THE SPECIAL WAR BENEVOLENT FUND.

———<>———

A CIRCULAR has been issued by the B. of G.P. of the G.L. of New Zealand, stating that, in pursuance of the

recommendation. of the M.W.G.M., it has been decided to open an account in the books to be called " The

Special War Benevolent Fund," and the fund is to be used exclusively to relieve distress caused by the war,

by providing for such of the brethren who may be wounded, or for their relatives who may be left

insufficiently provided for. There are one or two points in connection with the proposed fund to which we

would direct the especial attention of Lodges and brethren. It was perhaps unfortunate that at the

commencement of the war, a large section of the community got the idea firmly fixed at the back of its head,

that the war would only be a matter of a few weeks, and Christmas, at the latest, would see it over. Now

everyone knows that when any idea takes growth it is difficult to root it out, and as a consequence in the

instance under review, many good folks have dispensed their benevolence on the foregoing assumption, viz.,

that a first and final payment is all that will be required. And this feeling may constitute a very palpable

danger so far as the G.L. War Fund is concerned. If we give attention to the eminent opinions of those best

capable of judging, there is every probability that the war will be very prolonged, and if such opinions are

accepted, then it will not be difficult to found a basis upon which future calculations may rest. What we now

suggest is that Lodges should not make one supreme effort for the purpose of subscribing a big donation to

the new fund, but rather that they recognise that any efforts should be of a sustained character calculated to

extend over a period of two or three years. Then it must be understood that whatever is done for the special

fund should not in any way interfere with the modus operandi of the Annuity Fund. But we know that there

is a tendency in this direction, and that donations towards the special fund are really being subverted from

the Annuity Fund, perhaps with some slight increase. But we feel sure that such is not the intention the

M.W.G.M. had in his mind when he suggested the formation of the special fund. For some brethren to

subscribe to the two funds may involve some little sacrifice, but is not the present an era when special

sacrifice is imperative? A speaker at a recent Masonic gathering tersely pointed out that it was not alone the

soldier who was ready to give his heart's blood in the cause of the Empire, but every individual could

contribute in some form, according to his circumstances. We in New Zealand may think that we are on a

better wicket, so far as personal safety is concerned, than any other country in the British Empire. If such

surmise is correct, then it constitutes an additional need for personal sacrifice to help those not so well

situated. If the New Zealand force ever gets in the fighting line, and there is very little reason to doubt it,

then casualties are inevitable, and we are practically pledged to assist those of our brethren, or their

dependents, who may stand in need of it. But our annuities will be concurrent with war relief assistance

required. Thus, then, it behoves Lodges to look the matter squarely in the face, and recognise that provision

must be made to meet the calls -upon both. We fully realise—no one more so—that many brethren have

assumed obligations in connection with local war organisations, but even that is not sufficient to release them

from their duty as Freemasons. We make it our modest boast that Freemasonry has the most complete system

of unostentatious philanthropy. Now, then, is the time to prove it. We have every confidence that brethren

will fully awake to a sense of their responsibilities, and will not be weighed in the balance and be found

wanting, but will readily take their full share in contributing to the wants and necessities of the Empire at this

most critical stage.

—————————

MASONIC ENTHUSIASM.

———<>———

An enthusiast is defined as one whose mind is completely possessed by any subject; who is swayed to a great

extent by his feelings in any pursuit. Enthusiasm is a favourite and much-used word in Freemasonry, and we

should probably not be far wrong if we characterised it as being very frequently misused. Presentations to

retiring Masters are not infrequently accompanied by laudation of their "enthusiasm"; but as brethren in these

days sometimes arrive in the East with wonderful celerity, it is premature to characterise their temporary

interest and activity as enthusiasm. And there is a very wide difference in this distinction of terms. A brother,

on his appointment to a minor office in the Lodge, has a distinctly personal object in performing his duties

faithfully and well, as his future promotion is dependent thereon; and the higher the offices he is elected to

fill, the greater will be his ambition to attain to the highest office which is within the power of the Lodge to

bestow. The desire is very laudable, but the personal motive should not be confounded with a "glorious

enthusiasm in a noble cause," which must of necessity be pure and be completely devoid of self-interest.

Thus it may be assumed that in ordinary cases the W.M., on the completion of his term, is scarcely in a

position to warrant the appellation of a Masonic enthusiast. Indeed, the records of many Lodges will

conclusively indicate how soon the "temporary interest" wanes when a brother leaves the Master's chair.

Seeing that our system provided for an annual addition to the P.Ms.' ranks, the forces in the East should be

strong indeed. But in how many cases is it so? We will leave brethren themselves to answer. But a pure and

undiluted case of Masonic enthusiasm was recently illustrated in very practical form. At the institution of a

new Lodge—No. 201, to be specific —the W.M. installed was a brother who has given some thirty years of

continuous service to Freemasonry, and it is more than twenty years since he was first installed as Master of

a Lodge. His span of life has very nearly approached four score years, yet he, in his love for Freemasonry,

has not hesitated to take up the onerous duties of Master of a new Lodge. And, as was forcefully said on the

occasion of his installation, he is as proud of the position and as keen in his work as he was when originally

installed over twenty years ago. This, to our mind, is a true exemplification of enthusiasm, as opposed to the

term in such very general misuse, and presents an example of exceeding brilliancy in these latter times, when

we are told by Masonic statisticians that the average life of a Freemason is less than ten years, and that there

are reasons to believe, with sorrow, that even this small average is suffering slow decrease. The W. Bro. to

whom we have specifically alluded as meriting the designation of a true Masonic enthusiast is well known

throughout the length and breadth of the Dominion, and, in addition to his enthusiasm, he is invariably

credited as living through every hour of his daily life as a true Freemason. May we venture to suggest our

dear old brother as a "pattern worthy of imitation," and offer the Scriptural admonition, " Go thou and do

likewise"?

—————————

AN EXCELLENT SUGGESTION.

———<>———

Bro. Malcolm Niccol, G.Sec. of the G.L. of New Zealand, is a man of ideas, which are usually based on

logical deduction and sound common-sense. In the crisis that has occurred during his visit to Great Britain

doubtless he has been impressed with the necessity for a unity of Imperial action to solidify the power of the

Empire; and he has rightly judged that the Imperialistic idea can be grafted on to the Masonic tree with

advantage. He has therefore made the suggestion that a Lodge should be formed in London, under the G.L.

of England, with the designation of "The New Zealand Lodge." Bro. Niccol holds that such a Lodge would

be most successful, as it could be manned by New Zealanders resident in England, would add to the pleasure

of the New Zealand Masonic visitor to the old land, and would add another and a strong link to the chain of

Imperialism. London has quite a number of similar Lodges, such as the Anglo-Colonial, Canada, and others;

and each has been most successful in the past. At the time of writing Bro. Niccol's idea had only reached the

suggestion stage, and many things may happen to prevent it being brought to fruition, but the emanation of

thought is distinctly good, and our worthy brother should have all credit for the origin of the idea. New

Zealand—somewhat singularly—while being recognised as one of the most democratic of the Empire's

possessions, has ever been subject to Imperial suasion, even by its most democratic rulers. And as Masonry

universal unites in bonds of love its brethren throughout the world, how much closer should be the bonds of

affection when applied to the inner circles of one great British family, the members of which are so widely

distributed. The formation or such a Lodge would also be an indication that, though members of the family

had left the old homestead, yet the feelings of affection had in no sense decreased, and how greatly the far-

distant branch rejoiced at the prospect of being united in the home family circle once more.

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

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

THREE most interesting and successful Masonic functions have recently been held in the city of Wellington.

The Installed Masters' Lodge met on 25th September and received a visit from the M.W.G.M. (Bro. J. J.

Dougall). On the 9th October Whetu Kairangi was instituted under most favourable auspices; and on the 13th

ult. a farewell was tendered to the officers and men of the Expeditionary Force who are Freemasons. The

utmost praise is due to all those who were associated with these most interesting meetings.

BRO. S. D. MCMIKIN, for many years past actively associated with Masonic work in Paeroa, has removed to

Auckland.

WE learn that M.W. Bro. Griffiths, P.G.M., purposes remaining in England until the end of next year. He is

well in health, but writes in a somewhat despondent tone, due no doubt to the generally depressing influence

of the war. The companionship of M.W. Bro. Niccol was as welcome to him as the flowers in May.

CHRISTCHURCH No. 91 has contributed two of its members to the Empire's call, the W.M., W. Bro. G.

McLean, having joined the First Expeditionary Force, now doing duty in Samoa, while Major Row is with

the force leaving Canterbury shortly. At our last meeting the health of these two brethren was

enthusiastically received and heartiest wishes were expressed for their safe return to their mother Lodge at an

early date. In the meantime the work of the Lodge is being carried on by the P.Ms., who are determined that

nothing shall be lacking through our P.M.'s response to the Empire's call.—[Christchurch Correspondent.]

PRIOR to his recent visit, the M.W.G.M. (Bro. J. J. Dougall) was not very well known to the Wellington

brethren, but his conduct of the consecration ceremony of Whetu Kairangi Lodge, and the admirable

addresses he delivered, made a most favourable impression, and has fully established his reputation as a

brother able and willing to fully undertake the management of the work of G.L., which is to be congratulated

upon securing the services of so eminent and talented a brother.

THIS journal, in conjunction with others, has received notice from the Department of Internal Affairs,

prohibiting the publication of certain matters, outlined in a Gazette notice, with reference to naval and

military operations. Needless to say, the prohibition will be observed by this journal.

W. BRO. HERBERT B. BRIDGE is the new Master of the Installed Masters' Lodge of Wellington. Since the

institution of this Lodge no member has played a more active part than Bro. Bridge. Ever ready to provide

literary food, foremost, fluent, and logical in debate, and with ample leisure at his disposal, his reign should

be eminently successful. The CRAFTSMAN bespeaks in his behalf, not only good attendances of members, but

also of the city M.Ms., who may derive incalculable Masonic benefit thereby.

M.E. COMP. H. J. WILLIAMS, G.S.E., was a very welcome visitor at the annual meetings of Manawatu and

Wanganui R.A. Chapters. By request of the G.Supt., the visitor from G. Chapter assisted at both ceremonies.

R.E. COMP. W. DAWICK, P.G.J., was again installed as 1st Prin. of Manawatu Chapter in September last,

making the eleventh occasion he has occupied the chair.

WITH one slight exception, it is always a pleasure to attend the annual meetings of Brooklyn Lodge. The

exception is the late hour of calling on the festive degree, which necessitates hurrying the proceedings

overmuch, and no little anxiety to town visitors, as the last tram leaves shortly after eleven. It is rather a

matter of regret that this state of affairs has become established custom.

IN our last issue it was stated that Whetu Kairangi Lodge would be consecrated by M.W. Bro. H. J.

Williams. This was an error, for which the Prov.G.M. of the district was responsible. The ceremony was

performed by the M.W.G.M. in propria persona. And we have the authority of the G.M. for stating that

unless prevented by some very unforseen circumstances it is his intention to consecrate and institute all new

Lodges in the Dominion during his term of office.

THE king of Sparta, when asked how he protected his unwalled city from outside assault, pointed to his

army, saying : "These are my walls; every soldier is a stone." So in our Spiritual Temple, every Mason

should be a "living stone," a "perfect ashlar," protecting the fraternity from objection, much more from attack

by the uprightness of his life.

WE learn from the "Masonic Sun " that the Knights Templars of America are hopelessly wedded to

tautology, to say nothing of perverted prosody and syncopated syntax. This is really very serious, and active

measures should be taken at once to relieve the position, or the most startling disaster will inevitably follow.

THE G.L. of England is a sufferer by the war. The only son of the M.W.G.M. is an Army officer. The M.W.

Pro-G.M., Lord Amphthill, when the war broke out at once took command of the battalion he has so long

been identified with. The D.G,M., the Right Hon. T. F. Halsey, has five sons on active service, one of whom,

Capt. Halsey, of the battleship New Zealand, is well-known in the country. The Vice-Pres. of the B. of G.P.,

Col. J. N. Stevens, is doing military duty with the National Reserve, and another member of the Board, Col.

Baskerville, has been recalled to the colours, while six of the clerical staff out of thirteen have gone on active

service.

M.W. BROS. M. NICCOL and C. J. W. Griffiths were present at the quarterly communication of the G.L. of

England held on 2nd September, and in the course of a patriotic discussion endorsed the loyalty displayed by

the Empire.

WE regret to record the death of V.W. Bro. Rev. Archdeacon Gould, which occurred on 27th September. We

should have been indebted to any Dunedin brother for detailed particulars.

R.W. BRO. R. FREKE GOULD, the veteran Masonic historian, has expressed his willingness to accept the rank

of P.S.G.W. (honoris causa) of the G.L. of New Zealand, and his gratification at the honour proposed to be

conferred upon him. The NEW ZEALAND CRAFTSMAN offers its felicitations to the distinguished brother.

V.W. BRO. W. G. MEHAFFEY, G.Lec. for Otago and Southland, has recently delivered lectures before

Wairaki, Nightcaps, and the Installed Masters' Lodge, Dunedin. We are at a loss to know why such lectures

are made so exclusive. The brethren of other parts of the Dominion would be most pleased to read them, and

the CRAFTSMAN has not at any time refused publication.

THE brethren of Star of the North Lodge, No. 102, have requested permission to change the name of the

Lodge to Whangarei, and the M.W.G.M. has sanctioned the change.

THE cash balances to credit of the G.L. of New Zealand are as follows :—National Bank, Christchurch, £957

12s. 7d.; Wellington, £226 12s. 10d. ; Investments, £31,000; total, £32,164 5s. 5d.

AT the meeting of the B. of B. on 14th October six cases of appeal were relieved, and investigation was

ordered to be made with regard to several other applications. One annuity was granted by the Annuity Board.

THE Board of Enquiry in Wellington city is a real live body. The meetings are excellently attended, and there

is no "beg pardon" business about the proceedings. Candidates for Freemasonry have to be well and worthily

recommended to enable them to run the gauntlet. Probably the Board has been infused with some of the

indefatigable energy and inherent vitality of its excellent secretary, R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton.

BRO. ARTHUR OAKEY, who for some years past has most efficiently filled the office of Sec. of Lodge

Brooklyn, has now retired from the position, owing to change of residence removing him so many miles

from the locale of the Lodge.

A LARGE attendance, including local G.L. officers, greeted the P.Ms. of Lodge St. Andrew who worked the

ceremony at the last meeting of the Lodge, under the leadership of W. Bro. Rod, to whom the W.M.

entrusted his gavel. The ceremony of raising was done with a precision and smoothness that one would

hardly be entitled to expect in a set of officers unaccustomed to work together.

LODGE OTAGO, No. 7, Dunedin, commenced the proceedings of its installation meeting last month at 4 p.m.

A patriotic address was delivered by Bro. A. Jolly, P.M. of Lodge Hercules, and a P.M.'s jewel was

presented to the I.P.M., Bro. J. L. Miller.

THE M.W.G.M. proposed visiting Otago at the end of October, and was due in Dunedin on the 30th of that

month. Later he will proceed north for the purpose of consecrating Lodges Takepuna and Ohakune.

WE understand that the next meeting of G.L. will be held in the city of Wellington in May next. An option

on the Town Hall has been secured, and a meeting of P.Ms. will be called in the near future to discuss

preliminary arrangements.

As one result of M.W. Bro. M. Niccol's visit to England, the Sup.G. Council of the 33 deg., A. and A. Rite,

have decided to confer the 30 deg. upon E. and P. Bros. Rev. T. Porritt, of Wellington Chapter, No. 91, and

J. Catchpole, of Southern Cross Chapter, Auckland. Ill. Bro. Niccol, who is Inspector-General for New

Zealand, will probably invest these brethren on his return.

AT the institution of Lodge No. 201 at Seatoun last month,, the W.M. announced that the Lodge would start

its career absolutely free from debt, and was consequently untrammelled by any financial responsibilities.

ON the occasion of a recent visit of the editor of the CRAFTSMAN to the Waikato, a number of the members

of Tawhiri Lodge kindly invited him to meet them in the Lodgeroom' and tendered a most hearty welcome,

expressing regret that M.W. Bro. Williams could not remain for a Lodge meeting. The brother reciprocated

and thanked the brethren for their good wishes.

