PAST GRAND MASTER BRO. THOMSON'S LATEST.
THE Brother who gave us the original of the annexed circular urged its reproduction, as he considered it
deserved a wide publicity, and a more than local circulation. That it will attain a world-wide notoriety by its
publication in these pages he may rest assured, for the CRAFTSMAN circulates largely within the colony, is
sent in exchange to all recognised Masonic journals and newspapers, and is kept on file by 90 Grand Lodges
and 57 Supreme Grand Chapters.

Christchurch,
1st June, 1892.

SIR AND BROTHER,
I have been frequently urged to prepare a Ritual which would serve as a Text Book of our Ceremonies in
Craft Masonry, but declined for various reasons : the want of time and lack of information as to the need of
such a work, being the most prominent. Both of these objections, however, have lately been removed. My
visits to the Lodges in the different parts of the Colony during the last two years have convinced me that
something is really necessary to secure greater uniformity in working, and to make our beautiful ceremonies
more easily understood and better appreciated by those whose duty it is to render them; thus helping to
promote a wider and deeper interest in Lodge matters than exists at present.

To aid so desirable a consummation, I have prepared a Ritual on the lines of that practised in the celebrated
Emulation Lodge of Improvement for Master Masons, meeting weekly at Freemasons' Hall, London. My
qualifications for such a work are that I have been a Mason for 35 years, a P.M. for 25 years, a Preceptor in
various Lodges of Instruction, and at one time a member of the Emulation Lodge, and passed through all the
offices from I.G. to W.M. To correctly estimate this latter qualification, I have only to mention that the
Preceptors would not permit a word to be either added, omitted, or transposed. Rituals have been circulated
in the Colony during the last ten or twelve years, professing to give the Emulation working ; but you have
only to compare the latest edition with some of the former ones to see the extraordinary number of
alterations (corrections) which occur in each ; thus proving that the Emulation working has either been
altered as each edition was issued (which is not at all likely), or that the Ritual itself is not what it professes
to be.

The ceremonies will be in greater detail and in their proper sequence ; thus enabling each officer to know
what he has to, and how to do it, in every emergency.

There will also be directions which will be useful to W.M.'s in conducting the business of the Lodge, and
some valuable hints under the head of " Things Worth Knowing."

The book will be bound in roan with leather thumb case, and of a size suitable for the waistcoat pocket, and
intended for private circulation only.

The cost will not exceed the sum charged for the incorrect Ritual, viz., 10s.

As only a limited number will be printed, Brethren are requested to forward their orders on the form enclosed
to P.M. Bro. F. J. Smith, care of Coates & Co., 218 Colombo Street, Christchurch, as early as possible.

Yours fraternally,
H. THOMSON,

P.M., St. Augustine Lodge,
P.S.—Secretaries will greatly oblige by ascertaining requirements of officers.

We are not disposed to cavil at Bro. Thomson's qualification for compiling such a work, for he was for a
short time, some years ago, a member of the London Lodge of Improvement, but as no books were allowed
to be used or notes taken, he would have to rely solely on his memory. The compiler (Lewis) of " the
incorrect Ritual " would of course be in the same position, but being on the spot, it is only reasonable to
suppose that he has so perfected himself in the work that the corrections in the late editions, of which Bro.
Thomson complains, bring his Ritual much nearer to the true Emulation work. The price of these Rituals has
never exceeded 7s 6d—at the present time they can be bought from a bookseller in this city for 6s 3d, and a
cheaper edition for 5s.

"It becomes not a law maker to be a law breaker." Has Bro. Thomson obtained the sanction of the Board of
General Purposes to address our Lodges ? We think not. Is it likely the Board would have consented to such
a circular being sent to its subordinate bodies, when by resolution carried at the Annual Communication the
matter is sub judice, and their report is expected to be presented at the Wellington Communication on the
29th inst. Our subordinate Lodges are entitled to protection from unauthorised solicitations, and in the
interests of the Craft we call upon Grand Lodge to put a stop to these highly improper and undignified calls
upon the pockets of the Brethren.

The Emulation work doubtless possesses many beauties, but is altogether unsuitable as the standard work of
our mixed jurisdiction. Bro. Thomson's indelicate attempt to get his version of that work adopued by our
Lodges, will we are pleased to think, end in failure. For, in the first place, Grand Lodge must maintain its
dignity, and call upon its Past Grand Master to explain his reasons for usurping the functions of the Board of
General Purposes and, in the second place, the New Zealand Ritual, when drafted by order of Grand Lodge,
must of necessity contain parts of the English, Irish, and Scotch work. Bro. Thomson never having taken any
interest in the work of other Constitutions, naturally believes in Emulation, but it cannot be expected that the
Scotch and Irish Brethren, who together comprise half of our Grand Lodge, will take so kindly to it.

If every Past Master treated us to a Ritual, where would the absurdity end ? Echo answers, " Where ?" To
compile a work on Bro. Thomson's lines has not much originality about it, and cannot have any copyright,
therefore anyone—Mason or non-Mason could reprint. We are tempted to ask how it would look in the
CRAFTSMAN.

We object to Rituals in toto. While the obligation required of every candidate for our mysteries is part and
parcel of Freemasonry, " it is not permissible to have or use in this jurisdiction any writing, book, or other
equivalent, which shall set forth or contain the work of Freemasonry. The work cannot be written, printed, or
otherwise indicated."

_____________________________
ARE PRINTED RITUALS UN-MASONIC ?

THE following article, reproduced from the Canadian Craftsman, of February, 1890, is so much in accord
with our own views on the subject, that we have no hesitation in strengthening our own remarks by the
adoption of those of our contemporary:—

ARE PRINTED RITUALS UN-MASONIC ?
According to the report of the last Grand Lodge Communication of the U.G. Lodge of New South Wales,
that body is publishing under its sanction a printed Ritual of all Masonic ceremonies, to be distributed among
the Brethren. We very much regret the action of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. We look on it as a
most dangerous innovation, and a grave violation of the ancient landmarks of the Order. The Masonic Ritual
has been handed down by word of mouth from generation to generation. It has preserved a remarkable
uniformity in all its essential parts. Though we sometimes hear of a want of a uniformity in working, we
venture to assert there is no more difference to be found in the working of Lodges in any country than there
is in the pronunciation of English-speaking people. There is as little difference in Masonic working amongst
well-informed Masons as there is in grammar and pronunciation amongst well-educated English-speaking
people. The defect in the one as in the other is to be found in the ignorant and the idle. Any Mason who is
not prepared to devote a sufficient amount of time and attention to properly learning the Masonic Ritual is
unfit to occupy the chair of King Solomon.

Our Brethren in New South Wales seem themselves to be fully convinced of the impropriety of their
conduct. The very care they take to point out the precautions taken to prevent the outside public getting a
peep at the work is sufficient to condemn them. Either it is wrong to print the Ritual or it is not ; this is a
question that should admit of no compromise. If it be wrong to print it, no amount of precaution will make it
right. Either the Masonic Ritual should be laid bare to the outside world or it should not. If it should, no
precaution is necessary. If it should not, no precaution can possibly be sufficiently effective to justify its
publication. Once it is printed and circulated it is as much out of the control of the Grand Lodge as a Master
Mason's certificate. Without any fault of the possessor it may fall into hands for which it never was intended.
Take the least objectionable case A Brother may die his son—who may or may not be a Mason—his
executor, a clerk in his employ, his wife or daughter, perhaps a boardinghouse-keeper or servant girl, would
of necessity get possession of the work, despite all possible precautions.

We hope the Grand Lodge of New South Wales will stay its hand before it is too late. We are told by a very
ancient writer that a word which has once passed the lips can never be recalled. The same may be said of the
publication of a book. This step is certainly—to put it very mildly—an alteration in the established usages
and customs of ancient Free Masonry.

How can the Grand Lodge compel any member of the Craft to adhere to the usages and customs, laws and
landmarks of the institution, when itself as a corporate body has been guilty of such a flagrant violation of
them ?

—Australasian Keystone.

So the Masonic ritual—the ritual, too, spelled with a big " R "—" has been printed in handy form, with a flap
cover, and will thus be found most convenient." Yes, " most convenient " for men without minds or
memories, or apprehension of the dignity or secrecy of Freemasonry. We are aware of the fact that in many
of the so-called " higher degrees " (higher in what ? certainly not in appreciation of the Masonic cardinal
principles of secrecy and silence) it is customary to have written or printed rituals, but the measure of the
distance of their removal from Freemasonry is found in those very printed rituals. . . . . . . There can be no
safety, no secrecy, no silence, no Masonry, where a printed ritual is used.

—American Keystone.
_____________________________

MASONIC UNITY.
(Communicated.)

IN our former articles touching upon the necessity of Masonic unity in New Zealand, we strongly urged
Brethren of all shades of opinion to unite in friendliness of action, and to hold forth the " right hand of
friendship " to every Brother seeking it, irrespective of country and Constitution. This is surely the
groundwork of all Masonic teaching ; once a Mason always a Mason, and although we may differ in points
of ceremonial, or in opinion as to which Constitution is the best, there is nothing so far as we know in the
teachings or landmarks of any particular Masonic body which should lead us to infer that we are debarred
from fraternal intercourse with any of our Brethren in good standing. A young and, of course, very ardent
Brother—L. Snow, of the Lazar Lodge, at Kumara—however, disagrees with us, and with a desire to flesh
his maiden steel, accuses us of " wearisome commonplaces." Now, we very much doubt if our young and no
doubt well-meaning Brother has not gone a little out of his depth, and has taken upon himself to criticise
opinions of which, according to his own admission, he can know very little indeed.

Our former articles were in every sense conciliatory, and were written with the hope of arousing all true
Masons to a sense of their obligations, and to urge upon them the earnest necessity of our all meeting on the
level ; and we reiterate that we can see no just reason why Brethren of all Constitutions should not visit and
be visited by members of the New Zealand Constitution. We are not aware that the working of the Lazar
Lodge is different to any other under the Grand Lodge of England, but if what Bro. Snow says is correct, it
must be ; although it is for the first time we hear of an English Mason " taking an oath of allegiance," and
indeed with all courtesy we beg to doubt the veracity of such a statement. The space at our disposal is too
limited to allow us to quote the numerous instances of Brethren belonging to the present Grand Lodge of
Victoria (before it was recognised by the Grand Lodge of England) visiting Lodges in London and the
provinces, and being welcomed with open arms. Such indeed was the fact, as Bro. Snow can with very little
trouble assure himself of. Meanwhile, he will allow us to point out that there were no laws to decide how,

when, or where Grand Lodges should be instituted before the eighteenth century : and certainly at that time if
a few Lodges in the South of England elected to congregate, and call their meeting a Grand Lodge, the
members of other properly constituted Lodges had and still have an equal right so to designate their
assemblies, and being formed into a Supreme Body, deserve the most cordial recognition. This is our view of
the position, and although here and there we meet a Brother who differs from it, on the whole we are pleased
to say it is gaining ground, and we confidently predict that in a few brief months Masonic unity will be an
established fact.

________________________________________

LODGE ST. ANDREW, Auckland, No. 418, S.C.—to give it the title claims, though it is merely the minority of
the members of the true Lodge St. Andrew, which joined the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, and is numbered
8 thereunder—has lately " amended " its by-laws. One of these by-laws is of a nature that such publicity as
we can give ought by all means to be afforded to it. It runs thus :—

BYE-LAW NO. 21—CHANGE OF CONSTITUTION.
THAT it shall not be competent for the Right Worshipful Master or presiding Brother under any pretence
whatever to propose, receive, or put a motion to a meeting for the purpose of transferring the allegiance of
Lodge St. Andrew, its books, property, or funds, or either of them, to any other Constitution, unless notice of
motion has been duly given two months previous thereto, and a vote taken of all the members of the Lodge on
the question ; and, if on the vote being taken, five financial members are opposed to the movement, then the
motion shall be lost.

Voting on the question may be accomplished by voting papers.

No alteration or suspension of this bye-law shall take place at any time, if five financial members are opposed
to it, and every member shall have an opportunity of recording his vote on the question of alteration or
suspension of this bye-law, otherwise the voting will be illegal, and may be set aside by the Provincial Grand
Lodge or the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

It need not be said that we are well aware that the Grand Lodge of Scotland, some little time ago, armed its
New Zealand representatives with dispensing power to act without regard to Masonic precedent or law in
fighting the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. But we had imagined that some bounds would be set to this new
granted liberty, and that the Home authorities scarcely contemplated that all rightfulness should be forgotten,
that common sense should be set at nought, and the English language itself be put to an open shame. Yet all
these things are illustrated in the short extract we give above. To take the last first Imagine the kind of mind
possessed alike by the Brother who drafted, the Brethren who adopted, and the exalted Brother who
approved of such a passage as—" It shall not be lawful for the Right Worshipful Master . . . to put a motion .
. . for the purpose of transferring the allegiance of Lodge St. Andrew . . unless notice of motion has been
duly given . . . and a vote taken of all members of the Lodge on the question"—and so on. We have ourselves
italicised these words, though it was scarcely necessary so to emphasise their perfect deliciousness. Of
course it is not impossible to conjecture what the words were intended to mean. The fair, noble, and
essentially Masonic (Heaven save the mark !) intention is to put it in the power of five individuals—no
matter how unworthy, or how unscrupulous—to defy, in perpetuity, the well-considered desires of ten or
twenty times their number. And these five, be it noted, may be of those who take no active part whatever in
the ordinary working of the Lodge for it is adroitly provided that " voting on the question may be
accomplished by voting papers " (" accomplished " is good ! as Polonius would say). Now, it has been
palpable of late that there is unfortunately a small band—some of whom by fortuitous circumstances have
found themselves clothed with great authority—who are determined to oppose Masonic inter-communion
and unity to the very utmost, whatever evil may be engendered by such action—to whom the great principles
upon which our Order is built are but meaningless phrases. To such we no longer address appeal or offer
argument. But to the very large majority of Brethren who have not as yet seen the wisdom of throwing in
their lot with the Grand Lodge of New Zealand—in whom we cheerfully recognise as much zeal for the true
interests of the Craft as we claim for ourselves—we would appeal most fervently, and ask if tactics such as
we now expose are not an insult to our common Masonry, and should not be indignantly repudiated by every
Freemason in the colony.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

FREEMASONS' HALL, INVERCARGILL.

ON the next page we give a photo-engraving of the interior of the Freemasons' Hall, Invercargill, looking
towards the east, and next month a representation of the same hall, looking westward will be given. The
views are from photographs gratuitously taken for us by Bro. K. Gerstenkorn, photographer, Invercargill, to
whom we desire to tender our thanks.

_________________________
TO SUBSCRIBERS AND OTHERS.

Subscriptions should be forwarded to T. G. DE RENZY, Box 322, Post Office Dunedin.
Communications for the Editorial Department should be addressed to the Editor, Box 322, Post Office, Dunedin
Subscribers are respectfully notified that the correct filling of orders is sufficient evidence of their receipt.

_______________________________________
THE cost of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, including ground and furnishing, was over £300,000.

FREEMASON’S HALL, INVERCARGILL
LOOKING TOWARDS THE EAST

From Photograph Gratuitously taken by Instantaneous Flash Light, for the CRAFTSMAN, by BRO. K.
GERSTENKORN, Photographer, Invercargill

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Supplement to the New Zealand Craftsman, July 16, 1892

The Grand Lodge of New Zealand
OF ANTIENT, FREE, AND ACCEPTED MASONS.

ANNUAL COMMUNICATION
Holden at the Masonic Hall, Auckland, on Wednesday, the 27th day of April, 1892.

PRESENT.
M.W. Bro. Henry Thomson . . Grand Master
R.W. Bro. Edward Thomas Gillon As Deputy Grand Master
R.W. hro. Malcolm Niccol . . Grand Supt., Auckland
R.W. Bro. Herbert J. Williams .. Grand Supt., Wellington
R.W. Bro. George H. Powley S.G. Wardan

R.W. Bro. William H. Cooper . . As J.G. Warden
V.W. Bro. Rev. W. E. Mulgan, B.A. Grand Chaplain
V.W. Bro. Alfred Kidd . . . As Grand Treasurer
V.W. Bro. Rev. Wm. Ronaldson Grand Secretary
W. Bro. Andrew King .. . . As S.G. Deacon
W. Bro. Geo. W. Basley . . As J.G. Deacon
W. Bro. James F. Logan . . Grand Dir. of Ceremonies
W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin . . As G. Sword Bearer
W. Bro. Dr. H. Walker .. . . As G. Organist
W. Bro. Geo. Edgecumbe As Grand Pursuivant
W. Bro. R. B. Symon Grand Steward
W. Bro. J. B. Gatland. Grand Steward
W. Bro. S. D. Hanna. As Grand Steward
W. Bro. W. M. Chapman . . As Grand Steward
W. Bro. C. Porter. As Grand Tyler

AND

The Masters, Past Masters, and Wardens of many Lodges from all parts of the territory.

There were also many visitors present..
Opening of the Grand Lodge.—The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, and with solemn prayer, at
noon, adjourning at 2.45 p.m., and resuming labour at 7.30 p.m.

Minutes.—The Minutes of the Quarterly Communication held at Oamaru on January 15th, having been
printed and widely circulated amongst all the Lodges, were taken as read and ordered to be confirmed.

Apologies.—A large number of letters and telegrams were received by the Grand Secretary from Officers
and Members of Grand Lodge expressing regret at not being able to be present, and sending hearty good
wishes and congratulations.

