BROTHER WILLIAM HENRY COOPER

(PAST SENIOR GRAND WARDEN)

THE

NEW ZEALAND CRAFTSMAN.
SUBSCRIPTION: 7s. 6d. PER ANNUM, PAID IN ADVANCE.

BOOKED, 10s. PER ANNUM.

VOL. II.—No. I I.] SEPTEMBER 16, 1891. (A.D., 1891 ; A.L. 589I, A.M., 5652 ; A. In., 2421.

R.W. BRO. W. H. COOPER.

ELONGING to a Masonic family, Bro. W. H. COOPER followed the example of his father and
brothers, and now claims Everton, No. 823, E.C., as his mother Lodge. He filled the chair of
Heskett Lodge, No. 1350, Liverpool, in 1877, and afterwards installed his brother, their father
being present.

Bro. Cooper was exalted in Everton, and is a Past Principal of " Sincerity." Coming to the colony ten years
ago, he at once went into harness, and founded Remuera, of which Chapter he is a Past Z. For five years he
held the combined c ffice of Treasurer and Secretary to Lodge Remuera, and at the establishment of Grand
Lodge he resigned the position of Grand Warden in the District Grand Lodge of England, Auckland District,
in order to devote more of his spare time to furthering the amalgamation of the three Constitutions, a course
he has zealously advocated for some years.

The members of Grand Lodge elected him Assistant Grand Secretary, and after twelve months of hard labour
for the cause in the Auckland District, the M.W. the Grand Master honoured him with Past rank as Senior
Grand Warden.

BRO. COOPER is one of the very few Masons living in New Zealand who were present at the first installation
of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales as Grand Master of England.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

MASONIC BENEVOLENCE.

ONLY 19 out of 150 Lodges have had the courtesy to reply to our circular of May last. One of the 19 replies
as follows :

WAITEMATA LODGE, No. 689, E C.
Auckland, June 26th, 1891.

EDITOR N.Z. CRAFTSMAN.
SIR,—Herewith please find circular sent us, and in reply we have not joined the N.Z. movement, and do not
recognise your authority in the matter, therefore decline to furnish you with the information asked.

Our Lodge summons will not be sent, and we decline to furnish you with a copy of balance-sheet.
I remain, yours, &c.,

HENRY G. WADE, P.M., Secretary.

Two others refused to supply us with the figures, the remainder gave us all the information in their
possession, which we summarise as follows :

Question.—How many applications for relief have you had during the last five years?
Reply of 10 Lodges.--40 Brethren, 126 widows, and 108 children.

Question.—What sum did you vote towards the above in the five years, '86 to '90 ?
Reply of 16 Lodges —£993 16s Id.

Question.—What is your membership?
Reply of 16 Lodges.—529.

The sum given away by these 16 Lodges is equal to a yearly charge of 7s 6d per Lodge member. If this
estimate could be taken as applying to the active Masonic population in the colony, the annual charity given
would be £2250. In our opinion 7s 6d would be an over estimate, but it may, we think, be safely calculated at
5s. per Lodge member per year. This in five years totals up to £7500, exclusive of the fees paid to the "
Benevolent Funds " of District and Provincial Grand Lodges.

It is significant to note that out of 18 Lodges, four only have Benevolent Funds, with X39 105 standing to
credit.

____________________________
VICTORIA, NEW SOUTH WALES, AND NEW ZEALAND.

A COMPARISON.
TWENTY-EIGHT years ago (April 18th, 1863) the first step was taken by Victorian Brethren towards the
establishment of a Grand Lodge—20 out of the 65 Lodges then working in that colony declaring themselves
in favour of Masonic self-government. The mother Grand Lodges were applied to for advice and assistance,
but the Earl of Zetland, then Grand Master of England, declined such, as likewise did the Grand Master of
Scotland. The Grand Lodge of Ireland, in referring the matter back to the Provincial Grand Lodge of
Victoria, stated that it was not in the power of that Grand Lodge to found another Grand Lodge, that it must
be the act of the Victorian Masons themselves.

The movement slumbered for 13 years—till July 31st, 1876 —when 40 Masters and Past Masters met and
passed resolutions in favour of the formation of a Grand Lodge, three votes only being recorded against the
proposal. The District Grand Master of the English Constitution immediately ordered his Lodges to
discountenance the movement in every way, and forbade discussion upon the subject.

On April 27th, 1883, 60 Brethren, representing the three Constitutions, agreed " that the present is the proper
time to form a Victorian Grand Lodge." The iron hand was this time applied by the Deputy District Grand
Master of the English Constitution—Bro. H. ST. JOHN CLARKE—who has since sunk into oblivion. A
wonderful activity suddenly seized Brethren in high positions, and Lodges that had not seen a District Grand
Lodge Officer for years were now visited, and great interest taken in their welfare. The promoters of the

Grand Lodge, perceiving the tactics pursued, thought no good could come by waiting longer, and therefore
launched the Grand Lodge of Victoria, with 15 or 16 Irish and Scotch Lodges, with a membership of some
840, out of a total Masonic population of 5000, in 95 Lodges—7o English, 15 Irish, and to Scotch.

New South Wales had a roll of 86 Lodges—47 English, 30 Scotch, and 9 Irish—in 1877, when the
representatives of 13 Lodges constituted the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Yet the minority of 13
against the majority of 73 continued to prosper. "It may," says GOULD, " be taken as an axiom that in any
country where matters are ripe for the formation of an independent Grand Lodge, the movement will proceed
and mature, and that the large majority of Lodges and Brethren will connect themselves with it." These
words were used against the movement, but how true they were can be seen from the prosperity of both
Victoria and New South Wales—the latter has every Lodge in its territory holding allegiance to it, the former
has only one Lodge (Combermere) outside the fold, and this now happens to be " between the devil and the
deep sea ;" it does not exist according to the opinion of the Grand Registrar of England, confirmed by the
Colonial Board, and is illegitimate according to the ruling of the Grand Lodge of Victoria.

And what of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. Compare its strength—after 16 months of existence—with
the insignificant number of Lodges and Brethren who formed the first Grand Lodges in Victoria and New
South Wales. Its roll of Lodges now exceeds the strength of the first Victorian Grand Lodge by 56 ; of the
first Grand Lodge of New South Wales by 59 ; and its membership is respectively four and six times greater
than they were. The revenue of New Zealand already shows a margin of some hundreds of pounds over the
expenditure. It has provided for ordinary and extraordinary outgoings for the next six months. It owes
nothing—with the exception of £55 for loans—which may be considered a free gift, and its credit balance in
the Bank of New Zealand is £221 0s 4d. We question if any Grand Lodge can show such a record in the
same period.

Of its future we need not fear ; the same measure of success lies before it that has been attained by its sisters
in Australia. It starts well provided with £ s. d., and it may safely be predicted that she will, with careful and
prudent management, reach a high and honourable position in the Masonic world.

NEW SOUTH. VICTORIA NEW
WALES. ZEALAND

Number of Years Movement in Progress -- 20 2
Date of Formation ... ... 1877 1883 1890
No. of Lodges started with ... ... 13 16 32
Present Strength 72
No. of Active Lodges in Colony when
Grand Lodge formed 86 95 142
Started with a Membership of ... 570 (?) 840 1280
Present Strength .., — — 3102
Percentage of Lodges joining Grand
Lodge to Total 17 15 21
Percentage of Present Strength to Total — — 503
No. of Initiations to December 30th, 1890 — — 109
No. of Affiliations to December 30th 1890 — — 93
Present Yearly Income... — — £1300
_______________________________________________________________________________________

MASONRY IN ASHBURTON.

AN effort is being made to bring about an amalgamation of the two English Lodges in Ashburton. Those in
favour of the amalgamation argue that it would very much assist members in exercising that wise
discrimination that should always be observed in the admission of new members, and tend in every way to
conserve the spirit of true Masonry. The ordinary meetings would be better attended, a more lively interest
would be taken in the origin and spread of Masonry, and it would further assist in cementing the bond of
friendship that should at all times exist in every Masonic circle. From what can be gathered at present, the
feeling is by no means unanimous, but it is believed that if a vote were taken, a substantial majority would be
found favouring the amalgamation. The Masons are very strong in Ashburton, but there is certainly no need,

and but little room, for the existence of three separate Lodges in the one town. The Scotch Lodge is both
numerically and financially strong. It has many very able and active workers, who have brought the Lodge
up to a high state of efficiency, and there is no doubt they will prefer to continue working under their present
banner. The two English Lodges are well and very efficiently officered, nor are they by any means
numerically weak; still, there is a growing feeling that much more good might be done, and the best interests
of Masonry still further promoted, by the two Lodges joining forces, and working as one united Lodge.
Personal interest in and sentiment towards each mother Lodge would require to be sunk, but the
amalgamation of the two Lodges is a consummation very devoutly to be desired, though whether it will be
brought about yet remains to be seen.

__________________________________________
A NEW USE FOR AN OLD GRIDIRON.

FROM a letter published in our last issue it will be perceived that a number of Brethren hailing under the
Scottish Royal Arch jurisdiction, are endeavouring to establish in New South Wales a large proportion of the
so-called "Higher " Degrees. The " Constitutional Laws " of the following have, it appears, been received
from Scotland :—" Knight of Constantinople, St. Lawrence the Martyr, Most Excellent Master, and Grand
High Priest." Qualifications being Mark Master for the first two, Mark Master and R. A. Companion for the
last two. Then we have " Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Scotland " (candidates for which
must be Mark and Arch Masons), and next " The Imperial, Religious, and Military Order of the Red Cross:of
Constantine, Holy Sepulchre, and St. John the Evangelist "—the only qualification for which galaxy of
chivalric glory appears to be the possession of the Mark Degree. And finally we are assured that beyond the
foregoing there are other degrees that can be "arranged for," and negot ations for which are now pending;
notably, the Order of the Eastern Star," for which (it is somewhat enigmatically explained) ladies and
Brethren are eligible to become candidates when perfected anon." Last, but by no means least, the "
American Thirty-Second " degree is if possible, to be secured.

It will certainly be very hard for the ordinary Mason to bear up against what Sam Weller termed "such a
perfect knock-down of talent,"and if only the above degrees are established we should think there will be
sufficient to satisfy the craving of even the most ardent aspirant after high-sounding nomenclature and
fantastic apparel. Brethren will be enabled to apparel themselves after a fashion which even Solomon arrayed
in all his glory never could have contemplated ; and to present the semblance of perambulating jeweller's
shops. We confess that our knowledge of such high flights into mysticism is somewhat limited. We are
acquainted with a worthy Brother who has ventured daringly into the innermost penetration of these solemn
rites, and who, amongst the trophies of his rank, displays a small model of a gridiron—something after the
style of the once-fashionable " charms " with which watch chains were bedecked. Some of our readers will
remember one of John Leech's caricatures of a by-gone epoch in the witty pages of Mr. Punch, and which is
headed "Manly Resignation." The sketch depicts two gorgeously apparelled " swells," one of whom betrays
visible symptoms of considerable emotion. To him says the other, " Gracious heavens ! Fwed, what ails you?
"The reply being, " Ah, I've had a sad misfortune, Frank ! I've lost the little gridiron off my chatelaine "

We may assume the possibility of some such picture of dignified grief and resignation on the part of some
Brother in the future, when all these imposing rites, and the many others that are promised shall have been
acclimatised in sunny New South Wales. When we first perceived the ornameet in question, pendant amid
many others from our friend's manly bosom, we imagined that the vulgar association of Freemasonry with
gridirons had been to some extent realised in this branch of the Order. We delicately enquired whether our
friend had suffered much? However, he assured us that this beautiful emblem was, like all others, symbolic ;
and was ,intended to remind the votaries of the Order of the peculiar manner in which St. Lawrence suffered
martydom.

