...























    THE M.W.G.M. AND THE G.L. OF NEW ZEALAND.


    LE Roi est Mort, Vive le Roi ! In a very few days the present G.M. will throw off the cares of office, and


    another brother will reign in his stead. In the history of nations the reigning potentate only ceases his rule


    under the compelling hand of the Great Leveller of all earthly greatness, or when in the ruthless grasp of


    factious revolutionary subjects. And there are few instances to-day of any sovereign holding absolutely


    despotic powers. It is little wonder that Freemasonry has acquired a reputation of being a marvellous body,


    especially in its constitution. In principle, democratic. In all the essentials of supreme headship, despotic.


    And totally unaffected by any system of faiths or creeds, in spite of the number and their diversity, professed


    by members, or in other words possessing what in any other institution under the sun would be antipathic


    influences, but which in this become homogeneous. Its democracy is contained in an equality of rights,


    implying that as one family created by the All-Wise and Beneficent Creator, all meet in the Lodge on a level,


    and that on the level all are travelling to one predestined goal. That in the Lodge genuine merit shall receive


    more respect than boundless wealth, or social honour and distinction, can confer. Or, as our ritual teaches,


    that man is not esteemed for his worldly possessions. That in the Lodge no one individual member out of


    office— whatever may be his worldly rank—can take precedence of another, but, being cemented and linked


    together by the same chain of mutual rights, mutual interests, and undivided responsibilities, an equal


    fraternal status is maintained until the unity is dissolved by the closing of the Lodge. In many jurisdictions


    to-day this democracy is still further emphasised in that the government is "by the people and from the


    people," or, in other words, that the government, as represented by GLs., is comprehended by an elective


    delegation of units from each Lodge in the territory. But the most singular incongruity, or what is apparently


    so, consists in the fact that, though Freemasonry is essentially religious in all its teachings, the varied and


    many creeds professed by its members, exercises no influence, whether prejudicial or the reverse.


    Proselytism or rancour are equally unknown. To fully appreciate the virtue of this state of affairs one must be


    acquainted with the mixed condition of religion, as exemplified by members of Lodges in India and the East.


    It has already been said that the constitution of Freemasonry is distinguished by its democracy and


    despotism. This latter word is scarcely correct, as it may be understood to menu a tyranny, so that we will


    substitute autocracy, and even this may be held to involve antilogy, as the terms are so entirely contradictory.


    But the fact remains that, notwithstanding the democratic nature of Freemasonry, all its laws contemplate


    conferring absolutely autocratic powers on its head for the time being, from which there is no appeal. In the


    ceremony of Installation the G.M. is charged in the following terms :—


    "By immemorial custom and the irrevocable landmarks of the Craft you are invested with powers and


    prerogatives well-nigh absolute."


    Paton says :—


    "The office of G.M. is one of such antiquity as to be coeval with the very origin of the institution, whether


    we look at that origin in a traditional or historical point of view. There never has been a time when the


    Order has not been governed by a chief presiding office-bearer under this name. From this we derive the


    important principle that the office of G.M. is independent of G.L., and that all his prerogatives and duties,


    so far as they are connected generally with the Craft, are inherent in the office, and not derived from, or


    amenable to, any modern constitution."


    So that it would appear that the G.M. has his office and holds it "from the people." And there is no power to


    whom he can become responsible. We do remember one instance in which a G.Reg. differed from a G.M. on


    custom and interpretation of Masonic law, and the G.M. ruled. But it was on the eve of his retirement from


    office. On the following day the Registrar recurred to the question and hammered his opinion into G.L. and


    his late chief with a vigour worthy of a greater question, and thus took his revenge. But the legal brother in


    question, whatever may have been his knowledge of Common Law, was entirely ignorant of Masonic Law,


    and, however much he may have laid the flattering unction to his soul that he had avenged himself on a


    G.M., he was still wrong, and Masonically his contention did not hold water. Another point that makes the




    autocracy of a G.M. still more strange is in the fact that no sooner does he lay down his mallet of office, than


    he resembles the old Roman hero, Cincinnatus, who, called from the plough to the dictatorship, after


    delivering Rome from the Aequians, retired from the high place to the plough. It is one of the extraordinary


    phases of the democracy of Freemasonry that he who for a time is invested with supreme autocratic


    authority, at the expiration of his term of office, retires to the Masonic plough. True, he is always treated


    with the courtesy and honour due to the high position he has held, but his actual position is a strict equality


    with the other brethren of his Lodge. And it is one of the features that he feels no loss of dignity and suffers


    none. M.W. Bro. Dougall, who now retires to the placidity of the position of a private member, has worked


    well and worthily during his period of office, and deserves well of his brethren. He has held office during a


    critical time in the world's history, which has had its influence on Freemasonry. Bro. Dougall has done his


    best to meet the emergencies of the case, and, if for no other reason, his reign will live in the memory of


    members for many years to conic in the administration of the War Relief Fund, which was inaugurated by


    him. His voice has been freely heard during the past two years in upholding the best traditions of Free


    masonry and uplifting the institution, and it has been very well said by a writer, "Man's efforts should be


    appraised not on what he has accomplished, but on what he has tried to do." The best wishes of the N.Z.


    CRAFTSMAN are extended to M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson on his assumption of the chair of G.M. May he


    add increased lustre to the good work achieved by the G.L. of New Zealand, and increase the prosperity that


    we are sure will accrue, and may he experience every happiness during the currency of his reign.


    ———————————


    THE COMING OF AGE OF THE NEW ZEALAND CRAFTSMAN.


    ———<>———


    THE present issue completes twenty-one years of publication of the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN. In the early part of


    1895 a meeting of brethren interested in the carrying on of a Masonic publication in New Zealand was


    convened by the late M.W. Bro. E. T. Gillon, P.G.M., and at that time editor of the Wellington "Evening


    Post." Particulars of a scheme for the formation of a limited liability company and the acquisition of the


    interests of Messrs. Cleave and Co., of Auckland, who were at that time the publishers of the colonial


    Masonic journal, were placed before brethren. After full discussion it was decided to form a company as


    proposed. Provisional directors were appointed and a satisfactory application for shares was made in the


    room. On the 5th April, the provisional directors met, with M.W. Bro. Gillen in the chair, who stated that the


    necessary prospectuses and circulars had been issued and correspondence had taken place with Messrs.


    Cleave and Co. The acting-secretary stated that 245 £2 shares had been applied for, and Messrs. Cleave and


    Co. had guaranteed to place 50 additional. An estimate of receipts and expenditure was submitted and


    deemed satisfactory. After full discussion it was decided that the N.Z. Masonic Newspaper Co. be registered


    under the Joint Stock Companies' Act, 1882. At subsequent meetings the Memorandum and Articles of


    Association were presented by the solicitor, and after explanation were agreed to, and the Company was


    registered, Bro. E. T. Gillon being chairman of directors. The tender of the Wellington "Evening Post" was


    accepted for printing the journal, and the work has been continued by the same firm ever since. The first


    general meeting of shareholders was held on 9th May, 1895, when the following directors were elected :—


    Messrs. E. T. Gillon, G. Wilson, T E. Hamerton, R. Fletcher, H. J. Freeman, and H. Baillie. At a meeting of


    directors held immediately after Bro. E. T. Gillon was elected chairman of directors. The chairman stated


    that it would be necessary to appoint an editor, secretary, manager, and publisher. He suggested that these


    offices be held by one person, and the brother who has held these offices continually to the present time was


    appointed, with Bro. Gillon as associate editor. At the same meeting it was resolved to present 25 paid-up


    shares to the G.L. of New Zealand (these shares were subsequently realised and the proceeds credited to the


    annuity fund). The Company was unfortunate in losing the literary services of Bro. Gillon after the


    publication of the first two numbers, as he was attacked by that illness which subsequently proved fatal. In


    October he became so ill as to necessitate his resignation of the office of chairman, which was accepted with


    the greatest regret and sorrow. At the meeting of directors in November, Bro. George Wilson was elected


    chairman, and retained the office until 1902, when he declined re-election owing to his paying an extended


    visit to Great Britain, and on the 1st July of that year Bro. R. Fletcher was elected chairman and still retains


    the office. Want of space will not permit us to detail the various vicissitudes of fortune to which the Masonic


    Newspaper Co. has been subject. At one time it appeared to the more pessimistic directors that the


    CRAFTSMAN would have to share the fate of its several unfortunate predecessors; but the mimic storms were


    weathered. Neither can we detail the list of those brethren who have assisted in directing the affairs of the


    Company, many of whom have passed to their long home, and include, in addition to Bro. Gillon, Bros.


    Coveney, Greig, Jack, Hamerton, and Freeman. It is not meet that we should expatiate on the work of the




    CRAFTSMAN, preferring to leave it to the judgment of the brethren. It need only be said that the intention has


    ever been to uplift Freemasonry, and to endeavour to promote its welfare. We have the satisfaction of


    knowing that many old-time abuses have been removed, which we are sure would not be recurred to. To the


    many brethren who have acted as agents, correspondents, literary contributors; and to the subscribers, the


    best thanks of the Company are due. As the newly-installed Master so frequently says—that unless he has


    the support of the brethren his best efforts will fail—so with our publication, the support of brethren is


    necessary to ensure successful publication. The possibilities of a Masonic journal in New Zealand, if not


    illimitable, are very great, and, while we are thankful for the support accorded, it has not in any sense


    reached an average, let alone a maximum. Could a fifty per cent. of membership support be secured, we are


    assured that a publication could be produced in this small country that would be second to none in the world


    of fraternal journalism.


    ———————————


    THE CONVERSION OF DEBENTURES.


    ———<>———


    The Secretary of the Treasury has proposed to the B. of G.P. to convert the 4 per cent. Debentures, which


    mature in 1917 and 1918, into 4½ per cent. Debentures, with renewed currency. The question will be


    submitted to G.L. in the Board's report, but we understand the Board does not recommend the conversion. At


    first sight it may appear an advantageous arrangement, but referring to our correspondence column a letter


    will be found from W. Bro. A. Jolly, which puts another complexion on the subject, and we commend this


    letter to the serious consideration of every member of G.L. As on all questions of law the decision .of the


    legal adviser of G.L. invariably decides the matter, so in finance it is desirable to give due weight to expert


    opinion, and every consideration to those who have an inside knowledge. G.L. is fortunate in having a


    member possessing the knowledge Bro. Jolly has on such an important question, and is indebted to him for


    his kindness in offering advice.


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


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


    THE new W.M. of N.Z. Pacific Lodge, in his address at the annual meeting, gave satisfaction to his P.Ms. by


    promising to offer them plenty of work during the current year.


    THE absence of adequate ventilation in Masonic halls has been painfully felt during the recent hot summer.


    THE doyen of N.Z. Pacific Lodge—W. Bro. C. M. Igglesden— was present at the annual meeting, though


    rapidly approaching his 85th birthday. The Masonic spirit is still willing, though the flesh is getting a little


    weak.


    SOME months ago Lodge Tutanekai adopted a resolution for the exclusion of alcoholic liquor from the


    refreshment table during the war. At the April meeting a resolution was proposed to rescind the no-liquor


    resolve, but after debate it was rejected by a two to one vote.


    WAIKATO RA. CHAPTER is evidently unaffected by the war, if one may judge from the agenda of the April


    meeting, which contained the names of seven candidates for acknowledgment.


    FROM the report of Manawatu Kil. Lodge we learn that during the year a further £200 has been paid in


    reduction of mortgage, and in two years this debt has been reduced by £400. The amount owing under this


    head is £700. This reduction will save £24 per annum in interest. The mortgage expires in July, 1919, and


    with careful management it should by then be reduced to about £300. When that time arrives the Lodge


    might consider the advisability of securing a floating overdraft at the bank, instead of a further fixed


    mortgage.


    THE members of Otaki Lodge are considering the advisable-ness of returning the charter to G.L., and


    becoming dormant under the laws. The district is but small, and has been depleted of its eligible manhood by


    the war.


    THE late Mr. John M'Indoe, who died at Dunedin last week, was an active Freemason. For years (says the


    Dunedin "Star") he occupied the position of Dist.G.Sec. of Otago and Southland; be was a P.M. of Lodge




    Dunedin, 931, E.C., and P.D.G.S.W. ; and he was greatly liked :old respected by all the constitutions in


    Masonry.


    LODGE MANAWATU KIL. has all estimated balance of £1421 9s 3d assets over liabilities.


    THE April meeting of Lodge Tutanekai was very largely attended, and included some fifty members


    exclusive of visitors. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams and R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., were included in


    the latter.


    WE acknowledge knowledge with thanks receipt of the bound proceedings of the G.L. of Victoria. for the


    year 1915. From it we notice that the total contributions to the patriotic funds to December last amounted to


    £4247 2s 10d, of which the G.L. of Victoria contributed £1200.


    PROGRESS in Freemasonry is sometimes very rapid in America. Charles Barham, G.M. of Tennessee, was


    initiated into Freemasonry in October, 1908, and was elected G.M. in January, 1916, Almost a record,


    surely!


    CAPTAIN C. E. CLIFTON, of Pahiatua, who is serving at the front, has been promoted to the rank of major.


    Bro. Clifton is a P.M. of Lodge Tararua, Pahiatua.


    IN California a brother cannot be tried for a Masonic offence in the Lodge of which he is a member. The trial


    must take place in another Lodge.


    THE Masonic Fraternity of Texas are being attacked by the Anti-Masons, who are carrying on a stiff


    propaganda in making speeches and distributing alleged Masonic rituals.


