7474

THE CHARGE TO THE WOR. MASTER.

———<>———

FREEMASONS must of necessity recognise the extreme beauty of Masonic ritual, and especially those

portions which are devoted to the inculcation of the cardinal precepts of the Craft. There may be much that is

anomalous, and there may be many discrepancies that are opposed to historical fact and Biblical reading, but

the ethics of the institution are so clearly expressed that he " who runs may read," and those who desire to

make a daily advancement in acts of morality and virtue will receive every assistance from the multitude of

precepts so clearly and concisely promulgated in Masonic ritual.

The question arises as to whether the constant iteration does not have the effect of deadening the

sensibilities, seeing that the aggregate results do not yield readily to anticipations. In the many beautiful

addresses and charges it is difficult to make selection for illustrative purposes, but on reflection we submit

the charge addressed to the W.M. upon his installation as the multum in parvo. In this brief address not only

are his duties clearly defined, and the precepts he should inculcate most admirably set forth, but attention is

drawn to some of the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, the essentials that are absolutely imperative for

the maintenance of its position as the greatest moral institution of the age. At the very commencement the

attention of the Master is directed to the onerous nature of his responsibilities, and the necessity of a faithful

discharge of the duties annexed to the appointment. To know that the honour, reputation, and usefulness of

the Lodge will depend upon his skill and ability will not tend to lighten the burden he has voluntarily

assumed, and that upon the promulgation of the genuine principles of the Craft will depend the happiness of

the brethren. The charge then draws an analogy from the most glorious luminary of nature—the sun — and

makes it a pattern for imitation in communicating light and instruction to the members of the Lodge. And

here it is that we think the newly-installed Master rather confounds things, or slightly mixes them up.

Invariably this instruction is construed to mean the ritual teaching and ceremonial. This is incorrect, as the

ritual is for the especial benefit of the newly-admitted brother, while the light and instruction to the members

of "your Lodge" should comprehend all that goes towards the making a daily advancement in Masonic

knowledge. "Forcibly impress upon them the dignity and high importance of Freemasonry." Here we not

only have a stern injunction to the W.M. for the inculcation of a great precept, but we also have one of the

fundamental principles of the Craft. The " London Freemason " says :—" Every Mason should feel that he is

personally responsible for the honour and dignity of the Craft. The worst enemies of Masonry are not those

outside its pale, who sneer at and decry the Craft, but its own members who, in life and conversation, do not

attempt to carry out its principles. A Mason may be letter perfect in his ritual, regular in his attendance at

Lodge, but if outside his conduct is actuated only by selfishness, if he be unscrupulous in his business

transactions, he is a stumbling-stone in the way of very many of his brethren, and a very potent argument

against Masonry."

If we were jealous of the dignity and high importance of Freemasonry, our portals would be more carefully

guarded, the institution would present a new and better aspect to its members, and it would have a greater

share of esteem from those outside the pale than it has at the present time. How often are the brethren

specifically admonished "never to disgrace it" ? Indirectly, perhaps, through the ritual, on many occasions,

but again we must contend that repetition begets callousness, not of a wicked heart, but a wearisomeness of

disposition.

It is very much an intangible mystery why the Freemasonry of the Lodge cannot be taken into the outside

world, not in the proclamation of its tenets from the housetops, but in the examples of our daily lives. Two

instances of our meaning will be sufficient. The use of profane language is an offence against the laws of

God and the ordinances of the realm. Yet it is not infrequently heard even in the ante-room of the Lodge. In

many instances we do not believe the language is used with any desire to sin, but rather as the force of habit,

or adding emphasis to a point in conversation. But the sin is just as much in evidence, and the world wonders

where the morality of Freemasonry commences. Again, we are recommended to prefer a brother in all our

dealings. But there is no suggestion that there should be any undue preference. In business one should neither

wrong a brother or himself. But why, all things being equal, does not the brother in business receive fraternal

support ? It is common assertion that there is more fraternity in a certain non-fraternal institution than in

Freemasonry. If there is any warrant for the assertion, then it does not redound to the credit of Freemasonry.

Did we but practice out of the Lodge those very excellent precepts we are taught in it, we should present the

appearance of a united family, rather than a mystical institution of disintegrating atoms, and should more

fully realise the full import of our great Masonic anthem, " Behold how good and pleasant a thing it is for

brethren to dwell together in unity." As a brother recently said in addressing a W.M. :—" I am not suggesting

that you abjure ritual work in favour of long homilies and admonition on Masonic precept, but I am sure you

will appreciate the value of Biblical advice, ' a word spoken in due season how good it is,' and that `bread

cast upon the waters will return again after many days.' It is the word of good intent spoken in due season

that will prove more efficacious than the longest homilies ; and the crumbs of human kindness scattered upon

the waters of uncertainty may at any time return with the full knowledge that they have not been cast in

vain."

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GERMAN BARBARITY.

———<>———

"The time has come when English Freemasonry should enter a further protest against the terrible tragedies

deliberately planned and carried out by the Germans. We should cancel our representation to that infamous

country, and call upon its Masonic representatives here to renounce their ambassadorship. To remain inactive

in face of such atrocities as have been lately perpetrated is a distinct violation of our principles. How is it

possible to preach brotherly love on behalf of the scoundrels who gloat over the murder of innocent women

and children? If the Freemasons of Germany are made to realise that they are among the outcasts of the

world it may hasten the end of German atrocities.—` Freemason's Chronicle,' New Barnet, England."

We very much regret that we have to record our entire disagreement with our English contemporary and

other fraternal journals in the advocacy of a course which is absolutely worse than useless. What possible

good can be expected to accrue from entering further protests against the action of our German adversaries

Our contemporary says :—" If the Freemasons of Germany are made to realise that they are among the out-

casts of the world it may hasten the end of German atrocities." There is no power on earth that will make

such realisation plain. The German Freemasons have suspended all relations with their brethren the enemy.

Like every other section of the German country, they are solidly united in what is called " the defence of the

Fatherland. And they will not admit any atrocities. Then what possible good can protests be ? When the war

is over the German brethren may wish to extend the hand of fellowship ; but at the present time that hand has

a gun in it, without sentiment of any kind influencing the use of the said gun. The aspect of the conduct of

the war is just the point of view from which you look at it. A neutral writer recently expressed the opinion

that England was fighting with kid gloves, and there are many who share the opinion. But there is no kid

glove business with German Freemasons, and all the protests and invectives that can be hurled at them will

not make them put gloves on. It would appear that the advocates of pacific protests have not yet realised that

Germany is not fighting alone for its existence, but for the dominance of the world. Think of this and all that

it means. The stake is the biggest ever contemplated, and though it had some parallel in the rise of the

Roman Empire, the world was then a bagatelle compared with its magnitude to-day. What care the Germans,

including " our brethren in Freemasonry," how such a result is attained? Who will arraign them for barbarous

murders, or the atrocities of liquid fire, should that dominance result ? They laugh at the verdict of London

inquests on victims to bombed towns; they waive the protests—even of neutral America—airily aside,

always keeping the goal of their ambition steadily in view, and not until people generally awake to a full

knowledge of the end sought to be won, will the full seriousness of the position dawn upon them, and then

perhaps they will take off the kid gloves. The only protests that will be received with any respect at present

will be those that are sent per medium of the latest thing in monster guns, with the most scientific form of

destructive projectile.

—————————

ENGINEER-COMMANDER HARRY LASHMORE, R.N., who was one of two naval officers gazetted in the King's

Birthday Honours List, was privately invested by the King at Windsor Castle a few days ago with the

Insignia of Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (Military Division). The new C.B., who

was in the Falkland Islands battle, and also took part in the great bombardments of the Dardanelles forts, is

elder son of Bro. Henry Lashmore, of Southampton, P.P.G.D. of Hampshire and Isle of Wight, who has

received congratulations from brethren all over the country on the high honour bestowed on his gallant son

by His Majesty.—Exchange.

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

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

WE are asked to call the attention of brethren of Wellington City Lodges to the altered place of meeting of

Whetu Kairangi Lodge on the night of installation. The meeting will be held in the Daniel Street Masonic

Hall, which has kindly been lent by Hinemoa Lodge for the occasion. The meeting will take place on

Saturday, 9th October, at 5.30 prompt time. Hereafter the Lodge will meet in its own room on the second

Saturday in lieu of second Friday.

TWO presentations were made at the annual meeting of Waterloo Lodge, the first, by M.W. Bro. Williams, to

the retiring Master, Bro. Moncrieff, and the second, by R.W. Bro. Peterkin—a Treasurer's jewel—to Bro. A.

McL. Wilson. Felicitous speeches were made in each case, and feeling responses followed. In both instances

they were thoroughly deserved.

AMONG some of the first of our brave boys who volunteered for active service was Mr. C. Cummins, son of

the esteemed W. Bro. George Cummins, Treas. of Lodge Ruapehu, Marton. The sad news was received a

few days ago that he was missing or killed. The W.M., Bro. J. Robson, also has a son in the fighting line.

Another Ruapehu member, Bro. Arthur Ross, is doing his share to uphold the old flag. Still another member,

Bro. R. Hanger late of the Bank of New Zealand, who recently joined the Fiji contingent at Suva, is now on

the way to the front.

THE installation of the Installed Masters' Lodge of Wellington will be held on Tuesday, 5th October. The

retiring Master, W. Bro. H. B. Bridge, G.Lect., will conduct the ceremony, assisted by other members of the

Lodge.

THE annual meeting of Wellington Rose Croix Chapter is always regarded as an exceptionally happy

function. The attendance is always excellent, and the whole proceedings are usually most thoroughly

enjoyed. E. and P. Bro. J. Reid is the M.W.S.-elect, and will receive the benefit of installation at the hands of

Ill. Bros. H. J. Williams and Rev. T. Porritt, 30deg.

LODGE ROTORUA has an excess of assets over liabilities amount to £597 10s. 8d., and its membership on

30th June last was 69.

THE following card came to hand last month, and sufficiently bespeaks its nationality :—" Friday, 13th

August. Arrived at the home of the G.Sec. this morning, Mary Catherine Boger, daughter of Arthur C. Boger

and Flora Cutter Boger, weight 10 lbs. 'Hear Grandpa smile.' " (Illinois.)

M.E. COMP. REV. T. PORRITT was very heartily congratulated on his admirable conduct of the ceremonies in

connection with Wellington Chapters' joint installation last month. He was letter perfect, and his delivery

was most impressive. When it is considered that our venerable brother is nearly approaching four score

years, the nature of his work will be appreciated.

THE present year is the jubilee of Lodge Waterloo, Wellington, and a talented P.M. of the Lodge is engaged

in writing its history for the fifty years, which will be most interesting, especially in view of its earlier

vicissitudes.

BRO. J. T. KIRKER was installed as W.M. of Lodge Mokoreta, and we regret being unable to accept his

invitation for the occasion; but on the same evening the important ceremony of the joint installation of

Principals of three Wellington Chapters took place, and the presence of G.S.E. was considered indispensable.

LODGE TARINGATURA, Lumsden, has an excellent Masonic library, containing 44 books, the works of some

of the most noted Masonic historians and writers, and the esteemed Sec. of the Lodge, W. Bro. W. D. Clark,

hopes to increase the number to at least 150 volumes before he retires from office.

LODGE WATERLOO at its annual meeting had the opportunity of welcoming one of its oldest P.Ms. in the

person of W. Bro. A. Lindsay, who is practically the only surviving link of the long chain of veterans of the

Lodge. One or two others are yet alive, but their interest in Freemasonry has long ceased.

A WARRANT has been granted for the establishment of a new Lodge at Avondale, Auckland, to be deignated

" Titirangi," No. 204. The new Lodge was opened by the G.M. on 28th ult., and " Pono " Dargaville, on the

30th -ult.

THE installation ceremonies in connection with Takahoa Chapter were held at Hawera on the 17th ult. This

Chapter has a roving commission, and peregrinates between Pates, Hawera, and Eltham.

THE Installed Masters' Lodge of Wellington, having altered its by-laws, the installation will take place on the

first Tuesday in October (5th) instead of the fourth Friday. The Saturday half-holiday has revolutionised

Friday night meetings.

BRO. JAMES W. MATHEWS, P.A.G.D.C., representative of the G.L. of New Zealand in the G.L. of England,

for many years manager for Charles Frohman at the Duke of York's Theatre, is leaving England to become

manager of the New York Hippodrome. His Masonic friends assembled at the Restaurant Frascati on the

18th inst. and presented him with an illuminated address and a cheque. On the following day he was

entertained to a farewell dinner by the Savage Club.—Exchange.

WAIRARAPA R.A. CHAPTER, which has had its habitat in Carterton for many years, will probably change its

location to Masterton, owing to the larger number of members being resident in that town. The change will

probably be made at the next meeting.

ADVICE has been received from M.W. Bro. C. J. W. Griffiths, P.G.M., that he will be leaving London on the

19th November on his return to New Zealand, and will consequently arrive early in the New Year.

WE deeply sympathise with W. Bro. Sustens, W.M. of St. Mark's Lodge, Carterton, who recently received

information that two of his sons were killed at the Dardanelles.

LOVERS of Dickens will be interested in the history of the Chigwell Lodge, No. 453, just published, which

meets at the King's Head, Chigwell. This is the famous Maypole Inn of which John Willett was the host, and

which hostelry played such an important part in "Barnaby Rudge."

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SOUTHLAND NOTES.

———<>———

The annual meeting of Aparima Lodge attracted a fair attendance of visitors. Regret was felt at the absence

of many old and distinguished members of the Lodge. The installation ceremony was conducted by the

Prov.G.M. The social in connection with the event was heartily enjoyed.

* * * *

Southern Cross R.A. Chapter paid a visit to Wallace Chapter during the month. R.E. Comp. J. J. Hiskens,

G.Supt., was also present. The visitors received a right fraternal welcome, and, thoroughly enjoyed the

outing.

* * * *

Lodges Southern Cross, St. John, and Victoria, joint owners of the Invercargill Masonic Hall, have agreed

that from 1st October they shall be as one in the refectory and at installation banquets. This arrangement is

timely, and will give the Lodges named a much better financial outlook and more freedom of action for

philanthropic work.

* * * *

Lodge Wallace is to be congratulated, on having wiped off the total debt on its hall.

* * * *

The list of library books in connection with Lodge Taringatura has been circulated among the members.

There are 44 publications to choose from. A glance through the list shows that the management have been

careful in the selection made. The books are by well-known authors, and will afford a wide range of

information and study.

* * * *

Though there has been no great accession of new members during the year now ending, Lodge Taringatura

can claim to have done good and useful work in other directions, not the least worthy being the substantial

contribution of £50 to the M. W. G. M. 's War Fund.

* * * *

The installation meetings of Mokoreta Mark Lodge, No. 1, and Mokoreta Lodge took place on the 15th

September. R.E. Comp. J. J. Hiskens, G.Supt., conducted the Mark ceremony, and R.W. Bin. Wm. Timpany,

Prov.G.M., that of No. 63. The attendance was not large. The procession and other festivities in aid of the

Wounded Soldiers' Fund held at Invercargill on the same date precluded the attendance of very many of the

Craft. W. Bro. Winning is Master of Mark, No. 1, and W. Bro. Kirker of No. 63. As both of these brethren

have had long experience of Masonic work, their respective Lodges should prosper under their guidance.