We do not pretend to decide upon either the antiquity, the authenticity, or the value of these highly ornate
branches of the Masonic tree. Most of them, it will be perceived, can indeed hardly claim to be Masonic at
all in the catholic sense of the term ; inasmuch as only Brethren professing the Christian religion can be
eligible for candidature. We have in previous articles, briefly but comprehensively, discussed origin and
status of that which is certainly the most interesting of all such Orders : namely, Masonic " Knight
Templarism." We concisely explained the position of the fraternity in England, Scotland, and France, and
showed that though even in their case their claims were of dubious authenticity, there was certainly a

peculiar fascination in this Order from the quaint memories sought to be perpetuated, and the exquisite
morality said to be veiled beneath its esoteric symbolism.

We fear, however, that little of such attractiveness can be said to prevade any other of these monuments of
Masonic ingenuity. Certainly the pretensions of some of them are sufficiently sonorous and magniloquent.
We have before us a copy of the "Manual of Prince Masons of Ireland, usually denominated Knights of the
Eagle and Pelican, Sovereign Princes Grand Rose Croix " &c., dated 1839. Amongst other regulations it is
enacted that if a Prince Mason visits an " inferior Lodge," the Master is (if he knows the formality) to depute
two P.M's "or other respectable Brethren," to go to the door, preceded by a Brother bearing the " three great
lights," and they are to conduct him to the E, where the W.M. is to present him with the G, and " offer him
the temporary government of the Lodge ! " It is, however, judiciously recommended that as possibly the
W.M. may not be sufficiently well-informed to act his part as prescribed, it is best for members of this
exalted Order not to announce themselves as such. We fear that if a " Prince Mason " presented himself at
the door of one of our New South Wales Lodges, and demanded admission with this ceremonial, the W.M.
might be tempted to reply symbolically, after the fashion of the Sacristan (teste Nell Cook) immortalised by
Ingoldsby He placed his thumb unto his nose, and spread his fingers out.

We do not doubt that those degrees are estimable in their way as ministering to the weakness of poor
humanity for sounding high titles and gorgeous raiment. If, however, they are to be carried out with any
success, they must be placed quite apart from the recognised orders of pure Antient Masonry, and worked
under a "Council of Rites " similar to that which obtains in England and Ireland.—Freemasons' Chronicle,
Sydney.

______________________________________
THE MASONIC PRESS.

THE Masonic Press cannot rely upon the means of gain and sustenance that the popular press does. But the
importance of the Masonic Press, as an institution, can scarcely be over estimated. It occupies a higher and
more tranquil sphere in journalism than that of the secular press. Its influences, however, must not be
forgotten in the estimate of the social forces. Un-obstuctive in its utterances, -when compared with the
clamorous voice of the political newspaper, its tones, nevertheless, fall upon calmer hearts and sink deeper
into the convictions and life of society. As a medium for communication of moral and Masonic
intelligence—an educator, refining and elevating—a fireside mentor, quickening the intellect, expanding the
heart, and bearing treasures to myriads, the Masonic journal wields an influence which cannot well be
dispensed with, and one that no other moral force can well supply.

The duty of the Mason is therefore plain. He has a duty to perform in extending the circulation, and in
widening the influence of the Masonic Press. He should not excuse himself from this duty. If he is a Master
or officer of the Lodge he may recommend it to his members. If he is not an officer, he can urge its claims
whenever an opportunity occurs. The fraternity should awaken to the importance of a more general and
decided effort on behalf of the Masonic newspaper and Masonic literature.—Sunday Times.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

THE Grand Secretary of Victoria refused to produce his correspondence book to the Board of General
Purposes. Grand Lodge ordered that he must do so.

THE Auckland Brethren have decided to take the necessary steps for the establishment of a District Board of
General Purposes and Benevolence. We have advocated this step for some time, and are pleased to see our
remarks have been some use.

"ARS QUATUOR CORONATORUM," vol. 4, part 1, on page 72, appears a poem, "The Installing Master," which
is from the pen of Past Master Bro. E. G. Crisp, of St. John's Lodge, EC., Ashburton, New Zealand, not
Ashburton, Devonshire, England. The poem first appeared in our pages in 1889.

A ZEALOUS Brother, writing on the subject of the proposed Constitutions, says : " Wherever possible insert
the word 'Craft' instead of ' Order,' which to me has too much of the Friendly Society about it, Oddfellows,
&c.” “Define ancient usage or laws and custom ; if undefinable, state some authority for appeal on any
disputed point.” “Embody something to prevent 'touting.' I am sure it is often done from ignorance, and a
want of appreciating the dignity of the Craft."'

_______________________________________________________________________________________

GRAND LODGES.

NEW ZEALAND.

A PRO FORMA ROLL OF LODGES
Now working under the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, with the dates of their formation, former numbers and
Constitution, and the probable numbers they will bear on the Grand Lodge roll, compiled by the Editor of
the CRAFTSMAN:

PROBABLE DATE FORMERLY HOLDING
NAME OF LODGE. No. ON ROLL OF UNDER THE GRAND

OF G. L. OF FORMATION. LODGE of
N.Z.

Ara ... ... 1 5/9/42* Ireland, No. 348
N.Z. Pacific ... ... 2 9/9/42† England, No. 507
Unanimity ... .. 3 1852 „ No. 604
St. Augustine ... ... 4 1852 „ No. 609
Scinde ... ... 5 1858 Ireland, No. 419
Southern Cross ... 6 1858 England, No. 760
Otago .. ... ... 7 24/8/59 „ No. 844
St. Andrew ... 8 1861 Scotland, No. 418
Southern Cross ... ... 9 614/64 England, No. 997
United Service ... 10 1864 Ireland, No. 421
Waitaki 11 1864 England, No. 1111
Beta-Waikato .. ... 12 1865 Ireland, No. 450
Clutha ... ... ... 13 1866 Scotland, No. 460
Waterloo ... … 14 1866 „ No. 463
Coromandel ... ... 15 1872 Ireland, No. 456
Sir Walter Scott ... .. 16 1873 Scotland, No. 533
Caledonian ... 17 1873 „ No. 534
1VIasterton 18 1873 England, No. 1430
Patna Kilwinning ... 19 1873 Scotland, No. 536
Eden 20 1875 England, No. 1530
Victoria 21 1875 „ No. 1577
Canterbury Kilwinning 22 1876 Scotland, No.585.
Manukau 23 1876 „ No. 586
Progress 24 1576 England, No. 1651
Bedford 25 1877 Ireland, No.464
Palmerston 26 1878 England, No. 1749
Geraldine ... ... 27 1878 Scotland, No. 619
St. Andrew ... ... 28 1878 „ No. 639
Abercorn 29 1879 England, No. 1813
St. George ... 30 1880 „ No. 1856
Rakaia... 31 1880 „ No. 1557
Hawera ... ... 32 1880 Scotland, No. 652
Hercules 33 1880 England, No. 1875
Ashley... ... ... 34 1880 „ No. 1877
St. Johns … 35 1880 „ No. 1888
Leinster ... 36 1881 Ireland, No. 469
Rangitikei ... 37 1881 England, No. 1904
Lincoln ... 38 1881 England, No. 1918
Wairau ... 39 1881 Scotland, No. 663
Malvern ... ... 40 1881 England, No. 1919
Concord ... ... 41 1881 ,, No. 1925
Victory ... .. 42 24/5/81 ,, No. 1927

Feildiug ... 43 1881 ,, No. 1940
Phceuix ... .. 44 1882 ,, No. 1959
Manawatu Kilwinning ... 45 1883 Scotland, No. 690
Abercorn ... ... 46 1883 Ireland, No. 472
Albion ... ... ... 47 1883 England, No. 2003
Robert Burns ... ... 48 1883 Scotland, No. 692
Methven ... ... 49 1883 „ No. 694
Hiram ... ... … 50 1883 England, No. 2008
Harvey ... … 51 1883 Scotland, No. 695
Te Aroha ... ... 52 1884 „ No. 697
Ponsonby ... ... 53 1884 „ No. 708
Ngamotu ... ... 54 1884 England, No. 2053
St. Marks ... ... 55 1884 ,, No. 2059
Wairoa... ... ... 56 1884 Scotland, No. 709
Waikouaiti ... ... 57 1885 England, No. 2115
Papakura ... ... 58 1886 Scotland, No. 717
Foxton Kilwinning 59 1886 „ No. 727
Franklin . ... 60 1886 England, No. 2138
Kaikoura ... ..., 61 1887 ,, No. 2236
Ulster ... ... ... 62 1887 Ireland, No. 475
Advance ... ... 63 1888 England, No. `2245
Mokoreta ... ... 64 1888 ,, No. 2287
Kumara ... ... 65 1889 Scotland, No. 767
Fortitude ... ... 66 1889 England, No. 2301
Ngapara ... ... 67 1890 New Zealand
Raw hite .. ... 68 1891 „
Tararua ... ... 69 1891 „
Hokianga .. ... 70 1891 „
Otangaki ... ... 71 1891 ,,

In Formation ... ... 72, 73, 74, 75

* "Ara" claims to be the oldest Lodge in the colony, holding a " dispensation " dated Sydney, the 5th
September, 1842, from " Australian Social,” 260, which was established by the Grand Lodge of Ireland in
1820. Gould states that "Ara” was formed in 1844, but this date merely represents the year when the Sydney
" dispensation " was confirmed by Ireland. The Masonic historian did not know of "Ara's" dispensation when
compiling "The History of Freemasonry," The old minute book of "Ara" is still in existence, and records the
date of the fist meeting, the 9th February, 1843, the chair being taken by Bro. Frederick Whitaker.

† "N.Z. Pacific" also claims to be the oldest Lodge, in consequence of holding a " provisional Charter " from
" George Robert Nicholls, Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Australasia,” " dated at Sydney, in the Colony
of New South W ales, this ninth day of September, A.L., 5843, A.D., 1842.” Gould gives the date of the
formation of the " N.Z. Pacific" as 1845. This was taken exception to by P M. Bro. Geo. Robertson, who
wrote Bro. Gould on the subject, under date of July 11th, 1888. Bro. Gould replies—" Lodges only rank,
now-a-days, as with others, from the date of their warrant from the Grand Lodge of England." He did not
know of the Sydney "dispensation," but gives it as his opinion " that the N.Z. Pacific Lodge is entitled to
rank from the date of its foundation, i.e., September. 1842." This opinion bears out our own that "Ara" has
the advantage over " Pacific " of 4 days. The first meeting of " Pacific " was held on the 23rd November,
1842, and in July, 1846, the Charter from the Grand Lodge of England arrived in Wellington.

_________________________________________

REGULAR QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION.
The next Quarterly Communication will be held in the St. Augustine Masonic Hall, Christchurch, on
Tuesday, October 13th, at 7.30. p.m.

_________________________

SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.

A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand will be held in Christchurch during the
month of November, to welcome His Excellency Bro. the Earl of Jersey, Most 'Worshipful Grand Master of
the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales.

_________________________________________

THE BOARD OF GENERAL PURPOSES.

The Board met on Friday, August 28th, in the Grand Secretary's Office, St. Augustine Masonic Hall,
Christchurch.

NEW PRESIDENT,—The President ,V.W. Bro. T. L. Fenerty, was welcomed by members of the Board present
upon taking the chair.

LATE PRESIDENT.—A resolution was unanimously carried expressing the Board's appreciation of the
attention and courtesy of V. W. Bro. C. A. C. Hardy, Past President.

MINUTES AND CORRESPONDENCE.—The minutes of the last meeting having been confirmed and the
correspondence read, the following resolution was unanimously carried :

RESOLUTION.—That alterations in, or additions to, this Board's report as framed for presentation to Grand
Lodge should not be made without notice o motion of such alterations or additions being first given in Grand
Lodge—such notices of motion to be laid before this Board for their report to the next Quarterly
Communication.

BANK BALANCE.—The bank book was laid on the table, showing a credit to the Fund of General Purposes of
£221 0s 4d.