    W. BRO. C. J. KENT-JOHNSTON has been appointed town clerk of the Otahuhu Borough out of about fifty


    applicants. Bro. Kent-Johnston is at present town clerk of Foxton, and was formerly town clerk of


    Featherston. He will commence his new duties at the end of the month.


    NEWS has been received of the death at Coromandel of Bro. George Nicholls, only son of the late Hon. G.


    W. Nicholls. The deceased, who had not been well forsome time, went to Coromandel to recuperate, but


    became very much worse. The late Bro. Nicholls was a member of the Ohinemuri Masonic Lodge, and took


    a keen interest in the Craft. He passed through the W.M.s chair last year. He was forty years of age, and


    leaves a wife and three children, the eldest being a boy aged fourteen years.


    AT the dedication of the Chapter room in the Christchurch Masonic Hall on the 12th April, M. E. Comp. S.


    C. Bingham presented a very handsome double triangle, for use on the V.S.L., to the Christchurch Chapters,


    and later presented V.E. Comp. Arnold with a very handsome brooch for Miss Arnold, formed in the shape


    of R.A. W.Ts., as a mark of the esteem in which that lady is held by the Companions.


    THE April meeting of Lodge Hinemoa (S. Wellington) was very largely attended, indeed one visitor


    suggested that it must have been mistaken for an installation meeting. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams was a


    visitor, and N.Z. Pacific Lodge paid an official visit. The business was varied in character, and included three


    ballots, initiation, and an address by the W.M. (Bro. F. Robinson) on "The M.M. Diploma" (G.L. of New


    Zealand), for which he was accorded a vote of thanks, and the duty was relegated to the Standing Committee


    of getting it printed.


    AT the dedication of the Christchurch Freemasons' Hall last month, R,W. Bro. Dillworth Fox, P.D.G.M.,


    unveiled a greenstone tablet commemorative of the dedication. The position of the tablet is in the N.E. corner


    of the building. It is to be made of pure greenstone, and is the gift of an anonymous donor.


    OWING to removal to Cape Runaway, Bro. H. H. Wiston has relinquished the duties of Secretary of Lodge


    Ruataniwha. In order to prevent Lodge correspondence from going astray, he requests that all letters for the


    Lodge be addressed :— The Secretary, Lodge Ruataniwha Masonic Lodge, No. 172, Takapau."


    THE "Square and Compass" is of opinion that less should be said of abuse of the black ball and more of the


    abuse of the white ball. Our contemporary holds, and is justified by the evidence, that the latter is the greatest


    source of danger to the Craft.


    IT is with regret we learn that R.E. Comp. T. Hobson, G.Supt. of Hawkes Bay, has had to suffer a surgical


    operation, and in consequence has been very seriously indisposed. By latest reports we learn that he is slowly


    convalescing, but it will be some time before he is in the saddle again.


    AT the annual meeting of the Wellington United Board of Enquiry held in April, W. Bro. C. W. Neilsen was


    unanimously elected President, and W. Bro. J. Firth Vice-President, W. Bro. H. Hobbs being re-elected Hon.




    Secretary. Both the retiring President (W. Bro. J. T. King) and the Secretary were accorded hearty thanks for


    their past services.


    ———————————


    SOUTHLAND NOTES.


    ———<>———


    It has been hinted that W. Bro. A. le H. Hoyles is to be our next Prov.G.M. He may not have long service to


    the Craft to recommend him, but he has the superior qualifications of enthusiasm, energy and tact. These,


    and the enjoyment of a good social and high commercial position, are his best title to the honour.


    * * *
    At the last regular meeting of Mataura Lodge, W. Bro. E. C. Smith, Lodge Harvey, delivered a very fine and


    edifying address entitled, "The Master Mason." Bro. Smith went deeply into his subject and made an


    excellent impression.


    * * *


    The recent P.Ms. night in Waihopai Lodge was thoroughly enjoyed. The Second Degree was worked and the


    P.Ms. showed that they had lost none of their former worth. R.W. Bro. Wm. Timpany was in the chair. The


    event attracted an unusually large number of members and visiting brethren.


    * * *


    The installation ceremony of Wairaki Lodge was carried out in its entirety by the P.Ms. of Wallace Lodge.


    W. Bro. Dr. A. A. Stewart was Installing Master. The work was all that could be desired. The evening was


    one of real enjoyment to all present, and was constantly referred to as the most sociable and happy yet held.


    W. Bro. W. Joggers is Master fur the second time, and doubtless under his guidance the ensuing year will be


    one of progress in all directions.


    * * *


    Lodge Harvey's annual function was a pronounced success. R.W. Bro. Wm. Timpany, Prov.G.M., officiated.


    W. Bro. E. C. Smith was installed for the second term. A good ritualist, sound and fluent of speech, a good


    visitor, and holding a high estimate of the value of Freemasonry, W. Bro. Smith is very popular in Lodge


    Harvey and in most of our Lodges.


    * * *


    A notable feature of the banquet in connection with Lodge Harvey installation was the number of sweet-


    throated songsters present. These masters of the art of music east quite a charm over the assembled brethren,


    one likely to be remembered with pleasure for a long time to come.


    * * *


    The year 1917 will usher in two great epochs in Masonic history. The first and most important, of course will


    be the celebration of the bicentenary of the G.L. of England ; the other, the session of G.L. of New Zealand,


    to be held at Invercargill. We all hope that, prior to, the arrival of these much-looked-forward-to events, the


    dogs of war will have been forever chained and an abiding peace established. Should the ideas of brethren


    here be consummated as they would wish, the session of 1917 will be a memorable one from many points of


    view.


    ———————————


    TARANAKI TRIFLES.


    ———<>———


    On 10th April the Comps. of Egmont Chapter celebrated their first anniversary at Inglewood. Although,


    perhaps, not so many have joined the Chapter during the past year as had been hoped, still progress has been


    made and a fine spirit prevails. A splendid set of furniture, complete in almost every detail, has been


    procured, and the Comps. are looking forward to a good year. The installation was ably carried out looking


    R.E. Comp. R. W. Palmer, G.Supt. W.C.,N.I. The officers for the coming year are :—Z, V.E. Comp. G.


    Young; H., Comp. J. M'Allister ; J., Comp. F. Copestake ; S.E., Comp. A. M. Spilman ; S.N., Comp. J.


    Wilks; Treas., Comp. C. Smart; 1st Soj., Comp. W. H. Besley ; 2nd Soj., Comp. Wm. Hogg ; 3rd Soj.,


    Comp. F. J. Hodges. V.E. Comps. T. E. Hamerton, A.G.S.B., and H. Priestley, P.Z., were present and


    assisted, the latter acting as D. of C.


    * * *




    St. John's Lodge visit Hawera on 2nd May, and are to work a Scotch Third. This should prove of interest to


    the Hawera brethren, as there is no Scotch Lodge in South Taranaki. Emulation and New Zealand rituals are


    in general use in this district.


    * * *


    At the last meeting of Moa at Inglewood, on the 14th, a brother who has travelled considerably and visited


    many Lodges was to give his experiences in a paper. You correspondent has not heard how the essay was


    received, but, judging from what he knows of the writer, it should have been very interesting.


    * * *


    Lodge Moa have quite a reputation for the excellence of their Fourth Degree. Some months ago a piano was


    added to their refectory, and good use is made of it.


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


    MEETING OF GRAND LODGE IN AUCKLAND.


    ———<>———


    DETAILS OF THE SEVERAL FUNCTIONS.


    ————


    The Chairman of the Executive Committee in Auckland (R.W. Bro. Geo. H. Powley) has kindly supplied the


    following particulars, which we publish for the information of brethren attending G.L.


    TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY, May 9th and 10th.—Members of Committee will be on the -railway platform


    on the arrival of both express trains each day, to welcome brethren and direct them to their several hotels,


    WEDNESDAY, 10th.—G.L. will assemble in the Concert Chamber, Town Hall, at 2 p.m., for the despatch of


    business, entrance, Queen Street.


    EVENING SESSION. —7.30 p.m., 'Town Hall, for installation, main entrance by. Queen Street.


    THURSDAY, 11th.—G.L. will resume at 9.30 a.m. in Concert Chamber. If business is concluded in the


    forenoon, brethren and ladies will assemble at the ferry wharf for harbour trip and tea at "Lake Takapuna."


    Should the weather not be propitious, the steamer will cross the harbour to meet the Takapuna trains and so


    to the grounds, arriving in town not later than 6.30.


    In the evening a smoke concert will be held in the Masonic Hall, Upper Queen Street, at 8 p.m. A full


    musical programme will be rendered. Evening dress will be worn.


    The following are the Members of the Executive Committee :—R.W. Bro. Geo. H. Powley (chairman), R.W.


    Bro. F. Kearsley, R.W. Bro. M. McLean, R.W. Bro. J. Catchpole.


    ———————————


    THE G.R.A. CHAPTER OF TENNESSEE SEVERS FRATERNAL RELATIONS


    WITH THE G. CHAPTER OF SCOTLAND.


    ———<>———


    At the annual convocation of the G. Chapter of Tennessee, held in January last, the following resolution was


    adopted :-


    "Whereas, the Sup.G. Chapter of Scotland has, unmindful of Masonic comity towards American Capitular


    Masonry, as well as towards other Masonic Grand Bodies, and in violation of the American doetrine of


    exclusive jurisdiction, and in continuation of her practice to charter Chapters in any land where-soever she


    please, has chartered Keystone Chapter in the city of Manilla, Philippine Islands, a territory of the United


    States, and has persistently ignored all overtures from the General G. Chapter of the United States, touching


    a settlement of the matter ; therefore be it resolved that the G. Chapter of Tennessee sever fraternal relations


    with the Sup.G. Chapter of Scotland and the Chapters under her Constitution until such time as she sees fit to


    rectify the wrong done by the invasion of another's territory."











    ———————————


    A MEMORABLE MEETING.


    ———<>———


    The regular monthly meeting of the Robert Burns Lodge, No. 139, which was held in St. Augustine Hall,


    Christchurch, on the 21st March, was a memorable one, as the old Scotch Charter, under which the Lodge


    was instituted some forty years ago, and which was returned to the G.L. of Scotland when the Robert Burns


    went over to the New Zealand Constitution, was presented to the Lodge by the M.W.G.M., W. Bro. J. J.


    Dougall. W. Bro. R. H. Taylor officiated in the chair of K.S., and there was a very large attendance of


    members and visitors. After the visitors were seated, G.L. under M.W. Bro. Dougall, G.M., was received,


    also the Prov.G.L. of Canterbury, under R.W. Bro. J. Thornton, Prov.G.M. The ceremonial work for the


    evening consisted of the passing of two brethren, the W.M. being assisted during the ceremony by W. Bro.


    R. W. East wood (C. after I.), Bro. A. Hunter, J.W. (S.E. Corner), W, Bro. Plimmer, W.M. Unanimity Lodge


    (W.Ts.), Bro. T. Kirker, S.W. (Charge after Passing). The old Scotch Charter was then presented by the


    G.M., who spoke of the sturdy old veterans who had so successfully worked the Lodge in its early days. He


    said that he respected that loyalty which had made the Lodge for so long refuse to transfer their allegiance


    from Scotland, and, indeed, he had had something of the same feeling himself, until he was impressed with


    the good work which was being accomplished by the G.L. of New Zealand. He trusted that the Robert Burns


    would keep this Charter as an honoured relic, which would give tangible evidence as to the life of the Lodge,


    and record those who were the founders of it. In receiving the Charter, the W.M. thanked the M.W.G.M. and


    the G.L. for the trouble that had been gone to in obtaining it, and assured M.W. Bro. Dougall that, while they


    would respect and honour the old Charter, the allegiance of the members was now firm and constant to the


    New Zealand Constitution. The G.L. and Prov.G.L. then retired, and the Lodge was closed. The usual


    adjournment was made to the refectory, where the tables were beautifuly decorated with flowers, the thanks


    of the Lodge for this being due to W. Bro. J. Graham, W.M. Canterbury Lodge 1048, E.C., who had supplied


    same, and, with his daughter, assisted at the arranging. This is another instance of the very fine brotherly


    feeling which exists between the Lodges of the two Constitutions in Christchurch. After the brethren to the


    number of about 100 were seated, the loyal toast was honoured, and the W.M. then proposed the toast of


    "The G.M." He said that he felt it very appropriate that this toast should be honoured that night, when the old


    Scottish Charter had been received back by the Lodge, as M.W. Bro. Dougall, who now occupied the exalted


    position at the head of the Craft, was one of the brethren who had worked in the Robert Burns under that


    Charter. After referring to the good work done by the G.M. and G.L., the W.M. referred to the G.M.'s Special


    War Fund, expressing a hope that the amount needed (£10,000) would be raised by May, and heartily


    commending the Fund to the brethren. In the course of his reply, the G.M. spoke of his own connection with


    Scottish Masonry, more particularly in connection with the Robert Burns Lodge. He paid a tribute of respect


    to the old members, detailing some of the vicissitudes that the Lodge had passed through. He congratulated


    the members on the remarkable recovery, and the fact that the Robert Burns was to-day numbered among the


    very best Lodges in New Zealand. He spoke of the excellence of the work done that swelling, and considered


    that the officers need fear no comparisons with the ritual work in other Lodges. The G.M. also touched upon


    the Special War Fund, trusting that contributions would be in in time to be included in this year's balance-


    sheet of G.L. The next toast was "The Prov.G.L. and Prov. G.L. of Canterbury," R.W. Bro. Thornton


    responding. He congratulated the Lodge upon its reception of the old Charter, and upon the fine ritual work


    done during the evening. Opportunity was taken of the presence of M.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol, G.Sec., to


    propose his health. W. Bro. T. Newburgh, in offering this toast, said that the brethren all regretted the fact


    that we were soon to lose M.W. Bro. Niccol from amongst the Canterbury brethren. He had been a tower of


    strength to the Craft in this district, as in others, his suavity, courtesy, and kindness of heart, combined as it


    was with such a perfect knowledge of the constitution and etiquette of the Craft, endearing him to all with


    whom he came in contact. M.W. Bro. Nicoll, notwithstanding his kindheartedness, was a stickler for


    discipline, but those who knew him best were the readiest to fall into line with his methods. The Robert


    Burns in particular owed him a deep debt of gratitude for the very considerable trouble that be had personally


    taken, when on his recent visit to the Old Country, in connection with the restoration of our old Scotch


    Charter. In common with all other members of the Craft, the Robert Burns members wished him to know


    that he was held in the highest esteem, and wished him good health to continue his work. M.W. Bro. Niccol,


    in responding, referred to his years connected with Scottish Freemasonry, and thanked the brethren for


    honouring the toast. As they knew, he would be removing to Auckland in a few weeks' time, and it was


    extremely unlikely that he would be amongst them again. The other toasts of "The Newly Passed Brethren,"


    "The Visitors," and "Our Brethren at the Front," were duly honoured, and the Tylers' toast brought to a close




    a memorable meeting in the Lodge's history, and the last meeting it would hold in the present hall, as the new


    Masonic Temple is to be opened on 4th April, and all future meetings of the Lodge are to be held there.—


    [Lodge Correspondent.]


