Order of the Bath and foreign nationals may be made Honorary Members. The Order of the Bath is the fourth-most senior of the British Orders of Chivalry, after The Most Noble Order of the Garter, The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, and The Most Illustrious Order of St Patrick (dormant). In the Middle Ages, knighthood was often conferred with elaborate ceremonies. These usually involved the knight-to-be taking a bath (possibly symbolic of spiritual purification) during which he was instructed in the duties of knighthood by more senior knights. He was then put to bed to dry. Clothed in a special
Order of the Lily and the Eagle ranks of Chivalry. The first three ranks of Chivalry are initiatory (teaching – education – practical work), while the next three ranks are concerned with internal administration or the directing of social projects. The seventh Rank is reserved for the leadership of the Order. In keeping with the will of its Founders, the Order does not possess any treasury, wealth or other funds and its services are offered absolutely free of charge. All expenses and means for the realization of its mission derive exclusively from the voluntary work and the optional contributions of its members. The “Eonic Tradition” is the