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NOTICE.

Mr George Hescott, travelling representative of this journal, has been suspended.

Until this suspension is removed (of which due notice will be given) Mr Hescott is

prohibited from collecting money or transacting any business on behalf of "The

New Zealand Craftsman." .

T. G. DE RENZY,

Masonic Institute, or, Box 444, Post Office. AUCKLAND.

Any Brother knowing the whereabouts of Mr Hescott would do me a favour by

telling him that I request his immediate return to Auckland.

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MASONIC LECTURER.
———

BROTHER JOSIAH MARTIN, P.M. of Lodge Prince of Wales, No. 1338, E.C., and Past Z., Auckland

(Fellow of the Geological. Society ; formerly Science Lecturer to the Auckland Training College; Past

President of the Auckland Institute, etc.).

Will act, temporarily, as Representative of this journal. During his travels through the Colony his services

will be at the disposal of any Lodge, irrespective of Constitution, for the purpose of delivering any of the

following lectures :—

PUBLIC SERIES.

Four lectures on "THE HISTORY OF HUMAN PROGRESS" illustrating the evolution of Freemasonry. Each

lecture will be illustrated by objects, pictures, and diagrams exhibited by limelight. These four lectures,

which are intensely interesting, will be open to the lady and gentlemen friends of the brethren.

1.—" Primitive Man, his Weapons and Working Tools ; " the origin of signs and symbols used to denote

power and authority, and also the primitive significance of the prohibition against the use of metal tools in

religious ceremonies, etc.

2.—" Primitive Society" explaining the rudimentary constitution of clans, families, tribes or fraternities; their

mutual dependence for waistance and support, and their mode of recognition by signs, tokens, and pass

words.

3,—" Myths and Symbols," tracing the development of the intellectual faculties, and the progress of human

thought; from the darkness of ignorance and superstition, into the light of reason.and knowledge.

4.—" Magic and Mystery," illustrated by the Monuments and Records or Ancient Egypt—a sketch of

primitive philosophy, describing the search for truth and knowledge expressed in the symbolism of the

Ancient Wisdom religion.

——<>——

PRIVATE SERIES.

CRAFT AND ARCH.

The following course of four lectures will be open to all brethren who may be of rank equal to the several

degrees':—

1. The First Degree : "The. Mystery of Initiation."---The real and the ideal in Masonry,

2. The Temple of Wisdom."--- Au explanation of the ceremonies and symbols of the Second Degree.

3. "The Lost Word."—A. sketch of the history and philosophy of the Sublime Degree.

4. " The Mysterious Name."—An explanation of the banners and emblems of the Royal Arch Chapter—

describing the search for knowledge, as expressed in the beautiful Ceremonies of this degree.

———<>———

ADDRESSES.

These are short original lectures intended to illustrate and explain the ceremonial proceedings during the

working of the various degrees :-

In the First Degree . "The Masonic Trinity " ; "The Heavenly Ladder," (an address on the Tracing Board ; "

The Working Tools of the E.A."

In the Second Degree : "The Winding Stair " ; "The South ;East Corner " ; " Tim Two Great Pillars."

In the Third. Degree : " The Master Mason's Apron " ; " The Square and Compasses " ; " The Emblems of

Mortality."

In the Royal Arch Chapter ; " The Mystery of Death and the Secret of Life " ; The Four Cherubim and the

Sacred Shrine."

———<>———

Bro. Martin will travel down the East Coast of the North Island to Wellington, thence he will cross to

Blenheim, and take coach to Christchurch from Hokitika. From Christchurch he will work down to

Invercargill, and return to Auckland via the West Coast of the North Island, His dates will be approximately

as follows:

—The Thames, Gisborne, and Napier, in November ; rail to Wellington during December; Blenheim,

Nelson, and the West Coast of the South Island in January, 1893; Christchurch to Bluff in February, l893;

West Coast of North Island in March, 1893.

Lodges desirous of taking advantage of Bro. Martin's services will please communicate with the

undersigned, arranging for suitable dates as early as possible, and mentioning which lecture of either series

they wish him to deliver.

It is expected that a hall and attendance will be provided free of cost.

T. G. DERENZY,

Masonic Institute,

Or Box 444.. P.O., Auckland.

BROø Gø Wø SPETH, P.M.,

SECRETARY OF LODGE QUATUOR CORONATI, No. 2076, LONDON.

———

BRO. Speth, may be said to have been born a Freemason. At the time of his birth, which took place on the

30th April; 1847, his father, G. W. Speth, was a member of the " Lodge of Unity," now No. 188 ; his uncle,

Edward Ryan, was a member of the same Lodge, and, its W.M., Bro. H. Cohn, Grand Secretary for Foreign

Correspondence in the Grand Lodge of England, stood sponsor for him at the font.

After completing his education in France, and Germany, Bro. Speth, at the early age of 19, entered into

commercial pursuits.

In 1868, being then of age, he took advantage of the visit to England, of a Havana Merchant. The offer

having been accepted, he left for Cuba, in September of the same year. At the end of 1371, he returned, for

business purposes, to England. In 'January, 1872, he was initiated in his father's Lodge, Unity, No. 183.

Returning to Havana for a time, he came back to England for good towards the end of 1873, and he was at

once appointed to office, in the Lodge as I.G. In 1874, he served as S.D.; S.W. in 1875 ; and W.M. in 1876.

It was in 1881, that Bro. Speth first turned his attention to the study of Masonry and its antiquities ; his first

attempt being the History of his Mother Lodge which appeared in that year. This brought him into contact

with Bro. R. F. Gould, the eminent Masonic historian, who, was at that time, engaged on his famous,

"History of Freemasonry," and required some assistance in the investigation of foreign documents and

writings, which by reason of his education, Bro. Speth was capable of supplying. The result has been a life-

long friendship with the distinguished historian, exclusive of valuable help rendered to his undertaking, and

which only ceased with the publication of the last volume. While engaged on this subject, Bro. Speth

collected a mass of information respecting Eminent Masons, which was contributed to the Philadelphian

Keystone, in the shape of a series of biographical notes on " Members of Royal Houses, who had donned the

Lamb-skin Apron," being the only attempt at a complete list which has yet been made. These notes were

afterwards reprinted in pamphlet form in Philadelphia, and were subsequently re-issued, in a revised and

extended form, in the " Queen's Jubilee Number," of the London Freemason, 1887. In the meantime, he had

become acquainted with some of the foremost Masonic thinkers and writers, such as, Bros. W. J. Hughan,

Rev. A. F. A. Woodford, D. Murray-Lyon, W. H. Rylands, and others, and with them, became interested in

the endeavour to establish, Masonic Archaeology on a firmer basis than had been the case hitherto. The

outcome of this combination of students was, the foundation of the now celebrated" Quatuor Coronati "

Lodge, of which the subject of our notice is one of the Founders. At the consecration of the Lodge, he was

appointed Secretary, an office which he has since filled with credit to himself and satisfaction to all

concerned.

From the first, the Lodge struck out a line of its own, and for some time conducted its proceedings with

gratification to its members. It was soon however discovered that, with a small subscription, it was

impossible to spend money in printing, and failing this, the influence of the Lodge upon the Craft in general

could not possibly be of an extended nature. It was at this critical period in the history of the Lodge, that Bro.

Speth conceived the happy idea of the "Correspondence Circle." Having placed his conception before the

Lodge, permission was granted to make a trial, and, in 1887, the circular calling the new Association into

existence was issued. Of the phenomenal success of the venture it is needless here to speak at any length. It

will be sufficient to say that the idea at once caught on, and in less than five years, it has grown to a

membership of nearly 1,500, scattered over every inhabited corner of the Globe, and comprising the Cream

of the Masonic Intellect in every country in the World.

There can be no doubt, but that, the Lodge owes its success, at any rate very materially, to the distinguished

attainments of its members, the excellence of the papers read at the meetings, and the able, eloquent, and

incisive manner in which the various subjects brought forward are discussed and commented upon. Yet,

these qualifications, however eminent taken by themselves alone, are not by any means sufficient to secure

success. Something more is needed. The clever organizer, the energetic, wide-awake manager, the wise, able,

tactful, and indefatigable executive officer is absolutely essential to attain the best results. In Bro. Speth, the

Lodge has been peculiarly fortunate in securing a Secretary possessing these varied qualities in a pre-eminent

degree. Every feature of its organisation, every fresh departure, and every scheme to enlarge and extend the

usefulness of the Lodge, has emanated solely from the brain of its Secretary.

Although Bro. Speth has not yet been called to office in that distinguished body, the Grand Lodge of

England, yet, his services to the Craft have not been unrecognised, both within, and without the United

Kingdom. He is an honorary member of Lodge " Scientific," Bingley, Yorks ; of Lodge " St. Albans,"

Adelaide ; and of the " Association of. Masonic Veterans, of Illinois," to all of which positions he has been

elected solely on account of his literary labours, and we have good reason to know, that he values in a very

high degree these tokens of fraternal recognition.

Our brother has his home in Margate, the well-known Kentish watering place, the location having been

selected for its pure and bracing air, on account of the delicate health of his elder daughter. By a very slight

stretch of the imagination, we can fancy our distinguished brother in his study. The rooms overlooks a pretty

garden filled with those Old English, " Stars of the Earth," which we all love so well. The windows are open

to the invigorating sea breezes, coming up, filled with the health-giving ozone, from the North Sea. The

walls around are lined with shelves laden with hundreds of volumes, every one of which has reference, more

or less direct, to "The Art of Arts." In this snug and quiet retreat, the Secretary of the " Quatuor Coronati "

spends an average of tea hours a day every moment of which is devoted to the affairs of the Lodge, which,

next to the concerns of his family, he has made the one object of his life.

Abridged from the article by "J. S." in THE KEYSTONE, Brisbane. The Block has been courteously lent by the

Editor.

———————

THE CHRISTCHURCH COMMUNICATION.

WE were unable to be present at the last Quarterly Communication, but our friends have posted us up as to

what took place.

The Grand Master, out of respect to the Grand Superintendent of Wellington, formally moved the resolution,

but declared his intention to oppose it. Brother the Rev. D. J. Murray, Past Grand Chaplain moved an

amendment, declaring that Grand Lodge saw no reason to take the steps advocated by Brother Williams—

viz., to rescind the resolution of Grand Lodge carried in Christchurch last year—this with the addendum

suggested by one or two—that the matter be adjourned until the January- Communication in Dunedin, was

carried nem con. The Grand Superintendent of Otago said a few words, instancing the case of the Lodge of

Otago; and the duplicate ditto, which seemed to meet with the approval of Grand Lodge. Brother Burton's

remarks made several converts.

The question of Lodges returning members in arrear was referred back to the Board of General Purposes.

The opposition to the proposal was overwhelming.

The remarks of Past Grand Master Brother Thomson on reception of the testimonial— 100 guineas and a

Past Grand Master's Jewel—were few and in good taste.

The Grand Master made a very good impression in Christchurch and elsewhere.

—————————

THE Representative of the Grand Orient of Italy in New Zealand, Vø Wø Broø George Robertson, Past
Grand Secretary, has put together a few facts relative to the doings of the Craft in Italy. These we have much

pleasure in publishing, and the brethren will find that they will well repay perusal. Representatives of other

Grand Bodies should remember that " Freemasonry well studied, well administered, and well practised, is of

interest to all true Masons, wherever located.

———————————————————————————————————————————

THE HON. JOHN BALLANCE.

————
THIS gentleman is a member of Lodge L., Amour de la Vérité, Wellington, holding obedience to the Grand

Orient of France.

Brother John Ballance is a member of Lodge St. Andrew Kilwinning, No. 79, Wanganui, holding obedience

to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

"The Grand Lodge of New Zealand," on July 28th, 1890, "declared the Lodge formed in Wellington under

the Grand Orient of France to be an irregular body, undeserving recognition of any kind."

"And that after the date of this Communication it shall be an instruction to Worshipful Masters not to receive

visitors from, or allow their member is to visit Lodges under the French Orient ; and that any member of a

Lodge holding under this Grand Lodge, who has joined, or joins, a Lodge holding under the Grand Orient of

France be given the option of withdrawing within one month, or that his name be struck off the roll of his

Lodge."

The Grand Lodge of New Zealand has a duty to perform ; will it do it ?

———————

As mentioned last month, we have in our possession for the benefit of "The Widows' and Orphans' Fund."

"Coromandel" sent us this money in 1891, but imposed the condition that nineteen individuals or Lodges

should subscribe a like amount. Up to date between £30 to £40 has been received by the Grand Secretary. It

surely is not impossible to gather the difference of £60, and so prevent this deserving charity losing what has

already been collected ?

Individual subscriptions of £1 will not be refused.

———————

WE are again indebted to Bro. W. FI. Clark, Secretary of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, Invercargill, for

compiling the index to volume 3, which, accompanies this issue.

———————

To comment upon the correspondence, published in this issue, relative to the Supreme Grand Chapter of

New Zealand of Royal Arch Masons, would be out of place. It will, however, help to the understanding of

the difficulty by stating the position of the two rival Chapters in Oamaru on the 29th October last :—

"I have just had word from the North Otago Chapter that they have declined to amalgamate with us. I

may state I had a conversation with Williams on the subject of his hasty, and in my opinion ill-

considered, action in having granted a warrant to the North Otago Chapter, and I pointed out to him that it

was no excuse ifs not knowing the position of affairs here, that he ought to have, at least, made inquiries

before taking any steps in the matter. He then took up the position that we were an irregular body as Mark

Masons. I then reminded him we had been accepted as members of the Chapter of Otago, and

consequently were perfectly regular."

———————

THE English Lodge at Timaru, in the most fraternal manner, placed their hall at the disposal of the brethren

of Caledonian, N.Z.C., on the occasion of the Grand Master's visit.

———————————————————————————————————————————

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 not write unless you say what you have got to say in a friendly way, as nothing written 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. you do, in that case, as in every

other one, BE BRIEF, and address THE EDITOR.

———————————

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.
————

P.M., WELLINGTON.—We know nothing of it, but suppose it is true, what does it matter ? The derision as to

which centre is to be the home of Grand Lodge for 1893-94 does not rest with the brethren you name.

P.M. BRO. PICKETT.—The Guide will be published at the end of December or beginning of January. We

don't think a cover for binding the CRAFTSMAN would be a financial success.
—————————————

THE DIVISION OF THE WELLINGTON DISTRICT.
—————

TO THE EDITOR..

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—What is the reason for the non-fulfillment of the promise made by Grand Master

Niccol on his first visit to these parts : to separate Taranaki from the Masonic District of Wellington and

constitute us and the brethren in and around Wanganui into a District in charge of a Superintendent ?

You have already advocated this stop, the Taranaki brethren know its desirability, why then is it not carried

out ?

By a recent edict of Grand Lodge it is made compulsory that the Superintendent Should visit each Lodge in

his district at least once a year. Very admirable in theory, but has Grand Lodge considered the expense this

will involve and the inconvenience that will result to Bro. Williams in giving effect to the law?

By your list of Lodge meetings, published in the last issue—by-the-bye I must compliment you in filling " a

long felt want"— I find that the Superintendent of Wellington could visit 13 Lodges in one month, providing

he lived, eat, and slept in the train ; five Lodges would be his second months work, three Lodges the

following month, and one Lodge in the fourth month. This would necessitate four expensive journeys to and

fro by railway, and the waste of much valuable time. Were the district divided, Bro. Williams would have 16

Lodges to supervise, and I find one journey would be all that would be necessary, providing one of the 16

Lodges called an emergency meeting.

There are many advantages that would result from the division, but it is unnecessary now to mention them. -I

simply want, at this stage, to draw attention to the fact that Bro. Niccol's promise has not been kept, and we

consider that an explanation should be given.—Yours fraternally,

"MONITOR."

New Plymouth, October 28th, 1892.

———————————————————————————————————————————

THE OTHER SIDE.—A REPLY TO BRO. SNOW.

————

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR BRO. EDITOR,—I see by your last issue that Bro. Snow still glories in his ignorance on Masonic

matters. Hitherto I have made it a rule not to answer one that perverts the truth, but in this case I make an

exception to that rule for Bro. Snow's good.

Again inconsistency and want of logic predominate throughout his whole letter. Bro. Snow, although he does

not see it, uses a strong, argument in favour of a New Zealand Constitution, and from the tone of his letter I

believe it will not be long until he becomes a strong advocate for the New Zealand Grand Lodge.

Evidently Bro. Snow is searching for light, and no doubt once he finds out that he has been misled by

interested guides he will turn on them with a vengeance.

It appears that Bro. Snow has been reading Masonic history since I wrote last. He must be reading more than

he can digest, hence the Masonic nightmare he is labouring under. 'What has regular or irregular Lodges or

Masons to do with the New Zealand Constitution ? With all Bro. Snow's Masonic knowledge he evidently

does not know what makes an irregular Mason.

It is some light to me to learn on the authority of one so well read in Masonic history as Bro. Snow, that my

3,000 brethren of the New Zealand Constitution are all irregular Masons. If the Grand Lodge of England

think us irregular why don't they act consistently and withdraw their representatives from all Grand Lodges

that have acknowledged us ? Bro. Snow, after his few months' experience as a Mason, ought to correct Bro.

Gould, for he does not mention in his History of Freemasonry "Lodge Madrid " (in Gibraltar) in 1728. Bro.

Snow must be thinking of Madrid, where a Lodge called St. John's of Jerusalem, No. 51, was established by

the Duke of Wharton in his own apartments in a hotel in Madrid in 1728, and two months later the W.M.,

Bro. Labelle, informed the Grand Lodge of the fact, and asked in 1729 to be properly constituted. The case

has no parallel with ours, and is like the rest of Bro. Snow's logical reasoning. As I asked in my former letter,

where are the irregular lodges ?

But what is the use of trying to set a brother right when he shuts his eyes to plain facts ? Can he not see that

more lodges are making themselves "irregular," from Bro. Snow's standpoint, every month, and that it will

only be a matter of a little time until Bro. Snow and Lodge Lazar will be working under the New Zealand

Grand Lodge.

