Chapter XVI: Part 16

The first Embassy on this occasion, recorded in the _Blue-Book_, is that to _Edward_, King of _Portugal_, 13 _Hen._ VI. to whom, for the greater Dignity of the _Order_, Garter was thought fit, 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 into Esteem, some one of the Knights-Companions was made choice of by the Sovereign to be Principal in these Legations; as were _Galliard Sieur de Duras_, sent to _Charles_, Duke of _Burgundy_, 9 _Edw._ IV., _Arthur Plantagenet_, Viscount _Lisle_, to _Francis_ the first King of _France_, 19 _Hen._ VIII. and others.

Sometimes other Noblemen, or Persons of Quality, though not Knights-Companions, (yet correspondent to the Degree of the _Stranger elect_, or to the Esteem the present Interest begat in the Sovereign,) were employed chief in these Embassies; among whom Sir _Charles Somerset_, after Earl of _Worcester_, was sent to the Emperor _Maximilian_, 6 _Hen._ VII. _Henry_, Lord _Morley_, to _Don Ferdinand_, Prince of _Spain_, 15 _Hen._ VIII. and others.

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; as Sir _John Scot_, Comptroller of the Houshold, and Sir _Thomas Vaughan_, Treasurer of the Houshold, both joined with the _Sieur de Duras_ aforesaid: And Sir _Nicholas Carew_, and Sir _Anthony Brown_, with the Viscount _Lisle_.

To these Person, the Sovereign thought fit sometimes to add a Doctor of the Law, or a dignified Clergyman, and such as had the Language of the Country, not only the better to make such Answers to Questions as the _Stranger elect_ might start, on perusal of the _Statutes_, but likewise to inform him touching the Institution of the _Order_, or other Passages relating to the Founder, or matters touching the Honour of the Garter. Besides, a dignified Clergyman was in those Times thought proper to Administer the Oath, and pronounce the Words of Signification, at the Investiture with the Habit and Ensigns of the _Order_.

And for these reasons, was _John Russel_, Doctor of the Civil Law, and Archdeacon of _Berkshire_, joined in Commission with the aforesaid _Sieur de Duras_, and _Edward Lee_, Doctor in Divinity, Archdeacon of _Colchester_, and the Sovereign’s Almoner, sent over with the Lord _Morley_; and others.

But of later Years the Sovereign’s Ambassador, Resident with the _Stranger elect_, hath supplied this Place; as did Sir _Thomas Smith_, in the Legation sent over to _Charles_ IX. and Sir _Edward Stafford_, in that of the _French_ King _Henry_ III. and Sir _Anthony Mildmay_, to that of _Henry_ IV.

Besides the aforementioned Persons, _Garter_ was always joined in these Commissions of Legation, not only to keep on Foot his Right, but to manage the Ceremonious Part; and of this there are so many numerous Instances as are sufficient to justify the Privilege of his Office, and maintain the interest of an ancient Right. Besides which, if it were any way disputed, we find it decreed in a _Chapter_ 13 _Car._ I. _That the carrying the Ensigns of the Order to_ Stranger Princes, _doth properly belong to_ Garter.

Besides those Persons joined in the Commission of Legation, there has frequently been appointed, either _Norroy_, King of Arms, or some one of the _Heralds_, to go in Quality of an Attendant in this Service, not only for the Honour of the Sovereign, but of the Stranger who is to receive the _Habit_, in regard the Ceremonies of Investiture with the whole _Habit_, require the Assistance of two Officers of Arms, of which there are some Precedents.

_Lancaster Herald_ attended the Embassy to _Charles_ IX. King of _France_: _Chester Herald_, and _Rouge Dragon_, Pursuivant at Arms, on that of _Henry_ III. of _France_. A Herald likewise attended the Embassy to _Emanuel_, Duke of _Savoy_: _York Herald_, that of _Maximilian_, the Emperor: And _Somerset Herald_, to _Henry_ IV. of _France_.

And whereas there went only _Norroy_ to _Christian_ IV. King of _Denmark_, it was because no more of the Officers of Arms could then be spared from their necessary Attendance on the Sovereign’s Coronation; so in the Embassy to _Maurice_, Prince of _Orange_, one Herald sufficed, because the _Garter_ and _George_ only were sent him, and consequently there was but little Service then to be performed.

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 judges sufficient for the Honour of the Sovereign, and the Dignity of the Embassy; and with these have usually gone several Noblemen, Knights, and Gentlemen.

In the third Place, there is to be prepared for these Legations, 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 thereto.

One Warrant is to be directed to the Master of the _Great Wardrobe_, to deliver to Garter the Mantle, with the Escutcheon of St. _George_ within a Garter, embroidered on the left Shoulder, and Tossels belonging; and also the _Surcoat_ and _Hood_.

There is also another Warrant drawn up, for the delivery of the Ensigns of the _Order_ to _Garter_, _viz._ the rich _Garter_, and great _Collar_ of the _Order_, with a George Pendant, and another George hanging in a blue Ribbond; 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 of Arms, joined in the Legation in _Garter’s_ stead, as were those sent to _Charles_, King of _Sweden_, 20 _Car._ II. but those provided for _John George_, Duke of _Saxony_, to Sir _Thomas Higgons_, the Principal in the Legation; for which they gave their several Receipts.

The Sovereign’s Warrant for the delivery of the Ensigns sent to _Maximilian_ the Emperor, was directed to the Lord Treasurer, for which _Garter_ gave his Receipt. But for those sent to the _French_ King, _Henry_ IV. the Warrant was directed to the Master of the _Jewel-House_; and out of this Office have all the _Ensigns_ of the _Order_ been since delivered.