Roll of Lodges.—Deferred until the Evening Session.
Balance Sheet of Grand Lodge.—In the absence of the Grand Treasurer, who sent an apology for his
unavoidable absence, the Balance Sheet was read by the Grand Secretary. The Grand Master explained the
various items of the account. (This Balance Sheet we gave in May, we therefore consider it unnecessary to
reproduce again.)
Adoption of Balance Sheet.—The Grand Master moved, " That the Balance Sheet as read be adopted."
Carried.

Reports.—The following Reports were presented :—
1. BOARD OF BENEVOLENCE.
Reported that no application for assistance had been received since last Communication. The Balance to the
Credit of the Fund of Benevolence to date is £230 8s. 6d.

WESTCOTE LYTTELTON,
President Board of Benevolence.

St. Augustine Masonic Hall,
Christchurch, April 6th, 1892.

Report Adopted—The Grand Master moved, " That this Report be adopted." Carried.
__________

2. REPORT OF THE BOARD OF GENERAL PURPOSES.

1. MEETINGS.—During the last quarter the Board met on January 29th, February 26th, March 7th and 25th,
and April 6th. The following business has been transacted :--
2. CONDOLENCE. —In accordance with the resolution of Grand Lodge at the Oamaru Communication a
cablegram was forwarded by the M.W. the Grand Master to H.R.H. Bro. the Prince of Wales conveying the
sympathy of this Grand Lodge with H.R.H. in his irreparable loss. Its receipt has been acknowledged by the
Acting Grand Secretary as having been forwarded to the M.W. the Grand Master of England.

3. LODGES JOINED.—Lodge Greytown, late No. 1720, E.C. of Greytown, Wellington District, transferred its
allegiance to this Grand Lodge in February, and is now working under Dispensation. Lodge Abercorn, late
No 472, I.C., of Gisborne, has also taken the same step, and a Dispensation to work under the Grand Lodge
of New Zealand, with other papers, has been forwarded. A cordial and hearty welcome has been given to
both Lodges. The Grand Master visits these Lodges, together with others on the line of road, on his journey
to Auckland. Your Board is aware that several other Lodges contemplate taking similar action shortly.
4. NEW LODGE. —A new Lodge was very successfully constituted and consecrated at Stratford on the 15th
March by R.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, Grand Superintendent, Wellington District, who was ably assisted by
many Brethren from different parts, making the meeting a very representative one.
5. RECOGNITION.—Since last Communication of Grand Lodge at Oamaru the Grand Lodge of New
Brunswick has extended recognition to this Grand Lodge. This has been duly acknowledged and exchange of
representatives invited. The Grand Lodge of Cuba has also taken the same step and has sent a most cordial
and fraternal welcome into the Brotherhood of Grand Lodges. The Committee on Foreign Correspondence,
in submitting their recommendation for our recognition, did so on broad grounds, and with a due regard to all
the circumstances of this Colony ; exchange of representatives has also been invited. The Board would
recommend that the recommendation be printed with this Report of Proceedings as being worthy of special
notice. The Grand Lodge of British Columbia has asked for further information relative to the formation of
this Grand Lodge, to be laid before it at its next Annual Communication in June. This has been sent.
6. COMMISSION RECEIVED.— The Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia has forwarded its Commission for R.W. Bro.
Malcolm Niccol as its Grand Representative near this Grand Lodge.
7. COMMISSIONS ISSUED.—Those in favour of the following Brethren have been duly forwarded to their
respective Grand Lodges: - Bro. H. S. Thomson, New South Wales ; R.W. Bro. George F. Martin, Victoria ;
R.W. Bro. Gordon, South Australia ; R.W. Bro. M. E. Robinson, Tasmania ; RW. Bro. Rufus H. Kinney,
Nevada ; and W. Bro. Colin McNab, Nova Scotia.
8. BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS.—Since the last Communication of Grand Lodge the printing of the Book of
Constitutions has been completed, and it is now being circulated amongst the Lodges. It was, perhaps, hardly
to be expected that no mistakes or errors should have crept in, notwithstanding all the care taken by the
Board, supplemented by the careful revision of the M.W. the Grand Master himself. These mistakes will be
corrected and inserted in all copies on hand as well as forwarded to all the Lodges. Brethren have notified the
Grand Secretary of some inaccuracies they have come across. Should any others be observed the Grand
Secretary will be glad to be informed thereof.
9. REGALIA.—At the Grand Lodge Communication at Oamaru the Board was instructed to make an appeal
to the Lodges towards providing clothing for Officers of Grand Lodge, and, if the appeal warranted their
taking action, they were authorised to procure the necessary Regalia. The Board, having in view the fact that
it would shortly cease to exist, by the elections to be made at this Communication of Grand Lodge, desires to
remit the question to this Annual Communication of Grand Lodge, being of opinion that it would be better
for the new Board to deal with the matter without being hampered by any action of its predecessors. The
Board would, however, express its opinion that provision should be made for Regalia for the three principal
officers at as early a date as possible.
10. CHARTERS FOR LODGES. —Your Board has the pleasure to report that the Charters are nearly completed,
and will shortly be in possession of the Lodges.
11. NOMINATIONS.—These have all been duly tabulated. Rather more have been made this year than was the
case last year. With a view of saving the time of Grand Lodge the Board presents to Grand Lodge a list of
officers, as suggestions, for the various elective offices.
12. HISTORY OF FORMATION OF GRAND LODGE.—It was suggested at the firs meeting of our Grand Lodge
that a short history of its formation should be published, the necessity for this having become evident from
the fact that several Grand Lodges have desired this information when considering recognition. Your Board
therefore has authorised the publication of its early proceedings, and the work has been undertaken and ably
completed by Bro. George R. Hart, under the supervision of the Board assisted by R.W. Bro. E. T. Gillon ;
and your Board hopes that every Brother in our constitution will avail himself of the opportunity of
providing himself with the information so supplied.
13. VOTE OF THANKS TO LODGE ST AUGUSTINE, CHRISTCHURCH.—Your Board desires to acknowledge the
liberality of Lodge St. Augustine in providing office accommodation for the Grand Secretary during the last
year, free of charge, and hopes it will be recognised by Grand Lodge.
14. CONCLUSION. —As this will be the ast Report presented by this Board to Grand Lodge, it may not be out
of place to say that your Board has met with every encouragement during its term of office, that all the
Officers who have been engaged in the work have been efficient and energetic, and that it would be

impossible to express or exaggerate the work done by the M.W. the G.M., Bro. Henry Thomson, for and on
behalf of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

JAMES L. FENERTY,
President Board of General Purposes.

St. Augustine Masonic Hall,
Christchurch, April 6th, 1892.

___________________
Supplemental Report Presented to Grand Lodge.

The Members of the Board at present assembled in Auckland met last night, and present the following
Supplemental Report :—

New Lodge.—A petiton from Mangonui Brethren for the formation of a new Lodge there was received,
found to be in order, and the issue of a Charter recommended.

Lodge Joined.—Announced that Lodge Apatima, No. 1716, E.C., had tendered its allegiance to the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand.

Complaints.—Two cases of Masonic misconduct which had been enquired into were considered and left to
the Grand Master for action thereupon.

Ritual.—The Board agreed to recommend that a Committee composed in accordance with the Basis of
Union be set up to prepare a draft ritual for consideration of the Board, Lodges, and Grand Lodge.

New Districts.—The Constitution of new Superintendents of districts was left to the Grand Master.

Visiting .—The Board recommend that each Superintendent should be required to visit each Lodge in his
district at least once in each year, the expense of such annual visit to be borne by Grand Lodge.

Constitutions.—It was resolved, " That a copy of the Book of Constitutions should be sent officially to each
Lodge, which has not obtained a supply, and charged to the same."

Grand Lodge Representative.—The appointment of a Representative near the Grand Lodge of Cuba was
left to the Grand Master.

E. T. GILLON,
Chairman.

Masonic Institute,
Auckland, April 26th, 1892.

________________________________________
Reports of Grand Superintendents :

Grand Superintendent's Office,
Auckland District.

During the past year I have visited all the Lodges in my district except Coromandel No. 17 and Te Aroha No.
52. The latter was recently visited by Bro. Dr. Walker, Assistant Grand Orgbanist, who reports to me that
this Lodge is not thriving so well as we could wish owing to mining operations in the neighbourhood having
very much fallen off, and many members of the Lodge having consequently left the place. Te Aroha Lodge
is, however, out of debt, and owns a very neat little hall, and the comparatively small number of members
continue to hold regular meetings.

DATES OF INSTALLATION.-Coromandel No. 17 was originally an Irish Lodge and its Bye-laws provide for
the Installation of officers on 24th June, a day on which a number of other Lodges also install, consequently I
find it difficult to arrange my engagements so as to be present as I could wish on the occasion of the arrange
Meetings of all Lodges in my District. I would suggest that Grand Lodge intimate to the Lodges the
desirability of their altering the dates of their Installation so as to avoid clashing with each other. The
difficulty in the way is that a later date than that now in use must be chosen so as to avoid shortening the
term of service of the Master and Wardens.

DEPUTY MASTERS.-Grand Lodge laws require the Deputy Master to be a Past Master, and this has created a
difficulty in some of our Lodges which were originally Scottish. In these it has been customary to confer the
office of Deputy and Substitute Master on old and respected Brethren who are not P.M.'s, and who in many
cases have held the position for a number of years. It is felt that to debar them from continuing to hold this
office would be a great hardship and some steps should be taken by Grand Lodge to get over the difficulty.

RITUAL.-The working in the various Lodges is gradually becoming assimilated in this District, and I think it
will not be necessary or expedient for Grand Lodge to legislate in this matter for some time. The practice
here in the case of new Lodges is to introduce what is known as the English Ritual.

NEW LODGE.-I have received the petition for a New Lodge at Mangonui and herewith submit it for your
consideration. The District is a rising one, and, as there is no Lodge nearer than 30 miles. I am personally
acquainted with most of the Brethren signing the petition, and I strongly recommend that a Charter be issued
to them.

BOOKS OF CONSTITUTION.-I find many of the Lodges in this District are still working under their old Grand
Lodge Laws, not having being supplied with an official copy of our own. I recommend that the Grand
Secretary be instructed to forward one copy to each Lodge which has not obtained a supply.

MASONIC INSTITUTE.--The establishment of the Masonic Institute in Auckland has been attended with the
happiest results, and will be an important factor in cementing our Lodges more closely together, as well as
proving of great advantage to visitors from the country and travelling Brethren. I hope to see similar
institutions opened in other cities.

I am happy to be able to report a continuance of the prosperous condition of the Craft in the District, and the
existence among us of the most cordial relations. The prospects of Freemasonry in Auckland were never
brighter than at present, our position is much more stable and assured than it was twelve months ago, and the
Members of our Lodges more satisfied than ever of the wisdom of having taken part in creating the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand.

There is also a much better state of feeling existing between us and those of other Constitutions than was the
case last year I am pleased to say.

I enclose a formal list of the Lodges in this District, and a memorandum of my visits.
M. NICCOL,

Grand Superintendent.
Auckland, 25th April, 1892.

__________
Grand Superintendent's Office,

Wellington District.
Having advised Grand Lodge, at each Communication, of the progress made since the last Annual Meeting,
it is now only necessary to briefly recapitulate the position of Masonry in the Wellington District.

With one exception the whole of the Lodges are in a thoroughly healthy state, and at no time during the past
fifteen years has there been so much enthusiasm manifested in matters Masonic ; this is particularly
noticeable in the large attendance, especially in the City. A few years since it was no unusual thing to see the
W.M. unsupported in the East, a maximum attendance of Members and visitors were exceptional
occurrences. To-day, it is the rule to see a large muster of Members, visitors, and especially P.M.'s, eight or
ten of the latter being an ordinary average.

In country Lodges, generally, the same apathy was formerly exhibited, and in at least two instances, Lodges
would have succumbed, had not a new order of things been inaugurated.

Since the Annual Communication in July last four new Lodges have been constituted in this district, viz.,
Otangaki at Ashurst, Rangatira at Hunterville, Otaki and Stratford, all of which are progressing most
favorably.

Two Lodges, " Heretaunga " and ' Greytown," have transferred their allegiance from the E.C. to N.Z.C., both
of which are decided acquisitions. With only one exception, the whole of the Lodges between Wellington
and Napier are enrolled under the National Constitution, and as at the last meeting of the Lodge in question,
held a few days since, a resolution was carried re the transfer of allegiance, it may confidently be anticipated
the exception will soon cease to be so.

In another part of the district arrangements are in progress for the incorporation of a strong Lodge, and by
June next I look forward to having a roll of twenty- nine Lodges in this district.

Several largely attended meetings of P.M.'s have lately been held in Wellington for the consideration of
matters affecting the welfare of the Craft, when the establishment of a Masonic Institute and local Board of
Benevolence was discussed, and a Committee formed to bring the former into operation.

A most successful re-union of Wellington Masons was held at the Waterloo Lodge on Monday, 11th inst., to
receive the M.W. Grand Master. The meeting was largely attended, and the greatest enthusiasm prevailed.

On Tuesday, 12th, the Grand Master (accompanied by the Grand Secretary and a number of Wellington
brethren), was present by special invitation at a meeting of Greytown Lodge ; the other three Lodges in the
Wairarapa were strongly represented, and as every effort was made by the local brethren in providing a
variety of entertainment, the function was most successful.

On behalf of the members of the Craft in the district, I desire to place on record their appreciation of the
valuable service rendered by Bro. Thomson, as the first Grand Master in this Colony. To his unwearying and
self-denying efforts much of the success achieved must be attributed. On every occasion when invited to
conduct Masonic Ceremonies in this district he has cheerfully acceded, though frequently at the greatest
personal inconvenience. We sincerely trust that he may long be spared to aid in the work yet to be
accomplished, by his assistance, counsel, and advice.

HERBERT J. WILLIAMS,
Grand Superintendent.

Wellington, April 20th, 1892.
__________

Grand Superintendent's Office,
Otago District.

I have little to say in the way of a report. Nothing has occurred of an exciting or exceptional nature in my
district during the past year. I have installed the Master of every Lodge but one, being prevented attending in
that instance by indisposition.

The very strong opposition to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand shewn by brethren in Dunedin acquired
much of its power from a belief that the movement would prove to be but an evanescent one ; that, in fact,
the Craft throughout the Colony generally were not in earnest in the matter. Gradually, but certainly, this
feeling has changed to a conviction that the Grand Lodge must now be regarded as a permanent institution,
and so a return of true fraternal feeling is manifesting itself all around. Touching the business to come before
the Board of General Purposes on Friday, I do not know if the first item, re making provision for expenses of
G.M. in visiting Lodges, refers to the past or the future. I think a recommendation from the Board to Grand
Lodge definitely to settle this question would be most advisable.

In like manner, proper provision for expenses of removal of Grand Secretary from time to time should be
made.

ALFRED H. BURTON,
Grand Superintendent.

Dunedin, 23rd March, 1892.
_____________

Grand Superintendent's Office,
Southland District.

The Right W. Bro. W. H. Hall telegraphed, saying :—My Report, Lodge Aparima, Riverton, passed
resolution to join the majority ; more to follow soon. Nothing of importance. Hearty good wishes for
successful Communication.

W. H. HALL,
Grand Superintendent.

Invercargill, April 21st, 1892.
______________

Reports Received.—The Reports of the Grand Superintendents were received :—

GRAND REPRESENTATIVES COMMISSIONS -The Grand Master presented R.W. Bro. M. Niccol with his
Commission as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, and those of W. Bro. N. Grace, of
Nevada, and W. Bro. Provis, of Kansas, were delivered to R.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, to hand to those
Brethren. In the evening Session, the Grand Master presented the R.W. Bro. A. S. Russell with his
Commission as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Montana, near this Grand Lodge.

NEW LODGE, MANGONUI.-The Grand Master announced that a Charter would be granted to the Brethren at
Mangonui for the formation of a new Lodge in the District.

Election of the Most Worshipful the Grand Master.—The M.W. the Grand Master Bro. H. Thomson
announced that the only nomination for the Office of Grand Master was that of Right W. Bro. M. Niccol ; he
therefore declared Bro. Niccol duly elected.—Received with acclamation.

Election of Officers of Grand Lodge. —The suggested List of officers of Grand Lodge was read out by
R.W. Bro. E. T. Gallon., who moved, " That the Brethren suggested, as read over, be elected."—Carried.

MASONIC COMPLAINTS.-In the case of Members of Lodge St. Andrew, Wellington, the Report of the
Committee appointed was adopted, and accordingly two Brethren were expelled the Craft, and one was
censured. In the case of another Brother, the Report that he be expelled the Craft was also adopted. They
were then put as substantive motions, and carried.

GRAND REPRESENTATIVE, GRAND LODGE OF THE ISLAND OF CUBA.- The M.W. the Grand Master
announced that he would recommend the W. Bro. Josephus Hargraves Richardson as Grand Representative
of the Grand Lodge of the Island of Cuba.

ADDRESS -The M.W. the Grand Master then gave the following Address :—

BRETHREN,-
During the course of the evening it will be my duty and pleasure to vacate the office of Grand Master which I
have held for the last two years, but before doing so I desire to take this opportunity of bringing before you a
few subjects for your consideration which I deem of some little importance. You are aware that a history of
the movement which was commenced over three years ago for the formation of a Grand Lodge iu this colony
has been prepared under the supervision of the Board of General Purposes, and is now ready for distribution ;
a copy of which ought to be in possesion of every brother holding under this Grand Lodge. The matters to
which I wish to refer are outside the scope of that history, and therefore not alluded to therein.
Most of you, no doubt, have heard a great many charges against the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, some of
them very silly, and others of no importance if true ; but there is one which, at first sight, appears to have
something in it, and particularly to those who have not given much time to the study of Masonic History. I
allude to the charge that the Grand Lodge of New Zealand has not been properly formed or constituted ; or,
as some put it, that it is an irregular lodge, and consequently they were prevented from supporting it,
however much inclined they might be. I have, myself, been told this on several occasions, and on requesting
to be favoured with some reasons in support thereof, have only got a reiteration of the statement.