    ———————————


    FREEMASONRY AS ALLIED TO OCCULTISM.


    ———<>———


    [Given by BRO. E. P. CAMPBELL at Brooklyn Lodge, No. 132, 5th April, 1916.]


    ———


    Freemasonry can very well be considered as the same age as the creation, but historians are quite satisfied to


    trace the organism of Craft Masonry, as it now exists, to the building of King Solomon's Temple. Originally


    it was closely connected with the ancient mysteries. When man first evolved as a perfect spiritual being, he


    had an intimate knowledge of the real secrets of life and the correct way to apply them. But when he, by his


    own selfish folly, fell from his high estate, he lost with his purity and spirituality all that God consciousness


    which forms the richest endowment of the human mind. Worn this state he continued to sink deeper and


    deeper into grossness and materiality, until, by the immutable law of compensation, an adjustment had to be


    made, and the earth purged of its excess of sin. In Scriptural history this retribution is symbolised by the


    forty days' flood. But occultists and antiquarians contend that the existence of a connecting link between


    America and Europe in the shape of a vast continent where the Atlantic now rolls, is considered to be the


    only solution of the problem of the similarity in many striking respects of these two continents. The flora and


    fauna are almost identical. In the discovery of many antiquities in Mexico and Peru, more ancient than and


    superior to those discovered in the East, the similarity in manners, customs and language is very striking.


    Plato, who was one of the Greek philosophers of the school of Pythagoras and Socrates, and lived in the year


    429 B.C., wrote of the one-time existence and subsidence of this continent, his belief being based on the


    ancient records of the Egyptian hierophants or priests. This belief has much in its favour, and, granting its


    correctness, it is easy enough to assume that the few who were selected by the Creator to be the ancestors of


    the new race migrated towards the sun in the East, as from thence all our mystic lore and religious history


    emanates. With these chosen sages spirituality predominated, and a prosperous race grew and flourished for


    a time.


    The period of the building of the city and tower of Babel seems to mark another epoch in history where


    Divine interposition had to be exercised to subdue the self-conceit and ambition of the people. Our Bible


    teaches us that they were made to speak different languages, and being thus unable to understand one another


    disorder prevailed. It was evidently at this point that spirituality or Freemasonry became lost, for


    Freemasonry and occultism consisted then, as now, in the knowledge of those three great truths, the


    Fatherhood of God, the Brotherhood of Man, and the Immortality of the Soul. As in the case of the great


    Flood or the subsidence of the vast continent of Atlantis (this was the name it was known by), the


    preservation of the secrets of life was reserved to a few philosophers and sages who, untarnished by the


    general depravity of their weaker brethren, banded themselves together in this instance to preserve and


    protect the sacred truths from the unworthy. These ancient beliefs and dogmas had to be jealousy guarded,


    and were only taught in secret, and then only to those initiates who were prepared by a series of solemn and


    exacting ceremonies, and proved worthy to receive them. The greatest caution had to be exercised in


    selecting these candidates, and solemn obligations of secrecy were imposed on them.


    The candidates were then considered entitled to a full participation in the esoteric knowledge of the


    mysteries of the order, and worthy to be entrusted with their secret methods of recognition.


    The qualifications of a candidate for admission into the mysteries of Craft Masonry are of three kinds—


    mental, moral and physical. By mental is meant that a man must be neither a fool, idiot nor a madman, but


    responsible for his actions and competent to understand his obligations, comprehend his instructions and


    perform his duties as a Mason. The moral obligation is that he shall not be an irreligious libertine, but must


    be obedient to the moral law as to virtue and character, so that the dignity and honour of the institution shall


    not suffer by the admission of unworthy persons. He must come of his "own free will and accord," meaning


    that he is to be persuaded to the act only by his uninfluenced convictions of the beauty and utility of our


    institution. His physical qualifications are that he must be not less than 21 years of age, free born, of able


    body, and of limbs whole as a man ought to be. This latter regulation constitutes one of the many


    peculiarities that distinguish our society from all others, and establishes the connecting link between the


    present speculative and the former operative character of the institution. This point is looked upon by




    historians as an important part in our history and recognised as one of the landmarks of the Order. Dr.


    Mackay states that these ancient charges were collected from the old records and printed by order of the G.L.


    of England in 1722. In order to thoroughly appreciate the beautiful symbolical meanings of the various


    ceremonies, which in the novelty of his surroundings the candidate finds it impossible to absorb, a regular


    attendance at the meetings of his Lodge and constant visits paid to other Lodges would be of inestimable


    value to him in his study of the ritual. An ardent student will soon discover many significant points. For


    instance, he will find that the number 3, through its frequent recurrence, must be regarded as one of the


    sacred numbers in Freemasonry. It is complete in itself, as it contains a beginning, middle and end, and was


    in consequence considered among pagans as the chief of the mystical numbers. Thus the thunderbolt of Jove


    was three-forked, the sceptre of Neptune a trident, Cerberus, the dog of Pluto, had three heads. There were


    three Fates, three Furies, and many other instances in mythology too numerous to mention. Corning to the re-


    ligious beliefs of to-day, the rites of Hindostan embrace the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva, and in the


    Christian religion the Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Ghost. In our ritual you will find that this mystic


    number predominates throughout the whole of the ceremonies. There are three degrees of Ancient Craft


    Masonry, three principal officers of a Lodge, three supports, three ornaments, three greater and three lesser


    lights, three movable and three immovable jewels, three working tools in each of the three degrees, three


    important human senses, three recreant Fellow Crafts who organised the destruction of Hiram Abiff, and


    many other instances of the consecration of this number that will be familiar to the student.


    In the T.B. of the Third Degree the death of our Master Hiram Abiff is depicted by an open grave with a


    sprig of acacia at the head of it. This plant is not to be confused with the cassia, which is of no historic


    importance, being only an aromatic plant and used in the manufacture of perfumes. The acacia, however,


    which grew as a shrub in abundance in the neighbourhood Of Jerusalem, was always regarded by the Jews as


    a sacred plant, and it was their custom to mark the spot where a dead body had been interred by one of these


    plants. Being an evergreen, it symbolises the immortality of the soul, and placed at the head of an open grave


    illustrates the victory over death. Longfellow very truly wrote :


    "There is no death; what seems so is transition.;


    This life of mortal breath


    Is but a suburb of life Elysian


    Whose portal we call—death."


    Thus the three degrees in Craft Masonry may be regarded as symbolical of the three stages in the earthly


    conditions of our bodies—birth, life and death. The ceremony of investiture in the First Degree conveys a


    distinctly moral lesson, as the candidate is told that the lambskin or white apron is more ancient than the


    "Golden Fleece or the Roman Eagle, more honourable than the Garter." Now the order of the Golden Fleece


    has always been considered one of the most illustrious in Europe, and was founded in Flanders in 1429. The


    eagle was first consecrated about eighty years B.C., and was to the Romans the ensign of Imperial power.


    The order of the Garter, the insignia of which includes an 8-pointed star, was instituted in England about the


    year 1350, and is the first, the most renowned and honoured of all the orders of the Knighthood. The student


    will thus see that the apron, which symbolises innocence and purity, is proudly regarded by Masons as far


    superior to the noblest decorations of ancient Rome and of modern Europe ; so may it ever be. There are


    many emblems and symbols used throughout the various ceremonials of our Order that are not regarded by


    the casual observer in their true esoteric light, but to the deep thinker and earliest student they open up such


    marvellous vistas of thought that he gradually begins to understand the true meaning of the three grand


    fundamental principles of our Order—Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. They are the foundation, headstone


    and cement of the whole construction of our glorious and ancient fraternity. Pythagoras, whose secret


    religious brotherhood was founded about 560 B.C., inculcated in the minds of his disciples the true meaning


    of brotherly love, and they acted up to the real interpretation of that noble principle, speaking always of each


    other as their other self. From a spiritual standpoint all men are equal, having all sprung from the infinite


    source of all that is or ever will be. We have all to pass through the same cleansing fires, we are all hastening


    to the same goal, which we all eventually will reach, and the same immutable law of compensation governs


    all. Our ritual teaches us that on the floor of the Lodge, which is symbolical of this world of ours, all are


    equal, meeting on the level and parting on the square.


    This present war of nations would be better described as a war of necessity, the present mental and moral


    condition of man having reached the culminating point, very similar in many respects to the conditions


    obtaining at the time of the great Flood described in the early part of this paper. This great titanic struggle


    has shown us the need for a better understanding of the problems of life. Charles Darwin stated his views on


    the law of the survival of the fittest. This does not mean the survival of the cruellest and most bestial in




    nature. Not at all ; for Darwin fully recognised that love and justice rule the universe. Even in the animals he


    pointed out that lower types were succeeded by higher. The huge monsters of pre-historic days are now no


    more, and the beasts of prey are gradually dying out. Always evolution to a higher degree, and if this terrible


    calamity does not teach nations the necessity for right living, then all this frightful carnage, this wholesale


    slaughter unparalleled in the world's history, will have been in vain. Religion must take in future a more


    active part in human affairs, and science must no longer be divorced from morality. Should this terrible


    awakening not be sufficient warning, then a more awful calamity is sure to overtake us.


    Man must now recognise the necessity for upholding the great law, " Do unto others as ye would they should


    do unto you," the means whereby universal freedom, brotherhood and happiness can alone be secured and


    maintained. Our peace, enjoyment and welfare depend largely upon the just and considerate behaviour of


    those around us. A single selfish member of any human family can spoil the lives of all the others.


    Unselfishness and instinctive regard for the rights and sentiments of others make social harmony and


    happiness possible. We are not sent here in order to bask in the sunshine of perpetual enjoyment, but to learn


    the lessons that are needed for the completion of our spiritual education. Thus may be explained much of the


    sorrow and vexation that affect us during our earthly life and lunch of the so-called evil that ispermitted to


    happen.


    Referring to the statement that investigators are quite satisfied to trace the organisation of Freemasonry to the


    building of King Solomon's Temple, students of modern alchemy hold the view that the Bible, both Old and


    New Testaments, are symbolical writings, based primarily upon the process of body building. The human


    body is composed of gases, minerals and molecules or atoms, and out of these spiritual man builds flesh and


    bone in the shape of the perfected, harmonious human being. Solomon's Temple can, therefore, be taken as


    an allegory of man's temple, human organism. This house is built, and always being built, "without sound of


    saw or hammer."The ego or spirit manifests in a house or temple, i.e., soul-of-man's temple. The Biblical


    statements, "your bodies are the temple of the living God," and "The Kingdom of Heaven is within you," are


    thus exemplified. But man, blinded by selfishness, searches in the heavens, digs deep in the earth, and gropes


    in the depths of the ocean, in a vain search for "the elixir of life" or "the philosopher's stone" that may be


    found between the soles of his feet and the crown of his head.


    The following beautiful illustration of the term brotherhood, by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, practically explains in


    a nutshell the underlying meaning of this paper :—


    "When in the even ways of life


    The old world jogs along,


    Our little coloured flags we flaunt,


    Our little separate selves we vaunt,


    Each pipes his native song.


    And jealousy, and greed, and pride,


    Join their ungodly hands,


    And this round lovely world divide


    Into opposing lands.


    But let some crucial hour of pain


    Sound from the tower of time,


    Then consciousness of brotherhood


    Wakes in each heart the latent good,


    And men become sublime.


    No swarming insects of the night


    Fly when the sun bursts in;


    Self fades before love's radiant light,


    And all the world is kin.


    God! what a place this world would be


    If that uplifting thought,


    Born of some vast world accident,


    Into our daily lives were bleat,


    And in each action wrought.


    But, while we let the old sins flock


    Back to our hearts again,


    In flame, and flood, and earthquake shock,




    Thy voice must speak to men. '


    ———————————


    EXCESS OF SUPERVISION.


    ———<>———


    If any G.L. could be convinced of us ever acquiring a sense of proportion and a sense of humour, the first


    thing would be to cut out half the regulations and-all the decisions, and never make any more of either. . . . .


