Chapter II: Part 2

THEY took the black Habit of Hermits of St. _Augustin_, and lived under his Rule by Grant of _Honorius_ II. _Anno_ 1125. vowing Obedience, Poverty, and Chastity; and on the Breast of their Habit wore at first a plain Cross of White Cloth, which was after changed to one with Eight Points; but in time of War they used a Red Cassock, bearing the White Cross upon it. Unto _Gerard_ succeeded _Raimund_, who digested and enlarged their Laws and Institutions in the Composition whereof his Stile was _Raimundus Dei gratia servus pauperum Jesu Christi & Custos Hospitalis Jerusolymitani_; but afterwards he and his Successors had the Title of Great Master of the Order given him, to denote his Power and Authority. At this Day he has the Title of Prince of _Malta_ and _Goza_; among his Privileges he seals in Lead, as doth the Pope and Doge of _Venice_; he acknowledges the Pope for his Head, and the King of _Spain_ for his Patron; he had under him in several Kingdoms Priors; some of whom had also the Addition of Great with us in _England_ he was stiled _Prior Hospitalis; St. Johannis Jerusalem in Anglia_, and by that Title was he summoned to the Parliament as a Baron of this Kingdom, and at length for Place and Precedency was ranked the first Baron; and the greatness of these Knights grew to such height that _temp. H._ 3. they had in Christendom 19000 Mannors.

WHEN _Saladine_ took _Jerusalem_, these Knights retreated to _Acres_ or _Ptolemais_, and that being taken they seized upon the Island of _Rhodes_, _A. D._ 1308. whence they began to be call’d Knights of _Rhodes_; but _A. D._ 1522. being driven, thence by _Solyman_, they betook themselves to the Island of _Malta_, which with _Tripoli_ and _Goza_ were granted to them in Fee by the Emperor _Charles_ V. _A. D._ 1530. under the Tender of one Falcon yearly to the Viceroy of _Sicily_, and to acknowledge the King of _Spain_ and _Sicily_ for their Protectors. In this Isle they continue a Bulwark to those Parts, and from this their Settlement are called Knights of _Malta_.

3. _Knights_ Templars.

ABOUT the Year 1117, 1118, 1119, or 1120, this Order took Beginning, _Baldwin_ II. then reigning in _Jerusalem_; when Nine Gentlemen, of whom Two of noble Extraction, _Hugh de Paganes_ and _Godfrey de St. Omer_, came in Devotion to the _Holy Land_; they were called Brothers of the Militia of the Temple, ordinarily Knights Templars, from the Habitation assigned them out of a part of the King’s own Palace, adjoyning to the Temple of _Solomon_ in _Jerusalem_. Their first Undertaking was to guard the most dangerous Ways about that City, against the Violence and Robberies of the _Saracens_, which made them acceptable to all, and for which they had Remission of their Sins; but for the first Nine Years they were yet so poor that they lived upon the Alms of others, wore Clothes bestowed in Charity upon them, and rode two on one Horse; in memory of which primitive Poverty their Seal had the Impress, which is represented in _Math. Paris_, _A. D._ 1127. They had Rules assigned them, drawn up by St. _Bernard_ Abbot of _Clairvaux_, by the Appointment of Pope _Honorius_ II. and _Stephen_ Patriarch of _Jerusalem_. They made their Vows of Obedience, Poverty and Chastity, and to live under the Rules of Canons regular of St. _Augustin_. Their Habit was White, to which, in the Time of _Eugenius_ III. they added the Red Cross, and of the same Form that the Hospitallers wore (_Favin_ says a patriarchal Cross) and sowed it on the left Shoulder of the _Maulles_. These with the Holy Sepulchre Hospitallers and Teutonicks, principally supported a long time the Kingdom of _Jerusalem_; but when Riches encreas’d, and their Revenues augmented, they grew proud, fell from the Obedience of the Patriarch to joyn with the Pope; and at last, 1307. all the Knights of this Order in _France_ were, in one and the same Hour, seized and imprison’d by _Philip le Bel_, King of France, with Consent of Pope _Clement_ V. being charged with most infamous and damnable Crimes. And in _England_, _Anno 1. Ed. 2._ they were also apprehended afterwards, rendred Convicts, and all their Possessions seized into the King’s Hands. Howbeit the Bishop of _York_ commiserating their deplorable Condition within his Diocess, charitably disposed of them in Monasteries under his Jurisdiction. Two Years after many of these Knights were burn’d in _France_, and _Jaques de la Maule_, the last great Master, suffered the same Fate, having seen, _A. D._ 1312. his Order by Papal Authority, condemned and perpetually dissolved; after which their Lands were annexed to the Hospitallers, for their Service against the _Turks_.

THUS they fell, no less famous for Martial Atchievments in the East, than their Wealth in the West; for they enjoyed 16000 Lordships in _Europe_, and a _Spanish_ Author tells us, their Revenue was Two Millions yearly, and had in possession 40000 Commanderies, which occasion’d divers to think they were falsly accused, and by suborned Witnesses, merely upon the Ambition and covetous Design of _Philip_ King of _France_.

4. _Knights of the Order of St._ Lazarus.

THESE were at the first a Fraternity of Religious Monks, after which they became Ecclesiastick Knights, in Imitation of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. Pope _Pius_ V. 1572. stiles it _Antiquissimum Charitatis & Militiæ Christi Ordinem_; yet it must be understood as an Order of Monks, founded by St. _Basil_, about the time of _Julian the Apostate_, _A. D._ 366. upon a Charitable Account, _viz._ to take Care of Leprous Persons (a Malady frequent in the East) by which they became separated, even from the Conversation of Men. At length, through the Incursion of the _Barbarians_, and Injury of Time, it lay extinguish’d, but was revived when the _Latin_ Princes joyned in a Holy League to recover the _Holy Land_. And a famous Hospital was erected at _Jerusalem_, under the Title of St. _Lazarus_, for the Reception of Lepers: For in that Time the Monks of this Order added Martial Discipline to their Skill in Physick; and for their Services against the Infidels, begat a great Esteem from _Baldwin_ II. King of _Jerusalem_, and some of his Successors. In process of Time this Order decayed, being suppressed by _Innocent_ VIII. who united it to the _Hospitallers_ at _Rhodes_, _A. D._ 1490. Nevertheless _Pius_ IV. restored it _A. D._ 1565. confirming the old, and granting new Privileges, making his kinsman Don _Janot de Chastillon_ great Master. _Pius_ V. _A. D._ 1567. enlarged their Privileges, permitting them to take one Wife only, to wit, a Virgin, not a Widow. Lastly, Pope _Gregory_ XIII. _A. D._ 1572. bestowed the Great Mastership of this Order upon _Emanuel Philibert_ Duke of _Savoy_, and his Successors, and prescribed them the _Cistercian_ Rule; and accordingly he had the Investiture and Collation of the _Commanderies_ in _Spain_ and _Italy_.