—————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

———<>———

The installation meeting of Mokoreta Mark Lodge, No. 1, took place at 3 p.m. on 23rd September. The

ceremony was conducted by R.E. Comp. T. M. Rankin, G.Supt., who was ably assisted by V.E. Comps. J. J.

Hiskens and Wm. Timpany. W. Bro. J. L. Kingsland was re-installed W.M.M. On behalf of the Lodge the

G.Supt presented a number of certificates to members. Afternoon refreshments and the honouring of

customary toasts brought a very pleasant function to a close.

* * * *

At Southern Cross R.A.C. installation the installing Principals were R.E. Comp. T. M. Rankin, G.Supt., V.E.

Comp. C. 3. Ronaldson, and M.E. Comp. Wm. Smith (1st, 2nd, and 3rd respectively), and V.E. Comp. J. J.

Hiskens was D. of C. The newly installed Principals are:—V.E. Comp. R. Prentice, Z.; E. Comp. W. T.

Waters, H. and E. Comp. Jos. Critchfield, J. On the conclusion of the ceremony a very pleasant hour was

spent in the refectory, and companions were able to catch the 11 p.m. car, which was as it should be.

* * * *

Lodge Mokoreta installation ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. Wm. Timpany, Prov.G.M. W. Bro. W.

C. Hislop is the new Master, and be has a splendid staff of officers to assist him. Judging by his maiden

speech from the chair, much is to be expected from him during the year.

* * * *

Last Winton Lodge business card is interesting in that each office (excepting Chaplain, Treas., and Sec.) is

competed for. For several offices as many as five brethren are nominated. Evidently the Lodge does not

believe in the step-up principle. W. Bro. Young was elected Master.

* * * *

Taringatura Lodge has the following notice of motion to consider :— That the annual installation banquet be

dispensed with this year, and that the levy made in connection therewith be devoted to some benevolent fund

for the help of those brethren who may be sufferers from the war."

* * * *

Accompanying the agenda card of Taringatura Lodge for October is a printed circular urging the members to

make special efforts this year to augment the benevolent funds of G.L. The annual report of this Lodge

shows that the year began with a membership of 89. During the year 7 candidates were admitted and 4

affiliated; 4 demitted and death removed 2. The roll of membership is now 94. The assets amount to £1,000

9s. 4d., and liabilities are nil.

* * * *

Waihopai Lodge received official visits from Lodges Southern Cross and St. John at its last meeting. The

business was "passing." Afterwards an hour or two was spent in happy fraternal intercourse.

* * * *

Quite a large audience greeted V.W. Bro. W. G. Mehaffey, G.Lec., on the occasion of his lecture in St.

John's Lodge. The Masters of Lodges Southern, Cross, Victoria, and Waihopai were present, and each being

accompanied by a large following of members, and a number of individual visitors being present, the seating

accommodation of the large Lodgeroom was almost fully occupied. The subject chosen was "Our Ancient

Brethren. " To many the information was entirely new ; to all the lecture was highly edifying and delightful.

On V.W. Bro. Mahaffey resuming his seat the Master (W. Bro. A. S. Cookson) expressed the thanks of the

Lodge to him and the real pleasure all present must have derived from the very interesting and instructive

discourse.

—————————

AUCKLAND NOTES.

———<>———

The installation meeting of the Ohinemuri R.A. Chapter, No. 17, was held at Paeroa on Friday, 25th

September. The convocation was largely attended both by members and visitors. G. Chapter was

represented. by M.E. Comp. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.Z. R.E. Comp. M. Harris, G.J., R.E. Comp. F. Kearaley,

G.Supt., V.E.. Comp. 3. S. Hope, G.S.N., V.E. Comp. S. D. McMiken, P.G. Chancellor. The ceremony of

installing the Principals was efficiently carried out by M.E. Comp. Nicholson, assisted by other members of

G. Chapter. E. Comp. S. S. Allen was installed as Z., E. Comp. H. 0. Searle as H., and E. Comp. W. G.

Wohlmann as J. The visitors were afterwards hospitably entertained by the members.

* * * *

The annual meeting of Lodge Taupiri, No. 118, took place at Huntly, M.W. Bro. Nicholson, Prov.G.M.,

carrying out the ceremony. The newly-installed W.M. was Bro. J. Kinson.

* * * *

A pleasing feature in connection with the opening of the R.A. Chapter at Gisborne a few weeks ago was the

large number of articles of furniture which had been donated by companions of the newly-formed Chapter

and others. In addition, the Auckland Prov. Chapter, NO. 9, voted a sum of five guineas towards the funds of

the new Chapter.

* * * *

A feature in connection with the installation meeting of Lodge Te Marama at Ngaruawahia was the speech

made by W. Bro. S. Allen, S.G.D., in proposing the toast of the W.M.

* * * *

The installation of the Principals of the Waikato Chapter, No. 22, Hamilton, was conducted by M.E. Comp.

H. J. Williams, P.G.Z., G.S.E., when E. Comp. Williams was placed in the chair of Z., and Comps. H.

Tristram and C. Speight in H. and J. respectively.

* * * *

The constitution and dedication of Lodge Takapuna will, it is understood, take place during November.

* * * *

The annual meeting of Opotiki Lodge, No. 1930, E.G., took place on 2nd October, when Bro. T. H. Sorrens

was installed as W.M. The Dep.D.G.M. (W. Bro. W. S. Furby), accompanied by W. Bros. C. H. Jenkins, J.

W. Wiseman, and W. W. Daw, visited Opotiki for the occasion and were most hospitably and cordially

received by the local brethren. W. Bro. W. W. Daw, D.G.Sec., performed the installation ceremony. The

Dep.D.G.M. addressed the W.M., while W. Bro. J. W. Wiseman, D.G.Treas., gave the address to the

Wardens, and W. Bro. C. H. Jenkins, Dist. Pres. B. of G.P., that to the brethren.

* * * *

The installation of the W.M. of Lodge Waipa, No. 119, was held at Te Awamutu, when the Prov.G.M.

(M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson) conducted the ceremony, and installed Bro. G. Bishop into the chair. R.W.

Bro. Kearsley, P.Dep.G.M., and R.W. Bro. Catchpole, S.G.W., also assisted in the ceremony. There was an

excellent attendance of visiting brethren.

* * * *

A pleasing ceremony took place at the annual meeting of Opotiki Lodge, when the Dep.D.G.M., on behalf of

the brethren of the Lodge, made a presentation of a suit of P.D.G. officer's regalia to W. Bro. J. Webb, a most

enthusiastic member, who has given many years' service to the Lodge and its Lodge of Instruction.

* * * *

The new Master of Lodge Te Marama, No. 186, Ngaruawahia, is Bro. J. Coutts. The Prov.G.M. (M.W. Bro.

Nicholson) acted as installing master, and was accompanied by a goodly following of Auckland brethren.

This Lodge has prospered exceedingly during the three years of its existence, and is now the possessor of a

very nice Lodgeroom.

* * * *

There have been a number of Craft installations during October, and in November quite a number of Lodges

hold their annual, festivals.

* * * *

The installation of Principals of the Zealandia Chapter, No. 197, S.C., Gisborne, was carried out by M.E.

Comp. H. 0. Carter, G.Supt. of Scottish R.A. Masonry, who travelled from Dunedin.

* * * *

At the invitation of the brethren of Lodge Franklin, No. 58, R.W. Bro. Barclay, W.M. of the United Masters'

Lodge, visited Pukekohe, and delivered an address to the local brethren at the monthly meeting of the Lodge.

* * * *

A new R.A. Chapter, under the designation of " Ponsonby Kil.," and owning allegiance to the Sup. G.

Chapter of Scotland, was opened in Auckland on the 21st September. The ceremony of consecration was

carried out by Comp. H. Carter, G.Supt., S.C., assisted by M.E. Comp. Williams, Prov.G.S.E., (NOT Herbert

J.), and other companions. The Z. of the new Chapter is Comp. Taylor. The meetings, it is understood, will

be held at the Masonic Hall at Upper Queen Street.

* * * *

The G.L. party who visited Huntly and Ngaruawahia recently were treated to two very pleasant excursions,

arranged at the instance of R.W. Bro. 3. Catchpole, S.G.W. One was a launch trip on the Waikato River, and

the other a visit to the Pukemiro Coal Mines, which are now being developed some miles from Huntly, on

the opposite side of the river. The visit to the mine was followed by a very enjoyable coach journey, which

terminated at Ngaruawahia.

* * * *

The representatives of G. Chapter recently visited Whangarei for the purpose of conducting the installation

of the Principals, etc. of Whangarei Chapter, No. 27. The ceremony was carried out by M.E. Comp. O.

Nicholson, P.G.Z., assisted by R.E. Comp. Kearsley, G.Supt. The new 1st Prin. Z. is E. Comp. McLeod. The

visiting companions were most hospitably entertained during their stay in the Whangarei district.

* * * *

At the annual meeting of Opotiki Lodge, the W.Ts. in the respective degrees were presented by W. Bro. E. F.

Snell, W. Bro. H. R. Hogg, and W. Bro. F. L. Armstrong. The list of officers was as follows :—S.W., Bro. J.

R. Sinclair ; J.W., Bro. A. Brace; Treas., W. Bro. C. J. Fox, P.M.; Sec., W. Bro. E. Hartshorne, P.M. ; S.D.,

Bro. S. D. Abbot; J.D., Bro. O. D. Evans; D. of C., Bro. J. Webb, P.M.; Organist, Bro, H. G. Parkinson; I.G.,

Bro. C. Pipe; Tyler, Bro. J. Roland.

—————————

RA CHAPTER NOTES.

———<>———

M.E; Comp. T. S. Graham was invested as G.Supt. of R.A. Freemasonry under the English Constitution for

the South Island of New Zealand on the 12th October. The ceremony took place in the Chapter of Otago, No.

884, E.C.

* * * *

We are informed that a new Chapter was instituted at Ponsonby, Auckland, on the 28th September. The G.

Chapter of New Zealand will no doubt offer some comment on this invasion of territory at its annual meeting

in January next.

* * * *

Iwikatea Chapter journeyed from Balclutha to Oamaru on the 14th October, and the following evening the

officers of Waitaki Kil. Chapter visited Rose and Thistle Chapter, Ashburton, and exemplified the ceremony

of Exaltation.

* * * *

The M.E. 1st G.Prin., Comp. T. J. Esson, left New Zealand on the 16th ult. All Chapters and companions

will heartily join in wishing him a safe return.

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

M.W. Bro. M. NICCOL.

——<>——

G.SEC. OF THE G.L. OF NEW ZEALAND EN TOUR.

We have received a very chatty letter from the genial G. Sec., who writes from South Kensington, London,

on 26th August, having just returned from a trip through Scotland. He says :— "I attended G.L. of Scotland,

quarterly communication, on 6th August, and was very warmly and cordially received. The G.Sec., Bro.

Reid, was on holiday leave, but came over 100 miles to attend the meeting (partly on my account, I believe).

The meeting was very hurried, occupying an hour, from 3 to 4 o'clock, and the influence of the war quite

overshadowed everything." Bro. Niccol chatted with a number of companions on the New Zealand G.

Chapter question, heard their opinions, and made explanations as to the position. Bro. Niccol states that his

own arrangements are considerably upset by the war. He had arranged for a few weeks' trip on the Continent,

joining the s.s. "Orvieto" at Naples at the end of October. Now he will have to board the steamer at Tilbury

on the 23rd if she sails at due date. Every outward bound ship is filled to overflowing, and high premiums

are offered for berths. Both Bros. Niccol and Griffiths were staying at the same hotel at South Kensington,

and proposed attending the G.L. of England communication in September, where only formal business was

being done, the contentious question of G.L. reform being adjourned sine die. Very few London Lodges

were meeting. Bro. Niccol goes on to say :—" Lord Plunket and his family were living in Brittany last

month, but he came to London for a few days, and invited Griffiths and I to lunch, and we had a very

pleasant chat, in the course of which he enquired very kindly about the editor of the CRAFTSMAN. Our G.

Representative in London, Bro. Mathews, has been extremely kind and attentive. On several occasions he

has sent us tickets for the different theatres (generally the Royal box), has accompanied me to Lodge

meetings, and as a P.G.D. of C. has introduced me with full pomp and ceremony, has dined Griffiths and

myself at the Savage Club, and in many and various ways has made things most pleasant. He is a very nice

fellow, and worthily represents New Zealand. I have a notion of trying to establish a Lodge here, under the

G.L. of England, on the same lines as the Canada Lodge, to be called the New Zealand Lodge. I feel sure it

would succeed, and do much good from an Imperialistic point of view. I intend having a talk to Lord

Ampthill about it next week." Our worthy brother was plunged into the sea of misfortune very soon after his

arrival in England. Within ten days of his arrival in company with Bro. Griffiths they went to pay a call to Sir

Edward Litchworth, G.Sec. of England, but before arriving at their destination Bro. Niccol found he was

minus his gold watch, which happened to be a presentation one he had received before leaving New Zealand.

He assumed he was robbed in a lift going up from the underground railway. He went to Scotland Yard and

employed a private detective, but in vain. In conclusion, Bro. Niccol sends kindest regards to all his New

Zealand brethren and friends.

—————————

VISIT OF M.W.G.M. TO WELLINGTON CITY.

———<>———

An emergency meeting of the Installed Masters' Lodge was held on the 25th September, for the primary

purpose of electing the W.M. and Treas. for 1914-15. It so happened, however, that the M.W.G.M., Bro.

Dougall, was on that date passing through the Empire City en route for his home after a very successful visit

to northern Lodges. As he had expressed a wish to meet as many of the Wellington brethren as possible, it

was suggested this emergency meeting above referred to would provide an opportunity, and accordingly

endeavours were made to secure as representative an attendance of the city and suburban Lodges as possible.

The result was eminently satisfactory, and the brethren loyally responded to the call. After the ordinary

business had been transacted, the Lodge was raised to the Third Degree, and the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro.

Peterkin was received with honours and was handed the gavel by W. Bro. G. Allport, W.M., and assumed the

chair. R.W. Bro. A. de B. Brandon, Dist.G.M., E.C., was then received with honours and took his place on

the dais. It was then announced by the acting G.D. of C., W. Bro. W. H. Jones, that the M.W.G.M. was in

attendance, and, the Lodge having been called to order, KW. Bro. Dougall, accompanied by G.L. officers,

entered, assumed the chat, and was accorded the honours due to his exalted rank. Addresses of welcome

were then given by R.W. Bro, Peterkin, R.W. Bro. Brandon, and W. Bro. Allport, W.M. and P.D.G.S.W.,

E.C. In his reply the G.M. expressed his gratification at the numerous gathering of Wellington brethren

assembled to greet him so warmly, and especially his pleasure at the presence on that occasion of the.

Dist.G.M. of the E.C., R.W. Bro. Brandon. He referred to his recent visits to northern Lodges, emphasising

his proposed scheme for the raising within all Lodges under his jurisdiction of a special fund for the relief of

those brethren, or their dependents, who may suffer from the terrible war now raging in Europe. The address

was a very eloquent one, and was listened to by the brethren with much interest. W. Bro. Allport, W.M., then

resumed control of the Lodge, which was lowered to the First Degree, when an interesting and instructive

discussion was proceeded with in connection with W. Bro. Allport's paper, "Connection of British and

Continental Freemasonry and Roman Catholicism," read at the last regular meeting. Quite a number of P.Ms.

joined in the debate, and the G.M. and R.W. Bro. Brandon were included. After the reply by the writer, the

W.M., Lodge was called to order while G.L. officers retired, and finally a most enjoyable meeting, was

closed at 9.20 p.m. Special mention, however, should be made of the beautiful solos contributed during the

Lodge procedure by W. Bro. Connell and Bro. Queree respectively, and the great assistance rendered, and

charm added, by the St. Andrew's Lodge orchestra, to the members of which a debt of gratitude is due. The

refectory proceedings in the big hall downstairs were enjoyable in the extreme, and altogether the meeting as

a whole will long be remembered by Wellington Masons.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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

Correspondence
———————————————————————————————————————————

AN EXPLANATION.