Has Bro. Snow ever thought that the forbearance of the brethren of the New Zealand Constitution towards

the English and Scottish Constitutions might come to an end, and that a feeling might arise amongst the

brethren that no one belonging to a Scottish or English Constitution would be admitted to the New Zealand

Constitution except as an initiate ?

I see "allegiance" has now become a "figure of speech."

I would advise Bro. Snow to read no more Masonic history until he reads the history of the formation of the

Grand Lodge of New Zealand. Then I believe he will agree with me that we are as legally formed as the

Grand Lodge of England.

As Bro. Snow makes special mention of visiting, I would ask him what he thinks of District Grand Officers

that would remove the "Antient Landmarks " and prevent a brother from attending his mother lodge, because

the lodge appointed that brother to represent it at in meeting of brethren held to consider the matter of the

formation of a Grand Lodge ? The 12th landmark is "The right of every Mason to be represented in all

general meetings of the craft, and to instruct his representatives "The 14th landmark is, "The right of every

brother to sit and visit in every regular lodge," and the 25th landmark is "That these landmarks can never be

changed."

The argument that Bro. Snow uses in favour of the New Zealand Constitution (referred to above) is that "The

more one studies the condition of Masonry as it existed between 1717 and 1813, the more the conviction

grows upon one how necessary it was (is) that so many isolated Lodges and so many factions should be

welded together under a central controlling body possessed of absolute power."

If, Bro. Editor, you can find space for this in your next issue you will oblige your already indebted servant,

JAMES S. MILLER, P.M.,

Lodge Harvey No. 49, N.Z.C.

Chatton, October 4th, 1892.

—————————————————

GRAND LODGE EXPENDITURE.

———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—" Second thoughts are generally the best." I had written a lengthy reply to

your article, but shall not inflict it upon your readers nor descend to recriminations. I am content to leave the

matter to the judgment of the many friends I have in the Craft. To the rest the animus that pervades and must

have dictated your writing will be apparent. I will, however, point out the fact that while you say that you

gave a correct (?) statement of Grand Lodge accounts, that the receipts are to 31st August, 1892, and the

expenditure is to the 30th September, 1892, which is a peculiar idea of book-keeping. The Craft Lodges in

future will, in accordance to By-law No. 181, Book of Constitutions, be furnished with printed, copies of the

quarterly receipts and disbursements (you have the last to 30th September, 1892, and doubtless will publish

it), and then brethren can then form their own opinions, and will perhaps agree that I am correct in agreeing

with the editor of the Sydney Freemason in the number of October let, 1892, "That Finance is not a strong

point with the New Zealand Grand Lodge."—Yours fraternally,

W. H. COOPER.

Auckland, 3rd November, 1892.

[We stretch a point in giving publicity to Bro. Cooper's reply ; had we followed the strict journalistic rule, its

proper place would have been the waste paper basket. Bro. Cooper is playing upon words ; we did not

profess to give a " Statement of Grand Lodge accounts," that is the duty of " W. H. Cooper, auditor." What

we did give was a statement of the total receipts of Grand Lodge to August 31st, supplemented with a

statement of the financial position at August 31st. Bro. Cooper accepted our figures as "being approximately

correct," but demanded the publication of the details of the expenditure, this we gave up to the 30th

September. What this has to do with keeping books, and why he should style it " a peculiar idea of book-

keeping," passes our comprehension. The quarterly statement of receipts and disbursements to 30th

September does not alter our figures—Bro Cooper has not challenged their correctness—it is therefore

unnecessary to take up space and go to the expense of publishing what is already in the hands of those

interested. It is unfortunate for the point Bro. Cooper wishes to make that he has introduced the opinion of

the Sydney Freemason. Our contemporary commenting upon our remarks re the proposal to remit the fees of

honour of certain Grand Officers, which proposal Bro. Cooper supported, says :—" The income of the Board

of Benevolence of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand last year was only £123 17s 9d. Yet, with this poor

income, it is lessened by remitting `fees of honour.' There a misnomer here. Finance is not a strong point

with this Grand Lodge."

The fact of an Auditor of Grand Lodge affirming that he, in conjunction with one other, had "made an

exhaustive examination, had checked over every entry and posting in the books (recently opened) since the

formation of Grand Lodge; had regular Trial-Balance Sheets taken out, and Profit and Loss Accounts made

up, and could certify that the books were correct, and balanced by double entry to 30th June, ult." ;

afterwards questioning the correctness of his own handiwork, is sufficient warrant for Grand Lodge

employing a professional gentleman, a non-Mason, to certify to the correctness of its next Balance Sheet.—

ED. CRAFTSMAN].

_______________________________________________________________________________________

BRO. THOMSON'S RITUAL.

————

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—A. copy of the above ritual recently fell into my hands, and having a

conservative weakness for " Emulation " working, I was tempted to read it through. I do not presume to set

myself up as an authority upon the subject (in fact, I do not understand anyone attempting to do so who

cannot attend the Emulation Lodge regularly), but if I were Bro. Thomson I should take the first opportunity

of eliminating the words on the title page "according to the Emulation working," because, in the first place,

as an exemplification of the working as taught in the Emulation Lodge of Improvement, his ritual is an

unreliable production, and secondly, there is not the least likelihood of its ever being endorsed as authentic,

as the Lodge has never at any time, sanctioned or assented to, a printed or written ritual professing to teach

its working, so that it is not likely to acknowledge Bro. Thomson's. Indeed, I am inclined to believe that the

distinguished brethren forming the committee of that celebrated Lodge will think just about as little of it as

they do of "A. Lewis' Perfect Ceremonies of Craft Masonry."

Printed rituals are becoming a perfect curse to Freemasonry in this country, and to my mind they come

within the meaning of Rule 115, B. of C. If not, the sooner Grand Lodge legislates on this abuse, the better

will it be for the protection and preservation of the purity of our secret arts and hidden mysteries. — Yours

fraternally,

JOHN W. WARREN, No, 48.

Member of the Emulation Lodge of Improvement, London, W.C.

Stratford, N.Z., November 3rd, 1892.

—————————————————

THE PROPOSAL TO RECOGNISE NEW ZEALAND.

———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—I wish to say that, my letter to District Grand Masters, which you published last

month, was intended by me to be confidential, that I did not publish it, and that I have declined the request of

your representative for a copy of the correspondence. I cannot see what good would be gained by the

publication of the correspondence or any part of it. Even if the proposal were unanimously supported by the

District Grand Masters, the Grand Lodges might not see fit to adopt the recommendation ; and on the other

hand the knowledge that any District Grand Master had declined to join in the representation would probably

cause quite unnecessary ill-feeling towards him.—Yours fraternally,

E. OSBORNE GIBBES, D.D.G.M.

Wellington, 2nd November, 1892.

[The D.G.M. of Auckland did not consider Bro. Gibbes' letter confidential, for he distributed printed copies

of the same accompanied with his reply, neither was it so considered in Wellington. The report of the

Christchurch Communication of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand contains an official reference to the

matter by the Superintendent of Wellington.—ED. C.]

—————————————

THERE is some talk of opening a Lodge under England at Lyttelton. The difficulty is the want of a hall.

OUR dear old friend, Past Senior Grand Warden McKelvey, came back to Dunedin from Tasmania on the

22nd October.

A WELLINGTON Brother who, by-the-by, reads the CRAFTSMAN by courtesy, has made an unmanly and

covert attack upon us: " Don't hit below the belt " Bro. . Send along a copy of your letter, we will print it, the

Craft will read it, and we promise a reply.

———————————————————————————————————————————

Grand Lodge of New Zealand

QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION.

HOLDEN AT THE ST. AUGUSTINE MASONIC HALL, CHRISTCHURCH, ON

WEDNESDAY, THE 26TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 1892.

PRESENT.

M.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol Grand Master

M.W. Bro. Henry Thomson. Past Grand Master

R.W. Bro. Albert Kaye Deputy Grand Master

R.W. Bro. Alfred Henry Burton .. Grand Supt., Otago Dist.

R.W. Bro. Rook-wood Comport Bishop As Senior Grand Warden

R.W. Bro. Charles Partridge Hulbert As Junior Grand Warden

V.W. Bro. Rev. Edward E. Chambers Grand Chaplain

V.W. Bro. Rev. Daniel J. Murray .. Past Grand Chaplain

V.W. Bro. John Joyce, M.H.R. Past Grand Registrar

V.W. Bro. Charles A. C. Hardy Past President B. of G.P..

V.W. Bro. Rev. Wm. Ronaldson Grand Secretary

W. Bro. John Thompson Senior Grand Deacon

W. Bro. George Tombs As Junior Grand Deacon

W. Bro. F. W. Francis As Grand Dir. of Cerem.

Bro. William McAdam As Grand Sword Bearer.

Bro. R. W. Searell As Grand Organist

NV. Bro. H. F. Arnold Grand"Pursnivant

W. Bro. Thomas Boyd Grand Steward

W. Bro. A. B Blackett Grand Steward

W. Bro. Charles L. Russell Grand Steward

W. Bro. James Grubb Past Grand Steward

AND

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

Opening of Grand Lodge.—The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, and with solemn prayer.

Minutes.—The Minutes of the Quarterly Communication held in 'Wellington on July 29th, having been
printed and circulated amongst all Lodges, and members of Grand Lodge, were taken as read and ordered to

be confirmed.

Notice of Motion. —Re Minutes. The Grand Secretary asked that the foliowin, paragraph in the Minutes (p.
174 and 175) of the Communication of Grand Lodge on 29th June Last, viz., " Letter from Bro. A.

Gunderson, secretary St. Augustine Lodge, asking that their Charter might be given up to the District Grand

Lodge, E.C., Canterbury," be expunged from the records of Grand Lodge, as St. Augustine Lodge had made

no such request.— It was ruled by the Grand Master that notice of motion to that effect would have to be

given and considered at the Communication of Grand Lodge in January, 1893, at Dunedin. The Grand

Secretary, therefore, gave notice of motion as directed.

Apologies.—Apologies by telegrams and letters were received from Officers and Members of Grand Lodge,
including Rt. Wor. Bro. E. T. Gillon, Rt. W. Bro. W. H. Hall, Rt. W. Bro. H. J. Williams, Rt. W. Bro. Beilby,

V.W. Bro. Geo. Robertson, Rt. W. Bro. the Hon. Henry Feldwick, Past Grand Warden, Wor. Bros. J.

Derbridge, A. W. Bain, and many others.

Roll of Lodges.—The Roll of Lodges was called, when Officers and Members of seventeen Lodges
answered, besides visitors.

Receipts and Disbursements.—Read by Grand Secretary.

Reports.—The Reports of the Board of Benevolence, Board of General Purposes, and Grand
Superintendents, were then read :-

Report of Board of Benevolence.

Report of the Board of Benevolence, Grand Lodge of New Zealand, presented at the Quarterly

Communication of Grand Lodge, at Christchurch, on Wednesday, October 26th, 1892 :-

Four meetings of the Board have been held.

Your Board has to report, that during the past quarter, the following grants have been made :-

1. On the application .of Lodge St. Andrew to assist a Brother £ 5 0 0
2. On the application of Lodge Manawatu Kilwinning for
assistance to a Brother in sickness 5 0 0

3. To assist a Stranger in a Strange Land (a Brother under the
Grand Lodge of Peru), Passage to San Francisco .. .. 10 0 0

4. To assist the Widow of a late Brother, late W.M. of Lodge
Rodney.. 5 0 0

5. To assist a Brother in distress .. 2 0 0
6. To assist a Brother to return to Tasmania .. 2 0 0
£29 0 0

Other applications have been received, but not coming within the powers of the Board no assistance could be

given.

The Balance to the credit of the Fund of Benevolence is £389 2s. 9d. Of this sum £350 is on deposit at 5 0/„

interest, and the balance of £39 2s. 9d. is deposited in the Auckland Savings Bank bearing interest, of which

full particulars have been given by the Board of General Purposes.

Fraternally submitted,

JAMES F. LOGAN,

President Board of Benevolence.

Office of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand,

Masonic Institute, Auckland, October 19th, 1892.

On the motion of the M.W. the Grand Master, seconded by the Deputy Grand Master, this Report was

adopted.

Report of the Board of General Purposes.
We gave the full text of this Board's Report in the October CRAFTSMAN, it is therefore unnecessary to

reproduce.

Explanation of the Report was given by the Most Worshipful the Grand Master. On the clause " Alteration in

Book of Constitutions—Members in Arrears," it was moved by the Grand Master, seconded by Very

Worshipful Bro. John Joyce, Past Grand Registrar, " That the question of Members in Arrears' be referred

back to the Board of General Purposes." Carried.

With regard to the motion of Rt. Wor. Bro. H. J. Williams, in re the Retention of Charters,' as the mover

could not be present he asked that it might be postponed to the next Communication of Grand Lodge.

The assistance asked for in Grand Secretary's Office was granted to the amount of £52 per annum : and the

Grand Master announced that, by a telegram just arrived, Rt. Wor. Bro. the Hon. H. Feldwick, Past Grand

Warden, had accepted his nomination to the Grand Lodge of Manitoba as its Grand Representative near this

Grand Lodge.

It was moved by the M.W. the Grand Master, seconded by the Rt. Won. Bro. Kaye, " That the Report of the

Board of General Purposes be adopted," which was carried.

Reports of Grand Superintendents :
Grand Superintendent's Office,

Wellington District,

THE M.W. GRAND MASTER,

In submitting a brief report of the Lodges in the district there is nothing that calls for special comment, as

with one exception all are most prosperous. Since the annual meeting of Grand Lodge I have visited Ulster,

Rangitikei, Feilding, Otangaki, and St. John's, and I have accepted special invitations from Greytown,

Tararua, Patel Kilwinning, Otaki, and Rangatira for month of November.

The celebration of the Jubilee of the New Zealand Pacific Lodge was attended with great success, the re-

union of Masons being the largest and most representative held in Wellington for some considerable time.

I think the present is an opportune time to make special reference to the correspondence which has passed

between Bro. Sir E. O. Gibbes, D.D.G.M., Wellington, E.C. and the D.G.M. of Auckland E.C., on the subject

of recognition.

I feel very sure every Mason will appreciate the forcible, clear, and logical manner in which Bro. Gibbs has

demonstrated the position, and whether or not his efforts will bear immediate fruit, the truly Masonic spirit

by which he is actuated, will not be readily forgotten, especially in this district, and is evidence that the

harmony which has been so characteristic in the past will not be lessened in the future, while the feelings of

loyalty and affection which have ever been held for the Grand Lodge of England will be renewed by the

action of our illustrious brother.

H. J. WILLIAMS,

Grand Superintendent.

Wellington, October 24th, 1892.

————

Grand Superintendent's Office,

Southland District,

M.W. SIR AND BROTHER,

In submitting this letter, which may be taken as a report, I deeply regret I cannot report any fresh additions to

the fold, but I am confident that not only one but three or four Lodges are on the balance, and a slight turn of

the scale will bring them over.

As regards members willing, the great preponderance of weight is on the N.Z. side ; but with a small

minority that bugbear, "Loyalty to the Mother Constitution," is the lever used against joining (the N.Z.C.),

but they must accept the inevitable in time as the opinion of the large majority must be accepted.

I am pleased. I can report that all Lodges under our banner in Southland are having a marked degree of

prosperity, and even a greater degree of outward prosperity could be obtained by accepting all and sundry ;

but a strong feeling is growing that more care and judgment should be exercised in the acceptance of

candidates, in the future, than in the past. Thank God, our Grand Masonic Union is a step to this end. I have

not as yet paid my official visit to the Lodges, except Aparima. My first visit was at the time the Lodge

opened under our Banner, some time back, and the second last week, when with some 20 visitors from

Invercargill, including the officers of Southern Cross, I paid an official and fraternal visit. The work was

opening, initation, and raising, and closing by the officers of Southern Cross. This meeting proved most

successful, and will be most beneficial to Aparima, while the visitors had a most pleasant time, full

particulars in next month's Craftsman,. I regret having missed a visit to Mokoreta at the time of their

Installation, but a sudden attack of sickness prevented me from so doing. As regards other Lodges, the time

for the annual visit is just at hand (viz :— at their Installation). I am given to understand they are all working

well, prosperity, unity, peace, being now the prevailing principles. All the Lodges are looking forword to the

promised visit of our worthy Grand Master, particularly Fortitude, Bluff, at which it is expected the Grand

Master will Install the W.M. Elect. Lodge Harvey, Gore, would have been pleased if the compliment could

have been conferred on them also, but the date of their Installation being much earlier, it could not be

conveniently held over.

Re proposals, it will not be amiss if I put my opinion on record :

1st Fees of Honour..—I am of the opinion that all Grand Lodge Officers-should pay the fees as at

present demanded.

2nd. The Charters should be held until we are duly recognised.

3rd. The Grand Lodge should pay Grand Master's expenses. An annual Rail Ticket I think would be an

advantage.

4th. Deputy Master.—All past D.M's. be ranked as proposed, but newly-elected D.M's. since the

formation of Grand Lodge should not receive this rank.

5th. Members of the Lodges.—In favour of the proposal as printed, hard and fast rules on this question

should be avoided, both by the Grand Lodge and others.

Trusting the meeting will be pleasant and beneficial to the fraternity.-1 remain, yours fraternally,

W. H. HALL,

Southland, 18th October, 1892. Grand Superintendent.

————

Grand Superintendent's Office,

Hawke's Bay and Gisborne District.

The first quarter of my recent appointment to the supervision of this District happens to have been the busiest

three months of the year in my usual avocations, and I regret that I have been unable to visit more than two

of the Lodges under my jurisdiction during that period. On the 9th of August I paid an official visit to the

Victoria, No. 21, and presented the Lodge with its Charter from the Grand Lodge. There was a large

attendance of brethren and visitors at the meeting, and a very decided re-action has taken place in the life of

this Lodge since its enrolment under the banner of our Grand Lodge. I was again present at the meeting of

this Lodge on the 13th September, when there was again a large attendance, and work which was done was

gone through in a most efficient manner. I was present at the meeting of the Heretaunga, No; 73, on the 7th.

