BRO. HERBERT J. W I L L I A M S
(Superintendent of Wellington.)
THE
NEW ZEALAND
CRAFTSMAN.
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A MONTHLY JOURNAL DEVOTED TO THE INTERESTS
OF THE MASONIC FRATERNITY.
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VOLUME III.
NOVEMBER, 1891 - OCTOBER, 1892.
AUCKLAND:
A. CLEAVE . Co., PRINTERS AND PUBLI TIERS, VULCAN LANE.
1892.
SUPERINTENDENT OF WELLINGTON.
IG H T WORSHIPFUL BRO. HERBERT J. WIL L IAMS was initiated in May, 1879, by the
Scotch Lodge, St. Andrews, 639, the following year affiliating to the English Constitution—
Greytown, 1720. He sat as Junior Warden in St. John's, 1888, E.G., Featherston, a Lodge of which he was
" a founder ;" and in 1881, he took the chair as Master. On leaving the Wairarapa, Greytown and St.
John's made him a life member, and both Lodges made him presentations. Since then he has been a
member of New Zealand Pacific, No. 2, N.Z.C. He is the Father of Tararua, N.Z.C., Pahiatua, opened in
November, 1890.
His forte appears to be installations, as the following showeth :—For nine successive years he installed the
Master and invested the officers of Greytown ; for seven years he did the same for St. John's. Three times has
New Zealand Pacific required his services ; Welling-ton twice ; Victory, Nelson, once. He consecrated
Tararua and installed. This was followed in August last by the consecration of Otangaki, Ashurst, and
installation of officers ; and his latest was the consecration of Rangatira—the youngest daughter of the Grand
Lodge —at Ilunterville, on the 30th of last month.
Bro. Williams' first appearance as an officer of the District Grand Lodge of Wellington was as a Steward in
1882. Six years afterwards we find him, after having been Deacon, Director of Ceremonies, and
Superintendent of Works, holding the dignified position of Senior Grand Warden.
His connection with the Grand Lodge of New Zealand may be said to date from February, 1889, when at a
specially convened meeting of Past Masters in the Wellington District, he moved and carried the first
resolution affirming the desirability of erecting a Grand Lodge for New Zealand, the following September
representing N.Z. Pacific at the Convention of Delegates. At the first Communication of Grand Lodge he
was elected Grand Director of Ceremonies, the M.W. Grand Master, by special warrant, authorising him to
visit and instruct the Lodges in his District. At the annual meeting in July last he was recommended for
appointment as Grand Superintendent.
In those higher degrees which are considered to complete the " Blue." Bro. Williams holds a distinguished
position. Advanced and exalted in 1881, he ruled the Mark of the Waterloo Chapter for three years, 1885 to
1887. He was anointed Z. in 1888, and was again elected to that position in September last.
He speaks well, is in the prime of life, the happy possessor of a good head, and plenty of common sense.
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MASONIC UNITY.
"SEE how these Masons, who preach ' brotherly love,' carry out one of the greatest of their fundamental
principles," said an outsider a few days since. " I thought," he went on to say, " that the utmost unanimity
prevailed amongst every member of that ancient body, but recent events in New Zealand have proved the
contrary. A Grand Lodge has certainly been established, but so far as I can learn only about half the Lodges
in the colony have joined it. Why is this so ? Are the members of the fraternity here incapable of managing
their affairs without the assistance of the Supreme bodies in the Mother Country, or is it considered an act of
disloyalty to those bodies that the Masons of New Zealand, many of whom have never, and probably never
will, see Great Britain, should desire to be ruled by an elective body of their own ; and endeavour to keep
within the colony the funds which for nearly the third of a century have been sent out of it. To my mind there
must be something radically wrong, something that needs enquiry, and that should in the hands of a few
right-minded and unbiassed men be easily remedied, and peace and unity reign supreme."
This gentleman's remarks are extremely pertinent, and it is to be hoped that Brothers on both sides will take
them into their earnest consideration, so that means may be devised whereby the breach which now
unhappily exists may be healed, and a united Grand Lodge formed out of the conflicting elements that will
favourably compare with those of the neighbouring colonies.
It is far from desirable that we in New Zealand should go through similar experiences as did our now happy
and united Brethren of New South Wales and Victoria ; and surely amongst our number there are whole-
souled Masons sufficient to take the matter in hand, and bring it to a peaceful and happy conclusion.
We are aware that many worthy Brothers doubt the legality of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand as a
properly constituted body, and look upon its supporters as schismatics. We take leave to question the
correctness of this, and in proof of our argument refer them to the history of the United Grand Lodge of
England. Every tyro in Masonry knows that the Grand Lodge of England is not only the oldest Grand Lodge
in existence, but the first Grand Lodge ever organised and constituted ; and that it was erected, formed,
made, established, constituted, and organised by the Lodges existing in London, whose genealogy could not,
and cannot, be traced back to any Grand Lodge, because no Grand Lodge existed prior to the year 1717. If
these facts, which may be verified from the standard works of Bro. Freke Gould, Past Grand Deacon of
England, do not show that Lodges are older than Grand Lodges ; that Lodges have made Grand Lodges ; that
there never was a Grand Lodge, and that there are none now, except such as have been made by subordinate
Lodges—then we have read Masonry to little purpose.
Our Bro. W. J. Hughan, in that valuable work, " The History of Freemasonry at York," page 67, says : "
There were no laws to decide how, when, or where the Grand Lodges should be instituted be-fore the
eighteenth century ; and certainly if a few Lodges in the south of England elected to congregate, and call
their meetings a Grand Lodge, the members of any other old Lodges had an equal right to so designate their
assemblies." Quite so, Brother Hughan ; and if the Mother of all Grand Lodges, which was established in
London in 1717, and has had an unbroken existence from its formation to the present, is a legal and
constitutional body, what else can the Grand Lodge of New Zealand be ?
It is said that the first Grand Lodge was formed by four Craft Lodges in 1717, and from the ancient records
we find that in 1723 the engraved list gives the signs of 51 houses at which Lodges were supposed to be
meeting at the time of publication, all of them being in London with the exception of two—one at the " Duke
of Chandois' Arms," at Edgworth, the other at the " Crown," at Acton—and 36 of this number returned a list
of their members to Grand Lodge in that year.
Now, if the mother Grand Lodge of the world was thus constituted, and the acts of its founders considered
legal, as undoubtedly they were, what constitutes the difference in the formation of the Grand Lodge of New
Zealand? Is it because there are Lodges of the English, Irish, and Scottish Constitutions also existent here ?
We opine not, for a reference to the written records of the first Grand Lodge shows that in 1725 an old Lodge
in the city of York, which had been held from a period so remote that it may be fairly designated " time
immemorial," formed itself into a Grand Lodge, and, either then or subsequently, assumed the high sounding
title of " Grand Lodge of ALL England "—an assumption scarcely warranted by its ultimate position and
influence. Next in relation was the Grand Lodge of the Ancients, established in London in 1753, while the
fourth Grand Lodge also, opened in London in 1779, confined its jurisdiction to the metropolis only.
So far, we think, we have given sufficient proof of the legality of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, and it
now remains for those amongst us who are Masons de fecto—who have the interests of the Craft at heart, as
all should have—to take such steps as they may deem wise to heal the breach which now exists in our midst,
and bring all the Lodges under one supreme governing body.--( Communicated. )
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MASONIC GUIDE OF NEW ZEALAND.
THERE will be no publication of the CRAFTSMAN in December, but in its place will be published THE
MASONIC GUIDE OF NEW ZEALAND, for 1892. The Guide will be illustrated, will contain full and complete
particulars of every Lodge in the colony, with points from the Constitution, and other interesting matter.
Lodges that advertise in the CRAFTSMAN will be put in with full particulars, the remainder will simply be
mentioned, with the nights of meeting. The GUIDE will be pocket size, and its guaranteed circulation will be
2000. Subscribers and advertisers will be supplied with a free copy ; other Brethren desiring copies can
purchase them for one shilling. We have an opinion that the publication of such a work as is referred to
above will supply a want that has for some years been keenly felt, and as it costs the Brethren nothing, we
have no doubt but what they will appreciate our labours. A double number of the CRAFTSMAN will be issued
in January, 1892.
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MASONIC JOURNALISM IN NEW ZEALAND.
FIVE or six Masonic papers, all being monthlies, have at different times been published in New Zealand. The
New Zealand Freemason was born in Dunedin, 6th January, 1880. On 25th January. 1884, it changed its
abode to Gisborne, and on 6th June, 1884, to Christchurch. It continued to be published at the latter city until
its amalgamation with the New Zealand Masonic Journal in May, 1888. The Craftsman first saw the light at
Christchurch in December, 1880, and died a natural death after the appearance of its fourteenth number in
January, 1882. The New Zealand Craftsman and Masonic Review came into existence at Wellington on 1st
May, 1884, and after one year of good and useful work, ceased labour on 1st April, 1885. The first number
of The New Zealand illasonic Journal appeared on 1st February, 1887, at Dunedin. It amalgamated with The
New Zealand Freemason on 1st May, 1888, and expired from want of sustenance on 2nd September, 1889.
Our own paper, the present NEW ZEALAND CRAFTSMAN, came into existence on 1st November, 1889. May
it have a longer life than its predecessors. Several years ago there was, we believe, a Masonic paper
published by Bro. Chas. de Longueville Graham, at Port Chalmers, which existed for a few months, but we
are not in possession of any particulars respecting it.
WE draw special attention to the appended letter. The subject of it is one that should meet with immediate
consideration from the Craft. Upon several points we are quite at one with our correspondent, e.g., the tribute
he pays to the zeal and ability of our present Grand Master. We agree with him also that it would be
advisable, by the precedent we set now, that it should be regarded as unwritten law that two years in
succession (exceptional cases being provided for on their merits) be the limit of tenure of the Grand
Mastership by any one Brother. The next thing then is to find a successor to Bro. H. Thomson ; and here we
are able most cordially to accept the suggestion of " Past Master." Bro. Malcolm Niecol is all that he claims
for him, and we believe his name has only to be mentioned to meet with warm and general approval. But we
cannot agree with our correspondent's final suggestion that the Grand Secretary's office can be retained at
Christchurch, while an Assistant Secretary could be appointed for Auckland. We are well assured that this
would not do. The Grand Master must be the centre of the working of Grand Lodge, and the Secretary must
be with him. Any division of the duties is not to be thought of. We feel sure that our Canterbury Brethren
will recognise this at once. Of course, in the event of the Grand Lodge being removed to Auckland, or away
from Christchurch at all, a Grand Superintendent would be needed for Canterbury
TO THE EDITOR.
DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—While the Brethren of the New Zealand Constitution feel that they are under the
greatest obligations to, and will always honour, our Grand Master for the zeal and ability he has displayed in
the onerous duties of his high office, yet it is equally our duty not to trench too much on his good nature. It is
also advisable, for many reasons, that the Grand Mastership should not be held above two years in
succession, at all events at the present, by any one Brother. It is, therefore, the opinion of many members of
the Craft that, at the meeting of Grand Lodge in January, a Brother should be nominated to succeed Bro.
Thomson. I feel sure that the Grand Superintendent of Auckland, R.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol would be
acceptable, as he is known to all of us as being a Brother of great experience and zeal, who, during his long
Masonic career, has proved that he possesses the ability to perform the duties of the highest offices with
credit to himself and satisfaction to his Brethren. While the venue of the office (as it always was intended)
would be changed, it could be done without disorganising the administration, as the Deputy Grand Master
could be appointed in the South. Our Grand Secretary could keep his office, and concentrate his work at
Christchurch, and the Assistant Grand Secretary could assist the Grand Master at Auckland; and other
requisite changes be made without friction.—I am, (Sze.,
PAST MASTER.
Auckland, November 4th, 1891.
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FOR reasons which it is unnecessary to enlarge upon, the proprietor of this journal had of necessity to let Bro.
James Edward McKelvey, Past Senior Grand Warden, leave the colony without bidding him a Masonic
Godspeed. Between the proprietor and Bro. McKelvey there has existed a sincere friendship of some years'
standing, and we regret his departure exceedingly. Ever ready to stop a gap, always willing to take any office
from Inner Guard to First Principal, an adviser in times of difficulty, and a friend whose friendship was
honest, he has endeared himself to every member of the Fraternity, from the Waitaki to the Bluff. A jovial
soul. He has done more for the Grand Lodge of New Zealand by his wit and humour than any other man in
the South Island. Consistent in his opinions re the Grand Lodge, he has the honour of being one of the ex-
communicated—that won't be a drawback where he is going to—Tasmania. Whatever Lodge, under the
Grand Lodge of Tasmania, accepts Bro. McKelvey as a member, will get a Brother who has the best wishes
of the Brethren of Otago and Southland for his welfare.
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OUR readers will note that the leading article, " Masonic Unite," is marked " Communicated." We are
enabled to announce that it is from the pen of a distinguished Brother, who is at present on " the other side."
We deem the tone of the article to be an excellent augury for the future, as, if the liberal sentiments breathed
in it are shared to any large extent by other eminent Brethren, th; day to which we look forward with
longing—the day when true Masonic " solidarity " shall obtain over our favoured land—cannot now be very
far off.
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THE District Grand Lodges have recommended their Lodges to decline consideration of petitions for relief,
unless they are accompanied by the sanction of the Boards of Benevolence of the Districts from whence the
appeals emanate. We do not disagree with this recommendation, only we think it comes rather late in the
day. Had it been adopted years ago, many Lodges who have now no funds would be in possession of
Benevolent Funds, and be able to support their own distressed Brethren without appealing to the general
body on each occasion. This recommendation of the District Grand Lodge shuts out Lodges under the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand from petitioning their sister Lodges still holding under England, Ireland, and
Scotland. In self defence Grand Lodge will have to recommend its Lodges to decline giving relief to those
outside its fold, otherwise there will be a constant drain upon the resources of its Lodges, without the
prospect of any return.
