————————

BIOGRAPHICAL.

——————

R.W. BRO. SYDNEY CLIFTON BINGHAM, GRAND SUPERINTENDENT OF CANTERBURY.

R.W. Bro. Sydney Clifton Bingham was born in Bristol in 1861, and comes of a good Masonic stock. His

father is still a very active member of the Craft, a P.G.W. of his province, and an 18deg. Our brother came to

New Zealand in 1880, and, with the exception of the year 1902, when he revisited England and travelled on

the Continent and through the States, has resided in Christchurch ever since. He was initiated in Lodge

Christchurch, No. 91, on 20th December, 1894, raised on 26th February, 1895, and immediately appointed

Organist. Elected S.W. in October, 1897, and installed Master on 22nd November, 1898. Became a member

of B. of G.P. in the following year and had the honour of being recommended by the then G.M. (the late

M.W. Bro. R. J. Seddon) to the G.L. of Maryland as its representative near the G.L. of New Zealand, which

appointment was confirmed by it in October, 1899, He was elected Asst. G.Sec. in May, 1899, and has

served almost continuously on the B. of G.P. ever since, till, in fact, this year, when, at the annual

communication of G.L. in Christchurch, he was appointed by the M.W.G.M. (His Excellency Lord Plunket)

to the important office of G.Supt. of Canterbury, and, we venture to say, seldom has an appointment been

more popular. Our R.W. brother's first official duty was the melancholy one of organising a Lodge of Sorrow

on the evening of the funeral of our late Premier and P.G.M., which, we understand, was one of the most

impressive functions of the kind ever held in Christchurch. At his first official visit to his mother Lodge,

when he unveiled the Lodge banner, he was received with great enthusiasm, the brethren celebrating the

occasion by the presentation of a very handsomely engrossed address of congratulation.

Bro. Bingham was exalted to the H.R.A. in St. Augustine Chapter, No. 1, in April, 1896, being the last

candidate to receive that honour at the hands of our late G.M. Henry Thomson. He served as P.S., J., H., and

Z. for two years, 1901-2, was elected G.Supt. of Works in 1901, G.Chan. in 1902, and is the present Third

G.Principal, also representing the G.Chapter of Illinois in New Zealand.

In the Order of the Temple, he was admitted a K.T., and K.M. in the Preceptory of Otago in 1901, receiving

the special patent of the G.M. of the Order, the Marquis of Breadelbane, as a Kt. Commander in 1902.

Perfected 18deg. in Sphynx Chapter, Scotch register, in April, 1901, and is at present Marshal of the Beckett

Chapter, English register, to which he affiliated in 1904.

Bro. Bingham was admitted to the 30deg. in the Edinburgh Consistory of K.H., on l2th March, 1902, being

specially elected thereto by the Supreme Council of Scotland. In June of the same year, he was received into

the ancient and exclusive Royal Order of Scotland, in the G. Chapter of Heredom, in Edinburgh,

headquarters of that highly-prized degree. He is also a member of a number of other rites, amongst which we

may mention the Societas Rosicruciana, in which Order he has reached the VIII. deg., and is Chief Officer,

or Celebrant, of the College of R.C. organised in Christchurch in February last.

With his wife, our brother was initiated into the Order of the Eastern Star in Home Chapter, Chicago. We

understand that he is duly authorised, under warrant by the General G.Chapter in the United States, to

establish Chapters in New Zealand should he consider it expedient or advisable to do so.

During his comparatively brief Masonic career, Bro. Bingham may be said to have been exceptionally active

in the work of the Craft. To illustrate, we need only mention the following:—

Hon. Sec. for re-installation of M.W. Bro. Russell as G.M., 1901.

One of the founders and three and a-half years Secretary of M. and P.M. Lodge.

Hon. Secretary Lodge Canterbury Kilwinning Restoration Fund in Christchurch.

The founder and two years Secretary of United Board of Enquiry, a movement which is being

followed up throughout the colony.

A founder and first Secretary of Board of Casual Relief.

Hon. local Secretary for Canterbury of Quatuor Coronati Lodge.

Our brother is a keen Masonic student, well versed in the traditions and archeology of Masonry, a good

ritualist, has been a frequent contributor to our columns, and possesses a library of considerable value. In

January last he had the Pleasure of raising his eldest son, a lewis, to the Third Degree, by courtesy of the

Master of St. Augustine, No. 4. Bro. Bingham is an accountant by profession, a Fellow of the N.Z.A.A.A., a

Vice-President of the Christchurch Accountants' Students' Society, and holds a commission as J.P. We trust

he has many years of good Masonic work before him.

R.W. BRO. SYDNEY CLIFTON BINGHAM, Grand Superintendent

of Canterbury.

—————————

THE CONSTITUTION AND GOVERNMENT OF FREEMASONRY.

——————

A LONG familiarity with any given thing, if it does not breed contempt—as our ancient copybooks insist—

very frequently engenders indifference. In the peculiar construction of the Masonic edifice, with its singular

form of government, we have an institution without parallel in the whole world. Yet to how many

Freemasons is a complete realisation of the situation brought home? Take, as an example, the religious

creeds of the universe, and can one point be found upon which all may unite on a broad platform? No ! Then

turn we to the Christian faith, and surely here must we find a common brotherhood following the footsteps

and obeying the precepts enunciated by the Great Master and Founder over 1900 years ago. Alas! it is not

here the brotherhood is to be found, and you may as well expect the proverbial lion and lamb to share the

same lair as for the many sects of the Christian religion to dwell and work together in unity. We can expect

nothing from the political world, the breath of whose nostrils is strife. And still we utterly fail to realise and

appreciate the immensity of an institution that can admit and assimilate all nations, tongues, and creeds, who

meet together on one broad platform, pay homage to the one Great Supreme Being, without a suspicion of

jealousy or discord in the remotest intent. The greater the reflection the more profound should be the feelings

of pride at the proved pre-eminence the institution of Freemasonry commands. Standing alone on its lofty

summit, secure in a position, achieved without apparent effort, which every other institution—civil,

religious, or Political—has absolutely failed to attain. And this alone constitutes good and sufficient reason

for individual and collective effort in maintaining the Craft pure and unsullied by refraining from admitting

those who will not reflect credit on our choice or who cannot add any lustre to our ancient institution. Then,

if we think for one moment of our form of government, we shall find the peculiar combination almost too

startling for complete realisation. An almost absolute Despotism ruling in a complete Democracy! The

suggestion of such a possibility to the political world would be scouted as the raving of madness. Yet a

Freemason must admit its absolute truth and success. We know that in a Freemason's Lodge it is an accepted

canon that all are equal—they meet on the level in one common cause, and are quite content to do so. We are

constantly reminded that no eminence of station or social position should lead us to forget that we are

brothers, and that those who occupy the lowest position in the world's estimation are equally entitled to the

respect and esteem of Freemasons, which is sufficient to establish the Democratic nature of our Constitution.

We also admit that distinctions are necessary to preserve due subordination, and the powers conferred upon

the W.M., though in some instances absolutely autocratic and beyond appeal, are accepted without question

by the membership, and in very rare instances is the trust betrayed by despotic use. In the case of the

M.W.G.M., the power to which lie succeeds on his installation is still more pronounced, and the I.G.M. does

not hesitate to remind him that his powers and prerogatives are well-nigh absolute," and, as a matter of fact,

from his actions and rulings there is no appeal. He may be called from obscurity to fill this exalted and

autocratic position. and, when his term of office—which outside Great Britain is limited in duration—has

expired, he sinks into comparative insignificance. The only parallel to this extraordinary position may be

found in some incidents in the history of Ancient Rome, where we find that Cincinnatus, whilst engaged in

ploughing on his own farm, was called to be Dictator, and to deliver the Romans from the Æquians, a

warlike nation of Italy (b.c. 458). He saved the Roman army, routed the enemy, and, after holding the office

of Dictator for a very brief period, surrendered the sceptre of office and returned to his farm. A long

familiarity with the remarkable powers vested in the governors of our Craft has cease to excite the slightest

surpriseand the position is mutually recognized and accepted. The complete assimilation of representatives

of nations, tongues, and creeds only be fully appreciated in Oriental Lodges, where it is in evidence at each

meeting. To sum up, it is admitted that the ideals of Freemasonry are as nearly perfection as possible in this

mundane sphere. That the system which has obtained almost without effort for the fusion of every trend of

religious thought in the adoration of the Supreme Being — and for which many classes of religionists have

been striving for ages in vain to effect—is an extraordinary tribute to the power of Freemasonry, while the

constructive government, as applicable to the active rulers of the Craft, is magnificent in its simplicity, and

may well excite the envy of the Political world. Our ideals may be unattainable. 'individual defects may

constantly occur, and the government of individuals may fail, hut the perfect system of Freemasonry

remains, ever appealing to those striving to excel in good works, in improvement and discipline. A closer

and more frequent analysis will greatly tend to the maintenance of that pre-eminence the institution has so

justly attained, and will assist in assuring it a high place in the history of the world's colossal humanising and

philanthropic institutions.

————————

LEGAL PROCESS.

——————

We regret to state that for the second time in twelve years the Directors of the New Zealand Masonic

Newspaper Company have found it absolutely necessary to invoke the aid of the Company's solicitor in the

matter of long-overdue accounts, which accounts comprehend periods varying from three and a-half to nine

years. This from a business—or, perhaps, we should say an unbusiness—point of view would mean in any

case a fairly long credit. But the direct result of this leniency, or laxity, on the part of the Directors has been a

tirade of abuse that would do honour to the traditions of the well-known London market of piscatorial fame.

One debtor not too delicately states that he has no time for the d – d paper, or Freemasonry either; yet this is

the first time for over eight years that he has taken the trouble to notify the fact. Another asks if the Directors

call this "Freemasonry," and in the next breath threatens to enter a crusade against the journal in his district.

It is astonishing what unanimity obtains in the opinion of those in arrear, that to take action, after every other

means have failed to recover a just debt, is so un-Masonic. It is not sentiment that the Directors have to

worry about, but rather to provide the ways and means to pay the printer spot cash every month. The

Company has an excellent accountant, who knows his work, and does it. This officer sends out accounts after

the annual balance in June of each year with unvarying regularity to every subscriber, while those to whom

this article specially refers have received other documents of an almost pleading character, all of which have

hem treated with contemptuous silence. It has always been a practice of the Company to use no pressure

where any indication of intention to pay has been manifested, and in cases where misfortune has assailed a

brother the debt has been wiped off. But the Directors rightly insist that a reason for non-payment of long-

standing accounts must be given, failing which recourse must be had to legal process.

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

News and Notes.
———————————————————————————————————————————

WE have received a large number of letters congratulatory on the last issue, some especially from eminent

members of the Craft, whose opinion we value very highly. We are satisfied to find our efforts are,

appreciated.

HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR has been elected an honorary member of De Burgh Adams Lodge, 1.C.,

New Plymouth. The Prov.G.Sec. (Bro. Geo. Gribbon) likewise received similar honour.

IN response to the request of Kaikoura Lodge, we publish elsewhere a paper read by Bro. Rev. E. Braddock

at a meeting of the Lodge.

THE brethren in Timaru are endeavouring to form a Masonic Club, and to that end have issued a circular

setting forth the advantages that will accrue, and the estimated cost, which it is proposed shall be defrayed by

means of debentures.

THE visit of His Excellency the M.W.G.M. to the Otago Kil. Lodge, No. 143, on the 2gth of November, was

a most brilliant function, and very greatly appreciated. A full report appears in another column. During the

proceedings presentations were made to the I.P.M. and to the Organist.

BRO. E. MACDONALD, D. of C. of Lodge Taringatura, has presented the Lodge with the collar, jewel, and

baton of his office.

THE three R.A. Chapters in Wellington City have formed a Joint Reception Committee for the purpose of

showing some little attention to the representatives attending the convocation of G.Chapter on the 30th inst.

Wednesday will be devoted to labour, finishing up with some necessary refreshment. On Thursday a small

outing will probably be arranged, and in the evening a session of Waterloo Chapter will be held, and the R.A.

