Chapter III: Part 3

_A. D._ 1618. _Pedro_, _John Baptista_, and _Bernardo_, sirnam’d _Petrignaneos_ (three Brethren of _Spelta_ in _Italy_) invented this Order: To which was added, the Rule of St. _Francis d’Assise_, whereof the Popes are Great Masters. _Paul_ V. confirm’d them, and gave these Knights the Palace of St. _John Lateran_ for their Convent, and the City and Port of _Civita Vecchia_ to make their Arsenal; with an Island adjacent, together with the Government of his Gallies. Their Institution was for the Exaltation of the _Roman_ Church, and to check or suppress the _Turks_ roving in the Mediterranean. There are three Sorts of this Order, 1. _Knights Gentlemen_, Laicks. 2. _Knights Gentlemen_, Priests and benefic’d. 3. _Knights Chaplains_, or _Servants of Arms_. All of these wear on the left Side of their Mantles their Badge, which is a _blew Cross floree Azure_, border’d with _Silver_, having 4 _Mullets_, or _Stars_, at the End of each Flower, to signifie the Four Evangelists; in the Middle is a Circle (extended round underneath the Arms of the Cross) set with 12 Rays for the 12 Apostles, inscrib’d, _In hoc signo vincam_; and within it (taking up the Center of the Cross) is a Cypher of _M. S._ i. e. _Sancta Maria_, crown’d with Chaplets of Flowers, and Stars of Gold set over the Chaplet.

46. _Knights of the_ Annunciade, _and St._ Michael _the Archangel in_
Mantua, _or of the Christian Militia in_ Moravia.

BY these Names they have been promiscuously called. It was instituted 1618. by _Charles Gonzaga_, Duke of _Mantua_ and _Nevers_, in Conjunction with _Adolph_, Count of _Altham_ his Brother, and _John Baptist Petrignan Sfortia_. To give it the greater Lustre, they divided the World among them; _Charles_ took the North and West Parts, _Adolph_ the Eastern, and the other had the South, where they were personally to found Convents and invest Knights. Duke _Charles_ began his Institution of this Order under the Rule of St. _Francis_, in _Olmutz_ the Metropolis of _Moravia_, the Year aforesaid, and dedicated it to the blessed Virgin and St. _Michael_: But what Progress the others made in their pious Resolutions, History is silent. It has been likewise styl’d, _Conceptionis Ordo & Militis Virginis annunciatæ_. _Anno_ 1612. several illustrious Princes of divers Countries entered themselves into that Order at _Vienna_. It was approv’d by Pope _Paul_ V. and confirm’d by Pope _Paul_ VIII. 1624. The Design of its Institution was, to establish Peace and Concord among Christian Princes and their Subjects; to release Captives, and deliver the Oppressed out of the Hands of the Infidels.

On some unhappy Difference among the illustrious Founders, in a short time it moulder’d away and became ineffectual, that the Mahometans (for whose Destruction it was design’d) heard only the Report of it.

CAP. III.

§ 1. HAVING particulariz’d the Religious Orders, I shall proceed to those accounted absolutely Military. Among them,

1. _Knights of the_ Round Table _may, for Antiquity,
challenge the first Place_.

The Founder was _Arthur_ King of _Britain_, crown’d in the Year of our Lord 516, at the Age of 15 Years; of whose incredible Courage and Gallantry, tho’ some have stretch’d too far, yet _William_ of _Malmsbury_ is of Opinion, he was worthy to have been celebrated by true and faithful Historians, and not false and spurious Tales. He it was that long prop’d up his declining Country, and inspir’d Martial Courage into his Subjects, the _Saxons_, in twelve pitch’d Battles having overcome, and conquer’d divers Countries. He liv’d in so great Repute and Renown, that worthy Knights came from all Parts to his Court, as a Seminary of Military Discipline, to demonstrate their Valour in point of Arms. This gave him Occasion to select out of these, and his own Subjects, some say Twenty Four of the most Valiant, which he united in a Fellowship; and to avoid all Controversy upon Precedency, caus’d a Round Table to be made, whence the Order had its Appellation. He admitted not only _Britains_, but Strangers; and their Qualifications were to be Persons of Nobility, Dignity, and renown’d for Vertue and Valour. The Place where they were instituted was _Windsor_; and those others of Note, where he and his Knights assembled, were at _Caerleon_ in _Monmouthshire_, _Winchester_, and _Camelot_ in _Com’ Somerset_; and their time of convening was _Whitsuntide_. In _Winchester_ Castle was a large Round Table, call’d (and affirm’d to be) King _Arthur_’s; or at least set up in the room of one more ancient, which was destroy’d in the rebellious Times of Forty One, with other Reliques there. The Articles of their Profession (Number 12) are set down by Sir _William Segar_. We find no authentick Proof what Badge they bore, notwithstanding the Report that King _Arthur_ had a Shield nam’d _Pridwin_, wherein the Virgin _Mary_ was depicted. His Sword and Lance had also their Names, one being call’d _Caliburne_, the other _Irone_ or _Rone_. It’s not remember’d that this Order surviv’d the Founder, but rather that it expir’d with him, most of these Knights perishing with him at the Battle of _Kamblan_, now _Camelsford_, in _Cornwall_, where tho’ he kill’d his Enemy _Mordred_, yet he dy’d _A. D._ 542.

IT may be noted, that the like Round Table grew in Estimation shortly after the _Norman_ Conquest, being permitted at Haslelades, Tilts and Turnaments, _temp. Steph._ and _R. I._ And _Roger Mortimer_, Earl of _March_, kept the Celebration of the Round Table (consisting of One Hundred Knights, and as many Ladies) with Tilting at _Kenelworth_-Castle, in _Com’ Worcest’_ 7 _Ed._ I. And King _Edward_ III. designing to restore it, held a Just at _Windsor_ in the 18th Year of his Reign; and in the 19th ordain’d it annually to be kept there at _Whitsontide_. But it was thought fit upon divers Accounts to forbid these Assemblies, and in particular 16 _H._ III. at _Shrewsbury_, when the King went to meet _Llewellin_ Prince of _Wales_, and in 36 _H._ III. and at many other times.

2. _Knights of the_ Oak _in_ Navarre,

WERE instituted by _Garcia Ximenes_ of the Blood of the _Goths_, who had formerly retir’d from the World to a solitary Life, but relinquish’d it to command an Army rais’d by the _Navarrois_, to deliver themselves from the Oppression of the _Moors_. As he was marching to encounter them, _A. D._ 722. there appear’d to him from the Top of an Oak the Sign of the Cross, ador’d by an infinite Number of Angels. On giving Battle to the Infidels he gain’d a remarkable Victory, and the People elected him their King; and he in thankfulness to God erected this Order, investing his Nobles therewith, and oblig’d them to defend the Christian Faith, and acknowledge Obedience to his Successors, Kings of _Navarre_. Time has eclips’d this Order.