September, but the weather was not favourable and there was only a small, attendance, no business of

importance being before the meeting.

During the current quarter I shall have more time at my disposal and hope to visit most of the Lodges in my

District, and to have a favourable report to send to the next Communication of Grand Lodge.

WM BEILBY,

Hastings, 24th October, 1892. Grand Superintendent.

These Reports were received.

Notice of Motion, of Rt. Wor. Bro. H. T. Williams, being the next business on the Order Paper, was
brought up for discussion. Rt. Wor. Bro. Williams being unable to attend this Communication had asked that

its consideration be deferred until the Communication of Grand Lodge in January, 1893, at Dunedin. It was

moved, pro forma, by the M.W. the Grand Master, and seconded, pro forma, by the V. Wor. Bro. John

Joyce, " That the Resolution of Grand Lodge at its Communication at Christchurch, October 13th, 1891,

requesting the Grand Master to retain possession of Charters,' be rescinded." After discussion, it was moved

by the V. Wor. Bro. D. J. Murray, Past Grand Chaplain, seconded by Rt. Wor. Bro. A. H. Burton, Grand

Superintendent, "That having considered the subject of Retention of Charters of Lodges, whilst Grand Lodge

at present sees no reason to reverse its decision passed at the Communication held in Christchurch, in

October, 1891, in deference to the wish of the mover of the resolution, Rt. Wor. Bro. H. S. Williams, Grand

Lodge consents to the postponement of the motion to the next Communication at Dunedin, in January,

1893." This was carried.

The M.W. the Grand Master, during the discussion, pledged himself not to hand over any Charter without the

consent of each Lodge.

Correspondence from the Grand Lodges of Quebec, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, etc. Owing to the lateness of
the hour, and after the contents of the sundry letters had been briefly given, the Correspondence was taken as

read. Grand Lodge ordered that the Letters be printed in the Report.

Recognition by Grand Lodges.—It was moved by the Grand Secretary, seconded by the Rt. Wor. Bro. R.
C. Bishop, " That the Grand Lodge of New Zealand desires to acknowledge the fraternal and courteous

manner in which the Grand Lodges of Manitoba and Quebec have extended recognition this Grand Lodge, as

the supreme Masonic authority in this territory, in accordance with Masonic Laws and Usages ; and accepts

with much pleasure the appointment of Grand Representatives, both from and to their Grand Lodges, at the

same time expressing the regret and sympathy of this Grand Lodge with the Grand Lodge of Manitoba on the

death of the M.W. Bro. John William Henry Wilson, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba, and

also with the Grand Lodge of Alabama on the death of Rt. Wor. Bro. Myles Jefferson Greene, Grand

Secretary of that Grand Lodge. The same to be communicated to those Grand Lodges in the usual manner by

the Grand Secretary." Carried.

Presentation to Past Grand Master Bro. H. Thomson.—In a brief address the M.W. the Grand Master
announced that he had a most pleasing duty to perform and that, but for the lateness of the hour, he should

have been glad of the opportunity of expressing more fully what, in his opinion, the Lodge owed to the

indefatigable and unwearied labours of the M.W. Bro. Henry Thomson. He had been intrusted by the

Brethren with the privilege of presenting a Past Grand Master's Jewel, accompanied with a cheque for One

Hundred Guineas, subscribed by members of Lodges throughout New Zealand, as a souvenir indicating the

estimation in which Past Grand Master Bro. Thomson is held and his services estimated, and he expressed

the hope that he might long be spared to assist in guiding this Grand Lodge in its onward course. Amidst

much enthusiastic demonstration the Grand Master handed the jewel and cheque to Bro. Thomson. In a few

well-chosen words the Past Grand Master acknowledged the gift and thanked the Brethren, coupled with the

assurance that Grand Lodge would always find him as ready and willing to act on its behalf in. the future as

it had in the past.

Patent of Office.—The M.W. the Grand Master presented Wor. Bro Charles Lord Russell, P.M. of
Palmerston South Lodge, No. 26, with his Patent of Office as Grand Steward.

Votes of thanks were passed most heartily to Lodge St. Augustine for the use of the Hall, and to Bro.
Searell, organist, and the choir for their much appreciated services.

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

RECOGNITIONS.

———

ROUMANIA.

THE National Grand Lodge of Roumania desires an exchange of Representatives, and submits the names of

Bros. Constantin Ciscan, Pericles Paltineano, and Georges Stanica, from whom the Grand Master of New

Zealand may choose a Representative.

——<>——

IOWA.

THE Grand Lodge of Iowa requests the name of a Brother whom the Grand Master will appoint Grand

Representative of Iowa, in New Zealand. The Hon. Almon R. Dewey, of Washington, Iowa, is recommended

as Grand Representative of New Zealand in Iowa. Judge Dewey is Senior Grand Warden, a Past Grand High

Priest, and a Past Grand Commander. The strength of this Grand Lodge is 451 working Lodges, and these

have a membership of 23,016.

——<>——

[Copy.]

Provincial Grand Lodge of Queensland,

Irish Constitution, Masonic Hall,

Brisbane, Queensland.

REV. W. RONALDSON, Grand Secretary,

St. Augustine Masonic Hall.

Christchurch, New Zealand.

R.W. SIR AND BROTHER.—Having been elected to the office of Provincial Grand Secretary of the Irish

Constitution in Queensland, I have the honor to request that in future all communications be addressed to me,

as above.

<seal> I remain, R.W. Sir and Brother,

Yours fraternally,

• E. MACDONNELL.

————

THERE was a surprise in store for the Grand Master on his recent visit to Timaru. He found the W.M. of

Lodge Caledonian a brother whom he had initiated several years ago at the opening of Lodge Montrose,

S.C., Gisborne.

———————————————————————————————————————————

THE ROYAL ARCH
—————————————————————————————————————————————————

SUPREME GRAND CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND VERSUS

THE CHAPTER OF OTAGO.

THE first installment of the history of the movement for the formation of the Supreme Grand Chapter of

Royal Arch Masons of New Zealand, will appear in our next issue. That such is needed may be gathered

from the following correspondence :-

Featherston Street, Wellington, 16th September, 1892:

T. G. DE RENZY, ESQ.,

DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,— When we met in Wellington I gave you my word to try by all means in my

power to bring about an amalgamation of the members of Hamilton Mark Lodge, or the Otago Royal Arch

Chapter. Early the following week I received a most emphatic protest from Comps. Barth and Ronaldson

against the removal of the Otago Chapter from its home Dunedin, and asserting that no meeting or resolution

of the Chapter had authorised even a meeting to be held in Oamaru. As a matter of courtesy, I at once

notified you of the protest. Immediately following this came two most violent letters from Bro. Cathcart,

replying to mine suggesting amalgamation, stating that the N.O. Chapter was heavily in debt, and wanted the

Hamilton Mark Lodge to join to help pay it off. That they had paid Bro. De Renzy their fees in October last,

and had been bona fide members ever since, that unless an immediate Charter was granted (two days grace

was given) an application would be made to the S.G. Chapter of England, and Lodge Waitaki would also

apply to the Grand Lodge. Bro. Gillon replied to this in an explanatory, conciliatory, but firm letter. Then

you wire for "explanation of refusal to ainalgamate," you already knew there was a formal protest from the

Dunedin members, including the Second Principal, and in order to give you an explanation from nearer

home, I replied, that Cathcart violently opposed. Then you waste sixpence in asking the inane question

"What has Cathcart to do with promise given me?" If I thought you were at all fogged in the matter, I would

explain how largely Cathcart and his 45 Oamaru members are closely associated with the due perfomance of

my promise, that it takes two parties or two bodies to make a compact., and that unless Cathcart and his party

are willing (to say nothing of Dunedin members) the amalgamation won't come off. So that you will see on

reflection that Cathcart is one if not the principal factor in the outside Oamaru Masons and Mark Masters

joining the N.O. Chapter or accepting the only other alternative, a Mark Charter. I need scarcely say the

"protest " from Dunedin debars the Grand First Principal from even suggesting an amalgamation till the

circumstances are inquired into, and as I have said if Cathcart and party object, why there is no one left. If

you will let me try and play my hand, 1 will do all that is possible to adjust matters, but be good enough not

to hamper me. And I am not rich enough to keep up a telegraphic correspondence to bandy words.—I

remain, fraternally yours,

H. J. WILLIAMS.

————

Box 411 P.O. Auckland, October 19th, 1892..

H. J. WILLIAMS, ESQ., WELLINGTON.

DEAR SIR AND COMPANION,—Your letter of the 16th September duly reached me.

It will be best to return the £4 7s. 6d. I paid you in Wellington. On its receipt I will return the Dispensation of

Otago, and this will sever our connection—the Oamarn Companions and myself who paid the money—with

your body.

Before leaving the subject allow me to say that, on my arrival in Auckland, I made it my business to find 'out

what stipulations with respect to the North Otago Chapter, Lodge Oamaru Kilwinning had made when

offering their allegiance to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. I found none. You and Companion Gillon

assured me in Wellington that the granting of a Chapter Warrant was a sine qua non, in their petition to the

Grand. Lodge, but I found that they threw themselves unreservedly into the fold.

You state in your letter that the First Grand Principal replied to Companion Cathcart in an explanatory,

courteous, but firm letter. This may be your opinion, but a copy of Companion Gillon's letter has been sent to

me, and I consider it anything but courteous—indeed it is an insult to have written to a subordinate officer of

the Otago Chapter and characterised the First Principal of that body as officious and devoid of candour. Does

your First Grand Principal expect to mend matters by trying to bring me into ridicule and contempt with the

Companions who have hitherto held me in respect and esteem ?

That Companion Gillon descends to personalities does not surprise me but it is surprising that you should

lend yourself to making false statements, when the fullest personal and written explanations of my

connection with the Mark Lodges and the Chapter of Otago have been given you. Have I not protested, again

and again, against the breaking of the pledge given in Christchurch ? Was it not agreed that if I would

consent to the working of the Excellent, you would agree to the absorption of Mark Lodges into Chapters ?

But it is useless continuing. The Basis of Union was set at defiance and now you want a scapegoat, and that

scapegoat is to be, to use the language of Companion Gillon, " Excellent Companion De Renzy, who in

many matters has evidently acted without authority and has failed to supply us with information."

As I pointed out to you in my first letter, after the formation of the Grand Chapter, Comp. C. J. Romildson

was not and is not a member of the Chapter of Otago, and I again assert that my Second Principal, Comp

Barth, agreed with my solution of the difficulty. I am not responsible for the change in his opinion.

Fraternally,

T. G. DE RENZY, Z.

Chapter of Otago.

————

Oamaru, 17th October, 1892.

T. G. DE RENZY, ESQ., AUCKLAND.

M.E. COMP. AND DEAR SIR,—You have no doubt heard from M.E. Comp. Williams of his proceedings

while he was here to install the officers of the North Otago Chapter, and efforts to effect the amalgamation of

the two Chapters, which, you will be glad to hear, has been successful, North Otago Chapter having agreed

to ballot for all our members in globe at their next Convocation on the 26th inst.

I am sorry I did not see M.E. Comp. Williams on his return from Dunedin, but as a result. of his visit I

received a letter from M.E. Comp. Gillon, Grand First Principal (copy enclosed), authorising and instructmg

me to hand over the Dispensation issued to the Otago Chapter, which you left with me, to M.E. Comp. Barth,

Second Principal. I enclose copy of nay letter to him, to which I have not yet received a reply.

I shall be glad to hear from you on all these matters as early as convenient.—Yours fraternally,

JAS. FIELD CRAWFORD, P.P.J.

————

[Copy.]

Featherston Street, Wellington, 30th September, 1892

E. COMP. CRAWFORD, OAMARU.

I, Edward Thomas Gillon, Grand First Principal of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand,

do herein authorise, empower, and instruct you to deliver or post the Dispensation issued to the Chapter of

Otago, and now in your possession, to F. Comp Barth of Dunedin, Second Principal of the said Chapter of

Otago, and accept. his receipt for the same.

Signed E. T. GILLON,

Grand First Principal.

————

[Copy].

Reed Street, Oamaru, October 3rd, 1892.

E. COMP. ARTHUR J. BARTH, ELDER STREET, DUNEDIN.

DEAR SIR AND E. COMP.— I have this day received a letter from M.E. Comp. E. T. Gillon, Grand First

Principal of the Supreme Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand, authorising and instructing me to deliver or

post to you the Dispensation issued to the Chapter of Otago, now in my possession, getting your receipt for

the same. The Dispensation was delivered to me in open Chapter here by M.E. Comp. T. G. De Renzy, with

instructions to hold the same for him as First Principal of the Chapter of Otago, I, as Past Principal J., being

elected as the same time as Third Principal of the Otago Chapter, which office he gave us to understand was

vacant, and as a large majority of the members of the Chapter were resident in the Oamaru district of Otago,

he decided that they as the majority could and should hold the Chapter in Oamaru in terms of the

Dispensation.

This was before we were aware that a Dispensation had been granted to the North Otago Chapter previously

under the Scotch Constitution, with which by the terms of the Dispensation, we were not to conflict.

This, you will see, places me in an awkard position, and M.E. Comp. H. A. Williams was here, he was

instrumental in forming the amalgamation of the Companions of the two Chapters, which I may say as far as

regards the members in the Oamaru district is in a fair way of being accomplished, terms being agreed upon

to be finally settled at the next convocation of the North Otago Chapter.

I could have wished that M.E. Comp. De Renzy had given me the same instructions, so as to save anything

like a breach of faith or trust on my part, I having received the Dispensation from him for safe-keeping. But

of course the authority and instructions of the Supreme Grand Chapter are indefeasible, and I now ask you, if

you are likely to visit here shortly, or if any Companion properly authorised by you will be here to receive

the Dispensation and grant a receipt for the same, or shall I post it to you ?

I understand Companion Burton is to be here this evening in connection with the Ngapara Lodge, and

perhaps I shall see him to-morrow.

M.E. Comp. Williams would explain that I wish only to act fairly and honourably in this matter under the

unpleasant circumstances.—Yours fraternally,

JAS. FIELD CRAWFORD, P.P.J.

————

Box 444 P.O. Auckland, Oct. 25th, 1892.

J. FIELD CRAWFORD, ESQ.,

Third Principal of the Chapter of Otago,

Reed Street Oamaru.

EX. COMPANION AND DEAR SIR,—Replying to yours of the 17th inst., enclosing copy of a demand made by

the First Grand Principal, M.E. Comp. E. T. Gillon, authorising, empowering, and instructing you to deliver

or post the Dispensation issued to the Chapter of Otago to Ex. Comp. Barth of Dunedin, Second Principal of

the said Chapter, and the copy of your letter to Ex. Comp. Barth, I have this to say :-

That I can and do recognise the delicacy and awkwardness of your position, and I think the action of the First

Grand Principal in demanding of you a breach of trust, and the breaking of the solemn pledges you gave me

in open Chapter, will be universally condemned.

You have been a Freemason for nearly half a century, you are the oldest Past Master I believe in the Colony,

and you must have had many years' experience of Royal Arch Masonry, for you are a Past Third Principal of

many years' standing; it would therefore ill become me to criticise the actions of such an old, experienced,

and venerable Brother and Companion. If you considered it right and proper—and I presume you did so

think it—to obey the order of the First Grand Principal, will not blame you.

After I had obligated all those present at the Convocation in Oamaru to be henceforth true and loyal

Companions to the Supreme Grand Chapter of New Zealand and the Chapter of Otago in particular, I handed

the Dispensation to you for safe keeping, and delegated you to assemble the Companions in the ordinary way

whenever necessity demanded. You undertook the charge, you promised to recognise my authority, and you

promised to return the Dispensation to me whenever I demanded it.

If you consider M.E. Comp. Gillon can absolve you from the pledge given your First Principal I cannot

blame you for giving effect to his instructions.

Until the arrival of your letter I knew nothing of the Grand Scribe Ezra's proceedings at Oamaru.

Fraternally yours,

T. G. DE RENZY, Z.

Chapter of Otago.

————

Box 444, P.O. Auckland, Oct. 25th, 1892.

H. J. WILLIAMS, ESQ.,

Grand Scribe Ezra, Wellington.

DEAR, SIR AND EX. COMPANION.—I received to-day a letter from the Third Principal of the Chapter of

Otago, Ex. Companion J. Field Crawford, enclosing copy of an order issued by the First Grand Principal,

authorising, empowering, and instructing hint to deliver or post the Dispensation issued to me as First

Principal of the Chapter of Otago to Ex. Companion Barth of Dunedin, Second Principal of the said Chapter,

and also copy of a letter sent by him to Comp. Barth, a copy of which I enclose for the benefit of yourself

and the First Grand Principal.

It is of course easy to coerce an old and venerable Companion, but I think that the attempt to make my Third

Principal break his solemn pledges and commit a breach of trust, will be condemned and considered a

contemptible action by many.

Did I not know that Comp. Gillon is a law unto himself, I might express indignation at his unwarranted

interference with the domestic concerns of my Chapter. The First Grand Principal is exceeding his authority.

What right has he to authorise, empower, and instruct the Third Principal to act contrary to my instructions,

and his solemn declaration to hold the Dispensation of the Chapter of Otago in his safe-keeping on my behalf

and at my disposal? I know that you and Comp. Gillon have made capital out of my necessity, that sickness

in my family compelled my leaving the district in which the Chapter of Otago holds its meetings, but I have

yet to learn that because a man exercises his just right to care for and protect those nearest and dearest to

him, he is to be considered as having no longer a right to fulfil the duties of his position as First Principal of

a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and as having forfeited his right to be treated with an ordinary amount of

Masonic courtesy.

Had Comp. Gillon demanded the return of the Dispensation of the Chapter of Otago from me to whom it was

issued, no exception could have been taken against the demand, neither could exception have been taken

against his action on the score of good breeding.