Degree will be exemplified.

LODGE TARINGATURA is taking a vote on the question of building a Masonic Hall, the cost of which is

estimated at £450, towards which £300 cash assets are available, and as the estimated annual excess of

income over expenditure is £52 10s, the matter should not present any great difficulty.

THE annual meeting of G.Chapter has been fixed to be held in Wellington on Wednesday, 30th January. The

general business of the convocation will be taken at 2.p, and the installation of G.Z. at 7.3o p.m. The legal

notice will be found above our leading article. As the representative system will be on its trial at this

meeting, a large attendance is anticipated.

TO some conservative members of the Craft it comes as a shock to see any accounts of Masonic proceedings

published in the daily press, even though they be limited to the lists of installed and invested officers. What

will these dear old brethren think of the innovation instituted by a Northern paper, which goes so far as to

print the full list of brethren present at Masonic meetings, with the names and numbers of their Lodges? And

what, also, is to be said of the Lodge that permitted such information to be furnished to the press? for it could

only have been taken from the Lodge attendance-book.

AT the annual meeting of the Otaihape Lodge on 5th December, Bro. Knap was presented by the G.Supt.

(Bro. Fletcher), on behalf of the Lodge, with a handsome P.M. jewel, for his invaluable services, and as a

mark of the esteem of the brethren. For many years past Bro. Knap has been a most active Freemason in the

district, and deserves well of it. He has been a pillar of strength to Otaihape Lodge, and his name will long be

held in veneration and esteem.

BRO. HERBERT SEATON has reason to be proud of the gathering that assembled at the Masonic Hall,

Wellington, last month, to do honour to his installation. With the exception of the Turkish bath which those

present perforce had to take, and which would have done no discredit to Te Aroha, the meeting was most

successful. The ceremony needs no comment, as it was in the hands of R.W. Bro. W. D. Lyon, ably assisted

by the R.W.G.Supt. (Bro. R. Fletcher), the S.G.W. (R.W. Bro. J. H. Keesing), whose sonorous voice and

splendid delivery quite captivated the brethren, W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, as D. of C., and others. The welcome

atmospheric change in the large refectory and the excellent catering soon put the brethren at peace with all

the world.

A SUGGESTION has been made by Bro. A. R. Hardy, Seddon Chambers, Dunedin, in the "Lyttelton Times, '

that the foundation-stone of the Exhibition, which the late Premier laid, should not be removed when the

buildings are taken down, but be used as a pedestal for a monument of Bro. Seddon, for which subscriptions

should be asked from visitors. The suggestion is a notable and very appropriate one, and if given vigorous

practical effect at once would doubtless attain success. If it should, then, as Bro. Hardy says, perhaps Bro.

Seddon would have been the first man to lay the foundation-stone of his own monument.

AT the annual meeting of Lodge Ngamotu one toast was responsible for quite a number of good old Irish

"bulls." W. Bro. Haddrell, in proposing "Sister Constitutions," instead of calling upon W. Bros. Bellringer

and Brooking to respond, called upon them to resign. W. Bro. F. Bellringer, in reply, thanked W. Bro.

Haddrell for asking him to "propose" the toast. W. Bro. Brooking, replying for the I.C., worthily upheld the

traditions of Ould Oireland by saying that he hoped to have the pleasure of meeting Lodge Ngamotu on

many "previous" occasions.

JUDGING from the report of the correspondent of the Otaihape Lodge, the brethren appreciate very highly the

annual visits of the officer supervising the district, and the visit last month appears to have caused more than

ordinary exuberance.

R.W. BRO. W. DEANS LYON, P.G.W., of Wellington, has been on a holiday trip to Australia, and greatly

enjoyed the change. He quickly got into Masonic harness on his return (as I.M. of N.Z. Pacific Lodge), and

received a very hearty welcome from his brethren.

—————————

VISIT OF THE M.W.G.M. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR TO OTAGO KIL., No. 143.

——————

At the Masonic Hall, Moray place, on Thursday afternoon, 29th November, Bro. R. T. Wheeler, Otago Ril.,

No. 143, N.Z.C., was presented before a B. of I.M. and duly obligated as W.M. by M.W.Pro-G.M. Bro.

Binns preparatory to the full ceremony, which took place in the evening. When the Lodge met at 7.30 o'clock

there was a very large attendance, among those present being the M.W.G.M. (his Excellency Lord Plunket),

Pro-G.M. Bro. E. C. Binns, and G.L. officers, P.G.M. Bro. M. Niccol, G.Sec., D.G.M. Bro. T. S. Graham

and officers of G.L., E.C., and P.M. Bro. D. A. McNicoll (representative I.C.). There were also present

representatives from many country Lodges, while South Australia and Port Elizabeth (South Africa) were

also represented. After the reception usual on the occasion of installation, Pro-G.M. Bro. Binns took the

chair, and proceeded to address Bro. R. T. Wheeler on his obligation, impressing on him the solemnity and

importance of the high and honourable position to which he was about to be appointed, and Bros. W. A.

Smith (W.M., Lodge Celtic, No. 931, E.C.), R. Wilkinson (W.M, Lodge St. Andrew, No. 432, S.C.), and T.

Gallagher, jun. (W.M., Hiram Lodge, No. 4.6) presented the W.T. in the respective degrees to Bro. Wheeler

as W.M. Bro. E. W. G. Watts officiated as G.D. of C. The ceremony of presenting the Lodge with its Charter

and B. of C. was performed by the M.W.G.M. (Lord Plunket), who took occasion to congratulate the Lodge

on its prosperity, and generally spoke of the work of the Craft throughout the colony. In speaking of his

presence there that evening, Lord Plunket said he regretted, through pressure of other duties, that he had been

unable to attend the Lodge meetings as often as he could wish, but it would always be a pleasure to him,

when circumstances permitted, to attend and take part in the ceremonies. He fully appreciated the honour the

brethren had conferred on him, and recognised the importance of the position. After congratulating the

newly-installed W.M. on his elevation, His Excellency made an impressive speech on the need of brethren to

keep in the forefront the necessity of building up the fund for the widows and orphans and aged Masons. He

appealed to the gathering to leave no stone unturned to double the amount already in hand. New Zealand was

prosperous at the present time, and it would be in keeping with the prosperity now enjoyed by the Craft in

this colony if they put forth an effort and placed the fund he had mentioned on a solid footing. R.W. Bro. C.

J. Ronaldson, G.Supt. of Otago, then invested the following officers for the year 1906-7 :— Bro. A. W. Flett;

D.M., Bro. O. H. Moller, P.M. S.W., Bro. S. Sutherland; J.W., Bro. R. McNaughton; Sec., Bro. G. A.

Harlow (for the third term); Treas., Bro. P. Aitken, P.M. ; Chaplain, Bro. H. M. Ewing; D. of C., Bro. A.

Anderson, P.M. ; S.D. Bro. R. Jamieson ; J.D., Bro. C. S. Jenkins ; Organist, Bro. A. E. Jenkins.; I.G., Bro. J.

L. G. Wilson; Tyler, Bro. H. Meyer; Stewards, Bros. J. McLaughlin, F. E. Austin, R. Lindsay, G. G. Adess,

James Washer, J. Galloway, and W. B. Alexander. Addresses were delivered as follows :—To the W.M., by

M.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol, P.G.M. and G.Sec. ; to the Wardens, by M.W. Bro. William Barron, P.G.M.;

and to the brethren, by M.W. Bro. A. H. Burton, P.G.M. W.M. Bro. Wheeler, in returning thanks, said that

he felt he had not the power that evening of adequately expressing his thoughts. He deeply appreciated the

G.M.'s kindly words, and also those of the Pro-G.M. The position he had been called upon to fill he

recognised as a most high and honourable one, and he would strive to carry out the duties of his position to

the utmost of his ability and with the credit which had marked the work of his predecessors. He was amongst

the youngest of I.M, and perhaps was not yet thoroughly acquainted with the duties of office. Before

concluding his reply, Bro. Wheeler made reference to the assistance rendered him by officers and brethren of

sister Constitutions, and thanked them for their presence. Before the Lodge closed several presentations were

made. On behalf of the Lodge, Bro. A. Anderson, P.M., presented Bro. A. W. Flett, 1.P.M., with a jewel in

recognition of valuable services during his term of office, and P.M. Bro. T. Ross presented a jewel to Bro. A.

E. Jenkins (Organist).

A banquet was afterwards held in the social hall, to which a large number of brethren sat down. W.M. Bro.

Wheeler occupied the chair at the table reserved for P.M.'s, the M.W.G.M. being on his right and Pro-G.M.

on his left. The following was the toast-list :—"The King," proposed by the W.M. "The M.W.G.M.",

proposed by the W.M. His Excellency was particularly happy in replying to the toast. His words caused not

only much attention from a Mason's standpoint, but his evident desire to encourage the assembly to put aside

distinction, and enjoy the hospitality of Otago Kil., at once put the company on good terms. "M.W. Pro-G.M.

and Officers," proposed by the W.M., and responded to by M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns; "Representatives of Sister

G.L.", proposed by V.W. Bro. T. Ross, and responded to by D.G.M.E.C. Bro. T. S. Graham and Bro. D. A.

McNicoll, I.C., P.G.S.W. Bro. D. Cooke, and Bro. Bell (Melbourne) ; "W.M.", proposed by R.W. Bro. C. J.

Ronaldson, G.Supt. of Otago, and replied to by W.M. Bro. R. T. Wheeler; "The Visitors," proposed by Bro.

A. Anderson, P.M., and replied to by Bros. F. H. Campbell, W. A. Smith, and L. Warsaw; "I.P.M.", proposed

by Bro. W. Barron, P.G.M., and replied to by Bro. A. W. Flett; and "Officers of the Lodge," proposed by

Bro. Malcolm Nicoll, G.Sec.

Before leaving the social hall His Excellency presented P.G.M. Bro. A. H. Burton, on behalf of the Lodge,

with an illuminated address, and in doing so spoke of the good work Bro. Burton had done in the cause of

Freemasonry. Bro. Burton ably replied to the G.M.'s eulogy, and thanked the Lodge for its gift. The W.M.

also made the announcement that Bro. Job Wain had made a presentation to the Lodge of a valuable old

picture, representing the inauguration of Bro. Robert Burns, a poet laureate, of Canongate Kilwinning, in the

year 1757, which was received with great acclamation.

The musical portion of the programme was under the direction of Bro. D. Cooke, who was assisted by Bros.

A. Robertshaw, F. F. Thomas, and Signor Souarise, the vocal items being rendered by Bros. J. Jago, D.

White, J. McConnell, Ernest Falck, J. A. Hopcraft, W. Kent, and H. Whinam.

—————————

TRANSFER OF ALLEGIANCE OF LODGE VICTORIA,

No. 147 (late No. 471, I.C.

——————

Friday, 16th November, was a "gold" letter day with the antient and honourable fraternity of Freemasons in

Invercargill, embracing as it did three distinct historical incidents—two of which were entirely Masonic.