3. _The Order of the_ Gennet,

WAS Founded by _Charles Martel_, in Memory of the famous Battle near _Tours_, _A. D._ 726. where he overthrew 385000 _Saracens_ and _Moors_, with their General _Abdiramo_; and to reward those who had well-behav’d themselves in this Action. The great Number of rich Gennet Furr, (Ermine has since gain’d the better value) as also the Creatures themselves taken alive among the Spoils, was the Occasion of assuming the Name: But others impute it to Gennets, a kind of neat-shap’d Horses, whereof not unlikely a great Part of the Founder’s Cavalry consisted. The Knights were Sixteen in Number, and were accounted the first Order of this Nature among the _French_, which continu’d till the Institution of the _Star_, when it was laid aside, tho’ some _French_ Authors question if ever the Order was in being.

4. _The Order of the_ Crown-Flower,

ERECTED by _Charles_ the Great, Son of King _Pepin_, _A. D._ 802. to reward the _Frizons_, who had behav’d themselves valiantly in his Armies, and to encourage others to emulate their Vertue. It was so call’d from its Ensign, _viz._ an Imperial Crown embroider’d with Gold. The Knights were invested with the Military Belt and a Box on the Ear.

5. _The Order of the_ Dog _and_ Cock.

THAT there was such an Order in _France_ is related by several Writers, but they give no certain Account of its Institution.

6. _The Order of St._ Andrew, _or the_ Thistle, _in_ Scotland,

IS reported by _John Lesley_, Bishop of _Ross_, to take beginning from a bright Cross in Heaven, in Fashion of that whereon St. _Andrew_ suffer’d Martyrdom, which appear’d to _Hungus_, King of the _Picts_ (and to the _Scots_ whom _Achaius_ King of _Scotland_ sent to his Assistance) the Night preceding the Battle with _Athelstan_ King of _England_; over whom prevailing, they went in Solemn Procession to the Kirk of St. _Andrew_, to thank God and his Apostle for their Victory, promising that they and their Posterity would ever bear the Figure of that Cross in their Ensigns and Banners. _Favin_, in his _Theatre of Honour_, relates it to be instituted upon the famous League, Offensive and Defensive, made between _Achaius_ and _Charlemain_ King of _France_; to preserve the Memory of which Alliance, _Achaius_ added the _Tressure of Flowers de Lys_ to the Lyon, and took for Device the _Thistle_ and _Rue_, which he compos’d into a Collar of his Order; and for his Motto, _Pour ma Defence_: Yet doth _Menenius_ make these the Symbols of two different Orders, one of the _Thistle_, whence the Knights were so styl’d, and the Motto, _Nemo me impune lacessit_; the other call’d _Sertum Rutæ_, or _The Garland of Rue_: Nevertheless to both these Collars hung one and the same Jewel, _viz._ the Figure of St. _Andrew_, bearing his Cross before him. _But there are some_, saith the same Author, _that refer the Institution of the_ Thistle (the Badge of the _Scotch_ Kingdom from the Times of _Achaius_) _to the Reign of_ Charles VII. _King of_ France, _when the Amity was renew’d between both Kingdoms_. Lastly, Others place its Foundation 1500. Their principal Ensign is a Gold Collar, compos’d of Thistles interlink’d with Anulets of Gold, and pendant thereto St. _Andrew_ with his Cross, and this Epigraph, _Nemo me impune lacessit_. Their solemn Meeting was annually on St. _Andrew_’s Day, in the Church of the Town dedicated to his Name: During the Festivity, the Knights were richly habited, and wore their Parliament Robes, having fix’d on their left Shoulders an Azure Roundle, charg’d with a Saltire Argent, or St. _Andrew_’s Cross enfil’d in Centre, with a Crown compos’d of _Flower de Luces Or_. For the ordinary and common Ensign, the Knights us’d a Green Ribbon, whereat hung a Thistle of Gold, crown’d with an Imperial Crown, within a Circle of Gold, containing the last nam’d Epigraph; and now of late they have sew’d to their left Breast an Irradiation (like that of _The Knights of the Garter_) over a Saltire Silver, the Irradiation charg’d with a Blew Roundle of St. _Andrew_’s Cross. Their Number consisted of Thirteen, in Allusion to our blessed Saviour and the Twelve Apostles.

7. _Knights of_ our Lady of the Star,

OWE their Original to _Robert_ the Devout of _France_, _A. D._ 1022. to manifest his strict Devotion to the blessed Virgin. They were in Number Thirty, inclusive of the Chief. Their Seat was in the noble and ancient House of St. _Owen_, call’d _de Chichey_, near St. _Denys_ in _France_. This Order was of no long continuance, for being much sully’d and disgrac’d (during the Civil and Foreign Wars) by the Imitation of Persons that had neither Birth nor Merit to recommend them, King _Charles_ VII. took Occasion to efface it _A. D._ 1455. by delivering up, in a Chapter, the Ensign that he wore to the Chevalier _du Guet_, Captain of the Night-watch in _Paris_, the Lords and Princes throwing it off after it had receiv’d that Mark of Infamy; tho’ some alledge it declin’d upon the Erection of _The Order of St._ Michael, as the _Star_ supplanted that of the _Gennet_.

8. _The Order of the_ Lilly _in_ Navarre, _or of St._ Mary _of the_ Lilly,

WAS founded _A. D._ 1048. by _Garcius_ VI. King of _Navarre_, in Honour of the blessed Virgin _Mary_, after his Recovery from a languishing Sickness. Others relate, that prevailing against the _Moors_, he made a Feast in Honour of the blessed Virgin, at which he instituted this Order, electing his Brothers and Sons among the first Knights. It was esteem’d the most Illustrious of all _Spain_, and consisted of Thirty Eight Knights, extracted out of the ancientest Blood of _Navarre_, _Biscay_ and _Old Castile_. The Kings of _Navarre_ were their Chief. They promis’d, at their Institution, to expose their Lives and Fortunes in Defence of the Christian Faith, the Conservation of the Crown, and Expulsion of the _Moors_.