In my last letter I informed you that I intended to return the Dispensation and sever my connection with the

Supreme Grand Chapter of New Zealand, upon return of the £4 7s 6d paid by me in Wellington, This I

confirm, but I cannot be held responsible should I be unable to perform my part of the contract—the return,

of the Dispensation—owing to the interference of Comp. Gillon.

None of the Dunedin members of the Otago Chapter have as yet paid their joining fees, and I would also

point out that the only method by which the Gannon Companions can sever their connection with the Otago

Chapter is by resigning and paying the fees due to the date of their resignation.

In Comp. Crawford's letter to Comp. Barth, there is a paragraph which- reads as follows :—" This was

before we were aware that. a Dispensation had been granted to the North Otago Chapter, previously under

the Scotch Constitution with which by the terins of the Dispensation, we were not to conflict."

As you know the Dispensation was not issued to the North Otago Chapter when I saw you in Wellington. At

that date the Chapter of Otago had been established in Oamaru for sometime, and it is doubtful if the Otago

Chapter can now be dislodged from its home in Oamaru at the dictum of yourself and the First Grand

Principal: Clause 4, of Cap. 16, of the Scotch Constitution, under which we are working, states that " The

usual place of meeting for the Chapter shall be fixed for the ensuing year on the day of the annual election, if

no alteration be then proposed, the former. place of meeting shall be held to be the one agreed to."

There was no New Zealand Chapter in Oamaru when the Chapter of Otago decided by a large majority of its

members to hold the meetings and make the home of the Chapter in Oamaru ; there were no conflicting

interests at the time, consequently the members were entirely within their rights in thus deciding to domicile

the Chapter where 90% of its membership resided. Nothing was concealed, the pros and cons were fully

discussed, and a decision arrived at that the Supreme Grand Chapter —or rather the First Grand Principal, for

the wording of the Dispensation was not submitted, as it had a right to be submitted, to the Supreme

Committee of General Purposes—was exceeding his authority in limiting the Chapter to the choice of a

home.

Of course I know now why our proceedings have been condemned, but when it is known that you had

promised to grant a Dispensation to the North Otago Chapter if they would join the Supreme Grand Chapter

of New Zealand, and throw off their allegiance to the Grand Chapter of Scotland, and that a telegram

applying for the Dispensation was sent off the day following the opening of the Chapter of Otago in Oamaru,

the action of the First Grand Principal in condemning our proceedings, after first making sure of the Scotch

Chapter, will, no doubt, be estimated at its proper value.

I find by the Code of Laws of the Grand Chapter of Scotland, under which we are now working, that the

duties of the Supreme Committee is to receive and examine all applications for Charters or Warrants, and

report thereon to the Supreme Chapter. I find also that the Supreme Committee shall be appointed by the

Supreme Chapter and "shall consist of the three Grand 'Principals, Depute Grand Principal, and 15 other

members of the Supreme Chapter." As you have not such a body they could not have received and examined

the application from the Companions of the North Otago Chapter, neither could they have reported thereon

to the Supreme Body, therefore, I say, the whole proceedings are illegal. Furthermore, even if the want of

and laxity in not appointing the Supreme Committee, throws the work of such Committee upon yours and

Comp. Gillon's shoulders, it cannot be supposed that you two are to be the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal

Arch Masons of New Zealand, and usurp the functions of and fulfil the powers that rests solely in that

Supreme Body in Convocation regularly assembled. What authority have you and the First Grand Principal

to issue a Dispensation to the Companions in Oamaru styling themselves the North Otago Chapter ? I cannot

find in the Code of Laws any power given the First Grand Principal to issue a Dispensation to work. The

First Grand Principal had no doubt power given him to issue Dispensations to those seven Chapters that

formed the Grand Chapter of New Zealand, but any fresh application from Companions desirous of

establishing a new Chapter—and the North Otago Chapter is a new Chapter as far as New Zealand is

concerned—are regulated and controlled by the laws set forth in Cap II " Erection of Chapters " Code of

Scotch Laws. It is there distinctly stated that the petition must be signed by at least the nine proposed Office

Bearers, recommended by three of the Grand Office Bearers or by the Three Principals of a Chapter or

Chapters in the vicinity holding of the Supreme Chapter. It shall be addressed to the Supreme Chapter and

transmitted to the Grand. Scribe Ezra, to be laid by him before the Supreme Committee, to be reported on to

the first Quarterly Communication. Until a Charter is granted no work shall be performed within the Chapter

unless a Working Order shalt be granted by the Supreme Chapter or Committee.

I once had serious thoughts of protesting and appealing against the First Grand Principal's action, but that, I

know, would be useless. The Grand Chapter of New Zealand is M. E. Companions Gillen and Williams,

would it not be foolish appealing against the conduct of these two autocrats to the autocrats themselves ?

Yours fraternally,

T. G. DE RENZY, Z.

Chapter of Otago.

P.S.—I enclose a copy of my reply to the Third Principal of the Chapter of Otago.

————

Wellington, 31st October, 1892.

T. G. DE RENZY, AUCKLAND.

SIR,—I have to acknowledge receipt of your letters bearing date 19th and 26th inst. I am instructed by M.E.

Comp. Gillen to forward cheque for the sum £4 7s. 6d., being amount of fees paid by you on behalf of

Chapter of Otago, and now refunded. Be good enough to acknowledge receipt.

I am, etc.,

HERBERT J. WILLIAMS.

Cheque herewith, £4 7s. 6d.

Excellent Companion Williams forgot to add exchange to the cheque, and he also forgot to add the usual

courtesy titles to his letter.

————

Box 444 P.O. Auckland, 10th Nov. 1892.

HERBERT J. WILLIAMS, ESQ.,

Grand Scribe Ezra, Wellington.

SIR AND EX. COMPANION,— I take this opportunity of enclosing receipt for the cheque of £4 7s. 6d.

I regret having to write you again, but to-day's mail brought me a letter from the Third Principal of the Otago

Chapter, Ex. Companion J. Field Crawford, dated from Oamaru on the 4th inst. The part of his letter which

calls in question your veracity and mine is as follows :-

"At the same time as yours I received a very angry letter from M.E.G. Scribe Ezra, with a quotation

purporting to be from your letter to me, as follows : I did not know that Grand Scribe Ezra had acted in

such an underhand manner in Oamaru till I got your letter.'

" This is not a correct quotation of the last paragraph in your letter to me. It is thus : Until the arrival of your

letter I knew nothing of the Grand Scribe Ezra's proceedings at Oarnaru.' "

The charge made by Companion Crawford is a serious one and demands an answer. I must therefore ask you

to at once wire an explanation for the alteration in the text of the copy of my letter to Companion Crawford,

which I sent you as a matter of courtesy.

I have forwarded a copy of this note to my Third Principal.

I am, etc.,

T. G. DE RENZY, Z.

Chapter of Otago.

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TO SUBSCRIBERS AND OTHERS.

Subscriptions should be sent to T. G. DE RENZY, Box 444, Post Office, Auckland. Communications for the

Editorial Department should be addressed to the Editor, Box 444, Post Office, Auckland.

Subscribers are respectfully notified that the correct filling of orders is sufficient evidence of their receipt.

PAYMENTS OF 7S 6D MADE SINCE OCTOBER 16TH, 1892.

J. Burns, Brandon (5s), Cleave, Freeman, Hamerton, Jno. Kelly (and '93 Guide), Meadowcroft, Paackes,

Peters, Porter, Pine', C. B. Robinson, C. Reeves, N. Rothwell, Rev. Wm. Ronaldson, Way.

PAYMENTS OF 10S AND UPWARDS MADE SINCE OCTOBER 16TH, 1892.

Captain Adams (10s), Annear (10s), Bacon (10s), Boddinghans (10s), Beckham (20s), W. Cock (10s),

Coates and Co. (30s), Danks (10s), S. E. Evans (10s), R. Elliott (17s 6c1), Grand Lodge of N.Z. (809),

Godber (20s), D.G. Lodge of Wellington (20s), Harbroe (10s) Homand (10s), Edgar Jones (20s), M. M.

Irving (20s), E. H. King (20s), Lodge Phoenix, 1690, E.C. (20s), Lodge Progress (20s), Lodge St. Marks

(20s), Ledge Kumara (20s), Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9 (20s), Lodge Bedford (20f), Lodge St. Andrew,

No. 8 (20s), Lodge Beta (20s), Lodge Taringatura (20s), Lodge Sir Walter Scott (20s), Lodge Rangatira

(20s), Lodge Ara (27a 6d), W. D. Lyon (10s), Maisey (10s), Mawson (Ms), Masters (lOs), Munt (15s),

Olandcr (20s), Pagni (10s), H. B. Price (10s), Robt. Scott (10), Robt. Shand (30s), Sandel (25s), Tripe (10s),

Geo. Wilson (10s).

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LODGE REPORTS.
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PROVINCE OF AUCKLAND.

ST. ANDREW, NO. 8.-Bro. John Guthrie is the W.M. elect. The Installation will take place on the 20th

December.

MANUKAU, NO. 24, ONEHUNGA.-Bro. E. M. Page was elected W.M. on the 1st inst. The Installation will take

place on the 29th inst. The W.M. made a touching reference to the somewhat sudden death of Brother

Gabriel Smith, of Mangers, from Bright's disease.

TE AROHA, NO. 52, N.Z.C., TE AROHA.— We are determined to resuscitate matters. At our last meeting we

had five affiliations, and more to follow. The following officers were nominated for the ensuing year:—

W.M., Robert Harris, P.M. ; S.W., John Corns ; S. T. Smardon ; Secretary and Treasurer, Horace Priestley ;

S.D., D. McL. Wallace ; J.D., S. L. Hirst ; J.G., George Graves ; Tyler, Thomas Hood. At the close of the

Lodge we had some light refreshment, and a social hour was spent which went too quickly. We contemplate

keeping this up, as it throws the brethren together and we get to know one another better. We are glad to see

the old members rolling up, and hope they will continue to do so. We are looking forward to much brighter

times.

ST. ANDREW, No. 418, S.C.-Bro. Thomas Cantley has been nominated for R.W.M.

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PROVINCE OF HAWKES BAY AND GISBORNE.

———

ABERCORN, NO. 30, WAIPAWA.-Held its regular meeting on 5th October. There was none other than routine

work, and advantage was taken by P.M. Bro. Geo. Clarke to give the Lecture on the First Tracing Board,

which he did in a most efficient manner and gained the warm thanks of the Brethren present.

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PROVINCE OF WELLINGTON

————

HAWERA, No. 34.-The Grand Master had an enthusiastic reception on his recent visit to this Lodge.

MANAWATU KILWINNING, No. 47, PALMERSTON NORTH.— The regular monthly meeting was held on

October 5th, an unusual number of visitors and brethren being in attendance. The business consisted of

passing Bro. Hugh Rose Macbean, which ceremony was very ably performed by the W.M. Bro. W. Dawick,

assisted by P.M. Bro. W. H. Smith. The ballot was also taken for Mr Otto Walter, which resulted in his being

unanimously elected as a candidate for initiation. The circular from Grand Lodge re Clothing Fund for the

Grand officers, was brought forward and resulted in this Lodge voting the sum of £2 per annum for 3 years

towards the same. We also unanimously proposed that a vote of Condolence and Sympathy be sent to the

widow of our late respected Bro. J. Walkley, P.M., and Past Grand Steward of New Zealand, and that the

Lodge be placed in mourning.

WELLINGTON, No. 1521, E.C.-On the 21st October there was a full attendance of members and visitors. The

work of initiating Messrs Fleming and Milford went very smoothly. The W.M. Bro. Roydhouse, was assisted

by Bro. Larchin, Bro. Brooke, S.W.. Bro. Jessup, J.W. The S D. Bro. Allport's delivery of the charge was

much admired.

UNITED MANAWATU, No. 1721, E.C., PALMERSTON NORTH.-The consecration of the new hall for this Lodge

took place on October 26th.

ST. JOHN'S, No. 785, S.C., ELTHAM, TARANAKI.-This Lodge is making very satisfactory progress. In spite of

the very heavy expenses incidental to the establishment of a new Lodge, the auditor's report for the annual

meeting will show a very handsome surplus. The report in your last issue that a hall was about to be erected

was entirely without foundation. The brethren are determined that the Lodge will not be hampered by having

to pay interest on money borrowed for building purposes. The schoolroom makes a very comfortable little

meeting place—not very showy certainly—yet sufficient for present needs. At an emergency meeting held

on the 19th inst., Bro. F. Cramer, baker, of Stratford, was initiated into our mysteries and privileges. It was

resolved that a joint installation be held between the two Lodges—" St. John's" and " Hinemoa "—at

Midhirst. By this means the Provincial Grand Master, the Hon. W. McCullough, M.L.C., will be present as

Installing Master.

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PROVINCE OF CANTERBURY.

————

UNANIMITY, NO. 3, LYTTELTON.—The Grand Officers paid a visit to this Lodge on the 24th October, and

they enjoyed the opportunity of seeing the working. The W.M. Bro. Griffiths gave the Third in admirable

style, earning thereby the encomium of the Grand Master. Previous to this, the party inspected the fine hall of

the other port Lodge—Canterbury Kilwinning. Bro. Niceol had an enthusiastic reception from the Brethren

of the two Lodges.

CALEDONIAN, NO. 16, TIMARU—Visit of the Grand Master and Grand Officers. On Bro. Niccol’s arrival in

Timaru, he was met at the station by a Committee of the Lodge and driven to the Grosvenor Hotel. After

lunch, Bro. Gibson drove the party round the suburbs. The Grand Master expressed himself as highly pleased

with the beautiful back country. In the evening an emergency meeting of Caledonian was held, and was a

great success, visitors being present from Ngapara, Oamaru, Geraldine, Ashburton, Temuka, Dunedin,

Christchurch, and Auckland. Bro. D. Dawson, W.M. opened his Lodge to time, and after being opened in the

Third Degree, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons

of New Zealand, accompanied by Right Worshipful the Deputy Grand Master, Bro. Albert Kaye, Right

Worshipful the Grand Superintendent of Otago, Bro. Alfred H. Burton, and the Worshipful Brethren,

Anthony Mills, Grand Sword Bearer, James S. Keith, and John Broadhead, Grand Stewards, were received

with Grand Honours. The Grand Master took the chair and addressed the Lodge. He said that he had

promised himself in Auckland that he would visit the Timaru Lodge when on his visit to Christchurch. He

had only arrived that day. He was pleased with the spirit shown by St. John's Lodge, E.C., in letting the

Caledonian Lodge have the use of their hall, and congratulated them on leaving such a meeting place, as the

interior and exterior was superior to many halls that he had seen. He gave the brethren a large amount of

information with respect to the New Zealand Constitution, and after the address the Grand Master and his

officers retired. Afterwards the brethren retired to the Sophia Street Hall, where a repast was partaken of, and

a lengthy toast list gone through. The " Most Worshipful the Grand Master," proposed by Bro. T. G. Rowley,

P.M., was received with musical honours, and Bro. Robins having sung a song, the Grand Master feelingly

responded. " Sister Constitutions" was proposed by Bro. Keith in an able speech, and was coupled with the

names of Bros. Warburton and Jackson" ; "Past Grand Master Bro. H. Thomson" was proposed by Bro.

Burton in an excellent speech, and was received with honours. " Lodge Caledonian " was next. on the list,

and was proposed by the D.G.M., Bro. Kaye ; "The Visitors " was responded to by P.M., Bro. Waddell, of

Oamarn, and Bro. Murray, of Geraldine ; "The Ladies " was proposed by Bro. Waddell, and acknowledged

by Bros. Robins and Jackson ; " The W.M. " by Bro. S. Anderson, P.M., and was courteously acknowledged

by Bro. Dawson ; "The Organist, Bro. Burd," was in turn proposed by the W.M., Bro. Dawson. Bro. Barch

having responded, the list was closed with the toast of " Poor and distressed Masons." During the evening

songs were rendered by Bros. Glavin, Keith, Courtis, a duet by Bro. Orwin and Robins, a most amusing

recitation by Bro. Burton, of Dunedin, ;ind also one by Bro. Creaser. A most pleasant time was brought to a

close by the whole company standing up and singing "Auld Lang Syne."

ASHLEY, NO. 28, RANGIORA.— The usual monthly meeting was held on Thursday, October 6th, when there

was a good attendance of members and visitors. After Bro. R. H. Hanna, commercial traveller, Linwood,

Christchurch, was balloted for and duly affiliated. Some interest was attached to Bro. Hanna's candidature, as

he was one of the original members of Lodge Ashley and joined on a clearance certificate from that Lodge.

The next business was the initiation of Mr William Stevenson Hughes by the W.M. Bro. R. Ball, the charge

being delivered by Bro. C. Parkin, J.W. In answer to an appeal from the Sir Donald McLean Lodge, No.

1646, E.C., Waitara, on behalf of the widow and orphans of the late Bro. W. Tate, it was resolved to let a

subscription list lie on the table for the private contributions of the brethren. It was also decided to contribute

£1 per annum for three years to the Grand Lodge Regalia Fund. A considerable number of Grand Lodge

certificates, Past Master's certificates, and Patents of Office having come to hand., the brethren entitled to

them signed and received them. The W.M. reported the gift of a book for the Library from Bro. J. A. Bird,

Christchurch. (It may be mentioned that the distribution of books from the Library will begin in December.

The Library, inaugurated only a few mouths ago, numbers nearly forty volumes, and by the time all the

brethren have had an opportunity to contribute either books or cash, will probably have at least fifty volumes.

As membership depends on a voluntary half-yearly subscription, it is probable that in two or three years the

Library will number at least one hundred volumes). After it had been decided to request a dispensation for

wearing regalia on the evening of the dance, October 21st, Bro. E. Feather proposed, and Bro. A P. Tutton

seconded, Mr Samuel Cringlington, aged 23, farmer, North Loburn, as a candidate for initiation. Hearty good

wishes were received by the W.M. from Lodge Ashley, and also from Bro, G. Buckham, P.M., through Bro.

