“Supplement to The New Zealand...







    “Supplement to The New Zealand Craftsman.”

















    CHRISTMASTIDE AND THE WAR.
    ———<>———


    THERE are some folks in this materialistic twentieth


    century who regard the recurring greetings of a


    festive season as inane platitudes, unworthy of


    repetition. Yet, notwithstanding his brave show of


    materialism, there is a predominant influence which


    hallows the offering of Christmastide greetings and


    induces their joyous repetition. That it should


    constitute the special season of peace on earth and


    goodwill towards man is an evergreen wish,


    reverently spoken. And whether the influence is a


    tacit acknowledgement of the recurring anniversary


    of the greatest epoch in the history of mankind, or


    the anniversary of the birth of the founder of


    Christianity, is not important, considering that the


    result is the same. Well it is that there is one


    recognised period in each year when ordinary strife


    should cease and mankind should be animated by a generous desire to feel kindly to its fellows, and within




    the recollection of the present generation such greetings have been universal in character, especially with


    respect to the institution of Freemasonry. During the long life of the present writer there has never been


    even a suspicion of enmity among the recognised orders of Freemasonry in the various nations of the world


    at this season of the year. And the long immunity from warfare has done much to further what has almost


    become an obsession in Freemasonry—that the time has arrived for the promotion of peace preservation by


    any means rather than the determination by force of arms and the murderous conflict induced by modern


    science. The opponents of "peace preservation" hold that were it possible to settle national disputes by other


    means than by actual conflict the virility of man would be destroyed. Instances are adduced to prove that


    those nations which have forsaken the arts of war and turned to the culture of peace have lost their manhood


    and, in the absence of a stimulus to physical courage, have become degenerate. The poet Whittier has said—


    " Peace hath higher tests of manhood


    Than battle ever knew,"


    It is not our province to argue this question here, but, even admitting that the contention is correct, we


    unhesitatingly say that it would be infinitely preferable that man's virility should be lost and that manhood


    should cease to exist rather than in the arbitrament of nations by force of arms, which, by man's inhumanity


    to man, is fostering not alone a wholesale murder without limitation, but is producing such unspeakable


    atrocities that pale into insignificance and put to shame the barbarities of the ancient barbarian. A perusal of


    the newspaper press reveals that deeds of sickening horror and atrocity are being daily perpetrated in the


    name of civilised war—deeds that centuries of atonement, were it possible, could not expiate. It has been


    rightly said : " Is there no escape from this terrible monster ? Must the youth, the beauty, the pride of


    manhood, and the strength and glory of nations, be sacrificed to the practice and custom of ages? " Or, in


    other words, Is this the price that has to be paid to maintain the virility of man? Perish the thought ! Far


    better that the world should cease to exist than that its present hellish state should continue, to maintain the


    glory and prestige of war. So far as our own Empire is concerned, it is freely admitted that its quarrel is just,


    but that does not affect the question of the principle of war or the horrors of the existing situation. And when


    it is over it will need fifty years to make good the economic waste, while a hundred years will not wipe out


    the bitterness of the hate engendered by nations rising against nations. And how is Freemasonry affected?


    What greetings can it send out on this Christmastide of 1914? To love our enemies and do good to those who


    despitefully use us is a Scriptural injunction, perhaps not too frequently fulfilled. But Freemasonry does not


    recognise any enemies within the Brotherhood. Yet can we honestly think that our German brethren are still


    animated by fraternal feelings? We may hope so, but greatly fear that in the fierce national hate that has


    arisen they will be unable to escape the vortex of infection. It is only another instance of the insanity of war


    that even the benign institution of Freemasonry should be subject to its influence. We quite believe that the


    feelings of our English brethren, a number of whom were so recently engaged in a mission of peace to the


    Freemasons at Berlin, and who have now responded to the call of their country in the field, will still be


    actuated by the same kindly feelings to their German brethren, and when the dark clouds have rolled by will


    again hope to resume that fraternal fellowship which suffered such sudden severance. Whatever differences


    of opinion may exist, we have every confidence that all brethren will join with us in the earnest wish and


    hope that, though our approaching usually festive season may be dark and dreary, the clouds may roll by


    more speedily than is generally anticipated, and that before December, 1915, all strife will be ended, the


    bonds of fraternal brotherhood universal will be drawn more closely together, and that it will be the


    commencement of that time when nation shall not raise sword against nation; neither shall they learn war any


    .more. It would, partake of callousness to wish all our brethren a "merry" Christmas, but we do hope that it


    will be as, happy as circumstances permit, and that they will in no case forget all poor and distressed brethren


    wherever they may be, whether dispersed over the face of land or sea.


    We have a number of members of the fraternity who are members of the Military Forces of New Zealand.


    Some who are sweltering in the tropical heat of the Pacific Islands will, we are sure, recall the happy


    Christmases they have spent in the more genial clime of their " ain countree." Others, again, will probably be


    experiencing for the first time the rigorous cold of an English winter, and will remember with equal pleasure


    the equable climate and happy conditions of the little Dominion far away. To all these the CRAFTSMAN


    offers its heartiest and best wishes and greetings, and a speedy return to the land of their nativity or adoption


    as soon as the calls of honour and the needs of the Empire permit. And, finally, to quote the great poet




    Tennyson—


    " Put down the passions that make earth hell !


    Down with ambition, avarice, pride!


    Jealously down ! Cut off from the mind


    The bitter springs of anger and fear


    Down, too, at your own fireside,


    With the evil tongue and the evil ear,


    For each is at war with mankind."


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


    THE ADMISSION OF FOREIGNERS INTO FREEMASONRY.


    ———<>———


    An esteemed correspondent has referred a question to us of a somewhat delicate character, but which, as he


    rightly says, may be of great interest to other Lodges. He asks whether it is proper or desirable to admit


    persons into Freemasonry in New Zealand who own nationality to those countries which are at present at war


    with the British Empire. We deem it a duty to answer the query, and in doing so shall endeavour to avoid


    doing violence to the feelings of any person, no matter what his nationality may be. As we have had occasion


    to say before, Freemasonry within its own sphere has no enemies. We have many members in our ranks to-


    day who claim as their native land one of the countries involved in the struggle against Great Britain, and we


    believe that they are strictly . honourable to the land of their adoption. More we cannot require, even as


    Freemasons, and under no circumstances could we expect such brethren to renounce all feeling for the land


    of their birth ; such renunciation would be unnatural, and would be subject to suspicion.


    " Breathes there a man with soul so dead,


    Who never to himself hath said—


    This is my own, my native land! "


    And it should be our care in the present crisis to avoid references which, though quite unintentional, may be


    calculated to wound the susceptibilities of foreign brethren. And as we recognise Freemasonry universal, so


    nationality need not necessarily enter in consideration in the selection of candidates. We want them to be


    good men and true, with a moral character beyond reproach, who will be willing to the utmost of their power


    to do their duty to God, to their brethren, and to themselves. Thus equipped, nationality ceases to have any


    consideration. But there are two other factors which may enter into the calculation—viz., human nature and


    expediency. With regard to the first, there must always of necessity be an element of doubt, notwithstanding


    the tongue of good report, as to whether the neophyte will practice out of the Lodge those excellent precepts


    he is taught in it. If he fails, then nationality must enter into the question, and may become a factor in


    promoting discord. The second question—of expediency— is quite as much in the interests of the candidate


    as the Lodge. In the present crisis persons of excitable temperament are liable to fits of temporary aberration,


    and may perhaps say and do things impossible when clothed and in their right minds. Thus it might happen


    that a foreign candidate would not pass the ordeal of the ballot unscathed, simply because of his nationality;


    or he, being strange to his surroundings, might be shocked at the festive board by careless words, that would


    not so greatly affect a compatriot of longer Masonic standing. Thus, to sum up, and reply to the question


    asked, while there is no Masonic law to prohibit the admission of a stranger with whose country the Empire


    may be at war, we are of opinion that, both in the interests of the stranger as well as the Lodge, it would be a


    wiser course for brethren to refrain from the desire to introduce persons within the above category until a


    general peace shall once more reign.


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


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


    BRO. THE MARQUESS OF LINCOLNSHIRE, K. G. G. C. M. G., P.Prov.G.M. of Buckinghamshire and a


    P.D.G.M. of New South Wales, although over seventy years of age, has been enrolled as a special constable


    at High Wycombe.


    WE acknowledge with thanks the receipt of invitations to attend the installation meetings of Lodges Tawhiri




    and Mangewhao, held last month, and regret that the abnormal pressure of business rendered our acceptance


    absolutely impossible.


    WE have been favoured with two letters from M.E. Comp. Lieut.-Colonel Eason, G.Z. of Sup. G. Chapter,


    who discusses in a most interesting manner the many incidents of shipboard life, and affirming that the


    troops are fully impressed with the seriousness of their mission, and that there is an utter absence of


    jingoistic feeling. He offers kindly good wishes to all his Masonic brethren.


    WE thank the Sec. of the Prov.G.L. of Canterbury for proceedings of the annual meeting held on 21st


    October, and at which we notice the M. W.G.M., Bro. J. J. Dougall, was present.


    WASHINGTON is notable as possessing the largest library on Freemasonry in the world. This is the library of


    the Supreme Council 33rd Degree, and numbers about 100,000 volumes and pamphlets. It will shortly be


    moved to the new building now in course of erection at 16th and S. Streets, the Scottish Rite Temple.


    LODGE WHETU KAIRANGI started its career with an attempt to propitiate the ladies. There being no


    ceremonial work at the first meeting, a social evening was organised for lady friends on the 13th November,


    and, proved so successful that the ladies are now enquiring for the next occasion of no work.


    " IF we were true to the best which is in us, we could dispense with the regret that we are not more


    perfect."—A sermon in a nutshell by the late Professor Chutton Collins.


    THE visit of M.W. Bro. F. S. King, of the State of Wyoming, caused quite a flutter of excitement in Lodge


    Leinster last month. A distinguished brother referred in felicitous terms to Bro. King's visit, and said that in


    a Masonic experience extending over thirty-five years, it had not been his experience to sit with an


    American P.G.M. before. Bro. King won golden opinions by his quiet demeanour and good common-sense


    remarks.


    THE G.L. of New York is in fraternal relations with more G.Ls. than any other G.L. in the United States.


    THE amount contributed to the G.L. Special War Fund to 31st October was £95 18s.


    A MEETING of G. officers, P.Ms., and representatives of Lodges in the Wellington district was held in the


    Masonic Hall, Wellington, on the 26th ult. to make preliminary arrangements in connection with the G.L.


    communication in May next.


    BRO. T. RYAN, a member of the South Australian Legislature, and Honorary Commissioner to New Zealand


    to enquire into the educational system here, was a visitor at the November meeting of Lodge Leinster, and


    expressed himself as especially pleased with the working of the Lodge on that occasion, which conformed


    very closely to that of his own Lodge, of which he is S.W.


    ON 15th April of the present year the Sup.G. Chapter of Victoria completed its Silver Jubilee, and to


    fittingly mark the occasion a brief epitome of the history of the G. Chapter was prepared and presented to


    each member, and copies were ordered to be sent to all sister jurisdictions. The history is condensed into


    thirteen pages, and to this is added a list of members of each Chapter under the allegiance. The brochure,


    which is most artistically got up, also contains portraits of all the Past 1st G.Prins., and should prove a most


    interesting memento of a historical epoch.


    OWING to the abnormal circumstances brought about largely by the present war crisis, only five officers of


    New Zealand Pacific Lodge were able to participate in the periodical interprovincial visitation. But the


    overcrowding of the steamers, consequent on the Canterbury carnival week, was responsible for the absence


    of at least one other officer, who was prevented from boarding the steamer by the Customs officials.


    —————————————


    SOUTHLAND NOTES.


    ———<>———


    Undoubtedly the most successful function of the year so far took place at Otautau on the 21st October, the


    occasion being the installation of officers of Wallace Chapter and of Wallace Lodge. Punctually at 3 p.m. the


    Chapter was opened. The installing Prins. were R.E. Comp. T. M. Rankin, G.Supt., R. Comp. C. J.


    Ronaldson, and M.E. Comp. Wm. Smith, P.G.Z., 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respectively. The newly-installed Prins.


    are E. Comp. John Handlton, Z.; E. Cony. J. J. Boyd, H.; and E. Comp. A. A. Stewart, J. After the ceremony


    the visitors were entertained at dinner. Despite the fact that two of the principal officers removed from the




    district, the Chapter made very satisfactory progress last year. The new officers, from let Prin. to Janitor, are


    enthusiastic, and, a number of candidates being in sight, a prosperous year for Wallace Chapter is assured.


    At 6.30 p.m., the large hall proved quite inadequate to seat the great concourse of brethren who had


    assembled to honour Lodge Wallace, and to witness the installation of the new Master, the popular Bro. Dr.


    A. A. Stewart. Rather than undergo a physical test of endurance in the already overcrowded hall, many


    brethren elected to remain outside. However, under the supervision of the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Wm.


    Timpany, the ceremony of installation passed .off well. A bright feature of the occasion was the exceedingly


    happy manner in which R.W. Bro. C. J. Ronaldson, on behalf of the Lodge, presented a P.M.'s jewel to W.


    Bro. J. J. Boyd. R.W. Bro. Ronaldson certainly proved himself an expert in the manipulation of figures, so


    much so, that W. Bro. Boyd is not likely to forget it. The Chapter and Lodge are to be congratulated on the


    large attendance the functions attracted. It was pleasing to note that 43 brethren from Invercargill were


    present, 23 from Lodge Wairaki, and a number of other Lodges were well represented. Four candidates were


    proposed for initiation and one for affiliation. A social and supper terminated a busy day and very enjoyable


    evening.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    At the last meeting of Southern Cross, R.A.C., the present rulers of St. John's Lodge were duly advanced to


    the Mark Degree. They now regret remaining strangers so long to the beauties of B.A. Freemasonry.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    After waiting in vain for a distinguished brother to take his seat, the Invercargill party, in three motor cars,


    made a start, in a blinding snowstorm, for Winton installation. When about a mile had been traversed, the


    look-out on the foremost car observed what he took to be a "pillar of salt " in front of him. On stopping to


    investigate, it turned out to be the missing brother, who while physically chilled was Masonically warm and


    anxious to perform his allotted task. The destination was reached without mishap, and it was cheering to note


    that there was a very good attendance notwithstanding the unfavourable weather conditions. The Prov.G.M.,


    R.W. Bro. Wm. Timpany, officiated, and the ceremony was pleasingly begun and ended. A banquet was


    afterwards held, when a very pleasant hour was spent in the customary way.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The candidate who was to have had a degree conferred on him at last Southern Cross Lodge meeting took, a


    few days prior to the meeting, the degree of matrimony and was away honeymooning, quite oblivious of the


    fact that he had put the W.M. in is quandary as to how best to employ the time of the meeting. Of course, W.


    Bro. Critchfield would never dream of wiring the absent one to come back from such a pleasurable event in


    his life in the circumstances, and that the brethren might not spend their time unprofitably, V.W. Bro. W. G.


    Mehaffey consented, at very short notice, to give a lecture on `"Our Operative Brethren of the Middle Ages."


    Bro. Mehaffey was in happy form, and discoursed on his subject interestingly and to the edification of all


    present.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    When W. Bro. Somerset Smith, W.M. Waihopai Lodge, became aware of W. Bro. A. Jolly's presence in


    Invercargill, he immediately looked him up and prevailed upon him to address the members of his Lodge.


    When it became generally known that such an acocmplished and distinguished orator had consented to


    address the meeting, a large, appreciative, and expectant audience resulted. The call to serve was decidedly


    short, but W. Bro. Jolly was equal to the occasion. He chose for his subject " Practical Freemasonry," and it


    was intensely practical and interesting from beginning to end. The forceful and masterly language in which


    he expressed his every thought will not readily be forgotten by those privileged to hear him. Although W.


    Bro. Jolly had little time for preparation, we can assure him that he has again marked well in Freemasonry


    and widened, considerably, his already wide circle of admirers.


    —————————————


    AUCKLAND NOTES.


    ———<>———


    The installation meeting of Lodge Nau Mai, No. 177, which took place at Taumarunui, was a function which


    aroused considerable interest in Masonic circles in the King Country. The Prov.G.M. of Auckland (M.W.


    Bro. Oliver Nicholson) visited on the occasion, and conducted the ceremony in his usual impressive manner.




    The new Master is Bro. N. A. Winter, and he is supported by an excellent team of officers. The various


    addresses were delivered by R.W. Bro. Powley, P.D.G.M. (to the Master), R.W. Bro. Catchpole, S.G.W. (to


    the Wardens), and R.W. Bro. Barclay, P.S.G.W. (to the brethren). An excellent entertainment was provided


    for the visitors at the close of the Lodge meeting.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Duke of Albany Lodge, No. 2073, E.C., held its annual meeting at Helensville on 27th October, when Bro.


    Dr. M. Meinhold was installed by the retiring Master (W. Bro. G. W. Sim), Bros. F. Tucker and A. M.


    Hammond being invested as S.W. and J.W. respectively. The W.Ts. in the three degrees were presented by


    W. Bros. J. C. Allen (W.M. Franklin, 2138, E.C.), E. F. Field (P.M. St. George, 1801, E.G.), and W. R.


    Leighton (W.M. Waitakerei, 170, N.Z.C.). There was a large attendance of the brethren from all over the


    district. The usual banquet followed, and was excellently arranged and admirably carried out.


    ✳ ✳ ✳
    The brethren of the Lodges in the Whangarei district have organised a District Board of Inquiry, the Lodges


    participating in it being Star of the North, 1647, E.C., Whangarei, 102, and Hikurangi, 140. Each Lodge will


    appoint three representatives. The step is undoubtedly one in the right direction.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The installation meeting of Lodge Wairoa, No. 55, at Ellerslie was fixed for October, but an unfortunate and


    insurmountable difficulty presented itself, in that the W.M.-elect was found not to be eligible for the chair,


    through not having served the full twelve months as Warden. He had been duly elected by the brethren under


    the belief that a dispensation could be obtained to adjust the matter. It has now been necessary to repeat the


    election and defer the installation until January. At the October meeting the officers were invested, the


    remaining portions of the ceremony being deferred. The Prov.G.M. was present at the meeting.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Bro. F. C. Lippiatt has been installed as W.M. of the Lodge of Harmony, 2180, E.C. (Otahuhu). The


    ceremony was carried put by W. Bro. W. Thwaites, retiring W.M., assisted by W. Bro. J. Armstrong,


    P.D.G.S.W. Bro. C. E. Remus was invested as S.W., and Bro. J. A. Waddell as J.W. The W.Ts. were


    presented by W. Bros. Goldsborough (P.M. Te Awamutu, 2221, E.G.), F. E. Weir (W.M. Remuera, 1710,


    E.C.), and Gillman (W.M. Albion, 45, N.Z.C.). The D.G.M. (R.W. Bro. A. S. Bankart) addressed the


    brethren, W. Bro. W. S. Furby gave the address to the Wardens, and W. Bro C. H. Jenkins that to the


    brethren.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    During the past few weeks several well-known brethren have been visiting Auckland. R.W. Bro. W.


    Broadley, P.S.G.W., of Christchurch, spent some time in the city and visited a number of the Lodges. W.


    Bro. E. W. Hosking, of Hawkes Bay, was also a visitor to the north.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The Prov.G.M. and party visited Raglan for the purpose of installing the W.M. of Lodge Karioi, No. 165.


    The new W.M. is Bro. G. Blackett. The visitors were sumptuously entertained by the Raglan brethren, and


    the trip was a most pleasant one, notwithstanding that the launch failed to meet the party at the appointed


    time, thus necessitating three hours' wait at the Raglan landing. Report has it that a distinguished member of


    the party had a narrow escape, and but for the promptness of one of the baggage guard, would have found


    himself immersed in the waters of Raglan Harbour.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Lodge Nau Mai at Taumarunui, which was constituted four years ago, with a membership of fifteen, has now


    a roll of 88. Ample evidence of the progress of the King Country.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The brethren of Paeroa were en fete on 11th November, when the installation meeting of Lodge Ohinemuri,


    No. 107, took place. The Prov.G.M. (M.W. Bro. Nicholson) was in charge of the proceedings, and duly


    installed Bro. George W. Nicholls in the W.M. Chair. There was a large gathering of visiting brethren from


    surrounding Lodges, and the evening passed off most successfully. The subsequent entertainment was on


    Paeroa's usual scale.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    One of the oldest settlers on the Kaipara Flats, Bro. Edwin G. Clements, passed away on the 9th November.