I therefore propose to show that a Grand Lodge formed in an unoccupied territory by majorities in the
Lodges of that territory, cannot be other than properly formed, and therefore not an irregular body.

And, first, I would say that there is no written law on the subject, nor any custom so general as to make it
equivalent to a written law, nor can any Grand Lodge make a law which will extend into another Masonic

territory. Mackey is of opinion that three lodges can legally form a Grand Lodge, but whether he means that
there must be not less than three lodges in a territory before a Grand Lodge can be formed, or that not less
than three out of any number can do so, is not clear. In either case little value can be attached to it, because it
is not a recognized condition in the formation of Grand Lodges. The Grand . Lodge of England having been
formed by four Lodges only proves conclusively that that number is sufficient to inaugurate a Grand Lodge.

There being therefore, no law on the subject, it necessarily follows that none can have been violated, and
hence the Lodges in any unoccupied territory can form a Grand Lodge when and how they please.

The confusion of thought on this matter appears to me to have arisen in supposing that Regularity and
Recognition were convertible terms. This is a great mistake. I have already shown that there is no law by
which a Grand Lodge can be adjudged irregular :—Grand Lodges, therefore, can only act towards a Body
seeking recognition as if that Body had broken a law to which it is not subject. This is neither more nor less
than an absurdity.

Recognition is an arbitrary act, one Grand Lodge grants it, a second refuses, while a third looks on with little
or no concern.

The Australian Grand Lodges, some of the American, and others on the Continent, all admitted regularly
constituted and recognized, have recognized the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, and therefore the latter body
must be regular also ; but the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland have refused to recognize it,
and therefore, by the same reasoning, the Grand Lodge of New Zealand must be an irregular body. It cannot
be both. The situation will become more interesting still if you take into consideration the fact that H.R:H.
the Prince of Wales is the patron of some, if not all, of the Australian Grand Lodges which have recognized
New Zealand, while the Grand Lodge of England, of which he is the M.W. Grand Master, has stigmatised us
as an irregular body.

Brethren, no doubt some of you have been favoured with circulars in which it was attempted to be shown
that the majority of a Lodge had no power to transfer its allegiance to a local Grand Lodge, but that a
minority of not less than three could retain the Warrant, carry on the Lodge, and in fact set the majority at
defiance. These ideas were supported by the 219 clause, Book of Constitution E.C., which is as follows :—"
Should the majority of any Lodge determine to retire from it, the power of assembly remains with the rest of
the members, but should the number of members remaining at any time be less than three the warrant
becomes extinct."

It is hardly possible (almost an insult) to suppose that any reasonably fair-minded brother with ordinary
intelligence could seriously entertain opinions of that character. I cannot believe that such views are either
the result of sincere conviction, or an earnest desire to promote the harmony of the craft. It was no doubt felt
by these (very liberal) brethren that if the authority of the Grand Lodge of England could be obtained for the
above very satisfactory method of disposing of inconvenient majorities, the movement then in operation for
the attainment of local self-government would soon be a thing of the past. Accordingly the District Grand
Secretary E.C. Wellington, in a letter dated 14th June, 1889, appeals to the Grand Secretary for a ruling on
the subject. The Grand Secretary in reply said. " The question was raised during the formation recently of the
various Australian Grand Lodges, and it was then officially decided that i t was a case where the majority of
the members had a right to decide the matter on behalf of their Lodge, and that the rule contained in Act 219,
Book of Constitutions, which allows three members to hold the warrant, did not apply, as the majority were
not retiring from the Lodge, but were merely transferring its allegiance to another Masonic power. And the
Grand Registrar considers that this ruling should apply to the case of the New Zealand Lodges."

In reply to a second communication the Grand Secretary says " An appeal from Victoria . . . came before
Grand Lodge, the precise question now raised presented itself, and came before the Colonial Board, and the
Grand Registrar—the legal adviser of Grand Lodge—after carefully revising the matter in all its bearings,
came to the conclusion that Article 219, Book of Constitutions, does not apply to such a case, and advised
the Board accordingly. That Board which is both the consultative and executive authority of Grand Lodge in
Colonial questions, unanimously adopted the advice so given, and in that sense it decided the case before it."

And, again, in reply to a further appeal, the Grand Secretary says : " This question, as to the majority taking
the Lodge over, has twice been answered to the District Grand Master of Wellington, who has been informed
that the Grand Registrar, as the legal adviser of Grand Lodge, has officially ruled that Article 219 of the
Book of Constitutions was framed for domestic purposes, and was never intended to meet the case of a lodge
severing its allegiance from its Mother Grand Lodge. Consequently, then, a majority can take the Lodge
over. I may mention that this view was taken in the recent Australian Grand Lodge movements, and was
officially confirmed by the Colonial Board."

In addition to the Grand Registrar's ruling the following extract is given from Wor. Bro. W. J. Hughan, who
stands deservedly high in the Craft, and is generally acknowledged to be sound on Constitutional practice : "
The question as to the action of the majority of the members to continue with our Grand Lodge, or sever their
connection, is not refered to in the rule (219) so far as I understand, or remember the reasons advocated for
such a regulation. A majority deciding to return their warrant, after all preliminaries have been attended to,
surely decides the matter, and would justify the Master, after due confirmation and payment of all claims, to
distribute the effects pro rata amongst the members. I conceive that there are no three members of the Lodge
to be considered when the Resolution to secede has been passed and confirmed under present rules."

The application for recognition was considered by the Grand Lodge of England at its Communication on the
3rd of September, 1890. The Grand Registrar, who was not present, was represented by Bro. Sir John
Monckton, who read the Report which had been prepared by the Grand Registrar. It will be found in extenso
in the London Freemason of September 6th, 1890, and anyone reading that Report must admit that its tone
is, under the circumstances, exceedingly temperate, and affords strong presumptive evidence that the Grand
Registrar did not look on our request in any hostile spirit; and the conclusion is evident that all that was
wanted for New Zealand to be recognised, was more unanimity. Under the circumstances the Grand
Registrar recommended " that recognition be not granted." This scarcely warrants the term "unanimously
refused" of the Grand Secretary's letter in conveying to me the decision of the Grand Lodge of England. It
was well known that numbers of Brothers present were quite prepared to vote against the resolution, if they
had seen any chance of being successful, and only refrained doing so because they thought it better to allow
the recommendation of the Grand Registrar to pass rather than risk the chance of injuring the prospects of
success when the application was renewed later on, hence no division was called for.

In the report of the Grand Registrar, presented to the Grand Lodge by Bro. Sir John Monckton, these words
occur—" no actual statement had been received of the number of Lodges which had joined the movement,"
and " want of information on the subject." On behalf of our Grand Lodge I may mention that the following
documents accompanied the letter to the Grand Secretary in London on May 15th, 1890, and were all
registered, and as the letter has been acknowledged, it follows that the documents referred to had also been
received:—
1. A printed copy of the minutes of the Convention held at Wellington on the 10th and 11th of

September, 1889, which contained a list of the Lodges which had passed the Resolution to join the
Grand Lodge of New Zealand, and the names of the delegates representing such Lodges.

2. A photographic copy of the Declaration of Allegiance, with actual signatures.
3. A printed copy of the proceedings of the Inauguration Meeting held at Christchurch on the 29th April,

1890 and the Installation Meeting on the 30th.
4. A copy of the Christchurch Press containing a full account of the Ceremonies of the last two meetings.

Probably these are still in the Grand Secretary's office. Had the Grand Registrar obtained these papers he
could scarcely have complained of want of information.

Since then, the Grand Lodge of England has been advised to pass a resolution allowing a minority to hold the
Charter. The Grand

Registrar recommended the reversal of his former decisions, chiefly on the ground that, on further
consideration, the matter appears to have an important difference—namely that it was believed that " the
Grand Lodge movement in this colony (New Zealand), was strongly supported, and would speedily come to
a successful isseu, but that since then it has been found that the movement is not of the character supposed,
and that there seems to be no probability of its present success." Hence he recommended the reversal by
Grand Lodge of his own rulings in the instances before referred to. Whilst the President of the Board of

General Purposes, in seconding the Grand Registrar's resolution, advises " that Grand Lodge should have a
free hand to deal with them as circumstances, policy, expediency, and Masonic harmony might suggest."
And the Grand Registrar's resolution was adopted by the Grand Lodge.

It is difficult to conceive how this policy is calculated to impress brethren at a distance from Grand Lodge in
England with the opinion that those who advise its action, as well as those who adopt it, suppose that it can
possibly tend to Masonic harmony, or that it is " doing unto others as they would be done by."

When application for recognition was made, England had a grand opportuity of being generous, and
supplying the cope stone which would have been the crowning stone of a noble edifice, for few will doubt
that had recognition been extended when asked for, the discord of to-day would have been a thing of the
past. However she missed her chance, as she has done in similar instances, and New Zealand is left to finish
the work without her assistance.

The following from the Grand Master of Cuba in conveying the welcome intelligence of recognition by his
Grand Lodge, is a fitting commentary to the action of England :—" We regret exceedingly to see that the
Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland- with whom we cultivate the most intimate friendship,
should not as well have recognized your legitimacy, insomuch that they had done so no doubt the remaining
Lodges would also have put themselves under the control of your Grand Lodge, but we sincerely hope it will
not be long before they take this fraternal step."

The report of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of Cuba, which recommended
to their Grand Lodge our recognition, used sundry arguments of a singularly incisive character, but as it will
be published with the report of this Communication, it is only necessary to call your attention to it as being
well worthy of a careful perusal.

As I have already made a very large demand upon your time and patience, I do not intend to further weary
you with a recapitulation of the events which have transpired during the past year. These have all been
regularly submitted to Grand Lodge at each Quarterly Communication as they arose.

I may say, however, that a much more friendly and fraternal spirit is abroad among the brethren of the
Lodges which have not yet cast in their lot with us, and that they are now beginning to see that the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand is an established fact, beyond the power of any Grand Lodge to destroy ; that it has
prospered under most active opposition, and adverse circumstances ; that it has falsified all predictions of
evil and failure; that it has given fresh life and vigour to all the Lodges under its banner, and created an
enthusiasm among its members not to be mistaken.

NOTE.-This address when delivered was much longer, but it has been considerably condensed for Printing, with the
approval of Bro. Thomson. It ought also to be added that the M.W.Pt.G.M., Bro. Thomson, had no opportunity of
revising his condensed address.
______________
RITUAL. —The following Resolution was moved by W. Bro. A. Kidd, seconded by W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, "
That it is desirable to provide a Ritual for the New Zealand Constitution, and that the Board of General
Purposes be instructed to inform Grand Lodge at the next Communication what steps they have taken in this
direction."— Carried.

LODGE ST AUGUSTINE, CHRISTCHURCH, VOTE OF THANKS.-On the motion of the Grand Master, it was
carried with acclamation, " That a hearty vote of thanks be accorded to the W.M. and Brethren of Lodge St.
Augustine for their great liberality in providing office accommodation free of charge for the Grand Secretary
during the past year.
COMPILERS OF BOOK OF CONSTITUTION, VOTE OF THANKS TO.-On the motion of M.W. Bro. M. Niccol, it
was carried with acclamation, ' That a special and hearty vote of thanks be accorded to Rt. Wor. Bro. E. T.
Gillon, Rt. Wor. Bro. R. C. Hamerton, and V. Wor. Bro. Geo. Robertson—the Compilers of the Book of
Constitutions."

BOARDS OF BENEVOLENCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES, VOTE OF THANKS TO.-On the Motion of Bro H. J.
Williams, it was carried with acclamation, ' That a hearty vote of thanks be tendered to the Boards of
Benevolence and General Purposes for their able and unremitting labours during the last two years.

Grand Lodge adjourned at 2.45 p.m. from labour to refreshment.
__________________

EVENING SESSION

Grand Lodge Resumed. — Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labour at 7.30 p.m. The M.W.
Grand Master Brother Henry Thomson presiding, and the other Grand Officers at their respective stations.

Roll of Lodges. — The Roll of Lodges was called as follows :—

Name of District. No. of Lodges. Members present.

Auckland 15 291

Wellington, including Nelson 28 27
Canterbury, including
Westland 21 5

Otago 8 5

Southland 6 . .

78 328
together with Visitors from England, America, and other Constitutions, bringing the total present to upwards
of 400.

Installation of the M.W. the Grand Master. — The M.W. the Grand Master, Bro. Henry Thomson, said
the next business was the Installation of the new Grand Master, and recognising the great services rendered
by the R.W. Bro. Gillon, he thought he should be consulting the wishes of the brethren, as well as his own, in
asking Bro. Gillon to officiate as Installing Master. He would therefore ask Bro. Gillon to take the Chair and
perform the ceremony.

Bro. Gillon then conducted the Installation of Bro. Malcolm. Niccol. The usages and customs observed on
these occasions were duly, efficiently, and impressively carried out, the trumpet call was sounded, and in the
centre of a procession of W.Ms., P.Ms., and Stewards, Wor. Bro. Malcolm Niccol, covered by a canopy, was
escorted to the Altar, and presented by Wor. Bro. J. F. Logan, the Grand Director of Ceremonies, to the
Installing Grand Master.

After prayer by the Grand Chaplain, Bro. Niccol was duly obligated, and having been invested, was installed
in the chair as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand amidst much enthusiasm.

ADDRESS BY THE R.W. BRO. E. T. GILLON AS INSTALLING GRAND MASTER.
We gave Bro. Gillon's address in May, it is therefore unnecessary to reproduce.

________________
Proclamation. — The M.W. the Grand Master was then duly proclaimed in the East, West, and South, with
customary honours.

ADDRESS BY THE M.W. BRO. HENRY THOMSON, PAST GRAND MASTER.
(We gave the Past Grand Master's address in May, it is therefore unnecessary to reproduce.)

Appointment of Grand Officers. — The Grand Master then appointed the following Grand Officers for the
ensuing year :—
Deputy Grand Master R W BRO ALBERT KAYE, PT. GR. TREAS., Christchurch.
Senior Grand Warden R. W BRO R C HAMERTON, Wellington.
Junior Grand Warden R W BRO E TITCHENER, Dunedin.
and with the consent of Grand Lodge the following Brethren were re-appointed as Grand Superintendents—

Wellington ,.. R W BRO HERBERT J WILLIAMS, Wellington.
Otago R W BRO A H BURTON, Dunedin.
Southland ... R W BRO W H HALL, Invercargill.

The announcements were received with general expressions of approval.

Grand Officers. — The names of the Grand Officers were read over by the Grand Secretary, they were
declared duly elected and invested, and they were saluted in the East, West, and South with the customary
Grand Honours.

Address by the Grand Master. — The newly installed Grand Master then addressed the assembled
brethren.
(We gave the Grand Master's address in May, it is therefor& unnecessary to reproduce.)

Greetings. — R. W. Bro. A. S. Russell tendered the congratulations of the Grand Lodge of Montana, Bro.
Kidd for P.M. Bros.. Lawry and DeRenzy. The Grand Master stated that he had received many telegrams and
letters with congratulations and apologies for absence.

Presentation of P.M.'s Jewel:— At the request of the Brethren of Lodge Franklin the Grand Master, on
their behalf, presented a P. M.'s Jewel to Bro. Shepperd, as a recognition of his services to the Lodge.

The Choir. — R.W. Bro. Gillon proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Bro. Herr Carl Schmitt and the choir for
their services, which was carried by acclamation.

Proceedings of Grand Lodges. — The Grand. Secretary has received reports from the following Grand
Lodges :— Alabama, 1891 ; Arizona, 1891 (three copies) ; Massachusetts, September and December, 1891 ;
Minnesota, 1892 ; and from Bro. H. P. Drake, Secretary of Lodge Prospect, N.J., the very valuable Report of
the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, 1786-1857, together with the report of the State Geologist, being a
geological survey of New Jersey. Grand Secretaries will please accept the best thanks of Grand Lodge for
their valuable reports. Copies of this Report will be forwarded to all Grand Lodges, with the Brief History of
the movement in connection with establishment of Grand Lodge of N.Z.

Grand Lodge was closed in ample form, with solemn prayer at 11 p.m.
___________________

The following Correspondence from the Grand Lodge of the Island of Cuba, is appended to this Report, for
the information of the Brethren :-

A.L.G.DA D.U.
GRAND LODGE OF THE ISLAND OF CUBA.

SECRETARIATE.

No. 69. OFFICIAL.
Havana, January 22nd, 1892.

REV. WM. RONALDSON,
Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand,

Christchurch.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,

I have much pleasure in advising you that the Grand Lodge of the Island of Cuba at its meeting held on the
27th of December, 1891, decided unanimously to recognise the supreme authority and exclusive jurisdiction
of the Grand Lodge established in the year, 1890, in New Zealand, over the Masonic Lodges of that Colony,
in conformity with the Antient Precepts of the Fraternity. In pursuance with which I forward you the
accompanying periodical.

We deeply regret that the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, with whom we cultivate the
closest relations of friendship should not have recognised your legality, under which the dependent Lodges
of your Colony should submit to the authority of your newly formed Grand Lodge. But we are hopeful that
they will not delay their fraternal concurrence, and thus avoid the somewhat unfavorable position in which
your dependent Lodges now find themselves, as well as to contribute to the progress and welfare of Masonry
in New Zealand.

