Garter

A string or ribbon by which the stocking is held upon theleg. The mark of the highest order of English knighthood, ranking next after the nobility. ‘This military order of knighthood is said to have been first instituted by Richard L, at the siege of Acre, where he cause! twenty-six Knights who firmly stood by him to wear thongs of blue leather about their legs. It is also said to have been perfected by Edward III., and to have received some alterations, which were afterwards laid aside, from Edward VI. The badge of the order is the image of St. George, ealled the “George,” and the mottois “ Honi soit qui mai y pense.”

Whiarton.