9. _The Order of the_ Sword _in_ Cyprus,

WAS erected 1195. by _Guy_ of _Lusignan_, King of _Jerusalem_ and _Cyprus_, after he had purchas’d that Isle of our King _Richard_ I. in Commemoration of so fortunate a Plantation of 15000 Persons whom he brought thither. Some question the Truth of this; however all assent, its Founder was one of the _Lusignan_ Family. The Collar was compos’d of round Cordons of white Silk, woven into Love-Knots, interlac’d with the Letters S and R. Beneath this Collar hung an Oval of Gold, whereon was perfigur’d a Sword, the Blade enamell’d Silver, the Hilt Gold, and about the Oval this _Motto_, _Securitas Regni_. _Micheli_ says, _Pro Fide Servanda_, and _Gothofredus, pro integritate tuenda_. Their Festivity was _Ascension-Day_, whereon the Founder gave it (in the Church of St. _Sophia_, the Cathedral of _Nicosia_ in _Cyprus_) to his Brother _Amaury_, and to Three Hundred Barons establish’d in that his new Kingdom. There were Eight Kings of _Cyprus_ of the _Lusignan_ Line, Great Masters; but when this Isle fell into the Hands of the _Turks_, this Institution ceas’d.

10. _The_ Bear _in_ Switzerland,

WAS instituted _A. D._ 1213. by the Emperor _Frederick_ II. in Favour of the Abbot of St. _Gall_ in _Swaben_, who had assisted him in gaining the Empire. These Knights wore a Collar of Gold, at the End whereof hung a Bear Gold, mounted on an Hillock enamell’d with Black, in Honour of St. _Ursus_ of the _Theban_ Legion, who was martyr’d before the Temple of the Sun at _Soleurre_ in _Switzerland_. It was also call’d _The Order of St._ Gall, from the Name of the Patron (a _Scotch_ Gentleman, and the Apostle of _Swaben_) of the Place where it receiv’d its Appellation. The Abbot whereof, for the Time being, had Power to confer this Honour, which was done by girding with the Military Belt (the Sword being first consecrated) and putting on the Collar. It continu’d ’till the _Switzers_ became a Common-Wealth; and then the Castles of the Nobles being dismantled, it was laid aside.

11. _The_ Broom-Flower _in_ France,

TOOK its Original from _Lewis_ of _France_, to honour the Coronation of his Queen _Margaret_, _A. D._ 1234. Their Habits were Cassocks of White Damask, and Violet Chaperons; the Collar compos’d of Broom-Flowers Proper, interlac’d with Flowers _de Lys_, hanging thereat a Cross _Florence_ Gold, to which was added this Inscription, _Exaltat Humiles_; the Founder accounting the Broom the Symbol of Humility. Their Number was at the Sovereign’s Pleasure, and this Order continu’d till the Death of King _Charles_ V. Some say _Charles_ VI. instituted it, and others deny the being of any such Order.

12. _The_ Ship _and_ Double Crescent _in_ France.

SUCH an Order was of Old, in Honour of the great Atchievements of that Nation, tho’ by whom founded is unknown. _Favin_ affirms, St. _Lewis_ erected this after he had instituted the _Broom Flower_, to animate the Nobility to accompany him in his Expedition to _Africa_, 1269. Their Badge was alluding to the Name of the Order, the Figure of a Ship Pendant in an Oval of Gold; and expir’d with St. _Lewis_ after the first Class of Knights; but its Honour was kept up by _Charles_, Brother of St. _Lewis_, and flourish’d in _Sicily_ with his Successors, until the Kings of _Arragon_ obtain’d that Kingdom.

13. _Knights of St._ James _in_ Holland.

THIS Order was erected by _Florentius_, Earl of _Holland_ and _Zeland_, and Lord of _Friseland_; and he, _A. D._ 1290. bestow’d the Ensigns of it, in his Palace at the _Hague_, upon Twelve of his chief Nobility, among which was _Lancenot_ Lord _Hamilton_, Embassador from the King of _Scots_. They were invested with a Collar of Gold, or Military Belt of Silver gilt, set off with Six Escallops, whereat was hung the Picture of St. _James_ the Apostle.

14. _The Order of the_ Swan _in_ Cleveland.

IF ever any such was, it has been effac’d long since. Yet _Favin_ says, the Princes of _Cleve_ have born the _Swan_ for their Order, Devise, Crest and Supporters, to preserve the Memory of the _Knight of the Swan_, whose Romance he sets down. And further reports, That _Charles Gonzaga_ of _Cleve_, Duke of _Nevers_, had a Design to re-establish it.

15. _The Knights of_ Jesus _at_ Rome,

WERE instituted by Pope _John_ XXII. at _Avignon_ in _France_, _A. D._ 1320. as a Temporal Prince, being Lord Paramount of St. _Peter_’s Patrimony. _Paul_ V. much augmented it. Their Badge is a plain Cross Gules, inclos’d within a Cross patee Or, hanging at a Gold Chain. Pope _Clement_ IX. 1668-9. treated Three of the Embassadors from the _Swiss Cantons_ with the usual Ceremonies, himself putting on the Chains, and the Captains of his Guards girding their Swords about them.

16. _The_ White Eagle _in_ Poland,

WAS instituted by _Ladeslaus_, King of _Poland_, to honour the Marriage of his Son _Casimire_ the Great, with _Anne_ Daughter of _Gedimer_ Duke of _Lithuania_, 1325. The Ensign was a white Eagle crown’d.

17. _The Order of Knights_ de la Banda _in_ Castile,

WAS set up by _Alphonsus_ II. King of _Leon_ in _Castile_, in the City of _Victoria_, _A. D._ 1332. (or _Palencia_ 1330. or _Burgos_ 1368. according to others) not long before his Coronation, the better to secure himself against his Enemies. Soon after the Solemnity was celebrated at _Burgos_, in the Monastery of St. _Mary Royal_, where the Candidates, conducted by the King to the Altar, and depositing their Arms, spent the Night in Watching and Prayer. The Morrow after Mass, they were invested with a red military Belt or Ribbon, of four Fingers broad, which came a-cross the Body over the right Shoulder, and so under the left Arm, and was the Ensign from whence they took their Denomination. This Order was chiefly to Honour the Nobility; and at first none were admitted but the younger Sons of Noblemen [excluding elder Brothers] or Persons well-descended, or Esquires, who had serv’d in Court or Camp Ten Years at least. It was anciently of great Esteem, and Kings have vouchsafed to take its Ensign; but at length it was disus’d.

18. _The Order_ de la Calza,

INSTITUTED at _Venice_ _A. D._ 1400. from the Example of the _Knights_ de la Banda, in Honour of the Inauguration of Duke _Michele Steno_. It consisted of a Society of particular Noblemen and Gentlemen, who voluntarily met together, and elected a Chief among themselves. They took an Oath to observe their Articles, part whereof was, the Honour of the City, where noble and splendid Regales were made; and with such like magnificent Divertisements did they entertain King _Henry_ III. of _France_, and other noble Personages. It receiv’d the greater Lustre, by the Addition of several Italian Princes; and the most conspicuous Families were receiv’d into it. Their Habit, on Solemn Days, was a Crimson Senator’s Vest appearing very splendid. Their Ensign, a Sun in a Sheild painted in their Banners. It arriv’d to such Profuseness, that in 1590. it was wholly laid aside.