——<>——

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO,—From your correspondent's report of the proceedings at the recent meeting of the

Waterloo R.A. Chapter, it would appear that unfortunately I succeeded in creating an altogether erroneous

impression. Of course, what I intended to convey was that, although I volunteered for active service

anywhere abroad immediately the call was made, I did not expect, nor had I in any way sought the great

honour which the General Officer Commanding the New Zealand Expeditionary Force had done me in

appointing me to his staff, otherwise I expect I should have been serving with my regiment, which is at

present doing duty at Samoa. My diffidence in undertaking the responsible duties appertaining to my

appointment were overcome by the expressed wish of my superiors, in the face of which I had no choice but

to go wherever duty called.

Will you kindly permit me to take this opportunity of conveying to the Chapters throughout our territory the

assurance of my fraternal regard and continued interest in their welfare, also my heartfelt thanks for the

many kind messages of farewell which they have sent me.—Yours fraternally,

J. J. ESSON, G.Z.

Wellington, 3rd October, 1914.

—————————

THE MASONIC CALENDAR.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO,—If it be not too much of a free advertisement, I should like to utter a word in-Praise of

the modestly-named "Masonic Calendar, 1914-15," published in Auckland by W. Bro. C. H. Jenkins, at the

equally modest price of sixpence. I do not think it is as widely known to members of the Craft as it deserves

to be. It is really a Masonic Directory of New Zealand, of the most complete kind. Besides supplying full

lists of officers of the G.Ls. and other ruling bodies of all Constitutions, it also supplies lists of past G.

office-bearers. It gives particulars of name, location, meetings, principal officers, and the like, of all Craft

Lodges and other units. There are full indexes, arranged geographically, alphabetically, and numerically, so

that as a work of ready reference its arrangement could hardly be improved. To a travelling Mason it seems

to be indispensable. To a stay-at-home, it gives a far completer view of the range of Masonic activity

throughout the Dominion than can be gleaned from any of the publications of a single constitution, or even

through your own valuable pages. Anyone who has seen the publication for a series of four or five years

cannot help being struck at the steady improvement in its style and arrangement. The printing and binding

are worthy of the letterpress. It is a matter for congratulation that the Craft in New Zealand can boast a

directory of this sort which will compare so favourably in all respects with those issued in other countries.

Noticeably is this the case in respect of the absence of advertisements interspersed through the reading

matter, which disfigures similar works elsewhere in this hemisphere. From this I infer that the work must

rely principally on subscribers for support; and I venture to think that Masons who have the credit of the

Craft in the Dominion at heart have only to see one copy to become regular subscribers.—Yours fraternally,

` YOUNG MASON.

Napier, 19th September, 1914.

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

WELLINGTON FAREWELLS BRETHREN WHO ARE

MEMBERS OF THE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE.

———<>———

Owing to the somewhat sudden embarkation orders, the brethren of Wellington city convened a hurried

meeting on Tuesday, 13th October, in the Masonic Hall, Boulcott Street. Notwithstanding the extremely

short notice there was an excellent attendance of local members and visitors. W. Bro. Moncrieff, W.M. of

Lodge Waterloo, opened the Lodge, the officers' chains being filled by officers of the several city Lodges.

On the dais were M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, R.W. Bro. Lieut.-Col. Brandon, D.G.M., E.C., R.W. Bro. Hon.

C. A. C. Hardy, P.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., and R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, J.G.W. After

the opening of the Lodge, the acting W.M. invited M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams to assume the chair and conduct

the proceedings. Bro. Williams explained the objects of the gathering and the reasons for it being so

hurriedly convened, and then delivered a short but stirring address to the visitors. The hymn " Oft in Danger"

was most heartily sung, and Captain Chaplain Shirer engaged in prayer, and followed with an appropriate

Scripture reading. "Onward. Christian Soldiers" evoked another hearty outburst of praise. R.W. Bro. Lieut.-

Col. Brandon then briefly but earnestly addressed his brother comrades, pointing out their duty both as

soldiers and Freemasons. A sacred solo by W. Bro. Connell, beautifully rendered, and the Prov.G.M. voiced

his regret that he could not become a member of the Expeditionary Force. W.M. Bro. Moncrieff then

resumed the chair and closed the Lodge, two verses of the National Anthem following the closing hymn. An

adjournment was at once made to the lower hall, where M.W. Bro. Williams presided, and a very happy two

hours were spent in temperate enjoyment, without one dull moment. R.W. Bro. Brandon proposed the toast

of '' Our Guests " very happily, and the response of Bro. Captain Chaplain Bush-King was equally

appropriate and effective. Some excellent songs and recitations gave pleasure to the brethren, and there was a

consensus of opinion that the meeting was happily conceived and ably carried out, the visitors being very

expressive as to the pleasure the meeting had given them.

—————————

WHETU KAIRANGI.

———<>———

[Edited by W. BRO. H. B. BRIDGE, G.Lec.)

A pretty sounding name this in the beautiful, liquid Maori tongue. But a strange name, surely, for a Pakeha

Masonic Lodge. Yet when all is considered, what could be more appropriate? For the new Masonic Lodge is

located at Seatoun, that lovely marine suburb of the city of Wellington, and part of the borough of Miramar,

and Whetu Kairangi is the old Maori name of Seatoun. Naturally, the brethren will ask what the name means,

and how the present day Seatoun came to be called by its original native owners and residents by such a

poetic and high-sounding title? For an explanation of both these points the Craft is indebted to the ancient

Maori lore possessed by Mr Elsdon Best, and supplied to him by the Chief Whatahoro, of Wanganui. The

meaning of Whetu Kairangi is " The Galaxy of Constellations." How and why the name was given to the

locality, now known as Seatoun, may be gathered from the following characteristic Maori legend, condensed

in its narration necessarily for reasons of time and space :—In the long ago— some 500 years or so—the old

Maori Chief Tara, of Opuriri (Napier) sent his warrior sons away on an expedition for the purpose of finding

a new land for his people. Embarking in two canoes, these venturesome warriors, filled with pride in the

realisation of the responsibility of their mission, coasted the eastern shores of the Wairarapa, and, rounding

Parangarehu (Pencarrow) found themselves soon in the sheltered waters of a great harbour. Of the nature of

this and its surroundings they took full note, and then continued their voyage of exploration, passing

Terawhiti, Porirua, Wha.nganui, and so to Patea. Thence they journeyed by land, and, on arrival home,

reported to Tara all they had seen, especially describing the great harbour they had sheltered in after

rounding Parangarehu (Pencarrow), describing its islands, the land locking it around, with the forests coming

down to the water's edge, special attention being given to the quality of the soil, the nature and amount of the

food supply, both fish and fowl, and, by no means the least important, the facilities offered for defence. Tara

at once chose the place of the great harbour for the future home of his people, and fitted out another

expedition, and himself accompanied it. On arrival, Somes Island (Matui) was selected for the first

settlement, and there defences were erected with timber procured from Heretaunga (the Hutt). Then the old

chief, having cast about him for a suitable location, gave instructions for the main stronghold to be built,

selecting the site where now stands the State school looking down on the shore of Worsen Bay. The pa

having been completed, there arose one evening the question of its naming. The thoughts of Tara and his

people naturally reverted to the home which they had left, but here there was no resemblance to that place,

for there there had been a great expanse of land, while here there was but little in comparison. Yet there was

above e wide expanse of sky, with sun and moon and many constellations, and this expanse was the same as

that above the old home. Ah ! A happy inspiration ! Call it Whetu Kairangi — The Galaxy of Constellations.

What more fitting to remind them of that old home far away? And so Whetu Kairangi it became, and has

remained to this day.

Such is the legend of the Maori christening of what is now known as Seatoun. Such is the reason of the

adoption by the Seatoun Masonic Lodge of this strange, but beautiful, old Maori name as its distinctive title.

Let us hope that the great thoughts which the meaning of Whetu Kairangi cannot fail to conjure up in the

minds of the Seatoun brethren may result in a wide expanse of usefulness, and a brilliance of Masonic results

which may fittingly claim place with " The Galaxy of Constellations," ever looking down upon them and

their work. May we not also hope that the name may be symbolic in that it shall lead the members of the

Lodge to diffuse light and knowledge within, and even beyond, its own circle, and to so cast and square their

own lives that they, too, may shine as the stars for ever.

—————————

INSTITUTION AND CONSECRATION OF LODGE WHETU KAIRANGI, SEATOUN.

———<>———

Lodge 201, with the euphonious Maori designation, which being interpreted signifies a Galaxy of

Constellations, was peacefully and auspiciously constituted on the 9th October, though the external elements

indicated' a raging storm. The M.W.G.M. was present in proper person, and gave ample evidence of his skill

and ability to "undertake the management of the work." He was supported by the following G. and P.G.

officers :—M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M. ; R.W. Bro. E. P. Lee, D.G.M.; R.W. Bro. Hon. C. A. C.

Hardy, P.D.G.M. ; R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M.; R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, J.G.W. ; W. Bro. J. H.

Worboys, S.G.D., as S.G.W.; W. Bro. Rev. T. Porritt, P.G. Chaplain; W. Bro. H. B. Bridge, G.Lec.; W. Bro.

C. J. B. Norwood, as S.G.D.; W. Bro. A. Veitch, as J.G.D. ; W. Bro. J. Rod, as G.Purs.; W. Bro. W. H.

Jones, as G.D. of C. ; W. Bro. F. B. B. Bishop, as G.Sec. The petitioning brethren and visitors—of whom

there was a large number, representing all the city Lodges—having been assembled in the Lodgeroom, which

in this case is the Wesleyan Church, the G.D, of C. called them to order and announced the M.W.G.M. and

G. officers, who entered in procession and assumed the chairs of the Lodge, which was at once opened in

three degrees by the M.W.G.M. The petition and charter having been read by the G.Sec. the usual prayers

and hymns followed, after which the. M.W.G.M. delivered a very excellent address on "Freemasonry." The

elements were then distributed, and after the sprinkling of perfume by the G. Chaplain the new Lodge was

consecrated to all the purposes of Freemasonry by the following officers :— R.W. Bro. E. P. Lee (Corn), W.

Bro. J. H. Worboys (Wine), R.W. Bro. Seaton (Oil), W. Bro. Firth (Salt). The dedication having been

pronounced by the G.M., the G. Chaplain, Rev. T. Porritt, censed the Lodge in three perambulations. The

Lodge was then formally constituted by the presiding officer. Homage was paid by its members and

proclamation made by the G.D. of C. The concluding hymn and the Benediction concluded this part of the

ceremonial. The Lodge was then handed over to the Prov.G.M., who installed W. Bro. Rev. T. Porritt into

the Master's Chair. The usual proclamations and salutes were made, and the W. Ts. presented by W. Bros.

Connell, Reid, and Wall respectively. W. Bro. H. B. Bridge invested the following officers :—S.W., Bro. T.

W. Boon; J.W., Bro. C. G. Silvester; Chaplain, Bro. E. Morris, junr.; Sec., Bro. F. Aston; Treas., Bro. H. J.

Wyatt; D. of C., W. Bro. H. W. Preston; S.D., Bro. J. A. Fuller; J.D., Bro. T. O. Fox; S.S., Bro. H. J.

Hawthorn; J.S., Bro. J. A. Fraser; 1.G., Bro. A. G. Williams; Tyler, Bro. H. K. Robertshaw. The concluding

addresses were given to the W.M. by R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, to the Wardens by R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton,

to the brethren by M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams. The W.M. briefly addressed the meeting, offering thanks to all

and sundry, and a collection was taken up in aid of the G.L. Annuity Fund. After greetings had been given

and the Lodge closed, the brethren adjourned to Bro. Wyatt's tearooms, where supper was laid. The usual

toasts were subsequently honoured, and some very excellent speeches were made, far beyond the average

usual to such occasions. The M.W.G.M. again charmed the Wellington brethren by his eloquence and depth

of Masonic thought. The meeting terminated soon after ten, and Wellington brethren reached the city at a

most reasonable hour.

—————————

CIVIC LODGE NOTES.

———<>———

An enjoyable run by motor cars to Rangiora in 10th September was participated in by fourteen members of

Civic Lodge, the occasion being a kind invitation from Lodge Ashley, No. 28, to work a Second Degree. The

evening was thoroughly enjoyed.

Civic Lodge on the 2nd inst. granted a first donation of £25 to the "Special War Benevolent Fund."

W. Bro. Moller was welcomed by the Civic brethren on his return from the Continent. Unfortunately, W.

Bro. Moller has decided to return to England at an early date. The Craft in New Zealand can ill afford to lose

so enthusiastic a brother.

Civic Lodge met on 2nd October. There was a good attendance of P.Ms. and brethren. Bros. Smyth and

A'Court, were passed.

—Lodge Correspondent.

OBITUARY.

——<>——

W. BROS. F. M. SPURDLE AND T. DICKSON.

St. Andrew Kil. Lodge, No. 79, Wanganui, has suffered a severe loss during the past month in

the deaths of two of its oldest and most respected P.Ms., in the persons of W. Bros. F. M.

Spurdle and Thos. Dickson, the former of whom was the oldest active P.M. of the Lodge. The

brethren of the Lodge, as well as those of the sister Lodges, attended in large numbers at the

respective funerals, at which the last rites of the Craft were impressively conducted.

W. Bro. F. M. Spurdle, who was widely known as manager of the Wanganui Sash and Door

Company, had been in failing health for some time, but on 17th August he felt well enough to

attend a meeting of his directors. While the meeting was in progress, however, he suddenly

expired. Bro. Spurdle was a citizen of the most useful type, and had given many services to the

public, including many years on the Wanganui Education Board, terms on the Harbour Board

and Borough Council, and two years as Mayor of Wanganui. He had also done much useful

service on many semi-public bodies, and was always active in his encouragement of clubs and

associations for young men. He leaves a widow and an adult family.

W. Bro. T. Dickson died on 19th August, after, a long illness, borne with uncomplaining

fortitude. A native of Australia, he had been a resident of Wanganui for over 30 years, and was

one of its, best known and most respected business men. He took no active part in public affairs,

but was always to the fore in assisting anything for the general benefit, and in which his work,

though quiet and unostentatious, was always effective. He was also prominent in Druidism,

being a Past Arch Druid of that Order. He leaves a widow, a young son, and three adult

daughters.

Both these brethren were Masons of a good type, rarely absent from their Lodge, earnest and

thorough in their work for it, and exhibiting in a full measure those Masonic excellences which

justly earned for them the respect and affection of all who knew them.

—————————

OATHS AND OBLIGATIONS.

———<>———

The oath of obligation is one of the most important points of the ceremonies of Freemasonry. There are

certain minds who view all vows and obligations with disfavour, if not with horror, and, at various periods in

Masonic history, the serious nature of the Masonic obligations has been advanced as a charge against the

Order, by both Church and State. This method is not confined to Masonry. The King takes the oath before he

receives the Crown. The Minister is sworn before he receives his portfolio, the soldier before he receives his

colours, the Magistrate before he sits on the Bench. In the Church, too, solemn vows are required from its

officials of all grades. Common-sense and modern ideas go together in insisting on a simple form of

obligation. It should be solemn, and, to be so, should be simple, plain, and direct. It should contain only a

declaration of fidelity to the secrets and to the Laws and Constitutions. To attach unnecessary conditions is

not only absurd, it is also hurtful to the Order.

In reading the Old Charges, one is impressed with the simple and sensible form of Ob. as compared with that

now common in some Lodges. At present it is often involved, and is sometimes so faulty in grammatical

construction that it binds the initiate to the very opposite of what is intended. In the part relating to penalties

it is often coarse and offensive, and the astonishing thing is, perhaps, not so much how it has come to be, as

why sensible and intelligent Masons tolerate it. Certainly there is nothing more clear in connection with

Masonic history than the testimony of the Old Charges to the fact that the form referred to is a modern

innovation, and is a monstrous corruption of the old Ob. In no real Masonic document is there found any

warrant for it.

What do the Old Charges say on the subject ? In the Buchanan MS. (1660 A.D.) we find: " Par. xxx.—` The

manner of taking an oath at the making of Freemasons.' 'Tunc unus ex senioribus teneat librum un illi vel

ille ponant vol ponat manus supra librum tune precepta debeant legi.'—Then one of the old members held the

book, and he or they placed the hands upon it while the charges were read."–.The Freemason.