    He was born in 1832, and saw active service in the Baltic, China, and South Africa, and obtained his


    discharge in 1857. He came to New Zealand in 1858, and shortly afterwards took up a section of land on the


    Kaipara Flats, remaining there till his death. He took a most prominent part in furthering the interests of the


    district. Bro. Clements was several times W.M. of the Rodney Lodge, E.C., and was also Sec. for many


    years. He is survived by a widow, five sons, and eleven daughters. There are also 56 grand-children and 13


    great-grand-children.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The annual festival of Lodge Franklin, No. 2138, E.C., was held at Paparoa. W. Bro. W. W. Daw, D.G.Sec.,


    installed Bro. W. H. Wilkins into the Chair of K.S., his principal officers being Bros. G. Wright and F.


    Pasley. The W.Ts. were presented by the W.M. of Lodges Duke of Albany, Marsden, and Star of the North.


    The address to the W.M. was rendered by W. Bro. W. S. Furby, D.D.G.M., while W. Bro. C. (H. Jenkins,


    Pres. Dist. B. of G.P., addressed the Wardens and brethren.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    As usual the annual meeting of Lodge Tawhiri, No. 166, drew a large attendance of visiting Craftsmen to


    Frankton Junction on the 10th November. The Prov.G.M. was unavoidably absent, and the G.L. party was


    under the charge of R.W. Bro. G. Barclay, P.S.G.W. The ceremony of installation was carried out by the


    retiring W.M. (W. Bro. E. Tisch), who placed Bro. T. Cameron in the Master's chair. The ceremony passed


    off very pleasantly, and Tawhiri tendered to the visitors that hospitality for which the Lodge has become


    famous.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    W. Bro. Thwaites. of Lodge Nau Mai, has some strong opinions with respect to the control by G.L., and will


    doubtless be heard of at the next annual communication.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    At the installation of Lodge Franklin at Paparoa, there were visitors present from Whangarei, Waipu,


    Maungatuxoto, Dargaville, Helensville, and Auckland.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    At the November meeting of the United Masters' Lodge, No. 167, the lecturer was W. Bro. Rev. P. S.


    Smalifield, P.D.G. Chaplain, B.C., who took as his subject, "A Brief History of Freemasonry." Bro.


    Smallfield handled his subject in a manner which proved extremely interesting to all those present, and re-


    ceived the warm thanks of the Lodge for his address.


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


    SECESSION.


    ———<>———


    Some years ago M.W. Bro. Malcolm Nicol read a paper in Christchurch on " The Unattached Freemason," in


    which he gave a comparative statement extending over eight years, showing admissions and secessions from


    all causes; also giving the net gain, which his tabulated figures indicated amounted to 4,086 for the period


    specifically dealt with. The M.W. Bro. in his analysis of the position thought " it would be some consolation


    to know that we were no worse than our neighbours, that-the evil was world-wide, and that enlightened


    minds in many G.Ls. throughout the world were occupied in trying to device means for abating the


    epidemic." This fact is emphasised in a recent statement made in the " Masonic Sun " (Canada), and is taken


    from some comments made by M.W. Bro. H. J. Guthrie, P.G.M., of Delaware, who says : "From the latest


    returns we find there are over one and a-half million of Masons in the United States to-day; 90,000 of these


    were raised during the last year. There has been an affiliation of 26,000 to offset the dismission of 27,000,


    and a restoration of 6000 to offset the suspension of 16,000 and the expulsion of 400, an approximate loss of


    11,400, or less than 10 per cent. of the total gain, and less than 1 per cent. of our entire membership. Of the


    10,000 suspended members, less than 15 per cent. were suspended for absolute un-Masonic conduct." Now,


    these figures show big business, but it is bad reading to find that it extends to both sides of the ledger. The


    admission of 90,000 new members and 26,000 by affiliation are big figures even in an institution whose


    membership is estimated at 1,500,000, and probably the 27,000 dismissions need not create much surprise.


    But what does make one think is that nearly 15 per cent. of the suspensions were for absolute un-Masonic


    conduct. The opinion is forced that in the case of the United States sufficient care is not exercised in




    guarding the portals. In this country we are thankful to say, without being Pharasaical, that, whatever the


    causes are of our comparative large number of demissions, " absolutely un-Masonic conduct " only


    represents a fraction per cent. M.W. Bro. Guthrie is evidently alarmed at the position, and thus sums it up : "


    As a moral force, Freemasonry in the United States to-day is a fact, a mighty bold fact. Thank God for that.


    That leads us to another thought. What are we one and a-half million men doing for the 1 per centum of lost


    brethren—the fellows that, got in wrong? What are we doing to heal the place from which the weak link was


    cut? Some one please work, out this forty-eighth problem of brotherhood."


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


    SOLICITING.


    ———<>———


    [An Address delivered to the Prov.G.L. of Canterbury by W. BRO. R. BALDWIN, P.P.G.W.]


    ————


    Worshipful Brethren and Brethren,—The subject which I have chosen for the brief address this evening is


    that important question of "Soliciting." I am well aware that brethren of high rank are of the opinion that a


    distinction should be drawn between soliciting and suggestion. This, I have no doubt, is drawn from reading


    a small work written by Bro. the Rev. J. S. Lawrence, and distributed by the Prov.G.M. to the Secs. of


    Lodges in the Prov. District of Canterbury, in which the writer states as follows :—


    "A candidate states at the outset that he has not been subject to the improper solicitation of his friends. Now,


    it is a well worn dictum, frequently quoted even by those who are not of us, that no man must be asked to


    become a Mason. This is a counsel of perfection. The reference to improper solicitation certainly infers a


    solicitation that is not improper. A solicitation that puts pressure on an unwilling man; that suggested the


    extension of a business connection; Oat represented the Order as a benefit society, or as a convivial club,


    would obviously be improper and need not be referred to.


    " But is it wrong for some experienced brother to suggest to a friend, who is in every way eligible, that his


    admission to the Order might open up for him an increased or even a new sphere of usefulness; that the


    avenues of knowledge would be increased; that the friendship he already enjoyed with many Masons would


    be infinitely more enjoyable, strengthened by the Masonic tie? The applicant has talked of the Order with his


    Masonic friends, and with whom originated the conversation that has led to the application it is not worth


    while enquiring. Moreover, might not a distinction be drawn between a solicitation and a suggestion ?"


    Personally, I consider it dangerous to suggest, because a brother is experienced, that he should be allowed to


    suggest or solicit his friends to become members of the Order.


    Some time ago a well-known and expert brother wrote a leaflet which was printed and distributed by the


    United Board of Enquiry, and in some cases read in Lodges in this district, in which he states :—" The desire


    for membership should in every case emanate from the candidate and never by suggestion from a Mason.


    The candidate is called upon to declare that he has not been influenced by solicitation. It therefore behoves


    us to be extremely careful that no man shall ever be placed in the position to have to give a false answer to


    the first.' question put to him in a Masonic Lodge." Another well-known writer says :— " Freemasonry


    requires that every applicant should seek the Craft voluntarily, entirely of his own will and accord."


    Therefore, if there is one tenet of Freemasonry that is known alike by the initiated and the profane, it is that


    of opposition to soliciting for members. No one should be solicited to become a Freemason. This is a part of


    the great unwritten law that must not be. Free will and voluntary action on the part of the applicant for the


    degrees is absolutely necessary. Were this not so the very application itself would bear on its face a


    falsehood, and the signature thereto would attest a lie. This is as it should be. The object is so pre-eminently


    a factor in Freemasonry; so much is Freemasonry concerned with the personality; its responsibilities are so


    individualised that, although as a whole it is an organisation in which the parts are bound together by the


    most solemn and impressive ties, the work it does is accomplished more through the personal factors of


    energy and character than combined effort. The unsolicited applicant is taught through signs and symbols,


    and voluntarily obligates himself to do or not to do certain things.


    All this concerns him personally. As he profits by the teachings he becomes a character builder. If he


    becomes really a Freemason, and not merely a member of the fraternity. (for, mark you, there is a vast




    difference between the two), it is his individuality that works for good. As he lets his light shine, so does he


    reflect credit upon the institution.


    The one absorbs what the other teaches. Then the taught in turn becomes the teacher. Advancement in


    Freemasonry should be along the same lines as those which led to the acceptance of the applicant.


    What !" do you exclaim. " Should the Freemason become a solicitor for honours?" Not at all. He came to


    Freemasonry unsolicited, and Freemasonry received him; he solicited, Freemasonry investigated and,


    accepting, taught him to become a Freemason. As Freemasonry does not solicit, neither should he as a


    Freemason solicit, for Freemasonry is but the aggregation of Freemasons. But does Freemasonry never


    solicit ? Yes; Freemasonry solicits of her votaries that they shall be good men and true, and conform their


    lives upon the moral principles symbolised by the plumb, the level, and the square. She asks that they


    apportion their time as she has taught them, by the gauge. She solicits that they shall spread the cement of


    brotherly love, and, with the Great Light in Freemasonry as their guide, build such a spiritual temple as shall


    make them worthy of all honour.


    Once a Freemason, soliciting should for ever cease, as no Freemason should solicit a profane, neither should


    he solicit preferment and honours. By living such a life as would make him worthy of these he will be


    solicited.


    Freemasonry delights to honour her worthy ones. She solicits their services and honours worthy


    performances.


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


    PRESENTATION TO Bro. A. OAKEY, LODGE


    BROOKLYN.


    ———<>———


    An event of particular interest took place at the meeting of Lodge Brooklyn on the 4th November, when the


    good services of the late Sec., Bro. A. Oakey, were recognised in a practical and substantial manner. Diming


    the evening the W.M. Bro. S. M. Arcus, asked M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams if he would kindly make a


    presentation to the retiring Sec. The M.W. brother, in referring to the work of Bro. Oakey during his four


    years' services as Sec., said the position had been filled with conspicuous ability at a time when skilled and


    indefatigable work was most required, the result being that the Lodge was in a better position financially


    than it had been at any previous time. Bro. Williams congratulated Bro. Oakey on having secured the


    appreciation and esteem of his brethren, and on behalf of the members of the Lodge offered for his


    acceptance an afternoon tea service, which he hoped would also give some pleasure to Mrs. Oakey.


    The W.M. voiced the regret of the Lodge that circumstances had prevented the presentation being made at


    the annual meeting the previous month.


    Bro. Oakey, in reply, heartily thanked the brethren for their marked appreciation of his work, and esteem for


    himself. He had not only done his work as a duty, but as a labour of love. He had been deeply interested in


    the affairs of the Lodge, with which he would ever feel the deepest interest, even though his change of


    residence might preclude a frequent attendance.


    There was a large attendance of members, and the W.M. of Lodge Otari was a welcome visitor.


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


    THE M.W. THE G. SEC., Bro. MALCOLM NICCOL.


    ———<>———


    We are sure all brethren in New Zealand will be glad to hear of the welfare of the G.Sec. of the G.L. of New


    Zealand and his movements. Writing from London on the 3rd September, he says :—" I attended G.L. of


    England last night in company with Griffiths, and we afterwards were guests at the dinner given by the G.


    officers' mess. We were very well received and entertained, and I was glad I was able to be present on such a


    momentous occasion. The hall was packed in every part, and fervour and patriotism pervaded the whole


    proceedings. The acting-G.M. was the Right Hon. Bro. F. F. Halsey, P.D.G.M. (father of Captain Halsey, of


    H.M.S. New Zealand), who made kindly mention of my being present, which necessitated my saying a few


    words, which were tumultuously applauded. The mess dinner was well attended and very enjoyable. The




    only toast was " Our Distinguished Visitors," responded to by a P.G.M. of South Carolina, and by myself and


    Griffiths. Our little Dominion is in high favour in England at present, the capture of Samoa and the sending


    of troops by New Zealand are current topics of conversation everywhere. The steamer by which I had


    engaged my berth for the return voyage (the s.s. Orvieto) is commandeered to bring Australian troops to


    England, and the Orient Company are substituting the Ophir, a steamer only half the tonnage, which means a


    very uncomfortable voyage, I am afraid, even if we are lucky enough to get berths in her, but I want to get


    back for many reasons, and shall certainly not lose any chance, you may be sure. I am almost tired of London


    already ; the talk, talk, talk of war and our Allies always retiring before the enemy is very depressing. I am


    afraid we are in for very long war and very bad times before the tide turns in our favour."


    Since the foregoing was received, information comes to hand that the Ophir had started at due date, but


    owing to an accident had put into port again.


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


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


    THE TRANSFER OF HALL PROPERTY.


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    DEAR SIR. AND BRO.,—I wish to ask for information from you on the following points, through the


    CRAFTSMAN, so that the matter will be brought before others who may be interested :— The brethren of a


    Lodge decide to purchase a block of land and build a Lodgeroom. Each brother gives freely according to his


    means. They then transfer the property, free of all encumbrance, to the Lodge. Later, the membership of the


    Lodge decreases to a few, who decide to dissolve the Lodge. What is the position with regard to the


    property?


    We all know the spirit and Intentions by which the original promoters were actuated, and surely nothing


    would be more gratifying to them than to know that, if such a position did arise, the result of their labours


    would automatically become vested in G.L. to augment the benevolent fund. It appears to me that the


    question is an important one, seeing that so many Lodges throughout New Zealand possess their


    Lodgerooms.


    Is there provision made for such a case in the G.L. of New Zealand Trustees Act, 1903, or in the laws of


    G.L.7 If so, is it necessary for a Craft Lodge to pass a special resolution adopting the G.L. of New Zealand


    Trustees Act, 1903 7—Yours fraternally, P. C. WATT, W.M.


    Lodge Tutanekai, No. 156, 2nd November, 1914.


    [We assume that a number of persons, being the owners of a block of land and Lodge buildings, who are


    desirous of transferring such property to a particular Lodge, would attach certain conditions with the gift. if


    transferred unconditionally, then the by-laws of the Lodge should govern the application of the property and


    its disposal in case of the dissolution of the Lodge. There is no law now existing which would automatically


    transfer such property to G.L. on the dissolution of the Lodge. It is desirable that every Lodge should adopt


    the G.L. Trustees Act, and a special resolution is necessary to do so.—ED.C]


    ——————


    INVESTITURE OF OFFICERS BEFORE THE


    INSTALLATION OF MASTER.


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    DEAR SIR. AND BRO.,—May I crave the favour of your Masonic opinion as to whether it is a proper thing to


    invest the officers of a Lodge before the Master is installed. Some trouble arose in this district recently


    whereby the Master could not be installed, not being eligible, though elected. The installation had to be put


    off, but the investiture of officers was proceeded with. I am an old Mason, and have always understood that


    officers could not be invested until their own Master was installed. If the old Master was re-elected I could




    understand it, but in this case it looks like putting the cart before the horse. A number of brethren have talked


    the matter over, but are not satisfied, and if it is irregular the Prov.G.M. should be told so. Apologising for


    troubling you, — I am, yours fraternally, PAST MASTER.


    Auckland, 23rd November, 1914.


    [We are informed that the Prov.G.M. was present on the occasion referred to, and consequently is


    responsible for the regularity of the proceedings. We have never heard of a case where similar action has


    been taken. But if you desire to pursue the matter further it would be better to obtain an official rather than a


    private opinion.—ED.C.]


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


    PAPER MONEY 4700 YEARS OLD.


    ———<>———


    London "Daily Chronicle " : The issue of new bank notes reminds us that these are a comparatively modern


    innovation in European banking transactions, for here they have been known but for three centuries, in China


    for more than forty. In the Asiatic Museum at St. Petersburg is one of these notes, issued at Pekin 2800 B.C.


    This note is white in colour, the paper is made from the fibre of the mulberry tree, and is somewhat thick. It


    is inscribed in blue ink with the number of the note, the name of the bank which issued it, and the date it was


    issued, the cashier's signature, and its value both in words and figures. In addition to its monetary value it has


    a moral value, for round its border is inscribed a bit of excellent advice, " However much you possess, strive


    to be thrifty."


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


    PRESENTATION TO R.W. BRO. A. STONEHAM, P.P.G.M.


    ———<>———


    Advantage was taken of the installation of Lodge Oceanic, No. 154, to present R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham,


    P.Prov.G.M., in his own Lodge, with a suit of Prov.G.M.'s regalia, which had been subscribed for by all the


    Otago Lodges. The presentation was made by R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, Prov.G.M., who said that Masonry was


    altruistic, and no one worked for any reward that he might reap, and in this instance they all knew the self-


    sacrificing spirit in which Bro. Stoneham had performed his duties. The Lodges wisely decided that they


    would not let Bro. Stoneham retire without presenting him with some small mark of the esteem in which he


    was held when he was head of the district. The members of Lodge Oceanic and those brethren who had


    worked with Bro. Stoneham in G.L. matters did not need telling of his work and worth. If, however, they


    wanted to find out about Bro. Stoneham they should visit the country Lodges, and then they would hear


    testimonies of his work. Bro. Stoneham had incurred a good deal of pecuniary loss when he held the office of


    Prov.G.M., to say nothing of loss of time and interference in business. He (the speaker) was fortunate in


    having the advice and assistance of R.W. Bros. Watt and Stoneham, and their work and influence was an


    inspiration to him in his work. In presenting the slight token from the Otago Lodges he could assure Bro.


    Stoneham that it was not a formal matter, as the present conveyed the good wishes and heartfelt thanks of the


    whole district. He hoped that Bro. Stoneham would be spared many years to wear their present, and he hoped


    that it would always serve to keep the two years he served as Prov.G.M. fresh in his memory.


    R.W. Bro. Stoneham said he could not say that he was taken by surprise, but none the less he thanked one


    and all for their handsome gift. He felt that he had not earned the praise which had been -bestowed upon him


    by the Prov.G.M., but he had honestly done his best and had been well supported by the G.L. officers in the


    district. Reference had been made to his work amongst the country Lodges; that work was his pleaaure and


    carried its own reward. During his term of office he had made many friends that were more than mere


    acquaintances; they were friends for life, and death alone would sever these friendships. If he had carried out


    his duties to the satisfaction of the Lodges he felt that he had justified the confidence reposed in him by the


    M.W.G.M. when he appointed him.











    ——————————


    OLD MASONRY DOCUMENTS.


    ———<>———


    MASONRY IN NEW ZEALAND NEARLY FIFTY YEARS AGO.


    ————


    Wellington, 6th April, 1867.


    SIR,—You are particularly requested to attend a Special Meeting of the Craft at the Lodge-room, Empire


    Hotel, on Tuesday evening next, at 7 p.m, precisely, for the purpose of considering the advisability of


    erecting a Masonic Hall in this town.


    By Order of the Committee,


    J. R. GEORGE,


    Secretary Lodge Waterloo.


    —————


    THE Committees appointed by the New Zealand Pacific Lodge and the Lodge Waterloo to consider the


    above question, have to report that the first and greatest difficulty they have to contend with is that of


    recommending a site ; in the first instance they took into their consideration the suitability of that. which the


    Provincial Government are willing to grant, between the Foresters' piece and Jacob Joseph and Co.'s store


    and Kumutoto Street, but the great cost of reclamation (at least £300) and the conditions attached to the


    grant, which would prevent money being borrowed upon the building, they are unanimously of opinion that


    it would not be advisable to accept the grant offered by the Provincial Government. Second—considering the


    enormous cost of land in the centre of the town, and being of opinion that a business site is not essential for a


    Masonic Hall, the Committees beg to suggest, for the consideration of the members of their Lodges, that a


    piece of land, adjoining Captain Benson's, or in some place convenient on the Terrace, should be purchased,


    at a cost of about £300, and a suitable building erected thereon, not to exceed in cost £500.


    The section of land referred to, next Captain Benson's house, has 59 feet frontage to Boulcott Street, and a


    depth of 105 feet (Lot 2 part of Town Acre 479), being situated between Captain Benson's house and Mr. W.


    Lyon's.


    ————


    LODGE WATERLOO, S.C.


    Wellington, 19th June, 1867.


    DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,-By command of the R.W.M., I have to request you to attend the duties of your


    Lodge at an emergency meeting to be held at the Lodgeroom, Empire Hotel, on St. John's Day, Monday,


    24th inst., for the purpose of proceeding to assist in the ceremony of laying the Foundation Stone of the


    Masonic Hall.


    The brethren of both Lodges will meet at dinner at the above hotel at 7 o'clock in the evening of the same


    day, and I have especially to request you to signify to me not later than tomorrow your intention to be present


    at the meeting of the Lodge, and also at the dinner.


    The Lodge will be tyled punctually at high noon.


    Tickets for the dinner, £1 is. each, can be obtained of any office-bearer of the Lodge.


    I am, Dear Sir and Brother,


    Yours fraternally,


    J. R. GEORGE, Secretary Lodge Waterloo.


    ——————


    LODGE N.Z. PACIFIC VISITS LODGE CIVIC.


    ———<>———


    The usual monthly meeting of Lodge Civic, No. 157, was held on 6th November, W. Bro. Frank Steans,


    W.M., presiding. There was a very large attendance of brethren and visitors, including M.W. Bro. J. J.