NUMBERING LODGES.—Both N. Z Pacific and Ara claimed to be the oldest Lodge in the colony. Ara
forwarded a photographic copy of its original dispensation, granted by Australian Social, No. 260, Irish
Constitution, dated at Sydney September 5th, 1842. N. Z. Pacific referred the Board to Bro. George
Robertson's "History of the New Zealand Pacific Lodge," Bro. Gould's "History of Freemasonry," and the
NEW ZEALAND CRAFTSMAN. The Board, having care-fully considered the matter, came to the conclusion
that as Ara's " dispensation " was dated in Sydney four days before the " provincial charter " was granted to
N. Z Pacific, she was entitled to rank as No. 1 on the roll of Grand Lodge.

OBJECTIONS TO THE INCREASE OF GRAND OFFICERS AT THE LAST COMMUNICATION.—Lodge Mokoreta
forwarded, through the Superintendent of Southland, a protest against the election of Brethren who were not
nominated at the previous Communication. The Board considered that its resolution, as tabled above, would
meet the case, and prevent any repetition.

THE GRAND LODGE OF IRELAND.—From correspondence read, the Board learnt that the Grand Lodge of
Ireland had not received the application for-warded by the M.W. the Grand Master, asking for recognition.
Applications to other Grand Lodges having also gone astray, it was decided to draft another circular setting
forth the past actions and present position of this grand body, and to forward to those Grand Lodges who had
not replied to the first circular.

GRAND LODGE CLOTHING—Grand Lodge having remitted this subject to the Board to suggest a plan for
providing clothing for the Grand Officers, the Board regretted that time would not permit them to enter into
the matter at this meeting. They suggested, however, that the example set by Past Grand Steward, Bro. G. W.
Dalrymple, of devoting his loan of £5 to the purchase of a Grand Master's jewel, might be followed by other
Brethren.

THANKS TO BRO DALRYMPLE.—The Grand Secretary was instructed to convey the thanks of the Board to
Bro. Dalrymple for his gift.

VISIT OF HIS EXCELLENCY BRO. THE EARL OF JERSEY.--The Board hearing that the Most Worshipful the
Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales proposed to visit this colony, and would be in

Christchurch in November, unanimously agreed that this Grand Lodge should show its respect to the sister
Grand Lodge by inviting its Grand Master to a Special Communication.

REGULAR MONTHLY MEETINGS.—It was decided to hold the regular monthly meetings of the Board on the
fourth Friday.

______________

RECOGNITION BY THE GRAND LODGE OF NOVA SCOTIA.
Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia,

Office of Grand Secretary,
Freemason's Hall, Halifax,

July 13th, 1891.
REV. W. RONALDSON, Grand Secretary,

Christchurch, N.Z.

R.W. AND DEAR BROTHER,—It affords me some pleasure to inform you that at an annual Communication
held at Yarmouth, N.S., on the 10th and 11th ult., the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia unanimously passed my
resolution desiring proper recognition and fraternal intercourse with the Grand Lodges of Tasmania, South
Australia, and New Zealand. I notice that your popular Governor, the Earl of Onslow, is using his best
influence to remove the unpleasant difficulty existing between your Grand Lodge and that of the Grand
Lodge of England, and I trust that his report will tend to your recognition by England at no distant day. My
countrymen—the Scotchmen—fight the hardest and resist the longest. This is truly characteristic of oar
people, but in time they also will have to yield to what must tend to the future benefit and blessing to our
Order in your colony

Three years of terrible struggle passed here between 1866 and 1869 before the union was accomplished.
Here also, as with you, the Grand Lodge of Scotland and its representatives have been our strongest
opponents, and held out the longest.

I was much gratified with the Grand Lodge of England's decision relative to Sir Robert Stout, and in
sustaining the action of your Grand Lodge. To have introduced any foreign Masonic element into New Ze
rland was bad enough, but that of the Grand Orient of France is simply disgraceful.

You will now ask your M.W. Grand Master to recommend to us a worthy Brother, to whom a commission
will be sent to be our representative near the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

By the Grand Master's request I am directed to recommend to your M.W. Grand Master, Colin McNab, P.M.
of Eastern Star Lode, No. 51, Dartmouth, to be your representative near the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, to
whom you will in time issue our usual commission.

Sincerely and Fraternally Yours,
W. Ross,

Grand Secretary.
_______________________

PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE, NORTH ISLAND OF
NEW ZEALAND, SCOTCH CONSTITUTION.

Brother James Slater, Provincial Grand Secretary, has sent us the following extract from Minutes of
Committee meeting held on the 6th March, 1891, we presume for publication :—The P.G.M. Depute stated
that the Secretary (Bro. Slater) had some nine months since spoken to him re a reduction in salary, as he (the
Sec.) considered under existing circumstances the Lodge was not in a position to pay such an amount in
future as it had done in the past. It was thought advisable to wait until the R.W. Pro. G. Master, Bro. Sir F.
Whitaker, was present before going into the matter.

Bro. Whitaker asked the Secretary what he thought on the subject. Secretary stated he was willing to leave it
in Bro. Whitaker's hands.

Bro. Whitaker proposed £25 per annum, which was agreed to without any discussion.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

INSTALLATIONS

OPENING AND CONSECRATION OF OTANGAKI
LODGE, ASHURST; MANAWATU.

Some time ago a number of Freemasons resident in Ashurst, determined to establish a Lodge there, and the
necessary formalities having been complied with, the Grand Lodge of New Zealand granted a dispensation
for the establishment of Lodge Otangaki, and the impressive ceremony of constituting and consecrating the
Lodge took place on Thursday, August 27th, at 4 p.m.

Between 70 and 80 Brethren attended the cerens ny, assembling from all parts of the district, principally
Palmerston and Feilding. The building used by the Lodge is of wood, was specially erected for the purpose,
and is commodious and well furnished.

The proceedings were conducted in a very impressive manner by Bro. H. J. Williams, Grand Superintendent,
acting as Grand Mater, assisted by the following Grand and Acting Grand Officers—Bro. H. H. Tippler, S.
W. ; O. Pleasants, J. W. ; J. AV alkley, S D. ; C. Bray, J.D. ; R. Lindsay, Chaplain ; W. Rutherford, Sec. ; T.
W. K. Foster, Minute Sec ; A. Drew, Organist; W. A. L. Bailey, I.G. ; J. Mayo, Tyler ; and P.M. Bro. W. H.
Smith, D C.

The ceremony of constitution and consecration was performed with the usual mystic rites, after which the
installation ceremony was proceeded with by the Acting Grand Master, the Board of Installed Masters,
including the following PM.'s:—Bros W H. Smith, J. Walkley, A. Jack, AA. Rutherford, Wyncheombe,
Mowbray, Mayo, Batt, Carthew, Pleasants, Bray, Haybittle, Bailey, Thompson.

Bro. T. D. Brown was installed as Master, and the following officers were invested by Bro. W. A. L. Bailey,
W.M., Feilding Lodge :—Bro. Alfred Buchler, S. W.; Bro. Robert Lyon, J. W. ; Bro. Thomas Patterson, S.D.
; Bro. Johansen, J.D.; Bro. L. Blixt, I.G. The address to the Master was ably delivered by P.M. Bro. W. H.
Smith, of Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge, and those to the Wardens and Brethren by the Acting Grand Master.
The Brethren were then called from labour to refreshment, and on resuming five candidates were initiated,
after which the Brethren adjourned to the Dramatic Hall, where an excellent banquet was provided by host
Tait of the Ashurst Hotel.

The following are the names and Lodges of the visiting Brethren :—Grand Lodge Officers--H J. Williams,
G.8-, Acting G.M. ; H H. Tippler, G.S. ; J. Walkley, G.S., and W. H. Smith. Masters and Past Masters—W,
Bailey, W. J Ball, 1721, F C ; W. H. Smith, A. Lindsay, 463, N.Z.C. ; C. Bray, P. Thomson, 0 P easants, W.
Carthew, Feilding Lodge ; W. Rutherford, W. W. Wynchcombe, Patea Kilwinning ; J. Walkley ; H. H.
Tippler, I C. ; W. G. Haybittle, A. Jack, St Andrew's, N.Z C.: J. Mayo, Franklin, N.Z C. Master Masons H.
L. Sherwill (S. W.), H. Worsfold (J W.), T. W. K. Foster (Secretary), E. Gregory (Tyler), W. H. Hartgill
(Organist), J. Purkis, Feilding Lodge, N.Z.C. ; W. Dawick, J. R. Montague, W. Dixon, F. E. White
(Secretary), Manawatu Kilwinning, N.Z.C., R. J. Port, H. Wollerman P. Brandon, J. Victor, L P. Blixt, H P.
Raikes (Chaplain), J. Waugh, F. Bryant, G. Woodroofe, J. De Broes, W. Ransom, S. H. Drew, C Rogers, J.
R. Harper, T. Patterson, A. Buchler, L. M Wilson, R Lyon, A. Johansen, N. Valentine, W. Light, J. C.
Mowbray (P.P.G.S Works), 561, E.C. ; G. F. Hawkins, 317, I.C. ; T. T. Kerslake, J. N. Thomaston.

____________________________________________

PALMERSTON LODGE, N.Z.C., PALMERSTON, OTAGO. —The annual meeting of this Lodge was held on
Friday, August 14th. There was a large attendance of members and visitors ; Lodge Waikouaiti being
represented by the VV.M., Bro. Stewart, the Wardens, and members ; Lodge Waitaki by the W.M., Bro. O.
N. Pinel, S.W. Bro. James Macdonald, and members ; the Lodge of Otago by P. M.'s Bros. A. H Burton and
De Renzy ; Lodges Port Chalmers Marine, Celtic and others by visaing Brethren, and the Grand Lodge of
New Zealand by Bros. A. H. Burton, G. Sup. ; C. Crump, P.G.S., and De Renzy ; apologies being given on
behalf of Bros. Titchener, G. Sup. of Works ; J. A Kirby, A G.S.B. ; W. Henderson, G.Sd.B., and E. G. Lane,
G.S. The Superintendent having taken the chair as Installing Master, the minutes of election were read, and
the Master-elect, Bro. John George Findlay, having been presented and obliga'ed. he was presented to a

Board of Installed Masters, and placed in the chair of Lodge Palmerston in accordance with ancient custom.
The usual salutes and greetings having been given in the three Degrees, the officers were invested by the
Plaster, who briefly explained to each one his duty : S.W., Robert Aitken; J.W., John Vernon ; Treasurer,
Thomas Hodgetts, P.M. (re-elected) ; Secretary, C. Cramp, P.M., P.G.S. (re-appointed) ; Chaplain, Rev.
Wynter Blathwayt; S.D., James Ross ; J.D., M. Isbister ; J.G., James Longton, and Tyler, Jno. E. Goodwin
(re-elected). Congratulations having been given to the W.M. by the visitors present, the Lodge was closed,
and the visitors, at the invitation of the Lodge, afterwards sat down to a banquet in the Empire Hotel. After
the usual Masonic toasts had been given, the Superintendent proposed the health of the Worshipful Master,
Bro. Findlay, P.M. Bro. Arkie that of the Officers, P.M. Cramp the ladies, on whose behalf two of the
batchelor Brethren replied. A feature of the evening's entertainment was a violin solo by the W.M.,
accompanied on the piano by Miss Fagan (the host's daughter), which was followed by another Miss Fagan
singing for the Brethren. At the request of the visitors Bro. Findlay conveyed their thanks to the hostess and
her daughters for the evening's enjoyment, and about midnight the Brethren separated with regret. The Junior
Past Master, Bro. Charles Lord Russell, was, unfortunately, not present, having met with an accident, but he
was not forgotten, and was progressing very favourably next day when the visitors called to see him.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

LODGE REPORTS
Secretaries of Lodges, and Scribes of Chapters, will confer a favour on the Editor of this Journai if they will forward
monthly a copy of their Lodge Circulars to Box 322, Post Office, Dunedin.
We shall also he glad to receive from the District and Provincial Grand Secretaries the printed proceedings of their
Quarterly Communications.

