164 ΤΗ Β ΚΝΙ0ΗΤ8 TEMPLARS. HxsHum DI we might long remain, if our Eastern Christians would from A.™iwa. henceforth live in greater concord and unanimity. But, alas ! opposition and contradiction arising from envy and hatred have impeded our efforts in the promotion of these and other advantages for the land. With the exception of the prelates of the churches, and a few of the barons, who afford us all the assistance in their power, the entire burthen of ita defence rests upon our house alone " For the safeguard and preservation of the holy territory, we propose to erect a fortified castle near Jerusalem, which will enable us the more easily to retain possession of the country, and to protect it against all enemies. But indeed we can in nowise defend for any great length of time the places that we hold, against the sultan of Egypt, who ÌB a most powerful and talented man, unless Christ and his faithful followers extend to ne an efficacious support."* • Malt. Par. p. 61S.