    Dougall, G.M., and M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, Prov.G.M., accompanied by his officers, to welcome the W.M.,


    officers, and brethren of Lodge Pacific, No. 2, wfio had come from Wellington to work the Lodge. The




    W.M., W. Bro. J. S. Connell, who was accompanied by W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, I.P.M., Bros. E. Norton,


    S.W., A. Scott, J.W., and J. Tamblyn, S.D., assumed control of the Lodge and performed the ceremony of


    raising. An interesting feature in connection with the work was the fact that Pacific Lodge had travelled


    nearly two hundred miles in order to confer the degree, and the candidate had travelled one hundred miles to


    receive it.


    After the closing of the Lodge a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, during which the W.M., Bro. F.


    Steans, took the opportunity to express to Lodge Pacific the thanks of Civic officers and brethren for their


    visit, at a time when circumstances had made it specially difficult to get away. He expressed appreciation of


    the fact that in spite of these difficulties, W. Bro. J. S. Connell and his officers had maintained unbroken the


    chain of annual fraternal visits instituted by M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall seven years ago. W. Bro. J. S. Connell,


    in reply, affirmed the pleasure it had given him and his officers to make the visit, and he trusted that


    circumstances would never arise to cancel the reciprocal visits of Civic and Pacific brethren.


    ——————


    A DISTINGUISHED VISITOR.


    ———<>———


    The November meeting of Lodge Leinster, Wellington, was of more than usual interest, from the fact that a


    distinguished brother, M.W. Bro. F. S. King, P.G.M. of the State of Wyoming,


    U.S.A., was included in the list, of the visitors.There were also present M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, Bro. T.


    Ryan, of S.A., and a brother, whose name has failed us, from Melbourne. After examination by two P.Ms. of


    the Lodge, M.W. Bro. King was accompanied into the Lodge by M.W. Bro. Williams, and was received with


    due honour. The ceremonial working consisted of an initiation, which was conducted with dignity and


    smoothness by W.M. Bra D. Ritchie and his officers, and subsequently elicited the highest encomiums from


    the distinguished American brother. A motion by W. Bro. Wills to vote the sum of £25 towards the special


    Grand Lodge Relief Fund in connection with the war was acquiesced in. The W.M. offered a hearty welcome


    to the distinguished visitors, and expressed the pleasure felt by the Lodge in receiving them.


    The subsequent proceedings in the refectory were of a very pleasing character, and M.W. Bro. King, in


    response to the toast of his health, illustrated the difference of procedure in the working he had that evening


    witnessed and that practised in his own State. Other toasts were given and harmony prevailed, and all those


    participating admitted to having spent a very pleasant evening.







    ——————


    N.Z. PACIFIC BRETHREN ENTERTAINED BY


    MEMBERS OF LODGE CIVIC.


    ———<>———


    On the occasion of the visit of Lodge Pacific to Christchurch to conduct the work of Lodge Civic, the


    opportunity was taken to entertain the visitors at a picnic to Kairaki Beach. On the arrival of the visiting


    brethren and ladies at Christchurch, they were met by W. Bro. F. Steans, who with a number of Civic


    brethren and lady friends accompanied them by motor to Kaiapoi, from whence they journeyed by launch to


    Kairaki, where a programme of games interspersed with sundry meals afforded opportunity for social


    intercourse. In spite of some showers in the late afternoon an enjoyable day was spent, and the party returned


    to town in time to prepare for the evening's work.


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


    Chips from Other Ashlars.
    ———————————————————————————————————————————


    American Freemasons deplore the unhappy war now raging in Europe, not alone for humanitarian reasons,


    but because the strife sets Mason against Mason, brother against brother. We sympathise with all the


    belligerents because the Masonic family tie extends to all the nations now at war.—" Masonic Standard.'


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Germany has several G.Ls., but also a union of Church and State—in this case Protestant—and only the fact


    that Freemasonry has members in high positions seems to prevent the German Emperor from following the


    lead of the other autocratic governments. It will be recalled that he showed a petty dislike of the Craft when


    he ordered all Masonic allusions to be stricken from Mozart's famous opera, " Zauberflote," written around


    the musical note " G."—" Masonic Home Journal."


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The annual Masonic bowling match under the auspices of the Glasgow Province took place on the 13th


    September on the greens of the city clubs. There was a large entry of Lodges, with one or more rinks, and the


    utmost keenness was displayed in the endeavour to win the Pearce Cup and first set of gold badges, or,


    failing that, to qualify for a place to contest- the " Graham " Cup a fortnight hence. The Gael Lodge, No. 609,


    playing on Shawlands green against Thistle and Rose Lodge, No. 73, with a majority of thirty-three shots


    easily beat all aspirants and won the cup.—Exchange.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    A wicked old rascal, associated with the Craft (says the "Freemasons' Chronicle "), suggests that at this


    critical juncture in the world's history, if the Lodges of Freemasonry do not see their way to have supper or


    banquet after the Lod.ge work they will try and arrange a " wake.' He has given this view in consequence of


    the advice we have given to try and " keep the flag flying " among the Masonic Homes and Masonic servants


    who would suffer terrible hardships if rational entertainment were done away with. To gauge the extent of


    this stoppage we quote from an invitation just to hand : "In consequence of the present crisis no banquet will


    be held after the ceremony." It is very difficult to know what to do or what to advise, but we think the


    depression following a dismal gathering would do far more harm than an hour or two's social enjoyment.


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


    THE RAINSFORD PAPERS.


    ———<>———


    In a recent issue of the "Transactions of the Quatuor Coronati Lodge " there is an article by Bro. Gordon P.


    G. Hills, entitled "Notes on the Rainsford Papers in the British Museum." General Charles Rainsford was a


    distinguished British officer in the latter part of the eighteenth century, and he had an intimate connection


    with Freemasonry in England, France, and Holland. There is much curious information contained in his


    journals and correspondence. He appears to have been on friendly terms with the famous Admiral Jervis, a


    Staffordshire man, who became Viscount St. Vincent, and to whose memory there is a monument in Stone


    Parish Church. In a letter, one of many preserved from Lord St. Vincent, written at the Marquis of




    Lansdowne's seat, Bowood Park, in 1792, the writer facetiously tells Rainsford that " the Marquis bids me


    say he is sure you hold intelligence with your Bro. Illumine, the King of Prusia, and that you know all about


    his views, but will not communicate to us Clay Mortals." The King of Prussia referred to was Frederick


    William, who succeeded his uncle, Frederick the Great. In the same issue is " A Short Sketch of the Rise and


    Progress of Irish Freemasonry," by Bro. J. H. Edge, K.C. It is interesting to note that the great Duke of


    Wellington was a Freemason, having been initiated in a Lodge held in Trim. He did not, however, take any


    part in the working of the Order during his arduous and eventful career. It will not be generally known that


    the Duke was a near relative of the founder of the Wesleyan Methodists. In point of fact, he was christened


    Arthur Wesley, and he did not use the surname of Wellesley until he was twenty-nine years of age. Daniel


    O'Connell was also a Freemason, but resigned from the Order in compliance with the dictates of his church,


    which showed its hostility to the Masonic revival in the eighteenth century by issuing numerous bulls, letters,


    and decrees against it. Prior to the hostility of Rome, the majority of the Irish brethren were at the


    commencement of the last century of the Roman Catholic persuasion. It is new to think of members of the


    Masonic Order in direct conflict with the authorities and police, " but then nothing surprises one where


    Ireland is concerned." This is the observation of Mr. H. F. Berry, Litt.D., in an article which he contributes to


    the same number on " Some Historical Episodes in Irish Freemasonry." The period is the disturbed time from


    1790 to 1830, when Orangemen and Ribbonmen were in fierce opposition, and disorder and mischief were


    hatched under the cloak of Masonry. Comparatively soon, however, this unholy alliance between


    Freemasons and Ribbonmen appears to have been dissolved. There was a "Disarming Act " passed at the


    time (38 George III.), so that history in our day is repeating itself, says the "Staffordshire Advertiser."—


    "Freemason's Chronicle."


    ——————




    OBITUARY.


    ——<>——


    W. BRO. ANDREW SINCLAIR.


    ——


    It is with deep regret that we have to record the death of Bro. Andrew Sinclair, of Motueka,


    which occurred on Saturday, 7th November, at 3 o'clock. The deceased had been far from well


    for some time past, and his condition a few weeks back caused his many friends considerable


    anxiety, but he took a turn for the better, and hopes were entertained that he would make a


    complete recovery. However, about ten days ago he was seized with a paralytic stroke, from the


    effects of which he never recovered. Deceased was born in the Shetland Isles in 1841, and was


    trained in a mercantile office. In 1861 he emigrated to Victoria in the ship "Prince of the Leal,"


    and a year later came to New Zealand, where he worked with considerable success in the


    goldfields of Otago and the West Coast. In 1872 he settled in Takaka, and engaged in farming.


    He also joined the late Mr. Henry Abbot, and for twenty years managed his business in Takaka.


    The late Bro. Sinclair also took a prominent part in all matters affecting the welfare of the


    district. Besides filling for a time the office of chairman of the Collingwood County Council, he


    served on many public bodies, including road boards and school committees. He was a member


    of the Motueka Licensing Committee and of the Land Board, and prior to leaving Takaka to


    settle in Motueka was an active member of the Golden Bay A. and P. Association and the


    Takaka Athletic Club. Deceased was also one of the founders of the Golden Bay Lodge of


    Freemasons, and was-one of the oldest P-Ms. in the Nelson Provincial District. Some years ago


    deceased, who was a man of sterling character, went to reside in Motueka, where he made many


    friends by his kind and genial manner. He leaves a widow, but no family. The funeral took place


    at Motueka on 16th November.


    —————


    BRO. LIEUT.-SURGEON E. S. H. WEBB.


    ———




    We have the sad duty to record the death of Bro. Dr. Ernest John Webb, M.B., Ph.B., a member


    of Lodge N.Z. Pacific, who was accidentally killed on the 17th inst. in the Indian Ocean. Bro.


    Webb was the medical officer on the "Arawa," and was accorded a military funeral on shore on


    the 19th inst. It is only two meetings ago when our late brother was given a most enthusiastic


    send-off by his Lodge. He was a most popular member, and his early demise will be greatly


    regretted by all who knew him. The deceased, who was 33 years of age, was a son of Bro.


    Herbert Webb, solicitor, of Dunedin, and a brother of Mr. R. Herbert Webb, solicitor, of


    Wellington, of Dr. Webb, of Martinborough, and of Mr. Webb, accountant, of Invercargill. He


    qualified in Dunedin this year, and was appointed medical officer of the first Trentham Camp,


    in which position he earned the goodwill and respect of both officers and men.


    —————


    BRO. G. A. SMYTH.


    ———


    By the death of Bro. G. A. Smyth, Lodge Civic lost one of its promising members. Although


    Bro. Smyth had only been admitted into Freemasonry during the present year, and had yet to be


    raised, he had won for himself the esteem of his Civic brethren. The news of his untimely death


    was received with sorrow by the members of his Lodge.




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


    Poetry.
    ———————————————————————————————————————————


    PRO PATRIA.


    England, in this great fight to which you go—


    Because where Honour calls you, go you must—


    Be glad, whatever comes, at least to know


    You have your quarrel just.


    Peace was your care; before the nation's bar


    Her cause you pleaded and her ends you sought;


    But not for her sake, being what you are,


    Could you be bribed and bought.


    Others may spurn the pledge of land to land,


    May with the brute sword stain a gallant past;


    But by the seal to which you set your hand,


    Thank God, you still stand fast !


    Forth, then, to front that peril of the deep


    With smiling lips, and in your eyes the light,


    Steadfast and confident, of those who keep


    Their storied scutcheon bright.


    And we, whose burden is to watch and wait—


    High-hearted ever, strong in faith and prayer,


    We ask what offering we may consecrate,


    What humble service share?


    To steel our souls against the lust of ease;


    To find our welfare in the general good;


    To hold together, merging all degrees


    In one wide brotherhood;


    To teach that he who saves himself is lost;




    To bear in silence though our hearts may bleed;


    To spend ourselves, and never count the cost,


    For others' greater need;


    To go our quiet ways, subdued and sane;


    To hush all vulgar clamour of the street;


    With level calm to face alike the strain


    Of triumph or defeat ;


    This be our part, for so we serve you best,


    So best confirm their prowess and their pride,


    Your warrior sons, to whom in this high test


    Our fortunes we confide.


    —O.S., in " Punch."


    —————————————————————


    EVERY YEAR.


    ———<>———


    (By Albert Pike.)


    Life is a count of losses,


    Every year;


    For the weak are heavier crosses,


    Every year;


    Lost Springs with sobs replying


    Unto weary Autumns' sighing,


    While those we love are dying,


    Every year.


    The days have less of gladness,


    Every year;


    The nights more weight of sadness,


    Every year ;


    Fair Springs no longer charm us,


    The wind and weather harm us,


    The threats of death alarm us,


    Every year.


    There come new cares and sorrows,


    Every year;


    Dark days and darker morrows,


    Every year;


    The ghosts of dead loves haunt us,


    The ghosts of changed friends taunt us,


    And disappointments daunt us,


    Every year.


    To the Past go more dead faces,


    Every year;


    As the loved leave vacant places,


    Every year;


    Everywhere the sad eyes meet us,


    In the evening's dusk they greet us,


    And to come to them entreat us,


    Every year.


    "You are growing old," they tell us,




    " Every year;


    " You are more alone," they tell us,


    " Every year ;


    " You can win no new affection,


    " You have only recollection,


    " Deeper sorrow and dejection,


    " Every year."


    Too true ! Life's shores are shifting,


    Every year;


    And we are seaward drifting,


    Every year;


    Old places, changing, fret us,


    The living more forget us,


    There are fewer to regret us,


    Every year.


    But the truer life draws nigher,


    Every year;


    And its Morning-star climbs higher,


    Every year;


    Earth's hold on us grows slighter,


    And the heavy burthen lighter,


    And the Dawn Immortal brighter


    Every year.


    ——————————————————


    GOD, GIVE US PEACE !


    ———<>———


    The world's a-tremble with the tread


    Of millions of her fighting men,


    The bodies of the shrivelled dead


    Pass into common clay again.


    And at their doors the women stand


    With starving babes at shrunken breast,


    And wail their mourning of the band


    That perished in the war god's quest.


    O God, Thy people cry to Thee,


    Who know'st all the fruits of war.


    Wilt Thou not hear ? Wilt Thou not see?


    Or is there punishment in store?


    Lord God, Thy splendour shines again,


    Magnificent with earth's surcease;


    Grant mercy on Thy children then,


    And pity, God, O give us Peace !


    Chicago "Tribune."


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


    AN UNIQUE RECORD.


    ———<>———


    The Scottish Chapter Honour, Concord, and Fidelity, No. 305, of the 2nd Battalion of Royal Scots,


    completes the unique record of having served under the three G. bodies of England, Ireland, and Scotland,


    No. 74, Irish, Craft, 1737 to 1807; No. 574, ultimately 316, Unity, Peace, and Concord, Craft, 1808 to pre-


    sent date, under England; and Honour, Concord, and Fidelity, 305, R.A. Chapter under Scotland, chartered


    1903. The present Chapter is a, revival of the old English Chapter Honour, Concord, and Fidelity, No. 396,




    under another banner. It was warranted in 1838, and struck off as dormant in 1892. The present Chapter has


    the W.Ts. of the old Chapter 396 still in use. Previous to the 396 (1838) Warrant, the companions of the


    battalion worked under a warrant from the G. Chapter of the Coromandel Coast, South India, which was


    returned in 1831, when the brethren were on the point of embarking at Madras for Glasgow, after having


    served in Madras and Burma since 1807. Comp. R. Freke Gould, late 31st Regiment (the Masonic historian),


    was its first hon. member. While stationed in Edinburgh recently the Chapter had very fraternal relations


    with Lodge and Chapter Edinburgh Defensive Band, a relic of the trained bands organised in the Scottish


    capital to resist a threatened invasion of Leith and Edinburgh by the celebrated sea rover Paul Jones, says the


    " Western Morning News."


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


    A QUESTION OF PLUCK.


    ————<>————


    (By Otho Rothfeld, F.R.G.S., I.C.S.)


    ——————


    " And go to your Gawd like a soldier."


    It was at one of those Christmas camps in Gujarat, when in the evening mists strike cold and the water in the


    tents shows a skin of ice by the morning.


    When we settled down outside round the fire, we had started, as men will, by again talking over the day's


    shoot. The talk drifted on to big game and thence to courage.


    "Health and habit," said Jeffreys, " those are the two factors in courage. Of course, I'm not talking of what is,


    I suppose, the highest courage of all—going through with a thing which you funk like sin, simply because it's


    your duty. That's a different thing entirely. I'm talking of ordinary pluck, and I believe that for average pluck


    the things that really matter are a decent digestion and the habit of meeting that particular kind of danger."


    " Quite so, sir," said Browne. "Few of us, for instance, would mind pushing a horse at most fences, even if


    we expected an almighty purler. That's what we're used to. But I know I wouldn't go round Brooklands in a


    racing motor if I could help it. I'd have another engagement at the other end of England."


    "I noticed more or less the same thing in the war," said Major Herrick. " When the Boers got our range with


    their rifles and we heard the whistle of their bullets past our ears, and then that sharp, thin ping,' I always felt


    that I wanted to duck, and I fancy most of the fellows in my battery did the same. But those devils in the


    infantry walked about quite comfortably, taking notes or munching sandwiches—or—or some blamed thing,


    just as if they were having a happy day out at Aldershot. On the other hand, when the guns came into play


    and the shells began to burst or made nasty smells in the private grounds, we were quite all right, thank you,


    and took far too much friendly interest in the show to worry about trifles. But I always noticed then that the


    line clung to cover if they could get any. Really, habit's a wonderful thing."


    Henricoat shook himself up from the long chair in which he was lying, and reached out for another cigar.


    "'Well, I don't know," he said, "that that's quite everything. I don't deny that habit's useful. But, seems to me,


    there are some things you never get used to—snakes, for instance."


    Jeffreys laughed.


    " Time for the inevitable snake-story," he cried. "Come on, Henricoat, out with it. Don't keep it on your


    chest, man. Help yourselves to whisky or brandy, you fellows, while Henricoat gets everything fixed up for


    the fearful and wonderful."


    Henricoat lit his cigar and again stretched his long legs lazily on the arms of his chair.


    "I haven't anything out of the way to tell," he said. " Only as you are all talking of courage, I don't mind


    telling you of a time when I really was frightened. And I don't quite see how habit could have helped in that


    case. We are all of us quite sufficiently accustomed to snakes in this country, I imagine, and I suppose I've


    had my share of them like most fellows. But I'm still as much afraid of snakes as ever I was, in fact, I dislike


    them more every day.


    " It's funny, too. I don't think I'm more afraid of death than most people. On the contrary, as a general rule, I


    think a speedy, almost painless death is about the greatest blessing life can give one. One eats and drinks,




    makes love, kisses the girl one likes best in all the world, and then—well, I think a broken neck in the


    hunting-field or a spear through one's heart in the next dacoity one rounds up is about the most one can


    expect out of life. But I don't know what it is—whether it's the first story one read in the Bible when one was


    a kid, or whether it's really that the beast itself is horrible—but the' idea of a swift spring in the dark and a


    pair of sharp fangs in the naked ankle, and the deadly brute crawling noiselessly, secretly away across the


    floor to its den—well, it fairly gives me the shudders."


    Henricoat took another long pull at his cigar and blew out a cloud of smoke. The rest of us were leaning


    forward listening to what he had to say. There is no man who lives in India that does not know the sudden


    unreasoning fear of the death that creeps in the dark.


    " Well," he continued, " some years ago I was camping not many miles from here in the middle of winter. It


    was a thorough jungle camp, one of those places that very few men ever go to, thick forest, no real village,


    nly just the huts of the forest people round about. Personally, I think it's a good thing to go to that sort of


    place occasionally. The people see us seldom enough, Lord knows. It's not a bad thing to let them see from


    time to time what the white man is really like.


    " It was one of those infernally cold nights that you get in January. It was dark as pitch, except for the stars


    that shone in thousands right through every inch of the sky. One couldn't help thinking of all those other lives


    that stretched on there without end. Overhead the trees rustled in the wind, and the cold bit through the


    closed walls of the tent and through the thickest winter tweeds. I read a few pages of Horace—ligna super


    foco, you know, and that sort of thing—with my glass of port and my cigar, and then, as soon as I could, I


    decided to turn in. The cold was really too bitter to sit up.


    "The bed was jolly cold, too, and I piled my coat and a heavy Irish frieze great-coat on top of the blankets. I


    remember pitying the watchmen outside crouching in their cotton wraps over their wood-fires and thinking


    how comfortable I was under the weight of all those bed-clothes before I fell asleep.


