No. XXII.
To my Cousin the Grand Master of
My Cousin,
Having recently requested the
Pope to have the kindness, on the opportunity presenting itself, not to dispose
of the Grand Priories of my kingdom, nor to grant coadjutors to the present
Grand Prior, without previously hearing what I might have to represent to him
on that head, his holiness answered he had told your ambassador that he would
allow the Order to act for itself in all affairs which regarded it; so that all
such matters depending on the Order, it is with full confidence that I address
myself to you, requesting that I may be treated with the same consideration as
is shown towards other princes, on similar occasions.
No way doubting, after, all the
marks of your attention and friendship which I have received, but that you will
confer on me this farther favour, which will engage me so much the more to
entertain the most perfect esteem and friendship for your Order, and your
person in particular.
On which I pray God to have you
my cousin in His holy and worthy keeping.
Your affectionate Cousin,
JAMES R.
To the Grand
Master of