19. _The Order of St._ Mark _in_ Venice,

IS here reckon’d, because the Knights are dignify’d with a Title and particular Ensign of Honour at their Creation. The Ceremony is after the Manner of _Knights Batchelors_, by Dubbing with a Sword, and their Title a bare Mark of Honour, having no Laws or Statutes, or particular Obligations enjoyn’d. It had the Denomination from St. _Mark_ the Evangelist, whose Body was translated to _Venice_, 828. and became the Titular Angel and Guardian of that City, his Picture being display’d in their Banners. The exact Time of its Institution is not certainly determin’d. The Badge that adorns these Knights, is, a Gold Chain put over their Shoulders at their Creation, whereat depends a Medal, on one side whereof is the Symbol of St. _Mark_, _viz._ a winged Lyon, holding in his right Paw a drawn Sword, and in his left an open Book, with this Motto, _Pax tibi Marce Evangelista meus_. On the Reverse, the Duke surviving is beautify’d with a particular Impress. Sometimes represented on his Knee, receiving a Standard from the Hands of St. _Mark_. This Medal is worn on a Cross enamell’d Blew. The Duke confers this Honour, either privately in his Chamber, or publickly in a full College. The Senate have the Power of creating this Order; and they who receive it by their Sanction, the Dignity is greater than from the Hands of the Duke himself. Absent Persons are invested by Letters Patents; and to aggrandize their Honour and Title, style themselves _Knights of St._ Mark.

20. _The Order of the_ Seraphims, _or_ Seraphick Knights,
_otherwise sirnam’d of_ Jesus,

WAS begun by _Magnus_ IV. King of _Sweden_ 1334. in Memory of the Siege laid to the Metropolitan City of _Upsala_. The Collar was compos’d of Seraphims and Patriarchal Crosses.

21. _The Order of the_ Sword _and_ Military Belt _in_ Sweden.

BY whom or when founded we have no Memoirs. The Collar made up of Swords, with Belts twining round them (the Symbol of Love and Justice) the Swords somewhat inclining towards the Point, and so joyn’d Two and Two, Point to Point, plac’d round in a Circle.

22. _The Order of the_ Knot _in_ Naples.

WHEN _Lewis_, King of _Hungary_, warr’d against _Joan_, Queen of _Naples_; not so much to dispossess her of the Kingdom, as to revenge his Brother _Andrew_’s Death, whom this _Joan_, his Wife, had strangled 1351. On the 26th of _May_, the Queen and _Lewis_ Prince of _Tarantuni_, being crown’d King and Queen of that Realm on the same Day, in Commemoration of so pacifick an Union, and to tear up all their Enmities, the Prince instituted this Order; into which enter’d, at that Time, Threescore and Ten Lords. Their Habit was White, and their Ensign a Knot (the Emblem of Love and Friendship) intermixt with Gold. This Order expir’d in a short Time.

23. _Knights of the_ Annunciade _in_ Savoy.

_Ame_ VI. Earl of _Savoy_, instituted this Order, under the Title of _The Collar_ 1362. in Honour of the Fifteen Divine Mysteries of the _Rosary_. _Favin_, on a mistaken Ground, calls it _The Order of the Snares of Love_, in regard its Founder had receiv’d of his Lady, a Bracelet made of the Tresses of her Hair, plaited in Love-knots, and that the four Letters, afterwards interlac’d by the Founder, should signifie _Frappes_, _Entres_, _Rompes_, _Tout_. It is conspicuous enough at the first Erection it was call’d of _The Collar_, and so remain’d till _Charles_ III. or _Le Bon_ Duke of _Savoy_, bestow’d on it the Title of _The Annunciation_, from the Picture of the Annunciation which he annex’d to _The Collar_, 1518. The Founder appointed the Number of his Knights to be Fifteen, among whom Sir _Richard Musard_, an _Englishman_, is recorded 1434. and 1568. their Number was encreas’d to Twenty, that being solely lodg’d in the Breast of their Sovereign. _Riene_ Castle, in _Buger_, was their principal Seat; they had a Chartreuse to entertain Fifteen Priests to celebrate Fifteen Masses to the Honour of the Fifteen Joys of the blessed Virgin, and to the Soul’s Health of these Knights; and here were their Ceremonies and Chapters held, until _Charles Emmanuel_ I. exchang’d it and other Places for the Marquisate of _Saluces_, 1607. on the Anniversary of the Feast and Celebration of the Order (being fix’d upon the Day of the Annunciation) were translated first to the Church of St. _Dominick_ at _Montmeiller_, and afterwards by him to the Hermitage of _Camaldule_, upon the Mountain of _Turin_ call’d _l’Eremo Assis_. The ancient Collar was of Gold, Three Fingers broad; in barbarous Characters were ingraved these Letters, F E R T, and one Knot (commonly call’d the _Savoy Knot_) at the end of each _Fert_; which, with Three other Knots entwin’d one within another, made up the Circumference _pendant_ at the Collar without any Figure. These old Characters were suppos’d to be the Initials of _Fortitudo ejus Rhodum tenuit_, alluding to _Amadeus le Grand_, who so valiantly defended _Rhodes_ against the _Turks_, 1310. But that this was long before the Devise of the House of _Savoy_, is manifest from the Coins of _Lewis de Savoy_, Baron _de Vaud_. who dy’d 1301. the Monument of _Thomas de Savoy_, who dy’d 1233. whereon was lying at the Feet of his Portraiture a Dog with a Collar about his Neck, inscrib’d _Fert_, as an integral Word, and from a Brass Coin of the said Earl’s, on the Reverse whereof are Two Knots of the Model before spoke of, and the Word _Fert_ in the midst. There is the Ectype of a Silver Coin of _Peter de Savoy_, (who erected in _England_ the noble Pile of that Name in the _Strand_, _temp. H._ III.) wherein is represented the Devise _Fert_ in _Gothick_ Characters, the true Interpretation of which Word cannot be explain’d. This ancient Collar is still in vogue and daily worn, but now called _The little Collar_, fashion’d of Gold or Silver gilt, about an Inch broad, and of different weight. The Knights wear it about their Necks, close to the Collar of their Doublet. Duke _Charles_ III. as he much restor’d the Splendor of this Order, _Anno_ 1518. introduc’d the larger one, only worn upon high Days. It weighs about Two Hundred Crowns, and is compos’d of the Word _Fert_, interwoven with Knots, severed with Fifteen Roses of Gold, whereof Seven are enamell’d with White, and Seven with Red, and border’d with Two Thorns. The Figure of the Annunciation is enamell’d in various Colours, _pendant at three Chainets_ to another Rose-colour’d both White and Red. He first appointed the great Mantle of Crimson Velvet, his own being furr’d with Ermines, but the rest of the Knights with Miniver, fring’d and border’d with _Savoy Knots_ in fine Gold; under this Mantle is worn a Surcoat of fine Damask. Duke _Emanuel Philibert_, his Son, alter’d the Colour of the Mantle to Azure, and lin’d it with White Taffaty, of which Silk he made the Surcoats. _Charles Emanuel_ chang’d the Mantle into an _Amaranthus_ or Purple Colour, seeded with Roses and Flames in embroidery of Gold and Silver, and lin’d with Cloth of Silver tissu’d Blue, now in use; under which, instead of the White Taffaty Surcoat, is now worn a White Satin Suit embroider’d with Silk, the Hose gather’d upwards in the fashion of Trouses.