SOMERSET LODGE, NO. 1811, E.C., ASHBURTON. —The regular meeting of the Lodge was held on August
21st. The principal business transacted was the passing of resolutions affirming the desirableness of bringing
about an amalgamation of the two English Lodges in Ashburton.

LODGE KILLARNEY, 478, I.C., BLENHEIM.—At the ordinary monthly meeting of this Lodge, held on
Thursday, August 20th, there was a large attendance of the Brethren. Before the ordinary business was
proceeded with, I.P. M Bro. Kilpatrick was presented with a P.M. jewel by W.M. Bro. De Castro, who
alluded in fitting terms to the great amount of work Bro. Kilpatrick had done for the Lodge and the interest
he had shown in furthering its welfare. The recipient suitably responded. Bros. McNaughton and Fuller were
then raised to the Sublime Degree of M.M.'s, the W.M. performing the ceremony with impressiveness. Three
candidates were elected, and one affiliated, making six additional members since I last wrote. A considerable
amount of Lodge business was transacted, and during the evening it was mentioned by Bro. Thompson, who
has lately returned from a visit to Auckland, that the re-organisation of the Irish Grand Lodge, consequent on
the death of P.G.M. Bro. Pierce, is an event likely to take place shortly. Of this you will doubtles hear more
from other sources.

SPECIAL VISIT OF THE DEPUTY D.G. MASETER IN CHARGE OF THE CANTERBURY DISTRICT, AMD OFFICERS
OF THE DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF CANTERBURY, E.C., TO ST JOHN’S LODGE, NO 1137, TIMARU.--The
twenty-seventh of July last will long be remembered by the members of St. John's Lodge as being a red-letter
day in Masonry, occasioned by a special visit of the Deputy District Grand Master and his officers, who
favoured this Lodge by their presence. The D.D.G.M. chartered a special train from Christchurch, and before
the train reached Tiinaru the ranks were swelled by a number of Brethren from Lodges Somerset, 1811, E.C.
; St. John's, 1858, E.G. ; Conyers, 1911, E.G., Christchurch; Harmony, N.S.W., 147; South Rakaia, N.Z.0 ,
Winchester, 1737, E.C. ; Waimate, 576, S.C. ; and Prince of Wales, Auckland, 1338, E.C. The W.M., Bro.
Rutland, and P.M. Bro. Fraser, Secretary, assisted by P.M.'s W. M. Sims, W. Ziesler, and 30 Brethren of St.
John's Lodge, received the District Grand Lodge, with the usual grand honours, the whole a-semblage
presenting a most brilliant and gratifying spectacle. The proceedings of the evening were very much
enhanced by a most excellent musical service rendered under the leadership of Bro. F. W. M. ,Jones, organist
; in fact very few Lodges in New Zealand can boast of possessing a better Masonic choir than this Lodge.
After labour the Brethren adjourned to a most pleasant cold collation, to which ample justice was done. The
usual toasts were proposed and duly honoured, interspersed by some first-rate songs and recitations
contributed by several of the Brethren present. The Deputy District Grand Master, in a few well-chosen and

moderately-worded remarks, referred to the differences that were existing amongst the Masonic Order
throughout the colony, and trusted that time—the healer of all differences—would smooth away any
unpleasantness that existed. In conclusion we must refer to the generous liberality of the District D. Grand
Master, who donated the sum of £25 towards the liquidation of the mortgage for which this Lodge is liable.
The representative of this journal desires to thank the members of St. John's Lodge for their support to the
CRAFTSMAN, and also for the courtesy extended towards himself.

PROGRESS LODGE, N.Z. C., SOUTHBRIDGE (CANTERBURY). —A night of instruction was held at 8 p.m. on
August 14th; and on the 18th Bros. Robb and Gilmour were passed to the Second Degree.

FEILDING LODGE, N.Z.C., MANAWATU.—The regular monthly meeting of the Lodge was held at the
Foresters' Hall, on Monday, August 17th last. There was a good attendance of the members. After the usual
business had been transacted the balance-sheet was read and passed ; afterwards a candidate was ballotted
for and unanimously approved.

LODGE BEDFORD (LATE 464, I.C.), N.Z.C., WAIPUKURAU, HAWKES BAY.—The regular monthly meeting of
this Lodge was held on Monday, August 3rd. The attendance at our meetings is not so good as could be
wished, but seeing that a large majority of members reside a considerable distance away, we must perforce
be content. Our worthy organist, Bro. Past Master Scholes, who is always at his post, travels sixteen miles to
attend his Lodge. Bro. Arthur E. Beckett was raised to the Sublime Degree of a M. M , our W.M., Bro.
Jolley, performing his duties in his usual impressive manner. Bro. Lebocq, Junior Warden, presented the
working tools, the charge being given by Bro Stubbs, Senior Warden, and the tracing board explained by
Bro. Wellings, P.M. Bro. W. G. Downes, of Lodge Dunedin, 931,E.C. was proposed as an affiliating
member. The laws of the new Constitution were read and discussed. The Brethren expressed their approval
of the Constitution with the exception of the clause bearing on the entrance fees, the limit of £5 being
considered too low. There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace, love, and harmony.

LODGE MOKOETA, WYNDHAM (SOUTHLAND).--Last month pressure of other work (and perhaps
forgetfulness ,too), prevented my usual report from reaching the CRAFTSMAN. The business of the July
meeting consisted of the passing of Bros. G. A. W. Crosbie and G. Jones, the delivery of first and second
lectures, and the unanimous adoption of a resolution expressing our surprise at the increase in the number of
G.L. officers-- a course of action which all of us think is not conducive to the good of Freemasonry in
general, or the N.Z. Constitution in particular. Our last meeting on August 20th is one long to be
remembered by those who hail Lodge Mokoreta as their mother Lodge. The ordinary business comprised the
raising of the above named Brethren, the presentation of the Secretary's annual balance-sheet, which showed
that our Lodge had made a substantial advance during the past year, and the appointment of the elective
officers. The election resulted as follows :—W.M., S. W. Bro. Thomas Monteith; Treasurer, Bro. William
Shields (re-elected) ; and Tyler, Bro. Robert Cuthbert (re-elected), all being unanimously chosen for their
respective positions. The event of the evening was the presentation to P.M. Bro. M. Reginald Bree, as the
father and first Master of the Lodge, of a beautful P.M. jewel, together with a purse of sovereigns, and
handsome illuminated address framed in a massive gilt frame. The following is the text of the address :—"
To G.S. Bro. M. R. Bree, P.M. of Lodge Mokoreta, N.Z.C. Worshipful Sir and Brother,—As the first Master
of the above Lodge, and occupant of the chair fer two successive years, we desire to record our appreciation
of the ability and zeal which have at all times marked your actions while conducting our assemblies. As
members of Lodge Mokoreta we are not forgetful of your valued assistance in the formation of the Lodge,
and feel that it would be a dereliction of duty were we not to make some slight recognition of the services in
which the Lodge stood so much in need, and which were so ungrudgingly bestowed. We dedicate ourselves,
yours fraternally," signed by WM. Officers and Brethren. You, Bro. Editor, who know both Bro. Bree and
Lodge Mokoreta, know also how much this token of respect and appreciation was merited. Lodge Mokoreta,
which is a flourishing institution, and full of Masonic enthusiasm, is the creation of Bro. Bree and every
Brother who may succeed to the position first held by that able Brother, sets before himself as the ideal to be
striven for, the proving a worthy successor to the founder and father of our Lodge.

LODGE OF CONCORD, N.Z.C., PAPANUI, CHRISTCHURCH.—On August 20th the Lodge passed Bro. E.
Benson. Bro. T. G. Strange delivered an addresss on "The Divisional System of Craft Masonry." What is the
Divisional System?

LODGE NGAMOTU, N.Z.C., NEW PLYMOUTH.—On August 21st, Bros. Campbell, Darnell and Furlong were
passed to the Second Degree, and a Brother was affiliated.

LODGE KUMARA, N.Z.C., WESTLAND.—On this Lodge meeting on August 21st, Messrs Henry George and
Samuel Harvey and Dr. John Myles were pro posed. The J. D., Bro. Charles Stockman, gave notice of
motion, " That this Lodge vote the sum of £5 towards the Grand Lodge Benevolent Fund." (Very good;
another for "Coromandel's " scheme. Who will be the next? The Secretary, Bro. Peters writes : " In spite of
had times—no water for the miners this nine or ten weeks —the Lodge is doing. good work."

LODGE BETA-WAIKATO, N.Z C., AUCKLAND.—This Lodge met in the Masonic Hall, Hamilton East, on
Thursday evening, August 20th, at 8 o'clock. There was a good attendance of Brethren, Bro J. Primrose,
W.M. in the chair. Bro G. Edgecumbe, P.M., gave notice to move at next meeting that Bros. A. T. Hookey,
Lodge Ara, N.Z.C., and L. Newton, Lodge Te Aroha, N.Z.C., be affiliated. Bro. March, J. W. gave notice to
propose at next meeting Mr G. F. Mellars, jun. ; and Bro. Primrose, P.M., to propose Mr Thos. Chappell, as
fit and proper persons to be made Masons. Mr Richard Wilson Mears was proposed by Bro. T. Price, and
seconded by Bro R. J. Gwynne. Mr James Nelson Marsden being in attendance was duly initiated, and Bro
John McNicol was raised to the Sublime Degree of M.M. Bro J. W. Dey, P.M. congratulated the Lodge on
the appointment of one of its members—Bro. A. Primrose, P.M.—to the office of Grand Bible Bearer in the
Grand Lodge of New Zealand. A vote of thanks was passed to Bro. Hookey for kindly presiding at the
harmonium

MANAWATU KILWINNING LODGE, N.Z.C., PALMERSTON NORTH.—The regular meeting of the above Lodge
was held on Wednesday, August 19th, in the presence of a large number of Brethren and visitors. The
business of the evening consisted of Mr W. Beck being unanimously elected as a candidate for admission to
this Lodge Bro. T. H. James was then passed to the Second or F. C. Degree in an impressive manner by the R
W. M. Bro. W. Rutherford, the charge being given by P.M. Bro. W. H. Smith. The standing committee
reported that they had met and considered the draft book of Constitutions submitted by Grand Lodge, and
with a few exceptions had agreed to the same. The committee's report was therefore accepted by the Lodge.
The following were then proposed as candidates for admission to this Lodge : John Henry Burmister,
manager New Zealand Clothing Factory, and George William Thailer, photographer, both of Palmerston
North. You will thus see by my reports that since joining the N.Z.C. we are steadily gaining ground,
especially as regards fit and useful members.

LODGE COROMANDEL (LATE NO. 456, I C.) AUCKLAND DISTRICT—The regular monthly meeting took place
on July 22nd. The balance-sheet was read and adopted, it showing a debit, owing to appeals for assistance
being so constant. Bro. John Fawcus, Senior Warden, moved—" That a fund to be called Local Benevolent
Fund be formed of £40 for the sole benefit of members, their widows and children; that no application for
relief be entertained till the same is realised ; and that an account be opened in the Post Office Savings Bank
to give effect to this." The motion was carried unanimously, and a Brother generously supplied the amount
with which to open the account. The Secretary, Bro. A. King, P.M., read a list showing the amount given in
relief since the formation of the Lodge. The Brethren expressed surprise at the large amount, and thanked the
Secretary for compiling the information. Bro. P.M. Gatland gave notice of motion to alter the date of
installation. At the meeting the following month the Secretary was to move—" That the place of meeting of
the Lodge be removed to the hall above the Council Chambers. Two Brethren were proposed for affiliation.

HAWERA LODGE, N.Z.C., WELLINGTON DISTRICT. —On August 20th this Lodge affiliated Bro. W. Hurley.

LODGE ASHLEY, N.Z.C., RANGIORA.—On August 20th this Lodge initiated Mr William Bennington, raised
Bro. Forbes, and affiliated Bro. P. R. Munro.

LODGE BEDFORD, N.Z.C. (late No. 464, I.C.), Waipukurau, Hawkes Bay, balloted for, as a joining member,
on the 7th inst., Bro. Walter G. Downes, Bank Manager, Lodge Dunedin, No. 931, E.C.

