Page:The Book of Orders of Knighthood and Decorations of Honour of All Nations.djvu/639

292 it round the neck, or embroidered upon the left side of the coat, while the Knights suspend it at the button-hole. Another distinction between the two classes, consists in the addition of the figure of St. George, which is appended to the lower point of the cross, worn by the Knights of the Grand Cross. The chain for the latter is described under 'Parma,' while that of the Knights is simply of gold, to which they append the decoration, when in full costume. The costume consists of a mantle of sky blue silk, lined with white taffetas, and held together by long white and blue cords; of a white robe, and sky blue waistcoat and breeches; of white stockings, similar shoes with blue ribbons; of a sash of crimson velvet; of a red velvet hat with feathers and white silk flaps, and with, in the front, the golden letters in monogram: 'I. H. S. V.' (In hoe signo vinces).

The Cavalieri Capellani wear under the mantle a blue surplice trimmed with white lace.

The conditions required for the admission to the first class, are: ancient, true nobility, the profession of the Catholic religion, a certain degree of wealth, and an age not under sixteen years.

The Cavalieri di Giustizia (Knights by right), must prove their noble descent through four generations. The Cavalieri di Grazia (Knights by favour), have only to prove their merits of the State or King.

The duties imposed upon the Superior Knights are: to practice virtue, to follow the Grand Master in war, to maintain two soldiers at their own expense, to appear always with their swords at the side, not to play any game of hazard, or to engage in any mercantile speculation and trade.