24. _The_ Thistle _in_ France,

WAS instituted on _New-Year’s Day_ 1370. by _Lewis_ II. Duke of _Bourbon_, upon his Marriage with _Anne_, Daughter to the Count _Daulphine_ in _Auvergne_. The first Solemnities of this Order were perform’d at _Nostre Dame de Maulins_ in _Bourbonnois_, where he founded a College of Twelve Canons, in Honour of the blessed Virgin; the Intent was, to corroborate his Interest for the Aid of the Duke of _Orleans_, against the Faction of the House of _Burgundy_, and by joyning of Flowers _de Lys_ and Thistles (the Symbols of Hope and Courage) emblematically to express the Nobleness of his Spirit against all the Power of Fortune. He ordain’d the Number of Knights to be Twenty Six, comprehending himself and his Successors, Dukes of _Bourbon_, as Chiefs, and oblig’d them to wear daily a Belt, a Girdle of Watchel coloured Velvet, lin’d with Crimson Sattin embroider’d with Gold, and therein the Word _Esperance_ curiously wrought. The Girdle was fasten’d with a Buckle and Thong of Gold, bearded and chequer’d with Green, enamel’d in Form like the Head of a Thistle. On the Anniversary of the Festival (the Conception of our Lady) the Knights wore Cassocks or Surcoats of Carnation Damask with White Sleeves, girded as before; the Mantle of the Order was sky-colour’d Damask with broad Welts of Gold Embroidered on the Collar, and lined with Red Satin, but the Mantlet of Green Velvet, the Bonnet was also of Green Velvet; at the Point of the Band hung a Tassel of Crimson Silk and Threads Gold, the Lining of Crimson Taffaty, and turn’d up after the antique manner, whereon they had embroided the Golden Shield with the Word _Allen_; the great Collar was of Gold, of the weight of Ten Marks, enamelled with Green, distended like Network, which was filled with Flowers _de Lys_ (together with the Letters of the Impress) plac’d in a Lozenge of Red Enamel; at the Bottom of the Collar, in an Oval of Gold (the Circle whereof was enamelled with Green and Red) appeared the Figure of the Patroness, the Virgin _Mary_, irradiated with Gold, and crowned with Twelve Silver Stars, a Crescent of the same under her Feet, enamell’d with Purple and Sky-colour; at the End of the Oval depended the Head of a Thistle enamelled Green, but bearded White. The Founder took an exact Patern for the Order of the _Garter_, with which he acquainted himself while he was Prisoner in _Windsor_ Castle.

25. _The Order of the_ Dove

WAS begun by _John_ I. King of _Castile_ in _Segovia_, 1390. or, as others, 1379. to encourage his Nobles to prosecute the Noble Acts of his Grandfather King _Henry_ III. but the Founder dying the same Year, before it had taken root, it became of small Continuance.

26. _The Order of the_ Argonauts _of St._ Nicholas

WAS instituted by _Charles_ III. King of _Naples_, 1382. to preserve Amity among the Nobles, to compose Enmities and suppress Seditions. If any of these Knights, upon a Variance, refused a Reconciliation, the Ensigns were to be forfeited. Others say the Design was to advance Navigation, to which their Ensign alludes, being a Ship floating upon the Waters in the midst of a Storm, having this Motto, _Non credo tempori_. In the Convent of that sumptuous Church which St. _Nicholas_, Bishop of _Smyrna_, erected, was the grand Feast held on the Anniversary of that Saint. This King appointed a White Habit for the Knights, and prescribed them laudable Constitutions; but for want of a settled Revenue, their Splendor expired with their Founder.

27. _Knights of St._ Anthony _in_ Hainault.

ALBERT of _Bavaria_, Earl of _Hainault_, _Holland_, and _Zeland_, designing an Expedition against the _Turks_ and _Moors_, instituted this Order, 1382. The Ensign thereof was a Golden Collar wrought after the Fashion of an Hermit’s Girdle, at which hung a Walking-Staff, and a little Golden Ball.

28. _The_ Porcupine _in_ France,

WAS erected by _Lewis_ of _France_, Duke of _Orleans_, 1393. to honour the Solemnization of the Baptism of his eldest Son _Charles_, by his Wife Daughter to the Duke of _Milain_. He chose the Porcupine for his Devise, with this Epigraph, _Cominus & Eminus_; not only out of the aspiring Hopes conceived of this Child, but also to intimate something of Revenge against _John_ Duke of _Burgundy_, his mortal Enemy; the Porcupine being an Emblem both Offensive and Defensive. Others make _Charles_ aforesaid the Founder of this Order, 1430. in Imitation or Emulation of the Golden Fleece, instituted by _Philip_ Duke of _Burgundy_. Their Number, including the Founder, was Twenty Five; their Habit, Surcoats of Violet Velvet, and over them Mantles of Watchet Velvet lin’d with Carnation Satin; the Collar was formed of Gold Chains, at the End whereof hung a Porcupine of Gold upon an enamelled Hillock of Grass and Flowers, which Creature was also embroidered on the Knights Belts.

29. _The Order of the_ Lily _or_ Lilies _in_ Arragon _or_ de la Jarra
de S. Maria, _of the Vessel of St._ Mary,

WAS erected by _Ferdinand_ King of that Country, called the infant of _Antiquera_, 1403. and dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. _Favin_ ranges it under the Denomination of the Title of the _Looking-glass of the Blessed Virgin in_ Castile, instituted in Memory of a Victory King _Ferdinand_ obtained in that Kingdom against the _Moors_, 1410. whence he transplanted them with him into _Arragon_, 1413. when he received the Crown, where it flourished under the Sons of that King, and then the Line was extinct.