LODGE ARA, N.ZC., AUCKLAND—As usual this Lodge has a full "business paper," The meeting was held on
August 21st. The ballot was taken for four candidates--Messrs George H. Dixon, John Bancroft, Robert
Wright, and Richard Ward. Initiations followed, and Bro. Porter was raised to the Third Degree. The
balance-sheet and auditor's report was then considered.

LODGE SIR WALTER SCOTT, N.Z.C., THAMES.—PRESENTATION TO W. BRO. T. L. MURRAY, SENIOR GRAND
DEACON.—At the August meeting of this Lodge a large number of the members of the Lodge and visitors
from sister Constitutions attended. Three Brethren having been raised, the R W.M., Bro. G. S. Clark,
presented Bro. T. L. Murray, I.P.M., with a large framed shield of the photographs of the recipient and the
members who held office under him during the year 1890. The R.W.M. in making the presentation stated
that it was to mark two events, viz., to remind Bro. Murray of the great regard and respect in which he was
held by his Brethren, and also as a memento of the honour he had enjoyed by being the first R.W. M. under
the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. Bro. Clark spoke of the Masonic work done by Bro. Murray in the highest
terms. He said that from his initiation in July, 1873, Bro. Murray had taken the liveliest interest in the
welfare of the Craft ; in office or out of office he always took a leading part in inculcating the divine truths of
Masonry. In 1874 and 1876 Bro. Murray filled the office of Secretary, and in 1887 he was elected to the
honourable position of Right Worshipful Master, holding the office for two years. On his retiring from the
chair on that occasion he was presented with a Past Master's jewel by the Brethren as a token of their regard.
The presentation was made by Bro. Sir F. Whitaker, P.G.M., S.C., who bore testimony to the zeal displayed
by Bro. Murray, both as Master of Lodge Sir Walter Scott, and as Treasurer in the Provincial Grand Lodge
of the Scotch Constitution in the North Island. In the years 1888-1889 and 1890, the Brethren unanimously
re-elected Bro. Murray to the chair of King Solomon, and under the wisdom of his rule, and the enlightened
manner in which he had always interpreted the rules and constitutions the Lodge had progressed, until it had
attained numerically and financially the position of being one of the best Lodges in the colony. When the
movement for the establishment of a Grand Lodge of New Zealand was started, B& o. Murray, ever in the
van of right and progress, had taken a leading part, and had the honour of being one of its first officers. Bro.
Clark in conclusion said that they all hoped that Bro. Murray would long be spared to continue the good
work he was doing, in spreading the cement of brotherly love, peace, and harmony. Bro. Murray, in reply,
thanked the Lodge for the presentation, and also the R.W.M. for the kindly manner in which he ha I referred
to the humble services he had rendered to the Craft. To him the work of Masonry was one of love, and was
therefore undertaken at all times with pleasure. The presentation made to him that night would a ways, when
looked at, bring back nothing but feelings of pleasure, and would be ever treasured by himself and family as
a memento of the brotherly love and kindly feeling that had existed between himself and the Brethren of his
mother Lodge. At the conclusion of the business the Brethren were called to refreshment, when a most
enjoyable hour was spent, intersp rsed with Masonic toasts and patriotic songs. The toasts were : " The
Queen and Craft ; " "H.R.H. The Prince of \\Vales, G.M. of England ; " " The Grand Master of N.Z.C.,"
drunk with three times three; "R.W.M.,"I.P.M.," and the "Tyler's Toast." The proceedings were brought to a
close by the Brethren singing " Auld Lang Syne " and " God Save the Queen."

LODGE PONSONBY, N.Z.C., AUCKLAND.—On the 1st inst. the Lodge had under consideration the proposed
new Constitution. A Lodge of Instruction was held on on the 17th inst.

ASHLEY LODGE, Rangiora, on the 17th inst. will initiate Mr William Bennington, and Bro. J. S nson is to
move—" That the trustees be asked to bring the Lodge section under the Land Transfer Act

PROGRESS LODGE, N.Z.C., SOUTHBRIDGE, CANTERBURY.—The Lodge-room has been re-painted and
decorated by Bro. Shearman. A Lodge of Instruction was held on the 11th inst., and on the 15th Bros. Robb
and Gilmore took their Third Degree.

LODGE ST. ANDREWS, N.Z.C., WELLINGTON.—The monthly meeting of this Lodge took place on August
27th. The business was to ballot for, and if elected, to initiate Mr Mark Blythe of Nelson. The Secretary, Bro.
Fletcher, sends us his hearty good wishes, for which we thank him.

LODGE CALEDONIAN, N.Z.C., TIMARU.—On the 10th inst., this Lodge balloted for Messrs J. P. Neilson, J.
C. Green, and Jas. Campbell, and as a joining member, Bro. Alex. Adams, of Lodge St. Augustine, No. 576,
S C., Waimate. The balance-sheet and Auditors' report was afterwards considered.

THE usual monthly meeting of Lodge Eden, N.Z.C., Auckland, took place on August 25th in the Masonic
Hall, Karangahape Road, when there was a fair attendance. The R.W.M., Bro. Harry Robinson, presided.
One candidate was initiated, and a motion was adopted changing the night of meeting from the fourth to the
second Tuesday in the month. This was done in order not to meet on the same night as Lodge Ara, N.Z.C.

LODGE UNITED SERVICE, N.Z.C., Auckland, held its monthly meeting at the Masonic Hall, Auckland, on
Wednesday, August 26th, the business of the evening being the affiliation of a Brother from an English

Lodge, an initiation, and two passings, the W.M. and the officers of the Lodge carrying out their respective
duties in an admirable manner. The many visitors present were pleased to see this old Lodge again entering
on an era of prosperity.

THE Brethren of Lodge Ara, N.Z.C, assembled in good numbers at the Masonic Hall. Princes street,
Auckland, on August 25th. There was also a good attendance of visiting Brethren. The W.M., Bro.
Chapman, presided. Six candidates were nominated, and three were initiated. The resignation of Bro. G.
Powley, P.M. and S.G.W., of the position of Secretary, which he has so ably filled for some years past, was
accepted with regret, and Bro. G. W. Basley, P.M., was unanimously elected to fill the vacancy. Tee Lodge
voted three guineas towards the funds of the Masonic Institute, and resolved to place their library in the
rooms of the Institute.

LODGE KUMARA, N.Z.C., WESTLAND.—A very successful gathering of this Lodge took place en Friday,
August 21st, in the Masonic Hall, Kumara. The minutes of last meeting having been read and confirmed, a
ballot wa; taken for Mr Samuel Harvey, age 28, baker—native of Victoria ; Mr Henry George, age 47, miner
–native of Ireland ; Mr John Thomas Myles, age 36, resident surgeon, Kumara Hospital, for initiation. The
ballot proving unanimous, the candidates were duly elected and initiated Entered Apprentice Freemasons
according to antient custom. The initiation ceremony was performed in a perfect and impressive manner by
the R. W.M., Bro. Thos. R. Wilson, ably assisted by his officers. Bro. S. J. Binning, S. Deacon, delivered the
charge. Resolved on the motion of the Junior Deacon, seconded by the Secretary—" That this Lodge vote the
sum of £5 towards the Benevolent Fund of Grand Lodge." Resolved--"That a vote of thanks be accorded to
Mrs S. Anderson, our worthy Tylers wife ; " this lady having kindly made a number of aprons for candidates
for the various degrees. Lodge closed at 10.30 p.m. At an emergency meeting on August 28th, Bros. J.
Murchie and Robert Hill were raised to the Third Degree, Bro. P.M. Black giving the charge in a very able
manner, and Bro. S. J. Binning, Senior Deacon, explained and p: esented the working tools.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

MISCELLANEOUS

SOME DISPUTED POINTS IN INTERJURISDICTIUNAL MASONIC LAW.

BY VERY WORSHIPFUL BROTHER GEO. GORDON, PAST MASTER, PAST GRAND REGISTRAR OF SOUTH
AUSTRALIA.

ALL Freemasons are well acquainted with the fact that in these days the government and superintendence of
Craft Masonry is conducted by certain supreme legislative bodies commonly known as Grand Lodges. I say
commonly known as Grand Lodges, because, although the term is of universal application in the English-
speaking Masonic world, it is not so in foreign countries. In France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Egypt, most of the
South and Central American States, Cuba, &c., the Craft is chiefly ruled by Grand Orients, which, whilst
possessing some outward semblance to Grand Lodges, are themselves subject to superior governing bodies
of the High Grades, and are not therefore sovereign Grand Lodges in the English, American, and
Australasian acceptation of the term.

Each particular Grand Lodge, whilst free from the control or interference of any other Masonic power, is
bound to preserve the integrity of the uncodified and undefined landmarks. What the landmarks actually are
is a puzzle that many able writers have attempted to solve, and although much study has been devoted to the
task of presenting them in a categorical form, it may safely be sail that no two Grand Lodges are agreed as to
their constituents ; indeed a Mason having made the simple undeniable statement that " a belief in God is
requisite in every candidate for Freemasonry," will find that he can claim nothing further as a landmark
without entering the arena of controversy. The powers of Grand Lodges are theoretically limited by the
landmarks alone ; nevertheless, in Masonry, as in society, the welfare and rights of the individual can only be
maintained by a due regard for the rights of others. Hence there has been growing up, very slowly, an
understanding, or interjurisdictional Masonic law, between Grand Lodges, which in Masonry has the same
relation to Grand Lodges as international law has to civil governments. A Grand Lodge, like a great power,
has more to consider than its own mere will and pleasure. It must recognise that it is only a unit among other
Grand Lodges of equal importance, and possessing equal rights, and if it should careless'y or wantonly
trample on the rights of its neighbours, or set at defiance an indisputable landmark, its offended sister Grand
Lodges will promptly mark their displeasure by withdrawing from it the recognition hitherto accorded to it as
a Grand Lodge, and thereby cut off its adherents from fraternal intercourse with the CraftOuniversal.

The principles of Interjurisdictional Masonic law, if I may use the term, are very ill defined, and for want of
a clear understanding between Grand Lodges much harm has accrued to the Craft. During the last twenty or
thirty years the English-speaking Masonic world, from this cause, has been constantly more or less agitated
by disputes accompanied by wordy war, much bitter writing and dissolution of friendships, and too often
these disputes have resulted in Masonic schism. To verify this, one need only point to the quarrels which
have existed, or do now exist, between the Masons of the rival Grand Lodges of Canada and Ontario,
between the Grand Lodges of England and Quebec, of Tennessee and Ohio, between the Grand Lodges of
the United Kingdom and large bodies of Masons in New South Wales, Victoria, and New Zealand
respectively, between the Grand Lodges of Scotland and South Australia, and to the non-intercourse between
the Grand Lodges of Pennsylvania and South Australia. All of these troubles, and others that I might mention
owed their origin entirely to differences of opinion amongst the Grand Lodges of the English-speaking world
on matters that do not come within the legislative scope of any particular Grand Lodge exclusively, but
which, affecting the rights of all of them more or less, belong to-the wider range of Interjurisdictional
Masonic law. The troubles in which the Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom have been immediately
concerned, far outnumber those of any other Grand Lodge, and as they have principally been with Grand
Lodges, or large bodies of Masons in the British Empire, it is to the Grand Lodges of that Empire that the
Masonic world has a right to look for the initiatory steps to he taken for a clearer definition of the principles
of Interjurisdictional Masonic law. It would be most fitting that the Grand Lodge of' England, and the other
Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australasia should, in conjunction with such other Grand
Lodges as are mutually recognised, endeavour to arrive at a settlement of some of the chief disputed points
of Masonic privilege, custom, or precedent Amongst the foremost of the disputed questions of the day which
effect all Grand Lodges and Masons through-out the world, and which cannot be settled by the dictum of any
one Grand Lodge are :

(1). What is unoccupied territory, and what does the term imply?
(2). On what principles must a Grand Lodge be founded to entitle it to recognition as such ?