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WE trust our readers—especially those who keep the CRAFTSMAN for reference—will appreciate the labours
of Bro. W. H. Clark, Junior Warden of Lodge Mokoreta, Southland District, in compiling the index to
volumes 1 and 2, which accompany this issue.
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THE Grand Master of Victoria, Bro. the Hon. Sir W. J. Clarke, Bart., goes to England for fifteen months.
LORD CARRINGTON is writing a book upon Australia. Chief Justice Way will contribute a chapter upon "
Masonry in the Colonies."
IS THIS TRUE ?--At a certain city Lodge—the Grand Inspector of Workings being present—after a candidate
had been admitted, an officer of the Lodge remarked that the candidate was drunk! Candidate removed; the
H.W. to see his accuser ! Tableau ! Ultimately candidate was removed to ante-room ; examined ; pronounced
sober ; refused to be initiated ; demanded his money back; was paid ; and let go ? Who is to blame?—
Chronicle, Sydney.
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POETRY
TO THE CANDIDATE.
My friend, before the closed door,
Look, for a little, on the floor
So rough and rugged, foot-worn deep
By those whose hoarts our secrets keep ;
Thousands of men have walked this way—
The wise, the great, the high, the low,
The rich, the poor—all equal go,
As all must go to God—some day.
Beyond this door are mysteries vast,
Our heritage from out a past
Whose numbered years no tongue can say.
A symbol-language, perfect, true,
Beyond this portal waiteth you,
God-given, in those ages when
Jehovah walked and talked with men ;
Old—when our English speech began ;
Old—when Christ died on earth for man ;
Old—when the Temple rose to view ;
Old when the Pyramids were new.
Forget your wealth ; it is but dross.
Count rank and honours less than loss,
Keep, for this path which must be trod,
Nothing but steadfast faith in God.
For all things else are mean and low;
Faith—deep as is earth's primal rock ;
Faith — strong to stand life's earnest shock.
Now, reverently, to knowledge go,
Lift up thy hand—and knock !
BRO CLARENCE M. BOUTELLE.
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GRAND LODGES.
NEW ZEALAND.
THE Quarterly Communication was held at the St. Augustine Masonic Hall, Christchurch, on Tuesday,
October 13th, 1891.
Opening of the Grand Lodge.—The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form with solemn prayer by the
Grand Chaplain, Bro. the Rev. D. J. Murray.
PRESENT.
M.W. Bro. Henry Thomson... ... Grand Master
R.W. Bro. Herbert J. Williams ... Grand Supt., Wellington
R.W. Bro. A. H. Burton ... ... Grand Supt., Otago
R.W. Bro. C. A. C. Hardy, P.P.B. of G.P. As Senior Grand Warden
R.W. Bro. D. Greig ... .. As Junior Grand Warden
V.W. Bro. Rev. D. J. Murray ... Grand Chaplain
V.W. Bro. Albert Kaye ... ... Grand Treasurer
V.W. Bro. John Joyce ... Grand Registrar
V.W. Bro Rev. Wm. Ronaldson ... Grand Secretary
W. Bro. McNab Lyttleton … President, Board of Benev.
V.W. Bro. A. R. Kirk, P.P.B of Benev. .. As Senior Grand Deacon
W. Bro. John C. Revell ... ... As G. Dir. of Ceremonies
W. Bro. John Thompson.. ... Grand Sword Bearer
W. Bro. Colin Cook ... ... Grand Steward
W. Bro. Alfred White ... ... Grand Steward
W. Bro. F. W. Francis ... ... Grand Steward
W. Bro. F. C. Brown ... Grand Steward
W. Bro. W. R. May ... ... Grand Steward
W. Bro. John Macpherson Murray ... Grand Steward
AND
The Masters, Past Masters, and Wardens of many Lodges from all parts of the territory. There were also
many visitors present.
Apologies.—A very large number of letters and telegrams were received by the Grand Secretary from all
absent Grand Officers, including R.W. Bros. E. T. Gillon and D. H. Macarthur, both of whom were unable to
attend on account of serious illness, as well as from the Masters, Past Masters, and Wardens, all regretting
their inability to attend, and tendering their very hearty good wishes and congratulations.
Minutes.—The Minutes of the Annual Communication, held in Wellington on July 6th last, were read and
confirmed.
Grand Treasurer's Balance.—The Grand Treasurer announced that the balance to the credit of Grand
Lodge was £206 Os. 9d.
Reports.--The Report of the Board of Benevolence was then read and adopted :
THE BOARD OF BENEVOLENCE in their report stated that one urgent application for relief had been received,
which was at once relieved to the amount of £5 ; and announced that the amount to the credit of the fund was
£224 12s. 8d.
The Report of the Board of General Purposes was as follows
THE BOARD OF GENERAL PURPOSES has to report that the business of the Grand Lodge, since its last
Communication, has been regularly carried on, with earnestness on the part of the Lodges, and with
satisfaction to the Board.
1. ROLL OF LODGES.—Acting under the instructions of Grand Lodge at its last Communication, the
Board has prepared as far as possible, the Roll of Lodges in the terms of Art. 11 of the Basis of Union, that
"each lodge shall be entitled to precedence on the Grand Lodge Roll according to the date of its original
Charter or Dispensation. Owing to the dilatoriness of some Lodges in not giving the Board these dates, delay
has taken place, and hindered the completion of the Roll.
A difference of opinion has arisen on the part of Lodges New Zealand Pacific and Ara as to the priority of
their respective Lodges on the Roll. The Dispensation of Lodge Ara is dated Sept. 5th, 1842 ; that of Lodge
N.Z. Pacific, Sept. 9th, 1842. As the Basis of Union clearly states that " the date of the Charter or
Dispensation " shall entitle priority on the Roll, the Board has no option in the matter.
2. RECOGNITION BY GRAND LODGES.—Since the last Communication of Grand Lodge the Board has
received a most graceful and courteous letter from the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, extending fraternal
recognition in the most ample manner to this Grand Lodge, and recommending P.M. Bro. Colin McNab, of
Eastern Star Lodge, No 51, Dartmouth, to be the Grand Representative near their Grand Lodge of this Grand
Lodge ; and asking our Grand Master to recommend a Worthy Brother to whom a Commission will be sent
to be their Representative near this Grand Lodge.
GRAND ORIENT OF BELGIUM.—A communication from this Grand Body has been received, in which the
name of Count Goblet d'Alviellea, Past Grand Master (with the names of the Grand Orator and the Grand
Director of Ceremonies) is submitted to be the Representative of this Grand Lodge near their Grand Body,
and asking the Grand Master that a Brother may be recommended to be their Representative near this Grand
Lodge.
Resolutions accepting these recommendations will be laid before Grand Lodge.
3. NEW LODGES.--Since last Grand Lodge met the Lodge Otangaki, at Ashurst, has been opened.
Dispensations have been issued for Lodges Hokianga, at Kohu Kohu, and Rangatira, at Hunterville. They
will be duly constituted, consecrated, and opened shortly after this Communication. A petition has also been
received for opening the Lodge Otaki, at Otaki, which will be attended to in due course. The Board has also
been informed that other applications will shortly be made.
4. BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS.—Since receiving from the Committee (appointed by Grand Lodge to draft
the Book of Constitutions) the draft copy as prepared and then forwarded to the Lodges, your Board has
given much care and attention to it, and also in considering the suggested recommendations that have been
sent in by the Lodges, and the result will now be laid before you for final consideration and adoption. Wor.
Bro. Hulbert has been requested by the Board to introduce and to explain any alterations in the Book of
Constitutions as at present printed.
5. WARRANTS.—The M.W. the Grand Master having submitted to the Board of General Purposes, for its
consideration, an application from the District Grand Lodge of Canterbury, E.G., for the return of the
Warrants of those Lodges which have transferred their allegiance to this Grand Lodge, the Board begs to
recommend a resolution which will be submitted to Grand Lodge.
CONCLUSION.—As it is very evident that the time of Grand Lodge will be fully occupied by the
consideration of the Book of Constitutions, and as the Board has no further business to notice, the present
report is made as brief as possible.
(Signed) JAMES L. FENERTY, President.
St. Augustine's Hall, Christchurch,
October 12th, 1891.
The reports of the Board of Benevolence and the Board of General Purposes were both adopted.
Report of the Auckland District:
BY THE GRAND SUPERINTENDENT, R.W. BRO. MALCOLM NICCOL. The following extracts are given :
HOKIANGA LODGE.—Matters are now all properly arranged for opening on the 24th inst., and I fully expect a
large number of Brethren to accompany me on the occasion. There is every promise of our establishing a
thriving Lodge in Hokianga.
DISTRICT BOARD OF GENERAL GENERAL PURPOSES.— This matter has progressed so far that all now
required is the Grand Master's formal permission to establish the local Board, as provided for in section 44 of
Grand Lodge Laws. Five Lodges in my District have passed resolutions affirming the desirability of
establishing local Boards of General Purposes and Benevolence, and three more will do so at their first
meeting. One Lodge declined doing so because they have recently inaugurated a Benevolent Fund in
connection with their own Lodge—Coromandel.
FUNDS FOR DISTRICT BOARDS.—The Lodges composing the Board would each make a voluntary
contribution to pay necessary expenses, and Grand Lodge will, no doubt, allow us to tax ourselves if we see
fit to do so. Then we propose that fees for dispensations granted by the Superintendent, and lines imposed by
the District Board, shall go to the District Fund. In the event of the Grand Master being resident in Auckland
at any time, the office of Grand Superintendent would, I presume, not be filled, but the District Board need
not necessarily go out of existence, although its functions would be very considerably curtailed; this is, how-
ever, a contingency (I mean the Grand Master being elected in Auckland) so remote that we need scarcely
speculate on its effect in relation to local affairs, which could very easily be adjusted when the occasion
arises.
BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS.—On the 24th ult. I wired you a " precis " of the alterations the Auckland Lodges
have agreed upon, so that these might be laid before the Board of General Purposes next day. Our Lodges are
nearly unanimous in favour of the English ballot system. The I.C. naturally cling to what they have been
accustomed to, namely, one B.B. excludes, and even these are content with its being optional to Lodges to
make it one, two, or three.
MASONIC MATTERS generally are extremely quiet, and will, I expect, continue so until December, when a
number of installations in our Lodges take place.
Wishing you a numerously attended and successful meeting on Tuesday.
I am, &c.
Report of the Wellington District:
BY THE GRAND SUPERINTENDENT, R.W. BRO. HERBERT J. WILLIAMS. The following extracts are given :
INTRODUCTION.—In submitting my quarterly report to Grand Lodge I first desire to express the sorrow and
regret experienced throughout the Wellington District at the protracted illness of our worthy and
distinguished Brother, P.D.G. Master Gillon, whose condition causes serious anxiety to his many friends.
Although suffering from great physical debility, and at intervals intense pain, his mental powers are
unimpaired, and he is ever ready to assist Masonry with his invaluable advice ; personally I am much
indebted to him. I am sure that members of Grand Lodge will join with the Wellington Brethren in the hope
that he may speedily be restored to health and a participation in our Masonic work, in which he has taken
such an active and prominent part, and from which he could ill be spared.
The progress made in my district since the Annual Communication is most gratifying to myself, and will, I
am sure, be hailed with general satisfaction.
OTANGAKI LODGE.—This Lodge was constituted on August 26th, at which ceremony I was ably assisted by
Grand Stewards Walkley, Tippler, and Jack ; P.M. Lindsay of Wellington, and the I.M.s of the Manawatu
and Feilding Lodges. The numerical strength of the new Lodge is small, and the district limited, but the
absence of number appears to be compensated for in enthusiasm, as a large amount of expense has been
incurred in the erection of a most commodious hall, and the purchase of complete furniture and regalia.
RANGATIRA LODGE.—A petition has been forwarded from Hunterville district for the formation of a Lodge
to be called the Rangatira. There are some fifteen or twenty Masons in the district, which is a rising one ;
some of them are well skilled in the Craft, and many more eligible persons are desirous of obtaining
admission. It is proposed to constitute it immediately after my return from the Grand Lodge and it should
prove a valuable addition to the register of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.
OTAKI LODGE.—Last week I transmitted a petition from a number of Masons in Otaki, a town 50 miles from
Wellington on the one side, and not quite so far from Palmerston North on the other side, with no Lodges
intervening. In this instance there are two P.M.'s resident in the township, while several of the Brethren are
live, active members of Lodges, so that the proposed new Lodge will not suffer from the want of proper
instruction, or from ignorant administration. From a personal knowledge of some of the promoters, I predict
a useful and prosperous career for the Otaki Lodge. The Brethren desire to open at or near the November full
moon, when I anticipate a large attendance of Wellington members, who will assist at the ceremony.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE, FEATHERSTON.—I am pleased to state that this Lodge has acquired renewed vitality, and
that the able administration of the W.M. Bro. the Rev. Thomas 1'orritt, Grand Chaplain, assisted by his
officers and Brethren, has restored it to a thoroughly healthy state. Several Brethren have lately joined, and
the W.M. has has his hands full with candidates for admission. The installation takes place on Thursday next,
when Bro. Toogood, one of the Charter members, and also one of the original members, of Lodge Waterloo,
will be installed.
The other Lodges throughout the District are prospering, and call for no special comment. I have commenced
a series of visitations, which will be continued as opportunity offers.
BENEVOLENCE.—A case of great distress in the family of a late Brother and P.M. of St. Andrew's Lodge, has
just been brought under my notice, and will be duly submitted to the Board of Benevolence,* which will, I
hope, supplement the efforts being made by the Wellington Lodges to assist the widow and fatherless.
* A grant of £10 was at once made by the Board of Benevolence.
I desire in conclusion, to express my acknowledgments to V.W. Bro. George Robertson, for his able and
valuable assistance and co-operation, at all times so cheerfully rendered.