30. _The Order of the_ Dragon overthrown _in_ Hungary,

WAS instituted, _A. D._ 1413. by the Emperor _Sigismond the Glorious_, 1418. for the Defence of the Christian Religion, and to crush or oppugn all Hereticks and Schismaticks, and for the Satisfaction he receiv’d in conferring Peace to the Churches of _Hungary_ and _Bohemia_, by the Aid of the Council of _Constance_. It was in high esteem shortly after in _Germany_; but the Order and Founder had very near the same Period. The Knights wore daily, as their Ensign, a _Green Cross flory_, on solemn Days, a Scarlet Cloak, and on the Mantlet of Green Silk a double Chain of Gold (others say a Green Ribbon) at the End of which hung a Dragon dead with broken Wings, in posture of being overcome (the Symbol of Heresy) enamelled with Variety of Colours.

31. _The_ Equites Tusini _in_ Bohemia, _or else both in_
Bohemia _and_ Austria.

THIS Order had its Name from _Toca_, a Cap or Coif. The Archdukes of _Austria_ were its Founders; which they enacted to engage their Subjects in Defence of the Christian Faith against _Turks_ and _Hereticks_, conferring upon the Knights towards their Support whatsoever they acquired in the Wars, which was a respite to themselves, after almost Two Hundred Years Charges, and Military Expence; indeed the Encouragement proved so good a Bait, that they cleared their Provinces almost of all _Turks_ and _Schismaticks_ that infested them. Their Badge was a plain _Green Cross_, and their Habit Red.

32. Ordo Disciplinarum,

WAS instituted by the _Bohemian_ Kings, or rather the _Austrian_, to be a Curb upon the _Turks_ and _Hereticks_, at least to prescribe the Confines of the Kingdom. The Collar of the Order had a White Eagle. These Knights flourished in _Germany_, in the Reigns of _Sigismond_ and _Albert_ Emperors.

33. Orde de la Scama, _in_ Castile,

WAS instituted by _John_ II. King of that Realm, about the Year, 1420. to excite his Nobility to fight against the _Moors_, which produced so good Effect, that in a short time the _Moors_ were shamefully overthrown. That King granted them Privileges, gave them their Statutes and Rules; but upon his Death the Splendor hereof was greatly eclips’d. Their Ensign was a Cross composed of the Scales of Fishes. They were obliged to defend _Castile_ against the _Moors_, to dye in Defence of the Faith, and when the King went to War they marched before him. Their Ensign was a Cross composed of the Scales of Fishes, the _Spanish Scama_ bearing the same Signification as the _Latin Squama_.

34. _The Order of the_ Golden Fleece,

HAD its Original from _Philip_ II. Duke of _Burgundy_, Sirnam’d _the Good_, the 10th of _Jan._ 1429. at his Marriage with _Elizabeth_, Daughter of _Portugal_, in the City of _Bruges_ in _Flanders_, to perpetuate the Memory of his great Revenues raised by Wools with the _Low-Countries_. Some say in Commemoration of _Gideon_, who with Three Hundred Men vanquished a numerous Army of the _Midianites_; or of _Jacob_’s _Fleece_, viz. the Party-coloured and streaked Fleece, after the Example of _Jason_ and his _Argonauts_, whose Expedition to _Colchos_ he intended to make his Patern by a Voyage into _Syria_ against the _Turks_. He founded it to the Glory of the Almighty Creator, and Redeemer, in Reverence of the Virgin _Mary_, and St. _Andrew_ the Apostle, who was Patron thereof, and whose Festival was celebrated on that Day, but afterwards translated to the 1st of _May_, by reason of the shortness of the Days, and the Fatigue aged Knights would find to convene in an intemperate Season. The Knights at first were Twenty Four, beside the Duke, chief and supream, who reserved the Nomination of Six more at the next Chapter; but _Charles_ V. encreased them, 1516. to Fifty. Duke _Charles_ and _Maximilian_, Sons to the Founder, annex’d many Privileges to them, which were confirmed, 1556. For their Habit Three different Mantles were ordain’d them at the grand Solemnity; the first Day, of Scarlet Cloth, richly embroidered about the Lower End, with Flints struck into Sparks of Fire and Fleeces, with Chaperons of the same; and the same Day, after Dinner, to proceed to Vespers in Mantles of Black, and of the Colour of Chaperons; the Day following they were to hear Mass habited as themselves thought fit; but Duke _Charles_ aforesaid prescribed them Mantles of White Damask for that Day’s Ceremony, and changed their Cloth Mantles into Velvet. The great Collar is composed of double Fusils, placed Back to Back, Two and Two together, in form of the Letter B, representing it both Ways, to signify _Bourgoigne_. And these Fusils are interwoven with Flint-stones (in reference to the Arms of the ancient Kings of _Bourgoigne_) seeming to strike Fire, and Sparkles of Fire between them, the Device of the Founder, at the End whereof hung the Resemblance of a Golden Fleece, enamelled proper. To the Flint _Paradine_ ascribes the Motto, _Ante ferit quam Flamma micet_; and to the Fleece, _Pretium non vile laboris_. The Jewel is commonly worn in a double Chainet or Males of Gold, linked together at convenient Distance, between which runs a small Red Ribbon, or otherwise it is worn in a Red Ribbon alone. The Emperors of _Germany_ descended from _Philip_ Archduke of _Austria_, Duke of _Burgundy_ and Count of _Flanders_, were the Sovereigns of it, till _Charles_ V. gave the Guardianship of it to the Kings of _Spain_, which he perform’d on the 25th of _October_, 1556. conferring it on his Son King _Philip_ at _Bruxelles_, when he took the Collar from his Neck, and with his own Hands put it over his Son’s Shoulders in the Presence of divers of the Knights, with this Form, _Accipe, fili mi, quem e collo meo detraho, tibi præcipuum Aurei velleris torquem, quem Philippus Dux Burgundiæ cognomine bonus Atavus noster, monumentum Fidei Sacræ Romanæ Ecclesiæ, esse voluit & hujusce Institutionis ac Legum ejus, fac semper memineris_: Since which the Honour of being Chief of this Order remains at this Day in that Crown.

35. _The Order of St._ George _at_ Genoa,

WAS given by _Frederick_ III. Emperor of _Germany_, in honour of St. _George_ the titular Saint and Patron of _Genoa_. The Ensign is a plain Cross _Gules_, and worn by the Knights at a Chain of Gold about their Neck. The Dukes of _Genoa_ are Chiefs thereof; and in regard their Dignity lasts but two Years, the Order is much impair’d thro the Inconstancy and Alteration of the Times.

