Page:The Book of Orders of Knighthood and Decorations of Honour of All Nations.djvu/57

Rh while the Empress Eleonore declared herself (18th September, 1668), its founder and chief patroness. The Order received the name of 'Community of noble ladies, under the title of 'the Star Cross;' and the members were styled ' Crossbearers, or ladies of the Star Cross,' (after a constellation of that name at the South Pole).

This Order is only bestowed on Princesses, Countesses, and other high-born ladies.

The Empress, or a Princess of the Austrian House, is head patroness, who nominates the members, and selects two from amongst them for her assistants.

Their number is unlimited, and entirely dependent on the pleasure of the head patroness.

The festival of the Order is celebrated twice a year; on the day when the Cross was found (3rd May), and on Holy-rood day (14th September). Mass for the departed souls of the patroness and members is usually held on the 6th February.

The decoration of this Order (Plate 6. Tab. II]. No. 22) which, by the bye, has been altered four times since the reign of Empress Maria Theresa—has the form of an oval medal with a broad blue-enamelled edging; it encompasses the Austrian eagle with golden claws, upon which rests a green enamelled golden cross, mounted in brown wood. Upon it is, in black letters upon white ground, the motto of the Order: 'Salus et Gloria'? (Hail and glory). It is worn on the left side of the breast, suspended by a bow of black silk ribbon. The festival days (3rd May and 14th September), are set apart for the nomination of candidates, when the insignia are placed upon the altar, ritually consecrated and presented by the patroness, who is seated, to the candidate ladies, who are in a kneeling position before her.