Resolutions as suggested by the Board of General Purposes :-
1. WARRANTS.—" That inasmuch as no reply has been received from the Most Worshipful the Grand
Master of the Grand Lodge of England, to two letters from the Most Worshipful the Grand Master of this
Grand Lodge, dated respectively May 1st and June 12th, 1990—each containing a request that the Lodges
which have transferred their allegiance to this Grand Lodge may be permitted to retain their Warrants, as was
done in Australia—and as the Grand Lodge of England, when discussing the application for recognition
evidently intended acceding to this request when more unanimity prevails, the Most Worshipful the Grand
Master be requested to retain possession of the said Warrants."
Carried unanimously.
2. GRAND LODGE OF NOVA SCOTIA.—That this Grand Lodge desires to acknowledge the courteous and
fraternal recognition extended to this Grand Lodge by the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, and reciprocating
this fraternal spirit, cordially accepts the Worshipful Bro. Colin McNab to be the representative of this Grand
Lodge ; and on the recommendation of the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, submits the name of the
Right Worshipful Bro. Malcolm Niccol as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia near
this Grand Lodge.
Carried unanimously.
3. GRAND ORIENT OF BELGIUM.—" That this Grand Lodge desires to reciprocate the fraternal spirit
shown by the Grand Orient of Belgium, and accepts, with pleasure, its recommendation of Count Goblet
d'Allviellea, Pt. Gr. Master, as the Representative of this Grand Lodge near their Grand Body ; and on the
recommendation of the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, submits the name of W. Bro. Huntly John Harry
Eliott, P.M., as Grand Representative of the Grand Orient of Belgium near this Grand Lodge."
Carried unanimously.
Commissions.—The receipt of the following commissions for Grand Representatives was then announced :
1. From the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, appointing as Grand Representative the V. Wor. Bro.
R. C. Bishop, Pt. Dist. Gr. Treasurer.
2. From the Grand Lodge of Tasmania, appointing as Grand Representative the R. Wor. Bro. Vincent
Pyke, Pt. Prov. Gr. Master.
3. From the Grand Lodge of South Australia, appointing as Grand Representative the R. Wor. Bro.
C. P. Hulbert, P.D.S.G.W.
Commissions Presented.—Wor. Bros. Bishop and Hulbert being present, had their connnissions presented
to them by the Grand Mater.
Grand Representatives Saluted.—The Brethren were then called upon to salute the Grand Representatives
with the G. and R. S. five times.
Bros. Bishop and Hulbert acknowledged the same.
Vote of Sympathy.—" That this Grand Lodge desires to express its condolence with the Rt. Wor. Bros. E. T.
Gillon and D. H. Macarthur at their unavoidable absence from Grand Lodge, owing to serious illness, and
joins the Wellington and other Brethren in the expression of the hope that they may be speedily restored to
health, and resume participation in our Masonic work."—Carried unanimously.
Book of Constitutions.—The Book of Constitutions was then taken up for consideration, Wor. Bro. Hulbert
being in charge of the same, and explaining where necessary the alterations made in the draft copy of the
Book, as sent down by the Wellington Committee appointed to prepare the same, together with the
suggestions and recommendations from the different Lodges, as received by the Board of General Purposes.
Call from Labour to Refreshment.—At 9.50 p.m., having reached as far as Rule 42, the Grand Master "
called off " the Grand Lodge for half-an-hour.
Labour Resumed.—At 10.20 p.m. the Grand Lodge again took up the further consideration thereof.
Revision Completed.—After considering the several Rules as far as 69, it was then, owing to the late hour,
moved by W. Bro. De Renzy, seconded by W. Bro. Greig, " That the Grand Lodge adopt all the remaining
clauses as far as Rule 190, as recommended by the Board of General Purposes."—Carried.
(Note.—The alterations or amendments in this part of the Book are only few in number.)
The consideration of Rules 191 to end were then taken seriatim, and finally passed.
Book of Constitutions Adopted.—On the completion of the work, it was then put by the Grand Master,
"That these Laws be adopted," and it was carried unanimously.
Roll Of Lodges.—It was then moved, " That a circular letter be sent to those Lodges which have not sent in
the date of charter or dispensation, informing them that the Roll of Lodges will be made up within a month
from this date, and that those Lodges which have not sent in the necessary information will have to be placed
at the end of the Grand Lodge Roll of Lodges."—Carried.
Proceedings of Grand Lodges.—The Grand Secretary announced the receipt of the reports of the following
Grand Lodges : — Massachusetts, January, March, and June, 1891 ; Manitoba, 1891 ; and a complete set of
the reports of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, 1878-1889. Grand Secretaries will kindly accept our
thanks. Complete sets of the reports of this Grand Lodge have been returned, as our best acknowledgment.
Closing of Grand Lodge.—Grand Lodge was closed in ample form with solemn prayer by the Grand
Chaplain, Bro. the Rev. D. J. Murray, at 12.15 a.m.
______________________________
ENGLAND.
THE Quarterly Communication was held on the night of Wednesday, September 2nd. The following was the
most important business brought before Grand Lodge :
Bro. Philbrick, Q.C., G. Reg., brought up an appeal by the Worshipful Master and Brethren of Lodge La
Caesaree, No. 590, Jersey, against a sentence of suspension passed on the Lodge by the Provincial Grand
Master of the Province of Jersey for wilful and deliberate disobedience of his orders. As the Worshipful
Master and Junior Warden of Lodge La Cæsarée were in attendance in the porch, on the motion of the Grand
Registrar, duly seconded, it was resolved by Grand Lodge that they be admitted.
Sir Albert Woods then proceeded to the porch, and conducted the Master and Junior Warden of the Lodge to
the right of the Grand Master on the throne, below the dais.
Bro. Philbrick then stated the case, the short facts of which were that in November, 1890, Bro. John Durell, a
P.M. of Lodge La Ciesaree, a member of something like 20 years and upwards, who had served the chair
three times, and had been treasurer of the Lodge, wrote a letter to the W.M. stating that he had just received a
letter from his son Walter, who was in Mashonaland, South Africa, who had been a member of the Lodge,
asking for a certificate of clearance, as he was one of some Brethren who were applying for a warrant for a
new Lodge out there. According to the minutes of the Lodge it was decided that the demand ought to be
made by Bro. Walter Durell himself, and they sent this to Bro. John Durell in a letter in which they said if
Bro. Walter Durell did apply it should be at once granted. The letter, which was signed by the Master, said
he would be pleased to be of service to him. It was explained that to get a farther authority from Bro. Walter
Durell would cause a delay of six months, and Bro. John Durell again wrote to the Lodge drawing their
attention to Rule 213 of the Book of Constitutions, which says, " Whenever a member of any Lodge shall
resign, or be excluded, or whenever, at a subsequent time, he may require it, he shall be furnished with a
certificate stating the circumstances under which he left the Lodge ; and such certificate is to be required by,
and to be produced to, any other Lodge of which he is proposed to be admitted a member, previously to the
ballot being taken." He proceeded to say he would not ask as a favour what was a matter of right. At the
meeting of the Lodge, when the first letter came, no Brother was present who had recognised Walter Durell
as a member of the Lodge, although he had been a member for ten years, and although his name was in the
printed list of members. After the certificate had been refused at the second meeting, Bro. John Durell
appealed to the Prov. Grand Master. The Master and Wardens were summoned along with Bro. Durell before
him, and the Prov. Grand Master heard the complaint. The Prov. Grand Master thought the matter might be
arranged by Bro. Durell attending the Lodge, and producing the letter from his son, and that then the Lodge
would grant the certificate in that case the Prov. Grand Master would not have to pronounce any decision.
But before the next Lodge, at which the father promised to produce the letter, he had been told by some
Brother that if he attended he would be refused admission. Bro. Philbrick said he hoped, in justice to the
Lodge, this was an unauthorised communication, but the consequence was the father did not attend. The
matter went again before the Prov. Grand Master, and, in the result, he suspended the Lodge. Bro. Philbrick
thought the interpretation of Rule 213 came now, for the first time, before Grand Lodge, but the
interpretation was very plain. It was usual, no doubt, to prefer the request for a certificate in Lodge, or for the
Brother who wanted it to write to the Lodge ; but whether a Brother was popular or unpopular in a Lodge, it
was his right to have a certificate of clearance and of the circumstances under which he left the Lodge. What
harm on earth could it do ? It was of no money value ; it could not be used like a bill of exchange. However,
the Lodge decided that the Brother requiring the certificate must apply in his own handwriting, and, that
unless he did they could not grant it. Considering Bro. John Durell's position, and his long membership of
the Lodge, he thought the Lodge was bound to take his word that he was authorised by his son to make the
application. Under the circumstances, he would move--" That the appeal be dismissed, and this Grand Lodge
doth suspend Lodge La Cresaree until it makes due submission to the Provincial Grand Master, and
apologises to him for its past disobedience."
The Earl of Euston seconded. The Lodge, he thought, had acted against all Masonic rules, and in absolute
antagonism to its Provincial Grand Master.
The Junior Warden of Lodge La Ciesaree said he had been asked by the W.M. to address the Grand Lodge
for him in support of the appeal. Bro. Walter Durell became a member of Lodge La Causarde in 1877, and
left it in July, 1880. As Bro. Philbrick had stated, when the demand for a certificate was made in November,
1890, no one was present in the Lodge who knew Bro. Walter Durell had belonged to it. No mention of his
name was to be found in any of the Lodge records. It was only in the rules, to which, unfortunately, it never
occurred to any of them to refer. Therefore, as no Brother knew him, they thought it would be better for Bro.
Walter Durell to write to the Lodge himself. To this effect the Worshipful Master wrote to Bro. John Durell.
At that time it did not occur to them that any difficulty would arise as to the construction of Rule 213, and
that Bro. Walter Durell had not himself asked for it. As delay would occur, the Worshipful Master himself
wrote to Bro. John Durell asking him to send the authority by which he claimed the certificate for his son. It
was then that Bro. Durell wrote that he would not ask as a favour for that which he had a right to, and he
referred to Rule 213. It was after that the Lodge found that Bro. Walter Durell had not asked for it himself
either verbally or in writing, and that Bro. John Durell had in writing absolutely refused, notwithstanding the
demands of the W.M., to give any proof that he held the authorisation from Bro. Walter Durell directing him
to ask for the certificate of the latter. That was the clear position of the Lodge on January 8th, 1891. They
stated clearly at that date before any complaints had been made to the Prov. Grand Master that they were
prepared to give a clearance certificate to Bro. Walter Durell as soon as he asked for it himself or by his
representative. He asked the Grand Lodge to remember the dates. Nearly a month after—in February,
1891—Bro. John Durell sent a complaint in writing to the Prov. Grand Master, and a copy was sent to the
Lodge, with a request that they should attend. The W.M. on attending the Prov. Grand Master, presented a
statement of facts. The Lodge thought Bro. John Durell's conduct vexatious, and it was pointed out that he
had persistently refused to produce the letter of his son, and this created the impression that he was not
authorised to act. He produced it to the Prov. Grand Master, and promised him to produce it to the Lodge,
but did not do so. He (the J.W.), contented that if the Lodge was suspended, it could not, during its
suspension, grant a certificate ; it could exercise no Masonic rights or privileges.
Bro. Justice Prinsep, speaking as belonging to a distant province, said he had never seen such a cloud as that
raised up by the Brethren of Lodge La Cresaree. One would think that the matter was one between Bro. John
Durell, the father, and the Lodge. But where was the poor son all the time? Could he obtain any Masonic
rights ; could he assist the cause of Freemasonry by joining in starting a new Lodge ? No ; he was prevented
by the refusal of his mother Lodge. When the son was away in a distant land, what was more natural than
that he should write to his father to get him a certificate. If they had had any doubts about the authenticity of
the application they might have sent a registered letter to the son.
He had always understood that it was one of the first motives of Freemasonry to endeavour to act
harmoniously with one another, and to work smoothly and easily, and facilitate the cause of Masonry as far
as in their power. It appeared to him that here there had been every endeavour to take advantage of technical
quibbles.
Bro. Philbrick having replied,
Bro. James Stevens (the Master and J.W. of Lodge La Ciesaree having retired while Grand Lodge
deliberated), contented that according to Rule 213, the application must be made by the Brother himself, and
that a Prov. Grand Master could not override the Book of Constitutions.
A division was then taken, but without the numbers being counted, it was clear that a large majority were in
favour of the dismissal of the appeal, and the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe so declared it.
The W.M. and J.W. of Lodge La Cresaree were then sent for, and on their being conducted to the Grand
Master in the chair, his lordship informed them that this question had been very carefully considered, that
Grand Lodge had divided upon the subject, but a majority—a decided majority—found in favour of the
motion that was made by the Grand Registrar. The motion was, " That the appeal be dismissed, and that this
Grand Lodge doth suspend Lodge La Cresaree until it makes due submission to the Prov. Grand Master, and
apologises to him for its past disobedience."
The Master and J.W. then bowed and retired, and the Grand Lodge was closed.
_________________________________
SCOTLAND.