* * * *

The members of St. John's Lodge assembled in force in the social hall to bid "au revoir" to Bro. Fallow on

the eve of his departure for Trentham. W. Bro. Hoyles, on behalf of the Lodge, presented him with, a

handsome dressing case and with a Bible, containing the autographs of the officers, P.Ms., and many

members of the Lodge. Bro. Hoyles in his remarks left no doubt of the nature of the feelings with which Bro.

Fallow is regarded by his brethren of St. John's Lodge.

* * * *

News has just come to hand that the sons of R.W. Bro. Wm. Timpany, Prov.G.M., W. Bro. Jos. Critchfield,

and W. Bro. John Gray have been wounded at the Dardanelles. The Craft, in extending its sincere sympathy,

hopes that the young fellows will make a speedy and permanent recovery.

* * * *

The deepest sympathy of the Craft is extended to R.W. Bro. W. W. de Castro and to Bro. T. Belworthy in the

bereavement each has suffered in the death of a son at the Dardanelles. This is the fourth bereavement Bro.

de Castro has suffered through the war, which makes our sympathy the more profound.

—————————

THE CRAFT AND THE CHURCH.

———<>———

[An Address delivered in the INSTALLED MASTERS' LODGE OF WELLINGTON by W. BRO. C. W. NIELSEN.]

————

The neophyte who, after enquiry and test, has been permitted to make his initial entrance within the portals

of the Lodge, must necessarily, if of a reflective turn of mind, be more particularly impressed by some one or

other feature of his experience. It might be fair to assume that his attention would be specially drawn to the

unequivocal request made of him for a statement of his position in relation to belief or non-belief in

dependence upon a Supreme Deity, and to the fact that having declared his position without further reference

he was permitted to progress. The .question put would, to the atheist, have presented a. sudden and

unsolvable difficulty which, if he remained true to principle, would have interposed an insuperable obstacle

to admission.

This brief introduction raises a general question of interest affecting the relation between Church and Craft in

the remote and less remote past. The position during and subsequent to the medieval centuries is fairly well

evidenced by reliable data and ascertainable by reference to Masonic and other records. The Mason

organisation of the fourteenth and earlier centuries exhibited a strong religious tendency of a wholly

Christian character determined by the creed of the period. The Regius M.S., after relating that the Craft came

into England in good King Athelstan's time, instructed each brother that

" He must love wel God, and Holy Church algate

And hys master also, that he ys wythe."

The old scrolls invariably opened with an invocation or prayer, the York M.S. (No. 6) beseeching brethren at

every meeting and assembly to pray heartily for all Christians, and the Aberdeen M.S. terming the invocation

"a prayer before the meeting." The Edinburgh Kil. charges, presumed to originate in England, enjoined "that

yee shall be true men to God and Holy Church; and that yee use no error nor heresie by your understanding

or discretion ; be yee discreet men or wise men in each thing." In later times, the Warden-General of

Scotland, Schaw, laid upon the Craft in terms its responsibility to the Church for the behaviour of its

members, and required that a third of the unlaws should be employed to the godly uses of the Lodge. His

Statutes of 1598 and 1599, it should be noted, were by no means of a revolutionary character, but were

declaratory of existing usages and customs. In his second set of ordinances, he exhorted that it was thought

to be expedient that the Wardens of every Lodge should be answerable to the presbyteries within their

shiredoms for the Masons subject to the laws, anent all offences any of them might commit, and the third

part of the unlaws should be employed to the godly uses of the Lodge where any offence might happen to be

committed. He further declared that there should be trial taken by the Wardens and the most ancient Masters

of the Lodge, extending to six persons, who should take trial of the offences, that punishment might be

executed conformably with equity and justice, and good conscience and the ancient Order. Findel recalls that

the Constitutions of the German Masons of Strasburg (1459) required all the Masters and Fellows of the

Lodge, on the death of a member, to assist at and contribute to "a mass to be said for the repose of the soul of

him who had departed." Fines levied upon offending brethren in Scotland were diverted to the upholding of

the altars of the kirks of the respective boroughs, and even subsequent to the Reformation and the demolition

of the Popish altars, the Scottish Kirk asserted the duty of associated bodies to maintain the outward fabric of

religion, and contribute to the support of the kirk. After the Reformation Crafts acknowledged this principle,

and devoted fines to " pious uses," when gradually they fell away from their old practices and applied them

to secular and domestic purposes. The influence of the Church was by no means confined to the mason

fraternity, but extended to other sections of the building trade, and the acquisition of burghal privileges was

often made dependent on the performance of religious duties. This is evidenced by the terms of old grants to

mason incorporations issued in the fifteenth century. The Magistrates and Town Council in 1475

incorporated the masons and wrights of Edinburgh as a joint body by a seal of cause, supplemented by a

grant of the aisle and chapel in St. Johns in St. Gile's Kirk. This action was subsequently ratified and

confirmed by the Church, by Royal Charter, and by the Court of Session. The grant recited that the masons

and wrights had presented their bill of supplication desiring assent to certain statutes made among

themselves for the honour and worship of St. John, "in augmentation of divine service," in consequence of

which their desires were granted, together with the aisle of St. John referred to. Numerous conditions and

injunctions were imposed and made, amongst which might be noticed the following :—Any newcomer to the

town engaged in a quest for work was first to be examined, and if admitted required to pay towards the

reparation of the altar a mark. Apprentices on admission were to pay half a mark to the same object. Certain

offences in connection with apprentices which, so far as I am able to judge, would appear to relate to their

enticement away from service, were punishable on the first occasion " by the payment to the altar of one

pound of wax," on the second by the provision of two pounds of wax, and a third offence was to be dealt

with by the provost and baillies of the town.

That the medieval craft should have exhibited these strongly marked tendencies of orthodox sectarianism is

not surprising, and indeed might well have been expected, for between it especially and the Church there was

an intimate and peculiar connection. The masons were highly skilled workers employed in the designing and

construction of edifices intended solely for religious purposes, and were habitually brought into the closest

contact with Church dignitaries, and the work of erecting the fabrics, that were raised in various countries,

would progress to the constant accompaniment of sectarian rites and ceremonies. We have it that craft guilds

took part in church processions in honour of saints and on occasions of high church festivals, wearing the

insignia of their trades, and carrying their distinctive banners. In the old records of these building times, the

Lodge, or "Luge," is often referred to; it was held in close proximity to the edifice in course of erection, and

was used for fraternal meeting purposes at meal times, and there stones were prepared in private for

emplacement in the structure.

Apart, however, from these peculiar explanations of the religious attitude of the craft in those days, the

general condition of things then existing would largely account for it. The medieval Church, in the zenith of

its power and magnificence, was a vast maze of intricacy, and displayed a wide range of activity, secular as

well as religious. The interweaving of civil and ecclesiastical government was inextricable, and the Church

was esentially an international State. It formulated laws, established Law Courts, appointed law givers and

lawyers, and exacted personal obedience by the application of physical force.

It did not scruple to pronounce the death sentence, although not without protestations of its abhorrence of its

temporal task. When Luther invited his students who so chose to witness the burning of the theological

theses, and issued his addresses, he hardly referred to religious matters, but attacked the social, economic,

intellectual, and industrial conditions of the people. The influence of the Church then was all-pervading and

deeply penetrating. By such general influence Masonry was, in common, affected, until the train which

culminated in the upheaval of the Reformation was fired, and the slow and painful process of the divorce of

temporal and spiritual power was begun, and ideas of the proper functions of Church and State began to

change. That the Reformation exercised a strong influence upon the Craft, as well as other institutions, and

prevalent ideas pertaining to it, is evident. A case is recorded of Schaw, previously referred to, investigating

and deciding, in 1600, a case of breach of Masonic law on the part of the Warden of an ancient Lodge; and

being assisted in his deliberations by one, John Boswell, a Scottish gentleman of substance. The discoverer

of this case, in discussing it, states that the grafting of the non-operative element on the operative stem had

its origin in Scotland at about the time of the Reformation, and might be largely ascribed to that upheaval.

The spirit of the time was earlier evidenced by a document purporting to have been issued in Cologne in

1535, hence termed " The Cologne Charter," which apparently was intended to refute various charges and

erroneous allegations alleged to have been made and circulated concerning the particular branch of the Order

to which the signatories belonged, and to place on record the principles binding the institution, one of which

was stated as follows :—" The principle on which we act, and all these our efforts, to whatever purpose and

direction they may tend, are expressed in these two precepts : 'Love and regard all men as brethren and

relations; render to God what is God's, and to Caesar what is Caesar's.' "This document, it might be re-

marked, has been questioned, its authenticity being questioned by Findel, Kloss, and others, and supported

by Mackay and Oliver.

In 1717 the foundations of the original G.L. were laid amid less disturbed conditions in Europe. The

respective function's of Church and State had become better understood, and men's natural liberties more

fully defined. In 1723, the newly-formed governing body declared : "But though in ancient times Masons

were charged in every country or nation to be of the religion of the country, whatever it was, yet it is now

thought more expedient only to oblige them to that religion in which all men agree, leaving their particular

opinions to themselves; that is, to be good men and true, or men of honour and honesty by whatever

denominations or persuasions they may be distinguished, whereby Masonry becomes the centre of union and

the means of conciliating true friendship among persons that must have remained at a perpetual distance."

This plainly involved the principle of the recognition of a Supreme Being determining the standard of

conduct, and a declaration that in our system creeds have no place. Such a declaration involved matters of

the gravest significance, and. indeed the determination of the cardinal principles of the institution. A system

of ethics had been built up as a result of centuries, and rules of conduct formulated, the wisdom and

beneficence of which were characteristic. To what source was to be ascribed human conduct ? Should any

declaration or principle be made or laid down at all, and if so, what standard for determining rightness of

action should be accepted ? It would not have been inconceivable for the founders to have adopted a basis

excluding the necessity for the recognition of a Supreme Being, as various theories had from time to time'

been propounded accounting for the sources of human conduct. Ethics and morals, it has been said, both

imply in their origin and etymology a way or law, guiding and governing human conduct and controlling

moral conclusions. In all the workings of the moral nature, we have been told, there is implied a moral law

which the agent is bound to obey, and rightness lies in obligatory conformity to this law. This law or

supreme rule or conduct has been variously explained or interpreted as consisting in :-

(a) The authority of the State, which would involve different standards of rightness in different States, and
is not coextensive with the whole range of human conduct.

(b) The nature of things. This standard was variously held to consist in : (1) Fitness in things themselves.
(2) The truth of things, there being truth in everything which obligates men to regard and treat

everything according to its nature, and those propositions being true which express things as they are.

Following this, whatever action is opposed to facts, or the truth, is morally wrong, every action

conformable to facts, or truth, being right. (3) Relations of things, meaning that there are constantly

certain relations between all existing things, and there must be found the supreme standard and the

true ground of obligation. We all stand in various and dissimilar relations to all sentiment beings with

which we are acquainted. The mind of man becomes conscious of its moral obligation connected with

the conception of this relation, and conformity, or want of conformity, to these relations constitutes the

difference between rightness and wrongness of action.

(c) The nature of man. This theory caused varied discussion as to what it was in the nature of man that
determined his conduct, Kant arguing for reason or an immediate intellectual intuition. He considered

that conscience was simply the power of perceiving by intellectual intuition the great moral principles,

and it was absolutely infallible. Others argued that man possessed an inner sense or feeling which gave

moral distinctions, the mind possessing a peculiar faculty, or moral sense, whose office it was to

perceive and discriminate moral distinctions. Hume said that virtue and vice were matters of taste or

sentiment, right and wrong not denoting any independent quality in the object, but only an effect or

sensation produced in our own minds. Another explanation of the theory that the nature of man is the

determining factor lay in the moral emotions, our notions of right and wrong being stated to be derived

therefrom. "The emotions spring directly from the contemplation of actions without any exercise of

judgment or comparison by which the actions are referred to any previous notions of right or wrong.

These moral emotions furnish the supreme rule."

As an alternative to these theories, all explaining conduct by a reference to a human or an artificial standard

consisting in either the authority of the State, the nature of things, or the nature of man, there was the idea of

man's accountability to a Supreme Being, responsibility to whom explained all action and provided the test

for all conduct, and whose will furnished a definite, unchanging standard of rightness. The declaration of

1723, then, in plain effect rejected the philosophies as propounded to that time accepting a human standard

of rightness, and stood for the institution's belief in, and recognition of, the will of a Supreme Being, and

having done this, emphasised the liberty of its members to hold their own particular opinions as to matters of

denomination. This presented a definite transition from an association wholly Christian, reflecting the

prevailing religious habit of the time and varying according to place and circumstance, to an association

which rejected incidentals and non-essentials, and pledged itself to a policy broad and united, adapted to all

countries, sects, and opinions. It ceased to be sectarian and provincial, and became catholic and universal.

The question frequently appears, Is Freemasonry a religion? and it appears to me that few questions are more

incapable of being directly answered without qualification. Religion is a term indefinable in the ordinary

sense, and much depends on the connection in which it may be employed. One definition explains the idea

conveyed as being "the recognition of God as an object of worship, love, and obedience ; any system of

faith." This definition might be held to be broad enough to include the principles of Freemasonry, as a

system requiring belief or faith. In a narrower sense, and probably that more frequently used, the term

denotes a particular creed or school of theological thought, which conveys an idea alien to the theory of the

Craft. Masonry plainly does not attempt to provide a religion for men, but, as is evidenced in the B.A.

Degree, asumes that they have one. In a general way, the reference to its ideals and functions, which has

most appealed to me, referred to it as being "the science of humanity, the handmaid of religion, whose

central idea is the existence of an all-powerful Creator, with a sense of our obligation to whom we perform

our duties of life. Though based upon the fundamental idea of true religion, it is not itself strictly a religion.

It is a school of morality prescribing to us our duties to ourselves, to our fellows, and to our God, impressing

upon every initiate the importance of accepting every means of improvement, to fit himself as ' a stone

polished after the similitude of a palace' for a place in the Lodge of the G.M. above."

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

—————————

LIGHT.

———<>———

[ An Address by W. BRO. H. G. WILTON, W.M. LAZAR LODGE, 1689, E.C.]

In tracing the Divine wisdom and goodness, as displayed in the earth, the waters, the atmosphere, and other

appendages of our globe, it may not be improper to advert for a little on the nature of light, as a striking

display of wisdom and beneficence of the Creator.

Light is that ethereal matter, distributed throughout the immensity of the universe, by which objects are

rendered perceptible by our visual organs. It is by the agency of this mysterious substance that we become

acquainted with the beauties and sublimities of creation, and the wonderful operations of its Almighty

Author. Without its influence, no world could be inhabited, and no animated being could subsist in the

manner that it now does. Although all the bodies in the universe could be supposed to exist as they do at

present, yet without light a universal blank would be presented to every intelligence — " the blackness of

darkness ' would surround them for ever, and no traces of the attributes and operations of an Almighty Being,

awh as we now behold, could be perceived throughout the whole system of nature. What such a state of

things would be, if we could suppose intelligent beings to exist, and the universe deprived of, the agency of

light, it is scarcely possible for us to form a distinct conception. We have never known what it is to live in a

world deprived of this delightful visitant, for in the darkest night we enjoy a share of its beneficial agency,

and even, in the deepest dungeon its influence has been felt by those unfortunate individuals whom tyranny

has shut up in prison houses deprived of the direct rays of the sun. The blind, indeed, do not directly enjoy

the advantages of light, but its influence is reflected upon them, and their knowledge and happiness are

promoted through the medium of those who have the full use of their visual organs. Were all the inhabitants

of the world deprived of their eyesight, and consequently of the agency of light, neither knowledge nor

happiness such as we now experience could possibly be enjoyed. An awful pause to human activity and

enjoyment would instantly ensue, and a scene of confusion would be introduced among human beings such

as has never yet occurred in the history of the world.

