:KNIGHTS OF MALTA.
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brethren, whose mystic words, combining the virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity, with Justice, Fortitude and lriercy, will leap from their scabbards in defence of your just rights, and ensure you a glorious triumph over all your enemies. On this occasion permit me, Sir Knight, to remind. you of our mutual engagements, our reciprocal ties; for whatever may be your situation or rank in life, on close examination, you will find those in similar stations, who have dignified themselves and been useful to mankind. Whether, therefore, you are placed. upon the highest pinnacle of worldly grandeur, and distinctly seen to glitter from afar; or glide more securely in the humble vale of obscurity, unnoticed save by a few ; it matters not, for a few rolling suns will close the scene, when nought bnt holiness will serve as a sure pa.ss-wonl to gain admission into that REsT prepared from the foundation of the world. You are therefore called upon to discharge all your duties with fidelity and patience, whether in the field, in the Senate, on the .Benck, at the ..Bar, or at the Holy .Altar. If you see a brother bending under the cross of adversity and disappoiutment, look not idly on, neither pass by on the other side, but fly to his relief. If he be deceived, tell him the Truth; if he be calumniated, vindicate his cause ; for, although in some instances, he may have erred, still recollect that indiscretion in him should never destroy humanity in you.
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