There are several other necessaries to be provided, which may pass as Appurtenances to the former, and are sometimes incerted in the Sovereign’s Warrants for the Habit of the _Order_, and at other times issued by particular Warrants: As a black Velvet Cap with white Feathers and a Heron Sprig, a Girdle and Hangers with the same coloured Velvet, with the Surcoat. A Yard of purple Velvet hath usually been allowed out of the _Great Wardrobe_, for covering the Book of _Statutes_, sent 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 hath generally been proportioned to the Dignity of the Receiver; for this Officer had allowed him for the Book sent,

_l._ _s._ _d._
To the _French_ King, _Henry_ IV. 5 0 0
To _John Casimir_, Count Palatine 4 0 0
To the Duke of _Holstein_, 3 _Jac._ I. 3 6 8
To the King of _Sweden_, 3 _Car._ I. 3 0 0

But to be more particular, we will insert the Bill of Charges for the Book of _Statutes_, sent to _James_ VI. of _Scotland_, 26 _Hen._ VIII.

_l._ _s._ _d._ For Velom 0 5 0 For illumining the Arms and Letters 0 10 0 For Writing 1 0 0 For Binding and Gilding 0 2 8 For half a Yard of purple Velvet 0 7 0 For half a Yard of crimson Sattin 0 7 0 For the purple Silk for the Laces 0 0 4 For the white and green Silk for the Seal 0 1 0 For red Silk for the Strings, and } 0 1 0 garnishing the Book } For an Ounce and half of Venice Gold 0 5 0 For shaping, making the Bag, and garnishing 0 3 4 For red Sarcenet for lining the Bag 0 1 4 For a Box 0 0 8 ----------- Total 3 4 6 -----------

This Book of _Statutes_ ought to be Sealed with the common Seal of the _Order_, which not only the Institution, but all the other succeeding Bodies of _Statutes_ appoint. Besides, at a Chapter held at _White-Hall_, 13 _Car._ I. the Law was confirmed; and thereupon it was again decreed, 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 likewise put into the Sovereign’s Warrant, and provided by the Master of the _Great Wardrobe_; usually containing one Yard and quarter in length, adorned with Fringe, Cauls, and Tossels of Gold and purple Silk, and within it a Pillow of Fustian filled with Down.

There were two Velvet Cushions prepared for the Service of the Duke of _Wirtembergh_’s Investiture, 1 _Jac._ I. one of Purple, for the Sovereign’s State; and another of Crimson, for the Duke; so the same Year to _Christian_ IV. King of _Denmark_.

Two _Majesty Escutcheons_ are likewise to be provided, painted in _Oil_, and gilt with Gold; one 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 is proper to his Dignity. Both these are to be put in Frames, painted and gilt, with their several Stiles fairly Written under the Arms, and set on 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 three _Majesty Escutcheons_ sent over in the Legation to _Henry_, Prince of _Orange_, in regard that at his Investiture, _Frederick_, Elector Palatine, was present. In case the chief Person in the Legation be a Knight of the _Order_, then he is to have a like Escutcheon of his own Arms, set over his own Stall; for so had the Earl of _Derby_ provided for him at the Sovereign’s Charge, when he was sent with the Habit to the _French_ King, _Henry_ III.

The remaining Necessaries, are such as relate to the Transportation of the Habit of the _Order_, _viz._

One Pair of fine Holland Sheets to fold the Habit in.
Two sweet Bags of Taffaty 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 Charge, and is also his Gift to the elect _Prince_.

What farther Warrants are to be obtained from the Sovereign, relate to _Garter_, and such other Officers of Arms, as are appointed to attend the Legation; as first a Warrant, whereby the Sovereign ascertains a Warrant for their Diet, and Reward, during their Journey, and till their return; and on which, most commonly, for greater certainty of its Payment, the Sovereign’s Privy Seal is obtained.

The Allowance to _Garter_ in the Reign of _Edw._ VI. was ten Shillings a Day for his Diet, and Ten Shillings a Day more as a Reward: And this we find allowed to Sir _Gilbert Dethick_, in the Embassy to _Henry_ II. King of _France_, 5 _Edw._ VI. and the like in his Legation to _Maximilian_ the Emperor; and to _Frederick_ II. King of _Denmark_, 24 _Eliz._

And when _Clarenceux_ was sent in the Place of _Garter_ (the Office being void by the Death of the said Sir _Gilbert_) to the _French_ King, _Henry_ III. the same was also allowed him, and commenced nine Days before his setting out; and of which there are other Precedents.

Of this daily Allowance, _Garter_ hath usually obtained an advance before-hand, for his better support by the way.

When any of the Heralds were sent in _Garter’s_ Place, the same Allowances were made them, as if _Garter_ had gone in Person; as had _Henry St. George_, Esq; _Richmond Herald_, sent with the Earl of _Carlisle_, to _Charles_, King of _Sweden_, 21 _Car._ I. As also to _Thomas St. George_, Esq; _Somerset Herald_, sent with Sir _Thomas Higgins_, to the Duke of _Saxony_, soon after.

As to the Allowance to such Officers of Arms, as are not joined in, but appointed to attend any of these Legations; it was usually, if a Herald, the Moiety of what was given to _Garter_: And if a Pursuivant at Arms, half as much as a Herald.

Agreeable to which, was the Allowance given to _Chester Herald_, and _Rouge Dragon_ Pursuivant, in the Embassy to _Henry_ II. King of _France_, 5 _Edw._ VI. and there called the _old Rate_; so also to _Somerset Herald_, to _Frederick_ II. King of _Denmark_, and the _French_ Kings, _Henry_ III. and IV. And both the Herald and Pursuivant had also a proportionable part of their daily Allowances before-hand.