    We have not known of a single case where a committee on revision of the ritual ever even approached the


    job in the proper spirit, but they would each make a different revision, and the ritual would no longer be


    uniform. What do you mean by uniform? As a matter of fact, we would have a reasonably uniform ritual all


    over the English-speaking world if it were not for the G.Ls. They, confound them, it is that have made it so


    hard, and are gradually making it impossible, for a man in one state to visit a Lodge in another.—"Palestine


    Bulletin."


    ———————————


    THE SYDNEY MASONIC HALL.


    ———<>———


    For some years the. Sydney Masonic Hall, if not a "monument of dilapidation," was certainly not a "thing of


    beauty and a joy for ever." The Hall property was not in the hands of the Masonic authorities, and a few


    years ago it was recognised that things would have to be placed, on a different footing. The matter was taken


    in hand and proposals were submitted for the purchase of the property, and thoroughly renovating the


    building, which were of sufficient magnitude to "terrorise the timid." After considerable negotiations, the


    scheme fructified, and quite lately the alterations have been completed, and Sydney possesses a Masonic


    Hall property unsurpassed for comfort and accommodation in the Southerr Hemisphere. At the quarterly


    communication of the G.L. of N.S.W., held on the 8th March, a very interesting report of the trustees was


    submitted, from which we submit extracts; sufficient to indicate the magnitude of the operations, and that in


    all human probability the venture will turn out most successful, as the trustees state that it is calculated "that


    in twelve years the building will stand free of all indebtedness, and that G.L. will be recouped all funds now


    invested in the property." The following are the details as submitted by the trustees :-


    The Building and Furnishing Account stands as follows :


    £ s. d.


    Purchase of Building ... 25,000 0 0


    Building Alteration 16,452 5 1


    Furnishings, etc. ... 1,202 5 0


    Architect's Commission 700 0 0


    Total .. 43,354 10 1


    Deduct money at credit of Temple Fund 12,356 0 0


    Nett Amount £30,998 10 1


    In order to finance this scheme G.L. and Benevolent Fund: were employed, and an overdraft for £13,000


    arranged for rather than dispose of any of our securities at a loss. This overdraft now stands at about £3,700,


    and it is expected the this will be discharged wholly by the end of this year. Then will then remain invested


    in the building only the funds of G.L., bearing interest at 4 per cent. per annum. At the present date,


    therefore, the amounts in the building are :—


    £ s. d.


    Building Fund 12,356 0 0


    Overdraft 3,700 0 0


    G.L. and Benevolent Funds ... 27,298 0 0


    £43,354 0 0


    Of this interest is payable at 5 per cent. upon the overdraft of £3,700, and at 4 per cent. upon the G.L. Funds,


    amounting to £27,298. The following are the revenue and expenditure based upon the present year's figures :


    EXPENDITURE. £ s. d.


    Rates— City, Water, etc.. 240 0 0


    Insurance 137 0 0


    Electric Lighting and Power 250 0 0




    Manager, Caretaker, Cleaner and Charwoman 436 0 0


    Interest ... 1,277 0 0


    Incidentals ... 50 0 0


    £2,390 0 0


    REVENUE. £ s. d.


    Temple Fund (based on the average


    received since its inception) ... ... 2,300 0 0


    Lodge Rentals ... ... 1,600 0 0


    G.L. Rental ... 350 0 0


    Large Hall 75 0 0


    Caterer ... 75 0 0


    lockers ... 29 0 0


    Sunday Service 75 0 0


    £4,504 0 0


    This shows for the first year a surplus of £2,114, but this sinking fund will increase each year by gradual


    diminution of interest charges, and it is calculated that in twelve years the building will stand free of all


    indebtedness, or in other words the G.L. will be recouped all funds now invested in the Temple.






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


    Correspondence


    THE GRAND MASTER'S UKASE.


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    Est modus in rebus; suut cacti denique fines.


    Quos ultra citraque nequit consistere rectum.


    DEAR SIR AND BRO.—I agree with these words of wisdom from Horace that there is a medium in all things,


    that there are certain fixed limits on either side of which right cannot be found ; and I desire to ask you, Sir,


    if our G.M., in issuing his ukase prohibiting the presence of alcoholic liquor at all Masonic "Fourths," is


    pursuing that path of moderation dictated at once by the traditions of the Craft and true wisdom? To my mind


    his action savours of at attempt at autocracy which ill becomes the occupant of a G.M.'s chair. The holder of


    that exalted office is charged, first and foremost, I take it, to pursue such a line of conduct as shall conduce to


    the benefit of the Craft and exalt the dignity of the Order. Has the practical effect of his ukase been in that




    direction? Most decidedly, no ! The effect has been to introduce hypocrisy, to breed discontent, and to


    abolish social intercourse. For the G.M. to attend a "Fourth" and leave early in the full knowledge that as


    soon as his back is turned liquor will be produced, is a rank encouragement of hypocricy. To interfere with


    the social habits and customs established in brethren by a lifetime of usage is a direct invitation to discontent.


    And, as has just happened here in Christchurch, for the G.M. to refuse to attend the dedication of the new


    Masonic Temple if liquor were provided at the subsequent "Fourth" had the natural effect of placing an


    embargo upon any social gathering whatsoever—a notable loss to the social annals of Masonry in New


    Zealand. That so historic an occasion should be permitted to go by without the accompanying celebrations of


    the festive board is simply a robbery of pleasant memories perpetrated upon the whole of the Craft in


    Christchurch. Such an evening would have been memorable in our annals. Its loss will not be forgotten even


    for decades. Sir, why should the G.M. adopt this—pardon the expression— dictatorial attitude? What has


    Masonry come to that it should be deemed necessary? What is his motive in the matter? Discussion of


    politics and religion, as being subjects calculated to arouse strong-minded expressions of opinion, are, in the


    interests of harmony, forbidden to brethren. Yet what subject calls forth more bitterness of partisanship than.


    the attempt to regulate the social habits of the community? Knowing that, how careful should the G.M, have


    been to avoid interference with the innocent sumptuary habits of the refectory. A moderately expressed


    desire for economy during the period of the war would have been in perfect good taste. The same can hardly


    be said of an iron-handed attempt to impose a prohibitory mandate upon the domestic behaviour of Lodges.


    In place of our boasted tolerance we now have the edict : "No liquor, by my will.- G.M." Why ? Is this a


    insinuation that it is necessary The Craft repudiates the suggestion with contempt. Never have I seen the


    slightest warrant for any such idea—never, even, in the course of years of Masonic life, have I seen a brother


    in that cheerful state artistically referred to as "entre deux vins." Conviviality and sociability—those great


    lubricants of life— I find no less evident where liquor is than where lemonade is. Indeed, on this point I am


    inclined to agree with the Italian proverb, "May God preserve you from one who eats without drinking."


    There, indeed, will the wit be dull. To many brethren the "Fourth" is their monthly club. Habituated to their


    social glass, they enjoy a cheerful hour. Is it to be denied them? I cannot but feel that the attempt oversteps


    the bounds of moderation and, indeed, transgresses the constitutional rights of the office. That office it is our


    duty to honour and its occupant must command our respect. Yet, much as we appreciate some of the qualities


    displayed by the present holder of the office, I confess to a feeling of relief, having in view the unity and


    harmony of the Craft, at the fact that the G.M.'s term is drawing to a close Thereafter, we may expect to do


    as our ancestors in the Craft did, enjoy perfectly liberty within the sacred precincts of the Lodge room and


    within the bounds of Masonic behaviour.—Yours fraternally, PRO BONO MASONRY.


    Christchurch, 6th April, 1916.


    ———————————


    WHICH IS CORRECT?


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    DEAR SIR AND BRO.—Can you give a ruling please on the following point? Is it absolutely correct for the


    S.W., when presenting candidates to the W.M. "for further mark, etc.," to stand to order in the degree in


    which the Lodge is working ? I venture to suggest that in the 2nd and 3rd he should not so do, that as the


    candidates are in a position to see and observe, they thus obtain the sign of the degree before it is officially


    given. My opinion is that the S.W. should simply stand at the sign either of the lower degree, the one last


    taken by the candidate, or at the sign of Fidelity. I should be greatly obliged if you can give a ruling on this


    matter.—Yours fraternally, P.M.


    [The Editor of this journal has no power to give a "ruling." His "opinion" is that the P.S. is used in the 1st


    and 3rd, and the S. of F. in the 2nd.—ED.C.]


    ———————————


    GRAND LODGE INVESTMENTS.


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    DEAR SIR AND BROTHER,—In your issue of 1st inst. it is noted that the Secretary to the Treasury has


    proposed the conversion of the £6000 of 4 per cent. Debentures, maturing in 1918 and 1919, into 4½ per


    cents. with a 25 years' currency. It is not said whether the proposed. conversion is to take immediate effect,




    but I assume that is so, in which case the consideration for tying up this £6000 for 25 years at 4 per cent. is


    an immediate gain of ½ per cent. for two or three years. I think this undesirable. Obviously, and prudently,


    the Secretary to the Treasury is anticipating that higher rates will rule in 1918 and 1919, and it would, in my


    judgment, be more prudent to await the maturity of the said £6000 in view of the prospect of being then able


    to invest at rates certainly not less than 4½ per cent. Were this £6000 the funds of a private investor,


    questions of sacrifice for country would be a factor at such a juncture, but with benevolent funds invested for


    the benefit of widows and orphans, the first and dominating consideration is that they be invested to the best


    advantage. I therefore hope to learn in due course that G.L. could not entertain the proposal. I am denying


    myself the pleasure of attending G.L. this year, hence this letter.—Yours fraternally, ALFRED JOLLY.


    Wellington, 8th April, 1916.


    Supplement to “The New Zealand Craftsman”




    ———————————


    MASONIC TEMPLE.


    ———<>———


    NEW BUILDING IN CHRISTCHURCH. •


    ———


    IMPRESSIVE OPENING CEREMONY.


    ———


    No more impressive gathering has ever been held in Christchurch than that which, on Tuesday evening, 4th


    April, saw the dedication of the new Masonic Temple in Gloucester Street. Upwards of 400 brethren,


    representative of every Lodge in the city and many country Lodges, assembled in the Hall an imposed the


    most severe strain upon the regular and supplementary seating accommodation. All difficulties were,


    however, triumphantly overcome, and when the work of the evening was begun the interior of the beautiful


    hall presented a magnificent spectacle with the brethren ranged in successive rows upon the floor and


    overflowing into the choral gallery.




    It was in a spirit of triumphant thankfulness that brethren met. At last all difficulties in the way of providing


    a common and worthy temple as a home for the Craft in the Cathedral City of the Plains had been overcome,


    and brethren assembled with the common object of demonstrating their thankfulness and offering an earnest


    of the appreciation with which they will regard their new home for the future. The noble lines and vaulted


    spaciousness of the chamber were the subject of much appreciative comment as the brethren took their seats,


    where, although closely packed together, they found as the evening progressed that the ventilation was in the


    highest degree perfect. The ceremony of dedication as carried out by G.L. was most impressive and was


    followed with reverential attention by all present.


    THE LODGE OPENED.


    Brethren having assembled in the hall, Lodge was close tyled at 7.30 p.m., and opened by the following


    officers :—W. Bro. H. H. Wauchop, St. Augustine, No. 4, Master; W. Bro. R. Baldwin, Masters and


    Pastmasters, No. 130, I.P.M. ; W. Bro. R. Kennett, Canterbury, No. 1048, E.C., S.W.; W. Bro. R. H. Taylor,


    Robert Burns, No. 139, J.W.; W. Bro. E. F. Nicoll, Ashburton, No. 1811, E.C., Chaplain; ; Bro. E. T.


    Budden, Conyers, No. 1916, E.C., S.D.; W. Bro. W. E. Kiddey, Christchurch, No. 91, J.D. ; W. Bro. J. R.


    Buchanan, Avon, No. 185, D.C.; W. Bro. W. J. Hunter, Civic, No. 157, I.G.; R.W. Bro. H. F. Arnold, Dist.


    and Prov. G. Lodges, Outer Guard.


    Lodge having been opened in the Third Degree, W. Bro. N. L. Macbeth, Deputy Dist.G.M. (in the


    unavoidable absence of R.W. Bro. M. S. Brown), and R.W. Bro. John Thornton, Prov.G.M., with their


    officers, were received with honours.


    GRAND MASTER'S ARRIVAL.


    W. Bro. J. Du Feu, G.D. of C., having announced that the G.M. was in attendance, the M.W., Bro. J. J.


    Dougall, G.M., and the officers of G.L. were received with their due honours. The G.M. took the gavel.


    Bro. W. A. P. Clarkson, the architect of the building, was then conducted to the G.M. by the G.D. of C., and


    the plans submitted to the G.M. for his approval.


    In receiving the plans the G.M. said :—"It is with very great pleasure that I receive from you the plans of this


    noble edifice, and on behalf of the brethren I desire to compliment you on the skill with which you have


    designed this building, and also on the fidelity which has marked not only the architect but the builder in its


    erection. We all hope and pray that this edifice may continue as a lasting memorial, not only to the skill of


    the builder and the taste of the architect, but to the liberality of the brethren."


    CEREMONY OF DEDICATION.


    R.W. Bro. S. Clifton Bingham, P.Prov.G.M., chairman of directors, then, on behalf of the Lodges interested


    in the building, requested the G.M. to dedicate the building to the service of Freemasonry.


    "It is at once my duty and my privilege," responded the G.M., "to take part in the dedication of this building.


    According to the constitution of the G.L. of New Zealand, no building can be consecrated to the pursuits of


    Freemasonry unless it be free from debt. This building is not free from debt. It will not, therefore, be possible


    for me to use the elements of consecration in the service that is to be gone through to-night, but, subject to


    that limitation, I will have pleasure in performing the dedicatory service."