5. _Knights of the_ Teutonick _Order, or_ Prussia.

IN the Time of the Holy War, a wealthy Gentleman of _Germany_, who dwelt at _Jerusalem_, commiserating the Condition of his Country-men, coming thither in Devotion, made his House their Receptacle; afterwards he erected a Chapel to the Blessed Virgin, whence they had also the Title of _Marian_ Knights. To him associated other _Germans_, and in short time encreasing, they professed the Military Employments of the _Templars_, and followed the Acts of Piety and Charity of the _Hospitallers_. _A. D._ 1190. or 1191. they elected _Henry Walpott_ their first Master, and the following Year were confirmed by _Celestine_ III. under the Title of Knights _Teutonicks_, or _Dutch_ Knights, of the Hospital of St. _Mary_ the Virgin, vowing Poverty, Obedience, and Charity, and following the Rule of St. _Augustin_. Their Statutes were composed from those of the _Hospitallers_ and _Templars_, and One Article was, _That none but_ Germans _should be of this Order_. Their Habit was a White Mantle, on the Breast a plain _Black Cross_, but some make it a _Black Cross_ voided with a _Cross Potent_. At _Acon_ they erected another Hospital; but after that City was taken by _Saladine_, they removed under _Hermannus_ their Master into _Germany_, on whom the Emperor _Frederick_ II. _A. D._ 1229. and Pope _Honorius_ III. bestowed _Prussia_; where having conquer’d that Nation, and reduced it from Paganism, they built the City of _Maryburgh_, and there, _A. D._ 1340. fixed the chief Residence of their great Master. This Country they enjoyed till 1525. that _Albertus Brandenburgh_, the Last great Master, made solemn Renunciation of that Order, and became feudatory to _Sigismond_ I. King of _Poland_, who created this _Albert_ first Duke of _Prussia_: However, some of the Knights disrellishing this Action elected another great Master, _viz._ _Albert Wolfang_, and leaving _Prussia_ setled in _Germany_, where they now reside. The younger Sons of the _German_ Princes being, for the most part received into this Order, giving it the greatest Reputation.

6. _Knights of_ Mount-Joy.

THESE are so called, from a Castle where this Order was instituted, built upon the Point of a Mountain not far from _Jerusalem_, whence the Pilgrims first view’d the _Holy City_, and where these Knights lay in Garrison. Their Habit was White, and the Badge thereof an _Octogonal Cross Red_; they vowed Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience, and followed the Rule of St. _Basil_; which Pope _Alexander_ III. _A. D._ 1180. changed to that of _Augustine_. Upon the Loss of the _Holy Land_ they retired to _Spain_, and fought against the _Moors_, and according to the Places they resided, in had other Names, in _Catalonia_ and _Valentia_, _Equites de Mongoia_, i. e. _Mount Joy_; but in _Castile_, Knights of _Monfrac_, a Castle there. When _Alphonso_ IX. King of _Castile_ gave them Lands they had won from the _Moors_, the Donation says, _To you Don_ Rodrigo Gonsales, _Master of_ Monfrac, _of the Order of_ Mount Joy. Upon the Decay of this Order, _A. D._ 1221. this Castle was given to Don _Gonsalionez_, Master of the Order of _Calatrava_, by _Ferdinand_ the Saint; and these Knights were incorporated with them.

7. _Knights of St._ John _of_ Acon _or_ Acres.

UNDER the Patronage of this Saint was this Order erected; they exercised all Duties of Charity towards Pilgrims, and assumed Arms in imitation of the _Hospitallers_; they followed the Rule of St. _Augustine_; and according to _Favina_, had a Black Habit, upon which they wore a _White Cross patee_. After _Acon_ was taken they removed into _Spain_, and flourished in the Reign of _Alphonsus_ the Astrologer King of _Castile_, about which time Pope _Alexander_ IV. approved the Order under the conjoined Title of St. _Thomas_ and St. _John_ of _Acon_. This King gave them by his Will all the Furniture of his House, and much Money; but afterward they dwindled, and at last were united to the _Hospitallers_. The Ensign was a _Red Cross_, in the middle whereof stood the Figures of St. _John_ and St. _Thomas_.

8. _Knights of St._ Thomas.

DISTINCT from the former, yet wearing the same Habit, as the Knights of St. _John_ of _Acon_, making the same Processions, and following the same Rule; their Badge was a _Saltire Gules_, (or as others are of Opinion) the same with that of St. _John_ of _Acon_, wanting the Figures in the middle: But _Favin_ reports, this Order was instituted by King _Richard_ I. after the Surprizal 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 an _Escallon_, and that St. _Thomas Becket_ was their Patron. Howbeit, after the Christians were driven out of the _Holy Land_, the Knights of this Order were joined to the _Hospitallers_.

9. _Knights of St._ Blaze.

THESE were also called Knights _de Sta. Maria_; they were Officers and Servants to the Kings of _Armenia_; their Habit was Sky colour with a _Cross Gold_ on their Breasts; others say a _Red Cross_, and in the middle the Picture of St. _Blaze_, their Patron. This Order was at the height, when the _Armenian_ Kings of the House of _Luzignan_ kept their Court in _Acon_.

10. _Knights of the Martyrs in_ Palestine.

THESE took their Denomination from an Hospital in _Palestine_, dedicated to St. _Cosmus_ and St. _Damianus_, Martyrs; where Acts of Charity were exercised towards Sick Strangers. Their Profession obliged them to other Works of Mercy, _viz._ to redeem Captives, and bury their Dead. They followed the Rule of St. _Basil_, which was confirmed to them by Pope _John_ XXII. There Badge was a _Red Cross_, in the middle whereof, within a Circle, was the aforesaid Two _Saints_. When they retir’d into _Europe_ they changed into a _Red Cross_, and St. _Augustin_’s Rule.

11. _Knights of St._ Catherine _at Mount_ Sinai.