Differences of opinion as to the proper answers to these questions have been at the root of nearly every
quarrel resulting in non-intercourse between Grand Lodges of English-speaking countries. For the honour of
our fraternity in the eyes of the world, and for the sake of maintaining peace and harmony within our own
household, a strong effort should be made by Grand Lodges to arrive at a common agreement. The second
question especially is one that particularly concerns Masons of the British Empire. Conflicting opinions
thereon, and too often the employment of distinctly un-Masonic means to enforce them, have over and over
again rent Masonry in British countries, and past and present history tells us that, unless some broad
principles are laid down to regulate the policy of Grand Lodges, conflict and schism will distract
Freemasonry in South Africa,. Queensland, and Western Australia, as has previously been the case in
Canada,. New South Wales, Victoria, and New Zealand.

It will not be profitless to examine the two questions mentioned above, and ascertain how the three great
groups of Grand Lodges in the English-speaking world, viz., those of the United Kingdom, North America,
and Australasia view them. I omit all reference to the ruling Masonic bodies of foreign countries, as the data
to guide me to an understanding of their views are very meagre or altogether wanting. In the cases of the
Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom and North America, the actions or official utterances of those bodies
are an ample guide, whilst in Australasia, although the opinions of the Grand Lodges are not so clearly
expressed, their actions in recent cases, the speeches of eminent Masons, and the Masonic press, show the
trend of opinion. Taking the first question—What is unoccupied territory, and what does the term imply ? It
seems to me that the best plan-of dealing with it is to state in general terms certain doctrines that have met
with considerable support, and then point out to what extent the several groups of Grand Lodges agree or
disagree with them : —

A Grand Lodge properly established in any coherent, autonomous state or territory, is solely entitled
to charter new Lodges therein to the exclusion of all other Grand Lodges. Ireland and Scotland for
the purposes of this paper are to be considered as autoncmous states.

This doctrine is universally accepted by the Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom, the United States and
Canada, and Australasia.

On a Grand Lodge being properly established in a state or territory, where no local Grand Lodge
already exists, all the Lodges therein do not necessarily come under its jurisdiction, but may remain

in obedience to their mother Grand Lodges during their own pleasure or that of their mother Grand
Lodges ; but only the new Grand I odge is entitled to issue further charters.

This doctrine is strenuously upheld by the Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom, who invariably insist on
the right of each Lodge to be the sole party to decide whether it will renounce or retain its original charter. In
Australasia the doctrine is acquiesced in perhaps not so much from a recognition of its fairness or wisdom as
from the hopelessness of looking to the Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom to withdraw their warrants
from dissentient Lodges. The practical observance of the doctrine is considered to be prejudicial to
Freemasonry in Australasia. A large majority of the Grand Lodges of the United States and Canada agree to
the doctrine as a matter of abstract right, although deeming it to be inconvenient and vexatious, whilst a few
of them deny the doctrine in toto, and insist that a Grand Lodge is not entitled to recognition as such, unless
it either has or claims exclusive jurisdiction in its locality.

Any distinct division of the world (whether it be or not autonomous) not being the seat of a
recognised Grand Lodge is " unoccupied territory," and any Grand Lodge may charter Lodges
therein until a Grand Lodge is locally formed as hereafter stated.

The Grand Lodges of the United States generally accept this doctrine, but have added to it a kind of Monroe
doctrine to the effect that " unoccupied territory " within the boundaries of the United States is free to all the
Grand Lodges of the United States to charter Lodges in, but that no Grand Lodges whose seat is outside of
the United States can be permitted to establish a footing therein. They do not, however, admit the right of
Grand Lodges of the British Empire to similarly bar the British Empire against the establishment of Lodges
by Grand Lodges whose seat is in the United States. As a matter of fact, though the instances are very rare, of
an American Grand Lodge chartering Lodges outside of the United States, the Grand Lodges of Canada
accept the doctrine, and tacitly also accept the American addendum to it, and assert no right in conjunction
with the Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom and Australasia to exclusiveness within the British Empire.
The Grand Lodges of Australasia in a general way accept the doctrine, but would probably strongly resent
the chartering of Lodges in "unoccupied territory " in Australasia by any Grand Lodges, save those of the
United Kingdom or Australasia. Indeed, it is highly probable that, when Grand Lodges shall have been
established in Queensland and Western Australia, the Grand Lodges within the " Commonwealth " will adopt
an " Australasia for the Australasian Grand Lodges " doctrine, in imitation of the Monroe doctrine of
America. At present it is improbable that any Australasian Grand Lodge would consent to charter a Lodge
outside of Australasia, or even outside of the territorial limits of its own colony, although holding the right to
do so if it chooses. The Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom accept the doctrine, although the Grand Lodge
of England has in a few cases violated it. They practically accept also the American addendum, but England
adds also an addendum of her own, to the effect that within the British Empire " unoccupied territory " is
open only to Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom, except in the cases of such territories wherein, before
British annexation, other Grand Lodges had obtained a foothold. In such cases England admits an equal right
of the original chartering bodies with those of the United Kingdom. It is probable that the Grand Lodge of
England would .object to the chartering of a Lodge in " unoccupied territory " in Australasia, where she is
already represented by a Canadian or Australasian Grand Lodge.

(To be Concluded.)
_______________________________________________________________________________________

A MASONIC CURRICULUM.
BY G. W. SPETH, SECRETARY.

Transactions of the Lodge Quatuor Coronati.

We now come to the third section : the ethics, dogma, and duties of Free-masonry. From the student's point
of view, it is important to know what the early writers thought on this subject. This may be deduced from a
great number of excellent orations and sermons by members of the Craft, and from such books as Preston's "
Illustrations " (already mentioned), Smith's " Use and Abuse of Freemasonry," Calcott's " Candid
Disquisition on the Principles and Practices of the Free and Accepted Masons ; " and others too numerous to
cite. Of late years no special work on this subject has appeared in English, and opinions must still be gleaned
from orations and sermons. In Germany, on the contrary, the ethics of the fraternity are the burthen of much
of the writing of the present day, and the German views of the purport of Freemasonry and the active
interference required of Lodges in social questions, go far beyond any lines ever laid down in our English
Craft.

Integral parts of this section are of course the Symbolism of Freemasonry and the elucidation thereof. This
can scarcely be profitably pursued without an extended study of universal and comparative symbology. It has
never been properly handled in the past, but Bro. W. Simpson is now making a commencement in the
instructive papers he is reading before our Lodge. Some of Dr. Oliver's works may be read as an introduction
to the enquiry, but they only touch the fringe of it. A question not un-allied hereto has lately been treated in a
masterly manner by Bro. Whymper in his "Religion of Freemasonry." The book is out of print, but the author
has reserved a few copies which have been placed in my hands for sale. There is a great field for the student
in our symbolism, practically untilled. As Bro. General Albert Pike has justly observed, " We shall never
understand Freemasonry until we recover the lost meaning of our symbols."

The fifth section, Masonic Jurisprudence, is also in a pitiable state ; the only English attempts in this
direction being Oliver's " Institutes of Masonic Jurisprudence,",and Paton's " Freemasonry and its
Jurisprudence," works which leave much to be desired. American and German writers have attacked the
subject more thoroughly, but, for obvious reasons, their conclusions can have no great influence with an
English Mason. Bro. Gould is at work on a hook which I trust will fill the gap, but meanwhile the only
advice I can give to an English Mason is to procure the last edition of the " Book of Constitutions " and do
the hest he can with it.

The Masonic Ritual of the present day must, of course, be mastered in the only proper way, i.e., by attending
a good Lodge of Instruction. The ceremonial of a bygone age must naturally be studied in order to
understand our symbolism. But the student who has arrived so far will know where to seek his information,
and I may therefore be excused if I refrain from pointing it out. A most suggestive work, but of which
unfortunately a very limited number of copies was struck off, is Hughan's " Origin of the English Rite of
Freemasonry." It contains a mass of curious information, some of which is hardly obtainable elsewhere, and
the remainder lies scattered throughout the periodical literature of the Craft.

Thus far, I have only dealt with the study of Freemasonry in a broad and general sense ; it may be infinitely
subdivided, and the student who has obtained a good grasp of the whole subject would, of course, do well to
signal out some special branch for further research. The curriculum here enjoined on him would bring him
up to the general level of our foremost literati, and having arrived so• far he should strive to add to our joint
knowledge. This can only be done by steady application and persistent research, and whatever branch he
takes up he should first procure every book on the subject. For instance, should he attack the history and
development of the various Grand Lodges of England, Lane's "Masonic Records," and the same writer's "
Handybook to the Study of the List of Lodges " would be absolutely indispensable. But considerations of this
sort are rather beyond the scope of the present paper.

I now append a list of books, with their probable price and where to be obtained, but my choice has naturally
been restricted by the fact that many which I should like to recommend are not procurable except by the
greatest good fortune. The effort, not quite successful, to confine the full list within the purchasing power of
a ten pound note, has also tended to reduce the number below what 1 should like ; but such as it is, I believe
it will go far towards making a really intelligent and industrious student master of the subject. I have divided
the list into classes which will explain themselves.

ABSOLUTELY INDISPENSABLE.
Gould's History of Freemasonry ... Sec. of Quatuor Coronati ... £3 15 0
STRONGLY RECOMMENDED.
Brentano's Introduction to Toulmin Smith's Gilds ... Early English Text Society 0 5 0(?)
Whymper's Facsimile of the Regius Poem Sec. of Quatuor Coronati ... 0 12 6
Facsimile of Matthew Cooke MS. (Vol. ii., Q;C. Reprints)... ... Sec. of Quatnor Coronati ... 0 10 6
Anderson's Constitutions, 1738, in facsimile (Vol. vii., Q.C. Reprints) Sec. of Quatuor Coronati ... 0 10 6

£5 13 6
RECOMMENDED.
Are Quatuor Coronatorum, Vol. i. ... Sec. of Quatuor Coronati ... £1 1 9
Ars Quatuor Coronatorum, Vol. ii ... Sec. of Quatuor Coronati ... 0 10 6
Forts Antiquities of Freemasonry ... Kenning, London ... 0 10 0
Findel's History of lreemasonry ... Kenning, Loudon . 0 7 6
Preston's Illustrations of Freemasonry Second hand. Kenning (?) 0 7 6(?)
Dermott's Ahiman Kitson .. Second hand, Kenning (?) 0 10 0(?)

Lyon's History of Freemasonry in Scotland .. ...... Keening, London ... 1 1 6
Hutchison's Spirit of Masonry, or one of the others mentioned... Second hand, Kenning (?) 0 7 6(?)
Whymper's Religion of Freemasonry Sec. of Quatuor Coronati ... 0 12 6

£11 1 6

For those, however, who can read German, a most useful book is the Algemeines Handbuch der
Freimaurerei, Leipsic (second hand from 15s to 25s, according to circumstances), the only really good
Masonic Eucyclopædia.