    " The next I remember was waking suddenly with a sort of frightened gasp in the middle of the night. I didn't


    move. I just woke up. Then I waited, waited for something to turn up, for I knew there was something wrong.


    But I didn't know what it was. And I just waited, waited to see.


    "Suddenly I felt a small, sharp, pointed, triangular head tap my thigh. It struck me gently, no bite, you know,


    just a gentle, blunt tap, as if it were feeling its way, looking, I suppose, for some soft, warm place to coil in


    and be cosy. Then it tapped again, and tapped again, feeling its way down my thigh. Then, after a bit, not


    finding a satisfactory place, I suppose, it began to tap its way back again, quite gently and quietly, but per-


    sistently.


    "Well, I don't know what you fellows think, but the idea of a snake in bed with me, next to my skin, under a


    couple of blankets and two coats,, made me go cold. I didn't move. I didn't feel the least bit like moving, but


    I just lay still and wondered what was going to happen next. And still that wretched, pointed head kept


    tapping up and down my thigh.


    " I thought it all over as calmly as I could. It was no use my lying still and doing nothing, for the next


    moment I fully expected the brute would creep over my leg and coil itself round me, and things would be


    worse than ever. On the other hand, with all that weight of bed-clothes on top of me, it was no earthly good


    my trying to jump up. Long before I could lift them up and jump, the brute was sure to become frightened


    and to strike blindly at my moving limbs. The only thing to do, that I could see, was to call the servants.


    " I don't know whether you have ever tried to shout without moving, but I can assure you it's not easy.


    You've no idea how difficult it is till you try. And, of course, the one idea present to my mind was not to


    move, whatever I did.


    ' Well, I shouted. I can hardly believe it now when I remember how I hated doing it, and how I feared to


    move, but I shouted. And, of course, no one answered. You know how hard the watchmen sleep, and the


    servants were of course a long way off. I had to shout four times, each time with every precaution against the


    slightest involuntary movement, before anyone heard me. Then a watchman came, a silly old blundering fool


    from the forest, half asleep, whom I dared not trust. Without turning round, almost without raising my voice,


    for the tapping was more insistent now, as if the brute were half alarmed and might strike at any moment, I


    told him to call my servants, all my servants.


    "Then came a space of waiting, of almost endless waiting. I could hear him moving off, with the teak leaves




    crunching underneath his feet, and I hoped he had understood and knew what he was to do. And I could


    almost fancy that I heard the servants yawning and stretching themselves, and putting on their warm clothes


    in a leisurely, sleepy way, while I waited for the taps of the little head, and wondered where it would go next.


    And then —at last—I heard footsteps approaching, and the tent door was lifted, and I heard my butler asking


    what was the matter. And behind him I heard the murmur of other voices, and I knew that the other servants


    had come with him.


    " Still without moving, I whispered, while. I strove to keep every muscle still, that there was a snake in bed


    with me, and they must throw off the bed-clothes and hit the snake while I jumped. And they went to fetch


    sticks and returned. And I counted, while they softly caught the bed-clothes. I counted ' One—two—three '


    and they threw up the bed-clothes, while I jumped as far as I could. Down came the sticks upon the bed, and


    over the white sheet I could see, moving as fast as it could, a wretched little mouse! My snake was only a


    poor little half-frozen mouse, which had sought warmth where it could!


    " Well, all I can say is that, snake or no snake, that half-hour had made me almost as shaky as I well could


    be, and I had a pretty stiff brandy and soda before I turned in again. I don't care what the servants thought,


    but I wanted that drink. Well, Herrick, I don't know whether you call that want of courage, but I'm damned if


    I can see what habit had to do with it, anyway !" —" Pearson's Magazine."


    ——————————————————


    THE BLUE DEVIL.


    ———<>———


    (Written for the " Masonic Home Journal.")


    The sun was setting, and the cool shades that lay across the road were filling the hearts of the company of


    Spanish soldiers with new life after their seventy-mile ride over rough roads in the burning Cuban sun.


    The cavalrymen were nearing Santiago when a rifle shot rang out from a cluster of trees on top of a low hill,


    and each Spaniard whispered in excitement, " The Blue Devils !"


    For a few seconds the Spanish balls -whistled in the air about the hill-top on which the Americans lay, but


    the Blues soon began to cut them fast, and to escape the sheet of fire they galloped off, leaving many dead


    ones behind.


    When the Spaniards were gone the boys in blue came from the hills, and, marching by the dead in the road,


    started on their way northward, the stars and stripes floating in the air.


    They reached the top of a grassy ridge, with tall trees here and there, and after supper and a few stories they


    lay down to pass the night.


    It was a beautiful night indeed. The full moon in the deep blue of the sky was glowing like a ball of silver.


    The stars were large and bright. The tall trees of the ridge shimmered in the flood of golden moonlight.


    One boy lay awake till long after the others had closed their eyes to the beauty of the night, and thought of


    the Spaniard he had passed at the scene of the conflict. There had been something queer in his look, and it


    haunted the boy in blue and kept him from sleep.


    At last he decided to get permission and return to the object of his thoughts. He felt that he was being called.


    " I saw a dying soldier where we had shot him this evening, and something in his face and eyes have caused


    me to think of him all the time. I can't forget him. 1 feel like I should return to him. It almost seems I can


    hear him call me."


    So he appealed to the officer, but was refused leave to return to the "dying hound," as the American officer


    called the soldier from beyond the Atlantic.


    But at midnight he crept silently out and made for the one who was filling his dreams. He travelled as fast as


    he could, often running for many minutes. On, on he went, up hill and down, till he was in sight of the heap


    of dead.


    "A Blue Devil," he heard the Spaniard, who was dying, say as he approached in the moonlight.


    "But a friend, and one who has come to help you," said the boy in blue.


    The American soon found another mystic brother. The Spanish horseman was a Mason, and by some subtle




    power had thought —though he was not certain—that he recognised in this Western soldier a brother.


    Long they talked in the beautiful light of that summer night—the last night of the earth for the one—beneath


    the waving tropical trees that seemed to chant a requiem for the boy whose light was fading.


    I was born beyond the sea, among the sunny fields of Spain. I loved the trees and flowers, the rocks and


    streams and the hills and vales of that fair land. But to-night I go to a land more beautiful, and shall soon be


    with our Lodge Celestial."


    The boy from Spain rested a moment, for he was growing weak. He took from his pocket a gold Masonic


    watch charm, and continued :-


    "This was my father's. He wore it all the time till the Great Architect of the Universe called him to the city


    above. Then he gave it to me, and I have worn it. Take it and send it to my sister, who is in San Negras,


    Spain.


    " I feel my life is going. Poor sister ! I'll never see her any more. I cannot help her, but as long as there are


    Masons I know they'll take care of her Father loved her."


    In a few more minutes the soul of the boy Mason had travelled to that country that lies beyond the stars, from


    which returns no pilgrim. And the other Mason was left by the lifeless body, which will rise at the last day to


    dwell in the city whose architect and builder is God.


    It was morning when the boy in blue got back to the camp he had deserted at midnight.


    Herbert George, the American who had received the gold charm from from his "enemy-friend," soon after


    reaching New York sent it, with a letter, to the girl in Spain.


    After having fulfilled his promise and sent the piece of jewelry on its long journey to the land that sent a


    sailor to find this continent—then a part of the unknown—Herbert thought but little more of the boy who for


    months filled his mind night and day.


    One beautiful autumn day, as Herbert was nearing Central Park, on West Ninety-fourth Street, he was


    startled by meeting a handsome girl who, he noticed, wore on her breast a gold Masonic watch charm exactly


    like the one he had sent to San Negras, Spain.


    What could it mean? It was not common to see a woman wearing a Masonic emblem of any kind, and this


    was a man's watch charm. How strange !


    Here and there he went through Central Park, but all that pleasant afternoon he spent in dreaming of the


    pretty girl who wore the golden charm. Would be ever see her again? Would the secret ever be known? The


    girls whom he met in the park he did not notice, for he was all the while having visions of the girl who had


    from the moment he first saw her filled him with longings unlike any he had ever known before.


    Weeks passed on, and time lengthened into months, and still he met the one of his heart no more; and still he


    could see her all the time. Awake or sleeping he could see her, and the power of her beauty grew upon him.


    He could see her dark waving hair, her soft brown eyes, her rosy lips and even white teeth—in his dreams—


    but anxious as he waited, could find her no more, though he, went up and down the city.


    One evening, more than a year after Herbert met the girl on the street, he was passing an hour at Madison


    Square Garden. He was starting to leave when he saw at his feet a Masonic watch charm, which he felt sure


    was the one he had received from the soldier, and the one he had seen on the breast of a pretty girl. He


    picked it up and hurried to his room, his heart beating fastly, while to his mind the thoughts came and went.


    A few days later he saw something in the "New York World" that caught not only his eye, but his heart.


    "LOST—Gold watch charm, a Masonic emblem, on 3rd May, at Madison Square Garden. Reward. Please


    return to Henry Publishing Co. and get reward."


    Herbert could not wait. He took his hat and started for the little publishing house far up town. On entering


    the office room he saw on the far side of the room the girl he had met on the street near Central Park, and


    again he felt his heart leap with happiness.


    To-day that Spanish girl is the wife of the Blue Devil who carried that gold charm from Cuba and sent it to


    her in Spain. They live happily in New York, the metropolis of the world, and their American children will


    keep and prize the great Masonic watch charm.


    ——————————————————




    HIS BROTHER'S KEEPER.


    ———<>———


    This story was recalled last Christmas, after 600 Knights Templar assembled in a neighbouring city and


    drank, the most of them in cold water, to the health of their officers and solemnly bowed their heads in silent


    prayer in memory of the dead. After the ceremony I walked with a veteran Mason from the temple, and in


    the course of our talk asked him what most interested him in Masonry. His reply was, " The practical part of


    it." Continuing, he said : "I have been a Mason fifty-two years. In our Lodge there was a man we all greatly


    admired. He was a genius in many ways. It was no trouble for him to make friends and keep them. He had an


    interesting family of boys and girls. He was a charming after-dinner speaker. Few banquets in that city were


    held without his presence.


    "Well, it is too long a story ; I will shorten it. Jim kept on to a wreck. We started him only to see him fall.


    One Christmas morning he committed suicide. The widow and children were left penniless. The home was


    mortgaged. After the funeral our first work was to lift that mortgage. Then we planned to keep the family


    together, feed, clothe, and school the boys and girls until they could do for themselves. As soon as they were


    large enough the boys began to earn. Two of the girls became teachers.


    "I was on my way home from Lodge one night when I met one of Jim's boys. When we shook hands his


    breath and voice gave me a shock. I found that the youngster had been going wrong for some time. At the


    next meeting of the Lodge I told the story. The Master, at the close of the Lodge, said : We tried to save Jim,


    but we couldn't; we must save his boy.'


    " We left the Lodge with the understanding that not less than two members should make it in their way to


    meet the young man each day and point out pitfalls. The young fellow surrendered. He lived and died with a


    brain unmuddled."


    Then the veteran Mason said : " I have been thinking of Jim and his boy to-day. I think of them every


    Christmas. I based my answer to your question when I said I liked Masonry because it is practical. The man


    who takes our degrees and is not impressed with the fact that he is in a way his brother's keeper is not a well-


    rounded Mason."—" Chicago Record-Herald."


    ——————————————————


    GEMS OF THOUGHT FROM LIFE'S GREAT HIGHWAY.


    ———<>———


    (" Scottish Rite Bulletin.")


    Sensibility is like the stars that can lead one only when the sky is clear. Reason is the magnetic needle that


    guides the ships when they are wrapped in darkness.


    ✳ ✳ ✳
    Truth and manliness are two qualities that will carry you through the world much better than policy, tact, or


    expedience, or any other word that ever was devised to conceal or mystify deviation from the straight line.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Education is not valuable for the amount of knowledge it imparts. He is best educated who can do most for


    himself and humanity through means of his own education.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Ignorance.—We ought not to despise those for their ignorance who have had no education ; but those who


    have had a good education, and neglect to improve by it. No one who loves to study, and constantly applies


    to it, can long be ignorant.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    In the voyage of life we should imitate the ancient manners, who without losing sight of the earth, trusted to


    the heavenly signs for their guidance.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Hope is the last lingering light of the human heart. It shines when every other is put out. Extinguish it and the


    gloom of affliction becomes the very blackest of darkness—cheerless and impenetrable.




    ✳ ✳ ✳


    To every man there are many, many dark hours, when he feels inclined to abandon his best enterprise—when


    his heart's dearest hopes appear delusive—hours when he feels unequal to the burden, when all his


    aspirations seem worthless. Let no one think he alone has dark hours. They are the common lot of humanity.


    They are the touch-stones to try whether we are current coin or not.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    Character is like stock in trade; the more of it a man possesses, the greater his faculties for adding to it.


    Character is power, is influence ; it makes friends, creates funds, draws patronage and support, and opens a


    sure and easy way to wealth, honour, and happiness.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    DON'T WAIT—many lose the opportunity of saying a kind thing by waiting to weigh the matter too long.


    Our best impulses are too delicate to endure much handling. If you fail to give them expression the moment


    they rise, they effervesce, evaporate, and are gone. If they do not turn sour, they become flat, losing all life


    and sparkle by keeping. Speak promptly when you feel kindly.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    The old friendships—safe, genuine, and firmly built—for which we take little thought, and which always


    avail us, are like those good, thick walls of bygone days, which need no repairs and are ever ready for shelter


    or defence.


    ✳ ✳ ✳


    No man can influence his fellows with any power who retires into his own selfishness and gives himself to a


    self-culture which has no further object. It is not an unreasonable demand of the majority that the few who


    have the advantages of the training of the college and university should exhibit the breadth and sweetness of


    the generous culture, and should shed everywhere that light which ennobles common things, and without


    which life is like one of the old landscapes in which the artist forgot to put sunshine.


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


    For the Children
    Little Mary had just returned from an afternoon party. " Oh, mamma," she exclaimed, " just think, I had ice


    cream three times in congestion !"


    ————


    " Papa," said little May, who had just been chastised for disobedience, " I wish you had never married into


    our family."


    ————


    "Why did you get up so early ?" asked a mother of her little daughter.


    'Cause," was the reply, " I slept all the sleep I had."


    ————


    " Charles," remarked a visitor to a bright little fellow, " are you aware that you look like your father?"


    " So everybody says," was the reply, " but I can't help it."


    ————


    Small Harold wanted an excuse to remain away from school.


    " Mamma," he queried, " is there any kind of illness that a fellow doesn't have to take any medicine for ?"


    ————


    Mamma : Don't you know that King Solomon said, " Spare the rod and spoil the child" ?


    Little Leo : Yes; but he never said it until after he got so old his mother couldn't lick him.


    ————


    "If you keep on, Willie, you'll soon know as much as your teacher," said the minister patronisingly.


    " Huh !" exclaimed Willie, " I'd know as much now if I looked at the book all the time, like she does."


    ————


    " Thomas," said the teacher to a small pupil whose face and hands were badly soiled, " did you wash yourself


    this morning ?" " No, ma'am," was the truthful reply.




    " Why not ?" she asked.


    " 'Cause," explained the youngster, " mamma wasn't home, and I didn't have to."


    ————


    Little Madge had been listening to her mother reading from the paper. All was silent for some time, and then


    Madge burst out laughing very suddenly.


    " Why, dearie, ' said the mother, " what is it ?"


    " I was thinking of what you just read about the wild people in Africa, mother," replied the child.


    " But there was nothing amusing about that, dear."


    " Why, yes, there was, mother," said Madge, " about their beating on their turn-turns till they could be heard


    for miles."


    ————


    Willie was struggling through the story in his reading lesson.


    "No, said the captain," he read, " it was not a sloop. It was a larger vessel. By the rig I judged her to be a-a-a-


    a—" The word was new to him.


    " Barque," supplied the teacher.


    Still Willie hesitated.


    " Barque !" repeated the teacher, this time sharply.


    Willie looked around as though he had not heard aright.


    Then, with an apprehensive glance around the class he shouted : " Bow-wow !"


    ————


    One Sunday as the elders began to take up the collection at the morning service Thomas looked along the


    pew to see if the various members of the family were provided with a contribution.


    Noticing a guest of his sister's empty-handed, he whispered : " Where is your money ?"


    " I have none," was the reply.


    Time was short and the necessity great. In a flash the little fellow met the emergency by saying :


    " Here—take mine. That'll pay for you and I'll get under the seat."


    ————


    " Nancie, you naughty girl," exclaimed her mother as her small daughter burst into the room. " I never heard


    anyone make such a noise coming downstairs. Go right up again and let me hear you come down as a young


    lady should."


    A few minutes of unbroken silence, then Nancie demurely reappeared.


    " That's right, dear," said mother approvingly. " Now, why can't you always behave nicely like that? You did


    come down the stairs like a lady that time, didn't you ?"


    " Yes, mother," said Nancie, with downcast eyes. " I slid down the bannisters."


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


    Alleged Humour
    Maud : You seem to like Jack's attentions. Why don't you marry him?


    Marie : Because I like his attentions.


    ——————


    Deserted Wife (telling grocer her troubles) : And I trusted him so.


    Grocer :.. Confound it ! So did I.


    ——————


    " I see where a female spy in Brussels disguised in men's clothes was detected through an oversight."


    Which was?"


    " Buttoning her shoe with a hairpin."


    ——————




    " We had a military dinner to-day."


    " I don't understand."


    " A flank steak."


    " How'd you get along with it ?"


    " I gave it a tough battle but it resisted my attack."


    ——————


    Possible Boarder : I enjoyed my dinner very much, and if it was a fair sample of your meals I should like to


    come to terms.


    Farmer : First of all, mister, was that a fair sample of your appetite ?


    ——————


    Mrs. Gabbeigh : "John, you were talking in your sleep."


    Husband : That's funny, for I was dreaming of yon.


    Mrs. G. : What was funny about it?


    Husband : Why, I don't see how I got a chance to say a word.


    ——————


    Her Mistress : Have you given the goldfish any fresh water today,. Mary ?


    Mary : No, mum. They ain't drank all the water I gave them the other day yet, mum.


    ——————


    "May I enquire whether you have Matins in this church ?" asked the elegant High Church visitor of the


    antediluvian verger at the little village church.


    " No, indeed, mum," replied the old fellow with proper scorn. "We 'as oilcloth !"


    ——————


    ONE WAY TO BE SAFE.


    It is not often in these days that we find any real humour in the interrupters of political meetings. There are


    exceptions, however.


    " A man is soon forgotten after he's dead," said a speaker one evening.


    " Not if you marry his widow, guv'nor," cried a voice from the crowd.


    ——————


    " My husband," remarked' a Philadelphia matron to a group of friends, " was a confirmed smoker with a


    tobacco heart when I married him a year ago, but to-day he never touches the weed."


    " Good !" said one of the group. " To break off a life-time habit requires a strong will."


    " Well, that's what I've got," said the wife.


    ——————


    Clara had received an uncompromising modern education, and was at no pains to disguise the fact that she


    was thoroughly ashamed of her fat and florid mother.


    " Such a clever girl, our Clara," her fond parent cackled to an envious acquaintance. "Can play off anything


    by ear. Clara, luv "—she turned to her prodigious offspring—" sit down and give us some of the tunes you


    'eard at the Queen's 'All yesterday."


    "Tunes, mamma," responded Clara haughtily, " there weren't any tunes; it was a ' classical' concert."


    ——————


    The Jew pedlar rapped timidly at the kitchen door. Mrs. Kelly, angry at being interrupted in her washing,


    flung open the door and glowered at him.


    "Did yez wish to see me ?" she demanded, in threatening tones.


    The pedlar backed off the steps.


    " Vell, if I did," he assured her, with an apologetic grin, "I got my vish dank you!"


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


    ON THE PRESENTATION OF A P.M.'s APRON.


    (By John Whicher, G.Sec., G.L. of California.)


    ————<>————


    " The sweetest forget-me-nots of memory that blossom along the pathways of our advancing lives are those


    which waft us pleasant thoughts of the friends and dear ones whom we have loved and who have loved us.




    The recollection of no other earthly experience can bring to us the same degree of tenderness or touch that


    deeper chord within our hearts the grandest thing in the world is man, and to each one of us the men who


    rank the chiefest are those who are nearest and dearest." In this spirit, and by request of a very dear friend


    and brother of yours, I am delegated to present to you this beautiful P.M.'s apron. Except as to its


    embellishment, it is very like the first gift you ever received in a Lodge of Masons, and like that first gift, it


    is more ancient than the golden fleece and more honourable, when worthily worn, than any other visible


    distinction with which you may be decorated. When presented with your first apron, you were properly and


    truthfully informed that it was an emblem of innocence and the badge of a Mason, and the hope was then


    expressed that you would wear it with pleasure to yourself and honour to the Fraternity. Since then you have


    been honoured by the suffrages of your brethren with the highest position in their gift—a seat in the Oriental


    .chair, and those with whom you have been most intimately associated and who know you best, assure me


    that the admonition you received from the Master who installed you in that honourable station, to "be a good


    man and true," has been honestly, observed, and that your conduct as a man and a Mason has been such as to


    reflect credit upon yourself and the community in which you have made your home.