    DEDICATION OF THE ALTAR.


    A dedication prayer having been offered up, the G. Chaplain, V.W. Bro. Rev. D. Rankin, P.G.C., was


    directed to dedicate the altar, the Scripture reading being from I Kings, vii., 13-22, while the hymn "Father of


    Light' was sung by the choir. The dedicating officers were :—W. Bro. N. L. Macbeth, Deputy Dist.G.M.;


    R.W. Bro. John Thornton, Prov.G.M.; and R.W. Bro. S. Clifton Bingham, P.Prov.G.M., who duly knelt at


    the altar.


    The dedication of the altar being completed, a procession was formed in the South by the G.D. of C., in the


    following order :—Two stewards, the G. Chaplain, the dedicating officers, two stewards, the whole being


    headed by the G.D. of C.


    PERAMBULATION.


    This procession then perambulated the Lodge to deliver the addresses associated with the columns attached


    symbolically to the three senior chairs of office. The charge at the Corinthian Column in the South was


    delivered by R.W. Bro. S. Clifton Bingham, that at the Doric Column in the West by R.W. Bro. John


    Thornton, and that at the Ionic Column in the East by W. Bro. N. L. Macbeth.




    Honours having been duly given, officers resumed their seats while the choir sang, "Behold how good and


    pleasant a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." The Chaplain thereafter perambulated the Lodge


    tensing the tesselated pavement, after which he delivered the Charge upon symbolisms of Masonry.


    THE VOLUME OF THE SACRED LAW.


    The V. of S.L. upon the altar was opened by the G.M., who also placed the other two great lights, the square


    and the compasses, upon the sacred writings. No Lodge, he declared in his charge, could be considered


    perfect or regular unless the V. of S.L. lay open upon the altar whilst the brethren were at labour. It was upon


    this book that brethren in qualifying for the rank of M.M. entered into a solemn contract to maintain and


    uphold the five points of fellowship in act as well as in deed. Death alone formed a release from that


    obligation. Many of them whilst holding offices of importance and responsibility had strongly to recommend


    this book to candidates. If these were no empty words, brethren would require more than a passing


    acquaintance with the contents of this volume, for if we did not in ourselves comply with these precepts, how


    could we enjoin them upon others? Upon the sacred writings he laid the square and the compasses. Here, he


    said, we have before us the three great. though emblematic, lights of Freemasonry. In our lectures we are told


    that the square belongs to the Craft in general and the compasses to the G.M. in particular. By the first we are


    reminded of that great duty to act upon the square to all mankind, particularly to our brethren in


    Freemasonry, and by the other so to circumscribe our actions in life that we keep well within the points of


    propriety. As in the M.M.'s degree the points of the compass are exhibited above the square, so we establish


    the duty laid upon the brotherhood to obey the rulings of the G.M. for the time being, who is to act for the


    best for his brethren, so that the result may be good not only for Freemasonry but for the whole of mankind


    at large. So mote it be.


    Honours having been given, the anthem, "Our temple is finished," was sung by the choir and brethren.


    THE FORMAL DEDICATION.


    The formal declaration that the Hall was dedicated and set apart for the work of Freemasonry was then


    pronounced by the G.M. in these words :—"In the name of the Great Father I dedicate this Hall to the-glory


    of God and the peaceful pursuits of Freemasonry, and I charge those who may have charge of this temple to


    guard well its purlieus and see that no rite or ceremony other tan such as are recognised by the ancient usages


    and customs of our dignified and venerable institution are performed within these sacred walls. So mote it


    be."


    The G.D. of C. having duly proclaimed the dedication, all brethren joined in singing :—


    All people that on earth do dwell,


    Sing to the Lord with cheerful voice :


    Him serve with mirth, His praise forth tell;


    Come ye before Him and rejoice.


    The benediction was then pronounced by the G. Chaplain.


    THE GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS.


    "To-night," said the G.M., "is the culminating point of very many years of earnest effort on the part of the


    brethren of Christchurch to find a home fitting and proper for the work of Freemasonry. As you know,


    Freemasonry has been working in the province of Canterbury for just upon seventy years. In 1862, I think it


    was—I speak from memory—that the Unanimity Lodge was chartered in the town of Lyttelton. Shortly


    afterwards Lodge St. Augustine was formed, and since then many Lodges have been created from these two,


    until to-day the Craft in Canterbury stands in such a flourishing condition as the earlier brethren never


    dreamed possible to be attained in this country in such a short space of time. During all these years there


    have been few permanent habitations for Freemasonry round the town of Christchurch or in its vicinity.


    There is to-day the building owned by the Crown Lodge in Montreal Street, and there was, some years ago, a


    building that was used as a Conyers Lodge, in Sydenham. Many years before that a piece of land was given


    to the St. Augustine Lodge in Hereford Street. I do not think a room was erected there, but as a result of that


    gift the Lodge room in Manchester Street was erected. In addition to that, the Canterbury Lodge built a home


    of its own lower down Manchester Street, just below Coker's Hotel. Beyond these buildings, we in Christ-


    church have had no real home. During all the years brethren here have never combined so as to get one


    temple which should be common to the whole brotherhood. It is now very gratifying to think that in the year


    1916 we have been able to open here a building which is not only a credit to the fraternity, but a credit to the


    city. I have no hesitation in saying that one may go from one end of New Zealand to the other and visit every




    Lodge room in the country, and not find a room superior, or indeed equal, to the one in which we sit and hold


    this ceremony to-night. We have waited long, brethren. We have held varying opinions, but our waiting is


    now over; for, on this memorable night, we are banded here and holding our first ceremony in the presence


    of what I believe to be the greatest Masonic gathering that has ever taken in Christchurch, and we are


    holding that gathering in the most noble temple that one could possibly hope for and one that is certainly a


    credit to Freemasonry.


    "1 would like to say a word or two—and 1 hope I will not be invidious and omit any to whom credit is due—


    about those who have worked to secure this consummation. First of all we must give credit to the architect


    who designed this splendid edifice I venture to say that one of the greatest drawbacks to all Masonic halls


    has been the almost entire absence of ventilation. To-night we have the greatest gathering that I think has


    been seen in Masonic circles in Christchurch, and the ventilation is perfect. The design of the building,


    without being unique, is of such a character as to fittingly represent the symbolism of Freemasonry. We owe


    a deep debt to the architect. We also owe a great deal of credit to the builder who, with much fidelity and


    under exceedingly adverse circumstances, owing to causes which you all know, has been put to very


    considerable expense and inconvenience in executing his contract. We owe him a deep debt, because I am


    told by those who know that the building has been faithfully built and the work excellently executed.


    "R.W. Bro. S. Clifton Bingham, as chairman of the Company, has been constant in his work, not only in


    managing the affairs of the Company itself, but in arranging the finance, which was absolutely essential


    before this building could be brought into existence. The response from the brethren was not so good as was


    expected. We are all well aware that the claims of the present time are very great—claims which never have


    been made before, but even allowing for that, the response was not quite what was expected. However, the


    finances have been arranged, and they have had to be arranged by raising money on mortgage, and on a class


    of mortgage which, perhaps, might have been avoided had brethren been more generous. R.W. Bro. Bingham


    has taken the onus upon himself of arranging that finance, and I venture to say that he has done his work


    splendidly. Brethren in future, as time progresses, will realise that his work in connection with the building


    of this temple has been of such a character as to earn our very best thanks.


    "Another brother who was most energetic—indeed, without whose energy I doubt whether this building


    could have been undertaken—is W. Bro. E. Nordon. (Applause). We are fortunate in having in the Craft a


    brother who has such splendid organising ability, and not only possesses the organising ability, but also the


    assiduous pertinacity that is necessary to bring that ability to successful fruition. You all know that Bro.


    Nordon has on every conceivable occasion appealed to brethren and Lodges to assist in building this edifice.


    That his efforts have met with success has, I believe, been due very largely to his determination, and we have


    to thank Bro. Nordon very much indeed that he is possessed of such capacity and such energy that he


    practically forced the brethren of Christchurch to bring this building into existence.


    "Another brother who did very good work in connection with the building was W. Bro. Mazey, who,


    although holding no official position, has, I believe, been here morning, noon, and night, and, so far as the


    architect and builder are concerned, they would, I believe, have been very glad for him to use his knowledge


    somewhere else. Every nail driven, every brick laid, and every ounce of plaster put upon the walls was, I


    believe, seen to be put there by Bro. Mazey in its proper place and in its precise order. (Laughter). We are


    indebted to him for putting in so much time in supervising the architect as well as the builder. They,


    however, took it all in good part.


    "There is one other to whom I should like to refer, and that is R.W. Bro. J. A. Frostick, who has given us the


    one thing that really would have impaired the beauty of this building had it been absent, and that is the


    magnificent organ that we see in the gallery. (Applause). One of the troubles with the Company was that,


    though they saw their way to give us necessities, they did not see their way to give us luxuries, or to spend


    such a sum of money as would have been necessary to provide an organ suitable to the hall. R.W. Bro.


    Frostick stepped into the breach, and has provided that splendid instrument that we see there, and which will


    contribute so much to the harmony of the Craft.


    "It is a very remarkable thing, brethren, that, although we tried for years and years during times of peace and


    prosperity, when men had much money and were spending money freely —that, although we tried for years


    and years to bring forth a building fitting to the Craft—it was only in time of stress and peril that we


    succeeded. True, the scheme was conceived in the time of peace, but the money has been raised and the


    building has been completed in time of peril. When we think that at this moment and for months and months


    gone by men have been doing all that lay in their power to tear holy temples, stone by stone, to the ground,


    and destroy and erase them, it is a remarkable thing that we in New Zealand—one of the countries at war—




    should be here building, stone upon stone, a. temple to the glory of God, building an edifice that is to stand


    as a symbol of peace and harmony. I do hope and pray, brethren, that in the years to come this building will


    be blessed because of the work that has been done in time of war, that we shall never know here the


    devastations that the olden countries are suffering to-day, that we shall never have to undergo the anguish


    and anxiety and the deadly pain and peril that men and women are suffering even in our beloved Britain.


    We are stirred to the heart for our brethren there, and if we could only realise the conditions we should go


    and give out of all our hearts something of a tribute to the peace and welfare of the world. And, above all, we


    must, and we will, give our tribute to those who are fighting so valiantly for the peace, right, and justice of


    the world. (Applause).


    'To-night, as part of the ritual that was given here, I referred to the duty that was cast upon the G.M., so far as


    lies within the compass of his capacity, to guide and direct the energies of the brethren so that the result may


    be not only for the good of Freemasonry, but for the world at large. The object of Freemasonry is not merely


    to benefit Freemasons. The object of Freemasonry is to strive to disseminate the ideal of peace and goodwill


    throughout the world, to blend opinions together, to blend the peoples of the earth together, to bring into each


    man's heart the idea that he is here upon earth for some good and noble .purpose ; that his only object in life


    is not to strive for his own well-being, not to quarrel with things that are laid down for his guidance, but to


    do all that lies in his power to benefit his brother and his neighbour as well as himself. During the course of


    my career as G.M. I have done what little I could—and that is very little indeed—in this direction. I have


    asked brethren to do certain things, and I do hope and pray that the brethren will take what I have asked in


    the spirit in which I gave it. I ask you to believe that whatever I have personally done during the time I have


    been G.M., I did after due consideration. In my own heart I have no regrets, and if to-morrow I had the


    opportunity of repeating what I have done, I would repeat it in even more emphatic fashion. I ask you,


    brethren, here to-night at this splendid gathering of Freemasons to believe that we, as men and as a Craft, are


    bound together for a good purpose. Our ideal is to uplift humanity. First of all we must be sure of ourselves,


    and if we cannot be sure of ourselves, how then can we hope to impress others? We have to set the example


    we profess day after day, year after year. We profess the very highest principles that it is possible for men to


    aspire to, and say this in all humility, that, unless we are prepared within the precincts of our Lodges to carry


    out the ideals that characterise Freemasonry, we shall entirely fail in the object we all have in view.


    "I pray God that this hall here may be a lasting memorial to the Craft in this country ; that the brethren in


    Christchurch may, in this edifice, for years to come, continue the symbolism of the Craft. May we, one and


    all, benefit by the gatherings in this building. May we, one and all, pray that Freemasonry will extend


    through it." (Applause).


    A VOTE OF THANKS.


    A vote of thanks to the G.M. was proposed by W. Bro. Cousins, seconded by W. Bro. Cumming, and


    unanimously and cordially carried. The G.M. fittingly and briefly responded.


    A MEMORIAL TABLET.


    Before the G.M. vacated the chair he unveiled a handsome greenstone memorial tablet (donated by an


    anonymous brother), bearing the following inscription :—"ln commemoration of the dedication of this Hall


    to the service of Freemasonry by M.W. Bro. J. J. Dungan, Grand Master;.W. Bro. M. S. Brown, District


    G.M. Canterbury (E.C.) ; R.W.R. Bro. Jno. Thornton, Prov. G.M. Canterbury ; R.W. Bro. S. Clifton


    Bingham, P. Prov. G.M. ; on Tuesday, 4th April, 1916."


    CLOSING OF THE LODGE.


    The gavel being returned to W. Bro. H. H. Wauchop, the Lodge was closed in the Third Degree and in the


    Second Degree, after which, in due order, the G.M. and officers of G.L., and the District and Prov.G.Ls.


    retired, and the Lodge was duly closed.















    ———————————


    GRAND LODGE OF NEW ZEALAND.


    ———<>———


    STATEMENT OF THE FUNDS SHOWING CASH BALANCES.


    At 31st March, 1916.


    ————


    GENERAL FUND.