THE Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Scotland was held on Thursday afternoon, August 6th,
in the Freemasons' Hall, George street, Edinburgh. The attendance was not very numerous, but there was a
very fair representation. The throne was occupied by the Right Hon. Lord Saltoun, Senior Grand Warden,
Acting Grand Master. The minutes of the Quarterly Communication held in May last were approved. A
question put by Bro. Muir (579) as to whether written minutes of communications to Grand Lodge were
kept, and when they were usually signed, was answered by Grand Secretary to the effect that the information
could be had at his office. On the complaint of Lodge No. 579, Uddingston, against the Provincial Grand
Lodge of the Middle Ward of Lanark-shire, respecting a bye-law which states " that at the annual audit, as at
30th November, any balance above ten pounds sterling, standing at the credit of the General Fund shall be
transferred to the Benevolent Fund," which the complainers hold is contrary to the Constitution and Laws,
Rule 149, the Committee found that the bye-law complained of is not inconsistent with the law of the Grand
Lodge as contained in Rule 149, and that the law does not prohibit the Benevolent Fund of a Provincial
Grand Lodge being augmented by money being transferred to it by a Provincial Grand Lodge from its other
sources, and the complaint was dismissed accordingly. It was reported that Bro..James Berry, Provincial
Grand Master of Forfarshire, acting under remit from Grand Committee, had inquired into the alleged
irregularities in connection with a recent initiation in Lodge Ancient, Dundee, No. 49, and had found that an
irregularity had been committed. He had pointedly drawn the attention of the Lodge to its violation of Rule
171 of the Constitution, and of one of its own bye-laws. The Master and other members express their deep
regret and apology. As resolved by Grand Committee, it was decided that in the special circumstances of the
case no diploma be issued. Bro. Sir Hector Munro, Baronet, Provincial Grand Master of Ross and Cromarty,
re-ported that—" The Provincial Grand Lodge of Ross and Cromarty was fully constituted, and office-
bearers, commissioned and elective, installed on 14th February last. The Provincial Grand Master had, in
company with his officers, visited all the Lodges in the province, with the exception of Cromarty, and had
found them in an efficient and prosperous condition. He has also the pleasure of reporting that the opening of
the Grand Provincial Lodge has had a stimulating effect on Masonry within the province." The death of Bro.
Captain Sir Henry Morland, Grand Master of All Scottish Freemasonry in India, at Bombay, on the 28th
inst., was reported, and it was resolved to present an address of condolence to Lady Morland. A motion
proposed by Bro. T. Caldwell (-124), " That every candidate for Freemasonry must be at least 21 years of
age," with an addition suggested by Bro. Dr. Dickson, " That sons of Freemasons may be entered at the age
of 18." was carried by 40 votes against 28 for the previous question. Notice of motion was submitted by Bro.
Jas. Taylor, jun., R.W,M., 3 Isis :—" For the purpose of strengthening the Benevolent Fund of the Grand
Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodges of Scotland, and of increasing the interest of Freemasons in these funds,
it be resolved that, in addition to the annual test fee, every member of the Craft belonging to a Lodge holding
of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, shall pay annually the sum of one shilling to the Grand Lodge Benevolent
Fund, and one shilling to the Benevolent Fund of his Provincial Grand Lodge or for life membership, one
guinea to each of these funds." Bro. Dalrymple Duncan gave notice that he would move at the next Grand
Lodge meeting, " That a ceremony other than that presently in use be prepared for the opening and closing of
Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodges." The following notices of motion were tabled by Bro. James
Muir, R.W.M., 579 :—lst, "That Grand Secretary obtain and prepare a return of the dates of the appointments
of the Provincial Grand Masters. and the dates when their commissions were last renewed. Also, how many
meetings have been held by each P.G. Lodge each year during the past five years ; how often each Lodge has
been visited by the P.G.M. in his province, and the number of occasions degrees have been conferred on
Candidates at such visits, apart from the usual inquiry into the manner of keeping the books, &c., of the
Lodge. And, further, how often has each P.G.M. re-ported to Grand Lodge the result of their examination
into the state of Freemasonry in their respective provinces " 2nd, " That in view of the allegations made by
one or two Brethren at the Quarterly Communication in May last as to the manner in which proxy
commissions to sit as members of Grand Lodge are obtained, and as the present system appears to be open to
abuse, Grand Lodge hereby resolves to appoint a special committee to inquire into the whole subject, with
full power to summon witnesses and to call for productions. And, further, to recommend what changes, if
any, should be made in the proxy system, more especially with regard to proxy commissions issued by
lodges Furth of Scotland."
Sir. Arch. C. Campbell Bart declined to be again nominated as Grand Master Mason of Scotland. The Right
Hon. the Earl of Haddington has been elected.
_________________________________________
CANADA.
The thirty-sixth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Canada was held in the Grand Opera House
on the 22nd of last June. The Grand Master—M.W. Bro. J. Ross Robertson—opened Grand Lodge at 11 a.m.
Throughout the session the building was crowded to its utmost capacity.
350 Lodges on the roll ; 60 per cent. active and prosperous ; 30 per cent., while in semi-prosperous state, are
showing signs of improvement ; 7 per cent. are weak, and 3 per cent. are either dormant or dead. The
primary cause of trouble in Lodges, says the Grand Master, is due to the election to the East of Brethren who
are utterly incompetent, not to say indifferent, and who are honoured either from personal popularity or by
persistent canvassing for office. The Grand Master, while recognising and appreciating the zeal, ability, and
worth of the District Deputy Grand Masters (equivalent to our Superintendents), fails to see why the framers
of the Constitution should have considered that they were entitled to a seat upon the Board of General
Purposes, as they are, in his opinion, only the deputies of the Grand Master in their respective districts.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
THE Manawatu Daily Times says that at the Masonic banquet held at Hunterville on October 30th., special
reference was made to the exertions of Bro. W. Forrest in connection with the establishment of the Lodge
Rangatira. Bro. Macarthur, in the course of his speech, pointed out that Lodges in outposts such as
Hunterville formed a rallying point for social intercourse and the cultivation of fraternal feeling, reference to
topics of political or religious nature being rigorously excluded by the Craft.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
INSTALLATIONS
OTAGO DISTRICT.
LODGE ST. GEORGE, No. 1128, E.C., LAWRENCE.—The installation of Worshipful Master and investiture of
officers took place in the Masonic Hall, Lawrence, on the evening of Thursday, October 15th, in the presence
of a large assemblage of members and visiting Brethren. The Lodge having been opened, the R.W.D.G.M. of
Otago and Southland, E.C. (Bro. T. S. Graham), the V.W. acting D.D.G.M. (Bro. Sydney James), and D.
Grand Lodge officers were announced, admitted, and received with full Masonic honours. The ceremony of
installation was conducted by the R.W.D.G.M. in a manner which evoked expressions of general admiration;
and the investiture of officers was performed by the newly installed Worshipful Master in a graceful manner.
Able assistance was also rendered by the V.W.D.D.G.M. and P.M.'s Jeffrey, Chalmers, Sutherland, and
Dimant. The proceedings were enlivened by a number of appropriate selections rendered by the Lodge choir.
Bro. W. G. Urquhart acted as organist, and in that capacity contributed materially to the success of the
evening's ceremonies. Bro. W. M. Hindmarsh was duly installed Worshipful Master for the current Masonic
term. The following Brethren were invested with the collar and jewel of their respective offices :—I.P.M., A.
W. Tyndall ; S.W., W. Rolfe ; Treasurer, P.M. Jeffrey ; Secretary, W. G. Urquhart ; S.D., J. K. Simpson ;
J.D., W. O. Brown ; Tyler, P.M. W. Sutherland. The investiture of Bros. John Thompson and R.
Montgomery, who were appointed to the offices of J.W. and I.G., respectively, was postponed, owing to
their unavoidable absence. The labours of the evening being ended, the Brethren adjourned to the Victoria
Hotel, where host Bro. R. Montgomery had prepared a bountiful and varied supply of " substantialities." The
Worshipful Master (Bro. Hindmarsh), occupied the chair, having on his right the R.W.D.G.M., and on his
left the V.W.D.D.G.M. and Bro. Dr. Cunningham, D.G.S.B. The toasts of " The Queen and the Craft," " The
Most Worshipful Grand Master," and " The Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland " were disposed
of in a loyal and patriotic manner. A number of other toasts were proposed and duly responded to. Vocal
selections were contributed by Bros. Brown, Urquhart, Simpson, Falconer, Pope, Tyndall, Montgomery, and
Dimant.
LODGE OF OTAGO, N.Z.C., DUNEDIN.—The annual meeting was held in the Odd-fellows' Hall, Stuart street,
on Friday evening, October 16th, and was largely attended by visitors from various parts of the colony. The
Lodge was opened at 7 p.m. by the W.M., Bro. C. J. Ronaldson. At 7.45 p.m. the R.W. Grand Superintendent
of Otago (Bro. A. Burton) and the Grand Lodge officers were admitted, and saluted in due form. Bros.
Ronaldson and Blackmore presented the W.M. elect (Bro. John Wood), and after being obligated he was
installed as Master for the ensuing year. The ceremony was performed by the W.G. Supt. of Works, Bro. E.
Titchener ; Bro. Williams, P.M. ; Bro. Bree, P.M. ; Bro. Blackmore, P.M. ; and others. The W.M. afterwards
invested the following Brethren :—I.P.M., C. J. Ronaldson ; S.W., Joseph Barton ; J.W., Julius Alberti ;
Treasurer, C. J. Ronald-son, P.M. ; Secretary, George W. Williams, P.M.; Musical Director, Arthur J. Barth,
P.M., Grand Organist ; Organist, Charles E. George ; Chaplain, McGregor B. Wright, P.S.W. ; S.D., Arthur
Feldwick; J.D., A. B. Burt; LG., J. McKenzie Henry ; Stewards, A. Scott and J. Dobbie ; Auditors, Bros. W.
McAdam, J. McKenzie Henry, and D. C. Cameron; Tyler, Bro. M. Walker. The musical portion of the
ceremony was under the direction of Bro. A. J. Barth, P.M., G.O. After some routine business, the Lodge
was closed at 9.30. A re-union was afterwards held in the Choral Hall, Bros. J. Barlow and J. McK. Henry
acted as M.C.'s.
LODGE HIRAM, N.Z.C., SOUTH DUNEDIN.—The annual meeting was held on Tuesday, October 27th, at 4
o'clock, and was well attended. The ceremony of initiation was ably performed by the W.M. The Lodge was
then called off at 5.15. On the Lodge being called on at 7.30, there was a large attendance of Brethren
belonging to various Constitutions and from different parts of the colony. The W.M. (Bro. J. A. Kirby,
A.G.S.B.) announced that the business of the evening was the installation of Bro. A. Smart and the
investiture of officers. At 7.45 the M.W.G.M. (Bro. H. Thomson) and Grand Lodge officers were admitted,
and took their places in the Lodge—Bro. McKelvey acting as S.G.W., and Bro. E. Titchener acting as J.G.W.
A board of Installed Masters having been formed, Bro. A. Smart was duly installed as W.M. for the ensuing
twelve months, Bro. Kirby being invested as I.P.M. The following Brethren were then invested :— S.W., H.
McCorkindale; J.W., H. Lippert; Treasurer, H. A. Reynolds, P.M.; Secretary, H. P. Harvey ; Chaplain, E.
Titchener, P.M. ; Organist, H. Titchener ; S.D., J. T. Laing ; J.D., J. Dawson ; I.G. A. Morrison ; D.C., J.
Fleming ; Stewards, C. Reeves and J. Jackson; Tyler, M. Walker. The G.M. addressed the W.M., Bro.
Wetherilt, P.M., the Wardens, and Bro. H. A. Reynolds the Brethren. The working tools were presented by
Bros. Williams, Ronaldson, and Woods. The Grand Master announced that he had a very pleasing duty to
perform, at the wish of the officers and members of Lodge Hiram, and that was to present Bro. Kirby, I.P.M.,
with a token of their esteem, in the shape of a Past Master's jewel. The inscription read : " Presented to Bro.
J. A. Kirby, P.M., by the officers and members of the Hiram Lodge, N.Z.C., as a token of respect ; October
27th, 1891." Bro. H. A. Reynolds, P.M., on behalf of the Brethren, had much pleasure in presenting Bro.
Titchener with a handsome gold albert, and hoped that he would be spared to wear it for a long time, and that
the Lodge would soon have a choir under his direction. Bros. Kirby and Titchener replied in feeling terms for
the handsome presents which they had been the recipients of. The W.M. thanked the G.M. and the Grand
Lodge officers for their attendance, also Bro. Barth, G. Organist, and the choir, for their services during the
evening. After hearty good wishes and congratulations had been received, the Lodge closed at 9.30. A re-
union was afterwards held at the Oddfellows' Hall, Caversham, at which 50 couples were present.
LODGE NGAPARA, N.Z.C., OTAGO DISTRICT.—The Secretary, Bro. John Peat, has evidently forgotten to
send us a report of the installation of Master and investiture of officers, which took place towards the latter
end of October. We learn from the Superintendent that all the officers were re-elected, and that the receipts
during the year reached nearly £400. The expenses being—Hall, £171; site, £15 ; fencing, £6 10 ; Grand
Lodge, £14 5s 6d ; furniture, £94 15s 5d ; general expenses, £88. The balance of £84 2s 6d owing, they hope
to wipe out before the end of next year.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
LODGE REPORTS.
AUCKLAND DISTRICT.
THE BETA-WAIKATO LODGE, N.Z.C., HAMILTON, was, on the 15th October, to ballot for, and if elected, to
initiate Mr. Thos. Chappell. Also to pass Bros. J. N. Marsden and R. W. Mears, and to raise Bros. G. J.
Richdale and T. B. Fleming.
LODGE COROMANDEL, N.Z.C., THAMES, proposes to change the date of its installation meeting.