J. Samson, P.M. On the motion of Bro. A. P. Tutton, S.W., seconded. by Bro. A. B. Sackett, P.M., it was

resolved that a letter of sympathy be sent to Bro. G. Buckham, P.M., expressive of the Lodge's earnest desire

for the restoration of Bro. Buckham's health. As it was late when the Lodge closed, only a short time was

spent in the refectory, when the usual toasts were honoured. [Particulars of the Social and Dance will appear

in December.—ED. C.]

METHVEN, No. 51.—The Brethren are moving in the matter re building a Masonic Hall. Bro. Baker has

offered a site of one-eighth of an acre, centrally situated and well adapted for the purpose. The donor wishes

to place it under the Grand Lodge of New Zealand in such a way that even if this Lodge became extinct or

should transfer its allegiance to any other Grand Lodge, the site would still belong to the Grand Lodge of

New Zealand for Masonic purposes. The idea is that the Grand Master for the time being, and the W.M. of

the Lodge, should be the trustees with one other.

The regular monthly meeting on October 6th. There was a fair muster of Brethren present. The principal

business was to consider is notice of motion given by P.M. Bro Gillanders " That the sum of twenty pounds

be placed at fixed deposit to the credit of the Building Fund." This was carried unanimously. The Lodge then

discussed the proposed arrangements for the Social to be held on the 14th inst. [Particulars of the Social will

appear in December.—ED. C.]

ROBERT BURNS, NO. 604, S.C., CHRISTCHURCH.—On the 18th October, the motion moved by Bro. W. F.

McLean, P.M., " That this Lodge, Robert Burns, sever its connection with the Grand Lodge of Scotland and

join the Grand of New Zealand," was lost by 18 to 12. The D.G.M. Bro. Charles Louisson and the D.G.

Officers were present in great force, and spoke strongly against the motion. The Sceders made a gallant fight.

[The above was wired us on the 19th October, too late to appear in the October issue.—ED. C.]

————————————————

PROVINCES OF OTAGO AND SOUTHLAND.

————

SOUTHERN CROSS, NO. 9, INVERCARGILL.—I confess that, as you Bro. Editor put it, I have been remiss in

my duties as official correspondent, but this omission I now try to rectify. The meetings of the Southern

Cross Lodge since Bro. Siddall's installation asW. Master in June last, have been lacking neither in interest

nor zeal on the part of the brethren. At the meeting of October 7th, there was quite a large attendance of

members, while half-a-dozen P.M.'s supported the W.M. on the dais. The main business of the evening was

the raising of Bro. E. Patchett, which ceremony was performed by P.M. Bro. Sawyer, J.G.D., "with his usual

ability." This latter phrase is not infrequently used in a manner not quite apropos, but you, Bro. Editor,

knowing full well Bro. Sawyer's zeal and ability, can vouch for the truthful use of the phrase on the present

occasion. One pleasant feature of the evening was the acceptance by the brethren, of presentations to the

Lodge (1) a looking-glass from Bro. T. A. Patchett, J.W., and (2) an enlarged photo (framed) of an

interesting old picture of Masonic emblems, from Bro. Karl Gerstenkorn. A large body of correspondence

was dealt with, including circular re proposed amendments to Grand Lodge Constitution, to which

amendments the brethren decided to offer no opposition. Accounts were passed for payment, and the

proposition of two candidates brought the business of the meeting to an end soon after 10 p.m. I might add

that at the September meeting it was decided to subscribe two guineas annually for three years to fund for

procuring Grand Officer's clothing. Arrangements have been made, chiefly through the instrumentality of our

W.M. Bro. W. V. Siddall, to officially visit Lodge Aparima at Riverton on Wednesday, 12th inst. Some

twenty brethren have promised to join the party leaving Invercargill by wagonette at 2 p.m. in the afternoon,

and I doubt not but they will have a good time of it with the Western brethren.

APARIMA, NO. 77, RIVERTON.—The Charter was presented by Bro. Hall, Grand Superintendent, at a special

meeting held on the I2th October. Bro. Hall was accompanied by the W.M. Officers and Brethren of

Southern Cross Lodge, No. 9, Invercargill, also a number of Brethren from the Scotch and Irish Lodges. One

proposition was received. Two new members were initiated, and two raised, the degrees being worked from

start to finish by the W.M. and Officers of Southern Cross, and occupied four hours. We had a very

successful meeting, every seat in the hall being occupied, so that now we are experiencing some of the

advantages of being under the New Zealand Constitution, and certainly have a much brighter prospect ahead

both fraternally and financially. I gathered from a few remarks made afterwards at the Social, by some of the

visiting Scotch and Irish Brethren, that the desire to come under the New Zealand flag was steadily growing

among them, and one Brother stated that he expected his Lodge might decide to come over at any moment.

Taken altogether things are looking still brighter for our National flag, even in the most southerly

dependency which, I presume, is " Aparima Lodge."

———————————————————————————————————————————

INSTALLATIONS.

OTAGO, NO. 7, DUNEDIN.—Installation of Brother Joseph Barton. This ceremony took place on the 12th

October. Bro. A. H. Burton, Grand Superintendent, installed the W.M., assisted by Bros. E. Titchener, Junior

Grand Warden; Miles Reginald. Bree, Junior Grand Deacon; J. A. Kirby, Past Assistant Grand Sword

Bearer; A. G. Creagh, Grand Steward; James M'Donald, W.M., No. 11; and James Wansbrough, P.M., No.

11. The Board of Installed Masters consisted of 15 present and past rulers, and the brethren numbered 63.

The following were invested :—I.P.M., John Wood ; S.W., Julius Alberti; J.W., Arthur Fieldwick ; treasurer,

C. J. Ronaldson, P.M. ; secretary, George W. Williams, P.M.; organist, Arthur J. Barth, P.M., P.G.O. ; J.D.,

Fred Ansdell ; I.G., Charles E. George ; tyler, W. Walker. Bro. J. M'K. Henry, who was to have been

invested as S.D., was not present.

Worshipful Brother Barton sent us the above information and supplements it as follows I fancy you might be

interested to hear that the candidate you proposed about five years ago has been installed in the chair of K.S.

A lot of credit is due to you for creating my enthusiasm for Freemasonry. We had a good time. There was a

very good attendance, about as many as there used to be in the olden time before we were excommunicated.

After the ceremony we had supper at the Coffee Palace—but we had something stronger than coffee."

HIRAM, NO. 46, SOUTH DUNEDIN.—Bro. H. McCorkindale is W.M., and Bro. Kirby, P.M., is Secretary.

———————————————————————————————————————————

MISCELLANEOUS.
———————————————————————————————————————————

THE CRAFT UNDER THE GRAND ORIENT OF ITALY
THE M.W. the Grand Master of Italy, Bro. Adriano Lemmi, recently made a tour of Northern Italy, and

visited the Lodges at Genoa, Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, and other cities. He was received everywhere

with very great enthusiasm, and as the organ of the Grand Orient points out " the moral benefits to be derived

from his visit are incalculable' Not only were the officers of the various Lodges put through their facings, but

by giving addresses and lectures the Grand Master created a spirit of emulation among the brethren, which

will certainly result in good to the Fraternity. As the M.W. the Grand Master is now advanced in years, it

will be understood that the journey, and the work which accompanied it, was no small undertaking. Bro.

Lemmi however, as a further proof of his love for the Craft, undertook it cheerfully, and did an amount of

work which fairly astonished the brethren.

One of the latest additions to the list of Lodges under the Grand Orient of Italy, is Lodge "Eritrea," at

Massowah, in the Red Sea. It will be remembered that in 1885, Italy sent soldiers to the Red Sea in

connection with the Soudan troubles. In due course of events an Italian Colony, having an area of about

290,000 square kilometres was founded, to which Signer Crispi bestowed the name of COLONIA ERITREA.

Among the Italian colonists at Massowah, who now number about 400, there were several members of the

Craft, and these, having obtained a warrant from Rome, opened a Lodge. A visit was paid to it a few months

back by the Governor of the Colony, Colonel Oreste Baratieri, and his reception was a most successful affair.

During the proceedings an address was presented to him by members of Lodge Cocab-al-Sciargh (Star of the

East.) This is a Lodge composed exclusively of Arabs. As a proof that Freemasonry is universal, it may be

mentioned that at the meeting of Lodge " Eritrea " there were present—English, French, Italian, Spanish,

Greek, Arab, Soudanese, and Persian Masons.

The various Italian Lodges have joined together to subsidize the hospital at Massowah, and the first

instalment of 589 francs was handed over to the hospital authorities in August last, through the W.M. of

Lodge " Eritrea."

Speaking of the bitter hostility-shown by the Pupal authorities to Freemasons Rivista della Massoneria

Italiana, which is the organ of the Grand Orient, states that in 1779 the Worshipful Masters of no fewer than

10 Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Orient of France were Catholic priests.

On the occasion of the recent anniversary of M.W. Bro. Giuseppe Garibaldi's death, the Grand Orient sent a

deputation to the Island of Caprera to offer its expressions of sympathy to the relatives of the Illustrious

General, and also to lay a wreath on his tomb. Brethren from all parts of Italy undertook the journey, and

assembled at the grave, under the banner of the order, to show that the Great Patriot and. Champion of Italian

Liberty was not forgotten. Appropriate speeches were made by high dignitaries of' the Craft, members of

Parliament, and others. Bro. Menotti Garibaldi, the General's son, in affectionate terms returned thanks for

the devotion shown to the memory of his great and much beloved father.

GEORGE ROBERTSON,

Wellington, 1st November, 1892• Past G.S. and Representative of the G.O. of Italy.

——————————————

TOLERATION.

Masonry is devoted to Toleration, and inculates in the strongest manner that great leading idea of the

Ancient Art, that a belief in the one True God, and a moral and virtuous life, constitute the only religious

requisites needed to enable a man to be a Mason.

Masonry has ever the most vivid remembrance of the terrible and artificial torments that were used to put

down new forms of religion or extinguish the old. It sees with the eyes of memory the ruthless extermination

of all the people of all sexes and ages, because it was their misfortune not to know the God of the Hebrews,

or to worship Him under the wrong name, by the savage troops of Moses and Joshua. It sees the thumb-

screws and the racks, the whip, the gallows and the stake, the victims of Diocletian and Alva., the miserable

Covenanters, the Non-Conformists, Servetus burned, and the unoffending Quaker hung. It sees Cranmer hold

his arm, now no longer erring, in the flame until the hand drops off in the consuming heat. It sees the

persecutions of Peter and Paul, the martyrdom of Stephen, the trials of Ignatius, Polycarp, Justin, and

Irenæus ; and then in turn the sufferings of the wretched pagans under the Christian Emperors, as of the

Papists in Ireland and under Elizabeth and the bloated Henry. The Roman Virgin naked before the hungry

lions ; young Margaret Graham tied to a stake at low water mark, and there left to drown, singing hymns to

God until the savage waters broke over her head ; and all that in all ages have suffered by hunger and

nakedness, peril and prison, the rack, the stake and the sword—it sees them all, and shudders at the long roll

of human atrocities. And it sees also the oppression still practiced in the name of religion—men shot in a

Christian jail in Christian Italy for reading the Christian Bible; in almost every Christian State, laws

forbidding freedom of speech on matters relating to Christianity; and the gallows reaching its arm over the

pulpit.

The fires of Moloch in Syria, the harsh mutilations in the name of Astarte, Cybele, Jehovah; the barbarities

of imperial Pagan Torturers; the still grosser torments which Roman-Gothic Christians in Italy and Spain

heaped on their brother men ; the fiendish cruelties to which Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, England,

Scotland, Ireland, America, have been witnesses, arc none too powerful to warn man of the unspeakable

evils which follow from mistakes and errors in the matter of religion, and especially from investing the God

of Love with the cruel and vindictive passions of erring humanity, and making blood to have a sweet savor in

his nostrils, and groans of agony, to be delicious to his ears.

Men never had the right to usurp the unexercised prerogative of God, and condemn and punish another for

his belief. Born in a Protestant land, we are of that faith. If we had opened our eyes to the light under the

shadows of St. Peter's at Rome, we should have been devout Catholics ; born in the Jewish quarter of

Aleppo, we should have condemned Christ as an impostor ; in Constantinople, we should have cried "Allah il

Allah, God is great and Mahomet is his prophet !" Birth, place and education give us our faith. Few believe

in any religion because they have examined the evidences of its authenticity, and made up a formal

judgment, upon weighing the testimony. No one man in ten thousand knows anything about the proofs of his

faith. We believe what we are taught ; and those are most fanatical who know least, of the evidences on

which their creed is based. Facts and testimony are not, except in very rare instances, the ground work of

faith. It is an imperative law of Goal's Economy, unyielding and inflexible as Himself, that man shall accept

without question the belief of those among whom he was born and reared ; the faith so made a part of his

nature resists all evidence to the contrary ; and he will disbelieve even the evidence of his own senses, rather

than yield up the religious belief which has grown up in him, flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

And no man truly obeys the Masonic law who merely tolerates those whose religious opinions are opposed to

his own. Every man's opinions are his own private property, and the rights of all men to maintain each his

own are 'perfectly equal. Merely to tolerate, to fear with an opposing opinion, is to assume it to be heretical ;

and assert the right to persecute, if we would ; and claim our toleration of it as a merit. The Mason's creed

goes further than that. No man, it holds, has any right in any way to interfere with the religious belief of

another. It holds that each man is absolutely sovereign as to his own belief, and that belief is a matter

absolutely foreign to all who do not entertain the same belief ; and that, if there were any right of persecution

at all, it would in all cases be a mutual right ; because one party has the same right as the other to sit as judge

in his own ease ; and God is the only magistrate than can rightfully decide between them. To that great

Judge, Masonry refers the matter, and opening wide its portals, invites to enter there and live in peace and

harmony, the Protestant, the Catholic, the Jew, the. Moslem; every man who will lead a truly virtuous and

moral life, love his brethren, minister to the sick and distressed, and believe in the One, All-Powerful, All-

Wise, everywhere-present God, Architect, Creator, and Preserver of all things, by whose universal law of

Harmony ever rolls on this universe, the great, vast, infinite circle of successive Death and Life—to whose

Inqrable Name let all true Masons pay profoundest homage! for whose thousand blessings poured upon us,

let us feel the sincerest gratitude, now, henceforth, and forever!—ALBERT PIKE.

———————————————————————————————————————————

EUROPEAN FREEMASONRY.

——————
BY GEORGE C. CONNOR, PAST GRAND MASTER OE TENNESSEE.

——————
AN American Freemason, unacquainted with the German language, fancies that he leaves hope behind him

when he crosses the English Channel and plunges into a country which appears to be a sealed book. I had not

armed and equipped myself for German enquiry as I intend to be armed when I make my next visit, please

God, in 1895, but I kept my eyes and ears open, and I was not altogether disappointed.

MASONRY IN GERMANY.

My attention was arrested by the numerous Marks on the hewn stones of certain parts of the ancient Castle of

Heidelberg. I copied quite a number of them. Here are a few .

While I was copying these, assisted by my family, a gentleman approached and made himself known to me

as a Freemason. In this far-away laud, and amid these splendid ruins, the sensation of such a discovery was

delightful. The Brother who kindly greeted was J. H. Epstein, of the Redaction der Bankeitte, Frankfort-on-

the-Main. I found him speaking excellent English, and he kindly proffered me all assistance in his power to

further my future studies of the Freemasonry of his great Empire. Think of it. On the continent of Europe so

many natives speak English, and on the continent of America so few natives speak German.

In Stuttgart, Prof. Herman Geissler, Worshipful Master of " Three Cedars Lodge," sent the Rev. Dr. A. Fürst,

a most accomplished Freemason and author, to call on me, and I found him well acquainted with English,

and a most obliging brother.

Brother Fürst escorted me to their pretty Temple, where I became acquainted with the plan of the Lodge

room and with the varieties of the work. These I will explain in Grand Lodge.

This Lodge is fully equipped to work efficiently both in the ceremonials and in the sociabilities of

Freemasonry. The hall is small but beautifully decorated ; the banquet hall is large and supplied with every

comfort, and the smoking-room is ready for lighter refections. There is also a library well supplied with

books and periodicals.

There stands upon the book-case a marble urn, sealed up, decorated with emblems and an owl perched on its

summit. It contains the ashes of the former librarian, Brother Hohl, who was cremated in 1879. " Yes," said

Brother Ffirst, " I will also be cremated, for I am a member of the Cremation Society of Heidelberg, and of

its Executive Committee." Of course, "cremation" is not one of the landmarks of Stuttgart Freemasonry.

I make an extract from a letter since received from Dr. Fürst :—

" I see you have turned to good account all you saw and heard while travelling on this continent. The high

position you occupy among the brethren will enable you to spread that knowledge, and make us all better

acquainted. * * *

" I derived much valuable information from your concluding papers. I am rejoiced that your Grand

Lodges does not tolerate a blatant defamer of the religion of others. Yes, keep such outside the gates, for

those who do not deserve to be called brothers are unfit material.

" God prosper your efforts in the interest of genuine Freemasonry. Fight the good fight, for Masonry is

sorely in need of such men as you to stand in the watch towers. German brethren salute you."

NUREMBERG.

In the city of Nuremberg, the most interesting medieval city in the world, I sought for members of the Craft,

but through lack of knowledge of the language found them not. I had a most laughable time trying to

discover their whereabouts, bat failed. I found upon the city walls and upon the castle the marks of the

ancient builders, and unlike those which I heel copied at Heidelberg. This unlikeness of marks satisfies me of

the general knowledge of the mark of a brother that prevailed, and that no two used the same mark upon their

finished work. Here are a few of the marks I saw at Nuremberg :

I have since learned that there is a prosperous Lodge there, as quaint in its observances as are the steep

gabled houses that bound the streets.

DRESDEN.