Besides which Allowances mentioned, _Garter_ hath also Allowance for Postage, both Outward and Homeward, for Himself and Servants; and for Transportation of the Habit, and other Things necessary for the Voyage. And this by a Clause added in the Sovereign’s Warrant, is left to _Garter_ at his return, when he gives in a Bill of particulars, subscribed with his Hand, to the Treasurer or Chamberlains of the Exchequer, to have been disbursed by him.

The Warrant to furnish _Garter_, or the _Herald_, with Post Horses, and convenient Shipping to carry them over, is usually had of the Privy Council, or Secretary of State; either before, or after the Lord Ambassador; and is not provided for in the same Ship.

_The Ceremonies of Investiture._

§ 3. The Ceremonies performed 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, on the _Festivity_ and _Triumphs_, added by the new invested Prince.

First, the Commissions joined in the Legation, receiving notice of their first Audience, are to present themselves in the accustomed manner of Ambassadors, Garter, or his Deputy, going in breast with the chief of the Legation, if there be only himself joined in Commission with the Lord Ambassador, and in this Place _William Segar_, Esq; _Norroy_ King of Arms, (sent in the room of _Garter_) proceeded with the Earl of _Rutland_ at their first Audience before _Christian_, IV. King of _Denmark_.

Being arrived near the _elect Stranger_, they present the Letters, certifying Election, or their Credential Letters from the Sovereign; and after some short general Compliment by the Ambassador, he makes known to him, his Election in the usual Form, which is before sufficiently spoke of.

After the Formality of this Address is over, and that the Stranger hath by his Answer accepted of his Election, and consented to the Reception of the _Order_; the Ambassador immediately delivers him the Book of _Statutes_, that he may, if he pleases, peruse them before he assume the Habit, and desires his Consideration thereon. Next, both the Commissioners in the Legation present him with the _George_ and _Ribbond_. and put it about his Neck, as in several Instances hath been shown.

In the interim, before the Day of Investiture, Time is usually set apart for Conference between the Sovereign’s Ambassador, and some of the elect Prince’s Council, touching the ordering of the Ceremonies, and wording the Oath to be by him taken. _Garter_ is likewise to consider what Places in the elect Prince’s Court are fit to perform the Ceremony, and to see them made ready, and to instruct his Officers, what Duties and Services they are to undertake.

If the great Hall, or other large Room, be appointed, there ought to be prepared a Table, with a rich Carpet, whereon the Habit and Ensigns of the _Order_ are to be laid, while the Sovereign’s Commission of Legation is read; another Table should be prepared for the Stranger who receives the _Order_; and a third for the Sovereign’s Ambassador.

In the Church or Chappel where they are to proceed to hear Divine Service, a Stall is to be erected under a Cloth of State, on the Right Hand Entrance of the Choir, for the Sovereign of the _Order_, wherein is to be fixed the _Majesty Escutcheon_ of the Sovereign’s Arms; another Stall is also to be placed on the same side of the Choir for the invested Stranger, at the same distance from the Sovereign’s Stall, as is that for the elect Stranger in the Choir at _Windsor_; in which is to be fixt the _Majesty Escutcheon_ of his own Arms, brought likewise over by _Garter_ or his Deputy; a third Stall is to be erected for the Lord Ambassador, who (if a _Knight-Companion_) hath an _Escutcheon_ of his own Arms within a _Garter_ set over it; for so had the Marquiss of _Northampton_, at the Investiture of the _French_ King, _Henry_ II. _Anno_ 5 _Edw._ VI. and the Earl of _Derby_, at that of _Henry_ III. under all these _Escutcheons of Arms_, the Stiles and Titles (fairly Written) of the _Sovereign_, and each _Knight-Companion_, are to be affix’d.

Where there is no solemn Proceeding to Church, the Sovereign’s _Escutcheon of Arms_, with his Titles, have been set up at the upper end of the Room, where the Investiture is performed; so also the Stranger Knight’s at due distance, as at the Investiture of _Gustavus Adolphus_, King of _Sweden_, in his Tent at the _Leaguer_, near _Darshaw_, in _Prussia_, 23 _September_, _Anno_ 3 _Car._ I.

Besides the before-mentioned Preparations; the _Church_ or _Chappel_, into which the new invested Stranger proceeds, is to be richly adorned, as we find by several Instances; as at the Investiture of King _Henry_ III. when the Church of _Augustine Fryars_ in _Paris_, was hung with rich _Arras_, and all the _Choir_ and _Stalls_ with _Cloth of Gold_. On the Day the Solemnity of Investiture is celebrated, 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_, _Frederick_, Prince Palatine of the _Rhine_, sat with the Viscount _Charleton_, in one Boot of the Prince’s Coach, and Sir _William Segar_ in the other; and were met by the said Prince at the Foot of the Stairs of his Court, 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 usually first enters the Room appointed for the Ceremony, and stands under his own State, expecting the coming in of the Ambassadors, and notice thereof being given them, they (reposing in a Room near) proceed in manner following.

Servants to the Lord Ambassador, two and two.

The Herald in his Coat of Arms, bearing the Mantle, Surcoat, Hood, and Cap, in his Arms; and if a _Pursuivant_ attend the Embassy, he (wearing his Coat) proceeds before him, bearing part of the said Habit.

_Garter_ vested in his rich Coat of his Sovereign’s Arms, also (but at the Investiture of the Duke of _Wirtemberg_, he wore his Robe of Crimson Satten, as did _Clarenceux_, at the Investiture of the _French_ King, _Henry_ III.) bearing on a Cushion the _Garter_, and _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 a _Knight-Companion_, proceedeth in his compleat Habit.