LODGE ST. ANDREW, N.Z.C.—The regular meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, and there was a large
attendance, the business being of more than ordinary importance. In the absence of the R.W.M., Bro. Page,
I.P.M., presided, and Bro. M. Niccol, G.S., was present. There was one raising, at which Bro. Niccol
assisted, and after this the nomination of officers for the ensuing year took place. Bro. Thomas Thomas,
S.W., was the only Brother nominated for the position of R.W.M., but there are competitions for several of
the other offices. Bro. Head, who has been Secretary since the establishment of the Lodge under the New
Zealand Constitution, tendered his resignation of that office, as he was about to leave the colony for New
South Wales. The announcement was received with regret, and the presiding Master in warm terms
expressed the deep feelings of gratitude which the Lodge owed to Bro. Head for his services as Secretary and
as a Mason. He had, he said, been not only careful and conscientious in the discharge of his duties, but he
had been courteous, obliging, and withal exhibited a kindly and conciliatory spirit, which not only endeared
him to the Brethren, but smoothed over many little difficulties which might otherwise have caused friction. It
was with great regret he parted with such a worthy Brother and coadjutor, but he trusted his future would be
as prosperous as they could desire. Bro. W. H. Cooper, P.M., was nominated as Bro. Head's successor, and
being the only Brother nominated, he will enter on his duties on Bro. Head's retirement. Before the Lodge
closed four candidates were proposed for initiation. After the Lodge was closed the Brethren met in the
lower hall, where Bro. Dr. Walker, P.M., proposed the health of Bro. Head in eulogistic terms, referring to
his past services and the loss the Lodge would sustain through his departure from them. He felt sure he
expressed the wish of every Brother of the Lodge in wishing him a prosperous career. The toast was duly
honoured, and Bro. Head made a suitable reply, stating that what he had done for Lodge St. Andrew had
been a labour of love, and he hoped it would continue to prosper and progress as it had done. Cheers were
given for Bro. Head, and the Brethren then separated.
ARA LODGE, N.Z.C., AUCKLAND, still keeps to the fore. The following was the business on October 27th :—
To ballot for, and if successful, to initiate Mr. James Wigg, aged 33, ironmonger (of Messrs Wingate and
Co.), Auckland ; to pass Bro. Richard Ward ; to raise Bros, George Henry Dixon, John Bancroft, and Robert
Wright. The W.M. may be seen on Masonic matters between 1.30 and 2 p.m. daily, at the Masonic Institute,
32, Queen Street.
LODGE UNITED SERVICE, N.Z.C., AUCKLAND, did, on October 28th, raise Bro. Lindsay Cooke to the Third
Degree.
LODGE PONSONBY, N.Z.C., on the 3rd inst., passed Bro. Knight, and elected Bro. A. H. Jones to be Master.
The following Brethren were elected to till the various chairs :— A. Stuart Russell, D.M. ; George Fowlds,
S.W. ; John Smart, J.W.; S. J. Danneford, Treasurer; S. T. Johansen, Secretary. The installation takes place
on December 1st.
Ara Lodge N.Z.C., did, on the 6th inst., raise Bros. G. H. Dixon, John Bancroft and Robert Wright. This
Lodge holds a Lodge of Instruction every Thursday evening at 7.45 p.m.
THE following Installations will take place in December :—Lodges—Ponsonby on the 1st, St. Andrew on the
15th, Manukau on the 15th, Sir Walter Scott on the 15th.
_____________________________________
WELLINGTON DISTRICT.
LODGE WATERLOO, N.Z.C., WELLINGTON.—Owing to the 9th inst. being a holiday the Lodge met on the
10th. The business was to consider the notice of motion re a Lodge of Instruction, and to elect the officers for
the ensuing year. The nominations were as follow:--R.W.M., Bro, J. D. Georgesen; W.S.W., Bro. George
Wilson ; W.J.W., Bro. Geo. Macmorran ; Treasurer, Bro, J. Jack ; Secretary, Bro. D. Greig, P.M. ; Secretary,
Bro. J. N. Turnbull; Chaplain, Rev. W. Shirer.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE, N.Z.C., FEATHERSTON.—It is pleasing to note that this Lodge has gained ground during
the last twelve months, the strength now being 36, which includes one life member—Bro. H. J. Williams, the
present Grand Superintendent of Wellington District. Bro. Williams was unanimously elected as such in
1884, as an acknowledgment of his zeal and untiring energy for the advancement of Masonry in the district.
St. John's Lodge decided to join the N.Z. Grand Lodge movement May 16th, 1889, and it cannot be denied
teat ever since that date the Lodge has made steady and very prosperous progress. During the past term—
1890-91—the strength of the Lodge has increased from 26 to 36, meetings have been better attended,
defaulters there are none. The Masonic Hall, .on a quarter acre section, which is thickly planted with
ornamental trees, is worth £200, and is the property of the Lodge. A loan of £100 at d per cent. remains on
the Lodge, but this amount can be lessened any day by more than one half, the cash balance in hand and in
value being over £60, and all liabilities paid to date. This is a position of which the Brethren of St, John's
Lodge may well be proud. In a few months the property will be their own, and they can then afford to be was
the installation of Bro. A. Smart and the investiture of officers. At 7.45 the M.W.G.M. (Bro. H. Thomson)
and Grand Lodge officers were admitted, and took their places in the Lodge—Bro. McKelvey acting as
S.G.W., and Bro. P. Titchener acting as J.G.W. A board of Installed Masters having been formed, Bro. A.
Smart was duly installed as W.M. for the ensuing twelve months, Bro. Kirby being invested as I.P.M. The
following Brethren were then invested:— S.W., H. McCorkindale ; J.W., H. Lippert ; Treasurer, H. A.
Reynolds, P.M.; Secretary, H. P. Harvey ; Chaplain, E. Titchener, P.M. ; Organist, H. Titchener ; S.D., J. T.
Laing ; J.D., J. Dawson ; I.G. A. Morrison ; D.C., J. Fleming ; Stewards, C. Reeves and J. Jackson; Tyler, M.
Walker. The G.M. addressed the W.M., Bro. Wetherilt, P.M., the Wardens, and Bro. H. A. Reynolds the
Brethren. The working tools were presented by Bros. Williams, Ronaldson, and Woods. The Grand Master
announced that he had a very pleasing duty to perform, at the wish of the officers and members of Lodge
Hiram, and that was to present Bro. Kirby, I.P.M., with a token of their esteem, in the shape of a Past
Master's jewel. The inscription read : " Presented to Bro. J. A. Kirby, P.M., by the officers and members of
the Hiram Lodge, N.Z.C., as a token of respect ; October 27th, 1891." Bro. H. A. Reynolds, P.M., on behalf
of the Brethren, had much pleasure in presenting Bro. Titchener with a handsome gold albert, and hoped that
he would be spared to wear it for a long time, and that the Lodge would soon have a choir under his
direction. Bros. Kirby and Titchener replied in feeling terms for the handsome presents which they had been
the recipients of. The W.M. thanked the G.M. and the Grand Lodge officers for their attendance, also Bro.
Barth, G. Organist, and the choir, for their services during the evening. After hearty good wishes and
congratulations had been received, the Lodge closed at 9.30. A re-union was afterwards held at the
Oddfellows' Hall, Caversham, at which 50 couples were present.
LODGE NGAPARA, N.Z.C., OTAGO DISTRICT.—The Secretary, Bro. John Peat, has evidently forgotten
to send us a report of the installation of Master and investiture of officers, which took place towards the latter
end of October. We learn from the Superintendent that all the officers were re-elected, and that the receipts
during the year reached nearly £400. The expenses being—Hall, £171; site, £15; fencing, £6 10 ; Grand
Lodge, £14 5s 6d ; furniture, £94 15s 5d ; general expenses, £88. The balance of £84 2s 6d owing, they hope
to wipe out before the end of next year.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
LODGE REPORTS.
AUCKLAND DISTRICT.
THE BETA-WAIKATO LODGE, N.Z.C., HAMILTON, was, on the 15th October, to ballot for, and if
elected, to initiate Mr. Thos. Chappell. Also to pass Bros. J. N. Marsden and R. W. Mears, and to raise Bros.
G. J. Richdale and T. B. Fleming.
LODGE COROMANDEL, N.Z.C., THAMES, proposes to change the date of its installation meeting.
LODGE ST. ANDREW, N.Z.C.—The regular meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, and there was a large
attendance, the business being of more than ordinary importance. In the absence of the R.W.M., Bro. Page,
LP.M., presided, and Bro. M. Niccol, G.S., was present. There was one raising, at which Bro. Niccol
assisted, and after this the nomination of officers for the ensuing year took place. Bro. Thomas Thomas,
S.W., was the only Brother nominated for the position of R.W.M., but there are competitions for several of
the other offices. Bro. Head, who has been Secretary since the establishment of the Lodge under the New
Zealand Constitution, tendered his resignation of that office, as he was about to leave the colony for New
South Wales. The announcement was received with regret, and the presiding Master in warm terms
expressed the deep feelings of gratitude which the Lodge owed to Bro. Head for his services as Secretary and
as a Mason. He had, he said, been not only careful and conscientious in the discharge of his duties, but he
had been courteous, obliging, and withal exhibited a kindly and conciliatory spirit, which not only endeared
him to the Brethren, but smoothed over many little difficulties which might otherwise have caused friction. It
was with great regret he parted with such a worthy Brother and coadjutor, but he trusted his future would be
as prosperous as they could desire. Bro. W. H. Cooper, P.M., was nominated as Bro. Head's successor, and
being the only Brother nominated, he will enter on his duties on Bro. Head's retirement. Before the Lodge
closed four candidates were proposed for initiation. After the Lodge was closed the Brethren met in the
lower hall, where Bro. Dr. Walker, P.M., proposed the health of Bro. Head in eulogistic terms, referring to
his past services and the loss the Lodge would sustain through his departure from them. He felt sure he
expressed the wish of every Brother of the Lodge in wishing him a prosperous career. The toast was duly
honoured, and Bro. Head made a suitable reply, stating that what he had (lone for Lodge St. Andrew had
been a labour of love, and he hoped it would continue to prosper and progress as it had done. Cheers were
given for Bro. Head, and the Brethren then separated.
ARA LODGE, N.Z.C., AUCKLAND, still keeps to the fore. The following was the business on October 27th :—
To ballot for, and if successful, to initiate Mr. James Wigg, aged 33, ironmonger (of Messrs Wingate and
Co.), Auckland ; to pass Bro. Richard Ward ; to raise Bros. George Henry Dixon, John Bancroft, and Robert
Wright. The W.M. may be seen on Masonic matters between 1.30 and 2 p.m. daily, at the Masonic Institute,
32, Queen Street.
LODGE UNITED SERVICE, N.Z.C., AUCKLAND, did, on October 28th, raise Bro. Lindsay Cooke to the Third
Degree.
LODGE PONSONBY, N.Z.C., on the 3rd inst., passed Bro. Knight, and elected Bro. A. H. Jones to be Master.
I'Le following Brethren were elected to fill the various chairs :— A. Stuart Russell, D.M.; George Fowlds,
S.W.; John Smart, J.W.; S. J. Danneford, Treasurer; S. T. Johansen, Secretary. The installation takes place on
December 1st.
ARA LODGE N.Z.C., did, on the 6th inst., raise Bros. G. H. Dixon, John Bancroft and Robert Wright. This
Lodge holds a Lodge of Instruction every Thursday evening at 7.45 p.m.
THE following Installations will take place in December :—Lodges—Ponsonby on the 1st, St. Andrew on the
15th, Manukau on the 15th, Sir Walter Scott on the 15th.
_____________________________
WELLINGTON DISTRICT.
LODGE WATERLOO, N.Z.C., WELLINGTON.—Owing to the 9th inst. being a holiday the Lodge met on the
10th. The business was to consider the notice of motion is a Lodge of Instruction, and to elect the officers for
the ensuing year. The nominations were as follow :--R.W.M., Bro. J. D. Georgesan; W.S.W., Bro. George
Wilson ; W.J.W., Bro. Geo. Macworran ; Treasurer, Bro. J. Jack ; Secretary, Bro. D. Greig, P.M. ; Secretary,
Bro. J. N. Turnbull; Chaplain, Rev. W. Shirer.
St. John’s Lodge, N.Z.C., Featherston.—It is pleasing to note that this Lodge has gained ground during the
last twelve months, the strength now being 36, which includes one life member—Bro. H. J. Williams, the
present Grand Superintendent of Wellington District. Bro. Williams was unanimously elected as such in
1884, as an acknowledgment of his zeal and untiring energy for the advancement of Masonry in the district.
St. John's Lodge decided to join the N.Z. Grand Lodge movement May 16th, 1889, and it cannot be denied
that ever since that date the Lodge has made steady and very prosperous progress. During the past term—
1890-91—the strength of the Lodge has increased from 26 to 36, meetings have been better attended,
defaulters there are none. The Masonic Hall, .on a quarter acre section, which is thickly planted with
ornamental trees, is worth 1200, and is the property of the Lodge. A loan of £100 at 8 per cent. remains on
the Lodge, but this amount can be lessened any day by more than one half, the cash balance in hand and in
value being over £60 and all liabilities paid to date. This is a position of which the Brethren of St, John's
Lodge may well be proud. In a few months the property will be their own, and they can then afford to be still
more liberal in their charitable donations. Alcoholic liquor is rarely seen within the Hall, and not once during
the past twelve months, but light refreshment is provided at every meeting. Two years ago the prospects of
the Lodge appeared dark, but since joining the Grand Lodge the Brethren have sternly and zealously assisted
the cause by placing St. John's Lodge in a position, morally and financially, second to none in the Wellington
District.
BEDFORD LODGE, N.Z.C., WAIPUKURAU, HAWKES BAY.—The usual monthly meeting was held on October
5th ; there was a fair attendance of Brethren and visitors. The following were balloted for and declared
elected :—Bro. Louis De Pelichet, of Scinde Lodge, as an affiliating member, and Mr. Charles Hobson,
sheep farmer, of Takapau, as a candidate for Freemasonry. This being all the business, the Lodge closed in
love, peace, and harmony, the next regular meeting being appointed for Monday, November 2nd. Mr.
Hobson was initiated on the 2nd inst. by the W.M. Bro. P. H. Jolly, the charge being given by the S.W., Bro.
A. Stubbs, and the working tools by P.M. Bro. Hartley, acting Junior Warden.
LODGE PATEA KILWINNING, N.Z.C., PATEA,—At the regular monthly meeting held on October 6th the
following office-bearers were nominated :—G. D. Hamerton, P.M., and W. J. Gibbons, R.W.M. ; W. C.
Symes, S.W. ; L. G. Bremer, J.W. ; A. A. Gower, P.M., Treasurer ; T. E. Hamerton, P.M., Secretary ; Amb.