    Acecpt this, then, with the blessing of an old friend and the benediction of the brethren who now surround


    you. And " in the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, . . . and the grinders cease because they


    are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened," I am sure the sweet forget-me-nots of memory


    will bring recollections of this little gift, and that with brightening vision you will look back to this occasion


    with pleasure, and your friend will be remembered not only as one who loved you, but who ''loved his fellow


    men." — "Trestle Board."


    ——————————————————


    WHEN IS A MAN A MASON?


    ————<>————


    (" The Freemason.")


    When is a man a Mason ? When he can look out over the rivers, the hills, and the far horizon with a profound


    sense of his own littleness in the vast scheme of things, and yet have faith, hope, and courage. When he


    knows that down in his heart every man is as noble, as vile, as divine, as diabolic, and as lonely as himself,


    and seeks to know, to forgive, and to love his fellow-man. When he knows how to sympathise with men in


    their sorrows, yea, even in their sins—knowing that each man fights a hard fight against many odds. When


    he has learned how to make friends and to keep them, and above all how to keep friends with himself. When


    he loves flowers, can hunt the birds without a gun, and feels the thrill of an old forgotten joy when he hears


    the laugh of a little child. When he can be happy and high-minded amid the meaner drudgeries of life. When


    star-crowned trees, and the glint of sunlight on flowing waters, subdue him like the thought of one much


    loved and long dead. When no voice of distress reaches his ears in vain, and no hands seeks his and without


    response. When he finds good in every faith that helps any man to lay hold of higher things and to see


    majestic meanings in life, whatever the name of that faith may be. When he can look into a wayside puddle


    and see something besides mud, and into the face of the most forlorn mortal and see something beyond sin.


    When he knows how to pray, how to love, how to hope. When he has kept faith with himself, with his


    fellow-man, with his God. In his hand a sword for evil, in his heart a bit of a song. Glad to live, but not afraid


    to die ! In such a man, whether he be rich or poor, scholarly or unlearned, famous or obscure, Masonry has


    wrought her sweet ministry !


    ——————————————————


    The Gavel is not only a symbol of authority in the hands of the Master, it is an instrument to be used by


    every brother in that system of self-culture so prominent in the ethics of Masonry. The " rough corners "—


    the passions and prejudices, and incongruities and inconsistencies of character—are to be removed by it, and


    the living block fitted for a place in the heavenly temple.








    ——————————————————




    THE MYSTERIES OF ELEUSIS.


    ————<>————


    By Lilian Whiting.


    "Many are the thyrsus-bearers, but few are the mystics."


    The mysteries of religion were not alone centred in the Eleusinian, but they meet man at every turn and


    constitute that alembic crucible from which divine wisdom is distilled; but a sojourn in Athens brings one to


    a vivid realisation of the scenic splendour and impressiveness of these ancient rites celebrated at Eleusis, and


    from the old Dipylon cemetery the visitor passes through the very gateway, leading into the via sacra, from


    which the ancient processions went forth. Eleusis is twelve miles from Athens, and the gate is within easy


    walking distance from Constitution Square, the central part of the Hellenic capital. Faring forth from the via


    sacra, the view commands the Acropolis, with that ethereal ruin of the Parthenon which seems to float in the


    air. The way is lined with funeral urns and sculptured tombs, although many have already been removed to


    the National Museum. The road winds on past the olive groves where Plato had his Academy, over the


    Cephissus, and into a deep, wild valley opening to the famous pass of Daphne beyond which is the Thracian


    plain. The processions that went forth along this route to celebrate the Eleusinian mysteries have almost left


    their image in the ethereal currents to be disclosed to all in sympathy with the marvellous rites. They were


    invested with great splendour of ritual, and each of the officials carried in his hand a sprig of thymus; there


    were priests, mystics, youths, and maidens, who, when reaching the wayside temple of Apollo, would pause


    on the journey singing choral hymns, and dancing in honour of the god.


    " O happy, mystic chorus,


    The blessed sunshine o'er us,


    On us alone is smiling,


    In its soft, sweet light;


    On us who strive forever


    With holy, pure endeavour,


    Alike by friend and stranger


    To guide our steps aright.''


    What was the purpose of these rites? There have been almost as many solutions and speculative theories as


    there have been questioners, but apparently the celebration only accentuated that universal quest of the spirit


    as to its origin, purpose, and final destiny. It is the quest solved by theosophy alone. The mysteries taught a


    more sustaining faith in the immortality of the soul, and in the nature of the experiences to be encountered


    after the change we call death. Cicero was one of the hopeful interpreters. " Much that is excellent and divine


    does Athens seem to me to have produced and added to our life," he said, " but nothing better than those


    mysteries, by which we are formed and molded from a rude and savage life to humanity ; and indeed in the


    mysteries we perceive the real principles of life, and learn not only to live happily but to die with a fairer


    hope." This conviction of Cicero was shared and also affirmed in various expressions by Plato, Sophocles,


    Pindar, and many others.


    Above the beautiful Bay of Eleusis is a high plateau on which the Temple of the Mysteries stood, and which


    is said to have been of such magnificent proportions as to hold thirty thousand people. There was a wide


    portico adorned by twelve Doric columns, from which two spacious portals led into the interior, which was


    quarried out of the solid rock underlying the height. The roof of the Temple was supported by forty-two


    colossal columns, in six rows; it was nearly two hundred feet long, and proportionately wide. It is within


    recent years that the Archaeological Society of Athens has excavated this ruin, finding intact the pavement


    and much of the foundations and walls of this vast sanctuary, and this discovery is felt to have offered


    hitherto unknown problems to architects in its complexity of structure.


    When the procession entered Eleusis with the men bearing olive branches, the youths adorned with chaplets,


    the maidens bearing holy vessels, each devotee, also, with a flaming torch whose glow lighted up the


    darkness as they advanced chanting the Homeric hymn to Demeter, the spectacle must have been impressive


    indeed. With all, special preparations had preceded the journey. Those who took part had all bathed in the


    sea ; they had kept a fast; and the day before setting out was sacred to sacrifice.


    But as to whether the celebration was exclusively a spiritual rite is a disputed matter. Certainly every rite was




    symbolic; certainly it was all one form of the manifestation of idealism. The first initiations of the Eleusinia


    were called Terminations, denoting that the rudimentary period of life was ended, and that the candidate was


    now a Mysta, or liberated person. There were the Greater and Lesser Mysteries, and the Greater were held to


    complete the liberation, and carry the candidate on to higher stages of development. "All men yearn after


    God," said Homer. The Greeks believed the soul to be of a two-fold nature, linked on one side to the Divine


    world, and partaking of the Divine nature; on the other, allied to the phenomenal and the temporary, and thus


    under bondage.


    No two commentators on the Eleusinian Mysteries have ever been in complete accord. Dr. Mahalfy says,


    however, that all the more eminent authorities agree in one respect : that the doe-. trine taught in the


    Mysteries was that of faith in the next state of existence, and that this belief made those who partook of the


    rites better citizens, and better men.


    Eleusis was also famous as being the native city of Aeschylus, who was born there about 525 B.C., and it


    cannot but suggest itself as a speculative query as to what degree his deep spirituality, and his messages of


    imperishable truth, were influenced by the strangely religious character of the environment, the scene of the


    Mysteries.


    When the ceremonies opened in the Temple, the initiates entered clad in linen, the head wreathed with


    myrtle, and golden grass-hoppers in the hair. But the actual nature of these rites has never been


    authoritatively disclosed. All speculation and all the theories find certain points and fragments of support, but


    no one rightly claims any entire knowledge. The philosophy of Aristotle reveals to us that the Greeks held an


    undoubted consciousness of both the visible and the invisible worlds; that they contemplated life largely


    from the standpoint of eternity.


    Among the most beautiful of the rites of which we have actual record was the symbolic passing on of the


    lighted torch from one to another, each torch in the procession being lighted from the one immediately


    preceding it. The rite was to suggest by symbol the transmission of knowledge from one generation to


    another and from one century to another. Apparently the Eleusinian Mysteries were but another revelation of


    the manner in which the spiritual nature of man forever asserts itself as the inheritor of Immortality.—" The


    Theosophical Path."


    ——————————————————


    FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT.


    ————<>————


    (Quelle.)


    No reflecting Mason can witness the initiation of a candidate without being impressed with the intellectual


    and moral tendencies of the E.A. Degree. It portrays the beauty, loveliness, and simplicity of a virtuous and


    holy life. The candidate denotes one whose motives and intentions are pure; one who has long wandered in


    moral darkness, in the ways of sin and unbelief, but is desirous of receiving the light of wisdom and virtue;


    one who longs for the spirit of truth to move upon the face of his degraded intellect, and bring forth the light


    of immortality. Darkness fearfully broods over the mysterious depths of his uninstructed mind, which is


    without form and void. Nothing but truth revealed to his benighted consciousness will dispel the gloom and


    illumine the solemn deep. A new creation must take place; a moral renovation pass over the long-neglected


    soul; a light must arise upon the candidate's benighted mind, that there may be called into being beautiful


    associations of thought and feeling; his soul must be born again and become endowed with new hopes, new


    joys, new affections, new thoughts, now feelings and sentiments. Evil must be plucked up by the roots. There


    are evil desires which must be cast out of the temple before it can be inhabited by that lovely tenantry which


    delight to dwell in a peaceful soul.


    Before, however, this exaltation can take -place, the candidate must first be right in his heart. One, and only


    one, motive should actuate him in seeking the E. A. Degree—namely, a sincere desire for light, that he may


    be better morally and intellectually. If any other motive actuate him, then, indeed, is he false to God, the


    brethren, and himself. Light will not be revealed to him, for he is not prepared in his heart to receive it. His


    impure motives will in time manifefst themselves, " for as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." He will be


    uncovered to every true Mason, who will read him aright and mentally declare him an imposter, for he has


    never received the E.A. Degree.




    But enough: It is more charitable that we should consider him as one imbued with the sole desire for light ;


    as one conscious of his bondage to sin ; as one who has been divested of all metallic substances (worldly


    affections), and can truthfully say, " I have no pleasure in them." Thus prepared, he stands in the north,


    symbolical of intellectual darkness, awaiting 'patient), the Master's command ere he begins the journey to the


    East. The command is given, and the long journey in search of light begins. He has not proceeded very far


    before he realises that light, to the unillumined mind, is a secret ; that is, to such it is as if it were not, and any


    attempt to reveal light to the profane, to be perhaps misunderstood and misinterpreted, is supreme folly, and


    calculated to bring reproach upon the Rite.


    The candidate is now to enter upon an important undertaking—the recovery of the lost word— that is to say,


    light. That this undertaking may be successful, it is essential that the candidate should be endued with a


    competency of divine wisdom. Thus equipped, he may proceed upon his journey and fear no danger, for he is


    at-one-ment with light. Well may he say, in the language of David : " The Lord is my light and my salvation:


    whom shall I fear ?" Here is taught the necessity and efficacy of prayer. And so the fervent petition ascends,


    " that the candidate may not only become a true and faithful brother, but that he may dedicate himself and


    devote his life to the service of God; and that he may be endued with a competency of divine wisdom, that


    by the secrets of our art he might be better enabled to display the beauties of holiness to the honour of God's


    holy name."—Cross' Chart, p. 18. And why is it we pray that the candidate may dedicate himself and devote


    his lift to the service of God? Is it surely not a vain and idle petition, signifying nothing? And how is it that


    by the secrets of our art he may be better enabled to display the beauties of holiness? Brethren who dwell


    together in unity know how good and how, pleasant it is to trace out the wonderful things which are to be


    discerned in our Rite, and read those symbols aright which none but craftsmen can cognize and comprehend.


    They can stand, in thought, on the mountains of Zion, where the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for


    ever more; and look back upon the past and forward to the great future; back upon Paradise lost and forward


    to Paradise regained. The Masonic authority for prayer before entering upon an important undertaking will


    be found in the. Scriptures. Before Elijah attempted to restore the dead child of the Shunammite, he prayed


    unto the Lord. He knew and felt that all the power resided with God, and that the departed soul could not


    return unless He who had taken it away willed it to come back. Finally, the candidate hears the long-coveted


    fiat, " Let there be light." "And there was light." And to the extent that he has received light, for he has


    received it but partially, he stands in rapport with God. How glorious is the privilege of being brought to


    light, to reason, to wisdom, and love—the love of man and the love of God ! God lifts up the light of His


    countenance on our dark and fallen nature. He has given us the glorious light of the Gospel, to enlighten our


    understanding. It is destined to penetrate the darkest corners of the earth, and cast its luminous rays over the


    benighted nations. Dark clouds and the wing of the tempest once rested on the holy mountain of Sinai, but a


    light was kindled on its summit, which threw a moral grandeur over all creation and imparted a knowledge of


    the goodness, mercy, and power of God.


    Let there be light, said God, and forthwith light


    Ethereal, first of things, quintessence pure,


    Sprung from the deep, and from her native East


    To journey through the very gloom began,


    Sphered in a radiant cloud, for yet the sun


    Was not ; she in a cloudy tabernacle


    Sojourned the while."


    —" Trestle Board."


    ——————————————————


    TEMPLES REPORTED FOUND IN THE SPHINX.


    ————<>————


    Repeated reports received in England from Egypt in regard to investigations made by Prof. G. A. Reisner, of


    the Harvard University, indicate that the head of the Sphinx is the ante-chamber of a great series of temples.


    A depression in the head of the Sphinx had been observed by many travellers in the last kindred years, but no


    systematic attempt at excavation had Wen made. According to the latest reports, on the removal of the sand


    and blocks that had been placed across the opening Professor Reisner found himself in a chamber 60 feet


    Iong and 14 feet wide, forming a small but complete temple. This temple is said to be connected to a second




    temple at a lower level, and through A. tunnel running down the neck, with a far more spacious temple


    occupying the entire body of the Sphinx. These temples are all dedicated to the sun, the great deity of the


    ancient Egyptians. Professor Reisner is also quoted as saying that other tunnels lead to a great subterranean


    city which probably was once inhabited.—" Masonic Sun."


    ——————————————————


    RELIEF AND FRATERNITY.


    ————<>————


    (By E. F. PRESTON.)


    Suffering, destitution, want, helpless widows and fatherless orphans may well awaken compassion within the


    breast of every one within whom beats a heart that can throb responsive to human agony. Once more, until it


    sounds like useless repetition, we are brought face to face with the great fact that it is not peculiar to


    Freemasonry to consider the utter weakness and unreliability of human affairs—to realise that human


    foresight and sagacity are daily set at naught by the remorseless decrees of fate.


    When misfortune has come unto the strong man, striking dismay and cowardice into the bravo heart that


    hasswith fearless front so long withstood the brunt of life's battle, to hold out the helping hand of relief, to


    give some shelter from the storm, to smooth away the difficulties and enable him once more, with increased


    energy and strength, to renew the conflict, is a privilege that any true man would prize. The reward of having


    done so would be that his soul would be filled with the sweet music of gratitude and that consciousness of


    well-doing with which God requites every good action.


    If all this be so, how much more forcibly does it. appeal to us, after the husband and father has been stricken


    down, when the long sickness comes, the hour of agony, the funeral pall, and then the agonised mother and


    weeping children, with grim want stalking like a spectre through the desolate home. Surely it does not need


    Freemasonry to direct the promptings of our hearts in a case like this. Is there one among us who would think


    it necessary to do all in our power to relieve the unfortunate, simply because in so doing we were obeying the


    behests of Masonry? Our minds will answer before we could frame our lips to say the word ? There is a


    world of beauty, a world of wisdom, and a world of strength in the teachings of our beloved Institution,


    elevating, ennobling all who will study and comprehend them.—"Trestle Board."


    ——————————————————


    THERE WAS NO TOOL OF IRON.


    ————<>————


    In the V. of S.L. (I. Kings, vi.), we have the story of that Temple which stands central in Masonic ritual. The


    most significant feature about the building of " that magnificent structure " is stated in verse 17 of the,


    chapter referred to—" And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready at the quarry,


    and there was neither hammer nor any tool of iron heard in the house while it was building." Modern


    research has thrown a flood of light upon this statement, bringing out in clear relief its wonderful


    significance. Why was no tool of iron " heard in the house ? Not simply for the sake of a reverent silence.


    Indeed, for quite other reasons. There was a deeper religious reason, the roots of which run back into the far-


    off days when worship was enshrouded in the mists of superstition. The simple fact is that iron was,


    somehow, held to be irreligious, or at least unsacred. Hence, if a consecrated stone (or person) were touched


    with it, that stone (or person) became defiled. This is definitely stated in Exodus xx., 25—" If thou make me


    an altar, thou shalt not build it with hewn stones; for if thou lift up thy tool upon it, thou hast polluted it."


    The inquiry may reasonably be made : How was it that the use of iron tools in the quarries did not defile the


    stones? The reply is, that the stones did not become sacred until they reached the holy hill. When they


    reached the " plot of ground that had been rendered sacred " they partook of that quality of sacredness. Then


    to have touched them with iron would have been to defile them.


    Why ? In general, because ritual religion is a conservative force and preserves old practices and ideas long


    after the rest of the community has dropped them. So it kept this idea of iron being an unsacred thing, which


    dated back to the days when iron was a " new-fangled " material, that is, to some distant Bronze Age—or


    maybe Stone Age. Probably it went back to the Stone Age, for "knives of flint ' were used for purposes of


    circumcision at least down to the Mosiac period.




    Most interesting relics of this religious attitude to iron are given by modern anthropologists, such as Fraser,


    who, in his ' Golden Bough," has several references. For instance, one of the most enlightened and cultured


    Hindu Rajahs not long ago refused to have iron used in the construction of buildings in his dominions,


    because its use would bring small-pox and other curses. The negroes of the Gold Coast remove all iron or


    steel from their persons before they go to consult their gods.


    In ancient Rome a holy priest might not be shaved with steel, but only with a bronze razor ;_ and in modern


    Corea kings were allowed to die whom an operation would have saved, because no iron was allowed to touch


    the sacred body of the King. In India to-day men carry a bit of iron as a charm to keep off evil spirits; and in


    the Balkans the idea that iron can wound a spirit still survives. Instances might be multiplied, but these will


    suffice to show that Masonry, by embedding in its ritual this apparently trivial fact, has preserved an idea


    that links it with those who lived in " the early world's grey " morning. These men of the Stone Age were


    superstitious; but they were our fathers, and we shall not be contemptuous of them and their ideas because


    they walked in darkness and we have heard the word that brings light. We reverently preserve this ancient


    idea as a curious jewel whose antiquity gives it worth.—Alfred Gifford, in London "Freemason."


    ——————————————————


    MARK MASONRY—PLACE AND MEANING.


    ————<>————


    (Rev. J. George Gibson.)


    The Mark Degree occupies a somewhat peculiar position with respect to symbolic Masonry, and there is a


    matter of doubt as to the precise claims and rights of the Order. The English G.L. does not recognise it as


    part of the body of Masonry, the Scottish G.L. does, but ignores the R.A., which the English G.L. regards as


    the completion of the symbolic Craft degrees. Ireland recognises both the R.A. and Mark; while in the


    U.S.A. it is a step in the R.A.


    Even England has not always been quite sure ; and although that G.L. had in the early part of the century


    decided that Masonry consisted of the three symbolic degrees plus or including the R.A., they in 1856


    actually passed a resolution " That the degree of Mark Mason, or Mark Master, is not at variance with the


    ancient landmarks of the Order, and that the degree be an addition to and form part of Craft Masonry and


    consequently it may be conferred by all regular warranted Lodges, under such regulations as shall be


    prepared by the B. of G.P., and sanctioned by the G.M." It was only when the late John Henderson pointed


    out that the course adopted was inconsistent with the pledge they had taken to oppose "all false doctrines and


    all innovations on their landmarks" that the resolution was rescinded.


    Even then the position of the English G.L. was regarded as somewhat doubtful, for in 1865 a memorial was


    received from the G.L. of Scotland in favour of recognition. The effect of this memorial, however, was to


    elicit from English Freemasonry an emphatic refusal to make the innovation.


    In spite of this, we find that at the time of the uniting reconciliation of English Freemasons, Mark Masonry


    was worked in Scotland, in the United States, and in the terrain of the English G.L. Indeed, as Bro. Robert


    Freke Gould points out, the earliest mention of the Mark Degree occurs in the minutes of a Portsmouth R.A.


