GENERAL REMARKS.]

ORDER OF THE GARTER.

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kind is intended for higher purposes than the gratification of the smallest ofhuman vanities,—the wearing of a Ribband or a Star,—no other objects shouldbe avowed, nor ceremonies prescribed, than are consistent with the contem-porary feelings of mankind. But when once properly organized, no deviationwhatever should be permitted, except under the most urgent circumstances;for the exercise of the power of dispensing with the observance of the Statutes,is the source of multiplied irregularities, all tending to impair the dignity ofthe Order.

Nearly five hundred years have elapsed since the Order of the Garter wasFounded, during which eventful period it has never ceased to flourish, notwith-standing the havock of Civil Wars, and the desolation of two Revolutions.Its glory has, from time to time, been replenished by the fame of the Monarchs,the Princes, the Statesmen, and the Warriors, whom it has received, while eventhe most celebrated among them, have deemed their laurels embellished by itslustre. To a far distant age, may Burghleys and Chathams, Marlboroughs andWellingtons, the most virtuous and most worthy of our Countrymen, be foundto receive this proud reward; and may its Honours long be conferred by thesame Royal and Gracious Hand that now bestows them.