Edser, S.D. ; A. Edser, J. P. ; S. Pitt, I.G. The only election, therefore, that will be necessary is the R.W.M.,
and this is merely on account of the uncertainty as to Bro. Gibbon's probable power of attending, which
could not be ascertained at the meeting owing to the absence of Bro. Gibbons, and there would be no later
opportunity of nominating to the office in case he could not accept the position. The Brethren met in the new
Lodge-room, and all present expressed themselves well pleased with the change effected.
MANAWATU KILWINNING LODGE, N.Z.C., PALMERSTON NORTH.—An emergency meeting was held on
October 5th, a large number of visitors being present. The business consisted of raising Bro. Thomas Harvey
James to the High and Sublime Degree of a M.M., which was very ably done by the R.W.M., Bro. W.
Rutherfurd, P.M. Bro. W. H. Smith and T. Sutton rendering very able assistance; the musical portion of the
ceremony also being efficiently carried out by Bro. A. Drew, Organist. The visitors included the R.W.M.,
Bro. W. Bailey, and the officers of the Feilding Lodge, who drove in 14 miles, although it was a wretched
wet evening ; also the RW.M., Bro. T. D. Brown, of Otangaki Lodge, Ashurst. One and all expressed
themselves highly gratified with the manner in which the ceremony was carried out. After the ceremony the
visitors were entertained in the refreshment room, and a very pleasant hour was spent with songs and
recitations, the meeting closing at 11 p.m.
LODGE HAWERA, N.Z.C., HAWERA—On October 15th Mr. C. Biggs, of Ngaire, was initiated.
NGAMOTU Lodge, N.Z.C., NEW PLYMOUTH.—On Friday, October 16th, the election of Master, Treasurer,
and Tyler took place. We have not heard the result.
MANAWATU KILWINNING LODGE, N.Z.C., PALMERSTON NORTH. — The regular monthly meeting was held
on October 21st, a large number of Brethren being in attendance, considering the bad weather, which,
unfortunately, generally occurs on Lodge nights. The business of the evening consisted of initiating George
William Shailer and John Henry Burmister. The Charity Charge was given by I.P.M. Bro. J. Walkley, W.
Tools by the R.W.M., and the Ancient Charge by P.M. Bro. A. Jack. Bro. W. Beck was passed to the Second
Degree, the Charge and W. Tools being given by Y.M. Bro. W.H. Smith. Amongst the correspondence was a
very hearty invitation to the consecration of Lodge Rangitira at Hunterville, which was to take place on
October 30th, and to which a number intimated their intention of being present. The Lodge also accorded a
vote of thanks to Bro. the Rev. H. P. Raikes for his very able sermon. Also a letter of regret to P.M. Bro. A.
Stewart on his leaving the district for Pahiatua. An appeal was received from Lodge St. Andrews,
Wellington, on behalf of the widow and children of the late P.M. Bro. Bovis, which was very ably responded
led to, the Lodge voting £5, and collection taken up amongst those present of £2. After another new member
being proposed, the Lodge was closed at 11 p.m.
ULSTER LODGE N.Z.C., PETONE.--On October 21st Bro. A. M. Whitehead was raised to the Third Degree,
and Bro. Thomas Henry Bond, Lodge ---, Grand Lodge of Victoria, was affiliated. This Lodge has a notice
of motion before it, re purchasing a piano.
Lodge St. Andrew, N.Z.C., Wellington, did, on October 22nd, initiate Messrs Hill and Lubnoski, and
received nomination of officers for the ensuing year.
NEW ZEALAND PACIFIC LODGE, N.Z.C., WELLINGTON, on October 26th, raised Bros. Thomas Henry
Bellamore and Walter James Helyer to the Third Degree.
THE following installations will take place in November and December:—Lodges—Ngamotu on November
20th, Patea Kilwinning on November 30th, Master-ton on December 9th, Hawera on December 10th,
Waterloo on December 14th, Abercorn on December 16th, Itawhiti on December 16th, St. Andrews on
December 24th, and New Zealand Pacific on December 28th ; Heretaunga, E.C., Hastings, on December
16th.
___________________________________
CANTERBURY DISTRICT.
LODGE CALEDONIAN, N.Z.C., TIMARU, was, on the 12th inst., to ballot for Mr. C. Bateman, engineer,
Temuka, and if elected to initiate the candidate. Also to pass Bros. Thomson and Neilson.
ROBERT BURNS LODGE, NO. 604, S.C., CHRISTCHURCH.—The Secretary, Bro. Fred E. Thomas, has sent us
the monthly circular, and promises the like courtesy every month ; we shall appreciate the kind attention. On
the 17th inst. Bros. Woods and Papps are to be passed, and Bros. Lukey and Harris to be raised. The election
of officers will then take place. The nominations are as folllows :—R.W.M., Bro. J. E. Hartle and H. A.
Bruce ; W.S.W., H. Tuck ; W.J.W., S. T. Male ; Treasurer, R. M. Fulton ; Secretary, J. Simpson ; Chaplain,
Rev. T. Chodowski ; S.D., W. A. Powell ; J.D., A.W. Eslick ; D.C., T. Kincaid ; I.G., E. G. Saunders ;
Stewards, Bros. W. K. Anderson and W. R. Gahagan.
LODGE OF CONCORD, N.Z.C., PAPANUI.—On October 15th the business was to ballot for, and if elected, to
initiate Mr. Henry Were ; and on the 12th inst. Bro. Were was passed to the Second Degree.
THE following installations take place in December :—Lodges—Progress on the 9th; Robert Burns, 604,
S.C., on the 15th, and Geraldine on December 16th.
_________________________________________________
OTAGO AND SOUTHLAND DISTRICTS.
MOKORETA LODGE, N.Z.C., WYNDHAM.—The regular meeting was held on October 13th, W.M. Bro.
Monteath presiding. After passing the usual business, the W.M. vacated the chair in favour of LP.M. Bro.
Crosbie by whom the Lodge was raised to the Third Degree, when Bro. A. C. Bishop was raised to the
Sublime Degree of a M.M., S.W. Bro. Raymond giving the Antient Charge, J.W. Bro. Clark the tools, and
Secretary the tracing board. The sum of one guinea was donated to Lodge St. Andrews, Wellington, on
behoof of the widow and children of the late Bro. Bovis, P.M. S.W. I3ro. Raymond, in eulogistic terms
proposed—" That the thanks of Lodge be recorded to the I.P.M., Bro. Crosbie, for the manner in which he
had carried out the duties of W.M. during the past year." J.W. Bro. Clark seconded the motion, and it was
carried unanimously. The Treasurer was instructed to deposit in Savings Bank the sum of £25. Mr. Donald
Stalker was proposed for admission as a member.
THE LODGE OF OTAGO, N.Z.C., Dunedin, raised Bro. George on the 11th hut, and considered the balance-
sheet.
LODGE NGAPARA, N.Z.C.—On the 16th inst. Bros. Orr, Whyte, and Park fare to be passed to the Second
Degree.
LODGE HIRAM, N.Z.C.—An emergency meeting took place on the 13th inst. Business—Raising, and to bid
farewell to Bro. J. E. McKelvey, Past Senior Grand Warden, who is leaving for Tasmania. The presentation
took the form of a Past Master's collar and apron,
The following installations will take place in December :—Lodges—Peninsula Kilwinning, No. 696, S.C.,
on the 10th ; Harvey, on the 16th ; Oamaru Kilwinning, No. 537, S.C., on the 23rd.
_____________________________________________________________
NELSON, MARLBOROUGH, AND WESTLAND DISTRICTS.
LODGE ADVANCE, N.Z.C., BRUNNERTON.—The ordinary monthly meeting of Lodge Advance was held n
September 24th. Several visitors were present, amongst them being P.M. Hannay, late of the Bluff, and P.M.
Barford, late of Patea. During the evening P.M. Hannay received his patent of office as Deputy Grand
Pursuivant of G.L. of N.Z. The W.M., Bro. Bland, in presenting it, gave Bro. Hannay a hearty welcome to
the district, and referred in laudable terms to the prominent part he had taken in furthering the cause of New
Zealand Masonry. Bro. Murdoch McKenzie, of late St. Andrew's Lodge, S.C., Greyrnouth, was ballotted for
and affiliated, and two other candidates were proposed for affiliation at our next meeting—Bro. Wm. Noble,
of Lodge Geraldine, N.Z.C., and Bro. Robert Glenn, of Lodge Taringatura, No. 743, S.C. Lumsden,
Southland.
PACIFIC LODGE OF REEFTON, No. 1453, E.C., will on the 17th inst. proceed to ballot for the affiliation of
Bro. Henry Heur, formerly a member of the Lodge.
THE following installations will take place in December :—Lodges—Advance, 'Brunnerton on the 17th ;
Kumara on the 23rd ; Southern Star, No. 735, E.C., Nelson, on the 27th.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
CONSECRATIONS.
WELLINGTON DISTRICT.
Lodge Rangatira, N.Z.C., Hunterville.—The above is the name of the latest star which has arisen in the
Masonic firmament. The new Lodge was duly erected, consecrated, and opened on Friday, October 30th, at
Hunterville. This colony possesses the Masonic Lodge nearest the South Pole, and the one established on
Friday may be truly said to be on the very confines of civilisation in it, and to be also a visible sign that true
civilisation is there. The gathering was worthy of record, from the fact that of the 45 Masons present, no less
than 17 had " passed the chair," while two holding office in Grand Lodge—Bro. Gillon, P.D.G.M., and Bro.
Macarthur, D.G.M.—were also present, though both were in ill-health, and sacrificed their comfort to the
desire to attend. The 22 Palmerston Brethren picked up 12 more at Fending, and they were strengthened by
others at Marton, where they were met and welcomed by W. Bro. Forrest, one of the founders of the new
Lodge, who had come down from Hunterville for the purpose. Three special coaches conveyed them to the
scene of operations, which was reached after a very pleasant drive at shortly after 4 p.m. The proceedings
commenced about 5 p.m. The Grand Lodge being represented by the following :—Bros. H. J. Williams,
Grand Superintendent of Wellington District, Consecrating and Installing officer ; E. T. Gillon, P.D.G.M. ;
D. H. Macarthur, D.G.M. ; J. Walkley, G.S., acting S.G.W. ; Walter Bailey, acting J.G.W. ; W. h. Warren, as
G. Chaplain ; W. H. Smith, as G. Secretary : W. G. Haybittle, acting S.G.D. ; R. Brandon, acting J.G.D. ; A.
Drew, as G. Organist ; T. D. Brown and T. Sutton as G. Stewards; H. Tyer, acting G.S.B.; W. Forrest, G.P. ;
and Bro. A. Jack, G.S., acting G.D.C. The Acting Grand Secretary stated the wish of the Brethren, and the
dispensation in answer thereto having been read, Bro. Gillon delivered an address in which he illustrated the
objects of the Craft. The ceremony of consecration was then proceed with, and after the sprinkling of the
corn, wine, and oil, the proclamation of constitution was grade by the acting Grand Director of Ceremonies,
grand honours being given, and the patriarchal benediction pronounced, brought the ceremony to an end. The
Master designate, Bro. William Thompson, was then installed. At this stage the solo, " If with all your
hearts," was beautifully rendered by Bro. W. H. Warren. The following officers were invested :—Bros.
Forrest, I.P.M ; D. Mackay, D.M. ; S. Stacey, S.W. ; W. Floyd, J.W. ; A. Dalziel, Treasurer ; W. H.
Mahoney, Secretary ; J. Magee, S.D. ; D. Robb, J.D. ; J. McCausland and Hollis, S.S. and J.S. ; and Watt,
I.G. We may mention that the above with Bros. J. Chubbin and R. C. Johnston constitute the charter
members. The ceremony was ably performed by Bro. Williams, the address to the W.M. being given by Bro.
W. H. Smith, and the subsequent address to the Brethren by Bro. If. T. Gillon. Seven candidates passed the
ballot, and two more were proposed. No initiations were undertaken, the Lodge preferring to leave this work
till the next meeting. Before closing the Lodge the W.M. was tendered the hearty good wishes of fourteen
Lodges. A banquet followed, provided by Bro. Floyd, in a style which deserves the highest praise. All the
visitors were treated as guests, and a most enjoyable evening was spent. Some excellent speeches were made,
especially by Bros. Macarthur and Williams, the latter reviewing the great progress made by the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand, and incidentally alluding to the fact thatlLodge Rangatira'now brings t' e total on the
roll up to 72, and during November this will be increased to at least 76, in aldition to which other old
established Lodges are giving in their allegiance to the body which has affirmed the principle of self-
government in Masonic matters in the colony. Allusion was also made to the rapid growth of the Benevolent
Fund of the Grand Lodge. [Our thanks are due to the Secretary of Lodge Manawatu Kilwinning, Bro. F. E.
White, for his thoughtfulness in providing us with material for the above report.—ED. C.]
OTAKI LODGE, in the Wellington District, was consecrated, opened, and the officers installed by Bro. H. J.
Williams, Grand Superintendont, on the l3th inst.
________________________________
AUCKLAND DISTRICT.
HOKIANGA LODGE, N.Z.C.—The following interesting letter, for which we are indebted to a distinguished
Brother who was present, gives an account of the consecrating, opening, and installation of this new Lodge :
" Auckland, November 2nd, 1891.
" We had a rare trip to open the Hokianga Lodge. P.M.'s Niccol, Powley, Hewson, and Bros. Fowlds and
Lester started away from Auckland, per s.s. Glenelg, on Friday, October 23rd, at 2 p.m., and were off the bar
at daylight on Saturday. Although no wind to speak of, there was a very heavy sea running, and we were
signalled to stand off and on all day. We could see a small steamer inside with friends to meet us, but much
to our annoyance we did not cross the bar until Sunday at 11 a.m. We determined to consecrate the Lodge
and instal on Sunday night, as the steamer was going to take advantage, and try to get out on the Monday.