__________________________________
NOTES FROM AUCKLAND.

A WELL-ATTENDED meeting of Past Masters, Masters of Lodges, and Grand Lodge officers, N.Z.C., was
held at the newly-formed Masonic Institute, September 3rd, members of the following Lodges being
present:—Ara, St. Andrews, United Service, Eden, Ponsonby, Albion (Devonport), Papakura, Franklin,
(Pukekohe), Beta (Hamilton), Te Aroha, Manukau, Sir Walter Scott (Thames), and Coromandel. Grand
Superintendent R.W. Bro. M. Niccol was in the chair, and Bro. W. H. Cooper acted as Secretary. The
chairman explained that he had called the meeting for the purpose of considering the advisability of
establishing a local District Board of General Purposes and Benevolence, so that all Lodges would have a
voice in the administration of the government, and provision could be made to give adequate relief to the
poor and distressed of the Craft; and stated that he understood from the Most Worshipful the Grand Master
(Bro. H. Thomson), that the petition would at once be granted. A lengthy discussion then took place, in
which a large number of the Brethren spoke as being favourable, but it was pointed out that it should be
followed in due course by the formation of a Provincial Grand Lodge, with extended powers, in this and the
other large provinces of the colony, similiar to the Canadian system. It was pointed out that no provision had
been (made in the proposed Book of Constitutions for the levying of quarterages and fees by the District
Boards of General Purposes and Provincial Grand Lodges, to pay the administrator's expenses and other
incidental expenses, but the chairman said that clauses similar to those of the Home and other Grand Lodges
would have to be inserted for this object. It was ultimately unanimously decided to recommend the Craft
Lodges to proceed with the formation of the Board, and to take a vote at earliest date. The meeting then
proceeded todiscuss the various clauses of the proposed Book of Constitutions. The fees proposed to be
charged were considered too high by many, but it was decided to leave them in the hands of the delegates
who might be sent to the meeting of the Grand Lodge. The meeting took a vote on the ballot question, and
did not approve of the proposal to make absolutely unanimous, but preferred the English clause that had been
adopted by the Australasian Grand Lodges, allowing each Craft Lodge to fix the black ball to preclude any
number up to three. Other clauses were considered, but a sub-committee of Bros. Niccol, Cooper, Kidd,
Vesper, Ellison, Craig, and Tewsley, were appointed to go through the proposed amendments and report in a
fortnight's time.

Lodge Albion, N.Z.C., held its monthly meeting at Masonic Hall, Devonport, on Friday, August 14th, the W.
M., J. F. Logan, G.D. of C., in the chair, who initiated a candidate, another proposed not being in attendance.
The G. Superintendent, Bro. Niccol was present, also a large attendance of the W.M.'s and Brethren of other
Lodges.

Lodge United Service, N.Z.C., held its usual meeting at the Masonic Hall, Auckland, Wednesday, August
26th. Business : One affiliation, one initiation, and two passings—a very good start for the new W.M. and his
officers.

The Masonic Institute, Auckland, is progressing most satisfactorily—on September 4th there were nearly
200 members on the books, the Treasurer had received above £S0 for subscriptions and donations, besides
the many handsome presents of furniture, &c., given, some of these latter being sent in by gentlemen who
are not members of the Craft. It is proposed to elect several sub-committees to carry out the various objects
of the institute, one of the first of these being a Masonic trained orchestra and choir, also to arrange for
Masonic lectures, &c. All travelling Masons are most cordially invited to make use of the rooms while in
Auckland. A handsone and beautifully executed bookcase has been presented to the Masonic Institute by
Bro. John Brown, of Epsom, managing director of the Auckland Furniture Company, with a view to inducing
members to form the nucleus of a Masonic library. The worthy Brother mentioned has been hitherto. very
generous with his gifts, inasmuch as at the establishment of the Lodge Sir Walter Scott (Thames) lie

presented the Brethren with a very superior harmonium. It is to be hoped that the efforts of the Brother
referred to will be instrumental in obtaining sufficient books to fill the shelves of his appropriate donation.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

THE MASTER'S DEGREE.

BROTHER WILLIAM J HUGHAN, the highest living authority on matters relating to the history of English
Freemasonry, thus disposed of the alleged antiquity of the Master's Degree :
"I have carefully perused all the known Masonic MSS., from the 14th century to 1717 (of which I have either
seen the original or have certified copies), and have not been able to find any reference to Three Degrees.
The fact is, no records mention the degree of a Master Mason before the second decade of the last century.
The antiquity of the Third Degree, is, to say the least of it, unsupported by documentary evidence, as there
are sufficient facts already accumulated to prove its English origin, in all probability, about the year 1720.
The first unequivocal mention of the Third Degree occurs in the laws of the Grand Lodge of England, of date
the 17th of January, 1722 and 1723, and at the Grand Lodge held on November 22nd, 1725, on a motion
being made that such part of Article XIII of the General Regulations to the making of Masters only at
Quarterly Communications, may be repealed ; and that the Masters of each Lodge with the consent of his
Wardens, and the majority of the Brethren being Masters, may make Masters at their discretion, and it was
carried nem. con. There exists printed evidence, so early as A.D. 1686, that several signs were communicated
to the initiates, and manuscripts of about the same period also refer to more than the mere Masonic word, as
respects England, but none of these mention Degrees; and the laws then in force prove that these secrets were
known to all the members. An examination of the York records proves that the Degrees were not worked by
the Lodge of York until the third decade of the last century. It seems to me clear that modern Freemasonry of
the Degrees is not only of English origin, and a continuation of ancient operative Masonry, but that its
introduction under the new arrangement took place in London certainly not before A.D. 1717."

The distinguished German Masonic historian, J. G. Findel, says :

"Originally it seems that there was but one degree of initiation in the year 1717. The introduction of the
Degrees of a fellow Craft and a Master Mason took place in so imperceptible a manner that we do not know
the accurate date. No mention is made of them before 1720, even not in the Constitutions of 1722. It is very
probable that the Degree of Master Mason originated first as a reward for the Masonic merits, especially for
all the Brethren who had passed the chair from 1717 to 1720. It is not derived from the Pagan mysteries, but
from the legend of the guilds, &c., and by every intelligent Mason easily recognised as a fabrication of
modern time."

The Second Degree has then been intercalated to complete the three steps of the operative —Masonic
Journal.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

THERE are only 19 Lodges in Tasmania.

TASMANIA had to make a special levy on the Lodges to pay the expenses of its inauguration.

THE late District Grand Lodge of Tasmania, E.C., has decided to send over all funds and properties in its
possession to the Grand Lodge.

THE Board of General Purposes of Tasmania is to take into consideration the question of precedency of
representatives of foreign Grand Lodges.

THE District Grand Chaplain of ,Wellington, E.C., Bro. Kenneth Wilson, M.A., late classical master of
Wellington College, has removed to Palmerston North.

THE American idea that all business should be transacted when the Lodge is open in the Third Degree is
gaining ground in Canada. The Grand Master of New Brunswick decided recently that " the business of a
Lodge had better be transacted on the M.M. Degree."

THE CONSTITUTION AND LA WS OF THE GRAND
LODGE OF ANTIENT FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF N.Z.

_____________________________________
GRAND LODGE.

THE PROPOSALS.

CHARTER FEE FOR LODGE JOINING
G.L. OF N.Z.

53. Every Lodgeholding under a foreign
Constitution which shall join the Grand Lodge
of New Zealand, shall pay a Charter fee based
on numerical strength of such Lodge, at the
rate of 2s 6d per member, but not exceeding in
any case f5 5s.

THE FIRST OFFICERS CANNOT BE
ALTERED.

54. No Brother shall be installed as Master
or invested as a Warden of a new Lodge,
except the Brother named in the warrant for
such office, unless by special sanction of the
Grand Master.

A LODGE CANNOT ACT WITHOUT A
WARRANT.

55. No Lodge, except while acting under
dispensation, can meet, without a warrant of
constitution from the Grand Master, which is
to be specially intrusted to the Master for the
time being at his installation, who is
responsible for its safe custody, and shall
produce it at every meeting of the Lodge.

WARRANT LOST OR WITHHELD.
56. If a warrant be lost, or withheld by
competent Masonic authority, the Lodge must
suspend its meetings until a warrant of
confirmation has been applied for and granted
by the Grand Master, or until the warrant so
withheld be restored.

OUR REMARKS.

Would it not he better to say—"Any Lodge
holding under the Grand Lodges of England,
Ireland and Scotland, &c." It is as well to state
that Lodges holding under any other body could
not possibly join.

A copy of the English Law, No. 121. This rule
says the Brethren named in the warrant for
Master and Wardens can be changed" by special
sanction of the Grand Master." The marginal note
contradicts this, and says they cannot. At the last
revision of the English Constitutions this rule was
inserted, but was considered, at the time,
superfluous.

Taken from the English Law, No. 125.
It first appeared in the 1884 edition.

We like the following much better than this copy
of the English regulation, No. 125, which only
appeared in the 1884 edition —" Whenever any
charter of a Lodge shall be destroyed, stolen, or
surreptitiously taken and detained, or becomes so
defaced as to be unfit for use, without the fault of
the Lodge or Master, it shall be lawful for the
Grand Master to order another to be which shall
set forth the members and officers named in the
charter lost, detained, or destroyed, the Grand
Communication at which it was granted, the of
the Grand Officers attached and the
circumstances of its loss, destruction, or detention
; and shall be signed by the Grand Master, and
attested by the Grand Secretary under seal of the
Grand Lodge, without fee."

LODGE TO BEAR A NAME AND NUMBER.

57. Every Lodge must be distinguished by a
name or title, as well as a number, when the
same shall have been decided by Grand
Lodge, and no Lodge shall be permitted to
make any alteration in its name or title without
the approval of the Grand Master, and any
such alteration must be immediately
communicated to the Grand Secretary for
registration.

JOINING LODGES TO ELECT OR APPOINT
OFFICERS.

58. All Lodges under the Grand Lodge of New
Zealand may elect or appoint their Officers in
accordance with their Bye-laws, and may alter
such Bye-laws as hereinafter provided.

REGULAR OFFICERS OF A LODGE.

59. The regular Officers of a Lodge, holding
under the New Zealand Constitution, shall
consist of the Master, two Wardens, Treasurer,
Secretary, two Deacons, Inner Guard, and
Tyler. There may also be a Deputy Master,
Chaplain, Director of Ceremonies, Organist,
and two Stewards. No Brother shall hold more
than one office in the Lodge at one and the
same time.

APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS.
60. The procedure in regard to the
election or appointment of Officers (other than
the Master), as the case may be, shall be
determined by the Lodge Bye-laws.

The words " as well as a number, when the same
shall have been decided by Grand Lodge ' are
unnecessary. Grand Lodge will proceed to number
its Lodges next month. We should like to see
added to this regulation the following:
In the case of new Lodges the " name or title " to
be first submitted to the Board of General Purposes
for its approval.

Strike out the word " joining," and it will then read
— LODGES TO ELECT OR APPOINT
OFFICERS. We think the following is clearer :
Lodges shall determine by their By-Laws whether
the Wardens and other Officers shall be elected by
the Lodge or appointed by the Master. The
Treasurer and Tyler shall, in every case, be elected
by the Lodge. —How often can Lodges alter their
By-laws ? Wont disappointed office-seekers be
always trying to alter the mode of election ?

We shall have something to say about the Deputy
Master later on. The Chaplain in our opinion ought
to be a minister of religion, and the Director of
Ceremonies a Past Master.

Is not this provided for in No. 58.
Lodges dissatisfied with " appoint.
Went can change at any time to election." What a
fine time they would have in making by-laws to
suit.

We should like to see the following included in the "Constitution and Laws."
—The Grand Lodge shall recall any charter of a Lodge which fails to meet for twelve consecutive months.

Recent events both in England and New Zealand show the necessity for some regulation defining the
qualifications of Grand Stewards. We suggest the following :—No Brother shall be eligible as a Grand
Steward unless he was initiated in the Lodge by which he is nominated, and has been three years a
subscribing member to it.

The Grand Officers must be Masters or Past Masters of Lodges, excepting the Grand Stewards of the year,
the Musical Grand Officers, and the Grand Tyler, who may be Master Masons.

Any committee appointed by Grand Lodge, no matter for what purpose, shall be composed of Past Masters.
They shall report to the Board of General Purposes, and such report shall be embodied, with the Board's
remarks, in the quarterly report to Grand Lodge.

Lodges have made amendments to the following laws in the proposed Constitution :—1, 6, 7, 10, 15 16, 19,
25, 31, 51, 61, 75, 102, 103, 104, 105, 108, 111, 116, 117, 120, 121, 125, 131, 132 to 142, 149, 196, 198.
The Board of General Purposes will consider these amendments at its next meeting, and Grand Lodge will
proceed to consider and adopt the Book of Constitutions at the Communication on October 13th.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

CORRESPONDENCE
TO CORRESPONDENTS

All communications should be addressed to the Editor, CRAFTSMAN, Box 322, P.O., Dunedin, and should be written on
one side of the paper only.
Correspondents and contributors are requested to be as brief as possible, as the space at our command is limited.
(Letters intended for insertion must be accompanied in all eases by the real name and address of the writer, as well as by
the name and number of the Lodge to which he belongs, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good
faith. We do not hold ourselves responsible for opinions expressed by our correspondents.]