Firstly, the M.W.G.M. (Bro. William Lee, Baron Plunket) paid his first official visit to the district; secondly,

Lodge Victoria transferred allegiance from the Irish to the New Zealand Constitution ; and, thirdly, the

Victoria Hall, part of the new Municipal Buildings, was formally opened, and used for the first time for the

performance of the several Masonic functions. Not only were the Municipal Buildings used, but the

Corporation gardens and fernery were largely requisitioned for decorative purposes, and our readers will not

be astonished to learn that the hall was a perfect picture. The brethren having assembled, at 7.30 p.m. the

G.Supt. of Southland (R.W. Bro. G. T. Smyth) entered with his officers and took the chairs and proceeded to

open a Lodge in the three degrees. Announcement was then made by Bro. T. Rankin (G.D. of C.) of the

presence of the M.W.G.M., which was acknowledged by trumpet call, and the brethren upstanding, received

the M.W.G.M., and his officers, who was saluted after having assumed the chair. An anthem, "Almighty

Sire," .solo by Bro. J. E. Taylor, was excellently rendered. The M.W.G.Sec. then stated the object of the

meeting and read the petition. The W.M. and Wardens were presented by the G.D. of C., and the charter was

read by the G. Sec., at the conclusion of which the W. M. took an Obligation of Fealty. The M.W.G.M. then

declared Lodge Victoria to be regularly constituted under the G.L. of New Zealand, which was answered by

trumpet call and proclamation by the G.D. of C. The Masonic ode, "Onward, Mason Brothers," followed,

and the W.M. was presented to and installed by the M.W.G.M., and saluted. The ode, "Lord God our Master

Bless," was sung, and the Lodge was closed in the Third Degree. The W.M. was again saluted. The ode, "In

Wishes True and Hearty," was sung, and the Lodge was closed in the Second Degree. A third and last salute,

a hymn, and then the G.M. presented the charter and B. of C., R.W. Bro. G. T. Smyth invested and addressed

the officers, and an address to the brethren was given by M.W. Bro. Niccol, G.Sec. Bro. J. L. Kinsland gave

an admirable rendering of the solo, "Within these Walls,'' and an offertory was taken up for the W. and O.

and A.M. Fund, and, after the W.M. had addressed the meeting, the M.W.G.M. retired and the first meeting

of Lodge Victoria, No. 147, terminated. A banquet was subsequently tendered to the G.M. and visitors, and

the usual toasts were honoured. Some really excellent speeches were made, and the whole proceedings went

off with the greatest eclat, and were more than creditable to the brethren of Invercargill. The following are

the officers of Lodge Victoria, No. 147: — W.M., W. Bro. N. J. Brokenshire; I.P.M., W. Bro. A. D. Burn;

S.W., Bro. A. Campbell ; J.W., Bro. S. Craig ; Treas., R.W. Bro. N. J. M. Rein; Sec., W. Bro. P. S. Brodie;

Chaplain, W. Bro. J. K. Jameson ; S.D., Bro. A. Geddes ; J.D., Bro. C. Griffiths ; D. of C., W. Bro. J. Harper;

Stewards, Bros. McCartney, G. O. Joyce, and A. McGavock ; Organist, W. Bro. R. T. Searell ; I.G., Bro. A.

McNeil; Tyler, Bro. T. Bellworthy; Instructor, W. Bro. W. R. Petrie; Musical Conductor, Bro. J. E. Taylor.

—————————

A NEW R.A. CHAPTER CHARTERED

——————

A number of R.A. Masons resident at Winton have applied to the Supreme G.Chapter of New Zealand for a

charter to open and work a new Chapter in that town, and as the petition has a strong endorsement from the

M.E. First G.Principal (Comp. J. Macgregor, of Invercargill), and also from Southern Cross Chapter, the

prayer of the petition has been granted, and the capitular infant will be brought into existence about the 15th

inst. As Southern Cross Chapter will act as foster-mother, the new baby should rapidly develop into a strong

and healthy child, and will no doubt do every credit to its nursing. M.E. Comp. J. Macgregor will conduct the

ceremony of consecration and installation, assisted by other G.Chapter officers, and members of Southern

Cross Chapter. Our old friend Comp. J. F. White, P.G.W. of the G.L. of New Zealand, takes the office of Z.,

and his acknowledged energy and ability will be in full requisition during the ensuing year. The CRAFTSMAN

wishes Winton Chapter every success.

—————————

FREEMASONRY: AN APPRECIATION.

——————

(Paper read at Kaikoura Lodge, No. 60, on 29th November. by Rev. H. Braddock. Compiled

from "Homelitic Review" (London-New York), of October, 1906.]

"What mean ye by this service?''—Ex. xii., 26—is a fair question from those who seek light on the

worthiness of Masonry. Speaking strictly, Freemasons are not a secret society. A secret society seeks to

conceal its existence, its membership, its place and times of meetings, its aims and objects. The gatherings of

Masons are openly advertised, the Lodge members do not skulk under cover of darkness here—they are not

ashamed of anything--and Lodge doors are open to all men willing, if so be they are good men and true in a

word, "white." All societies and families conduct heir business privately, and Masonry has nothing more than

any other private organisation to conceal. Its noble ends, aims, constitution, and charges are open for all to

discover, and, for the information of those who wish to know, we are glad to say that what is not open for the

world far exceeds in beauty and worthiness what we gladly make known. The signs, passwords, and tokens

are only used to detect frauds and to protect friends. The grasp is the grip of a friend and a brother. Given in

such a way as to ensure an accompanying thought, its touch brings those who use it into touch with the

principles which bind them as brothers. It is not an irreligious commune. Far from it, God is acknowledged at

every turn. Both doctrine and principles are founded upon the Word of God. No Lodge is opened or closed,

no degree conferred, without that Word. The whole Bible is believed in as the Voice of God, and Masonic

mysteries are explained by it. All who enter a Lodge are forcibly reminded of the presence and of the

omniscience of God, Whose help is invoked at every stage of proceedings. No candidate can approach the

sanctuary except he believes God is, and that He can and does reveal His will to mortals. No atheist can be a

Mason in New Zealand, for he could not subscribe to its principles nor conform to its requirements.

Freemasons are not an organised society for mercantile purposes. It is a gross libel to call it a mere business

combine. It would degrade the ideals of Masonry to use it as a lever in trade. No true Mason attempts it.

Some have not hesitated to assert that Masons are bound by a terrible oath to defend one another, no matter

what they do. This is absurdly untrue. While put upon their word of honour to help a really needy brother,

they are not bound to do anything inconsistent with their civil, moral, or religious duties ; on the contrary,

they are bound as men of honour not to defend the lawbreaker, but to uphold both the moral law and the laws

of the land. No one can break laws, moral or national, and remain a good Mason. Such are dealt with and

struck off if guilty. It is equally false to brand Masonry as just a convivial club. The brotherhood has its

sociable side, no doubt, but innumerable Lodges have no intoxicating liquors at the banquets, which are often

Spartanlike in their frugality, and chiefly spread the feast of reason and the flow of soul. Masonry is not a

substitute for Christianity. The three, degrees which come first are ante, but not anti-Christian. They date

back to Old Testament times and events—B.C. (before Christ), but not against Christ. The higher degrees are

Christian, and in them Christ's name occurs as naturally as in the Liturgies of the Church. Nor is it a

substitute for the Church and for church-going. No Mason who comprehends the symbolic meanings will

ever teach or act in opposition to the best interests of the Church. Masonry was first called into being for the

purpose of building the House of God—the first great Church or Temple. It is, therefore, only carrying out

the symbolry when we do our utmost to build up the Christian Church, because it is an institution organised

by Christ, to give light and moral and spiritual instruction. Masonry is really a system of moral philosophy. It

teaches the highest ethics by signs, allegories, and symbols. Where it came from and when we know not.

Some suppose it originated at the building of King Solomon's Temple. There are some strange and hard-to-

be-explained facts in connection with its existence among nations untouched by influence of Western

civilisation. General Freemont, in America, found traces amongst pagan Red Indians. The Rev Haskett

Smith, vicar of Brancewell, England, in captivity amongst the Druses of Lebanon, Syria, as a reward of his

brave rescue from drowning of the son of the chief, received a chieftainship, and underwent certain rites

which were unmistakably Masonic. It is the opinion of many that there were at the building of Solomon's

Temple both operative and speculative Masons, who applied the rules and principles, the language,

implements, and materials of operative masonry to the veneration of God and the purifying of man.

Therefore Masonry has deduced, from stonemasons' work, an instructively beautiful system of ethics which

has perpetually taught—a three-fold cord interwoven and not easily broken —Morals, Religion, and

Philosophy. The moral teaching is based upon the Ten Commandments. A Mason is obligated to keep sacred

the whole moral law taken clause by clause. The religious teaching is founded upon the Bible. It first teaches

that the highest form of faith is unquestioning trust in the word of another. Relying on that word, our first

step in Masonry is a step of faith, which leads us from chaotic darkness of uncertainty into the clear light of

trust triumphant How emblematic of trusting—through the darkest providences of trouble or of sickness—in

God Himself, who is all light, beyond? It also teaches life beyond the grave, that the claims of God are

primary on heart and on life; that to remember God in the days of youth is a preparation for a peaceful old

age and for firm faith in the hour of dissolution.

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

Correspondence.
———————————————————————————————————————————

CAN A LODGE REMOVE?

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.—Lodge St. Bathans, No. 126, proposes applying to G.L. for a transfer to shift the

Lodge to another district. I maintain that G.L. won't grant a transfer. Would you kindly inform me through

your valuable paper if it is allowable ?— Yours fraternally,

EDGAR WILLIAMSON,

J.W., Lodge St. Bathan5, No. 126,

[Rule 83, B. of C., provides for change of place of meeting.—ED. C.]

OBITUARY.

———<>———

W. BRO. KARL GERSTENKORN, P.M.

———

Bro. Karl Gerstenkorn, a P.M. of several Southland Lodges, and well-known throughout the

southern part of the jurisdiction, has passed to the Great Beyond. Though a man of some

idiosyncracies, consequent, no doubt, on the absence of domestic ties and the leading of a

somewhat solitary life, our late brother had many sterling qualities, and his enthusiasm for

Freemasonry was proverbial. Of foreign extraction, he had, in the face of many difficulties,

mastered the English language, and in some of our ritual ceremonials he was letter-perfect. As

the Representative of the G.L. of Hamburgh near the G.L. of New Zealand, he was in constant

communication with his mother country, and compiled a very full epitome of the New Zealand

Masonic movement, which was published in the proceedings of the G.L. he represented. As a

R.A. Mason, he could always be relied upon to fill any breach on emergency. A large number of

brethren attended the funeral on the 27th November. The Presbyterian service was conducted by

Dr. Dunlop, of Knox Church, and the Masonic service was read by Bro. Ven. Archdeacon

Stocker, assisted by M.E. Comp. J. Macgregor, G.Z. of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of New

Zealand. The body had previously been taken to the Masonic Hall, where a Lodge of Sorrow

was held, presided over by W.M. Bro. Steans. On returning from the grave, the late brother was

referred to in eulogistic terms by several brethren, and Bro. Rein, as a compatriot and trustee of

Bro. Gerstenkorn, rendered acknowledgment. The memory of Bro. Karl Gerstenkorn will not

readily fade from his Invercargill brethren, who will ever hold his many virtues in kindly

remembrance.

———————

W. BRO. W. B. MITCHELL, P.M.

———

On 23rd November cable news came to Invercargill of the death of Bro. W. B. Mitchell, a P.M.

of Victoria Lodge, who had been in bad health for some time, and, acting on medical advice,

had taken a long sea-voyage. He left Invercargill in July last, and on arrival Home his health

appeared to have improved, but, unfortunately, it only proved a temporary respite, and the end

soon came. It was some comfort to his relatives that his death occurred at Home, as there were

grave doubts that he would not survive the voyage. Bro. Mitchell was a warm-hearted whole-

souled man, who endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact, and would do good by

stealth and blush to find it fame. Though of a naturally retiring disposition, he was associated

with most of the social movements in Invercargill. Thoroughly endeared to Freemasonry and a

regular attendant at its ceremonies while his health permitted, it was with difficulty Ile could be

persuaded to accept the highest office the Lodge could bestow. For many years Bro. Mitchell

was associated in business with M.E. Comp. James Macgregor, G.Z., of New Zealand Capitular

Freemasonry, who feels the loss of his late chief very keenly.

"Out of earth's weariness, trial, and sorrow,

Out of its cares and fears for the morrow,

Out of its restless, unsatisfied yearnings,

Out of the fever of human heart burnings,

Out of the grief of deplored separations,

Out of the pain of night-watching removed,

Into the sleep which God gives His beloved,

Into the dawn of a glad Resurrection,

Into the House of unbroken affection,

Into the joy of the Lord—thus confessing,

Death in disguise is the Angel of blessing."

———————

MRS. J. MACKAY.