As light is an element in the material world of so much importance, so me find that arrangements have been

made by the Almighty Creator for its universal diffusion in all the systems and worlds that exist throughout

the vast amplitudes of creation. In our system the sun is the grand depository of light, from which luminary it

diffuses itself over every region of our globe, to cheer and animate all its inhabitants, both sentient and

intellectual. It also irradiates every planet connected with the solar system, even the most remote, though

moving at a distance of 1,800,000,000 of miles from its source. If the earth and the other planets, however,

had no diurnal rotations, its benefits would only be partially diffused, and the one-half of their surfaces

would be deprived of its exhilarating and benign agency. But, in order that it may be equably diffused over

every part of the surfaces of these globes, we find from observation that they revolve round their axes,

presenting alternately every portion of their surfaces to the source of light, so that the inhabitants of every

region may enjoy its benefits. We are not, however, involved in absolute darkness when the hemisphere in

which we dwell is turned from the sun, for then distant luminaries shed their milder rays from the nocturnal

sky, and direct our views to those far remote regions where suns unnumbered shine, and planets and comets

run their solemn rounds. Even in the darkest and most cloudy evening the influence of light from the celestial

luminaries is sensibly felt, by which the traveller is enabled to trace his path, and to pass on in safety.

Another mode of diffusing light is to be found in those arrangements by which satellites or moons are made

to revolve around most of the primary planets, by which a mild radiance is reflected on their surfaces in the

absence of the sun. The primary planets, likewise, reflect an immense quantity of light upon the surfaces of

their satellites. The planet Jupiter will appear to his nearest satellite like an immense globe in the heavens,

about 1,300 times larger than the apparent size of the moon, and will diffuse a vast quantity of light upon it.

In like manner, when the sun is absent from that hemisphere of the moon which is next to us, the earth shines

upon it with a face thirteen times larger than the moon presents to us. Another wonderful mode of diffusing

light is to be found in the construction of Saturn's ring. This mighty arch will appear from the globe of Saturn

to extend across the whole heaven, having a breadth equal to one hundred of our moons, and filling nearly

the one-fifth of the visible sky with its lustre. All the stars which adorn the canopy of our sky may likewise

be considered as so many fountains of light to irradiate numerous worlds within the sphere of their influence,

as well as to illuminate and adorn the canopy of our terrestrial habitation. In short, all the arrangements of the

Almighty throughout creation, so far as we have an opportunity of penetrating, appear to have this great end

in view, to diffuse illumination and splendour throughout every region, and over all the bodies in the

universe.

In these arrangements of the Creator we behold a striking display of Divine wisdom and benevolence, and an

evidence that the happiness of every rank of His creatures throughout the material system is one great object

of all His designs and contrivances. For light may be considered as little less than the life and enjoyment of

all sensitive and intelligent beings. What advantage would it be to be partakers of life, what pleasure or

comfort would it produce, were we doomed to live in all the horrors of perpetual darkness? How could we

provide ourselves with food, or drink, or clothing? How could we transact the least business, or hold

correspondence with each 'other as social beings? How could we derive materials for the exercise of the

mental powers, or form any just conceptions of the eternal Creator?

If light were annihilated, and the universe deprived of its agency, or, what would produce the same effect,

were all the animated beings connected with our globe deprived of the organs of vision, the whole world

would 500I1 be thrown into a state of complete distraction and confusion. We might lose the organs of

hearing and smelling, and yet mankind might go forward from generation to generation nearly in the manner

they have always done. But if men, and all the other animals around them, were deprived of their eyesight,

this globe would be unpeopled in the course of another generation. The air would be deprived of all the

winged creatures that now fly through its different regions; the seas and rivers would be deserted of all the

finny tribes that now skim through their waters; man would soon sink, in the midst of terrific gloom, into the

grave. For he would be unable to cultivate the ground, to convey himself by land or water, or to carry on

those transactions and intercourses which are essential to his subsistence, and even to his very existence, and

all the tribes of the lower animals would be unable to search for that food on which their existence depends,

and ere long this huge globe on which we tread would become one vast sepulchre, without life or animation.

But now, in the existing constitution of things through the medium of light, we can go with safety here and

there, wherever pleasure or duty calls; we can transact every kind of business by day, and, by means of

artificial light, by night. Light unfolds to us the expansive scenes of the universe, and the perfections of its

Author as displayed in its structure and arrangements. It opens to our view the magnificence and glories of

the heavens, the continents, islands, and oceans, the beauties of the flowery fields, the gay attire of the

feathered tribes, the grand and beautiful landscapes with which most countries are adorned, and enables us to

traverse every land, and to convey ourselves across oceans and continents to the uttermost ends of the earth.

All creatures and objects, from the microscopic animalcule; to the magnificent globes which roll above us in

the distant regions of creation, are laid open to our view through the medium of light. The property which it

has of being refracted and reflected, and of forming images of objects when passing through lenses or

reflected from mirrors, has enabled us to contrive telescopes by which objects in the heavens far beyond the

reach of the unassisted eye may be distinctly perceived, and microscopes which have brought to view the

latent beauties of the animal and vegetable kingdoms, and living beings 100,000 times less than a visible

point. In short, it appears evident that that Almighty Being " who dwells in light inaccessible " has diffused

light over the remotest spaces of creation, in order that every intellectual being, wherever existing, may feel

its beneficent effects, and be enabled through its agency to trace His wonderful operations and the attributes

with which he is invested. And, therefore, we have every reason to believe that could we fly with the

swiftness of an archangel, for thousands of years, through the regions of immensity, we should never

approach a region of absolute darkness, but should find ourselves every moment encompassed with the

emanations of light, and cheered with its benign influence.

But, it may be asked, what is the nature of that substance we call light, which acts so important a part in the

economy of nature? On this point there have been different opinions. It is either a subtle matter that fills the

whole sphere of the universe, and receives from luminous bodies an impulse or agitation which is incessantly

continued, and which by its vibratory motion enables us to perceive the objects of the visible creation. Or it

is the emission or emanation of the particles of luminous bodies thrown out incessantly in every direction.

But although we can say very little decisively respecting its nature, we are acquainted with many of its pro-

perties. It radiates from luminous bodies in straight lines. It moves with amazing velocity, at the rate of

nearly twelve millions of miles a minute, which is more than one million times swifter than a rifle bullet

flying with its utmost velocity. And in this rapid motion the wisdom of God is remarkably displayed. For if

its motion were no swifter than a rifle bullet, it would take more than thirty years in its progress from the sun

to the earth, in which case its vigour and energy would be impaired, its rays would be less penetrating, and

darkness would be dissipated with greater difficulty. But in consequence of its prodigious velocity, it flies in

a few minutes to distant worlds, penetrates every corner of creation, and secures to us every moment its

cheering and beneficial influences. Its particles are almost infinitely small, and in this circumstance, too, the

Divine wisdom is displayed. For if the particles of light were only the one-millionth part of a small grain of

sand, when we consider their prodigiously rapid motion, every object on which they struck would be battered

and perforated, till our globe were laid in ruins, and every living being destroyed. Again, light issues forth in

all directions from every visible point of luminous bodies. Hence it follows that the sun illuminates in the

solar system, not only an immense plane, extending along the paths of the planets, from the one side of the

orbit of Uranus to the other, but the whole of that sphere, or solid space, of which the distance of Uranus is

the radius, and fills every point of it with its rays. Light, though extremely minute, has been considered, from

certain experiments, as having a certain degree of force or momentum. From calculations founded on these

experiments, it has been concluded that although the particles of light be considered as continually

emanating from the sun, before his diameter could be shortened ten miles by this waste of his substance, it

would require a period to elapse of above thirty-one million years.

The effect of light on the eye is not instantaneous, but continues for a short space of time, especially when it

proceeds from very bright objects. Its intensity is diminished in proportion to the square of the distance from

the luminous body. It is by light reflected from opaque bodies that most of the objects around us, and also the

moon and planets in the heavens, are rendered visible. It is light which produces all the variegated colouring

which we behold on all the different objects which compose a terrestrial landscape, without which they could

not be distinguished. To this agent the flowers owe all their beauties, and the trees and shrubs their verdure.

It is found that the green colour of all plants depends entirely on the solar light being allowed to shine upon

them, for without the influence of the sun's rays they are always of a white colour. Experiments have been

tried to ascertain whether a constant and strong light from a great number of lamps kept continually burning

might have the same effect as the daylight, but the plants remained quite colourless as those growing in the

dark. The greater part of living vegetables incline their steins toward the light. Most of the discous (dishlike)

flowers follow the sun in its course, they attend him in his evening retreat, and meet his rising lustre in the

morning with the same unerring law. They unfold their flowers on the approach of this luminary, they follow

his course by turning on their stems, and close them as soon as he disappears. The refractions and reflections

to which light is subjected in our terrestrial sphere present a variety of sublime and beautiful effects, and lead

us to form some conceptions of the magnificent and diversified scenes which it may produce in other

systems and worlds under the arrangements of the all wise and beneficent Creator.

Such are some of the properties and effects of light. Of all the objects which present themselves to the

philosophic and contemplative mind, light is one of the noblest and most interesting. The action it exerts on

all the combinations of matter, and the office it performs in what constitutes the life and enjoyment of all

organised beings, lead us to consider it as a substance acting the first part in the economy of nature. It

unfolds to our view the sublime spectacle of nature. It gives animation, beauty, and sublimity to every

surrounding scene. It is universal in its movements and in its influence. It wings its way from the solar orb

through the voids of space, along a course of ninety-five millions of miles till it arrives at the outskirts of our

globe. It passes freely through the surrounding atmosphere, it strikes upon the clouds and is reflected by

them, it irradiates the mountains, the vales, the forests, the rivers, the seas, and all the vegetable tribes, and

adorns them with a countless assemblage of colours. It flies without intermission from star to star, and from

sun to planets, throughout the boundless sphere of immensity, forming a connecting chain and a medium of

communication among all the world within the wide empire of Omnipotence. In short, it is the symbol of the

Divinity Himself, for God is Light, and in Him is no darkness at all. "He covereth Himself with light as with

a garment, and dwells in light inaccessible and full of glory." It is a representative of Him who is exhibited in

the sacred oracles as the Sun of Righteousness and the Light of the World. It is an emblem of the glories and

felicities of that future world, where knowledge shall be perfected and happiness complete, for its inhabitants

are designated the saints in light, and Scripture declares it to have been the firstborn of created beings,

essential to the happiness of every creature that might afterwards be brought into existence.

So mote it be.

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

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

M.W. BRO. LORD PLUNKET, P.G.M.

———<>———

6 Ormonde Gate, Chelsea, S.W.,

London, 10th July, 1915.

M.W. BRO. J. S. DOUGALL.

DEAR GRAND MA.STER,—The " N.Z. CRAFTSMAN " of 1st June arrived to-day, and I have been reading the

account of your most successful " semi-jubilee " communication.

In the very interesting address you delivered on that occasion I read with pleasure the very generous tribute

you paid to me, and I thank you sincerely for making it. I know myself that you have painted my services in

too rosy a tint, but you did not exaggerate in saying that "the G.L. of New Zealand has a lifelong friend in

Lord Plunket." May I also congratulate you upon the splendid results of your spirited appeal for the War

Benevolent Fund.

I was very sorry to see that your son was among the wounded, and I earnestly hope by this he is quite well

again.

I am chairman of the executive committee of the New Zealand War Contingent Association in England,

which has managed to do a good deal towards providing comforts for the New Zealand Expeditionary Force

in Egypt, and now at the Dardanelles. We shall be opening a New Zealand hospital on the bank of the

Thames in about ten days, where we can put up 110 wounded New Zealanders. Up to the present they have

been scattered all over England in the different military hospitals, and though all admit they have been kindly

treated and well nursed, many were very lonely with none of their own people to talk to. Now we shall have

them all together, and most of the doctors and nurses will hail from the Dominion too.—Yours sincerely and

paternally. (Signed) PLUNKET.

————————

LODGE WAIROA. PROGRESSES.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—You will be pleased to hear that Lodge Wairoa, No. 55, is prospering at Ellerslie, its

new home. We have now forty-four members, an increase of twenty-four since the transference of the

Charter from Clevedon, twelve of this number being initiates and the remainder affiliated members. We have

had our own Lodgeroom for some time now. We secured a section and removed the old hall from Clevedon,

and re-erected and enlarged it. All the members are taking a keen interest in the Lodge and doing their best to

make No. 55 a flourishing Lodge.—Yours fraternally,

H. NUTT, P.M., Sec., No. 55.

————————

AN APPRECIATION.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

————

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—I shall be obliged if you will allow me space to acknowledge the following donations

to the fund for the relief of the widow of our late R.W. Bro. R. Freke Gould.— Yours fraternally,

S. CLIFTON BINGHAM,

P.Prov.G.M. (Canterbury).

Christchurch, 20th September, 1915.

£ s. d.

Lodge Maungawhao 1 1 0

Dist.G.L., Auckland (E.C.) 3 3 0

H. J. Williams 1 1 0

————————

MISPLACED CHARITY.

———<>———

The following incident was told by a. Mason recently :— A few years ago in Belfast the Roman Catholics

canvassed the Protestant population for subscriptions to enable them to build a chapel. Our brethren, thinking

that by giving to this cause they might reduce the ill-feeling between the parties, contributed, and Bro. Sir

Dan Dixon, Bro. J. P. Curry, Bro. Sir W. Crammond each gave £50, others of the Craft giving what they

could. Ardoine Chapel was completed and Protestants invited to attend the opening. Our brethren attended,

and when the officiating priest began his address he denounced Masonry and its members in very insulting

terms, to such an extent that our brethren walked out. I think the moral of this incident is found in Matthew,

vii, 6; also Rome boasts that " She never changes" (semper idem).

————————

FRATERNAL VISITATION.

———<>———

In fulfilment of a promise made at the consecration of the Egmont R.A. Chapter in March last, the

companions of Wanganui visited Stratford last month and worked an Exal. Degree. About a dozen

companions, including R.E. Comp. Palmer, G.Supt., the three Principals, and practically all the officers,

made the journey from Wanganui, and as that means breaking into two days the self-sacrifice which ought

always to be characteristic of R.A. Freemasonry was well exemplified. The companions of the Egmont

Chapter were delighted to welcome the visitors, and their appreciation was appropriately expressed by V.E.

Comp. Dobson. The work was well divided and well done; indeed, the smoothness of the work and the im-

pressive manner in which V.E. Comp. Roulston and his officers went through the ceremony was a revelation

to the local companions. The visit will rank as a great event in our first year, and will be remembered with

pleasure by all who were privileged to attend.

————————

AN APPRECIATION.