I shall be glad if you will kindly request the R.W. Bro. Henry Thomson to nominate three Brethren, one of
which our Grand Master, the M.W. Bro. Segundo Alvarez, will appoint as Grand Representative of this
Lodge, whilst we on our part will forward you a similar indication to enable your Grand Master to select our
representative for the Grand Lodge of New Zealand in the Island of Cuba.

Wishing your Grand Lodge all prosperity,
I beg to remain,

Yours fraternally,
JOSE F. PELLON, G.S.

___________
EXTRACT FROM THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE GRAND LODGE OF THE ISLAND OF CUBA

Quarterly Session,
December 27th, 1891.

Under the Presidency of the M.W. Grand Master Segundo Alvarez, with the attendance of 57 Members of
the Chamber, representing 29 Lodges, the quarterly session opened on the fourth Sunday of die month of
December, 1891.

FOREIGN RELATIONS.
1. "The Grand Lodge of New Zealand ":— Resolved, " To recognise this new Grand Lodge established in.
this English Colony, which has been formed by ninety Lodges formerly depending on the Grand Lodges of
England, Scotland and Ireland, and agree to entertain fraternal relations with the said Worshipful Body, and
to establish an interchange of Grand Representatives."

Report approved at the quarterly session held on the 27th December.

" Grand Lodge of New Zealand."
To the M.W. Grand Lodge of the Island of Cuba.

M.W. Sir and Brethren,—The object for which this Commission had the honour to be appointed, consists of
two parts :—
The first is a Communication under date the 7th October last, in which our attention is courteously called,
and in due form we are reminded of a Circular, dated the 1st May, 1890, for which an acknowledgment is
begged. The second is a duplicate of the Circular referred to, from which we clearly gather that a majority of
the Lodges who have hitherto depended on the Grand Lodge of England, Ireland, and Scotland had formed
the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

Bearing in mind their years of Masonic apprenticeship, extending from 1845 to 1890, and feeling assured
that this important step bad not been taken or aminated with any feeling of hostility towards the Mother
Country nor without due consideration of their own position, it terminates with the most cordial request that
we should establish with them the bonds of brotherhood and affection.

With respect to this first part, the Commission reports with regret their non-receipt of the Circular in
question, and that no such document has ever reached the Secretary. A regret which perhaps is pleasurable,
seeing that the delay has served to apprise us of the dilemma in which the English Lodges find themselves,
with respect to the new body.

Referring to the second Circular, this Commission can attest to the legal formation of this Grand Lodge, the
fifth established in the Australasian Colonies. There exist at this date in New Zealand 148 Lodges depending
indirectly on the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland and Ireland. Of these Lodges ninety are those who have
constituted the new Grand Lodge, whilst 58 are in statu quo. The established custom when a Grand Lodge in
any of the English Colonies was constituted, was that the Grand Bodies of the Mother Country would be the
first to recognise it, giving, so to speak, with paternal consent, permission to escape from tutelage. This
requisite is wanting in the case in question. But how are they going to grant it, when 58 Lodges have witheld
their consent

Has there ever been a single case where certain Lodges desiring to govern themselves where England has
decreed their liberty ? In this manner Victoria succeeded, as also did New South Wales, constituting
themselves, notwithstanding England's refusal, and, in a short time, the balance of their Lodges came into the
fold, and to day both Bodies can call themselves United Grand Lodges.

With respect to this Grand Lodge, the Commission has scrupulously examined all available data, and finds
that at this date the following Lodges have recognised New Zealand—The Grand Lodges of Kansas,
Montana, Nebraska, New Brunswick, and the Grand Orient of Italy; and that the following have agreed in
the hope of the English Grand Lodges according their permission to the complete union of the petitionary
Grand Lodges—Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, New
York, Tejas (Texas), Italy, West Virginia. Not a single Lodge has completely denied its recognition.

Now, are we to recognise New Zealand ? Let us remember the magnificent social conditions of the Colony.
Of an area almost equal to England, with half a millon of a population, whose state of civilization calls forth
admiration. Colonised practically since 1840 in the face of the cannibal demonstrations of its aboriginal
Maories, presenting us with the magnificent exhibition of more than 800 Schools and 2 Universities. With
the absolute absence of industry of by-gone times, contrast the superb export of wool and cereals to the value
of 'unions sterling, and possibly, more than that, the auriferous land which constitutes its greatest richness.
An export of twenty million peseta is the most convincing proof of its economic and social importance.

On the other hand, " Is there not a majority of Lodges who demand independence ?" " Why should we
submit to the wishes of a routine and retrogressive minority ?" Let us take a lesson from ourselves. Were we
not only three Lodges on the memorable day of the 1st August, 1876, when we declared in the face of the
world our right to be an independent Grand Lodge. Were there not a larger number of Lodges under the
Grand Lodge of Colon ? Did not the other Grand Lodges of the world agree to our wishes ? Was it not that
same Grand Lodge of England that was the first to extend the hand of fellowship to us ? A sentiment of pure
courtesy and consideration towards our common Mother of Great Britain, where there is neither reason nor
justice, should not be a cause of hesitation on our part. Let us then fulfil our duty.

This Commission studying as it has studied in detail this matter, and believing that they have explained it to
the best of their ability,

Recommend, " That the United Grand Lodge of Colon and the Island of Cuba recognises as its sister that of
New Zealand, exchanging representatives as is customary on these occasions.

Fraternally
For the Commission,

F. DE P. RODRIGUEZ.
Havana, 5th December, 1891.

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
OF THE

Grand Lodge of New Zealand
Of Antient, Free, and Acccepted Masons.

ASSETS.

£ s. d.

December 31st, 1891.

To Balance ... ... 210 17 8

„ Dues received (since Dec. 31st) to March 31st, 1892 318 5 3

„ Jewel and Furniture, Seals, Books, etc. ... ... 75 0 0

„ Dues owing to December 31st ... ... … 200 0 0

„ 1000 Books, Constitutions, and Brief History ... 105 0 0

. £909 2 11

LIABILITIES.

£ s. d.

By Accounts paid since December 31st, 1891 … 168 10 8

,, Loan Account ... ... ... 45 0 0

„ Fund of Benevolence … 230 8 6
„ Accounts outstanding, including Book of

Constitutions,and Brief History ... 150 0 0

,, Balance … … … .... 315 3 9

£909 2 11

GRAND LODGES

NEW ZEALAND.

QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION.

GRAND LODGE is summoned to meet in the Masonic Hall, Wellington, on. Friday, July 27th.

NOTE.-The Agenda says : Friday, is the 27th, but this is evidently an errror, for Friday is the 29th.
_________

RECOGNITIONS.
The Grand Lodge of Cuba and Grand Lodge of Greece have recognised the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.
Both desire to exchange representatives.

__________
THE CONSTITUTION.

Instructions have been issued to insert in Rule 197, the following :—" After Grand Deacon ' insert Grand
Superintendent of Works-0 2s.' "

_____________________
MINNESOTA.

THIS Grand Lodge recently passed the following Constitutional amendment :— Any Lodge which shall
knowingly receive or retain any man who daily or habitually uses malt or distilled liquors or opium to
excess, or who possesses any habit which has a tendency to impair one's mental or physical condition, or
who has gained admittance through misrepresentation as to age or occupation, or is engaged or shall
hereafter engage in the business of saloon-keeper or bar-tender, shall, on satisfactory proof, be deprived of its
charter by the Grand Lodge, if in session, or by the Grand Master, if not in session.

_______________________
KENTUCKY.

The attention of the Grand Master of Kentucky, having been called to the case of a recommendation of a
candidate for office (political) by members of a subordinate Lodge, as such, he caused an investigation to be
made. The Master of the Lodge wrote a letter disclaiming all knowledge of the matter. Thereupon the Grand
Master wrote :—" The Master disclaims any knowledge of the affair, and I have no doubt of his sincerity ;
but the occurrence gives me the opportunity to say that Masonry is non-partisan, non-sectarian, non-political,

and must remain so. I shall arrest the charter of any Lodge in this jurisdiction that, in its Lodge capacity,
lends its aid for or against any aspirant for a political office."
_______________________________________________________________________________________

GRAND CHAPTERS

ENGLAND
RULING OF GRAND CHAPTER.

Companions who sign the petition, as petitioners, are the only founders of a Chapter, and therefore no
Companion who has not signed the petition can become a member of the Chapter until he has been regularly
proposed, seconded, and ballottezi for in open Chapter. I must further point out that no Brother can be
exalted when a new Chapter is opened, neither can any joining member be admitted at such a meeting, and
further, that no meeting as a Chapter can be held by the petitioners until the Chapter has been duly
consecrated, and the Principals designate installed. No dispensation can be granted to supersede these
regulations.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

INSTALLATIONS

PROVINCE OF AUCKLAND.
LODGE UNITED SERVICE, NO. 10.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. H. A. ELLISON AND PRESENTATION TO BRO. J. W. ELLISON,
THE RETIRING MASTER.

THE annual meeting for the installation and investiture of officers took place on the 29th June, and it was in
several respects a Masonic gathering unique in many particulars. That it was a representative gathering was
manifested by the fact that Hokianga Lodge in the far north was represented by its W.M. and another
Brother, and Lodge Hiram, Otago, was represented by its W.M. and five Brethren. Another and perhaps
more striking feature is that the newly installed Master, Bro. Henry Andrew Ellison, after two years of office
as S.W., succeeds his brother, J. W. Ellison, in the chair of the Lodge, and that the latter officiated as
Installing Master. There was in all a fine attendance of upwards of 80 Brethren, including 20 P.M.'s. The
Grand Lodge was represented by Bro. Niccol, Grand Master, and a large attendance of Grand officers gave
eclat to the proceedings. The Lodges represented as such were : Hokianga, Ponsonby, St. Andrew, Ara,
Eden, and Hiram, besides which several other Lodges were represented by individual members.

When the Lodge was opened in the third degree the Grand Lodge was received. Bro. T. Thomas, W.M., St.
Andrew, and H. Robinson, W.M., Eden, presented the W.M,-elect to Bro. J. W. Ellison, the Installing
Master. Bro. Ellison's installation was duly announced by trumpet call, and he was saluted in the various
degrees. The address to the W.M. was impressively delivered by Bro. A. S. Russell, P.D.G. M.

The W.M. invested his officers as follow : — Bros. A. Erickson, S.W. ; W. McGuire, J.W. ; L. H.
Neumegen, Treasurer : T. W. Allen, P.M., Secretary ; W. Craig, Director of Ceremonies ; M. H. Keesing,
S.D. ; P. Baxter, J.D. : A. 0. Carter, LG.; F. Reid, Organist ; W.L. Crystal, S.S. ; L. Cooke, J.S. ; and E.
Tonge, Tyler.

Bro. T. W. Allen, P.M., addressed the Wardens, and the Grand Master addressed the Brethren. In addition to
the formal charge, Bro. Niccol took occasion to refer to the accusation that had been made that the New
Zealand Lodges had canvassed for members, and he challenged anyone to say that any unsuitable person had
been admitted since the inauguration of the Grand Lodge, and he impressed on all the Brethren that the
greatest care should be exercised that they were not only by their conduct and life the custodians of the
honour of their own Lodge, they were the custodians of the honour of Grand Lodge and of Freemasonry
generally, and he impressed on them their responsibilities.

Apologies for unavoidable absence were received from Bro. Carl Schmitt, G. Leaning, P.M., and F. G.
Ewington, of Lodge Prince of Wales, E.C. The latter Brother stated that his cold would prevent him from
attending the installation, but he would have liked to have been present to congratulate Bro. Ellison on his
accession to the office of W.M.

The Lodge thanked the Grand Master and Grand Officers for their assistance, also the P.M.'s and others,
including the choir, who had taken part in the installation.

The next proceedings were of an unusually interesting description, and came as a surprise to many present. A
stand, containing a beautiful tea and coffee service was brought in, and the W.M. asked Bro. Niccol to
present them on behalf of the Lodge to the retiring W.M.

Bro. Niccol first read the inscription, which was on the principal piece of the set, and said that he felt great
pleasure in being made the mouthpiece of the Lodge in making this presentation to Bro. Ellison. He thought
the Lodge was particularly happy in the selection of the present which they had made, for Bro. Ellison was
no tyro in the Craft, and he already wore on his breast the emblem of the esteem in which he was held in
another Lodge, and no doubt his good lady would appreciate their gift. It was their desire to obtain the
goodwill of their lady friends, and in his absence Mrs Ellison would be able to point to this present as a token
of the esteem in which her husband was held. She would feel gratified, and no doubt say that the Masons
were not so selfish after all. He had great pleasure in being spokesman for the Lodge in presenting the
articles to Bro. Ellison, P.M.

Bro. Ellison said he was not as a rule bashful, but on this occasion he was taken completely by surprise, as he
never dreamt for a moment that this was on the programme. He did not know that he had done anything
unusual which entitled him to this distinction. He would, however, take the opportunity of thanking the
Brethren and officers for the assistance they had given him during his year of office, and he especially
thanked Bro. Craig, P.M., who took the place of J.P.M., and who gave him the most generous assistance. It
was Bro. Craig who had pulled the United Service Lodge through its greatest difficulties, and the most hearty
thanks of the LOdge were due to him. He concluded by thanking the Lodge for their handsome and wholly
unexpected present.

The Grand Master referred to the untimely death of Bro. Sir Harry Atkinson, an event which they all
deplored. Sir Harry Atkinson, although D.G.M. of the English Constitution, was favourable to the New
Zealand movement, but true to the characteristics of his life he felt it his duty to adhere to the Grand Lodge
of England until he was relieved. He died literally in harness in his robes of office, and they must all regret
the loss of the services of such an able politician and a leader in the Craft.

The orchestra played " The Dead March in Saul," all the Brethren standing. The usual congratulations being
accorded, the Brethren adjourned to the lower hall, where an excellent supper was provided by Bro.
McKeown.

_________
LODGE COROMANDEL, NO. 17, COROMANDEL.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. JOHN FAWCUS.

ON Friday, the 17th June, the Grand Master, Bro. Malcolm Niccol, proceeded per steamer to Coromandel,
accompanied by Past Masters Dr. H. Walker and F. C. Clayton, and Bros. Fowlds, Bartlett, Cousins, Massey,
Neumegen, Robson, and Murray, the object of their journey being to attend the annual installation and
investiture of officers of the local Lodge. The Master-elect, Bro. John Fawcus, is held in high estimation by
all who have the pleasure of knowing him, and there are few indeed of the Craft in Auckland to whom he is
not known. The party were favoured with delightful weather, and the trip to and from Coromandel was most
enjoyable. They arrived at five o'clock, and having dined, made their way at once to the Lodge, which was
announced to be opened at six p.m., so as to permit of the business being got through by half-past eight, at
which hour the ball or social to celebrate the installation was to begin. The visiting Brethren were all so
much struck with the neatness and comfort of the Lodge-room, and the completeness of its appointments,
giving strong evidence, of active interest and intelligent pains-taking on the part of the officers.

The Grand Master having been received and saluted, the installation was proceeded with, Bro. Thomas Scott,
W.M., conducting the earlier portion of the ceremony. Bro. Niccol opened the Board of Installed Officers,
and completed the work, concluding with an address to the Brethren specially adapted to the occasion, and
the circumstances of the Lodge. During the ceremony the Brethren were regaled with quite a musical treat,
Bro. Dr. Walker presiding at the harmonium, and Bros. Cousins, Bartlett, Massey, and others rendering the
vocal music in an exceptionally perfect manner. Bro. John Fawcus, W.IVI., then invested his officers as

follow :—Bros. Thos. Scott, J.P.M. ; Arch. Kelso, S.W. ; E. C. Randle J.W. ; J. H. Harrison, P.M., Treasurer;
J. D. Colebrook, P.M., Secretary ; A. J. Litten, S.D. ; V. Y. Gatland, J.W. ; E. J. Surfien, I.G. ; J. Marshall,
Tyler.

The Lodge-room was comfortably filled, the total number present being about forty. The new Master
delivered the addresses to his officers very fully, in a manner seldom achieved by a tyro, and altogether
acquitted himself admirably.

The Lodge having been closed, an adjournment was made to the Public Hall, where dancing was
commenced, and kept up with great spirit until four next morning, the visitors all taking part, and thoroughly
enjoying themselves.

The trip was in all respects a very pleasant one, the Brethren of Coromandel vieing with each other in their
efforts to entertain their visitors. It is quite safe to prophesy that a larger number will journey to Coromandel
on the next occasion of a similiar kind, for the recollection of the charms of the Coromandel maidens, and
the deliciousness o the " natives " will not easily be effaced from their memories.

_____________
REMUERA LODGE, NO. 1710, E.C., REMUERA.

THE installation of Bro. C. La Roche (jun.), took place at the Masonic Hall, Remuera, on Monday, June 13th.
Bro. W. R. Walker, P.M., being the Installing Master, and performing the ceremony in a very efficient
manner. The following officers were also invested :—Bro. W. Morgan, S.W. ; Bro. W. McCullough, J.W. ;
Bro. Skeat, P.M., Treas. ; Bro. C. La Roche, P.M., Sec. ; Bros. Carpenter and Hudson, Deacons ; Bro.
Johnson, I.G. ; Bo. Mickleson, Tyler. There was a large attendance of visitors from Auckland, the English,
Scotch, and Irish Provincial Grand Lodge officers attending, but only eight of its own members mustered up
for its annual festival. How Remuera Lodge's ancient glories have departed !

