Gage scroll wording based on James I of Aragon:
Barcelona Maritime Code of 1258
Unto all be it known that We, (name of King) mighty King of Aethelmearc and (name of Queen), Our kind and gracious Queen have made it Our wish and command to advance in nobility,(recipient). Having heard tell of, and seen with Our own eyes, his great honor and skill and knowing Our desire is supported and endorsed by the Companions of The Order of the Gage, We grant, approve and confer upon this skilled and respected gentle all rights, honors and privileges of this Order of High Merit and wishing that this recognition may endure and be observed by all permit him to wear the badge of the Order, A glove sable charged with an escarbuncle Or. As further token We Grant unto His Lordship/Her Ladyship (recipient’s first name) these Arms: (blazon) Having confirmed by document and set by Our Hand, this We command all present, if they hope confidently for our grace and affection, that they bear witness to this event and do not allow Our Will to be disturbed by any one. Given at (event) in (hosting group) on the (#) day of May, in the (#) Anno Societatis.
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Territorial Barony
Based on the Grant of a House at Riga
to the Men of Lübeck, 1231
In accord with all that is proper attend and witness. Since those things which are done lapse with the passage of time, and unless they are supported by written testimony, will easily slip the memories of men, We wish it to be known to all people both now and in the future that We, (names of King and Queen), King and Queen of AEthelmearc, upon the advice of Our citizens, herby bestow Baronacy of the (name of Barony) accompanied with every dignity, honor, joy and burden, unto (recipient). Therefore, in order that no misrepresentation may arise in the future, and in order that all doubt may be removed, We have strengthened this appointment of Ours, corroborating it in writing before those here assembled Done this (#) day of (month) in the (#) month of Our Reign, Anno Societatis (#)
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Laurel Writ
based on a Summons
to appear before the Privy Council, 1440
Trusty and well beloved: We (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc be credibly informed that by the hand of (recipient) many beautiful works of (art) have been wrought. In Our Realm, wherever he/she has traveled, this noble lord/lady has brought knowledge and shared it freely. Greatly have they enriched the beauty and splendor of Our Lands to Our right great pleasure. Wherefore We will and charge him/her straightly to now sit Vigil in contemplation of elevation to the Order of the Laurel. This candidate is to come before Us at (event) next coming to answer to such matters and declare unto all his/her intent. This We so decree at (hosting group/event) the (#) day of (month).
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Laurel elevation wording
based on a Charter for the foundation of the University of Heidelberg, 1386
We, (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc do agree with wise counsel, that (recipient) has for some time been displaying those attributes accustomed to be observed in companions of Our skilled and respected Order of excellence in the arts and sciences. Demonstration of superior talent at the art of (art) and willingness to share knowledge thereof are notable and valued attributes. It has been remarked that this lord’s/lady’s steps should be imitated; so that, We are further encouraged to recognize him/her as a Companion of Our Order of the Laurel. He/She shall agree to observe the statutes, laws, privileges and liberties of this noble Order, and not reveal its secrets, We also require that they will uphold the honour of Our kingdom, and will counsel the Crown in things lawful and honest. In return this Master/Mistress of the Laurel shall have and possess, now and hereafter all honors, tokens, titles, burdens and privileges afforded to one of such station, including these Arms by Letters Patent: (blazon) which they may freely and without impediment carry with them both coming and going, throughout all lands. Moreover we will and decree that these things made known on this (#) day of (month) AS (#) in Our (hosting group) be recorded by Our Heralds so that all may know of this worthy accomplishment.
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Golden Alce wording
based on The Bull of Pope Adrian IV Empowering Henry II to Conquer Ireland - 1155
A fierce and mighty warrior, (recipient) dost show martial prowess, especially at (weapons form), his/her endeavours to share knowledge with others bolsters Our army, furthermore does this lord’s/lady’s valor bring honour to his/her name and renown to Our kingdom. The more skilled the combatant and the better the guidance which Our noble Lord/Lady shows others, so much more do We trust that, he/she wilt progress favourably in the same. For those reasons; he/she hast come to Our attention. Wherefore, so much the more willingly do We, (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc, welcome (recipient’s first name) as a Companion of the Order of the Golden Alce on this (#) day of the month of (month) at (event). May the people of Our Land and also all other Realms receive thee with due honour and admiration.
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Keystone wording - Regent's Court
based on the Welsh Charters of the Abbey of Ystrad Marchell, circa 1200
(names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc, have charged Our Heirs to act as Regent in Our stead while We are on pilgrimage. By authority of this command, and having read over and understood Their Majesties Will, Their Highnesses (names of Heirs) thusly decree on this (#) day of (month), AS (#)
(recipient) has given to the Kingdom, and to his/her home Shire (group name), and to the scribes and noble populace of AEthelmearc, both time and effort, and in all places, freely and diligently served the needs of many. We therefore wish to commend him/her and welcome him/her into the Order of the Keystone. This good lord/lady is thusly inducted into this Order of Merit, fully and completely, with everlasting right. And so that this appointment might be regarded by all as firm and binding in the future, We have made it secure in the presence of witnesses at this (event).