—————————

EPITOME

of the history of the Creation of the G.Ls. of England, Ireland,

and Scotland, and some of the British Dependencies.

———<>———

The Original G.L. of England was formed in 1717 by the "few Lodges at London." The records upon this are

divided as to whether there were four or six. Nor had they either names or numbers, and were merely

distinguished by the signs of the inns at which they met.

In 1725 one Lodge at York proclaimed itself a G.L., and continued to exist until 1792 under the title of "The

G.L. of All England," notwithstanding the existence of the other G.L. in London. Indeed, this G.L. claimed

to be the senior, and to have had a line of G.Ms. from at least 1705. Some traditions go so far as to say from

926—but there is no definite authority for this, and it is undoubtedly apocryphal. In 1752 another G.L.

appeared in England known as the 'Ancients " or as " Atholl Masons," and in 1777 an attempt was made to

form another G.L. under the name of " The G.L. of England, South of the River Trent," so that there were

four G.Ls, in England at one time.

The G.L. of the Ancients was formally recognised by the G.L. of Ireland in 1758, and by the G.L. of

Scotland in 1773. In 1799 the Duke of Sussex agreed to act as representative at London in the G.L. of

England of the G.L. of York. From 1797 onwards attempts were made to 'unite the various G.Ls. in England,

and in 1813 this was finally accomplished.

The G.L. of Ireland originated in a G.L. for the Province of Munster, meeting at Cork, so far as reliable

tradition obtains, in 1726. In 1729, there being no Lodge in Dublin, several brethren met and invited Lord

Kingston to take the G. National Chair of Ireland, to which he acceded. It is probable that Lord Kingston had

been a member of the independent G.L. at Cork, and possibly Prov.G.M. at Munster. But it is an absolute

fact that he was G.M. of Ireland in 1729.

All young G.Ls. have suffered more or less, for even in those early days it is on record that in December,

1735, the G.L. orf England refused admittance to Master and Wardens of an Irish Lodge unless they would

accept a new Constitution.

The G.L. of Scotland was founded upon more modern ideas. The proposal originated on the 29th September,

1735, in one Lodge, and the circular was framed by its delegates and those from three other Lodges then in

existence in Edinburgh. In that time there were 100 or more Lodges in Scotland, but only 33 of them were

represented at the convention on 30th November, 1736, when William St. Clair, of Roselyn, was elected

G.M. of the Scottish G.L. of Speculative Masons, he having first renounced his hereditary claim to be Patron,

Protector, Judge, or Master.

Seven years later one Lodge, "Mother Kihvinning," as it was afterwards called, resumed its former claim to

independence, and practically set up a rival G.L., which continued to issue warrants and grant certificates

until 1813—just before the union of the Craft in England—when all resumed their former allegiance after

seventy years of secession; and even an attempt in 1779 to invade Ireland.

These records of the three mother G.Ls. remove conclusively any doubts as to the necessity of absolute

unanimity to the establishment of a G.L.

In the middle of last century we find that in 1855 41 out of 83 English, Irish, and Scottish Lodges formed the

Independent G.L. of Canada. Two years later the majority of the remaining English Lodges formed the

Ancient G.L. of Canada. In December' 1858, those two bodies became united and were recognised by

England as the G.L. of Canada.

In June, 1866, in Nova Scotia, 10 Scottish Lodges out of some 50 English, Irish, and Scottish Lodges then

existing formed a G.L. In 1869 the Prov.G.L. of England joined them, and all the other Lodges but one came

in, and they then formed what is now the G.L. of Nova Scotia.

In New Brunswick 16 out of 26 Lodges organised the G.L. in 1867.

Quebec formed her G.L. in 1869 with 21 out of 37 Lodges. British Columbia, in 1871, and Prince Edward

Island, in 1875, each formed their own G.L. with but eight Lodges.

Manitoba formed its G.L. in 1875 with but three Lodges.

In Now South Wales, in 1877, 13 Lodges, chiefly Scottish, out of 45 English, Irish, and Scottish then

existing, established a G.L., and by the advent of union in New South Wales it bed ,grown to 51 Lodges

under its own jurisdiction.

In Victoria, in 1883, 16 Lodges out of 95 formed a G.L. Their trouble, however, was much minimised by the

subsequent election of Sir Wm. Clarke as the head of the Dist.G:Ls. of England, Ireland and Scotland, which

paved the way to the union of the Craft in Victoria in 1899.

South Australia established its G.L. in 1884 almost unanimously, only one Lodge standing out.

New Zealand had a hard battle to fight for recognition when they established their G.L. in 1890, as there

were then in existence nine District and Prov.G.Ls., and it was not until 1896 that the mother G.L. afforded

them recognition.

Tasmania was in a happier position, as the eight English, nine Irish, and five Scottish Lodges then

established there unanimously formed themselves into a G.L.

West Australia- formed its G.L. in October, 1899, with 31 English Lodges—those of the other Constitutions

for the most part standing aloof."—" Queensland Freemason."

—————————

THE INSTALLED MASTERS' LODGE OF WELLINGTON.

———<>———

The annual meeting was held in the Masonic Hall on 22nd October, W. Bro. Geo. Allport, W.M., presiding.

G.L. was represented by R.W. Bro. E. P. Lee, D.G.M., R.W. 13ro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., &W. Bro. H.

H. Seaton, J.G.W., W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, S.G.D. An apology was received for the absence of R.W. Bro. A.

de Brandon, D.G.M., E.C., who was indisposed. The retiring Master, Bro. Allport, conducted the ceremony

of installation, and had with him W. Bro. J. W. Jack as D. of C., who added much to the success of the

ceremony by the dignified and efficient manner in which he performed his duties. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams

presided over a B. of I.M. and inducted W. Bro. Herbert Bowen Bridge into the chair, who received the

homage and salute of the W. brethren, M.Ms. having been admitted the three proclamations in E., W., and S.

were made, and R.W. Bro. Lee, D.G.M., presented the Charter, Constitution, and By-laws in happily

expressed terms. R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton invested the following officers, wisely abjuring the .stereotyped

formulae :—S.W., W. Bro. P. Levi; J.W., W. Bro. A. Erskine; Sec., W. Bro. M. Fox; Treas., W. Bro. A.

Veitch ; Chaplain, W. Bro. J. C. Penrice; S.D. W.. Bro. W. H. Jones; .J.D., W. Bro. G. Menzies; Organist,

S.D., Bro. W. Beauchamp-Platts ; D. of C., W. Bro. J. Rod; I.G., W. Bro. W. Bethune; .Stewards, W. Bros.

H. Preston and C. W. Nielsen. W. Bro. G. Allport suitably addressed the W.M. The charge to the Wardens

was given by W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, and M.W. Bro. J. Williams delivered the concluding address to the

brethren. At the conclusion of the ceremony the W.M. delivered an address, in which he clearly explained

the objects of the Lodge, and the nature of the work. He combated the idea that there was any desire to make

the Lodge exclusive, pointing out that it must be self-evident that the ultimate success of the Lodge must

depend upon its popularity. The ceremonial work was completed in good time, and two hours well, spent in

the refectory very happily, the various toasts and responses being characterised by a depth of thought, and in

language not always heard at festive gatherings.

—————————

HUMOUR.

———<>———

Humour at the festive board of Masonic meetings may be of two kinds, conscious and unconscious. The

following comprehends both :—At a recent meeting a W. brother who claimed nationality north of the

Tweed, though many of his hearers insisted that he meant the Liffey, essayed to advise the brethren on the

advantages of extemporaneous speaking, and to illustrate one point he made certain references to a cow, in

the course of which he gravely informed the meeting that "he" was a heifer, and then proceeded to detail the

process of "leg"-roping "his" neck, and wondered why the brethren laughed. Another brother at the same

meeting, who by the way is noted for his loquacity, told a story of a parrot who got into difficulties through a

non-observance of the old proverb, "Let sleeping dogs lie.' In this case Master Parrot got down from his

perch and loudly called "Rats." The peacefully inclined canine was disturbed, but being unable to evolve the

cause renewed its slumbers. The parrot repeated the operation, but was not sufficiently agile and — met its

fate. On "emerging" from the dog, sans feathers, sans skin, and much blood, the bird soliliquised on the

position, and "finally arrived at the conclusion that he " talked too much."

—————————

FLOWERS AT FUNERALS.

———<>———

A Mason recently died, according to the " Chronicler," leaving his widow almost destitute. He was popular

with the members of the Craft, and at the funeral the floral tributes cost hundreds of dollars.

At the funeral of another brother recently a floral blanket costing £200 was the tribute of a rich friend to the

dead. It was said the dead brother's family were not in good financial circumstances.

Here is food for thought. Flowers on the graves of the departed do not always testify to the high regard

entertained for the dead. Therefore it would be wise to take into consideration the financial condition of the

family when expending money on flowers at the time of death. A few hundred dollars go a long way toward

modifying grief when there is a shortage of cash in the family.

If the brethren are called on to contribute to the relief of a distressed widow, they quite frequently are

niggardly, and the total contribution is not large. Add to it the money used in buying flowers, and it would be

materially augmented.—" The Trestle Board."

—————————

LODGE MEETINGS AND THE WAR.

———<>———

Some opinion has been expressed that G.L. should recommend Lodges to close down until such time as all

excitement and fears have subsided. It is not for us to speculate how long or short that time may be. It might

extend over two years, by which time the Craft would be practically ruined. Freemasons are a Constitution-

loving body of men. The Constitutions call for at least two meetings each year ; one for election and the

other for installation. It is only in this way that Lodges could save their Warrants from forfeiture. Nor can we

see that any good would acrue from closing down. Lodges, therefore, will act upon their own, decisions.

Others have suggested that all post-prandial proceedings be abolished. Again we are met with practical

difficulties. G.L. is not supposed to know or take cognisance of any matters that relate to a Lodge in its

united capacity after Lodge is closed, though it might deal with the conduct of individual brethren if it found

it necessary to do so. Lodges have full power over their own refreshment board and over their own finances,

and although many brethren might think it the correct thing for G.L. to exercise an authority on the matter,

there are many thousands who, from motives of good order and constitutional Government, would resist any

attempt on the part of G.L. to dictate to the Lodges. The time is opportune, however, for considering the

question of curtailing the extravagance which some Lodges are prone to exercise.—" The Freemason,"

London.

—————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 23rd OCTOBER, 1919.

———<>———

W. M. Beck, T. Tresider, J. Farquharson 37/6, J. J. Clark 17/6 (Dunedin), W. A. Carruth 10/- (Whangarei),

T. Inglis 25/-, G. S. Fleming (Auckland), G. Clark (Riverton), J. Furneaux (Lyttelton), W. Dean (Inglewood),

W. R. Snellgrove (Marton), J. Phillips (Eltham), R. Frechtling (Levin), Rev. E. Fletcher 10/- (Waihi), A.

Greening, H. B. Bridge (Wellington), D. Tennent 34/2 (Greymouth), C. L. McDiamid 5/10 (Hamilton), A.

Mears, J. Brown 17/6, Dr. J. E. Riddell 20/-, A. H. Ross (Dannevirke), R. J. Foss (Fernridge), J. Conolly

27/6, C. A. Ecford 17/6, S. 3. Heffer 24/2, H. J. Howard 40/-, G. J. Logan, J. Mansford 10/6, J. A. Moreland

24/2, N. Paton, T. E. Hughes, W. E. Lucas (Blenheim), Dr. Redman 15/-, Capt. Burgess (Picton), A. W.

Gallichan (Palmerston North), E. McCaffry .(Petone), A. Cooper (Clifton), J. G. Petrie 10/-, W. T. Waters

20/- (Invercargill), Dr. Withers (Southbridge), W. Cowley (Mananui), — Cunningham 4/2 (Hastings), J.

Boon 17/6, J. L. Ching 10/-, T. A. H. Feild, 10/-, F. Hamilton 27/6, J. Houlker 17/6, R. P. Giblin 15/-, Dr.

Lucas 40/-, W. Moyes 27/6, E. Richards 36/8, W. J. S. Smith 21/8, F. H. Townsend 17/6, N. R. Williams

27/6 (Nelson), R. J. Meldrum 20/- (Oamaru), Dr. T. A. Will 15/- (Rangiora), F. Hobbs, S. Paul (Westport),

A. G. Pitt 2/6 (Woodville), R. M. Matheson 30/- (Rongotea).

(Al] 7/6 except those noted.)

—————————

RUDYARD KIPLING, MASONIC POET.

———<>———

Several of Bro. Kipling's novels, short stories, and poems gain their chief interest from their Masonic

allusions. The " Journal " has heretofore published the famous "Mother Lodge" poem, and alluded to "The

Man Who Would Be King " as an example of his Masonic stories.

Freemasonry, as practically applied to conditions in India, where it has brought together men of all races,

creeds, and shades of political belief, torn down the barriers of caste, and aroused a desire between East and

West for a better understanding of each other, is the inspiration of Kipling. To him the Caucasian race is

superior in its civilisation, because of its independence and refusal to bow down to "Fate-" Peculiarly

apropos is the following poem at this time :—

HYMN BEFORE ACTION.

The earth is full of anger,

The seas are dark with wrath,

The Nations in their harness

Go up against our path;

Ere yet we loose the legions—

Ere yet we draw the blade,

Jehovah of the Thunders,

Lord God of Battles, aid !

High lust and forward bearing,

Proud heart, rebellious brow—

Deaf ear and soul uncaring,

We seek Thy mercy now

The sinner that foreswore Thee,

The fool that passed Thee by,

Our times are known before Thee—

Lord, grant us strength to die !

From panic, pride, and terror,

Revenge that knows no rein,

Light haste and lawless error,

Protect us yet again;

Cloak Thou our undeserving,

Make firm the shuddering breath,

In silence and unswerving

To taste Thy lesser death !

'E'en now their vanguard gathers,

E'en now we face the fray—

As Thou didst help our fathers,

Help Thou our host to-day !

Fulfilled of signs and wonders,

In life, in death made clear—

Jehovah of the Thunders,

Lord God of Battles, hear !

—"Masonic Home Journal."

—————————

WAR AND THE RESULTS.

———<>———

Russia boasts of the extent of her dominions and her power ; Germany and France of their superior

condition, and England of her long line of ancestral kings and the permanency of her Government; the

United States of the protection of her free institutions; and all of the progress they have made in the march of

humanity. And so we all sit down in our pharisaical composure and thank God that we are not as the nations

of antiquity.

We boast of our enlightenment, but we universally espouse and practice one principle that follows back, an

unbroken chain, linking us to the darkest ages of barbarism. We refer to the arbitrament of war. What a

monster is the demon war! It is as, old as the ages, for it is the embodiment of the refuse of the universe. Its

breath is the effluvia which the realms of ether could not purify—the concentration of moral malaria. It is the

one thing without law. It has no mate. It is without sex. It is without love. It is without fear. It is without

feeling. It is remorseless, for it is without thought. It possesses but one attribute, hate. Hate is its absolute

quality. It neither hungers nor thirsts, yet it devours because it hates. It neither increases nor diminishes, for

there is nothing that can unite with it, nor aught that can absorb nor consume it, yet it consumes. It has no

taste, but its one attribute impels it to devour only the most precious substances, and that which is dearer. It

inhales the flames of burning homes. Its drink is of tears. It feeds upon human life. It cannot hear, yet it is

attracted by peculiar sounds. The yell of battle, the wail of grief, the moan of the dying, possess a strange

influence over it. It hovers above these with hideous grimaces and gloats.

The heathen worship the crocodile; they feed it with tender morsels—their own infants. But the practice is

not universal; it is confined to localities. Enlightened nations wait till their infants are grown to manhood,

educate them in the schools, and then select the noblest and best and feed them to the dragon, WAR. And

this practice is universal. The crocodile could be appeased ; it demanded few victims. Hunger and thirst may

be satisfied. The dragon, WAR, possesses neither—it is never satisfied. It inhales whole cities at a breath ; it

quaffs the tears of a nation in a single draught; it devours entire armies at a gulp. , In times of peace the

monster stretches out its huge-limbs and yawns, and the nations prepare fresh sacrifices,

Is there no escape from this terrible monster ? Must the youth, the beauty, the pride of manhood, the strength

and glory of the nations go out in sacrifice, because it has been the practice, the custom of the ages?