___________________________________________

PROVINCE OF WELLINGTON.

SCINDE, NO. 5, NAPIER,
INSTALLATION OF BRO. T. SIDEY.

THE annual meeting of the members of Scinde Lodge of Freemasons is always the occasion of a large
gathering of the Brethren of the Craft, but last night, June 24th, the attendance was exceptionally numerous
and distinguished. P.M. Bro. Beilby, of Lodge Heretaunga, opened the proceedings, the W.M., Bro. Provis,
being the Installing Master. The ceremony of installing the W.M.-elect, Bro. T. Sidey, was brilliantly and
impressively carried out, the services being aided by an excellent choir under the direction of Bro. Sturrock.
The installation concluded, the W.M. invested the following Brethren in their respective offices :—Bro. J.
W. McDougall, S.W. ; Bro. R. Goulding, J.W. ; Bro. R. Price, P.G. Warden, Sec. ; Bro. Lockie, Treas. ; Bro.
C. S. Galloway, S.D. ; Bro. J. Alexander, J.D. ; Bro. Sturrock, Organist ; Bro. Muir, I.G. ; Bro. Yarrall,
Tyler.

On the Lodge being closed, between fifty and sixty Brethren assembled in the supper-room, and a most
enjoyable evening was spent. Toasts and song followed each other till Bro. G. H. Swan, M.H.R., proposed
the health of " The Visitors " in a very felicitous speech. This was responded to by P.M. Bro. Beilby, who
referred to the hospitality that had for more than thirty years distinguished the conduct of Scinde Lodge. He
spoke feelingly of the long list of Brethren " who had gone before," and whose names in their day were
synonymous with the chief characteristics of the Craft—benevolence and charity. He congratulated the
Lodge on the possession of the handsomest hall he had ever entered in New Zealand, and he concluded by
wishing its members every prosperity.

The W.M. of the Victoria Lodge (Bro. H. Owen) followed, and said that now the mantle of a united
Constitution covered the Lodges, he thought the time was fast approaching when the question of a closer
union might appropriately be considered between the two Lodges in Napier. It was not to be expected that
this could be brought about hurriedly. but he would like the Brethren to bear in mind the advisableness and
the probability of joining forces. Single-handed, little could be done to show the outside world either the
objects or even the utility of Masonry ; united, they would form a strong Lodge, capable of carrying out
those principles of the Order which had made the Craft such a power for good throughout the universe.

P.M. Bro. Popplewell, of Lodge Rawhiti, spoke on the same subject, saying that from Gisborne to Woodville
the Brethren owed allegiance to but one Grand Lodge, but in all that long stretch of country there was not to
be seen a single monument that could be pointed to as of distinctly Masonic creation. This melancholy
record of Masonic inutility had been due to the fact that up to quite recently the Order had been split up, kept
separate, and weakened, by being under three different Constitutions ; but now, through the union effected
by the establish ment of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, some strenuous efforts should be made to
annually devote a certain amount of the funds of each Lodge to some high and worthy purpose, such as
scholarships for the sons and daughters of Freemasons.

Bro. R. Price, P.G,W., was glad to hear so truly a Masonic ring in the utterances of the last speakers. The
principal object the earnest-minded Brethren who composed the Convention at which a Grand Lodge of New
Zealand was resolved upon, had in view, was that under a single Constitution we could raise up in this
colony some of those noble institutions that in other countries owed their origin to Freemasonry. Hitherto,
only the foundations had been laid, and the time had come when some superstructure should be added.
Masonry had been long existant in this district, but beyond the administration of a little benevolence from
time to time, it could show nothing to justify its existence. At the regular monthly social gatherings, on the
conclusion of Lodge business, he would like to see both toast and song subordinated to better motives for
sitting round the board. They should take advantage of the opportunities of meeting for the discussion of
such subjects as had been raised that evening, and thereby show to the younger Brethren in particular, and to
the Craft in general, that Masonry was something higher and nobler than a bond of good fellowship.

Bro. G. H. Swan endorsed all that had been said, and hoped that from that night they would earnestly set to
work as builders—Masonic builders—in the interests of Freemasonry.

A very excellently performed quartette by the choir brought the evening to a close.—Daily Telegrph, Napier.
_______________

BEDFORD LODGE, NO. 30, WAIPUKURAU, HAWKE'S BAY.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. A. STUBBS.

THE annual meeting was held on Monday, 27th June, when there were nearly 30 Brethren present, including
visitors from Abercorn, No. 30, Heretaunga, No. 73, and the Earl of Durham Lodge, E.C. The statement of
assets and liabilities showed that only £25 was now owing on the Lodge, and this is expected to be paid off
in a very short time. Bro. P. Jolley, W.M. installed his successor, Bro. Anthony Stubbs, who then invested
the following Brethren as his officers, viz. :—T. W. LeCocq, S.W. ; W. G. Downes, J.W. ; P. H. Jolley, Sec.
and Treas. ; D. Murray, S.D. E. Fee, J.D. ; C. Hobson, I.G. ; M. Pritchard, Tyler.

After Lodge was closed, the Brethren were invited to partake of a nice little supper, which for convenience
had been laid out in the Town Hall. All the usual toasts were given and responded to, and songs and
recitations were rendered by various Brethren, winding up with " God save the Queen " and " Auld Lang
Syne " at half-past one o'clock, everyone having enjoyed a most pleasant evening,

Bro. Stubbs intends holding frequent Lodges of Instruction, so that each one of the members of the Lodge
may, if he chooses, attend and qualify for any of the offices. This will, I know, meet with approval, and I
look for good results if the Brethren take up the matter heartily and attend regularly.

_______________________
LEINSTER LODGE, NO. 44.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. FREDERICK SILVER.

THE installation of the W.M. and investiture of officers took place on the 19th June in the Masonic Hall,
Wellington. The Lodges represented were Nos. 2, 13, 32, 62, and 72. Grand Lodge was represented by Bros.
H. J. Williams, G. Supt., E. T. Gillon, P.D.G.M., R. C. Hamerton, S.G.W., and several Acting Grand
officers. The musical portion of the ceremony was performed by the Masonic orchestra, Bro. McGlashan
contributing a .fine violin solo. The W.M., Bro. F. Silver, having been installed, the Grand Supt., Bro.
Williams, invested the following Brethren as officers of the Lodge :—J. Gentles, S.W. ; W. Willis, J.W. ;
Rev. Dean, Chaplain ; J. M. Goldfinch, P.M., Treas. ; F. Hyde, Sec. ; J. Stagpoole, S.D. ; G. A. Mawson, J.D.

; W. C. Watson, I.G. ; James Taylor and Arden, Stewards ; and H. Erith, Tyler. Refreshments were served up
after the ceremony, and a very pleasant evening was passed.

____________________________
ULSTER LODGE, NO. 62, PETONE.

INSTALLATION OE BRO. RICHARD MOTHES, P.M.

ON the 14th June the annual meeting was held. Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather there was a
large attendance of Brethren from Wellington and a number of Grand Lodge officers. The ceremony was
conducted by Bro. H. J. Williams, Grand Superintendent of the Province, assisted by Bro. E. T. Gillon,
P.D.G.M., and Bro. R. C. Hamerton, S.G.W. The ceremony was impressively rendered, the musical portion
having the assistance of Bros. Norberg, Thomas, and Sherwin. After the installation of Bro. Mothes, the
following were invested as officers of the Lodge:—R. C. Kirk, S.W. ; A. Marsden, J.W. ; J. G. A. Castle,
Treas. ; J. King, Sec. ; Rev. Thomson, Chaplain ; T. Oxenham, D. of C. ; J. Nicholson, S.D. ; J. W. Powell,
J.D. ; Sherwin, Organist ; W. G. Lodder, I.G. : and S. Curtis, Tyler. A most successful social gathering took
place after the closing of the Lodge, about 50 couples being present, the ladies being particularly pleased
with their Masonic hosts.

__________________________
RUAHINE LODGE, NO. 8O, WOODVILLE, HAWKES BAY.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. R. E. GRINLINTON, AND TRANSFER OF ALLEGIANCE.

ON the 17th June this Lodge held its annual meeting. Bro. Nicholsen, P.M., was the Installing Master,
assisted by Bro. Francis and Chicken, Past Masters ; Bro. Bickerton, P.M., being Director of Ceremonies.

After the installation of Bro. Grinlinton, the following Brethren were invested officers of the Lodge :—Bros.
G. J. Smith, S.W. ; R. D. Knight, J.W. ; A. Sandel, Secretary ; J. M. Stacpoole, S.D. ; J. McDonald, J.D. ; F.
Burbush, I.G.; W. Bliss, Tyler.

After the installation ceremony had been performed, the question of joining the Grand Lodge of New
Zealand was again considered. A ballot was taken, and resulted in twenty votes being recorded for, and four
votes being cast against the motion. The W.M. then declared Lodge Ruahine, No. 2178, E.C., had ceased to
exist, and be opened Lodge Ruahine (No. 80), holding allegiance to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

The following Lodges were represented at the meeting :—Abercorn, No. 30 ; Manawatu, No. 47 ; Rawhiti,
No. 66 ; and Heretaunga, No. 73.

At the close of the Lodge, the Brethren retired to Bro. A. Sanders Club Hotel, where the remainder of the
evening was spent in partaking of the good things he had provided, and in speech making.

__________________________
WELLINGTON LODGE, NO. 1521, E.C.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. W. F. ROYDHOUSE.

THE installation and investiture of officers of this Lodge took place on the 17th June, in the Masonic Hall,
Wellington. There was a large attendance of members and visitors, and the whole proceedings passed off in a
most successful and satisfactory manner. The installation ceremony was impressively performed by Bro. T.
Larchin, the retiring Master, Bro. A. Gray, P.M., acting as Director of Ceremonies, Bro. Brooke presiding at
the piano, and Bro. Norberg at the organ. Bro. W. F. Roydhouse was installed as W.M., and the other
officers were invested as follows :—Bros. Thos. Larchin, J.P.M. ; H. Brooke, S.W. ; W. Jessup, J.W. ; C. B.
Robinson, Chaplain ; W. Cock, Treasurer ; A. R. Meek, Secretary ; G. Allport, S.D. ; A. D. Riley, J.D. : G.
G. Knight, I.G. ; E. Buck, Tyler. During the ceremony an efficient choir performed a number of musical
selections, Bro. Munt giving the solo " Be Thou Faithful," and Bros. Munt, Brooke, and Gray the trio " Lift
Thine Eyes ; " Bro. Owen also gave a solo, " If with all your Hearts." After the Lodge was closed the usual
social enjoyment was entered on.

In his address from the chair, the newly-installed W.M. gave expression to sentiments of unswerving loyalty
to the Grand Lodge of England adding that he earnestly desired to see a speedy recognition of the Grand

Lodge of New Zealand, for the new Constitution was an accomplished fact, and recognition would promote
harmony among all Masons.

____________________________________

PROVINCE OF CANTERBURY.

CALEDONIAN LODGE, NO. 16, TIMARU.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. D. DAWSON.

THE installation of W.M. and the investiture of the officers took place by dispensation from Gran I Lodge on
the 23r,1 June. The regular annual meeting being St. John's Day, and the hall being engaged on that day,
necessitated the procuring of a dispensation. The ceremony was performed in the presence of a large and
representative gathering.

Bro. H. Thomson, Past Grand Master, assisted by Bro. C. A. C. Hardy, P.P of the Board of General
Purposes, performed the ceremony in a very efficient manner. Bro. D. Dawson having been installed, the
following Brethren were invested for the ensuing year : —S. Anderson, J.P.M. ; J. S. Keith, D.M. ; J. Mason,
S.W. : D. McC. Mitchell, J.W. ; J. Mair, Treas. ; A. Mills, P.M., Sec. ; T. Bassford, S.D. ; J. Gibson, J.D. ; S.
McBride, LG. ; J. Broadhead, P.M., D. of C. ; W. McK. Thomson, Chaplain ; W. C. Burd, Organist ; W. J.
Wiggs, Tyler ; P. Bertie and C. H. S. Green, Stewards ; J. S. Keith, P.M., and C. H. S. Green, Auditors.

During the proceedings a telegram was received from the Grand Secretary, Auckland, forwarding hearty
greetings to the Lodge. Votes of thanks to the installing officers and visitors were passed most heartily, and
goo I wishes conveyed from the numerous visitors to the W.M. for a prosperous term of office.

After the Lodge was closed, the Brethren adjourned to the Oddfellows' Hall, Barnard street, where a social
was held, the catering being entrusted to Bro. George Hilton, to whom praise is due for the splendid spread
provided. After tea a concert was given. the following Brethren and ladies kindly contributing :—Bro. R.
Wood, Mr and Mrs C. Wood, Bros. Courtis, Robins, Warburton, Foster, Rutland, and T. Jones, Mesdames
Warburton, and Courtis, Misses Clarke, Rice, and B. Rice. After the concert the floor was cleared for a
dance, the company separating about midnight. The social committee of Lodge Caledonian deserve the
congratulations of the Craft upon the success which attended their social, and we trust that this new departure
which they have taken, in admitting lady friends to their hospitality may be followed by the Craft
everywhere.

____________
ASHLEY LODGE, NO. 28, RANGIORA.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. R. BALL.

THE annual meeting was held on June 9th. There was a large attendance of members and visitors--the latter
from Christchurch and Kaiapoi chiefly ; the number of Brethren present during the ceremony of installation
being no less than. fifty-five, while several more came to the banquet later in the evening. The cere- mony
was performed by Bro. H. Thomson, P.G.M., assisted by Bros. J. L. Fenerty, R. C. Bishop, and W. R. May,
Past Masters. There were eleven Past Masters present at the Board of Installed Masters. After Bro. Ball had
been duly installed, the following Brethren were presented for investiture :—Bros. A. P. Tulton, S.W. ; C.
Parkin, J.W. ; A. B. Blackett, P.M., Treasurer ; Rev. P. R. Monro, Chaplain; Thos. W. Rowe, M.A.,
Secretary ; Herbert Jones, S.D. ; G. F. Smith, J.D. ; J. Roberts, D. of C. ; H. C. J. Bailey, I.G. ; G. Pain,
Tyler. Owing to the severe and long-continued illness of the late W.M., Bro. G. Buckham, Bro. Ball chose
P.M. Bro. J. Sansom to fill the office of J.P.M.

On the motion of P.M. Bro. J. Sansom, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Bro. Thomson, P.G.M., and
his officers, for their assistance in the installation and investiture of officers. Bro. Thomson briefly
acknowledged the vote.

A congratulatory telegram was received from the Grand Secretary, as well as apologies from Bros. Murray
and Parsons, W.M. and S.W. of the Southern Cross Lodge, Kaiapoi, who were unavoidably absent.

Through an oversight the balance-sheet was not read. It may, however, be stated here that it is of a
satisfactory nature.

Hearty good wishes were received from visiting Brethren representing the following Lodges :—St. Andrew,
Tasmania ; Concord, No. 69, N.Z.C. ; South Rakaia, No 31, N.Z.C. ; and Robert Burns, No. 604, S.C.

After the Lodge had closed, the hall was quickly converted by the Brethren into a banqueting room.

As Bro. Thomson, P.G.M., and his officers had to return by drag to Christchurch, a distance of twenty miles,
they stayed for the first three toasts only. The banquet was furnished by the Brethren of the Lodge, and
arranged by a committee, of which Bros. W. A. Taylor, J. Roberts, and H. J. C. Bailey were perhaps the most
active members. To these Brethren, at any rate, along with the J.W., Bro. Tulton, much of the success of the
evening's festivities were due. After full justice had been done to the tempting meal spread on the tables, the
following toast list was gone through :—" The Queen and the Craft," " The M.W.G.M. of New Zealand, Bro.
M. Niccol," responded to by Bro. H. Thomson, P.G.M. ; " The W.M., Bro. Ball,” proposed by Bro. H.
Thomson ; " The Officers," proposed be Bro. J. Sansom, and responded to by all the officers, some of whom
made felicitous little speeches : " The Past Masters," responded to by Bros. T. Boyd, J. Sansom, and A. B.
Blackett ; "Bro. A. Ivory," for many years Treasurer ; " P.M. Bro. G. Buckhana," responded to by Bro. Dr.
Clayton, the medical adviser and personal friend of Bro. Buckham ; " The Visitors," responded to by Bros.
May, P.M. ; Walls, P.M., No. 6, Kaiapoi ; Graham, Concord, No. 59 ; Fraser, No. 604, S.C. ; Hay, Rakaia,
No. 31 ; Walton, Tasmania ; " The Ladies," responded to by Bro. W. N. Cathro ; " Poor and Distressed
Masons."

Many of the speakers expressed their regret at the absence of P.M. Bro. G. Buckham, whose long continued
and severe illness had prevented him from taking any active part in Lodge work for several months. As the
W.M. said, " Bro. Buckham, if he had been present, would have been the life and soul of the meeting," as,
when present, he is of the Lodge.

The pleasure of the evening was added to by various Brethren who contributed songs. The following
Brethren contributed in this way to the harmony of the evening :—P.M. Bro. W. R. Hay, " The Powder
Monkey " ; Bro. Bardon, " True Blue" ; Bro. Walton, "A Warrior Bold" ; Bro. W. E. Burke, " The
Midshipmite " ; Bro. J. Johnson, " When the Kye Comes Hame " ; Bro. T. W. Rowe, " Friar of Orders Grey ''
; Bro. W. A. Taylor, " I Don't Care If I Do " ; Bro. J. Barker, " The Doctor's Boy " ; Bro. W. A. Taylor also
delivered the well-known mock sermon on " Old Mother Hubbard." An extremely enjoyable evening was
brought to a close shortly before 1 a.m.