THIS Order was instituted, _A. D._ 1063. under the Patronage of St. _Catherine_, whose Body was there deposited in the Church of the Monastery erected and dedicated to her Name. Their first Institution was to guard the said Sepulchre, to secure Travellers, defend the _Grecian_ Pilgrims, and to relieve them with Hospitality. Their Habit was White, and they lived under the Rule of St. _Basil the Great_, vowing conjugal Chastity, and Obedience to the Abbot of this Monastery, who was their Superior. But when the _Turks_ obtained these Countries, these Knights were ill treated and driven away, and the Order almost abolished; nevertheless some Shadow remains for such as travel to visit the Holy Sepulchre at _Jerusalem_, do now and then pass to this Monastery at Mount _Sinai_, where in imitation of the _Padre Guardian_ of _Jerusalem_, the principal Monk in this Covent makes them Knights of St. _Catherine_ over her Tomb, with the like Questions and Formulary as used at the Holy Sepulchre. These Knights now wear upon the left side of their White Habit the Cross of _Jerusalem_, and Instrument of St. _Catherine_’s Martyrdom; but according to others, the middle of the Wheel is pierced with a Sword.

12. _Knights of St._ Anthony _in_ Æthiopia.

AFTER the Death of St. _Anthony_ the Hermite, who dy’d about the Year 357. many of his Disciples remaining near _Æthiopia_, follow’d his Example and Manner of Life, and their Successors liv’d in great Austerity and Solitariness in the Desart (therefore call’d _Anchorites_) till the Year 370. when ’tis said _John_, Emperor of _Æthiopia_, erected them into a Religious Order of Knighthood, under the Title and Protection of St. _Anthony_, Patron of his Empire, and bestow’d upon them great Privileges; and being thus instituted, they receiv’d St. _Basil_’s Rule, and cohabited in Monasteries. Their Habit is black, with a blue Cross _Tau_. Their chief Seat is in the _Isle of Meroe_; but in other Parts of _Æthiopia_ they have great Numbers of Convents, and no less than 2000000 of annual Revenue. The eldest Sons of Nobles and Gentlemen cannot be admitted, but the second Sons may; and if a Man (except a Physician) have three Sons, he is bound to assign one of them to be of this Order. Their Vow is to observe conjugal Chastity; to die in Defence of the Christian Faith; to guard the Empire; to obey their Laws and their Superiors; and to go to War when and wheresoever commanded: Moreover, they take an Oath not to fight in Wars between Christians, nor receive Holy Orders, or marry without License. They are of two Sorts: One employ’d in the Wars, the other who being Old are exempted from Military Services, and retire themselves under the Title and Profession of Monks, to the Abbies where they first took their Habit; before which they must serve three Years against the _Arabian_ Pyrates about the _Red Sea_, three Years against the _Turks_, and three against the _Moors_ upon the Borders of _Borneo_. When they come to be admitted into their Abbey, they are introduced in their Military Habit, of which being disrob’d, the Religious one is put on, _viz._ a black Gown reaching down to the Ground, lined with blue, having a blue Cross fix’d to the Breast, and over that a black Cowle; they are afterwards led to the Church, and there make their Profession. _Philip_ VII. Son to the Founder, enlarg’d their Lands and Privileges, and added a Border of _Gold_ to the Badge of the _blue Cross_, as observed at this Day.

IN _Italy_, _France_ and _Spain_, there are a Sort of Monks that have the Title of Knights of St. _Anthony_, which observe the Rule of St. _Augustin_, and they wear a plain Cross like that in _Æthiopia_; but the Principals of these wear a double St. _Anthony_’s Cross of blue Satin, the one above the other. Their chief Seat is at _Vienne_ in _Dauphine_, of which Place the General of the Order bears the Title of Abbot, the Monastery being erected into an Abbey 1297. in Honour of St. _Anthony_, whose Body was translated thither from _Constantinople_; and all other Places built in Honour of his Name, were made subject to him _A. D._ 1523. _Morœus_ calls them _The Hospitallers of St._ Anthony, and says they begun in _France_ _A. D._ 1121. from _Gaston_ a Nobleman of _Vienna_. But _Baronius_ and others say, _Gaston_ and _Gerin_ instituted it earlier, making the Letter _Thau_ their Ensign or Badge.

13. _The_ Constantinian _Angelick Knights of St._ George
_in_ Greece, _but now in_ Italy.

MARQUEZ, a _Spanish_ Writer, makes this one of the first Military Orders in Christendom, and derives a formal Institution, Rules and Laws from _Constantine_ the Great, which appears little better than Fabulous, therefore we shall omit his Account.

THE Great Masters have their chief Seat and Convent at _Brianno_ near _Venice_, and is Hereditary in the Family of _Angelus Flavius Comnenus_. Among the rest of their Prerogatives, the Masters are _Commensales Pontificum_, i. e. may sit at the Table with the Pope, who defends them as Benefactors to the Church, and Founders of the _Lateran_ Cathedral at _Rome_. As Subjects to no Prince, they have Power of coyning Money: They give Titles of Counts and Princes to their own Fraternity, and take upon them the restoring to _Honours_, of legitimating _Bastards_, making _Doctors_, _Poets Laureats_ and _Publick Notaries_. This Order is under the Protection of the Virgin _Mary_ and Patronage of St. _George_; and they profess Obedience and conjugal Chastity; they wear a white Habit, on the left Side whereof is sowed a red or crimson Velvet Cross, Flory; in the middle is the _Labarum_ ⳨ imbroidered with the Letter A upon one Arm of the Cross, and Ω on the other. The Sides are wrought with Gold and Silk, but the _Labarum_ is all Gold. Amongst these Knights are three Degrees; the first call’d Collered or Grand Crosses, wearing a Collar form’d of _Labarums_, whereat hangs the Cross and St. _George_. The second are the Knights, and these wear the Cross above describ’d. The third are Servants, and they bear the Cross only, without the _Labarum_. The many Grand Priorates or Commanderies belonging to this Order, shew the Power they were formerly endow’d with.

14. _Knights of St._ James _in_ Galicia _or_ Sanctiago.

THIS is the principal Order in _Spain_, and had its Title of _Don Raniro_, King of _Leon_, who about the Year 826. at _Clavigio_, by the Assistance of St. _James_ (said to appear upon a white Horse, bearing a Banner with a _red Cross_) and gain’d a mighty Victory over a great Army of the _Moors_. Some place the Institution about the Year 1160. others 1175. whereas it was only then confirm’d, and their Rule of Living prescrib’d by Pope _Alexander_ III. there being a Fraternity of Knights in Spain, _A. D._ 1030. under a _Master_ and _Governor_, with Revenues.

AND altho’ this Order at first were dispos’d to vertuous Courses, and valiantly to encounter the _Moors_, Enemies to the _Cross_ of _Christ_, yet in time they became scandalously perverted, but were afterwards reduc’d to a better Life, and approv’d on by the said Pope _Alexander_, who receiv’d them into the Protection of the Papal See, and gave them the Rule of St. _Augustin_, the Form of holding Chapters, of electing their _Masters_, of _Treves_, and thirteen Commendadores of Houses, and of the Visitors; and in short very large Privileges, together with the Monastery of St. _Lorjo_, situate in _Galicia_ near _Sanctiago_; and the Prior and Canons thereof were incorporated into this Order.