Who will sustain war with an argument? Who will offer an excuse for it ? This is obedience to a precedent at

a fearful cost. We are dumb as the worshippers of Moloch. We are senseless as the worshippers of the

Juggernaut.

Follow the march of war down through the centuries, and what has been gained for humanity ? What has

been lost ?

Go back, if you will, to the reign of Sesostris. Exhume the monuments of antiquity—the Egyptian, the

Assyrian; decipher the hierioglyphics that have been hidden away in the dust of ages; you will find the

histories of vast armies that struggled, for more than a thousand years for the possession of the countries

between the Mediterranean and the Indus. You will learn of the magnificent empires, of royal dynasties,

blotted out from the light of the sun for ever. Follow down through the history of Persia and Greece—their

literature, science, art ; you will stand amazed in the midst of their wonderful attainments.

Pause at the pass of Thermopylae; you are in the presence of the spirit of Leonidas.

Now on through the dazzling glory of Rome ! Tell me not that war has developed the genius and heroism of

the centuries It has driven genius from the domain of usefulness and throned her amidst devastation and

barbarism. It has chained heroism to the rock of superstition, and mocked while the vultures of death have

destroyed. What possibilities has it buried for ever beneath the ruins of Greece and of Rome!! But follow on

down through the years since; what a picture of death and desolation,. of crime ! 1 am not sure but humanity

has suffered more from the demoralisation, that has ever proven the sure consequence of war than from the

battlefield.

How much do the wars of the nineteenth century rise above the picture of the Iliad? Even our most modern

wars, the Civil War of the United States? The Franco-German war?' The war of Spain and the Russo-Turkish

war ? And the great European war of to-day, that in this hour is making night hideous with the curses and

moans of the dying. Above ? Nay, are they not beneath, lower in the scale of barbarism? The one exhibits the

prowess of personal strength and skill a man may stand, if brave and strong; but the others show a field

where men are led to be slaughtered, the craven and brave together, by the terrible enginery of modern war.

A single life is a thing beyond price ! 'Tis a terrible thought to crush out a soul! What, then, is the estimate

cost of war in human lives? Seven billions ! More than five times the world's population to-day ! Seven

billions have gone down on the battlefield. Add to this vast number those who have perished in consequence,

the women, the children, the aged; and, to their grief, the suffering of those to whom death would not

mercifully lend her hand, and what a wail goes up from humanity ! Oh, it fills up the dome with its terrible

woe !

How, then, may the end of war be attained ? We answer, by the arbitrament of nations, and this through the

silent, secret influence of Freemasonry, which stands for peace and the Fatherhood of God and the

Brotherhood of Man. And only by such silent and secret influence will war become a, thing of the past and

be remembered no more by the civilised nations of the world. May the Supreme Architect of the Universe

hasten the day when peace will be proclaimed to the world.—" Scottish Rite Bulletin."

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

WANTED, to complete Sets for a Lodge Library, Copies of the undermentioned New Zealand

Publications:—

New Zealand Craftsman (Current Series), Vol. VII., Nos. 1 and 10.

New Zealand Craftsman (Old Series), Vol. I., Nos. 1 and 5.

Book of Constitutions, 1st, 2nd, and 5th Editions. Proceedings of Grand Lodge prior to 1900.

Address, "LIBRARIAN,"

c/o New Zealand Craftsman Office,

P.O. Box 8, Wellington.

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

Reports
—————————————————————————————————————————————————

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————

SOUTHLAND.

Southern Cross, No. 9.—The monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Invercargill, on 2nd October,

the business being the raising of three candidates, the ceremony being conducted in a very impressive

manner by the W.M., Bro. Critchfield, assisted by M.W. Bro. M. Thompson, W. Bro. C. Illingworth, W. Bro.

J. Hiskens, I.P.M. Bro. Waters, and J.W. Bro. Stout. H.G.W. were accorded by Lodges Victoria, Haeremai,

Otago, and Waihopai. A pleasant hour was spent in the social hall after the Lodge closed.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Taringatura, No. 100.—There was only a moderate attendance on 5th October. After routine business was

disposed of, W. Bro. G. F. Johnston submitted the report and balance-sheet for the year just closed. These

showed the Lodge membership to be 94, the cash balance to be £117 4s. 4d. (280 of which is on deposit in

the Post Office Savings Bank), and with liabilities nil. The assets after all due allowance for depreciation

amount to £1,000. The report also foreshadowed a number of improvements in the Lodge property, to be

undertaken in the immediate future. The report and balance-sheet were unanimously adopted, the auditors

speaking in highly complimentary terms of the manner in which the W. Treas. discharged his duties. The

election resulted in the return of each of the brethren nominated at the preceding meeting. One joining

member was proposed, and W. Bro. Sec. gave notice to move that the Lodge expend £5 in the purchase of

books for the library. The most attractive feature of the proceedings was an organ recital by Bro. Ritchie, of

Dunedin, Organist of Lodge of Otago, No. 344, which was listened to with close attention and thoroughly

enjoyed by the brethren. At its close the W.M. tendered to Bro. Ritchie the sincere thanks of those present for

the musical treat provided. During the evening it was resolved to celebrate the installation this year (18th

November) by serving a cold collation in the ante-room, in place of the usual elaborate banquet in the Public

Hall, the amount thus saved to be devoted to the G.L. Benevolent Fund being raised for those who may

suffer through their volunteering to fight for King and Empire. H.G.W. from visiting brethren brought the

meeting to a close just before 10 p.m.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

——————

OTAGO.

Otago, No. 7.—The installation of W.M. and investiture of officers took place in the Masonic Hall, Great

King Street, Dunedin, on 14th October. The Lodge met at 4 p.m., and after transacting necessary business,

officially received R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, Prov.G.M. of Otago, and G.L. officers. Bro. John Reid Rodgerson

was then obligated and duly installed as W.M. for the ensuing year, the ceremony being carried out by the

Prov.G.M. in his customary efficient manner. After the W.M. had invested W. Bro. J. L. Miller, his I.P.M.,

the Lodge was "called off " till 7.30 p.m. At the evening session there was a large attendance, every seat

being occupied. The Prov.G.M. and G.L. officers were, received and welcomed. The W.Ts. of the three

degrees were appropriately presented by W. Bros. J. W. Raffills, A. P. Bremner, and W. A. Service, the

W.Ms. of the three junior Lodges. The Charter, B. of C., and By-laws were presented by the R.W.

Prov.G.M., who also delivered the address to the W.M. The investiture of Wardens and officers was

conducted by W. Bro. Alfred Jolly, P.M. of Lodge Hercules, No. 36, Tapanui. This part of the ceremony was

much appreciated, as W. Bro. Jolly had something bright, interesting, and suitable to say to every officer.

The following officers were invested and conducted to their respective positions :— S.W., Bro. E. T. Moller

; J.W., Bro. J. W. Hardy ; Treas., W. Bro. J. Quaile; Sec., W. Bro. D. C. Cameron; Chaplain, W. Bro. O. H.

Pinel; Organist, W. Bro. J. C. Easton; D. of C., W. Bro. R. Macadam; S.D., Bro. A. Griffiths; J.D., Bro. F.

W. Nicol; I.G., Bro. C. F. Goodridge; Tyler, Bro. M. Walker; Stewards, Bros. E. J. Thomson, H. Ross, G. H.

Bunting, and O. Bunting. The Address to the Wardens was rendered by R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick, P.G.W., and

that to the brethren by W. Bro. J. Barton, P.G.Supt. of W. W. Bro. C. H. Hayward, on behalf of the Lodge,

presented W. Bro. J. L. Miller, I.P.M., with a P.M.'s jewel in appreciation of his valuable services to the

Lodge. Bro. Miller suitably thanked the brethren. An offertory was taken up for the G.L. Annuity Fund. At

intervals during the ceremony Bro. W. H. Mackenzie sang "Nazareth," and Bro. H. P. Desmaulins "The Star

of Bethlehem," both solos being well rendered. W. Bro. A. W. Flett was G.D. of C., W. Bro. J. C. Easton

Organist, and Bro. N. Shepherd Trumpeter. The W.M., Bro. J. R. Rodgerson, thanked the R.W. Prov. G.M.,

G.L. officers, P.Ms., W.Ms., and brethren generally for their attendance and assistance. The Lodge was then

closed, and the brethren adjourned to the refectory. Two hours were spent most pleasantly in speech, song,

and story. An inspiring patriotic address by W. Bro. Alfred Jolly was specially appreciated. The catering was

well attended to by W. Bro. R. Macadam.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Clutha, No. 14.—The installation meeting was held in the Lodgeroom on 9th September, at 2.30 p.m., there

being a large attendance of visitors and brethren, W. Bro. Wm. Henderson presiding. A donation was granted

to a circular appeal from G.L. Three ballots were taken and three proposals for membership were made.

Prov.G.M. W. Bro. Clark was received with the usual honours. The B. of I.M. was then formed, after all

below that rank had retired, when W. Bro, A. R. Lattimore received the Secrets, etc., of an I.M. The

Prov.G.M. was assisted by his G.L. officers, as follows :—P.P.G.M. W. Bro. Stoneham; W. Bro. Steele,

G.D. of C. ; W. Bro. Raffills, J.W. ; W. Bro. Allan, S.W. A collection on behalf of the W., and O. and A.M.

Fund was taken up, when a sum of £3 8s. was remitted. H.G.W. were received and the Lodge closed. A

social and dance was held in the Oddfellows' Hall in the evening, when about 60 couples attended. Officers

for the ensuing term are :— I.P.M., W. Bro. Wm. Henderson ; S.W., Bro. A. McDonald ; J.W., Bro. J. H.

Guest; Sec., W. Bro. Whiting ; Treas., Bro. J. Ramsay; S.D., Bro. T. Pearson; J.D., Bro. Ritchie; I.G., Bro. D.

Bowers; Chaplain, Rev: Bro. G. Stubbs ; Tyler, Bro. Wm. Adams ; D. of C., W. Bro. Munro; Stewards, Bros.

Robt. Henderson and Stowell; Auditors, W. Bro. Johnstone and Bro. Angus McDonald.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Oamaru Kil., No. 82.—The annual installation ceremony was held in Oamaru on 7th October, in the

presence of a large number of members, and visitors from the local Lodge, Waitaki, and also from Ngapara,

Palmerston, Kurow, Waimate, Timaru, and Dunedin. The R.W. Prov.G.M. of Otago, Bro. J. J. Clark, assisted

by W. Bro. Hawcridge, of Lodge Maori, performed the installation of Bro. Jack Swindley in a very able and

impressive manner. There are no fireworks about our Prov.G.M., but he makes you listen to him, and his

speech to the brethren at a subsequent part of the proceedings was specially admired. Bro. Swindley has

attained to honour of W.M. after long service, having" filled every chair in the Lodge, and performed the

duties so well and efficiently as to earn the approbation and reward of his brethren. The investiture of

officers by W. Bro. W. Couper was, as is usual with all his work, carefully and impressively rendered, and

the duties of each officer clearly pointed out to him. The officers invested are as follows : S.W., Bro. S.

Herron; J. W., Bro. J. C. Dickson; Treas., W. Bro. G. M. Proctor; Sec., W. Bro. J. M. Brown; Chaplain, W.

Bra. W. J. Hill; D. of C., W. Bro. Donald Miller ; S.D., Bro. James Miller; J.D., Bro. J. Crombie; I.G., Bro.

D. A. Bee; Tyler, Bro. A. M. Tait; Stewards, Bros. E. Humbleton, W. L. Foss, A. Crichton, J. Puttick, J. C.

Walker, and W. Rudduck. The address to the W.M. was given by W. Bro. C. A. La Roche, to the Wardens

by W. Bro. S. E. W. Baker, and to the brethren by W. Bro. W. Miller. A word of praise is due to W. Bro. D.

Miller, D. of C., who, knowing his work and having his materials always ready, made everything go

smoothly and quickly and without any semblance of confusion. The W.M. tendered cordial thanks to the

R.W. Prov.G.M. and W. Bro. Hawcridge, to the visitors for their attendance, and to the members of the

Lodge, and hoped that one and all would work heartily together for the welfare of the Lodge and the cause of

Masonic good-fellowship. On the W.M. rising for the first time the R.W. Prov.G.M. tendered H.G.W. and

congratulations, and with his G. officers retired. Congratulations were also given by brethren representing

the following. Lodges : Waitaki, Palmerston, Ngapara, Kurow, Oceanic, Harmonic, Wallace, Aparima,

Darling. Downs, and Hiram, by Bro. S.W. on behalf of the officers, by W. Bro. G. M. Proctor for the P.Ms.,

and by Bro. W. Dickson for the brethren. Two candidates were proposed for initiation. The Lodge was

closed at 9.45, and the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where a very pleasant time was spent in listening

to some good speeches, and good singing, and a few good stories.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Clinton, No. 183. — The monthly meeting was held on 3rd September. There was a fair attendance of

brethren and visitors. The Lodge was opened by W. Bro. Capamagian, W.M. A circular appeal received due

attention. One candidate was proposed for membership. The W.M. then received the officers and brethren of

Lodge Clutha, who, with a party of seventeen, had motored down to work a degree. Wor. Bro. Wm.

Henderson and officers then took the respective chairs. The ceremonial work was the initiation of a

candidate, who was obligated by the W.M. receiving from him the Secrets; N.E. Charge, P.M. Bro. Whiting ;

Apron Charge, W. Bro. Henderson ; M. of Prep., Bro. Bowers; S.W., Bro. Lattimore, W.Ts. ; J.W. Bro.

McDonald, Ancient Charge. The rendering of the various charges were much appreciated by the brethren.

H.G.W. being received, the Lodge closed at 10 p.m. A very pleasant time was spent at the "Fourth" with

story, recitation, and songs. The usual Masonic toasts were duly honoured, also the Army and Navy. The

Tyler's toast at midnight brought to a close one of the most enjoyable nights ever held in Lodge Clinton.

The regular meeting was held on 1st October in the Odd-fellows' Hall, Clinton, W. BM. C. Capamagian,

W.M., in the chair. Owing to the busy time of the year there was not such a good attendance as usual. A

circular from the M.W.G.M. with reference to a proposed War Fund received due attention. Feeling

reference was made by the W.M. to the death of Bin. Appleby, of Lodge Clutha, who was one of the Charter

members of Lodge Clinton. One candidate was balloted for and elected. The ceremonial work was the

passing of one brother. The W.M. obligated and communicated the Secrets, Bro. Wright S.F. Corner, Bro.

W. Brown W.Ts., and Bro. R. McIndoe Ancient Charge. Lodge closed at 10 p.m., and a pleasant hour was

spent at the "Fourth," when it was decided to have a social evening in the Lodgeroom during the month,

members and brethrens' wives and families to be invited.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

——————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—Notwithstanding the general dislocation caused by the war and the mobilisation of the

Lyttelton garrison, there was a good attendance at the regular meeting on 1st September. The business was

light and early disposed of. One candidate was raised, the W.M. (W. Bro. J. Furneaux) being assisted by W.

Bro. Manson (W.M. of Civic Lodge), W. Bro. W. T. Lester (W.M. of Canterbury Kil. Lodge), and W. Bros.

Flavell and Hatton. Subsequently a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, with music and social

intercourse, when, of course, national and patriotic songs were most in evidence.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Kaiapoi, on lst October. W.

Bro. Gray presided over a fair attendance of brethren. One brother was to have been passed to the Second

Degree by Lodge Concord, but owing to his departure for the front with the forces, there was nothing to do,

and Concord cancelled their visit in favour of a future date. There being very little business, the Lodge was

closed early, and after half an hour in the refectory, the brethren left for home early for once.