If any other _Knight-Companion_ is present, he also wears his whole Habit of the _Order_, as did the Constable of _France_, at the Investiture of the _French_ King, _Henry_ II. The said Constable also pair’d in the Proceeding with the Sovereign’s Ambassador.

In going up to the Sovereign’s State, they all make three Reverences, and drawing near, the Ambassadors Servants fall off on either side for the _Herald_ to pass up to the Table, set before the Sovereign’s State; whereon (with a single Reverence) he lays the Robes.

Then _Garter_ draws near the Table also, and with a like Reverence towards the Sovereign’s State deposites 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) delivers himself in a short, but grave, and learned Oration; “in which he not only sets forth the Praises of the illustrious _Order_, and of the King the Sovereign, 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 any of them have attain’d the Honour of this _Order_,) past over in Silence, that thereby his Heart (already 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 besides, that the Sovereign having well weigh’d these and the like things in his Mind, and maturely advis’d thereof with his _Knights-Companions_, they were perswaded and well satisfied in themselves, to nominate and chuse 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 to 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 to whom he wish’d as well and honourably as to any other Prince whatsoever, and withall intreats him kindly to accept thereof, and wear them in remembrance of the Sovereign and his _Order_.”

This or the like Oration being ended, the Ambassadors present their Commission of _Legation_ to the elect Stranger, who delivers it to his Secretary, and he publickly Reads it.

At the before-mentioned Investiture of the _French_ King, _Henry_ II. the Bishop of _Ely_, one of the Commissioners of the _Legation_, made the Speech, to which the Cardinal of _Lorrain_ returned Answer in the said King’s behalf, with all thankful Acknowledgments of the Honour of the _Order_.

After the Commission is read, _Garter_ presents the Oath fairly Written, which is administred to the elect Stranger, where, if any Exceptions were before made and admitted, they must be rehears’d, as we find it directed in the instructions given for the Investiture of _James_ V. King of _Scotland_. The Ceremony of the Oath being finish’d, _Garter_ takes from off the Cushion the Garter, and having kiss’d it, presents it to the Lord Ambassador, who kneeling down, puts it with all Reverence on the Stranger’s left Leg, being assisted by _Garter_, who pronounces these Words of _Signification_.

_Ad laudem atque honorem Omnipotentis Dei, intemeratæ 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 solum inibis, stare firmiter, agere fortiter, & feliciter omnino vincere._

This being said, _Garter_ takes the _Surcoat_, and with the Ceremony of a Kiss, delivers it to the Lord Ambassador, who (after the Stranger elect hath put off his Cloak or upper Garment, and Sword,) puts it upon him in this manner: First, The Lord Ambassador begins at the Stranger’s Right Arm, and _Garter_ (or the _Leiger 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.

_Capito vestem hanc purpuream, ad incrementum honoris, & in signaculum Ordinis accepti: qua munitus non veteberis pro fide Christi, libertate Ecclesiæ, pro jure, & oppressorum atque indigentium necessaria tuitione, sanguinem etiam fundere, nedum fortiter ac strenue dimicare._

After this, _Garter_ takes up the _Mantle_ and _Hood_, which, in like manner kissing, he delivers to the Lord Ambassador, who invests the Stranger therewith, and lays the Hood upon his right Shoulder; (the Train being given into the Hands of some Noble Personage to be born up,) _Garter_ also pronouncing these Words.

_Accipe Clamidem hanc Cœlici coloris, in signum Clarissimi hujus Ordinis, & in Augmentum etiam honoris tui, rubeo Clypeo Dominicæ 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 Militiam, ad æterna vereque Triumphalia gaudia pertingas._

_Garter_, in the last Place, takes up the _Collar_, and with a Kiss also presents it to the _Lord Ambassador_, who placeth it about the Stranger’s Shoulders, and _Garter_ uttereth these Words.

_Torquem hunc in Collo deferes, ad augmentum honoris, & in signum quoque clarissimi ordinis a te suscepti, cum imagine Sanctissimi Martyris, & Christi Militis Georgii: cujus præsidio suffultus, Mundi hujus tam prospera quam adversa sic pertranseas, ut animæ pariter ac corporis hostibus hic strenue devictis, non Temporariæ modo Militiæ gloriam, sed & perenis victoriæ palmam denique recipere valeas._ Amen.

When the 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 him his Velvet Cap, adorned with white Plumes, and the Book of _Statutes_.

The Stranger being thus invested, stayeth a while in the Room, where he received this Honour, with the Ambassador, and after Complements of Congratulation between them, he goeth to the Church in a solemn manner, having the Train of his _Mantle_ born up; 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 assign’d for him, and stands before it till the Stranger hath ascended his Stall, and after making his Reverences, (as before) takes his; then _Garter_ making the like Reverences, sits down on a Chair, plac’d 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 _Ceremony_, because _Garter_ is obliged to attend the Sovereign’s Royal Stall.

After a solemn Anthem, _Garter_ passeth in 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, and 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 kneels when he Offers.

But if a _Knight-Companion_ be sent on this _Legation_, then he proceeds first up to the _Altar_, preceeded by _Garter_, and Offers for the Sovereign, which done, he returns to his own Stall: Next, the invested Stranger proceeds up, (preceeded as before,) Offers, and returns back to his own Stall; afterwards the aforesaid _Knight-Companion_ proceeds up again, and Offers for himself: And in this _Order_ was the Offering made when the Emperor _Maximilian_ was invested at _Vienna_, _January_ 4. _Anno_ 10. _Eliz._

The new invested Stranger having offered, returns to his Stall, and the _Lord Ambassador_, with three Reverences, takes his Seat, the _Organs, &c._ playing all the while: When the solemn Service is finish’d, 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.