    1916. £ s. d.


    Feb. 29.—By Cash Balance ...... 3,754 13 2


    Mar. 31.— „ Cash Balance ... ... 4,549 15 0


    FUND OF BENEVOLENCE.


    1916. £ s. d. £ s. d.


    Feb. 29.—By Cash Balance 2,089 10 8


    Mar. 31.— „ Contributions from Lodges 86 17 0


    Patents of Office ... 2 2 0


    ———— 88 19 0


    2,187 9 9


    LESS Grant made during the month 20 0 0


    £2,167 9 9


    WIDOWS' AND ORPHANS' AND AGED MASONS' FUND.


    1916. £ s. d. £ s. d.


    Feb. 29.—By Cash Balance 26,974 12 6


    Mar. 31.— „ Contributions from Lodges, etc. 186 11 3


    „ „ „ Sup. R.A. Chapter of


    New Zealand .. 296 0 0


    ——— 482 11 3


    27,457 3 9


    LESS Transferred to War Fund ... 5 1 1


    £27,452 2 8


    SPECIAL (WAR) BENEVOLENT FUND.


    1916. £ s. d. £ s. d.


    Feb. 29.— By Cash Balance 7,268 10 3


    Mar. 31.— „ Contributions from


    Lodges, etc. 1,236 18 10


    „ „ „ £5 ls. 1d. wrongly credited


    to W. & 0. & A.M. Fund 5 1 1


    1,241 19 11


    £8,510 10 2


    CIRCULAR APPEALS.


    1916. £ s. d


    Feb. 29.—By Cash Balance ... .. 1,252 7 5


    Mar. 31.— „ Contributions from Lodges 12 1 6


    £1,264 8 11


    REPRESENTATION FUND.


    (1916 Commn.)


    1916. £ s. d.


    Feb. 29.--By Cash Balance ... 498 19 9


    Mar. 31.„ Contributions from Lodges ... 178 7 3


    £677 7 0


    G.L. Office, Christchurch, MALCOLM. NICCOL,


    6th April, 1916. Grand Secretary.


    ———————————




    CHRISTCHURCH MASONIC HALL.


    ———<>———


    DEDICATION OF A CHAPTER HALL TO R.A. FREEMASONRY.


    ————


    On the 12th April last a very unique ceremony was performed in the new Christchurch Masonic Hall


    building, being the dedication of a Chapter room specially built and designed for R.A. Chapter purposes.


    The companions assembled in large numbers on the above-named date, and at 7.55 p.m. a Chapter was


    opened with the following officers in the chairs :—V.E. Comp. W. Broadley, Z. of No. 1, as Z. ; M.E. Comp.


    W. T. Franks, No. 136 S.C., as H. ; V.E. Comp. G. H. Cooper, No. 31, as J. ; E. Comp. C. W. Bingham, No.


    1, as S.N. ; E. Comp. A. H. Hobbs, No. 51, as 1st Soj. ; V. E. Comp. H. G. Bailey, No, 136 S.C., as 2nd Soj. ;


    E. Comp. G. H. Weir, No. 31, as 3rd Soj. ; V.E. Comp. H. F. Arnold, Janitor.


    M.E. Comp. E. H. Cousins, Prov.G.H., S.C., and R.E. Comp. C. Flavell, G.Supt. of the Canterbury district,


    were received and accorded the honours of their rank.


    V.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop, as G.D. of C., announced that the officers of G. Chapter were in attendance, and


    the companions having been called to order, M.E. Comps. S. C. Bingham and A. C. Andrews, P.G.Zs.,


    accompanied by the officers of G. Chapter, were received and accorded the honours of their rank.


    Apologies were read for the absence of the following companions :—M.E. Comp. T. Ross, G.Z., M.E.


    Comp. H. J. Williams, G.S.E. (indisposition), M.E. Comp. M. Niccol, P.G.Z., R.E. Comps. M. J. Harris,


    D.G.Z., J. Moncrieff, G.J., H. O. Carter, G.Supt. S.C. The presiding officer explained that the companions


    had met that evening for the purpose of dedicating a Chapter hall to the purposes of R. A. Freemasonry. The


    directors of the. Masonic Hall Co., recognising this important branch of Masonic work, had requested their


    architect to design a room especially to meet R.A. requirements. This had been done, and the purpose of the


    meeting was its dedication. He therefore had pleasure in inviting M.E. Comp. Bingham and the officers of G.


    Chapter to perform the requisite ceremony. A prayer having been offered, M.E. Comps. S. C. Bingham, A.


    C. Andrews, and R.E. Comp. C. Flavell were conducted to the W. by the G.D. of C., and having assumed


    their positions, W.S. and N. of the T.P., proceeded to perfume the altar. After which the Letters and


    Characters were placed in position by Comps. Maven and Andrews, and were examined and explained by


    M.E. Comp. Bingham. The candles were then placed in position and lighted, and the S. and T. were placed.


    The D. of C. next presented the Arch Stones, which were properly placed by the dedicating officers, who


    then proceeded to the E. and performed an essential duty. The Symbol having been placed on the V.S.L.,


    prayer was offered, which was followed by an address on the Banners by M.E. Comp. S. C. Bingham, who


    then declared the hall dedicated to all the purposes of R.A. Masonry, and the G.D. of C. made proclamation


    accordingly, and G.H. were given. Congratulations having been offered, the G. Chapter officers retired, and


    the Chapter was closed at 9.20 p.m.


    V.E. Comp. E. Nordon, as secretary of the Masonic Hall Co. has had a very strenuous time in connection


    with the two dedication ceremonies, and at the close of the RA. ceremony was accorded a very hearty vote of


    thanks.


    ———————————


    THE V.S.L., THE COMPASSES, AND THE SQUARE.


    ———<>———


    [By V.W. BRO. H. B. BRIDGE, G.Lect. Read at the Wellington Lodge of Installed Masters.]


    ————


    This necessarily brief paper does not purpose to treat, as its title might imply, exclusively of the ethical


    values inherent in the important Masonic symbols named. It embodies an endeavour to suggest an intelligent


    and adequate reason for the direction in our ritual that, subsequent to the opening of a Lodge, in the


    arrangement of the compasses and the square on the V.S.L., the angle of the square should point to the W.,


    also incidentally, the adjustment of the compasses above the square, and therefore nearer than it to the E. The


    question has often been asked of the writer : "Why is there this adjustment of the emblems" Search of such


    Masonic authorities as have been available has failed to discover any authoritative statement on the matter.


    That explanation thereon is demanded is quite a natural sequence when it is considered that the square is the


    distinctive jewel of the office of W.M., and that it is, by certain Masonic writers, ranked as the second in


    importance of the Masonic three great lights, the compasses coming third in order of mention. Symbolically,




    the V.S.L. represents our duty to God, or the will of God ; the square represents our duty to our neighbour,


    and the compasses indicate our duty to ourselves. It might readily be thought, therefore, that in the


    adjustment of the emblems on the V.S.L., the square would have pride of place, as it were, nearest the W.M.,


    the compasses taking the lower position. Of course it might be put forward that such an adjustment would be


    inartistic and unpleasing to the eye; that the arrangement of the emblems as in almost all Lodges adopted


    affords the better because more symmetrical, adjustment. But this may at once be dismissed as too trivial to


    warrant notice. To the Masonic thinker it must be plain that the position of the compasses and the square


    upon the V.S.L., the outcome of specific direction as to the status of the angle of the latter, must have, as is


    the case with all other Masonic observances appointed for Lodge ceremonial and working, a definite and


    purposeful meaning. If this is conceded, then the meaning is valueless unless it can be conveyed to the


    brethren, It is with a view to, with all diffidence, suggesting the meaning and so assisting towards its being


    understood of the brethren that this paper is submitted to this Lodge, in order that the subject matter may be


    tested by discussion, and either approved or repudiated by those of distinction and experience in the Craft. It


    will be necessary, here mid there, but only very briefly, to touch on the ethical values of the emblems


    referred to.


    For the sake of completeness let us picture the procedure so far as the V.S.L., the compasses, and the square


    are concerned, directly the Lodge is declared open. The I.P.M., or in his absence a P.M., opens the V.S.L. at


    a certain defined place, the compasses are then laid thereon with the body towards the E., and the legs


    extended apart pointing towards the body of the Lodge. Then on these legs the square is laid, so as to cover


    the points of the compasses, with its angle pointing to the W.


    We thus have two of the most important Masonic symbols displayed to the Lodge, having for their


    foundation and resting place the V.S.L., which is the chief symbol, and the greatest of the three Masonic


    great lights, in that it symbolises the will of God as revealed to man, and is the authority for the symbolic


    teachings of both compasses and square. It is needless to expatiate further on this head.


    Turning now to the position of the compasses, with its body towards the E., and its legs extended outward


    towards the body of the Lodge, it would seem that, in this connection at least, it has superseded the square in


    its importance. The writer submits that that is exactly what it has done, and what was intended it should do.


    Mackay describes the compasses as : "the most prominent emblem of virtue, the true and only measure of a


    Mason's life and conduct." If this definition is correct, its juxtaposition to the W.M. in the E. is symbolically


    justified. But there are other analytical proofs of the relatively greater value as a symbol of the compasses.


    This emblem is traditionally of greater importance than the square. It has, further, Divine associations,


    whereas the square's ethical value is solely applied to man. Last, but not least, the source of origin of the


    perfect square is the compasses, since the absolutely correct square can only be obtained from the perfect


    circle, which, in its turn, is only to be obtained by the use of the compasses. The ancient astronomers of


    Egypt and Persia regarded the compasses as a symbol of the sun, which in those far away days was, and even


    in some parts of the world at the present day is, worshipped as the Supreme Power, or the manifestation to


    the lower world of that Supreme Power ruling and governing the unverse. In this relation the body of the


    compasses represented the sun, and the legs its rays. Masonically, the compasses are often used to symbolise


    the illimitable powers of the Supreme Ruler, for as the perfect circle is the symbol of eternity, so the in-


    strument which alone can fashion it—the compasses—represents that Supreme Being who alone is eternal,


    and whose power is to be increased solely by His will. It is quite a common experience to see the compasses


    with legs extended, or parted, and between them a representation of the All-Seeing Eye, inferentially


    denoting the Divine association of the emblem. Again, as is well known, the compasses are the jewel set


    apart exclusively for the use of the G.M. On the other hand, the square belongs to the whole Craft. From this


    may be deduced, without any great stretch of allegorical imagination, that just as the compasses represent the


    illimitable, or the limitable, according to the will of the Supreme Being, and is symbolical of the Deity


    having supreme power and government, so it represents the rule and authority over his Masonic territory of


    the G.M., subject to the guidance and direction of the Supreme Power. Its juxtaposition, then, to the W.M., in


    open Lodge, and its adjustment above the square, and so nearer the E., may be accepted as the reminder that,


    though the W.M. is supreme in his Lodge, he still only holds that exalted position subject to his conformity


    with the Constitutions of the Craft, and the rulings of the G.M. The W.M. is, therefore, as it welt, a vice-


    regent, representing the G.M., and ruling and governing the small territory—his Lodge—in the interests of


    Masonry as a whole.


    There only remains to deal with the arbitrary adjustment of the square so that its angle points to the W. The


    explanation of this appears to be quite simple. It is necessary to bear in mind that all the important and


    valuable properties of the Operative Mason's square lie in the angle itself. That is to say, the slightest, most




    minute divergence from the mathematical correctness of the angle would be sufficient to cause malformation


    in intended rectangular blocks of stone, and, the error being perpetuated, to destroy the beauty and symmetry


    of a building or monumental structure So, from the ethical point of view, the very essence of the moral


    quality denoted by the square may be said to centre in, and flow out from, its angle. The slightest divergence


    from the rectitude of life and conduct will correspondingly deform the character of the Mason. Light and


    education, also, have their origin in the E., and thence spread to the W. These are the ideas intended to be


    conveyed. When, then, the square is adjusted, upon the opening of the Lodge, so that its angle points to the


    W., the symbolism implies that the moral virtues represented by the square flow out to the iiiembers of the


    Lodge, firstly, from God ; secondly, from the beneficent rule and lofty character of the G.M. ; and thirdly,


    from the wisdom and high example of the W.M., who is the humble representative of both T.G.A.O.T.U. and


    of the G.M., to whom his immediate allegiance is due. Just as no irreverence is here intended, so also is there


    no straining of reasoning in its support. To the W.M. is intrusted the conferring of figurative light where


    there is darkness. Needless to say, it was T.G.A.O.T.U, who first conferred the blessing of material light


    upon a darkened world, while it is one of the important functions of the G.M., by well considered decisions


    on Masonic problems as they arise, to throw light thereon.


    Set out briefly, these are the suggestions put forward in the hope that discussion of them will prove both


    illuminative and instructive.




    OBITUARY.


    ———<>———


    W. BRO. J. D. WATSON.


    ———


    It is with deep regret that I have to record the death of W. Bro. John Dawson Watson, which


    occurred at Waipawa on Sunday, 9th April, following an attack of heart failure. The late Bro.


    Watson was headmaster of the Waipawa District High School, a position which he has held for


    the last nine years. He was a scholar of the old Scottish type, and as a teacher had few equals in


    the Dominion. He was born and educated in Edinburgh, and graduated in 1880. He went


    through a four years' theological course and a post-graduate two years' course in philosophy. For


    some years he acted as college coach. Bro. Wilson came to New Zealand in 1895, and settled in


    Hawkes Bay. His first scholastic appointment was as headmaster of the Ormondville School,


    and in 1902 he received a similar position at Norsewood. He held this position for five years,


    and during that time took a keen interest in all matters of educational importance, especially in


    the work of the Teachers' Institute, of which he was twice president. In March of 1907 Bro.