We arrived at the place, Kohu Kohu, at 4 p.m., well, and joyously received. Went to view the Lodge-room,
unpacked the furniture, and decided to commence at 7 p.m. We were received by 21 Brethren, and the
ceremony was most solemly performed by the Grand Superintendent, R.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol. R.W. Bro.
Geo. H. Powley taking his proper position as Senior Grand Warden, Past Master Bro. Hewson acting Junior
Grand Warden, Bro. Fowlds acting Grand Secretary, and Past Master Anderson of Zealandia, E.C., acting
Grand Pursuivant. The consecration finished, and a rest to smoke, we opened the Hokianga Lodge, and
installed the Master, Bro. Wallace. I am proud to say the officers invested are thoroughly fit and expert ; they
worked like old officers in the closing. The Lodge starts quite free of debt, and I promise a good future for
the youngest daughter of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.—[Five days too soon for that.—ED. C.]. We sat
down to a banquet—the table had been laid since midday, Saturday—at 12.10, midnight, and rose about 2
a.m. Left the wharf at 9.30, Monday, and reached our homes in time for breakfast on Tuesday morning, the
27th. The trip altogether was most enjoyable, except for the delay outside the bar, but we had some excellent
fishing. Poor Niccol is a very bad sailor ; he was sick going and returning." [Kohu Kohu is 181 miles north
of Auckland, in the Bay of Islands.]
_______________________________________________________________________________________
DON’T try to confer a Degree until you know how. Don't aspire to be Master until you can say " have seen "
for " have saw." Don't forget that it is as much your duty to be present at every meeting as that of the Master.
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 cases, 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.]
ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.
A BROTHER asks: "Is there anything in Masonry to prevent the initiation of a Roman Catholic?"—Yes : the
ballot. But there is not anything in the teachings of Masonry that would prevent the initiation of a Roman
Catholic, if he is otherwise up to the regulation standard. In this country, however, we believe if we would
act honestly with a petitioner of the Roman Catholic faith, we should prevent his taking upon himself vows
that endanger, from the standpoint of his Church, his eternal welfare. For, in the end he must renounce either
his Church or Masonry.
"GEORGE HARPER," SOUTH AUSTRALIA.---Very scarce, and high in price; only place to procure is England.
We want a copy, so will write for two.
__________________________
THE IMPOSTER.
TO THE EDITOR.
DEAR BROTHER,—Please mention in your next CRAFTSMAN that the imposter mentioned in your last number
is not now, nor has he been for several years past, a member of the Lodge of Waitaki. Such men bring great
discredit on Freemasonry.— I am, (Cc.,
JAMES WANSBROUGH, P.M.
Secretary Lodge of Waitaki (late No. 1111, E.G.)
Oamaru, November 7th, 1891.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
MISCELLANEOUS
SIR R. STOUT AND THE CRAFT IN NEW ZEALAND.
SIR ROBERT STOUT, who by resolution of Grand Lodge was in March last deprived of his rank of Past Grand
Officer, and who by resigning his office of Deputy District Grand Master of Otago and Southland, and his
membership of the Dunedin Lodge, No. 931, has since then entirely severed his connection with English
Freemasonry, has been interviewed by a reporter of the Otago Daily Times, and the remarks he made are
hilly, and, we presume, accurately reported in the columns of that journal. We do not ourselves attach any
great importance to the opinions expressed by our ex-brother. The majority of those who abandon one creed
and adopt another invariably become so madly enamoured of the latter that their testimony as regards the
creed they have abandoned is hardly worth the paper it is written upon. There are those, however, who,
knowing little about the merits or demerits of the New Zealand question, and the additional confusion which
has been introduced into it by the action of Sir Robert Stout, may be led into accepting his statements, as
furnishing in some way or other a full and sufficient justification of the part he has played in the New
Zealand embroglio. To them, accordingly, we address a few words of warning. Sir Robert Stout is a Mason
of some years' standing, and having held office under the English Constitution in New Zealand, and having
received as the reward of his services in that capacity the brevet rank of a Past Grand Officer of our United
Grand Lodge, it is but reasonable to assume that he must at some time or other have possessed some
knowledge of our laws and the purposes which Freemasonry as an institution has set itself to attain. As
regards our laws, however, which from the very commencement of his career he solemnly bound himself to
observe, it is very clear that whatever may have been his acquaintance with then, he never seriously troubled
him-self as to their observance. Otherwise he would not have set our Grand Lodge at defiance by seeking a
warrant of constitution from a body like the Grand Orient of France, whose act in eliminating belief in the
existence of a Supreme Being from its profession of Masonic faith has been solemnly denounced by the
Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, Ireland, and the United States. Had he in his efforts to establish a non-
British Lodge sought assistance from Masonic powers with which we were not, figuratively speaking, at
daggers drawn, he would still have shown his contempt for our Grand Lodge and its laws and ordinances ;
but to have sought aid from a body with which we were at variance in respect of one of the fundamental
principles of Freemasonry can only be described as a deliberate insult as well as an injury. We do not
complain of his admiration for French Free-masonry, which may or may not possess the attributes he claims
for it ; but as a Past Grand Officer of England and an actual Grand Officer of one of its District Grand
Lodges, he was bound to observe its laws, and instead of doing this he has flouted it before the whole
Masonic world. The sentence of deprivation passed upon him is not too severe a punishment for his conduct
in this respect.
But his establishment in a British colony of a Lodge holding a warrant from the Grand Orient of France, cui
bono ! Did Sir Robert Stout anticipate that by enlarging the field of discord he would succeed in restoring
peace and harmony to distracted Freemasonry in New Zealand ? He has established in the minds of all
Freemasons in New Zealand, whether of the new or of the old Constitutions, one common feeling of disgust
at his adoption of the Grand Orient of France, but, save in this particular, the antagonism between the
members of the New Zealand Constitution, and those of the English, Irish, and Scotch Constitutions is as
intense as ever. Indeed, as far as we can judge, the prospect of a reunion becomes daily more and more
remote, while as regards Sir Robert Stout and his French Lodge, they have merely succeeded in making
confusion still worse confounded. Nor can we congratulate Sir Robert Stout on the opinions he holds as to
the objects which Freemasonry is intended to compass. In his letter to our Grand Secretary, he condemns
English Freemasonry, because instead of using its influence " to cure some social evils," it wastes its energy
" in a futile attempt to make Masonry sectarian and national," while, on the other hand, in his conversation
with the reporter of the Otago Daily Times, he appears to have lauded the Masonry of the Grand Orient of
France, because " it does not object to discuss any question in its Lodges, social, political, or even religious."
We have heard many hard things said about English Masonry, but this is the first time we have heard our
Grand Lodge, which admits members of all religious creeds into its Lodges, as " sectarian," or that it is a
feather in the cap of the French Grand Orient, that it encourages its Lodges to take part in the social,
political, and religious controversies of the day. As for English Freemasonry being " national," we see
nothing to condemn in this characteristic if Sir Robert Stout means that our Grand Lodge requires obedience
to its laws and ordinances from the Lodges which derive from it their existence. In the meantime, as Sir
Robert Stout has told us what his opinions are about English and French Masonry, we shall be glad to hear
what our New Zealand Brethren have to say on the subject, and whether they are desirous, as he gives us to
understand they are in his letter to our Grand Secretary, of a closer acquaintance with that system of
Freemasonry which, while it rejects belief ini the existence of a Supreme Being as an article of its faith,
encourages political and religious controversies in its Lodges.—London Freemason.
___________________________________________
HONORARY MEMBERS.
THE following rulings of the Grand Lodge of England are of importance :-
1. By accepting the position of honorary member, a Brother, ipso facto, removes his name from the Lodge
as a subscribing member. He therefore ceases to belong to it at all ; he cannot speak therein, his name cannot
appear in the annual returns; and if he is not a subscribing member to some other Lodge, he comes under Art.
152, Book of Constitutions, and can only be present once. He can only be re-instated in his former position
of a subscribing member by proposal, ballot, election, and paying joining fee exactly like any other joining
member.
2. A Lodge has no power whatever to remit arrears of subscription. The Bye-Laws of all Lodges distinctly
order each member to pay a certain sum annually, and to declare that he need not do so is to deliberately
violate these Bye-Laws.
3. A Past Master, who is a Past Provincial Grand Officer, does not lose his Provincial rank by non-
subscription for twelve months ; which he retains under Art. 96, Book of Constitutions. What he does lose is
his seat in Grand or Provincial Grand Lodge, under Articles 6 and 81.
4. Grand Lodge, not recognising honorary members, of course lays down no laws as to their election. Some
Lodges provide for this in their Bye-Laws, but in the absence of any such Rule the majority present can elect,
at any meeting, without previous notice, it being a matter outside the Laws of the Craft.
5. It would clearly be impossible to include in the Book of Constitutions laws on a subject not recognised by
it. These Constitutions legislate entirely for subscribing members, and not for honorary members at all.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
BRIEF MENTION
WHO is to be the next Grand Master? Nominations to be made at the January Communication.
WE would respectfully suggest that the January Communication of Grand Lodge should he held in Oamaru
(Otago), and the annual meeting in Auckland.
THE late Secretary of Lodge Harvey, Gore, Bro. W. H. Palmer, is now in Melbourne.
LODGE GERALDINE, N.Z.C., has a set of the finest tracing boards in the colony. They cost £30 in London.
MASONIC matters are very quiet—if anything too quiet.
THERE is a growing feeling in Otago, Canterbury, and Wellington that some steps should be taken towards
"pouring oil upon the troubled waters." This is a hopeful sign.
THE Grand Mark Lodge of England has refused permission to the District Grand Master to reopen Lodge
Hiram, Mark No. 272,
SEVERAL old Past Z.'s do not think it a wise thing to further complicate matters by forming a Supreme Grand
Chapter.
A LODGE holding under the Grand Orient of France is to be opened at Palmerston North. The prime mover is
a relation of the Hon. John Ballance.
A LODGE, under the French Orient has also been opened in Sydney. Others are to follow in Melbourne and
Adelaide.
A NEW Lodge at Hunterville (Wellington District) was opened on the 30th October. Bros. Gillen, Past
Deputy Grand Master; Macarthur, Deputy Grand Master ; H. J. Williams, Grand Superintendent, and others,
were present.
THE new Lodge at Otaki is to be opened this month.
BRO. GEORGE ROBERTSON has ceased to edit the Masonic column in the N.Z. Mail—cause, pressure of other
business. Many good things appeared in the Mail during the time the Masonic department was in charge of
Bro. Robertson. The present editor, Bro. J. C. Young, has our best wishes.
THE opinion of the Wellington Brethren is that it is necessary to have a Ritual without delay.
CANADA only allows its Grand Masters to rule two years.
NEW ENGLAND Lodge, No. 4, F. and A.M., has withdrawn its allegiance to the Grand Lodge of Ohio, and
takes with it all rights, powers, and prerogatives, and declares itself free and independent. Cause—
Cerneauism. It heads its declaration of independence with, "Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God."
THE Sydney Freemason has not reached us for the month of October.
THERE will be no publication of this Journal in December. A MASONIC GUIDE will take its place. A double
number will be issued in January, 1892.
THE aims of the Fraternity in Cuba are principally to develop moral and educational habits—the true light of
soul and intellect. Only 11 per cent of the population know how to read or write.
COMP. WM. C. SWAIN, in his correspondence report to the proceedings of the Grand Chapter of Wisconsin,
says :—" It is always better to keep the standard high, and although we do not recognise the money standard
of excellence, experience shows that we get more and better men by making the degrees sufficiently costly to
show that they are worth having."
WE recommend a course of study of the Book of Constitutions to some Worshipful Brethren in the Otago
District. Ignorance of the Masonic law is perhaps excusable in the rank and file, but for a leader of men to be
ignorant of the first principles of the institution is, to say the least, deplorable.
ACCORDING to the American Tyler, many Lodges in Arkansas are doing the proper thing by sending an order
for a copy of a Masonic paper to be sent to every member. We only wish a few Lodges in New Zealand
would follow the example.
THE Grand Master of Canada recently published in his 'paper, the Evening Telegram, the notices of motion
to amend the constitution of the Grand Lodge. The day after their appearance the Toronto World referred in a
bantering manner to the Grand Master's action. The article in the World was written in a semi-humorous
vein, but at the same time it was viewed by many Brethren as a deserved rebuke. The World heads its article,
" Masonic Millinery," and goes on to say that judging from the nature of the notice of motions, the besetting
sin of the Brethren is the desire of wearing orders, insignia, and clothing beyond their rank, and that the
gallant colonel from Hamilton is bent on restraining the desire for tin-pot decorations. Further on the World
says :—" While the Grand Lodge does not wish to dictate how members shall wear their whiskers, yet it
takes the firm ground that no Brother shall be allowed in Grand or private Lodge wearing a goatee; yet
Grand Lodge has no hesitation in suggesting that side whiskers a la Harry Collins are most becoming, and
that for the hairy adornment of the face the Brethren cannot do better than copy our late Grand Master, James
Kirkpatrick Kerr, who laid his plans on that of our illustrious and royal Brother, the Prince of Wales, and
whom he so faithfully counterfeited as to have been mistaken for H.R.H. when on the streets of London. His
beard was full, his crown was bald." The Canadian Craftsman, commenting on the above, asks the Grand
Master the following pertinent question—" It would be as well for him to give a precedent as a reason for
such publication, especially as Brethren not so well versed in Masonic law believe he is doing something that
should not be tolerated or countenanced." It is significant that no reply has been given.
A BALANCE-SHEET of the Dodd Family Relief Fund has been sent to us by a brother who objects to the
omission of the Constitution of the Lodges which subscribed to the Fund. We find that Lodge St. George,
E.C., Lawrence, and the members gave £8 6s. 6d. to the fund; the D.G. Lodge of Canterbury gave £10, and
the D.G. Lodge of Otago gave £2 2s. Out of the remainder—£37 6s. 6d.—twelve lodges under the N.Z.C.
sent £14 1s.