It’s observable, that the Emperor _Maximilian_, out of a compliance with the Protestant Religion, caused, on the Day of his Investiture, all 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 Chappel.

At these great Solemnities, the invested Strangers have heretofore held most magnificent Feasts, but of late they are not so much in Use: And when Dinner was ready, they proceeded thither in their whole Habit, which they wore all Dinner time.

At the Investiture of _Christian_ IV. King of _Denmark_, _Anno_ 1 _Jac._ I. the Sovereign’s Stiles and Titles of Honour were proclaimed thrice, (before they sat down to Dinner,) and the said King’s twice; but when _Maurice_ and _Henry_, Princes of _Orange_, received Investiture, the Stiles were proclaimed immediately after they were invested, and in the same Room, the Ceremony being perform’d to both in the Afternoon.

At the Feast made by _Maximilian_ I. (King of the _Romans_,) Sir _Charles Somerset_, and Sir _Thomas Wriothesley_, sent on the Embassy, was admitted to his Table, and sat on his left Hand: On the Day of Investiture of _Don Ferdinand_, Prince of _Spain_, Arch-Duke of _Austria_, the Lord _Morley_, and Sir _William Hussey_, sat on his right Hand at Dinner, and Dr. _Lee_, and the said Sir _Thomas Wriothesley_, on his left; these four being join’d in the Commission of _Legation_.

At a Feast on the like Occasion by the _French_ King, _Henry_ II. he admitted to his Table (beside the Marquiss 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 put not off till after Dinner. The Cardinal of _Lorrain_ sat also at the King’s Table, but it was on the other side.

When the Investiture was performed in the Afternoon, then was the Grand Dinner turn’d into a Supper; as it was at the Investiture of _Maximilian_ the Emperor, and two of the _French_ Kings; but when _Henry_, Prince of _Orange_, receiv’d the _Ensigns_ of the _Order_, there was no Feast at all, but purposely omitted, to prevent the difference which might have been occasioned by the Precedency and Place, between Ambassadors drinking of Healths, and other Complements.

On this Solemnity, and the Honour they deriv’d 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; as also those made by _Charles_, King of _Sweden_.

_Certificates of having receiv’d the_ Habits, _and_ Ensigns _of the_ Order.

§ 4. The magnificent Solemnity of Investiture, _&c._ being compleatly finish’d, and the Ambassadors having fully performed their Duties therein; they are yet further to obtain from the new invested Stranger, before their departure, a publick Instrument, testifying the reception of the said Habit and Ensigns, Sign’d with his Hand, and Sealed with his Great Seal; this we find anciently done in several Instances, and is generally demanded and obtain’d.

Hereupon a Clause to this Effect is usually added, in Instructions given to Ambassadors; as appears from those to the Lord _Howard_ and _Garter_, in the Embassy to _James_ V. King of _Scotland_; namely, that _Garter should remember_ (after the Investiture was performed,) _to Purchase, and Sollicit 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 these Certificates are much alike; for after a recital of all the Powers given to the Ambassadors nam’d in the Commission of _Legation_, the Stranger Prince first makes Certificate of his receiving, and Investiture with the _Mantle_, _Surcoat_, _Collar_, and other Ornaments of the _Order_; and that they receiv’d them from the Sovereign’s Ambassador, with the accustom’d Solemnities.

In some of these Certificates, namely from _Ferdinand_, Prince of _Spain_, _Anno_ 15 _Hen._ VIII. from _Francis_ I. the _French_ King, _Anno_ 19 _Hen._ VIII. and from _Gustavus_, King of _Sweden_, _Anno_ 3 _Car._ I. we find the taking the Oath appointed by the Statutes to be also certified. Of the return of these Certificates, the Annals of the _Order_ sometimes take notice, and by a Decree, 13 _Car._ I. care was taken to oblige the Ambassadors to produce these Certificates to the Sovereign at their return.

The Stranger Prince hath been pleas’d sometimes, to give with the Certificate, 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 _Gustavus_, King of _Sweden_, in the preamble of his _Diploma_, whereby he testifies the bestowing upon _Henry St. George_, _Richmond Herald_, the Honour of Knighthood; they have also usually given _Garter_ Gratuities, either in Money, Diamonds, or some other Present of great value, of which several Instances might be produced.

CAP. XVI.

_The Installation of a Stranger by Proxy._

_Touching the Choice and Nomination of a Proxy._

§ 1. After the Stranger is invested, he is enjoin’d by the Statutes (be he of what State or Condition soever,) to send in eight Months after his Investiture, either a _Proctor_ or _Deputy_ to be installed in his behalf, in the Seat assign’d him within the Chappel of St. _George_ at _Windsor_.

The Time limited for sending in _Henry_ Vth’s Statutes, is but seven Months; and those of _Henry_ VIII. allow no more; and that not only after Investiture, but after the Stranger hath certified the Sovereign of his reception of the _Order_.

By King _Henry_ VIIIth’s Statutes, it’s also provided; _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 hindred 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 his 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, then the said Election should be void for that time_.

The _French_ King, _Francis_ I. was so earnest for compleating this Honour, that he dispatch’d his Proctor hither with all the speed he could, and most of the Stranger Princes have sent their _Deputies_ within the limited time, there being very few Instances to the contrary, and those were occasioned through the multiplicity of Affairs.

When the _Garter_ and _George_ only have been sent to a Stranger, the Ceremony of Installation hath been dispenc’d with, till a more convenient time, as appears from the Instructions of _March_ 4. _Anno_ 19 _Car._ I. 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,) such dispensations, and for the same reason, was King _Charles_ II. necessitated to give those Strangers whom he honoured with Election, while he remain’d in Foreign Parts.