    Watson secured the appointment of master of the Waipawa District School, which was shortly


    afterwards converted into a district high school. Of the splendid work in the cause of education


    which he accomplished during his nine years' residence here it is impossible to speak too highly.


    It was his aim to make Waipawa the educational Centre of the middle district of Hawkes Bay,


    and it is largely owing to his efforts in this direction that the school holds the position that it


    does.


    In private life Bro. Watson was a man of many estimable qualities and one whom it was a


    pleasure to know. As a Freemason his removal from our midst will be a distinct loss to the Craft


    in this portion of the Hawkes Bay Province. His ability as an orator was great, and his ritual


    work was always much appreciated. His rendering of the Charge to the W.M. on installation


    occasions always created a deep and lasting impression on all who were privileged to hear it.


    His strong force of character, his broad and progressive ideas, coupled with an intellect that was


    continually seeking after truth, were the means of making him respected by all. We mourn his


    loss, and our sympathy goes out to his family.


    LODGE OF SORROW.


    A Lodge of Sorrow was held in the Abercorn Lodge-room on the day of the funeral. There was


    a large attendance of brethren from Abercorn, Bedford, Scinde, Ruataniwha, and Lion Lodges,


    Lion being our late brother's Lodge, of which he was a member at the time of his death. W. Bro.


    Pasco, W.M. of Abercorn, opened the Lodge, after which W. Bro. Wilson, W.M. of Lion,


    addressed the brethren, and referred in a feeling manner to the many fine qualities of the brother


    to whom we had assembled to pay the last sad rites. A motion of sympathy with the wife and




    family of our deceased brother was proposed, after which the "Dead March" was played by the


    Organist, Bro. Bolt, the brethren standing. A procession was then formed, and about sixty


    brethren preceded the cortege to the Hadley Cemetery, where the Presbyterian Church service


    was conducted by the Rev. D. Smith, assisted by the Revs. Grant and Connor, the Masonic


    service being impressively carried out by Rev. Bro. Stace and W. Bro. Wilson. Brethren then


    returned in procession to the Lodgeroom, where W. Bro. Wilson conveyed his personal and also


    the best thanks of Lodge Lion to W. Bro. Pasco for the manner in which he had acted in taking


    charge of and carrying out the arrangements on behalf of Lodge Lion.— [Lodge


    Correspondent.]






    REVIEW.


    ——<>——


    Transactions of the Authors' Lodge, No. 3456, London. Edited. by W. Bro. A. F. Calvert. Published by


    Kenning and Son, Great Queen Street; 10/6.


    ———


    On the 16th November, 1910, the Authors' Lodge was born into Freemasonry. It had its origin in the


    Authors' Club, and, as its name implies, is a class Lodge, and is virtually confined to literary men. Though


    class Lodges may appear to be opposed, theoretically, to the true spirit and principles of Freemasonry in


    practice in England, which is their home, they have been very successful, and no exception is taken to them.


    It would appear that the conception of the Authors' Lodge originated with Bro. Montesole, the first W.M.,


    and he was ably supported by W. Bros. Calvert,,Algernon Rose, Lucien Wolf, and others. We are told that as


    a class Lodge the progress made is unique. The formation of a Lodge of literary men involved no little


    responsibility, and the Craft looked on with curious eyes, anxious to note if its existence would be justified.


    But it soon became apparent that the new Lodge was no drone, but fully recognised its potentialities. Those


    who imagined that ritual ceremonial would constitute the Alpha and Omega of its existence were greviously


    disappointed, and no time was lost in using the literary attainments of the members to further its objects, with


    the result that after five years. the unprecedented course is taken of publishing the transactions of the Lodge,


    which are contained in a neatly-bound volume of 311 pages, embellished by numerous photographs and


    plates. The preface states that "the distinctive class which composes its membership has been responsible for


    the delivery of a number of Masonic lectures of a value unequalled by any Lodge outside the famous


    Quatuor Coronati Lodge." Indeed, the wonder is how so many admirable addresses have been presented in so


    comparatively short a time, considering how the Lodge has been so fully occupied in the "making of


    Masons." The usual excuse of Lodges for default in the higher branches of Masonic education is the


    superabundance of ceremonial work. Yet the Authors' Lodge has demonstrated the possibility of including


    both and filling the measure of Masonic usefulness. To increase the force of example the following list of


    addresses delivered are noted :—"The Third Degree," "An Early Jewish Freemason," "Anthony Sayer, First


    G.M.," "From Labour to Refreshment," "Going West," "Class Lodges," "The Guild of Help," "The W.


    Company of Masons," "An Explanation of our Jewels," "Some Notes of Early French Lodges,' "Ancient


    Freemasonry in New Lands," "Continental Freemasonry," "The Lodge of Emulation," "Freemasons' Lodges


    Among French Prisoners of War," "The Masonic Lodges of Greater Britain," "Masonry and Music," "Point


    Masonry," "What is Freemasonry?" "Red Aprons or Stewards' Lodges," "The Cable Tow," "Operative


    Freemasons and Operative Freemasonry," "A Speculative Philosophy," "Freemasonry as a Means of


    Preserving the Peace of the World," "The Temple Symbolism of India," "Au Account of Certain Masonic


    Remains at Pompeii," "Lodge Nights in the Olden Days," "Elias Ashmole," "Remarks upon Supposed


    Masonic Remains of the Imperial Epoch," "Freemasonry and War," "Pro Bono Publico : or Freemasonry as a


    World Power," "Two Old Masonic Figures in Bucks," "The Object of Masonry," "National Independent and


    Regular Grand Lodge of France and the French Colonies," "The Two Pillars," "Geometry of Freemasonry."


    We only regret that our want of space precludes the inclusion of the names of the lecturers. It is sufficient to


    say that the "Transactions," including such a wide range of subjects by such well-known and distinguished


    writers, constitutes a work of Masonic reference. In connection with the article on "French Lodges," may we


    incidentally mention that the first Masonic Lodge established in New Zealand was "Francaise Primitive


    Antipodienne," which was instituted at Akaroa by the Sup. Council of France on 29th August, 1843. There is


    also attached to the Authors' Lodge a R.A. Chapter, in accordance with English Masonic custom, which is


    very popular with members and is doing good work. At least two of the present officers of the Authors'


    Lodge are not unknown in this country. Bro. Rev. P. H. Ditchfield visited New Zealand a few years ago in




    the interests of the Church of England Men's Society, and Bro. Saint-George charmed a number of Lodges


    with his clever manipulation of an unique instrument of music, the name of which we have forgotten. This


    brother was also admitted to membership in the St. Augustine R.A. Chapter, No. 1, holden at Christchurch.


    W. Bro. Algernon Rose has also visited the Dominion, though incog. so far as Freemasonry was concerned.


    W. Bro. Calvert, as editor of the "Transactions," has performed his task well and worthily, and we hope the


    book will find its way into the hosuehold of every reading Freemason.








    ———————————


    THE V.S.L., THE COMPASSES, AND THE SQUARE.


    ———<>———


    A VETERAN HONOURED.


    At the annual meeting of Egmont R.A. Chapter, held in Inglewood on the 10th ult., a special toast was


    proposed at the refectory to the health of V.E. Comp. T. E. Hamerton, Asst.G. St.B. The special reason being


    that on that day Comp. Hamer-ton had attained the age of 75 years, and 50 years as a M.M. Needless to say,


    the toast was received in a very hearty manner. Comp. T. E. Hamerton is the only survivor of several


    brothers, whose names were household Masonic words in the Freemasonry of Taranaki for the past half


    century. Notwithstanding his advancing years, Comp. Hamerton's interest in Freemasonry is unabated. He


    has now arrived at a "frosty winter lusty but kindly," and our worst wish is that the evening of his declining


    years may be the happiest of a long and useful life.


    ———————————


    THE VALUE OE MASONRY.


    ———<>———


    W. Bro. C. J. Stevens, D. of C., at Commercial Lodge on Saturday, 19th February, speaking in response to a


    toast welcoming him back after his recent illness, said :—


    " I should like to say a word as to the value of sympathy. One important factor in connection with restoration


    to health is the will to live. Naturally, all possess that will more or less, but it is most potent where it is


    fortified by substantial reasons that can be used in prayer to the G.A.O.T.U. for recovery. In my own case the


    will was strengthened by domestic considerations, but in addition was fortified by evidence of a certain


    usefulness to society, notably contained in the letters of sympathy, written by the W. Sec. of Commercial


    Lodge (Bro. Lawes) and other members of the Craft. During my affliction I was able to indulge in


    meditations, and one concerned the value of Freemasonry. The conclusion at which I arrived was that in the


    last passage there is no satisfaction so sweet as that derived from the consciousness of having sincerely


    sought to worship God in the service of man. That is the aim and essence of Freemasonry. Freemasonry


    being a progressive science, it is not surprising that the Craft has in succeeding ages progressive views


    regarding the best way of serving mankind. In the eighteenth century, when modern Masonry was


    established, the Craft relied on convivial fellowship. The 'Fourth Degree' is valuable, for from time


    immemorial hospitality has been everywhere recognised as a stimulus to goodwill and fraternity. In the next


    century, without abandoning convivial fellowship, the note of emphiasis was transferred to morality, and it


    was felt that society could be best influenced through lives respectable, honourable, and respected. Now, in


    the twentieth century, while retaining both convivial fellowship and exemplary living, the accent is placed


    still higher, and it is expected that Freemasons, not content with feeling kind and being good, will also do


    something kind and good. In other words, Masons are now identified with the cause of humanity, social


    efficiency, and public reform. This is particularly observable in the United States, where, in spite of


    eccentricities and excesses, the Order indicates a virile expression of energy. At the same time, American


    Masonry appears to be at the parting of the ways, and in some instances in my humble judgment has


    mistaken the genius of the institution, and encroached upon the ancient landmarks. For instance, on the


    temperance question, several jurisdictions have decreed that no maker or seller of alcoholic beverages may


    be admitted as a member. That is an invasion of the political field of action, and a narrowing of the broad


    platform of toleration. In our zeal for patriotism we have approached somewhat in the direction of that peril


    with recruiting speeches in Lodges. It is a Mason's duty to serve his country to the best of his ability, but


    what form the duty should take is a matter for his civic conscience. He might be a Quaker. My view is that




    the influence of Masonic principles should be to inflame a brother with social zeal, but as a social reformer


    he will necessarily attach himself to some party or creed. In politics he will probably work out his co-


    operative ideal through a Liberal or Labour or Independent channel, and in religion through one of the


    churches, but obviously the Craft, in its corporate capacity, cannot adopt a programme of reform or attach


    itself to a particular creed without losing its universality and becoming sectarian. Still, it remains true that the


    Masonic spirit is to worship God in the service of man, and in that spirit. I am glad to resume my Masonic


    duties."—" S.A. Freemason."


    ———————————


    WELL QUALIFIED.


    ———<>———


    G.M. Melvin M. Johnson, 33 deg., of Massachusetts, in the annual feast of St. John, explained that his ability


    to pick out grand chaplains was based on his wide experience in denominational theology. He is quoted as


    follows : —


    "I was born in a Methodist parsonage. I went to a hard-shell Baptist Sunday School. I went to a Sweden-


    borgian day school and then to a Universalist college, and after that I attended a Methodist law school; then I


    married a Presbyterian wife in a Unitarian home, and the ceremony was performed by a Universalist


    minister. I am a member of the Congregational church, but at the present time I attend an Episcopal church;


    and I live in a hotel that is inhabited mostly by Christian Scientists. If I am not qualified to pick out chaplains


    for the G.L., you never had a G.M. who was.


    —"Brotherhood."


    ———————————


    SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 18th APRIL, 1916.


    ———<>———


    E. H. Fincham (Toko), T. Rowell 40/-, Rev. G. Knowles Smith 50/10 (Wellington), J. Johnstone, F. W.


    Willey, G. Gempton, S. B. Houghton (Napier), S. Thomas 11/8 (Te Kuiti), G. E. Fowler (Balfour), L. R.


    Ellis (Darfield), G. G. Menzies 17/6 (Hokianga), J. L. Davidson (Clyde), T. R. Ford (Waitara), W. R. Leeder


    55/- (late Balclutha), A. H. Strong 17/6 (Torere, via Opotiki).


    (All 7/6 except those noted.)


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


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


    [Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]


    ————


    CRAFT LODGES.


    ————————


    SOUTHLAND.


    Taringatura, No. 100.—The monthly meeting on 28th March was moderately attended, harvest being


    responsible for the majority of absences. Sickness accounted for the absence of the Secretary, with whom the


    Lodge, by resolution, sympathised. The special work was the raising of three brethren. The ceremony was


    performed by the W.M., Bro. D. Walker, assisted by W. Bros. H. Graham (Retro.), Johnson (Exhort., T.D.


    and Ss.), and Campbell (Antient Charge), while Bro. G. E. Griffiths, J.W., presented the W.Ts. One


    candidate was proposed, and the W.M. was elected Lodge representative to G.L. meeting at Auckland.—


    [Lodge Correspondent.]


    ———————


    OTAGO.


    Masters Lodge, No. 161.—The annual meeting for the installation of the W.M. and investiture of officers


    was held in the Masonic Hall, Great King Street, Dunedin, on 24th March, when there was a large and


    representative attendance, nearly all the W.Ms. of the city and suburban Lodges being present. The Lodge


    was opened at 7.30 p.m. by the W.M., W. Bro. D. Harris Hastings, and after the visitors had been received


    the R.W. Prov.G.M., Bro. J. J. Clark, was announced, received, and saluted. He having taken over the gavel,


    R.W. Bro. T. S. Graham, D.G.M., E.C., and R.W. Bro. D. Cooke, D.G.M., S.C. (N.Z. South), attended by




    their D.G. Lodge officers, were received and had due honours paid to them. The W.M.-elect (R.W. Bro. T.


