TUB KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. 60 CHAPTER IT. 4l The contests between Saladin and the Templars—The vast privileges of the Templars—The publication of the bull, orane datum .optimum—The Pope declares himself the immediate Bishop of the enure Order—The différent classes of Templars—The knights—Priests—Serving brethren—The hired soldiers—The great officers of the Temple—Punishment of cowardice—The Master of the Temple is taken prisoner, and dies in a dungeon—Saladin'e great successes—The Christians purchase a truce—The Master of the Temple and the Patriarch Heraclhis proceed to England for succour—The consecration of the TEM.LK CHUHCH at LONDOK. " The firmest bulwark of Jerusalem was founded on the knights of the Hospital of St. John and of the Temple of Solomon ; on the strange association of a monastic and military life, which fanaticism might suggest, but of which policy must approve. The flower of the nobility of Europe aspired to wear the cross and profeta the vows of these respectable orders ; their spirit and discipline were immortal ; and the speedy donation of twenty-eight thousand farms or manors enabled them to support a regular forca of cavalry and infantry for the defence of Palestine.'1—Gibbon. Ono UK TH E Master, Philip of Naplous, resigned his authority after ST. ΑΜΛΝΙΙ. * ° ^ A. n. uro. a short government of three years, and was succeeded by Brother Odo de St. Amand, a proud and fiery warrior, of undaunted courage and resolution ; having, according to William, Archbishop of Tyre, the fear neither of Clod nor of man before his eyes.* The Templars were now destined to meet with a more for • ΙΓΪΛ. Tit. lib. sxi «ψ.-.'9.