———

Immediately after going to press with our last issue information came to hand of the sudden

death of the wife of W. Bro. J. Mackay. W.M., of Brooklyn Lodge. Though Mrs. Mackay had

been a sufferer for some years, there were no special indications or warnings that the end was

near, hence the shock was very great to the afflicted husband and family. Bro. Mackay received

many tributes of sympathy and condolence from his Masonic friends, and N.Z. Pacific Lodge—

of which our brother is a member—which met immediately after the sad event, adopted a

special resolution. The CRAFTSMAN offers its expressions of deepest sorrow with Bro. Mackay

and family.

————————

DISTRICT GRAND LODGE, AUCKLAND, E.C.

————

The annual communication of the Dist.G.L. of Auckland, E.C., was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Princes

street, on 4th November. R.W. Bro. J. R. Reed, Deputv-Dist.G.M., presided, in the absence of the Dist.G.M.

(R.W. Bro. C. C. McMillan), who is in England. Dist.G. officers were appointed and invested as follows :—

Dist.G.S.W., Bro. A. Sturges; Dist.J.G.W., Bro. A. Tapper; Dist.G.Chaplain, Bro. P. S. Smallfield ; Asst.-

Dist.G. Chaplain, Bro. Dr. Callaghan, D.D. ; Dist.G.Treas., Bro. A. Wright ; Dist.G. Reg., Bro. H. E. Elliott;

Pres. B. of G.P., Bro. A. S. Bankart ; Pres. B. of B., Bro. H. Robinson ; Dist.G.Sec., Bro. W. W. Daw ;

Dist.G.S.D., Bro. A. Woollams; Dist. G.J.D., Bro. G. H. Foster; Dist.G.Supt: of W., Bro. W. H. Newton:

Dist.G.D. of C., Bro. W. Hooker: Asst.-Dist.G.D. of C., Bro. C. H. Jenkins: Dist.G.Sword-B., Bro. A. G.

Allom ; Dist.G.Stand.-B., Bro. T. Wigg: Asst.-Dist.G. Stand.-B., Bro. E. C. Smith ; Dist.G.Organist, Bro. R.

L. Hunt ; Dist.G.Pur., Bro. F. Price ; Asst.-Dist.G.Pur., Bro. J. E. Banks; Dist.G.Tyler, Bro. W. Caron;

Dist.G.Stewards, Bros. Dr. E. A. Bewes, M.D., R. Robertson, T. Gresham, N. Newcomb, J. G. Berry, jun.,

and A. J. C. Hall. At the banquet, which followed, a large number of Masons were present from all parts of

the Auckland province.

————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 20th DECEMBER, 1906.

————

L. Simmonds 20s (Palmerston N.), R. Suisted, G. Ferguson, W. Gothard (Westport), F. Haywood 10s

(Foxton), F. M. Collins, J. Robertson, E. Skog 55s 10s (Christchurch), F. Frew 10S, B. Gee (Invercargill),—

Penticost, —Mellor 66s 2d (Ashburton), A. G. Smith 10s, W. H. Jones, A. Welbv. T. Proctor 35s 10s

(Wellington). S. J. Gaw, E. S. Cole (Papakura), A. Croy (Denniston), H. O. Searle, W. G. Nicholls, J.

Brennan, A. Shepherd, T. A. Moresley, E. Broomwick, W. A. Hutchinson (Paeroa). E. G. B. Moss, N.

Blennerhassett 32s 6d, J. Davis 50s,A. Millar 40s, G. Russell 30s, M. C. McCrea 25s 3d, W. Coleman 30s. T.

C. Knight 20s, C. W. Hendry 20s, A. C. F. Dunnet, A. Bartlett 20s, H. Walker (Auckland), J. A. Moore. W.

I. Ellis 10s (Paeroa), G. Wallace (Thames), J. A. Williams, F. H. Muellar, R. S. Ready, R. Holmes, W. C.

Brown. Dr. C. Robertson. D. McLean, A. H. Benge, E. Morgan, H. T. Hamilton, Wells and McGee (Waihi),

D. Congalton, J. Baird, S. E, Fraser, H. Brenner (Waikino), F. H. Wood. A. F. Hammond, H. A. Sharp, W.

Commons, H. C. Shearman, G. Crorlev, G. S. Spooner, T. R. Nixon, A. F. Tunks, H. C. Fox. A. G. Blick, G.

V. Stewart, M. P. Stewart, J. A. Jordan, H. Tanner (Tauranga), A. F. Cheshire, — Dempsey (Eketahuna), —

France 17s 6d (Taikoria), E. Cutten 45s 10d (Temuka), D. Gilmour 21s 4d (Southbridge), W. Coote 75s 10d

(Lvttelton), W. H. Skitch 43s 4d, C. Griffiths 35s 10d (Dunedin), H. Niven 57s 6d (Edendale), A. B. Blackett

4os (Stratford), W. I. Owen 35s 10d (Dunedin), H. P. Rasmussen 62s 6d (Winton), J. Ashley 57s. A. S.

Tange 10s, D. McGregor (Greymouth), H. B. King 35s (Port Nelson), D. Griffiths 43s 4d (Rotorua), D. S.

Malcolmson 43s 4d (Southbridge), — Kitchenman 40s (Rahotu), W. Mills 30s (Oamaru), J. Marshall 53s 6d

(Cromwell), J. B. Morris 22s 6d (Tologa Bay), L. G. Hilton (Marton), G. R. Hadfields 8s 4d (Timaru), H. E.

Skelton (Mokoi), J. E. Webster, J. McGregor (Devonport), R. C. Dyer (Cambridge), — Simms 10s

(Wellington), A. Mitchell, R. C. Alldredge (Seddonville), J. Peter (Kiripaka), C. B. Budden (Honikiwi), J.

Cooper, — Knapp 10s (Taihape), R. Harris 35s 10d (Te Aroha), A. Manhire 20s, — Davis 30s (Wellington).

All 7s 6d but those noted.

————————

WORDS USED BY FREEMASONS.

————

This paper is intended to impart some elementary instruction in Masonry to those who have not seriously

studied its authentic records. Those who have made such study will kindly bear with me while I tread in what

to them are beaten paths It is not intended here to deal with either the ethics or the philosophy of Masonry,

but merely to point to the meanings and origin of some words used in our writings and our ceremonies.

We claim to be Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.

The lexicons tell us that a Mason is a builder in stone or brick. Originally, however, a Mason was rather a

cutter of stone than a builder of walls. The word comes to us through the French from the German, and is

derived from an old High German word, meizan, or from the Gothic word meitan, meaning to hew or cut, So

that the original Mason was rather the man who squared and fashioned the stones than he who laid them in

the wall. The trowel has no place among our working tools, though our brethren in the United States use it,

and instruct their apprentices to be careful not to daub their clothes with untempered mortar.

It is probable that an operative Freemason was originally one who was free from his indentures, and became

a fellow of Craft. There is some support for the theory that he was called a Freemason because he worked in

freestone; and it is worthy of remark that very frequently reference is made in old English, French, and

German documents to those who worked in freestone. I think, however, that this is only a coincidence. No

man could he a Freemason who was in servitude, or who was not free to go from place to place in the pursuit

of his calling. Indeed, in Germany, and probably in other countries, the young Mason, just free from his

indentures, was required to go from place to place for a year, that he might become familiar with new

methods of work. This year was called the wander year. We require to this day that a man shall be not only

free, but shall have been free born, or he cannot become a member of our fraternity. A man who is not

master of his actions may be constrained to reveal our secrets ; and a man who is of a servile disposition

cannot be the equal of those who are free. In former times the craftsman who had faithfully served the term

of his apprenticeship, and had given proof of competency, was made a Freemason of the town in which he

lived. That is, he was permitted to carry on business as a tradesman within it. We still read occasionally of

prominent men being presented with the freedom of some English city. Field-Marshal Lord Roberts, for

example, is free to carry on any mercantile business in the City of London. That is a mere compliment now ;

in former times it was a valuable franchise.

We are called Accepted Masons. In the old days all Masons were operatives ; they actually served an

apprenticeship to the mason's trade, and actually wrought at it for their livelihood. But in time men who were

not operative masons were admitted to the fraternity, and these were called Accepted Masons. They joined

the Order for the sake of studying its philosophy and moral teachings, for the good they might derive from it,

or for the sake of the good they might do in it. The first Accepted Masons whose names are known to us

were Elias Ashmode, the antiquary, and Colonel Mainwaring, who were admitted in the first half of the

seventeenth century about seventy years before the formation of the G.L. of England.

The word Ancient is not used merely to show that our Order is of very ancient date. The G.L. of England—

the mother G.L. of the world— was constituted in 1717. It did not embrace all the Masonic Lodges in

England, though the majority of them acknowledged its authority. Some years later, a few Lodges in York

and other places formed a rival G.L. They claimed lineal descent from a convention of Masons said to have

been assembled at York by Prince Edwin, son of Athelstan, in the year 926. This contention had no

reasonable support ; but they put it forward with great earnestness, and claimed for themselves the title of

Ancient York Masons, while those who adhered to the mother G.L. were by them called Moderns. In the

early part of the nineteenth century the two bodies were united. In order to effect the union, concessions were

made on both sides, and one concession made by the original, or London, G.L. was that the word "Ancient'

should form part of the name of the united body.

As has been said, there were no Master Masons in the early Masonic bodies. There were apprentices, who

were learning their trade; and fellows of Craft—men who had learned it. It is probable that at some time their

masters, or employers, became members of the societies composed of their workmen; and that afterwards

Fellow Crafts, who were not employers, were advanced to the honorary degree of Master. Not more than a

hundred years ago ordinary members were "passed through the chair of King Solomon" in the Blue Lodges,

and thus attained the honorary degree of Past, or Passed, Master. We cannot tell when or by what means it

became common to give the Fellow Crafts the honorary title of M.M.

A F.C. is a fellow, or companion, of the mason's craft or trade. Formerly the phrase fellow of craft had the

meaning which the word journeyman has to-day. Fellow originally meant a partner in the acquirement of

property, from fee—property, and lag—to lay together ; and in time came to mean any companion or

associate. Craft means wisdom, knowledge, ability, skill, cunning. So that a F.C. Mason is a companion or

brother who has knowledge or skill or ability to do the work of a Mason.

An E.A. is one who has been advanced one step, or grade, or degree in Masonry. The verb to enter not only

means to go in of one's own volition, but also to be advanced or put forward by others. Thus, one may say :

"I will enter the house.". But he is entered or introduced into a society by the act of others. Isaak Walton

says: "I am glad to enter you in the art of fishing by catching a chub." An E.A. must of his own volition make

the first advance toward the temple of Masonry ; but, meeting a barrier, he cannot get within the doors until

he is entered or led through by those who have learned the way. An apprentice is a learner—one who

advances to take hold of something. In our Order he goes forward to take hold of the art of Masonry.

—"Keystone."

————————

THE APRON.

————

The following beautiful lecture used in many of the jurisdictions in the United States of America, in addition

to the regular work laid clown in the monitor, on the presentation of the apron to the candidate where he is to

keep the same as his personal property

My Brother,— It may be that in the coining years upon your brow shall rest the laurel leaves of victory ;

pendant from your breast may hang jewels fit to grace the diadem of an eastern potentate. Aye, more than

these, with light added to the coming light, your ambitious feet may tread round after round on the ladder

that leads to fame in our mystic circle. Even the purple of the fraternity may rest upon your honoured

shoulders, but never again from mortal hands, never again, until your enfranchised spirit shall have passed

upward and inward through the pearly gates will an emblem so distinguished, so emblematic of purity and all

perfection, be bestowed upon you, as this, which I confer to-night. It is yours to wear through an honourable

life, and at your death to be placed upon the lid of the coffin that contains your lifeless remains, and be laid

with them beneath the clouds of the valley. May its pure and spotless surface be a never-ending argument for

higher thoughts; for nobler deeds, and for purer acts ; and when your trembling feet shall approach the end of

life's toilsome journey, and from your nerveless grasp drop forever the working tools of life, may the record

of your life and conduct be as pure and as spotless as this fair emblem which I place in your hands to-night.

And when your trembling soul shall stand naked and alone before the great white throne, may it be your

portion, my brother, to hear from Him, who sitteth as Judge Supreme, the gracious words, "Well done, thou

good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of thy Lord." — "W.A. Freemason."