THEIR Ensign is a _red Cross_, which the Knights wear upon their Breast, terminating like the Blade of a Sword, the Hilt crosletted and fashion’d after the ancient Manner; whereupon it was call’d _La Order de Sanctiago de la Espada_.

THEIR Habit is a white Mantle close before, on the Breast whereon is placed the said Cross, made of Silk or Cloth, and they are obliged to wear it upon their Garments, Coats or Cloaks, tho’ they use Crosses of Gold likewise.

WHEN the _Moors_ were driven out of _Spain_, and the principal Branch of this Order expir’d, upon a Contest for the Place of Great Master, the Crown of _Castile_ stepp’d in between, and by consent of the Knights, obtain’d it under the Title of Administrator, which was granted to King _Ferdinand_; and his Son _Charles_ V. annex’d it with all its Rights, _&c._ to his Successors in the Kingdoms of _Castile_ and _Leon_. Since which, the Kings of _Spain_ now enjoy the Administration of this Order, and carry that Title and Stile in the Inscription upon the Great Seal thereof, which holds the Royal Arms of _Spain_, upon a Cross that filleth all the Shield, with a Sword at each of the four Corners.

15. _Knights of St._ Saviour _in_ Arragon.

THESE were instituted _A. D._ 1118. by Don _Alphonso_, call’d _Emperor_ of _Spain_, _King_ of _Navarre_, _Arragon_, &c. chosen out of the _Spanish_ and _French_ Nobility that assisted in his Wars. He form’d them into a Society, the better to enable him to drive the _Moors_ out of _Saragossa_, and the whole Territory of _Arragon_. Their Rule of living was the _Cistercian_, and somewhat conformable to the _Knights Templars_. When the _Moors_ were driven out of _Spain_, their rich _Commanderies_ were at length united to the Crown.

THEIR Habit was a white Mantle, on the Breast whereof was a _red Cross Anchre_; but some say it was the Figure of our Saviour.

16. _Knights_ d’Avis _in_ Portugal.

DON _Alphonso Henriquez_, first King of _Portugal_, took from the _Moors_, _A. D._ 1147. the City of _Evora_, and to strengthen it, sent thither several gallant Commanders, who assum’d the Title of Knights of St. _Mary_ of _Evora_, putting themselves under the Protection of our blessed Lady. Not long after they were call’d _d’Avis_, from a Castle upon the _Portuguese_ Frontiers, conquer’d from the _Moors_, whither they transplanted themselves. It was confirm’d by Pope _Innocent_ III. _A. D._ 1204. under the Rule of St. _Benedict_, and therefore in some Papal Rules call’d of St. _Benedict d’Avis_. The _Knights_ profess _conjugal Chastity_ and _Obedience_. _Anno_ 1213. they submitted themselves to the _Rule_, _Statutes_ and _Visitation_ of the Order of _Calatrava_; but in the Time of _John_ of _Portugal_ (natural Son to _Pedro_ King of _Portugal_) seventh Great Master _d’Avis_, they cast off their Acknowledgments to _Calatrava_, and never after submitted to them; and afterwards, when the Crown of _Portugal_ fell into the Hands of _Philip_ II. King of _Spain_, this Order was govern’d according to the Statutes of _Portugal_.

Their Badge is a _green Cross, Flory_, (such as the _Knights_ of _Alcantara_ us’d to wear.) They must be Gentlemen by Extraction, both of the Father’s and Mother’s side.

17. _Knights of St._ Michael_’s Wing in_ Portugal.

About the Year 1165. others say 1171. Don _Alphonso_, who founded the Order _d’Avis_, founded this also after his obtaining a notable Victory over the _Moors_ and _Albara_ King of _Sevil_, in which Battle St. _Michael_ the Archangel is said to appear on the right Side of _Alphonso_, and fight against them.

Their Investiture, _&c._ was the same with _d’Avis_. It is now grown out of Use, but the Mastership remains with the King of _Portugal_.

18. _Knights of St._ Gereon.

This Order was establish’d by _Frederick Barbarossa_ the Emperor; others say by _Frederick_ II. and consisted only of the _German_ Nation. They follow’d the Rule of St. _Augustin_, and wore a white Habit, whereon was sow’d a black Patriarchal Cross, set on a little green Hill.

19. _Knights of St._ Julian de Pereyro, _or of_ Alcantara.

They had the first Appellation from St. _Julian de Pereyro_, a Town in _Leon_, where they had a Monastery built for them by _Ferdinand_ II. King of _Leon_ and _Galicia_, who in his Diploma of Privileges granted thereunto 1176. stiled himself Protector of this Society of Knights. In the Approbation-Bull of Pope _Alexander_ III. their Chief is called Prior; but in that of Pope _Lucius_ III. he is stiled Master of _Pereyro_. They used a Secular Habit, modest and grave, and the Ecclesiasticks a Clerical Habit, with a Shred of Cloth and a Scapulary, to distinguish them from other Seculars and Ecclesiasticks. They observed the Rule of St. _Benedict_ moderated, as it was convenient for the Exercise of Arms against the _Moors_, for which End it was instituted. Their ancient Badge was a _Pear-tree Vert_, in Allusion to the Name.

The Occasion of altering the first Appellation was upon change of their Habitation. Pope _Adrian_ VI. annex’d this Mastership, together with those of St. _James_ and _Calatrava_, to the Royal Crown of _Castile_ for ever.

20. _Knights of_ Trugillo _or_ Truxillo _in_ Spain.

This Order is so call’d from the City of _Trugillo_ in _Estremadura_, but when, or by whom founded, or their Badge, is unknown. Some suppose these Knights the same with that of _Alcantara_; ’tis evident they were in being _A. D._ 1227. when ’tis pretended the Master of _Alcantara_ took _Trugillo_ from the _Moors_, and plac’d there a Brotherhood of Knights. But it seems these Knights of _Truxillo_, were a distinct Order several Years before, and ’tis not unlikely that they might be incorporated into that of St. _Julian de Pereyro_, and by this Means the Order of _Alcantara_ acquired the Towns of _Trugillo_, _Sancta Cruz_, &c. which _Alfonso_ IX. King of _Castile_ had given them. They were to be of Noble Descent, and make proof of their Gentility; they were obliged to be near the King’s Person, and to attend him in all Martial Expeditions, maintaining always Two Horses and Servants in Readiness.

21. _Knights of_ Calatrava.