Upon the said King’s happy Restauration, among many other things relating to the _Order_, this particular was taken into consideration, in reference not only to the Duke _de Espernon_ and Prince _Maurice_, who were dead, but those Strangers also then living; and at two _Chapters_ held at _White-Hall_, _Anno_ 13 _Car._ II. directions were given to _Garter_ to place the _Banners_ and _Atchievements_ of the surviving Strangers over their respective Stalls; and the Sovereign, by his supream Power, (induc’d by the impossibilities of the late Troubles to perform the Installation, and by reason of the time elaps’d since their Elections,) dispenc’d wholly and absolutely with their Installations, but at the same time declar’d, that as the like necessity and conjuncture could never happen again, so he would not, on any motion or pretence whatsoever, give the like dispensation.

It seems to rest in the pleasure of the Stranger, whether he will chuse to send over 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 latter of which hath been done several times, out of desire to favour some of our Nobility with this Honour, of which many instances might be given.

It hath sometimes happned, that a _Proctor_ for the Installation of a Stranger, hath been appointed and nominated by the Sovereign of the _Order_, though the Principal had nam’d another before: Thus it fell out in the case of _Maurice_, Prince of _Orange_, _Anno_ 10 _Jac._ I. who having deputed Count _Henry_ his Brother, to be installed for him, and he having put to Sea in Order thereto, but by reason of contrary Winds not arriving in _England_ before the Day appointed for his Installation, the Sovereign and _Knights-Companions_ ordered that _Lodowick_ of _Nassau_, Kinsman to the elect Prince, should take Possession of his Stall on his behalf: A case somewhat like, was that of _John George_, Duke of _Saxony_, who sent over his Procuration to _John_, Earl of _Bath_; and he being detained in the West on extraordinary Occasions, when St. _George_’s Feast was held at _Windsor_, _Anno_ 23 _Car._ II. wrote to the _Chancellor_ of the _Order_, to obtain the Sovereign’s Dispensation, for not appearing in the Name of his Principal; who representing his humble request to the Sovereign, in a _Chapter_ held on the Eve of the said Feast, he was pleas’d to grant it, and appointed _Heneage_, Earl of _Winchelsea_, who perform’d the Service. There is also an ancient Example of this kind, _Anno_ 9 _Hen._ V. where the Sovereign nominated the Lord _Fitz Hugh_, _Proctor_ for the King of _Denmark_; which yet was not done, till after the Sovereign had been certified that the said King had been invested, and obliged himself by Oath to the observation of the _Statutes_.

In like manner it is recorded, 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 with consent of the said King, though the Annals herein are silent.

_The Proctor’s Qualifications._

§ 2. By the Statutes of the _Order_, the _Proctor_, whether he be nominated by his Principal, or by the Sovereign, must be _Procurator sufficiens & Idoneas_; that is, such a Person who hath always been accounted of unblameable Conversation, not branded with any note of Infamy, but altogether irreprovable. And such was _Dominicus Franciscus_, _Deputy_ to _Charles_, Duke of _Ferrara_, who in the _Black-Book_ of the _Order_ is characterized to be a Knight of incorrupt Fame; nor are we to doubt but that other _Proctors_ to Strangers were such, though the Testimonials of their Virtues do not appear in the Annals of the _Order_.

Secondly, The _Proctor_ ought to be a Person correspondent to the State and Dignity of the Stranger that is invested, which may sufficiently appear by several Instances; the Emperor _Maximilian_ I. appointed for his Proxy, the Marquiss of _Brandenburgh_, _Anno_ 6 _Hen._ VII. _Francis_ I. King of _France_, _Adrian de Fercelin_, Lord of _Bross_, _Anno_ 19 _Hen._ VIII. and _Henry_ IV. of _France_, _Sieur de Chastes_, Vice Admiral of _France_, _Anno_ 42 _Eliz._

Thirdly, It is provided that he be a Knight, and without any manner of Reproach; and if it so happen that he have not receiv’d the degree of Knighthood, the Sovereign is to bestow that Honour before he be allow’d to take upon him the Execution of his deputative Power; for none but Knights are capable of this Honour, or permitted to bear the _Ensigns_ of so great an _Order_. Hereupon the Lord _Willoughby_ of _Eresby_, _Proctor_ for _Frederick_ II. King of _Denmark_, was Knighted by the Sovereign, the Morning before he proceeded to take Possession of the Stall.

There was one reason notwithstanding, why this particular was not strictly stood upon, (though moved) in the case (and it’s the single case) of _Henry Ramell_, Hereditary Lord of _Wosterwitz_ and _Beckeskaw_, _Deputy_ for _Christian_ IV. King of _Denmark_, _Anno_ 3 _Jac._ I. 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 advanc’d 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, 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 excus’d from the Honour; upon which the Sovereign was pleas’d to dispence with him, and forthwith the said _Deputy_ (but no Knight,) was admitted to take the Stall assign’d to the said King his Principal.

_His Letters of Procuration._

§ 3. The Authority wherewith an elect Stranger invests his Proxy, which ought to pass under his Hand and Seal, do generally contain these Particulars.

First, 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 or the Obligation 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 advanc’d in his own Country, will not permit him to repair Personally to _Windsor_; 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 _Windsor_ in 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 assign’d him, according to the usual Form; and in all respects to perform those Ceremonies and Things in his behalf due and accustom’d, or should appear to belong any way to the Splendor 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 on; and further, to fulfil all other things which he should think necessary to be perform’d on this Occasion, or whatsoever thing might require a more special Command, than was contain’d in the Letters of Procuration; and as fully as the Stranger should be obliged to, 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.