    Chapter, and is of the date 1769—that is to say, fifteen years and about two months before the first M.M.M.'s


    Lodge was opened by M.W. Bro. Tife, at Halifax, Nova Scotia. It is exceedingly probable that the degree


    was introduced by means of intercourse, Military and Naval, between the English and Colonial stations, and


    rapidly spread over the English part of what is now called the U.S.A. The military movements would be most


    frequent, and the earliest record of the spread of Mark Masonry in the United States coincides in a significant


    way with the period of the American War of Independence and the years of the following peace: It is also


    remarkable that the degree was worked in England and in Scotland as a kind of recapitulation of the M.M.


    Degree; but, while starting from the work of the F.C., requiring the M.M. qualification. When I say recapitu-


    lation of the M.M. Degree, it would perhaps be more correct to describe it as an otherwise coloured parallel


    of that degree, without which the partly operative suggestion of the Second Degree could not, in the opinion


    of some, be completed in the purely speculative M.M. and R.A. Degrees. The Third Degree and its


    complement deal with the hope and faith and spiritual reward of a faithful Freemason; the Mark Masonry is


    an earthly judgment, a registration, a method of human administration. And yet these two streams of life,


    variant as they seem, result in one sea of charity, of love, and brotherhood. In a sense, they give fullness to




    each other ; they also join together in the urging inspiration of the Sacred Name which is the ideal reward


    they both are engaged in seeking. While Mark Masonry is not a part of symbolic of Craft Masonry, the work


    and morality are so full of the spirit of Masonry, and the membership is so carefully selected from Craft


    degrees, that it is not wonderful that the particular status of the Order should have been at times in doubt,.


    And when we look back into that Operative Masonry which is so represented by Mark Lodges, the


    communion of thought and the sympathy of the Craft with the Mark is remarkable. There has always been


    both a speculative and an operative value in the Mark. God set a mark upon Cain; He also set a mark upon


    the High Priest. Every stone in the Temple of Creation bears the Mason's mark of the Almighty Architect and


    Builder of Heaven and Earth. But these marks are not for identification of labour only—they are a pledge;


    and they are set in a jewel of hospitality and help. When Cain was marked he was protected; when the High


    Priest was marked he became the recipient of the covenanted mercies of the Lord of all. So that even in


    Operative Masonry we have a really speculative side. When Abel yielded his life for duty the Human Lodge


    was sitting in the Master's Degree; and when, by the sweat of his brow, man wrested from stubborn or shy


    Nature the fruits of the earth, it sat as a MA. Chapter. This is the victory which follows the " faith " of the


    creature in his Maker.


    When we read the story of the building of that house upon Mount Moriah we are amazed at the magnitude,


    as well as the splendour, of the work. By the quarries, in Lebanon, and in the mountain that overlooked the


    Dead Sea, man wrought by plan-Fellow Crafts and M.Ms of the different Lodges. They apparently wrought


    also by piece in many eases; and it was important that a careful record should be kept of work done, of work


    done well—and of the worker, Whatever he had done. This was done by a system of marks. Whether each


    family had a separate mark, or each nation or each company of workmen, it is impossible to say. But that


    Masons were in the habit of making such marks for purposes of signature there is no doubt. When few could


    read, and fewer write, any plan of adopting some Easily remembered mark would be a great advantage. And


    there is no doubt that the signature in some way of a man's workmanship was of the importance to the


    Wardens and the Overseers. Masonry has ever emphasised the value standard in regard to membership in a


    Lodge, both in operative and in speculative labour; and we can easily understand that such a system of marks


    as we have discovered would become necessary, especially in a work of such stupendous magnitude as the


    Temple of Jerusalem, or the other great works of antiquity in which bands of workmen of different nations


    and languages and habits were employed. The marks would be, to the Overseers, both statement of account


    and surveyor's report ; and every man would receive praise and reward or punishment as these marks were


    borne upon good or bad work. The apprentice hand made a blind mark of equal angles, and the F.C. a true-


    mark of unequals. In the former we find a standard easily followed, and the absence of a personal


    characteristic of great importance. In the mark of the master was the individuality of that skilled artisan. The


    standard of obedience was no longer inexpertly and blindly emphasised ; but the workman obeyed Masonic


    law by expressing his own characteristic in the varying unequal angles. The circle was avoided, and never


    became a Mason's mark unless in combination with some perpendicular or angle. The circle is the means to


    right lines; and in right lines is Masonry budded. The study of the ancient marks in buildings of all nations


    and religions and Masonc tendency reveal some curious suggestions. Mr. Godwin and M. Didron, in the


    forties of last century, brought these marks under the observation of antiquaries. The first, who was editor of


    the "Builder," submitted, in 1841, a most interesting communication upon the subject to the Society of


    Antiquaries; and M. Didron, a Parisian student of archaeology, communicated his own findings to the


    Comite Historique des Arts et Monuments shortly afterwards. Various conclusions were reached by learned


    men who took the matter up ; but nothing appears to be conclusive beyond that with which we have already


    stated. The marks were the signature and the challenge of the workmen.


    And, just in the same way, the Mark Masonry of to-day demands, that the mark shall represent the


    responsibility and the account of the Mark Mason. Just as in business the reputation of a merchant or


    manufacturer may be said to be constantly in pledge against the fulfilment of a contract, so Mark Masonry


    throws herself upon her character, upon her Masonic brotherliness, upon her right to receive and to give. And


    just so her character stamps her acts and her ideals.


    The mark is found on the obverse of the jewel, and not upon the apron, which, with the exception that there


    are no tassels, and that the ribbon is edged with crimson, resembles that of the M.M. Craft Degree. The jewel


    takes the form of the Keystone of an arch. Upon one side are the letters H.T.W.S.S.T.K.S. and upon the other




    Hebrew characters of similar import. They are arranged round a space, circular, in which the mark of the


    wearer is inscribed. So that both the R.A. and the Mark are based largely upon the content and construction


    of the Arch in Masonry. The principal difference is one of form. The R.A. deals with the secret the arch has


    hidden; and the Mark illustrates more the value of the arch itself and the importance of reliable work. The


    legend of the lost, keystone eventuates in the advance toward the perefect efficiency that takes away the af-


    frighting shadows of the learner's stage of progress. In both the Arch and the Mark there is evident the


    natural order of loss and gain, of seed time and harvest., of death and eternity of life. Both make a prominent


    feature of the triangle in this connection; and both, though differently, suggest the mystery of the T.T. as a


    symbol of the Divine promise and inspiration. But while the Arch has a theological suggestion, the aim of


    the Mark is practical. The signed morality, the carefully executed commission, and the judgment of the


    G.Supt. of Works are the vitalising force of the Mark Degree. This degree, though not of itself a Craft


    degree, is yet in measure symbolic, and, without doubt, with a quasi-operative bias, is a line from the F.C.,


    parallel to that of the M.M. and R.A., by which M.Ms. may sign and ensure the fruit of their labours.


    — "Trestle Board."


    ——————————————————


    CAN PRESENT ALBERTA G. CHAPTER BE RECOGNISED AS LEGITIMATE?


    ————<>————


    The question is asked, "Is there any hope of recognising the Alberta G. Chapter next year ?" It looks as if


    such recognition cannot readily be given owing to the way the seceding subordinate. Chapters have acted in


    rushing headlong into the formation of a G. body when there already exists a recognised G. Chapter in the


    jurisdiction with a number of subordinate Chapters in Alberta claiming its protection. To sustain this


    contention we quote from a communication addressed to the enquiring western companion.


    Nearly sixty years ago when the G. Chapter of Canada was formed, Chapters in existence at that period were


    those authorised by the G. Chapters of England, Ireland, and Scotland, and holding under provincial


    supervision. Neither of these countries claimed, or even suggested, jurisdiction in this country. The G.L. of


    Canada was then in comparative infancy and its Lodges covered a territory comprised in the provinces of


    Ontario and Quebec. When three of the existing Chapters came together in 1857, according to universally


    accepted usage, and their representatives formed the G. Chapter of Canada with jurisdiction over the same


    territory as the G.L., by a recognised law it became supreme within that limit. " Occupied territory," as de-


    fined by Dr. Mackey, is :


    " A state or kingdom where there is a G.L. organisation and subordinate Lodges working under it is said to


    be ocupied territory, and, by the American and English law, all other G.Ls. are precluded from entering in it


    and exercising jurisdiction."


    He also says — " The jurisdiction of a G.L. extends over every Lodge working within its territorial limits


    and over all places not already occupied by a G.L."


    Thus was the G. Chapter of Canada defined, and when Manitoba appealed for warrant for its first Chapter in


    Winnipeg, and later British Columbia applied for the establishment of Vancouver Chapter, these provinces


    were included in the territorial jurisdiction of the G. Chapter of Canada. Later the then territory of Alberta


    applied for a warrant which became Alberta No. 106, and the North-west territories were included in the


    constitutionally defined territory of the G. Chapter of Canada, and so it has continued since with certain of


    the aforesaid territories subsequently being formed into provinces.


    Nova Scotia and New Brunswick were similarly situated as was the G. Chapter of Canada at the outset, but it


    must be observed that at no period did the G. Chapter of Canada ever exercise or claim jurisdiction in those


    provinces, although, like the mother countries, it granted warrants on petition. . The R.A. Chapters working


    in each of these provinces were derived from authority granted by the G. Chapters of the mother lands and


    being " unoccupied territory " they formed, from the Chapters holding under those countries and Canada,


    their own G. Chapter, each, as Canada had done, acting in accordance with the recognised law, and to quote


    Dr. Mackay again under this head :


    "For the purpose of avoiding collision and unfriendly feeling, it has become the settled usage, that when a


    G.L. has been legally organised in a State all the Lodges within its limits must surrender the charters which


    they have received from foreign bodies, and accept new ones from the newly established G.L.




    This is the settled and well-recognised law of American and British Masonry."


    As in Canada so in the other provinces, the Chapters which held to their original allegiance, at various


    periods combined with the G. Chapter of the territory. In solitary cases they adhered to their original fealty


    and were permitted to do so. Instance the case of the Scottish Chapter now and for many years working in


    Victoria, B.C.


    Some years after the formation of the G.L. of Quebec the Chapters of that province, under the jurisdiction of


    the G. Chapter of Canada, applied in 1874 for permission to form a G. Chapter of their own. This was at


    once complied with by resolution passed by the G. Chapter of Canada with practical unanimity. This


    permission was not taken advantage of until a couple of years later, when the representatives of the Quebec


    Chapter, seven or more, met in convention and formed the G. Chapter of Quebec, recognition of which was


    cheerfully accorded when requested, together with some substantial aid.


    All Chapters, it must be borne in mind, that were established in Alberta are derived from the one parentage,


    and all were solemnly pledged to support and maintain the source from which they sprung. Indeed, it will be


    observed in most of the Chapter by-laws this passage occurs :—


    "This Chapter acknowledges the supremacy of the G. Chapter of R.A. Masons of Canada and is governed by


    its Constitution and the by-laws of this Chapter."


    It is to be regretted that the hasty conclusion of some of the companions in Alberta has led a number of


    Chapters into an error that will take time to become righted.—"Masonic Sun."


    ——————————————————


    IRREGULAR G. CHAPTER.


    ————<>————


    An unpleasant circumstance in connection with R.A. Masonry has taken place in Canada, which is likely to


    cause considerable trouble. The " Masonic Sun," Toronto, reports that a Schismatic G. Chapter in the


    province of Alberta was formed at Calgary on 29th May last, when G.Prins., G.Sec., and other officers were


    elected and installed, and the functions and prerogatives of a regularly authorised G. Chapter otherwise


    exercised. The companions who formed the new organisation are members of Chapters working under the


    jurisdiction of the G. Chapter of Canada, and consequently, and as a matter of course, come under its control.


    All the G. Jurisdictions of the world have been notified of the irregularity of the proceedings in the


    organisation of the new body, and Comp. Geo. J. Bennett, G.S.E., has issued a circular letter to every


    Chapter throughout the Jurisdiction, explaining that, contrary to their obligations as R.A. Masons, an


    assembly of the representatives of several of the Alberta Chapters, " without any reference or appeal for


    sanction or other communication whatsoover to the governing G. body," have formed a so-called G. Chapter


    for the province, elected and installed officers, and otherwise exercised the prerogatives and functions of a


    regularly authorised G. Chapter, and that the selected 1st G.Prin., Comp. Stephen Y. Taylor ; the G.S.S.,


    Comp. Melvin M. Downey ; and the companion who conducted the installation, Comp. J. N. Rankin, all of


    the city of Calgary, have, by direction of the G.Z., been suspended from the rights and privileges of


    legitimate R.A. Masonry.


    Other companions or Chapters who have given adhesion to, and continue to support, the irregular


    organisation after having the situation made clear to them, and been allowed reasonable interval for


    reconsideration will be similarly dealt with on receipt of the report of investigation.


    Commenting upon this formation, the "Masonic Sun " declares that if common sense had prevailed the body


    so condemned would never have come into existence in the manner that it did. In 1857 the G. Chapter of


    Canada was formed, which covered Canada West, now Ontario, and at subsequent periods its area of work


    was extended to the province of Manitoba, and later to British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.


    According to the rules governing such matters, the proper course to pursue where companions of a province


    desire to withdraw from the allegiance of the Mother G. Chapter, and form an independent body, is that a


    convention must he held and application made—as in this case—to the G. Chapter of Canada, but this form


    was not followed, for some of the companions of Alberta, members of the regular Chapters under the G.


    Chapter of Canada, called a convention of the representatives of seven or eight Chapters in Calgary, and,




    without any notice being served on the officials of G. Chapter at Toronto, elected and installed officers of the


    new body styled the G. Chapter of Alberta.


    The trouble that has arisen over the irregularity in the formation of the new body is to be regretted, and the


    outcome in Alberta for regular Freemasonry cannot be very promising for some time to come. The hasty


    conclusion of some of the companions to form a G. Chapter, and the result when it becomes fully realised


    that must naturally follow, will unquestionably cause a feeling of discontent among the companions of


    Alberta.—" The Freemason," London.


    ——————————————————


    THE RITUAL.


    ————<>————


    Masonry has a ritual that contains much of real strength and beauty, yet ritualism has a tendency to


    formalism, and formalism tends to intellectual and spiritual death. Any ritual to be effective must be


    rendered by some one who appreciates the thought of the ritual and the genius behind it. The Masonic ritual


    is too often in the hands of officers who know nothing of the history of the Order or the philosophy


    underlying it, who many times have no clear conception of even the English of that ritual, and render it in a


    halting, ineffective manner, which makes no positive impression upon a candidate, and all too frequently


    leaves a painful sense of incompleteness behind. A ritual to hold any intelligent man must have vitality, must


    have soul, must have strength, and must be so rendered that it does not become as a tinkling cymbal or a


    sounding brass. There must be more than mere memorising. No ritual will be permanently impressive unless


    the rendition of that ritual is given by one who can enter into its spirit and make the words and thought of it


    his own. That makes it imperative that the selection of your principal officers be made with the utmost care.


    These officers must have character, as well as training. They must look upon every Masonic office to which


    they aspire not as a mark of personal recognition, but as an opportunity which must be used in season and out


    of season to promote the intellectual and spiritual well-being of men. There must be a constant effort made to


    have the ritual appeal to men, not because of any spectacular or dramatic effect, but because there is in it a


    real appeal to men. Unless this appeal is there, the Masonic ritual will fail to hold the interest and attention of


    Masons.— " Tyler Keystone."


    ——————————————————


    A NEW G. OFFICE.


    ————<>————


    There are some who argue that women should be rigorously excluded from Freemasonry, others that the


    admission of the fair sex to a participation in our mysteries—under proper control—would be a benefit to


    humanity; but we think it will be a very long time before the latter view is favoured by the G.L. of England.


    There must be many ladies among us who have a fairly good idea of what Freemasonry means, from an


    outside point of view, and probably the lady-typist of a busy member of our Order Comes pretty near taking


    the lead in this direction. We are in the position of knowing one of two such workers by repute, and have just


    heard of another who is evidently trying to qualify herself. A letter was dictated to her in which the name of


    Lord Ampthill was mentioned, and her chief was somewhat disturbed in mind when he found His Lordship's


    title transcribed as "Programme " Master of England. Yet, after all, there was nothing much wrong with the


    error, as we can hardly imagine a much better D. of C., or Programme Master, for the nation, than Lord


    Ampthill. He would not miss much, and might be depended upon to smooth over any little friction arising


    from questions of precedence, etiquette, or other such technicalities.—' The Freemason's Chronicle."


    ——————————————————


    FREEMASONRY AND ITS DUTIES.


    ————<>————


    No institution has the right to claim the attention and support of men because of its antiquity or its past glory.


    It really has no right to exist unless it is ready and willing to be a factor in the world-wide movement for


    better conditions among men, unless it really makes an honest effort to put into every day life the practice of


    Brotherly Love. Brotherhood is the keynote in the altruistic chorus. Masonry, if it is more than pretence,


    must concern itself with activity which means better manhood, truer womanhood, and happier childhood. It




    is not enough to give long, high-sounding lectures on abstract virtues. What is needed to-day is concrete


    illustrations of the faith that there is in us. Masonry must concern itself with equal opportunities for all men


    to secure their fair share of the product of their toil, their industry, their intelligence. Masonry must concern


    itself with the question of poverty, hours and conditions, employees, liability, child labour, better


    opportunities in education, matters of health (moral and physical) for both the individual and the community.


    In fact, if a great organisation of more than a million men in this country is not vitally concerned about these


    things it is failing utterly to appreciate its mission in these days. Our contention is that there is not anywhere


    to be found in the whole realm of Masonic thought or philosophy any reason why the institution of Masonry


    ought not to take an active, positive position upon social problems. We are not doing it to-day as we ought.


    Masonry, both G.Ls. and particular Lodges, must connect up with present day life. We are not concerned so


    much with the number of E.As. and F.Cs. who may have worked on King Solomon's Temple, as we ought to


    be with the number of children who are deprived of a happy childhood; the number of men and women who


    work and starve and freeze and die in the midst of plenty. The call for the twentieth century Masonry is to do


    its part in the world's work, and there is enough for us all to do; and in the doing of this work many a


    disinterested Mason will find interest and enthusiasm for a really great order.— "Tyler Keystone."


    ——————————————————


    HOLD IN REMEMBRANCE.


    ————<>————


    Necessity seems to bear a divine character, while the determinations of the human will may be imbued with


    pride.—Mme. de Steel.


    A brave man, strenuously fighting, fails not of a little triumph now and then, to keep him in heart.—Carlyle.


    The darkest shadows of life are those which' a man himself makes when he stands in his own light.—Lord


    Avebury.


    He knows not his own strength that path not met adversity.. Heaven prepares good men with crosses, but no


    ill can happen: to a good man.—Ben Jonson.


    The Pleasure of Virtue, of Charity, and of Learning is true and lasting pltasure.—Lord Chesterfield.


    He that forgets his friend is ungrateful to him, but he who forgets his God is ungrateful to himself.—Bunyan.


    — "Masonic Sun."


    ——————————————————


    CABELTAU.


    ————<>————


    The German word for cable or rope is " cabeltau," from which it is supposed our word " cable tow " is


    derived. The word " tow " means a line wherewith to draw, and has also assumed the meaning of " to lead."


    The word is purely Masonic, and we find this word in some form used for generations. In the year 1730 the


    expression "cabal rope " was used.


    Many suppose the cabel tow to have only been a physical means of controlling the candidate. This


    conclusion was erroneously arrived at from its use in the E.A. Degree, but such is not the case, for it


    symbolises the covenant by which all Masons are tied, and is beautifully and forcibly expressed in Hosea 11,


    4, " I drew them with cords of a man, with hands of love."—Exchange.


    ——————————————————


    AUTHOR AND COPYRIGHT.


    ————<>————


    Wanted, the name of author of these verses from " Mrs. Weldon's Journal," July, 1911; also whether they are


    non-copyright ?


    If I can live to make some pale face brighter, and to give


    A second lustre to some tear-dimmed eye;


    Or even impart one throb of comfort to an aching heart,


    Or cheer some wayward soul in passing by;




    If I can lend a strong hand to the fallen, or defend


    The right against a single envious strain,


    My life, though bare, perhaps, of much that seemeth dear and fair


    To us on earth, will not have been in vain.


    —T. W. S.


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


    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), VoI. 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.


    ——————————————————


    THE BIBLE.


    ————<>————


    The following description of the Bible is very valuable for its wise and wholesome counsel to the race of


    Adam.


    A nation would be truly happy if it were governed by no other than those of this blessed Book.


    It contains everything needful to be known or done.


    It gives instruction to a Senate, authority and directions to a Magistrate.


    It cautions a witness, requires an impartial verdict of a jury, and furnishes the Judge with his sentence.


    It sets the husband as the lord of his household, and the wife the mistress of the table-tells him how to rule,


    and her how to manage.