———<>———

New Zealand Freemasonry is poorer to-day by the death of M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, who was snatched away

under tragic circumstances last month.

Bro. Binns joined the Craft almost half a century ago, and during the whole of his career he exemplified by

precept and example what a good Mason should be.

In Capitular Freemasonry he bore his part well and worthily, having attained the office of Z. many years ago

in one of the Wellington Chapters.

It was, however, as an earnest, indefatigable, and conscientious worker in Craft Masonry and in G.L. that

Bro. Binns was best known and most widely appreciated. At the formation of the G.L. of New Zealand over

twenty-five years ago his services to Masonry were recognised by conferring on him the rank of S.G.W.—

Honoris Causa. Twelve years after Bro. Binns was entrusted with the direction and care of the Canterbury

District, first of G.Supt., and latterly as Prov.G.M., with a Prov.G.L. This office he held for a period of nine

years up till the day of his demise, with the exception of an interregnum of two years, when he filled the

office of Prov.G.M., under the aegis of Lord Plunket as supreme head of the Craft.

As leader and guide of his district his efforts were ever on the side of promoting the truest interests of

Freemasonry irrespective of Constitution. Thus it was he gained the respect and confidence of every Mason

with whom he came in contact.

Ever ready when called on to lend a helping hand either in ritual work at installations and consecrations, or

to grace the social side of our functions, we in Otago had a very warm feeling for Bro. Binns. His cheerful

bonhommie, his pleasant way of expressing his wishes towards the due carrying out of the Masonic virtues,

and his paternal method of extending to us friendly advice, made him at all times a welcome and honoured

guest.

A kindly man and a good Mason, we shall miss him in the activities of Masonic life for many a day.

Adieu, old friend and fellow worker; at least one heart will keep a green spot for the memory of your

gracious presence and noble work.

—T.R.

SERVICE OF SORROW.

———<>———

[In Memory of the Late M.W. Biro. F. C. BINNS, P.G.M., Prov.G.M. of Canterbury.].

A Service of Sorrow was held in the Art Gallery, Christchurch, on Sunday, 5th September, at 3

p.m., under the auspices of the Prov.G.L. of Canterbury. V.W. Bro. John Thornton,

D.Prov.G.M., presided, and amongst those present were ; M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, G.M. M.W.

Bro. Malcolm Niece], P.G.M.; R.W. Bros. S.C. Bingham, P.Prov.G.M.; W. Gifkins,

P.Prov.G.M.; W. Broadley, P.G.W. ; G. W. Hulme, P.G.W:; H. F. Arnold, P.G.W.; V.W. Bros.

Rev. A. Mitchell, P.G.C. ; H. J. Otley, G.Treas.; E. D. Mosley, G.Reg.; T. W. Rowe, G.Lec.;

and other present and past-officers of G.L. The Dist.G.L. of Canterbury, E.C., was represented

by R.W. Bro. M. S. Brown, D.G.M., and W. Bros. G. H. Cooper, Dist.S.G.W., and W. C.

Aitken, P.Dist.S.G.W.; and others. There was also a large attendance of present and past officers

of Prov.G.L. A number of lady friends of the brethren were also present.

The proceedings opened with the hymn, " O God, Our Help in Ages Past," which was followed

by prayer, V.W. Bro. Rev. A. Mitchell, P.G.C., acting as Chaplain. The first lesson was taken

from Ecclesiastes xii, and the vocal solo, " Then Shall the Righteous," was rendered by W. Bro.

R. D. Vincent, I.P.M., Lodge Avon. The impressive service round the catafalque, with the

placing of evergreens and flowers, was participated in by R.W. Bros. S. C. Bingham and W.

Gifkins, P.Prov.G.M., and V.W. Bro. J. Thornton, D.Prov.G.M., the impressive ritual being

accompanied by soft music on the organ by Bro. A. L. Sutton, P.P.G.O. The Chaplain having

again offered prayer, the hymn, "Days and Moments," was sung, and was followed by the

reading of the second lesson, Isaiah xl, after which "The Long Day Closes " was beautifully

sung by a double quartette of brethren. M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, G.M., then pronounced the

following eulogium :-

BRETHREN AND FRIENDS,—

We are assembled to-day to honour the memory of one who was very dear to us all, of one who

a few short days ago was living in our midst, an example of probity and righteousness for men

to copy; of one who by the kindly geniality of his disposition, the uprightness of his character,

and the integrity of his principles, stood as an exemplar of the qualities of rectitude, virtue, and

charity. And now the Great Architect has taken him to his long home, leaving many aching

hearts to moons his loss, and the world the poorer of a good man. What shall we say of such an

one? What tribute of words can we utter to his memory? How can we express our esteem, our

respect, our sorrow ? Words of mine cannot adequately tell what we Freemasons feel at the

present moment. All realise that a gracious preceptor, a sure guide, an unfailing friend, a sincere

and ardent Freemason, a devoted husband, and a loving father has passed to the bourne from

whence no traveller returns. A very pillar in the steadfastness of his faith and belief in

Freemasonry, may we not say of him as is said of Christopher Wren, another honoured

Freemason, " If ye seek his monument, look around." Just as St. Paul's Cathedral is a monument

to Christopher Wren, so is the Freemasonry of Canterbury a monument to the memory of M.W.

Bro. Frederick Charles Binns, P.G.M. of the G.L. of New Zealand, the first and so far the only

Prov.G.M. of Canterbury. Long and well he laboured for the Craft he loved so well. For over

forty years of his life he devoted himself to the study of its mysteries. Quietly, but assiduously,

he propagated its great principles, ever working with honesty of purpose and thoroughness of

zeal. No man could have devoted himself more zealously or conscientiously to the task he so

thoroughly performed than did our late lamented revered brother. With malice toward none,

with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gave him to see the right, he strove

throughout his life to perfect his work in Freemasonry. In Canterbury he filled the Craft with his

vitality, he guided and directed it with statesmanlike prescience. He ever tried to broaden men's

views and to enlighten the mind. Although exceedingly diffident and never censorious in his

admonitions, yet he failed not when criticism or even correction was deemed necessary. No

thought of self, no dread of adverse opinion, ever deterred him from criticising and correcting

that which he deemed a fault. If plain speaking were needed, he spoke direct and to the point.

Still, his reproof was so kindly expressed, his action so genuine, his words so tactful and

sincere, that the sense of perception was aroused and the erring one convinced that the reproof

was merited. To few men is given the talent of reproving without unduly paining. Our late

brother possessed that talent in a marked degree. He conscientiously endeavoured within the

compass of his capacity to improve the morals and correct the manners of men. In European

countries it is not unusual among Freemasons to confer past rank of high degree upon princes of

the blood who honour our assemblies with their patronage and presence. New Zealand has no

prince of the blood, but it possessed, and still possesses, some princes of moral worth and

integrity. Such an one was Frederick Charles Binns, and because he was a prince among men

Freemasons honoured him by conferring upon him the highest rank the Craft can bestow. He

earned and deserved every distinction conferred upon him. Few men pass through life with such

an unblemished record. Few men pass away so sincerely regretted. Time but endeared through

years and years. And now he has gone, never to return. Never more will his kindly counsel be

sought. Never more shall we linger on his words of wisdom. Never more shall we sit at his

footstool and learn from his ripe experience. Although he was full of years and honours, and not

altogether free from the ills that flesh is heir to, we had hoped to have him with us a few years

longer. The Most High decreed otherwise. Without preparation, without warning, in the

twinkling of an eye, he was torn from our midst and seized by the chilling hand of death. The

tragedy of his passing is pitiful. The decrees of the Most High are inscrutable and beyond

human ken. The will of the Most High must be obeyed, and we poor frail human creatures must

bow to the inevitable. The Great Creator has been pleased, out of his infinite mercy, to remove

our brother from the cares and troubles of this transitory existence, and thus has severed another

link in the fraternal 'chain that binds us together. May we who survive him be more strongly

cemented in the ties of union and friendship, and may we wisely and usefully employ our time

in the reciprocal intercourse of kind and friendly acts, mutually promoting the welfare and

happiness of each other.

To his sorrowing wife and family, who are most heart-stricken at the loss we have all sustained,

we have but little of this world's consolation to offer. We can only sincerely, deeply, and most

affectionately sympathise with them in their affliction and bereavement, and implore Him who

tempers the wind to the shorn lamb to look down with infinite compassion upon the widow and

the fatherless in the hour of their desolation ; and may the Great Architect fold the arms of His

love and protection around those who put their trust in Him.

The Dead March in " Saul " was then played, and the Benediction by the Chaplain concluded a

very solemn service.

————————

OBITUARY.

———<>———

BRO. E. CHEGWIDDEN, NAPIER, AGED 85.

Yet another of the old band of pioneers of Victoria Lodge, No. 21, has passed to his long rest to

await the sound of the trump, in the person of Bro. Elias Chegwidden, sen., who passed

peacefully away in the presence of his wife and members of his family on the afternoon of

Friday, 3rd September, at the advanced age of 85 years. Our brother had been ailing for some

time, and the end was therefore not altogether unexpected.

A Funeral Lodge was held on Sunday morning, 5th September. After the Lodge had been

opened, the W.M. (Bro. A. W. Kirk) said :-

" Once more, brethren, are we met together to pay the last sad tribute to a worthy brother's

memory, whom it hath pleased the Almighty Architect to call to the G.L. above. Owing to the

unfortunate illness with which our late brother was afflicted to a greater or lesser extent for

some years past many of the brethren, unfortunately, were debarred from becoming intimately

acquainted with him; but I and brethren present who are older members of this Lodge than

myself can also give you the assurance that our esteemed brother lived the life of Mason. As one

of our old members said to me but yesterday, the late Bro. Chegwidden was a true Mason and a

white man; and what higher tribute could be paid to any one? Such remarks as these, from

brethren who were intimately acquainted with our late brother, have such a wealth of meaning

in them to you and I, and it is only natural that we should mourn the loss of such a worthy

brother.

It is right and truly Masonic that we should give expression to our sorrow, but not as those who

sorrow without hope, for if we accept the lesson that the Almighty Architect would convey to us

individually through these bereavements, fully realising that we must also are long obey the call

to depart hence; if we live the life that it can be truly said of us that he was a true Mason—that

is to say, that we have lived up to our profession, that we have lived not merely as Masons

alone, but that we have played the game, that we have acted our part, that we have proved, you

and I, by our conduct that our lives and actions are governed by that virtue which should be the

distinguishing characteristic of every Freemason's heart ; then, my brethren, we have the blessed

assurance in the V.A. that we shall meet again those departed brethren proved worthy in the

G.L. above, where there is no parting. May you and I individually and collectively meet in that

glorious Lodge, the G.L. above. So mote it be."

The funeral service was then commenced by the W.M., the responses being taken by W. Bro.

Whitton. The hymn, "Abide with Me," was sung by the brethren, after which the brethren

formed in procession and marched to the deceased's late residence, preceding the cortege to the

cemetery, where the Church of England service was conducted by W. Bro. Canon Tuke. The

Masonic service was concluded by the W.M.

The late Bro. Chegwidden was initiated in Victoria Lodge, No. 1577, RC., in 1885. He was

admitted into R.A. in 1895. When Victoria joined the New Zealand Constitution and became

No. 21, he continued as a member, and shortly was elected I.G., which position he occupied but

a short time. Cataracts formed on his eyes, necessitating operations, which failed and left him

practically blind for the past fifteen years. His eldest son is a member of a Wellington Lodge,

whilst the youngest son, W. Bro. Elias Chegwidden, is a P.M. of Victoria, and has also held the

position of Treas. for the past six years.

————————————

CHAPLAIN-MAJOR BRO. REV. W. GRANT.

————

The news of the death of Chaplain-Major Rev. William Grant, which was received in Gisborne

on Monday, 6th September, caused a feeling of profound sorrow throughout the whole

community, and it is almost impossible to estimate the loss which has been sustained by all who

have sons and brothers at the front now that he has gone. The letters received from him by

parents and friends of those who have been killed and wounded have been wonderful sources of

comfort and consolation to the bereaved ones. We were privileged to read one of his letters to a

mother and father who had lost their eldest son, and after describing the beautiful spot in which

they had buried the boy the letter concluded by saying :" Dear Mrs. W.,—An impulse made me

kiss the boy for you before finally committing his body to the earth."

Bro. Grant, who was Minister of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Gisborne, was initiated into

Freemasonry in Lodge Abercorn in 1907, and was elected Chaplain soon after. He remained in

this office for four years, and was then elected to the S.W.'s chair, but war being declared our

brother felt called on to volunteer as chaplain to the forces, and his services were accepted by

the Government. He left for the training camp at Awapuni before the installation meeting of the

Lodge, and his office was kept open for the whole of the year, his chair being temporarily filled

by the various P.Ms. of the Lodge.

In August of this year the brethren re-elected him S.W., the intention being to place him in the

Master's chair on the first opportunity after his return. By a strange coincidence the news of his

having been killed in the trenches while ministering to the wounded has come during the

interval between election and installation this year, and it is the wish of the brethren that the

office of S.W. remain vacant for the ensuing twelve months out of respect to his memory. The

Sec. of the Lodge received a letter from him from Gallipoli only a fortnight ago, in which he

says :—" I regret to say that the Bible which the Lodge presented to me was lost with all my kit

on landing here, so that I may trespass on your generosity to the extent of a second Bible one of

these days when I return. I had hoped to take that Bible with me through the campaign, making

it a minister of comfort to sick and wounded men; but it was otherwise ordained. Fortunately I

had my Lodge certificate with me, and that is safe. There is no way of sending money from

here, so I am asking a friend in Cairo to enclose a pound for the annual collection for the

widows and orphans, which you will be having, I presume, at the installation service."

At the regular meeting of Lodge Abercorn, held on Tuesday, 7th September, the W.M.

addressed the Lodge as follows :—" Brethren, before .proceeding with the business it is my

sorrowful duty to refer to the loss the Lodge has sustained in the death of our Bro. William

Grant at the front. The sad news has swept a wave of sorrow over the whole community, and we

of Abercorn are left to mourn the loss of a brother and a friend, and while we feel this loss we

are yet proud in the knowledge that we have had the privilege of his friendship. The memory of

that friendship will last during the lifetime of the present members of Lodge Abercorn, and tend

to make better man of us. In proposing a motion of sympathy with Mrs. Grant and family, I

would like to see no appointment made to the S.W. chair, to which we had just re-elected Bro.

Grant, but that it should be kept vacant out of respect to his memory, and also that the Lodge.,

already in mourning for three months for M.W. Bro. Binns, should extend that period for six

months for Bro. Grant."

