CHAPTER XV.

Fate of the Orders of the Temple and St. John--The Templars abandon all Hopes of recovering Jerusalem--Mingle in European Politics--Offend Philip the Fair--Are persecuted--Charges against them--The Order destroyed--The Knights of St. John pursue the Purpose of defending Christendom--Settle in Rhodes--Siege of Rhodes--Gallant Defence--The Island taken-- The Knights remove to Malta--Siege of Malta--La Valette-- Defence of St. Elmo--Gallantry of the Garrison--The whole Turkish Army attempt to storm the Castle--The Attack repelled--Arrival of Succour--The Siege raised--Conclusion 312

NOTES 331

HISTORY OF CHIVALRY AND THE CRUSADES