I was equally unfortunate in my inquiry after Freemasons in this splendid city of Saxony, so full of ancient

architecture and ancient paintings. I found a number of Masonic marks, however, upon the base line of the

venerable .Tohanneum, which foundations date from the 16th century. I found there the most elaborate of

any I had previously discovered, as the few I reproduce will illustrate.:

And, as before stated, each Lodge or society in charge of the erection of building, was entirely distinct as

regards the marks of its members. I am satisfied the older the marks the simpler they were ; or it may be that

the Spaniards were more ornate than the Italians. Every Craftsman had his own unchangeable mark, which

he set upon every- stone that he finished. Is this the application of a mark with us

I have not found the Pentalpha upon any stone on the continent or on the British. Isles. Brother Whytehead,

of York, England, assures me that it was, to his personal knowledge, on the base-line of the ancient

Monastery Church of York, and that it had been worn off by the action of the atmosphere since the exposure

of the stone, and within a few years past.

There is no Altar in the centre of the Lodge—only the Carpet. The Lights, however, are beside the Carpet,

and not in the East, West, and South as in the British Isles. The seating of the Wardens is Grand Orient

fashion.

MASONRY IN ITALY.

While in Rome I had the pleasure of meeting, at his own home, Signor A. Lemmi, Grand Master of the

Grand Orient of Italy. I also met, and am indebted to him as well as the Grand Master, for courtesies,

Chevalier Teofilo Gay, D.D., a Past liaster, and also pastor of the Waldensian Church, of the City of Rome.

No Lodges met during my stay, and I was deprived of an opportunity of witnessing the work, to compensate

for which I was put in possession of the Rituals of the three degrees.

In Naples I was much pleased on being greeted by two Englishmen, speaking the language of my birth,

brethren William O, Folkes, W.M., and William F. Towsey, Secretary of "Anglia Lodge." I visited their

Lodge room, and to my great regret was compelled to leave the city a day before the evening on which they

had called a communication for my benefit.

This Lodge is composed of Englishmen chiefly, and though chartered by the Grand Orient of Italy, uses the

English Ritual. Of course, they work in English, though each member speaks Italian fluently.

Italy had degenerated, as had Tennessee, at the close of our war, when the present illustrious and zealous

Brother accepted the office of Grand Master. A great deal of bad material had been accepted and built into

the temple, grossly disfiguring its walls. Grand Master Lemmi is faithfully seeking out these imperfect

stones, and removing the same as rapidly as possible, inserting in their places pure white blocks of marble ;

nay, living stones that strengthen and beautify. But Freemasonry will not prosper on proper lines in Italy, and

in some other continental countries, until political and religious discussions are imperatively excluded. To be

sure, such are now forbidden, but those in authority wink at disobedience. In Italy this fault is quite

prominent I am assured.

There is no doubt that a knowledge of the strong feeling entertained by Freemasons against the practices of

the Papal hierarchy induced Leo XIII to fulminate his bull against the Fraternity, but the hatred of the Church

of Rome for all societies that maintain secrets which may not be divulged at the confessional, is fifteen

centuries old. The canons forbid such associations, and in the hour of death the terrors of the Church usually

extort a recantation. This occurred on the deathbed of the well-known actor, William J. Florence, last

November.

The abuse of Lodge rooms in Italy consists in the discussion therein of the differences in the methods of

factions to secure to Italy civil and religious liberty, in its broadest sense. Of course, there are no adherents of

the Papacy in Masonic Lodges now, though there have been in the past numerous spies who were absolved

from their vows as compensation for their treason and perjury. But the friends of United Italy are not agreed

among themselves, hence the discussions. And, as before said, though the Masonic law forbids, the Lodge

officers tolerate these improper debates.

The great Masonic doctrine of " Equality " is rapidly gaining eloquent and influential advocates in Sunny

Italy. Masonry cannot consent to the enslaving of reason or to the shackling of free thought, but it is not

revolutionary, as Rome affirms. It seeks to accomplish the best interests of mankind by lawful and

intellectual methods only. Only a few people can fully understand and appreciate Freemasonry.

ITALIAN FRATERNITIES.

I am thoroughly convinced that the great temples of Italy were erected by secret societies of builders—

societies that included both operatives, architects and superintendents. The priests held membership in these,

if they were either architects, artists or superintendents. And while I have no direct proof to adduce, I am,

nevertheless, well satisfied that the secrets of the societies were not demanded at the confessional.

When Masonry took on the speculative features, it gradually separated itself and assumed aristocratic

tendencies. The engrafting thereon, or rather the attempt to engraft, of the Oriental mysteries led to an

absolute separation. The operative guilds declined and failed, and the speculative, which retained the

symbols, prospered. The secrets were multiplied and the priests excluded, and then the Church of Rome

began to denounce the societies.

We trace the " marks" of the ancient Operative Craft on the temples and palaces of the islands of Great

Britain and the continent, but Speculative Freemasonry has little now that was known to or practiced by

those ancient guilds. Our ceremonials were unknown to them, and their "making" required physical

perfection, for the "making " was all there was to the ancient introduction into the Fraternity. Hence, through

ignorance of ancient necessities, we now cling to the unnecessary physical perfection dogma.

It will be observed that an altar like as in America is used in Italy. Indeed the general arrangement is quite

like the American.

'There are slight varieties in the arrangements of other Lodge rooms visited, but these may be accepted as the

standard. The rooms are all small, few capable of seating more than fifty brethren.

A BRIEF DISQUISITION.

* * * * * * * *.

Practically the artisan is excluded from the blessings of Freemasonry in the city Lodges of England, though it

may be that some such gain admission in the rural Lodges, where dining does not play so prominent a part.

But of this I have no satisfactory information. In Germany the artisan is positively excluded, as Brother Fiirst

assures me. Not that Masonic law makes the social distinction and erects the wall of separation ; simply the

practice.

Social distinctions must be maintained, perhaps, in all monarchical countries. No matter the origin of

Freemasonry, the modern practice looks at the laborer as the modern Christian practice looks at the

fisherman ! We sometimes look at such things differently in America. With us

"The rank is but the guinea stamp,

The man's the gou'd for a' that."

But I have no criticisms for the practices of other lands. Let every man build over against his own house, and

thus shall we be at peace at home and abroad.

It is possible that Freemasonary has become too popular in our beloved Union of States, and that we hold the

standard of qualification a trifle too low. No doubt the door should open at the knock of the "worthy," but by

"worthy " what should we mean ? Should all who ask receive ? The reply comes, " Yes, if worthy." Aye, but

there is "worthy " again. Some claim that we should admit to our Lodges only those whom we are willing to

admit to our firesides! Is that a universal definition of " worthy ?" Perhaps it is not.

In England, hotels usually build Lodge rooms in their upper stories, and several Lodges assemble therein

without the payment of rental. The hotels are compensated by the brethren dining after the conclusion of

business. And this dining, in full evening dress, and in Masonic clothing and jewels, may be set down as the

universal custom of English Freemasonry.

In Germany the hotel custom does not prevail to any great extent, and Lodges either own or lease their

rooms. Dinner or luncheon is always served, as in England, and chiefly in halls attached to the Lodge rooms.

In Italy the hotel custom does not prevail at all, chiefly because of the Papal opposition ! Lodge rooms are

leased, as a rule, and dining without Masonic clothing occurs in the restaurants.

Intelligent American Masons find no difficulty in making themselves known in Europe. But no attempt

should be made to visit a Lodge without first receiving an invitation to do so from the Secretary. The

American way of going to the reception room and sending in your card, to be answered by an Examination

Committee, is unknown in Europe. Several Americans, known to the writer, failed to observe this formality,

and hence failed to visit the Lodges into whose reception rooms they entered.

English and Continental Masons own their own aprons and carry the same along with them when visiting.

No aprons are supplied by the Lodge, except to its officers.

The Lodges elect their Masters, Treasurers and Tylers. The remaining officers are appointed by the

Worshipful Master-elect. The American law as to the powers of Wardens does not prevail in Europe. The

retiring Past Master installs his successor, and then presents the remaining officers for investment by the

Master. The installation ceremony is secret, and it is vastly superior to the ceremony we use in America. The

Tyler always proposes the last toast at a Masonic dinner.

CONCLUSION.

I am grateful for the few glimpses I have had in the workings of Freemasonry beyond seas, but should the

Father permit, I will make them more extensive and valuable in 1895. To my brethren who intend visiting

Europe I will say :

1. Go determined to meet with as many Lodges as you can, especially in the British Isles, if you
cannot speak German or Italian.

2. Secure letters of introduction to Masons in all places, if possible, and carry your diplomas. They
alone insure you attention.

3. Buy an apron suitable to your rank, and take with you a dress suit and all your jewels.

Have no hesitancy in making yourself known to a brother, wherever you may find him. He will receive you

and treat you as a brother. Of this, feel quite certain; for none other than gentlemen are admitted to the

Fraternity, either in the British Isles or on the continent! The most accomplished gentlemen I have met on the

other side of the ocean were Freemasons.—Masonic Review.

———————————————————————————————————————————

McCULLOUGH AND OTHERS VERSUS SLATOR.

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NEW ZEALAND, } No. 3060.

Northern District. }

BETWEEN WILLIAM MCCULLOUGH, Journalist, WILLIAM ANDERSON, Engineer, ALEXANDER BRODIE,

Sharebroker, THOMAS MCWHIRTER, Bank Clerk, THOMAS CANTLEY, Solicitor's Clerk, and EDWARD

TONGE, Caretaker of the Masonic Hall, all of Auckland in New Zealand, suing on behalf of themselves and

all others having a like interest in the present action Plaintiffs, and JAMES SLATOR, of Auckland aforesaid,

Architect, Defendant.

Take Notice that unless within seven clear days after and exclusive of the day on which this writ shall be

served upon you, you do file in the Office of this Court at Auckland, in the Provincial District of Auckland, a

statement of your defence to the Plaintiff's claim, a copy of which is hereunto annexed, the Plaintiffs may

proceed in their action without having it heard in Court. If you file a statement of defence within the time

above specified, you are hereby summoned to attend the first sittings of the Court at Auckland aforesaid,

which shall be held after the expiration of ten days from, but exclusive of, the day of service of this writ upon

you; and take notice that if you fail so to appear, the action may be heard and determined in your absence.

Dated this seventh day of October, 1892.

To the above-named Defendant, James Slator.

N.B.—This writ is sued out by Charles Frederick Puddle, Solicitor for the Plaintiffs, whose address for

service is No. 5, Wyndham Street, Auckland, New Zealand.

The Plaintiffs claim £3 3s. 0d. for costs of service of this writ, and incidental thereto.

STATEMENT OF CLAIM.

The Seventh day of October, 1892.

The Plaintiffs say :-

1.—That on the 8th day of January, 1892, and for a long time prior thereto, the Plaintiffs, the Defendant, and

a number of other persons (who are too numerous to be conveniently joined as parties to this action) were

members of a voluntary Society known as " The Provincial Grand Lodge of Freemasons for the North Island

of New Zealand, Scotch Constitution."

2.—The management and direction of the affairs of the said Society was, and is, vested in a Committee of

nine persons called the Provincial Grand Committee, and the Plaintiffs, William McCullough, William

Anderson, and Alexander Brodie are members of such Committee ; the Plaintiff William McCullough being

the chief officer of the said Society and called the Provincial Grand Master, the Plaintiff William Anderson

being the second officer of the said Society, and the Plaintiff Alexander Brodie being the third officer of the

said Society, and this action is brought with the authority of the said Provincial Grand Committee.

3.—The Plaintiff Thomas McWhirter is the Provincial Grand Treasurer of the said Society, the Plaintiff

Thomas Cantley is the provincial Grand Secretary of the said Society, and the Plaintiff Edward Tonge is the

Provincial Grand Tyler of the said Society.

4.—The said Society held their meetings in the Masonic Hall, in the City of Auckland, and the regalia of the

said Society was kept in the Masonic Hall aforesaid for the use of the members for the time being of the said

Society, in connection with the rites and ceremonies thereof, and such regalia was at the time of removal of

the same by the Defendant, as mentioned in paragraph 10 hereof, in the care and custody of the Plaintiff

Edward Tonge on behalf of the said Provincial Lodge.

5.—According to the rules and regulations of the said Society the Provincial Grand Master, or in case of the

vacancy of that office the Provincial Grand Master Depute, has the appointment and removal from time to

time of the Secretary and certain other officers of the said Society, and on or about the 6th day of April,

1883, the Defendant being then a member of the said Society was appointed to be Provincial Grand

Secretary thereof by the late Sir Frederick Whitaker, who was at that time the Provincial Grand Master of the

said Society.

6.—The Defendant as such Provincial Grand Secretary as aforesaid had charge, of the seal, minute books,

letter books, cash books, ledgers, a parcel of blank parchment diplomas and other books, papers, and

documents of the said Society, and it was part of the duty of the Defendant as such Provincial Grand

Secretary as aforesaid to receive fees, dues, or stuns of money from subordinate Societies connected with the

said Society, and to account for and hand the same to the Plaintiff Thomas McWhirter, as such Provincial

Grand. Treasurer of the said Society as aforesaid.

7.—On or about the 31st Day of December, 1891, the Defendant as such Provincial Grand. Secretary as

aforesaid received certain sums of money from a Society at Wanganui called the " St. Andrew Kilwinning

Lodge," connected with the said Society, and has not accounted for or handed the same to the Plaintiff

Thomas MeWhirter as such Provincial Grand Treasurer as aforesaid.

8.—The office of Provincial Grand. Master became vacant on the 4th day of December, 1891, by the death

of Sir Frederick Whitaker, but such vacancy was filled by the appointment of the Plaintiff William

McCullough to be the Provincial Grand Master, in place of the said Sir Frederick Whitaker, on the 5th day of

May, 1892, and in the meantime the Plaintiff William McCullough was before and during such vacancy the

Provincial Grand Master Depute, exercising the powers and functions of the Provincial Grand Master

according to the rules of the said Society.

9.—It was the duty of the Defendant as such Provincial Grand. Secretary as aforesaid to obey the orders of

the Plaintiff William McCullough as such Provincial Grand Master Depute as aforesaid and of the Provincial

Grand Committee, but in or about the middle of the month of January, 1892, the Defendant refused to obey

such orders, and the Plaintiff William McCullough as such Provincial Grand Master Depute as aforesaid.

removed the Defendant from the office of Provincial Grand Secretary to the said Society on or about the 8th

day of January, 1892, and appointed the Plaintiff Thomas Cantley to be Provincial Grand Secretary of the

said Society in the stead of the Defendant, and such removal and new appointment were confirmed by the

Provincial Grand Committee aforesaid.

10.—On or about the 3rd. day of February, 1892, the Defendant entered the Masonic Hall aforesaid and

improperly took and carried away the regalia of the said Society usually worn by the Provincial Grand

Secretary in connection with the rites and ceremonies of the said Society.

11.—The Defendant has been requested to return the said regalia and to deliver the said seal, minute books,

letter books, cash books, ledgers, parchment diplomas, and other books, papers, and documents of the said

Society to the Plaintiff Thomas Cantley as such new Provincial Grand Secretary as aforesaid but the

Defendant has refused so to do.

12.—The work and business of the said Society cannot be properly carried on according to the rules, rites,

and ceremonies thereof without the said regalia, seal, minute books, letter books, cash books, ledgers,

parchment diplomas, and other books, papers, and documents aforesaid.

13.—The said Society is ready and willing to pay the Defendant the amount of salary due to him up to the

date of his removal from office as aforesaid, and all expenses properly incurred by him as such Provincial

Grand Secretary as aforesaid, and the Plaintiffs hereby offer on behalf of the said Society to pay the

Defendant all such salary and expenses as due to him aforesaid. The amount so due to the Defendant the

Plaintiffs are unable to compute and verify on account of not having access to the books of the Society so

detained by the Defendant as aforesaid.

14.—The Plaintiffs pray :-

(a.) That an account may be taken of all moneys received by the Defendant as such Provincial
Grand Secretary as aforesaid and that the Defendant may be ordered to pay to the Plaintiff

Thomas McWhirter as such Provincial Grand Treasurer as aforesaid all moneys which on the

taking of such accounts may be found to be payable by the Defendant to the said Society.

(b.) That the Defendant may be ordered. to return to the Plaintiff Edward Tonge, on behalf of the
said Provincial Grand Lodge, the said regalia so taken by him the Defendant as aforesaid.

(c.) That the Defendant may be ordered to deliver to the Plaintiff Thomas Cantle).- as such

Provincial Grand Secretary appointed in the place of the Defendant as aforesaid the said seal,

minute books, letter books, cash books, ledgers, blank parchment diplomas, and other books,

papers, and documents of the said Society.

(d.) That the Defendant may be ordered to pay the costs of this action.
(e.) That the Plaintiffs may have such further or other relief as to this Honorable Court shall seem

meet.

—————————————————————

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NEW ZEALAND, } No. 3060.

Northern District. }

Between WILLIAM MCCULLOUGH, WILLIAM ANDERSON, ALEXANDER BRODIE, THOMAS MCWHIRTER,

THOMAS CANTLEY, and EDWARD TONGE, suing on behalf of themselves and all others having a like interest

in the present action Plaintiffs, and JAMES SLATOR, Defendant.

STATEMENT OF DEFENCE.

The 27th day of October, 1892. The Defendant says :-

1.—He denies specifically each and every of the allegations respectively contained in paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,

6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13, of the Plaintiff's statement of claim ; and for a further defence the Defendant

says :-

2.—That on and prior to the 8th day of January, 1892, he and a number of other persons (exceeding ten in

number) were members of a Society known as " The Provincial Grand Lodge of Freemasons for the North

Island of New Zealand. Scotch Constitution."

3.—The said Society is connected. with and has control over certain other subordinate Lodges or Societies of

Freemasons established within the North Island of New Zealand. The said Island constitutes the Province

within which the said Society purports to exercise its jurisdiction.

4.—The said Society or Provincial Grand Lodge is composed of the Provincial Grand Master and the other

commissioned and elective officers for the time being of the said Society (except the Provincial Grand

Tyler), and every Past Master who has filled the chair as Master of a subordinate Lodge in the Province for

one year, and who is a contributing member to a Lodge in the said Province, and has paid his tees, and the

Masters and Wardens of the several Lodges in the Province which have complied with the regulations of the

Grand Lodge of Scotland.