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

Reports.
———————————————————————————————————————————

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

SOUTHLAND.

Southern Cross, No. 9.—At the regular meeting Bro. J. L. Sullivan was passed to the Second Degree by the

W.M. W. Bro. Heron addressed the candidate, W. Bro. A. R. Porter delivered the Charge, and W. Bro.

Strang delivered the Lecture on the T.B. W. Bro. N. J. M. Rein, who has been appointed executor in the

estate of our late Bro. K. A. Gerstenkorn, P.M., presented the Lodge with Bro. Gerstenkorn's P.M. jewel,

which will be worn by each successive I.P.M. W. Bro. Rein received a vote of thanks for his kindness. It was

decided to obtain an enlarged framed portrait of W. Bro. Gerstenkorn. W. Bro. W. Strang was nominated for

office in G.L. One proposition for initiation was made. The Lodge decided to go into mourning for one

month out of respect for our late Bro. K. A. Gerstenkorn. A motion of deep sorrow was carried in silence,

and a letter of condolence was received from Lodge Taringatura.

————

Harvey, No. 49.—The installation of Bro. T. A. Foweraker as W.M. of the above Lodge took place on

Thursday, 6th December, in the Masonic Hall, Gore. There was a large attendance of visiting brethren from

Lodge Hercules (Tapanui) and Lodge Mokoreta (Wyndham), but the number of Invercargill brethren present

was very small. The only G.L. officer who honoured the Lodge by his presence was the G.Supt. (R.W. Bro.

G. T. Smyth). The G.Supt. is most popular with the Gore brethren, who are always delighted to have him

with them, and he has during the time he has occupied his important office visited Lodge Harvey on many

occasions. Country brethren whose nearest neighbours are some twenty miles away are always pleased to

receive visitors, and it seems an extraordinary thing that brethren high in the Craft, who, rightly, have sought

and obtained G.L. office for the honour and dignity it confers, cannot spare the time necessary to visit an

important centre such as Gore once a year. There was really no excuse on the present occasion for G.L.

officers, who principally reside in Invercargill, not visiting the Gore installation, as there were cheap fares on

the railways for the annual show—a train left Invercargill at 4.15 p.m., and if they were pressed by business

to return the same night, could have done so by the late express. It is to be hoped G.L. officers in South land

will consider the importance of countenancing all country Lodges in future. The P.M. residing in Gore

conducted the installation, W. Bro. G. J. Anderson being I.M., assisted by W. Bros. J. H. Reid (Fortitude), D.

McFarlane, J. Boyne, D. Kay (Harvey), and Ray (Cromwell Kil.). R.W. Bro. G. T. Smyth addressed the

W.M. and the brethren, and W. Bro. J. McLachlan addressed the Wardens. The W.T. were presented by W.

Bros. Steans and George. W. Bro. Foweraker having been installed in ancient form, his officers were in-

vested by W. Bro. Reid as follows :—S.W., Bro. D. Dun; J.W. Bro. C. H. Fleming; S.D., Bro. W. Gee; J.D.,

Bro. T. H. Ibbotson; I.G., Bro. J. M. Barron; Tyler, Bro. C. Hagen; Sec., W. Bro. G. J. Anderson, P.M. ;

Treas., W. Bro. D. McFarlane. P.M.; D. of C., W. Bro. A. A. MacGibbon, P.M. ; Chaplain, Bro. Rev. A.

Wingfield; Organist, W. Bro. J. Boyne, P.M. ; Stewards, Bros. G. Peterson, J. Murray, and R. L. Christie.

After the ceremony the newly-installed W.M. returned thanks, and the brethren adjourned to the Oddfellows'

Hall, where a banquet had been spread by Bro. Cooke and Mr. Brice. The usual toasts were honoured, and a

very pleasant hour was spent in speech, song, and story.

————

Taringatura, No. 100—Met on Monday, 26th November, the attendance being good. The special business

was the passing of Bros. Whitaker, Stewart, Campbell, and Mair. The ceremoiny was performed by W.M.

Bro. J. Earl, assisted by P.M. Bro. G. F. Johnson, who instructed the candidates in the secrets of the degree

and delivered the antient charge, and Bro. A. W. MacBean, who presented the W.T. The thanks of the Lodge

were accorded to Bro. E. Macdonald, D. of C., who presented to the Lodge the collar, jewel, and baton of his

office. The usual batch of accounts closing the half-year, including G.L. dues, was passed for payment. The

ballot was taken for the affiliation of Bro. John McPherson, formerly of Lodge Victoria, No. 471, I.C. Two

appeals were dealt with, and votes of condolence were passed with Lodges Southern Cross, No. 9, and

Victoria, No. 147, in their loss of two excellent and well-known P.M. (Bros. Karl Gerstenkorn and W. B.

Mitchell). The matter of building a new hall was again discussed. It was resolved to take a vote of all the

members on the question, and a committee of five (P.M. Bros. Johnson and Riddell, the Sec., Treas., and

S.W.) was set up to prepare the circular to be issued to brethren with the voting papers. After other minor

matters had been dealt with, and arranging to meet next on Thursday, 27th December (instead of Monday,

31st December), the Lodge was closed at 10.40 p.m.

—————————

OTAGO.

Waitaki, No. 11.—The Second Degree was the business of the November meeting, three E.A. being passed.

The work was very well done by the W.M. and his officers, assisted by P.M. Bros. Keys and Lane and W.

Bro. Gould, G.Chaplain. The S.D. was perhaps a little abrupt, but, as he is an officer in one of the local

volunteer corps and came from camp to attend the meeting, no doubt the parading and drilling of the

volunteers was the cause. In the absence of the I.G., the Tyler (Bro. Townsend) filled the position, and filled

it well, Bro. Ross making a very good Acting-Tyler. It was decided to remit the dues of a brother who, owing

to increasing years, found he could not continue his subscription. The brother has been a member for about

thirty-six years, and was for two years S.W., so only justice was done. A motion, of which P.M. Bro. Lane

had given notice, "To adopt the alternative method of electing W.M., as laid down in the B. of C.'', was, after

a considerable discussion, lost. A vote of sympathy was passed to P.M. Bro. Mackay on the death of his

mother. There was a good number of visitors, the W.M. of Lodge Oamaru Kil. paying his first unofficial

visit. The after-meeting was an extra special one, the P.M. being the hosts. Good songs were sung by

different brethren, Bro. Davis being in exceptionally good voice. The feature of the social gathering was a

ventriloquial entertainment given by Bro. Hair. Bro. Hair is without doubt a pastmaster at that business. His

local allusions were splendid, and his efforts to amuse had only one fault—the performance was not long

enough.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ngapara, No. 68—Held its usual meeting on 26th November, the business being the Third Degree, when

four F.C. were raised by the W.M., assisted by P.M. Bros. Patterson, McCullouch, Orr, and Curie. Your

correspondent would like to see this Lodge discuss the question of working according to the ritual as

approved by the G.L. of New Zealand. A vote of condolence was passed to Bro. J. B. Taylor. Visitors, who

used to be such a rarity in this Lodge, are becoming an almost every evening occurrence, and members are

glad to see them. On this occasion H.G.W. were tendered by Bro. Tait (of Lodge Waitaki). The penny

subscription was taken for the first time, and if it keeps on at the same rate, Lodge Ngapara will have a

substantial sum to forward at the end of the year.

————

Oamaru Kil., No. 82.—The attendance at the regular meeting held on 5th December should have pleased

the W.M. Perhaps the fact of it being an initiation, and the first that the present set of officers worked, was

the cause, though there is no doubt W. Bro. McCallum's own personality and winning way had a lot to do

with it. There were two candidates, and the work was exceedingly well done. In the absence of the S.W. and

J.W., P.M. Bro. Procter filled the S.W. and Bro. S. Baker the J.W. chair. There is no doubt that the Lodge

has in Bro. Baker a brother who would be an acquisition to any Lodge. The W.M. was assisted by P.M. Bros.

Kennedy, Blyth, Procter, the W.M. of Lodge Waitaki, and P.M. Bro. Lane, of the same Lodge.

Bro. Lane's charge on "Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth" is a charge that should be given in every Lodge. It

was given beautifully, and I do not think P.M. Bro. Lane was ever heard to better advantage, and it was

greatly appreciated by the brethren. This charge and the final one given by the W.M. were the gems of the

evening, and both Lodges are to be congratulated on having members who can deliver beautiful charges in

such an impressive and faultless manner. A letter was read from Bro. D. Miller, written in England, thanking

the brethren for electing him to the position of J.W., and stating that he would soon follow his letter. One of

the initiates was Bro. Miller's brother, and, now that he has become a Mason, there are five brothers of the

same family in the Lodge. In the absence of the Organist, Bro. Meldrum (S.W., of Lodge Waitaki) officiated

at the organ, and he also added to the harmony of the after-meeting. There were a good number of visitors,

who received an Oamaru Masonic welcome. Bro. Davies, a welcome and occasional visitor, in his reply to

the toast of "The Visitors," stated that the welcome he always received from the Oamaru Lodges made him

feel that when coming to Oamaru he was coming home. The songs and speeches were good, especially the

speech of one of the initiates (Bro. E. P. Miller) and that of Bro. J. Fairley, who, though made in Lodge

Oamaru Kil., was included among the visitors.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Peninsula Kil., No. 696, S.C.—The installation of R.W.M. and investiture of officers took place in

November, in the Masonic Hall, Portobello. There was a large attendance, the visitors representing the

English, Irish, Scottish, New Zealand, and Victorian Constitutions. The R.W.Dist.G.M. (Bro. James Gore)

presided. R.W. Bro. G. Springer installed R.W. Bro. Millar Anderson in the chair of King Solomon in

ancient form. R.W. Bro. Henry Neill invested the following officers :—I.P.M., Bro. D. Hughes; S.W., Bro. J.

McTainsh; J.W., Bro. M. Thomson ; Sec., Bro. T. Hinckley, P.M.; Treas.. Bro. J. G. Lewis, P.M. ; Chaplain,

Bro. D. D. Seaton, P.M.; S.D., Bro, A. Dickson; J.D., Bro. P. Jack ; I.G., Bro. Geo. Taiaroa ; Tyler, Bro. J.

Grainger, P.M. ; Steward, Bro. R. Burn. The R.W.Dist.G.M. addressed the newly-installed Master. R.W.

Bro. G. Springer addressed the Wardens, and R.W. Bro. W. Armstead, Dist. G.S.W., the brethren. The

R.W.M. was warmly congratulated on his attaining the high position he occupied. Bro. Anderson replied in

suitable terms. The R.W.Dist.G.M., on behalf of the Lodge, presented P.M. Bro. D. D. Seaton with a P.M.

jewel, in recognition of valuable services rendered. The business being concluded, the brethren retired to the

supper-room, where a very pleasant hour was spent.

————————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—The regular meeting was held in the Lodg-eroom on 22nd November, W.M. Bro. T. A.

Murphy, P.M., presiding. There was a good attendance of the brethren and visitors. Owing to the candidate's

non-arrival at Lyttelton the raising had to be postponed. The sum of £3 3s was voted to circular appeals, and

the present Treasurer and Tyler were duly nominated for the coming year. M.M. certificates were presented

to Bros. C. A. and H. C. Bacon. After H.G.W. from the brethren and visitors, the Lodge closed at 9 p.m. The

W.M. wishes you the season's compliments, and hopes that the CRAFTSMAN will have a record year, to

which the CRAFTSMAN responds, "So mote it be."

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The installation of Bro. W. Broadley as W.M. and investiture of officers took

place at the Masonic Hall, Charles street, on 6th December, when a large and representative gathering was

present. The following Lodges were represented :— St. Augustine, Crown, Canterbury Kil., Ashley, Mairaki,

St. Andrew (Auckland), Amberley, Concord, and Christchurch. After the usual Lodge business had been

transacted, the G.Supt. (Bro. Bingham), supported by G.L. officers, entered the Lodge, and installed Bro.

