Grand Master, the dignity was transferred, in 1587, to the Kings of Spain. Fifteen years previously, Pope Paul had allowed the Knights to marry and make their wills. The Order possessed at that time thirteen Commanderies. At present, the badge is merely a mark of royal favour, though in the distribution, the provisions of the statutes are still nominally consulted.
The insignia are sketched in (Plate 88, Tab. II. No. 8). The costume, on gala days, consists of a long white woollen mantle, tied at the neck by very long white cords, while a cross (No. 7) adorns the left side of the breast.
ORDER OF THE GOLDEN FLEECE.
The history of this Order is given under Austria. In Spain, Princes, Grandees, and other high personages of peculiar merit and distinction are alone admissible to it.
The decoration (Tab. II. No. 9) differs in some points from the Austrian, and is worn ona collar (No. 10), or suspended round the neck by a red ribbon.
By a decree of the present Queen of Spain, the decoration of the Grand Cross can only be conferred at the recommendation of the Cabinet Council.
ROYAL AND DISTINGUISHED ORDER OF CHARLES III.
The Order was founded, in 1771, by King Charles III., on the occasion of the birth of his grandson, Charles Clement, and was confirmed by a Bull of Pope Clement X1V., dated the 21st February, 1772, who also granted to it various spiritual privileges.
