Page:A History of the Knights of Malta, or the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.djvu/50

 remaining, and the fact should be received with caution, as the name of Roger nowhere appears in the archives of the Order. The Italian historian Bosio, the most authentic writer of his time, alludes to this difference of opinion, but does not join either party.

There exists a stronger motive than would at first sight appear for this mystification. In after years it became a subject of dispute between the Knights Templars and those of St. John which of the two bodies could claim priority of foundation. It seems clear enough that the Templars were not organized until between the years 1128 and 1130. If, therefore, it can be proved that Raymond succeeded to the government of the Hospital on the death of Gerard in the year 1118, and at once proceeded to establish his brotherhood on a military basis, the Order of St. John claims by right the priority of formation; if, however, a second rector did actually intervene, and Raymond only assumed office in 1131, the seniority might well be accorded to the Templars. There being no positive testimony on the point, it becomes necessary to argue by analogy. The weight of evidence seems to be in favour of the former date, since it can be proved that the Hospitallers took part in an engagement fought against the Saracens by Baldwin II. in the year 1119. As it was not probable they would have been present at that action until they had assumed military obligations, we may fairly take that date as the latest at which the new system was inaugurated.

At this time, in addition to the kingdom of Jerusalem, the Latins held sway over other detached principalities, which formed the outworks of that exposed and harassed monarchy. Such were the counties of Edessa and Tripoli and the principality of Antioch. These, though independent governments in themselves, were more or less under the influence of, and in alliance with the central kingdom. Indeed, situated as they were, surrounded by implacable enemies and liable to constant attack on every side from vastly superior forces, they could not have existed for many months had there not been the strongest bond of union between them all. As, therefore, it was well understood that the support of each was absolutely necessary for the safety of all, an attack was no sooner menaced in any one quarter, than speedy help was at once despatched from the others.