Legates

Legates are extraordinary ambassadors sent by the pope to Catholic countries to represent him, and to exercise his jurisdiction. Thfey are distinguished from the ambassadors of the pope who are sent to other powers. Legates a latere hold the first rank among those who are honored by a legation. They are always chosen from the college of cardinals, and are called a latere, in imitation of the magistrates of ancient Rome, who were taken from the court, or side of the emperor. Legati missi are simple envoys. Legati nati are those who are entitled to be legates by birth.

See A Latere.