Our late brother took a leading part in any patriotic movement during the short time which

intervened between the breaking out of the war and his departure, and his farewell message to

the Gisborne portion of the Main Body is worth repeating :—" This is not the time for words,"

he said. "It is a time for deeds; and how magnificently those deeds are being done in the world

to-day. From North and South, from East and West, from frozen lands and tropical seas, our

sons are marching or sailing out to the help of the old Motherland, and to defend our

possessions and our liberties. War at any time is horrible, and this war upon which we have

entered is the most terrible war in all the ages, and deep damnation in the sight of God and man

should be the portion of those responsible for it. That our sons and others' sons, the very flower

of the manhood of Europe, should be set against one another without having any quarrel with

one another is incredible, and one can only pray that this war may be the end of all wars in so

far as civilised and Christianised countries are concerned. But to-day we desire not to dwell

upon the sadness of farewell. We want to congratulate you men who are going to the front. We

want you to remember that our thoughts and our prayers will go with you, and that we shall be

thinking of you and praying for you when you are on the wide sea with its perils and when you

are on land, and when you go into the test of battle. And we bid you, whether you see what you

want to see or do what you want to do, to 'play the man,' so that whatever happens I we may be

proud of you and remember you with love and gratitude. Many years ago I had the privilege of

speaking to a great company like this in the open air, and I impressed on them then, as I wish to

impress on you, the necessity for playing the game, if our Empire is to still stand, as it has done

for ages past, for truth, for honour, and for justice."

After giving a stirring recital of "Play Up, Play Up, and Play the Game," Mr. Grant said `We

hope you will play the game-the game of life-that you will live clean, pure, straight, noble lives,

and if you are put to the test of battle you will so play the game that the mother who bore you,

although it break her heart, will be proud of you."

A memorial service will be held in St. Andrew's Church on Sunday next, and will be conducted

by Bro. Rev. J. A. Asher, who was one of Bro. Grant's closest friends. [Specially communicated

by a Gisborne brother.]

————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 21st SEPTEMBER, 1915.

———<>———

J. McPherson 2/6 (Timaru), J. S. Gannett (New Plymouth), J. E. Robinson, J. D. Webster, W. A. Harvey, T.

Black (Auckland), W. E. Davis 20/- (Runiwhakau), J. L. Ching 10/- (Nelson), L. Reynolds 10/- (Stoke), J. T.

Murphy 10/-, Wm. Henderson 10/-, G. Parkinson 4/5, W. Smart 4/5, Wm. Thawley 4/5, M. S. Montford 4/5,

Jas. Pillar 4/5, W. J. Toll 12/6, R. Collighan, J. J. Hodgson, P. Strachane (Denniston), M. Geever 27/6

(Mangamomona), Thos. Myles 24/2, T. W. Bragge (Picton), Robt. McKay 33/- (Windonside), J. W. Harding

(Hawera), P. G. Bowater, A. H. Dallaston 4/5, 0. Gothard 20/-, J. H. Harkness 17/6, F. Hobbs 4/5, W. Todd,

Wm. White 13/4, W. H. Bowater 14/2, Dr. E. D. Dunn 21/-, Wm. Panckhurst, M. Jorgeson, J. Madden

(Westport), O. G. Jones, P. D. Mumm 20/- (Seddonville), Geo. Bowman 28/-, A. B. Franklin 4/4, Wm.

McNarn, junr. 34/2, H. O. Webster 4/4 (Ngakawau), Win. Allison 20/-, Dr. O. Short 4/4, A. Williams 21/-

(Gravity), Rev. Carew Thomas 10/- (Mataroa, Wanganui), C. D. Fraser 9/2 (Wanganui), J. W. Jack, T. H.

Gill, A. E. Erskine 10/-, C. A. Ines 177/6, H. H. Seaton, J. J. Esson (Wellington), C. Phillips 12/6

(Cromwell), R. B. Cole 27/6, L. O. Baillie 58/4 (Flunterville), A. E. Rouse, J. A. Frostick (Christchurch), R.

Wylie (Petone), — Markby, per Gordon and Gotch, R. V. Parker (Dunedin), Robt. Lochore, R. G. Morrison,

W. H. Nicholas 25/-, M. Rivers 2/6, F. W. Robinson 4/5, Cyril Tolley 4/5 (Reefton), L. F. de Berry, H. N.

Coulson, G. H. Chapman 4/4, Win. Houston, H. L. Michell, J. R. McNaughton 4/4, H. A. Thompson 13/4, J.

Edgar Wade 17/6, F. H. Williams 4/4, A. Cowie 4/5, Win. Kellow, W. Shannon 4/5, (Hokitika), J. Cameron

9/1 (Arahura), G. T. Adamson 27/6, T. W. Bruce 25/-, G. Lopaz 10/- (Ross), R. H. Richmond 9/1, H. B.

Chalk. 4/4, F. C. Wade, N. Gandell 4/5, E. T. Guinness, G. R Harker, W. J. Holder, A. Naylor 4/5, C. M.

Price 27/6, Jas. Ring 10/-, W. A. Rundle, J. Steer, E. F. Warnes, W. D. Peck 4/4, A. Talbot, 3/9, F. S. Wood

4/5, T. A. Edwards 28/4, A. S. Wright 41/6, Capt. S. CoIclough, H. G. Clear, A. W. Smith, H. Webb

(Greymouth), J. R. Mylroi 9/2, S. H. Finch (Runanga), John Trotter 27/6 (Fairlie), T. D. Pearson 1/8

(Balclutha), E. H. Crabbe 25/- (Palmerston North), C. A. C. Hardy (Rakaia), W. Bullard 6/8 (Foxton), G.

Burrows 1/8 (Clyde), C. E. Evenden 30/- (Kumara), J. Baillie 10/- (Hamilton), J. Burton 30/- (Brooklyn), R.

C. D. Lightbourne (Eltham), H. 3. Richards 20/- (Levin), Winchester Lodge 17/6 (Winchester), C. M.

Igglesden (Kelburn), C. L. Pont (Gladstone, Carterton), W. Ridgley (Mercer), C. N. Flyger 9d. (Frankton

Junction), F. J. Robbins 20/- (Masterton), T. Parker 15/- (Napier), T. 0. Fox (Seatoun), W. A. Gibson 10/.

(Corndale, N.S.W.), G. S. Fleming (Birkenhead, Auckland).

All 7/6 except those noted.

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

Poetry.

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

IN MEMORIAM.

———<>———

M.W. BRO. F. C. BINNS, P.G.M., Prov.G.M. OF CANTERBURY.

—————

The building's suffered shock, another pillar broken,

In one brief space a mighty void is caused;

But 'midst the wreck the loving words are spoken,

By the Supreme G.M.'s great command,

Go up higher."

After full forty years of Masonic life's devotion, '

Revered, with knowledge ripe, and full of years;

Earning the praise, well done ! which goes with life's promotion,

Waiting that last dread call with trembling fears,

" Come up higher."

In the brief evening of a long and well-spent life,

When hope looked forward to a sunset calm and clear,

In loving family ties and free from care and strife,

The silver cord is snapped and all is ended here :

Gone up higher.

Adieu, dear brother, the time will quickly come

When we shall join you on the distant shore;

Soon shall old Charon, o'er Acheron's dark flood,

Steer us to those who have but gone before;

May it be higher!

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

JOINT INSTALLATION OF THREE R.A. CHAPTERS.

———<>———

For some years past it has been the custom to hold a joint installation of the Principals, and investiture of

office-bearers of Waterloo, Brooklyn, and Hinemoa R.A. Chapters in Wellington City, and the custom was

renewed this year, the function being the most successful yet held. On Tuesday, the 14th September, a

meeting of Principals and Past Principals was held for the purpose of conferring Principals' Degrees, in their

entirety, and installing Mark Masters. The meeting was very largely attended, and M.E. Comp. Rev. T.

Porritt took charge of the conclave, and conducted the ceremonies most impressively. M.E. Comp. H. J.

Williams took charge of the B. of I.M.M., and opened the Board in full form instead of by proclamation. At a

short meeting held afterwards in the refectory the same companion read an excellent paper on " The Second

Temple."

On Wednesday, the 15th, the companions of the three Chapters assembled in force in the Daniel Street

Masonic Hall, which presented a most attractive appearance. V.E. Comp. Parsons, acting-Z. of Brooklyn

Chapter, presided, and after the minutes of the three Chapters were read, M.E. Camp. Rev. T. Porritt was

announced by the G.D. of C., V.E. Comp. W. H. Jones, and on his admission assumed the chair of the

Chapter, and was accorded the customary honours. M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams occupied the chair of H., and

V.E. Comp. H. H. Seaton, G.Treas., that of J. The correctness of the minutes as to the election of Principals

having been ascertained, the 1st Prins.-elect were presented and enthroned in their respective chairs, having

been addressed by the Installing G.Z. on the insignia of their office. The 2nd and 3rd Prins. were then

installed and addressed, and proclamation was made by the D. of C. The investiture of officers followed,

V.E. Comp. G. Menzies being the investing Prin. The following is the list for each Chapter :-

Waterloo, No. 2.— lst Prin., E. Comp. J. Rod; 2nd Prin., E.. Comp. C. P. Harton; 3rd Prin., E. Comp. C. W.

Nielsen; S.E., V.E. Comp. G. Menzies; S.N., E. Comp. S. P. Curtis ; Tress., E. Comp. H. G. Claridge; 1st

Soj., K. Camp. J. W. Ellison; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. J. McLachlan; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. A. T. Wells; Supt. of W.,

V.E. Comp. G. Russell; Organist, E. Comp. B. W. Blakely ; Janitor, E. Comp. A. E. Coiner.

Brooklyn, No. 24.— lst Prin., E. Comp. J. B. Hopkirk; 2nd Prin., E. Comp. T. E. K. Burgess; 3rd Prin., E.

Comp. S. J. Moncrieff ; S.E., E. Comp. G. F. L. Lenzini; S.N., E. Comp. F. J. Armstrong; Treas., E. Comp.

M. S. Martin; 1st Soj., E. Comp. S. M. Arens; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. A. Schmidt; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. H. V.

Futter ; Supt. of W., V.E. Comp. W. H. Jones; Janitor, E. Comp. J. W. Richardson.

Hinemoa, No. 25.— 1st Prin., E. Comp. J. Reid; 2nd Prin., E. Comp. E. C. Robertson; 3rd Prin., E. Comp. S.

Martin; S.E., V.E. Comp. H. Ivory ; S.N. E. Comp. C. Paterson; Treas., V.E. Comp, H. W. Preston; 1st Soj.,

E. Comp. E. Morris ; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. Rev. G. Knowles-Smith; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. S. L. Russell; Supt. of

W. V.E. Comp. H. P. Bridge; Organist, E. Comp. B. W. Blakely; Janitor, E. Comp. J. Melville.

At the request of the installing G.Z., the address to the 1st Prins. was delivered by V.E. Comp. H. H. Seaton.;

the charge to the office-bearers by V.E. Comp. C. H. Dement, and the address to the companions by M.E.

Comp. H. J. Williams. The 1st Prins. briefly returned thanks for their election, and solicited the attendance of

companions for the conning year. Three presentations were then made by M.E. Comp. Williams. V.E. Comp.

G. Russell, retiring Z. of Waterloo, a handsome P.Z. jewel; to V.E. Comp. H. B. Bridge, I.P.Z. Hinemoa, a

bar of miniature jewels; and to V.E. Comp. Parsons,

Brooklyn Chapter, a silver tea service. E. Comp. S. M. Arens was also the recipient of a Past Scribe's jewel,

at the hands of V.E. Comp. Seaton. H.G.W. having been offered, the Chapter closed at 9.15 p.m., and a very

pleasant time was spent in the refectory. The great success of the meeting was admitted on all sides.—

[Specially Contributed.]

————————

THAT GREATEST LANDMARK.

———<>———

It should be accounted a privilege on the part of every W.M. that his year of office gives him the opportunity

of instructing the brethren in the art of Masonry. Of this duty he is constantly reminded and, in the great

majority of cases, he just as frequently disregards it. If only Masters would seek to be original, instead of

mere copyists, the Craft could be made much more interesting in its regular meetings than is at present the

case. It must be a very narrow and self-contained mind which considers there is nothing new to be said or

done inside a Masonic Lodge. It is this prevalence of automatic reiteration which tends to weary the member

who has no official duties to perform, and whose attendance seems to have no more effect than to add to that

-imposing display which is only secured by a large attendance.

For some time past it has been urged in these columns that Masters should give more attention to the

progressive aspect of Masonry. By this is meant such excursions beyond the confines of ritual and ceremony

as are calculated to secure the interest of everyone who attends the Lodge. Wherever this has been tried it has

been a success, and the invariable result has been a demand for more such innovations.

Quite recently we have been favoured with a booklet containing is lecture on "The Landmarks of

Freemasonry," delivered before the Unity Lodge, No. 183, by Bro. A. J. Faulding, when he was W.M. It has

afforded extreme pleasure to spend an hour in its perusal. Bro. Faulding has selected Mackie's list of twenty-

five landmarks as the basis of his remarks, but disposes of twenty-four of these in a very few sentences,

giving his whole attention to the nineteenth, which calls for "Belief in existence of God." He does not

pretend to deal with his subject in a way which would appeal only to abstruse thinkers, but he takes that firm

foundation for his superstructure which no Mason can deny to him. In dealing with such a delicate matter

most writers show a tendency to introduce denominational teachings. More especially is this the case in

regard to preachers who conduct Masonic Sunday services, as it is exceedingly rare that they can keep to that

line of dissertation which keeps them within the radius of Masonic teachings.

Bro. Paulding has made no such error. He fully grasps the Masonic idea and the method by which it is sown

and developed during the passage of the initiate through the various degrees. So beautifully is this

accomplished that it is impossible for the reader to discover in these pages what are the author's

denominational tendencies. He is conscientiously Masonic, and writes in poetic prose of the G.A.O.T.U. and

of mankind as the builders working under His direction, working though they know not how wisely and well

they are fulfilling the great designs. There is a delightful touch of the mystic idea in the following quotation

from page seventeen :—

" The Freemason who speculates on the G.A.O.T.U. cannot fail to concede that we are compassed about and

assisted by a great cloud of witnesses; the spirits of just Masons made perfect, who, though unseen, still live

for the better helping of those who are the living stones in the true temple of mankind. These, then, are some

of the speculations which arise as one contemplates the basic statement found on these great landmarks, and

we must all feel profoundly grateful to our Order for having given us the great joy of realizing the intimate

concern of the Divine Creator with His universe ; that, though He is outside His work, as the human architect

is apart from the building he designs yet superintends, so the G.A. is cognisant of all the details of His

creative art, and will cease not in His scrutiny until the completion. Surely there has never been so satisfying

a definition as that decipher on our landmark."

Such lectures as this confirm one in the most exalted views regarding the origin and purposes of the Craft,

and do much to sweep aside misunderstanding and prejudice. —"The Freemason. "

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

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

[Secretaries sad Scribes are requested to forward Reports

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————

SOUTHLAND,

Taringatura, No. 100.—The usual meeting on the 23rd August was well attended. In addition to ordinary

routine business, two appeals were dealt with, and a resolution passed expressive of the high appreciation by

the members of the sterling qualities and high Masonic character of the late M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns. Arrears

were dealt with, and it was resolved that several brethren should be interviewed during the month. The Sec.

reported the completion of the latest supply of books for the library, and it was resolved to print the list for

circulation among the members. No special action was taken re the M.W.G.M.'s circular, as the Lodge last

year resolved strictly to limit the refreshments of the Fourth Degree and the saving effected has already

benefited the War Fund. H.G.W. were received from visiting brethren, and the Lodge closed at 9:30 p.m.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

——————

OTAGO.

Oceanic, No. 154.—The ordinary meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, St. Kilda, on the 15th ult., when

there was an extra large attendance of both members and visitors. The R.W. Prov.G.M. (Bro. J. J. Clark)

attended officially, being supported by R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, P.P.G.M., and other G.L. officers. Two

candidates were initiated, the work being distributed as follows :—Ob., the W.M.; Secrets, W. Bro. H.W.S.

