THISTLE, THE MOST ANCIENT AND MOST NOBLE ORDER OF THE

exclusive Scottish order of knighthood whose modern period dates from its founding by James II of Great Britain (James VII of Scotland) in 1687, although, like many chivalric orders, it probably has its origins much further back in history. Tradition has it that as early as about 757 King Angus (Achaius) of the Scots founded a chivalric order and introducted the cult of St. Andrew into Scotland. More definite information exists concerning an order in the European Middle Ages. James II of Scotland, seeking to bring rebellious nobles under the control of the monarchy, created an order of knighthood in 1452. His son James III (reigned 146088) probably instituted some order as well and, for much the same reason, initiated also the thistle as the royal emblem. When James II of England was exiled (1688), the modern order fell into abeyance; it was revived, however, by Queen Anne in 1703. The membership of the order established in 1687 comprised the British sovereign and eight knights. Queen Anne increased the number of knights to 12, and in 1827 the number was raised to 16, which is its current number. The only foreigner admitted has been King Olaf V of Norway. Conferment of the order entails induction into knighthood. Holders are entitled to add K.T. (Knight of the Thistle) after their name. In order of precedence, Knights of the Thistle are ranked just below Knights of the Garter, these two orders being the oldest and most prestigious in Britain. There are five officerschancellor, dean, secretary, Lyon king of arms, and gentleman usher of the Green Rod. The order, dedicated to St. Andrew, patron saint of Scotland, celebrates its feast day on November 30 (St. Andrew's Day). The beautiful Thistle chapel, built in 1911, is in St. Giles's Cathedral, Edinburgh. The insignia comprises a star bearing St. Andrew's cross in the centre of which is a green thistle on a field of gold, a badge portraying St. Andrew and his cross, and a collar consisting of thistles alternating with sprigs of rue. All insignia are returned upon the holder's death. The motto of the order, Nemo me impune lacessit (No one provokes me with impunity), is also the motto of all Scottish regiments, although more popularly rendered as Wha daur meddle wi' me?