This Order was instituted in _Castile_ by _Sanchio_ III. and so called from _Calatrava_, a Frontier Castle of _Castile_ and _Toledo_, which the _Moors_ took, _A. D._ 714. compounded of the _Arabick_ _Cala_ a Castle, and the _Spanish_ _Travas_ Manacles, with which the _Moors_ fettered the Christians; 400 Years after which, upon the Recovery of the Town from the _Moors_, it was given to the Knights _Templars_; but they, unable to stop the mighty Conquests of the _Moors_, the said _Sanchio_ by Proclamation promis’d the Inheritance to any who would undertake the Defence of it, being the Key of the Kingdom of _Toledo_. At length _Raymond_ of _Barcelona_ (formerly a Knight, then a _Cistercian_ Abbot) by the Perswasion of _Velasquez_, accepted the Proffer, and had the Donation, _A. D._ 1158. and fortifying it by the Help of his Associates, this Order arose, call’d at first _Militia de Calatrava_. Upon the account of the Fertility of the Place, 20000 Men and their Families were drawn from the neighbouring Countries to settle there, so that the _Moors_ never after attempted it. They remain’d under their own Masters till Pope _Adrian_ VI. annex’d it to the Crowns of _Castile_ and _Leon_.

22. _Order of the Holy Ghost at_ Rome.

_Marquez_ calls them _Brothers of the Hospital of the Holy Ghost_, who tho’ not invested with Swords and Spurs, are nevertheless reckoned among the Military Orders, because bound to certify their Gentility before Admittance. Their chief Seat is the Sumptuous Hospital of the Holy Ghost, founded at _Saxia_ near the River _Tyber_ at _Rome_, by Pope _Innocent_ III. _A. D._ 1198. or 1201. But the Ancient Foundation was the Hospital of the _Holy Ghost_ at _Montpelier_ in _France_, tho’ this other became the Principal. They profess Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience, living under the Rule of St. _Augustine_, and have a Master. Their Ensign is a _White Patriarchal Cross with Twelve Points_, sowed to their Breast, and on the left side of their Black Mantle.

In this Hospital, Care is taken for the nursing and bringing up exposed Children, curing Infirmities, Entertainment of Strangers for Three Days, relieving the Poor, and the like Works. Their Revenue is about 24000 Ducats _per_ Day, having great Commandaries in _Italy_, _Sicily_, _Spain_, _France_, _Burgundy_, _Germany_, and elsewhere.

23. _Knights of St._ George d’Alfama.

So named from a Town in _Tortosa_, were instituted, _A. D._ 1201. received Approbation from the Papal See, _A. D._ 1363. and _A. D._ 1399. was united to the Order of our Lady of _Montesa_.

24. _Knights of_ Christ _in_ Livonia, _or of the Sword-bearers_.

_A. D._ 1186. _Mainard_ first preach’d Christianity to the _Livonians_, and erected the Bishoprick of _Riga_; but his Successors meeting with many Difficulties, _A. D._ 1200. _Albert_, then Bishop of _Livonia_, instituted this Order in Imitation of the Knights _Teutonicks_, with design to extirpate Idolatry, and promote the Gospel. He prescribed to these Knights the _Cistercian_ Rule and Habit, _viz._ a long White Mantle and Black Hood; on the Breast was the Figure of a _Red Sword_, or rather _Two plac’d in Saltire_, whence they had the Title of _Ensiferi fratres_, or _Brethren Sword-bearers_. Their Statutes were something like the Knights _Templars_, and they vowed Obedience and Chastity. Pope _Innocent_ III. confirmed this Order, which became fully instituted, _A. D._ 1203. but because they could not of themselves accomplish their End. About the Year 1237, they were united to the _Teutonick_ Order, and submitted to their Rule and Habit, by whose Help they overcame the _Livonians_, and brought them to the Christian Faith; thenceforward the Great Master of _Livonia_ acknowledged him of _Prussia_ their Superior, until _Walter de Pletemberg_, their Great Master, separated this Order from their Obedience to the _Teutonick_. Finally, _A. D._ 1561. _Gothard de Ketler_, the last Great Master, following the Example of the Great Master of _Prussia_, became subject to the Crown of _Poland_, surrendering to King _Sigismond_ II. the City and Castle of _Riga_, and all the Lands, Charters, Privileges, _&c._ of this Order, receiving in exchange the Dukedom of _Curland_, to him and his Heirs for ever; so the Order expired after 357 Years continuance.

25. _Knights of_ Jesus Christ _in_ Italy _or_ France.

ST. _Dominick_ descended of the Family of the _Guzmans_ in _Spain_, instituted this Order, _A. D._ 1206. principally to fight against the _Albigenses_, then call’d Hereticks. He prescribed to them a White Habit, and for their Badge a _Cross flory, quarterly, sable and argent_. The Work being done with the _Albigenses_, they devoted themselves wholly to spiritual Warfare; and afterwards, upon admitting Widows and Virgins into their Order, they became called _Fratres seu Sorores de Pœnitentia B. Dominici_, whose Rule Pope _Innocent_ VI. confirm’d _circa An._ 1360.

26. _Knights of St._ Mary de Merced. _in_ Aragon.

_James_ I. of _Aragon_, being sometime a Prisoner to _Simon_ Earl of _Montfort_ in _France_, where he suffered much Hardship, and being moved with the insufferable Miseries the Christians endured under the Slavery of the _Moors_, made a Vow to the Blessed Virgin, That when delivered himself, he would endeavour the Redemption of such Christians as the _Moors_ had made Captives, and accordingly laid up great Summs for the Performance; and afterwards, by the Council of _Raymond de Penafort_, his Confessor, and _Pedro Nolasco_, a Noble Chevalier, he founded in _Barcelona_ this Order of _la Nueva Merced_, so named by the Virgin, who, as they reported, appeared to them all in one and the same Hour, directing the Institution. In _Anno_ 1358. I find it called also _Ordo beatæ Eulaliæ_, from St. _Eulalia_ the Virgin and Martyr, buried at _Barcelona_ in the Church bearing her Name. This Order began on the Day of St. _Laurence_, in _August_, _A. D._ 1218. in the Fifth Year of that King, which Day they annually commemorate. They were to gather Alms, and go in Person to redeem Christian Slaves; which Work prospered so well, that _Velasco_ (the first General or Head) set at Liberty 400 within the Space of Six Years after its Foundation. Their Habit was a Coat and Scapular of course white Cloath, garnished with Cordons and Ribbons, wherewith they fast’ned it about their Necks, and from the upper-end thereof issued a Cap that covered half their Head: The Monks wore their Coats and Scapulars reaching down to their Feet; but those of the Knights were much shorter. _A. D._ 1251. King _James_, the Founder, granted unto all the Fraternity, that they should wear upon their Scapulars the Arms of _Aragon_, _viz._ _Or_ 4 _Pales Gules_, and above that the White Cross of the Church of _Barcelona_ in a red Field, with Two Coats joined together _per fess_ in one Shield, which came afterwards to be encompassed with a _Bordure_, which the Knights wore on their Scapulars, but the Monks on their Mantles, and both upon their Breasts. Disputes arising among themselves, they were incorporated with the Knights of _Montesa_; so that, ever since, the whole Fraternity have been only Priests. The Master General hath his Residence at _Barcelona_, by the Decrees of Pope _Clement_ V. and _John_ XXII. To conclude, they now collect great Sums of Money, send out their Agents yearly, chiefly to _Algiers_ and _Fess_, and for the Redemption of Christian Captives, and have from the Time of their Institution followed their proposed Ends with all religious Care and Faithfulness.