_________________
WINCHESTER LODGE, NO. 1737, E.C., WINCHESTER.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. J. A. CURTIS.

THE annual meeting took place on St. John's Day. The ceremony was performed by Bro. P. Cunningham,
District Grand Master, assisted by Bro. R. D. Thomas, Deputy D.G.M., Bro. Forrest, D.G. Warden, and other
District Grand Lodge officers. The meeting was held by dispensation in the school-room, the hall having
been found too small for the large number of visitors who had signified their intention of being present.
Notwithstanding the wet night, Brethren from Timaru, Ashburton, and Christchurch, together with the
members of the Lodge, filled the building.

At a Board of Installed Masters, numbering twenty-six, Bro. J. A. Curtis was installed W.M., and invested
Bro. H. E. Smith J.P.M. The other Brethren invested were as follows :—McNorton, S.W. ; Pepperell, J.W. ;
J. A. Young, Treas. ; Connell, Sec. ; Irvine, S.D. ; Tombs, I.G. ; Shallard, Tyler.

Following the proceedings the Brethren adjourned to the Masonic Hall, where refreshments had been
provided, and after the usual loyal Masonic toasts had been proposed, the D.G.M. addressed the members,
expressing his gratification at the efforts that had been made to renew the interest in Masonry in the district,
and the pleasure it gave the District Grand Lodge to be present on the occasion, and in proposing the health
of the newly-installed Master and his officers, wished them a prosperous year of office. The Christchurch
and Ashburton visitors returned by special carriage, leaving Winchester at 10 p.m.

[We are indebted to Bro. W. R. Mitchell, District Grand Secretary, for the above report.—ED. C.]
______________________________________________

PROVINCES OF OTAGO AND SOUTHLAND.

SOUTHERN CROSS LODGE, NO. 9, INVERCARGILL.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. W. V. SIDDALL.

THE annual meeting of this flourishing Lodge, on June 24th, was of special importance, owing to the fact
that the Brethren were doing honour to one who had been identified with the town of Invercargill for nearly
fifteen years as a private citizen, and also as conductor of the Garrison Band, whose fame is known through-
out the colony. The attendance of Brethren from all parts of the province was ver y large, the whole seating
space being fully occupied, while no less than eighteen Past Masters occupied seats on the dais. A pleasing
and significant incident was the presence of the Scotch and Irish Lodges, officially represented by the
following Brethren :—Aaron Blocke, P.J.G.W. ; E. Duplock, W.M. ; N. J. M. Rein, J.P.M. ; D. Macfarlane,
P.M. ; Jas. Harper, J.W. ; and eight Brethren of Lodge Victoria, No. 471, I.C. ; Walter Searle, P.M. ; A. J.
Rankin, J.W. ; and six Brethren of Lodge St. John, No. 610, S.C.—these last attended unofficially. The N.Z.
Lodges represented were : Harvey (Gore), by Bros. H. Gieseg, W.M. ; G. R. Carroll, S.W. ; J. Slone Millar,
P.M., J.W., and Grand Steward ; and W. Woods, I.G. Fortitude (Bluff), by Bros. D. M. McDougall, W.M.
and officers, including P.M. Newman, P.G.D. of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Jersey ; Mokoreta (Wynd-
ham), and Aparima (Riverton), were also represented by individual Brethren. After the reception of the
visitors, Bro. Chas. Sawyer, P.G.D., acting W.M., took the opportunity of returning thanks to the Brethren
for their kindness and support while acting in the place of Bro. W. A. Taine, who had removed to
Wellington.

After the reception of Bro. W. H. Hall, G.S., he assumed the chair, and with the assistance of P.M.'s Bros.
Sawyer, Cross, Smith, Scandrett, Mehaffey, and Feldwick, duly installed Bro. Siddall. The Brethren invested
as officers of the Lodge were : H. lvicNeilage, S.W. ; T. A. Patchett, J.W. ; Ven. Archdeacon Stocker, B.A.,
P.G.C., Chaplain ; W. H. Hall, G.S., Treasurer ; W. H. Clarke, Secretary ; J. E. Hawkins, S.D. ; H. E.
McDonald, J.D. ; W. G. Mehaffey, Assis. G. D. of C., D. of C. ; N. J. Pearce, Organist ; P. Brass, I.G. ; K.
Gerstenkorn and J. Everett, Stewards ; and H. Newlands, Tyler.

The ceremony being concluded and the address having been delivered, the Treasurer presented a very
satisfactory balance-sheet. Before the evening's proceedings were brought to a close, P.M. Bro. W. Smith, on
behalf of Bro. Gerstenkorn, photographer, requested the acceptance of a set of views of the interior and
exterior of the hall. They were nicely mounted, and enclosed in a rich gold frame, with emblems, designed
by P.M. Bro. Gilbertson. Numerous apologies were received for non-attendance. Bro. Hescott apologised for
the G.S. of Otago, Bro. A. H. Burton ; Bro. Bree, J.G.D. ; and Bro. DeRenzy, P.M. ; a letter was also
received from Bro. Haddock, of Dunedin, regretting his inabirity to attend, and sending hearty good wishes
for a prosperous year. The W.M. received congratulations from Grand Lodge and from the visitors present.
Bro. W. Searle, P.M. of Lodge St. John, 610, S.C., hoped that the W.M. would acquit him of any desire to be
discourteous in not tendering the congratulations of his Lodge in the usual manner, but the Grand Lodge of
Scotland not having yet recognised the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, he could not do so, but he saw no
reason why, as Masons, he and his Brethren should not tender their good wishes. The Lodge was then closed.

The musical portion of the ceremony was in charge of the newly-elected Organist, Bro. N. J. Pearce. We
hope, by the time the 1893 installations come round, he will have the assistance of a choir. There is nothing
adds more to the beauties of the installation ceremony than the musical portions being well rendered by
trained voices.

Over 70 Brethren sat down to the splendid repast served in Bro. Johnson's hotel. The tables being cleared,
the usual toasts were duly honoured. Bro. Hall, replying to the toast of the Grand Mester, in a few well
chosen words, expressed his satisfaction at Bro. Niccol's election, and at the satisfactory financial position of
Grand Lodge. He then proposed " The Newly Installed Master," and Bro. Siddall suitably responded. Bro.
Sawyer, P.G.D., proposed " Sister Constitutions." Bro. Duplock, W.M. of Victoria, I.C., said he and the
members of his Lodge had ever entertained a warm feeling towards the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, and,

although they had not yet joined, the day, he thought, was not far distant when they would do so. Bro.
Hewlett, W.M. of St. John, S.C., said, he had been unable to attend the ceremony ; he wished Southern Cross
every success, and hoped the link that was now broken would soon be mended.

Bro. Feldwick, in proposing " The Masonic Press," said that the CRAFTSMAN was conducted in an
exceptionally able manner, and deserved to be well supported by Brethren of all Constitutions. He referred to
it as being an important factor in the growth of Grand Lodge, and expressed his admiration at the enterprise
shown in its management. Bro. Hescott thanked Bro. Feldwick for his kind remarks, and said that praise
from such an old journalist was very gratifying. In proposing the toast of " The Ladies,' Bro. Mehaffey, P.M.,
said that usually a single man was chosen to do honour to this toast—invariably the single man made a lame
apology and sat down— a Married man was, in his opinion, the only fit and proper person to descant upon
the ladies' charms. He then proceeded to do so in a very humorous speech.

During the banquet Bros. Patchett, Carroll, Bishop, McDonald, Hescott, and McFarlane sang some splendid
songs, which were highly appreciated, especially Bro. Carroll's Italian aria, entitled " The Whale of Dionatius
Alphonso McRooney."

_______________________
LODGE HERCULES, NO. 36.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. BENJ. FARGHERT, P.M.

THERE was a very good attendance of members and visitors at the regular monthly meeting held on
Thursday, June 16th. After some ordinary business had been transacted, P.M. Burrell, assisted by P.M.'s
Paton and Crawford, duly installed P.M. Fargher as W.M. for the forthcoming year. The Lodge is deeply
indebted to P.M. Burrell, who is certainly well up in the working of the various degrees, and who performed
the installation ceremony in a thorough masterly manner. The newly-elected Master invested the following
officers :—Bros. C. F. L. Wrenstead, S.W. ; John Beattie, J.W. ; Thos. Paton, P.M., S.D. ; F. S. Parke, J.D. ;
John Stewart, I.G. ; Andrew Allan, Tyler ; Thos. Crawford, P.M., Sec. and Treas.

After the business of the Lodge was over, the Brethren passed a few hours in the Lodge-room at a nice little
banquet provided by the members, and all seemed to enjoy themselves.

The Lodge is now in a fair way to make a little progress, and it is high time, as it has passed through a very
trying period, what with members who do not attend, and I believe could attend, but through the want of a
proper Masonic feeling take no interest in the Lodge, and the few who are willing to work getting leave to do
it, with very little thanks and no help from a number of the Brethren. However, I am of opinion that the new
W.M. and officers are well chosen, and I look for a revival of the Masonic feeling in the district amongst the
Brethren. Of course there are a few Masons in our midst who should attend the meetings, but they are of
opinion they have a grievance against the Lodge, and won't attend. Well, I should say if a Mason has a
complaint to make, let him come to the Lodge and make it, and I am sure every justice and friendship would
be shown him, and the hand of fellowship extended to him right heartily. But the fact is, they have no
grievance, and the Lodge is now being conducted in a most becoming manner. The Brethren attend on Lodge
nights, and go through their business in a proper manner, and in place of loitering about the township after
the Lodge is close I, go home to their respective families, and this shows an example to outsiders, which I
look upon as being one of the principal points in Masonry. I may mention that in this respect the Lodge has
been very much improved within the last few years, and I look forward to the time, which I trust is not far
distant, when it will be looked upon as one of the N.Z. model Lodges. Of course we are not Good Templars,
nor are we against any one enjoying themselves, but I maintain that Masons, especially when attending to
Lodge meetings, ought to conduct themselves in such a way that no one outside can point the finger of scorn
at them. Good conduct shows a good example.

____________________________________
WAIKOUAITI LODGE, NO. 57, OTAGO.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. THE REV. W. S. LUCAS, P.M.

THE annual meeting was held on on the 12th inst., and passed off most successfully. Grand Lodge was
represented by Bros. A. H. Burton, Superintendent ; A. G. Creagh, Grand Steward ; Chas. Crump, P. G.
Steward ; W. Henderson, P.G. Sword Bearer ; and J. A. Kirby, Past Assist. G.S.B. The W.M. having been

installed, invested the following Brethren as officers of the Lodge :—John Stewart, J.P.M. ; Henry Buckland,
S.W. ; Geo. McLeod, J.W. ; William McDougall, Treasurer ; Andrew Affleck Secretary ; Robt. A. Scott,
S.D. ; Joseph McLune, J.D. ; G. E. F. Schultze, I.G. ; Ishmael Pemberton, Tyler ; G. C. I. D. Blathwayt and
Robert McLew, Stewards. Congratulations were given by representatives of Lodges Otago, Waitaki,
Palmertson, Hiram, and others.

After the Lodge was closed, the members and visitors spent a couple of hours at the festive Board.
_____________________

LODGE VICTORIA, NO. 471, I.C., INVERCARGILL.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. N. J. M. REIN, P.M., AND PRESENTATION OF A PAST MASTER'S JEWEL
TO BRO. EDGAR DUPLOCK, THE RETIRING MASTER.

A SPECIAL meeting was held on the 7th inst., for the purpose of installing P.M Bro. N. J. M. Rein, as W.M.
There was a good attendance, especially of P.M.'s of the various Southland Lodges, the following (eighteen
in nu n ber) being present :— Duplock, Cross, Sawyer, Siddall, Black, Rein, Wright, Hewlett, Craig,
Gilkisson, McFarlane, Scandrett, Feldwick, Searle, Smith, Mehaffey, Bree (Gore), and McDougall (Bluff).
Bro. Aaron Blacke, P.J.G.W., acted as Installing Master, assisted by the other P.M.'s of the Lodge, the
ceremony being performed with due impressiveness. Thereafter the W.M. invested his officers as follow :—
Bros. J. Harper, S.W. ; A. R. Mitchell, J.W. ; A. Blacke, P.M., P.J.G.W., Treasurer ; E. Duplock, J.P.M.,
Secretary ; N. Pearce, Organist ; J. Murray, S.D. ; W. Barrett, J D. ; J. K. Jamieson, I.G. ; T. Crawley, Tyler.
This portion of the ceremony concluded and the usual addresses delivered to the Master, Wardens, and
Brethren, congratulations were offered by Bro. Feldwick, P.S.G.W., on behalf of the Grand Lodge of New
Zealand, by Bro. Blacke, P.J.G.W., on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ireland, and the W.M.'s
present on behalf of their respective Lodges. Before the Lodge closed a handsome Past Master's jewel was
presented to Bro. Duplock, the retiring Master, on behalf of the Lodge, in recognition of the able and
efficient manner in which he had discharged the duties of his office during the past year, and a gift was matte
by Bro. Duplock to the Lodge of a very fine album, containing the photographs of the successive rulers of
the Lodge from the time of its foundation. A hearty vote of thanks was accorde I Bro. Duplock for his
excellent present. The Brethren then adjourned to the ante-room, where ample justice was done to the good
things provided.

_______________________
NELSON, MARLBOROUGH, AND WESTLAND.

VICTORY LODGE, NO. 40, NELSON.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. WILLIAM MOYES, JUN.

THE 12th anniversary was held on the 25th May in the presence of many members and visiting Brethren. The
sister Lodge, Southern Star, E.C., was largely represented. Bro. Leonard G. Boor, M.D., Past Senior Grand
Deacon, and representative of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska, installed Bro. W. Moye-, jun. The Director of
Ceremonies, Bro. Joseph Hyde, P.M., did his part well, and the following Worshipful Brethren rendered able
assistance to the Installing Master :— Jas. McEachen, Hy. Baigent, and S. Bolton, of southern Star, 735,
E.C., W. W. De Castro, Past Grand Sword Bearer, A. W. Bain, A. E. Cresswell, Grand Steward, J. C.
Mercer, and R Allan The Brethren invested as officers were the following :— A. W. Bain, J.P.M. ; J. Hyde,
P.M., S.W. ; W. H. Short, J.W. ; Rev. W. Young, Chaplain ; L. G. Boor, M.D., P.M., Treas. ; R. Allan, P.M.,
Sec ; J. Boon, S.D.; M. Scott, J.D. ; W. J.. Morrish, Organist ; A. E. Cresswell, P.M., D. of C. ; J. C.
Williams, J.G. ; J. Morrison and A. Brown, Stewards ; and J. C. Bartlett, Tyler.

The ceremony occupied nearly three hours, everything passed off in good form, and a most profitable and
enjoyable evening was spent. The Organist, Bro. Morrish, and choir rendered good service. When the Lodge
closed the Brethren partook of refreshments. Some two or three toasts were honoured, including the usual
Masonic ones and the health of the Worshipful Master, who fittingly responded. The proceedings, which
were of a pleasant nature, were brought to a close at a reasonable hour.

_________________________
WAIRAU LODGE, NO. 42, BLENHEIM.

INSTALLATION OF BRO. W. O'CALLAGHAN.

ON Monday, June 13th, this Lodge held its annual installation ; all the subscribing members living in
Blenheim, except one, attended. There were six visiting Brethren also present.

Bros. Hustwick and Gillespie, P.M.'s, presented Bro. O'Callaghan, the W.M.-elect, and after agreeing to
submit and carry out the precepts contained in the ancient charges, he was duly obligated as W.M. The
Lodge was then opened in the degree of installed Master, at which there was a board of five, and Bro.
O'Callaghan was duly installed in the eastern chair. The M.M.'s, F.C.'s, and E.A.'s were regularly admitted,
and saluted the newly-installed W.M. after the proclamations. The W.M. then invested—Bros. N. T.
Prichard, S.W. ; W. Fryer, J.W, ; T. Salmon, P.M., Treasurer ; W. Nosworthy, P.M., Secretary ; W.
Middlemiss, S.D. , J. Vercoe, J.D. ; D. Dobson, S. Steward ; P. Cross, J. Steward ; W. Daines, I.G. ; H. S.
Simmons, Tyler. W. Bro. HuStwick then gave the addresses to the W.M., Wardens, and Brethren. The
installation ceremony was performed by W. Bro. Salmon, P.M., and Wor. Bro. Healy, now J.P.M.

The Lodge was then closed, and the Brethren adjourned to the ante-room, and drank the health of the newly-
installed Master, as well as that of his predecessor.

______________
LODGE PHŒNIX, NO. 1690, E.C., WESTPORT,

INSTALLATION OF BRO. WILLIAM MARRIS, AND PRESENTATION OF A JEWEL TO BRO.
HAGEDORN, P.M., THE TREASURER.

OF late years, especially since the establishment of the Phoenix Lodge, the Craft has made rapid strides in
Westport. The Lodge now numbers nearly 90 members, and its strength is increasing every month. Much of
the success of the Phœnix is due to the presence in its membership of a number of enthusiastic Masons, who
practise the excellent teachings of the Craft to their fullest extent, and spare no pains to inculcate the lessons
of the Order within and without the Lodge-room. The travelling Representative of the CRAFTSMAN, the
Masonic journal, makes some interesting and complimentary remarks, in the last issue of the paper,
concerning the Westport Lodge, and an extract from his report is well worth re-printing at the present period
of the Masonic year, when a new Master and officers have taken their seats.