    It entails honour to parents, and enjoins obedience on children.


    It prescribes and limits the sway of the sovereign, the rule of ruler and the authority of the master; commands


    the subjects to honour and the servants to obey, and promises the blessings and the protection of the


    Almighty to all that walk by His rule.


    It gives directions for weddings and burials.


    It, promises food and raiment and limits the use of both.


    It points out a faithful and eternal guardian to the departing husband and father; tells him with whom to leave


    his fatherless children and whom he is to trust, and promises a husband to the former and a father to the


    latter.


    It teaches a man to set his house in order, and how to make his will; it appoints a dowry for his wife, and


    entails the right of the first born, and shows how the young branches shall be left.


    It defends the rights of all and reveals vengeance to every defaulter, over-reacher, and trespasser.


    It is the first book, the best book.


    It contains the choicest matter, gives the best instruction, affords the greatest of pleasure and satisfaction that


    we have ever enjoyed.


    It contains the best laws and most profound mysteries that were ever penned; and it brings the very best


    comforts to the inquiring and disconsolate.


    It is a brief recital of all that is to come.


    It settles all matters of debate, resolves all doubts and eases the mind and conscience of all scruples.


    It reveals the only living and true God, and shows the way to Him, and sets aside all other gods and describes


    the vanity of them and all that trust in such; in short, it is the book of laws, to show the right and wrong; of




    wisdom that condemns a folly and makes the foolish wise; a book of truth that detects all lies and confronts


    all errors, and it is a book that shows the way from everlasting death.


    It contains the most ancient antiquities and strange events, wonderful occurrences, heroic deeds, unparalleled


    wars.


    It describes the celestial, terrestrial, and infernal worlds, and the origin of the angelic myriads, the human


    tribes and the devilish legions.


    It will instruct the accomplished mechanic and most profound critic.


    It teaches the best rhetorician, and exercises every power of the most skilful arithmetician, puzzles the wisest


    anatomist, and exercises the wisest critic.


    It is the best covenant that ever was agreed on, the best deed that was ever sealed, the best that ever will be


    signed. — "Scottish Rite Bulletin."


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


    TRUTH IN BRIEF.


    ————<>————


    Anybody can soil the reputation of any individual, however pure and chaste, by uttering a suspicion that his


    enemies will believe and his friends never hear of. A puff of the idle wind can take a million of the seeds of a


    thistle and do a work of mischief which the husbandman must labour hard to undo, the floating particles


    being too fine to be seen, and too light to be stopped. Such are the seeds of slander, so easily sown, so


    difficult to be gathered up, and yet so pernicious in their fruits. The slanderer knows that many a mind will


    catch up the plague and become poisoned by his insinuations without ever seeking the antidote. No


    reputation can refute a sneer, nor can any human skill prevent mischief. — " Masonic Tablet, 1872."


    ——————————————————


    SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 23rd NOVEMBER, 1914.


    ————<>————


    Dr. Purdy (Lower Hutt), R. Wylie (Petone), T. A. Ker, jun., 20/-, A. Rose (Christchurch), P. C. Watt 20/-


    (Berhampore), executors late Dr. Leech 20/. (Timaru), R. L. Ashby 5/-, W. G. McDonald 15/-, G. H.


    McElwee 17/6, J. Hall, A. H. Dallaston (Westport), W. Todd 22/6, O. G. Jones 32/6, C. A. Boyd 15/-


    (Seddonville), W. R. McNarn, jun., 34/6, F. Archer 32/6, H. Y. Webster, A. B. Franklin, R. F. Thomson, C.


    Friend (Ngakawau), W. Allison 30/- (Millerton), W. Henderson 20/-, W. Thawley, M. S. Montford, G.


    Parkinson, J. Pullar, J. Ward, W. Smart, J. H. Hayton, R. T. C. Roberts, Dr. Gordon Short, executors late R.


    Elliott 23/- (Denniston), R. G. Morrison 27/6, H. Wickin 40/-, N. Rivers 15/- J. Banks 34/2, R. Lochore 22/6,


    R. V. Thompson, F. W. Robinson, C. Tolley (Reefton), D. Kerr, J. Kerr, E. G. Wood, J. Taggart, E. G.


    Brown, H. G. Anderson (Granity), W. P. Roberts 17/6 (Putaruru), F. J. Nial 26/8, A. H. Walker 21/8


    (Auckland), G. R. Cottle 15/- E. T. Guinness 22/6, W. J. Holder 27/6, Dr. Morice 27/6, F. J. Parkinson 30/-,


    J. Ring 10/-, R. H. Richmond 27/6, W. A. Rundle 27/6, J. Steer 27/6, F. J. White 37/6, E. Warnes 22/6, Capt.


    Colclough 30/-, N. Gandell, G. N. Wallace, W. D. Peck, A. Naylor, H. B. Chalk, F. S. Wood, A. P.


    Hamilton, A. Talbot (Greymouth), H. M. Colson 27/6, M. H. Houston 27/6, W. Keller 27/6, H. L. Mitchell


    27/6, F. C. Wade, J. R. McNaughton, J. Breeze, A. A. Lee, A. Cowie, G. W. R. Harker, L. F. de Berry, F. H.


    Williams, G. H. Chapman (Hokitika), A. Brookes (Rimu), W. A. Hutchinson (Wanganui), G. Dorricott (Eyre


    Creek, Lumsden), R. Wylie 17/6, W. N. Poole, G. A. Kisling (Kaiapoi), A. J. Inwood 33/4, S. J. Wickcliffe


    30/- (Southbridge), C. C. Peterson, W. Mackenzie, F. A. Evens (Rangiora), R. J. Jones 20/- (Kaimata,


    Inglewood), H. A. McKillop 1/8 (Invercargill).


    All 7/6 except those noted.










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




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


    [Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]


    —————


    CRAFT LODGES.


    —————


    SOUTHLAND.


    Taringatura, No. 100. Notwithstanding the prevalence of Southland zephyrs of the most pronounced type,


    the attendance at the annual installation meeting on 18th November was excellent, many members travelling


    50 miles or more by rail or road to be present. After some routine business, including the granting of a demit


    and voting £5 for the purchase of additional books for the Lodge library, visiting brethren were admitted, and


    this was followed by the reception of R.W. Bro. W. Timpany, Prov. G.M. of Southland and installing officer.


    W. Bro. J. V. Clapp, Master of Lodge Wairaki, acted as G.D. of C., and performed his duties with tact and


    ability. At the B. of LM. there were 20 I.Ms. present, and this, though not a record for the Lodge, amply


    shows the interest of the rulers of the Craft in Southland. The ceremony was carried through without a hitch,


    these brethren taking part : M.W. Bro. M. Thompson, P.G.M. (address to Master); R.W. Bro. C. J.


    Ronaldson invested and addressed the Wardens; while R.W. Bro. W. Smith addressed the brethren.


    W. Bros. Somerset Smith (W.M. Lodge Waihopai, No. 180), Jos. Critchfield (W.M. Lodge Southern Cross,


    No. 9), and W. Bro. W. R. Rusden (W.M. Lodge Fortitude) presented the W.Ts. in the respective degrees,


    while the officers were invested by W. Bros. A. Jolly (Lodge Hercules, No. 36), W. W. Brown (W.M. of


    Lodge Mataura, No. 174), Thos. Walker (I.P.M. Lodge Winton, No. 108), and J. J. Griffiths (P.M. Lodge


    Mataura, No. 174). The officers for the ensuing year are :—W.M., Bro. Henry Graham; I.P.M., W. Bro. W.


    Roxburgh; S.W., Bro. D. Walker; J.W. Bro. H. Beer; Treas., W. Bro. G. F. Johnson; Sec., W. Bro. W. H.


    Clark; D. of C., W. Bro. T. Campbell; Chaplain, Bro. Geo. Finlay ; Organist, Bro. D. Walker; S.D., Bro. J. E.


    Griffiths; J.D., Bro. A. Rasmussen; 1.G., Bro. J. Butler ; Stewards (senior), W. Bro. J. J. McNutt, Bros. A.


    Chartres, R. W. Church, R. F. Hayles, D. F. McLeod, G. E. Souter ; Tyler, Bro. G. E. Fowler. The musical


    part of the proceedings was in the hands of Bro. W. H. Browne, of Lodge Winton, and added materially to


    the success of the function. Instead of the usual elaborate banquet in the public hall, the brethren and visitors


    were entertained with a cold collation in the ante-room. The accommodation was somewhat limited, as


    upwards of sixty sat down, but notwithstanding limitations the utmost good fellowship prevailed. The


    speeches were of a high order throughout, that of W. Bro. A. Jolly being an oratorical effort of no mean


    order. He congratulated the brethren on the spirit they had displayed in this year giving up their more


    elaborate feast in order to secure for the G.L. War Benevolence Fund a substantial amount. If all New


    Zealand Lodges did the same the amount sought for by' the M.W.G.M. would be far exceeded. Bro. Jolly's


    speech also had that fine literary flavour that comes only from wide readings, and the whole was seasoned


    with the saving salt of humour. In many respects the annual meeting of 1914 was a memorable one for those


    whose privilege it was to be present.—{Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    OTAGO.


    Dunstan, No. 103.— The regular meeting held on 4th November was attended by a large number of


    brethren. W.M. Bro. Holloway presided, supported by I.P.M. W. Bro. Shelton. A brother of Lodge Owaka


    was raised to the degree of M.M. The following brethren assisted in the ceremony.—W. Bro. Shelton, Ex-


    hortation ; J.W. Bro. Menzies, Light of a M.M. ; S.W. Bro. McKean, Ss. ; J.D. Bro. Davidson, T.H. ; I.G.


    Bro. Bodkin, W.Ts. ; Bro. Burrows, Final Charge. Rev. Bro. Perkins took all the Chaplain's work. With


    H.G.W. from a number of visitors, the Lodge was closed. A pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, and two


    collections were taken up, one for a circular appeal, and one for the Annuity Fund, and both were liberally


    responded to.


    The following evening Lodge Dunstan paid a long promised visit to Cornwall Kil., and raised two brethren.


    P.M. W. Bro. Pickett joined the party, and assisted in the ceremony. The work was taken by the same


    officers and members. After the Lodge was closed the visitors were entertained by Lodge Cornwall Kil. The


    visitors were congratulated on the working of the degree, and P.M. W. Bro. Ritchie paid a special




    compliment to the junior officers for their rendering of the charges, J.D. Bro. Davidson special mention.


    Songs and speeches (good ones) were the order, and the Tyler's toast concluded one of the pleasantest and


    best official visits of recent years. The fortunate brothers reached home at 3 a.m. Bro. Perkins had charge of


    the W.M. and I.P.M., but whether it was the fault of the tyres or not, they did not get home till—later, all


    well.—(Lodge Correspondent.)


    —————


    Oceanic, No. 154.—The annual meeting for the installation of the W.M. and the investiture of officers was


    held in the Masonic Hall, St. Kilda, on 21st October, Trafalgar Day. The Lodge was opened in the afternoon,


    when after formal business, a B. of I.M. was formed, under the presidency of the Prov.G.M., Bro. J. J. Clark,


    W. Bro. Cameron being S.W., W. Bro. C. Lischner J.W., and W. Bro. Jacobsen acting as G.P. Bro. John


    Couch-man, who first saw light in Lodge St. Andrew (Wanganui), was installed in the Chair. After he had


    invested his I.P.M., W. Bro. H. C. Anderson, the Lodge was called off. In the evening the following officers


    were invested by R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, P.Prov.G.M. :—S.W., Bro. A. Cannon; J.W., Bro, A. McKenzie ;


    Treas., Bro. E. K. Board ; Sec., W. Bro. D. Hanis (Hastings); S.D., Bro. A. Walker ; J.D., Bro. F. J. Lough;


    I.G., Bro. W. Mills ; D. of C., Bro. H. F. Hauls; Chaplain, Bro. M. J. Pierce; D. of M., W. Bro. J. D.


    Cameron; Organist, Bro. J. A. Cardno; Tyler, Bro. C. Tilleyshut; Stewards, Bros. W. H. Riddell, senr., H. C.


    Auty, and W. McCullock. The R.W. Prov.G.M. addressed the W.M. W. Bro. Jacobsen the Wardens, and


    R.W. Bro. E. W. G. II. Watts, P.Prov.G.M., the brethren. During the evening W. Bro. Hastings presented the


    I.P.M. (Bro. H. C. Anderson) with a P.M.'s jewel, and in so doing traced Bro. Anderson's Masonic career as


    far as Oceanic was concerned. Bro. Anderson had been two years Steward, then I.G., and had given way to


    allow another brother to become J.D. He had since served as Deacon, Warden, and W.M., and was the last of


    the original office-bearers of Oceanic, and one of the best. His career as W.M. was creditable to himself and


    advantageous to the Lodge. Bro. Anderson briefly thanked the brethren for their present and good wishes.


    There was a very large attendance of visitors, all the town and suburban Lodges being well represented, as


    well as a number of country ones, and included a representative of the G.L. of Western Australia. The


    installation supper was held in the St. Kilda Town Hall, the usual toasts being honoured and the singing of


    "It's a Long Way to Tipperary " being the means of raising a few pounds for the Patriotic Fund, the Annuity


    Fund having been looked after in a substantial manner in the Lodgeroom. Bro. W. E. Croom, P.G. Organist,


    G.L. of Western Australia, acted as Organist in the Lodgeroom, and Bro. F. F. Thomas as accompanist m the


    supper-room. W. Bro. J. D. Cameron's solo " Consider the Lilies " after the investiture of the officers was


    one of the features of a successful meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Clinton, No. 183.—The regular meeting was held on the 5th ult., when the principal business was conferring


    the Third Degree on a candidate, which was done by W. Bro. C. Capamagian, W.M. assisted by his


    officers:— Ob. and Secrets, W.M. ; Retro., Bro. Wright; Light, Bro. Steven ; T.H., Bro. Charlton ; W.Ts.,


    Bro. W. Brown ; Final Charge, Bro. R. Mclndoe. One candidate was elected. A circular general appeal from


    G.L. received due attention. Lodge closed at 10.30 p.m., and a pleasant hour was spent at the " Fourth," with


    songs and recitations, mingled with Masonic and patriotic toasts.


    During the month of October a Masonic social was held in the Lodgeroom, which proved a decided success,


    although many of the brethren and their partners, on account no doubt of long distances to travel, were


    absent. A bright programme of dancing, interspersed with song, was much enjoyed, as were also an excellent


    supper and several recitations. The presence of the ladies was, of course, a very pleasant change from the


    ordinary Lodge meetings, from which unfortunately they must be excluded. The singing of " Auld Lang


    Syne " brought to a close a very enjoyable evening's entertainment, when it was resolved to make the


    function an annual one.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ———————————


    CANTERBURY.


    Southern Cross, No. 6.—The monthly meeting was held at Kaiapoi on 5th November. W. Bro. Gray


    presided over a good attendance of members. The usual routine business was quickly disposed of, and the


    election of officers for the ensuing year was held, resulting in the usual one step up all round. The W.M.,


    officers, and brethren of Canterbury Kil. were admitted, and at the invitation of W. Bro. Gray, filled the


    various offices of the Lodge and very impressively raised a brother to the Third Degree by the Scotch




    method. The working of the degree was of great interest to the brethren of Southern Cross, some of whom


    had not witnessed any Scotch working before, and W. Bro. Gray heartily thanked W. Bro. Lester, officers,


    and brethren of Canterbury Kil. for their attendance and courtesy in working the degree. W. Bro. Lester, in


    replying, extended a hearty invitation to Southern Cross to visit Lyttelton and work a degree for them, which


    was accepted by W. Bro. Gray. It speaks volumes for the enthusiasm of the members of Canterbury Kil. that


    23 should journey by rail and motor from Lyttelton to Kaiapoi and return the same night.


    On 22nd October an emergency meeting was held for the purpose of raising two brethren to the Third


    Degree. There was a good attendance, and the work was well carried out by the respective officers.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    —————


    Concord, No. 39.—The regular meeting took place on 28th October in the Masonic Hall, Papanui, W. Bro.


    Gasson, I.P.M., in the unavoidable absence of the W.M., occupying the chair. There was only a moderate


    attendance, due, no doubt, to the inclemency of the weather, the night being the most wintry we have had for


    months past. A candidate was elected, and a sum of one guinea was voted towards a fund which is being


    raised to send W. Bro. Arnold away on a well deserved holiday to Hamner, the vote being an expression of


    the Lodge's appreciation of W. Bro. Arnold's unvarying courtesy as Tyler whenever our brethren visit the


    city Lodges. A brother was raised to the Third Degree, W. Bro. Casson conducting the ceremony with the


    thoroughness so well known of him, his example being well emulated by the officers. The brethren are well


    pleased to see Bro. George Mikes a regular attendant at our Lodge meetings again, and hope it will not be


    long before he assumes a place amongst the officers. The Lodge's deepest sympathy is extended to Bro.


    Howe, whose chapter of misfortunes lately has been made worse by the present serious illness of his wife.


    The brethren hope Mrs. Howe will soon be restored to health again. Since our regular meeting, our well-


    known brother, W. Bro Du Feu, has suffered a great blow by the death of his eldest daughter Dorothy, aged


    21 years. The numerous Masonic friends of W. Bro. Du Feu will sincerely grieve with him and Mrs. Du Feu


    over their sad loss. The usual adjournment to the refectory brought the meeting to a close.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    —————


    Christchurch, No, 91.—The monthly meeting was held on 27th October in the St. Augustine Hall, W. Bro.


    Robt. McFarlane (acting-Master) presiding over a large attendance of members. After routine business and


    the election of officers had been disposed of, the ritual work, consisting of the raising of two brethren, was


    proceeded with, the candidates being obligated by the acting-W.M. W. Bro. Hopkinson, P.M., gave the first


    part of the T.H., the raising being performed by W. Bro. F. L. Adams. The T.H. was resumed by W. Bro.


    Roberts, P.M., the T.B. being explained by W. Bro. G. Femm. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Steans


    (W.M. Civic Lodge), the Final Charge being delivered by the S.W., Bro. J. Thomas. The Lodge having been


    closed in due form, a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory by visitors and members.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    —————


    Thistle, No. 113.—The Lodge met in the Masonic Hall, Ashburton, on 21st October, the W.M., W. Bro. J.


    Williams, presiding over a fair attendance. After the routine business the W.M. of Ashburton Lodge, No.


    1811, E.C. (W. Bro. Eric Orr), accompanied by a number of his officers and brethren, was received. The


    work was the raising of one brother, which was carried out by the following :—W. Bro. J. Williams, the O.;


    the Ss. by W. Bro. Meddins; the Ex. by W. Bro. King; Charge, W. Bro. Long; T.H., W. Bro. T. Williams;


    Signs, W. Bro. Campbell; W.Ts., W. Bro. Orr ; C. after R., W. Bro. Harris. A new bye-law, according to the


    notice of motion of the W.M., was carried, dealing with the Lodge Benevolent Fund. Nominations of officers


    for the ensuing year were taken. A motion was also carried for the Lodge to contribute regularly to the War


    Relief Fund inaugurated by the G.M. The usual pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.


    The ordinary meeting was held on the 18th inst., when W. Bro. J. Williams presided over a fair attendance of


    brethren. After the usual routine work the 1st and 2nd T.Bs. were explained to the brethren by W. Bro. J.


    Williams, W.M., and Bro. A. L. Moore, D. of C., respectively. A motion of condolence to Bro. J. R. Brown


    on the loss of his father was carried. The date for installation could not be announced until a reply was re-


    ceived from P.G.Sec. The usual pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.—{Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————




    Robert Burns, No. 139.—The regular monthly meeting was held in St. Augustine Hall, Christchurch, on


    17th November, when there was a good attendance of members. The W.M., W. Bro. R. W. S. Eastwood,


    presided. A large number of visiting brethren were present, including two brethren from Scotland. A circular


    appeal was received, and the sum of £2 2s. voted towards same. The opportunity was taken to invest W. Bro.


    J. Robinson and W. Bro. J. Watson in their offices of Treas. and Deputy Master respectively, they having


    been prevented from attending the installation ceremony, the former by illness, whilst the latter was paying a


    visit to the Old Country. W. Bro. R. L. Bush made the investiture, and expressed the pleasure of the Lodge at


    having both brethren back in their midst. It was decided to institute a system of having home savings banks,


    into which each member places a small contribution weekly, and the boxes are then collected on the night of


    installation, the proceeds being devoted to the various benevolent funds. A collection was taken up on behalf


    of the Empty Stocking Fund. The second of a series of monthly papers contributed by P.Ms. was read by W.


    Bro. R. W. Brighting, D. of C. This is a new institution in the Robert Burns Lodge, and serves the double


    purpose of keeping the P.Ms. in close touch with the Lodge, and instruction to the younger brethren. W. Bro.