_Of the Proctor’s Reception._

§ 4. When the Sovereign is acquainted with the arrival of the Proxy, and the occasion of his coming, he soon after gives him Audience; after which, a Day for Installation is assign’d, and the Sovereign nominates some of the _Knights-Companions_ his Commissioners, to perform the Ceremonies.

The _Proctor_ heretofore has been receiv’d with very great State; Sir _Balthasar Castilian_, sent hither from the Duke of _Urbin_, _Anno_ 22 _Hen._ VII. was met at the Sea-side by Sir _Thomas Brandon_, with a goodly Company of his own Servants well Hors’d, who kept Company with him, till they came near _Deptford_ in _Kent_; where, by the Sovereign’s Command, he was met by Sir _Thomas Dokara_, and Sir _Thomas Wriothesley_, _Garter_: The said Sir _Thomas Dokara_ had attending him thirty of his Servants, all in new Liveries, well Hors’d, every Gentleman bearing a Javelin in his Hand, and every Yeoman a Bow and a Sheaf of Arrows, and so they convey’d 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 convey’d and lodg’d. The reception also of _James_ Lord _Rambovillet_, Proctor for the _French_ King, _Charles_ IX. was very noble.

_The Preparations for Installation._

§ 5. The Preparations of the Installation of a Stranger by Proxy, are the same as for the Proxy of a _Knight-Subject_, mention’d as before, and the Form of the Commission for Installation is much the same; the Preamble contains the Authority wherewith the Proxy is impower’d and is penn’d with like Words.

The Letters of notice to the Commissioners.

The Warrants for removing of Stalls, and for the Strangers Atchievements, are all to be obtain’d by the Chancellor of the Order, under the Sovereign’s Sign Manual, to which the Signet of the Order is to be affixt.

The Strangers Atchievements (as mention’d in the Warrant,) are to be provided at the Sovereign’s Charge; namely, his _Helm_, _Crest_, _Mantlings_, and _Sword_, together with a _Banner_ of his _Arms_ and _Quarterings_; and these the Proctor is enjoin’d to bring along with him to _Windsor_.

Sometimes a Warrant hath been directed to the Master of the _Wardrobe_, to provide but some part of these Atchievements; 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 Atchievements of the _French_ King, _Henry_ II. At other times direction hath been to the Master of the _Wardrobe_, to deliver to _Garter_ the whole, who thereupon puts the Charge upon Account.

Sometimes particular Warrants have been directed to the Master of the _Wardrobe_, to deliver several Parcels of the Materials, for the making up these Atchievements; as were those Warrants, to deliver the Sovereign’s Embroiderer, and to _Garter_, so much Velvet, Cloth of Gold, _&c._ for making the great Banner, and other the Atchievements of _Charles_ IX. and _Henry_ III. _French_ Kings.

It also appears that _Garter_ hath sometimes laid out the Money for all, or part of the Atchievements, and then delivered his Bill of disbursements into the _Wardrobe_; as is manifest from those Bills for the Atchievements of _Frederick_ II. King of _Denmark_, in Count Palatine of the _Rhine_, and the Duke of _Holstein_.

Besides the Atchievements, some other things used at the Solemnity are commonly included in the foresaid Warrants; the _Mantle_ of the _Order_ is not prepared at the Sovereign’s Charge, for the Statutes of Institution appoint the Proxy to bring one with him, not that the Sovereign should provide it, having done that before, at the Legation with the whole _Habit_; nor is it found in the Rolls or Books of the Sovereign’s great _Wardrobe_, that any Account is 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.

_The Proctor_’s _Cavalcade to_ Windsor.

§ 6. The Day appointed for the Installation drawing on, the Proxy was heretofore accompanied from _London_ to _Windsor_, with the Sovereign’s Lieutenant and his Assistants, (if the Feast of St. _George_ was then also celebrated,) or otherwise the Sovereign’s Commissioners with a great Retinue.

Among the rest, when the Deputy of the _French_ King, _Francis_ I. rode to _Windsor_, _Anno_ 19 _Hen._ VIII. all the _Knights-Companions_ that were in Commission for that Solemnity, assembled at the Lord _Sandy_’s Place near St. _Paul_’s Church in _London_, whence they rode to the _Deputy’s_ Lodging, and thence accompanied him with a gallant Equipage to the Castle of _Windsor_, where Lodgings were prepared for him at the _Dean’s_ House.

In like manner, _Anno_ 8 _Eliz._ the Earls of _Sussex_ and _Leicester_, and Lord _Clinton_, (three of the four Commissioners appointed for the Installation of the _French_ King, _Charles_ IX.) with other Lords and Gentlemen, took their Horses at the Court Gate at _Westminster_, and with a great Train rode to the Lodgings of the said King’s Proxy, (being then at St. _Mary_’s _Spittle_ in _London_,) whence they went through _Holbourn_ towards _Windsor_; the Earl of _Southampton_, Viscount _Mountague_, Sir _Henry Lea_, and Sir _Edward Umpton_, met them at _Langford_ near _Colbrook_, with their Hawks, and shew’d the Proxy variety of sport, with which he being well pleased, they rode to his Lodgings at the _Dean’s_ House at _Windsor_, the usual Place of entertaining the Strangers Proxies.