" Unlike most towns in New Zealand," says the CRAFTSMAN, " it has not followed the pernicious example of
establishing two or three Lodges, consequently Lodge Phœnix has no heavy mortgage to hamper them in
their work. The Lodge possesses a comfortable hall and ground of the value of about £500, and is in a first-
rate position to promote works of benevolence amongst themselves, and also render assistance to others.
Under the able guidance of W.M. Bro. Peterkin, assisted by his officers, the Lodge has made rapid progress.
A number of Brethren residing at Denniston who cannot very well attend the monthly meetings, owing to the
distance, have, with praiseworthy zeal, erected a small Lodge of Instruction, where they hold regular weekly
meetings for the purpose of improving themselves in the workings of the different degrees, which in many
cases are but imperfectly understood, both literally and morally, by a great number. The hall has been
constructed by the members themselves, but the Denniston Brethren owe a debt of gratitude to Messrs Marris
and Griffiths, who generously gave £25 worth of timber, towards its construction, and also to Bro. Bennett
who donated them the section upon which the building stands. There is no fear of Lodge Phoenix ever being
required to be raised from its ashes, when it possesses such members as the Dennistonians, and others like
them residing at Westport."

With such a flourishing Lodge, it may be well understood that the installation and investiture of officers
which took place at the Lodge-room, on the 10th June was numerously attended, both by resident and
visiting Brethren. The hall was, indeed, crowded, the Lodge-room being the centre of attraction to Brethren
of the mystic tie. The important ceremony, which commenced at 7 p.m., was conducted throughout in a most
impressive manner by the Installing Master, Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Bro. H. T. Lock, P.M., acting as Director of
Ceremonies. On the dais were the following P.M.'s :—Bros. Nahr, Hagedorn, Furhy, Lock, Peterkin, Wright,
Reid, S. Brown (Wellington), Horner, Parsons (Charleston). The officers of the Kilwinning Lodge were
present. The proceedings opened in the usual manner, and the W.M.-elect, Bro. William Marris, was then
presented by P,M.'s Bros. Hagedorn and Nahr, and after subscribing to the charges he was obligated by the
Installing Master, Bro. Peterkin. The installation and procession over, the working tools were presented by
Bro. Nahr, P.M. The addresses to the W.M. and Wardens were given most impressively. The following are
the names of the officers invested :—William Marris, W.M. ; A. Jamieson, S.W. ; C. E. Harden, J.W. ; Frank

Slee, Treas. ; J. S. Suisted, Sec. ; J. E. Thorpe, Organist ; J. Hardley, S.D. ; G. H. Gothard, J.D. ; A. T.
Peterkin, I.G. ; T. J. Atchison, Tyler ; J. Collins and A. Marris, Stewards. The musical portion of the
programme was nicely rendered by Bro. Thorpe, Organist, and a numerous choir of Brethren. At the
conclusion of the ceremony, the W.M. was congratulated by several members, and suitably responded.

Previous to the members dispersing, Bro. Hagedorn, P.M., was presented with a handsome Treasurer's jewel.
Bro. Peterkin, P.M., who made the presentation, spoke highly of the services rendered by Bro. Hagedorn
during his long occupancy of the treasurership. Bro. Hagedorn returned thanks for the honour conferred.

After the Lodge had been closed in due form, the Brethren (having first provided themselves with partners)
proceeded to the Princess Theatre, where a ball was held in the evening to celebrate the event.

__________________________
GOLDEN BAY LODGE, NO. 2194, E.C., TAKAKA, NEAR NELSON.

INSTALLATION; OF BRO. A. SINCLAIR.

THE fifth anniversary of this Lodge was celebrated at the Masonic Hall on Tuesday, the 7th June, when a full
gathering of members assembled for the purpose of installing the W.M.-elect, Bro A. Sinclair. for the
ensuing year.

The Lodge was duly opened by the W.M. at 3 p.m., and at 4 o'clock proceeded in procession to St. Cuthbert's
Church, where a service under the Rev. W. Cowx was conducted, and a sermon preached from the text, I.
Peter ii. 17, " Honour all men, love the brotherhood, fear God, honour the King," an eloquent and instructive
discourse being delivered therefrom. At the close of the service the Brethren marched back to the hall, when
the ceremony of installation and investiture took place. Bro. Hy. Baigent, P.M., and first W.M. of the Lodge,
but now J.P.M. of Lodge Southern Star, No. 735, E.C., Nelson, who had been specially invited over for the
purpose, was Installing Master. The following were the officers duly installed and invested :—A. Sinclair,
W.M. ; J. Wilson, J.P.M. ; Hugh Page, SW.; W. C. Baigent, J.W. ; T. J. Baigent, Treas. ; S. G. Robinson,
Sec. ; F. Peart, Organist ; J. Walker, S.D. ; J. Sigley, J.D. ; A. Barnett, I.G. ; F. T. Hicks, Tylers

At the close of the Lodge, the Brethren sat down to a cold collation set out in the Hall, where a most
enjoyable evening was spent, the usual loyal and Masonic toasts being given and responded to, and at 10
p.m. one of the most successful meetings held by the Lodge was brought to a close.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

LODGE REPORTS

THIS number is the largest that has yet been issued, but, large as it is, ten pages more would be required to
find room for reports from Lodges and other matter since June 16th. We trust no one will grumble—they
have no need to—for we may safely assert that there is not a Masonic journal in the world which gives such
a quantity of matter for so small a price, considering its circulation. Less than three years ago we started with
a sheet of 8 pages, to-day it totals up to 76 pages. Need we say any more ?
_______________________________________________________________________________________

BRIEF MENTION

BRO. the Rev. W. S. Lucas, the new Master of Waikouaiti Lodge, has now been installed seven times.

THE Victoria Royal Arch Chapter, E.C., Napier, has joined the Supreme Grand Chapter of New Zealand.

The W.M. of Lodge Wellington, No. 1521, E.C., desires to see a speedy recognition by England of the Grand
Lodge of New Zealand.

LODGE Heretaunga, No. 73, Hastings, Hawkes Bay, has forwarded £5 5s to the Grand Secretary to assist in
providing clothing for the Grand officers.

BRO. W. Dawick, W. ,, No. 47, Palmerston North, attended the installation ceremony of Lodge Scinde. He
speaks very highly of the kindness of the Napier Brethren.

LODGE St. John, No. 1137, E.C., Timaru, has further reduced its debt by £50 during the past six months.
Considerable improvements have been made in the furnishing of the hall.

LODGE Geraldine, No. 27, Canterbury, held a social on the 16th June. There was a first-rate attendance—
over 93 couples present. It was the best " turn out " Geraldine has had for many years.

BRO. GORE, D.G.M., N.Z. South, S.C., informed the Kaitangata Brethren that he would put no obstacles in
the way of the Lodge joining the Grand Lodge of New Zealand if such was their desire. Sensible !

THE first Royal Arch Chapter constituted under the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand
was opened at Greytown recently. Rev. W. E. Paige, M.A., is Z. ; Rev. Thomas Porritt, H. ; and William Bey
is J.

THE Masonic Female Orphan School, Dublin, was founded in 1792. It clothes, educates, and maintains 81
children, and they are never lost sight of until placed safe in the world in suitable situations. This is attained
at an outlay of less than £25 per child per annum.

THE Masonic Institute, Auckland, has received the sum of £1 16s 5d, being a balance left over after paying
all the expenses incidental to Bro. Niccol's installation. This is highly creditable to all concerned, and
especially to Bros. Powley, Cooper, and Basley, the installation committee.

THE London Freemason refers to an unusual circumstance that took place a few weeks ago in the London
district. At a Lodge meeting a candidate was about to be initiated when it way found he was an Agnostic.
The candidate was thereupon requested to retire, and the ceremony was stopped.

BRO. John Bevan, D.G.M. of Westland, consecrated the new Masonic hall in Reefton on the 12th inst. In the
evening he installed the W.M. of Pacific Lodge of Reefton, No. 1453, E.C. Bro. Preshaw sent us a
complimentary ticket for the ball and supper, for which we thank him, but out of consideration for the
feelings of Bro. Bevan we decided to stop at home.

BRETHREN, lay hands suddenly on no material for our spiritual temple. Ask no profane to become a Mason.
Never be a recommender who cannot recommend. Never sign an applicant's petition out of compliment to
the first recommender. All this is plain Masonic duty, and he who departs from it inflicts an injury, it may be
of great magnitude, upon the fraternity which honoured him by making him a Mason.

JUDGING from the D.G. Secretary's recent little acts of courtesy, there seems to be a desire to publish in the
CRAFTSMAN the reports of the Canterbury English District, and why not ? We have no quarrel with the
District Grand Lodge, and would sacrifice much to assist in the restoration of peace. Our pages are open, and
have always been open, for the expression of honest opinion from members of any Constitution.

SEVERAL Lodges are going to have something to say re Past Grand Master Bro. Thomson's latest.

THE Canadian Craftsman says the Grand Lodge of Ireland has 382 active Lodges on the roll. We doubt it.

IN the olden time the Grand Chaplains of Scotland wore their ministerial robes when officiating in Grand
Lodge.

THE Constellation favours " the reduction of representation of Subordinate Lodges in the Grand Lodge from
three to one.'

THE Duke of Portland is the new Senior Grand Warden of England, and the Marquis of Granby the new
Junior Grand Warden.

THE Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Pennsylvania is in its 97th year, and is the oldest Royal Arch
grand body in the world.

"THE Order Alabama," said to be " instructive and amusing," is a new Masonic gibbosity, to which only
Royal Arch Masons are admitted.

THE Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Texas presents his successor with a " seal ring," which is
transmitted in turn to each incumbent of that high office.

ANOTHER class Lodge is established in London, the architects and surveyors having joined interests. Hiram
Lodge, No. 2410, is the name of this latest combination.

THE Grand Master of England has held the office for the past seventeen years, and during that time 900
Lodges have been instituted, and the membership increased by thousands.

EVERY applicant should be a man of good moral character, or reputable standing in society, physicallysound,
and of sufficient means to amply provide for himself and family. An impecunious man is not fit material for
the spiritual temple.

THE total receipts of the Royal Masonic Institution for Boys for the year 1891 amounted to £27,297 Os 9d.
The balance of income over expenditure amounted to £15,162 10s 1d, of which sum £7545 14s has been
invested in India 3a per Cents. and Consols, while the balance is in the hands of the bankers and officials of
the Institution. The average cost of each boy in the Institution for 1891 was £44 19s 31d.

AND now, M.E. and Companions, I cannot presume to teach you anything as to the Royal Arch Degree, in
which you are one and all so well skilled. I will, therefore, content myself with briefly dwelling on two ideas
suggested by this phase of Masonry : (I.) the value of the Sacred Records ; (II.) the true wisdom of the
Sojourner. (1) The antiquity of the Sacred Records cannot be doubted, and when we bear in mind that they
have been for upwards of five-and-twenty centuries religiously and zealously guarded by that ancient and
Royal race whose history is so interwoven with the records ; that every word, syllable, and letter has been
preserved and noted ; and that 280 years before the Christian Era they were translated into Greek, and that
the Septuagint translation still remains an independent witness to the Hebrew text, we may fairly conclude
that this Volume of the Sacred Law is : (2) a guide to our faith, a support to our hope. and an eternal well-
spring of our Charity, as well as—(3) the foundation-stone of our Lodges, and the key-stone of our Royal
Arch. The Holy Volune has been subjected to rough treatment in many a day of rebuke and blasphemy, it has
often been consigned to the flames, and has had to pass through the fire of hostile, captious, and ungodly
criticism, but it has survived the floods of ungodliness, weathered the storms of abuse, and come out
unscathed from the fires of persecution, and it is to-day, as ever, the guide, the hope, and the comfort of
believing millions ; and this leads me to say a word on—(II.) the true wisdom of the Sojourner. From the
Divine Volume of which I have been speaking, the Sojourner learns that he is a sojourner, and has assistant
sojourners, and in those two words, so familiar to our lives and hearts, and which commence our second
dedication prayer to-day, " Our Father," he learns two sublime truths : (1) the brotherhood of man ; (2) the
Fatherhood of God.—REV. J. SIMPSON, at the Consecration of the Rose Chapter, 1622, E.C.

LODGE PACIFIC, of Tasmania, with £1000 to its credit.

THE next full moon will be on Monday, the 8th August.

THE world's population is increasing at the rate of 6,000,000 per year.

IN this issue will be found a statement showing the assets and liabilities of Grand Lodge.

WE understand that a presentation will be made Past Grand Master Bro. Thomson on the 29th inst.

ON DIT, that the Duke of Abercorn, Grand Master of Ireland, will shortly visit the Australian colonies.

Two Brethren of the N.Z.C. went to visit a Scotch Lodge in Dunedin the other day, but were refused
admittance.

GRAND LODGE will meet in Quarterly Communication at the Masonic Hall, Wellington, on Friday, the 29th
inst.

READ, mark, learn, and inwardly digest the remarks made at the installation of the W.M. of Lodge Scinde,
Napier.

SINCE June, 1891, the Craft in England has contributed £107,000 to the three Royal Masonic Benevolent
Institutions.

THE Grand Lodge of Cuba has recognised our Grand Lodge. Its reasons for so doing will be found in our
Supplement.

BRO. CLIFFORD P. M'CALLA, Past Grand Master of Pennsylvania, died at Port Said, Africa, on the 24th
April. He was editor and proprietor of the Keystone, of Philadelphia.

MASONRY was suppressed in Russia in 1820, and in 1822 the Czar issued a ukase forbidding the Lodges to
re-open at any future time, which law is still rigorously enforced.

BRO. H. CORKILL, of New Plymouth, desires gratefully to acknowledge fraternal courtesies extended to him
by Bro. A. Sandel, of Woodville, during a recent visit to that district.

AN English Lodge in Dunedin recently invited a " profane " to attend, and witness the ceremony of passing a
Brother to the second degree. This is innovation with a vengeance !

PIERRE LOTI, the French writer who has recently won fame as the literary defender of what we call the brute
creation, asserts that not only do animals fear death, but fear it the more because they know that for them is
no future after death.

AT the annual meeting of Lodge United Service, the Grand Master, who was present, referred to the late Bro.
Sir H. A. Atkinson, D.G.M. of Wellington, E.C., and said all regretted the loss of the services of such an able
politician and leader in the Craft.

THE Grand Lodge of Scotland has in answer to the request of Lodge Oamaru Kilwinning, S.C., to be allowed
to visit their sister Lodge (Waitaki, No. 11, N.Z.C.), refused to grant the prayer of the petitioners. " Wisdom
prefers an unjust peace to a just war."

"THE May number of the NEW ZEALAND CRAFTSMAN contains an original article specially written for that
paper by Bro. R. F. Gould, and entitled The Degrees of Masonry.' The chief interest to us is the fact that Bro.
Barlow's address to the members of Lodge St. Alban on his retiring from the chair, is referred to.
Independent of that he goes over much of the old ground, but, as is always the case with him, makes, it most
instructive reading."—South Australian Freemason.

THE following clipping from the South Australlan Freemason, credited to the Madras Masonic Review, first
saw the light in our pages in October, 1891 :— " The Grand Lodge of Utah will have nothing to do with
Mormons, and excludes them from the Craft, asking all other Grand Lodges to fortify their position by
expressing concurrence with their resolution. But, how about Her Majesty's subjects in India and other parts
who practise polygamy ? Should they for like reason be shut out of Masonry ?"
_______________________________________________________________________________________

LETTERS

TO CORRESPONDENTS.
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.
Correspondence is invited, and Brethren are solicited to forward inquiries relating to any matter of Masonic practice, or
bearing upon the history or expression of the Institution. We only impose these easy conditions :—
Do not write on both sides of the paper.

Do not write on either side unless you feel you must.
Do not write unless you have got something to say.
Do not write for a reply privately, through the post, because we are busy.
Do not write and expect us to endorse your opinions every time, as they may not be our opinions.
Do not write unless you say what you have got to say in a friendly way, as nothingwritten in a cantankerous spirit will
appear in this journal if we can help it.
Do not get impatient with us under any circumstances, because we do not deserve it. If you do, in that case, as in every
other one, BE BRIEF, and address THE EDITOR.

_______________________________________
ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Bro. H. A. ELLISON, Auckland.—Shall be glad of your assistance.

BRO. F. G. COCHRAN, Geraldine.—Don't understand it. Posted you the three copies on the 8th inst.

BRO. WM. BEILBY, P.M.—Shall be pleased to hear from you monthly. See Brief Mention for part. The
remainder is crowded out.

P.M. BRO. PICKETT.-Rule 58 of the Constitution does not qualify the one following in the sense you mean. It
is said distinctly that " No Brother shall hold more than one office in the Lodge at one and the same time." It
might be a convenience to combine the office of Treasurer and Secretary in small Lodges, but it cannot be
done.

_____________________________
WHY IRELAND HAS NOT RECOGNISED NEW ZEALAND.

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-
When in Invercargill last month I saw Bro. Blacke, Provincial Junior Grand Warden of the Irish Constitution.
He read me a copy of a letter that was written by him some months ago to the Grand Lodge of Ireland.
asking that body " to recognise the Grand Lodge of New Zealand as soon as possible, as he thought it would
be for the good of Freemasonry in this part of the world."

The reply was that the Grand Lodge of New Zealand had not asked them to do so.