THE Masonic Halls in New York are lighted by electricity.
THE Grand Lodge of Scotland is at present agitated upon the question of allowing Past Masters a vote. The
Grand Secretary is against the proposal ; it is therefore safe to say it will not be carried.
THE Lodge of Kilwinning seceded from the Grand Lodge of Scotland in 1743. After 64 years of
independence she again joined with her subordinate Lodges.
The young men are running the Lodge, and fill all of the most important offices. The old saying, " Old men
for council, young men for war," is as trite when applied to the great secret Orders of to-day as it was when
uttered of political affairs.
WE hear, from good authority, that a Duplicate Charter has been granted by the Grand Lodge of England to
the Lodge of Otago, No. 844, E.C., and that it is now on its way out to the Colony.
IT is stated that Lodge Oamaru Kilwinning has appealed to the Grand Lodge of Scotland to allow visiting
with the Lodges holding under the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.
DURING his stay in Dunedin we made the acquaintance of Bro. Rudyard Kipling; for that pleasure we are
indebted to the thoughtfulness of Bro. George Robertson, of Wellington.
"COMING events cast their shadows before." We do not like to prophesy, but we think that unanimity is
within measurable distance.
OUR South African contemporary twits the London Freemason with looking down somewhat superciliously
upon colonial Grand Lodges, and says it was guilty of a breach of etiquette in dubbing Lord Carrington a
Past District Grand Master of New South Wales, instead of giving him his proper title—Past Grand Master.
We are inclined to think 'tis only ignorance.
BRO. W. J. Meek has been called upon by the Grand Mark of England to explain his connection with the
formation of the " Hiram " Mark in Dunedin.
THE South African Freemason says:—The publishing of Masonic news in the public press is doing harm to,
and bringing the Craft into disrepute. It alludes to the absurdity of " Reuter " telegraphing all over South
Africa that five Masons had taken the Royal Arch at Kimberley.
OUR remarks upon the London Freemason's change of front in the case of New South Wales has evidently
roused the ire of our contemporary. It, however, will gladly welcome any change which brings the present
state of conflict in the colony to an end.
THE late ruling of the Grand Lodge of England upon Article 213, does not, judging from the remarks
appearing in our English exchanges, give general satisfaction.
IN 1884, the Grand Lodge of Scotland resolved that full Masonic costume should consist of black clothing
with white ties and white gloves, but at quarterly communications Brethren shall be permitted to wear black
clothes and black ties.
THE Grand Lodge of Scotland has made, and has in contemplation, important changes in her Constitution.
FIFTY-TWO of the fifty-six signers of the Declaration of American Independence were Freemasons.
BRO. the Rev. H. P. Raikes, Past Provincial Grand Chaplain,.held a special Masonic service in the Anglican
Church, Palmerston North, on Sunday afternoon, the 18th October. The musical portion of the service, which
was a full choral one, was under the charge of Bro. A. Drew, Organist. The members of the three Lodges
(United Manawatu, E.C.,ManawatuKilwinning, N.Z.C,and Otangaki,N.Z.C.) assembled together in the
Masonic Hall, and marched in procession to the church. The collection, which was in aid of the Hospital
Funds, resulted in £10 12s. 4d. being received. Pressure on our space prevents us giving any extracts from
the excellent sermon preached on the occasion.
WE are indebted to the District Grand Secretary of Wellington, W. Bro. C. P, powles, for his kindness and
courtesy to the representative of this Journal—Bro. George Hescott.
WE should not be human if we did not appreciate the following :—" I take this opportunity of congratulating
you on the increased usefulness of the CRAFTSMAN. I look most anxiously for it, and take a great interest in
perusing it. "
ROBERT BURNS LODGE, No. 604, S.C., Christchurch, places the following admirable notice on its monthly
circulars :—"Any Brother, his wife, or any of his family, in case of sickness or sorrow of any kind, to
communicate with the Secretary."
That venerable old Masonic veteran, R.W. Bro. Vincent Pyke, is now engaged upon his " Recollections."
They should prove unusually interesting reading, for Bro. Pyke's Masonic career dates back nearly half a
century, and he was, we believe, the first Provincial Grand Master appointed in New Zealand. These
reminiscences will appear in January, and will be accompanied by Bro. Pyke's photograph.
AMONG the names of those present at Lodge Quatuor Coronati, No. 2076, E.G., London. on Friday-, the 1st.
May, were Bros. T. W. Warren, Ngamotu Lodge, 205 8 and Frank Warren, of Canterbury Kilwinning, 585,
S.C. Bro. Count Gobl e d'Alviellea, Grand Representative of New Zealand at the Grand Orient of Belgium
was also a visitor. He was saluted as a Past Grand Master, and after thanking the Brethren in English, he
concluded by returning their salute in the mode usual in his own jurisdiction.
BRO. C. C. Howard, S.W. of Lodge Waitohi, 2036, E.C., Picton, has a paper entitled, " A critical
examination of the Alban and Athelstan Legends" in the current issue of the " Transactions of Lodge
Quatuor Coronati." Bro. W. J. Hughan, in the London Freemason, says of this paper :—It would be
premature just now to criticise this excellent paper, especially as an opportunity will be afforded us all at one
of the meetings of the Lodge. In justice to the author, however, it is but fair to state that I agree generally
with his treatment of the subject, believing as he does that these grand old documents are " essentially
English, " and are, as they profess to be, old, reflecting alike the ignorance and the actual circumstances of
the time of their origin. His claim that they are of " secular origin" does not appear to me proved or probable,
though possible, but that the " Athelstan-Edwin legend is a fairly correct statement of the fact that English
Masonry was re-organised in the reign of King Athelstan at a meeting held at York" may be taken as
virtually established.
THE Grand Master of Canada is in favour of " a fraternal congress " to enquire and determine as to what the
ancient landmarks of the fraternity really are, in what respects we have departed from them, and what course
we must take to re-urn to them.
LODGE NGAPARA, N.Z.C., OTAGO DISTRICT, in a very healthy state.
The proposed Lodge at Kurow, Otago, is to rest for some time.
P.S.G.W. MCKELVEY gone to Tasmania. P.M.'s collar given by Lodge Hiram. He will be missed.
A LARGE and enthusiastic meeting of Royal Arch Masons in Oamuru, so says our informant, and a Scotch
Chapter is to be formed. Our experience of Arch Chapters is, that they last a couple of years, then they go
defunct, or become dormant, and the founders have to put their hands into their pockets again, and pay the
debts.
THERE are ten English, one Scotch, and one Irish Lodge in the Wellington District, with an aggregate
membership of something under 400. The Grand Lodge of New Zealand has just double the number of
Ledges (24), and the membership is 960. No one can dispute that there is a majority, and a big one, in that
District.
WE learn from the London Freemason that the D.G.M. of Otago and Southland claims to have eight Lodges
(including Otago, 844) on the roll, which muster some 260 financial members. On the other hand, the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand has
12 Lodges on its roll in the same District, with an aggregate membership of close upon 500. The following
figures have been given to us. Ttiey show the " financial " strength of the English Constitution, but we do not
guarantee their correctness : P.C. Marine, 85 ; Dunedin, 65 ; Otago, 25 ; Mount Ida, 25 ; St. John, Mosgiel,
20; St. George, Lawrence, 16 ; Lake of Ophir, 15 ; Aparima, 10. Total, 261.
A MAN’S worst enemies are those who owe him the most.
THE test-fees question has ever been a vexed one in Scotland. The Lodges (34) in the province of Glasgow
are awakening to the necessity of reform. The oldest Lodge will, for the future, impose on its members an
annual fee of 5s, instead of, as hitherto, 3s. The youngest Lodge in the province charges 12s 6d for test-fees,
so that it is virtually independent of candidates, and scrutinises the applicants presenting themselves at its
portals with a care which reflects credit on the Order.
THE Grand Master of Montana condemns the practice of taking a ballot for each Degree, but the Grand
Lodge refused to alter the Constitution.
A LODGE destitute of music is sadly out of tune.
THE expense of Masonic literature is small—the benefits certain to accrue are great.
DEAN STANLEY was a prominent Mason and Knight Templar. Most worthily did he represent the Church
and Craft.
OUR thanks are due to V.W. Bro. C. N. Noteware of Carson, Nevada, for the proceedings of the Grand
Lodge and Grand Chapter of Nevada.
THE name of the French Lodge in Sydney is " Liberty." The Warrant was on exhibition in Dunedin some
little time ago. It is rumoured that Sir Robert Stout is to receive the 33 deg. from the Supreme Council of
France.
OUR thanks are due to the Grand Secretary of New South Wales for favours. Returning New Zealanders
speak very highly of Bro. Bray's courtesy and kindness.
WE notice that at the last meeting of the Supreme Grand Chapter of England, only one Grand Superintendent
was present, and as per usual, not one of the Grand Principals.
THE Duke of Cambridge is opposed to the extension of Masonic Lodges in the army.
IN Hungary a Brother can only be a member of one Lodge.
THE Secretaries of Irish Lodges are fined £3 if they fail to send into Grand Lodge the name of Brethren
twelve months in arrears.
BRO. TERRY, Secretary of the Masonic Benevolent Institution, has spent as many as 290 evenings in one
year, in visiting Lodges. We should not care to try the experiment.
BRO. D. MURRAY LYON, Grand Secretary of Scotland, clearly proves that Burns was nothing more than a
member of Lodge Canongate Kilwinning: The story about his having been its Poet Laureate, though it has
been accepted by many, is, in fact, all moonshine.
A FRIEND of Rufus Choate, the eminent and eloquent lawyer and senator, once said to him, " Choate, you
ought to rest more ; you burn the midnight lamp too constantly ; you cannot continue with impunity to toil as
you do ; you will ruin your constitution." " Constitution," said Choate, " it has gone long ago. I am living on
the Bye-laws."
WE wonder what the London ;Freemason will put the French invasion of Australia down to ? Most likely it
will say the Grand Lodge of New Zealand is responsible. Our contemporary holds the opinion that if the
Grand Lodge had not been launched the French Orient would not have invaded New Zealand ; for-getting, or
not knowing, that Sir Robert Stout had the " joker up his sleeve " long before the Grand Lodge was
established.
THE Grand Lodge of England has called upon the Master of a Lodge in Burmah for an explanation of his
reasons for conferring the Second and Third Degrees upon a Brother the same evening.
THE successor to the late General Pike, in the honours and responsibilities of the position of Grand
Commander of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States, is
Dr. James Cunningham Batchelor, of New Orleans, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana.
IN Canada the ritual is plain, simple, and devoid of show, but the social element is made the leading feature
of the Craft. In the States great stress is laid upon ritual, and the work is done with accessories and
appointments, gorgeous and expensive, whilst the social element is overshadowed or omitted.
The Grand Lodge of Utah exercises jurisdiction over 475 Masons, and its per capita tax is 12s. 6d. In
Washington, with 3025, and Montana, with 1670 Masons, the tax is 8s. 4d-; but in Maine, with 20,340, in
Connecticut, with 14,731, and in Vermont, with a membership of 8742, the tax is only tenpence.
PATRONIZE the members of the Fraternity. True charity is to help a man to make an honourable support for
his family.
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
former being the correct style.
THE Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania says an illegitimate son is disqualified for initiation into Masonry.
According to the "Landmark " an applicant must be " the son of honest parents."
A CERTAIN Masonic Grand Lodge laid the corner-stone of a new hotel, and in its printed proceedings it
presents a view of the hotel, with this advertisement : " The hotel has since been completed, and its
hospitable doors are now open for the reception of guests."
IN Holinshed's Chronicles it is stated that in 1586, Ludgate, London, was re-built by William Kirwine,
Freemason, showing that the term Freemason was in common use at that time.
W. BRO. T. B. WHYTEHEAD, in a letter to the London Freemason on " Freemasonry—What is its Future ? "
says : " The real fact is that the ' Charities ' are accidental outcomes, never originally contemplated, but
gradually grown and become parasitical upon the original plan of Freemasonry. The main objects and views
of our founders were entirely independent of anything like our present charitable institutions. Freemasonry is
unlike any other society. It is not, as many people unfortunately seem to imagine, a kind of insurance or
benefit club. It is a medium for linking temporarily together persons of respectability and good means, drawn
from all social grades, for the propagation of good fellowship, and the interchange of kindly feelings, and
especially for the purpose of breaking down, for the time being, the barbed-wire barriers of religious and
political creeds."
THE Grand Lodge of New York prohibits the issuance of demits until the demitting Brother has petitioned
and been elected in a regular Lodge. The demit is then issued and sent directly to the Lodge electing him.
Exception to this rule is made where the Brother desires to leave that State.
THE Prince of Wales is said to take great pride in a collection of silver trowels which have been presented to
him on the occasion of each corner-stone which he has Masonically laid.
THE population of the United States by the last census is 62,500,000. The Masonic ratio is about 1 in each
1000. In the Australian colony the ratio is about one-fourth less per 1000.
THE members of a newly-established French Masonic Lodge at Antananarivo, Madagascar, lately sued the
head of the Jesuit Mission Station in that Island for libel. A pamphlet, written in the Malagasy tongue, and
distributed by this religious body among the native population, couched in the usual vilifying and outrageous
terms in reference to the Order which the Roman priesthood adopt, was the cause of the action. The verdict
went against the Mission, and Monseigneur Cazet, its head, was fined £40, and was ordered to pay damages
£400, and costs of the suit. An appeal against the judgment has been made to Reunion, but with what result
we are not yet informed.
THE silence of the law—which, indeed, could not be otherwise than silent in the teeth of the Master's
obligation—must be held as determining conclusively that the resignation of a Worshipful Master is out of
the question. An installed Master becomes a Past Master on vacating the chair of the Lodge, and that, too,
whether be has performed the duties of his office wholly, in part, or after the day of his installation, or not at
all.—Freemason, London.
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