36. _The Order of the_ Croissant, _or_ Half-Moon _in_ France,

WAS erected in the City of _Anjou_, 1464. or according to the _Saincte Marthes_, _A. D._ 1448. by _Rene_ of the House of _Anjou_, King of _Jerusalem_ and _Sicily_, &c. Duke of _Anjou_, &c. The Intent thereof was the Honour of God, Support of the Church, and Exaltation of Knighthood; over which he declared himself and his Successors, Dukes of _Anjou_ and Kings of _Sicily_, Chiefs. He also chose St. _Maurice_, Knight and Martyr, for Patron, and held the first Ceremonies in the Church of _Angiers_ dedicated to his Name. The Symbol which the Knights wore on the right Side of their Mantle, was a Golden Crescent, whereon in Red Enamel was this Word _L’oz_, signifying _L’oz en Croissant_, whereby they were spur’d forwards to search after the Increase of Valour and Reputation. At this _Crescent_ was fasten’d as many small Pieces of Gold, fashion’d like Columns, and enamell’d with Red, as the Knights had been engag’d in Battels and Sieges; for none could be adopted into this Order, unless he had well trod the Paths of Honour. The Knights were Thirty Six, others say Fifty, in Number. For their Habit they wore Mantles of Red or Crimson Velvet, and a Mantlet of White, with the Lining and Surcoat of the same.

37. _The Order of the_ Ermin _in_ Britanny,

WAS erected by _Francis_ I. Duke of _Bretagne_, to perpetuate the Memory of his Grand-father _John_ the Conqueror, or else in Imitation of other Orders in _France_; and thereupon he new built his Castle of _Ermin_. The Number of these Knights were Twenty Five. Their Habits were Mantles of White Damask lin’d with Carnation, and the Mantlet of the same. The great Collar was of Gold, compos’d of Ears of Corn in _Saltire_, bound above and beneath with Two Circles of Gold, imitating the Crown of _Ceres_, denoting the Care of Husbandry, and was sometimes called _The Order of the Ears of Corn_. At the End of this Collar hung the _Mus Ponticus_, or Ermin, passing over a Turf of Grass diaper’d with Flowers, at the Edge whereof was imboss’d this Epigraph in _French_, _Amaire_, the Device of his said Grand-father, by which he made known his Courage; and rather than fail in the least Punctilio of his Word, he would undergo any Misfortune. This Order ended when the Dukedom of _Bretagne_ became annex’d to the Crown of _France_, by the Marriage of _Anne_, Dutchess of _Bretagne_, to _Charles_ VIII. and _Lewis_ XII. both _French_ Kings.

38. _The Order of the_ Ermin _in_ Naples

OWES its Institution to _Ferdinand_ I. King of _Naples_, at the Expiration of the War which he was engag’d in with _John_ of _Lorain_, Duke of _Calabria_, 1463. being induc’d thereto by the Treason and Confederacy of his Brother-in-law _Marinus Marcianus_, Duke of _Sessa_, who design’d to murder him, and transfer the Kingdom to the Duke of _Calabria_: But the Plot being defeated, instead of bringing him to Justice, he not only pardon’d him, but instituted this Chevalry, admitting therein all the Noblemen of Title and Figure in the Kingdom, and generously appointed him one of the first Knights. The Collar was of Gold, intermix’d with Mud or Dirt, to which depended an Ermin and this Motto, _Malo mori quam fœdari_, alluding to the clean Nature of the Animal.

39. _The Order of St._ Michael _in_ Naples,

HAD its Original from the same King _Ferdinand_, in honour of St. _Michael_ the Arch-Angel, Patron of _Apulia_. The Habit of the Knights was a long White Mantle embroider’d with Ermins, and the Collar of Gold compos’d of the Letter O, to which hung in an Oval the Epigraph _Decorum_. By the Habit it seems to be the preceding Order, if that was dedicated to St. _Michael_.

40. _The Order of St._ Michael _in_ France.

_Lewis_ XI. King of that Realm, considering how his Affairs were entangled, to re-unite the Affections of his Nobility to himself, instituted these Knights, 1469. giving them their Denomination from St. _Michael_ the Arch-Angel, the titular Angel and Protector of _France_, in Reverence of whom their ancient Kings were wont to solemnize this Feast-day with great Magnificence, and keep an open Court. Their Number at first were to be Thirty Six, whereof the King and his Successors were Chief: But it afterwards proceeded to Three Hundred. The Collar is compos’d of Escallop-Shells of Gold, joyn’d one with another and double-banded, fasten’d on small Chains of Gold, at the End of which is annex’d an Oval of the same; and therein, on an Hillock, is the Figure of St. _Michael_ combating and trampling down the Dragon. The Motto, _Immensi tremor Oceani_. The Habit was a Mantle of White Damask hanging down to the Ground, furr’d with Ermin, having its Cope embroider’d with Gold, and the Border of the Robe interwoven with Escallops of Gold; the _Chaperon_ or Hood, with its long Tippet, was made of Crimson Velvet; but afterwards King _Henry_ II. order’d this Mantle to be Cloth of Silver, embroider’d with Three _Crescents_ of Silver, interwoven with Trophies, Quivers and _Turkish_ Bows, _semied_ and _canton’d_ with Tongues and Flames of Fire; the _Chaperons_ of Crimson Velvet should have the same Embroidery. Their Grand Festival was to be celebrated on _Michaelmas-day_, at the Church of _Mount Michael_ in _Normandy_; but after wards transferr’d to _Bois de Vincennes_ near _Paris_. There is an Herald of Arms to attend this Order, called _Monsieur St._ Michael. Upon the instituting _The Order of the Holy Ghost_, not only Care was taken to preserve this of St. _Michael_, and to rectify it, but the Knights had the Privilege allow’d them, that if they thought fit they were made capable of receiving that of _The Holy Ghost_, which no Stranger or Native could be enroll’d in that had taken upon him any other Order. The Collar of St. _Michael_ may be worn with that of _The Holy Ghost_, and it is now frequently us’d. The Evening before any receive _The Order of the Holy Ghost_, he is admitted into _The Order of St._ Michael.

41. _The Order of the_ Elephant _in_ Denmark.

KING _Christian_ I. being at _Rome_ upon a religious Account, Pope _Sixtus_ IV. among other Honours, invested him with this Order, in Memory of the Passion of our Saviour; and withal ordain’d the Supreme or Chief in his Successors, Kings of _Denmark_.

THIS King founded the magnificent Chapel of the Three Kings in the Cathedral Church of _Roschilt_, (Four Leagues from _Copenhagen_) where the Knights were to assemble upon the Death of any of their Fraternity. He admitted thereunto divers Kings, Princes and Noblemen. Its chief Ensign was the Figure of an Elephant, on whose side (within a Rundle) was a Crown of Thorns, with Three Nails all bloody, in Memory of the Passion. The Knights were oblig’d to Acts of Piety, Alms-Deeds, and certain Ceremonies, especially upon those Days on which they wore the Ensigns. King _John_ valu’d it so highly, that he wore them on every solemn Festival. He advanc’d it to that Pitch of Grandeur, that our King _Henry_ VIII. and _James_ V. King of _Scotland_, accepted it.