Hellyer ; N.E. Charge, Bro. W. Mills; Mode of Prep, Bro. H. Harris; W.Ts., Bro. A. McKenzie; and Final

Charge, W. Bro. W. Jacobsen. The election of officers was then taken, and Bro. A. McKenzie, J.W., was

unanimously elected W.M. for the ensuing year. The members of the Lodge decided to fall in with the

M.W.G.M.'s suggestion re the abolition of alcoholic liquors in the refectory during the war. The proceedings

of the evening were somewhat sombre owing to the fact that since the last meeting the W.M. (Bro. J. A.

Couchman) had received word that his son Victor had been killed at the Dardanelles, and during the evening

letters were read from him and Mrs. Binns thanking the Lodge for letters of sympathy. The proceedings at

the supper table were under the circumstances very quiet, but the brethren had the pleasure of listening to a

stirring address from the R.W.Prov.G.M. on the duties of a Freemason to his country in the time of war.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Masters', No. 161.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, St. Kilda, on the 17th ult., there

being over the average attendance. The W.M. (Bro. D. Harris Hastings) presided. In the unavoidable absence

of the R.W.Prov. G.M., G.L. was represented by R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, P.P.G.M., who paid an official

visit, and was accompanied by R.W Bro. G. Barton, S.G.W., and other G.L. officers. V.W. Bro. W. G.

Mehaffey, G.Lect., was then announced and received. V.W. Bro. Mehaffey read an interesting paper on

"Ancient Signs and Symbols," which will be published in the November issue of the CRAFTSMAN. His paper

was followed by a fair amount of discussion, and in his reply V.W. Bro. Mehaffey cleared up one or two

doubtful points which had been raised. Upon the motion of R.W. Bro. Stoneham, seconded by W. Bro. R.

Hawcridge, the G.Lect. was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for his lecture and the trouble he had been put

to in coming from Invercargill to deliver it. The Lodge decided to adopt the suggestion made regarding the

refectory by the M.W.G.M. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the W.M. and officers of Lodge Oceanic

for the free use of their Lodgeroom for the meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Clinton, No. 183.—The usual meeting was held on the 26th August. There was a good attendance, Bro. A.

H. Chorlton, W.M., presiding. A motion of sympathy and condolence was passed to the widow and family of

the late 31.W. Bro. Tilling, P.G.M., the brethren standing as a mark of respect to the late M.W. brother. The

circular from the G.M. with reference to curtailing expenses at the "Fourth" was duly read and will receive

due attention. Two circular general appeals from G.L. were received, and assistance granted in both

instances. The W.M. presented two brethren with their M.M. certificates. One candidate was proposed for

membership. The ceremonial work was the raising of three brethren. This was performed by the W.31., who

obligated and gave the Secrets ; Exhort., J.W. Bro. W. Mclndoe ; T.H., Bro. Wright, S.W.; W.Ts., I.G. Bro.

Shepherd ; Final Charge, D. of C. Bro. R. Mclndoe. After closing, a quiet and pleasant hour was spent at the

" Fourth."— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—The September meeting was held on the 7th, the W.M. (W. Bro. Borthwick) presiding

over a good attendance of members, and, what is always appreciated in Unanimity, a large number of

visitors. A letter from the M.W.G.M., referring to the use of alcoholic liquors during the war, was received.

Two candidates were passed, the W.M. being assisted in the ceremony by the W.M. of Canterbury Kil.

Lodge (W. Bro. J. D. Plimmer), the W.M. of Civic Lodge (W. Bro. Hunter), and several P.Ms. of the Lodge.

The W.M. of Ashley Lodge (Rangiora) has been invited to work the Third Degree at the next meeting, to be

held on 5th October. A pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, several items being rendered by musical

brethren.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The monthly meeting was held at Kaiapoi on the 2nd September. The W.M., Bro.

W. A. Gribble, presided over a good attendance of brethren. The Master made reference to the loss of M.W.

Bro. Binns as the result of an accident, and as a mark of respect the brethren stood to order for a few

moments. The degree work was the initiation of two candidates. The W.M. was assisted by W. Bro. Stanton,

Ex. of Prep. W.Ts. by Bro. J. F. Garnett, J.D., and the Final Charge by Bro. R. H. Croft, Sec. The work was

carried through in a very efficient and impressive manner, and reflects credit on the officers. After the Lodge

was closed the brethren retired to the refectory, where a social half-hour was spent, but owing to the Lodge

being in mourning for three months, the proceedings were of a very quiet nature.

On Thursday, the 9th, the W.M., accompanied by his officers and a number of brethren paid a visit to Lodge

Ashley, Rangiora, and the visit was enjoyed by all who attended.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Concord, No. 39.—The regular meeting was held on 25th August in the Masonic Hall, Papanui, W. Bro. H.

S. Wilson, W.M., in the chair. A brother was passed to the Second Degree. Amongst various business, the

M.W.G.M.'s circular letter to Lodges, to the effect that Lodges should discontinue the use of alcoholic liquor

at the "Fourth," and economise generally at the social board during the war, was read. W. Bro. A. H. Hobbs

thereupon moved that the G.M.'s suggestion be adopted by the Lodge, which was carried by a big majority.

Later on Bro. J. W. H. Francis, S.D., gave notice that he would move at our next meeting the following :—

"That to carry to a conscientious and logical conclusion the purport of the motion already agreed to by the

Lodge, i.e., ' The abolition of alcoholic liquor from the "Fourth" during the war,' this Lodge, to show its real

self-sacrifice, agrees to do away with the 'Fourth' altogether during the duration of the war, and to devote the

value saved thereby to the Masonic War Fund." There is considerable disagreement at present in this Lodge,

and the feeling amongst members is far from being "Masonic."—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.—The monthly meeting was held in the St. Augustine Hall on the 24th August, W.

Bro. R. J. Thomas (Master) presiding over a good attendance of members. Sincere regret was expressed at

the loss the Craft had sustained by the death of M.W. Bro. Binns, Prov.G.M., and a letter of condolence was

sent to the bereaved family. The ritual work consisted of the raising of two brethren. The first part of the

Exhort. was given by W. Bro. Henderson, the Secrets were communicated by W. Bro. Torrance, the Charge

on Investiture by W. Bro. Tapping (Master Crown Lodge), the T.H. was related by W. Bro. G. Yemm, P.M.,

the T.B. was explained by W. Bro. J. W. Roberts, P.M., the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Vincent (Avon

Lodge), the Final Charge being delivered by the S.W., Bro. Kiddey. Gratification was expressed at the

recovery of W. Bro. Hopkinson (Sec.) from a serious illness. Nominations were also received for Prov.G.L.

officers. The Lodge was then closed, and an adjournment to the refectory made, where a quiet hour was

indulged in by members and visitors.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—The annual meeting for installation of officers took place on the 25th August, and

was a most successful function, there being a record attendance of members and visitors. Owing to the recent

demise of the late M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, Prov.G.M. of Canterbury, the proceedings were somewhat

shrouded, yet nevertheless a fine spirit prevailed. Prov.G.L. was represented by V.W. Bro. Thornton,

D.Prov.G.M., P.G.B.B., W. Bro. Morgan Evans, Prov.G.S.W., W. Bro. A. J. Hoskins, P.Prov.G.D. of C., as

G.J.W., W. Bro. F. N. du Feu, Pres.B. of G.P., W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop, P.G.D. of C., Prov.G.Sec., W. Bro.

A. W. Well, Pres.B. of B., W. Bro. Alex. McPherson, Prov.G.S.D., W. Bro. Jas. Simpson, P.Prov.G.D. of C.,

as Prov.G.J.D., W. Bro. G. J. Wallace as Prov.G.D. of C, W. Bro. W. McBride, Prov.G.J.G., W. Bros.

McKeown and Foden as Prov.G.Ss. The R.W.D.Prov.G.M., after greetings, made a feeling reference to the

occasion of his occupying the chair that evening by reason of the recent bereavement sustained by the

Lodges of Canterbury in the call from labour of their R.W.Prov.G.M., M.W. Bro. Binns. He spoke of his

devoted labours in the Cause of Freemasonry, and referred to his wisdom in control and his personal

qualities as a man and a brother. The B. of I.Ms. was composed of no less than 28 members, a sure record for

Lodge St. Augustine. The ceremony of installation was concluded by the V.W.D.Prov. G.M. himself in a

most impressive manner, and W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop presented the W.Ts. of the degree. On the admission

of the brethren the W.Ts. in the respective degrees were presented by W. Bro. N. Hayes (of Lodge Kurow),

W. Bro. W. J. Williams (of Lodge Pareora), and W. Bro. W. B. Oborn (of Lodge St. Martin). V.W. Bro. J.

Thornton addressed the newly-installed Master. The Wardens were invested by W. Bro. Jas. Simpson,

P.Prov.G.D. of C., and to the skilful hands of W. Bro. Morgan Evans was entrusted the address to the

Wardens. W. Bro. Jas. Simpson conducted the investiture of the officers. W. Bro. du Feu gave the address to

the brethren. Prior to the closing of the Lodge the new W.M. received the H.G.W. for a successful year of

office from representatives of the following Lodges :— Nos. 29, 31, 33, 82, 93, 134, 162, 164, 187, 197, and

Nos. 1137 and 1811, E.C. An adjournment, on the closing of the Lodge, was made to the rooms of Symons

Bros., who catered very ably for the wants of the inner man. Necessarily, the toast list was limited, but a very

agreeable hour was spent in brotherly chat. The following is the list of officers :—W.M., Bro. T. W.

Manchester ; I.P.M., W. Bro. J. Menzies ; S.W., Bro. James Manchester; J.W. Bro. C. R. Bateman; Chaplain,

Bro. R. Creeser ; Treas., Bro. G. J. Shackleton, P.M.; Sec., W. Bro. A. J. Hoskins, P.M.; S.D., Bro. E. R.

Beckett; J.D., Bro. C. Manchester ; D. of C., W. Bro. A. Colville, P.M. ; I.G., Bro. James King; Organist,

Bro. R. Steele ; Stewards, Bros. S. I. Fitch, G. H. Miller, J. S. McKenzie; Auditors, Bros. P. Grant, S. I.

Fitch. — [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tawera, No. 188.—The monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Oxford, on 7th August, when there

was a good attendance, the W.M. (Bro. L. Watson) presiding. The Lodge was in mourning, and before

proceeding to the ordinary business the W.M. referred to the death of the Prov.G.M. In a feeling manner and

in choice phraseology he gave a warm eulogy on our departed G.M., and moved : "That this Lodge expresses

its sorrow at the death of our beloved Prov.G.M., M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, P.G.M. It records its appreciation

of the valuable services he has rendered to Freemasonry in general and this Lodge in particular, and

expresses its sincere sympathy with those nearest, and dearest to him in their affliction and bereavement."

The motion was carried in solemn silence, the brethren standing with the sign of fidelity. The appeal of the

M.W.G.M. was received and seriously considered. Two candidates were passed to the Second Degree. The

Ob. was given by the W.M. ; Secrets by W. Bro. J. J. Heasley ; S.E. Charge by W. Bro. Weld, I.P.M. ; the

W.Ts. were presented by the S.W.. Bro. R. F. Henderson ; and the Final Charge by the J.W.. Bro. W. G.

Rudd.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Koranga. No. 197.—The installation of Bro. D. McCaskill as W.M. and investiture of officers was held in

the Caledonian Masonic Hall, Timaru, on 24th August. The W.M., Bro. R. C. Littlejohn, presided over an

attendance of 100 members. The Lodge-room was draped, and the brethren appeared in mourning. The W.

Dep.Prov.G.M., V.W. Bro. John Thornton, Pres. B. of B., and Prov.G.L. officers were received with the

customary honours. Before proceeding with the installation, V.W. Bro. Thornton made very feeling

reference to the sad and tragic death of M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns P.G.M., and the loss the Craft had sustained

by his untimely death. The W.M.-elect was presented by W. Bro. R. C. Littlejohn, W.M., and the ancient

charges were read by W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop, P.G.Sec., after which a B. of I.Ms was formed, and Bro. D.

McCaskill duly installed into the chair of K.S. by V.W. Bro. Thornton. The W.M. then invested his I.P.M.,

W. Bro. Littlejohn. The B. of I.M. closed. The following brethren were then invested :—S.W., Bro. J. W.

Souter; J.W., Bro. A. McKenzie; Chaplain, Bro. W. Cooper ; Treas., Bro. F. J. Dunn; Sec., Bro. W. Gibb ;

S.D., Bro. R. Hyman ; J.D., Bro. J. Moyes; I.G., Bro. G. Murdoch ; D. of C. W. Bro. G. J. Wallace,

Prov.G.D. of C. ; Organist, Bro. A. C. Vine; Tyler, Bro. J. Forest; Stewards, Bros. M. Moss, G. Watson, and

G. Whitehouse. The address to the W.M. was delivered by V.W. Bro. John Thornton, the address to the

Wardens by W. Bro. Morgan Evans, Prov.S.G.W., and the address to the brethren by W. Bro. du Feu, G.D.

of C. W. Bro: R. C. Littlejohn was presented by V.W. Bro. Thornton w'th a P.M.'s jewel. The collection for

the W. and O. and A.M. Fund was then taken, and a good sum was obtained. A cheque for £17 to the war

was also presented by the brethren of Koranga. Lodge, making a total of £40 10s. collected by the brethren

of Koranga Lodge for the War Fund to date. H.G.W. were then received, and the Lodge closed.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Victory Lodge, No. 40.—The regular meeting was held on the 12th August, when there was a large

attendance of brethren, including many visitors. W. Bro. Hedges presided. Before any business was

transacted reference was made to the fact that W. Bro. Captain Houlker had been killed in action, and

sympathetic resolutions to Mrs. Houlker (his mother) and relatives, also to the firm of Messrs. Maginnity,

Son, and Houlker were passed. Bro. Hon. A. T. Maginnity feelingly replied. A demit was granted with regret

to R.W. Bro. W. W. de Castro (Invercargill). Two diplomas were presented to Bro. W. H. Thompson (Lodge

Hinemoa Stratford, S.C.) and Bro. Sidford (Lodge Victoria, Invercargill), both now resident of Nelson. One

guinea each was granted to the appeals made on behalf of Mrs. C. Fitzwilliam and Mrs. Johnson. Three

successful ballots were taken for affiliation, two P.Ms. and one M.M., whilst two new members were elected.

Three candidates for the Third Degree were duly raised by the W.M., assisted by the following W.

brethren:—Bros. Johnston, Rudman, Stiles, Orman, Harris, Moller, and R.W. Bro. Moyes. One candidate

was proposed for membership. H.G.W. were expressed on behalf of Lodges Greymouth, Oceanic, Golden

Bay, Southern Star, Ordnance (Woolwich), Hinemoa, and Victoria. The Lodge was draped on account of W.

Bro. Houlker's death.

On the following Sunday the largest Masonic gathering ever held in Nelson took place, when all brethren

assembled at the Freemasons' Hall and marched to the Cathedral to attend a memorial service to the late W.

Bro. Houlker. In addition to the Masonic fraternity there were present a large number of Territorial officers

and College old boys.