27. _Knights of the_ Rosary _in_ Toledo.

_Roderick_, Bishop of _Toledo_ in _Spain_, seeing the Country sore oppressed by the _Moors_, assembled the Noblest of the City, and proposed the Necessity of their Assistance to extirpate the _Moors_; whereunto they being unanimously inclin’d, he gave Beginning to this Order. By their Statutes, besides fighting against the _Moors_, they are obliged to say, continually, the Rosary of our Blessed Lady. Their Rule of Living was that of St. _Dominick_; and their Ensign the _Figure of our Lady of the Rosary upon a Cross flory, quarterly, argent and sable_.

28. _Knights of St._ Mary the Glorious, _in_ Italy.

Their Author was _Bartholomeo de Vincenza_, a Friar Preacher, or _Dominican_, afterwards Bishop of that City. The End he chiefly designed, was to procure Peace to _Italy_, then much disquieted by Civil Wars. It was instituted, _A. D._ 1233. called _Generalis Devotionis annus_, and approved and confirmed by Pope _Urban_ IV. _A. D._ 1262. and the Rule of St. _Dominick_ prescribed them, who are obliged to take into their Care Widows and Orphans, and endeavour to beget Concord among such as are at Variance. Their Habit is a White Tunick or Cassock, and a Mantle of Russet; some make their Badge which they wear upon their Breast _a purple Cross patee bordered with Gold_, others make it _a purple Cross patee, with Two Stars in chief_; but _Marquez_, that has writ of the Order of Knighthood, gives it an _Octogonal Cross_, like that of _Malta_. They profess Obedience and Conjugal Chastity; but are forbid to wear Spurs or Bridles of Gold: They are commonly called _Cavaleri de Madona_, and reside at _Bolonia_, _Modena_, and other _Italian_ Cities; and because they have no Monasteries, but dwell in their own Houses at Ease and Plenty, they were called _Fratres Gaudentes_ or _Hilares_.

29. _Knights of St._ James, _in_ Portugal,

WERE instituted, _A. D._ 1310. by _Denys_ VI. King of _Portugal_, in honour 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. It was not long after its Institution ere this Order flourished, through the Privileges the Founder bestowed, and the Approbation of Pope _Nicholas_ IV. and others his Successors. The Knights profess Conjugal Chastity, Hospitality and Obedience, and none are admitted till they make proof of their Gentility by Blood. Their Ensign is a _red Sword_, formed like that of St. _James_ of _Galicia_; the Habit White, and the only difference between them lies in a little Twist of Gold which these of _Portugal_ draw about their Sword. At _Alcasar de Sul_ was their Principal Convent, which they afterwards removed to _Dalmela_, where it yet continues. Their Statutes, _&c._ are much the same with those of St. _James_ in _Galicia_, whereupon some erroneously have confounded them.

30. _Knights of our_ Lady, _and of St._ George _of_ Montesa.

THIS Order succeeded into the Lands and Possessions of the Knights _Templars_ in _Valentia_, as the Knights _Hospitallers_ did into those of the _Templars_ in _France_, _Italy_, and _England_; for _James_ II. King of _Aragon_ and _Valentia_, refusing to give their Revenues to the _Hospitallers_ (which as other Princes had done) gave them to the Convent of _Montesa_, where had been placed both Knights and Friars of the Order of _Calatrava_; and excusing himself to Pope _John_ XXII. _A. D._ 1317. he instituted this Order in the City _Valentia_ (nevertheless subject to that of _Calatrava_) and made choice of the Town of _Montesa_, to give the Knights both Name and Habitation, whom he obliged to defend his Kingdom against the _Moors_. Their College, dedicated to St. _George_, was built the following Year, and their Statutes confirmed by the said Pope _John_, who gave them the _Cistercian_ Rule. Upon their Habit is White, and the Badge a plain _red Cross_, which they wear on their Breasts. _A. D._ 1399. the Order of St. _George d’Alfama_ was incorporated to it. And the Great Office of Master hereof is in the King of _Spain_, who hath the Revenue of Thirteen Commandaries belonging thereunto to the Value of 23000 Ducats _per annum_.

31. _Knights of_ Christ _in_ Portugal.

THESE sprang also from the Ruin of the Knights _Templars_, whose confiscated Estates King _Denys_, sirnamed _Penoca_, desired of Pope _John_ XXII. might not be disposed out of his Kingdom, in regard of the great Evils the Neighbouring _Moors_ in _Algarves_, did his Kingdom; and forasmuch as the Town of _Castro Marin_ was a Frontier, and commodious to resist the Enemy, he moved for Licence to institute an Order of Knights therein, and offer’d his Holiness the Rents and Jurisdiction thereof, which accordingly was granted by the Pope, and dedicated it to the Honour of God, and the Exaltation of the Catholick Faith, under the Title of the _Military Order of our Lord Jesus Christ_, as is alledged from the miraculous Apparition of our Saviour crucified, seen by the King when he went out to fight the _Moors_.

32. _Knights of the_ Passion of Jesus Christ.

