Henry, & Premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Seigneur Despenser, Edward; Apres luy vint le Conte de Stafford, Hugh; Apres luy vint Mons●eur Nichol Sarnesfeld; Apres luy vint Monsieur William D'arundell; Apres luy vint le Roy de Portugal, Jehan; Apres luy vint le Roy de Portugal Edward, Apres luy vint le Duc de Gloucestre, Humphrey; Apres luy vint le Roy de Portugal, Alfons'● [Apres luy vint son Filz le Roy de Portugal.] 3. Le Captou de Buch, Pier, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte de Derby, qui apres fuit Roy D'angleterre Henry le 4. Apres luy vint Messire Philipp la Vache. Apres luy vint Messire Gilbert Sire le Talbot. Apres luy vint Messire Jehan Grey. Apres luy vint le Conte Mareschalle Jehan. Apres luy vint le Duke D'York, Richard. Apres luy vint le Conte de Warwick, Richard. [Apres luy vint le Noble Prince Charlois Duc de Burgoyne. Apres luy vint le Roy Don Ferdinando le la grant Cecile & de Naples, par l' ordonnance du Soverein & la company.] 4. Le Conte de Saresbury William, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte d' Arundel, Thomas. Apres luy vint le Conte de Huntingdon, qui apres fut fait Duc D'Excestre. Apres luy vint le Duc de Norfolk, Jehan. Apres luy vint le Conte de Worcestre, Jehan, Grant Conestable D'Angleterre. Apres luy vint le Duc de Norfolk jehan. [Apres luy vint le Marquis Dorset, Thomas, tilz de la Royne Elizabeth.] 5. Monsieur Jehan de Lis●e, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Messire Richard la Vache; Apres luy vint Messire Edward, Sire de Powys. Apres luy vint Her Tangke Clux. Apres luy vint Messire le Duc de Glouces●re Freire au Roy Edward quart. [Apres luy vint le Count de Ox. Jehan.] 6. Monsieur Johan Beauchampe, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Duc le Clarence, Leonel-Apres luy vint le Seire de Basset, Rauf. Apres luy vint le Duc de Gheldrens Will. Apres luy vint le Conte de Stafford. Apres luy vint le Conte de Kent, Edmund. Apres luy Messire Robert Doumfravile. Apres luy vint le Conte de Sarisbury Richard. Apres luy vint Monsieur de Montague, Jehan, apres Conte de Northumberland. [Apres luy vint le Count D'Arundell William.] 7. Monsieur Hugh Courtenay, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte de Northampton, William. Apres luy le Duc de Eborum, Conte de Cantebrigie, Edmund. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan, filz du Roy Henry 4. Duc de Bethford, Regent de France. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan Grey, de Ruthyn. Apres luy vint le Conte de Somerset, Jehan, apres Duc de Somerset. Apres luy vint Dom. Alver Dalmadaa Conte D'everence, Capitaine de Portugal. Apres luy vint le Viscount Bourschier, Henry, apres Conte D'Essex. [Apres luy vint Count de Arundel Thomas.] 8. Monsieur Johan Grey, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Wautier Manny. Apres luy vint Monsieur Guichard D'anguillem. Apres luy vint le Duc de Gloucestre, Count de Buckingham, Thomas. Apres luy vint le Conte Palatyn Duc de Bavayre, Robert. Apres luy vint le Roy D'anmarch. Apres luy vint Messire Antony de Wideville, Sieur de Scales & de Neucelles, freire de la Royne Elizabeth. [Apres luy Messire Jehan Conyers Baneret. Apres luy le Conte de Surry Thomas.] 9 Monsieur Miles de Stapelton, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte de Hereford, Humphrey. Apres luy vint le Conte de Warwick, le filz Thomas. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Erpengham. Apres luy vint le Conte de Stafford, Humfray, apres Duc de Buckingham. Apres luy vint Monsieur de Scroup, Johan. 10. Monsieur Hugh de Wrotellegh, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas de Felton▪ Apres luy vint le Sire de Willoughby, William. Apres luy vint Monsieur William Harington. Apres luy vint Messire Rauf Boteller, Seigneur de Sudley. [Apres luy vint Messire Thomas Seigueur Mautravers.] 11. Monsieur Jehan Chaundos, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Guy de Briene. Apres luy vint le Conte de Ostervant, William, qui apres fuit remué à l'autre part à lestal d● Duc de Bretaigne, Jehan. Apres luy vint Monsieur Humphrey, filz du Roy, Henry Duc de Gloucestre, qui apres fut remué à Pestal du Roy de Portugal, Edward Jehan. Apres luy vint le Capitan de la Bouche, Conte de Longeville. Apres luy vint Monsieur J●han Sire a● Dudley. Apres luy Seigneur William Stanley. [Apres luy le Count de Northumberland Henry. Apres luy le Conte de Shrewesbury George.] 12. Monsieur Oats Holland, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Frank van Halle. Apres luy vint Messire William Beauchamp. Apres luy vint le Seigneur de Morley, Thomas. Apres luy vint le Sire de Willoughby, Robert. [Apres luy vint Messire Walter Blount, Sire de Mountjoye. Apres luy vint le Conte de Urbyne.] 13. Monsieur Sanchete D' abrichecourt, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur William Fitz Waryn. Apres l●y vint le Sire Latimer, William. Apres luy vint Monsieur Symond de Burley. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan Deuros. Apres luy vint Monsieur de Beaumond Jehan. Apres luy vint le Conte de Somerset, Jehan. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan de Cornvaile. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Hoo. Apres luy vint le Sire de Stanley, Thomas. Apres luy vint Messire Johan Asteley. TAB. II. 1. Le Prince Edward, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint son filz Richard, Prince de Gales. Apres luy vint Jehan Duc de Lancastre, par l' ordonnance du Sovereign & la company. Apres luy vint Monsieur Philipp la Vache, qui apres fut rem●é à l' estal du Conte Derby, par le Sovereign & la company. Apres luy vint le Prince Henry, filz du Roy Henry. Apres luy vint Messire Jehan D'abrichecourt. Apres luy vint Sigismond, Empereur. Apres luy vint le Prince Edward, filz du Roy Edward le quart. [Apres luy vint le premier filz du tres-noble Roy Henry le 7.] 2. Le Conte de Warwick, Thomas, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte de Pembroke, Jehan. Apres luy vint le Duc de Bretaign, Jehan. Apres luy vint le Duc de Holland. Apres luy vint Monsieur Johan Robessart. Apres luy vint George Duc de Clarence, freire puisné du Roy Edward 4. [Apres luy le Duc de Bedford, Jasper. Apres luy le Roy de Grande Cecile, Alphons.] 3. Le Conte de Stafford Rauf, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Alain Bukeshull. Apres luy vint Monsieur Brian de Stapelton. Apres luy vint Monsieur William Scroop. Apres luy vint le Conte de Westmoreland, Rauf. Apres luy vint Monsieur Johan de Fastolf. Apres luy vint le Roy Dom de Fernando de la grante Cecile & de Naples, qui apres fit remué à l'estal du noble Prince Charlois Duc de Bourgonge. [Apres luy vint le Duc de Ferrare, Hercules.] 4. Le Conte de March Roger, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Ufford. Apres luy vint Monsieur Richard Pembruge. Apres luy vint le Conte de Suffolk, William. Apres luy vint Monsieur Richard de Burlie. Apres luy Monsieur Edward, filz, de Duc de York. Apres luy vint le Conte de Oxenford, Richard. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan Blount. Apres luy vint Monsieur William Philippe, Seigneur de Bardolf. Apres luy vint Messire Jehan Beauchamp. [Apres luy vint le Duc D' York Richard, filz du Roy Edward le quart. Apres luy le Duc de Bokyngham.] 5. Monsieur Bartholomew Bourgherst, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Sire de Neufville, Jehan. Apres luy vint Monsieur Pierre Courtenay. Apres luy vint le Sire Lovel Johan. Apres luy vint le Sire Fitzhugh Henry. Apres luy vint le Sire de Scalles, Thomas. Apres luy vint Monsieur de Hasting, William. [Apres luy le Conte de Derby Sire de Stanley Thomas.] 6. Monsieur de Mohun, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte de Kent, Thomas. Apres luy vint le Conte de Dorset, Thomas, Duc de Excestre. Apres luy vint Dom Petre filz du Roy de Portugal, Duc de Quymbre. Apres luy vint Johan Bourscher. Sire de Berneres. [Apres luy vint Duc de Bukyngham Henry. Apres luy le Sire de Strange, George.] 7. Monsieur Thomas Hollande, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Duc de Lancastre, Jehan, qui apres fut remué à l'estal du Prince Richard, par le Sovereign & la company: Et en son lien vint Messire Johan de Burle. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Mowbray, Conte de Notyngham. Apres luy vint Thomas de Lancastre filz an Roy Henry 4. Apres luy vint le Conte de Suffolk William del Pool, apres Marquis & Duc de Suffolk. [Apres luy vint son filz Jehan Duc de Suffolk. Apres luy le Sire de Dynham, John.] 8. Monsieur Richard Fitz Symond, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte de Suffolk, Robert. Apres luy vint Monsieur Robert Namurs. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan Bourgscher. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Rammiston. Apres luy vint Monsieur Sire Burnell. Apres luy vint Monsieur Lowes Robessart Sire de Bourgscher. Apres luy vint le Conte Jehan D'arundelle. Apres luy vint le Conte de Morteigne, Edmund, qui apres fut Marquis de Dorset, & Duc de Somerset. Apres luy vint Monsieur de Herbert, William. [Apres luy vint Jehan de Buckyngham Conte de Wiltshire. Apres luy vint le Conte de Northumberland, Henry. Apres luy le Viscount Lovel Frauncois. Apres luy Messire Edward Wodevile. Apres luy le Viscount Wellis, Jehan.] 9. Monsieur Thomas Wale, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Reynard de Cobeham. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan Sully. Apres luy vint le Conte de Warrewyk Richard. Apres luy vint le Sire de Faucunberge, apres Conte de Kente. Apres luy vint le Conte de Douglas. [Apres luy vint le Sire de Broke, Robert.] 10. Monsieur Neel Loringee & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint le Conte D'Arundell, Richard. Apres luy vint Sire de Grey. Apres luy vint Monsieur Hugh Stafford, Sire de Bourgscher. Apres luy vint le Sire de Hungerford, Wauter. Apres luy vint le Sire de Riviers, Richard, apres Conte de Riviers, & Pier de Roigne Eliz. Apres luy vint Messire Jehan le Seigneur Howard. [Apres luy Messire Thomas de Borough. Apres luy Messire Charles Somerset Baneret.] 11. Monsieur James D'audele, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Grantson. Apres luy vint Monsieur de Roos. Apres luy vint le Sire Camus, Thomas. Apres luy vint Monsieur Jehan Sire de Clifford. Apres luy vint le Sire de Talbot, Johan, apres Conte de Cherosbery. Apres luy vint son filz, Johan Conte de Cherousbury. Apres luy vint le Sire de Wenloke. Apres luy vint Messire, William Parr. [Apres luy Messire Richard Dunstall. Apres luy Messire Edw. Poynings.] 12. Monsieur Henry Em, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Ughtrede. Apres luy vint le Conte de Bethford. Apres luy vint Monsieur Lewis Clifford. Apres luy vint M●nsieur Johan Stanley. Apres luy vint le Conte de Sarisbury, Thomas. Apres luy vint Monsieur Johan de Radcliff. Apres luy vint le Viscount de Beaumond, Jehan. Apres luy vint Monsieur Robert Harecourt. [Apres luy vint Monsieur Walter Deveros Sire de Ferres. Apres luy vint Monsieur Johan Cheny Baneret.] 13. Monsieur Walter Pavely, & premier Fondeur. Apres luy vint Monsieur Thomas Banestre. Apres luy vin● Monsieur Sandich de Trane. Apres luy vint Monsieur Symund Felbrigger. Apres luy vint Henry filz du Roy de Portugal, Duc de Vison. Apres luy vint le Sire de Duras. Apres luy vint Messire Thomas Montgomery. [Apres luy vint Messire Gylbert Talbot Baneret.] NUMBER I. King Edward the Third's Letters Patent for founding St. George's Chappel in Windesor Castle. Pat. an. 22. E. 3. par. 2. m. 6. EDwardus, etc. Vniversis praesentes Literas inspecturis, salutem. Magnificenciam decet Regiam in piis semper actibus delectari, ut cum ante tribunal steterit summi Regis, apud quem non est acceptio personarum, sed unusquisque prout gessit in corpore recipiet, sive bonum fuerit sive malum, inter bonos à dextris assistere valeat & non piger vel inutilis cum reprobis judicari. Nos quidem varia vitae nostrae studia & exilia merita nostra cum amaritudine recolentes solicitè, divináque nobis praestita beneficia, gratias & honores, quibus prae caeteris misericorditèr Altissimus nos praevenit, meritò contemplantes de bonis nobis à Deo collatis & supra modum multociens inanitèr dispensatis gravitèr suspiramus, nec aliud nobis restat, nisi ad Christrum & matrem ejus Virginem gloriosam, quae nobis nunquam patrocinari destitit, sed in variis periculis constitutos suis beatis precibus protexit hactenus, & adjuvit felicitèr, convertere totalitèr mentem nostram, & sibi pro gratiis, gratias reddere & pro delictis veniam postulare. Et quia bona est negotiatio per quam transitoria declinantur & aeterna faelici commercio subrogantur, Capellam quandam aptae pulchritudinis octo Canonicorum secularium in Castro nostro de windsor in quâ Aquâ sacri Baptismatis abluti fuimus situatam, in honore Beati Edwardi Confessoris per progenitores nostros nobiliter inchoatam, quibus pro ipsorum sustentatione quandam summam pecuniae pro eorum voluntate & de proprio thesauro in Elemosinam tribuerunt, in honorem Omnipotentis Dei, & suae Genitricis Mariae Virginis gloriosae, Sanctorumque Georgii Martyris & Edwardi Confessoris, nostris Regiis sumptibus fecimus consummari. Summis desideriis affectantes & efficacem operam adhibentes, ut praedicti Canonici inibi Domino servituri tam reddituum incremento, quam aliorum Canonicorum & Ministrorum ac servientium numero augeantur; Et ut in Capella praedicta cultu latiori Divini Nominis gloria exaltetur, praedictis oct● Canonicis unum Custodem, praesidentem eisdem, & quindecim adhuc alios Canonicos, viginti & quatuor Milites pauperes, de se impotentes, seu vergentes ad inopiam, & de bonis dictae Capellae perpetuò sustentandos, & alios dictae Capellae Ministros sub ipsius Custodis imperio Christa perpetuò famulantes superaddere, & ibidem tam Canonicos & Milites quam alios dictae Capellae Ministros ut praemittitur recipi fa●ere dignum ducimus, firmitèr statuimus, & inviolabitèr ordinamus, & auctoriáte nostrâ Regiâ, quantum in nobis est, perpetuò stabilimus. Volentes quod dicti Canonici & Ministri divina Offi●ia celebrent pro nobis, & progenitoribus, & successoribus nostris, in partem satisfactionis eorum de quibus in extremo judicio rationem erimus reddituri, celebraturi imperpetuum secundum formam Ordinationis nostrae indè pleniùs faciendae, quibus jura patronatus & advocationes Ecclesiarum de Wyrardesbury Lincolniae, Southtanton, Exon, & Uttoxhatre Coventriae & Lichfeldiae Diocesis, quas nuper acquisivimus ex hàc causâ, pro nobis & haeredibus nostris dedimus & concessimus, damus & concedimus. Habend ' & tenend' ipsis & successoribus suis in liberam, puram, & perpetuam Elemosinam ab omni exactione seculari, liberos, penitos & quietos imperpetuum. Concessimus etiam eisdem, pro nobis, & haeredibus nostris, & licentiam dedimus, quod iidem Custos & Canonici dictas Ecclesias appropriare, & eas sie appropriatas in proprios usus tenere possent, sibi & successoribus suis imperpetuum. Statuto de terris & tenementis ad manum mortuam non ponendis, edito non obstante. Volumus etiam dictis Custodi, & Canonicis, Militibus & aliis dictae Capellae Ministris inibi servit●ris tantum de thesauro nostro Annis singulis elargiri, quod, cum Emolumento de praedictis Ecclesiis proveniente, ad eorum victum & supportationem onerum sibi incumbentium juxta condecentiam statûs sui interim videbitur sufficiens, & honestum quousque de bonis immobilibus, terris, beneficiis seu redditibus ad sufficientiam congruam & honorem nostrum, usque ad summam mille librarum annuatim per nos contigerit provideri. Quae omni● promittimus & pollicemur pro nobis & haeredibus nostris nos efficacitèr impleturos. In cujus rei testimonium has Literas nostras fieri fecimus Patentes. Teste meipso apud Westmonasterium sexto die Augusti, Anno Regni nostri Angliae vicesuno secundo, Regni verò nostri Franciae nono. N. II. A Bull impowring the Archbishop of Canterbury and Bishop of Winchester to Institute the College of Windesor. Ex ipso Autogr. in Aerar. Colleg. Windesor. CLemens Episcopus Servus servorum Dei, venerabilibus fratribus Archiepiscopo Cantuariensi & Episcopo Wintoniensi, salutem & Apostolicam benedictionem. Eximiae devotionis affectus, quem charissimus in Christo Filius noster Edwardus Rex Angliae illustris, ad nos & Romanam Ecclesiam gerit, promeretur, ut petitionibus ejus, quantùm cum Deo possumus, in his praesertim quae Divini cultûs augmentum & animarum salutem respiciunt, favorabilitèr annuamus. Petitio siquidem pro parte dicti Regis, nobis nuper exhibita continebat, quod ipse R●x Zelo piae devotionis accensus, cupiens terrena in coelestia, & transitoria in aeterna faelici commercio commutare, in Capellâ Castri. de Windesore ejusdem Regis, Sarisburiensis doiceseos, fundatâ ●d ●andem Beatae Mariae Virginis & S. Georgii martyris ac Edwardi Regis & Confessoris bonorem, & divini cultûs augmentum, ac pro suâ, & aliorum fidelium animarum salute, unum Collegium Canonicorum, Presbyterorum, Clericorum, nec non Militum Regni Angliae, ad inopiam vergentium, ac Ministrorum qui in eâdem Capellâ perpetuò Domino famulentur; & certum numerum ipsorum ordinare & canonicè fundare, ac de bo●is suis propriis sufficienter dotare proponit. Quare pro parte ipsius Regis, fuit nobis humiliter supplicatum, ut vobis ordinandi ac statuendi, Authoritate nostrâ hujusmodi Collegium, & alia ad hoc pertinentia, ac etiam opportunam facultatem de benignitate Apostolicâ concedere dignaremur. Nos itaque ipsius Regis pium in hac parte propositum in Domino commendantes, ac plenam de vestrâ circumspectione in Domino fiduciam obtinentes, hujusmodi dicti Regis supplicationibus inclinati, ordinandi, ac statuendi, & deputandi, hâc vice, authoritate Apostolicâ, in dictâ Capellâ, per dictum Regem, dote praedictâ prius ut praemittitur assignatâ, prout vobis hoc secundum Deum expedire videbitur, super quo vestram conscientiam, oneramus, certum numerum Canonicorum, Presbyterorum, Clericorum, Militum ac Ministrorum praedictorum inibi, ut praemittitur, Domino famulantium perpetuò observandum; De quibus quidem Canonicis seu Presbyteris unus per vos authoritate eâdem deputetur qui Custos eorum perpetuò nuncupetur, eisque inibi praesideat; alios etiam Canonicos, Presbyteros, ac Clericos, Milites, & Ministros ejusdem Collegii & Capellae, ac singulos ipsorum, ac bona eorundem regat pariter & gubernet; statuendi & ordinandi authoritate eâdem Ordinationes congruas & honestas juxta quas Custos, Canonici, Presbyteri Clerici, Milites, & Ministri Collegii praedicti & ipsorum singuli vivere debeant, eaque teneantur perpetuò firmiter observare, Parochialis Ecclesiae & ●ujuslibet alt●rius in praemissis omnibus, nec non patronatûs Can●nicorum, Presbyterorum, Clericorum, Militum & Ministrorum, ac Capellae praedictae, postquam ipsi deputati & ordinati inibi fuerint ut praefertur, eidem Regi ejusque haeredibus & successoribus, juribus semper salvis ac perpetuò reservatis quibuscunque Apostolicis statutis, & consuetudinibus contrariis nequaquam obstantibus; vobis & cuilibet vestrûm authoritate praedictâ, de s●●ci●li gratiâ, plenam & liberam concedimus fa●ultatem. Dat. Avinionae pridie Kalendas Decembris Pontificatûs nostri anno nono. N. III. A Bull exempting the College of Windesor from the Jurisdiction of Arch-Bishops, etc. Ex ipso Autogr. ibidem. CLemens Episcopus servus servorum Dei venerabilibus fratribus Archiepiscopo Cantuariensi & Episcopo Wyntoniensi salutem & Apostolicam benedictionem. Ad ea libenter intendimus per quae personae Ecclesiasticae liberiùs in tranquillitate pacis valeant Domino famulari. Nuper siquidem vobis ad charissimi in Christo filii nostri Edwardi Regis Angliae illustris, supplicationis instantiam ordinandi & statuendi authoritate Apostolicâ in Capellâ Regis e●usdem in Castro de windsor Sarum Dioceseos fundatâ Collegium & certum numerum Canonicorum, Presbyterorum, Clericorum, Militum, ad inopiam vergentium & Ministrorum inibi Domino perpetuò famulantiu●, quorum unus eis praefideat, qui Custos perpetuò nuncupetur, nec non ordinationes congruas & honestas, juxta quas Collegium, Custos, Canonici, Presbyteri, Clerici, Milites & Ministri praedicti vivere debeant faciendi, sufficienti dote per dictum Regem de bonis propriis cisdem Capellae & Collegio ad vestrum seu vestrûm alterius arbitrium primitùs assignatâ, plenam & liberam per nostras certi tenoris literas concessimus facultatem prout in ipsis Literis pleniùs continetur. Nos itaque volentes Capellam ac Collegium hujusmodi uberiori gratiâ prosequi & favore ipsius Regis supplicationib●s inclinati, eximendi perpetuò authoritate ●âdem, juxta modificationem inferiùs annotatam, Capellam, Collegium, Canonicos, Presbyteros, Clericos, Milites & Ministros praedictos, postquam ipsi in eádem Capellâ recepti & sufficienter dotati fuerint, ut praefertur, ab omni ordinaria jurisdictione, Dominio, & superioritate quálibet Archiepiscoporum, Episcoporum, Archiadiaconorum & aliorum quorumlibet judicum & Officialium ipsorum Ecclesiasticorum, illaque omnia ad jus & proprietatem beati Petri, & sub protectione Sedis Apostolicae & nostrâ suscipiendi & nihilominus concedendi hac vice authoritate praedictâ, ut Custos dictae Capellae qui pro tempore fuerit habeat perpetuo jurisdictionem Ecclesiasticam in Capellam Collegium, Canonicos, Presbyteros, Clericos, Milites, & Ministros praedictios, & eorum Successores, & sing●los ipsorum & curam animarum etiam eorundem constitutionibus Apostolicis & Statutis ac consuetudinibus Provincialibus & Synodalibus & aliis quibuscunque contrariis nequaquam obstantibus, vobis & vestrûm cuilibet auctoritate eadem plenam & liberam concedimus facultatem. Volumus autem quòd Custos dictae Capellae qui pro tempore fuerit curam animarum praedictarum à loci Diosesano recipere teneatur, & in hiis quae ad ipsam curam pertinent perpetuo ei subditus sit, ad judicium verò perceptarum exemptionis & libertatis praedictarum. Volumus quòd ipsi Custos & Collegium unam Marcam sterlingorum in Festo Sancti Georgii, in cujus honore dicta Capella fundata existit, Camerae Apostolicae annis singulis solvere teneantur. Nos enim irritum & inane decernimus, siquid contra praemissa à quoquam quâvis autoritate scienter vel ignoranter contigerit attemptari. Datae Avinionae two. Idus Februarii Pontisicatûs nostri Anno nono. N. IU. A Patent for Institution of the Chancellor's Office. Pa● de an. 15. E. 4. par. 3. m. 18. Edward per la grace de Dieu, Roy D'angliterre & de France & Signieur Hirlande; à touts ceulx qui ces presentes verront ou orront, Salutz. Come entre le Offices de nostre Ordre de la Gartier, Il ny ait null Office de Chauncelleir per les primer Estatuts d' icelleux Ordre, le quell Office est bien licite & necessary ou dit Ordre; Volons & Ordonnons, que pur l' axaltation & bien dudit Ordre en Icelleux aura ung Officer nommés Chauncelleir. Et pur tant, que l' Office est grande, & de grande charge, & requiert avoir ung notable personne, volons, que null ne soit in Icelleux Office, s'il n'est in dignity ecclesiastic, Come Evesque. Considerans en oultre que la Chappell de Saint George en nostre Castell Royal de Windesore, ou le Ordre est foundé & essise, & establie dedens le diocesse de Salisbury, Et nous aians regart aux vertux, prudence & diligence de Reverend Pere en dieu, nostre chier, & bien ame cousin Rychart Beauchamp, à present Evesque du dit diocese de Salisbury, qui pur l' amour du dit ordre s'emplere de jour en jour vaquier & attendre a l'avauncemènt & bone profection de la belle ovure per nos commences au dit Castell de Windesore, sur la largeur de la dit Chappell avons Icelleux Reverent pere in Dieu, Ordonné & establie, Ordonnons & establissous pur la terme de sa vie Chauncellier de la dit nostre Ordre de la Gartier. Et apres sa vie, volons & ordonnons que ses Successors Evesques de Salisbury à touts jours aient & occupent le dit Office de Chauncellier tant ainsi, que cest nostre concession per l'advis de Confreres Chivalers du dit Ordre sit mis in execution sans prejudice de L'evesque de Winchester ense que touchant le dit Ordre per les primers Estatuts len en doibt appertenir. Et ausi, volons & ordonnons, que le dessusdit Chauncelleir & les Successors Evesques du dit Salisbury ouront en garde le Grand Seale de la dessusdit nostre Ordre de Gartier, du quell Seal, Ils ne poureunt Seelere nulles Lettres, se non per le form & la manner, Come Il est Ordonné per les estatuts dut dit Ordre, ou per commandment especial de nous & nous Successors Souverains du dit Ordre. In testmoigne de quel chose cestes nostres Lettres avons nous faictes Patentes. Testmoigne nous mesmes à Westminster, x. jour Octobre, L'an de nostre Reigne quinsiesme. N. V. The Letters for Institution of the Office of Garter. Ex Autogr. in Biblioth. Hatton. A Tous ceulx qui ces presentes Lettrez verront ou orront, Nous Humphrey Duc de Glocestre, Richard de Beauchamp, Conte de Warwick, Robert Seigneur de Willuby; Henry Seigneur fitz Hugh. Loys de Robessart, Seigneur de Bourchier; Johan Cornwaylle. Thomas Herpingham, Gaultier Hungerford, Jehan de Robessart, Simon Felberg, Guillime Philippe, Hartoulx Clux, Chiviliers, partie du nombre de la Compaignie des Confreres de la Noble Ordre du Jartier, fondee en l' onneur Dieu, nostre Dame, & de Monsieur Saint George, dedens la sointe Chapelle du glorieux Saint dessusdit assise ou Chastell Royal de Windesore, Salute. Comme ja pieca tres-excellent Prince de Noble memoyrie le Roy Henry le quint nostre Soveraigne Seigneur, qui Dieu absoille, en son vivant par bonne & meure deliberation contemplant à la Noble contemplacion de la dit Noble Ordre, come Soverain d'icelle, ou plaine Chapitre de la dite Compaigne & confraternité, per l'advys & consentement de tous les Confreres, & present Reverend Pere en dieu Henry, Evesque de Wincestre, Prelat de la dit Noble Ordre, voulut, ordonna, & constitua en accroyssant le nom de la dit Noble Ordre, & pour estre entendant au service de ladit Compaigne les confreres dicelle & de toute gentillesse ung servant d'armes. Lequel pour la dignitè de le dit Ordre voult q'uil feust Soverain dedans l'Office d'armes, sur toutes les autres Servans d'Armes du tres-noble Royaume d' Angleterre. Et en confirmant la dit Ordre fut nommé Jartier, Roy D'armes des Angloys. Apres le quel honorable propos fait & accomply, le dit Servant d'Armes nommé Jartier, Impose ou nom de la dit Ordre à pleu a nostre createur mettre hors de ceste mortelle vie, nostre Soveraign Seigneur, avant que ordonnance de sustenance feust ordonnè ad serviteur Jartier, pour la supportation de son petit estate. Quelles choses considerees, & veu l'entente de nostre dit Soveraigne Seigneur en L'ordre tant fructieuse & glorieuse en vertu & honneur, desirans pour honneur & Reverence de la dit Noble Ordre au dit Serviteur estre pourveu de raisonable substance parentre nous, pour meulx maintenir son petit Estate, parquoy Il en puisse plus honorablement soy contenir à l'onneur du service de la dit Noble Ordre, jusques au temps que nostre dit Soveraigne Seigneur le Roy Henry le vi. qui a present est jeune, s●it a parfait aage, & que par son noble advys & Conseil à celuy temps soyt plus largement ordonne de presente d'ung commun assentement nous dessusdiz, present le dit Reverend Pere en Dieu & Prelat de la dit Ordre, l'Evesque de Wincestre, confyans es honneurs & gentillesses des compaignons confreres absens, on dedens le Chapitre de ladite confraternite, luy avons assigné & ordonné a avoir & percevoir de chescun de nous annuelment, à chescune Feste de Saint George, certaine pension selon la fourme & maniere que cy apres sensuyt. Cest assavoir, du dit Reverend Pere en Dieu & Prelat de la dit Ordre, la somme de v. marcz par ann; & de chescun Duc Compaignion & Confrere vi. Nobles par ann; & de chescun Baron ou Banneret Compaignon & Confrere quatre Nobles; & de chescun Bachellier, Chivailler, Compaignion & Confrere deux Nobles par ann; Desquells Pensions et Sommes dessusditz au commencement pour la premier annee à la faisans de cestes l'avons contente, & voulons, & luy accordons annuellement ●us & par la fourme & maniere que dit est, jusques au temps que nostre dit Souveraign Seigneur comme dit est, soit a parfait aage, pryant & requerant tous & chescun les Compaignons Confreres de la dit Noble Ordre, absens au faict de ceste ordannance, que benignement & pour bonneur de la dit Ordre à cese vueillent consentir, & Icelle Ordonnance à louer, Et pour ceste presente annee, chescune selon est at luy destribuer selon la fourme dessusdit. Et pour aprovance que selon nostre intencion ces presentes procederont selon la voye de bonneur & gentillesse les avons saites seeller du seel de la dit Noble Ordre. Donne au licu de Wyndesore au Chapitre de la dit Confraternite, en la feste de Monsieur Saint George, Lan de Grace Mille CCCC. XXII. N. VI The Oath taken by the Prelate and Chancellor of the Order. juramentum Praelati & Cancellarii Ordinis, quod Scriba eisdem exhibebit, in praesentiâ Supremi, aut ab eo Deputati. Ex Libro Nigro, p. 313. JVrabis, quod sicubi sufficienter fueris praemonitus, ipsemet Conciliis celebrandis intereris; quod nullo duceris affectu, favore, vel odio, sed nec timore; quo minus in rebus omnibus quas tibi Supremus injunget, quod verè habet, sinceriter enarres. Quod quoties praesens aderis, nominationes Equitum creandorum veracitèr accipies; & accepta, Supremo praesentabis. jurabis itaque, quòd cum ad consilium voceris, & à secretis ibi fueris, benè fidelis, ac taciturnus eris, nec ulla perflues, si quid secretè tenendum audias. Quodqne servabis ac sustentabis honores hujus Ordinis, atque omnium qui in eo sunt, & si datum fuerit ut possis, pro viribus augmentabis. Si verò quid excogitatum aut intentatum contra fuerit, si quâ resciscere potueris aut intelligere, pro viribus obstabis, & revelatum, ubi oporteat, è vestigio curabis, ut suppetie quantocius ferantur, etc. Persimile juramentum Decani, quando admittitur, & Scribae erit, quorum id alter exhibebit alteri Sin alter abfuerit, Caduciator Regius eo fungetur munere. N. VII. The Oath taken by Garter Principal King of Arms. juramentum Garteri praecipui Regis Armorum, Scriba id coram Supremo Sociisque praesentibus exhibente. Ex lib. N. p. 314. IVrabis quod obedies Supremo inprimis Deindè caeteris hujus eminentissimi Ordinis Equitibus, & Officia in eo gerentibus, in hiis praesertim rebus quae ad te spectabunt, nec rationi pugnabunt. Et quoniam ad Consilium admissus t●nqu●m à Secretis eris, jurabis quod sidelis ac taciturnus eris, nihil illinc effutiens. jurabis itidem, quod si quis Equitum hujus illustrissimi Ordinis ab h●c luce subtractus suerit, Supremo significatum id illico cu●●●is, & mox aliis superviventibus. Quod omnia fidei tuae curae●, credit●, & qu●cunque mandata atque internuncia benè a●●idelitèr exequeris & perimplebis. jurabis itèm, quod diligenter inquires de praeclaris ac nobilibus Actis uniuscujus●, Equitis hujus insignissimi Ordinis, & intellecta Scribae veracitèr ●xpon●●, ut ipse describens non minori diligentla reponat, dignaeque memoriae commendet. Deniquè, jurabis in summâ quod officium tuum fidelitèr exercebis in omnibus, quae tuâ intererunt, sicut & tu Dei ac Sancti hujus Evangelium sperabis auxilium. N. VIII. The Oath taken by the Gentleman-usher, named the Black-Rod. Ex MS. 4. penes Guil. le Neve. Eq. Aur. nuper Clarenc. R. Armour. YOu being chosen and named by the King's Majesty to be Gentleman-Usher of the Black-Rod, shall promise and swear by the holy Evangelists, by you bodily touched, truly and faithfully to observe and keep all the points of the Statutes of the said Order, and every Article in them contained, as to you belongeth and appertaineth, as God help you and this holy Evangely. N. IX. A Warrant for providing and delivering the Liveries of the Prelate and Chancellor. Ex ipso Autogr. Charles R. OUR Will and Pleasure is, that you provide and deliver to the right reverend Father in God, the Bishop of Winchester, Paelate of our Order of the Garter, and to Sir Richard Fanshaw Knight, our deputed Chancellor of our said Order, for their Livery for the same, and to each of them one Robe of Purple Velvet, containing 18 yards, and 10 yards of white Taffeta for lining thereof; as also two Scutcheons of St. George, within two Garters wrought with Letters and Purls of Damask, Gold, and Pearls, with Laces, Buttons, and Tassels of Purple Silk and Venice Gold, together with a Purse of blue Velvet richly embroidered, according to the usual form, with Strings and Tassels to the later, for carrying the Seals of our said Order. And for so doing these our Letters shall be your sufficient discharge. Given under the Signet of our said Order at our Court at Whitehall, the 19 day of February in the 13. year of our Reign 1660. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor Edward Earl of Sandwich, Master of our Great Wardrobe, or in his absence to his Deputy. X. A Warrant for providing and delivering the Liveries of the Register, Garter, and Black Rod. Ex ipso Autogr. Charles R. OUR Will and Pleasure is, that you forthwith prepare and deliver to our trusty and wellbeloved Doctor Bruyn Reeves, Dean of Windesor, and Register of our Noble Order of the Garter, To our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms, And to our trusty and wellbeloved Servant John Eyton Esquire, Usher of the Black Rod, for their Liveries, and to every of them eighteen yards of Scarlet Satin for one Robe, and ten yards of white Taffeta for lining of the same, with an Escotcheon of St. George, placed on the left shoulder, as also Laces, Buttons, and Tassels of Scarlet Silk, and Venice Gold: and for so doing, these shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge. Given under our Signet of our said Order, at our Court at Whitehall the 20. day of February in the 13. Year of our Reign, 1660. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor, Edward Earl of Sandwich Master of our Great Wardrobe, or in his absence to his Deputy. XI. Letters Patent for assigning 1200 l. per annum to the use of the Order. Pat. 12. Car. 1. pars 25. CArolus Dei gratiâ Angliae, Scociae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, Fidei Defensor, etc. Omnibus ad quos praesentes Literae pervenerint, salutem. cum juxta Praedecessorum & Progenitorum nostrorum Regalium morem, Clarissimi & Nobilissimi Ordinis Garterii Fundatores & ad honorem ejusdem Ordinis magis augendum & ampliandum, Annuitatem sive annualem pensionem Mille & ducentarum librarum per annum, ad usum & servicium dicti Ordinis, per manus Cancellarii nostri haeredum & successorum nostrorum dicti Ordinis pro tempore existente recipiendam, & de tempore in tempus, ut inferius in hiis praesentibus mentionatur expendendam, stabilire & assignare decrevimus. Sciatis, quod nos de gratiâ nostrâ speciali, ac ex certâ scientiâ & mero motu nostris, volumus, ac per praesentes, pro nobis, haeredibus, & successoribus nostris declaramus, ordinamus, appunctuamus, & assignamus, quòd praedicta Annuitas, annualis pensio, vel summa Mille & ducentarum librarum legalis monetae Angliae, modo & formâ inferiùs limitatis, dilecto & fideli nostro Thomae Rowe Militi, modò Cancellario dicti Ordinis Garterii nostri, nec non Cancellario ejusdem Ordinis pro tempore existente annuatim soluta fuerit de Custumis & Subsidiis aut monetis in loco Custumos, Subsidia & Impositiones recipi appunctuato vel appunctuando, de & pro omnibus & omnimodis vinis quibus●unque ad Portum Civitatis London de tempore in tempus adducendis, per manus Firmariorum sive Collectorum nostrorum, baeredum & successorum nostrorum eorundem Custumorum, Subsidiorum, Monetarum, & Impositionum pro tempore existente ad festa Annunciacionis beatae Mariae Virginis, & Sancti Michaelis Archangeli, per equales portiones singulis annis imperpetuum solvenda: Primâ solutione inde incipiendâ, & fiendâ ad festa Annunciacionis beatae Mariae Virginis proximè sequentia post datum presentium. Quare volumus, ac pro nobis, haeredibus & successoribus nostris, firmiter praecipimus, & mandamus praefatis Firmariis, & Collectoribus nostris, haeredum & successorum nostrorum pro tempore existente, praedictorum Custumorum, & Subsidiorum, aut Monetae in loco Custumos, Subsidia, & Impositiones recipi appunctuato vel appunctuando, de aut pro omnibus & omnimodis praedictis vinis quibuscunque ad praedictum Portum Civitatis London, de tempore in tempus ut praefertur adducendis: Quod ipsi & eorum aliquis, vel aliqui de Redditibus, Reventionibus, Proficuis, & denariorum summis de eisdem Custumis & Subsidiis & caeteris praemissis infra Portum Civitatis London emergentibus & provenientibus ac in manibus suis de tempore in tempus remanere contingentibus, praedictam annuitatem, sive annualem pensionem, vel summam Mille & ducentarum librarum boite & legalis Monetae Angliae per annum praesato Thomae Rowe Militi, Cancellario dicti Ordinis nostri Garterii modò existenti: nec nèn Cancellario ejusdem Ordinis qui pro tempore fuerit pro & durante termino quo in eodem Officio Cancellarii dicti Ordinis praemanserit, in formâ praedictâ, solvent, aut solvi facicut, secundum veram intentionem barum literarum nostrarum patentium, absque ulteriori warranto à nabis, baeredibus, vel successori●us nostris, in eâ parte procurando, aut obtinendo. Et bae Literae nostrae Patentes, vel Irrotulamentum earundem, erunt amu●atim, & de tempore in tempus, tam prefatis Firmariis & Collectoribus quam omnibus aliis Officiariis, & Ministris nostris, haeredum vel successorum nostrorum, quibus pertinebit, sufficiens Warrantum & exoneratio in hâc parte. Et ulterius volumus, ac per praesentes, pro nobis, haeredibus & successaribus nostris, firmiter injungendo, praecipimus & mandamus tà Thesaurario, Cancellario, Sub-Thesaurario & Baronibus S●accarii nostri, baeredum & successorum nostrorum quam omnibus aliis Officiariis & Ministris nostris haeredum & successorum nostrorum ejusdem Scaccarii pro tempore existente, Quod ipsi, & corum quilibet, super solam demonstrati●●● harum literarum nostrarum patentium, vel Irrotulamenti earundem, plenam, Integram, debitámque allocationem, & exonerationem manifestam de omnibus & singulis denariorum summis, quae praedicti Firmarii vel Collectores nostri haeredum vel successorum nostrorum praedictorum Custumorum & Subsidiorum ac caeterorum praemissorum, praefato Thomae Rowe modo Cancellario dicti Ordinis Garterii, n●● non Cancellario ejusdem Ordinis qui pro tempore fuerit, s●cundum veram intentionem praesentium aliquo tempore imposterum solvent, eisdem Firmariis, & Collectoribus & eorum cuilibet respective, pro tempore existente, super Compot● sua in Scaccario nostro, haeredum, vel successorum ●ostrorum vel alibi reddenda facient, & de tempore in tempus fieri causabunt; Et hae literae n●strae patentes, vel irrotulamentum carundem erunt, tàm praesato Thesaurario, Cancellario, Sub-thesaurario & Baronibus Scaccarii nostri praedicti, quam omnibus aliis Officiariis & Ministris nostris, haeredum & successorum nostrorum ejusdem Scaccarii pro tempore existente, sufficiens Warrantum & exoneratio in hâc parte. Ac insuper volumus, ac per praesentes, intentiovem & beneplacitum nostrum, pro nobis, haeredibus, & successoribus nostris, declaramus: Quod praefatus Thomas Rowe, modò Cancellarius praedicti Ordinis Garterii nostri, nec n●n Cancellarius dicti Ordinis qui imposterum pro tempore fuerit, praedictam annuitatem sive annualem pensionem vel summam Mille & ducentarum librarum per annum impendet, & de tempore in tempus impendi faciet & causabit aed annualia & Ordinaria f●od●, pensiones & solutiones quibusdam personis solubilia, & solvenda, juxta Constitutiones, per Supremum dicti Ordinis & Milites ejusdem in eorum pleno Capituio, ordinandas. Magnoque Sigillo ejusdem Ordinis firmandas. Ac in casibus extraordinariis, per Warrantum speciale Supremi Ordinis, manu s●gnandum, & Sigillo dicti Ordinis sigillandum, Eaedemque solutiones per praedictum Cancellarium Ordinis praedicti pro tempore existente faciendae sine s●od● aut vadiis in ea parte capiendis: Qu●dque●raefatus Thomas Rowe, m●do Cancellarius dicti Ordinis, & Cancellarius●●●s●●m ●●●s●●m Ordinis qui pro tempore fuerit, de praedictà ●●●uit●te, annuali pensione, vel summa M●●le & ducemarum lib●arum de tempore in tempus sic ut p●ae●●●tur ●●●ipiendâ & expend●nd●●● festo Sancti Georgii vicesimo tertio die Apidis 〈◊〉 existente, aut in die per prorogati●em pro c●dem F●sto appunctuando verum a● debitum C●mp●●um per dictum Cancellarium subscribendum annuatim faciet & reddet. Qui quidem Compotus annuatim sic reddendus inf●a quatuor dierum spacium postea, p●r totum Capitulum aut per tres vel plures Milites dicti Ordinis examinatus fuerit, ac post hujusmodi examinationem & approbationem ejusdem per subs●riptionem nominum corum ●idem Compoto allocabitu●, quarum praedi●●o Cancellario dicti Ordinis pro tempore existente haeredibus, Execu●oribus, & Administratoribus suis plenari● su●rit exoneratio in hae parte. Cum tam●n acciderit quod praesati Fi●ma●ii praedictorum Custu●●●um, Subsidi●rum, ac caeterorum praemiss●rum, pro tempore existente, ad occasi●n●s nostr●s necessarias accommodandas, Redditus l●●e firmarias suas pro praemissis, aut parte 〈◊〉 solubiles, pro quod●m 〈…〉 ●enturo, prae manibus solveren●: 〈◊〉 quod praedicta annualis pensi● Mille & ducentarum librarum totaliter per ipsos secundum veram intentionem praesentium solvi non poterit; Tune volumus ac per praesentes pro nobis, haeredibus & successoribus nostris beneplacitum nostrum d●cl●ramus per praesentes: Quod imerim, ac in hujusmodi casibus, Thesaurarius Angliae summes nostri, haeredum vel successorum nostrorum, pro tempore existente, dictam pensionem, de aliquibus aliis Custumis, Subsidiis, & Impositionibus, nobis & haeredibus & successoribus nostris, pro b●nis & Merchandizis in Regnum Angliae importandis, & de eodem exportan●is solubili●us, prae●●to Cancellario dicti Ordinis pro tempore existente, secundum tenorem & veram intentionem praes●ntium solvi ordinabit, faciet, & causabit. Et hae Literae nostrae Patentes vel Irrotulamentum aerundem praesato Th●saurario nostro, haeredum vel successorum nostrorum, pro tempore existente, plena exoncratio & warrantum sucrit in ea parte: Eo quod, expressa mentio de ver● valore annio, aut de certitudine praemissorum, vel corum alicujus, aut de aliis donis, sive Concessionibus per nos seu per aliquem Progenitorum sive Praedecessorum nostrorum, praefato Thomae Rowe, ante haec tempora factis, in praesentibus minime facta existit, aut aliquo Statuto, Ac●u, Ordinatione, Provisione, Proclamatione sive Restrictione in constrarium inde antehàc habito, facto, edita, ordinata sive provisa, aut aliquâ alia re causâ, vel materiâ quâcunque in aliquo nòn obstante. In cujus rei testimonium, has Literas nostras fieri fecimus Patentes, Teste mei●so apud Westmonasterium vicesimo tertio die Januarii, Anno regni nostri tertio d●cimo. N. XII. A Commission for payment of Fees, Pensions, Salaries, etc. relating to the Order. Sir Tho. Rowe's journal, p. 40. Charles by the Grace of God, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. To our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Thomas Rowe Knight, and Chancellor of our said most Noble Order. Whereas in augmentation of the honour of our Order, and for the expenses thereunto belonging, we have of our own Royal bounty settled, given, and granted by our Letters Patents, bearing date at Westminster, on the 23. day of January, in the 13. year of our Reign, one yearly Pension and Revenue of 1200 l. unto and upon our Order, to be received and disbursed by you, our present Chancellor, and your Successors in the same Office, according to such rules and limitations, as in our said Letters Patents more at large do and may appear: We do by this our Commission signify our Will and Pleasure, and declare, and give unto you our Chancellor full power and authority to pay, or cause to be paid out of the said Revenue of 1200 l. in your receipt, all and every the annual and ordinary Fees, Pensions, Salaries, and other Payments, usually paid to any of our Officers, Alms-Knights, or others, who do their yearly duty and service any way unto our said Noble Order appertaining, either by Charter, Grant, or Assignation under our Privy Seal, or Signet, or by any other lawful way whatsoever, taking and receiving from them, and every one of them, an acquittance, and receipt under their hands for your discharge; which shall be good and available in Law, to be pleaded against us, our Heirs, and Successors for the same. And in particular, we do by this our Commission give you full power and order to pay, or cause to be paid unto yourself, as our Chancellor for the time being, the sum of 100 l. yearly: and to the Register of our Order for the time being 50 l. yearly: and to Garter, our Principal King at Arms, for the time being 50 l. yearly; and to our Usher called the Black Rod, for the time being 30 l. yearly: and to every one of our Poor or Alms-Knights, being 13. at our Castle of Windefore, for the time being, yearly 18 l. 5 s. in manner and form following. That is to say, every of the said Pensions quarterly upon the Feasts of St. John Baptist, St. Michael the Archangel, the Nativity of our Lord, and the Annunciation of our blessed Lady the Virgin Mary, by even and equal portions and payments. The first payment whererof to begin at and upon the Feast of St. John Baptist, next and immediately ensuing after the date hereof, in full discharge of any, and all the said Fees or Pensions to them formerly by us given or paid. As also to pay or cause to be paid any other annual and usual charge, to any other inferior Officer or Servant, for their service or attendance, And this our Commission shall be to you a sufficient Warrant, to pay any, and all the said annual and ordinary Fees, Pensions, Payments, and other Charges, whether named, or not named, having been usually due, and paid, whatsoever, upon account thereof to be made and given, and Acquittances produced as aforesaid for the Receipts, to be presented and shown to us, or to so many of the Knights of our most Noble Order, as we have or shall depute in Chapter to take, liquid and allow your said Disbursments according to the tenor hereof, under their hands in writing, and according to the directions, and limitations in our said Letters Patents, and order and provision therein made, and had for your discharge: which said allowances shall also be a sufficient discharge against us, our Heirs, and Successorss, to be pleaded in any of our Courts of Record within our Highness' Dominions. Given under the Seal of our said most Noble Order, the 3. of May at our Court at Whitehall, in the 14. Year of our Reign, 1638. N. XIII. A Letter of Summons for Electing a Knight, upon the death of the Lord Fitz-Hugh. Registrum Chartaceum, f. 12. b. De par le Roy, Souverain de l'ordre du jarretier. TRescher & foiall etc. Pour ce que le Sire Fitz-Hugh Henry, n'agairs un de nos Compaignons de lordre de Jarter, est, lafoy xi. jour de Januere darreine passé a Dieu commaunde que Dieux assoil, nous vous certifions clerement selonc la tenure de lez estatuz pour faire vostre devoir dex messez par la morte du quele en ycell est un place vacant, a le quel il coviente par lez ditz estatuz eslier un autre compaignon en son lieu, deius sys semaines appres lafoy certification de la morte suisdite que nous au presente ne purrons bonement parformer, au cause reasonable que nous destourba; Et pour taunte nous volons & vous chargeons que sur lez peines de les estatuz suisditz saunz, excusation soies ou nous a Wyndefore en vostre propre persone la veille de saint George procheine venante, a le Chapitre a le our de tierce, pur accomplere ceo q'appartindra a lez estatuz suisditz en cez casez, si non que vous nous signifiez le jour & lieu suisdit clerement de soubz vostre seal de vous armez cause jouste de vostre destourbier digne destre allouè, etc. Don, etc. NUM. XIV. Another upon the death of Sir Robert Dumphreville. Ex eodem Registro. De par le Roy, Souverain de l'ordre de Iarretier. TReschier & bien ame. Pour ce que feu Sire Robert Dumphreville, que Dieux absoille, en son vivant un de noz compaignons de l'ordre Jarretier a la de vie a trespas le darrain jour de Januer darrain passe, & que selon lez estatuz du dit Ordre sommes tenuz en advertir ung chescun dez Compaignons, vous certifions son dit trespas, ad fin que facies vostre devoir des messes, & prieres les quelles estes tenuz faire, dire, & celebrer, pour le salut de son ame. Par le mort du quel est un place vacant, & convient selon les ditz estatuz aultre eslier en son lieu, dedans sys sepmaines apres la certification du dit trespas, si bonnement faire se peut, vel que bonnement au present faire ne pourrons: Simo voulons & vous mandons sur lez peines contenues es diz estatuz, qe soies ovec nous la vaigle Seint George, à l'eure de tierce prochein, venant pour faire & accomplir en ce que dit est come per les ditz estatuz appertendra. Et si estre ny poves, nous signifies soubz vostre seell la cause de vostre empechement, par quoy vostre excusation puissions congnoistre & l'avoir agreable, s'ainsi est quelle soit digne destre accepté, & ny faites faulte. Treschier & bien ame, &c. NUM. XV. A Dispensation for Installation of the Duke of York and Prince Rupert; till Windesor Castle should return to the Sovereign's possession. Ex ipso Autogr. penes praef. Ia●. Palmer. Charles R. CHARLES' by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, Fancee, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. and Sovereign of the most Noble Ordre of the Garter. To all and singular unto whom these our Letters Patent shall come greeting. Whereas by the Statutes of our said most Noble Order, all Knights elected to be Companions of the same are (according to usual form and Ceremony) to be installed at the Stalls of the Order, in the Chapel of our Royal Castle of Windesor, before they can be admitted to have their Stalls, Places, and Votes amongst the rest of the Companions there. And whereas our dearly beloved Son James Duke of York, and our entirely beloved Nephew, Prince Rupert, Count Palatine of the Rheyne, Duke of Bavaria and Cumberland, and Earl of Holderness, were in a Chapter held at York, the twentieth day of April in the eighteenth year of our Reign, elected and chosen Companions of our said most Noble Order but, by reason of the succeeding distractions and Rebellion's in this our Kingdom, their Installations at our said Castle of Windesor, could not according to the Statutes aforesaid be celebrated and performed, by reason the same hath been ever sithence, and still is in the possession of the Rebels. Know ye, that we as Sovereign of the said most Noble Order (unto whom the power of dispensing with any of the said Statutes is reserved) have thought fit to dispense in regard the not performance of the Statutes hath not been by the default of these elected Knights) and by these presents do accordingly dispense with the Installations of our aforesaid Son and Nephew, both for time and place; when and where those Installations are and aught to be made, willing and ordaining that they and either of them, shall by virtue of this our Dispensation, at all times hereafter, be held, reputed, and taken to be Companions of our said most Noble Order; And shall have, possess, and enjoy all manner of Titles, places, preeminencies, Votes, Ornaments, and Privileges of the same, as if they or either of them had been formally and actually installed at our said Castle of Windesor; any Law, Statute, or Ordinance made to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding. Provided always, and we do h●r●by declare, that our said most dear Son, and our entirely beloved Nephew, shall (notwithstanding these our Letters of Dispensation) first take the Oath usually taken by the Knights at th●●r Installation, and hereafter act and perform all such Rights and Ceremonies as are accustomed at the Installations of the Companions of our said most Noble Order of the Garter, when it shall be thought fit, and p●ssible for them to perform the same at our Castle of Windesor aforesaid. And that this our Dispensation made upon such most weighty and urgent necessities shall not be drawn into consequence or example in time to come. Given under the Great Seal of our Order, and our hand first superscribed thereunto, at our Palace at Oxford, this seventeenth of January, in the twentieth year of our Reign, 1644. NUM. XVI. A Dispensation for want of a full number of Knights to constitute a Chapter of Election; and their entering the Chapter without Mantles. Palmer's large journal. Charles R. CHARLES' by the Grace of God, etc. Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To all the Knights and Companions of our most Noble Order, Greeting: Whereas we have determined upon the death of divers of our Knights, and vacancy of their Stalls, to h●ld a Chapter of Election here in our city of York, and because there are not now attending on our person a sufficient number of 6 Knights, and being now in our Army they have not their Mantles ready (in which case by the ancient Statutes of our Order there could be no Election, nor any Knight ought to enter into the Chapter so without our Royal Dispensation) We of our supreme power and authority, as Sovereign of our Order, do by these our Letters dispense with both the said Statutes of want of Number, and entering the Chapter without Mantles; and do hereby give leave to all our Knights attending our presence, to hold a Chapter of Election, by giving their Votes according to Custom in other Scruteni●s. Given under the Great Seal of our Order the 12. of September in the sixteenth year of our Reign 1640. NUM. XVII. A Dispensation for the not appearing of the Knights with their Robes at the three Chapters held before the 15. of April 1661. and want of a competent and usual Number of Knights. Ex Collect. E. W. G. Charles R. WHereas by the ancient and evermore observed Statutes of the most Noble Order of the Garter, it is expressly provided, that no less than the Number of six Knights or Companions of the same, besides the Sovereign or his Lieutenant, should make up a complete Chapter, and that none of the said Knights and Companions should enter into the said Chapter without having on their long Mantles, or upper Robes of the Order; We having designed the 15.16. and 17. days of April next for the Instalment of divers Elect Knights in the place of the deceased, and for the celebration of the Feast of St. George, at our Castle of Windesor, upon which occasion, and for the resolving upon sundry preparatories to the same, being to deliberate with the ancient Knights of the Order, who are neither in number sufficient to make up a Chapter, or all of them provided with Robes by reason of the late troubles; to supply both defects both in the present and other subsequent Chapters, which we may have occasion to assemble before the said Instalment and Festival: We as Sovereign of the said Order, have and do dispense with the Statutes of it, as to those particulars, and are graciously pleased, that, those two defects notwithstanding, the aforesaid present and ensuing Chapters shall be as legal, and of as much force and validity as if the number of the Companions required by the Statutes were full and complete, and the Companions that do or are to compose them, had their Mantles or upper Robes on them. Given under our Signet of the Order, at Whitehall the 29. day of March 1661. NUM. XVIII. A Letter signifying Election, and a Summons to receive Investiture with the Garter and George. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. RIght trusty and well beloved, we greet you well: Ascertaining you, that in consideration as well of your approved truth, and fidelity, as also of your courageous and valiant acts of Knighthood, with other your probable merits experientially known in sundry parties and behalf: We with the Companions of the Noble Order of the Garter, assembled at Election holden this day, within this our Manor of Greenwich, have elected and chosen you amongst others to be one of the Companions of the said Order, as your said merits condignly require. And therefore we will that with convenient diligence upon the sight thereof, ye address you unto our presence, to receive such things as to the said Order appertaineth. Given under our Signet at the Manor of Greenwich the 24. day of April. NUM. XIX. A Letter signifying Election, sent with the Garter and George. MS. 4. penes Arthur. Com. Anglesey, p. 131. b. RIght trusty and wellbeloved, we greet you well, giving you to understand, that in consideration as well of your approved fidelity, in the service of Us and our Realm at all times showed, and for the increase of Honour and Virtue in you, We with the Companions of our Noble Order of the Garter assembled at the Election holden the 24. day of April last passed, within our Palace at Westminster, have Elected and Chosen you among others to be one of the Companions of our said Order, as your merits condignly do require; Wherefore we have sent unto you by our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Gilbert Dethick, Knight, Garter, King of Arms, Our said Order of the Garter, the same to use as to this Election of you appertaineth: wishing that God may increase you in virtue and honour, as amply as any other that hath been Elected and placed in the same. Yeoven under the Signet of our said Order at our Honour at Greenwich, the 5. of May in the 26. year of our Reign. To our right Trusty and Wellbeloved, the Lord Cobham, Lord Warden of the Cinque-Ports, Knight and Companion of our most Noble Order of the Garter. NUM. XX. A Letter signifying Election, when the present Sovereign was beyond the Seas. Ex Collect. E. W. G. Charles R. CHARLES' the Second by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. To our right trusty and entirely beloved Cousin and Councillor James Marquis of Ormond, our Lieutenant in the Kingdom of Ireland Greeting. Whereas our Royal Progenitors, the Kings of England, have in all times since the institution of the most Noble Order of St. George, called the Garter, by our most noble and victorious ancestor King Edward the Third, elected and chosen into the Fellowship thereof such Princes and other eminent persons, as well Strangers, as of their own Subjects, as have for nobility and greatness of their births, accompanied with heroic virtues, especially in martial actions, been thought worthy of the same, We therefore considering that since the late horrid Rebellion in that our Kingdom, many of the Companions thereof are dead, and that some others, contrary to their honour and Oaths, have deserted their allegiance, and are no more worthy to be esteemed Companions of so noble an Order, and finding how necessary it is for ou● service, and the honour of the said Order, to elect others in their places vacant, who for their birth, courage, and fidelity, may be fit to be admitted thereunto. Know you therefore that we duly weighing the eminence of your birth and Family, and above all the great and most extraordinary services done by you for many years past, and still continued in the condition of our Lieutenant in that our Kingdom, together with your singular courage and fidelity, have thought it fit by our power, as Sovereign of the said Order (dispencing with the usual Ceremonies) to elect and choose you our said right trusty and entirely beloved Cousin James Marquis of Ormond, to be Fellow and Companion of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, and do herewith send unto you the George and Ribbon, part of the Ensigns thereof, by our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Henry Seymour Esq one of our Bedchamber (in regard Sir Edward Walker Knight Garter, Principal King of Arms, the proper Officer, is otherways employed in our service) the which we do hereby will and authorize you to wear. And because it is not possible at present to have all other Ceremonies and Additions incident to the same fully perfected, We do further will and authorise you to wear and use the Garter or Ribbon on your left Leg, the Glory or Star of Silver with St. George's Cross embroidered within a Garter, upon your Cloak and upper Garments, as likewise the Great Collar of the Order upon such days as are accustomed to use the Garter about your arms, and to style yourself Knight and Companion of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, in as ample manner as if you had been installed in our Castle of Windesor; where (when it shall please God to restore us to the possession thereof) you shall formally be invested, & receive the habit and all other the above recited Ornaments of the said most Noble Order. And We no way doubt, but as you have hitherto with singular courage, fidelity, and ability, served us, so you will still continue to do the same, as becomes a Knight and Companion of so Noble an Order. Given at the Castle of St. Germane en lay, this eighteenth day of September, in the first Year of our Reign. NUM. XXI. A Letter signifying Election, sent to Sir john Falstolf. Registrum Chart. fol. 14. De par le Roy Souverain de l'Ordre de la jartier. NOstre ame & feal, nous vous saluons. Et come apres le trespassement de nostre treschier & feal Cousin le Conte de Westmerlande, dont dieux ait l'ame, que estoit un de noz Compaignons de l'Ordre de la Jartier, Nous eussions ordonné que noveielle election fust fait pur avoire un autre Compaignon en son lieu, come la manere si est, & que le contenu dez estatuz du dit Ordre le porte, vons signifions que a la darrain feste de Seint George, en nostre Chapitre du dit Ordre, tenuz a Wyndesore le xxii. jour d' Avryll, darrain passé, veille de la dite feste, nostre Compaignie du dit Ordre esteauniz adonques au dit Chapitre; Considerant tant lez hous, leaux, & honourables services que avez de piecà faiz en service de nostre tres redounté Seigneur & Pier, que dieux assoille, & que faitez continuelement en nostre, come pluseurs autres desertes d'onnour, que dieux a souffert estre en vous, en tollerant tousjours, comme bon & feal subjet, lez paines & travaulx de guerre pour nostre bon droit, & juste querelle susteiner, vous a esl●u un de noz Compaignons du dit Ordre en lieu de nostre dit Cosin, esperant, que dieux vous donne tousjours grace & valeur de faire toudis de bien en m●ulx, vostre devoire; pourquoy a la deliurance de cestez nouz avons chargie par noz lettres noz treschiers & feaulx Cosins lez Countez de Salisbirs, de Warwyke, & de Soulfolk, qui s●nt noz Compaignons du dit Ordre, ou l'un d'eulx de qui vous serrez plus pres, quil vous monstrent, & delivrent lez estatuz du dit Ordre, Et yceulx par vouz receux preugnent vostre serement en tel cas acoustume a faire, que bien & lealment tendres & ferez, si avaunte que Dieux vous donnera puissance, tout le contenu es diz estatuz, en vous baillant l'ordre de la Jartier. La quelle chose faite, volonz que vouz ordonnez en tout haste resonnablement possible vostre Heaulme & Espee, & un honourable Chivalier sanz reproche en lieu de vous, pour prendre vostre estalle come voz veirez que les ditz estatuz du dit Ordre le requirent. Et en cas que le dit Ordre ne vondrez acceptier pour aucun cause a vouz semblant raisonable, le nous certifiez dedeinz deux mois apres la doubte de cestez, & en ceo nais point de faute. Donné a Leicestre, soubz le Seall du dit Ordre le viii. jour de May. NUM. XXII. A Commission to take Sir john Falstolfs' Oath, at his Investiture with the Garter. Ibidem. De par le Roy Souveraine de l'Ordre de la jartier. TRes●biers & feaulx Cousins, Nous vous saluons sovent, & pour ce que a la feste de Seinte George darraine, tenuz en nostre Chastell de windsor, nostre Compaignie de l'Ordre de la Jartier faisant alorsque Chapitre la veille de la dit Feste, a eslieu nostre chier & feall John Falstolt Chivalier un de nouz Compaignons du dit Ordre, en lieu de nostre treschier Cosin le Counte de Westmoreland, dont dieux ait l'ame, nous vous envoions lez estatuz de cellui Ordre enseallez du selle du dit Ordre, pour lez presenter, & bailler au dit Monsieur John Falstolf. Si voulons & vous mandons, que vous, ou l'un de vous, a qui primerement cez presentez serront monstrez, ou exibecs, presentez, & bailles audit John Falstolf lez ditz estatuz pour lez voier, & visitor, & savoir que sont t●nuz de faire ceux qui sont de dit Ordre. Et en cas q'il accepta le dit Ordre Ressaivez son serement en tel cas accustumé à faire en luy baillant l'Ordre du Jartier, en le manere accustumé. Treschiers & fealx Cousins, dieunx soit garde de vous. Donne a Leicestre soubz le Seel du dit Ordre, le viij. jour de May. A nos treschiers & feaulx Cousins, lez Countez de Warwyk, de Sarisbury, & de Sulfolk, nouz Compaignons de la Jartier, & a un cheseun d'eulx. NUM. XXIII. A Warrant for allowance of Garter's Charges, when sent to signify an Election. MS. 4. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 59 THese shall be to require you, of such her Majesties. Treasure as remaineth in your hands, to pay or cause to be paid, to Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, King of Arms, being sent by her Majesty's Commandment, to our very good Lords the Earl of Rutland in the County of Lincoln, and to the Lord Scroop in the County of Cumberland, to signify unto them the Election made of them into the Order of Knights of the Garter, for his pains and charges in that voyage expended, the sum of Twenty pounds▪ and this shall be your sufficient warrant and discharge in that behalf. At the Court at Richmond the 10. of June 1584. T. Bromley. Ch. Howard. Chr. Hatton. W. Burghley. James Crofts. Fran. Wal●ingham. Ed. Clinton. To our very loving Friend, Sir Thomas Heneage, Knight, Treasurer of of her Majesty's Chamber. NUM. XXIV. A Commission to the Sovereign's Lieutenant, to Install an Elect-Knight. Registr. Chartac. fol. 64. Henry R. HEnry the Eighth, by the Grace of God King of England, and of France, Defensor of the Faith, and Lord of Irland, Souverain of the most Noble Order of the Gartier; To our right trusty and right entirely wellbeloved Cousin, the Duke of Northfolk, our Lieutenant at our Fest of the glorious Martyr Saint George, Patron of the said Noble Ordre, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousins the Marquis Dorset, the Marquis of Exeter, Th' Earl of Northumberland, and our trusty and wellbeloved the viscount Lisle, the Viscount Fitz-water, and the Viscount Rochfort, the Lord Ferrer, Lord Bergaveny, and the Lord Dakers, Companions of the said Noble Order, Greeting. For as much as we with you, and other Companions have elected our right trusty, and right entirely beloved Son Henry, Duke of Richmont and of Somerset, and Earl of Nottingham, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousins, th' Earl of Arundel, th' Earl of Westmoreland, and th' Earl of Rutland, Companions of the said Noble Ordre: We therefore will and auctorise you, by these presents, that ye the said Duke of Norfolk, with the assistance of such other as our said Noble Ordre be aforenamed, shall not only accept, and admit the said Duke and Earls into the said Ordre, and receve their Oaths, and install them, but also further do therein, as to the laudable Statutes and Ordinances of the said Ordre appertaineth. And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant, and discharge in this behalf, at all times hereafter. Yeven under the Seal of our said Gartier, at our Palais of Brydewell, the xviii. day of June in the xvii. year of our Reign. NUM. XXV. Another. Ex Collect. johannis Vincent, Gen. Elizabeth R. ELIZABETH by the Grace of God Queen of England, France, and Ireland, defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor th' Earl of Penbroke, one of the Companions and Knights of the said Order, by us assigned and deputed to be our Lieutenant at the Feast of the glorious Martyr St. George, Patron of the sa●d Order, to be kept within our said Castle of Windesor, the 4. of June next ensuing, and others the Companions of the said Order that then shall be present, Greeting: Whereas we with others the Companions of the said Noble Order assembled, at a Chapitre holden at our Palace of Westminster the xxiv. day of April last, have elected and chosen, among others, our right trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin the Duke of Norfolk, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor, the Marquis of Northampton, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin th' Earl of Rutland, and our trusty and right wellbeloved the Lord Robert Dudley, Master of our Horse, to be Knights and Companions of the said Order: We will, and by these presents authorize you, not only to accept and admit them into the said Order, and receive their Oaths, and install them accordingly, but also further to do therein as to the Statutes and laudable Custom and usage of the said Noble Order appertaineth. And these our Letters shall be your sufficient warrant and discharge in this behalf. Yeven under the Seal of our said Garter, the first of June, in the first year of our Reign. NUM. XXVI. A Commission to other Knights-Companions, for the Installation of an Elect-Knight. Regist. Chartac. fol. 61. b. Henry R. HENRY the Eighth; by the Grace of God, King of England and of France, Defensor of the Faith, and Lord of Irland, Sovereign of our Noble Ordre of the Gartier. To our right trusty, and right entirely beloved Cousin, the Marquis Dorset; And also to our right trusty, and right wellbeloved Cousins, Th' Earl of Devon, and th' Earl of Kent, Companions of our said Noble Ordre, Greeting. Forasmuch as we with you, and other Knights and Companions of our said Noble Ordre assembled at the Chapitre holden at our Manoir of Greenwich, the xiii. day of July last passed, have elected, and chosen Walter Devereux, Lord Ferrer, to be Knight and Companion of the said Ordre: We therefore will, and, by virtue of these presents, auctorise you not only t' accept and admit the said Walter Devereux, Lord Ferrer, into the said Ordre, and receive his Oath, and install him, but also further to do therein as to the Statutes and laudable usages of the said Noble Order it appertaineth: And these our Letters shall be your sufficient warrant and discharge in that behalf. Yeven undre our Seal of our said Gartier, at our Castle of Windesore, the xxi. day of August, the xv. year of our Reign. NUM. XXVII. Another. Ex Collect. I. V. Elizabeth R. ELIZABETH by the Grace of God Queen of England, France, and Ireland, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. To our right trustly and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor, Francis Earl of B●dford, and to our right trusty and right wellbeloved Anthony Viscount Montague, Companions ●f our Noble Order of the Garter: Forasmuch as we for divers reasonable causes cannot be present at our Castle of Windesor on the 19 of June next ensuing, where we have determined to have installed our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousins William Earl of Worcester, and Henry Earl of Huntingdon, as Knights of ou● said Order of the Garter: We therefore, by these presents, name, constitute, appoint, and ordain you to be our Deputies, giving you full power and authority, to admit and install our said Cousins of Worcester and Huntingdon, and to do and accomplish every thing which thereunto belongeth, and hath been accustomed, for the due admittance and installing of the said Earls of Worcester and Huntingdon; willing and commanding, by the tenor hereof, all and every the Companions and Officers of the said Order, to be to you in the executing of this our authority obeying and attending, as shall appertain. Given under the Seal of our sa●d Order, at our honour of Hampton-Court the 12. of June 1570. in the 12. year of our Reign. NUM. XXVIII. Another. Ex ipso Autogr. Aerar. Coll. Wind. Charles R. CHARLES' by the Grace of God King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. To our right trusty and right well wellbeloved Cousins and Councillors, William Earl of Salisbury, and Henry Earl of Holland, Knights and Companions of our said Order, Greeting. Whereas we with you and others the Knights and Companions of our said Order assembled, in a Chapter holden at our Palace of Westminster, the 24. day of April (being the morrow after the day of St. George last passed) did elect and choose our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin Algernon Earl of Northumberland, to be a Knight and Companion of our said Order; And whereas we have appointed the 13. day of this present Month of May for the time of his Installation at Windesor; We do therefore let you know, that we have named and assigned you the said Earls of Salisbury and Holland, and by these presents do name, assign, and appoint you two to be Commissioners for the Installation of our said Cousin the Earl of Northumberland as aforesaid, And accordingly we do hereby give unto you full power and authority, not only to accept and admit him into our said Order, and to take his Oath, but also to do and accomplish whatsoever else is needful to be done for his full Installation, according to the Statutes, Rules, and Customs of our said Order. For which purpose it is our pleasure, that you make your repair to our Castle of Windesor, so as you may be there on Wednesday at night, being the 13. of this present May, to the end that you may then proceed to the said Installation, according to this our Commission. Given under the Seal of our said Order at our Palace of Westminster, the 11. day of May 1635. and in the 11. year of our Reign. NUM. XXIX. Another. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. PHilip and Mary, etc. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Huntingdon, and to our right trusty and wellbeloved the Lord Clinton, Companions and Knights of the Noble Order of the Garter, Greeting, Forasmuch as we with other Companions of the said Noble Order assembled, at a Chapter holden at our Honour of Hampton Court, the 24. of April last passed, have elected and chosen our right trusty and right wellbeloved the Viscount Montague, to be Knight and Companion of the said Noble Order; We therefore will, and, by the presents, authorize and licence you, not only to accept and admit the said Viscount Montague into the said Order, and to receive his Oath and install him accordingly, but also further to do therein, as to the Statutes and laudable Customs of the said Noble Order appertaineth: And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Yeoven under the Seal of our said Order, the 12. of October, the 2. and 3. year of our Reigns. NUM. XXX. A Letter of Summons to the Commissioners appointed for Installation. Ex Collect. I. V. By the Queen. RIght trusty and wellbeloved, we greet you well, and whereas we have appointed you, together with our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor the Earl of Lincoln, to be in Commission for the Installation, in our Castle of Windesor, of our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousins Henry Earl of Derby, and Henry Earl of Penbroke, being lately chosen Knights of our Order of the Garter: We have thought it good not only to give you knowledge hereof by these our Letters, but also to require you to make your repair to our said Castle of Windesor, so as you may be there on Wednesday the 19 day of this Month, to the end that upon Thursday the 20. day of this present Month of May, they may proceed to their Installations accordingly. Yeven under our Signet at our Palais of Westminster, the 17. day of May in the 16. year of our Reign. To our right trusty and wellbeloved, the Viscount Montague, one of the Companions of our Order. [The like Letter (mutatis mutandis) was, under the same date, directed to the Earl of Lincoln, joined in Commission with him.] NUM. XXXI. A Letter of Summons to an Elect-Knight for his repair to Windesor to be Installed. Ex ipso Autogr. Charles R. RIght trusty and wellbeloved Cousin, We greet you well. Whereas in consideration of your approved fidelity, and extraordinary services performed by you for us, We lately elected and chose you to be one of the Companions of our most Noble Order of the Garter, and in token thereof did send unto you the George and Ribbon, part of the Ensigns of our said Order, and having at a Chapter held at Whitehall the 14. day of January last past, appointed to celebrate the Feast of St. George at our Castle of Windesor, upon the 15.16. and 17. days of April next ensuing: We do hereby require you to make your repair to our Castle of Windesor, so as you be there on Monday the 15. of April next, by Noon, that in the Afternoon of the said day you may proceed to your Installation, according to the Statutes of the said Order. Given under our Signet of our Order at Whitehall, the 19 of February 1660. and in the thirteenth year of our Reign. To our right trusty and entirely beloved Cousin and Councillor the Marquis of Ormond, Steward of our Household. NUM. XXXII. A Warrant for the Livery of the Order. Ex Lib. N. p. 317. sub finem. Henry R. HEnricus Dei gratià Rex Angliae, ac Franciae, Dominus Hiberniae, Defensor Fidei, & Supremus Ordinis Diui Georgii, fideli & benedilecto nobis à Conciliis Domino N. magni vestiarii nostri Custodi, salutem. Vbi nos cum aliis ejusdem Ordinis elegimus, benefidelem, ac praedilectum Consiliarium nostrum N. in Societatem hanc nostram praeclarissimam: Nos ideo volumus & praecipimus, ut huic Tabellioni virgas octodecim subrubri ostri de more tradas, cum tanto albo serico, quanto vestimentum inde conficiendum infulciri poterit, pro liveratâ (quam vocant) suâ quando in sedem suam introducendus Windesorum adveniet, mense ac die constitutis, quemadmodum & Equites antè solebant habere. Et hae nostrae Literae tibi tutelares erunt semper imposterum N. sub Sigillo nostro, mense ac die, etc. NUM. XXXIII. Another. Ex MS. in Bibl. Cotton. [sub effigie julii F. 11.] By the King. WE will and command you to deliver, or cause to be delivered to our trusty and wellbeloved Councillor Sir John Wallop Knight, which is now elect one of the Companions of the Noble Order of the Garter, for the Livery of the same Order 18 yards of Crimson Velvet, for one Gown, Hood, and Tippet, and 10 yards of white Sarsenet for lining the same: And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Yeoven, etc. To our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Ralph Sadler Knight, Master of our great Wardrobe. NUM. XXXIV. A Warrant for providing and delivering of Mantles. Ex ipso Autographo. Charles R. WHereas we have appointed the 15.16. and 17. days of April next ensuing hereof, for the solemnisation of the noble Feast of St. George, and Instalment of Knights-Companions already elected at our Castle of Windesor, Our will and pleasure is, that you provide to be delivered for that Solemnity xvii upper Robes, and xvii under Robes of special good Velvets, That is to say, every upper Robe to contain the number of xviii yards of blue Velvet, and every under Robe the number of x yards of Crimson Velvet, and special good white Taffeta, to the value of CCLXXII yards for lining of the same, allowing to every upper and under Robe xuj yards; as also xvii Garters of Velvet, wrought with Letters and Purls of Venice Gold and Pearls, to place on the left shoulder of every one of the said upper Robes, with xvii pair of large string Buttons, and Tassels of blue Silk and Venice Gold: And for so doing this shall be your Warrant, requiring you further to certify us as s●on as you may what number of the premises we may depend upon to be ready by the time prefixed. Given, etc. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, and Councillor Edward Earl of Sandwich, Master of our Great Wardrobe, or in his absence to his Deputy. NUM. XXXV. A Warrant for providing and delivering of Collars. Ex ipso Autographo. Charles R. WHereas we have appointed the 15.16. and 17. days of April next ensuing the date hereof, for the solemnisation of the Noble Feast of St. George, and Instalment of Knights, at our Castle of Windesor, Our will and pleasure is, that you provide to be delivered for that Solemnity, as we shall hereafter direct, Collars of Gold to the number of xvii. every of them containing xxvi Garters with white and red Roses enameled in the midst of every one of them, and xxvi Knots, each Collar weighing xxx Ounces Troy weight, as also for each a rich George on horseback, with a Dragon to be fastened and pend●nt thereto, and the same number of Garters of the Order to a proportionable value: And for so doing this shall be your sufficient Warrant, requiring you further to certify us, as soon as you may, what number of the premises we may depend upon to be ready by the time prefixed. Given under our Signet of the Order at our Court at Whitehall the 19 of February in the 13. year of our Reign. To our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Gilbert Talbot Knight, Master of our Jewelhouse. NUM. XXXVI. The ancient Forms of Admonition used at the Investiture of Knights Subjects, with the Garter, Surcoat, Mantle, and Collar. MS. penes G.O.Y. p. 44. LA Soveraigne & L'amyable Compaignie dez Chivaliers de L'ordre de la Jarretiere, vous out receu & choysi pour leur Amy, frere, & Compaignion. Et en signe & cognoissance de ce vous presentent & donnent ceste Jarretiere, la quelle Dieu le veille que vous recevez & portez d'oresenavant, a louange & plaisir, & a l'exaltation & honneur du dit Noble Ordre & de vous. Prenez cest habillement a l'accroissement de vostre honneur & Ensigne que vouz avez receu cest Ordre. Et par ce considerez que non seulement de vous valliantement & hardiment Combatre, mais aussi sanz poeur despandre vostre sang a la defence de la foy Chrestienne, la Liberte de la Sainte Eglise, de Iustice, & de ceulx qui sont oppresses & en necessité. Prenez ce Manteau de ceste tres-noble Ordre, en augmentation de vostre honneur, lequel Manteau estant garni d'ung Escu, avec une Croix rouge, vous admoneste, que estant armé de beaux vertuz vous povez passer parmy voz Enemies & les Confoundre. Si que apres avoir valiantment guerroyé en ce monde, au regard de voz dignez & Nobles actes, vous povez parvenire a les Eternelles & Triumphantz joyes Coelestes. Vous Porteres ce Collier avec L'image de St. George, a l'accroissement de vostre honneur, & de ce tres-noble Ordre, Ensigne de passer toutes choses prosperes ou adverses, si que les ayant valliantment vaincuz, vous povez en ceste vie obtenir l'honneur & renom de Noble & preux Chivalier; Et apres recevoir l'eternel guerdon de voz victorieulx travaulx. NUM. XXXVII. The forms of Admonition used at the Investiture of Strangers. Lib. N. p. 310. AD laudem atque honorem Omnipotentis Dei, intemeratae Matris ejus, & Sancti Georgii Martyris, cinge tibiam tuam hoc insigni Subligaculo, id circumferens in augmentum honoris tui, & in signum & memoriam illustrissimi Ordinis, nusquam oblivioni daturus, aut omissurus quod eo moneris; ut valeas, inquam, & velis in justo bello, quod solum inibis, stare firmitèr, agere fortitèr, & feliciter omnino vincere. Capito vestem hanc purpuream, ad incrementum honoris, & in signaculum Ordinis accepti: quâ munitus non vereberis pro fide Christi, libertate Ecclesiae, pro jure, & oppressorum atque indigentium necessariâ tuitione, sanguinem etia● fundere, nedum fortiter ac strenuè dimicare. Accipe Clamidem hanc coelici coloris, in signum Clarissimi hujus Ordinis, & in augmentum etiam honoris tui, rubeo clypeo Dominicoe Crucis, uti cernis, insignitam: ut cujus virtute semper ac vigore protectus per hostes tutus abeas, eos ubique superare valeas, & pro clarissimis denique meritis, post egregiam hanc hujus temporis miliciam, ad aeterna veréque triumphalia gandia pertingas. Torquem hunc in Collo deferes, ad augmentum honoris, & in signum quoque Clarissimi Ordinis a te suscepti, cum imagine sanctissimi Martyris, & Christi Militis, Georgii: Cujus praesidio suffultus Mundi hujus tàm prospera quam adversa sic pertranseas, ut animae pariter ac corporis hostibus hoc strenuè devictis, no● temporariae modò militiae gloriam, sed & perennis victoriae palmam denique recipere valeas. Amen. NUM. XXXVIII. The Oath taken by a Knight at his Installation, in the Reign of King Edward the Fourth. Lib. N. pag. 312. EGo N. nominatus atque Electus unus egregiorum Equitum illustrissimi Ordinis hujus Militaris, promitto, & per Sacrosancta Evangelia Dei, quae tango hîc manifestè, juro, quòd omnia Ordinis istius Statuta & Articulos in hiis contentos, quatenus ad me speciabunt, inviolabiliter observabo. Nec non Collegii Sanctissimae Virgins, & Divi Martyris Georgii, in quo praenobilis Ordo fundatus est, pro virili libertates & jura propugnabo. The same Oath we find put into English, and entered at the end of the Regist. Chartaceum, under the 2. year of Hen. 8. IN chosen and named to be one of the honourable Company of the Order of the Garter, promise and swear by the holy Evangelists by me bodily touched, truly and faithfully to observe and keep all the points of the Statutes of the said Order, and every Article in them contained, as far as to me belongeth and appertaineth. And all the liberties and Franchises belonging of right to this College of our Lady and S. George I shall defend to my power, as God help me and these holy Evangelists. NUM. XXXIX. The same Oath, as it was pronounced by the the Register. YOU being chosen to be one of the Companions of the most honourable Order of the Garter, shall promise, and, by these holy Evangelists by you manifestly touched, swear, truly and faithfully to observe and keep all the Statutes of the said Order, and every Article in the same contained, for so much as to you belongeth and appertaineth: And further that you shall help to defend and maintain, so much as in you lieth, the rights and liberties of the College of our blessed Lady and St. George the Martyr, wherein the honourable Order of the Garter is founded. NUM. XL. The Oath formerly taken by the Prince of Wales. Ex Lib. Nig. pag. 312. EGO, N. Princeps Gualliae, Dux Cornubiae, & Comes Cestriae, primogenitus Excelentissimi atque invictissimi Dei gratiâ Regis Angliae & Franciae, Domini Hiberniae, & hujus Ordinis meritò Supremi, jam nominatus atque elecius ad eundem Ordinem venerandum, Promitto & do fidem, quòd verè & fidelitèr pro viribus observabo cuncta Ordinis illius Statuta, & Statutorum, Articulos, quatenus ullo modo me contingent, juxta vim, formam, & effectum corundem, nec non Collegii, in quo is Ordo fundatur, jura tuebor. NUM. XLI. The Oath taken in King Henry the Eighth's Reign. Ex veteri Codici MS. penes G.O.Y. f. 70. b. YE shall swear, that to your power ye shall help, keep, defend, and sustain, during your life, and during the time that you shall be Companion of the Order of the Garter, the honour, quarrels, rights, and Dominions of the King our Sovereign Lord, Sovereign of the said Order, you shall enforce you, and do all your diligence to entertain and augment the said Noble Order, and in case you shall have knowledge of any thing to be imagined or procured to the contrary, with all your true power you shall resist thereunto, Also you shall well and truly accomplish, and keep, and entertain all the Statutes, points, articles, and Ordinances of the said Order, as if they were read unto you from point to point; so help you God, and Hollydome, and by these Evangelists by you corporally touched. NUM. XLII. The Oath used in the Reign of King Edward the Sixth. Ex Libro Nig. pag. 303. YOU, being chosen to be one of the honourable Company of the Order of the Garter, shall promise and swear by the holy Evangelists by you bodily touched, to be faithful and true to the King's Majesty, and to observe and keep all the points of the Statutes of the said Order, and every Article in them contained, the same being agreeable, and not repugnant to the King's Highness, & other goodly proceedings, as far as unto you belongeth and appertaineth, as God help you and the holy Evangelists. NUM. XLIII. The Form of the Oath settled in Queen Elizabeth's Reign. QVum jam electus es in honoratissimam societatem nobilissimi ordinis Garteri, t● promittes & jurabis, per sacrosancta d●i Evangelia, per te nunc tacta, quod s●ienter & voluntariè non violabis aliquod praedicti ordinis statutum, aut aliquos articulos in cis contentos, praesertim si non scientes sint, & non repugnent Dei omnipotentis & hujus regni legibus, quatenus personam tuam concernunt, seu ad te pertinent, sicut te deus adjuvet, per Jesum Christum, hoc sacrosancto Dei Evangelio annuntiatum. The same in English. YOU being chosen to be one of the honourable Company of this most Noble Order of the Garter, shall promise and swear by the holy Evangelists, by you here touched, that wittingly or willingly you shall not break any Statute of the said Order, or any Articles in them contained; the same being agreeable and not repugnant to the Laws of Almighty God, and the Laws of this Realm, as far forth as to you belongeth and appertaineth: So God help you and his holy Word. NUM. XLIV. Letter to obtain Licence for Installing a Knight-Subject by his Proxy. Ex Lib. Nigro, p. 60. JOannes Dux Bedfordiae, cum caeteris in celebritate Georgianâ jam proximè conjunctis, Regiae Majestati vestrae salutem & obedientiam. Quoniam, invictissime princeps & metuendissime Domine, vestrae Celsitudinis ea magnanimitas est in suscipiendis Bellis, & in gerendis faelicitas, ut ipsorum jam fama per orbem undique volitet, nos id vestrae Majestati gratulamur, Deo gratias nunc immensas agentes, qui quicquid est boni ac faelicis eventûs, solus concedit. Vbi verò Regia Majestas vestra, quia bella durant, strenuos quosdam Equites ex hiis qui vobiscum modo militant in socios Clarissimi vestri Ordinis assumere d●crevit, ex consensu Commilitonum aliorum qui nunc isthic assunt, idque nobis significare non refugit; nos isthâc ipsâ voluntate vestrâ & Commilitonum assensu subnixi, & quia nolumus ut quisquam per nos aut in Curiâ nostrâ privetur co fructu qui percipi possit, saltem dum spectet ad salutem Animae, si subitò contingeret obire, (quod fere fit hiis qui variis belli ●asibus agitantur) Dominum Joannem Grace, Dominum Johannem Robertsak, & Dominum Boucer virtute Literarum in quibus procuratores sibi nominârunt, in sedes suas Windesori permisimus introduci: ne si per bellorum infortunia, quibus eos isthic quotidiè videmus objectos, ante plenam possessionem interirent, Missarum suffragiis destituerentur, sicut quosdam nuper (id quod dolemus) nimiâ morâ praeventos intelleximus. Rursum quia de tali procuratorio minus cantum in Statutis esse perpendimus, in eo facto non parùm haesitavimus, verùm nimio favore potius quam arciè severéque Statutorum observationi condonatum iri sperantes, libenter in partem pientiorem (uti est visa) concessimus. In quo tamen vestrae nos gratiae correctionique submittimus, si quid in hâc ipsâ re delinquimus, modo (quo possumus) humilimo supplicantes, ut prudentissima Majestas vestra omnem abhinc scrupulum è Statutis auferat● & absolutè pronunciet, quid hîc posthàc fieri oporteat. Vt Equities videlicet vestri cum celsitudine vestrâ, vel in bellis vel alibi missu vestro commorati (meritis exigentibus) codem privilegio, quod exteris in electione receptionéque sui per Procuratores est concessum, congaudere possent, vestro tamen in omnibus judicio semper salvo, serenitatem autem vestram cum insigni victoriâ celebríque triumpho & plená conservatae multitudinis & Commilitii gloriâ reducat in Regnum; & ibi diuturnae pacis bono perfrui concedat ille Rex Regum Christus Jhesus, qui Capitales hostes nostros sub vexillo Crucis edomuit, & moriendo devicit. Windesori ab Arce vestrâ, Kalendis Maii. NUM. XLV. A larger Letter to the same purpose. Registrum Chartac. fol. 6. b. VIctoriosissime Princeps, & metuendissime Domine, Humilimâ Recommendatione praemissâ, de magnificis vestris Regalibus, guerrarum victoriosis eventibus gratiosis, corundem auctori, qui suo sub munimine vobis totiens contulit feliciùs triumphare, obsequiosâ ment, gratiarum referimus actiones vestrae Regiaae celsitudini; insuper omnimodas reddentes odas debitas, & eò magis, quò valemus, quòd nostro minimo bumilimoque motivo de Militibus per vestram Regiam pietatem durantibus, vestris bellicis exercitiis creandis interim in Milites Societatis Ordinis Garterii, & per Procuratores more exterorum installandis Aures vestrae magnificentiae Regalis dirigere voluistis, ad tantam exauditionis gratiam, ut Regiam vestram benevolentiam ad hoc & unanimum assensum Commilitonum Ordinis vestro lateri Regio quam strenuè assistentium, nobis, licèt indignis, significare decrevistis, Ad effectum quòd concors assensus ille nostro motivo mediante vim futuris temporibus statuti contineret, super cujus significationis gratiâ, & virtute assensûs, Dominum Willielmum Philipp, per procuratorem suum sufficientèr constitutum installavimus, Dominos verò Johannem Grey, Johannem Robofarde, virtute Literarum suarum missivarum, in quibus suos solummodo nominarunt Procuratores, Dominum de Bowser, virtute Literae cujusdam deprecatoriae per Dominam Comitissam de Stafforde, Deputato transmisso, promisimus installari, eò potius quod de sufficientiâ procuratorii hujusmodi in Statutis expressè non cavetur, ac praecavere volentes, ne per dubiosa infortunia guerrarum, quibus ipsos in vestrâ Regali praesentiâ indies exponi perpendimus, de tam meritoriis suffragiis huic annexis, prae defectu plenitudinis sui juris, relicti, prae nostrâ vacillatione sub dubio, privari possent, seu veriùs eisdem carere, quod absit, prout jam tardè contigit, quod dolentèr referimus, prae nimiâ morâ praepotentis viri ante plenitudinem morte praeventi. Piè sperantes nobis potius de vestro favore nimio pardonari, quam de severâ, & strictâ observatione Statutorum in hâc parte laudari ex condigno, pensatis circumstantiis ac animis praesumentium super quo tamen humiliùs inclinati quo minùs peritè egimus, veniam petimus, omnimodè vestrae Regiae correctioni nos penitùs submittentes, supplicantes devotiùs quò valemus quatenus omnimodum incertitudinis scrupulum in praemissis Regia celsitudo dignetur de cetero cautiùs abolere, ac nostri praetextu motivi statuere, ut finguli subditi vestri Milites, activis suis meritis exigentibus, in hanc eligendi commitivam, qui vel in vestrâ praesentiâ Regali seu alibi extra Regnum, dummodo ex mandato inibi militaverint Regali, pro perpetuo gaudere valeant privilegio nobili exterorum, Regali vestro judicio meliori in omnibus semper salvo. Et serenitatem Regiae celsitudinis cum Coronâ victoriae, servatâ strenuâ procerum multitudine, cum bono pacis faelicitèr, reducat ad Regnum invictissimus Rex ille, qui in suo sanguine nostros dignatus est inimicos mortales sub vexillo Crucis moriendo devincere. NUM. XLVI. Sir Iohn Grey's Letter Missive to Sir john Lisle his Proctor. Registrum Chartac. fol. 6. A mon trescher & bien ame Monsieur Jehan Lisle. WOrchipful Sir, I great you well, desiring to here, etc. And weet ye, that the King of his gracious Lordship, God yield him, hase chosen me, to be onne of his Brothers, of the Knights of the Gartier; And I hase chosen you, to be mine Attorney, to take my Stalle, in my name, what time that my Lord of Bedforde, etc. And I pray you, that ye will do so moshe for me, at this time; as I may do thing to your plesaunz in time coming, etc. Written before Roone, the xi. day of November. John Grey. NUM. XLVII. The Countess of Bristol's Deprecatory Letter. Ex ipso Autogr. SIR, PResuming from what I have been told of former times, that my Husband the Earl of Bristol, with many others, being by his Majesty's appointment to be installed Knights of the Garter, at Windsor, the next month, he may receive that honour by Proxy, at my request and nomination on his behalf, because himself is at present beyond the Seas, my desire to you hereby is, that, acquainting his Majesty herewith, you would be pleased, with his Sovereign permission and approbation, to appear and act at that Solemnity in quality of my Lord's Proxy, according to the accustomed forms in such cases, wherein I assure myself you will perform a very acceptable service to my Lord, and therein oblige very much, Your affectionate friend to command, A. Bristol. Queens-street, March the 13. 1660. Superscribed, For Sir Richard Fansha●e Knight these. dd. NUM. XLVIII. The Sovereign's Nomination of a Proxy thereupon. Ex ipso Autographo. Charles' the Second by the Grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Richard Fanshawe, Knight, Greeting; Whereas we have appointed our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin George Earl of Bristol, lately elected into our said most Noble Order, to be installed (together with others) at the approaching solemnisation of the Noble Feast of Saint George, in our Castle at Windesor, on the 15.16. and 17. days of April next ensuing the date hereof. And whereas the said Earl cannot be there personally present, being detained in Foreign parts upon our special service (in which case he is privileged alike with Foreigners by ancient Statute of our said Order, to receive his installation by Proxy) Know ye, that we of our particular grace and favour to you our said Servant, and finding in you all the statutable qualifications required for such a Deputation, have nominated and appointed, and by these presents (at the request and nomination of the Countess of Bristol, in the behalf of the Earl her Husband) do nominate, appoint, and authorise you the said Richard Fanshawe, for and in the name of the said Earl, to possess his Seat in our College at Windesor, and to take the Oath in such case accustomed, and to do and perform all other things which the Statutes require, and we do further by these presents will, authorise, and require all persons whom it may concern, as well Knights as Officers, not only to admit this Proxy or Deputy of the said Earl, but also to do and perform in his regard all other things which shall appear requisite according to the Statutes and laudable Customs of our said most Noble Order. For all which these our Letters shall be to you and them sufficient Warrant on that behalf. Given under the Seal of our Order, at our Court at Whitehall, the sixteenth day of March 1661. and in the 13. Year of our Reign. NUM. XLIX. Sir William Philipp's Letters of Procuration, to Sir Andrew Butrely and Sir john Henington. Ex Libro Nigro, pag. 62. OMnibus praesentes Literas inspeciuris aut audituris, Gulielmus Phyllipp Eques insignitus, salutem. Noveritis, quod ubi supremo nostro Ordinisque nostri Galliae pariter atque Angliae Regi, complacuit ad id honoris ae gloriae me provehere velle, ut in samigeratissimam Soc●etatem illam me unum intromitteret, & insup●r ex abundantiá suae gratiae, secum reput●ns quemadmodum in his transmarinis & bellicis rebus suo secum jussu distineor, potestatem mihi f●●eret sedis occupandae, caeterosque ritus peragendi per idon●eum procuratorem, Equitem (ut minus) auratum, insignibus donatum, & boni atque irreprehensi nominis: Ob id ego prudentiá ac virtute dilectissimorum mihi, Domini Andreae Butreley, & Domini Johannis Henington, in quibus (ni sallor) quod ad strenuissimos Equites attineat nil desideres: cos vel eorum (ut res feret) alterum, in vicem meam statuo & deputo, & quicquid in me facultatis est, erga istam mei causam tribuo. Quibus tamquam mihimet ipsi impero, ut pro me, ac nomine m●o Locum in Choro ac Concili● mihi praenotatum ingrediantur Wyndesori, intra regale Castrum, ubi Claritas Ordinis sundata relucet, Clamidem meam, Galeam atq, Ensem suscepturis, illic Offerant, ut ex more pr●pendeant; pendeant; causas absentiae commonstrent, omnem legitimum atque honestum jusjurandum quod postulabitur ultrò prestent, & summatim omnia vice meâ sic exhibeant ac compleant, atque si praesens ipse forem. In cujus rei testimonium Sigillum meum ab Armis hîc affixi. In obsidione Rothomagi, Novembris xi. NUM. L. Sir john Fastolfs' Deputation to Sir Henry Inghouse, and Sir William Breton. Fr. Regr. fol. 14. b. A tous ceulx, qui ces Lettres verront on orront, Johan Fastolf Chivaler salut. Savoir venilles que come il ait pleu a nostre Soverain Seigneur le Roy de France & D'engleterre, come Sovereign & primer de L'ordre Monsteur Seint George, de la Compaignie du Jartier, me fair tant de honnure que de me vueiller eslier & resseiver en un dez Compaignons du dit Ordre du Jartier, & en oultre de sa treshabundante grace considerant que je suis ocupié, pour le present, en son tres-honourable service perdecà, m' a donné congé d'estre enstaillé, & d'avoire touse aultres choses que en cas appertiennent fetes & fournés par procurer; mais tontevoies qe ce soit per Chivalier de nom & d'armes, & saunz reproach, pour ce est il, que singulierment confiant es sens & tresages discretions & preudommie dez treshonnourés Signior, & mes treschiers & grauns amiss messieur Henry Inghouse & Guillaume Breton Chivalers, esquelx a ce que je tiens riens ne faute que aux vaillans Chivalers' doit appertenir, ay faite, ordeiné, constitué, & deputé, & par ces presents face, ordonne, constitue, & depute lez ditz Messieurs Henry & Guillaume, & checun deux par luy mesmes, urais, certains, & especiaulx procureurs, & a eux, ou L'un d' eux ay donné, & donne povoir general & especial mandement es meilleurs form & manner que je say ou puis, pour & en nomme de moy demander, receveir, & obtenir L'estall en le chore, & lain en le Chapitre, en la Chapelle ou Collage du Roy nostre dit Seigneur, dedeins son chastel de windsor, ou quel est le dit Ordre foundé, & establez, vacanis, & qui pour moy y sont ou serront assignez, & y offrir mou manteau, moit helm, & mon espee, & les y attacher selanc la constume & manner du dit Ordre, les causes aussy de m'absence declarer, & tout serement licite & honest, que de Constume y serra a requise, en lame de moy fair & donner, & generelment tout ce fair, excercer, & expedier, que es choses desuisditz serra aucunment necessaire & besoignable, & ma person de tout representier, si comme je y feusse mesmes en personne. En testimoigne de la quelle choose jay seellé ces presentz du Seel de mez armez, & sign de ma maine, Donne à Lancone three jour de Feverier. J. Fastolf. NUM. LI. A Commission for Installation of Sir john Fastolf by Sir Henry Inghous his Proctor. Ex Regist. Chartac. fol. 14. b. HEnry par la grace de Dieu Roy D'engleterre & de France, Seigneur D'yrlande & Souverain de L'ordre du Jartier, a nostre bien ame Johan Robessart Chivaler, lun de noz Compaignons du dit Ordre, Salut. Come par le trespassé de fieu nostre tres-chier & ame cosyn, le Counte de Westmerlaunde, dount dieux ait l'ame, en son vivant l'un de noz Compaignons du dit Ordre, au Chapitre tenuz en nostre Collage & Chapelle de nostre Castel de windsor, le xxii. jour d' Aurel derreine passé veille de la Feste Monsieur Seint George, nostre ame John Fastolf Chivaler, pour consideration dez servicez q'il avoit faitz le temps passé a fieu nostre tres-redouté Seigneur & Pere le Roy, que dieux assoile & depuis a nous comme uncore fait de jour en aultre pour reduire & mettre en nous mains nostre Royaume de France, & aultres noz Seigneuries de par de là, en regarde aux grauns sens, vaillance, & preudommie darmez qui sont en sa personne par lez Compaignons du dit Ordre tenans lors le dit Chapitre, saunz quelque contradiction & dun commun accord ait estre choisy & eslieu ou lieu de fieu nostre dit Cosyn un dez Compaignons de dit Ordre, & de present soit tielment occupié en fait de noz guerres quil ne puist pardecà venir, ne repairer, pour en sa personne entrer en sa possession, ains par nostre congé & lycence ait faite & constittué son procureur nostre ame Henry Inghous Chivaler pour & en nomme de luy en resseivoir la possession, confians a plain de voz sens, preudommie, loyaulté, & bonne diligence, vous mandons en commettant par ces presentes que si tost que par le dit Inghous, serres devement requis, & vous apperra du povoir a luy donne par le dit Fastolf, vouz transportez en nostre dit Chastel de windsor, & en noz College & Chapelle de iceluy & pour & en nom du dit Fastolf mettez illec de par nous en possession le dit Henry Inghous son procureur, en la maniere accustumee, avec dez beneficez, honneures, prerogatives, Franchisez, & libertez ad ce appartenantz, en luy assignant l'estal en cuer & lieu en Chapitre, tielz que nostre dit Cosin en son viuant lez soloient tenir & ocupier, Receyvez aussi son mantel & sez heaume & espee, mettoiz es lieux ou souloyent estre ceux de nostre dit Cousin en son viuant, Adjoustees en ce lez solempnitez de ce faire, vous donnous plain povoir, auctorite, & maundement especial, mandous a tous lez compaignons du dit Ordre que dez ditz estal, lieux, honneur, franchisez, prerogatives, & libertez, facent, sueffrent, & laissent joier le dit Fastolf plainement & paisiblement, ainsi & par lae maniere que lez ditz estatuz le contiennent & portent, sanz aucun contredit on difficulté. Donné en nostre Chastell de Walingesorde, soubz le seel du dit Ordre le xxv. jour de Feurier L'an de grace mil quatre cens vingt & six, & de nostre Reigne le cinquiesme. NUM. LII. Another Commission for Installation of the Earl of Worcester, and other Knights-Subjects by their Proctors. Ex lib. vocat. Denton. fol. 100 b. Edward par la grace de Dieu Roy D'engleterre & de France, Signeur d'Irlande, & sovereign de L'Ordre de Gartier, a nostre treschier & tresamey Cousin Henry Count D'Essex, & a nous treschiers & bien aims, Johan Sire de berner's, & Johan Sire de Wenlok, nous confreres de mesme L'ordre, ayons entre les aultres esten nostre treschier & tresayme Cousin Johan Count de Worcestre & nos treschiers & chiers & bien aims William Sire de hastings, nostre Chamberlain, John Sire de Montacu, William Sire de Herbert, & Missieur Johan Astley Chevalier, & nous confreres de la dict Ordre, & soit ainxi que en les estatus en cedit nostre Royaulme seront establis personelement dedeins certain temps apres la reception de la Gartier, comment plus au plain est declarez en icelles estatutz, seavoer faisons, que pour aulcunes considerations nous a cé specialement moynantes, & mesmement que nostre dict cousin de Worcestre & les aultres Signeurs & Chevaliers dessusdits sont de present, & seront encores, tellement occupez entour nostre personne & nostre service pour le bien de nous & de nostre dit royalme quills ne puissent estre enstallez personellement au temps que vouldrions a nous ordonnes & deputes, ordonnons & deputons par ces presentes vous jointment & severallement & ace donnons' plain pouver & auctorité, de admitter, recevoir, & establir en toute bonne haste que faire ce pourra iceluy nostre cousin de Worcestre & les Signior & Chevaliers dessusdits, & chescun d' eulx, par leur procureur ou procureurs par eulx en ceste party constitues & deputes en les estalles a chescun deulx en nostre College de Seinct George, dedens nostre Chasteau de Windesore, assignés ainsi & par telle manner, que ung & chascun d' eulx y fussent adoncquez presentéz en leur propres personnes; aulcunes ordenances ou estatus faitz ou ordonnés au contraire nox obstantzes. En tesmoing de la quelle chose nous avons fait fair cestes nous Lettres soubs le Seel de la dict Ordre Patents, Donne a nostre Cyte de Lincoln le 21. jour de Mars, L'au de nostre Reigne le secund. NUM. LIII. Another for the Installation of the Earl of Warwick. Ex Collect. johanuis Vincent. Elizabeth R. ELIZABETH by the Grace of God Queen of England, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To our trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin and Counsellor the Duke of Norfolk, one of the Companions and Knights of the said Order, by us assigned and deputed to be our Lieutenant at the Feast of the glorious Martyr Saint George, Patron of the said Order, to be kept within our Castle of Windesor, the xxii. of May next coming, and others the Companions of the said Order that then shall be present, Greeting. Whereas, We with others the Companions of the said Noble Order assembled, at a Chapter holden at our Palleys of Westminster the xxiv. of Apprell last, have elected and chosen, among other, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Warwick to be Knight and Companion of our said Order, and forasmuch as our said wellbeloved Cousin, for divers services which by him is to be done for us in our affairs beyond the Seas, cannot conveniently repair unto our Castle of Windesore personally to be installed, in the Collegiate Chapel of that Order, and to perform other Ceremonies, whereunto by the Statutes of the said Order he is bounden, and for that cause hath by our special licence appointed our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Henry Sidney Knight sufficiently authorized, as his deputy and procurer, to be installed in his name, and to receive his Oath, and to perform all other such things and Ceremonies for him, as by the Statutes and Ordinances of the said Order be requisite, We therefore in consideration of the premises will and by these presents give unto you full power, licence, and authority, not only to accept and admit the said Sir Henry Sidney to be Deputy and procurer for our said wellbeloved Cousin the said Earl of Warwick, and to install him in the behalf of the said Earl, but also further to do therein as to the Statutes and laudable usages of the said Noble Order in this case appertaineth: And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Yeven under the Seal of our said Order at our Palleys of Westminster the 20. day of May in the fifth Year of our Reign. NUM. LIV. A Letter giving notice to the Sovereign's Commissioners of the day of Installation of a Knight-Subject by his Proxy. Ibidem. By the Queen. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, we greet you well, And whereas we have appointed you, together with our right trusty and wellbeloved Counsellor the Lord hastings of Loughborow, our Lord Chamberlain, to be in Commission for the stallment, in our Castle of Windesore, of our right trusty and wellbeloved the Lord Grey of Wilton, being lately chosen to be of the Fellowship, and a Companion of our Noble Order of the Garter. And forasmuch as the same Lord Grey is presently Prisoner with the French King, and therefore cannot be installed in his own person, Our pleasure is, that he shall be installed by Sir Humphrey Radclysse, Knight, whom we have appointed to be his Deputy in that behalf. And therefore have thought good not only to give you knowledge thereof by these our Letters, but also to require you to make your repair to our said Castle of Windesore, so as you may be there by Tuesday at night being the 19 of this present month, to the end that upon Wednesday next, being the xx. of this same month, he may proceed to the said Installation accordingly. Yeven under the Seal of our said Order at our Manor of Greenwich, the xuj. of April, the fourth and fifth years of our Reigns. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin Th'earl of Huntingdon, Compaignion and Knight of our Noble Order of the Garter. NUM. LV. The Oath given to Sir Iohn Robesart's Proxy. Ex Regist. Chartac. fol. 5. a. MOY Thomas Barr, Chivaler, procurer a mon Master, Sire John Robesart, eslieux d'èstre de l'honourable company du Garter, promete & jure, en lalme, & en nomme de mon dite Master, de loialment garder, & observer les pointes queconquez, de lez estatutz, du dite Ordre, en cea, que a luy pertiendra, selonc le form, & effect dez estatuz susditz, & selonc son loyal povoir. NUM. LVI. The Oath given to the Lord Scroope's Proxy. Ex Collect. I. V. YOU being Deputy and Procurer for the Lord Scroop of Bolton, named and chosen to be one of the Companions of the most honourable Order of the Garter, shall in the said Lords name promise and swear by the holy Evangelists by you here touched, that the said Lord, wittingly and willingly, shall not break any Statutes of the said Order, or any Article in them contained, the same being agreeable, and not repugnant to the Laws of Almighty God, and the Laws of this Realm, as for forth as unto him belongeth and appertaineth, As God you help and his holy Word. NUM. LVII. The Certificate of Election to the French King Henry the Second. MS. quart. penes W. le N. f. 109. b. TReshault & trespuissant Prince, trescher & tresaymé bon frere & Cousin, tant & si affectueusement que faire pouvons, a vous nous recommendons. Comme par la tresgrande noblesse, provess, & aultres grandes vertus & merits de vostre tresnoble personne tant approvués, que justement la fame en est par tout cognue, & oultre ce pour tant plus augmenter & fair accroistre, la bonne & fraternelle amitié & consederation d'entre vous & nous, nos Royaumes & Subjects, avons assemblé en deué Collegialle & ancienne maniere avec les Chevaliers de nostre Ordre du Jarretiere, an Chapitre tenu & celebrè en nostre manoir de Greenwich, le xxiv. jour D'avril derniere passè, avons tous ensemble & d'un Commun & unanime consentiment & vouloir esleu, choisi, & nommé vostre tresnoble personne au nombre de nostre dit amiable company, & Ordre du Jarretiere, de la quelle Election il nous a semble bon, vous advertir par cestes, vous priant trescordiallement, treshault & trespuissant Prince, trescher & tresamé, bon frere & Cousin, de fair cest boneur a nous & toute la dite company, de consentir a la dite Election, en acceptant pour l'amour de nous, & comme par ce vous nous feres chose tresagreable; ainsi nous estimerons nostre dit Ordre d'autant plus garni & decoré, come entendres plus amplement par nos Ambassadeurs, qui pour ceste cause sont priests a partir par devers vous. Parquoy nous ne vous tiendrons ny plus long propos, Ains prions le Createur (treshaut & trespuissant Prince, trescher & tresaime bon frere & Cousin) vous avoir en sa tressainte & digne garde. Excript a nostre Manoir de Greenwich, le— jour de May 1551. NUM. LVIII. A Credential Letter sent to Emanuel Duke of Savoy, with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. Ex MS. 4. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 110. TResbault & tresexcellent Prince, trescher & bien aimé Cousin, a vous bien affectucusement nous nous recommendons. Comme sur l'advertissement que nous vous feismes de vostre Election icy au nombre & amiable company de nos confreres Chevaliers, & Compaignons, de nostre Ordre de la Jarretiere; vous avez signifié depuis vostre bonne & pronte acceptation, & singulier contentement de la dite Election, si desirant affectueusement, qu'elle pregne son den effect, Nous avons prontement à ce despeché devers vous nostre tresseal & bien aimé le Sieur de Clinton & Say, Chevalier & Compagnon du dit Ordre, & nostre seal & bien aimé Gartiere, Roy d' Armes de l'Ordre; avec ample pouvoir & Commission non seullement pour vous presenter, bailler, & donner de par nous la Jarretiete, manteau & aultres ensigns appartenantes au dit Ordre, mais aussi faire tout aultre choose en tel cas accoustumés & requise, come ferious si nous y fussions en personne, vous priant, trescher & bien aymè cousin, de les accepter d' aussi bonne vouloir que desirons l'accroissement, par ce, de vostre honneur & renom: Et oultre ce d'adjouster soy a tout ce que nos dits commissaires vous diront & feront, en nostre endroit, touchant leur Commission, ainsi que feries a nous mesmes: Que sera la fin de cestes pour la present, & ainsi treshault & excellent Prince, trescher & bien aymé cousin, Dien vous ait en sa digne tuition. Escript a nostre Palaice de Westminster le 17. jour de Octobre, 1554. NUM. LIX. Another to Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg. Ex Eq. aurat. Anglo-Wirtemb. p. 120. QVandoquidem, mî Domine Consanguinee (intelligit serenissimus Rex Angliae Ducem illustrissimam Wirtembergiae, Fredericum) liquidò nobis constat, quòd, ut optimam affectionem erga Regnum hoc à T E semper ostensam, demortua Regina p. m. dilecta nostra soror agnosceret, ac vicissim suam in te benevolentiam peramicam contestaretur: elegerat te ac nominârat, ut Equestris Ordinis Garterii, sive Cruralis fasciae consors esses: quod tamen ob cousas aliquas in actum deducere distulit ac procrastinata est: Nos autem obligationi promptae tue voluntati successimus, & ejus per Legatum tuum, nuper adeò binc profectum, certum testimonium & confirmationem accepimus; eam nobis conservare, ac praedictae nostrae dilectae sororis amicitiae, laudabilíque erga te proposito satisfacere desideramus. Quod ut effectum jam modò suum obtineret, bunc ipsum in sinem praesentem Baeronem Spencerum ad te Legatum elegimus, qui praeter amicam nostram salutationem, nostrum quoque Garterium Ordinem tibi adferat ac tradat. Quamobrem hisee rogamus, ut eum ab illo acciptas, firmiterque credas bunc ipsum Ordinem unum esse de praecipuis signis ac Testimoniis, quodeunque nos externo Principi, ad nostram in ipsum amicissinam declarandam voluntatem, & de ipso existimationem, in quâ merita ipsins & virtutes babeamus, tribuere possinmus: Ita ut bac ratione re ipsâ & ipso facto quotiescunque se offeret occasio, quâ nobis tibi commodandi gratáque faciendi facultas erit, benè nos affectos, promptos, ac paratos sis inventurus & experturus. Sicut idem sanè praenominato Spencero pluribus & latiù tibi coràm significandi dedimus mandatum. Quâ de causa fidem huic ut habeas, oramus, certoque de nobis tibi persuadeas id, quòd interim sumus & manchimus semper. Date Wincestre, 18. Sept. 1603. NUM. LX. Another to Maurice Prince of Orange. Ex Continuat. Thuani pag. 331. Edit. Francof. an. 1628. MI cognate, virtutum tuarum fama, & egregia fortitudinis documenta, quae tum in Provinciarum Unitarum Belgii, jampridem firmo faedere regnis nostris junctarum, tum in religionis, quae nobis cum Provinciis illis communis est, defensione edidisti, jamdudum in nobis desiderium inveniendi occasionem quâ quanti te fecimus testaremur, excitarunt, convocatis igitur Equitibus & fratribus Ordinis aureae Periscelidis, & in corum numerum allecto cognato & futuro genero nostro, Electore Palatino, visium est ex consensu totius Collegii, ut te ipsi socium adjungeremus hac Electione ex voto nostro factâ, tibi more majorum nostrorum insignia Ordinis mittimus, & Winwodo Equiti ac Legato nostro mandavimus ut ea tibi exhibeat, iisque te amiciat: Insuper Gartero, fecialium nostrorum principi, negotium dedimus, ut, quod sui muneris est, exequatur. Habe hoc à nobis sinceri affectùs testimonium: quem deinceps, quoties oceasio se dabit, pluribus aliis argumentis declarare parati sumus, Ex Arce nostrâ Westmonasteriensi 9 kal. Jan. 1612. NUM. LXI. Another to Frederick William, Elector of Brandenburg, with the Garter and George. Ex Collect. E.W.G. MON Frere, l'asseurance, que j'ay de voustre Amitié par pleusieurs tesmoignages, que vous m'en avez donnez m'oblige a rechercher tous les moyens qui seront capables de l'entretenir, & de la conserver; Et pour ce sujet j'ay trouve à propos, comme Souverain du tresancien & tres-noble Ordre de la Jartiere, de vous eslire l'un des Chevaliers, paers, & Compagnons du dit Ordre, estimant par là de faire une plus estroite Amitié avec vous, & d'augmenter le bien & la prosperité de cette tres-noble societé, laquelle par plusieurs siecles a eu non seulement les Roys D'angleterre nos predecesseurs pour Souverains, mais aussi l'honneur d'avoir plusieurs Empereurs, Roys, & Princes Estrangers pour Compagnons: Comme aussi de vous donner par là une marque evidente de mon affection, & de la haute estime que j'ay de vos merites, & de vostre personne, & pour confirmation de la dite Election je vous envoye par le Sieur Chevalier de Walker jartiere, Roy d'Armes, la Medaille dite le George, la Jartiere & l' Estoille, pour les Porter a la maniere accoustumée: Assavoir la Medaille antour du Corps, la Jartiere à la Iambe gauche, & l' Estoille sur le Coste gauche de la Casaque ou du Manteau. Le dit Sieur de Walker vous asseurera de ma part, que je desire avec passion de vous tesmoigner, que je suis, Mon frere, Vostre bien affectionné frere & Cousin. C. R. A Paris le 23. de Januier 1654. A Mon frere Monsieur le Marquis de Brandeburg P. Electeur du Saint Empire. NUM. LXII. A Commission for delivery of the Habit and Ensigns of the Order, to Charles Duke of Burgundy. Ex amplo Codice MS. penes praef. johannem Vincent, fol. 175. EDward, par la Grace de Dieu, Roy D'angleterre & de France, & Seigneur d'Irlande, Souverain de L'Ordre de la Jarretiere, A tous ceulx qui ces presents letters verront, salut: Comme treshault & puissant Prince, nostre tresame frere, Charles, Duc de Bourgoigne, pour les glorieuses merits de ses vertuz, haultesse, & Noblesse, dont la Renommee s'est par tout Respandue, a esté nadguaires par nous & noz confreres Chevaliers, & Compaignons du dit Ordre, en nostre Palais de Westmonstier assemblez, esleu Chevalier & Compaignon d'icelluy Ordre, en lieu lors vacant, si comme par nous aultres letters