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Gage wording
based on Count Alberto of Tuscany’s Grant of Inheritance - 1210
In the presence of Our Heirs, (names of Prince and Princess), Our most noble Order of the Gage, Sir (recipient’s Knight), witnesses especially asked and convened for this.
In the presence of these and of any others who will bear true testimony, We, (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc, decree that (recipient) by virtue of his/her prowess at (weapons form) and through his/her sharing of these skills and furthermore by example of courtesy and nobility has proven themselves as a worthy and Honorable Lord/Lady and as such is admitted to Our Order of the Gage accompanied with every right, honor and duty. Moreover We Grant unto him/her these Arms :
Knowing that all these said things are valid by law and edict, they shall be recorded by Our Heralds so as not to be forgotten. Done in the (hosting group) at the (event) on this (#) day of (month) Anno Societatis (#).
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Award of Arms wording
based on
An English Feudal Writ to the Pope
regarding the superiority of Scotland,1301
All attend and Know… at (event) hosted at (hosting group) on the (#) day of (month), We (name of King) , proud and noble King of AEthelmearc, and (name of Queen) gracious Queen and glorious inspiration have seen displayed in our midst certain efforts affecting the condition and state of Our kingdom, namely (reason/s for award). And when We found that it was one gentle who caused these things to happen it prompted much admiration and wonder. Wherefore, after careful deliberation and discussion with others who know this good lord’s/lady’s reputation We are pleased to Award unto (recipient) these Arms:
In testimony whereof We set Our Hand before all those here assembled to bear witness.
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Award of Arms wording
Based on The Gelnhausen Charter; April 13, 1180
Since human memory is short and does not suffice for a crowd of things, the authority of those who preceded our age, have decreed that those things were to be written down which the progress of fleeting time generally removes from the knowledge of men. Wherefore let those here present as well as the future subjects know, that We, (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc through consideration of the merits through which our beloved (recipient) has deserved the privilege of nobility by promoting and upholding the honour of Our (recipient’s home group) We do confer, therefore, this Award of Arms to wit:
And wishing this to remain valid unto all posterity, We forbid that any one, with rash daring, infringe it or in any way attempt to violate it; and We validly corroborate this Our decree, signed by Our Hand and witnessed by those who are present at this deed on the (#) day of (month) AS (#) at (event).
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Chivalry Writ
inspired by a letter to the Archbishop of Cologne from The Duke of Lorraine, 1197
Know that We, (name of King) King of AEthelmearc by Right of Arms and (name of Queen) gracious Queen and beloved consort, rejoice greatly in recognizing (recipient) who has increased his own honor and that of Our Kingdom by being a model of the Knightly virtues.
This is the reason that We strenuously exhort his accomplishments. It is Our intent to recognize this Squire of (Knight) for his prowess, courtesy and renown. On the advice of Our most noble Order of the Chivalry, We do hereby send this valiant and worthy lord on Vigil that he may contemplate elevation to this Peerage. Accordingly, on (elevation date/ event) We shall further delight in these glad tidings here proclaimed. Since, moreover, that shall be the place of his elevation if he is willing to accept this accolade.
Given at the (event), on the (#) day of the month of (month), in the (#) Anno Societatis – in the (#) month of Our Reign.
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Pelican Writ
Based on wordings in English Writs of Summons, 1553
We, (names of King and Queen), King and Queen of AEthelmearc, to the assembled populace send greetings. We have heard much of (recipient), his/her careful work as (reasons). We commend her service and command that this dear lord/lady without delay render unto us his/her full attention.
You shall come to the (elevation event), on the (#) of (month), AS (#), within the (hosting group), ready to be recognized by ceremony as a companion of Our noble Order of the Pelican if it is your desire to join this Peerage. In the meantime you shall hear counsel to aid you in contemplation of elevation. And you will do this, that We may hear no more clamour thereupon for want of what is right and well deserved. Done this (event), on the (#) day of (month), AS (#) in the (hosting group).
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White Horn Wording
Based on
an English Patent of Arms to an Individual,1576
Wheras anciently from the beginning the valiant and virtuous acts of worthy persons have been commended to the world with sundry monuments and remembrances of their good deserts. (recipient’s name) has done numerous commendable services to (name of martial specialty) and been a leader through example. It is only fitting that We should recognize his/her efforts and welcome him/her into Our Order of the White Horn that all may know their worth. Furthermore We Grant unto His Lordship/ Her Ladyship these Arms: (blazon).