_Hertholm_, a learned _Dane_, in a particular Treatise of this _Elephantine Order_, says, The Badge was meerly Military, anciently given as a Memorial and Incitement to the _Danish_ Princes, who took upon them the Defence of Christianity against the _Moors_ and _Africans_.

HERETOFORE the Knights wore a Collar of Gold compos’d of castellated Elephants and Crosses, something like the _Crosses ancrees_ (_Menenius_ calls them Spurs) at which hung the Picture of the Virgin _Mary_ to the Middle, holding Christ in her Arms, and surrounded with a Glory of Sun-beams. But that long since laid aside, they now wear only a Blue Ribbon, at which hangs an Elephant enamell’d White, adorn’d with Five large Diamonds set in the Middle. These Elephants, in the Reign of King _Christian_ IV. had in the same Place, within a Circle, the Letter C, and in the Center of it the Figure 4, denoting _Christianus Quartus_.

THIS Honour is usually conferr’d on the Days of the King’s Coronation. _Frederick_ III. brought into use, in Imitation of _The Garter_, an embroider’d Glory of Silver Purple wrought upon the left Side of their Cloak or Vest, on which was embroider’d Two Crowns within a Rundle, bearing this Motto, _Deus providebit_. The late King, his Son, chang’d the Motto to, _Pietate & Justitia_; but all the Knights created by his Father are oblig’d to continue the former Motto.

42. _The Order of the_ Burgundian Cross _at_ Tunis,

WAS instituted on St. _Mary Magdalen_’s Day, 1535. by _Charles_ V. Emperor of _Germany_ and King of _Spain_, after he had restor’d _Mulleasses_, King of _Tunis_, to his Kingdom, to reward those Commanders who had behav’d themselves well in the Victory. It was the Day wherein he made his pompous Entry into _Tunis_, when clad in the Coat he usually wore in Battle, whereon was embroider’d a _Burgundian Cross_, which Cross he made the Badge, and added a Steel striking Sparks of Fire out of a Flint, with this Inscription, _Barbaria_; and for a more ornamental Decoration, gave a Collar of Gold, whereat hung this Badge.

43. _Knights of the_ Holy Ghost,

WERE instituted by the _French_ King, _Henry_ III. 1578. to unite his Nobles more firmly in their Obedience, to encourage them to persevere in the _Romish_ Religion, and to illustrate the State of his Nobility. It was so call’d by reason he was born on _Whitsunday_, 1550. elected that Day, 1573. King of _Poland_; and on that Day, 1574. came to the Crown of _France_. It was to consist of One Hundred Knights, besides the Sovereign or Great Master, which Office is inseparable from the Crown of _France_. A long Mantle of Black Velvet turn’d up on the left Side, and open’d on the right, was also appointed for the Habit, being at first embroider’d round with Gold and Silver, consisting of Flowers _de Lys_ and Knots of Gold, between Three sundry Cyphers of Silver; and above the Flowers _de Lys_ and Knots, were thickly powder’d Flames of Fire. This great Mantle was garnish’d with a Mantle of Cloth of Silver, cover’d with Embroidery made after the same Fashion, excepting only, that instead of Cyphers there were wrought Doves of Silver, and both these Robes double lin’d with a Satin of Orange-Tawney. The great Collar worn over the Mantle, was at first compos’d of Flowers _de Lys_, canton’d or corner’d with Flames of Fire, interwoven with Three Cyphers and divers Monograms of Silver; one was the Letter _H_ and a _Greek Lambda_, both double, for the King’s Name and the Queen’s, _Lovisa de Lorain_; the other Two were reserv’d in the King’s own Mind. But these Cyphers were taken off the Colour and the Embroidery of the Robes by King _Henry_ IV. and for a Mark of his Victories, Trophies of Arms were interlac’d instead thereof, with the Letter _H_ crown’d (the Initial of his Name) whereout arose Flames and Sparks of Fire; and for the like Reason the _H_ has been chang’d into _L_, both by _Lewis_ XIII and XIV. At this Collar hung a Cross richly enamell’d in the midst, whereon was figur’d a Dove in a flying Posture, as descending down from Heaven with full spread Wings: And that an Epigraph might not be wanting, some have attributed to it this, _Duce & Auspice_. Besides these Ornaments, the Knights wear a Black Velvet Cap, with a White Plume; their Breeches and Doublets are of Cloth of Silver, and their Shoes White ty’d with Roses or Knots of Black Velvet. The Badges ordain’d to be ordinarily worn, are a Cross of Yellow or Orange-colour Velvet, like a _Malta_ Cross, fix’d on the left Side of their Breast, except in military Expeditions, and then they are permitted to wear them of Cloth of Silver or White Velvet, having a Silver Dove, and at the Angles or Corners, Rays and Flowers _de Lys_ of Silver. They have a Cross of the Order made of Gold (like the _Malta_ Cross) with a Flower _de Lys_ in each Angle, to be worn about their Necks in a Blue Ribbon, and to be enamell’d White about the Sides, but not in the Middle. Such as are Knights both of St. _Michael_ and _The Holy Ghost_, are to bear the Figure of St. _Michael_ on one Side, and of a Dove on the other. The Anniversary is held on the first Day of the New-Year, but the first Part of the Ceremony begins always on the last Day of the Old, when it was instituted; and the Place for celebrating thereof is the Church of _Augustin_ Fryars in _Paris_.

44. _The Order of_ The precious Blood of our Saviour
Jesus Christ _of_ Mantua,

WAS instituted, 1608. by _Vincentio de Gonzago_ IV. Duke of _Mantua_, and II. of _Montferat_, for Defence and Propagation of Christianity, and in Honour of Three Drops of Blood of our Redeemer; as also to set forth more nobly the Nuptials of his eldest Son _Francisco_. It was confirm’d by Pope _Paul_ V. and consisted of Twenty Knights, the Founder and his Successors to be Great Masters. The Collar is compos’d of Ovals of Gold, some extended in Length, others in Breadth, alternately, and interlink’d with small Anulets: Those in Length have these Words rais’d in White Enamel, _Domine probasti_; on the other in Breadth is a Grey Crucible fill’d with small Rods of Gold, and placed on a Trevet of Black Enamel over Flames of Fire, intimating, that they who incorporated in this Society, should hold inviolable Faith and Concord in the greatest Trials and Emergences of Life; at the End of the Collar is _pendant_ a larger Oval of Gold, in which are figur’d two Angels standing upright, holding between them a Chalice crown’d, in the Table whereof are painted Three Drops of Bloods enamell’d Red, and round the Oval, _Nihil isto triste recepto_.

45. _The Order of the_ Amaranta,