The day following the service the happy news came through that our supposed late brother had not been

killed, but only wounded. Not only the Masonic brethren, but the whole community expressed its delight,

and gloom has been turned into cheerfulness. W. Bro. Houlker is held in the highest esteem, and we all look

to the day when we shall see him again in the fleet.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

AUCKLAND.

Alpha, No. 81.—The regular meeting was held on the 25th August. Owing to the death of M.W. Bro. Binns,

the Lodge went into mourning for three months, and the Sec. was instructed to forward letters of sympathy to

the Dist.G.L. of Canterbury and to the relatives of our late M.W. brother. Two circular appeals were received

through G.L., the sum of £2 2s. being voted to Lodge Beta-Waikato, and £1 1s. to Lodge Otaki. As there was

no degree work, matters of general interest were discussed. W. Bro. Priestley gave notice to move that By-

law No. 9 be rescinded, and that the election of the W.M. be held in accordance with Rule 97 B. of C. and

Laws. On the motion of W. Bro. Lewis it was decided to go thoroughly into the Lodge by-laws at the next

regular meeting. One candidate for initiation was proposed by the W.M. and seconded by W. Bro. Wallace.

W. Bro. Ferguson gave an explanation of the 1st T.B. The Lodge was closed at 9.15 p.m.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Tauranga, No. 125.—The installation meeting was held on 27th August, 1915. W. Bro. T. W. R. Philpotts,

P.M., was installed as W.M. by M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson,assisted by G.L. officers P.D.G.M., Bro. M.

McLean, and G.J.W., Bro. J. Harris. There was an exceptionally large attendance of visitors. The W.Ts. in

the Third Degree were presented by W. Bro. W. H. Allen, Lodge Tirau; in the Second by W. Bro. A. E.

Hammond; and in the First by W. Bro. T. Hall. The address to the W.M. was given by Prov.Dep.G.M., Bro.

M. McLean, and the address to the Wardens by J.G.W., Bro. M. J. Harris. The following officers were

invested by the W.M., assisted by the I.P.M., Bro. T. H. Phillips :—S.W., Bro. W. H. J. Poole ; J.W., Bro. C.

H. Adams; Chaplain, W. Bro. T. Hall ; Trees., Bro. H. C. Fox ; Sec., Bro. C. Lowe; S.D., Bro. H. L.

Foxcroft; J.D., Bro. A. Brown ; Organist, Bro. H. Crump ; I.G., Bro, B. P. Andreas; S.S., Bro. H. J. Harrison;

and Tyler, Bro. B. G. Armstrong. The collection in aid of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund realised £5 5s. The

ceremony was very well conducted, and was instructive in Masonic procedure to all present. Lodge was

closed by the newly installed W.M. at 9.55 p.m., and all adjourned to "another place," where a most

enjoyable repast was partaken of. The social pleasures were considerably modified in consideration of a

notice received from G.L. prescribing a period of mourning in memory of the late M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns,

P.G.M. The usual toasts were given and honoured, and a few musical items and interesting recitations

enjoyed.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————————

HAWKES BAY.

Bedford, No. 25.—On the 25th August last the P.Ms. of Bedford were privileged, through the goodwill and

consent of the W.M., Bro. F. W. Gore, to conduct the ceremony of passing two brethren. There were nearly

40 brethren present, including the W.M. of Lodge Abercorn, Waipawa, who was accompanied by quite a

number of his officers and brethren. Bedford P.Ms. rolled up in force, and were placed under the direction of

our veteran, W. Bro. J. Scholes, who assumed the chair. Only two of the officers were absent, and one of

these was transferred some time ago to another district. It was decidedly refreshing to see such a full muster,

and it goes without saying that the visitors especially received a wholehearted welcome. The M.W.G.M.'s

circular letter counselling Lodges to exercise the strictest economy in view of the severe financial stringency

which experts agreed will soon arise as a direct result of the present war was read, and the question of

abolishing the use of alcoholic liquor for the term of the war was referred to the W.M. and his Wardens for

consideration and report at next meeting. Two guineas were voted to circular general appeals, and accounts

amounting to £23 19s. 1d. were passed for payment. W. Bro. Scholes then appointed the following P.Ms. to

assume the offices named :—S.W., W. Bro. W. A. Chambers; J.W., W. Bro. Storah; S.D., W. Bro. Hartley ;

J.D., W. Bro. J. Hobson ; Chaplain, W. Bro. Rev. A. W. Stace; I.G., W. Bro. W. H. Booth. The Lodge was

opened in the Second Degree, and W. Bro. Wright occupied the chair and obligated one candidate. W. Bro.

Chambers explained the Secrets, and the candidate was conducted to a seat. The gavil was then placed in the

hands of R.W. Bro. T. Hobson, P.Prov.G.M., who obligated and entrusted the second candidate. Both

brethren were invested by W. Bro. Chambers, W. Bro. Scholes delivered the S.E. Address, and the W.Ts.

were presented by W. Bro. Wright. The Lodge was called off. On resuming W. Bro. Booth gave the final

address. Before closing W. Bro. Scholes and Bro. A. D. Gibson were elected as Bedford's representatives to

the Central Board of Enquiry. Another candidate for admission was proposed. The usual hour in the

refectory was thoroughly enjoyed. P.Ms. expressed their appreciation of the privilege accorded them, and

trusted that this P.M.'s night would prove to be the forerunner of many other foregatherings of the veterans of

Bedford. — [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 66.—The regular meeting, held on the 19th August, was well attended, also a good few visitors

were present. After the ordinary business, one brother for affiliation was elected. The other ceremonial work

was the raising of one brother. The W.M. (Bro. W. Snell) gave the obligation, and he also entrusted the

candidate with the Signs and Secrets. Bro. Davidson, S.D., invested the candidate. The T.H. was given by

Bro. Dobson, J.D., and W. Bro. Gillespie. W. Bro. Smith gave the W.Ts., W. Bro. Paton the Final Charge,

and W. Bro. Soundy presented the V. of S.L. It was decided to go on with the improvements to the adjoining

rooms of the Lodge, and the successful tenderer has made a start with the work, and when finished will make

the rooms much more comfortable. During the evening the W.M. presented the I.P.M., W. Bro. Harrison,

with his P.M. certificate. The Lodge closed at 10 p.m., after which a pleasant time was spent in the re-

fectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ruataniwha, No. 172.—The installation of Bro. R. A. Fraser as W.M., and the investiture of officers, was

held in the Masonic Hall, Takapau, on 20th August. The W.M., W. Bro. M. Steffensen, presided over an

excellent attendance, upwards of 60 being present. The Lodge was opened at 7.30 p.m., and the ordinary

business having been disposed of, the G.D. of C., W. Bro. J. Hobson, announced R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston,

Prov. G.M., and G.L. officers, who were received with the customary honours. Amongst the G.L. officers

were :—R.W. Bro. T. Hobson, P.P.G.M., W. Bro. P. F. Wall, S.W., W. Bro, R. S. Chadwick, J.W., W. Bro.

T. W. Effingham, S.D., W. Bro. W. Chambers, J.D., W. Bro. J. Brown, I.G., W. Bro. J. D. Watson, W. Bro.

E. Basil Jones, G.S.B. The ancient charges having been read by the Sec., Bro. W. Hobson, the W.M.-elect

was then obligated. A B. of I.M. was formed, and W. Bro. R. A. Fraser duly installed by R.W. Bro. H. L.

Harston, Prov.G.M. The W.Ts. were delivered by W. Bro. Gore (Lodge Bedford, No. 25), W. Bro. Snell

(Lodge Rawhiti, No. 66), and W. Bro. Wilson (Lodge Lion, No. 114). The address to the W.M. was given by

W. Bro. Watson (Lodge Lion, No. 114). The W.M. then invested his I.P.M., W. Bro. M. Steffensen. W. Bro.

Caughley invested the Wardens, Bro. E. F. Stubbs, S.W., Bro. A. Chishohn, J.W. The Wardens were then

addressed by W. Bro. Wall (Lodge Bedford, No. 25). W. Bro. Caughley, on behalf of the officers, invested

the officers: — W. Bro. W. Hobson, Treas. ; Bro. H. H. Weston, Sec. ; W. Bro. Scholes, P.G.D., Organist;

Bro. J. W. Watkins, S.D. ; Bro. J. W. Thompson, J.D. ; Bro. A. Black, S.S. ; Bro. W. Effingham, J.S. ; Bro.

A. W. Cook, Tyler. R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M., addressed the brethren, making a special appeal on

behalf of the W. and O. Fund, which received a hearty response. R.W. Bro. Harston also, in an impressive

speech, referred to the late M.W. Bro. Binns, and moved that a vote of condolence and sympathy be

accorded, which was carried in the usual Masonic custom. During the evening W. Bro. M. Steffensen was

presented by the Installing Master, on behalf of the Lodge, with a P.M.'s jewel, not only as a token of

appreciation of his year's work as Master, but also of the sincere esteem and regard of his officers and

brethren. Before closing the Lodge the W.M. invited all present to join him In the Town Hall, where

refreshments of a substantial nature were provided. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured, W.

Bro. Chambers making a delightful speech on the aims and objects of Freemasonry and, W. Bro. Watson

created a deep impression' by his reference to, and observations on, the position of those brethren who are so

nobly giving their life and services at the front. The visiting brethren contributed mainly to the musical

programme, and a very pleasant and enjoyable evening was spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

RUAPEHU.

St. Andrew Kil., No. 79.—The monthly meeting was held on the 9th ult., W.M. Bro. Craig presiding. There

being no degree work set down for this meeting, the opportunity was taken of hearing Bro. J. D. Anderson

give a very complete rendering of the 1st T.B. Lecture. This was immediately followed by an address by

Bro. Andrew on " The Hidden Meanings of the First Degree." The two lectures were much appreciated and

enjoyed by the brethren. During the evening Choirmaster Bro. Sperring sang the solo, "Lead, Kindly Light."

A motion of sympathy with Chaplain-Major Bro. Luxford in the sad affliction which had befallen him whilst

serving his King and Country at the Dardanelles was carried, several members expressing their sorrow and

sympathy with our former Chaplain. Owing to the Lodge being in mourning on account of the death of M.W.

Bro. F. C. Binns, P.G.M. the meeting in the ante-room after Lodge closed was conducted in a more subdued

manner than usual. The occasion was taken advantage of by W. Bro. Armstrong to congratulate Bros.

Anderson and Andrew on their excellent evening's work.—{Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ruapehu, No. 128.—The regular meeting, held on the 26th August, attracted an unusually large attendance

of members and visitors, due in a great measure to the first official visit of R.W. Bro. David McFarlane, the

recently-appointed Prov.G.M. of the new district, Ruapehu. Our distinguished brother was accompanied by a

number of Wanganui brethren. The Prov. G.M. having been received with the usual honours, was addressed

by the W.M., who on behalf of himself, officers, and brethren of Ruapehu congratulated R.W. Bro.

McFarlane on his appointment. The work was an initiation. The ceremony was conducted in a capable and

painstaking manner, the Prov. G.M. and R.W. Bro. Keesing assisting. Acting on the request of the

M.W.G.M., a resolution was passed unanimously to abolish alcoholic liquor from the refectory. Two appeals

were voted 21s. each. Sympathetic references were made to the death of the oldest P.M. of Lodge Ruapehu

(Bro. V. Mangham), who died at Rotorua on the 2nd August, and to the tragic death of M.W. Bro. F. C.

Binns. A proposal to make a presentation to an esteemed and enthusiastic member of the Craft was

favourably received, and a sum duly voted to assist the project. One candidate for initiation was proposed

and one for affiliation. After the Lodge was closed the brethren were entertained for an hour in the refectory.

In responding to the toast of the visitors R.W. Bro. Keesing (of Wanganui) "let himself go," and rendered

one of the most impressive addresses on Freemasonry ever listened to within the walls of Ruapehu. It was

quite an impromptu effort, and was highly appreciated by all who were privileged to listen. After

acknowledging the toast of "The Visitors," the speaker referred to the present war, the sorrow brought into

many homes, the misery caused by the insane ambition of Germany to rule the world. Freemasonry, he

maintained, was the most unselfish institution in existence, and if a huge congress of Freemasons from all

parts of the world could be convened, what an immense power for good would result! War and its horrors

could be abolished, and the Brotherhood of Man established! — [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Huia, No. 171.—The current month has been a busy one for this Lodge, the ordinary meeting being held on

2nd September, when the long-looked-for visit of the P.G.M., R.W. Bro. MacFarlane, eventuated. The work

performed consisted of raising a, brother, which was allocated as follows :—Obs. by the W.M. Bro. Spooner

; Secrets by the I.P.M. W. Bro. Smith ; Retro., W. Bro. Stone; W.Ts., R.W. Bro. E. Hosking ; T.H. by the

P.G.M., R.W. Bro. MacFarlane; Final Charge by the W.M. Two ballots were taken and proved clear. At the

conclusion of the work the P.G.M. replied briefly on behalf of G.L., reminding us that he would avail

himself of the opportunity to speak later on, which, by the way, he did in the refectory, and in a most incisive

and convincing style, by stating it was not his intention, nor was it advisable, to employ old time-worn

platitudes, consisting of mere flattery ; he had come to make our acquaintance and to view the work and

judge it on its merits, which he stated (with emphasis) was exceptionally well rendered. Also he stated we

need not fear for holding our own in competition with other Lodge work in the district ; therefore do not

relax, but let it rather be an incentive to maintain the high standard attained, was the verdict and advice he

announced.

In addition to the above, the Lodge, by special request from Lodge Waitaki, held an emergency meeting on

the 10th of the month to pass a military brother stationed at the Rangiotu camp, a good attendance being

recorded. It is also quite probable that another emergency meeting will be held on the 30th to confer the final

degree on our brother. A large number of brethren from the camp have expressed a wish to have the privilege

of attending prior to their departure for the front. The officers and members of the Lodge consider it a high

compliment to have such a privilege granted to them.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————————————

WELLINGTON.

Waterloo, No. 13. — The annual meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Wellington, on 13th September,

W.M. Bro. S. J. Moncrieff presiding. There was a very full attendance, and a large number of Lodges were

represented. R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., was present, and was accompanied by R.W. Bro. H. H.

Seaton, P.G.W., W. Bro. H. Hobbs, and other brethren. W. Bro. A. Erskine, P.M., was presented by the D. of

C., W. Bro. R. A. Scott, and obligated by W. Bro. Moncrieff, after which the chair was taken by M.W. Bro.

H. J. Williams, P.G.M., who installed W. Bro. Erskine into the chair for the current year. On the re-entrance

of the brethren proclamations were made by the D. of C. and W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. R. A. Scott,

A. Wyatt, and C. B. Harton. A vocal quartette, " Integer Vitae," was excellently rendered by Bros. Thomson,

Longmore, Connell, and Smith. The Prov.G.M. presented the Warrant, Constitution, and By-laws, and W.

Bro. J. Godber invested the following officers :— S.W., Bro. W. C. Robinson, J.W. ; J.W., Bro. W. A.

Parton, S.D. ; Sec., Bro. G. E. Smith, P.M. ; Treas., Bro. A. W. Press ; D. of C., Bro. A. Veitch, P.M. ;

Chaplain, Bro. J. Mowatt, P.M. ; S.D., Bro. J. Gordon, J.D. ; J.D., Bro. F. E. Godber, I.G. ; I.G., Bro. F. H.