Broadley as W.M. for the ensuing year. The G.Supt. congratulated Bro. F. Horrell, the retiring Master, and

his officers on the successful year just closed, and presented Bro. Horrell, on behalf of his Lodge, with a

P.M. jewel. A banquet was held at the close of the Lodge in the Oddfellows' Hall, and a very enjoyable

evening was spent.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Progress, No. 22.—The installation of W.M. and investiture Of officers was carried out by the G.Supt. of

Canterbury on 13th December. M.W. Bro. Niccol, G.Sec., and W. Bro. Robertson, P.G.S.B., were also

present, and participated in the work.

————

St. George, No. 29.—R.W. Bro. Bingham conducted the ceremony of the installation of Bro. Routledge on

12th December. He was assisted by M.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol, G.Sec., R.W. Bro. C. D. Fox (D.G.M.,

Canterbury, E.C.), and W. Bros. McKenzie, G.Steward, Grant, and Budd. W. Bro. Orwin (Dist.Asst.-G.D. of

C., E.C.) very kindly undertook the duty of G.D. of C., W. Bro. Freeman, who holds that office, being absent

through illness. A pleasant hour was spent afterwards in speech, song, and refreshment, and then Temuka put

up a record for the season in the way of a collection for the W. and O. and A.M. Fund.

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—The regular meeting was held on 28th November, when the W.M. (Bro. C. Dash)

presided over a very fair attendance of brethren, amongst the number being visitors from St. Augustine, No.

4, Lodge Hiram, and Western Australia. The degree work consisted in initiating Mr. R. R. G. Rattray. The

N.E. Charge was given by V.W. Bro. F. W. Hobbs, G.Treas., the W.M. gave an explanation of the

symbolism of preparation. W. Bro. H. P. Fraser delivered the Final Charge, while the W.T. and the Charity

Solo were entrusted to the S.D. (Bro. Hoskins). The G.L. Entertainment Committee forwarded their balance-

sheet and a refund of £3 odd. One gentleman was proposed for initiation. After the Lodge was closed a

pleasant hour was devoted to the "fourth." Bros. Hobbs, Fulton, McClymont, and Hoskins contributed to the

harmony, and some very interesting speeches were made—notably one by a representative of the G.L. of

Scotland : a popular brother, who cannot be driven, but who will be eventually led, to realise that his

grandmother is not the only amiable old lady in the world.

————

Thistle, No. 113.—The installation of Bro. Rountree was held on 29th November, R.W. Bro. S. Clifton

Bingham, G. Supt., being Installing Officer. W. Bro. Hardy, P.G.S., acted as G.D. of C., and the officers

were invested by W. Bro. Bishop (Master of St. Augustine, No. 4). W. Bro. Beech, I.P.M., who had filled the

chair for two years in succession, was presented with a handsome jewel on behalf of the Lodge. A collection

was taken up for the W. and O. and A.M. Fund afterwards.

————

Masters' and Past Masters', No. 130.—W. Bro. Cheesman, P.G.D., was installed as Master for the ensuing

year by W. Bro. Coming on 3rd December. R.W. Bro. Bingham visited officially and formally received

R.W. Bro. C. Dillworth Fox, Dist.G.M., who assisted in the ceremony by addressing the Master. Features of

the evening were the address of W. Bro. Cheesman on "The Three Objects of Freemasonry," and another by

Bro. Bernstein (late of King Solomon Lodge, Victoria). Additions to the membership were received during

the evening, and indications are very promising for a year of useful and interesting work.

————

Crown, No. 138.— Bro. H. Willis was installed as W.M. of this Lodge on 4th December, in presence of a

large assemblage of brethren. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. Bingham, G.Supt., assisted by

V.W. Bro. Hobbs. G.Treas. (who was in charge of the Board of I.M.), V.W. Bro. Hulme (P.B.B., as G.D. of

C.), W. Bro. Brown (P.G. Pursuivant, who addressed the Wardens), and R.W. Bro. Dougall (who addressed

the brethren). The Master invested his own officers. W. Bro. Perkins, I.P.M., received at the hands of the

G.Supt. a handsome P.M. jewel, and suitably acknowledged same. A collection, amounting to £5 5s, was

taken up at the banquet table.

————

St, John, No. 1137, E.C.—Bro. C. W. Wood was duly installed in the chair of K.S. by R.W. Bro. C.

Dillworth Fox, Dist.G.M., and officers of Dist.G.L. on 11th December. The G.Supt. of Canterbury (R.W.

Bro. S. Clifton Bingham) was a visitor, and addressed the officers after investiture. A large number of

visitors were present, and it was evident that much cordiality characterises the relations of the Lodges in

South Canterbury.

————————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Forest, No. 116.—The installation meeting was held at Wakefield on 27th November, the attendance fully

taxing the accommodation at the Masonic Hall. W. Bro. Rev. O. Hewlett was installed as W.M., the duties of

I.M. being carried out by W. Bro. H. J. Harris, with assistance from Bros. de Castro, Williams, Wilkinson,

Peart, Orsman, Henderson, Allan, Moyes, E. Baigent, and other P.M. Officers were then invested as

follows:— I.P.M., W. Bro. H. J. Harris; S.W., Bro. W. K. Henderson; J.W., Bro. F. H. Smith ; Chaplain, W.

Bro. F. B. Peart ; Treas., W. Bro. H. J. Harris ;. Sec., Bro. E. Edridge ; I.G., Bro. W. G. Syder. W. Bro. B. H.

Moller officiated as D. of C. During the evening W. Bro. de Castro, at the request of the brethren, presented

the retiring W.M. (Bro. H. J. Harris) with a P.M. jewel, suitably engraved, as a mark of the high esteem in

which he is held by the Lodge, and to show appreciation of the able manner he has conducted the affairs of

the Lodge during the two years he has held office as W.M., in which time the Lodge has nearly doubled its

membership. At the conclusion of Lodge business, the brethren adjourned to the Oddfellows' Hall, where

they sat down to an excellent supper.

————————

WESTLAND.

Mokihinui, No. 96.—The installation meeting was held on 24th November, when Brn. S. W. Street was

installed as W.M., there being fifty-four brethren present, a large number of these being visitors. The

R.W.G.Supt. (Bro. J. H. Harkness) acted as I.M. and W. Bro. D. P. Mumm as D. of C. The W.T. in the Third

Degree were presented by W. Bro. J. Cumming, in the Second Degree by W. Bro. J. H. Parke (Lodge Torea,

No. 21 ), and in the First Degree by W. Bro. T. G. Niven (Lodge Aorangi, No. 89). W. Bro. Peterkin gave the

address to the W.M., and the G.Supt. that to the Wardens and brethren. The R.W.I.M. then invested the

following- brethren as officers for the ensuing year W. Bro. J. Cumming ; S.W., Bro. R. Bain ; J.W., W. Bro.

T. Quinn ; Treas., Bro. J. A. Clarke; Sec., W. Bro. C. Johnston ; D. of C. Bro. A. Hayes ; S.D., Bro. J. B.

Marris; J.D., W. Bro. D. P. Mumm; LG., Bro. W. Lowe; S.S., Bro. G. Avery ; J.S., Bro. C. McIntyre; Tyler,

W. Bro. H. Holder. After the installation the brethren adjourned for supper, when the usual loyal and

Masonic toasts were honoured. A collection taken up in aid of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund realised the sum

of £2 15s 9d.

————————

HAWKES BAY AND GISBORNE.

Victoria, No. 21.—The installation of Bro. W. A. Wilkie as W.M. took place at Napier on the 11th

December, in the presence of a large and representative assemblage of the Craft. R.W. Bro. J. W.

McDougall, G.Supt., acted as I.M., and was assisted by W. Bros. W. J. Gibbons and de Lisle. W. Bro. W. T.

Morgan acted as D. of C. After the installation ceremony the newly-installed W.M. invested his officers as

follows:— W. Bro. J. R. Dickson; S.W., Bro. J. Redshaw ; J.W., Bro, W. G. White: Treasurer, W. Bro. H. C.

A. Wundram, P.M.; Sec., W. Bro. R. Lucas, P.M. Chaplain, Bro. Rev. C. L. Tuke; Organist, W. Bro. J. H.

Fray ; S.D., Bro. A. B. Gibson; J.D., Bro. T. J. Leevers ; I.G., Bro. J. B. Andrew ; Stewards, Bros. C. H. Kirk

and J. J. Toscan ; Tyler, Bro. H. Yarrall. An orchestra, conducted by W. Bro. Fray, and the choir of the

Lodge rendered appropriate music.

————————

AUCKLAND.

Ohaeawai, No. 101.— What may be considered as one of the most successful gatherings of Freemasons to

witness the installation ceremony at this Lodge took place on 1st December, when Bro. T. Graham was duly

installed into the chair of K.S. by R.W. Bro. R. B. Willis, Deputy-G.Supt., in a most able and efficient

manner. There were present the W.M., officers, and brethren of Lodge Northern Light, No. 1878, E.C. ;

Lodge Star of the North, No. 102 ; Lodge Star of the North, No. 1647, E.C. ; Lodge Hokianga, No. 69 ; and

many other visiting brethren. The newly-installed Master invested his officers in a very capable manner. W.

Bros. V. H. Reed and W. W. Ludbrook were Presenting Officers. The W. T. of the Third Degree were

presented by W. Bro. Wallace (No. 69), those in the Second Degree by W. Bro. Steward (No. 1878, E.C.),

and those in the First Degree by W. Bro. Dawson (No. 1878, E.C.). The address to the W.M. and that to the

brethren was given by W. Bro. Woods (No. 1878, B.C.), and that to the Wardens by W. Bro. Wallace (No.

69). All those W. brethren who took part in the ceremony performed their several parts with honour to them-

selves and credit to the Craft. After the ceremony was over the brethren adjourned to the hall close by, and

partook of a recherche little supper, and, after spending two happy and jovial hours, wended their way home

at 11.30 p.m.

————

Northern Light, No. 1878, E.C.—The installation meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Kawakawa, on

30th November, when Bro. J. E. Wells was installed into King Solomon's chair. W. Bro. R. B. B. Willis

acted as I.M., and W. Bros. D. B. Wallace (Hokianga) and V. H. Reed (Kawakawa) acted as Presenting

Masters. The W.T. in the Third Degree were presented by W. Bro. W. Ludbrook, P.M. ; in the Second, by

W. Bro. Stewart, P.M. ; and in the First, by W. Bro. H.. A. Williams, P.M. (Hokianga). The address to the

W.M.-elect was given by W. Bro. G. E. Woods, P.M., to the Wardens, by W. Bro. Wallace; and to the

brethren, by the I.M. The following officers were invested by the W.M. :—S.W., Bro. A. W. Edwards ; J.W.,

Bro. Dr. Eccles ; Treas., W Bro. Reed ; Sec., W. Bro. Dawson , S.D., Bro. G. Marshall; J.D., Bro. P. F.

Coldicutt ; Tyler, Bro. E. Harrop. The W.M. was highly commended for the excellent manner in which he

invested his officers, which augurs well for the working of the Lodge during the ensuing year. A collection

in aid of the Widows' and Orphans' Fund realized £1 18s 7d. After the ceremony an adjournment was made

to the library-room below, where an excellent supper was laid, to which full justice vas clone by the brethren.

————

Zealandia, No. 2072, E.C.—The installation of Bro. E. E. Carr as W.M. of this Lodge took place on the

evening- of Thursday, 29th November. There were a good many visitors from neighbouring Lodges in the

Far North. The Lodges represented were Ohaeawai, No. 101 ; Mangonui, No. 78; Northern Light, No. 1878,

E.C. ; Star of the North, No. 102; Star of the North, No. 1647, E.C. ; and Taupiri, No. 118. W. Bro. R. B. B.