a nostre dit frere adresses en signifiant la dite eslection est contenu plus a plain, voulans & desirans tresaffectueusement la dit eslection sortir son deu effect, & perfection, scavoir faisons que nous confians es feaultez, discretions, & diligences de nostre feal & bien amé Messir Galliard, Seigneur de Duras, Chevalier & Compaignon dudit Ordre, Et de noz feaulx & bien amez conseillers Messire Jehan Scott, Chevalier, controleur de nostre hostel, Thomas Vahan, Tresorier de nostre Chambre, Maistre Jehan Russell Docteur es Descretz, archidiacre de Berkshire, & Jarretiere, Roy D'armes, les cinq, quatre, trois, ou deulx, dont le dit Seigneur de Duras soit tousjours l'un, avons ordonné commis & deputé, Ordonnous, Commèttons, & Deputons, par ces presents, noz Ambassadeurs Procureurs & Messengers especiaulx, & leur donnons povoir, auctorité & mandement especial, d'eulx transporter par devers nostre dit frere, & de luy presenter, bailler, & donner de par nous la jarretiere, le mantel, & autres enseignes par nous presentement a luy envoyes, avec toutes les ceremonies & solempnitez deuës & acoustumées d'estre presentez, baillez, on donnez en tel cas, Et oultre de Recevoir de nostre dit frere le serment, selon la form & maniere de estatuz du dit Ordre, Et autres choses fair & exercer & expedier, que a eulx sembleront estre necessaires en ceste party, tout ainsi que fair deurions & pourrions, si y estions en nostre personne, En tesmoign de ce, a ces presentes noz lettres nous avons fait mettre le Seau du dit Ordre du Jatretier, Donné en nostre Palais de Westmonstier le x. jour de Januier l'an M. CCCC. LXIX. NUM. LXIII. Another for delivery of them to Ferdinand Archduke of Austria. Ex MS. fol. penes E. W. G. f. 18. HEnry le huitiesme, par la grace de Dieu, Roy D'angleterre, & de France, Defenseur de la Foy, Seigneur D'irlande, Souverain de la tres-noble Ordre de Saint George, nomme la Jarretiere, A tous ceulx, qui ces presents letters verront, Salut. Comme treshault, excellent & puissant Prince, nostre tresamé Cousin & bon Nepueu, Dom. Fernando, Infante de Castille, Archiduc D'austrich, Conte de Tyrol, etc. Lieutenant du Saint Empire, pour les grans merites de ses vertus, hautesse, & noblesse, dont la renommée, s'est par tout espandue, a esté naguerres par nous & noz Confreres Chevaliers & Compaignons du dit Noble Ordre, en nostre Manoir de Richemont assambles, esleu Chevalier & Compaignon d'icelluy Ordre de Saint George, en lieu vacant, voulans & desirans tresaffecteussement la dit eslection sortir son deu effect & perfection; Savoir faisons, que nous confians es feaultés, descretions, & diligence de nostre feal & bien ame Messire Henry, Seigneur de Morley, & aussi de noz feaulx & bien amez Maistre Edward Lee, Docteur en Theologie, Archidiacre de Colchester, nostre Aulmonier, Messire Guillaume Husey, Chevalier, & Messire Thomas Wriothesley, Jarretiere, nostre Principal Roy D'armes, nostres Conseillours, les quatre, troy's, ou deux, dont le dit Seigneur de Morley soit tousjours l'ung, avons ordonné, commys, & Deputé, Ordonnons, commettons, & deputons, par ces presents, noz Ambassadeurs, procureurs, & messaigers especiaulx, & leur donnons povoir, autorité & mandement especial, d'eulx transporter par devers nostre dit Cousin & bon Nepuen, & de luy presenter, bayller, & donner, de par nous, la jarretiere, l'habit, & aultres Enseignes par nous presentement a luy envoyées, avec toutes les solempnitez & Ceremonies deuëz & accustumez d'estre presentées, baillées, ou données, en tel cas; Et oultre de recevoir, de nostre dit Cousin & bon Nepueu, le serment, selon la form & manner dez Estatuz du dit Noble Ordre, & aultres choses fair exercer & expedier, que a eux sembleront estre necessaires en cest party, tout & ainsy que fair deurions ou p●●rrions, si y estions en nostre personne. En tesmoigne de ce, a ces presentes noz letters, signees de nostre main, nous avons faict metre le Seau du dit Noble Ordre de Saint George nommé la Jarretiere. Donné en nostre Chasteau de windsor, le xviii. jour d' Aoust, L'an de Grace M. D. XXIII. Et le xv. An de nostre Regne. Pexsall. NUM. LXIV. Another for their delivery to Emanuel Duke of Savoy. Ex Collect. Gul. le N. Cl. PHilippe & Marie par la grace de Dicu Roy & Royne d' Angleterre, France, Naples, Jerusalem, & Irlande, Defenseurs de la Foy, Prince & Princess d' Espagne, & Sicily, Archiduc & Archiduchesse d' ostrich, Duc & Duchesse de Milan, Burgoigne, Brabant, Conte & Contesse de Flanders, Hasburg, & tyrol, etc. A tous ceulx qui ces presents letters verront, Salut. Comme treshault & tresexcellent Prince Emanuel Philibert, Duc de Savoy, Chablais, & Auguste, Prince & Vicar perpetuel du Saint Empire, Marquis en Italy, Prince de Piedmont, Conte de Geneve, etc. Lieutenant & Captain General pour nostre trescher pere L'empereur, pour ses grandes merits & provesses, noblesse, & autres vertus, dont la renommee s'est par tout divulgee & esparse, eut esté naguieres par nous & nos confreres Chevaliers & Compagnons, de nostre Ordre de la Jarretiere, en nostre Chasteau de Windesor assemblees, esleu Chevalier & Compagnon d'icelluy Ordre en lien là vacant, comme par nos aultres letters, a nostre dit Cousin addressées, en signifiant son Election est contenu plus a plain, voulans & desirans affectueusement la Election sortir son deu effect & perfection, Seavoir faisons, que nous, confians es fialtie, discretion, & diligence de nostre trefeal & bien aimé le Seigueur de Clinton & Say, Chevalier & Compagnon de nostre Ordre, & de nostre feal & bien aymé Jarretiere, Roy d'armes d'icelluy Ordre, avons Ordonné, Commis, & deputé, Ordonnons, Commettons, & deputons, par ces presents, nos Ambassadeurs, procureurs, & Messagiers especiaulx, & leur donnons pouvoir authorité & mandement especial, d'eulx transporter au aimé nostre Cousin, & a luy presenter, bailler, & donner de par nous la jarretiere, & le manteau, & aultres enseignes par nous presentement a luy envoyées, avecque toutes les Ceremonies & solempnities, deuës, & accoustumés d'estre presentees, baillees & donnees en tel cas, & oultre de recevoir, de nostre Cousin, le Sacrament, selon la forme et maniere dez estatutz du dit Ordre, & toute aultre chose fair & expedier que a eulx sembleront necessaires en cest endroict, tout ainsi que fair deburious & pourrious, si y estions en nos personnes propres. En temoign de ce, avons souscript de nostre main propre ces presents letters, & y faict mettre le Seel du dit Ordre de la Jarretiere; Donné ou nostre Palais de Westminster le xvii. jour de Octobre 1554. NUM. LXV. Another for their delivery to the French King, Charles' the Ninth. Ex ipso Autogr. ELizabeth par la grace de dieu, Royne d' Angleterre, France, & Irlande, Defenseur de la foy, etc. a tout ceulx, qui ces patentes Lettres verront, Salut. Come treshault, tresexcellent, trespuissant Prince, nostre trescher & tresamé frere, & Cousin, le Roy tresebrestien Charles de France, tant pour ses tresgrandes noblesse, dons, & vertus singuliers, dont Dieu l'a orné, & la renommee s'en est par tout divulguée, & esparse, & que pour tant plus augmenter, & establir la bonne amity, & intelligence qui est entre nous, & nostre dit bon frere, ait esté naguieres par nous & nos confreres Chevaliers & Compagnons de nostre Ordre de Jarretiere, en nostre Chastean de Windsore assemblés, eleu Chevalier & Compagnon d'iceluy Ordre, en lieu là vacant, voulant & desirant affectueusement la ditte election sortir son deu effect & perfection; scavoir faisons que nous confians es feaultés, discretions, & diligences de nostre trescher & bien aimé Cousin, le Sieur de Hunsdon, Chevalier, & Compagnon de nostre Ordre, & de nos feaulx & bien aimés Messieurs, Thomas Smith, Chevalier, nostre Ambassadeur resiant aupres nostre dit bon frere, & Messieur Gilbert Dethick, Chevalier, Roy D'armes d'iceluy Ordre, les avons ordonné, commis, & deputé, ordonnons, commettons, & deputons, par ces presents nos ambassadeurs, procureurs, & messagiers expeciaulx, & leur donnons pouvoir, authority, & mandement especial d'eulx trouver, devers nostre dit bon frere, & de luy presenter & donner, de par nous, la Jarretiere, & le manteau, & autres enseignes par nous presentement a luy envoyées, avecques toutes les Ceremonies, & solemnités deuës, & accoustumieres d'estre presentées, baillées, & données en tel cas, & oultre ce, fair, & expedier, toutes aultres choses, que a eulx sembleront necessaires en cest endroit, tout ainsi que fair deburious, & pourrions, si y estions e●nostre propre personne. En tesmoing de ce, avons sousescript de nostre main propre ces presents, & y fait mettre le Scel du dit Ordre de la Jarretiere; Donné a nostre maison de Richmond le xxviii. jour de May, l'an de grace, mil cinq cens, soixante & quatre, & de nostre regne le sixiesme. NUM. LXVI. Another for their delivery to Maximilian the Emperor. Ex Collect. Gul. le N. Cl. ELizabetha, Dei gratiâ, Angliae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Regina fidei Defensor, etc. Omnibus ad quos presentes Litterae sint perventurae, salutem. cum invictissimus & potentissimus Princeps, frater & consanguineus noster, Clarissimus Maximilianus, Romanòrum Imperator, etc. non solum ob dignitatis suae fastigium, dotésque ac virtutes animi heroicas, quibus illum ita cumulatè ornavit ac illustravit Deus Optimus Maximus, ut earum per universum Orbem fama dimanaverit, verum etiam ut amicitiae ac intelligentiae arctioris vinculum inter nos firmetur ac stabiliatur, Ex nostro nostrorumque Confratrum, Equitum ac sociorum Ordinis Garterii assensu & consensu, nuper in dictum Ordinem nostrum Garterii elecctus & susceptus fuerit; Vt hanc electionem, prout par est, absolvamus, & ad effectum perducamus, notum facimus, quòd prudentiae & dexteritari pernobilis & perdilecti consanguinei nostri Thomae, Comitis Suffexiae, etc. unins Equitum Sociorum dicti nostri Ordinis, ac dilecti nostri Gilberti Dethick, Militis, & Regis Armorum, plurimùm confidentes, illos Legatos, Procuratores, & nuncios nostros speciales ordinavimus, deputavimus, & constituimus, prout per praesentes Ordinamus, Deputamus, & Constituimus, iisque potestatem, authoritatem, ac mandatum speciale damus, non solum sese versus dictum Imperatorem conferendi, & illi nostro nomine praesentandi Garterium, pallium, aliáque insignia quae in praesentiâ illi à nobis mittuntur, verùm etiam omnes Ceremonias ac Solennitates peragendi, quae, in hâc parte, ex usu & consuetudine fieri & peragi solent, omniáque reliqua expediendi, quae ad hoc negotium spectant, quaeq, illis videbuntur necessaria, haud minus ac si nos ipsi praesentes facere & expedire vellemus. In cujus rei testimonium has literas fieri fecimus patentes, nec non illas manu nostrâ subscriptas, Sigillo dicti Ordinis communiri jussimus. Datum in Regiâ nostrâ Westmonasteriensi xx. die Maii Anno Domini 1567. regnorum verò nostrorum nono. ELIZABETHA. NUM. LXVII. Another for Delivery of them to Frederick the Second, King of Denmark. Ex Autogr. in Bibliot. Hatton. ELizabetha Dei gratiâ Angliae Franciae & Hiberniae Regina, fidei Defensor, etc. universis & singulis praesentes has literas nostras visuris, inspectaturis, & audituris, salutem. cum serenissimus Princeps, frater & consanguineus noster charissimus Fredericus, Dei gratiâ Daniae, Norwegiae, Gothorum, Vandalorúmque Rex, etc. plurimarum Heroicarum Virtutum splendore & gratiâ nobilitatus, Orbem Christianum famâ nominis sui impleverit, eâque jam ante annos aliquot animum nostrum accenderit, ut eam amicitiam in personâ ejus melioribus quibus potuimus officiis cultiorem redderemus, quam haereditario quodam jure sanctissimae memoriae nobilissimi Majores & Antecessores nostri nobis commendârunt, nullis autem officiis erga tam charum Principem satisfacientes nobis, eum nuper elegerimus, conspirantibus omnibus omnium Commilitonum suffragiis, in illustrissimi Ordinis Garterii nobilissimam societatem, quo arctiori benevolentie vinculo, si fieri posset, eum in dies singulos nobis magis magisque conjungeremus, utpote Principem verè Christianum, in cujus amicitiâ vel maximè cupimus conquiescere, summòque desiderio aventes ut quod non nisi auspicatissimè incaepimus, ad optatum finem perducatur; Sciatis, quod nos, de fidelitate, prudentiâ & diligentiâ praenobilis viri plurimùm nobis chari, Domini Peregrini, Domini de Willoughby, & Ersby, & spectabilis Viri Gilberti Dethick Equitis, Regis Armorum Ordinis, plurimùm confidentes, ipsos nostros veros, & indubitatos Ambasciatores, Procuratores, & Oratores speciales, assignavimus, fecimus, & constituimus, assignamus, facimus, & constituimus, per praesentes, dantes eis potestatem, authoritatem & mandatum speciale ad praefatum Fratrem & Consanguineum nostrum charissimum proficiscendi, eíque deferendi & donandi, nostro nomine, & pro nobis, Subligaculum, & Trabeam, & reliqua Insignia Illustrissimi Ordinis nostri Garterii, per nos ad praesens ad illum transmissa, caeteráque peragendi quám officiosissime, & religiosissimè poterunt, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis decus & ornamentum quoquo modo putabunt pertinere, haud aliter atque ipsi faceremus, si praesentes essemus. In cujus rei testimonium bas Literas nostras manu nostrâ subscriptas, Sigillo dicti Ordinis Garterii communiri fecimus. Datae è Regiâ nostrâ Grenewici 27. die Mensis Junii, anno salutis Humanae supra millesimum quingentesimum, octuagesimo secundo, regni verò nostri vicesimo quarto. ELIZABETHA. NUM. LXVIII. Another for delivery of them to Henry the Third of France. MS. 4. penes Arthur. Com. Anglesey. p. 63. b. ELizabeth, by the grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. To all those to whom these presents shall come, Greeting. Forasmuch as the right high, right excellent, and right mighty Prince, our right dear and right wellbeloved Brother, and Cousin, the most Christian King, Henry of France, as well for his right great Nobility, gifts and virtues singular, wherewith God had endued him, the renown whereof is dispersed and divulged throughout, and that the more to augment and establish the good amity and intelligence which is between us and our said good Brother, he hath been not long since by us and our fellow Brethren the Knights and Companions of our Order of the Garter, in our Castle of Windesore assembled, chosen Knight and Companion of the same Order, in place there vacant, We willing and desiring affectiously the same Election to take its due effect and perfection, give to understand, that We, trusting in the fidelities, discretions, and diligence of our right dear and wellbeloved Cousin, the Earl of Derby, Knight and Companion of our said Order, and of our faithful and wellbeloved, Sir Edward Stafford Knight, our Ambassador resident with our said good Brother, have ordained, committed, and deputed, and do ordain, commit, and depute them by these presents our Ambassadors, Procurators, and Messengers especial. And we give them power, authority, and especial charge to go unto our said good Brother, and to present and give him from us the Garter, the Mantle, and other Ensigns by us presently sent unto him, with all the Ceremonies and Solemnities due and accustomed to be presented, given, and delivered in such case: And furthermore to do and dispatch all other things, which unto them shall be thought necessary in that behalf, even so as we ourselves ought and might do, if we were there in our own proper person; In witness whereof we have subscribed these presents with our own proper hand, and thereunto caused the Seal of our said Order of the Garter to be put. Dated at our Manor of Greenwich, the xx. day of January, the year of our Lord 1584. and of our Reign the 27. ELIZABETH. NUM. LXIX. Another for Delivery of them to Henry the Fourth of France. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. ELizabeth, par la grace de Dieu Royne d' Angleterre, France, & Irlande, Defenseur de la Foy, etc. A tous ceux qui ces presents verront, salut. Comme le treshault, tresexcellent, & trespuissant Prince, nostre treseber & tresamè frere, & Cousin, le Roy tresebrestien Henry de France & de Navarre, tant pour sa treshaulte noblesse, dons, & vertus singuliers, dont Dieu l'a orné & l'a renommé, s'en est par tout divulguée & esparse, que pour tant plus augmenter & establir la bonne amitié & intelligence, qui est entre nous, & nostre dit bon frere, ait este n'aguares par nous & nos Confreres & Compagnons de nostre Ordre de la Jartiere, en nostre Chasteau de Windsor assembles, este● Chevalier, & Compagnon d'icelluy Ordre, en lieu là vacant, voulans & desirans affectucusement la dite Election sortir son deu effect & perfection, S●●voir faisons, que Nous confians es feautes, discretion's & diligences de nostre tres●her & bien aimé Cousin, le Comie de Shrewsbury, Chevalier & Compagnon de nostre dit Ordre, & de nostre feal & bien aimé Guillaume Dethick jartier, nostre premier Roy d' Arms, etc. d'icelluy Ordre, les avons Ordonne Commis & Deputé, Ordonnons, Commettons, & Deputons par ces presents, Nos Ambassadeurs, procureurs, & messengers especials, & leur donnons pouvoir authorité & mandement especial, d'eux trouver vers nostre dit bon frere, & de luy presenter & donner, de par nous, la Jarreti●re, Robe, Manteau, & Collier, & les autres ens●ignes par nous presentement a luy envoyées, avecques toutes les Ceremonies & Solennités deuës & accoustumées d'●stre presentées, baillées, & données en tel cas. Et oultre ce, fair & expedier toutes autres choses que à iccux sembleront necessaires en ●●st endroit, tout ainsi que fair deburions & pourrions, si y estions en nostre propre personne; En tesmoign de ce, avons soubseserit de nostre propre main ces presents, & y fait mettre le Seel du dit Ordre de la Jartiere. Donné a nostre maison de Greenwich, le 6. jour de Septembre, L'an de grace Mil cinque cens quatre vingts & seize, & de nostre Reign, le trente huiti●sme. ELIZABETH. NUM. LXX. Another for their Delivery to Christian the Fourth, King of Denmark. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. JAcobus, Dei gratiá, Angliae, Scotiae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, Fidei Defensor, etc. Vniversis & singulis, Patentes hasce litteras nostras lecturis & inspecturis, salutem. Cum multae justissime sint causae, cur nos serenissimo Principi, fratri, & consanguinco nostro charissimo, Christiano, Dei gratiá, Daniae, Norvegiae, Gothorum, Vandalorumque Regi, Omnia benevolentie atque amicitiae Officia praestare, atque honores (quantum in nobis est) maximos atque amplissimos tribuere debeamus; & ob cas causas (more institutóque Majorum qui maximis principibus & nobilissimis, atque exemiá virtute praeditis hominibus, hunc honorem semper habuerunt) Regem illum propinquitate atque amicitiâ nobis conjunctissimum in corum numerum asciverimus, totiusque societatis consensu elegerimus, qui celeberrimo atque illustrissimo Garterii (ut appellatur) Ordine apud nos honorantur; ideirco notum atq, testatum omnibus esse volumus, nos pro fide, prudentiá & diligentiâ Nobilissimi viri, Cognati nostri, Rogeri Comitis Rutlandiae, itemque spectabilis viri Gulielmi Segar, armigeri, Regis Armorum Ordinis, nobis spectatâ atque exploratâ, illos assignâsse, fecisse, & constituisse, perque hasce litteras assignare, facere, & constituere, certos & indubitatos Ambasciatorés, procuratores, & Oratores nostros, iisque potestatem, autboritatem & speciale mandatum dedisse ad praefatum Regem, fratrem, & consanguineum nostrum proficiscendi, e●que nostro nomine & pro nobis Subligaculum & Trabeam, & reliqua illustrissimi Ordinis nostri Garterii insignia, hoc tempore à nobis ad illum transmissa, deferendi, tradendi, atque donandi, ad omnia deniquè (quam poterunt officiosissime ac religiosissime) praestanda & peragenda, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis decus & Ornamentum, spectare videbuntur, perinde atque ipsi faceremus, si praesentes essemus. In cujus rei testimonium, hasce litteras nostras Patentes, propriâ manu nostrâ subscriptas, Sigillo praedicti Ordinis nostri communiri fecimus. Datae è Regiâ nostrâ Grenevicensi die 23. Junii, Anno Christi 1603. JACOBUS. NUM. LXXI. Another for delivery of them to Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg. Ex Lib. Collect. Tho. Row Eq. Aur. Ord. Canc. f. 206. JAcobus Dei gratia, Angliae, Scotiae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, fidei Defensor, etc. Vniversis & singulis praesentes has literas nostras visuris, inspecturis, vel audituris, salutem. cum illustrissimus Princeps, ac Dominus, Dominus Fredericus Dux Wirtembergensis, & Tekensis, Comes Montis belegardi, Dominus in Haydenheim, Consanguineus, & Affinis noster charissimus, plurimarum Heroicarum virtutum splendore, & gratiâ Nobilitatus, Orbem Christianum famâ nominis sui impleverit, eâque jam ante aliquot annos animum nostrum accenderit, ut eam amicitiam in personâ ejus, melioribus quibus potuimus Officiis, cultiorem redderemus, quam haereditario quodam jure Sanctissimae memoriae Nobilissimi Majores & antecessores nostri nobis commendârunt, Nullis autem Officiis erga tam charum Principem satisfacientes nobis, cum nuper elegerimus (conspirantibus omnibus omnium susfragiis) in illustrissimi Ordinis nostri Garterii Nobilissimam Societatem quo arctiori benevolentiae vinculo (si fieri posset) eum in dies singulos nobis magis magisque conjungeremus, utpote Principem vere Christianum, in cujus amicitiae vel maximè cupimus conquiescere, summoque desiderio aventes, ut quod non nisi auspicatissime incepimus ad optatum finem perducatur. Sciatis, quòd nos de fidelitate, prudentiâ, & diligentiâ praenobilis viri, plurimum nobis chari, Domini Roberti Spencer de Wormleiton, & spectabilis viri Gulielmi Dethick Equitis, Garteri, Regis Armorum Ordinis, plurimùm confidentes, ipsos nostros veros & indubitatos Legatos, Procuratores, & Oratores speciales assignavimus, fecimus, & constituimus, assignamus, facimus, & constituimus per praesentes, dantes eis potestatem, authoritatem, & mandatum speciale, ad praefatum consanguineum nostrum charissimum proficiscendi, eiq, deferendi, & donandi, nostro nomine & pro nobis, Subligaculum & Trabeam, & reliqua vestimenta, insigniaque illustrissimi Ordinis nostri Garterii, per nos ad praesens ad illum transmissa, caeteraque peragendi, quam officiosissime religiosissimèque poterunt, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis decus, & ornamentum quoquo modo putabunt pertinere, baud aliter ac si ipsi faceremus, si praesentes essemus. In cujus rei testimonium has litteras nostras, manu nostrâ subscriptas, Sigillo dicti Ordinis nostri Garterii communiri fecimus. Datae Manerio nostro de Woodstock, decimo octavo die Mensis Septembris, Anno regni nostri Angliae, Franciae, & Hiberniae primo, & Scotiae 37. 1603. JACOBUS. NUM. LXXII. Another for their delivery to Maurice, Prince of Aurange. MS. in Bibl. Hatton. f. 227. b. JAcobus &c, Come uibil magis Officium Regale deceat, quam viris virtutes & fortitudinis famâ illustrissimis honores maximos & amplissimos tribuere; Quorum in numero, singulari virtute emicuit, hâc nostrê, aetate, illustrissimus consanguineus noster, Mauritius, Princeps Auriaci, Comes Nassoviae, etc. Nos more institutoque Majorum, qui tantis viris, quae apud ipsos charissima sunt honoris Monumenta, communicare soliti sunt, praedictum principem Mauritium cum amicitiâ nobis conjunctissimum, tùm propter merita sua dilectissimum, in eorum numerum ascripsimus, totiusque societatis consensu elegimus, qui celeberimo atque illustrissimo Garterii (ut appellatur) Ordine apud nos honorautur. ●dcirco notum atque testatum omnibus esse volumus, nos pro fide, prudentiâ, & diligentiâ nobilissimi Radolphi Winwood, Equitis Aurati, nostrique apud foederatas Belgii Provincias Legati; Itemque spectabilis viri Gulielmi Seagar, Garterii, nomine, Principalis apud nos Armorum Regis, à nobis spectatâ, atque exploratâ, illos assignasse, fecisse, & constituisse, perque, has literas assignare, facere, & constituere certos & indubitatos Ambasciatores, Procuratores, & Oratores nostros, iisque potestatem, authoritatem, & speciale mandatum dedisse, ad praefatum principem Consanguineum nostrum proficiscendi, eique nostro nomine, & pro nobis, quedam Garterii insignia (caeteris suo tempore postea praestandis) hoc tempore à nobis ad illum transmissa deferendi atque donandi, ad omnia denique, quam poterunt officiosissimè, & religiosissime & peragenda, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis decus & Ornamentum spectare videbuntur, perinde atque ipsi faceremus, si praesentes essemus. In cujus rei, etc. Date è Palatio nostro Westmonasteriensi, vicesimo quarto die Decembris, Anno Domini 1612. NUM. LXXIII. Another for their Delivery to Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden. Ex Lib. Collect. praef. Tho. Row. fol. 207. CArolus, Dei gratià, Magnae Britanniae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, fidei Defensor, etc. Vniversis & singulis hasce literas nostras Lecturis aut inspecturis, salutem. cum serenissimus ac potentissimus Princeps, frater, & consanguineus noster charissimus Gustavus Adolphus, Dei gratiâ, Suecorum, Gottorum, Vandalorumq, Rex, virtutis suae, ac nobilitatis splendore, rerumque gestarum gloriâ ac nominis sui famâ Orbem Christianum impleverit: ad nostrum officium pertinere putavintus, illi non solùm omnia benevolentiae, atque amicitiae officia, tanquam principi nobis conjunctissimo, & amicissimo praestare, sed etiam honores (quantum in nobis est) maximos atque amplissimos tribuere, eôsque inprimis quibus militaris in summo duce virtus solet decorari; pro more igitur & instituto Majorum nostrorum Regumi Angliae, qui maximis Principibus, & eximiâ virtute ac nobilitate praeditis hominibus hunc honorem habuerunt, Nos Regem illum, communibus omnium Sociorum suffragiis, in celeberrimi Ordinis Garterii (ut vocatur) collegium elegimus. Et proinde notum & testatum omnibus esse volumus, Nos pro fidelitate, prudentiâ & diligentiâ nobilissimi viri de Conclavi nostro, Jacobi Spenei de Wormston, Equitis aurati, & spectabilium virorum Petri Yong armigeri, unius ex nobilibus nobis in cubiculo praesentiae nostrae ministrantibus, & Henrici Saint Georgii, Armigeri, unius ex Heraldis nostris ad Arma, nobis spectatâ atque exploratâ, illos assignasse, fecisse, & constituisse, perque hasce Literas assignare, facere, & constituere, certos & indubitatos Legatos, Oratores, & Procuratores nostros, iisque potestatem, authoritatem, & speciale mandatum dedisse, ad praefatum Regem, fratrem, & consanguineum nostrum proficiscendi, eique nomine nostro, & pro nobis, Subligaculum, & Trabeam, & reliqua illustrissimi Ordinis nostri Garterii insignia, jam à nobis ad illum transmissa, deferendi, tradendi, atque donandi, ad omnia denique (quam poterunt officiocissimè ac religiocissimè) praestanda & peragenda, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis decus, & Ornamentum pertinere videbuntur: perinde atque, ipsi faceremus, si praesentes essemus. In cujus rei testimonium hasce Literas nostras Patentes, propriâ manu nostrâ subscriptas, Sigillo dicti Ordinis nostri Garterii communiri fecimus. Datae è Palatio nostro Westmonasteriensi, vicesimo quarto die Junii, Anno Domini 1627. Stilo Angliae. NUM. LXXIV. Another for Delivery of them to Charles Prince Elector. Ibidem, fol. 213. CArolus, Dei gratiâ Magnae Britanhiae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, fidei Defensor, Periscelidis Ordinisque Georgiani Supremus, etc. universis & singulis hasce literas nostras lecturis, aut inspecturis salutem. cum nos omnesque & singuli, illustrissimi Ordinis Garterii Socii, Equites, decimo octavo die Aprilis, Anno regni nostri nono, apud Palatium nostrum Albae Aulae Westmonasterii Capitulariter congregati, charissinum nostrum Nepotem, unicae, & dilectissimae Sororis nostrae modò filium natu maximum, Carolum Principeur Imperii Electorem, Comitem Palatinumque non solùm propter Regii nostri Sanguinis communionem, & propinquitatem, sed etiam ad fovendas, & excitandas ineuntis aetatis virtutes, mirificè, cum admiratione, & spe totius Orbis Christiani pullulantes, tàm in sui Principatûs administratione, quam in rei militaris scientiâ more, & instituto majorum nostrorum Regum Angliae (quibus solenne fuit nobilissimos quosque, & summa virtute praeditos Principes, hoc honore decorare) communibus suffragiis, in celeberrimum nostri Ordinis Garterii Collegium & Societatem co-optavimus, & elegimus; Proinde notum esse volumus, Nos pro fidelitate, prudentiâ, & diligentiâ, spectatissimi viri Gulielmi Boswell armigeri, procuratoris nostri Regiorum in Belgia negotiorum, assiduè vigilantissimi; Nec non Johannis Philipoti Armigeri, Somerset, unius ex Heraldis nostris, in bisce mysteriis eruditi (jàm vice & munere Garterii Armorum Regis, propter ejus debilitatem & invalitudinem fungentis) n●bis cognitá, & exploratâ, illos assignasse, fecisse, & constituisse, perque hasce literas assignare, facere, & constituere certos, & indubitatos Legatos, Oratores, & Procuratores nostros; iisque potestatem, auctoritatem, & speciale mandatum dedisse, ad praefatum Principem, & Nepotem nostrum proficiscendi, eique nostro nomine, & pro nobis Periscelidem, & inauratam gemmisque distinctam Sancti Georgii imaginem, & symbolum, duo praecipua illustrissimi Ordinis nostri Garterii insignia, jam à nobis ad illum transmissa deferendi, tradendi, donandi, & induendi, modo & formâ institutioni illius Ordinis maximè congruentibus, & ad omnia denique quam poterunt officiosissimè, & religiosissimè praestanda, & peragena, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis decus & Ornamentum in hac parte pertinere videbuntur. In cujus rei testimonium hasce literas nostras Patentes, propriâ manu nostrâ subscriptas, Sigillo dicti Ordinis Garterii communiri fecimus. Datae apud Palatium tostrum in Civitate nostrâ Eboracensi, vicesimo octavo die Mensis Maii, Anno regni nostri Magnae Britanniae, Franciae, & Hiberniae nono, Annoque Domini 1633. NUM. LXXV. Another for their Delivery to Charles King of Sweden. Ex ipso Autogr. CArolus Secundus, Dei Gratiâ, Angliae, Scotiae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, fidei Defensor, atque Praenobilis Georgiani Ordinis, vulgò à Periscelide Nuncupati, Supremus Magister, Omnibus ad quos praesentes hae literae pervenerint, Salutem. cum Serenissimus ac Potentissimus Princeps ac Dominus, Carolus, eâdem gratiâ Suecorum, Gothorum, Vandalorumque Rex, & Princeps haereditarius, Magnus Princeps Finlandiae, Dux Schoniae, Esthoniae, Livoniae, Careliae, Bremae, Verdae, Stetini, Pomeraniae, Cassubiae & Vandaliae, Princeps Rugiae, Dominus Ingriae & Wismariae, nec non Comes Palatinus Rheni, Bavariae, Juliae, Cliviae, & Montium Dux, Frater, Consanguineus, ac Amicus noster Charissimus: tàm propter natalium splendorem & eximias ill●s, quae in eo conspiciuntur supra aetatem, virtutes, quam propter habita ad praeclara Regiorum suorum Antecessorum facinora, speciatim quae à serenissimo & potentissimo Principe Domino Gustavo Adolpho nuper Suecorum Rege sunt gesta, à quibus non parum honoris praefato Nostro Georgiano Ordini accessit, utpote qui ejus erat Commilito, ut denique sanctior illa amicitia quae inter Regios utrinque Nostros Praedecessores faelicitèr intercessit, magìs excolatur atque indies firmior reddatur, in praefatum Nostrum Ordinem fuerit in pleno ejus Capitulo electus & cooptatus. Omnibus quae illud impertiendum & notificandum Nostrarum duximus esse partium. Hâc de causà, atque ad magìs honorificam ejusdem rei declarationem, nec non ut quae adhuc restant ad consummandum hoc tam gratum opus perimpleantur, ejusdem Ordinis integrum habilum, Ornatum, & Insignia per manus perdilecti & perquam fidelis Consanguinei & Consiliarii Nostri Caroli Comitis Carliolensis, Vice-Comitis Howard de Morpeth, Baronis Dacre de Gillesland, locum-tenentis Nostri Generalis in Comitatibus Westmorlandiae & Cumbriae, Nostrique jàm ad praefatum Serenissimum & Potentissimum Principem, Dominum Carolum, Suecorum, etc. Regem Legati Extraordinarii; Et spectabilis Viri, Domini Henrici St. George, è primariis officialibus Nostris ad Arma unius, vulgò Richmond Herald curavimus transferenda; Dantes & Concedentes eisdem Nostris in hâc parte Plenipotentiariis, plen●m & omnimodam facultatem & Mandatum speciale, ut ad praefatum Serenissimum & Potentissimum Regem Suecorum, etc. Fratrem Consanguineum, & Amicum Nostrum, se conferant ei supramemorata Insignia, Ornatum habitumque Nostri praefati Ordinis, à nobis & ex Nostra parte, peramanter offerant. Illis ipsum induant, jusjurandum in verba Statutorum dicti Ordinis ab eo accipiant, caeteráq, praestent omnia quae ad Nostrum Ordinisque d●cus in similibus inaugurationis solennibus fieri assolent, & adeo rit● & honòrificè exequenda magìs inservire judicabunt, non secus atque nosipsi mandare aut perficere possemus, dato quòd illic coràm adessemus. Dabantur in Palatio Nostro Albae-Aulae apud Westmonasterium, Vicessimo nono die Mensis Novembris; Annóque Domini 1668. NUM. LXXVI. A Warrant for delivery of the Duke of Savoy's Habit to Garter. Ex Cod. MS. in Offic. mag. Guardrob. Reges voc. Warr. Dormant tempore Hen. 8. etc. p. 17. WE will and command you, to deliver to Sir Gilbert Dethick, Principal King at Arms, for the Livery of the Order of the Garter, to be carried by him to our dear and wellbeloved Cousin the Duke of Savoy, newly elected and chosen to be one of the Companions of the said Order, One Mantle of Blue Velvet, lined with white Taffeta, and one Kirtle, lined with white Sar●●net, with one Robe● lace of Silk, and Gold, and Silk Ribbon for the said Robes, and as much Crimson Velvet as will cover one Book of the Order of the said Garter, with Silk Lace to the said Book, one Case to be made, covered with Crimson Velvet, garnished with passamain Lace of Gold, lined with Crimson Satin, and quilts of the same Satin, for the carriage of one rich Collar of Gold, of the Order of the Garter, one pair of trussing Sheets, two great Coffers covered double with Hide Leather, double lined, and bound with Plates, with great Girths of Leather to them, one Packsaddle, with all things necessary to the same, for carriage of the said Robes. And these our Letters, etc. Given at our Palace at Westminster the 19 day of October in the first and second years of our Reign. To our trusty Sir Edward Waldgrave Master of our Great Wardrobe. NUM. LXXVII. A Warrant for the Delivery of the Habit of Frederick the Second King of Denmark. Ex Codice MS. in Offic. Mag. Gardrob. Regis vocat. Lib. quart. Warr. particular. p. 446. Elizabeth R. WE will and command you to deliver to the Lord Willoughby, for the Livery of the Garter for the King of Denmark, 20 yards of Purple Velvet for his Robe, and 18 yards of Crimson Velvet for his Kirtle, and also 26 yards of White Sarsenet for lining of them. Item, a Scutcheon richly embroidered with Damask Gold and Purls, one Lace for the same Robe of Silk and Gold, with Buttons and Tassels of Silk and Gold. NUM. LXXVIII. A Warrant for Delivery of the Habit and Hatchments of the French King, Henry the Third. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Elizabeth R. WE will and command you immediately upon the sight hereof, to deliver, or cause to be delivered, for the several uses hereafter ensuing, the parcels following; that is to say, first, for a Livery of the honourable Order of the Garter, for our dear Brother, Henry the French King, one Kirtle, Hood, and Tippet, containing 18 yards of Velvet Crimson, one Mantle containing 20 yards of Velvet Purple, and twenty six yards of Taffeta White, to line them, one Cushion of Velvet Purple, with Fringes, Buttons, and Tassels of Gold, and Purple Silk, with a Pillow of Fustian stuffed with Down, one double Banner containing 16 yards of Velvet Crimson, and Blue, embroidered on both sides with the Arms of France and Poland, with Cloth of Gold, Cloth of Silver, Venice Gold, Silver and Silk, one Banner Staff painted in Oil Colour, one Helm of Steel, all gilt, and Mantles to the same Helm, containing two yards and a half of Cloth of Gold, lined with one yard and an half of Satin, white, two knopps of Wood gilded with burnished Gold, for the same Mantle, with silk Tassels to them, a Crown of Wood, with the Cr●st carved, and gilt with burnished gold. A Sword having the Pommel, and Hilts all gilt; one Scabbard for the same with a gilt Chape, and a Girdle, both being covered with Cloth of G●ld, containing one yard, one Book of the Statutes of the Order aforesaid illumined, covered with Velvet Crimson, and edged with gold Lace, three great Escocheons, whereof one of our Arms, another of the French Kings Arms, both within the Garter, under Crowns Imperial painted, and gilded with fine Gold in Oil, upon fine Holland Cloth set in Frames of Wainscot, likewise painted and gilt, and the third of the Arms of our right trusty, and right well-beloved Cousin, and Counsellor the Earl of Derby, likewise painted and gilded in like Holland Cloth, and set in a like Frame, all placed in the Chapel, wherein the said King was installed, one Plate of the said King's Arms, engraven in Copper, gilt, and enamelled, fixed within his Stall, within our Chapel, at Windsor. And that ye content, and pay, as well for the making, imbroidering and painting of the premises, as also for the carrying of the H●tchments of the said King, to our castle at Windsor, and also that you deliver two Trunks for the Carriage of the Parcels aforesaid into France, etc. And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant, and discharge for delivery of all the premises. Given under our Signet, at our Manor of Greenwich the 22. day of April, in the 27. year of our Reign, Anno 1582. To our trusty and wellbeloved Servant, john Fortescue Esquire, Master of our great Wardrobe. NUM. LXXIX. A Warrant for Delivery of the Habit of Christian the Fourth King of Denmark. Ex Collect. E.W.G. James R. WE will and command you to deliver, or cause to be delivered, to our most dear and wellbeloved Brother the King of Denmark one Robe of Purple Velvet of our Noble Order of the Garter, and one Kirtle, Hood, and Surcoat of Crimson Velvet of our said Order lined with White Taffeta, bordered with Fustian, and sewed with Silk, with a long String, Button, and Tassel to the same, in such manner and form as to the said Robes belongeth, and also one Garter to set upon the shoulder of the same Robe, richly embroidered upon Blue Velvet, with sundry sorts of Pearls, Purls, Plates, Venice Twists, and Silk; And these our Letters signed with our own hand, shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under our Signet at our Honour of Hampton-Court, the xxviii. day of September in the fourth year of our Reign, of England, France, and Ireland, and of Scotland the fortieth. To our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Roger Aston Knight Master of our Great Wardrobe. NUM. LXXX. A Warrant for Delivery of the Ensigns of the Order to be sent to the Emperor Maximilian the Second. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Elizabeth R. By the Queen. RIght trusty, and right wellbeloved Cousin, we greet you well. And whereas we have now resolved to send forthwith our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Sussex, unto our good Brother and Cousin the Emperor, and have also appointed Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter, Principal King at Arms, to attend upon our said Cousin of Sussex, in the presenting unto the said Emperor the Robes of our Order of the Garter, and such other things as belong thereunto. We will and command you to deliver, or cause to be delivered, unto the said Garter, all such things, as you have by our Order given heretofore unto you, caused to be prepared for this purpose, that is to say, the great Collar of Gold, with the little George, the Garter, the great George with the little Chain, and all other things that you have made ready to be sent in this journey. And these our Letters with a Bill of the said Garter's, testifying the receipt of the same, shall be your sufficient Warrant in this behalf. Given under our Signet at our Palace of Westminster, the xx. of May, the ninth year of our Reign 1567. To our right trusty, and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor, the Marquis of Winchester, our high Treasurer of England. NUM. LXXXI. A Warrant for Delivery of the Collar and George to Edward Prince Palatine. Ex lib. vocat. The Book of Warrants in the jewel-house. Charles R. OUR will and pleasure is, that you deliver to the use of our entirely beloved Cousin Edward Prince Palatine one of the Companions of our most Noble Order of the Garter, one Collar of Gold, containing 26 Garters with Red Roses enameled in the midst of them and 26 Knots, the Collar weighing 30 Ounces Troy weight; As also one rich George on horseback, with a Dragon to be fastened and pendant thereto, And for so doing this shall be your Warrant. Given under the Signet of our said Order at our Court at Whitehall, Z this 17. of June, in the 13. year of our Reign. By his Majesties the Sovereign's special command. De Vic. To our trusty and wellbeloved Servant, Sir Gilbert Talbot Master of our Jewelhouse. NUM. LXXXII. A Warrant for the Delivery of the Collar, George, and Garter for Charles King of Sweden. Ex eod. Lib. Charles R. WHereas we have named and appointed our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor Charles Earl of Carlisle our Ambassador extraordinary to our good Brother the King of Sweden, and our trusty and wellbeloved Henry St. George Esq one of our Officers at Arms, to invest our said good Brother, lately Elected Knight of our most Noble Order of the Garter, with the whole Habit, Ensigns, and Ornaments of the same. These are to will and require you to deliver unto our said Cousin, and our said Officer at Arms, or to either of them the great Collar, George, and Garter, and what other things you may have provided on our former Warrant for that occasion, And this with a Note under their or either of their bands, mentioning the particulars to be delivered by you, and acknowledging the Receipt of them, shall be your sufficient discharge. Given under our Signet Manual the 29. of November, 1668. By the Sovereign's special command. De Vic. To our trusty and wellbeloved. Sir Gilbert Talbot Master of our Jewelhouse, and our other Officers of the same. NUM. LXXXIII. A Warrant for Delivery of the Collar, George, and Garter, for john George Duke of Saxony. Ex Libro praed. Charles R. WHereas we have named and appointed our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Thomas higgon's Knight, our Envoye extraordinary into Germany and Tho. St. George Esquire, one of our Officers at Arms, to carry to and invest our dear Cousin the Elector of Saxony, late Elected Knight of our most Noble Order of the Garter, with the whole Habit, Ensigns, and Ornaments of the same, These are to will and require you to deliver unto the said Sir Thomas higgon's, and Tho. St. George, or to eitehr of them, the great Collar, George, and Garter, and what ever other things you may have provided on our former Warrants for that occasion; And this with a Note under their or either of their bands, mentioning all the particulars so delivered by you, and acknowledging the Receipt of them, shall be your sufficient discharge. Given under our Signet manual this 29. of November, 1668. By the Sovereign's special command. De Vic. To our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Gilbert Talbot Master of our Jewelhouse, and our other Officers of the same. NUM. LXXXIV. A Receipt given to the jewel-house upon delivery of the Ensigns of the Order for Charles King of Sweden. Ex Lib. vocat. The Day-Book in the jewel-house, p. 321. DEcemb. 31. 1668. Delivered unto Henry St. George Esq one of his Majesties. Officers at Arms, by virtue of his Majesty's Sign Manual, bearing date the 29. of November last passed, viz. Imprimis, 1 Onyx George of the Order set round with 38 large Rose Diamonds, & 4 smaller Rose Diamonds on a Loop to the said George. Also one Garter of the Order set with 202 Rose Diamonds in the Letters, 6 between the words, and 24 about 4 Ilot boles. Also on the Buckle of the said Garter 11 great Rose Diamonds, and 10 small ones, and on the Tabb 3 large Rose Diamonds, and 23 smaller, Also one Collar and George of the Order, Gold enameled, weight 30 ounces 10 penny weight 6 grains, with three Cases of Crimson Velvet, fringed with Gold Lace. All which is acknowledged to be received by me Hen. St. George. NUM. LXXXV. Another Receipt given for the Ensigns of the Order sent to john George Duke of Saxony. Ex Lib. vocat. The Day-Book in the jewel-house, p. 324. FEbr. 26. 1668. Delivered to Sir Thomas higgon's according to his Majesty's Warrant, bearing date the 29. of Novemb. 1668. Imprimis, One Collar of the Order of the Garter, consisting of 21 Roses, and 21 Knots, poise 30 ounces 16 penny weight, As also one rich Aggot George set about with 32 rich Diamonds, and three Sparks in the Ring, Also a rich Diamond Garter, all the Letters of Diamonds, and at the Buckles end 9 fair Faucet Diamonds, and at the Loop end 9 very fair Faucet Diamonds, and 8 smaller Diamonds. Also one enameled George, poise one Ounce. All these I have received out of his Majesty's jewel-house, with Cases to them, Tho. higgon's. NUM. LXXXVI. A Warrant to provide Necessaries for Transportation of the King of Sweden's Robes. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. THese are to pray and require your Lordship, that you cause to be provided with all speed, these Necessaries following for the Transportation of the King of sweden R●bes, and other things belonging to the Order of the Garter; namely, one pair of fine Holland Sheets of two breadths and a half, and three els long; Two Trunks for the packing up, and transportation of the Robes, Collar, and George's, and two Sweet Bags of Taffeta, to lay amongst the said Robes: for the doing whereof this shall be your Lordship's Warrant. Whitehall this 27. of April, 1627. To the Right Honourable the Earl of Denbeigb, Master of our Great Wardrobe. NUM. LXXXVII. A Warrant to provide several particulars for the Investiture of the Duke of Saxony. Book of Warrants in the Gr●at Wardrobe, commencing at Michaelmas 1667. fol. 25. THese are to signify unto your Lordship, That it is his Majesty's express pleasure, That you do provide or cause to be provided in part of the Habit of the most Noble Order of the Garter, which his Majesty is now sending unto the Elector of Saxony Knight Elect of the said Order, and towards the furnishing of the Officer of Arms, who is to go upon that Employment both with a Robe for himself, and such other necessaries as are to be used for his Majesty's honour and service on that occasion, the following particulars. One Black Velvet Cap. and Feather, such and of the same fashion as the Knights of the Order do wear on St. George's day, when the Feast is kept and solemnised. One Girdle and Hangers of Crimson Velvet. One large Cushion of Blue and Purple Velvet, with Buttons, Fringe, and Tassels of the like coloured Silk and Gold. Fine Holland Sheets to fold the Habit in Two Trunks to carry them. One Mantle for Garter or the Officer of Arms that goes in his place, to officiate upon that occasion. The said Mantle to be made up of 18 yards of Scarlet Satin, and 10 yards of White Deux Caps Taffeta to line the same, and to have an embroidered Scutcheon on the left shoulder, and Laces and Tassels of Silk and Gold, alike in every respect unto that Mantle which Garter wears upon St. George's day, and at the Chapters of the Order. One Scutcheon with the King's Arms in a quarter of the Order, and a handsome gilded Border or Frame. Two other Scutcheons without arms, having only the Garter about them, to put in them the Elector of Saxony's arms, in a handsome gilded Frame. And these shall be your sufficient Warrant, dated at Whitehall this 17. of July 1668. E. Manchester. To the Right Honourable Edward Earl of Sandwich, Master of his Majesty's Great Wardrobe, and to the Officers of the same. NUM. LXXXVIII. A Warrant for the Habit of the Order, and other Necessaries, to be used at the Investiture of Charles King of Sweden. Ibidem, fol. 29. b. Charles R. OUR will ●nd pleasure is, That you prepare or cause to be prepared for the King of Sweden now Knight Elect of our Order of the Garter, the whole Habit of our said Order, together with a Mantle for the Officer of Arms, whom we shall appoint to go therewith, and all other Necessaries as you had them specified in a Warrant lately directed unto you for the Habit to be sent to the Elector of Saxony, and besides one yard and half of sky colour Velvet, wherewith to cover two Statute Books of the Order, And for so doing this shall be your Warrant. Given under our Sign manual this 30. of August, 1668. By the Sovereign's special Command. De Vic Chancellor of the Garter. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor, Edward Earl of Sandwich, Master of our Great Wardrobe, or in his absence to his Deputy. NUM. LXXXIX. A Warrant for allowance of Diet and Reward to Garter, in a Legation with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. By the King. TRusty and wellbeloved, we greet you well, willing and commanding you, that of such our Treasure, as remaineth in your custody to our use, ye deliver to our trusty and wellbeloved Servant, Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter, Principal King at Arms, attending by our commandment upon our right trusty, and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor, the Lord Marquis of Northampton, in his Embassage to our good Brother, the French King, ten shillings by the day for his Diet, and also by way of our Reward ten shillings by the day, amounting in the whole to twenty shillings by the day, and to allow him for the Posting and Transportation both outward and homeward, as well of himself and his train, as also of certain Robes of our Order, and other things necessary for that Voyage, such sums of Money as by his Bill subscribed with his own hand, he shall signify unto you to have employed in that behalf, as also further to allow him, for the Diet of Chester Herald after the old rate, that is to say five shillings by the day, and five shillings in reward by the day, and for the Diet of Rougedragon Pursuivant two shillings and six pence by the day, and two shillings six pence in reward also by the day, and also for their posting Moneys, according to the tenor aforesaid, beginning the 28. of April last passed, until the return of our said right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor. And these our Letters shall be your Warrant sufficient in that behalf. Given under our Signet, at our Manor of Greenwich, the eleventh of May in the fifth year of our Reign. E. Somerset. W. North. J. Bedford. J. Warwick. E. Clinton. Jo. Gate. To our trusty and wellbeloved Councillor, Sir William Cavendishe, Knight, Treasurer of our Chamber. NUM. XC. Another. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. Elizabeth R. ELizabeth, by the Grace of God Queen of England, etc. To the Treasurer and Chamberlains of our Exchequer greeting. We will and command you, of such Treasure as i● or shall come into the Receipt of our said Exchequer, to deliver or cause to be delivered, to our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter, Principal King of Arms, attending by our commandment upon our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, the Earl of Sussex in his Embassy, now to our good Brother the Emperor, the sum of 10 s. by the day for his Diet, and also by way of our Reward other 10 s. by the day, amounting in the whole to 20 s. by the day; the said allowance of 20 s. by the day to begin 7 days before his arrival at the Sea side, when he shall pass over the Seas in his journey, and so to continue until his return unto our presence, upon the end of his Voyage. Willing you further, for his better furniture in this journey, to advance unto him beforehand his said Diets and Rewards after the rate of 20 s. by the day, for two Months. And also to allow unto him upon his return, for the posting and transportation both outward and homeward, of himself and his men, and for certain Robes of our Order, and other things necessary for his Voyage, such sums of Money as by his Bill subscribed with his own hand, he shall signify unto you to have been by him disbursed in that behalf, And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in that behalf. Yeven under our Privy Seal at our Manor of Richmond, the 14. day of June in the ninth year of our Reign. To the Treasurer and Chamberlains of our Exchequer. NUM. XCI. Another for like Allowances to Garter and Somerset. Ex Collect. A. V. W. ORder is taken this present— of— Anno 1582. that of such the Queen's Majesty's Treasure as remaineth in your custody, you shall make payment unto Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter, Principal King of Arms, and to Somerset Herald of Arms, the sum of Clix l. in full payment of a Bill of CCiv l. signed by them for their Diets, Rewards, Transportations, and Posting Charges, going with the Lord Willughby of Eresby, to Frederick the Second, King of Denmark, and in their return again, according to a Privy Seal granted unto them for the said Allowances. Dated at Greenwich the 28. day of June, Anno 24. of the the Queen's Majesty's Reign. And these shall be your sufficient Warrant for the payment thereof, Written the said day and year. To our loving Friends Mr. Stoneley, and the four Tellers of the Queen's Majesty's Receipt. NUM. XCII. A Privy Seal for like Allowances to Clarenceux and Somerset. Ex Collect. A. V. W. Elizabeth R. ELizabeth, etc. To the Treasurer and Chamberlains of our Exchequer greeting, Whereas we have appointed our wellbeloved Servants Robert Cook, alias Clarenceux, one of the Kings at Arms, and Robert Glover, alias Somerset, one of our Heralds at Arms, to pass at this present into France with our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Derby, by us sent in special Ambassade to our good Brother and Cousin the French King, for certain our affairs of importance, and have been contented to allow unto the said Clarenceux for his Diets, ten shillings by the day, and ten shillings more by the day in Reward. And to the said Somerset five shillings by the day for his Diets, and five shillings more by the day in Reward. We will and command you of our Treasury at the Receipt of our said Exchequer, not only to pay or cause to be paid unto the said Clarenceux and Somerset, and to either of them, or their assigns, their said several Diets and Rewards, from the 17. day of January in this present 27. year of our Reign, until they return to our presence, but also to advance unto them presently impressed out of their said several Diets and Rewards beforehand, the sum of one hundred pounds, viz. to Clarenceux one hundred Marks, and to Somerset xxxiii l. vis. viij d. And further to pay unto them hereafter, all such sums of Money as they shall signify unto you, by their several Bills subscribed with their several hands, to have been by them severally disbursed for the Charges of their posting and transportation in this their journey, And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under our Privy Seal, at our Manor of Grenewiche, the 28. day of January, in the seven and twentieth year of our Reign. NUM. XCIII. A Warrant for like Allowances to Garter. Ex Collect. E. W. G. James R. JAmes by the Grace of God, etc. To our Commissioners for the Office of High Treasurer of England, Greeting, Whereas We do send over to Prince Maurice of Nassau, our Servant William Segar Esq Garter King of Arms, to carry the George and Garter to the said Prince: We have assigned to him for his Charges, an allowance of 30 s. by the day, whereof we will and command you of our Treasure in the Receipt of our Exchequer, to pay or cause to be paid to the said Garter o● his Assigns, the said allowance of 30 s. by the day to begin from the 24. day of this Month of December, and to continue to the day of his return to our presence. And our further pleasure is, that you advance unto him by way of impressed, the sum of fifty pounds, to be defalked upon his said entertainment. And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under our Privy Seal at our Palace of Westminster the 26. day of December, in the 10. year of our Reign, of England, France, and Ireland, and of Scotland the six and fortieth. NUM. XCIV. Another. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. ORder is taken this 15. of May 1627. by virtue of his Majesty's Letters of Privy Seal, dated the 8. of the same, that you deliver and pay of such his Majesty's Treasure, as remaineth in your charge, unto Sir William Seagar Knight, alias Garter, Principal King of Arms, employed by his Majesty's Commandment for the carrying over the Order of the Garter to his Majesty's entirely beloved Cousin, Henry Prince of Orange, the sum of threescore pounds by advance, upon his allowance of xv s. per diem for his Diet, and xv s. per diem by way of Reward, to be afterwards defalked upon his said Diet and Reward, And these together with his acquittance, shall be your discharge herein. Marlburgh. Rich. Weston. NUM. XCV. A Privy Seal for Allowances of Entertainment and extraordinary expenses to Richmond Herald. Ex ipso Autographo. Charles' the Second by the Grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. To the Commissioners of our Treasury now being, and to the Treasurer, under Treasurer, and Commissioners of our Treasury for the time being, Greeting. Whereas we have appointed our trusty and wellbeloved Henry St. George Esq Richmond Herald, to attend our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Councillor Charles Earl of Carlitle, our Ambassador extraordinary into Sweden, there to perform the Ceremonies at the delivering of the Garter unto our good Brother the King of Sweden. And have also thought fit to allow unto him 30 s. by the day for his entertainment during the service, to commence from the day of the said Earl of Carlitle's departure from and be continued till his return into our presence inclusive. Our will and pleasure therefore ●s, and we do hereby authorize and require you, out of such our Treasury as now is, on which hereafter shall be and remain in the Receipt of our Exchequer, to pay or cause to be paid unto the said Henry St. George, or his Assigns, the said allowance of 30 s. by the day, advancing unto him the sum of 250 l. to be accounted and adjusted at his return, according to the rate of 30 s. by the day. And you are also to pay unto him or his Assigns, such extraordinary expenses in that service as one of our Principal Secretaries of State shall approve of, And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under our Privy Seal at our Palace of Westminster the 30. day of November i● the xx. year of our Reign. NUM. XCVI. A Privy Seal for Allowances of constant entertainment, and extraordinary expenses to Somerset Herald. Ex ipso Autogr. Charles' the Second by the Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. To the Commissioners of our Treasury, Treasurer, and under-Treasurer of our Exchequer now and for the time being, Greeting. Whereas we have employed our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Thomas higgon's Knight, to go in quality of our Envoy Extraordinary to the Elector of Saxony, and to carry with him the Order of the Garter to that Prince, Our will and pleasure therefore is, and we do hereby require and authorize you, out of such our Treasure as now is or hereafter shall be remaining in the Receipt of our Exchequer, to pay or cause to be paid unto the said Sir Thomas higgon's or his Assigns, the sum of three pounds by the day of lawful Money of England, for his entertainment in the service aforesaid, to commence from the day of his departure from our presence, and that you advance and pay unto him the said Sir Thomas higgon's or his Assigns, in part and upon account of the said Allowance, the sum of 300 l. of like lawful English Money. And our further will and pleasure is, and we do hereby likewise authorize and require you, out of such our Treasure as aforesaid, to pay or cause to be paid unto Thomas St. George Esq, Somerset Herald at Arms, whom we have also employed to attend the performance of the Ceremony to be used in this service, the sum of 30 s. by the day, for his constant entertainment in our said service, to commence from the day of his departure from our presence. And that you also advance and pay unto the said Thomas St. George, or his Assigns, in part of the said allowance of 30 s. by the day, the sum of 150 l. of lawful Money of England, which said several sums of 3 l. by the day, and 30 s. by the day, are to be continued unto them unto the day of their return unto our presence respectively, and to be received without account, impress, or other charge, to be set upon the said Sir Thomas higgon's, and Thomas St. George, or either of them their Executors, Administrators, or Assigns for the same. And we also direct, that such further allowance be made unto the said Sir Thomas higgon's, for his extraordinary expense in this our service, as you our Commissioners of our Treasury now being, or our Treasurer, under-Treasurer, and Commissioners of our Treasury for the time being shall think fit, and that such allowance be likewise made, for the extraordinary expense of the said Thomas St. George in our service, as shall be thought fit and approved by one of our Principal Secretaries of State, And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under our Privy Seal at our Palace of Westminster the fifteenth day of August, in the 20. year of our Reign. NUM. XCVII. A Warrant for Post-horses, etc. for Garter's use. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. WHereas the Bearer hereof, William Seagar, Garter, Principal King at Arms, is upon some special occasions, concerning his Majesty's service, to make his speedy repair into the Low Countries, and in his journey to the Sea side, shall have need of Post-horses, for himself and others employed in that service, and when they come to the Port of their embarquing, shipping, for transportation; These are therefore in his Majesty's name, to will and command you, and every of you, to whom it may appertain, to see the said William Seagar, furnished from place to place with six able and sufficient Post-horses, And likewise also to give your assistance for getting of convenient shipping for their transportation, and to suffer them quietly to embark together, with such Trunks, and other necessaries as they shall have use of, without let, hindrance, or other molestation; hereof you may not fail, as you will answer the contrary; From the Court at Whitehall this 30. of December 1612. J. Northampton. J. Suffolk. E. Worcester. E. Wotten. Ju●. Caesar. E. Zouch. C. edmond's. To all Mayors, Sheriffs, Justices of Peace, Vice-admirals', Customers, Comptrollers, Searchers, Officers of the Ports, Post-masters, Bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughs, and all other his Majesty's Officers and loving Subjects to whom it may appertain. NUM. XCVIII. A Warrant for Post-horses, for Somerset Herald. Ex Collect. A. V. W. WHereas there is appointed to attend on the Earl of Derby, for her Majesty's service into France, Robert Glover, alias Somerset, one of the Heralds of Arms, who is to repair with all diligence unto the Port of Dover, there to embark with the said Earl of Derby: These are to will and require you, and in her Majesty's name, strictly to charge and command you, and every of you, to whom it shall appertain, to see him provided of four good and able Post-horses, for himself, his Servants, and Carriages, with a Guide from place to place unto Dover aforesaid, and at his return likewise from thence to the Court, as also of all such other things necessary, as he shall require at your hands, for the better accomplishing of his Voyage, at prices reasonable, and accustomed in her Majesties like services. Whereof fail you not, as you will answer to the contrary at your perils. From the Court at Greenwich the 20. of January, 1584. To all Mayors, Sheriffs, Justices of Peace, Bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughs, and to all other her Majesty's Officers and loving Subjects, to whom it may appertain, and to every of them. NUM. CI. Instructions given to the Sovereign's Ambassadors, sent with the Habit and Ensigns of the Order to julianus de Medicis, Brother to Pope Leo the Tenth. Ex Collect. jac. Waraei Eq. Aur. FIrst, the due recommendation and presentation of the King's Letters, with a brief Oration to be made touching the land of the said Order of the King Sovereign of the same, and also of the virtues and notable deeds of N. that shall receive it. And after the proposition so said, to present their Commission and cause it openly to be read, where they shall require him to make his Oath, as followeth. Ego Julianus Dei gratia, etc. honorificentissimi ac approbatissimi Ordinis Garterii Miles, & Confrater electus, juro ad haec Sancta Dei Evangelia per me corporaliter tacta, quod omnia & singula Statuta, Leges, & Ordinationes ipsius dignissimi Ordinis bene, sincere, & invi●labiliter observabo, ita me Deus adjuvet & haec Sancta Dei Evangelia. Which Oath given, Sir E. P. shall deliver the Garter unto him, and cause the same in good and honourable manner to be put about his Leg, the said Doctor so saying audibly these words following. Ad lauden & honorem summi atque Omnipotentis Dei, intemeratae Virgins & Matris suae Mariae ac gloriosissimi Martyris Georgii hujus Ordinis Patroni, circumcinge tibiam tuam hoc Garterio, ut possis in isto bello firmiter stare & fortiter vincere in signum Ordinis, & augmentum tui honoris. Which thing so done, the said Sir E. P. shall deliver unto the said I. the Gown of Purple Colour, and cause him to apparel himself with the same, the said Doctor so saying these words following, at the doing over of the same. Accipe vestem hanc purpuream, quâ semper munitus non verearis pro fide Christianâ, libertate Ecclesiae, & oppressorum tuitoine fortiter dimicare & sanguinem effundere, in signum Ordinis, & augmentum tui honoris. And then following, the said Sir E. P. shall cause the said I to do upon him the Mantle of Blue Velvet, garnished with the Scute and Cross of Saint George, and the Doctor so saying these words. Accipe Clamidem coelestis coloris Clipeo Crucis Christi insignitam, cujus virtute atque vigore semper protectus hostes super are & praeclarissimis tuis meritis gaudia tandem coelestia promereri valeas, in signum Ordinis, & augmentum tui honoris. And when the said I shall be so apparelled with the Ornaments aforesaid, the said Sir E. P. shall put the Image of Saint George about his neck, the Doctor so saying these words. Imaginem gloriossimi Martyris Georgii hujus Ordinis Patroni, in collo tuo deferas, cujus fultus praesidio hujus Mundi prospera & adversa sic pertrauseas, ut bostibus Corporis & animae devictis non modo temporalis militae gloriam, sed peremis victoriae palmam recipere valeas, in signum Ordinis, & augmentum tui honoris. NUM. CII. Instructions to the Sovereign's Amabassadors, sent upon a like Embassy to james the Fifth King of Scots. Ex. Autogr. in Bibl. Hatton. THE said Lord William shall within five or six days next after he hath been with the said King of Scots, for his first Ambassade, and resort to Court there, and in most reverend fashion deliver unto the King of Scots the Letter missive of Certification of his Election into the Noble Order of the Garter, from the King our Sovereign Lord his Highness, with due commendations from his Highness. The Letter read, and be consenting to the reception of the said Order, then incontinent the Book of Statutes to be delivered unto him, and a day appointed as well for to have his consentment on the Articles of the said Statutes, and in the mean time his Oath to be prepared by his consent and advice. On which day being at the least Sunday, and he agreeing to receive the same honourable Order, he must be in a place convenient. First they shall present their Commission unto the said King, and cause the said audibly and distinctly to be read, and so followingly shall in good and reverend manner require him to make his corporal Oath, for the inviolable observing of the same, like as by the tenure of the Statutes every Knight of that Order is bound to do in form following. The Oath. We James by the grace of God King of Scots, promise and swear by our Faith, and Honour, and holy Evengelist by us presently touched, that we shall accomplish and keep truly unto our powwer, all the Statutes, Points, and Ordinances of the right Noble Order of Saint George named the Garter, from point to point, and from Article to Article, as is contained and declared in the Book thereof to us delivered; the which we have accepted and do accept, as if that we read them now presently [Note, if he will make any exceptions they must be here rehearsed] the which Articles we promised now again to keep, hold and entertain, without breaking: So God help us, and all the Saints. Yeoven, etc. Which Oath given, the Lord William shall put the Garter, in due and reverend manner about his left Leg, and in this doing, Garter shall say. Sir, the Sovereign and honourable Company of the Order of the Garter have received you as their Brother and Companion, and in knowledge and token thereof, they give and present you this Garter, the which God give you grace to wear to his land and praise, to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, and the glorious Martyr Saint George, Patron of that Noble Order, and to the augmentation of your honour. Which thing so done, the said Lord William shall deliver unto him the Gown of Crimson, and cause him to apparel himself with the same, the said Garter saying these words following, at the doing on the same. Ye take this Garment, wherein God give you grace strongly to stand in the true Faith of Christ, and depressing the Enemies of Saints, in token of the said Order, and to the augmenting of this Order, and your honour. And then lovingly the said Lord William shall cause the said King to put on the Mantle of Blue Velvet, garnished with the Arms of St. George, environed with a Garter, the said Garter saying as followeth. [Note the Hood to be put on the right shoulder] Take ye this Mantle of heavenly colour, with the shield of the Cross of Christ garnished, by whose strength and virtue ye always be defended, and by virtue of it you may overcome all your Enemies, and so through your most noble desert, may worthily come to the joys everlasting, in token of the said Order, and increase of your honour. And when the said King shall be so apparelled with the adornments aforesaid, the said Lord William shall put the Choler of the Order, with the Image of Saint George about his neck, the said Garter saying. Take ye and bear this Choler, with the Image of the most glorious Martyr Saint George, Patron of this Order, about your neck, by the help whereof you may the better pass through both the prosperity and adversity of this world, so that your Enemies both of body and soul may be overcome, ye then may receive not only glory of temporal Chivalry, but also the rejoicing of everlasting victory, in sign and token of this Order, and increase of your honour. Which things thus fully ended, the King to go to some solemn Church, and there to bear a solemn Mass, and so to return, an so to his Lodging, where if he dine abroad, to wear the said whole Habit, during the dinner time, and after to do this pleasure. Then Garter to remember to purchase and solicit a Certification of the Reception of the said Order by him, and also his Oath, both under the said King's Seal. Also to advertise him the manner of the coming of his Procurator for his Installation within seven Months; he to bring with him a Procuration under the King's Seal for his Installation, with all other things necessary, as the said Garter knoweth by his old Precedents in such case accustomed. All these things thus duly and in reverend order done, with other the King's Affairs there, the said Lord William and the said Garter to return to the King's Highness. NUM. CIII. A Letter signifying Election, to Edward Count Palantine of the Rhine. Ex Collect. E. W. G. Charles R. Charles' the Second by the Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland Defender of the Faith, &. and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. To our right dear and entirely beloved Cousin Edward Count Palatine of the Rhine, Duke of Bavaria, etc. Greeting. Whereas our Royal Progenitors, the Kings of England, have in all times, since the Institution of the most Noble Order of Saint George, called the Garter, by our most Noble and Victorious Ancestor King Edward the Third, elected and chosen into the Fellowship thereof, such Princes and other eminent persons, as well Strangers as their own Subjects, as have for the greatness of their Births, and other Heroic virtues, especially in martial actions, been thought worthy of the same; We therefore considering, that since the late horrid Rebellion, in that our Kingdom, that many of the Companions thereof are dead, and that others contrary to their Honour and Oaths, have deserted their Allegiance, and are no more worthy to be esteemmed Companions of so Noble an Order; an● finding how necessary it is for our honour and service, to elect others in the places vacant, who for their birth, courage, fidelity, and affection●● us, may be worthy to be admitted thereunto; have therefore thought fit by our power, as Sovereign of the said Order (dispensing with the usual Ceremonies) to elect and choose you our said right dear and entirely beloved Cousin Edward Count Palati●e of the Rhine and Du●● of Bavaria, to be Fellow and Companion of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, and do herewith send unto you the George and Ribbon, part of the Ensigns thereof, by our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms, which Ensigns we do hereby will and authorize you t● wear, assuring you when it may conveniently be done, you shall have all other Ceremonies and additions incident to the same, fully perfected, And we no way doubt but that you by your Noble Virtues, Courage, and endeavours in military actions, and your affection and fidelity to us will show yourself worthy thereof, and that you will faithfully, and with honour serve and assi●● us in all our just and warlike enterprises, a● becomes a Companion of so Noble an Order. Given at the Castle of Saint Germain's en lay, 〈◊〉 19 day of Semptember, in the first year of 〈◊〉 Reign, 1649. NUM. CIV. A Letter authorising Edward Coun● Palatine of the Rhine, to use the Ensigns, and style himself Knight of the Garter, as if he had been installed. Ex Collect. E. W. G. Charles R. Charles' the Second by the grace of God, & ●. and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To our right dear and entirely b●loved Cousin, Edward Count Palatine of th● Rhyne, Duke of Bavaria, Greetings; We havi●● duly considered the eminence of your birth, your near relation to us in blood, and the great hope● and expectation that we have of your courage▪ affection, and inclination to serve and assist us, were pleased upon Sunday the 19 of September past, to send unto you the George and Ribbon, part of the Ensigns of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, by our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms, together with our Letters, declaring that we had chosen you Fellow and Companion of the said most Noble Order, and authorising you to wear the same. And having since duly considered, that it is not possible at present to have all other the additions and Ceremonies fully perfected; we have, as Sovereign of the said Order, thought it fit t● dispense with the same, and do therefore hereby further will and authorize you, to wear and use the Garter or Ribbon on your left Leg, the Glory or Star of Silver, embroidered with St. George's Cross within a Garter, upon your Cloak and upper Garments, as likewise the great Choler of the Order upon such days us are accustomed; to use the Garter about your Arms, and to style yourself Knight and Companion of the said most Noble Order of the Garter, as fully as if you had been installed in our Castle of Windesore, where (when it shall please God to restore us to the possession thereof) you shall formally be invested and receive the Habit, and all other the above recited Ornaments of the said most Noble Order. Given at our Court in the Castle Elizabeth, in our Island of Jersey, this sixteenth of October, in the first year of our Reign 1649. NUM. CV. A Letter signifying Election, etc. sent to Count Marching. Ex praef. Collect. Charles R. Charles' by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of St. George called the Garter. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved John Gaspar Ferdinand de Marching Earl of Graville, Marquis of Clairmont d' Antrague, Baron of Dunes, Marching, Mezers and Modane, Captain General for the service of his Catholic Majesty, and Lieutenant General of all our Forces both by Sea and Land in all our Dominious, Greeting. Whereas our Royal Progenitors and Predecessors Kings of England, have in all times since the Institution of the said most Noble Order, by our most victorious Ancestor King Edward the Third, elected and chosen into the Fellowship thereof many Emperors, Kings, and Sovereign Princess, and other eminent and illustrious persons, as well Strangers as their own Subjects, who for the nobleness of their Extraction, accompanied with heroic virtues (especially in Military Enterprises) have been held worthy and capable thereof. Whereupon we having duly considered the nobleness of your Birth and Extraction, with the eminent and famous actions performed by you, in the several Military Commands you have for years been employed, together with your great zeal and affection to engage yourself in our service and cause, for the recovery of our just rights, have thereupon held it fit and agreeable by some signal testimony of our favour, to evidence the great value and esteem that we have both of your person, merit, and affection. To which end, these are to certify you, that we by our power, as Sovereign of the said most Noble Order (and by the consent of all the Companions thereof here present) have elected and chosen, and do elect and choose you our said right trusty and right wellbeloved John Gaspar Ferdinand de Marching, Earl of Graville, etc. Fellow, Peer, and Companion of the said most Noble Order, and do herewith invest you with the Garter and George, the most peculiar Ensigns of the same. And because at this time some other Additions and Ceremonies incident thereunto cannot be fully performed, we do hereby for the present, by our Sovereign power dispense therewith, and do will and authorize you at all times hence forward, to wear the Garter about your left Leg, the Image of St. George hanging about your Neck, the Star or Glory of Silver with St. George's Cross embroidered within a Garter upon your Cloak or upper Garment, as likewise to use the Garter about your Arms, and to style yourself Knight and Companion of the said most Noble Order, in as ample manner as if you had been formally installed in our castle of Windesor, the proper place for that Solemnity; we no way doubting, but that by your future, as well as precedent, actions you will fully declare yourself to be highly worthy of the honour of being Knight and Companion of so Noble an Order: And these our Letters of Election and dispensation shall be to you for the same your sufficient and full authority. Given under our Signet at our Court in the City of Antwerp, this twenty sixth day of February 1658. in the tenth year of our Reign. NUM. CVI A Warrant to Garter, for delivery of the Garter and George to William Prince of Orange. Ex eod. Collect. Charles R. TRusty and wellbeloved, we greet you well, Whereas we have made choice of our most dear Nephew the Prince of Orange, to be a Companion of the most Noble Order of the Garter; we do hereby authorize you, according to your Office, to deliver unto our said most dear Nephew the said Order, and our Letters, with such Ceremony as is usual, and as may be performed in the place where he is: And for so doing this shall be your Warrant. Given at the Palace Royal in Paris the 25. day of April, 1653, in the fifth year of our Reign. To our truly and wellbeloved Sir Edward Walker, Knight, Garter King of Arms. NUM. CVII. The Soveraign's Letter sent with the Garter and George to the Prince Elector of Brandenburg. Ex eod. Collect. MON Frere, L'asseurance que j'ay de vestre Amitié, par plusieurs tesmoignages que vous m'en avez donnez m'obligé a rechercher tous les moyens qui seront capables de l'entretenir & de la conserver. Et pour ce sujet j'ay trovué à propos, comme Souverains du tresancien & tresnoble Ordre de la Jartiere, de vous eslire l'un des Chevaliers, Paers, & Compagnons du dit Ordre, estimant par la de faire une plus estroite Amitié avec vous, & d' augmenter le bien & la prosperité de cette tresnoble Societé, laquelle par plusieurs siecles a cu non seulement les Roys d' Angleterre, nos Predecesseurs pour Souverains, mais aussi l' bouneur d' avoir plusieurs Empereurs, Roys & Princes Estrangers pour Compagnons, comme aussi de vous donner par la une Marque evidente de mon affection, & de la baute esteme que j'ay de vos merites, & de vostre personne; Et pour confirmation de la dite Election je vous envoyé par le Sieur Chevalier de Walker, Jartiere Roy d' Armes, la Medaile dite le George, la Jartiere & l' Estoille pour les porter a la maniere accoustumée: assavoir la Medaile autour du Corps, la Jartiere à la Iambe gauche, & l' Estoille sur le coste gauche de la Casaque ou du Manteau. Le dit Sieur de Walker vous asseurera de m● part que je desire avec passion de vons tesmoigner que je suis, Mon frere Vostre bien affectionné Frere & Cousin, Ca●olus R. A Paris le 23. de Januier 1654. A mon Frere Monsieur le Marquis de Brandenburg, P. Electeur du Saint Empire. NUM. CVIII. A Warrant to Garter to deliver the Garter and George to the Prince Elector of Brandenburg. Ex eod. Collect. Charles R. TRusty and wellbeloved we greet you well. Whereas we have made choice of our good Brother the Marquis of Brande●●urgh to be one of the Knights, Peers, and Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter; These are to require you to repair with what convenient baste you can to the Court of the said Marquis, and there to deliver unto him our Letters signifying our said Election (which we herewith send you) together with the Garter, and other Ensigns of the said Order. And that you perform the same with such Ceremony as is usual, and as that place can afford: And for so doing this shall be your Warrant. Given at the Palace Royal in Paris the 23. day of January 1654. in the fifth year of our Reign. To our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, King at Arms. NUM. CIX. A Warrant for delivery of the Collar for the Prince Elector of Brandenburg. Ex Libro vocat. The Book of Warrants in the jewel-house. Charles R. OUR will and pleasure is, that you forthwith deliver unto our trusty and wellbeloved▪ Servant Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms, one great Collar of our Order of the Garter, with a George appendent thereat, to be by him sent and delivered unto the Prince Elector of Brandenburg, formerly elected a Companion of our most Noble Order of the Garter: And for your so doing this shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge. Given at our Court at Whitehall the 25. of February 1662. Ex mandato. De Vic Cancel. To our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Gilbert Talbot Knight, Master of our Jewelhouse, and to the Officers thereof. NUM. CX. A Warrant for Garter to send the Habit to the Elector of Brandenburg. Ex Collect. E. W. G. Charles R. TRusty, etc. Whereas we have formerly elected our good Brother and Cousin the Elector of Brandenburg, to be Knight and Companion of our most Noble Order of the Garter, and have by you sent him our Letters, together with the Garter and Image of St. George, authorising you to deliver the same. And now seeing by our happy Restauration, we have had the opportunity together with the Companions of our said Order, to perform the Ceremonies of Installation, and to solemnize the Feast of St. George in our Castle of Windesor, the proper place for doing thereof, and have now two years passed ordered you to place the Achievements of the said Elector of Brandenburg, over his Stall in the Chapel of our said Castle, and did then in respect of the shortness of our time, and other important affairs, dispense with the formal Installation of the said Elector and other Princes, with Declaration that it should not hereafter be brought into example▪ We therefore intending to complete our favour, have caused the full Habit of our said Order to be delivered unto you, together with the great Collar of the Order; all which We do hereby will and authorize you, to send and convey, together with our Letters unto the said Elector of Brandenburg, We at this time dispencing with the sending an Ambassador and yourself Garter King of Arms, to deliver the same according to former Precedents. And for your so doing, this shall be your sufficient Warrant. Given, etc. the 8. of April, 1663. To our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms. NUM. CXI. Sir Edward Walker's Letter to Prince Maurice of Nassau, sent with the Habit for the Prince Elector of Brandenburg. Ex Collect. E. W. G. Monseigneur, J'AY receu avec les Lettres de sa Majestè le Roy mou Màistre tout l' habit du tresnoble Ordre de la Jartiere, pour son Altesse le Prince Electeur de Brandenburg, avec Ordre, de les envoyer a vostre Altesse, que par vos moyens soient adresser a son Altesse Electoral a contient une just au corps de velour cramoisi, une manteau de velour bleu, le grand Collier du tresnoble Ordre d'or, avec l'image de St. George emmaillée pesante 30 onces, & un bonnet de velour noir. Comment on se doit porter le Papier donra plus de satisfaction a son Altesse Electoral, Quoy que l' Habit n'est jamais porté si non qu' a la Feste de St. George, mais le grand Collier s'est portè par le Souverain & Compagnons, pendant les Prieres d●e matin sur tous les jours mentionez dans le papier pour le liure des Statutes de l'Ordre, quand ils seront reformez. je tas●herai avec tout soin de les envoyer en attendant j'ay envoyé tout Phabit a mon cher amis le Chevalier Guillaume Davidson de les envoyer a vostre Altesse de qui vous receurez cela, & la lettre de sa Majestè & je n'en doubte point bien tost tout le reste & puis je prie bumblement vostre Altesse de les adresser a son Altesse Electoral, avec les tresbumbles & obeissantes services de luy, qui s'era toute sa vie, de sou serenissime Altesse Electoral & de vostre Monseigneur le tres-humble & tres-obeissant Serviteur, Ed. Walker, Garter. De Londres le x. jour d' Auril, 1663. NUM. CXII. Prince Maurice of Nassau his Letter to Sir Edward Walker, upon the Receipt of the Habit for the Prince Elector of Brandenburg. Ex eod. Collect. Monsieur, J'AY receu la vostre du 10/20 d' Auril, que m'avez fait l' bonneur de m'escrire dans la quelle vous me donnez advertissement, que vous envoyeres tout l' Habit du tresnoble Ordre de la Jartiere a Monsieur Baronet Davison, lequel habit je viens de recevoit de luy a ce momment, je suis assez persuadè, qui n'a pas tenu à vous, de ne l' avoir pas envoyè plus tost j'ay ne pas manqué d'envoyer la vostre aussy bien, que celle de sa Majeste à son Altesse Electorale de Brandenbourg, & ne manqueray pas non plus, d'envoyer le subdit habit avec la premiere occasion a subdite son Altesse, je suis asseurè que tout cecy sera tresagreable a son Altesse Electorale, & qu'elle en sera fort rejouye de le tenir, d'autant qu'elle la desire long temps, Quant a moy, je vous remercie de la peine prise, & vous asseure, que je seray à jamais, Monsieur, Vostre tres-humble Serviteur, Maurice P. de Nassau. A lae Hay ce 10. de Juin 1663. A Monsieur Monsieur E. Walker jartiere Premier Roy d'Arms, à Londres. NUM. CXIII. A Letter to the Soveraign from the Prince Elector of Brandenburg, acknowledging his Receipt of the Habit of the Order. Ex ipso Autographo. Monseigneur mon tres-honorè Cousin, A Yant tousjours estimè comme je dois, l' bonneur que vostre Majestè m'a fait autrefois de me recevoir dans la Societè de son Ordre de la Jartiere, je ne scaurois reconnoistre, qu'avec un respect extreme, le present de l'habit tout entier de cet Ordre, qu'il luy a plû de faire addresser à m● Cousin Monsieur le Prince de Nassau, & par●equel Elle a vouln achever entierement les obligations infinies que je luy ay d'estre du nombre d'une si illustre compagnie. je suis en impatience de recevoir cette chere marque d'affection & de bien veillance de vostre Majeste la suppliant de croire, que j'en conserver ay e●●●●ellement la memoir●, & que je n' auray de plus forte passion au monde, que de confirmer de plus en plus la confiance dont Elle me donne tousjours tant de nouveaux tesmoignages, & de saire voir en toutes sortes d' occasions combien je suis Monseigneur mon tres-honoré Cousin, De vostre Majesté Le tres-humble & obeïssant Serviteur Frederick-Guillaume Electeur de Brandenbourg. De Konigsberg ce 4. Iuin, l'an 1663. A sa Majesté le Roy de la grande Bretagne. NUM. CXIV. A Certificate from Charles Duke o● Burgundy, of his receiving the Order of the Garter. Ex amplo Cod. penes johannem Vincent, gen. fol. 175. CHarles, par la grace de Dien, Due de Bourgoigne, de Lantrin, de Braban, de Lembrogh, & de Lucembourg, Conte de Flanders, d' Artois, & de Bourgoigne, Palatine de Henault, de Hollande, de Zellande, & Namur, Marquis du Saint Empire, Seigneur de Frieze, de Sallins, & de Mallins, Certifions & faisons seavoir a tous, que par les mains de Messire Galliard, Seigneur de Duras Chevalier, Thomas Vaughan, Tresorier de la Chambre, Maistre Jehan Russel, Docteur en decret, Archediacre de Berkeshire, & Jarretiere Roy d' Arms, conseillers & Ambassadeurs de tresbault, & trespuissant Prince, nostre tres-bonnouré frere le Roy d' Angleterre, Souverain de l' Ordre de la Jarretiere, pour ce envoyés devers nous, nous avons aujourdbuy receu son dit Ordre de la Jarretiere, ensemble le Manteau, & autres Ornemens, & choses, au dit Ordre appartenans, & accoustumes. Et avec ce, avons en leurs mains fait le serment à ce requis, & pertinant, selon les estatuz d' icelluy Ordre, le tout soubz les conditions, & modifications sur ce adviseés, & faictes, entre luy & nous, Donné en nostre ville de Gand, sonbz nostre grant Seel, le 4. jour de Fe●rier, l'an de grace, Mil cccc. lxix. Par Monseigneur le Due. NUM. CXV. Another from Ferdinand Prince of Spain. MS. penes E. W. G. f. 16. b. FErdinand, par la grace Dieu, Prince & Infante des Espaignes', Archidue d' Austrice, Due de Bourgoingne, d' Estier, de Carnite, de Carmole, etc. Certifions, & faisons scavoir a tous, que par les mains de Messire Henry Seigneur de Morley, Maistre Edoward Lee, Docteur en Theologie, Archediacre de Colchester, Aulmosiner, Messire Guillame Huysey Chevalier, & de Messire Thomas Wriothesley, Chevalier, dit Jarretier, Principal Roy d' Armes des Angloys, Ambassadeurs, & Conseilliers de treshault, tres-excellent & trespuissant Prince, nostre tres-honoreable Seigneur, & Oncle, le Roy d' Angleterre, etc. Desenseur de la Foy, Seigneur d' Irlande, & Souverain de le tresnoble Ordre de Saint George, nommée la Jarretiere, pour ce envoyez devers nous; Avons ce jourdbuy viij. de Decembre, jour de nostre Dame, receu son dit Ordre de Saint George, nommé la Jarretiere, ensamble les Jarretiere, Manteau, Habit, Colier, & aultres ournemen, au dit Ordre appertenans, & accoustumez. Et avec ce, avons en leurs mains, faict le serment, a ce requis & partinent, selon les Statutz d' icelluy Ordre de Saint George, le tout soubz les conditions, & modifications sur ce aviseez, & faictes entre le dit Seigneur le Roy & nous, C'est assavoir, de porter les Colier, & Jarretiere, aucunes foys en l'an a nostre plaisir. Item, quant serons en quelque lieu, ou place, non convenable, Ou que n'aurons loysir d'ouyr matynes le jour de Saint George, les pourrons par ung Prestre fair dire, en nostre presence. Et si pour aucun bien grant affaire, ou empesebement, que nous pourroit survenir, nous estions occupé le dit jour Saint George, En ce case, ne serons tenu porter le dit habiz, si non durant le service divin, Lequel aschené, poutrons incontinent oster & devestir iceulx, sans attendre jusques apres le disner & souper. Toutefoys, si pour les canses dissusdites, ne pourrous porter, le susdits habitz, le dit jour Saint George entier, Lors voulons & promettons les porter a ung aultre jour solempnel dedens Pan. Donné en la ville de Newremberg, soubz nostre Nom, & Seel, le dit viij. jour de Decembre, l'an de grace, Mil, Cing; Ceus, ving, troy's. NUM. CXVI. Another from the French King Francis the First. Ex Orig. penes Camer. Scacchar. FRancoys, par la grace de Dieu, Roy de France, Seigneur de Genues, Souverain du tresdigne Ordre de Monseigneur Saint Michael. A tous ceulx qui ces presents letters verront, salut: Comme Messire Arthur Plantagenet, Viconte de Lisle, Chevalier du tresdigne Ordre Monseigneur Saint George (Maistre Jean Taillour, Doctent ez loix, Archediacre de Boukingham, Vicechancellier d' Angleterre, Messire Nicolas Carew grant Esevyer d' Angleterre, Messire Anthony Browne Chevalier, & Messire Thomas Wriothesley jartier, Chevalier, Premier Roy d' Arms du dit Ordre, Ambassadeurs commis & deleguez de la part de tresbault, & trespuissant Prince, Henry par la mesme grace, Roy d' Angleterre, Seigneur d' Hibernie, & Defenseur de la Foy, nostre trescher, & tresame frere, Cousin, perpetuel allyé, confederé & bon compeer, Nous ayent exhibé & presenté certaines Lettres Patentes, dattées du xxii. jour d' Octobre Mil, Cinque Cens, vingt & Sept, Signées Samson: & seellées en cry Rogue, du Seau du College d' icelluy tresdigne Ordre de Saint George, dit de la Jartiere, par la teneur desquelles que avons fait lire pardevant nous & les Chevaliers de nostre Ordre Saint Michael estans les nous apparissoit les dessusdits Ambassadeurs avoir plain povoir, faculté & puissance de nous signifier, & presenter de la part de nostre dit trescher frere & Cousin, Souverain d'icelluy tresdigne Ordre Saint George. (Et aussi de Pamiable association d' icelluy l' election, uniquement fact de nous, par iceulx Souverain & Chevaliers d'icelluy tresdigne Ordre) Et de nous prier & requerir icelle election accepter, & prendre le Manteau, Collier, & autres insignes de chivalry, du dit tresdigne Ordre, & fair le serement selon les Articles contenuz au liure des statuz du dit Ordre, & que ont acoustumé de jurer & promettre les Chevaliers d'icelluy. Et si la forme des dits sermen, ne nous estoit agreeable, leur estoit donné povoir de nous dispenser de faire les dits sermen, on party d' iceulx, telz qu'il appartiendroit, soy contentant de nostre simple foy & parolle. Savoir faisons, que nous ayans esgarde & consideration a la tres-cordialle, & tres-entiere amour, alliance indissoluble, & confederation perpetuelle, qui est entre nostre dit trescher & tresame Frere, Cousin, Allyé perpetuel, & bon compeer & nous, Et que de sa part il a accepté l' election par nous, & noz freres fact de sa persom●e au tresdigne Ordre Saint Michael, du quel nous sommes Souverain, Avons pour ces causes, & autres a ce nous mouvans accepté, & acceptons Icelluy tresdigne Ordre de Saint George, dit la Jartiere (& ce fait nous sommes revestuz, & affublez des Manteau & autress Insignes du dit Ordre a nouz presentez & liurez par les dessusdits Ambassadeurs) Et apres les remercyemens en telz cas requiz, avons fait le serement en la form, & maniere qui sensuyt. Nous Francoys par la grace de Dieu Roy de France, Seigneur de Gennes & Souverain de l' Ordre Saint Michael, promettons en parolle de Roy, de garder, observer, & a nostre povoir, entretenir les Statuz, & Ordonnances du tresdigne Ordre Saint George, nommé de la Jartiere; En ce qu'ilz, sont compatibles non contraires, ne desrogans a ceulx de nostre dit tresdigne Ordre de Saint Michael, & pareillement des Ordres, que par cy devant pourroins avoir prins des autres Princes. En tesmoing de ce nous avons fait mettre, le Seau du dit Ordre aux presentes signées de nostre main. Donné a Paris x. jour de Novembre, l'an de grace Mil, Cinque Cens vingt & sept, & de nostre Regne le treziesme. NUM. CXVII. Another from Emanuel Duke of Savoy. Ex Collect. Ed. Byshe Clarenceux. JE Francois Roffier Savoysey, Secretaire de tresbault, puissant, & excellent Seigneur, & Prince, Monseigneur Emanuel Philibert, par la grace de Dieu, Due de Savoy Re. general. & Lieutenant de l' Empereur, atteste, fait foy, & certify, Comme Monsieur de Clinton & Say, Chevalier de l' Ordre, d' Angleterre, qu' on didst de la Jarretiere, & de company le Sieur Jarretiere Roy d' Arms du dit Ordre, Ambassadeurs, Commissioneurs, & Procureurs speciaulx du Roy, & de la Royne d' Angleterre, ont ce jourdbuy presenté, baillé, & donné, de par leurs Majestés, la Jarretiere, & le Manteau, & autres Enseignes & correspondants a mon dit Seigneur le Duc de Savoy, avec toutes les Ceremoinies & Solempnités deües & accoustumés. Et de plus ont receu du dit Seigneur Duc, le serment, jouxte lafoy form, & maniere des Statuts, du dit Ordre, & des Lettres de pouvoir, qu'ils ont apporté, soubs-escriptes des mains propres d'iceulx Roy & Royne d' Angleterre, seellées du Seel du dit Ordre de la Jarretiere, Données en leur Palais de Westminstre, le dix septiesme d' Octobre 1554. lesquelles Lettreses leaves Pay par Commandment de●mon dit Seigneur, & Maistre a halt voix, & a lovange public, quant faicte s'est la susdite presentation, & le dit serment, presents a ce assistants & appelles haults & puissants Signior le Prince d' Oranges, les Contes de Lalaing, & d' Aremberg, & le Seigneur de Bossu, eulx trois des Chevaliers de l' Ordre de la Toyson, les Signior Antoine Doria, Marquis de Saint Estienne de Lavanto, du Conseit de l' Empereur, & general Capitaine des ses Galleres, & Antoine de Drungua, & pleusieurs aultres tesmoinge, fait au Camp & au— d' auxy dans la Chambre de mon dit Seigneur le duc, le sixiesme jour de Novembre l' an de grace prins a la nativité Mil, Cinque Cens, Cinquante quatre. Roffier. NUM. CXVIII. Another from the French King Henry the Third. MS. penes Arthur. Com. Anglesey, p. 4. HEnry by the grace of God, King of France, and Poland, to all those to whom these Presents shall come, Greeting. We give you to understand, that forasmuch as it hath seemed good to the Queen of England, our right dear and right wellbeloved good Sister and Cousin, Chief and Sovereign of the Order of the Garter, and to the Fellow-brethrens, Knights, and Companions of the same Order, for the confirmation of the mutual and brotherly amity between us and our said good Sister, to choose and associate us into the Company of Knights of the same Order, and for that effect hath deputed towards us our dear and wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Derby, Knight, and Companion of the same Order, to whom, and Sir Edward Stafford Knight her Ambassador resident with us, she hath given power by her Letters Patents of the 20. day of January last past, to present and give unto us, on her behalf, the Garter, the mantle, and other Ensigns of the same Order, which she hath sent us, which they have done with the Ceremonies and Solemnities in such case requisite and accustomed: For these causes, liking the said Election and Association, We have accepted and do accept the said Order of the Garter with honour, and do promise to keep the Statutes thereof, which also have been given us in writing upon the same assurance, that the said Lady the Queen our good Sister hath them given Us, and the Declaration and Protestation which we have made, that we be not constrained and bound unto things contrary and derogatory to our Religion Catholic, Greatness, and Majesty Royal, and to the Statutes and Ordinances of our two Orders of the blessed Holy Spirit and of St. Michael, as it is contained in the Act of our Oath, which thereof we have made and given. In witness whereof, we have signed these presents with our hand, and thereunto caused to be put our Seal. Given at Paris the 12. day of March in the year of our Lord 1585. and of our Reign the 11. Henry. NUM. CXIX. Another from Gusta●us Adolphus King of Sweden. Sir Tho. Rowe's journal, p. 208. GUstavus Adolphus Dei gratiâ Suecorum, Gothorum, & Vandalorum Rex, Magnus Princeps Finlandiae, Dux Esthoniae & Careliae, Ingraeque Dominus, etc. Omnibus hasce literas lecturis vel audituris, Salutem. Quandoquidem complacuit seremissimo, ac potentissimo Principi Domino Carolo, Dei gratiâ Magnae Britanniae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Regi, Fidei Defensori, fratri, consanguineo, & amico nostro charissimo, nobilissimi Ordinis Aureae Periscelidis Magistro, reliquóque inclyto caetui Equitum ac Commilitonum illustrissmi bujus Ordinis in expressissimam amoris tesseram, ac mutuam inter nos initam amicitiam arctioribus necessitudinis vinculis, devinciendaem & confirmandam, Nos etiam eligere, & associare in Collegium Equitum bujus Ordinis, atque in hunc finem Oratores, Procuratores, & indubitatos Legatos suos constituere atque ablegare ad nos, Nobilissimum virum de conclavi suo Dominum Jacohum Spens de Wormeston, Equitem auraetum & spectabiles viros Petrum Young Armigerum, ex Nobilibus in Cubiculo presentiae suae ministrantibus unum, & Henricum Saintgeorgium Armigerum, ex Heraldis suis ad Arma unum, plenariá ipsis potestate concess● ac diplomate suo abunde ipsis fide adstructa & munitá publico Sigillo Ordinis, dato vigesimâ quart● Junii jam elapsi, deferendi, donandi, atque tradendi nobis ipsum auream Periscelidem, Torquem rosatum, Sancti Georgii Imagunculas, reliquasque vestes trabeatas in solenni harum Ceremoniarum, celebratione debite requisitas, & a suá serenitate ad nos transmissas. Idcircò haec omnia ab ipsis ritè administrata & peracta agnoscimus & fatemur, ac praesentium Literarum tenore omnibus testatum volumus, nostri electionem & assumptionem in ●ujus Collegit sodalitium nobis gratissima fuisse, ac fore; Nos●▪ Insignia Ordinis decenti cum honore suscepisse, ac sancte in l●ges, ac Statuta ejus per procuratores nostros, loco ac tempore prae●●itulis, juraturos, ea ipsâ cautione, quae à suae serenitatis deputatis nobis scripto exhibita fuit, videlicet, Nos religio●è observaturos Articulos hujus Ordinis in omnibus quae Religioni à nobis professae, dignitati, ac Majestati nostrae Regiae nullatenus derogarent, aut aliis Articulis, & ordinibus quos antebac suscepimus adversarentur; atque hanc ipsissimam juramenti nostri sormulam esse cupimus, quando solennis contestatio per procuratores nostros nostro nomine futura est, & quando ejus exemplar in acta referri contigerit. In cujus rei testimonium praesentes propria nostrâ manu subscriptas Sigilli Regii appositione communiri jussimus. Actum in Castris nostris ad Wormdit, die sextá Mensis Octobris, Anno supra Millesimum sexcentisimo vigesimo septimo. Gustavus Adolphus. NUM. CXX. Another from Charles King of Sweden. Ex ipso Autographo. CArolus Dei Gratiá Succorum, Gothorum, Vandalorumque Rex & Princeps haereditarius, Magnus Princeps Finlandiae, Dux Scaviae, Esthoniae, Livoniae, Careliae, Bremae, Verdae, Stetini Pomeraniae, Cassubiae, & Vandaliae, Princeps Rugiae, Dominus Ingriae & Vismariae nèc nòn Comes Palatinus Rhe●i, Bavariae, Juliaci, Cliviae, & Montium Dux▪ Omnibus hasce lecturis vel audituris salutem, Quandoquidem complacuit serenissimo ac potentissimo Principi, Consanguineo, Amico & Faederato nostro charissimo Domino Carolo, ejus nominis secundo, câdem gratiâ Magnae Britanniae, Franciae & Hiberniae Regi, Fidei Defensori, & Nobilissimi Ordinis Aureae Periscelidis Magistro, reliquoque inclyto caetui Equitum ac Commilitonum, illustrissimi hujus Ordinis in expressissimam Amoris Tesseram & mutuam inter nos initam amicitiam arctioribus necessitudinis vinculis devinciendam & confirmandam, Nos etiam eligere & associare in collegium Equitum hujus Ordinis; atque in hunc finem Oratores & indubitatos Procuratores suos constituere & oblegare Legatum suum extraordinarium Conciliarumque suum Illustrem nobis sincerè dilectum Dominum Carolum Comitem Carliolensem, Vice-Comitem Howard de Morpeth, Baronem Dacre de Gilisland, loeum tenentem generalem in Comitatibus Westmorlandiae & Cumbriae, & spectabilem virum Dominum Henricum St. George è primariis officialibus suis ad Arma unum, vulgò Richmond Herald, plenariâ ipsis potestate concessâ ac fide ipsis abunde astructâ, Diplomate publico Sigillo Ordinis, datoque in Palatio Alb-aulae apud Westmonasterium vicesimo nono die Mensis Novembris Anno Domini nuper praeterito Millesimo, sexcentesimo, sexagesimo octavo deferendi, donandi atque tradendi Nobis ipsam auream Periscelidem, torquem rosatum Sancti Georgii imagunculas, reliquasque vestes trabeatas in solenni harum ceremoniarum celebratione debite requisitas & à Majestate suâ ad nos transmissas; ldcircò haec omnia ab ipsis ritè administrata & peracta agnoscimus & fatemur, ac praesentium literarum tenore omnibus testatum volumus nosti Electionem & Assumptionem in hujus Collegii sodalitium Nobis gratissimum fuisse ac fore; Nosque insignia Ordinis decenti cum honore suscepisse, ac sancte in Leges & Statuta ejus per procuratores nostros loco ac tempore praestitutis juraturos eâ videlicet cautione, Nos religiosè observaturos articulos hujus Ordinis in omnibus quae Religioni à nobis professae dignitati, ac Majestati nostrae Regiae nullatenus derogarent aut aliis Articulis & Ordinibus quos antehac suscepimus adversarenturs Quam ipsissimam juramenti nostri formulam esse cupimus, quando solennis contestatio per Procuratores Nostros Nostro Nomine futura, & quandò ejus exemplar in acta referri contigerit. In cujus rei testimonium hasce honoratissimae & charissimae Matris nostrae, nec nòn caeterorum nostrorum Tutorum Regnique Nostri Administratorum manibus subscriptas, Sigilloque Nostro Regio communiri jussimus. Dabantur in Arce nostrâ Holmenfi die 17. Augusti, Anno Millesimo sexcessimo sexagesimo nono. Hedevig Ellenora R. S. Petrus Brahe Comes in Wissingsborg R. S. Drotzetus. Ʋander Linde loco R. S. Mariscal. Gustaff Otto Steenbook R. S. Archithalass. Magnus Gabriel de la Gardie R. S. Cancellar. Johan Gabriel Steenbook, loco R. S. Thesaurarius. NUM. CXXL Letters of Procuration to Peregrine Lord Willoughby of Ersby, from Frederick the Second King of Denmark. MS. quarto penes W. le N.Cl. f. 25. b. NOS Eridericus secundus, Dei gratiâ Daniae, Norwegiae, Vandalorum, Gothorumque Rex; Dux Slesvici, Holsatiae, Stormariae, ac Dietmarsiae; Comes in Oldenburg, & Delmenhorst; Omnibus & singulis, ad quos hae praesentes Literae pervenerint, salutem: Cum placuerit serenissimae Principi, ac Dominae, Dominae Elizabethae, dei gratiâ Angliae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Reginae, Fidei defensatrici, etc. Charissimae consanguineae, sorori, & confederatae nostrae, supremae Principi, nobilissimae, & antiquissimae Societatis Militaris, quam Garterii Ordinem appellant: unà cum caeteris omnibus, laudatissimi illius Collegii fratribus, & Commilitonibus, Nos in eundem numerum ascribere & cooptare, atque ad magis honorificam ●jusdem rei declarationem, mittere ad nos plenum habitum, & ornatum praedicti Nobilissimi Ordinis, per Clarissimum Dominum, Peregrinum, Baronem de Willoughby & Etesby, & celeberrimum virum, Gilbertum Dethick, Equitem auratum, Regem Armorum hujus Ordinis, Serenitatis suae Legatos, & vicarios in eâ pate: quorum de manibus, nos eundem Ordinem, non minus grato mimo, quam est nobis, à serenitate suâ delatus accepimus: Cumque antiquissima ejusdem Ordinis Statuta ac Decreta, postulent, ut in propriâ personâ installemur, sive in aliquâ sede nobis destinatâ collocemur in Collegiato Sacello ejusdem Ordinis, intra Castellum Windesorianum: quò quidem, cum commodè, proficisci non possimus, ratione Regalis Majestatis, ad quam summo beneficio divini numinis evecti sumus, elegimus & substituimus praefatum nobilissimum, & nobis imprimis dilectum virum, Dominum Peregrinum, Baronem de Willoughby & Eresby, Procuratorem nostrum, qui suppleret vices nostras in illâ parte, eaque perageret, quae ad honoratissimi illius Ordinis, Decus & Ornamentum, quoquo modo videbuntur pertinere, haud aliter, atque ipsi faceremus, si presentes essemus. Et quodcunque idem nobilissimus vir, ibi in hoc genere, nostrâ causâ praestiterit, tenemus & approbamus, ut ratum & Legitimum per praesentes, nòn minus, ac si nos ipsi in propriâ personâ praestitissemus. Saluâ tamen declaratione nostrâ quae ejus Reginae serenitatis Legatis, quorum supra mentio est facta, in illâ tractatione, sub manu, & Sigillo nostro tradita est. In cujus rei majorem fidem, & testimonium evidentius, Literas hasce nostras patentes, & subscriptione, & Sigillo nostro firmavimus. Datae in Castro nostro Croneburgâ, die decimo nono Mensis Augusti, Anno ab incarnatione Domini, ac Redemptoris nostri Jesus Christi, supra Millesimum quingentesimum octuagesimo secundo. NUM. CXXII. john Count Palatine of the Rhine, his Letters of Procuration to Sir Philip Sidney. Ex eod. MS. f. 124. JEan Casimire, par la grace de Dieu, Conte Palatin de Rhin; Duc de Baviere, etc. A touls ceulx, qui ces presents letters verront, Salut: Comme la treshaulte, trespuissante, & tres-excellente Princess, Elizabeth, Royne d' Angleterre, France, & Irlande, Sovereign du tresnoble Ordre de la Jarretiere, de sa grace & faveur speciale, par l'advis, & consentement de Confreres Chevalliers, & Compaguons, du dit tresnoble Ordre, nous a eslue Chevalier, & Compagnon d'iceluy Ordre, en son Palais à Wesltminster, l'huitiesme jour de ce present mois de Feburier; Nous voulans, & desirans tresaffectueusement la dicte Election sortir so● deu effect, & que tout ce soit faict, touchant les Ceremoines de nostre Installation à Windesore, à quoy nous sommes tenus, par les Ordennances, & Chapitres du dit Ordre. Et neantmoins, par les grandes occupations, & affairs, qu' avons presentment n'y puissions bonnenment comparoitre en personne, Comme toutes fois, nous vouldrions, & desirous; pour ce est il, que nous confians en la feautê, discretion, diligence & grand preudhommie de nostre bien aimé Messire, Philippe Sidney Chevalier, lequel avons aymé de long temps & aymons, avons ordonné, commis, & deputé, Ordonnous, Commettons, & Deputons, par ces presents, nostre Procurer, & Deputé especial, pour de par Nous, & en nostre Nom comparoir à Windsor, à la prochaine assemblée des Chevaliers du dict Ordre, & à y estre installé, tenir lien pour nous, fair des offrandes & solempnités deües, & accoustumèes en tel c●s. Et en oultre de faire à la dite Souvereigne, le Serment selon la form, & maniere des Statuts du dit Ordre, & to●s aultres choses accomplir, exercer, & expedier, que à luy semblera estre necessaires en ceste party, tout ainsi que fair deurions, & pourrions, si present y estions en nostre personne; Promettons tenir ferme, & agreeable tout ce qu'il fera, ou dira, touchant nostre Installation. En Tesmoignage de quoy à ces presents letters, avons faict mettre nostre Seau le xii. jour de Feburier, l'Annèe de Grace 1579. NUM. CXXIII. Letters of Procuration to the Sieur de Chattels from the French King Henry the Fourth. Ex Collect. W. le N. cl. HEnry, par la grace de Dieu, Roy de France, & de Navarre, à nostre cher, & bien aimè, le Sieur de Chattels, Commander de L'Ormetau, Conseilleur en nostre Conseil d'Estat, Capitaine de Ci●quante hommes d'Armes de nos Ordonnances; Gouverneur de nostre Ville de Dieppe, & l'un de nos Lieutenants Generals au Government de Normandy, Salut: Comme par les Stat●▪ de l'Ordre de la Jartiere, anquel de l'an mil, 〈◊〉 cens qu●tre vingt seize, nous avons esté associés par la Royne d' Angleterre, nostre treschere, & tresamie, honne Soeur, & Cousin, It soit porté que Estrangers' Chevaliers du dit Ordre debuent envoyer, apres la reception de la dicte Jartiere, & du Collier, & Habit que leur est envoié, par la Souverain du dit Order, & qu'ils auront certifié avoir le dit Jartiere, Collier, & Habit, un sufficient Depu●é & Procurer, selon l'estat de son Seigneur, & Maistre, moyenn●ns, qu'il soit Chevalier sans reproach, pour estre mi● en sa place; & y estant fair son serment, & y estre admis, par & au nom de son dit Seigneur, & Maistre: Scavoir vous faisons, que nous desirans, pour le respect, ●ue nous portons a la Royne, nostre dicte Soeur & Cousin, & l'estime que nous faisons du dict Ordre, satisfaire, qu'a nous, est, au contenu des dits Statutes, en ce que touche la dite prise de possession, & prestation de serment & recognoissance, que pou● cest effect nous ne pourrons saire melleur, ou plus convenable election, que de vostre personne pour les bonnes, & lovables qualitiés qui sont en vons, & les tesmoignages que vous avez rendus, en divers occasions, de vostre affection au bien, & avantage de nos affairs & service, vous avons Commis, & Deputé, Commettons, & Deputons par ces presentes signées de nostre main, pour vous trausporter en Angleterre, & vous trouver a la prochain ceremony, qui se fera du dicti Ordre, pour prendre possession de nostre place en iceluy, selon la forme ordinaire, & si besoigne est, fair le serment en nostre Nom, ainsi que l'ou à accoustumé de fairé, gardant au surplus les solemnites en tel cas requises & generalment fair tout ce, que vous adviserés necessaire pour l'effect dessus, oars qu'il y eust chose qui requist mandement plus special qu'il n'est contenu en ces dits presents, par lesquelles de ce fair, vous avons donné, & donno●s plain pouvoir, puissance, authorité, commission, & mandement special, Cartel est nostre plaisir. Donné a Paris le vingtiesme jour de Aurill, l'an de grace mil six cent, & de nostre Reign, le onziesme. Henry. Duneuville NUM. CXXIV. A Precedent of a Commission for Installation of an Elect-Knight. Ex lib. Nig. p. 315. HENRICUS Dei gratiâ, invictissimus Rex Angliae & Franciae Fidei Defensor, Dominus Hiberniae, & Ordinis Divi Georgii supremus, fidelibus ac praedilectis Cognatis nostris, N. S. D. P. Quoniam intelligimus, quod illustrissimus, ac potentissimus Princeps, N. vel Dominus aut vir inclytus N: quem nuper in Socium nostri Ordinis elegimus, non possit ipse commodè advenire, ut in ●ollegio nostro, de more, in sedem suam introducatur, & alias ibi Ceremonias ritè perimpleat, juxta quod ex Statutis ipsis obligatur, & ob id virum bene nobilem ac honorandum N. misit, ut sedem nomine suo possideat, juramentum praestet, caeteraque perficiat, quae Statuta requirunt. Nos ideò no●iscum ista reputantes, Volumus & virtute praesentium, eam vobis authoritatem addimus, ut hunc procuratorem ejus, ac deputatum non solùm admittere, sed & caetera quaeque facere valeates quae ad Statuta, consuetudinesque laudabiles attinere videbuntur. Et hae literae nostrae vos tuebuntur. Sub Sigillo nostri Ordinis. N. die Mensis N. Anno regni nostri N. NUM. CXXV. A Commission for the Installation of Guido Vbaldus Duke of Urbin. Ex Collect. W. D. N. HEnry, by the grace of God, King of England and of France, and Lord of Ireland, Sovereign of the Noble Ordre of the Garter. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousins, the Marquis of Dorset, The Earl of Surrey our Treasurer of England, and the Earl of Shrewsbury, Steward of our Household, Companions of the said Order, greeting. Forasmuch as we understand, that the right noble Prince Gwe de Ubaldis Duke of Urbino, who was heretofore elected to be one of the Companions of the said Noble Order, cannot conveniently repair into this our Realm, personally to be installed in the Collegial Church of that Order, and to perform other Ceremonies, whereunto by the Statutz of the said Order he is bound; But for that intent and purpose, hath sent a right honourable personage Balthasar de Castilione, Knight, sufficiently authorised as his Proctor, to be installed in his name, and to perform all other things for him, to the Statutes and Ordinances of the said Order requisite, and appertaining. We therefore in consideration of the premises will, and by these presents give unto you licence, full power and authority, not only to accept, and admit the said Balthasar, as Proctor for the same Duke, and to receive his Oath, and install him in the lieu and place, and for the said Duke, but also farther to do therein, as to the Statutes and laudable usages of the said Order it appertaineth, and this our writing shall be to you, and every of you sufficient discharge in that behalf. Given under the Seal of the said Noble Order of the Garter, at our Manor of Grenewiche, the seven. day of Novembre, the xxii year of our Reign. NUM. CXXVI. Another for the Installation of Emanuel Duke of Savoy. Ex Collect. A. V. W. PHilip and Mary, by the grace of God, King and Queen of England, France, Naples, Jerusalem, and Ireland, Defenders of the Faith, Princes of Spain and Sicily; Archdukes of Austria; Dukes of milan, Burgundy, and Braband; Counts of Haspurge, Flaunders, and tyrol, and Sovereigns of the Noble Order of the Garter: To our right trusty and wellbeloved, the Lord Clinton, and the Lord Paget, Knights and Companions of the said Noble Order, Greeting. Forasmuch as we understand, that the right high and mighty Prince, and our entirely beloved Cousin, Emanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy, and Prince of Piedmont, etc. and our right trusty and wellbeloved Counsellor, the Lord William Howard of Effingham, high Admiral of England, were heretofore elected to be Knights and Companions of the said Noble Order of the Garter, which Emanuel Duke of Savoy, Prince of Piedmont, &c. cannot conveniently repair unto our Castle of Windesore, personally to be installed in the Collegiate Chapel of that Order, and to perform other Ceremonies whereunto by the Statutes of the said Order he is bounden; and for that cause hath sent a right noble personage Johan Thomas L'angusto des Contes de Stropiane sufficiently authorised as his Deputy and Proctor, to be installed in his name, and to receive his Oath, and to perform all other such things and Ceremonies for him, as to the Statutes and Ordinances of the said Order be requisite, and appertain. We therefore in consideration of the premises, will, and by these presents give unto you, full power, licence, and authority, not only to accept and admit the said Johan Thomas L'angusto des Contes de Stropiane, to be Deputy and Proctor for our said entirely beloved Cousin, the said Duke of Savoy, Prince of Piedmont, etc. and to install him in the lieu of the said Duke, but also further to do therein, as to the Statutes and laudable usages of the said Noble Order, as touching a Proctor it appertaineth. And in semblable wise we will, authorize, and licence you to admit, accept, and install, our said right trusty and right wellbeloved Counsellor, the Lord William Howard of Essingham, high Admiral of England; and further to do for his installing as to the Statutes of the said Noble Order it belongeth: And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under the Seal of our Garter, at our Palace of Westminster the 29. day of January in the first and second year of our Reign, 1554. NUM. CXXVII. Another for the Installation of the French King Charles the Ninth. Ex eod. Collect. ELizabeth, by the grace of God, etc. To our right trusty, and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Sussex, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor the Earl of Leicester, Master of our Horse; our right trusty and wellbeloved the Viscount Montague; with our right trusty and wellbeloved the Lord Clinton, our high Admiral of England, Knights and Companions of our Noble Order of the Garter, Greeting. Forasmuch as We, with other the Companions of the said Noble Order assembled, did lately elect and choose our dearest and most entirely beloved Brother, the French King, to be Knight and Companion of our said Noble Order; and forasmuch as our said dear Brother cannot, for divers causes, conveniently repair to our collegiate Chapel, within our Castle of Windesore; and for that cause hath 〈◊〉 a right noble personage, the Lord Rambovilliet one of his ordinary Chamberlains, Knight of the Order of Saint Michael, and Captain of fifty ordinary men of Arms; sufficiently authorised as his Deputy and Procurer, to be installed in his name, and to receive his Oath, and to perform all other such things and Ceremonies for him, as to the Statutes and Ordinances of the said Order be requisite and appertains. We therefore, in consideration of the premises, will, and by these presents give unto you full power and authority, not only to accept and admit the said Procurer; but also further to do therein as to the Statutes and laudable usages of the said Noble Order, as touching a Procurer it doth appertain, And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under the Seal of our Order, at our Palace of Westminster, the 14. day of January in the 8. year of our Reign. NUM. CXXVIII. Letters of notice to the Commissioners appointed to Enstall the Duke of Holstein by his Proxy. Collect. A. V. W. By the Queen. RIght trusty and wellbeloved, We greet you well; and whereas we have appointed you, together with our right trusty, and wellbeloved, the Lord Hastings of Loughborow, to be in Commission for the Instalment, in our Castle of Windesor, of our dearest and most entirely beloved Cousin, the Duke of Holstein by his Procurer, the Viscount Hereford, being lately chosen to be one of the Fellowship and Companions of our Order of the Garter; We have thought it good, not only to give you knowledge hereof by these our Letters, but also to require you to make your repair to our said Castle of Windesor, so as you may be there on Saturday, the 14. day of this month, to the end that upon Sunday next the 15. day of this present Month of December, he may proceed to the Installation of him by his Procurer accordingly. Given under our Signet at our Palace of Westminster the 12. day of December, in the third Year of our Reign. To our right trusty and wellbeloved the Lord Pagit of Beaudesert, one of the Companious of our Order. The like Letter was directed to the Lord Loughborow, the other Commissioner appointed for this Installation. NUM. CXXIX. Letters of notice to the Commissioners for Installation of the French King Charles the Ninth. Ex eod. Collect. By the Queen. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, we greet you well. And whereas, we have appointed you, with others the Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, to be in Commission for the Installation in our Castle of Windesor, of our dearest and most entirely beloved Brother the French King, by his Procurer the Lord Rambovillet, being lately chosen to be one of the Fellowship, and Companions of our Order of the Garter; We have thought it good, not only to give you knowledge hereof by these our Letters, but also to require you to make your repair to our said Castle of Windesor, so as you may be there on Tuesday next the 15. day of this present Month of January, to the end, that on Wednesday he may proceed to his Installation accordingly. Given under our Signet, at our Palace of Westminster the— day of January in the eight year of our Reign. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Sussex, one of the Companions of our Order. The like Letter to the Earl of Leicester. Viscount Montague. and Lord Clinton. NUM. CXXX. A Warrant for materials for the Banner of the French King Henry the Second. Ex Collect. E. W. G. By the King. Edward. WE will and command you, that unto our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter King at Arms, ye deliver or cause to be delivered, upon sight hereof, without delay, three yards of Cloth of Gold, two yards of Cloth of Gold Tissue, and 16 yards of Blue Velvet, which shall be for the Banner, for the Mantles of the Helmet, and the lining of the same, for the Installation of Henry the French King, and that you content and pay for the Stuff, workmanship, and the embroidering of the said Banner. And these our Letters, etc. Given under our Signet at our Manor of Greenwich, the 10. of May in the fifth year of our Reign. To our trusty and wellbeloved Counsellor Sir Rauf Sadleyere Knight, Master of our Great Wardrobe, or to his Deputy there. NUM. CXXXI. A Warrant to deliver Garter money to provide the Achievements of the said King. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. THE King's Majesty's pleasure is, that of such his Treasure as remains in your custody, to his Majesty's use, ye deliver unto Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter, King at Arms, for the provision of an Helm, garnished with fine Gold, a Crown of Copper gilt, an arming Sword, and Girdle to the same, and a Plate of metal, with the Arms of the French King engraven; which are for the Installation of the King's Majesty's good Brother, Henry the French King, the sum of twenty pounds; and these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant in that behalf. From Greenwiche the 11. of May 1551. Your loving friends E. Somerset. J. Bedford. E. Clinton. W. Herbert. W. Cecil. J. Warwick. W. Northt. W. Paget. J. Gate. NUM. CXXXII. A Warrant for the delivery of the Duke of Chevereux his Achievements to Garter. Ex eod. Collect. Charles R. WE will and command you, forthwith to deliver, or cause to be delivered, unto our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir William Seagar Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms, for the installation of our wellbeloved Cousin the Duke of Chevereux, these particulars hereafter mentioned; that is to say, one Helmet of Steel gilded with fine Gold, his Highness' Crest carved, and gilt, a pair of Mantles of Cloth of Gold lined with White Satin, and spotted with Ermines, two Knobs and Tassels of Silk and Gold, a Sword, the Hilts, pommel, and Chape gilded, the Scabbard and Girdle, Cloth of Gold, a great Banner of his Highness' Arms, w●●●ght in Metal and in Oil, a Cushion of Crimson Velvet fringed, and Tassels of Silk, one Dozen of Scutcheons on Paper in Metal, of his Highness' Arms, within a Garter, a Staff for the great Banner painted in Oil, a Plate of Copper gilt, graven, and enameled with his Highness' Arms, to be set upon his Highness' Stall at Windesore; and this our Letter shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf, Given under our Signet, etc. NUM. CXXXIII. Another for the Achievements of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden. Ex eod. Collect. Charles R. THese are to will and command you to provide and deliver, or cause to be provided and delivered, to the use of the high and mighty Prince, Gustavus King of Sweden, against his Installation, these parcels following; viz. A great embroidered Banner of his Arms, of coloured Velvet, enriched with Cloth of Gold, and Cloth of Silver, and Twist of Venice Gold, Plates, and Pearl, two yards and half of rich Cloth of Tissive for Mantles for his Helm, Scabbard, and Girdle, two yards of Cloth of Silver to line those Mantles; two yards and half of Purple Velvet for a Cushion with Fringe, and Tassels of Purple Silk and Gold, to bear his Robes upon, two Tassels also, with Knobs gilded, to hang at the ends of the Mantles; an arming Sword gilded, an open Helmet, with a royal Crown, and an Orb▪ and Cross on the top thereof gilded, with his Crest; a Book of Statutes of the Order, and a Plate of his Arms, and Style to be set up in his Stall at Windesore: And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. NUM. CXXXIV. A Warrant for delivery of materials for the Achievements of the French King Charles the Ninth. Ex lib. Warr. Dorm. in magno Gardrob. Regis, tempore Eliz. Reg. p. 364. Elizabeth R. WE will and command you, to deliver to our wellbeloved Servant David Smith, our Embroiderer, as much Blue Velvet, Cloth of Gold yellow with works, and Purple Cloth of Gold tissued with Silver, as shall suffice for the making and furnishing of one great double Banner, to be richly embroidered on both sides with the Arms of France, together with the Mantle, Helmet, Crest, Sword, and Scabbard, suitable to the same Banner, for the installing of our right wellbeloved Brother, Charles' the Ninth French King; and that ye pay unto the said David Smith, as well for his workmanship, in the embroidering of the premises, as also for all such Fringe of Silk and Gold, with Buttons and Tassels of like Silk and Gold, and for Venice Gold and Silk for the embroidering of the premises. Given at Westminster the last day of November, in the eighth year of our Reign. To our wellbeloved I. Fortescue, Esq Master of our Great Wardrobe. NUM. CXXXV. Another for the Achievements of the French King Henry the Third. Ex lib. Warr. particul. in praed. Gardrob. tempore Eliz. Reg. p. 179. Elizabeth R. DEliver to our wellbeloved Servant Sir Gilbert Dethick, alias Garter King at Arms, as much Blue Velvet, Cloth of Gold yellow with works, and Purple Cloth of Gold, tissued with Silver, as shall serve to make one large Banner, richly embroidered on both sides, with the Arms of France, to make Mantlets, and cover the Scabbard, also the Helmet, Crest, Sword, and other Furniture of the same; and that ye pay for the embroidering of the same Banner, for Purls of Damask Gold, and for Venice Gold Fringe, and Passamain Lace of Gold with Silk and all other necessaries, for the installing of the French King. Item, one Standard of Crimson and Blue Taffeta painted and gilded, with our Arms, and Cognisance, with Gold and Silver laid in Oil, and for Silk Fringe for the same. Given at Westminster the 12. of June, in the 14. year of our Reign. To our trusty I. Fortescue Esq Master of our Great Wardrobe. NUM. CXXXVI. A Warrant for the delivery of the Achievements for the Prince of Denmark. Ex Collect. E.W.G. Charles R. OUR will and pleasure is, that you forthwith deliver, or cause to be delivered, unto our trusty and wellbeloved servant Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter Principal King of Arms, or by his order, the several particulars herewith sent and signed by him, to be used and made up into Hatchments for the Installation of the Prince of Denmark, lately elected a Companion of our most Noble Order of the Garter, and after that you cause payment to be made for the painting and making thereof, according to former precedents; and for your so doing, this shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge. Given, etc. the 12. of February 1662. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor, Edward Earl of Sandwich, Master of our Great Wardrobe, or to his Deputy there. NUM. CXXXVII. A Warrant for delivery of Materials to Garter, for the Achievements of Charles King of Sweden, and the Prince Elector of Saxony. Book of Warrants in the Great Wardrobe, commencing at Michaelmas, 1667. fol. 95. Charles R. OUR will and pleasure is, and we do hereby require you, forthwith to cause to be provided and delivered unto our trusty and wellbeloved servant Sir Edward Walker Knight, Garter Principal King of Arms, or to such person as he shall appoint to receive the same, the several parcels of Cloth of Gold, Satin, Damask and Taffeta, and other Necessaries mentioned in the Bills herewith sent, and signed by the said Garter, to be made up into Banners and Achievements to be hung up in our Chapel at Windesor, against our next Feast of the Order, which we intent to hold there in April next, over the Stalls of Charles King of Sweden, and the Prince Elector of Saxony, who are by their Proxies to be installed there; and that you cause payment to be made for the same accordingly, and for your so doing, this shall be your sufficient Warrant. Given at our Court at Whitehall, the 28. day of February 1669. By the Sovereign's special command. De Vic. Canc. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor, Edward Earl of Sandwich Master of our Great Wardrobe, or in his absence to his Deputy. Ibid. fol. 95. b. Necessaries to be provided and delivered out of his Majesty's Great Wardrobe, in pursuance of his Majesty's Warrant of the 28. of February, for the Installation of Charles King of Sweden by his Proxy at Windesor, in April next 1670. An embroidered Banner upon Satin and Cloth of Gold, according to his Colours. A Fringe of Blue Silk and Gold for the same. Two yards of Fustian for the Socket of the Banner. A Crest carved and gilt. A Staff for the Banner. Two yards and a half of Cloth of Gold for the Mantles. Two yards of Cloth of Silver to line the Mantles. Two large Tassels of Blue Silk and Gold. Two Knobs gilded with Gold. An Helmet of Steel gilt. A Sword with a Cross Hilt gil●. A Plate of his Arms and Stile. Three Scutcheons of his Arms, painted on Paper in Metal, and his Style underneath. Ed. Walker, Garter. 1. Mar. 1669. Necessaries to be provided and delivered out of his Majesty's Great Wardrobe, in pursuance of his Majesty's Warrant of the 28. of February, for the Installation of the Prince Elector of Saxony by his Proxy at Windsor in April next 1670. Four els of rich Taffeta for the great Banner. Eight yards of Silk Fringe, according to the Colours. Three yards of Fustian for the Socquets for the Banner. A Crest carved and gilt. Two yards and a half of Cloth of Gold for the Mantles. Two yards of White Satin to line the Mantles. Two large Tassels of Silk and Gold. Two Knobs gilded with Gold. A Helmet of Steel gilt. A Sword with a cross Hilt gilt. A Plate of his Arms and Stile. Three Scutcheons of his Arms, painted on Paper in Metal, with his Style underneath. Ed. Walker, Garter. 1. Mar. 1669. NUM. CXXXVIII. A Precedent of an Emperor's Oath. Ex lib. Nig. p. 311. NOS, N. summâ Dei ●●nignitate ac gratiâ Caesar semper Augustus, aut Rex N. promittimus in verba Regio, & fidem damus, sub honore nostro, Sacrosanctis Evangeliis per nos impraesentiarum tactis: quod fideliter ac verè pro viribus observabimus Statuta Clarissimi Ordinis Milit●ris in Angliâ Divo Georgio nuncupati, qui & de praenobili atque insigni Subligaculo nomen accepit, idque de Articulo in Articulum, prout seriatim in libello ad nos misso continentur, saltem quatenus observari possunt ac debent, & dummodo contrarii non fuerint aut derogantes hiis in quos jam ante nomen dedimus ac juravimus, & conditionibus aliis, de quibus praeconventum est, semper salvis. NUM. CXXXIX. A Precedent of an Emperor's or King's Proctor's Oath. Ex lib. Nig. pag. 311. & 312. EGO, N. Eques, & Procurator serenissimi atque invictissimi Principis ac Domini mei, Domini N. Caesaris. semper Augusti vel Regis N. nominati atque electi ad insignem atque honorandam societatem Ordinis a praenobili Subligaculo nuncupati: vice ac nomine praedicti Domini mei, veraci animo ac fide, promitto ac juro eundem illustrissimum benè & fideliter adimpleturum ac servaturum, omnia & singula Statuta, Ordinationes, & decreta Ordinis illius, juxta vim, formam, atque effectum, ad ipsum quoquo modo perti●entia: Salvis conditionibus inter eum & Ordinis Supremum praeacceptis. NUM. CXL. A Precedent of an Oath of a Proctor for a Prince, Duke, etc. Lib. N. p. 312. EGO, N. Eques ac Procurator Inclyti Principis, Archiducis, Ducis, Marchionis, Comitis, Vice-Comitis, Baronis, Domini, vel (ut minimum) Equites Aurati N. ad praeclarissimam Ordinis Divi Georgii Societatem jam nuper nominati atque electi, vice ac nomine ipsius Domini mei, veraci animo integráque fide promitto, & juro, praefatum Dominum meum Statuta hujus Ordinis, & singulos ipsorum Articulos benè & fidelitèr observaturum ac perimpleturum, juxta vim, formam, atque effectum eorundem: Saltem, quatenus Supremi dispensatio moderabitur & declarabit. NUM. CXLI. The Oath of Philip King of Castille. Ex Lib. N. p. 184. NOs Philippus Dei gratia Rex Castiliae, Legionum, & Granado, Archidux Ostrichiae, & Dux Burgundiae, promittimus, & sub fide nostrâ ac honore Regio, per haec sancta Evangelia Dei, Canonem Missae, & hanc veram Dominicae Crucem portionem, quae coràm hic statuuntur, & manibus hisce nostris modo tangimus, juramus: quòd omnia praesentis Ordinis Statuta, juxta qu●d continentur in libell● nuper ad nos misso, atque à nobis accepto, perinde ac si quisque Articulorum hic nobis recitaretur observabimus, & de Articulo in Articulum adimplebimus, tàm fideliter ac promptè quam nos Dei ipsius & Sanctorum ejus auxilium exoptamus. NUM. CXLII. The Oath of Ferdinand Prince of Spain, etc. MS. penes E. W. G. fol. 17. b. NOus Ferdinando, par la grace de Dieu, Prince & Infante d' Espaigne, Archeduc d' ostrich, Duc de Bourgoingne, de Stier, de Carinthe, de Carniolle, etc. Promettons & jurons sur nostre foy, & bonneur, & les Saintz Evangilles, par nous manuellement touchez, que nous accomplirons, & entretiendrons loyaulement, à nostre ponoyr, tous les Statutz, Pointz, & Ordonnances de le tres noble Ordre de Saint George, nommé la Jarretiere, de point en point, & de Article en Article, selon qu'il est contenu & declairé dedens le liure, qui nous a esté baillé, lequel avons accepté, & acceptons, aussi bien que si nous lisions tout au long à ceste heure presente chascun Article; Excepté de point porter les Collier & Jarretier sinon aulcunes foys l' an à nostre plaisir. Item, quant serons en quelque lieu ou place non convenable, ou que nous n'ayons loysir d'ouir Matines le jour Saint George, les pourrons par vng prestre faire dire en nostre presence. Et si pour ancun bien grant affaire ou empeschement qu'il nous pourroit survenir, estions ●ccupé le dit jour Saint George, E● ce cas ne Jerons tenu porter les dit Collier, Jarretier, & aultres habitz, y pertinans si non durant le divin service, lequel acheué, pourrons incontinent o●ter & devestir iceulx sans attendere jusques apres le disner & souper, toutes●oys si pour les causes dessusdictes ne povyons porter le susdit habit le dit jour Saint George entier, lors voulons & prometctons les porter en ung aultre jour solempnel dedens l'an; lesquelz Articles pr●metctons derechef tenir & garder entierement sans enfrayndre; Ainsi nous ayde Dieu & tous les Saintz; Donné en la ville de Neurenberghe, soubz noz nom & seel le viij. jour de Decembre, l'an de grace Mille Cinque Cens Vingt & Troy's. NUM. CXLIV. The Oath of Emanuel Duke of Savoy. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. NOus Emanuel Philibert, par la grace de Dieu Duc de Savoy, Chamblaye, & August, Prince & Vicaire perpetuel du saint Empire, Marquis en Italy, Prince de Piedmont, Conte de Genevet, Genevoye, Bargias, Vaudemont, etc. Lieutenant & Captain general pour l'Empereur, promettons, & jurons par nostre foy & bonneur, & les Saints Evangiles par nous manuellement touchez, que nous accomplirons, entretiendrons, & observerons loyaument tous les Estatuts, Points, & Ordonnances du tres noble Ordre de la Jarretiere en Engleterre, & ce de point en point, & d'article en article, selon ce qui est contenu au liure qui nous a esté envoyé, ou pour le moins si avant que les dits Estatuts puissent bonnement estre obserués & gardés de nous, & qu'ils ne soyent contraires à ce en quoy auparavant nous nous avons obligé par nostre foy & serment, & pourveù aussi que ne soyons point tenus de partir la dite Jartiere, Phabit, & autres enseignes du dit Ordre, si non quand nous verrons & aurons lafoy commodité de le fair, & non autrement, lesquels articles nous promettons derechef garder & tenir entierement comme avant est dict, ainsi que nous ayde Dieu, & tous les Saints. Donné au Camp de l'Empereur, & fait dans l'Eglise, dissus le sixieme jour de Novembre, l'an mil cinq cens cinquante & quatre. Emanuel. Rossier. NUM. CXLV. The Oath taken by the Proctor to the French King Francis the First. Ad Calcem Regist. Chartac. JE Adrien Tercelin, Chivalier, Seignieur de Brosse, Posse, & Cafferte, baily Cappitaine de guysor's, l'un des Chamberlans de tresbault & trespuissant Prince, Francoys, par la grace de Dieu, treschrestien Roy de France, premier de ce nom; comme Procurer, & ayaut povoir expres de la part de mon dit Seignieur, prometcts, & jure sur sa parole, & sur son honneur, qu'il observera, gardera, & entretiendra les Statutz du tresnoble Ordre de mon Seignieur, Saint George en ce, qu'ilz ne sont contraires, ne derogans aux Statutz du tresnoble Ordre de Monseignieur Saint Michael, & autres Ordres, que mon dit Seignieur Roy aye cy-devant prins à d'autres Princes. A. Tercelin. NUM. CXLVI. The Oath of the French King Charles the Ninth. MS. penes G. O. Y. pag. 221. NOus promettons & jurons en parole de Roy, que nous observerons, garderons, & maintiendrons les estatuts & ordonnances, de l'Ordre de la Jarretiere en tout ce, & si avant qu'elles ne soyent contraires ne derogatoires à nostre grandeur Royale aux estatuts de nostre Ordre de Monsieur Saint Michael, ni aucun aultre serment que nous avons faict auparavant. NUM. CXLVII. The Oath of the Emperor Maximilian. MS. quar●o penes W. le N. Cl. f. 99 b. NOus promettons & jurons en parole d' Empereur, que nous observerons, garderons, & maintiendrons les Statutes & Ordonnances de l'Ordre de la Jarretiere en tout ce, & si avant qu'ils ne sont contraires, ni derogatoires à nostre grandeur & Majesty Imperialle, ni aux Statuts d'ancun autre Ordre ou serment que nous avons prins auparavant. NUM. CXLVIII. The Oath of his Proctor. MS. fol. penes E. W. G. EGo N. Procurator Serenissimi & Invinctissimi Principis ac Domini mei Maximiliani Caesaris, & semper Augusti, electi, & nominati ad honorabilem societatem Ordinis Garterii, vice, nomine, fide, & in animo praedicti Domini mei, promitto & juro, supra Sacrosancta Evangelia per me manualiter tacta, eundem illustrissimum Principem ac Dominum meum benè & fideliter adimpleturum & observaturum omnia & singula Statuta & Ordinationes praedicti Ordinis secundum vim, formam, & effectum, ipsum quovismodo concernentia & spectantia. NUM. CXLIX. The Oath taken by the French King Henry the Third. MS. quarto penes W. le N. Cl. NOus Henry, par la grace de Dieu Roy de France & de Polongne, jurons, Vovons, & Promettons solennellement sur nostre honneur en parole de Roy, Que nous observerons, garderons, & maintiendrons les Statutes & Ordonnances du tresnoble Ordre Monsieur Saint George, nominé la Jarretiere, en ce qu'ils ne se trouveront contraires à nostre Religion Catholic, grandeur & Majesté royal, ni aux Statuts & Ordonnances de nos d●ux Ordres, du Benoist Saint Esprit, & de Monsieur Saint Michael, En tesmoing de quoy avons signé la presente de nostre propre main, & icelle faict seeller de nostre Seel du Secret. A Paris, le dernier jour de Feurier, l'an mil cinq cens quatre vingts cinq. Henry. NUM. CL. The Oath of the French King Henry the Fourth. Collect. W. le N. Cl. NOus Henry, par la Grace de Dieu, Roy de France & de Navarre, jurons, Vovons, & Promettons solennellement sur nostre honneur en parole de Roy, Que nous observerons, garderons, & maintiendrons les Statutes & Ordonnances du tresnoble Ordre Monsieur Saint George, nominé la Jarretiere, en ce qu'ils ne se trouveront contraires à nostre Religion Catholic, grandeur & Majesté royal, ny aux Statuts & Ordonnances de nos deux Ordres, du Benoist Saint Esprit, & de Monsieur Saint Michael, En Tesmoing de quoy nous avons signé la presente de nostre propre main, & icelle faict seeler de nostre Seel du secret. A Roven le— jour d' Octobre, l'an mil cinq cens quatre vingts & seize. Henry. NUM. CLI. The Oath taken by the Proctor to the French King Henry the Fourth. Ex eod. Collect. JE le Sieur de Chastes, Chevalier de l'Ordre de Saint Jean de Jerusalem, Conseilleur de Roy en son Conseil d'Estat, Capitaine de Cinquante hommes d'Armes de ses Ordonances, & l'un de ses Lieutenants generaux en Normandy, Vice-admiral de France, & Gouverneur de la Ville de Dieppe, Procurer pour le Roy treschrestien, Henry quatriesme Roy de France & de Navarre, Chevalier du tresnoble Ordre de la Jarretiere, promets au nom, & sur l'honneur de mon dit Roy & Seigneur qu'il observera, gardera, & maintiendra les Statuts & Ordonnances du dit Ordre, selon la forme cy devant jurée par sa Majesté, & sous les conditions acceptées entre sa dite Majesté, & la Royne Souveraine du dit Ordre. M. Chastes. NUM. CLII The Oath of Frederick the Second King of Denmark. Ex lib. MS. in Bibl. Hatton. NOs Fridericus summâ Dei benignitate Daniae, etc. Rex, promittimus verbo regi●, & fidem damus, sub honore nostro, sacrosanctis Evangeliis per nos impraesentiarum tactis, quòd fideliter ac verè pro viribus observabimus stainta clarissimi Ordinis militaris in Anglia, qui de praenobili atque insigni Subligaculo nomen accepit, de Articulo in Articulum prout seriatim in libello Statutorum ejusdem praenobilissimi Ordinis continentur, saltem quatenus observari possunt ac debent, & dummodo contrarii non fuerint aut derogantes hiis in quos jam ante nomen dedimus ac juravimus, & conditionibus aliis, de quibus praeconventum est, semper salvis. NUM. CLIII. The Oath taken by his Proctor. MS. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 126. b. I Sir Peregrine Bertie, Knight, Lord Willougby of Eresby, Deputy, and Procurator for the right high, right Excellent, and mighty Prince, Frederick King of Denmark, named and chosen to be one of the Companions of the most honourable Order of the Garter, do, in the said high and mighty Prince's name and stead, truly and faithfully promise and swear, that the said high and mighty Prince will well and faithfully fulfil and keep all and singular the Statutes, Ordinances, and Decrees of that honourable Order, according to their true force, effect, and meaning, so far forth as they concern him, and shall be agreeable with the Word of God. NUM. CLIU The Oath of the Proctor to Christian the Fourth King of Denmark. Ex ipso Autogr. EGo Henricus Ramelius, Serenissimi ac Potentissimi Principis Domini Christiani Quarti, Daniae, Norvegiae, Vandalorum, Gothorumque, Regis, Ducis Slesvici, Holsatiae, Stormariae, & Dithmarsiae, Comitis in Oldenburg, & Delmenhurst, nominati atque electi ad insignem atque, honorandam societatem Ordinis à praenobili Subligaculo nuncupati Domini mei Clementissimi, Legatus, ejusdemque, Serenissimi Regis & inclyti Regni Senatorii Ordinis Consiliarius, in Wusterwitz & Beckeskow Dominus haereditarius, jussu, vice, ac nomine praedicti Domini mei, veraci animo ac fide promitt●, & in Majestatis ipsius animam juro, eundem Serenissimum Regem benè ac fideliter adimpleturum ac serva●urum omnia & singula Statuta, Ordinationes, & Decreta Ordinis illius, juxta vim, formam, atque effectum, ad ipsum quoquo modo pertinentia: salvis pactis & faderibus, quibus ante hoc tempu● Majestas ipsius obstricta tenetur. NUM. CLV. The Oath taken by Frederick Duke of Wirtemberg. Erchard. Cellius in Eq. Aur. Anglo. Wirtemb. pag. 153. NOs Fredericus Dei gratiâ Dux Würtembergicus, & Teccius, Comes Montispelegardi, Dn. in Heidenheim, etc. Sacri Romani Imperii Princeps, pollicemur sub fide nostrâ principali, Statuta & Ordinationes Nobilissimi Ordinis Garterii, nos sedulò observaturos, quatenus illa sacri Romani Imperii constitutionibus, & fidei nostrae, quam Imperatori Romano, eidemque Imperio debemus: nec non promissionibus, aliis Ordinibus & amicis nostris antehac factis, non adversantur & repugnant: Et tali quidem modo, ut Supremus, si necesse fuerit, fidelitatem, socii verò candidum amicum ex nostrâ affectione & opera experiri queant. In cujus rei testimonium hasce literas propriâ manu subscripsimus, & Sigilli nostri majoris appensione munire curavimus. Datum in sede nostrá Ducali Studtgardiae 8. Iduum Novembris, Anno à partu Virgineo 1603. NUM. CLVI. An Attestation granted by the Sovereign, of the Installation of the French King Henry the Fourth. Ex Collect. W. le N. Cl. ELizabeth par la grace de Dieu, Roine d' Angleterre, France, & Ireland, Defenseur de la foy, etc. Sovereign du tresnoble Ordre de la Jarretiere, A tous presents & a venir salut. Scavoir faisons que ayant esté le Roy treschrestien Henry quatriesme Roy de France & de Navarre, nostre trescher & tresame bon Frere & Cousin esleu & associé en nostre dit Ordre des l'an mil cinq cens nonante six, & en consequence de la dite Election prins & receu la Jarretiere, Collier, & autres Habits d'iceluy, & fait le Serment accoustumé de faire par les Chevaliers & Compaignons du dit Ordre pour observation des Statuts & Ordonnances d'iceluy par les quelles sont tenus entre autres choses les Chevaliers Estrangers' associés au dit Ordre d'envoyer apres la reception de la dite Jarretiere, Collier, & Habit un suffisant Deputé ou Procureur selon leur Estat ou Chasteau de Windesor pour y estre ●is & receu en leur place en la Chapel Collegial de Saint George avec les Ceremonies & Solemnites y appertenants: Iceluy Roy treschrestien voulant satisfaire aux Statuts du dit Ordre, & nommement au sus mencionné, & monstrer par le respect qu'il nous porte, & l'estime que du dit Ordre il fait, averoit envoyé devers nous le Seigneur de Chastes, Chevalier de l' Ordre de Saint Jean, Commandeur de l' Ormetau, Conseilleur en son Conseil d'Estate, Capitaine de Cinquante hommes d'Armes de ses Ordonances, Go●verneur de sa Ville de Dieppe, & l'un de ses Lieutenants generals en Jon Gouvernement de Normandy, avec pouvoir & Lettres Procuratoires signées de sa main à l'effect que dess●s en vertu duquel pouvoir à luy commis, le dit Seigneur de Chastes fust par nostre Commandment conduit au dit Chasteau de Windsor, le 26. jour du mois d' Avril dernier passé par nos treschers & feaulx Cousins Charles Conte de Nottingham; Baron de Effinham Conseilleur en nostre Conseil Privy, & Admiral d' Angleterre, Gilbert Conte de Shrewsbury, Baron Talbot, etc. Henry Conte de Northumberland, Baron Percy, etc. Thomas Howard Baron de Walden, Chevaliers & Compagnons du dit Ordre, à ce par nous commis, par pouvoir sous le Seel de nostre dit Ordre, & le jour ensuivant, ascavoir le 27. du dit mois, fust menné par les dits Chevaliers & Compagnons en la dite Chapel de Saint George au dit lieu de Windsor, & alloqué en siege competent, au reng & honneur de nostre dit Frere le Roy tres Chrestien mis en possession de place, vestu de Manteau de l' Ordre, & assies au nom du dit Roy au reng à luy appertenant. Toutes lesquelles Ceremonies & aultres Solemnites requises le dit Seigneur de Chastes executa selon les Statuts de nostre dit Ordre, & mesmes fist au nom du Roy le Serment accoustumé de fair, & en bailla Attestation signé de sa main, le tout en düe form convenable, & en presence de Chevaliers & Compagnons d'iceluy Ordre dessus nommez, qui nous en ont faict report, dont à la Requisition du dit Seigneur de Chastes, Nous avons, voulons bailler lafoy present Attestation signée de nostre main, & seellée du Seel de nostre dit Ordre. Donné à Greenwich le 3. jour de May, 1600. de nostre Reign l'an 42. NUM. CLVII. A Report concerning Installation-Fees. Lib. Carol. pag. 84. Albae-Basilicae 5. die Martii, 1669. QVoniam Supremae vestrae Majestati Illustrissimi Ordinis Periscelidis Supremo Capitulo 4. Febr. proximè elapsi Albaulae celebrato, statum atque perpetuum trium aut plurium Nobilissimorum Commilitonum conventum constituere visum fuerit; qui omnia Illustrissimi Ordinis negotia cognoscerent, & ad Supremam vestram Majestatem renuntiarent: Cumque Decanus Windesoriensis Feodorum Schedulam à Supremâ vestrâ Majestate pro externis Principibus, nec non omnibus subditis Commilitonibus quam primum ●naugurati fuerint, solvendorum tunc temporis exhibuerit, cujus quidem schedulae aequitatem licet Capitulum approbasset, cum tamen controversia aliqua orta fuisset de Installationis Feodis quae Canonicis, Pauperibus Militibus, & Ecclesiae Windesoriensi solvi debent, totius hujus causae cognitio praedicto Deputato Commilitonum conventui demandata erat. Ideoque Henrico de Vic Equite Cancellario: Doctore Ryves Decano Windesoriensi Scribâ; & Edvardo Walker Equite, Gartero, Conventui assistentibus, Scriba Ordinis, hujus totius causae narrationem datam 16. die Maii, 1663. tunc temporis exhibuit, cui quatuor Commilitones Deputati nomina sua subscripserant, è quorum numero fuerunt duo nostrûm qui nomina nostra infrà apposuimus. Quâ narratione plenissimis Decani & Garteri rationibus atque testimoniis privato Sigillo munitis comprobatum reperimus, Feoda illae pro Installatione Principum externorum quae narratione istâ exprimuntur. Illorum decessoribus ab omni memoriâ soluta fuisse; neque feoda illa superare quae subditi Duces aut Prioribus temporibus, aut nuperrimis solverunt. Quoniam verò Schedula superiori Capitulo exhibita à Feodis per Supremum solvendis initium sumat, nullo tamen modo probari possit ullum unquam Supremum Feoda pro Installatione suá solvisse & apertè constet paucissimos admodum fuisse Illustrissimi Ordinis Supremos, qui inaugurati Installationis Feoda antea non solverant, nos narratione nostrâ Feodorum istorum nullam mentionem fecimus. Quod ad Feoda illa attinet, quae ab extero Rege solvenda sunt, illa Feodis istis quae à Supremâ vestrâ Majestate, Anno 1638. tunc temporis Walliae Principe soluta fuerunt, omnino respondere pro comperto habemus; Installationis quoque Feoda Canonicis, & Ecclesiae Windesoriensi solvenda, pro multis externis Regibus à Supremo soluta fuisse, Garterus pro certo affirmavit. Canonicorum etiam & Ecclesiae Windesoriensis Feoda ab omnibus Illustrissimi Ordinis Commilitonibus cujuscunque fuerint gradûs, seu Duces, Marchiones, Comites, Vice-comites, Barones, seu Milites, solvi debere, Scriba Ordinis plenissimis testimoniis confirmavit. Garterus insuper affirmavit Feoda pro omnibus gradibus jam memoratis Ecclesiae Windesoriensi folvenda illis etiam per omnia respondere, quae Elizabethae Reginae, Jacobi Regis, & Caroli Primi Beatissimae memoriae temporibus, nec non jam à foelicissimo Regiae vestrae Majestatis reditu, à quam plurimis Honoratissimis Ordinis Commilitonibus soluta fuere. Haec omnia unà cum Schedulis annexis ad Supremae vestrae Majestatis arbitrium humillimè referimus, ita & omnia haec vestrae Majestatis authoritate approbata Illustrissimi Ordinis Registro inseri possint. Quoniam verò Garterus eodem Capitulo Schedulam Feodorum, tam Decano & Ecclesiae Windesoriensi quam si●i, Nigrivirgifero, Officiariis Armorum, & quam plurimis aliis Regiae vestrae Majestratis Administris solvendorum exhibuerat. Quibus Feodorum nomine gratificari soleat, quae habitâ ratione graduum atque dignitatum quibus Commilitones insigniti sunt, ad normam illorum Feodorum exiguntur quae Suprema vestra Majestas tunc Walliae Princeps solvebat, nobis omninò consentaneum videtur, ut sola Feoda Gartero, Nigrivirgifero, & Officiariis Armorum solvenda approbentur, atque Illustrissimi Ordinis Registro inserantur: Vt reliqua qua verà Regiae vestrae Majestatis Administrorum Feoda Garteri billi● inserta ipsu● Sigillo muniantur, & à quolibet Commilitone quam primùm inauguratus fuerit, exigantur, utque à Gartero c●ilibet Officiario secundum gradum suum, prout antiquitus obtiu●it solvantur. Humilimè insuper petimus ut (si supremae vestrae Majestati ita videbitur) Cancellarius in mandatis habeat, ut Literae Ordinis mandatoriae scribantur, quibus Installationis Feoda à quam plurimis Commilitonibus debita exigantur, & defunctorum Commilitonum Haeredes atque Executores Mantella atque Illustrissimi Ordinis Statuta Ecclesiae Windesoriensi reddere moneantur, quoniam autem quamplurimi Pauperes Milites Absentiae veniam per annos integros à Supremâ vestrâ Majestate impetraverunt, humilimè p●timus ut Regia vestra Majestas nulli imposterum absentiam indulgere●, utque omnes Pauperes Milites sub Statutorum Regimine hâc in re arctè teneantur. Ormondiensis. Sandovicensis. Mancestrensis. NUM. CLVIII. A Commission for Prorogation of the Grand Feast of St. George. Sir Tho. Rows journal, pag. 4. Charles R. Charles' by the grace of God, King of great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, To all the Knights and Companions of Our said Order Greeting. Whereas upon some special reasons we were moved to Prorogue the Celebration of the Feast of St. George, from the 22.23. & 24. days of April last (being the usual days of that Solemnity) to the 8.9. & 10. days of July following. And again from thence to the 26.27. & 28. of September, and from that time unto the 13.14. & 15. of December. Now forasmuch as by reason of our other great and important Affairs, we cannot conveniently attend the Celebration of the said Feast at the said last appointed days. And considering also the Contagion and Sickness, dispersed into several places of this Our Kingdom, which by assembling of People, may be most dangerous, both to Ourselves, and Our loving Subjects. We do therefore by these presents prorogue the Prorogation, and keeping of the said Feast, from the said 13.14. & 15. days of this present December aforesaid, until and unto the 17.18. & 19 of April next: willing, and by the tenor hereof commanding all, and every the Knights and Companions of Our said Order, and Officers of the same, to attend Our Person upon the said days, to perform what to them, and every of them shall belong and appertain for the accustomed Celebration of the Feast of Our most Noble Order. Given under the Seal of the said Order at Our Honour of Hampton-Court, the 11. day of December, in the 12. year of Our Reign, An. Salutis, 1636. NUM. CLIX A Letter of Notice to the Sovereign's Lieutenant to prepare to be at the Grand Feast held by Prorogation. Ex veteri Codice MS. penes W. le N. Cl. fol. 52. Henry R. Right trusty and right well-beloved Cousin We great you well. And for asm●che as the Fest of the glorious Martyr Saint George falleth this year within xv. days after Ester, by reason whereof We have according to the Statutes of the noble Order of the Garter differred the solennenifation of the same unto the xxiiii. day of May next coming, on which day we have appointed the said Fest to be kept, and also deputed you to be our Lieutenant at the same. We therefore wool and desire you to prepare and dispose yourself so to been accordingly. Yeven under our Signet at our University of Cambridge the xxv. day of April. NUM. CLX. A Letter of Notice to a Knight-Companion to be present at the Grand Feast held by Prorogation. Ex Collect. praef. W. le N. Cl. Marry R. RIght trusty, etc. And having deferred the keeping of the Feast of the Glorious Martyr St. George, Patron of our most Noble Order of the Garter, until the coming of our most dear Cousin the Prince of Spain, To the intent the said Feast might be also honoured with the Installation of our said dearest Cousin; We let you wit, that we have now resolved to hold and celebrate the same Feast within our Cas●le of Windsor upon Sunday, the 5. of August next ensuing▪ Requiring you therefore to put yourself in order to make your repair thither for that purpose before the same day, so as you may be present at the Celebration of that Feast, and all the accustomed Ceremonies thereof. Wherefore we pray you not to fail. Yeven under the Seal of our Order, etc. NUM. CLXI. A Letter from the Chancellor giving a Knight-Companion notice of the Prorogation of the Grand Feast. Ex Lib. Collect. W. le N. Cl. fol. 46. Right Honourable, WHereas his Majesty, Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, for sundry causes, but especially for the late Death of the high and mighty King, his most dear and most entirely beloved Father, which bringeth unto him cause of grief infinitely more than of triumph, hath not thought meet to keep the Feast of St. George for this year on the days accustomed for the same, that is to say, on the 22.23. & 24. days of this month of April. His Majesty therefore, under the Seal of the said Order, remaining in my Custody, hath prorogued the keeping of the said Feast for this year, unto the 16.17. & 18. days of August next: Commanding all the Knights and Companions of the said Noble Order and Officers of the same, then to attend his person, wherein, his Majesty's Pleasure, it is my due to make known to your Lordship, which being by these performed, I most humbly rest Your Lordship's most ready to do you service, George More. 7. April 1625. To the right Honourable the Earl of Arundel and Surry, Earl Marshal of England, Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter, and of his Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. NUM. CLXII. Another. Rows journal, pag. 5. May it please your Lordship, THe King's Majesty, Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, having formerly prorogued the Celebration of the Feast of Saint George for this year, from the usual days, upon which it should have been solemnised, unto the 8.9. & 10. of July following; and by reason of the Contagion spread in many parts of his Kingdom, from those days, to the 26.27. & 28. of September, and then also, upon special consideration unto the 13.14. & 15. of December, by Several Commissions under the Seal of his Order, now remaining in my Custody. His Majesty for divers and important Causes, and to avoid the danger of the concourse of much people, during the Infection, finding it not convenient, to celebrate the Feast at that designed time, hath adjourned the Prorogation thereof, by a new Commission, to me delivered, unto the 17.18. & 19 days of April next. And thereby given Commandment, to all the Knights and Companions, and Officers of his Order, that they should attend his Royal person upon these last appointed days. Wherefore in discharge of my duty, I do signify unto your Lordship his Majesty's pleasure; praying your Lordship, that you will be pleased, to take knowledge herein of the Sovereign's Order, humbly resting, Your Lordships In all due Observance and Obedience, Tho. Rowe. Cranford 12. Dec. 1636. To the Right Honourable james Marquis Hamilton, Knight and Companion of the most Noble Order of the Garter, and my most Honoured Lord. NUM. CLXIII. Another to the Register of the Order. Ibidem, pag. 3. Reverend Sir, THE King's Majesty, Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter, having formerly prorogued the Celebration of the Feast of St. George, for this presents Year, from the usual days upon which, it should have been solemnised, by several Commissions under the Seal of his Order, now remaining in my Custody: and finding it inconvenient for divers important causes, specially by reason of the Contagion, spread in divers places of his Kingdom, to hold the Feast, at any of those designed times. His Majesty hath pleased by a new Commission, to me delivered, to prorogue the last Prorogation, unto the 17.18. & 19 of April next: And thereby given Commandment to all the Knights and Companions, and to the Officers of his Order, that they should attend his Royal person, upon those last appointed days. Wherefore in discharge of the duty of my place, I do signify unto you his Majesty's pleasure, desiring that you will take knowledge herein of his Royal Order. Your affectionate Friend to do you service, Tho. Rowe. Cranford 12. Dec. 1636. To the Reverend and my Worthy Friend, Doctor Wrenn, Dean of Windsor, and Register of the most Honourable Order of the Garter One Duplicate of this was sent to Sir john Boroughs Knight Garter, another to james Maxwell Esq Black-Rod. NUM. CLXIV. Letters of Dispensation for attending at the Grand Feast. Ex Collect. A. V. W. By the Queen RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor, We greet you well: and forasmuch as you are as well Governor of our Town of Barwick, as also Warden of our East Marshes, for and anyenst Scotland, and may not conveniently be spared from thence, for certain Affairs there by you to be done, whereby you cannot make your repair hither, to celebrate with us the Feast of St. George, and have thought good upon that respect, to excuse your absence from the said Feast, and do by these presents dispense with you for the same. And therefore these our Letters shall be your sufficient discharge in that behalf. Yeven under the Signet of our said Order at our Palace of Westminster the— day of April, in the seventh year of our Reign, 1565. NUM. CLXV. Another. Ex eod. Collect. By the Queen. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, We greet you well, and forasmuch as you are Precedent of our Council established in the City of York, and by reason of your charge and attendance there for our service, you cannot conveniently be present with us to solemnize the Feast of our most Noble Order of the Garter the Even of Vigil of St. George next ensuing. We let you understand, that we are pleased and content to accept your reasonable excuse in this behalf: And by these presents do pardon you for your absence from the said Feast at this present, any Statute of our said Order to the contrary notwithstanding. Yeoven under our Signet of our Order, at our Palace of Westminster the— day of April 1575. in the 17. year of our Reign. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin Henry Earl of Huntingdon, Precedent of our Council in the City of York, Knight and Companion of our most Noble Order of the Garter. NUM. CLXVI. Another. Ex Lib. Collect. W. le N. Cl. f. 54. Charles R. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin We greet you well: Forasmuch as you by reason of your indisposition of health, cannot be present to attend our person on the days by prorogation for this year appointed for celebrating the Feast of our most Noble Order of the Garter (that is to say the 26.27. and 28. days of this month of April) We let you understand that We are pleased to excuse your absence, and by these presents do pardon, remit and dispense with any fault you may incur thereby. And do give you licence to be absent at those days from the said Feast for this year, any Article or Statute of our said Order to the contrary notwithstanding. Given under the Seal of our said Order, at our Palace of Westminster, the 23. day of April, in the second year of the Reign of Great Britain, etc. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin Thomas Earl of Arundel and Surrey, Earl Marshal of England, and Knight and Companion of our most Noble Order of the Garter. NUM. CLXVII. Another. Inter President. Tho. Row Eq. Aur. nuper hujus Ordinis Cancellar. Charles R. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin, We greet you well: Whereas we have for divers causes, prorogued the celebration of the Feast of St. George for this present year, to the 17.18. and 19 days of April next following, whereof according to the Customs and Rules of our most Noble Order of the Garter, you have had notice and summons, for your attendance upon those days from our Chancellor; notwithstanding we are pleased to excuse your absence, and by these presents do dispense therewith, and pardon and remit any default you may thereby inincur, and do give you licence to be absent at those days, from the said Feast for this present year (observing in your own House the Solemnities appointed by the Canons of the Order) any Statute or Article thereof to the contrary notwithstanding: Given under the Signet of our Order at our Palace of Westminster, the 24. day of February in the 12. year of our Reign. NUM. CLXVIII. A Warrant for a Privy Seal to pay Garter for Scutcheons used on Saint George's day. Ex Autogr. pen. johan. Vincent gen. TRusty and wellbeloved, We greet you well, and will and command you, that under our Privy Seal being in your Custody, ye cause our Letters to be made forth unto the Treasurer and Chamberlains of our Exchequer in form following, We will and command you, that unto our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Garter Principal King of Arms, ye pay or cause to be paid in ready money upon the sight hereof without delay, the sum of 6 l. 1 s. 8 d. for 23 Scutcheons by him provided for the Knights of our Order, on Saint George's day last, in the first and second years of our Reign, whereof 4. for Princes at 6 s. 8 d. the piece, and the rest at 5 s. the piece, and also that ye content and pay more unto the said Garter the sum of 6 l. 11 s. 8 d. for 25. Scutcheons by him provided, and set up at our Manor of St. James in the second and third years of our Reign for the furniture of the Stalls in our said Chapel, at the rate aforesaid: and these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge. NUM. CLXIX. A Privy Seal to pay Garter 7 l. per annum for Scutcheons of Arms set up on St. George's Eve. Collect. W. le N. Cl. ELizabeth by the grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. To the Treasurer and Chamberlains of our Exchequer greeting. We will and command you forthwith upon the sight hereof, of such our Treasure as remaineth in your Custody, you content and pay, or cause to be contented, and paid to our trusty and wellbeloved Servant Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, alias Garter, principal King of Arms, the sum of 21 l. for Scutcheons of Arms of the Knights of our Order set up in our Chapel within our Palace of Westminster, as well on St. George's Even, in the year of our Lord God 1579. as on St. George's Even in the year of our Lord God 1580. and also on St. George's Even last passed; and also henceforth during his life to allow him yearly 7 l. to be paid on St. George's day accordingly. And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in that behalf. Given under our Privy Seal at our Manor of Greenwich, the 7. day of July, in the 23. year of our Reign. NUM. CLXX. Another. Ex Autogr. penes Wil Knight. CHARLES' by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. To the Treasurer and Under-Treasurer of our Exchequer for the time being, and that hereafter shall be, Greeting. Whereas our late dear Father King James of happy memory deceased, by Warrant under his Privy Seal, bearing date the second day of July, in the sixth year of his Reign of England, etc. did give order for the payment unto William Seagar, alias Garter, Knight, now principal King of Arms, and to any other principal King of Arms, for the time being, upon every Saint George Even, of the sum of seven pounds, for Escotcheons of Arms of the Knights of the Order of the Garter, to be set up in the Chapel at Whitehall, or any other place where the said Feast should happen to be solemnised on every St. George's Even and Day, as by the said Warrant more at large appeareth: We minding the continuance of the said yearly allowance, do hereby will and command you to cause payment to be made out of such our Treasure as now is, or hereafter shall be in the receipt of our said Exchequer of the said yearly allowance of seven pounds unto the said Sir William Seager alias Garter, Knight, now our principal King of Arms, and to any other our principal King of Arms for the time being upon every St. George's Even for the Scutcheons of Arms of the Knights of our Order of the Garter, to be by him or them set up in our Chapel at Whitehall, or any other place where the said Feast shall happen to be solemnised every St. George's Even and day; And to continue the payment thereof yearly until you shall receive other directions from us to the contrary. The first payment thereof to begin and commence from the time of the last payment thereof unto the said Sir William Seager alias Garter, our principal King of Arms; And these our Letters shall be your sufficient Warrant and discharge in this behalf. Given under our Privy Seal at our Palace of Westminster, the seventh day of February, in the second year of our Reign. NUM. CLXXI Commissional Letters for collecting the Contributions towards furnishing the Altar in the Chapel at Windesor. Ex lib. vocat. Frith's Regist. p. 139. CHARLES' by the grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter; To all and singular, whom these may concern, greeting. Whereas, We with the Knights and Companions of our said Order, in contemplation of the great want of such sacred Furniture, for our Royal Chapel of St. George within our Castle of Windesor, as may be suitable to the honour and devotion of the said Order, have at sundry Chapters there holden, advised and decreed, that a joint contribution should be made, for provision of the same; And particularly, at a Chapter (together with the Solemnity of the Feast of St. George) holden upon the 6. of this present October, We did again declare and constitute, that We ourselves would begin, and that every Lord, which is now of our Realm, a Companion of the said Order, or was at the making of our first Decree, viz. Nou. 24. 1625. should give and confer towards the same, as to him should be thought meet; Provided that it be not under xxl. Now know ye, that We have, and do by these presents, give Authority and Command, to our Dean and Canons of our said free Chapel, that they forthwith by any one of themselves, or by their lawful Deputy, under their Common Seal, do ask and receive, as well of our own Officers for our Self, as of every Lord and Companions of the Order, that now is, of our Realm, and of the Heirs, Executors, and Administrator, of any that are deceased, since the time last above mentioned, the said gift and contribution. And that thereof they be accountable unto Us, at our next Chapter, to be holden for the said Order, or at the next Session of the Lords Commissioners for the said Order, which of the two shall first happen. Given under the Seal of our said Order, the seventh day of October, in the sixth Year of our Reign of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, etc. 1630. NUM. CLXXII. The Soveraign's Letter to the Dean and Canons of Windesor, for making use of their Lodgings at Saint George's Feast, an. 7. H. 5. Ex Lib. vocat. Denton. fol. 69. TReschers & bien aymés, Nous vous solvons souuent, Et pour ce que grant multitude de gens tant estrongers, que aultres qui seront à nostre Chasteau de Windesore, à ceste prochaine solempnité, la feste de Sainct George; & à cause de la Venue de l' Empereur, & du Due de Holland. Nous desirons, & voulons que leurs gens, & aultres estans de nostre Compengnie ayent la plus grand favour, & aise que faire se pourra en aucune maniere touchant leur Logemens dedens mesme nostre dit Chasteau; Pour laquelle cause vous envoyons presentement nostre bien aymé Escuier & Huisser de Chambre le porteur de cestes vers nostre dit Chasteau, pour yenor donner contre nostre venue. Si vous prions, que vous ve●illiés bonnement souffrir nostre dit Huissier survoyer lez Logemens de vous maisons dedens nostre College, & de y logier autant de personnes come faire se pourra bonestement à ceste foys: tout seullement pour la cause dessus dit. Et ce faisons vous nous faites ●ng singulier plesir. Et n'est pas nostre intention ne vouloir que par coulour de ce. Vous en soyés ainsi chargiés plus avant. Et nostre Signeur soit garde de vous. Donné soubz nostre Signet à Lambeth, le 18. jour de May, l'an de nostre Reigne septieme. NUM. CLXXIII. A Letter from the Sovereign, to excuse the absence of some of the Knights-Companions from the Grand Feast. Lib. N●ag. 174. SVpremus honorando ac pervenerando Patri suo Thomae Comiti Derb. salvere, ac benè valere. Quoniam ob multa variaque negotia quae nostri oneris sunt perdelectus Cognatus noster Comes Salopiae, & fideles ac benè meriti nobis à Consiliis Dominus Reginaldus Bray, Dom. Tho. Lovel, Dom. Carolus Somerset, Dom. Richardus Goulford, & Dominus Gilbertus Talbot Socii clarissimi nostri Ordinis non possunt ipsi in Festo Divi Georgii septimo Maii celebrando interesse, sed venia nostra donandi si●t arduis illisce rebus impediti; Nos igitur biis nostris scriptis certiorem tuam nobilitatem facimus; Vt has excusationes rationi consona● acceptes, de nulla Statutorum vi dubitaturus, & si contra denotare videatur, cum penes nos sit, ut ipsaemet leges jure regantur Richmondiae 29. Aprilis. NUM. CLXXIV. Another. Ex Collect. A. V. W. Elizabeth. RIght trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin and Counsellor, We greet you well. Forasmuch as our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousins and Counsellors the Earls of Arundel and Derby, etc. Companions of the most Noble Order of the Garter, cannot for certain employments, by our Commandment attend at the Feast of the glorious Martyr St. George, to be holden and kept within our Castle of Windsor, the 22. day of May next coming, and they being by Us dispensed with, and pardoned for their absence at that time, like as we have thought good to advertise you thereof; so We will you to accept their reasonable excuses in this behalf accordingly: any Statute of the said Order made to the contrary notwithstanding. Given under the Signet of our said Order, at our Palace at Westminster the 20. of May, in the fifth year of our Reign. NUM. CLXXV. Another. Ms. penes Arthur. Com. Anglesey, fol. 122. b. Elizabeth. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor, We greet you well. And forasmuch as our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and counsellor the Marquis of Winchester, and the Earl of Derby, and our right trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin and Counsellor the Duke of Norfolk, our right trusty and wellbeloved Counsellor the Lord Clinton our high Admiral of England, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor the Marquis of Northampton, our right trusty and wellbeloved Counsellor the Lord Howard of Effingham, Lord Chamberlain of our Household, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Shrewsbury, our right trusty and wellbeloved the Lord hastings of Loughborough; our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor the Earl of Leicester, our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin the Earl of Warwick, our trusty and wellbeloved the Lord Hunsdone, our trusty and wellbeloved Sir Henry Sidney, Companions of our Noble Order of the Garter, cannot for certain causes to be executed and done by our Commandment, be at the Feast of the Glorious Martyr St. George, to be holden and kept within our Castle of Windsor, the xvii. day of June next coming, but be by Us pardoned of their absence from the said Feast, like as we have thought good to advertise you thereof; so We will you to accept their reasonable excuse in this behalf accordingly, any Statutes of the said Order made to the contrary notwithstanding. Given under our Seal of our said Order at our Honour at Hampton-Court the— day of June, in the xii. Year of our Reign. NUM. CLXXVI. A Commission for holding the Grand Feast. Regist. Chartac. fol. 13. b. HEnry par la grace de Dieu, Roy d' Angleterre, & de France, Sovurain de la Compagnie de l' Ordre du Gartier, A tous nos Compagnons du dit Ordre, Salut. Comme pour certeines causes que nous movent, ne pourrons estre personnelement à la Feste de Saint George, prouchein venant, à nostre Chastell de windsor, & par les Estatutz du dit Ordre, nous est loisible pour commetter, & deputer autre personne pour nous, pour tenir lez Chapitres, corriger, & redresser fair les Elections, & de lez approuver, & de fair toutes autres choses, comme il appertendra, solone la form & teneure dez ditz Estatutz. Pour ce est il, que nous avons commis, & deputé, commettons, & deputons par cez presents, nostre trescher, & tresame Oncle, Jean Regent nostre Royaume de France, Duc de Bedford, pour fair les ditz choses avec leures circumstances, & dependences quelconques. Mandons & commandons à nous dis Compaignons, que en ce faisant lui obeissent, & entendent diligentment comme à l'ordre appartent pour cest fois. Donné à leicester la premier jour d' Auril, l'an de nostre Regne quart. NUM. CLXXVII. Another. Ibid. fol. 62. b. Henry R. HEnry the viij. by the grace of God, King of England, and of France, defensor of the Faith, and Lord of Irland. To our right trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin, the Marquis Dorcet, Greeting. Forasmuch as we for divers great and urgent causes, may not be present at the Fest of the glorious Martyr St. George, Patron of our noble Ordre of the Gartier, to be holdyn, solemnized and kept in our Castle of Windesore, the viij. day of May next coming. We therefore by these presents name, constitute, appoint, and ordain you to be our Lieutenant at the said Feast. Giving unto you full power and authority to do and accomplische every thing at the same, which to our Lieutenant there in such case belongith, and hath been accustomed; Willing and Commanding by the tenor hereof all and every the Companions and Officers of our said Ordre, to be to you in the executing of this our authority obeying and attending as schall appertain. Yeven under the Seal of our said Garter at our Manoir of Beaulieu, the xxv. day of April, the xuj. year of our Reign. NUM. CLXXVIII. Another. Lib. N. pag. 249. Henry R. HEnricus Dei gratiâ, Rex Angliae & Franciae, Princeps Gualliae, & Dominus Hiberniae, Fedei Defensor, atque Illustrissimi bujus Ordinis ipse Supremus, unice nobis dilecto, fide probatissimo, & Officio erga nos suo jam undique notissimo Cognato nostro Duci Norfolk salutem ac foelicitatem. Nunc quoniam per multa charissime, nos istinc negotia detinent (ut quod optamus) gloriossimi Martyris Patroni nostri festivitatem praesentia nostra non possumus honorare, tuam propterea nobilitatem ad illud ipsum nomine nostro praestandum nominamus atque instituimus eam tibi dantes authoritatem quae supplenti vices nostras unquam alias assuevit, jubentes & itidem ut Sociorum quisquis atque Officialium tibi, dum mandatum hoc nostrum facessis, obediant, & quantum res ipsa postulabit, ex nutu tuo jussuque pendeat, Windesori sub Ordinis Sigillo, undecimo Junii, & nostri Regui decimo septimo. NUM. CLXXIX. A Letter of Notice to the Assistants of the Sovereign's Lieutenant, to be at the Feast. Collect. A. V. W. By the Queen. RIght trusty and right wellbeloved, We greet you well. Where we by our Commission under the Seal of our most Noble Order of the Garter, have assigned and appointed our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor the Earl of Arundel, Lord Steward of our Household, and one of the Companions of the said Noble Order, to be our Lieutenant at the Feast of the glorious Martyr St. George, to be kept within our Castle of Windesor the 18. day of May next coming, for the doing of all things there, as to Our Lieutenant appertaineth. And have appointed you, with our right trusty & right wellbeloved the Lord Paget of Beaudesert, to be Assistants at the said Feast. We have thought good, not only to give you knowledge thereof by these Our Letters, but also require you to make your repair to Our said Castle of Windesor; so as you may be there at the said Feast accordingly. Given under the Signet of Our said Order at Our Manor of Greenwich, the second day of May, in the third year of Our Reign. To Our right trusty and right wellbeloved, the Viscount Montague, one of the Companions of Our Order. The like Letter, and of the same Date was sent to the Lord Paget, the other Assistant. NUM. CLXXX. An Order for the fashion and materials of the Sovereign and Knights-Companions Under Habit. Collect. E. W. G. Charles R. IT being most certain, that nothing can be more conducing to the keeping up of that Lustre and Dignity, of our most Noble Order of the Garter, wherein it is at this present, than those very means by which it hath attained unto it constancy and immtability. For these reasons, having at a Chapter held at our Castle of Windesor, the 16. of April last passed, resolved upon a review and examination of its Statutes, to see if possibly length of time, and change of Customs, might have introduced any thing in them, which might make them swerve from the ancient Rules, so far as they were not unconsistent with the present Usance. We have thought it not unworthy our care, to descend unto the particulars of its Clothing: And thereupon having found, that in what concerns the Vnder-Habits, used by the Companions at the solemnising of Instalments, or the Celebration of St. George's Feast, they followed too much the modern fashion, never constant and less comporting with the decency, gravity, and stateliness of the upper Robes of the Order. It was resolved in that Chapter, and accordingly we ordain and enjoin, That from this time forwards the Companions shall be obliged, to a certain and immutable form and fashion, as well for their Under-Habits as their Upper-Robes, to be used on th●se solemn Days and Occasions, that is to say, to the old Trunk-hose or Round-Breeches, whereof the Stuff or Material shall be some such Cloth of Silver, as we shall choose and appoint, wherein as we shall be to them an example, so we do expect they will follow us in using the same, and no other. Given under the Signet of our said Order, this— day of May, 1661. NUM. CLXXXI. A Dispensation for a Knight's attendance at the Grand Feast, during life. Ex ipso Autogr. in Bibl. Hatton. Henry R. HEnry the Eighth by the grace of God, King of England and of France, Defender of the Faith, and Lord of Ireland, and Sovereign of the Noble Order of the Garter, To the Lieutenant at the Feast of the glorious Martyr Saint George, Patron of the Noble Order of the Garter, and other Knights and Companions of the same Order, for the time being, to be assembled at any time hereafter at our Castle at Windesor, and to other our Officers, Ministers, and Subjects these our Letters hearing or seeing, Greeting. We let you weet, that We of our special grace, and for certain urgent and great causes, and special considerations concerning the old service done unto us, by our right trusty and wellbeloved Counsellor the Lord Darcy, one of the Knights and Companions of the said Noble Order of the Garter, and of his great age and debility, have pardoned and licenced him by these presents at all time from henceforth, during his life, to be absent from the said Feast of St. George, and not to give attendance in any place, Chapter, or other Feast to be holden of the said Noble Order, and that he to sustain no damage by any mean for his said absence any Act, Decree, Ordinance, Oath, or Statute of the said Noble Order of the Garter, now being made, or hereafter to be made to the contrary notwithstanding. Given under the Seal of the Gartier of the said Noble Order, the eight and twentieth day of October, the six and twentieth year of our Reign. NUM. CLXXXII. Another. Inter Praecident. Tho. Rome Eq. Aur. nuper Cancel. Charles R. Charles' by the grace of God, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and Sovereign of the most Noble Order of the Garter. To our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin Ferdinand, Earl of Derby, Knight and Companion of our said most Noble Order, Greeting. For as much as we are informed by our Chancellor of our Order, upon signification to him made under your Seal of Arms, of your indisposition of health, and of your petition to have licence to forbear your attendance upon our person on the 22.23. & 24. of May next, being the days appointed by Prorogation for the Celebration of the Feast, of our most Noble Order of the Garter. We give you to understand, that we are pleased to excuse your absence, and by these presents, do pardon, remit, and dispense with any default you may thereby incur. And we do further, in respect of your age, and weakness unable to travel, signified unto us in your said Petition, by these presents, dispense with your attendance on our person upon the said Feast days, during your natural life, observing in your own house the Rites and Solemnities appointed by the Canons of the Order upon the usual days of Celebration, being the 22.23. & 24. of April, or at such times as shall be hereafter appointed by Prorogation, any Statute, or Article of our said Order to the contrary notwithstanding. Given under the Seal of our said Order, at our Court at Whitehall, the 9 day of April, in the 14. year of our Reign. NUM. CLXXXIII. A Warrant to Garter to take down the Achievements of john Dudley, Duke of Northumberland. Collect. W. le N. Cl. By the Queen. Trusty and wellbeloved, We greet you well, letting you wit, That where the Hatchments of the late Duke of Northumberland attainted of High Treason, and put to Execution for his offence, do remain yet within our Chapel of Windesor, untaken down. Our pleasure is, in respect of his said Offence, through the which his Hatchments deserve not to be in so honourable a place, among the rest of the Knights of our Order; you shall repair to Windesor immediately upon the Receipt of these Our Letters, and in your presence, cause the said Hatchments of the said late Duke to be taken down, in such sort as others in like cases have been, whereof fail you not. Given under our Signet of our Order, etc. NUM. CLXXXIV. A Publication of the Degrading of Edward, Duke of Buckingham. Ex Collect. A. V. W. BE it known unto all men, That whereas Edward, late Duke of Buckingham, Knight, and Companion of the Noble Order of Saint George, named the Garter, hath lately done and committed High Treason against the King, Sovereign of the said Order of the Garter, in compassing and imagining the destruction of the most Noble person of our said Sovereign Lord the King, contrary to his Oath, Duty, and Allegiance; for which High Treason, the said Edward hath been indicted, arraigned, convicted, and attainted, and for the which detestable Offence and High Treason, the said Edward hath deserved to be disgraded of the said Noble Order, and expelled out of the said Company, and not worthy that his Arms, Ensigns, and Achievements should remain amongst other Noble Ensigns and Achievements, of other noble, virtuous, and approved Knights of the said Noble Order, nor to have the benefits of the said Noble Order. Wherefore our Sovereign Lord the King, Sovereign of the said Noble Order of St. George, named the Garter, by the advice of other Knights of the said Noble Order, for his said Offences, and committing of the said High Treason, willeth and commandeth, that the said Edward, late Duke of Buckingham, be disgraded of the said Noble Order, and his Arms, and Ensigns, and Achievements clearly expelled, and put from amongst the Arms, Ensigns, and Achievements of the other Noble Knights of the said Order; to the intent that all other Noble men, thereby may take Example, hereafter not to commit any such heinous and detestable Treason and Offence as God forbid they should. God save the King NUM. CLXXXV. The Sovereign's Letters for celebrating Masses, upon the Death of the Lord Fitz-Hugh, an. 3. H. 6. Lib. N. pag. 81. & 82. Exteris & aliis hujus Clarissimi Ordinis Sodalibus, extra Regnum Commorantibus & eorum cuilibet, Supremus Salutem. QUoniam, Charissime mi Cognate, N. Henricus Dominus Fitzhugh, nuper unus è Commilitonibus nostris excessit ex h●c vitâ, cuj●s anime propitius esto Deus: Nos id proprerea nunciam●s, ut vestram commiserationem minimè lateat, Missas ex praecepto Statuti pro defuncto celebrandas, caeteraque complenda, qu●e vestrâ in h●c parte sole● imeresse. Vestram verò nobilitatem beata Trinitas servet & angeat. Sub Sigillo nostri Ordinis Windesori, etc. Manentibus, intra Regnum, sed absentibus ab hâc Festivitate Georgianâ, & eorum cuilibet Rex S. P. D. RICHARDO N. Cognato nostro perdilecto Saluiem. Quoniam Henricus Fitzhugh, nuper unus è Sociis nostri Ordinis, sexto Januarii proximo defunctus est. (Cujus animae misereatur Omnipotens.) Nos vestrae Nobilitati significamus, ut juxta tenorem Statutorum Missas defuncto curetis celebrandas. Scitis autem binc Windesori vacare sedem, quam oporteat intra sex bebdomad●● ab altero possideri. Caeterum quia nos aliis jam negotiis impediti, non possumus huic infiftere, mandamus, ut proximâ Divi Georgii Vigiliâ, vos ipsi borâ tertiarum nobiscum Windesori fitis, ad perimplendum quod ista res expostulat, nisi justa forsan causa faciat, quò minùs f●●ri possit, que ●criptis ad nos, eisdem die & borâ mitti debet, sub Sigillo vestro ab Armis. NUM. CLXXXVI. Another Letter sent upon the Death of Sir Robert Vmfrevil, an. 4. H. 6. Registr. Chartac. fol. 12. b. De par le Roy Souverain de l'Ordre du Iarretier. TRescher & tresame Oncle, Pour ce, que apres le trespas d'ancun des Compaignons de l' Ordre du Jarretier, le Souverain par les Estatus du dit Ordre, le doit signifier & faire savoir à tous les Compaignons, on qu'ilz soyent, Nous come premier, & Souverain d'icelui, vous signifions, que feu nostre trescher, & bien ame Sir Robert Dumfreville, que Dieu absoille en son vivant un des Compaignons du dit Ordre, est allé de vie à trespas, si faites vostre devoir, & diligence des Messes & Prieres, que selone les diz Estatus estes tenu faire dire & celebrer pour le repos & salut de son ame, & ny faites aucun faulte, trescher & tresame Oncle, nostre Seigneur. Dieu vous ait en sa seinte Garde. De par le Roy Souverain de l'Ordre du jarretiere. TRescher & bien ame; Pour ce, que Sir Robert Dumfreville, que Dien absoille, en sou vivant, un de noz Compaignons de l'Ordre du Jarretier, est allé de vie à trespas le darrain jour de Januer, darrain passe, & que selon l●z Estat●z du dit Ordre, sommes tenus en advertir ung chescun dez Compaignons, vous certifions son dit trespas, ●dsin que facies vostre devoir des Messes & Prieres, les●●elles estes tenuz faire dire & celebrer 〈◊〉 le 〈◊〉 de s●● 〈◊〉, par le 〈◊〉 du quel est ●● place vacant, & convient selou les ditz Estatuz 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 en son lie● de●●ns sys sepmaines apres la certification du dit trespas, si bonnement faire se puet, que bonnement au present faire ne pourrons: si voulons, & vous mandons, sur lez peines contenues es ditz Estatutz que soies avec nous la vaigle Seint George, à l'be●re de tierce procbein venant, pour faire & acomplir en ce que dit est, come per les ditz Estatutz appertiendra. Et se estre ny poves nous signifiés soubz vostre Seel la cause de vostre empechement, par quoy vostre Excusacion puissio●s cognoistre, & l'avoir agreables, si ainsi est quelle soit digne d'estre accepte, & ny faites feaulte, Trescher & bien ame, &c. NUM. CLXXXVII. Another sent upon the Death of King Henry the Seventh, and Philip King of Castille. MS. entitled Henry the Seventh's Proceedings, penes W. le N. Cl. p. 49. FOrasmuch as it hath pleased Almighty God, to call unto his infinite mercy the late King our Fader of most famous memory, whose soul God pardon, late Sovereign of the Noble Ordre of the Garter, and also the King of Castille, each Companion of the same Noble Ordre. We therefore advise you thereof, to the intent, that you may cause such Driso●s and Suffrages, to be said and done for their souls health, as by the ancient Statutes and Ordinances of the said Noble Order, you be bound to do in that behalf. Given under the Seal of the same Noble Order, etc. NUM. CLXXXVIII. A Certificate that the Masses were accordingly Celebrated. Lib. N. pag. 318. NOverint universiper praesentes Literas, Nos Priorem & Conventum Ordinis Fratrum N. Mandato, ac munere praeclaro Illustrissimi Domini nostri Regis HENRICI OCTAVI, nostri, omniumque Christi Pauperum benefactoris precipui, quadringentas Missas, quinque Ceriis in Exequiis, & Missa aliis solemniore honorificè accensis pro anima piae Memoriae Magnifici Domini N. nuper defuncti celebrasse. NUM. CLXXXIX. An Order for reviving the Decree for payment of Obits moneys. Lib. R. pag. 86. Carolus R. In h●c Capitulo, Supremus per D. Comitem Portlandiae monetur cujusdam Sanctionis, sub Rege Henrico Octavo, latae & in Statuta, (singulorum júre jurando firmata) relate, quâ decretum fuit, ut defuncto ex Commilitonibus ordinis aliquo, certam quandam pecuniarum summam tam Supremus ipse, quam superstites Commilitònes singuli solverent, per Decanum Windesoriensem colligendam, atque in pios usus erogandam, prout visum erit Supremo, & Commilitonibus in Capitulo. Hanc verò sanctionem, quantumvis in se honorificam, usuque confirmatam sub Edvardo Rege sexto, subque Mariâ, & Elizabethâ Reginis nuper, tamen per aliquot retrò annos minùs observatam, Supremus jussit publicè recitari. Pellegente igitur Scribâ apparet, post obitum cujusque Commilitonis ipsi Supremo incumbere summam 8 l. 6 s. 8 d. Regi extero, 6 l. 13 s. 4 d. Principi, 5 l. 16. s. 8 d. Duci, 5 l. Marchioni, 3 l. 15 s. Comiti, 2 l. 10 s. Vice-Comiti, 2 l. 1 s. 8 d. Baroni, 1 l. 13 s. 4 d. Equiti, 16 s. 8 d. addita insuper poena tertiae quoque partis in annos singulos cumulande, quantisper sortem principalem non solverint. Suprema itaque Majestas, cum assensu Commilitonum omnium praesentium, ordinavit atque decrevit sanctionem hanc honorificentiae, pietatisque refertissimam, & singulorum juramentis in introitu Ordinis firmatam, restitui oportere, & in perpetuum dehinc usum, atque observationem revocari, idque sub poenâ statutâ, non solùm Commilitonibus ni solvant, sed & Decano quoque Windesoriensi nisi Officium suum praestet. Ordiri autem jussit à 5. Commilitonibus defunctis, quorum Insignia beri obtulerant, caeterùm quod ad exteros Principes attinet, Supremus significavit, quod si summas istas ipsi (pro se quisque) non exolvant, e●edem, & nunc, & in posterum, semper ab ipso Supremo solventur. Subscribitur porrò huic decreto in haec verba. F●. Crane Cancell. Ad Mandatum D. Supremi. Decano Windesoriensi incumbit pecunias vi hujus Sanctionis solvendas postulare, & receptarum rationem reddere in proximo Capitulo. — Deus nobis haec Otia fecit. FINIS. ERRATA. PAge 8. margin, read G. Pancirol. Lib. 1. p. 270. p. 36. line 18. r. Burgos. p. 44. marg. (a) r. Hen. 2. p. 53. l. 31. r. Regular. p 54. l. 29. r. foial & loyal. marg. (n) r. Pantal. l. 4. p. 97. p. 61. l. 13. r. Lusignan. p. 67. l. 18. r. Regular. p. 71. l. 21. r. Scapular. so p 72. l. 32. p. 73. l. 40. r. for such. p. 84. l 47. deal [the] p. 96. l. 31. r. justs. p. 103. l. 20. r. Beloy. p. 106. l. 43. deal [the] p. 110. l. 43. r. Trunks. p. 136. l. 56. r. second Arch. p. 149. l. 37. r. H. 4. p. 160. l. 20. r King in. p. 170. l. 29. r. Goldclif. p. 175. l. 57 r. and Canon's. p. 176. l. 5. r. appear. p. 188. l. 48. deal [Sancti] p. 189. l. 48. r. nine. p. 191. l. 28. r. H. 6. p. 206. l. 29. r. Robessart. p. 212. marg. l 6. r. honoris. p. 218. l. 9 r. further mention is made of these Liveries an. 16. E. 4. p. 224. l. 15. r. d'Espernon. p. 238. l. 58. r. enjoyed. p. 241. l. 33. r ye●. p. 253. l. 45. r. purple coloured Ribbon. p. 25●. l 7. r. Lanarick. p. 268. l. 10 r. were not p. 250. l. 13. r. Exeter. p. 302. l. 26. r. appertained. p. 314. l. 24. r. case of. p. 316. in marg. (b) r. Num. XXXIII. p. 326. l. 35. r. 23. Car. 2. p. 353. l. 7. r. Bourchi●r. p. 367. l. 17. ●. whereon. l. 42. r. receive his. p. 401. in marg. (p) r. effigy. p. 407. l. 29. r. Vr●ine. p. 412. l. 56. r. Not long. p. 4●4. l. 5. r. Rockets. p. 429. l. 41. r. Horse. l. ult. r. haut pas. p. 438. l. 18. r. Sieur. l 29. r. Gomyns. p. 446. l. 8. r. Carteret. p. 451. l. 55. r. left arms. p. 457. in marg. (z) Lib. Carol. p. 463. marg. l. 4. r. ●●. 8. p. 473. l. 7. r. either solemn. l. 8. deal [either] p. 505. l. 17. r. future. p. 512. in marg. (*) r. Art. 11. p. 513. marg. deal [See Cham 21. Sect. 3. sub finem] p. 535. l. 27. r. Place. p. 541. l. 5. r. dispensed. l. 6. r. penalty. p. 543. l. 5. r. come. p. 575. l. 9 r. but without. Ib. deal [but] p. 576. l. 19 r. by. p. 585. l 50. r. the Law. p. 592. l. 40. & 51. r. Style. p. 595. r. to. p. 601. l. 41. deal [too] p. 616. l. 11. r. the Sovereign's Style p. 624. l. 14. r. their. p. 651. l. 56. r. Ane. p. 653. l. 30. r. Rennes. p. 656. l. 37. r. of his. p. 660. l. 50. r. Elect. p. 663. l. 43. r. Orle●is. p. 665. l. 21. r. Bretigny and l. 30. deal [there] in marg. (x) r. Armaignac. p. 666. l. 16. r. Duke of. p. 667. l. 1. r. 10000 p. 670. l. 27. r. t● Matilda. p. 678. l. 4. r. with the. p. 679. l. 19 r. Manny. p. 681. l. 31. r. Heirs. p. 683. l. 17. r. E. 3. p. 687. l. 45. r. E. 3. p. 693. l. 12. & 21. r. Neots. and l. 29. third. p. 695. l. 30. r. therefore. p. 696. l. 50. r. of the Priory. p. 697. l. 19 r. an: and l. 33. r. had. p. 699. Lult. r. Fee of. p. 700. l. 29. r. therefore. p. 701. l. 44. r. Pedagium. p. 702. l. 38. r. Sir. l. 39 r. Marshals Battle. p. 705. l. 10. r. in the. p. 707. l. 16. r. aussi. l. 47. deal [the]. To the end the faults escaped in any of the three pages next following each Letter of the Alphabet, carried on at the foot of the Appendix, may with more ease be corrected, there are here added the Figures of 2.3. and 4. to point out the page exactly. [b] Column 1. l. 8. r. annuum. l. 57 r. quotiescunque. [b] 3. Col. 1. l. 28. r. profundis. [c] Col. 1. l. 12. r. legio. [c] 2. Col. 1. l. 25. r. sub. [c] 3. col. 1. r. à Supremo. l. 40. r. Sacrificis. [d] col. 2. l. 55. r. comme des. [d] 2. col. 1. l. 55. r. pour les. [e] col. 1. l. 47. r. legis. col. 2. l. 6. r. que. [e] 4. col. 1. l. 1. r. unusquisque. col. 2. l. 1. r. curarit. [f] 3. col. 1. l. 13. r. u● Regnum. [h] 4. col. 1. l. 12. r. Ordinis. [k] 2. col. 1. l. 20. r. Christum. [p] 4. col. 2. l. 16. r. ou. [q] 4. col. ●. l. 44. r. eum. col. 2. l. 26. r. virtutis. [r] col. 2. l. 52. r. per agenda. [r] 2. col. 1. l. 33. r. Omnibusque. and [r] 4. col. 2. l. 41. r. either. [u] 3. col. 1. l. 54. r. Carniole. col. 2. l. 45. r. Scaccar. [x] 2. col. 2. l. ult. r. quingentessimo. [x] 4. col. 1. l. 13. r. valeatis. l. 35. r. Collegiat. [y] 4. col. 2. l. 6. r. verbo. l. 43. Equitis. [z] col. 1. l. 52. & 53. r. promertons. col. 2. l. 5. r. Chablaye. [z] 2. col. 1. l. ult. r. nomme: sic col. 2. l. 20. [aa] 3. col. 2. l. 21. r. Out. [bb] col. 1. l. 45. r. estrangers. [bb] 3. col. 1. l. 47. r. immutability.