Page:A History of the Knights of Malta, or the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.djvu/354

324 he knew that the surest way to attain this end was by a liberal entertainment of those who were dependent on him for their daily sustenance. A spirit of rivalry was thus engendered between the various langues, and he who could obtain a reputation for maintaining his auberge on the most open handed scale generally found his account in the popularity which he thereby gained. It is somewhat difficult to estimate the numbers accommodated in each auberge. It varied much, not only in the several langues, but also in the same langue according to circumstances. It may, however, fairly be assumed to have usually lain between 100 and 150. Amongst the regulations laid down in the statutes for the maintenance of order at the auberges was one prohibiting the introduction of dogs, under the plea that they consumed too much food. Another strictly forbade the members, under severe penalties, from striking the servants. These latter were most probably slaves captured during their numerous cruises. Doubtless the post of servant at an auberge was a far less repulsive lot than that of a galley-slave chained to an oar, and was consequently sought after by such captives as were of gentle birth. Hence, probably, the stringency of the regulation as to their treatment.

The title of “pilier” was given to the conventual bailiffs, symbolical of their being pillars of the Order, and it was by this name that they were designated in all official records. They were bound to reside at the convent as long as they held the post, and were compelled to make their first appearance there within a period of two years from the date of their election. Failing in this, the Grand-Master in council was entitled to proceed to a fresh election, annulling that which had been thus rendered useless. Three out of the eight were permitted to obtain leave of absence at the same time. This was granted by the Grand-Master in council upon good cause being shown, but could not be demanded as a right. Five were bound under all circumstances to be present, and those who had obtained leave were called on to nominate lieutenants to act for them during their absence, and to supply their places at the council.

The nominations to all commanderies were made by the Grand-Master in council, the principle of seniority, as has been