Willis, the Masonic "Wizard of the North," acted as I.M., and more than upheld his great reputation in that

capacity. W. Bro. C. Gothard acted as Presenting Officer. The B. of I.M. was composed of the mystic

number of seven members, and Bro. Carr was installed as a ruler in the Craft. The brethren were readmitted,

and the usual processions, salutes, and proclamations made. The W.I.M. gave the address to the W.M., and

also that to the brethren, while Bro. Holmes gave the address to the Wardens. W. Bro. Saies presented the

W.T. of the First Degree, W. Bro. Shepherd those of the Second, and W. Bro. Cowden of the Third. The

ceremony being over by 10 p.m., the whole company adjourned to the Whangaroa Masonic Hotel, where a

splendid banquet was provided under the able supervision of Mrs. Gothard. After the delicious viands had

been liberally dealt with, the toasts came on. The W.M. proposed "The King," and also "G.L." Bro. Gothard

replied to the latter. Bro. Willis proposed "The W.M.", and W. Bro. Carr, in replying, announced his

determination to carry out as fully as possible the duties of his office. Bro. Saies proposed "The I.P.M.” Bro.

T. Read. in reply, said that had weather and absence of officers had greatly interfered with the work of the

Lodge during the year, but that four brethren had been carried right through the process of being made a

Mason during the year. Bro. Read then proposed "The Sister Constitutions," coupling the toast with the

names of Bros. Cowdell, Ratjen, Quartley, etc. He emphasised the duty of keeping up cordial relations

between differently-constituted Masonic Lodges, and encouraging the true spirit of fraternity in a wide sense.

Bros. Ratjen, Cowdell, Quartley, and Wallace ably responded. Several other toasts were drunk, including

"The Visitors," "The Host and Hostess," and the "W.I.M." Songs and recitations were here and there

interspersed. Bro. Holmes ; and Mr. Gribble (a guest) gave some fine recitations, while Bros. Read, Carr,

Irvine, and Broun sang songs. I omitted to state that during the installation ceremony the officers invested

were:— Bro. T. Read ; Treas., Bro. Gothard ; J.W., Bro. E. Irving; S.D., Bro. Broun; J.D., Bro. E. Irvine;

1.G., Bro. J. Connolly.—[Lodge Correspondent.)

————

Ponsonby, No. 708, S.C.—This Lodge held its installation meeting on 8th December, in the Freemasons'

Hall, Newton, when Bro. W. L. Harmy was installed as R.W.M. for the ensuing year. W. Bro. F. Crosby, the

retiring Master, was Installing Officer. W. Bros. C. W. Spooner (W.M., Lodge Ara, No. 348, I.C.) and R. L.

Monteath (W.M., Waitemata Lodge, No. 689, E.C.) acted as Presenting Officers. The W.T. in the Third

Degree were presented by W. Bro. A. P. Bowring (R.W.M., Lodge St. Andrew, No. 418, S.C.) ; in the

Second Degree, by W. Bro. J. W. Boag (W.M., Eden Lodge, No. 1530, E. C.) ; and in the First Degree, by

W. Bro. C. R. George (W.M., Harmony Lodge., No. 2180, E.C.). The newly-installed R.W.M. invested his

officers as follows :— D.M., W. Bro. W. Handley, P.M. ; S.M., W. Bro. T. A. J. Taylor, P.M. ; S.W., Bro. F.

Wilkinson; J.W., Bro. A. F. Coppard ; Sec., Bro. J. Campling ; Treas., W. Bro. M. J. Bennett, P.M. ; D. of

C.. W. Bro. A. G. Baddiley, P.M. ; B.B., W. Bro. J. McLeod, P.M. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. F. Rundle, P.M. ;

S.D., Bro. J. Smith ; J.D., Bro. R. J. Hill ; I.G., Bro. H. Poultrin, ; Organist, Bro. H. Taylor ; Tyler, Bro. G. T.

Codlin; S.S., Bro. J. Hume; J.S., Bros. J. McStay, F. W. Sparkes, and T. H. Rathbone. The addresses to the

R.W.M., the Wardens, and the brethren were impressively delivered—that to the Master by R.W. Bro. W.

McCullough, Dist.G.M., S.C., N.I.N.Z. ; that to the Wardens by W. Bro. A. S. Bankart, P.M., P.D.G.S.W.,

E.C. ; and that to the brethren by W. Bro. W. Caron, P.M., D.G.S. At the conclusion of the ceremony the

R.W. Bro. W. McCullough presented the retiring R.W.M. (Bro. F. Crosby) with a P.M. jewel, as a mark of

the appreciation by the officers and brethren of his conduct in the chair during his term of office. The

musical portion of the ceremony was efficiently rendered by the Organist (Bro. A. Shoreland), assisted by

Bro. F. E. F. Weir, soloist.

————————

WELLINGTON.

N Z. Pacific, No. 2.—The ordinary monthly meeting was held on the 26th November, the W.M. (W. Bro. C.

D. Morpeth) in the chair. The work consisted of the passing of Bro. S. J. White, the ceremony being

performed by the W.M. The address in the S.E. was given by Bro. Wray, the W.T. by Bro. Norton, and the

Final Charge by Bro. Seaton. The election of officers resulted as follows :—W.M., Bro. H. Seaton; S.W.,

Bro. T. Gibson; J.W., Bro. J. C. Peers; S.D., Bro. Wray ; J.D., Bro. Blundell ; I.G., Bro. Connell; S.S., Bro.

Agmen Smith; J.S., Bro. E. Norton. There were no changes in the occupancy of the offices of Chaplain,

Treasurer, or Secretary. W. Bro. T. S. Weston replaced W. Bro. J. C. Williamson in the office of D. of C.,

Bro. Williamson, owing to pressure of business, being unable to see his way to accept reappointment. There

was an official visit paid by Lodge Wellington, and there also present as distinguished visitors W. Bro. J. A.

Nash (Palmerston North) and R.W. Bro. Fletcher (Lodge St. Andrew, No. 32), our esteemed G.Supt. A very

enjoyable hour was afterwards spent in the refectory. On Thursday of the same week an emergency meeting

was held to raise Bros. Watkins and Andrews, and on St. Andrew's Day (3oth November) the Lodge attended

officially the installation of Lodge St. Andrew.

About one hundred and sixty brethren were present on Monday, the 17th inst., the occasion being the

installation of Bro. H. Seaton as W.M. M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, Pro G.M., had signified his intention of being

present, but owing to illness he was unable to make the journey from Christhurch. In his absence R.W. Bro.

W.D. Lyon. P.G.W., conducted the ceremony of installation, assisted by R.W. Bro. R. Fltcher, G. Supt., M.

W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. J Keesing, G.S.W., and W. Bro. J. Esson, G.S.D. W. Bro. J.H.

Worboys, P.M., acted as D. of C. The ceremony was brilliantly carried out, and the Charge to the brethren,

given by Bro. Keesing, was a revelation to members of City Lodges. The proceedings were enriched by two

well-rendered solos by Bros. Blundell and Ridgway. The newly-installed Master, in the course of his

address, dwelt upon the increasing prevalence of wearing Masonic emblems outside the precincts of the

Lodge, and hoped G.L. would do all in its power to discountenance the habit, as it had already done in the

case of Masonic regalia. Bro. Seaton mentioned it was his intention at the next Annual communication of

moving—"That all Master Masons' aprons should be supplied through G.L. to the W.M.'s of the various

Lodges under our Constitution, and the profits from such (amounting at the present retail charge some £200

yearly) to be devoted to the Aged Masons' and Orphans yearly) R.W. Bro. Keesing, at the request of the

newly-installed Master, presented Bro. C. D. Morpeth with a very handsome P.M. jewel on behalf of the

brethren. R.W. Bro. Fletcher, on behalf of M.W. Bro. Binns, asked the Lodge to accept the framed M.M.

certificate of the late Bro. Henry Thomson, first G.M. under the G.L. of New Zealand, who was at one time a

member of Lodge N.Z. Pacific. After the ceremony the brethren sat down to an excellent repast, at the

conclusion of which the usual toasts were honoured and songs were contributed by Bros. Lyon, Blundell,

Connell, Ridgway, and Nockels.

————

St. Andrew, No. 32.—The annual meeting was held on St. Andrew's Day, 30th November, when Bro. C. J.

Salter was duly installed as W.M., and officers invested for the ensuing year. There was a very large

attendance of G.L. representatives, visiting Lodges, and brethren. Amongst those present were R.W. Bro. R.

Fletcher, G.Supt., M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. R. C. Hamerton, P.D.G.M., and other

important G.L. officers, and Bro. Sir E. O. Gibbes, P.G.D., E.C. R.W. Bro. R. Fletcher, G. Supt., conducted

the ceremony of installation, and was assisted by W. Bros. Fraser, J. J. Esson, Neilson, Hildreth, A. McKay,

and Scrimgeour. W. Bros. Bell and Jaffray discharged the duties of D. of C. The W.T. in the Third, Second,

and First Degrees were presented by W. Bros. Scrimgeour, McKay, and Bell respectively. The W.M. (Bro.

Salter) invested and appropriately addressed the following officers :—S.W., Bro. H. E. Dovey ; J.W., Bro. A.

McBeath, Treas., Bro. Scrimgeour, P.M.; Sec., Bro. J. Rod; D.M., W. Bro. Bell; D. of C , W. Bro. J. J.

Esson, S.G.D.; Chaplain, Bro. J. Patten; S.D., Bro. E. Mackay ; J.D., Bro. G. H. Williams; I.G., Bro. H.

Ohlson; S.S., Bro. H. Scott ; J.S., Bro. D. T. Sinclair; Tyler, Bro. Connell; Organist, Bro. H. J. Barrett. After

W. Bros. Hildreth, Neilson, and Esson had addressed the W.M. Wardens, and brethren respectively, the

newly-installed W.M. suitably returned thanks to G.L. officers, I.M., and all those whose presence that

evening had contributed to make the ceremony so successful. He expressed his appreciation of the honour

conferred upon him, and earnestly solicited the support and co-operation of his brethren in his endeavour to

further the interest of the Craft in general and Lodge St. Andrew in Particular. At the request of the W.M.,

the G.Supt. presented the popular I.P.M. with a P.M. jewel, as a token of the esteem in which he is held by

the Lodge, and their appreciation of the zealous and whole-hearted manner in which he had discharged his

trust during the year just ended. Bros. Barrett and Blundell rendered with skill and taste instrumental and

vocal selections well-chosen and eminently suitable to the occasion. After H.G.W. and congratulations had

been tendered by representatives of G.L. and visitors, an adjournment was made to the refectory, where the

usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly honoured and ample justice clone to the good things provided by

Bro. Godber.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ulster, No. 62. — The usual monthly meeting was held on 21st November, at which there was a good

attendance. The business of the evening was to pass Bro. R. H. Parrant, the ceremony being ably performed

by the W.M. (Bro. Brooks), assisted by I.P.M. Bro. Stutter and the Wardens. A notice of motion came up for

consideration as to the way in which the Lodge elect its W.M. After considerable discussion, it was decided

to use the alternative method provided under G.L. rules—viz., every candidate to be nominated, providing

his consent is previously obtained, and to receive an absolute majority of the total votes recorded. A

candidate (Mr. B. Green) was balloted for, and elected.

————

Otaihape, No. 142.—The installation took place in the Lodgeroom, Taihape, on 5th December, when the

very pleasing ceremony of installing Bro. T. A. Garratt, S.W., into the chair of K.S. was earned out in the

orthodox custom. The I.M. was R.W. Bro. R. Fletcher (our esteemed G.Supt.). Our installation programme

stated "assisted by M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M.", but I am sad to report that our much-looked-for

champion did not put in an appearance. Lodge Otaihape was greatly consoled to learn that M.W. Bro.

Williams was absent through no fault of his own, for his capture by the Arbitration Court authorities to

appear at the eleventh hour caused him to stay behind, and sincerely I say, we missed him. There were fully

seventy members and visitors present, besides a full complement of P. and sitting Masters, who most ably

assisted the G.Supt. in his arduous duties. I would like to mention that W. Bro. Fletcher paid his first visit to

Taihape on the above date, and he was much impressed with the general working of the Lodge, and in

particular at the handsome Lodgeroom in which the brethren that day had assembled. We appreciate our

Superintendent's visit, and we feel deeply honoured at having such a worthy Mason amongst us. The

members rallied forth, and did their utmost to make Bro. Fletcher's stay as pleasant as possible, though,

owing to the brevity of his stay, he did not have much time for pleasure, but he seems to like Masonic labour,

and there was no stopping him. However, to return to the subject, Bro. Garratt was duly installed with all

glory. The W.T. were presented by W. Bro. E. Bosher, P.M., in the Third Degree, and the trumpet calls most

ably sounded by Bro. A. W. Terrill. The presentation of the Second Degree W.T. was made by W. Bro. Dr.