Mather, S.S. ; S.S., Bro. W. Berry, J.S. ; J.S. Bro. E. B. Atwood ; Assist-Stewards, Bros. Gannaway and

Wallace; Tyler, Bro. A. E. Colmer. The address to the W.M. was given by M.W. Bro. Williams, the charge

to the Wardens by W. Bro. G. E. Smith, and the brethren were addressed by R.W. Bro. Peterkin. The W.M.,

in addressing the Lodge, deeply deplored the necessity which had prevented the S.W., Bro. A. McL. Wilson,

from going forward, but expressed the sincere hope that he would still fill the chair on some subsequent

occasion. A collection was made in aid of the G.L. Annuity Fund, and feeling reference was also made to the

death of the late M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns. The supper-room was reached before 10 o'clock, and a pleasant hour

was spent, though all too short for the leisurely completion of the toast list.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Adelaide Road, on the 2nd

September. The W.M., Bro. E. D. Alexander, presided over a good muster of brethren. The night was very

cold, but the heat from the radiators which have been so generously presented and installed by the brethren

made the Lodgeroom very comfortable. The ceremonial work consisted of passing two brethren. The W.M.,

assisted by W. Bro. Watt, I.P.M., gave the Ob. and communicated the Secrets; W. Bro. Rowell, D. of C.,

Charge after I. ; S.E. Address, Bro. C. Martin, J.D. ; W.Ts., the W.M. The S.W. and J.W. each explained

their respective jewels. The Final Charge was delivered by Bro. J. W. Sexton, J.W. The Lodge was then

closed in the F.C. Degree, and a lecture on the 1st T.B. was given by Bro. A. A. Whitelaw, S.W. The

brethren decided to carry out the G.M.'s wishes in curtailing expenses in the refectory, and a motion was

passed that we abolish liquor during the war. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to W, Bro. Rowell for his

gift of refreshments until the end of the year. Two circular appeals were received, the sum of £2 2s. being

voted to each. The Lodge being closed, a quiet time was spent in the refectory ; the usual toasts were

proposed and replied to.

On the 19th August a special meeting was held to discuss the best means of paying off the balance of the

second mortgage on the hall property. After a short discussion the sum of over £50 was collected in a few

minutes.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The usual meeting was held on the 8th September, and it being the last ordinary

meeting of the year great interest was displayed by the brethren, who rolled up to the number of 40, and W.

Bro. Guiness can well be congratulated on the finishing meeting of a very successful and prosperous year,

and if the newly-elected Master can only keep up to the reputation which W. Bro. Guiness has earned

everybody will be well satisfied. A ballot was taken for a candidate, which proved clear. Two candidates,

one of whom had journeyed from the camp at Rangiotu, were initiated into Freemasonry. W. Bro. Guiness

obligated, W. Bro. Ayson communicated the Secrets, W. Bro. Rishworth the N.E. Charge, Bro. McLachlan

invested, W. Bro. Hobbs presented the W.Ts., and Bro. Leighton the Charge after Initiation. R.W. Bro.

Peterkin presented Bro. Hartley with his M.M. certificate. The election of officers then took place, and our

genial S.W., Bro. McLachlan, was unanimously elected Master for the ensuing year. After ballots were taken

for S.W., S.D., and I.G., all this year's officers went up a step. A committee consisting of P.Ms. and Wardens

was set up to arrange for the installation, for which a levy of 5s. was struck. W. Bro. Ayson presented the

Lodge with an I.P.M. collar and jewel, and Bro. Surtess a seat, for which they were both thanked. The sum of

£3 3s. was voted to the Organist for services rendered. After a good discussion the G.M.'s circular re doing

away with liquor at the "Fourth " was agreed to. The Lodge was in mourning out of respect to M.W. Bro. F.

C. Binns. The Lodge was than closed at 10.15, and a pleasant hour spent in the refectory.—[Lodge

Correspondent]

————

Whetu Kairangi, No. 201.—The monthly meeting was held the Methodist Church, Worser Bay, on the 10th

September, W Bro. Porritt, P.M., P.G. Chaplain, presiding. The weather was not of the best, and the

attendance in consequence was rather scanty, but we were pleased to welcome the W.M. an brethren from

Lodge Tutanekai, also brethren from Lodge St Andrew. Bro. Boon's motion, altering the day of the monthly

meeting from the second Friday in each month to the second Saturday in each month, was confirmed, so that,

subject to confirmation by G.L., the Lodge will meet in future on the second Saturday in each month at 7

p.m. The election of officers for the ensuing year was taken, and the result will appear in the report of the

installation. It was resolved to fall in with the G.M.'s wishes by reducing the expenditure on alcoholic liquors

to the lowest minimum, it being felt that the good sense of the brethren was quite sufficient to keep any

excess in check. A letter was received from Lodge Hinemoa offering the use of their Lodgeroom for the

installation meeting on the 9th October. This handsome offer was accepted with the Lodge's warmest thanks,

as the restricted space and lack of conveniences make it almost impossible to hold the ceremony in the

Lodgeroom. Will members of sister Lodges please note that our installation will be held in the Lodgeroom

Lodge Hinemoa, Daniel Street, on Saturday, 9th October. On the Lodge being closed a happy time was spent

in the supper room before guests and brethren left for cars and home.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

St. Augustine, No. 1.—The monthly meeting was held in St Augustine Hall on 8th September, V.E. Comp.

W. Broadley presiding, who made reference to the sad loss the Craft had sustained by the death of V.E.

Comp. F. C. Binns. A motion of condolence was passed, all the companions standing as a mark of respect.

V.E. Comp. W. Broadley expressed his pleasure in having E. Comp. Hopkinson with us again, and hoped

that he (Comp. Hopkinson) had fully recovered from his long illness. Comp. Hopkinson returned thanks for

the good wishes expressed. A ballot was taken for W. Bros. A. Cookson, J. Graham, and C. W. Suckling,

P.Ms. of Lodge Lincoln. They were duly elected. The balance-sheet was read and adopted.

S.E. read his annual report, which was ordered to be attached to the minutes of the meeting. Officers for the

ensuing year were elected. (Names will appear in installation report.— ED.C.) W. Bros. A. Cookson, J.

Graham, and C. M. Cookson were admitted and advanced to the honourable degree of Mark Masters.

W.M.M. Bro. Broadley obligated, W.M.M. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop gave the Secrets and Signs, W.M.M. Bro.

Cocksley presented the W.Ts., and W.M.M. Bro. Robertson delivered the Final Charge. Lodge was then

closed and Chapter resumed. M.E. Comp. S. C. Bingham presented Comp. Humes with his R.A. diploma,

Comps. Hopkinson, Gribble, and Turner with their Ark Mariner's certificates, also Comps. Gribble and

Turner with their Red Cross certificates. Two companions drew their clearance. After H.G.W. the Chapter

closed at 9.45 p.m.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Wairarapa, No. 10.—The annual convocation was held at Carterton on the 17th September, V.E. Comp.

Foss, Z., presiding. M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt, G.Supt., conducted the ceremony of installation, being

assisted by M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, V.E. Comp. J. Moncrieff, P.G.Soj., and V.E. Comp. W. Moore,

P.G.Soj. V.E. Comp. Phillpotts acted efficiently as D. of C. V.E. Comp. W. N. Dampsey, P.Z., was again

installed as 1st Prin., E. Comps. C. W. Perrin, H., and C. E. King as J., Comp. J. Milne, S.E., Comp. J. B.

Bairstowe, S.N., V.E. Comp. J. Moncrieff, Treas., Comps. Hunn, Pragnill, and R. J. King, Sojourners. The

address to the 1st Prin. was given by M.E. Comp. Porritt, to the officers by V.E. Comp. J. Moncrieff, and to

the companions by M.E. Comp. Williams. A number of resolutions were adopted to give effect to the change

of location of the Chapter, which will in future meet in Masterton. Light refreshments were served in the

refectory, and in responding to toasts most of the speakers referred to the change of location, the reasons that

had dictated it, and the anticipated result.—[Chapter. Correspondent.]

————

Manawatu, No. 11.—The annual meeting was held on the 16th ult., the attendance of members being

sparse, owing in a measure to the constant demands upon the time of many companions, who are called upon

to assist on the various sub-committees and local bodies who are keen workers in assisting to raise funds for

patriotic purposes. However, notwithstanding the foregoing a very harmonious spirit prevailed. The routine

business included a ballot for exaltation, also for two joining members, all being successful. The installation

and investiture of officers for the ensuing year was then proceeded with, the ceremony being conducted by

R.E. Comp. G. W. Palmer, G. Supt., assisted by M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, G.S.E., representing Sup.G.

Chapter, V.E. Comp. MacIndoe, P.Z., acting as D. of C., the following being the order :—V.E. Comp. E.

Hocking as Z. E. Comp. J. Stone as H., E. Comp. A. J. Gallichan as J. ; Comp. W. F. Durward ; S.N., Comp.

H. J. Canton ; Trees., Comp. W. Smith; 1st Soj., Comp. E. R. B. Holben ; 2nd Soj., Comp. E. J. Hewlett ; 3rd

Soj., Comp. I. J. Oliver; Organist, Comp. C. W. Naylor; Janitor, Comp. H. Ehrhon ; Auditors, V.E. Comp. E.

Grove and S. Comp. C. J. Hewlett. The various officers were addressed by R.E. Comp. G. W. Palmer, G.S.,

V.E. Comp. Hosking, Z., R.E. Comp. W. Dawick ; the address to companions by M.E. Comp. H. J.

Williams, G.S.E. In addition, we must not omit the attendance of visiting officers and companions of Rawhiti

Chapter, who we were delighted to welcome. At the conclusion three candidates were proposed for

admission to the Chapter. We regretted the inability of M.E. Comp. Rev. Porritt, P.G.Z., to be present, he

being engaged elsewhere. An adjournment was made to the refectory, where the usual toasts were honoured,

also a most interesting and instructive address by the Sup.G. Chapter representatives on matters appertaining

to the welfare of the R.A. Chapter, and its aspects towards the national crisis, the whole of which was much

appreciated by all assembled ; and if a congenial spirit or good comradeship is of any value, then it is safe to

assume that this Chapter is on a sound basis, and the prospects for the ensuing years will produce good

results.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Victory, No. 12.—The regular convocation was held on 19th August, V.E. Comp. J. Bartlett presiding.

Motions to adopt the G.Reg.'s suggestions re Chapter Trustees were carried, as was also one nominating

officers in August, electing in September, and installing in October, One candidate was elected by affiliation,

and three companions were duly exalted, the work being carried out by the 1st Prin. and V.E. Comps. Moller

and Bolton, the latter also giving the lecture on the Sacred Pedestal. E. Comp. Widdowson acted as

Conductor. The arrangements for officers for the Mark and Excellent Degrees were left with the past and

incoming Principals.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Waimate, No. 16.—The installation of officers took place on the 15th September. Owing to the lamented

demise of our late H., E. Comp. S. Bird, who would naturally have gone forward to the chair of Z., the

reigning Z., V.E. Comp. D. A. Fulton, was asked to continue office for another term. No less than five

nominations for membership were brought forward. When it is considered that the membership of this

Chapter is drawn from one Lodge, St. Augustine, No. 99, such a fact speaks well for Masonic keenness of

the brethren of the Lodge. There is, therefore, a splendid vista of work opening for our 1st Prin. and his

officers, and there is every prospect of others coming forward later. Roughly, the membership of our Chapter

is about 40 per cent. of that of the Lodge, a proportion your scribe thinks very good. R.E. Comp. C. Flavell,

Supt. of the Canterbury District, was received and saluted. The D. of IC. then announced M.E. Comp. A. C.

Andrews, G.Z., and his officers. Having been received and saluted the G.Z. handed the Sceptre to R.E.

Comp. Flavell, in whose hands lay the work of the evening. A conclave being formed, E. Comp. Fulton was

re-obligated on the throne by the R.E. Supt., and was addressed by the G.Z. E. Comp. T. W. Manchester was

obligated, invested, installed, and addressed by V.E. Comp. A. J. Hoskins, P.G.St.B. E. Comp. James

Manchester was obligated, invested, installed, and addressed by V.E. Comp. W. McLean. V.E. Comp.

Menzies was entrusted with the investiture of officers. V.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop addressed the officers,

and R.E. Comp. C. Flavell addressed the companions. After the G.Z. and the R.E. Supt. had retired, H.G.W.

were tendered by V.E. Comp. Burns, of Chapter No. 15, Timaru, and by his own Chapter. The usual

adjournment was made to the refectory, where a quiet but enjoyable time was spent. The following is the list

of officers : — Z., V.E. Comp. D. A. Fulton; H., E. Comp. T. W. Manchester ; J., E. Comp. Jas. Manchester

(Manchester Bros.); S.E., E. Comp. J. W. Manchester ; S.N., E. Comp: Coventry; Treas., V.E. Comp.

Shackleton; 1st Soj., E. Comp. C. Bateman; 2nd Soj., Comp. C. Manchester ; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. J. Atwill;

D. of C., V.E. Comp. N. Colville; Organist, V.E. Comp. Menzies; Stewards, Comps. R. Brain and E. R.

Beckett; Auditors, V.E. Comps. Hoskins and Lee; W.M.M., V.E. Comp. Shackleton; W.E.M., V.E. Comp.

Hoskins.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Wanganui, No. 23.—During the past year increasing interest has been shown in this Chapter. Besides the

work entailed in connection with candidates, time has been found to work the side degrees. The installation

of officers on 2nd September was in keeping with the progress of the year. R.E. Comp. G. W. Palmer,

G.Supt. of W., upon whom the greater part of the work fell, carried the impressive ceremony, ably assisted

by acting-G.D. of C., V.E. Comp. J. G. Swan, P.Z. It was with regret and sympathy that we received the

apology of M.E Comp, H. J. Williams, G.S.E., who was absent through illness. The interest of the evening

naturally centred round the installation of V.E. Comp. G. G. Bullock as 1st Prin., E. Comp. E. Runnerstrum

as 2nd Prin., and E. Comp. A. W. Larsen as 3rd Prin. For the other offices the following E. companions were

invested :—I.P.Z., V.E. Comp. N. Roulston ; Z., V.E. Comp. G. G. Bullock; H., E. Comp. E. Runnerstrum ;

J., E. Comp. A. W. Larsen ; S.E., E. Comp. F. Stevens ; S.N., E. Comp. C. P. Bates; Treas., R.E. Comp. G.

W. Palmer; 1st Soj., E. Comp. C. C. Moutray ; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. F. Symes; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. E. C.

Fletcher ; Janitor, E. Comp. J. K. Revell. A pleasing feature of the convocation, besides the presence of local

visitors and several members who had not for some time been able to attend, was the official visit of the

young and enthusiastic Egmont Chapter. It is but a few weeks since the local Chapter journeyed to Stratford,

and the keenness we observed there augurs well for their future. We look forward to their promised visit in

February, when the Mark Degree will be worked by them. During the subsequent pleasant hour in the

refectory reference was made to the sincere work of the T.P.Z., V.E. Comp. N. Roulston.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]

Supplement to “The New Zealand Craftsman”