Page:The Book of Orders of Knighthood and Decorations of Honour of All Nations.djvu/674

Rh to afford the much beloved Queen, as the Warrant says, aa additional opportunity of testifying her gratification and good wishes to those noble ladies who distinguish themselves by their loyal services, sincere attachment and noble virtues."

The Order stands under the patronage of St. Ferdinand.

The Queen nominates the lady members, who are bound to visit once a month, one of the hospitals for females or some other similar institution, and also order mass to be read in their presence once a year, for the deceased souls of departed members.

The cross (Plate 89, Tab. III. No. 14) represents on the obverse the figure of St. Ferdinand, and on the reverse the initials of Maria Louisa, with the legend: 'Rl. Ordo dla, Reina Maria Luisa.' It is worn across the right shoulder towards the left side, by a broad violet ribbon, with white stripes in the middle.

This Order, by decree of the present Queen, can only be conferred on individuals recommended by the Cabinet Council.

THE MILITARY ORDER OF ST. HERMENGILDE.

This Order was founded on the 28th November, 1814, by Ferdinand VII., for officers of the Spanish army and navy, as a reward for long service.

The King is Chief and Grand Master of the Order, which is divided into three classes.

To the first class, or Knights of the cross, belong CaptainGenerals and Generals, who have possessed the rank of officers for forty years. With the nomination, they receive the title 'Excellency.'

The second class comprises officers of the degree of Brigadier