Smith, P.M., and in the First Degree by W. Bro. A Gould, P.M. An address of a splendid oratorical nature

was delivered to the W.M. by the I.M., and was most intently listened to. W. Bro. Garratt responded with

much feeling and sincerity. The address to the Wardens was delivered by W. Bro. Worsfold, P.M., and the

address to the brethren by W. Bro. J. C. Smith, P.M. During the ceremony W. Bro. W. G. Haybittle, P.M.,

who, by the way, is one of the most welcome visitors to Lodge Otaihape, made a most efficient D. of C. The

investiture of officers was carried out by the retiring Master (W. Bro. J. H. Knap, P.M.), who placed the

collars of office upon the following officers :—S.W., Bro. J. Oldham ; J.W., Bro. W. Davidson ; Chaplain,

Bro. A. L. Arrowsmith ; Treas., Bro. F. H. Gibbons ; Sec., Bro. A. J. Burrows ; Organist, Bro. St. J. A.

White; S.D. Bro. F. W. Furkert , J.D., Bro. H. Jaggard ; I.G., Bro. C. L. Dymock ; S.S., Bro. G. Bray ; J.S.,

Bro. M. M. Carpenter; Tyler, Bro. T. Shute. At this stage I should like to refer briefly to the progress that has

been made by Lodge Otaihape since its inception. For ten months prior to the concentration a number of the

present members had worked assiduously to establish a branch of the beloved Order, and did not attempt to

apply for the charter until the pavement was quite clear, when they opened with all glory in their new hall,

which, by the way, cost, with furniture, something like £600. Having completed their temple, invitations

were issued to our G.L. officers to assist in the consecration, dedication, and installation of Lodge Otaihape

on 13th December, 1905. Since that date the officers have been working cautiously, but "instructing"

persistently, and the efficiency of the Lodge is due in a great measure to the untiring energy and example of

W. Bro. Knap, a W.M. who is hard to excel. Bro. Knap was stricken with rheumatism, still it did not deter

him, and, faithful to duty, he responded to every call. Fourteen members were initiated and six affiliated for

the year. In the ascension of Bro. Garratt, Lodge Otaihape is proud to possess such a capable and popular

Master. For a year Bro. Garratt has been most attentive to his Masonic duties, and started practical work in

the Lodge by delivering the First T.B. lecture. We have, besides, a brace of Wardens who have long ere this

exhibited acute keenness in Masonic matters. All officers of Lodge Otaihape will, I feel sure, work with one

common aim, to promote the welfare of the Lodge in love, peace, and harmony. As usual, after the

installation all present were invited to the festive table, when the usual toasts were honoured. During the

evening W. Bro. Fletcher made a stirring appeal on behalf of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund, when a

collection realised a sum of about £4. The sum of £20 17s was forwarded G.L. to assist Bro. McTavish, and

£1 for the widow of the late Bro. Conway-Jones.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

A. AND A. RITE.

Sphinx Chapter.—A meeting was held at the Freemasons' Hall, Dunedin, on Saturday, 8th December. The

ceremony of Perfection was impressively carried out, one candidate being admitted to the 18deg. Afterwards,

the installation of M.W.S. and officers for the ensuing year took place, Ill. Bro. G. Barclay, 31deg., acting as

Installing Officer, and carrying out the work as laid down by the Supreme Council of Scotland. The

following is the complete list of officers.:— M.W.S., Bro. J. Farquharson; P.M.W.S., Bro. G. Barclay; High

Prelate, Bro. J. Robertson ; S.W., Bro. .H. O. Carter; J.W., Bro. T. Ross ; Treas., Bro. G. Barclay ; Sec., Bro.

W. Fleming; M. of C., Bro. F. C. Davey ; Chancellor, Bro. R. T. Wheeler; Standard-B., Bros. G. A. Hansard

and E. H. Whitmore; I.G., Bro. J. Nisbet.

————————

A. AND P. RITE.

Wellington Chapter, No. 14.—The installation took place at the Masonic Hall on 12th December. The G.M.

of New Zealand (Ill. P.G.M. of Light Lachman) was present, and was assisted by the I.M. (Ill. P.G.M.

Powley and Silver). The following officers were installed :—P.M.W., Ill. Sir Kt. A. H. Rogers ; M.W., Ill.

Sir Kt. W. F. Newson; S.W., Ill.. Sir. Kt. W. H. Jones; .J.W., Ill, Sir Kt. W. F. Williams; Kt.Orator, Ill. Sir

Kt. F. Schlaich ; Treas., Ill. Sir Kt. J. Gentles ; Sec., Ill. Sir Kt. Jas. M. Ferguson (re-elected) ; Conductor, Ill.

Sir Kt. H. A. Stephens. Hearty congratulations were received by telegram from the Sovereign Sanctuary. The

G.M. congratulated the Chapter on the progress it had made during the year. Several neophytes were

nominated for initiation. The Chapter closed at 10 p.m., when an adjournment was made to the refectory.

————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

St. Augustine, No. 1.—A convocation was held on 12th December, M.E. Comps. Hulme, Cheesman, and

Morrison, Z., H., and J. respectively, presiding. The annual balance-sheet was received and adopted, and two

brethren acknowledged as E.M., P.E.M. Andrews and McLean assisting in the ceremony. An apology was

recorded for M.E. Comp. Bingham, G.J., who was installing at Temuka. The First Principal was elected as

representative at the annual communication of G.Chapter, and a proposition made for exaltation before the

Chapter closed.

————

Waterloo, No. 2.—The regular meeting was held in the Chapter-room, Wellington, on 14th December, M.E.

Comp. N. V. Marley presiding. One candidate for Capitular Freemasonry was duly elected, and three

brethren were admitted to the degree of Cyrus. Comp. W. H. Jones was elected to fill the vacancy of Third

Soj.

————

Albert Edward, No. 6.—The monthly convocation was held in the Unanimity Lodgeroom, Lyttelton, on 6th

December, M.E. Comp. C. Flavel, Z., presiding. Among the visitors were M.E. Comps. H. Williamson, P.Z.,

and H. Thornton, Z., of Canterbury Kil. Chapter. There was a good attendance of the companions. Comps.

A. G. Thomas and E. Warnes, as affiliating members, were duly balloted for and elected. M.E. Comp. Flavel

was duly elected to the office of First Soj. of the G.Chapter, and M.E. Comp. E. Eliot Chambers, G.P.Z.,

S.F., was elected to represent the Chapter at the convocation to be held in Wellington, after which the

Chapter adjourned and a Mark Lodge formed for instruction. The Chapter was closed in solemn prayer at 9

p.m., after which a pleasant hour was spent in the supper-room. The Chapter sends greetings for the coming

year, and wishes the CRAFTSMAN every success. [The CRAFTSMAN heartily reciprocates.]

————

Waitaki Kil., No. 8—Is still going on harmoniously and progressing rapidly. At the meeting held on 14th

November six brethren were advanced to the honourable degree of M.M. by the W.M.M., assisted by

P.M.M. Bro. Cathcart. Owing to a death in the family of Comps. Mackay and Grave, neither were present,

and the Chapter was taken charge of by P.Z. Comp. Cathcart, and the W.M.M. had to rearrange the

subordinate officers. The Chapter is fortunate in having so many companions who can take any office at a

minute's notice. In the Mark Degree, Comp. J. Miller acted as S.D., Comp. McCallum as M.O., P.Z. Comp.

Cathcart as S.O., and Comp. Menzies as J.O. The degree was well worked, the J.W. and Acting-S.D. being

very good. A number of G.Chapter communications were, in the absence of the M.E.Z. (Comp. Grave),

referred to the Executive Committee. The Chapter evidently thought the claim for the Representative. Fund

much more than it should be, and the feeling was expressed that G.Chapter should meet at the same time as

G.L. P.Z. Comp. Cathcart controlled the meeting in an excellent manner. A very pleasant after-meeting was

held, Comp. Lane, W.M.M., taking charge of the proceedings, which, I believe, was the request of M.E.

Comp. Grave. This action was questioned, though it was also held that when either the M. or E. Degree was

worked the Master of each of those degrees should preside. Perhaps you or some of your readers could throw

some light on the subject.

————

The regular monthly meeting, held on 12th December, was one of the best Chapter meetings held in Oamaru.

In the absence of M.E.Z. Comp. Grave, P.Z. Comp. Cathcart occupied the chair of First Principal, and there

is no doubt that Comp. Cathcart is a R.A. Mason of many parts, and a companion that the Chapter should be

proud of. The Mark Degree was the business of the evening, and the excellent manner in which it was

worked, the vim and snap with which the whole ceremony was conducted, reflects great credit upon the

W.M.M. and his officers. Two brethren were advanced to that honourable degree. The W.M.M. was assisted

by P.M.M. Bro. Cathcart. Two brethren were proposed, and as there are now some thirteen or fourteen

waiting for their Second and Third Degrees in R.A. Masonry, the Chapter will have to do what is an unusual

thing in Capitular Masonry—that is, work emergency meetings—to overtake the work. The Chapter is now

in the proud position of being one of the strongest, if not the strongest, in the colony. A pleasant after-

meeting was held, Comp. Cathcart presiding. The songs were good, the speeches excellent, and the "fires"

something entirely new. Comp. Miller, or Comp. Lane, whoever is the designer, certainly deserves credit for

originating "fires" that are suitable, and yet are away from the beaten track.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Waimate, No. 16.—The regular convocation of the Chapter was held on Friday, 30th November, and was

fairly well attended. M.E. Comp. Hertslet presided, and with him were M.E. Comp. Colville, P.Z., Acting-

H., and E. Comp. Ruddenklau, J. Two candidates were advanced to the degree of M.M., and were also

acknowledged as E.M. M.E. Comp. Colville acted as W.M.M., and M.E. Comp. Symon as W.E.M., both

being ably assisted by M.E. Comp. Fraser, P.Z., and officers. Two new members were proposed, and other

unimportant business transacted. When the Chapter was closed a pleasant half-hour was spent in the

refectory.

————

Brooklyn, No. 24.—An emergent convocation was held on 12th December, when three candidates were

exalted to the degree of the H.R.A. M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt, P.G.Z., was present, and assisted the First

Principal and his officers in the ceremony. Comps. Smith, Roscoe, Hopkirk, and Duff were elected on the

G.Chapter Reception Committee. It was announced that at the regular meeting in January (9th) the Mark

Degree would be worked by M.E. Comp. R. Fletcher, Second Principal, as W.M.M. A statement of accounts

was presented, which showed that the new Chapter has a considerable excess of assets over liabilities. An

adjournment to the refectory .was subsequently made, when the First Principal wished the companions all the

compliments of the approaching festive season.

————————

AN unfortunate accident, though happily one free from serious consequences, befell the Misses Mathieson

(2), of Kairanga, on Wednesday night. They were returning from a wedding party at Bunnythorpe, and had

reached as far as the Kawau bridge, in Featherston street, when the horse attached to the trap they were

driving began to jib. The vehicle was backed into the adjoining ditch, and was capsized, the two occupants

being thrown into the water. Both were

thoroughly soaked, and were in an awkward

predicament. Fortunately, a party of Masons,

returning from Rongotea, happened to come

along just then and effected a gallant rescue.

The trap was hauled out of the water and

righted, and the ladies also were assisted to dry

land. One of them found that a bag containing

her purse had been left behind in the ditch, and

a member of the rescuing party, Mr. G.

Torstensen, volunteered to find it. From

midnight until nearly one o'clock he searched,

and was at last rewarded by the discovery of

the missing articles. The ladies were escorted

home by their brother, who in the meantime

had come up.—"Manawatu Evening Standard,"

1st December.