Surely there is a mistake somewhere ?—Yours fraternally,
J. S. MILLAR, P.M.,

Grand Steward.
_____________________________________________

BROTHERLY LOVE IN BLENHEIM.

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-
In one of your late issues you stated that you had been informed that the three Lodges of the different
Constitutions here worked harmoniously side by side. There is no wonder that this is so, from the reason that
the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, 1236, E.C., will not allow its members to visit the Wairau Lodge, nor
will it allow any Mason who signs as " N.Z.C." to visit Unanimity ; and the same can be said of Lodge
Killarney, 478, I.C. This can be shown in their refusals to have a combined banquet at the Installation of
Officers, on the ground that we belong to an unrecognised Constitution. If they never visit, nor allow visitors,
there can be nothing but harmony in the Lodges, but it causes irritation amongst the younger members.

On Sunday, May 29, Bro. Joseph Taylor, of 1236, E.C., was called to the Grand Lodge Above. He was one
of the first members initiated in the Lodge on its being opened, but he never took office owing to his being a
little deaf. It was decided that he was to have a Masonic funeral, in which Lodge Unanimity, 1236, E.C., and
Lodge Killarney, 478, I.C., took part. The members of Lodge Wairau were present in large numbers, and felt
very annoyed that they were shut out from showing their Masonic love for an old acquaintance; but they all
felt that it would be very bad taste to take part in a ceremony with those who had so recently written to them
that they could not be recognised.—Yours fraternally,

W. NOSWORTHY, P.M.,
Secretary Lodge Wairau, No. 42.

_____________________________________________
THE OTHER SIDE—A REPLY TO BRO. SNOW.

TO THE EDITOR.
DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-
On reading an article entitled " The Other Side " in your May issue criticising adversely a previous writer on
" Masonic Unity," I thought some other one would have " answered a fool according to his folly "; but as no
one has replied to Bro. Snow's garbled rigmarole, I therefore ask space in your next issue for a few remarks.

It is against my nature to hurt the feelings of any creature, much less of a Brother ; but as an active working
Mason of twenty years' standing, I think it is my duty to keep our honourable Order from being brought into
ridicule by the ravings of any self-cr.ceited neophyte, evidently for the purpose of personal aggrandisement.

Having thus " cleared for action," as Bro. Snow says, let me fire a shot or two across his bows. If that does
not stop his ravings, I must try a broadside ; and if he still keep on his course, I must (although reluctantly)
rake his craft from stem to stern.

I have no doubt, Bro. Editor, but that a number of Brethren will say it is not worth while wasting your
valuable space in replying to such an ignorant writer on Masonic matters as Bro. Snow has shown himself to
be—and not only ignorant, but contradictory. Three or four times he contradicts himself. 1st. " Newly
joined." 2. " During my progress from degree to degree " ; " An apprentice who is yet labouring to dress the
rough ashler " ; " None so glad as I when the trumpet shall sound the re-call,' and peace descend "; I will
adhere to my sworn oath of allegiance as long as I can buckle on my apron."

Bro. Snow is honest enough to admit that he joined our Order for a selfish purpose. ' I became a Mason
because I sought close alliance with my fellowman." Consequently he approached our altar with a lie in his
right hand. Surely the Master asked him before he was obligated, if on his honour as a man his object in
joining was certainly not selfishness, or because he was suffering from ennui,

" Then some people strain at a gnat and swallow a camel." Now he cannot think of losing his honour by
joining the N.Z.C. What if, at any future time, he should wish to be affiliated to the Scotch or Irish
Constitution ? Bro. Snow's head must be full of apostolic succession, as he thinks, evidently, one Grand
Lodge must establish another.

Surely a man so well up in Masonic matters, as he appears to think himself, must have read that before 1717
there were no Grand Lodges, and that in 1750 a second Grand Lodge was formed, calling themselves "
Antients," while they called the first Grand Lodge " Moderns."

Bro. Snow ought also to know that those two Grand Lodges wrought in opposition until 1813, when they
were united into one Grand Lodge under the Duke of Sussex, as Grand Master.

A very young Mason might know that a Grand Lodge can be formed in any country or territory, where there
is not a Grand Lodge.
When Bro. Snow was soaring above the clouds he might have taken a peep at America, where every State
can have a Grand Lodge. What a lot of perjured people must be in this world from Bro. Snow's standpoint !
Could he name a Lodge under the N.Z.C that has not a Charter from the Grand Lodge ? Therefore, our
Lodges are regular. It is not necessary to have a Charter from a Grand Lodge, but from the Grand Lodge
under which you wish to work. Our Grand Lodge has been more regularly formed than the Grand. Lodge of
England, and we have as good a right to our Masonic autonomy as we have to our political autonomy. What
a pity that Bro. Snow did not wandew into a Lodge under the N.Z.C. What a bright Mason we have missed !

The E.C. ought not to lose sight of him, but appoint him as soon as possible a District G.M., for I am sure he
would excel any of the present D.G.M.'s in inconsistency.

And now, Bro. Editor, I think I have said enough to shut the mouth of a babe in Freemasonry. Perhaps he has
not received much instruction, except in the ante-room, where, perhaps, he has spent more time than on the
floor of the Lodge. —Yours fraternally,

JAMES S. MILLAR,
Lodge Harvey, No. 49, N.Z.C.

Chatton, July 4th, 1892.
_________________________________________

THE STRENGTH OF GRAND LODGE.

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-
The following statistics may prove of interest to the Brethren. They are based upon the " Masonic Guide "
which you published in December last, modified by the changes which have since occurred.

There are now 161 Lodges of the four Constitutions, including five duplicate and seven dormant Lodges, and
including also two Lodges recently established under the Scotch Constitution near Stratford, in Taranaki.

80 of these hold under the N.Z.C. Of the remainder, 7 are dormant ; hence those still holding aloof from us,
in working condition, number 74, thus showing a majority in our favour of 6.

Of the 39 active Lodges of Auckland Province, 17 have joined us. Of the 39 Wellington Lodges, 29 are
bearing our numbers.

Of the 27 Canterbury Lodges, 16 belong to the National Grand Lodge.

Of the 32 active Lodges in the Otago and Southland District, 13 are with us. Of the 17 active Lodges
elsewhere in the colony, 5 have thrown in their lot with us.

Four English Lodges (including the Ruahine at Woodville), one Scotch, and one Irish have tendered their
allegiance since your valuable Guide was printed ; whilst two N.Z. have been constituted at Mongonui and
Stratford respectively.

This is a very satisfactory record, and, as time rolls on, we may naturally expect a large accession to the
National Constitution, especially as the bitterness of the struggle is a thing of the past, and Brethren of all
shades of opinion are realising that the movement is now a pronounced success, and that further opposition
to it is useless and unbecoming.

It is a strange coincidence that the District Grand Lodges, E.C., of Wellington, Canterbury, and Otago each
rule over the same number of Lodges, viz., seven. In each of those districts a large majority of E.C. Lodges
have joined the National banner.

The last of the old Scotch Lodges in the Wellington district, viz., the St. Andrew Kilwinning, tendered its
allegiance last month. If I except the two just erected near Stratford, there is not now one Lodge holding
under Scotland ; and there is but one holding under Ireland in the large Masonic district of Wellington.—
Yours very fraternally,

Wellington, 11th June, 1892. P.M., I.C.
[We regret this letter reached us too late for insertion in June.—ED. C.]

__________________________________
LODGE WAITAKI, NO. 11, OAMARU.

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-In your report of the installation of officers for Waitaki Lodge and receipt of
balance-sheet, I notice you ask the question " But what has become of the fixed deposit of £55 ? " Now, if
you will look again at the balance-sheet, you will perceive that the fixed deposit for £55 (fixed only for six
months), had matured, and is placed on debit side, with the interest that had accrued during its fixture,
Trusting you will now see what has become of the £55.—Yours fraternally,

C. C. PROBERT,

Late Treas., Lodge Waitaki, No. 11, N.Z.C.
July 12th, 1892.

______________________________________________
THE NEW BY-LAWS OF LODGE ABERCORN.

TO THE EDITOR,

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER -
I ask a little more of your space wherein to combat some of your remarks in the June issue.

By-law 7 says, " Any Brother desirous of joining the Lodge must be proposed and balloted for in the same
manner as a candidate for initiation." By-law 5 says, " Candidates for initiation must be proposed at one
meeting and balloted for at the next." This seems definite enough for anyone. The other part of Law 5 (a
portion of which you quote) has nothing to do with a joining Brother, because Law 8 takes its place—anyone
with half-an-eye can see that. It might perhaps have made the meaning a little more clear had Laws 7 and 8
been made into one, but this is the utmost I can admit.

Now, as to By-law 8, Bro. Paton is an able exponent of Masonic jurisprudence, but a ruling such as you
quote, if meant in exactly the same sense as you have applied it, seems to me far-removed from common
sense.
The constitutional rule in all matters of the sort is, that only they who contribute the taxes shall have a voice
in the spending of them.

It can be seen at a glance that Bro. Paton is begging the whole question, when he hints that the Secretary of a
Lodge may be dishonest or have some dark ulterior object in view when declaring a Brother has not paid his
dues.

Not many Lodges now-a-days take a Brother's money without giving him some sort of receipt for it. And are
not the books available to any member who desires to inspect them? So what could happen to that Secretary
but instant exposure and punishment ? If he were really dishonest, be sure he would hold his tongue.

If any affiliating Brother gives us trouble under Law 8, it will be at once altered to read, ' No ballot shall be
taken for an affiliating Brother unless the fee has been previously deposited with the Secretary." He will then
have the consolation of knowing he is making it harder for those following him. We can't afford to pay
Grand Lodge dues for Brethren who refuse to pay us. I am content to let this and Law 16 stand. They are on
a level with Constitutional Laws 91 and 92, and, if reform is needed, let such start from the source.

A deal more could be written about that wicked Secretary of Paton's, but I must respect your space. The
discussion, as you say, has borne some fruit, and I have now to thank you very much for giving me the
opportunity of explaining my views.—Very fraternally yours,

JOHN PICKETT, P.M ,
Waipawa, July 7th, 1892 Secretary, Abercorn Lodge, No. 30.

[ The Constitutional Rule," upon which Bro. Pickett lays stress, is not of universal application in Masonry.
The point at issue is, "not as to the nature of the offence, but as to the mode in which punishment is to be
inflicted. It follows from all the recognised principles of justice, law, and common-sense that the crime
should be first proved, and the accused be heard in his defence, before judgment be pronounced against
him." We do not wish to score a verbal victory over Bro. Pickett, but By-laws 8 and 16 are not " on a level
with Constitutional Laws 91 and 92."— ED. C.]
_____________________________________________________

REPRESENTATION IN GRAND LODGE.

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-The question of proper representation in Grand Lodge in a colony situated like
this, where many Brethren have to travel long distances by land and sea to attend the Communications, is
one of vital importance.

In consequence of our peculiar geographical formation, very few Brethren can spare the time necessarily
consumed in travelling long distances, and the few who could spare the time are deterred from attending on
the score of expense—therefore, a large number of Lodges will always be unrepresented. Owing to this
difficulty it is absolutely necessary to devise a scheme by which every Lodge will be represented in Grand
Lodge, no matter in what part of the colony the meetings may be held. In dealing with this question we
should look around us, and see how they manage the matter in other jurisdictions.

In the British Colonies of North America, and in the great Republic, they have an excellent system. There, as
with us, travelling is long and tedious, hundreds of miles often separating a Lodge from headquarters. We
may, therefore, safely look in that direction for an example to ourselves. In order to ensure a full and proper
representation of subordinate Lodges, our American Brethren pay the travelling expenses of at least one
representative, in journeying to and from the Annual Communication. If this system was adopted here, it
would, in my opinion, be most beneficial to the well-being of the Craft. The representatives should be
elected annually, prior to the Annual Communication, and ought to be already qualified by being members of
Grand Lodge. By having one representative of a Lodge paid, and making his attendance compulsory, it
would not matter in what part of the colony the meetings were held. There exists a feeling among the New
Zealand Brethren—particularly those of strong provincial tendencies—that the location of Grand Lodge in a
province for any length of time, would naturally end by its being fixed there permanently. Now, under the
system proposed, no such feeling could long exist. The paid representatives from other provinces would take
care that no one locality monopolised the Grand Lodge too long.

The foregoing is necessarily but an outline ; but I consider that something of the sort is required if we wish to
place our beloved Craft on a sure basis in New Zealand —I am, &c.,

PAST SENIOR WARDEN.
Christchurch, June, 1892.

___________________________________________
POPE, FRIENDLY SOCIETIES, AND MASONS.

TO THE EDITOR OF The Speaker.

SIR,—Sir Charles Dilke is in error in regard to the attitude of the Catholic Church in Great Britain towards
the Friendly Societies he names. Catholics can, and do, join the Foresters and Oddfellows without let or
hindrance. Inquiry in the proper quarter would have at once removed the right hon. gentleman's
misapprehension on the point. In regard to Australia I cannot speak ; but if Cardinal Moran has seen fit to
prohibit Catholics joining these societies, there are, doubtless, local reasons sufficient for his action. Just as
the French Freemasons may, and I suppose do, differ from the English, so, too, in Australia, Oddfellows and
Foresters may not be the innocent bodies they are in Great Britain.

As to Good Templars, there is a religious element in their organisation of a distinctive character, which has
the effect of precluding Catholics from membership. We can quite agree that the temperance work of this
and kindred bodies is most laudable, while being unable to join them. We have our own temperance
organisations, however, so that the cause of temperance among our people is not placed at a disadvantage. It
is, I take it, the tone and essence of Good Templarism and similar semi-religious organisations that guide the
Church in warning her members against joining them.

In regard to Masonry, it, I believe, comes under a different heading. Catholics would like, for instance, to
know what the English Freemasons mean, or what Sir Charles Dilke means, by " the Great Architect of the
Universe." Does this title convey anything more than " Maniton the Mighty," in American Indian parlance ;
does it mean the ' Soul of the World," or are we to take it as meaning a Personal God, the Upholder,
Governor, and Ruler of the Universe ? The unexplained expression does not help us a little bit in answering
the query, Should Catholics become Freemasons ? Again, what recognition of Christianity, as such, do we
find in Masonry? We Catholics test everything by that standard. Are Christ's Divinity, Incarnation, Life,
Death, Resurrection, Ascension ignored entirely by this society, which has two main objects, " good
fellowship and alms-giving?" Good fellowship and alms-giving have been, and are, practised by Pagans.
They are good in themselves, but are not enough to satisfy Catholics of the beneficent character of Masonry.
The thing must be considered as a whole. It has been so considered by the Church; it has been weighed and

found wanting. We can concede that English Masonry is very different indeed from the Continental article ;
that a Mark Mason does not correspond to one of the Carbonari ; yet English Masonry is still incompatible
with Catholicity.

That the ceremonies have been described accurately in books which are accessible does not surely alter the
nature of the difficulty. If any of your readers, or if Sir Charles Dilke, will take the trouble to investigate the
grounds of the Church's condemnation, they will be found wondrously enlightened, admirably explained, and
based on the highest principles. It is open to anyone to deny the first principles of the Church's action, to
ignore her mission, to declare her claim to authority the most flagrant usurpation ; but, granting the first, the
harmony and logical consistency of her law is undeniable.

Sir Charles Dilke writes as if there were no secret societies worthy of the name since those which, between
1815 and 1848, did. a work " the memory of which still haunts the Papal repose." Sir Charles may choose to
treat the anxieties of the Holy See on these matters as childish, but he can be quite certain that the Holy See
of to-day does not legislate because of agencies which ceased to operate fifty years ago. The aim, the scope,
the character, the power, the methods of the secret societies of 1892 are well enough known to the Pope and
his advisers. Is it unknown to Sir Charles Dilke that there are powerful agencies at work even now to
overthrow the influence of the Holy See, and even to completely extirpate it ? Are there not those who
proclaim this intention openly ? Was not the " unification of Italy " a step in this direction ? Did not many
people, even here in England, hope that the loss of the Temporal Power was the prelude to the final
disappearance of the Papacy ?

Sir Charles is very much mistaken if he imagines that the Holy See is alarmed by spectres of 1815 or 1848,
or even 1870. Just as she no longer legislates against slavery in Europe because it is non-existent, so would
she cease to war against secret • societies, were it not that they are to-day powerful, unscrupulous, active.
Between these bodies and the Holy See there can be no truce. It is war to the knife. Even non-Catholics, who
have studied history carefully, may gather that the Holy See is not unlikely, when the smoke and din of the
contest are over, to emerge once again victorious from a death-grapple with her assailants.
15th March. C. DIAMOND.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

The sorry spectacle of an R.W.M. being sued for " dinners and liquors supplied to his order, ' on the occasion
of the regular meetings of his Lodge, took place in the Edinburgh courts, in March last.

EVERY mail brings us the thanks of Grand Lodges for copies of the " Masonic Guide," and the good wishes
of our exchanges for the success of both the " Guide' and the CRAFTSMAN. The Editor of Chips from the
Temple, Hampton, Virginia,' intimated in March last that :—" We receive from the Editor of the N.Z.
CRAFTSMAN a copy of the " N.Z. Masonic Guide," containing portraits of all the Grand Officers and a
directory of all the Lodges in that jurisdiction. The Grand Lodge of New Zealand is fortunate in having such
a distinguished-looking body of men at its head, and the Order at large at having such a zealous frater as the
Editor of the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN."

The charge for Advertising Lodges, with names of officers, times and places of meeting &c., is £1 per annum,
payable yearly, in advance—this includes a copy of the CRAFTSMAN

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