_Supper after his Arrival there._

§ 7. The Evening of their arrival passeth with a sumptuous Supper, but the principal Entertainment is reserv’d for the following Day’s Dinner. At the Installation of the _French_ King, _Francis_ I. all the Commissioners met together at the Marquiss of _Exeter_’s Lodgings, and went to the _Dean’s_ House, where they were entertain’d by him at Supper all at one Table; at another Table sat _Garter_, with certain of the _Deputy’s_ chief Gentlemen, and some of the _Heralds_; and at a third sat the rest of the _Heralds_, and other of the _Proxies_ Servants.

The Commissioners and other Noblemen, who accompanied the _Proctor_ of _Charles_ IX. to _Windsor_, supped also with him at the _Dean’s_; He himself sitting at the upper-end of the Table; then the Earls of _Sussex_ and _Leicester_ by him, one against the other, next the Earl of _Southampton_, and Viscount _Mountague_, then the Lord _Clinton_, and Lord _Herbert_ of _Cardiff_, after them two Strangers of distinction, then lower sat the Lord _Grey_, and other Strangers, and last of all, at the lower end, opposite to the _Proctor_, sat _Monsieur Dose_, _alias_ St. _Michael_, the _French Herald_. _Garter_, _Black-Rod_, and divers Strangers, supped with the _Dean_, and in the Parlour and Hall sat divers Pensioners, Gentlemen, and Strangers.

_Of the Proceeding to the_ Chapter-House.

§ 8. What hath been before set down of the Proceeding to the _Chapter-House_, at the personal Installation of a _Knight-Subject_, will extend hither, both as to Order and Circumstances; yet this general Rule is to be born in mind, that the Place of a Stranger Prince’s Proctor here, is next after the Provincial King’s, (unless the Proctor of a _Knight-Subject_ happen to intervene,) and before the Junior _Knight-Companion_, (unless a _Knight-Subject_ pass then in the Proceeding,) of which we have an Instance at the Installation of the Dukes of _Brunswick_ and _Chevereux_, and the Earl of _Dorset_, by their Proctors, but the Earls of _Salisbury_, _Carlisle_, and _Holland_, with Viscount _Andover_ in Person, _Anno_ 1 _Car._ I. when the Proceeding was ordered as followeth.

1. Two Waiters of the Sovereign’s Hall, in their Livery
Coats, bearing White Rods.
2. Alms-Knights.
3. Prebends of the College.
4. Officers of Arms.
5. Proctors to the absent elect Knights.
6. Elect Knights in Person.
7. Knights-Companions.
8. Black-Rod.
9. Register.
10. Garter.
11. Chancellor.
12. Prelate.
13. Sovereign’s Lieutenant.
14. Courtiers and Gentlemen in the Rear.

Only in the single case of _Christian_ IV. King of _Denmark_, _Anno_ 3 _Jac._ I. (as an extraordinary Respect and Honour,) his Proxy went in the Proceeding to the _Chapter-House_ next before the Sovereign’s Lieutenant.

As we had a former Example, of a Proctor to a _Knight-Subject_, who in this Proceeding past before the _Alms-Knights_, and Officers of Arms, namely, Sir _Henry Sidney_, _Deputy_ to the Earl of _Warwick_, 5 _Eliz._ so here in the case of a _Stranger_, the Viscount _Hereford_, Proxy to the Duke of _Holstein_, installed 3 _Eliz._ went in this Proceeding to the _Chapter-House_, before the Officers of Arms: Which Proceeding was ordered as follows.

1. Gentlemen and Knights.
2. The Proctor and Ambassador of _Holstein_ together.
3. Officers of Arms.
4. Register and Garter.
5. Lord _Hastings_, and Lord _Paget_, Commissioners.

If the Proxy of a Stranger pass in the Proceeding, which the Sovereign, his Lieutenant, or Commissioners, make to the _Chapter-House_, then for the most part he gives his Attendance in the _Presence-Chamber_, or in the Room whence the Lieutenant or Commissioners proceed, and there joins himself thereto.

But sometimes the Commissioners, as an instance of singular Respect, after their setting out, have taken the Proxies Lodging in their way, and there receiv’d him into the Proceeding; so did Prince _Henry_, by the Proctor of _Christian_ IV. King of _Denmark_; and the Commissioners by the Proctor of the Duke of _Wirtembergh_, 2 _Jac._ I.

’Tis observed, that the Proxies of Strangers have not always gone in the Proceeding, but sometimes staid at their Lodging, till the Commissioners were ready to send for them to the _Chapter-House_. As at the Installation of _Charles_ IX. King of _France_, 8 _Eliz._ the Commissioners meeting, they, and the three inferior Officers of the Order, robed themselves, and then went to the Proxies Lodging, and having just conferr’d with him, took leave, and proceeded to the _Chapter-House_, whence they sent out _Garter_ to the Proxy, with invitation to come to them, who was presently conducted by _Garter_ to the _Chapter-House_ Door, where the two Senior Commissioners receiv’d him between them.

Sometimes the Proxies have past privately to the East-Isle of St. _George_’s Chappel, and there rested, before the Sovereign and _Knights-Companions_ went into the _Chapter-House_, or proceeded into the Choir, without entering thereinto; for so did the Earl of _Cleveland_, and the Marquiss of _Dorset_, Proxies to _Gustavus Adolphus_, King of _Sweden_, and _Henry_, Prince of _Orange_, 4 _Car._ I. The like Method was observed by the Earl of _Dover_, Proxy to _Charles_, Prince Palatine, 9 _Car._ I. and by Sir _George Cartaret_, Proxy to _Christian_, Prince of _Denmark_, 15 _Car._ II. so also of the Earls of _Carlisle_ and _Winchelsea_, Proxies to _Charles_, King of _Sweden_, and _John George_, Prince Elector of _Saxony_, 23 _Car._ II.

_The Ceremonies perform’d therein._