CHAP. VI.]

ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM.

191

and carry a reasonable modification of tlicm, in thechapter general, which is our supreme tribunal, andcertain to consent ? Such a reform and develop-ment as become us to accept, and her to propose, havenothing of Jacobinical; and are merely a wise confor-mity to the times. Such things have been, may be.Why not ? Ask our histories ! We, as well as allthings human, go on changing; I hope, progressingin the direction of good. Change is synonymouswith time. Are any of us one instant withoutchanging? That beneficial, honourable, practicalrenewal of what is best in our glorious institution,and its application to whatever is permanently usefulto mankind, this aptitude to fit any circumstance oflife, is a proof of our lofty origin. This candidmodification of our habits, and an however limitedincome, as much as their own Parliament considerssufficient to maintain them as gentlemen, and theEnglish are our brethren at once. And sincere willbe our joy at receiving them. I am borne out bythe fact that in our brightest of times, when heroicdeeds were as common as they are uncommon, atpresent, in that dazzling orient, where the order ofSt. John of Jerusalem began, and soon acquired thatillustrious fame, which whoever mentions withoutardent aspirations is unworthy to bear our cross—then were the English our pride, and always treated