On the evening of the 8th the W.M. and officers, at the invitation of the W.M. of Conyers Lodge, E.C.,

journeyed to town and worked a First Degree for them, and a very instructive and enjoyable evening was

spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Lincoln, No. 33. — The annual, meeting was held on 1st September. The Lodge was tyled at 6.30 p.m., and

all business disposed of, and in readiness to receive visitors at 7 p.m. The balance-sheet showed the Lodge to

be in a very prosperous condition. One demit was granted. The principal business was the installation of Bro.

J. W. Kime as Master, and the investiture of his officers. The ceremony was conducted by M.W. Bro. F. C

Binns, Prov.G.M. of Canterbury, and his officers. R.W. Broadley, P.S.G.W., and a number of G.L. officers

were present. There was a record attendance of visitors, the seating accommodation being taxed to the

utmost, and the yard being more than full with 22 motor cars. V.W. Bro. T. Thornton took charge of the B.

ofI.M., R.W. Bro. Broadley presenting the W.Ts. W. Bro. Jacobs, of Lodge Waihora, presented the W.Ts. in

the Third Degree, W. Bro. R. Laurie, of Concord, in the Second Degree, and W. Bro. Vincent, of Lodge

Avon, in the First Degree. V.W. Bro. T. Thornton invested the Wardens, and W. Bro. Yemm, Prov.S.G.W.,

addressed them. W. Bro. S. P. Smith invested the officers, and W. Bro. R. Baldwin addressed the brethren. A

collection was taken up in aid of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund. M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, Prov.G.M., on

behalf of the brethren of Lodge Lincoln, presented a P.M.'s jewel to W. Bro. C. M. Suckling, who briefly and

feelingly thanked the brethren. A notable event of the evening was the investiture of Bro. W. G. Jennings as

Tyler for the thirty-fourth year in succession. This veteran is still hale and hearty, and most zealous in the

performance of his onerous duties. The following is a. complete list of officers :—W.M., W. Bro. J. W.

Kime; I.P.M., W. Bro. C. M. Suckling; S. W., Bro. C. J. Morland ; J.W., Bro. W. T. Street; Chaplain, W.

Bro. J. McKenzie; Sec., W. Bro. J. Graham; Organist, W. Bro. A. Cookson; S.D., Bro. C..P. Agar ; J.D., Bro.

W. L. Morgan; D. of C., W. Bro. G. H. Ward; and Tyler, Bro. W. G. Jennings. The meeting terminated at 10

p.m., and all adjourned to the Druids' Hall to partake of light refreshment before their departure

homewards.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Concord, No. 39.—The usual regular meeting was held on the 23rd September in the Masonic Hall,

Papanui, W. Bro. Laurie, W.M., in the chair. There was very little business. A sum of £2 2s. was voted to

meet an appeal from the Christchurch Lodge towards a case of distress. Resolved "That from the 15th

November next a levy of 5s. a member per annum be made and collected each six months with the Lodge

subscription, and a collection be taken up in the refectory at each monthly meeting, until peace is declared."

This is the outcome of an appeal made by the M.W.G.M. to inaugurate a special fund to provide any

necessary aid that may be required by Masons who are proceeding to the front and who may return ill or

wounded, or for those dependent on them, who through their death or other misadventure may be reduced to

straightened circumstances. We were all very pleased to see W. Bro. Webb well enough to be present

amongst us again. Two brethren were passed to the Second Degree. There is not near the "go" in the Concord

Lodge that there has been in some previous years. It may be the war which is having a depressing effect on

us, but there is certainly a "slackness " apparent. Both officers and brethren should endeavour to infuse a

little more enthusiasm into the proceedings, and so put that sparkle into our meetings for which we used to

be noted. A sociable little supper in the refectory brought the meeting to a close at half-past ten.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.—The monthly meeting was held on 25th August in the St. Augustine Hall. W. Bro.

McFarlane, I.P.M., presided, and a good attendance of members was present. The ritual work consisted of

passing two brethren. After being catechised and the R. for Prep. having been explained, they were prepared

and obligated by the acting-W.M., receiving from him the S., S. T., and W. The Charge after investiture was

delivered by S., Bro. F. Adams, P.M., the W.Ts. were explained by W. Bro. R. Eastwood (Master, Robt.

Burns), the Final Charge being delivered by Bro. Thomas, S.W. The Lodge having been closed in due form,

a pleasant hour of music, mirth, and goodwill was indulged in by visitors and members.—[Too late for last

issue.—ED.]

The monthly meeting was held in the St. Augustine Hall on the 2nd September, W. Bro. R. McFarlane,

I.P.M., acting-Master, presiding. After routine business had been disposed of the acting-Master handed the

gavel to R.W. Bro. Bingham, who conducted the ceremony of initiation, obligating the candidate, and

communicating the ceremony of the First Degree. The Charge after Investiture was given by W. Bro. J.

Graham (Master, Canterbury, E.C.) the W.Ts. were explained by W. Bro. Vincent (W.M., Avon Lodge), the

Charge in the N.E. was delivered by W. Bro. F. Adams, P.M., and the Final Charge by W. Bro. Hopkinson.

After the Lodge had been closed an adjournment was made to the refectory, where music and mirth held

sway for an hour, and the toast of absent brethren was duly honoured by all present.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Thistle, No. 113.—The September meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Ashburton, on Wednesday, 15th

when the W.M., Bro. J. Williams, presided over a fair attendance of brethren. The degree work was to pass a

brother to the Second Degree, and was carried out by the following officers :—W. Bro. J. Williams, the Ob.;

W.Ts., W. Bro. Orr (W.M. of Ashburton Lodge); Final Charge, Bro. Crooks, S.W.; Charge after Investiture,

Bro. Child, J.D. W. Bro. Knight was nominated for Prov.G.L. office. The usual pleasant hour was spent in

the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Amuri, No. 184.—The installation meeting was held on 2nd October. M.W. Bro Binns, Prov.G.M., acted as

Installing Master, assisted by R.W. Bro. Broadley, G.S.W., W. Bro. Baldwin as J.W., W. Bro. Bishop, Sec.,

and W. Bro. J. W. De Feu, D. of C. The installation of Bro. Cohn Thomson as W.M. was performed in an

impressive manner. W. Bro. Baldwin invested the officers as follows :—S.W., Bro. J. J. Goulding; J.W. Bro.

D. W. Hunter; S.D., Bro. T. G. Thomson; J.D., Bro. C. E. Denet ; Chaplain, Bro. Rogers; Treas., Bro. M. M.

Crampton; Sec., Bro. W. C. Judkins; I.G., Bro. H. R. Davison; Stewards, Bros. O. Crampton, W. Shaw, and

P. R. Dunbar ; D. of C., Bro. Lewis ; Tyler, Bro. G. Powis; Organist, Bro. Nicholson. The W.Ts. in the

respective degrees were presented by W. Bros. Powis (Lodge Cheviot), R.W. Bro. Broadley (Southern

Cross), and W. Bro. Jones (Conyers Lodge). The address to the Wardens was given by W. Bro. De Feu, and

R.W. Bro. Broadley addressed the .brethren. A collection on behalf of the Annuity Fund amounted to £3 8s.

M.W. Bro. Binns presented to W. Bro. Munro, on behalf of the Lodge, a P.M.'s jewel in appreciation of the

zealous manner in which he had conducted the Lodge during the past year. Visitors from Kaikoura, Cheviot,

Canterbury Kil., and Caledonia (Melbourne) were present. An enjoyable time was spent at the after meeting,

where the fare, though simple, on account of the present crisis, was enjoyed, our M.W. brother, and R.W.

Broadley and W. Bro. Bishop being in their usual good form, with advice and information. The meeting

terminated with the Tyler's toast. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

———————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Victory Lodge. No. 40.—The regular meeting was held on 8th October, when there was a marked

improvement in the attendance, the announcement of a patriotic night being no doubt to some extent

responsible. The idea of going into sackcloth and ashes has not been favourably looked upon, and as the

Lodge has some of the finest vocal and instrumental talent, it might be anticipated that the idea of a patriotic

night meant something out of the ordinary, and it was. During the Lodge meeting three excellent papers were

delivered, the W.M. (Bro. E. W. Rudman) taking as his subject "Brotherly Love," W. Bro. Jas. Houlker

"Ancient Masonic Charges," W. Bro. R. W. Stiles "The Use and Purpose of Freemasonry." Each paper was

intently listened to, and at the conclusion it was resolved to record a hearty vote of thanks upon the minutes.

Certificates were presented to W. Bro. Jas. Houlker, and Bros. P. C. McLaren, L. W. Taylor, Thos.

McGillivray, H. H. Edwards, and D. H. Wilmot. It was decided to remit the dues of brethren serving in the

Expeditionary Force. Two brethren are taking their share in the Empire's service. The question of a special

war contribution has been referred to a committee to report upon. One candidate received a "clear" ballot,

and two propositions were made. The " fourth " was a night of enthusiasm, and "It's a Long Way to

Tipperary " being sung a score of times, with a dozen other patriotic items, made the night run into the "wee

sma' hours." R.W. Bro. J. Steer, D.G.M., of Westland, E.C., was present, and added to the evening's

enjoyment. It was a great night, and many votes were cast for a repetition.—[Lodge Correspondent. I

————

Wairau, No. 42. — The regular meeting was held on 29th September in the Masonic Hall, Andrew Street,

there being a fair attendance of members and visitors, W. Bro. Paton, W.M., presiding. The business was the

initiation of two candidates. The ceremony was well carried out. The W.M. gave the Ob., W. Bro.

Nosworthy, D. of C., the Secrets, and Bro. McKinley, S.W., invested the brethren and delivered the Final

Charge. N.E. Address was given by W. Bro. Whelan, and E. of P. was given by W. Bro. McKenzie. Previous

to this degree being worked an invitation was given to the floor members to give certain portions of the

workings. This was responded to by Bro. Cleator, I.G., and Bro. Mansford, S.S. Bro. Cleator gave the T.B.,

and Bro. Mansford the W.Ts. Both members are to be congratulated. Lodge closed at 10.15 p.m. A very

pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, where several musical items were rendered, and the visiting

brethren gave very interesting speeches, amongst them being V.W. Bro. T. Porritt.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Havelock, No. 104. — The regular meeting was held 2nd October, and was presided over by the W.M., W.

Bro. R. W. Price, there being a good attendance of the brethren, including three visitors, one being a recent

arrival from England, who is going to affiliate. The ceremonial business consisted of passing two brethren,

the work being very ably carried out by the W.M., who gave the Ob. and Secrets ; Charge in the S.E., W.

Bro. W. H. Buckman ; W.Ts., Bro. Jennings, J.W.; Charge after Passing, Bro. Russell, S.W. ; and the 2nd

T.B., W. Bro. F. Thomas. It was resolved to vote the sum of £5 for the G.L. War Relief Fund. The visitors

were most pronounced re the pleasure derived from the visit. The Lodge was closed at 10 p.m., afterwards

adjourning to the refectory, where a very pleasant hour was spent. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

HAWKES BAY.

Scinde, No. 5.—A very large number of brethren, representing Scinde, Victoria, and Heretaunga, assembled

in the Scinde Lodge-room on 21st September for the purpose of welcoming the M.W.G.M., Bro. J. J.

Dougall on the occasion of his first official visit to this district. R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M.,

tendered the distinguished visitor a hearty welcome on behalf of the Lodges represented; After

acknowledging the cordiality of his reception the G.M. proceeded to address the brethren on the duties of

Masons in regard to the great war now in progress. His remarks were most interesting, covering a wide area

of ground, and the close attention with which his address was followed was speaking evidence of the

brethren's appreciation. On the motion of W. Bro. A. J. McGlashan, I.P.M. of Lodge Heretaunga, seconded

by W. Bro. H. W. Whitton, W.M. of Lodge Victoria, and heartily endorsed by the W.M. of Scinde, M.W.

Bro. Dougall was accorded a very hearty vote of thanks for his informative and interesting address. The

customary collection before the closing of the Lodge, it was announced, would be devoted to the fund which

the G.M. proposes to establish to assist Masons distressed through the war. So that each Lodge can take up

its own collection, the offering was confined to members of Scinde. It realised, in cash and promises, nearly

£40. After the closing of the Lodge a pleasant hour was spent in the Princess Hall with fraternal toasts, song,

and story.

Brethren in this portion of the territory will entertain very pleasing recollections of the visit of the G.M.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Bedford, No. 25.—An emergent meeting was held in the Lodge-room on 23rd September for the purpose of

welcoming the M.W.G.M., Bro. J. J. Dougall, who was paying an official visit to the Hawkes Bay Province.

The G.M. was accompanied by R.W. Bros. Peterkin and Harston, Prov.G.Ms. for Wellington and Hawkes

Bay respectively. The attendance, in point of numbers, was somewhat disappointing, but those present were

treated to an exceedingly interesting and eloquent address delivered by M.W. Bro. Dougall, which was

listened to with close attention throughout. The speaker dealt interestingly with the question of discipline,

and particularly with Masonic discipline. He then made a stirring appeal on behalf of a special (war) bene-

volent fund, which he hoped to establish, for the purpose of relieving distress caused by the war, by

providing for such of our brethren who may be wounded or for their relatives who may be left insufficiently

provided for. A collection in aid of the above fund was taken up, and resulted in the sum of £2 7s. being

collected in cash, and promises to the extent of £17 13s., making a total of £20. The G.M. expressed his

gratification for the generous response made to his appeal. "God Save the King" was then sung in a spirited

manner. W. Bro. J. D. Watson presented W. Bro. John Scholes (our veteran Organist of thirty years' standing

and a faithful and enthusiastic Freemason) to the G.M. to receive at his hands an illuminated address, being a

slight token from the brethren of Hawkes Bay of the high esteem in which he is held. The G.M. gave

expression to the sentiments of the brethren in beautiful and impressive language, and the recipient was too

affected to make an immediate acknowledgement. This was given, however, in a characteristic manner at a

later stage. A hearty vote of thanks was unanimously accorded to M.W. Bro. Dougall for his address. The

subsequent proceedings in the refectory were of the usual cordial and harmonious nature. . The proceedings

were varied somewhat by a selection on the bagpipes by Bro. W. A. Sutherland, songs being contributed by

W. Bros. Hocking and Percy F. Wall, and recitations by W. Bro. Sinclair and Bro. Harris.

The monthly meeting was held on 29th September. A circular general appeal was supported. Lodges

Ruataniwha and Abercorn intimated their willingness to fall in with any date that may suit Bedford to

arrange for a visit from the G.Lec. The W.M. stated that, in view of the recent visit of the G.M. and the

unsettled state of affairs generally, no action had as yet been taken with regard to forwarding an invitation to

the G.Lec, to visit Lodge Bedford. One candidate was initiated, the Ob. being administered by the W.M.,

Bro. W. H. Booth. W. Bro. Elliott entrusted him, and he was invested by S.W. Bro. F. Gore. The N.E.

Address was delivered by W. Bro. W. A. Chambers; W. Bro. Milne explained the R. for Prep. ; the W.Ts.

were presented by J.W. Bro. Williams, and the Final Charge was delivered by S.W. Bro. F. Gore. One

candidate for Freemasonry was elected, and one gentleman was proposed. Hearty votes of thanks were

accorded to Bros. Hirtle and H. Hobson, the former far presenting the Lodge with cushions for the principal

officers' -chairs, and the latter for donating trees and shrubs for the planting of the Lodge section.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Abercorn, No. 30.—The Lodge met on 7th September. The secretary of the Scholes Testimonial Fund

forwarded the balance-sheet, showing that nearly £50 was contained in the purse presented to the veteran and

esteemed Organist. A letter of condolence was ordered to be sent to Bro. E. O. Roach expressing the

sympathy of the Lodge on the decease of his father. Two candidates were initiated, the ceremony being

conducted by W. Bro. J. N. Watson, who delivered the Ob. ; W. Bro. Sec. communicated the Ss. ; Bro. Hunt

recited the H.R. Charge; Bro. Bott explained the R. for Prep. ; Bro. Parkin presented the W.Ts. ; and Bro.

Pasco delivered the Final Charge. At next meeting the nominations of officers for the ensuing year will be

made.

The Lodge met on 5th October; when two candidates were passed to the F.C. Degree. The acting-W.M. (W.