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

P.M. BRO. MILLAR.—Too late for this month.

AN esteemed Brother propounds the following conundrum—we intend giving our answer next month; would
any of our readers like to have a try at it?—"A member is in arrears to an English Lodge when it throws in its
allegiance to the N.Z.C consequently he has no vote on the matter. Subsequently he wishes to join the
N.Z.C., but has no clearance from the E.C. Lodge, now N.Z.C. How should he be dealt with? As a member
of a diffrent Constitution who only has to pay his affiliation fee, or an arrears member of the N.Z.C. ?
Suppose line same member has also a clearance from an I.C. Lodge that has since joined the N.Z.C.. would
that have any bearing on the matter ?"
_______________________________________________________________________________________

LODGE VICTORY, N.Z.C., NELSON.—On the August 25th the initiation of Mr William Lock took place.

LODGE WAITAKI, OAMARU.—On August 19th, Messrs Pyke and Gatfield were elected. Bros. Hood and Earl
were raised to the Third Degree. It was resolved to adopt the proposed Constitution as submitted by Grand
Lodge, subject to the alterations made by the Lodge Committee. Bro. E. P. Lee kindly offered to draft a copy
of the Trust Deed in connection with the hall. On Sept. 16th, Messrs Gatfield and Pyke will be initiated, and
Bros. Weir and Bethel will be passed to the Second Degree. On the 19th, at an emergency, Bro. Hesketh will
be passed to the Second Degree.

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BRIEF MENTION
CALIFORNIA writes the date of initiation, &c., under the flap of the apron. given to the candidate.

THE Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, V.W. Bro. the Hon. W. Ross, has a son in
Auckland.

WE have been several times complimented on our "Remarks on the Proposed Constitutions," as being very
good and useful to the Brethren.

LODGE HOKIANGA will be opened at Kohukohu, Auckland District, about the middle of October. The delay
is in consequence of the bad weather.

THE R.W.M. of Lodge Clutha, Bro. Algie, Postmaster at Balclutha, has been moved to Kaitangata. The
citizens gave him a purse of sovereigns.

LODGE OF DUNEDIN, No. 931, S.C., in its last balance-sheet shows £8 8s given in charity during the past
year, and over £70 spent in refreshments, stationery, &c.

NEW Lodges are in course of formation in Hunterville, and Eketahuna, Wellington District. In Otago a new
Lodge will be opened in a few months' time.
THE Provincial Grand Lodge of Ireland met on the 9th inst. We understand the meeting was for the purpose
of recommending the appointment of another P.G.M., in place of the late Bro. Pierce.

THE Masons of Canada will celebrate the Centennial of Freemasonry in Canada in 1892. They are making
arrangements to have a celebration worthy the dignity of the Craft, and similar to that of New York some
years ago.

LODGE MOKORETA’S installation takes place on the 17th inst. Our old friends Bros. Thomas Monteath is the
W.M. elect ; William Shields was re-elected Treasurer, and Robert Cuthbert is again Tyler. We intend to be
present.

SEVERAL members of the Scotch Lodge in Wanganui were present at Lodge Feilding's installation, and
expressed themselves as gratified and satisfied by the unanimity and earnestness shown by the members. The
health of the Grand Master was drunk with enthusiasm, and W. Bro. W. Forrest, Grand Pursuivant, replied.

OFFICERS and members of Lodge Mokoreta at their last meeting presented P.M. Bro. M. R. Bree, Grand
Steward, with a jewel, a purse of sovereigns, and a handsome illuminated address. Bro. Bree is the father of
the Lodge, a hard worker, and a man whose heart is too big for this selfish world. May he prosper, is the
wish of the Editor.

ONE of the antient charges would hardly suit the present time. It reads—" You shall not goe out to drink by
night, or if occasion doe happen that you must goe, you shall not stay till past eight of the clock, having some
of your fellowes, or one at the least, to beare you witness of the honest place you were in, and your good
behaviour, to avoid scandal." Think of a Mason going home at eight of the clock ! How degenerate we have
become !

A ZEALOUS Brother, writing on the subject of the proposed Constitutions, says : " Wherever possible insert
the word `Craft' instead of ` Order,' which to me has too much of the Friendly Society about it—Oddfellows,
&c." " Define antient usage of law and custom ; if undefinable, state some authority for appeal on any
disputed point." " Embody something to prevent `touting.' I am sure it is often done from ignorance, and a
want of appreciating the dignity of the Craft "

THE following notice of motion was on the agenda for a special communication of the United Grand Lodge
of Victoria, held in Melbourne on May 26th last :—" That the United Grand Lodge of England be informed
that by a majority of the Combermere Lodge, No. 752, the representatives of that Lodge duly tendered its
allegiance to the United Grand Lodge of Victoria at the time of its establishment ; but, notwithstanding, the
minority have retained the warrant, and have since been working as an irregular Lodge in this territory."

Lodge secretaries appear to appreciate the thanks given to them by Grand Lodge.

THE two Lodges in Oamaru have the money in hand with which to pay off the mortgage on their hall.

LODGE HIRAM, SOUTH DUNEDIN, will install on October 27th, and Lodge Malvern, Canterbury District, on
October 21st.

IT is stated that the salaries of the D.G. Secretaries of Otago and Southland, Canterbury, and Wellington,
E.C., have had, of necessity, to be reduced.

LODGE NGAPARA, N.Z.C., NGAPARA, OAMARU, has re-elected the present Master Bro. Thomas McWhirter.
The installation will take place on October 12th.

THE Supreme Grand Chapters of New South Wales and South Australia have exchanged representatives. The
Earl of Kintore is First Grand Principal of the Grand Chapter of Sou;h Australia.

THE Victorian Board of General Purposes hold the opinion that Past Grand rank on members of the Grand
Lodge, other than representatives of Sister Grand Lodges, can only be conferred by a vote of Grand Lodge.
We hold the same opinion.

WE have to thank V.W. Bro. George Gordon, who is now in Western Australia, for a copy of the Masonic
Guide of South Australia for 1891-92. It is published by R.W. Bro. Sansom, and is a perfect vale mecum of
Freemasonry in South Australia.

ENGLAND and Ireland have exchanged representatives with the Grand Lodge of Tasmania. The Grand
Master of England has been pleased to accept the position of Patron. Lord Carrington and the Earl of Kintore
have accepted honorary membership.

WE have to thank the Editor of the Freemasons' Chronicle, London, for copies of "The Revised Book of
Constitutions Critically Considered, and Compared with the Old Edition," and "Occasional Papers on the
History of Freemasonry." Both are reprints from the pages of the Chronicle.

THE following notice of motion was considered at the last Quarterly Convocation of the Supreme Grand
Chapter of New South Wales :—" That the regulation of Supreme Grand Chapter be so altered, if necessary,
as to allow a certificate to be issued (say similar to that of Past Master in the Craft) to every Principal of a
Royal Arch Chapter."

"A CHINESE MASONIC FUNERAL " at Baltimore, on June 1st, has been widely described in the daily press. Of
course, it was not Masonic. Every secret society is not Masonic—thank heaven. Yet some people assume to
think so. In truth they only say so—they don't think at all. If these people were to think they would be silent,
and that would kill them. Alas ! none die.—Keystone.

ON the agenda paper of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, dated June 22nd, appears the following :—
Notice of motion by Bro. S. Franklin, P.D.G.M. —" To the M.W.G. Master and the Grand Lodge, as to the p
isition of the Grand Secretary in relation to the Board of General Purposes, he having refused to answer a
question when asked officially to do so, on a matter on which the Board were entitled to information, and the
ruling of the Grand Registrar ` That the Grand Secretary is the servant of the Grand Master solely.' "

THE Rev. C. J. Byng gave a lecture under the auspices of the Auburn Literary Institute at that place on
August 13th. The lecture was entitled the "Archives of the Universe." Arguing from the eternity of matter,
the lecturer proceeded to show how records of events, &c., were preserved in the universe. He separately
dwelt on the mechanical, organic, chemical, electrical, optical, and mental results of thoughts, words, and
actions ; and expressed his belief that as man kept records on the photograph, phonograph, &c., so higher
powers had ordered indelible records to be kept of the actions, &c., of men. He presented to his audience the
imagination of a man walking through the gallery of his life.

BRO. PETER CUNNINGHAM, of Christchurch, has been appointed District Grand Master of Canterbury, under
the English Constitution.

IT is satisfactory to learn that the movement for the abolition of joining fees is spreading not only in New
Zealand, but in Australia and South Africa.

THE LODGE OF OTAGO will hold its installation on October 16th. Bro. John Wood is the Master-elect. The
Treasurer is the present Master, W. Bro. C. J. Ronaldson.

A NOVELTY in Masonic excursions took place recently. The Master and some 40 members of the
Strangeways Lodge, Manchester, visited one of the great Northwich salt mines, and spent a considerable
time beneath the surface.

A CORRESPONDENCE is going on in the London Masonic papers as to which is correct—Provincial Senior
Grand Warden, or Provincial Grand Senior Warden? We should say that there can be no doubt about the
forme- being the correct style.

THE Masonic Advocate says " That a proposition to cheaper Masonry by reducing the fee, met with but little
favour in the)Grand Lodge of Indiana," and the Illinois Freemason adds " It would be better to raise the fee,
and then give every candidate the full worth of his money."

AN article in the Tyler points out the absurdity of electing a man to an office merely because he has filled
one inferior to it. The writer well says :—" If you have a mediocre man in the S. or W., and an earnest and
enthusiastic one on the floor, put the one out and the other in ; pay no attention as to who is in the line of
promotion."

HIGHER AND SIDE DEGREES.—There is no phase of Freemasonry which is more confusing to the neophyte
and more productive of anxious thought to the advanced Masonic thinker than the notable development of
bodies, which, whilst generally speaking Masonic in their inception and government, are deviations from or
additions to the original plan of pure and antient Masonry.

AS a very useful object lesson on the Tesselated Pavement, it may be mentioned that, at the last meeting of
the Grand Lodge of England, amongst the grants of the Board of Benevolence approved, was one of £200 to
a Past Grand Deacon, and one of £100 to the widow of a Past District Grand Master. When we remember
that such positions under the Grand Lodge of England are invariably held by persons in affluent
circumstances, we realise the vicissitudes of human fortune.

A CORRESPONDENT of the London Freemason, in very proper terms, condemns what appears to be a custom
in some London Lodges—the holding after each meeting a banquet costing from half-a-guinea to a guinea
per head, it being understood that every visitor must be the guest of some member, who pays for him. The
writer of the letter says that this custom deters many worthy Masons from visiting London Lodges. So we
should think. This kind of thing is converting a Freemasons' Lodge into a club, and we are thankful that in
this part of the world we have managed to get along without it.
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TO SUBSCRIBERS AND OTHERS.
SUBSCRIPTIONS paid since August 16th :
S. Barton, Brien, Cochrane, Cooling, Findlay, Foster (10s), Gibson, Galloway, Hamilton, Heney (l0s)
Hayhurst (17s 6d), Harper (South Australia), Irvine, Joyce (Gisborne, 15s), F. W. ,Jones, Lodge Sir Walter
Scott (20s), Lodge Malvern (20s), Lode Geraldine (20s), Lodge Peninsula Kilwinning (20s), Lawson, Laing,
E. P. Lee, Millar, R. B. Macdonald, Mogridge, Mcllroy, Martin, McCullough, Matheson (Roslyn, 10s),
Osborne, O'Meeghan (17s 6d), Parmenter, Patrick (10s), Schultz (15s), Tilley, (17s 6d), Tilley (adv. 40s),
White, Webster, Watt (17s 6d), G. E. Warburton and F. C. Williams.

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