5.—The Plaintiffs—Alexander Brodie and Thomas Cantley—were not on the 8th day of January, 1892, duly

qualified members of the said Society.

6.—The Defendant denies that the management and direction of the :affairs of the said Society was and is

vested in a committee of nine persons called the Provincial Grand Committee, as alleged in paragraph 2 of

the statement of claim.

7.—The proceedings of the said Society or Provincial Grand Lodge are regulated. by the Constitution and

Laws of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, to which Lodge the said Society is subject, and by certain bye-laws

adopted and passed by the said Society on the 27th day of April, 1888.

8.—By No. 10 of the said bye-laws, it is provided as follows :—There shall be a Provincial Grand

Committee consisting of nine members—namely the P.G.M., P.G.D.M., P.G.S.M., P.G.J.W., P.G.S.W., and

four members of the P. G. L. to be elected annually at the January Communication by the P.G.L. Three of

such members shall form a quorum for the transaction of business. Members desirous of bringing any

business before Committee must give notice of the same to the P.G. Secretary at least 24 hours before the

meeting at which it will be discussed.

9.—The powers of the said Provincial Grand Committee are limited to the several matters specified in Nos.

12, 13, and 14, of the said bye-laws, which are as follows :-12. No recommendation, petition, or

representation of any kind shall be received by the P.G.C. unless it be in writing, and signed by the person or

persons addressing the Committee. 13. The P.G.C. shall have the direction of everything relating to the

buildings and furniture of the P.G.L., and may suggest any alteration or improvements. It is to cause the

necessary preparations to be made for the communications of the P.G.L., as well as for the days of festival,

public ceremonies, etc., and to take care that arrangements be made for the proper accommodation of the

Committees appointed by the P.G.L. It shall also give orders for all the usual and ordinary articles which

may be requisite for the P.G .L. ; but no extraordinary expense of any kind shall be incurred without the

previous sanction of the P.G.L.

14. The Provincial Grand. Committee [is the ordinary Judicial Tribunal of the Provincial Grand Lodge, with

delegated powers] and the members thereof shall have full power to determine all matters coming before

them, whether remitted for their consideration by the Provincial Grand. Lodge or arising out of any

emergency occurring in the interval betwixt the Quarterly Communications; for that purpose to summon

brethren to attend, examine witnesses, and call or productions. Arid they shall regularly report all their

transactions for the information and approval or disapproval of the Provincial Grand Lodge. All remits from

the Provincial Grand Lodge shall be taken up by the Provincial Grand. Committee at its first Ordinary

Meeting after each remit.

10.—The said Provincial Grand Committee has no authority to initiate legal or other proceedings on behalf

of the Society, aid all the resolutions of the said Committee are subject to the approval or disapproval of the

Provincial Grand Lodge.

11.—The Defendant denies that the Plaintiff, Thomas Cantley, is the duly qualified Secretary of the said

Society.

12.— The Defendant admits that the Regalia used at the rites and ceremonies of the said Society were kept in

the Masonic Hall, in the city of Auckland; but he denies that the same were in the care and custody of the

Plaintiff, Edward Tonge, on behalf of the said Provincial Grand Lodge as alleged in paragraph 4 of the

statement of claim.

13.—A portion of the said Regalia was, and is, the private property of the Defendant, and the remainder was

in the care and custody of the Defendant by the authority of the said Society.

14.—By Rule 134 of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, it is provided that—" Each Provincial or District Grand

Master shall be entitled to choose and appoint by commission from time to time, a Depute, Substitute, two

Wardens, a Secretary, and two Chaplains."

15.—The Defendant denies that in case of the vacancy of the office of Provincial Grand Master, the

Provincial Grand Master Depute has the appointment and removal from time to time of the Secretary and

certain other officers of the said Society, Such power of appointment and removal is vested in the Provincial

Grand Master for the time being, and in no other person.

16.—On or about the 6th day of April, 1883, the Defendant was by commission under the hand and seal of

the late Sir Frederick Whitaker, the then Provincial Grand Master, duly appointed Secretary of the said

Society.

17.—The said Sir Frederick Whitaker died on the 4th day of December, 1891, whereupon the office of

Provincial Grand Master of the said Society became vacant, and so remained vacant until the installation of

his successor, which took place on the 3rd day of August, 1892.

18.—The appointment of the Defendant as Provincial Grand Secretary was never recalled by the said Sir

Frederick Whitaker, and has never been recalled in the manner provided by the rules and constitution of the

said Society.

19.—At the time of the death of the said Sir Frederick Whitaker the Plaintiff, William McCullough, held. the

office of Provincial Grand Master Depute of the said Society.

20.—The said Plaintiff, William McCullough, was subsequently by commission from the Grand Lodge

of Scotland appointed Provincial Grand Master of the said Society, and on the 3rd day of
August, 1892, was installed or inducted into the said office.

21.—Until such installation or induction into office, the said William McCullough was not entitled to act as

or to be accounted the Provincial Grand Master of the said Society.

22.—The Defendant admits that, as Provincial Grand Secretary, he had charge of the seal, minute books,

letter books, cash books, ledgers, a parcel of blank parchment, diplomas, and other books, papers, and

documents, of the said Society. He claims that he still holds the same as such Provincial Grand Secretary as

aforesaid..

23. —The Defendant admits that the Plaintiff, Thomas McWhirter, was nominally the Provincial Grand

Treasurer of the said Society, but the duties of the said office were, in fact, discharged by the Defendant, and

he from time to time accounted to the Provincial Grand Lodge, and not to the said Thomas McWhirter, for

all dues or sums of money received by him as Provincial Grand Secretary from the subordinate Societies

connected. with the said Society or Provincial Grand Lodge.

24.—The Defendant admits that on the 7th day of January, 1892, he, as such Provincial Grand Secretary as

aforesaid, received from the Lodge St. Andrew Kilwinning at Wanganui, the sum of £9 18s and no more, in

payment of certain dues payable by that Lodge to the said Provincial Grand. Lodge and the Grand Lodge of

Scotland, and he applied £6 5s part thereof (as he was entitled. to do) in payment to himself of one quarter of

a year's salary then due to him as such Provincial Grand Secretary as aforesaid, up to the 31st day of

December, 1891, and he holds 19s for the purpose of remitting the same to the Grand Lodge of Scotland and

the sum of £2 14s balance of the said sum of £9 18s he retains for petty cash disbursements on account of the

said Society in accordance with a resolution to that effect duly passed by the said-Society.

25.—The Defendant denies that it was his duty as such Provincial Grand Secretary, after the death of the said

Sir Frederick Whitaker, the late Provincial Grand Master, to obey the orders of the Plaintiff, William

McCullough, as the Provincial Grand Master Depute of the said Society, or of the Provincial Grand

Committee, except so far as the same were in accordance with the constitution and laws of the said Society

and of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and had been confirmed by the said Society.

26.—In the month of December, 1891, a meeting of the Provincial Grand Committee of the said Society was

held, at which the Plaintiffs, William McCullough and Alexander Brodie, the Defendant, and three other

members of the said Society, were present. All of such members, except the Plaintiff William McCullough,

and the Defendant, were by reason of default in payment of fees due by them to their Lodges to the said

Society disqualified from speaking or voting at such meeting. Notwithstanding such disqualification, the

members present passed. certain resolutions dealing with the funds of the Society. Such resolutions were not

operative unless and until submitted to and confirmed at a meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge in

accordance with the aforesaid bye-laws Nos. 13 and 14.

27.—Shortly after the said meeting of the said Provincial Grand Committee, and before the submission of

the said resolutions to the Provincial Grand Lodge, the Plaintiff, William McCullough, as Provincial Grand

Master Depute, required the Defendant to draw the necessary cheques and make arrangements for payment

of the monies purporting to have been voted by the aforesaid resolutions. The Defendant thereupon declined

to comply with such request until the said resolutions had been duly confirmed by the said Provincial Grand

Lodge.

28.—The Defendant denies that the Plaintiff, William McCullough as Provincial Grand Master Depute, had

authority under the constitution and rules of the said Society on or about the 8th day of January, 1892, or at

any time previous to his installation or induction as Provincial Grand Master, to remove the Defendant from

the office of Provincial Grand Secretary and to appoint the Plaintiff, Thomas Cantley, to that office in the

stead of the Defendant.

29.—The Defendant denies that the Provincial Grand Committtee confirmed the removal of the Defendant

and the appointment of the Plaintiff Thomas Cantley, as alleged in paragraph 9 of the statement of claim, or

that under the constitution and laws of the said Society the said Committee or the said Society is empowered

so to do.

30.—The Defendant denies that on the 3rd day of February, 1892, or on any other day he entered the

Masonic Hall aforesaid, and improperly took and carried away the Regalia of the said Society, usually worn

by the Provincial Grand Secretary in connection with the rites and ceremonies of the said Society.

31.—A portion of the said Regalia, to wit—the scarf—worn by the Defendant as such Provincial Grand

Secretary, was purchased by him out of his own monies, and always has been his private property. As to the

other portion of such Regalia the Defendant claims (if his appointment as Provincial Grand Secretary has

been legally recalled), that he is entitled to retain such portion by virtue of a custom which has heretofore

prevailed in the said Society, under which long service officers upon their ceasing to hold office are

permitted to retain the Regalia worn by them as such officers.

32.—The Defendant denies that he has been lawfully required to return the said Regalia, and to deliver up

the said seal, minute books, letter books, cash books, ledgers, parchment diplomas, and other books, papers,

and documents of the said Society or any of them to the Plaintiff Thomas Cantley, or any other person, or

that he has improperly refused so to do. He denies that the said Plaintiff, Thomas Cantley, has been duly

appointed the Provincial Grand Secretary of the said Society and that he is duly empowered to demand and

receive from the Defendant the said Regalia and other articles specified in paragraph 11 of the statement of

claim.

And for a further defence

33.—The Defendant repeats the allegations contained in paragraphs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, of this Statement of

Defence, and says that the said Society is, and always has been, an association consisting of more than ten

persons formed, and having for its object the acquisition of gain by the individual members thereof.

34.—The said Society has never been registered as a company or otherwise under any statute.

And for a further defence

35.— The Defendant repeats the allegations contained in paragraphs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, of this Statement of

Defence, and says that the Society was and is an unlawful combination and confederacy, the members of

which are bound by an oath or engagement not required or authorised by law and is prohibited by Statute of

George III, cap. 79.

36.—The said Society has never been registered under the said Statute. And for a further defence

37.—The Defendant repeats the allegations contained in paragraphs 2 to 32 inclusive of this defence, and

says that the Plaintiffs and the said Society before action were and still are indebted to the Defendant in the

sum of £25 for money payable to the Defendant for one year's salary as such Provincial Grand Secretary as

aforesaid, from the 30th day of September, 1891, to the 30th day of September, 1892, and the Defendant

claims to set off against the Plaintiffs' claim an equal amount of the said. debt due to the Defendant.

COUNTER CLAIM.

38..—The Defendant repeats the statements contained in paragraphs 2 to 32 inclusive of this defence, and

counter claims the sum of £25 for money payable to him for one year's salary as such Provincial Grand
Secretary, as aforesaid, from the 30th day of September, 1891, to the 30th day of September, 1892.

The Defendant prays judgment for the said sum of £25.

This Statement of Defence and Counter Claim is filed and delivered by Charles White Cave, the solicitor for

the Defendant, whose address for service is at the office of the said Charles White Cave, Palmerston

Buildings, Queen Street, in the City of Auckland.

_______________________________________________________

FUND FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND EDUCATION OF THE TWO CHILDREN OF THE LATE BROTHER JOHN

KELLEHER, RAISED BY THE MASONIC FRATERNITY OF NEW ZEALAND IN 1880.
———

THOS. TURNBULL AND GEO. GORDON, TRUSTEES.
———

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 5TH AUGUST, 1892.

RECEIPTS. £ s. d. EXPENDITURE. £ s. d.

Contributions by Lodges and General Expenses ... 12 13 2

individual Freemasons 404 8 2 Paid to Miss Rockell for

Interest on investments 338 11 9 maintenance and education

of the children 579 14 0

Balance ... ... 150 12 9

£742 19 11 £742 19 11

STATEMENT OF REMAINING FUNDS.

£ s d

25 Shares Timaru Building Society - 125 0 0

Cash in Union Bank, Timaru, on 5th August, 1892 25 12 0

GEO. GORDON, Albany, W.A., 24th Sept, 1892. £150 12 9

_______________________________________________________________________________________

BRIEF MENTION.
———————————————————————————————————————————

THE American Tyler calls death " Heaven's Senior Deacon."

LODGE PURITAN, New York, held its 1000th meeting in June last.

IN Halifax, Nova Scotia, there is a lodge composed entirely of coloured men.

AFTER an absence of some months, the American Tyler, one copy only, has again arrived.

BRETHREN are asking who is to be the next Grand Master of New Zealand. We don't know.

THE latest American thing is a Masonic spoon! "Eureka!" With it the Master Mason may take plain soup.

OF all the sins most common to Freemasonry, that of ingratitude is the most common and reprehensible.

RETENTION OF CHARTERS.—Bro. Williams' motion was postponed till 1893. The tone of the meeting was

against their return.

IN some old Scotch lodges it was the practice to suspend for ninety-nine years. This was one way to avoid

the punishment of expulsion.

THE Supreme Council of England have elected the Grand Secretary of England, Bro. E. Letchworth a

member of the Thiry-third Degree.

SOCRATES said : " What I understand I find to be excellent ; and, therefore, believe that to be of equal value

which I cannot understand."

THE Freemasons' Journal of New York is not issued in August and September, owing to those months being

the hot season. Sensible but cool.

AN American exchange states that it does not like smoking " in a lodge-room." We should imagine not. Such

an outrage is unknown in Australasia.

"IT almost takes my breath away," said an aged brother, not long ago, " when I learn how rapidly candidates

for the Degrees are being pushed forward."

EVERYTHING depends upon the men who compose the lodge. Build with bad men and you cannot make a

lodge that shall be either enduring or strong.

THE Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales etc., has increased its membership from

10,000 to 38,000 in less than twenty years.

THE Grand Lodge of North Carolina approved a decision that " a man who cannot read or write is eligible to

the degrees of Masonry, if otherwise qualified."

THE Grand Lodge of England, on the 9th September last, voted the sum of 300 guineas in alleviation of the

distress occasioned by the recent disastrous fire at St. John's, Newfoundland.

IT is a well-known historical fact that two Grand Lodges have existed at the same time in England,

Massachusetts, South Carolina, and Louisiana. New York at one time had six Grand Lodges.

THE public sing comic songs in the Auckland Masonic Hall on Saturday nights. Afternoon teas, " At

Homes," dances, and meetings of the atheistical French Lodge are allowed in the Wellington Masonic Hall.

THERE were three Grand Lodges in New York in 1849, each watching the other with jealous eye, crimination

and recrimination passed from mouth to mouth. This was anything but " brotherly love and affection."

IN England, when a brother other than the Grand or Pro. Grand Master occupies the Masonic throne, he is

addressed as " Most Worshipful Grand Master on the Throne," sometimes varied with " in the chair."

THAT " Wise Man's Apothegm," quoted in the last report of the Board of General Purposes, " Whatsoever

thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might ; For there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom,

in the grave, whither thou goest," is not an apt quotation in connection with our dead. We believe in

immortality.

IN Iowa on July 1st, 1891, 5,384 Brethren were delinquent in the payment of dues, amounting to £9,000.

What is the cause ? What is the remedy ? What is the value of such debts ? These are important questions.

THE Sydney Freemason says the Grand Lodge of New Zealand is going ahead prosperously. Lodges are

being added, and the membership rapidly increasing. Our London namesake cannot feel happy over this

success.

THERE was a very poor attendance at the Communication of Grand Lodge in Christchurch. A remedy will be

found. in making it compulsory that one representative from each Lodge should attend. Pay his expenses.

THE old " York " lodges generally enacted in their by-laws that the time of meeting was from 6 p.m. till 9

p.m. in winter, and from 7 p.m. till 10 p.m. in summer. Absentees were fined 1s., which had to be paid next

meeting, and no excuse taken.

I WILL combat, says Bro. A. S. Wait, Past D.D. Grand Master of New Hampshire, as long as I have Masonic

breath, that there can, without the most plain and glaring breach of Masonic obligation, be legislation by

Grand Lodges which disregards the institution as a universal brotherhood.

A PAST GRAND OFFICER writes that he has reliable authority for stating that the Wellington District Grand

Lodge, E.C., " will advocate recognition of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand by the Grand Lodge of

England, if the Charters are returned. This seems now to be the sole stumbling block in the way of the

desired end."

AT a banquet given in New England, a clergyman was asked to pronounce the blessing ; not being a Mason,

his grace was : " Oh, Lord, thou knowest why we are assembled together. I don't. Thou knowest the object of

this organization. I don't. If it be for thy good, O Lord bless 'em ; but if they be for the evil, O Lord, cuss 'em.

Amen."

GRAND MASTER STERLING of Connecticut, makes use of wholesome and timely words respecting the duty of

Masons to care for indigent brethren. He does not think that a lodge is justified in allowing an aged and

infirm member to be sent to the poor-house. His pertinent question is, " If a Lodge fulfils its duty by so

doing, what becomes of its boasted charity."

AMONG the grants recommended to the Grand Lodge of England by the Board of Benevolence on September

9th was one of £100 " to the widow of a brother of the Royal Oak Lodge, No. 871, Deptford." The widow in

question is Mrs. Joyce, whose husband, Sergeant Joyce, was foully murderded while he was attempting to

arrest a German miscreant in the neighbourhood of Charing Cross.

" IT is a long while since Spenser told us that Dan Chaucer was ' a well of English undefiled,' but ever since

the Pilgrim Fathers first approached the storm-beaten shore of Massachusetts, the destiny of the English

language as the dominant tongue of the future world was fixed, and the settlement of Australia by England .

confirmed this destiny, humanly speaking, beyond all revocation."