Bro. J. N. Watson) conducted the ceremony and administered the Ob.; W. Bro. Hobin communicated the Ss.;

the Charge in the S.E. was delivered by Bro. E. E. Bott ; Bro. Parkin presented the W.Ts. ; and Bro. Pasco

invested the candidates and delivered the Final Charge. The G.L. circular re the relief fund was considered,

and an active canvass of members is to be made and the matter dealt with at next meeting. The nominations

for officers for the ensuing year were received, Bro. Thomas Williams being the only nomination for W.M.,

and Bro. G. H. Hunt was the sole nominee for the Secretaryship. Several of the other positions will require a

ballot to decide who is to occupy the office. A pleasant adjournment to the refectory concluded a very

successful meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 66.— The regular meeting was held on 17th September. The W.M., W. Bro. F. A. B. Harrison,

presided. A vote of sympathy was passed to Bro. L. G. Armstrong, which the Sec. was instructed to convey.

One brother was passed to the Second Degree, the work being performed as follows :—The Ob. by the

W.M.; investiture, Bro. Snell, S.W. ; S.E: Address, W. Bro. Gillespie, D. of C. ; W.Ts., Bro. J. C. Davidson,

J.W. ; and Bro. Snell gave the Final Charge. One brother was proposed for affiliation. The Lodge was closed

at 9.30 p.m., when the brethren retired to the refectory, where a very pleasant time was spent in song, story,

and music up to 11.30 p.m.

On 22nd September a special meeting was held for the purpose of receiving the M.W.G.M. on his making

his first visit to Hawkes Bay. He was accompanied by R.W. Bro. Peterkin and our R.W. Prov.G.M. (Bro.

Harston). The distinguished brethren were met at the station and conducted to the Railway Hotel, where they

were welcomed by Bro. Lavelle, who saw that nothing was left undone to secure their comfort. After rest and

refreshments they were taken for a motor ride round the district by Bro. F. Craven, P.M., and, the day being

fine, the ride was very much enjoyed. In the evening the Lodge was opened at 7.30 p.m., and on the arrival

of the M.W.G.M. at about 8 p.m. the Lodgeroom was packed, and it must have been pleasing to him to see

the large attendance. The M.W.G.M. addressed the brethren, in the course of which he pointed out the

necessity of creating a special war benevolent fund for the purpose of relieving distress which was sure to

follow after such a terrible war as we are now engaged in, and he said that now was a very fitting time to

start such a fund, and he hoped that a sum of £3,000 would be raised and put in the hands of G.L., who

would see that the fund was duly and carefully administered, and he suggested that a list be taken round the

members of Lodge Rawhiti present, which was done, and promises were given amounting to £23 3s. This

amount will, no doubt, be increased to about £50. The W.M. thanked the G.M. for his visit. Lodges Lion,

Ruahine, and Puketoi were all well represented, and a large number of other visiting brethren were present.

A very pleasant time was spent for a few hours in the refectory, where a light repast was supplied and some

very fine songs, recitations, and music were rendered by a number of talented brethren. Here again the

M.W.G.M. addressed the brethren, and pointed out to them the necessity of always leading a respectable life

and never doing anything to in any way cast a slur on the Order. Masons should always be known by their

behaviour in both public and private life. Owing to R.W. Bro. Peterkin having contracted a cold he did not

leave the hotel and did not attend the Lodge. The evening's pleasure was brought to a close by all joining in

singing the National Anthem.

The regular meeting was held on the 15th ult., there being a very fair gathering of members, W. Bro. F. A. B.

Harrison presiding. The business was the raising of two brethren. The ceremonial parts were taken by the

W.M., and the other parts as follows :—Bro. W. Dobson, T.H.: W. Bro. Blakestone, W.Ts. ; Final Charge,

Bro. Snell, S.W. The Bibles were presented to both candidates by W. Bro. Soundy, P.M. All the work was

done in a most exemplary manner, and the W.M. is to be congratulated on having such a number of efficient

officers and members who can at a moment's notice perform almost any part asked of them. The Lodge

closed at 10.30 p.m., after which a very pleasant time was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

———————

TARANAKI.

Hawera, No. 34.—The monthly meeting was held on the 6th ult., when one brother was raised to the degree

of a M.M. W. Bro. Bishop, W.M., presided, and was assisted in the ceremony by W. Bro. Kimbell (Ex.), W.

Bro. Evans (Secrets), W. Bro. Quin (T.H.), W. Bro. Keen (further Secrets), W. Bro. Niall (W.Ts.), and R.W.

Bro. Sargent (Final Charge). Five candidates were proposed, amongst them being a "Lewis " of our W. Sec.

W. Bro. Niall, a visitor from Auckland, was formerly Master of the Hawera Lodge, and was accorded an

extra warm Masonic welcome. In replying to a toast in the refectory degree, he expressed the pleasure it gave

him to once again sit in Lodge Hawera and to be able to congratulate its members on the great improvement

and progress made during the last few years. I may mention that, whilst there appears to be plenty of degree

and other work in front of the officers, the Master is resolved, and in this he is being well supported by his

executive, to always have the evening's work finished in good time, so that the members may have a social

hour in the refectory and still be able to get to their homes in decent time. (Hear, hear.—Ed.C.) To that end a

very punctual start is made in opening the Lodge and work so arranged that there shall be no unnecessary

delays. As we have a very large number of brethren residing long distances away, a reasonably early closing

is an absolute necessity. The response to the G.M.'s appeal for the G.L. special relief funds has been well

responded to, a sum of £60 being available —namely, £25 from Lodge and £35 from individual members'

donations.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

WELLINGTON.

St. Andrew, No. 32.—The regular meeting was held on 19th October, W.M. Bro. C. W. Nielsen presiding

over a large attendance of members and visitors, the latter including the W.Ms. and officers of Lodges N.Z.

Pacific, Leinster, Hinemoa, and Brooklyn, and visiting P.Ms. Formal business was transacted, the election of

the W.M. and officers for the ensuing year being then proceeded with, the ballot taken on the nomination of

Bro. A. W. Rowlands, S.W., for the chair proving unanimous. The Lodge being opened in the Second

Degree, the examination of the candidate intended to be raised (a brother of Lodge Tutanekai) evidenced his

proficiency. Lodge being opened in the Third Degree, G.L. officers (comprising M.W. Bro. H: J. Williams,

P.G.M.; R.W. Bro. Peterkin, Prov.G.M.; V.W. Bro. H. B. Bridge, G.Lec.; and W. Bro. W. H. Worboys,

S.G.D.) were received, when the ceremonial business of the evening proceeded. The W.M. handed his gavel

to W. Bro. J. Rod and requested him to confer the degree with the assistance of the P.Ms. of the Lodge, and

the latter were then conducted to the following chairs by W. Bro. J. Scrimgeour, acting-D. of C. ; W. Bro. G.

Russell; J.W., W. Bro. O. Neilson; Chaplain, W. Bro. A. McKay; S.D., W. Bro. A. T. Wells; J.D., W. Bro.

Broomhall ; I.G., W. Bro. T. Jaffrey. The ceremony was rendered in a manner which amply proved the

ability of P.Ms. to work in unison when their minds are made up, and some of the addresses —notably that

of W. Bro. F. Davey—were excellently rendered. W. Bro. Rod at the conclusion returned the gavel to the

W.M., and, H.G.W. being in due course tendered, G.L. retired and the Lodge was closed. At refreshment the

orchestral and vocal items were interspersed with the usual toasts and a special one bearing relation to the

P.Ms. of the Lodge.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Andrew Kil., No. 79.—The monthly meeting was held on 10th September, the W.M., officers, and a

goodly number of brethren being in attendance. The ceremony of raising a brother was carried out by the

W.M. and his officers, assisted by W. Bros. Price, Keesing, McFarlane, Richardson, Bullock, and Rice. Our

Lodge has decided to have four Stewards in place of two, as formerly, and for these positions Bros. Mayes

and Stephenson were selected. Since our August meeting two of our esteemed P.Ms. have been removed by

death—W. Bros. F. M. Spurdle and T. Dickson. These two have been familiar figures in Lodge meetings for

many years past, W. Bro. Spurdle having been a member of St Andrew Kil. for considerably over thirty-five

years and W. Bro. Dickson for over twenty-five years. Further reference to these brethren will be found in

another column.

An emergency meeting was held on 18th September on the occasion of a visit from the M.W.G.M., Bro. J. J

Dougall. Brethren from sister Lodges Tongariro and Moutoa were present, as well as a large number of our

own brethren. M.W. Bro. Dougall was accompanied by R.W.P.G.M. Bro. Peterkin and G.J.W. Bro. Seaton.

The ceremony of raising was conducted by the W.M., Bro. Doig, and his officers, ably assisted by our P.Ms.,

Bros. McFarlane, Treadwell, Keesing, Richardson, and Purser. The M.W.G.M. gave a short address.

expressing his pleasure in visiting for the first time in his official capacity at a meeting of St. Andrew Kil.

Lodge. After Lodge closed an adjournment was made to Bro. Dustin's rooms, where a pleasant social hour

was spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.].

————

Brooklyn, No. 132. — The annual installation of W.M. was held at the "City on the Hill " on 7th October,

Bro. W. Jensen, W.M., presiding. All the leading Lodges were represented, and included amongst the

distinguished visitors were M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M.; R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M.; R.W.

Bro. H. H. Seaton, J.G.W.; R.W. Bro. Herbert B. Bridge, G.Lec. ; and other P.G. officers. The ceremonial

work was entrusted to W. Bro. Geo. Allport, W.M. of the Installed Masters Lodge, and his officers, and they

most creditably acquitted themselves. W. Bro. W. H. Jones acted as D. of C. Bro. S. M. Arens was installed

as W.M., with all the pomp and circumstance usual to the occasion, by W. Bro. Allport. Presentation of the

W.Ts. was made in approved form by W. Bros. Erskine, Levi, and Jones. W. Bro. Bridge invested officers as

follows :— S.W., Bro. H. V. Futter ; J.W., Bro. W. J. Westwood; D. of C., W. Bro. C. J. B. Norwood,

P.G.J.D.; Chaplain, Bro. J. Burton; Treas., Bro. N. G. Sturzaker ; Sec., Bro. W. P. L. Carter ; S.D., Bro. H.

Parkin; J.D., Bro. B. Mollison; I.G., Bro. H. I. Furniss; S.S., Bro. W. G. Faulkner; J.S., Bro. A. J. L'Huillier;

Organist, Bro. H. S. Claughton; Tyler, Bro. J. W. Richardson. R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin charged the W.M. as

to his duties. R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton admonished the Wardens, and M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams addressed the

brethren. The Prov.G.M. acted as the medium of communication in a presentation to the retiring Master, and

the usual collection was made for the G.L. Annuity Fund. The W.M. offered thanks to all and sundry, and

promised his best efforts in the service of the Lodge. At the conclusion of the meeting refreshments were laid

in the Lodge-room, and the usual procedure of such festive occasions was observed.

————

Huia, No. 171.—The date of the regular meeting fell on the first day of the month. The work was raising a

brother. Although the W.M. was gripped with an attack of influenza, yet the work was performed with

expedition and an impressiveness which was most marked. One most pleasing feature which lent interest to

the meeting was the official visit of the W.M., officers, and a large number of brethren of the United

Manawatu Lodge, E.C. The best relationship and cordial feeling has always existed between the two

Lodges. The visit will be returned on the date of United Manawatu's next meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetn, No. 176.—The annual meeting was held at the Lower Hutt on 14th October, and proved to be

one of the most successful meetings held since the inception of the Lodge. The installation was conducted by

R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov. G.M., who is the founder and father of the Lodge, and takes great interest in

promoting its welfare. The attendance of visitors was exceptionally good, numbers travelling from Wel-

lington by train and motor, and they were loud in their praise of the beauty of the Lodgeroom and of the

hearty welcome given to all. Lodge was tyled at 5.30, and the G.D. of C. announced the Prov.G.M., who

entered and assumed the chair at 6 p.m. G.L. was represented by M.W. Bro. Williams, P.G.M., R.W. Bro.

Lee, D.G.M.; R.W. Bro. Seaton, J.G.W., acting D. of C.; W. Bro. Veitch, acting S.G.W. ; W. Bro. Bridge,

G.Lec., acting J.G.W. ; and W. Bros. Rod and Hobbs, G. Stewards. The W.M.-elect was then presented and a

Board of Installed Masters opened, and Bro. Edward James Guineas was installed according to ancient

custom. At 7 p.m. the visitors were admitted, and after the proclamations the W.Ts. were presented by W.

Bros. McEwan, Curtis, and Moncrief, W.Ms. of Ulster, Otara, and Waterloo. A French horn solo was

rendered by Bro. Jeness, and a sacred solo by Bro. Wray. R.W. Bro. Lee, D.G.M., presented the Warrant,

Constitution, and By-laws. V.W. Bro. Bridge, G.Lec., invested the following officers :—S.W., Bro.

McLachlan; J.W., Bro. Leighton; D. of C., W. Bro. Rishworth; Sec., W. Bro. Henry Hobbs; Treas., Bro.

Frethy; Chaplain, W. Bro. Anson; Organist, Bro. Blakeley; S.D., Bro. Ayson; J.D., Bro. Harman; I.G., Bro.

Carver; S.S. Bro. McDougall; J.Ss., Bros. Lowry and Thompson; Tyler, Bro. Norris. R.W. Bro. Seaton,

J.G.W. addressed the Master, V.W. Bro. Bridge the Wardens, and M.W. Bro. Williams, P.G.M., the

brethren. The newly-installed Master thanked G.L. for their attendance, also the visitors, and thanked the

members of his Lodge for electing him to the honourable position of Master. W. Bro. Allport, on behalf of

the brethren of Lodge Waiwhetu, presented W. Bro. Ayson, I.P.M., with a P.M.'s jewel as a token of their

esteem. The collection for the W. and O. Fund totalled £3 3s. 3d. A banquet was held in the refectory, and a

number of loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured, interspersed with excellent items by Bros. Purdy,

Wilford, Bell, Loader, and W. Bro. Connell. It was also reported that Lodge Leinster has a motor car for sale

cheap, one that was always guaranteed to puncture when visiting Lodge Waiwhetu. After most of the visitors

had left a most successful gathering was brought to a close at 11 p.m., the brethren expressing the wish that

Lodge Waiwhetu would see many more.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

——————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

St. Augustine, No. 1.—The annual meeting was held in St. Augustine's Hall on 14th October, V.E. Comp.

T. W. Lee presiding. The attendance was very large, 69 being present, which is very encouraging to our new

1st Prin. Sup.G. Chapter was represented by M.E. Comp. S. C. Bingham, P.G.Z. R.E. Comp. A. C. Andrews.

D.G.Z.; R.E. Comp. C. Flavell, dSupt.; V.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop, P.G.D. of C. ; V.E. Comp. A. H.

Thorpe, P.G.Soj. ; V.E. Comp. W. F. McLean, P.A.G.S.B. ; V.E. Comp. J. Thornton, P.A.G.S.B. V.E. Comp.

Bishop, G.D. of C., announced R.E. Comp. C. Flavell, G.Supt., who was received and saluted. M.E. Comp.

S. C. Bingham, P.G.Z., with other G. officers, was received and saluted. V.E. Comp. Bishop presented E.

Comp. W. Broadley, Z.-elect, and after the address by R.E. Comp. C. Flavell, all below the rank of

Principals retired. A conclave of Installed Principals was opened by R.E. Comp. C. Flavell, who obligated E.

Comp. W. Broadley as Z. R.E. Comp. A. C. Andrews obligated E. Comp. R. McFarlane as H. and V.E.

Comp. J. Robertson obligated E. Comp. C. W. Bingham as J., after which the conclave was closed and the

companions admitted. R.E. Comp. C. Flavell installed E. Comp. W. Broadley as 1st Prin. ; R.E. Comp. A. C.

Andrews installed E. Comp. R. McFarlane as 2nd Prin. ; and V.E. Comp. A. H. Thorpe installed E. Comp. C.

W. Bingham as 3rd Prin. Proclamations were made by V.E. Comp. Bishop, and honours conferred. M.E.

Comp. S. C. Bingham invested the following officers :—S.E., E. Comp. J. W. Piper; S.N., E. Comp. J. A.