THIS Order was erected by _Charles_ King of _France_, (tho’ it made no Progress) and our King _Richard_ II. with a large Design exceeding all other Religious Orders, except those of St. _John of Jerusalem_ and Knights _Templars_. They were to renew the Memory of our Saviour’s Passion, to extirpate Pride, Covetousness and Luxury, to make way for the Reconquest of _Jerusalem_ and _Palestine_, and for the Subversion and Confusion of Enemies of the Faith. A MSS. in the _Arundelian_ Library, reckons up Twenty Causes for the Necessity of its Institution, which are too long to be inserted; and altho’ it was dedicated to our Saviour, yet the Blessed Virgin was look’d upon as a principal Mediatress and Advocate of this Holy Chevalry. Their Governments in the principal Convent, were to be debated by Five Councils, in the Presence of the Prince: 1. The _Quotidian_ Council, consisting of Twenty-four: 2. The Particular consisting of about Fourty: 3. The Grand Council consisting of Eighty. 4. The General Chapter held every Year. And, 5. The Universal Chapter to be held every Fourth or Sixth Years, consisting of a Thousand Knights of the Chevalry. The Principal Officer was the _Grand Justiciary_, the next the _Grand Bailiff_: In the Chief City, and in every City and Castle of theirs, one was to administer Justice called a _Potestate_. In the general Chapter was to be an Officer called the _Senator_, and in the Universal Chapter a _Dictator_ with Coadjutors and Assistants.

IN the principal Convent were to be Ten Executers of Justice, and Four styled Charitable Commissaries, whose Office was, to provide for Widows and Orphans; and whereas this Order was made up of Eight several Languages, and as many Notaries, who put on the Habit of the Brothers; for the greater Regularity of their Order, they were to bind themselves by Oath to the Observance of these Three Points, Obedience to Sovereigns, Poverty of Spirit, and Conjugal Chastity. They were allotted for their Maintainance, the Possession of Cities, Castles, _&c._ Gold, Silver, _&c._ and all to be in common, _&c._

There was to belong to the Castle or Principal Convent a Church of marvellous Structure; it was design’d Fifty Cubits in breadth, without any Pillars, a Hundred Cubits long, and in height Twenty-five; likewise an Hospital, where the Widows of the Holy Chevalry should attend upon the Sick and Infirm; a Baptistery or Font, for the Baptizing the Children of the Knights; a stately Palace, with a great Hall and large Consistories, to contain the Prince and Council with their Retinue; with a large and delightful Cloister for the Canons and Clerks; together with a very spacious Palace, to entertain the Princes of the _West_ when they came that Way, either to War, or upon Pilgrimage: In fine, there was to have been Three chief Halls, wherein they might dine together; with distinct Lodgings and Habitations, Wine-Cellars, Granges, Granaries, Stables for Horses and Cattel, Easements, Mills, Cisterns, Baths, and all other Necessaries for the Chevalry. Their Habit was to denote the Passion of Jesus.

THE Dress they were obliged to was a hansome Cloth Coat of a civil Colour, reaching down half way their Legs, and girt with a large Girdle of Silk or Leather Two Fingers broad, the Buckle of Black Horn, the Tongue and Garnishing of the Holes, Tin; to have Red Chaperons or Caps, representing the Blood of our Saviour; over their said Coats, a Mantle of White Cloth or Serge, which from the Shoulders downward was to be open on both Sides along the Arms, and in that Part before the Breast a _Cross_ of red Cloth or Serge Two Fingers broad, extending to the Breadth and Length of that Part of the Mantle; the _Cross_ of the Prince’s Mantle was to be edged round with a Gold Fringe about half an Inch broad; there were to be some other small Distinction as to the Shape of the Cross upon the White Habit to be used by this Holy _Chevalry_. Their Arms in a Banner were _Argent_, upon a _Cross Gules; a Compass of Four convex semi-circles, conjoyning Four intervening Angles alternately sable_ (in Allusion to the Agony of our Lord) charged with an _Agnus Dei Or, the Compass and Cross both fimbriated Gold, with a little red Bordure_.

IN Times of extraordinary Danger, and great Battles, they were to have another singular and solemn Banner; every Knight was to have his Esquire armed at all Points, a little Valet for his Lance and Helmet, a bigger to carry his Mail, and a third to lead his Sumpter; Five Horses, and Four Servants were to attend him in all Warlike Expeditions, and Two or Three Horses and Servants in all Times of Peace. The Number of these Knights of the _Holy Chevalry_ was 1000 or 1100.

33. _The Order of the_ Brician _Knights in_ Sweden.

WAS founded, _A. D._ 1366. by an holy and famous Queen of that Kingdom which they repute St. _Bridget_, the Aim of whose Profession was to oppose Heresy, secure the Confines of the Kingdom, bury the Dead, succour Widows and Fatherless, and to keep up Hospitality. Their chief Ensign was a _Blue Octogonal Cross, and under it a Tongue of Fire_, the Symbol of Love and Charity.

34. _Knights of St._ Maurice _in_ Savoy.

THIS Order took its rise upon the Retreat of _Amadeus_ VIII. Duke of _Savoy_, into the Desart of _Ripaille_, near the Lake of _Geneva_, and was conferr’d by him, _A. D._ 1434. on Ten of his Courtiers, who retir’d with him, as well as to preserve the Memory of St. _Maurice_, the Patron of _Savoy_. Nine Years after its Institution, the Founder was elected Pope, _A. D._ 1439. and assumed the Name of _Felix_ V. Nine Years after that he resigned the Chair, and retir’d to his Solitude in _Ripaille_, where he died, _Jan._ 7. 1451. and lies buried at _Lausanna_. The Order continued not long after his Death; but Duke _Emanuel Philibert_ restored it, _A. D._ 1572. and the Dukes of _Savoy_ are their Grand Masters.

35. _Knights of the_ Holy Ghost,

WERE instituted by Pope _Paul_ II. _A. D._ 1468. under the Title of Brethren of the Hospital of the _Holy Ghost_, They wore upon their Habits a _White Cross forme_.

36. _Knights of St._ George _in_ Austria _and_ Carinthia.

THE Emperor _Frederick_ III. others say _Rudolphus_ of _Hapsburgh_, first Founder of the Greatness of the House of _Austria_, instituted this Order, A. D. 1470. chiefly to guard the Frontiers of _Germany_, _Hungary_, _Austria_, _Stiria_, and _Carinthia_, and to suppress the Insolency of the Turks, since which these Knights have gallantly behaved themselves. The Great Master was advanc’d to the Honour of a Prince; and the Castle of _Mildstad_ in _Carinthia_ was given him for his Seat, where was founded a Cathedral Church of Canons, under the Rule of St. _Augustin_. Their Ensign is the Arms of St. _George_, a _red Cross_, and their Habit white; they profess Conjugal Chastity and Obedience, and have the Emperors for their Protectors.

THERE are also _Cavalleros de San Jorge en Alemania_, an Order erected by the Emperor _Maximilian_, 1494. upon the like Design with the former; it was confirmed by Pope _Alexander_ VI. and is under the same Profession and Protection as the other. There Ensign is a _red Cross_, with a _Crown of Gold_ on the top of it; they were otherwise called _crowned Knights_; for after they had served a Year, they and their Heirs have a peculiar right of Adorning their Shields and Helms with a Crown; the Occasion was upon a notable Victory obtained against the _Turks_, who confessed that a Man on Horseback supposed to be St. _George_, put them into that Fear and Disorder as to quit the Field.

