_True Blue_ (Vol. iii., _passim_).--The occurrence of this expression in
the following passage in Dryden, and its application to the Order of the
Garter, seem to have escaped the notice of the several correspondents
who have addressed you on the subject. I quote from _The Flower and the
Leaf_, Dryden's version of one of Chaucer's tales:
"Who bear the bows were knights in Arthur's reign,
Twelve they, and twelve the peers of Charlemain;
For bows the strength of brawny arms imply,
Emblems of valour and of victory.
Behold an order yet of newer date,
Doubling their number, equal in their state;
Our England's ornament, the Crown's defence,
In battle brave, protectors of their prince;
Unchang'd by fortune, to their sovereign _true_,
_For which_ their manly legs are bound with _blue_.
These of the Garter call'd, of faith unstain'd.
In fighting fields the laurel have obtain'd,
And well repaid the honors which they gain'd."