We (King’s name) fierce and mighty King of AEthelmearc and (Queen) Queen and most noble inspiration have set hereunto Our Hand this (#) day of (month) Anno Societatis (year) before the noble companions of this Order and all here assembled at this (event).
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Fellow of the Academy wording
Based on King Edward’s confirmation of the Charters, 1297
I (MoAS), by the grace of Their Majesties of AEthelmearc, Minister of Arts and Sciences, to all those that these present letters shall hear or see, send greeting.
Know ye that to the profit of all in this fair realm, this noble lord/lady has dedicated much of his/her time and effort to promote and support the education of the populace through his/her work with the Academy. That by word, deed and counsel this noble lord/lady has assured that knowledge of diverse arts and sciences is passed on. For so much as the more part of the community of the realm find themselves the benefit of his/her steadfast service, (recipient) is named a Fellow of the Academy. Given at (event) the (#) day of (month) in the (AS #) year of the Society during the reign of (royalty).
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One source may be the inspiration for several scrolls
The following are both wordings based on
Leonardo Bruni d'Arezzo’s De Studiis et Litteris, 1405
Wording for a Laurel in calligraphy
The foundations of all true learning must be laid in study marked by a broad spirit, accurate scholarship, and careful attention to details. The art of Writing is not limited to the mere formation of letters, but it concerns also the subject of accepted usages in the writings of each letter, singly and in cursive script, and the whole field of abbreviations. This may seem a trivial matter, but a knowledge of educated practice on these points may fairly be expected from a Companion of the Laurel. We (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc welcome (recipient) into this noble Order partly, as an expression of homage to distinction already attained, partly as an encouragement to further effort. In additional recognition of his/her excellence We gift these Arms by Letters Patent, to wit (blazon). This We have done before those here assembled to bear witness at (event) in Our (hosting group) on the (#) day of the month of (month) AS (#)
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Wording for elevation to the Order of the Chivalry
We (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc are led to address this missive to you, (recipient), by the high repute which attaches to your name in the field of combat. The valiant and noble spirit that aspires to be the best at arms must aim not at the goal of attaining (Knighthood/Mastery) but at breadth of learning, dedication to practice, courtesy on and off the field and honor in every endeavor. A most illustrious lord/lady, you have demonstrated all of these attributes and more. You will find no finer example of prowess, constancy and devotion or more gallant lessons in the highest virtues. Thus We are moved to recognize you as a Companion of the Order of the Chivalry and allow unto you these Arms by letters Patent: (blazon)
The importance of this last is hardly to be disregarded for it is among the highest marks of distinction allowed. To this We set Our Hand at (event) on (day) of (month) Anno Societatis (#) in Our (hosting group)
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Chivalry Writ based on King Rene’s Tournament Book
The manner in which a tourney ought to be undertaken, 1458
Let all lords, ladies, barons, knights and squires of Our Realm: Marche of the Debatable Land, Rhydderich Hael, Thescorre and Delftwood, Blackstone Mountain, Endless Hills and also Saint Swithin’s Bog, and all others of this kingdom and all other kingdoms, know that on (x) day and (x) month, in (hosting group), there will be a very great ceremony of elevation to the Order of the Chivalry, as is the ancient custom. We (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc do hereby charge, advise, request and notify (recipient) on behalf of the very noble companions of this Order that if you wish to please them you will sit Vigil and hear counsel by them. These lords have agreed together to choose you over all others on account of the great fame of your valor, the renown of your prowess and the praise of the virtues that have long endured in your noble person. We offer this accolade with a good heart and know you will accept the charge that has been put forth before you as well and as loyally as possible. Done at (hosting group) on the (#) day of (month) AS(#)
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Millrind wording
Also based on King Rene’s Tournament Book, 1458
In the presence of Our very noble and powerful Barons and Baronesses, Laurels, Pelicans, Knights and their squires, ladies and lords, We greet you on this (#) day of (month), and in (hosting group), a place suitable and convenient for this. There are in this kingdom many lords and ladies who merit honor and recognition. It is Our duty, honor and privilege to see that their efforts are rewarded. For the countless labors of (recipient) as (reasons) and at the request of Our Order of the Millrind We, (names of King and Queen) King and Queen of AEthelmearc, are most pleased to induct them into this Order of High Merit for Service. In further token of Our high esteem, Grant unto them these Arms:
We trust that now having been so acknowledged, this Honorable Lord/Lady will go on to sustain nobility and increase honor, so that, all will wish from thenceforward to practice the exercise of service more often. Done by Our Hand at (event).
Copyright © 2006 Maitresse Yvianne de Castel d'Avignon, OL (AEthelmearc)...mka, Pauline Hassinger
Permission to use these wordings on SCA award scrolls, in whole or in part, is freely granted
For information on using these texts for teaching or other purposes please contact
Maitresse Yvianne