    Brighting's paper, entitled " The Initiate and His Lodge," was very instructive, and was attentively listened to


    by the brethren. The Lodge was closed at 9.30 p.m., and a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, in the


    course of which W. Bro. Watson gave a very interesting account of his experiences on his return voyage


    from England, he having returned only last week.— [Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    WESTLAND.


    Mawhera, No. 136.—The installation of W.M. and investiture of officers took place in the Masonic Hall,


    Tainui Street, Greymouth, on 13th November. The Lodge met at 7 p.m. There was an attendance of 110.


    R.W. Bro. J. H. Harkness, Prov.G.M., and G.L. officers were officially received, also R.W. Bro. Steen,


    D.G.M. of Westland (E.C.). Bro. John Hales was obligated and installed by R.W. Bro. Harkness, who


    conducted the ceremony in a most impressive manner. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. J. Peek, W.


    Bro. Rouse, W. Bro. Wade. Bro. Holder acted as Trumpeter. The following officers were invested with the


    jewels by R.W. Bro. Harkness :—I.P.M., W. Bro. C. G. F. Morice; D.M., W. Bro. E. Warnes; S.W., Bro. E.


    F. Guinness; J.W., Bro. E. P. Peers; Chaplain, W. Bro. R. H. Richmond; Treas., Bro. J. Ring; Sec., Bro. J. C.


    Duncan; S.D., Bro. Hessey ; J.D., Bro. G. Wallace; D. of C., W. Bro. W. Rundle; I.G., Bro. Clear; Organist,


    Bro. Holder ; Tyler, Bro. Morrison; Stewards, Bros. Talbot, Thompson, Pope, Bate, Boucher, and Larcombe.


    R.W. Bro. Harkness presented W. Bro. C. Morice with a P.M.'s jewel in appreciation of his valuable services


    to the Lodge. W. Bro. Morice responded and thanked the brethren. A collection in aid of the W. and O. Fund


    brought in the sum of £7 4s. 6d. The Lodge was then 'closed and the brethren adjourned for refreshment.


    Two or three hours were enjoyably spent with the help of instrumental music, song, speech, and recitation,


    the usual toasts being honoured.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.


    Forest, No. 116.—The installation of Bro. Walter Fawcett as W.M. took place in the Masonic Hall,


    Wakefield, on 9th November, in the presence of a large attendance of brethren from Victory, Motueka, and


    Southern Star Lodges. The ceremony was performed by R.W. Bro. W. E. Redman, Prov.G.M., Nelson and


    Marlborough, assisted by R.W. Bro. W. Moyes, W. Bros. J. A. Orman, E. W. Rudman, F. H. Durbridge, W.


    G. Syder, and R. W. Stiles. W. Bro. E. Dimant acted as D. of C., and Bro. N. R. Williams as Organist. The


    following officers were duly invested by W. Bros. R. W. Stiles, H. J. Harris, and J. Houlker : — I.P.M., W.


    Bro. H. C. Fitzsimmons; S.W., Bro. H. Franklyn; J.D., Bro. A. D. Syder; Treas. W. Bro. H. C. Fitzsimmons ;


    Sec., W. Bro. F. B. Peart; Chaplain, W. Bro. W. Thorn; D. of C., W. Bro. F. H, Durbridge; S.D., Bro. J. R.


    Gaukrodger; J.D., Bro. J. H. Price; I.G., Bro. W. G. Syder, Tyler, W. Bro. A. Baigent. After the Lodge was


    closed the brethren partook of supper, when the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured. —[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    —————


    HAWKES BAY.


    Scinde, No. 5.—The regular meeting was held on 17th November in the Lodgeroom, Napier. W. Bro. C. H.


    Critchley, W.M., presided over a large atendance of members and visitors, amongst the latter being the


    W.M., officers, and brethren of Victoria Lodge, No. 21, who were paying an official visit. The sum of £2 2s.




    was voted to a circular appeal. The ceremonial business was the raising of a brother, the ceremony being


    conducted by the W.M., who very unselfishly divided the work up as follows W. Bro. Ritchie, I.P.M. (Ob.);


    W. Bro. D. McLennan (Ex.); W. Bro. C. L. Thomas (K.D. and Raising); R.W. Bro. Harston, Prov.G.GM.


    (Charge after Raising); W. Bro. Williams (Secrets); W. Bro. Freedman (T.H.); Bro. R. Bishop, J.W.,


    presented the W.Ts. ; and Bro. J. P. Thomson, S.W., delivered the Final Charge. After the meeting an


    adjournment was made to the refectory, where, after the customary loyal toasts, a programme of music, song,


    and story was thoroughly enjoyed, not the least enjoyable being the two items played by the orchestra,


    composed of members of Victoria Lodge. We should be pleased to see these official visits more


    frequently.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Victoria, No. 21.—The regular meeting was held in the Lodge-room on 3rd November, when there was a


    good attendance of the brethren, including three visitors. The meeting was presided over by the W.M., W.


    Bro. H. W. Whitton. A sum of money was voted in reply to a circular appeal. The G.M.'s War Appeal Fund


    was considered, and as a result a substantial donation from this Lodge will result. The work was to pass three


    brethren. The Obs. were taken by W. Bros. Chegwidden, Tuke, and Whitton; Secrets by W. Bro. Andrew ;


    S.E. Corner, W. Bro. Lorrie (a visitor from Lodge Concord, Papanui); Ss., J.W. Bro. Hill; T.B., W. Bro.


    Wilkie; and Charge, S.W. Bro. Kirk; while the Deacon's work was ably carried out by S.D. Bro. Erskine and


    J.D. Bro. Bate. During the evening the W.M. announced that he would be paying an official visit to Lodge


    Scinde at their next meeting, and asked for a full attendance of Victoria brethren. After the Lodge closed a


    pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Bedford, No. 25.—At the monthly meeting, held on the 27th October last, there was a fair attendance,


    presided over by the W.M. (Bro. W. H. Booth). The usual donation was granted to a circular general appeal.


    One candidate was passed to the Second Degree, and the work was entrusted as follows :—Ob., the W.M. ;


    Entrusting, W. Bro. Elliott; Investiture, S.W. Bro. Gore; the S.E. Address was delivered by W. Bro. Storah,


    and J.W. Bro. Williams presented the W.Ts.; S.W. Bro. Gore delivered the Final Charge. A candidate for


    initiation was obligated by W. Bro. Stefferson (W.M. of Lodge Ruataniwha, No. 172 Takapau. The


    Investiture was entrusted to S.W. Bro. Gore, and W. Bro. Elliott delivered the N.E. Address. The Reasons for


    Prep. were explained by W. Bro. D. Milne, J.W., Bro. Williams presented the W.Ts., and the Final Charge


    was given by W. Bro. E. Hosking. One candidate was proposed. A pleasant hour was spent in the


    refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Abercorn, No. 30.—The Lodge met on 2nd November. Two candidates were raised to the Third Degree, the


    ceremony being conducted by the I.P.M. (W. Bro. J. N. Watson), who conferred the Obs., the Ss. being


    entrusted by W. Bro. Robin, who also gave the Ex. and T.H. Bro. Hunt gave the Retrospect, and Bro.


    Williams the Charge. Bro. Pasco invested the candidate and delivered the Final Charge and Bro. Parkin


    presented the W.Ts. A guinea was donated towards a circular appeal. The election for office-bearers for the


    ensuing term resulted in Bro. Thomas Williams being elected W.M. The installation meeting takes place on


    14th December, when the Lodge will meet in the afternoon and dispose of the ordinary business, leaving the


    evening clear for the installation ceremony. R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M. for Hawkes Bay, will


    preside on the occasion.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    Ruahine, No. 80.—The, Lodge held its monthly meeting on 3rd November, when quite a number of


    members and visitors were present. The chief interest was the working of the Second Degree. The candidate,


    on being examined, was obligated by W. Bro. A. Stevenson and entrusted by W. Bro. James Cartwright ; the


    S.E. Address was given by W. Bro. F. J. Hutchins; the W.Ts. were presented by the W.M., S.W., and J.W. in


    concert, each describing and illustrating one of the Tools; and the Final Charge was delivered by W. Bro. H.


    P. Horne. W. Bro. Burley delivered the Lecture on the T.B., and it was listened to with great interest by the


    brethren. A circular appeal was read, and the sum of one guinea was voted to the fund. A ballot was taken for


    a joining member, and one candidate was mentioned for initiation. It was decided to convey the brethren of


    Lodge Ruahine's deep sympathy to W. Bro. Hewat, Pahiatua, in his present affliction, consequent on the


    death of his late wife. W. Bro. Hewat is a well known and respected brother in Lodge Ruahine'.s circles.




    After the Lodge was close the brethren retired to the refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent, the visitors


    greatly assisting with song and story.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    TARANAKI.


    Hawera; No. 34.—The monthly meeting on 3rd November was a fairly busy one. In addition to the


    conferring of the Third Degree on one brother three candidates were balloted for, and later on two candidates


    were proposed for initiation and one brother for affiliation. A report from the Executive Committee and our


    Bro. architect on the building was well discussed, and it was finally left in the hands of the W.M. and W.


    Bros. Keen and Quin, in conjunction with the architect, to have all necessary repairs, repainting, and other


    work done. It was also suggested that the refectory should be enlarged, and this was passed on to this


    committee with power to act. W. Bro. Salmon gave a notice of motion to the effect that brethren living at


    Mania or the western district should be placed on the same level as " country " members by the Lodge


    refunding half their subscription to a general fund for the purpose of assisting in the expense of motor-ear


    hire when these brethren are attending the Lodge. The feature of the degree work was that it was a P.Ms,'


    night, and P.Ms. filled every office as soon as Lodge was opened in the Second Degree under P.M. W. Bro.


    Keen. The working was well done, and served to show that our brethren in the east are by no means allowed


    to get rusty. A pleasant hour in the refectory closed an enjoyable Lodge meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Stratford, No. 75. — An unusually large and impressive meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Stratford,


    on 29th October, when two candidates were raised to the Third Degree. Twenty-eight visiting members from


    Lodge Moa, No. 110, journeyed from Inglewood, and the officers from this latter Lodge, under W. Bro. E. E.


    Olson, W.M., conducted the whole ceremony in connection with the raising of one candidate in such a


    manner as to merit undoubted praise and appreciation by the local brethren. W. Bro. J. Macalister, of


    Stratford, No. 75, conducted the first raising, assisted by the local officers, and when all joined afterwards in


    the refectory a harmonious spirit prevailed, and an expression of thanks and appreciation was made by the


    local brethren for such a pleasant and helpful visit from Lodge Moa. —[Lodge Corerspondent.]


    —————


    WELLINGTON.


    Ulster, No. 62.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Petone, on 21st October, the W.M.


    (Bro. G. D. McEwen) presiding over a large attendance of members and visitors. The ceremonial work


    consisted of the initiation of two candidates. The ceremony was very ably performed by the W.M., assisted


    by :—Bro. C. A. Strong, J.W., N.E. Charge; Bro. H. Steinmuller S.D., M. of P. ; W. Bro. G. G. Schwartz,


    W.Ts. ; and Bro. W. H. Richards, S.W., F.C. One applicant for admission to the Craft was elected. The


    W.M., officers, and brethren of Lodges Leinster, No. 44, and Coronation, No. 127, paid an official visit, and


    they were accorded a very hearty welcome. In the refectory the usual toasts were honoured.—[Lodge Corres-


    pondent.]


    There was a good attendance of members and visitors at the regular meeting, held on 18th November,


    Lodges Waterloo and Waiwhetu being specially well represented. The W.M. (Bro. G. D. McEwen) occupied


    the chair, and conducted the ceremony of initiation. The Charge in the N.E. was given by Bro. Strong, J.W.;


    the Mode of Prep. was explained by Bro. Richards, S.W.; the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Cox ; and the


    Final Charge was given by W. Bro. Ross. A resolution was passed expressing regret at the death of a


    member (the late Bro. T. J. Oates) who died recently in Canterbury, and it was decided that the Lodge should


    go into mourning. After the conclusion of the business the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where the


    usual toasts were honoured in silence.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Rangatira, No. 71.— In response to an invitation from the brethren of this Lodge, V.W. Bro. Bridge,


    G.Lec., attended an emergency meeting on Friday, 13th ult., when he read a paper on Freemasonry and the


    Masonic Spirit." Unfortunately, the attendance was not as large as could have been wished. However, those


    brethren who had the pleasure of hearing Bro. Bridge on Friday night were unanimous in their verdict " that


    it was an intellectual feast." Apart from being a pleasant break from the ordinary Lodge work, the subject


    chosen by the G.Lec. was an interesting one from start to finish, the finish coming all too soon. A hearty vote




    of thanks was accorded V.W. Bro. Bridge at the conclusion of his address, and a general wish was expressed


    that we again have the pleasure of hearing him in Lodge Rangatira in the near future.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    —————


    Brooklyn, No. 132.—The regular monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Brooklyn, on 4th


    November. A large number of brethren and visitors was present. The ceremonial business consisted of the


    initiation of two candidates. The work was ably carried out by the W.M., W. Bro. S. M. Arcus, assisted by


    W. Bros. Thew and Luke, and Bros. Futter, Parkin, and Mollison. A very pleasant ceremony during the


    evening was a presentation to Bro. Arthur Oakey, the retiring Sec. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., on


    behalf of the members of the Lodge, in a very happy speech, presented Bro. Oakey with the W.Ts. of the


    "Tea Degree," referred to in another part of this issue. After the meeting a pleasant hour was spent in the


    refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————


    Tutanekal, No. 156.—The regular monthly meeting was held on 6th November, when the W.M., Bro. P. C.


    Watt, presided over a large attendance of members and visiting brethren. The business was to pass two


    brethren, also at the request of Lodge Hikurangi, No. 140, Bro. W. H. Maddren. The ceremony was


    conducted by the W.M., W. Bro. Spicer, P.M., explaining the S. T., and W. the S.E. Charge by Bro. E.


    Howell (Treas.), W.Ts. by the W.M., assisted by the Wardens, Apron Charge by W. Bro. T. Rowell, P.M.,


    Final Charge by Bro. G. F. Lanzim, J.D., the lecture on the 2nd T.B. being delivered by Bro. A. A.


    Whitelaw, J.W. During the evening an amount was voted towards a circular general appeal from G.L. Votes


    of sympathy were also passed to W. Bro. S. E. Harrop, who is unfortunately indisposed, and Bro. E. W.


    Watson, whose son is seriously ill. A ballot was taken for an affiliating member, which proved favourable ;


    also for three candidates" for initiation. A proposition was received for an affiliation member. H.G.W. were


    tendered from the W.M., officers, and brethren of Lodge Hinemoa (who paid an official visit), and from a


    number of visiting brethren. After closing the Lodge an enjoyable hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    —————


    Huia, No. 171.—The monthly meeting fell on the 5th ult., and proved to be an eventful day in the history of


    the Lodge, as it synchronised with the third day of the annual Show, which necessitated a busy time for many


    members of the Lodge in their various business capacities, many being exhibitors. Also the officers and


    brethren were called upon on the same day to attend the funeral of our late brother, Hugo Neuman, who, by


    the way, was one of the founders of Lodge Huia. He had been a member of the Craft for very many years,


    and a few days prior to passing away expressed a wish that the burial service of the Masonic Order be


    performed. The ceremony at the graveside was carried out by the W.M., Bro. Smith, assisted by R.W. Bro.


    Nash and the Lodge Chaplain, Bro. Canton. The members then adjourned and re-assembled at 7.30. The


    work, consisting of the initiation of a candidate, was distributed as follows :— Ob. and Ss., the W.M. ; C.


    Charge by the W.M. of Lodge Concord ; Prep. Charge by the J.W., Bro. Turner ; W.Ts. by W. Bro. Dawick


    (Manawatu Kil.); Final Charge, W. Bro. Spooner. One joining member was proposed. H.G.W. were offered


    by the visitors, one of the latter being a near relative of our deceased brother, who expressed the deep


    gratitude of all members of the family to the Lodge for the sympathy shown and the performance of the last


    sad rites, couching his remarks in deep and touching tones, which visibly affected the feelings of many


    present. In conclusion the W.M. announced that he, with his officers and brethren, will, by invitation, attend


    Nil. Lodge next Thursday evening, when the degree will be worked by our W.M. and officers, it being


    needless to state we appreciate very much the compliment paid by our sister Lodge,—[Lodge Cor-


    respondent..]


    —————


    Waiwhetu. No. 176.—The monthly meeting was held at Lower Hutt on 11th November. Unfortunately, it


    turned out a very wet and dirty night, which somewhat mitigated against the attendance both of visitors and


    members, and as this was the first working night for the W.M. and his Officers it was a bit disappointing to


    them, as they naturally wanted to show what they could do in regard to the ritual work, which,


    notwithstanding the poor attendance, went off exceedingly well, and the new W.M. can be congratulated on


    the quickness with which he got through the business of the evening. Correspondence was received from




    various sources, from G.Sec., forwarding nomination papers for G.L. officers, also notifying that G.L. would


    meet in Wellington in May, 1915. A donation was passed to a deserving circular appeal from Lodge


    Geraldine, No. 27. From the Prov.G.M. and V.W. Bro. Bridge, acting-Sec., re a meeting for the 26th


    November to make arrangements for G.L. meeting. W. Bro. Guineas was appointed delegate to this meeting.


    The auditor's report and balance-sheet was received and adopted. It showed that the Lodge was progressing


    very favourably, as it has only been in existence for four years, and has a balance of assets over liabilities of


    £371 ls. 7d., which goes to show that the Lodge finance has been well looked after by the officers and


    brethren since its inception. W. Bro. H. Hobbs was elected representative on the Board of Enquiry in


    conjunction with the W.M., W. Bro. Anson receiving a vote of thanks for his services for the last two years.


    One candidate for initiation was proposed. Two candidates were initiated into Freemasonry. W. Bro.


    Guineas, W.M., obligated, W. Bro. Ayson, I.P.M., communicated the Secrets and gave the charge after


    initiation, Bro. McLachlan, S.W., invested the candidates, W. Bro. Anson gave the Apron Charge, Bro.


    Mcllvride the N.B. Charge, and R.W. Bro. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., presented, the W.Ts. The Lodge was closed


    at 9.15 p.m.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.


    Waterloo, No. 2.—The regular convocation was held at the Masonic Hall, Wellington, on the 28th October,


    V.E. Comp. G. Russell, Z., presiding. Several visitors were present, but the attendance of members was


    disappointing to the officers. After the minutes had been confirmed correspondence was read and dealt with.


    A demit was applied for and granted. The balance-sheet for the past year was presented, and after discussion


    was adopted. The business of the evening was to exalt two brethren, and this was done by the 1st Prin.,


    assisted by V.E: Comps. Dement, Schwartz, and Neilsen (Hinemoa R.A. Chapter), and E. Comp. Rod, H.,


    who presented the W.Ts. The new officers showed careful work and that the two instruction meetings held


    had been of decided advantage. Special mention was made regarding the services of the Organist, who,


    although living at a distance, attends regularly and contributes to the enjoyment of the meetings. V.E. Comp.


    Veitch expressed his hearty thanks to the officers and companions for their handsome presentation of jewels


    to him at the annual convocation. It was decided to place an engraved silver plate on the Arch recently


    presented to the Chapter by V.E. Comp. Veitch, the plate to show date of presentation and donor's name. The


    1st Prin. announced that he would pay an official visit to the Hinemoa R.A. Chapter at their next annual


    meeting, and asked for a full attendance of officers and members. After H.G.W. had been given by visitors


    the Chapter was closed at 9.45 p.m.—[Chapter Correspondent.]


    —————


    Rawhiti, No. 30—The regular convocation was held on 2nd November. V.E. Comp. W. Dobson, Z.,


    presided over a fair attendance of companions. One candidate was proposed for advancement. A letter was


    received from Rev. T. Porritt, G.Supt., intimating that three offices in G. Chapter had been apportioned to


    Wellington district for the ensuing year. A vote of sympathy with the widow of our late Comp. W. J. Grimes,


    who passed away at Auckland on 30th October, was passed. Bro. Grimes was an active member of the Craft


    during his residence in Dannevirke, and only removed to Auckland a few months ago. Only at last


    convocation a letter was received from him intimating his intention of affiliating with a Chapter in the


    northern city, consequently the news of his sudden death came as a shock to his many Masonic friends in


    Dannevirke. Comp. D. Milne (Waipukurau), who was unable to attend the annual convocation, was duly


    invested as 3rd Soj. The Chapter having been duly closed, an Ark Mariners' Lodge was opened, W. Bro. R.


    A. Gillespie, C.N., presiding, and the degree was conferred on one candidate, and several certificates were


    presented. The officers nominated in the several .side degrees for the ensuing year were .declared duly


    elected.—[Chapter Correspondent.]