THE Freemason gives some idea of the tremendous wealth of England. Bro. the Lord Mayor has told the

London bankers that in 1890 there was " cleared in the City, for London alone, no less than £789,148,000 ;

that there was deposited in all the banks in the United Kingdom an estimated sum of £850,000,000, and that

there was in the Savings Banks a further sum of £114,000,000, making a total of nearly £1,000,000,000.

AS showing a solid benefit of Masonry, a Brother in good repute, who was out of employment, and

financially in a low condition, was left by will a sum of money amounting to several hundreds of pounds, to

receive which it was necessary that he should at once proceed to England. In order not to trespass heavily

upon the funds of the Board of Benevolence, a sufficient sum was speedily contributed by guinea

subscriptions from a number of Brethren (one advancing £5), and the Brother dispatched to England by the

first steamer. The Board of Benevolence has generously granted a weekly sum to maintain his wife and

family in Sydney until a remittance is cabled out by him. It is acts such as this which prove that Masonry is

doing its work at the Antipodes, as it is all over the world.—Sydney Freemason. -

YOU can now book for the World's Fair, through the Transportation and Accommodation Company of

Michigan, on time payment. The first instalment is 3 dollars, followed by dollar payments until 49 dollars are

lying to credit; this covers first return railage to Chicago, transfer of baggage, six days board and residence in

a 3 dollar per day hotel, six admissions to the Fair, and a three-thousand dollar accident policy, etc., etc.

FOR ourselves, we fail to see how any good to Freemasonry can be gained by the attempts which many

people are so fond of making., to include all men of eminence of every country and every use in their list of

distinguished Craftsmen past and present. There is undoubtedly a full measure of antiquity about our Order,

but it is not the kind of antiquity which justifies the inclusion among our most eminent worthies of such men

as Julius Caesar, Martin Luther, St. Augustine, and so forth.—London Freemason.

"THE Cornish Freemasons, at the head of whom is the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe, held high festival at Truro

on Tuesday. There are not wanting cavillers and detractors who decry Freemasonry, yet it has of late years

made rapid strides, and the only danger is, according to Mr. W. J. Hughan, of Torquay—who very many

were glad to welcome to Truro once again—lest sufficient use is not made of the ballot when the question of

the admission of a new member arises. It is, of course, largely because Freemasons do not act up to their

principles that ground is given to the caviller and detractor."—Royal Cornwall Gazette.

OF the Michigan decision that a person dwarfed and having a hunchback is debarred from the Masonic

degrees, Bro. Perkins of Vermont, very pertinently says : —Brains, intellect, he may have but lacking

"form," he may not apply. If perfection of form is to be made a standard of eligibility, why not bar out an

applicant for Masonic rights and privileges, who has one shoulder higher than the other? Or him who toes it

in, in his manly strides ? Or him who carries a ponderosity of adipose tissue ? Physical deformity may offend

some Oscar Wilde of a brother, but for that matter, the striking physique of a Boston gladiator is no more

pleasing to others.

ALL brethren of our Fraternity in Scotland will hail with satisfaction the elevation to the peerage of Colonel

Archibald C. Campbell, of Blythswood, Bart., Past Grand Master of Scotland. Sir Archibald is everywhere

highly respected, but nowhere more highly than amongst Freemasons. As a distinction of merit it was well

merited, and as one of worth it is worthily conferred. Sir Archibald has the congratulations and best wishes

of every member of the Craft in his new title, which I understand, will be that of Lord Blythswood.—

"Mallett " in the Glasgow Evening News. [Lady Blythswood is sister to Lord Carrington, Past Grand Master

of New South Wales.—ED. C.]

THE Freemasons of Fiji are about to lose one of their most enthusiastic and energetic members in the person

of Mr. W. Coath, of the Bank of New Zealand, who last year occupied the position of Master of the Lodge of

Fiji, No. 1931, who, to the regret of the community generally, as well as the brotherhood, is about to leave

for pastures new, carrying with him the hearty good wishes of all. At the proceedings of the lodge on

Monday the 17th October he was placed in the chair, and requested to conduct a portion of the work, which

he accomplished with his usual ability, after which there was an adjournment for refreshments, at which the

health of the departing brother was proposed and drunk with due honours.

THE moral element characterising the faith of the ancient Egyptians is clearly shown in the Funeral Ritual or

Book of the Dead, recently translated and published by Dr. Lepsius, a celebrated German archæologist. In

that book appears the "Negative Confession" of a disembodied soul appearing before Osiris for judgment.

The dead man says : " Lo, I have defrauded no man of his dues. I have not oppressed the widow. I have not

borne false witness. I have not been slothful. I have broken faith with no man. I have slain no man. I have

starved no man. I have not enriched myself by unlawful gains: I have not given short measure of corn. I have

not tampered with the scales. I have not encroached upon my neighbour's field. I have not cut of the running

water from its lawful channel. I have not turned away the food from the mouths of the fatherless. Lo, I am

pure ! I am pure !"

MR FISH objects strongly to the Tong Beng, the Secret Society of which the Premier, Sir Robert Stout, and

three important officers in the Government Life Insurance Department are leading lights. Mr Fish also

remarks that the three insurance officers received phenomenal advancement. Mr Fish should be careful what

he says and should leave the Tong Beng alone, or one of these days the Dunedin papers will have, in

displayed caps, " Mysterious Disappearance of Mr H. Fish, Jr., M.H.R."—Catholic Times.

THE God of Masonry is not that Being whom theology has painted so severe and revengeful . . . ; but the

benign and compassionate Creator, who is made divine within our souls ; who is felt in all that smiles and in

all that sighs, where there is suffering and where there is love ; where we hear the canticles of children and

see the tears of the aged ; in the birds' nests and in the aroma of the flowers, in the rainbow that changes its

colours, and in the aurora that blushes ; in the luminous bodies in the heavens, in the Infinite who scatters

His harmony in all that has wins and perfume, essence and balsam, music and prayers, intuition and 'smiles,

linked to the immense veneration that exists in our hearts.— Boletin Masónico, Mexico.

THEY ARE OUR GUESTS.—Do we always remember when we see a strange face in our Lodge room that we

are at home and on us rests the duty, as it should be a pleasure, of making our Lodge room a pleasant

Masonic home for the time being to the visiting Brother ? We are apt to leave it to the Worshipful Master or

other Officers. It is a duty and a pleasure we should all delight in. A visiting Brother, having been duly

examined and formally introduced, is too often left to his own devices in making acquaintances. Are we not

his Masonic hosts? Is he not of the same " household of faith ?" What better claim could he have to a

brotherly grasp, a cheerful word, a kind attention to his comfort ? Is he a sojourning brother ? He may be

making up his mind where he shall cast his lot. Your kindly greetings, Brethren, decide him, and you have

"lengthened your cords and strengthened your stakes."—Herald of Masonry.

IF a Lodge cannot aid in founding a school or an academy, it can still do something. It can educate one boy

or girl, at least, the child of some poor or departed brother. And it should never be forgotten, that in the

poorest unregarded child that seems abandoned to ignorance and vice may slumber the virtues of a Socrates,

the intellect of a Bacon or a Bossuet, the genius of a Shakespeare, the capacity to benefit mankind of a

Washington ; and that in rescuing him from the mire in which he is plunged, and giving him the means of

education and development, the Lodge that does it may be the threat and immediate means of conferring

upon the world as great a boon as that given it by John Faust, the boy of Mentz ; may perpetuate the liberties

of a country and change the destinies of nations, and write a new chapter in the history of the world. For we

never know the importance of the act we do. The daughter of Pharaoh little thought what she was doing for

the human race, and the vast unimaginable consequences that depended on her charitable act, when she drew

the little child of a Hebrew woman from among the rushes that grew along the bank of the Nile, and

determined to rear it as if it were her own —ALBERT PIKE

A SUBSCRIBER to the Trestle Board, San Francisco, asked : " Do you not think it would be better for all

concerned if our wives and sweethearts were oftener introduced on festive occasions ; that there would be

less occasion for jealousy, or charge of ignoring them in our Masonic relations on the part of wives and

daughters ? I have no doubt it would stimulate the Craft to a higher standard of conduct on such occasions,

and call out in attendance many that do not show themselves now" The Editor replied there can be no

objection to festive occasions of Masonic bodies where our wives and daughters can come and enjoy the

refreshment and exercises, which may be arranged for the enjoyment of God's rational creatures. There is too

much of the ignoble sentiment in the Masonic fraternity that woman should not be permitted to approach the

sacred sanctuary or holy of holies of our Institution. A new era in civilization has arrived, when woman is

esteemed worthy of a better station in life and for nobler purposes than was held by the patriarchs of old, and

especially our first and most eminent Grand Master. Let their emancipation be full and complete, say we,

most heartily; and liberty for equal privileges granted consistent with the Landmarks of our Institution.

———————————————————————————————————————————

THE

NEW ZEALAND

C R A F T S M A N .

————————————————

A MONTHLY JOURNAL DEVOTED TO THE INTERESTS

OF THE MASONIC' FRATERNITY.

————————————————

VOLUME III.

NOVEMBER, 1891 — OCTOBER, 1892.

AUCKLAND:

A. CLEAVE & Co., PRINTERS AND PUBLISHERS, VULCAN LANE.

——

1892.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

CONTENTS.

———

NOVEMBER, 1891 - OCTOBER, 1892,

———

RTICLES-

Another Appeal. from "The Other Side" 1201

Article 219 and Colonial Loyalty 1086

Assistant Grand Secretaries ... 1508

" Bluff " 1201

Book of Constitutions, The ... 1149

Business of Last Communication, The ... 1147

Can Superintendents Grant Dispensations ? 1200, 1266

Deputy P.G. Master, I.C. 1028

Financial Position of Grand Lodge, The 1507, 1567

Four Constitutions, The, A Comparison 1030

Grand Chapter, A 1149

Governor's Impending Departure, The ... 1027, 1148

Lodge St. Andrew, Auckland 1393

A

Masonic Guide, The 980, 1029, 1059

,, Journalism in N.Z ... 980
,, Unity 978, 1028, 1206, 1292

Personal 1445, 1508, 1522

Past G.M. Bro. Thomson's Latest 1389

Position, The 1082

Proposal to Recognise the Grand Lodge of New Zealand 1563

Promotion in Rotation 1085

Report of Board of General Purposes ... 1443

Representation Difficulty, The (with maps) 1139

Retention of Charters, The ... 1506, 1566

Ritual, The : Should it be Printed ? 1202, 1331

Step Towards Recognition, A 1509

RIEF MENTION — 992, 1002, 1036, 1105, 1119, 1162, 1179, 1217,

1224, 1226, 1239, 1240, 1278, 1287, 1299, 1346,

1412, 1420, 1471, 1510, 1533, 1574, 1593.

DITORIALS (Extracted)-

Are You a Masonic Student ? 1361

Ballot and Initiation 1359

Boucaut (Bro., His Honor Justice) and the Bible ... 1474

Craft in South Australia, The 1111

Degree of Past Master 1238

Elements of Real Success, The 1591

Founders' Qualifications 1590

Fraternal Congress, A 1056

Freemasonry as a Benefit Society 1176

Grand Lodge of South Africa 1057

Irish Centenary, Au 1530

Is the E.A. and F.C. Entitled to Full Membership ? 1236

Life Membership ... 1592

Masonic Congress, A 1055

„ Funerals... 1529

Offences 1055

New Zealand and Article 219 1109, 1239

Nuisance, A 1178

Our Family Tree... 1475

Pope, Friendly Societies and Masons (by C. W. Dilke) 1360, 1419

Past Master's Vote in Grand Lodge, The 1056

Presentation of Certificates ... 1178

Prodigal's Return, The 1110

Question of Ritual, A 1359

Right of Visitation 1111, 1358

Royal Arch in New South Wales, The ... 1057

Ritual, The 1589

Sentiment in Finances 1237

Table Lodge, A ... 1055

Unrecognised Grand Lodge of New Zealand, The ... 1588

Wardens' and W.M's. Clothing 1529

RAND LODGES-

British Columbia ... 1518

B

E

G

Canada... 992

England... 989, 1091, 1457

Iowa 1579

Kansas 1579

Kentucky 1399

Maine... 1517

Manitoba 1518

Maryland 1094

Minnesota 1399

New Hampshire ... 1519

New South Wales 1209, 1577

New York 1578

Ohio 1579

Quebec 1580

Scotland 991, 1093, 1578

Spain ... 1578

South Australia ... 1209

Tasmania 1517

Tennessee 1167

Victoria 1200, 1277

Grand Lodge of New Zealand-

Annual Communication ... 1208, 1267, Supplement following 1394

Board of General Purposes ... 1511

,, Benevolence 1513

Joined the Fold ... 1208, 1339, 1449

Lord Onslow's, Bro., Farewell 1152

Quarterly Communications 983, Supplement following page 1046, 1089

1399, 1449, 1512, 1514, 1575

Welcome to the Earl of Glasgow 1339

Grand Master's Rulings 1094, 1153, 1176

ETTERS-

Answers to Correspondents 1000, 1040, 1112, 1167, 1225, 1353,

1415, 1446. 1519

Brotherly Love in Blenheim.... 1415

Correspondents, Our Own-

Wellington -. 1289, 1335

Southland 1337

Clothing for Grand Lodge ... 1353

Disgraceful Scene, A 1446

Divisional System of Craft Masonry 1041

Expenditure of Grand Lodge 1573

Extravagant Eulogy 1448

Fees of Honour ... 1447

General Purposes, The Board of 1572

Grand Lodge Representatives 1419, 1520

Grand Master, The Next 980

Lodge Waikaki, No. 11, Oamaru 1418

Masonic Guide 1216

„ Unity 1112

Nelson Jubilee, The.. 1040

New By-Laws of Lodge Abercorn 1354, 1118

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Official Utterance of England and the Craftsman’s

" Ipso Dixit," The ... 1167

Other Side, The ...... 1293, 1416, 1519

Praise ... 1572

Retention of Charters, The ... 1573

Ritual Question, The 1449, 1521

Robert Burns Lodge and the Mark Degree 1353

Shall it be a Survival of the Fittest? ... 1225

Strength of Grand Lodge, The 1417

Visiting.. 1522

Wardens Assisting in Degrees, The Propriety of ... 1521

Why Ireland has not recognised New Zealand 1415

ODGE REPORTS-

Consecrations 998, 1041, 1095. 1216, 1282, 1340, 1460

Installations ... 993, 1043, 1096, 1218, 1283, 1341, 1400, 1461, 1525

Reports ... 994, 1052, 1098, 1154, 1218, 1285, 1343, 1411, 1463,

1525, 1582, Supplement following page 1590

ARK MASONRY-

Grand Mark Lodge, of New South Wales...... 1458

,, ,, ,, „ England and Wales, etc. 1459

ISCELLANEOUS-

Are Printed Rituals Un-Masonic ? 1391

Ancient Craft Charges, The ... 1367

Colonial Masons in England ... 1235

Degrees of Freemasonry, The (by Bro. R. F. Gould) ... 1295

Freemasons and the Church (Supplement page 4) following page 1590

French Masonry : Subjects Discussed in Lodges ... ... 1362

Honorary Members : Ruling of the Grand Lodge of England ... 1002

Improper Publicity 1571

Meetings-November (Calendar)... 1597

Magician Kellar Tells of Oriental Lodges 1536

Masonry by Wholesale 1234

,, on the Continent of Europe ... 1174

,, on the West Coast ... 1290

,, from the Female Side of the Question … 1356
Masonic Principles 1476

,, Celebrities 1115, 1169, 1231

Albert Pike (illustrated)... 1363, 1477

Pike, Bro. Albert (The late), on the Grand Orient of France... 1051

Stout, Sir R., and the Craft in New Zealand 1000

Suspension for Non-Payment of Dues ...... 1176

BITUARY NOTICES-

Clarke, Bro. Colonel Shadwell H., Grand Secretary of England

(with portrait) 1032

Clarence, H.R.H. The Duke of 1032

Dickson, Bro. P., W.M.-Elect, Masterton 1035

Macarthur, Bro. Douglas Hastings 1350

Morton, Bro. J. G. 1168

Scott, Bro. Thomas, P.M. 1098

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Whitaker, Bro. The Hon. Sir F. (with portrait) ... 1033

HOTO. ILLUSTRATIONS-

Freemasons' Hall, Christchurch, Looking East... ... 1260

,, ,, ,, ,, West 1328

„ ,, Invercargill ,, East 1394

„ ,, Invercargill ,, West 1443

OETRY-

To the Candidate... 983

ORTRAITS AND BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES-

Barth, Bro. A. J., Grand Organist 1200

Gordon Bro. G., P.G. Registrar, South Australia „. 1150

Gould, Bro. R. Frolic.., 1265

Hulbert, Bro. C.P., P.G.W., South Australia 1563

Joyce, Bro. John... to face 1201

Letchworth, Bro. E., Grand Secretary, England ... 1262

Mulgan, Bro. W. E., Grand Chaplain ... to face 1027

Murray, Bro. Rev. D. J., Grand Chaplain... 1081

„ Bro. T. L. 1199

Onslow, Bro. the Earl of to face 1198

Pyke, Bro. Vincent 1151

Porritt, Bro. Rev. T., Grand Chaplain ...... 1082

Rees, Bro. W. J.... 1505

Robinson, Bro. G. F. ... 1329

Ronaldson, Bro. Rev. W., Grand Secretary, New Zealand 1261

Sawyer, Bro. Charles 1330

Stocker, Bro. Yen. Arch. H., Grand Chaplain to face 1027

Williams, Bro. H. J., Grand Superintendent, Wellington 978

EVIEW—

Brief History of the Grand Lodge Movement 1338

OYAL ARCH, THE—

Grand Chapter, England 1214, 1399

,, ,, Ireland 1213

,, ,, New South Wales 1212, 1524

,, ,, New Zealand 1211, 1279

,, ,, Scotland 1214

,, ,, South Australia 1212

,, ,, Tasmania 1213

,, ,, Victoria 1213

,, ,, Decisions of ...... 1215, 1399

R.A. Chapters 1154, 1282, 1581

,, ,, Trafalgar 1524

,, ,, Southern Cross 1523

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