APPENDIX.

CXC1X

15. As the Order never was dependent on the Emperor,notwithstanding the investiture and falcons, so neither willit be on the Sultan, although he will he its supreme lord,and the knights will hold it as a part of his dominions.For the Order would be another Order if it lost any oneof its three essential epithets; Sovereign as the sole Orderthat has its Grand Master within itself, independent fromthe day of its creation to this hour, neutral betweenChristians without exception through all its long annals ;for never did it take any part in the sanguinary religiouswars of Christian against Christian in any of the bygonecenturies ; which long past is the best security man cangive, that as they were neutral all that long and mostdifficult time between Christians, so they will be for thefuture between Mussulmen too. It ever was Sovereign,independent, and neutral, and is again recognized as such.

16. All the protecting powers bind themselves to re-ceive into their armies those of their born subjects, whoreturn with favourable testimonials of their having servedthe Order in Syria,—that is, receive them in the same rankas high as Captain inclusive. (7)

(7) It is to be expected that all the protecting powers willkeep up diplomatic relations with the Order, and take part in itsrestoration; and certainly such favours will he more than com-pensated by the obligations to which it will have subjected itself.It would be still more useful to the Turkish pilgrims and thecommercial caravans of Turkey than to Christendom. This, andthe evident utility to the Sultan’s Eajah populations mightperhaps be sufficient; even if he did not choose to avail himselfof the invitation for Mahometans to enter the Order. At allevents it becomes the charity and high-mindedness of the Knightsof Malta to make the offer.