Stables; Treas., E. Comp. J. Brown; 1st Soj., E. Comp. A. K. Hollow ; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. H. Hopkinson; 3rd

Soj., E. Comp. J. Richardson; D. of C., V.E. Comp. J. Robertson; Organist, V.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop;

I.G., E. Comp. G. Yemm; Janitor, M. and E. Comp. H. F. Arnold. The charge to the 1st Prin. was given by

M.E. Comp. Bingham, whilst those to the officers and companions were delivered by V.E. Comps. G. H.

Cooper and J. Thornton respectively. The collection in aid of the Annuity Fund of G.L. resulted in a return of

£2 18s. 6d. R.E. Comp. Flavell presented V.E. Comp. Lee with a P.Z.'s jewel as a token of the esteem in

which he is held by his companions, and he was then invested as I.P.Z. by M.E. Comp. Bingham. V.E.Z.

Comp. Broadley received hearty congratulations from Sup.G. Chapter, and the representatives of visiting

Chapters. The ceremony was noted for its completeness of detail and the excellence of the working. A

pleasant gathering took place in the refectory after the serious business of the evening had been finished, at

which some fine speeches were made, and songs and recitations rendered. Special mention must be made of

the attendance of Comp. H. St. George, who is in New Zealand in connection with the Trinity College

examinations, and who delighted the companions with several items on his special instrument, the viola

d'amore.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Victoria, No. 4.—The largest attendance on record was registered at the annual convocation of Victoria

Chapter, No. 4, Napier, held on Thursday, 24th September. The installation ceremony was conducted by

M.E. Comp. Porritt, G.Supt., in his usual able manner, assisted by R.E. Comp. Freedman (investiture of

officers), R.E. Comp. Wundram (address to the 1st Prin.), and V.E. Comp. Critchley (address to the office-

bearers). The last-named also acted as D. of C. At the close of the formal business, V.E. Comp. McDougall

was called upon to make a small presentation to R.E. Comp. Wundram, familiarly known as the father of the

Chapel. Comp. McDougall was chosen for the pleasing duty because he has known Comp. Wundram longer

than any other member, well on to forty years, and in making the presentation (a sovereign case well lined)

Comp. McDougall expressed the keen appreciation of the Chapter of the excellent work performed so

willingly by the recipient. Comp. Wundram, who was greatly touched by the thoughtfulness of the com-

panions, made feeling acknowledgment. Following is a list of the officers for the ensuing year :—Z., E.

Comp. A. S. McGlashan; H., E. Comp. H. L. Harston; J. E. Comp. G. F. Roach; S.E., V.E. Comp. Jas.

Redshaw, P.Z. ; S.N., E. Comp. J. P. Carter; Treas., V.E. Comp. S. W. McDougall, P.Z.; 1st Soj., E. Comp.

J. A. Miller; 2nd Soj., H. W. Whitton; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. R. Bishop; Janitor, E. Comp. Geo. Robson. W.

Bro. Freedman is in charge of the Excellent Degree, and W. Bro. Ritchie of the Mark. [Chapter

Correspondent.]

————

Waitaki Kil, No. 8.—The annual convocation for the installation and investiture of principals and officers of

this Chapter was held in the Masonic Hall, Oamaru, on 16th September, in the presence of a very large

assemblage of members and visitors. The R.E.G.Supt. of Otago, R.E. Comp. E. Lane, and G. officers were

announced and received with due honours. The retiring V.E.Z., Comp. W. Miller, expressed his thanks to the

members of the Chapter for the kindly support they had given him during his year of office, and

congratulated them on the continued prosperity and good feeling prevailing in the Chapter. By request of the

R.E.G.Supt., the principal part of the work was done by the P.Prins., reserving to himself only the address to

the 1st Prin. and the presentation of the Charter. The 1st Prin.-elect, Comp. W. S. Hill, was duly presented by

the D. of C., V.E. Comp. A. Mackay, and having assented to the Ancient Charges, the companions retired,

and a conclave of installed principals formed. Comp. Donald Miller was then installed as 3rd Prin. by P.Prin.

P. McCallum, Comp. J. A. Peebles as 2nd Prin. by P.Prin. W. Whyte, P.G., S.B., and Comp. W. J. Hill as 1st

Prin. by V.E. Comp. W. Miller, the retiring V.E.Z. The conclave having been closed and the companions

admitted, the several principals were invested by the same installing principals. Proclamation was then made

by the V.E.D. of C., and the usual salute given. The R.E.G.Supt. then presented the Charter and addressed

the 1st Prin. V.E. Comp. Whyte addressed the 2nd, and V.E. Comp. McCallum the 3rd Prins. The V.E.Z.

invested his officers :—S.E., M.E. Comp. J. M. Brown; S.N., E. Comp. W. H. Westphal; Treas., V.E. Comp.

A. Mackay; D. of C., V.E. Comp. W. Miller; 1st Soj., E. Comp. G. M. Whale; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. D. A. Bee;

3rd Soj., E. Comp. W. Brown; Stewards, Comps. J. Crombie, H. Ross, and S. Miller. In the absence of M.E.

Comp. A. Clothier, the address to the Principals was given by the R.E. G.Supt., to the officers by V.E.

Comp. J. Taylor, and to the companions by M.E. Comp. J. M. Brown. The V.E.Z. tendered hearty thanks to

the R.E.G.Supt., to the visitors, and to the members, and trusted that all would work cordially together in

good fellowship for the prosperity of the Chapter. On the V.E.Z. retiring for the first time, the R.E.G.Supt.

gave hearty congratulations on behalf of Sup. Chapter, and with his G. officers retired. Hearty good wishes

and congratulations were also tendered by the officers of Waimate Chapter for the Chapter of Otago by V.E.

Comp. P. McCallum, for the officers and members of the Chapter by V.E. Comp. W. Miller, and by a

number of visitors from various Chapters. The Chapter was closed, and the companions retired to the

refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent in harmony and good fellowship.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Manawatu, No. 11.—The installation and investiture of officers took place on 22nd September. The

following were the officers invested :—Z., R.E. Comp. W. Dawick; H., E. Comp. W. S. Smith; J., E. Comp.

J. Stone; lst Soj., Comp. A. W. Gallichan; 2nd Soj., Comp. B. Holben; 3rd Soj., Comp. C. J. Hewlett; S.E.,

Comp. W. F. Durward; S.N., Comp. H. J. Canton; D. of C., V.E. Comp. A. J. Graham; Treas., Comp. J.

Malmsey; Janitor, Comp. H. Ehron; Organist, Comp. J. U. Whitehead. M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, G.S.E.,

gave the address to the companions in a most impressive manner, and M.E. Comp. G. W. Palmer, G.S.,

performed the work of investiture of the officers. At the conclusion of the shove two brethren were proposed,

to be elected at next meeting. An adjournment being made to the refectory, a few pleasantries were indulged

in or exchanged. Comp. Culver expressed regret at his inability to attend future meetings on the ground of

ill-health, expressing gratification at a worthy successor to fill the position of S.E., which position Comp.

Culver held for six years, during which time he had assisted to place the finances on a sound footing. All

things being considered the Chapter has a prosperous year ahead of it.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Victory, No. 12.—The installation took place on 12th October, M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt being the

installing officer. The benches were well filled, owing to the fact that during the past year there has been an

influx of "blue men" seeking for progressive knowledge. The officers for the ensuing year are as follows :—

Z., E. Comp. J. Bartlett; H., E. Comp. J. L. Ching; J., E. Comp. Jas. Houlker; S.E., V.E. Comp. R. W. Stiles;

S.N., V.E. Comp. A. E. Cresswell; Treas., V.E. Comp. B. H. Moller; 1st Soj., E. Comp. W. Widdowson; 2nd

Soj, E. Comp. W. F. Pellew; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. L. Reynolds ; Janitor, E. Comp. C. W. Moore. V.E. Comp.

B. H. Moller, P.G.D. of C., acted as D. of C., and the following companions assisted in the ceremony :—

V.E. Comps. W. Moyes, B. H. Moller, S. F. Bolton, and R. W. Stiles. During the afternoon quite a number of

V.E. companions took the Ark Mariner chair degree and V.E. Chiefs of the Knights of the E. and W., whilst

several availed themselves of the opportunity to take the degree of Installed Mark Master. The Chapter has

now 39 members on its roll, with five awaiting advancements, and its balance-sheet shows a credit of £31

3s., which is a record. The general prospects are good.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Marlborough, No. 14.—The annual meeting was held in the Charles Street Hall, Blenheim, on 30th

September, V.E. Comp. F. W. Smith presiding. The installing Prin. was M.E. Comp, Rev. T. Porritt, G.Supt.,

of Wellington, who was assisted by V.E. Comp. A. Nosworthy, P.G.S.W., and by V.E. Comp. F. W. Smith,

P.Z., V.E. Comp. J. White, P.Z.S.B., acted efficiently as G.D. of C. The following companions were invested

and installed in the principal chairs : Z., V.E. Comp. G. J. Logan; H., E. Comp. M. McKenzie; J., E. Comp.

C. A. Eckroyd. After investiture the insignia of office and the duties were explained by the installing Prin.

Comp. Nosworthy invested the following officers :—S.E., Comp. W. Nosworthy, P.Z. ; S.N., Comp. F. W.

Smith; Treas., Comp. J. J. W. White, P.Z. ; Sojs., Comps. R. P. Furness, C. H. Mills. and A. Gibson ;

Organist, Comp. M. A. Clark; Janitor, Comp. J. H. Foster. The address to the Principals was given by V.E.

Comp. A. Nosworthy, that to the officers by V.E. Comp. J. J. W. White, and the concluding address to the

companions by M.E. Comp. Porritt. Refreshments were subsequently served in the refectory.

————

Waikato, No. 22.—The annual installation ceremonial on 29th September, held at Hamilton, was a slight

deviation from usual custom, in that, by special arrangement with the G.Supt. of the district (R.E. Comp. F.

Kearsley), the installing G.Prin. was M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, P.G.Z., and G.S.E. A further change was in

the conferring of Principals' Degrees in the afternoon, which not only shortened the evening proceedings, but

did away with the long retirement of companions, which is necessary when the whole ceremony is done at

one sitting. The following Principals were installed :—Z., V.E. Comp. J. C. Williams ; H., E. Comp. H.

Tristram; J., E. Comp. C. Speight. The 1st Prin. invested the following officers :—S.E., E. Comp. J. E.

Herbert; S.N., E. Comp. W. O. McFadden; Sojs., E. Comps. S. Parlour, G. P. Rogers, and S. B. Sims;

Janitor, E. Comp. Ronayne. R.E. Comp. M. J. Harris, G.J., appropriately addressed the let Prin., and the

installing G.Prin. explained the duties of the office-bearers, and finally addressed the companions present.

R.E. Comp. Harris ably assisted in both the afternoon and evening ceremonies. V.E. Comp. J. W. Warren

was quite at home as G.D. of C. After the closing of the Chapter, the companies assisted at a most sumptuous

repast, to which ample justice was done. The usual toasts were honoured, and as there was ample time

allowed for festivity no undue haste was necessary, and an enjoyable couple of hours were spent, the whole

proceedings terminating at 11 o'clock.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Hinemoa, No. 25.—The regular convocation was held in the Chapter-room, Daniel Street, on the 15th

October, the attendance being satisfactory. The newly-elected officers were, with one exception, which was

unavoidable, present and filled their respective positions with credit. The business was the advancement of

one candidate, but prior to forming a Mark Lodge, V.E. Comp. H. Ivory, S.E., and E. Comp. S. Martin, 1st

Soj., were duly invested into their offices by V.E. Comp O. Neilson, P.Z. The Mark Lodge was presided over

by W. Bro. Robertson, having been delegated to that duty by the W.M.M., W. Bro. H. B. Bridge. The

manner in which he carried out the work was the subject of congratulation, and he was efficiently supported

by W. Bro. S. Martin as S.W., W. Bro. J. Reid as J.W., Bro. Knowles-Smith as M.O., Bro. J. Russell as S.O.,

Bro. J. Lust as J.O., Bro. E. Morris as Conductor and S.D., Bro. Pettersen as I.G. Bro. Bredin acted as J.D.,

and W. Bro. O. Neilson as Chaplain. The Ob. was conferred by the W.M.M., W. Bro. H. B. Bridge ; the Ss.

by W. Bro. Dement; the charter was presented by W. Bro. O. Neilson, the W.Ts. by W. Bro. A. Thompson,

and the Final Charge by W. Bro. S. Martin. The meeting was regarded as very successful.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 30.—The annual convocation was held on the 23rd September. Owing to the fact that M.E.

Camp. Esson, 1st G.Prin., has responded to the call of the Empire his promised official visit did not

eventuate. M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt, G. Supt. of the Wellington District, performed the duties of installing

officer, assisted by V.E. Comp. R. A. Gillespie, C.D. of C. E. Comp. Walter Dobson was invested,

enthroned, and duly acknowledged 1st Prin. Z. E. Comp. John Craven was invested and installed as H., and

E. Comp. C. A. Mears as J. The following are the officers elected for the year :—S.E., Comp. D. J. Gardiner;

Treas., E. Comp. E. Adams; S.N., E. Comp. F. Craven ; 1st Soj., E. Comp. C. L. Thomsen; 2nd Soj., E.

Comp. C. R. James; 3rd Soj., Comp. D. Milne; Janitor, Comp. A. B. Mollgard. The various addresses were

given by M.E. Comp. T. Porritt and V.E. Comp. Gillespie. Notwithstanding the fact that the M.W. Bro. J. J.

Dougall had visited Dannevirke the previous evening and many of our members had to face two late nights,

members of the Chapter attended in good numbers, and V.E. Comp. Dobson was the recipient of hearty

congratulations on his accession to office. A very pleasant hour was spent in the refectory at the conclusion

of the ceremony, and the usual Masonic toasts were duly honoured. In proposing the toast of G. Chapter,

coupled with the name of M.E. Comp. Porritt, Comp. Dobson paid a high tribute to the great assistance

rendered by Comp. Porritt to capitular Masonry in New Zealand, particularly, within the large district under

his jurisdiction. Pleasing reference was also made to the fact that notwithstanding M.E. Comp. Porritt's 77

years, and his existing heavy Masonic responsibilities, he was about to be installed as the first W.M. of a new

Lodge at Seatoun, Wellington, a fact which should stimulate younger Masons to redouble their Masonic

efforts. Testimony was given to the energetic assistance rendered to Rawhiti Chapter by the retiring 1st Prin.,

V.E. Comp. J. Brown, and by V.E. Comp. Gillespie, G.D. of C., who is a host in himself, and always ready

to carry out any duty he is asked to undertake. All speakers were unanimous in expressing the opinion that

Rawhiti Chapter has a most prosperous year ahead. The Chapter is now practically free of debt, and

considerable additions have been made to the furnishings during the past year, chiefly through the generosity

of Comps. D. J. Gardiner, J. Craven, and F. Craven.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

——————————

A. AND A. RITE.

Wellington, No. 91.—The annual conclave was held in the Masonic Hall on 16th October, and in the

absence of the M.W.S., E. and P. Bro. C. J. Norwood presided. There was an excellent attendance of

brethren, which indicated the interest taken in the Rite, E. and P. Bro. Biss, M.W.S. of Southern Cross

Chapter, was also present. The routine business having been disposed of, Ill. Bro. H. J. Williams, 30 deg.,

was invited to assume the chair, and he installed E. and P. Bro. W. H. Jones as M.W.S., according to the

ritual of the Rite. E. and P. Bro. Kirk, as Marshall, being the presenting officer. The M.W.S. then appointed

the following officers :—Prelate, E. and P. Bro. J. Reid; 1st General, E. and P. Bro. A. Veitch; 2nd General,

E. and P. Bro. F. W. Kirk; Treas., E. and P. Bro. G. Russell; Marshall, E. and P. Bro. R. A. Foss; Rafael, E.

and P. Bro. J. Rod ; Captain of the Guard, E. and P. Bro. H. H. Seaton; D. of C., E. and P. Bro. Rev. T.

Porritt, P.M.W.S. Further routine business having been transacted, the Chapter was closed, and the Nune

Dimmitis was sung. The usual banquet was held in the refectory.