37. _Knights of St._ George _at_ Rome.

THESE were instituted by _Alexander_ VI. 1498. or, as others say, by Pope _Paul_ III. at whose Death it became extinct. They dwelt at _Ravenna_, their Province, and were to secure the _Adriatick Sea_ from Pyrates.

38. _Knights of St._ Peter _at_ Rome.

POPE _Leo_ X. _A. D._ 1520. instituted this Order to fight against the _Turks_, and defend the Sea Coasts. Their Number was Four Hundred; they wore the Image of St. _Peter within an Oval of Gold hanging at a Golden Chain_.

39. _Knights of St._ Paul _at_ Rome,

WERE instituted by _Paul_ III. 1540. and while he was Pope, he made Two Hundred of them. Their Ensign was _St._ Paul’_s Image hanging at a Golden Chain_.

40. _Knights called_ Pios _at_ Rome.

POPE _Pius_ IV. erected this Order 1560. He created of them at first 375. but they encreased to 535. He granted them very considerable Endowments, and preferr’d them before the Knights of the Empire, and _Malta_, because they were his Courtiers, and had the Charge of carrying his Chair on their Shoulders when he went abroad.

41. _Knights of St._ Stephen _at_ Florence.

THIS Order was founded in imitation of the Knights of _Malta_, 1561. by _Cosmo de Medicis_ II. Duke of _Florence_, afterwards first Duke of Tuscany, in honour of St. _Stephen_, Pope and Martyr, the Patron of the City of _Florence_, and in memory of the Battle on the 6th of _August_, (St. _Stephens-day_) at _Marciano_, where overthrowing the Assertors of Liberty, he laid the Foundation of his Grandeur. _Pius_ IV. confirmed it under the Rule of St. _Benedict_, which was afterwards enlarged with many Emoluments and Privileges, by the succeeding Popes. The Knights vow’d Conjugal Chastity and Charity, in relieving the Afflicted, Obedience to their Masters the Great Dukes of _Tuscany_. The chief Place of their Residence was at _Pisa_, where the Founder erected a Church and Convent, as a Nursery for Persons skilful in Maritime Affairs, but since it is transferred to _Cosmopoli_ in the Isle of _Ilva_. Their Habit is a long Mantle of White Chamlet trimmed with Red, and on the left part of their Breast a _Cross_ (like that of _Malta_) _of red_ or _crimson Satin border’d with Gold_; it is daily worn on their Cloaks, and on their Military Garments, and about their Necks in a Ribbon on Festival Days. This Order (like the _Maltese_) also consists of Knights, Priests and Servants. The Priests wear the _Cross of red Taffaty_ without a Bordure, the Servants the _Cross_ of St. _Anthony_ only. The Statutes were reformed by _Ferdinand_ Duke of _Tuscany_, Son to the Founder, and approv’d, 1590.

42. _Knights of St._ Maurice _and St._ Lazarus _in_ Savoy.

POPE _Gregory_ XIII. having, at the Request of _Emanuel Philibert_, Duke of _Savoy_, restor’d the Order of St. _Lazarus_, and the Order of St. _Maurice_, _A. D._ 1572. and constituted this Duke Grand Master, the same Year, for their greater Honour, he united them under the Title of St. _Maurice_ and St. _Lazarus_, and appointed the Dukes of _Savoy_ Hereditaries and Masters, and oblig’d them to furnish out two Gallies for the Service of the Papal See, to be employ’d against Pyrates. Upon this Union, the Knights had assign’d them for Habit a Gown of Crimson Tabby, with wide Sleeves, a long Train, and edg’d with white Taffaty, and a Cordon with a Tassel of White and Green fix’d to the Collar. The Badge is, _A green Cross ancree of St._ Laurence, _plac’d Saltirewise, surmounted with the white Cross pornelle of St. Maurice_, which the Knights wear either in a Gold Chain, or any colour’d Ribbon. And the said Duke founded for the Knights two fair Convents, one at _Nice_, the other at _Turin_, and bestow’d on them all the Revenues within his Territories, formerly appertaining to the Order of St. _Lazarus_. The Dukes of _Savoy_, as Grand Masters, use this Title.

43. _Knights of_ Loretto.

THIS Order, about the Year 1587. was instituted by _Sixtus_ V. who erected the Church of our Lady at _Loretto_ into a Cathedral and Bishop’s See, and gave the Knights for their Ensign, _the Image of our Lady of Loretto_, hung in a Gold Chain. This is not quite extinguish’d.

44. _Knights of the Blessed Virgin_ Mary _of Mount_ Carmel.

THO’ the Grand Mastership of St. _Lazarus_, and its Commandaries in all Dominions, were confirm’d by Pope _Gregory_ XIII. upon the House of _Savoy_, yet under King _Henry_ III. some Knights in _France_, of that Order, refus’d to joyn with their Fellows, under the Obedience of the Duke of _Savoy_. King _Henry_ IV. desirous to have a new order, bearing the Denomination of _The Blessed Virgin_, &c. apply’d himself to Pope _Paul_ V. and obtain’d what he su’d for _A. D._ 1608. (besides other Pensions out of certain Ecclesiastical Benefices in _France_) the Commandaries and Hospitals of St. _Lazarus_ in that Kingdom, and the _Knights of St._ Lazarus that remain’d in _France_, were incorporated with them under two Titles; their Seal being inscrib’d, _Sigillum Ordinis & Militiæ Mariæ Virginis de Monte Carmeli, & Sancti Lazari in Hierusalem_. The Order consists of One Hundred choice _French_ Gentlemen, whose Offices are to attend on the King in every warlike Expedition. They vow Chastity and Obedience, and profess to fight against the Enemies of the Romish See. The Feast of the Patroness is the 16th of _July_; _Philibert Nerestang_, a valiant Knight of St. _Lazarus_, was elected their first Master 1608. Their Badge is a Cross of 8 Points of tawny Velvet or Sattin, with a white Border sow’d on the left Side of their Cloaks, and the Image of the Virgin _Mary_ of _Mount Carmel_ plac’d in the Middle, within a Rundle encompass’d with Rays of Gold. They also wear about their Necks, in a tawny Silk Ribbon, the like Cross of Gold; but the Image of the said Knights is enamel’d on both Sides. There Investiture is like that of _Malta_.

45. _Knights of the most Glorious Virgin_ Mary _of_ Rome.