    Ross, P.D.G.M.), escorted by four W.Ms., was then admitted, and in a brief ceremony was installed as W.M.


    for the ensuing year. He then invested W. Bro. D. Harris Hastings, G.S.B., as I.P.M., and in doing so referred


    to the fact that twenty years before he had invested W. Bro. Hastings with a similar jewel as the first I.P.M.


    of Lodge Maori. He then appointed W. Bro. T. Davil as D.M. The following is the list of the officers who


    were invested by R.W. Bros. A. Stoneham and E. W. G. H. Watts, P.P.G.Ms. :—S.W., W. Bro. T. Gallagher,


    G.S.D. ; J.W., W. Bro. J. J. H. Dumsday ; Sec., W. Bro. C. W. Lischner ; Treas., W. Bro. J. Quaile ; D. of C.,


    R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick, P.G.W. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. C. E. Thomson; Organist, W. Bro. A. E. Jenkins,


    P.G.O. ; S.D., W. Bro. W. Owen ; J.D., W. Bro. J. Couchman ; I.G., W. Bro. H. Woodhead. The Tyler-elect,


    W. Bro. R. V. Parker, being in camp at Trentham, was unable to be invested. The address to the W.M. was


    given by R.W. Bro. T. S. Graham, to the Wardens by R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick, and to the brethren by R.W.


    Bro. D. Cooke. In each instance the R.W. brethren departed from the stereotyped addresses and gave original


    ones suitable to the work and aspirations of the Masters Lodge. W. Bro. A. Flett acted as D. of C., Bro. A.


    Harrop conducted the choir and had charge of the musical arrangements, and Bro. N. Shepherd acted as


    Trumpeter. The usual offertory was taken up for the W. and O. and A.M. Fund, and realised a satisfactory


    amount. The installation supper was held after the Lodge was closed, the feature being the spirited address of


    the R.W. Prov.G.M. and the appropriate speeches made by R.W. Bros. Graham and Cooke and the newly


    installed W.M.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————————————


    CANTERBURY.


    Southern Cross, No. 6.—The regular meeting was held at Kaiapoi on the evening of 6th April. The W.M.,


    W. Bro. Hoskin, presided over a good attendance. The W.M., officers and brethren of Ashley Lodge, at the


    request of W. Bro. Hoskin, filled the various offices, and passed a brother to the RC. Degree. The work was


    carried out in a very efficient manner, and reflects credit upon the new officers of Ashley Lodge. The visit


    was a return to one paid to Ashley Lodge by Southern Cross some time ago, when they worted the Second


    Degree. W. Bro. Hoskin assumed the chair and, after expressing thanks to W. Bro. Pavitt for the visit, closed


    the Lodge. An enjoyable hour was afterwards spent in the refectory.


    On 13th April W. Bro. Hoskin, accompanied by nine brethren, went by cars to Waiau, at the invitation of W.


    Bro. J. Goulding of Lodge Amuri, to confer the Third Degree on a brother. The trip, extending over three


    days, was thoroughly enjoyed by all who went. Southern Cross was met on Friday evening by the W.M. and


    brethren of Amuri at Rotherham, and entertained at dinner, after which a social hour was spent prior to the


    Lodge being tyled. On Saturday it rained all day, and kept everyone indoors, and on Sunday we started for


    home in perfect weather and arrived in Kaiapoi in good time. The brethren are indebted to Lodge Amuri for


    their invitation and for a most enjoyable four days' trip.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    St. Augustine, No. 99.—The regular meeting was held on 15th March. The work was the raising of two


    brethren. This was carried out by the W.M., Bro. T. W. Manchester, with the assistance of P.Ms. and officers


    as follows :—Ob., Bro. T. W. Manchester, W.M. ; Exhort. and Ss., W. Bro. D. A. Fulton, P.M. ; Prayer, W.


    Bro. Garland, P.M. ; 1st part T.H., W. Bro. Lee, P.M. ; Emb., W. Bro. G. J. Shackleton, P.M. ; Cont. of T.H.,


    W. Bro. Menzies, P.M. ; Final Charge, W. Bro. A. Colville, P.M. and W.Ts., Bro. C. Bateman, J.W. On the


    conclusion of the ceremony, the W.M. presented the newly raised brethren each with the V.S.L., on which he


    had been obligated, and in doing so accompanied the presentation with suitable remarks. The usual


    adjournment to the refectory followed, where a good time was spent. In response to the toast of the visitors,


    Bro. Duff, of Peninsula Kil., 696, S.C., and the J.W. of Lodge Pareora, who, along with three or four.


    brethren, had come to witness a "Third" of St. Augustine's, replied in suitable terms and extended invitations


    to visit those Lodges. It may be mentioned that the W.M. of Lodge St. Augustine, accompanied by a fair


    retinue, proposes visiting Canterbury Kil., Lyttelton, on Thursday, 20th April, to work a Third Degree


    there.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Amuri, No. 184.—The usual meeting was held on 14th April, W. Bro. Goulding presiding. The work was


    the raising of a. brother, which was entrusted to the brethren of Southern Cross, No. 6, the Lodge being


    officered as follows : W. Bro. Hoskin, W.M. ; W. Bro. Gribble, I.P.M. - Bro. Banyon, S.W. ; Bro. Croft,


    J.W. ; Bro. Mealings, S.D. ; Bro. Mably, J.D. ; Bro. Luisetti, I.G. ; Bro Fellowlees, D. of C. The ceremony


    was carried out in a very efficient manner. The W.M. obligated and communicated the Secrets ; W. Bro.


    Gribble gave the T.H. ; Bro. Banyan invested and gave the Final Charge ; Bro. Croft presented the W.Ts. W.




    Bro. Hoskin is to he congratulated on the excellent manner in which his officers carried out the work, which


    was very instructive to Amuri, as visits of other Lodges are rare to us. Our heartiest thanks are due for the


    visit, as these brethren came over fifty miles to extend the hand of brotherhood. An enjoyable evening was


    enlivened by our talented visitors with song and story.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————————


    NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH.


    Havelock, No. 104.—The installation meeting was held on 17th. March, when there was a large attendance


    of members and visitors. The Master-elect, Bro. Alfred Scott, was installed by the R.W. Bro. W. Moyes,


    P.P.G.M., assisted by W. Bro. G. Logan, P.G.S., as D. of C., and a full complement of acting-G.L. officers.


    There was a good attendance of brethren and visitors, including Lodges Victory, Unanimity, and Wairau, a


    striking feature in this connection being the attendance of several P.Ms. from the Lodges named, who greatly


    assisted in the beautiful ceremony. The address to the W.M. was most impressively given by W. Bro.


    Girling, the address to the Wardens was given by W. Bro. F. Thomas, P.G.S.B., and the address to the


    brethren by R.W. Bro. W. Moyes. The W.Ts. in each instance were given by W. Bro, Lucas, Lodge Wairau,


    W. Bro. Eckford, Lodge Unanimity, and W. Bro. MeKinley. The officers invested were:— W. Bro. W. A.


    Russell ; S. W., Bro. A. B. Reade ; J.W., Bro. B. Anderson; Sec., W. Bro. Buckman; Chaplain, W. Bro. R.


    Price; S.D., Bro. James Glorrie; J.D., Bro. W. H. Marriott ; D. of C., W. Bro. F. Thomas, P.G.S.B.; I.G., Bro.


    W. Coating; Tyler, Bro. J. W. Taylor. W. Bro. Price was presented with a P.M.'s jewel by R.W. Bro. Moyes.


    The collection for the Annuity Fund was liberally responded to. A very pleasant after-meeting took place, the


    usual patriotic and Masonic toasts being honoured. Several vocal items and recitations were given by various


    brethren.


    An emergency meeting was held on 22nd March to pass Lieutenant A. W. Nesbitt, by request of Lodge St.


    John, No. 37, so as to enable him to take his M.M. Degree before he left for the front. The ceremony was


    ably performed by W. Bro. F. Thomas, who gave the Obligation and 2nd T.B. ; W.Ts., Bro. Meade, J.W.;


    Ss., W. Bro. Buckman; Charge after Passing, Bro. Scott, acting-S.W.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    —————————


    HAWKES BAY.


    Victoria, No. 21.—The monthly meeting was held on 4th April, when there Was a large attendance of


    brethren. Bro. Kirk, W.M., occupied the chair. The work was to raise one brother. The Ob. was administered


    by the W.M. ; the Exhort. was taken by W. Bro. Redshaw ; Prep., by Bro. Canon Tuke; F. and R., Bro. Kirk,


    W.M. ; Charge, R.W. Bro. Harston ; Ss. and T.H., W. Bro. Wilkie; W.Ts. Bro. Kirk, W.M. ; Final Charge,


    Bro. Hill, S.W. ; whilst W. Bro. Freedman also delivered an additional charge. The whole work was very


    creditably performed by the various officers and the Deacons (Bros. Erskine and Bate). The attendance at the


    Lodge on this particular night was the largest of any meeting held during the past year, the seating


    accommodation being taxed to its utmost capacity, the occasion being to bid farewell to W. Bro. Archdeacon


    Tuke, who leaves for a new sphere of operations, having been appointed by his Bishop to the control of the


    Bay of Plenty district. The attendance included the Prov.G.M., Bro. Harston, the W.M., officers and brethren


    of Lodge Scinde, the I.P.M., officers and brethren of Lodge Heretaunga (the W.M. being prevented at the


    last minute from making the journey from Hastings). After the Degree work had been concluded; R.W. Bro.


    Harston assumed the gavel, and in some well chosen remarks referred to the universal esteem in which Bro.


    Tuke was held in this district, and stating that in saying farewell to Bro. Tuke they were indeed losing a


    friend. He also referred to the fact that Archdeacon Tuke had been made in Victoria Lodge, had passed


    through the chairs, and had also acted as Chaplain to both the Napier Lodges for a number of years. He


    regretted that the G.L. regalia, which the Lodges had intended to present to Bro. Tuke, and which he would


    personally have liked to invest, had not come to hand. He concluded by moving that the combined meeting


    of the three Lodges place on record their appreciation of Bro. Tuke's many estimable qualities, which was


    seconded by Bro. Kirk, W.M., and carried unanimously. Bro. Tuke made a lengthy reply, in which he


    thanked the R.W. Prov.G.M. for his kind remarks concerning himself, and also the brethren for their


    courtesy. He also returned thanks for the gift of G.L. regalia, and although it had not arrived to time he


    accepted the word for the deed ; there was no present the brethren could have offered which would be more


    acceptable. He had intended for some time back to purchase regalia himself, and wrote to the G.S., and


    received a characteristic reply to the effect that whilst the war lasted it was better to husband one's resources.


    He would always remember his brethren in Hawkes Bay, and would always be pleased to see them at any


    time. In his new district he had already received invitations to visit the Lodges, which he would certainly do,


    and would be pleased to see any of his old brethren who may happen to be visiting his district. After the




    Lodge was closed a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, where the usual toasts were duly honoured,


    further reference being made to Bro. Tuke's departure by several of the brethren. Archdeacon Tuke leaves for


    Tauranga immediately after Easter, but will not altogether be severing his connection with these parts, as his


    new district is in Waiapu diocese; and as the headquarters are in Napier, Archdeacon Tuke will be making us


    periodical visits.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Bedford, No. 25.—Considering the inclement weather and the fact that about twenty brethren accompanied


    their W.M. in an official visit to Scinde, Napier, the previous evening, there was quite a creditable gathering


    at our usual monthly meeting on the 22nd ult., when one candidate was passed, and accounts amounting to


    £37 13s 8d were passed for payment. The candidate was obligated and entrusted by Bro. Gore, W.M., and


    invested by Bro. Williams, S.W. ; W. Bro. Booth gave the S.E. Address, and the W.Ts. were presented by W.


    Bro. Storah, acting-J.W.; Bro. Williams, S.W., gave the Final Charge, and W. Bro. J. W. Elliott delivered the


    Lect. on the 2nd T.B. The election of officers resulted in favour of Bro. Williams, S.W., as Master-elect for


    the ensuing year. The names of officers will appear in the installation report. A banquet committee was set


    up to make all arrangements for Thursday, 20th April (installation night). One candidate was proposed.


    Whilst enjoying the social side of Freemasonry, a brief review of the year's work was made in the course of


    the toast to the officers. This disclosed a very busy year indeed, and the officers were complimented on the


    high standard of efficiency reached in their ceremonial work. Pleasing references were also made to the very


    cordial and hearty welcome tendered to Bedford the previous evening by Lodge Scinde, when our W.M. was


    accorded the privilege of passing a candidate. The hope was expressed that many similar gatherings May be


    arranged in the future.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    [Sorry we could not attend your meeting on Good Friday eve.—ED. C.]


    ————


    Abercorn, No. 30.—The regular monthly meeting was held in the Lodge room on 17th April. The W.M.


    presided over a good attendance of brethren and visitors. Ceremonial work consisted of raising a brother to


    the degree of M.M. The W.M. obligated the candidate; Bro. Hunt delivered the Retro. and W.Ts. ; W. Bro.


    Hobin the Exhort., T.H., and Secrets; Bro. Parkin Investiture and Final Charge. A very pleasant hour was


    spent in the "Fourth," Bros. Wilkin, Gay, and W. Bro. Storah of Lodge Bedford contributing towards the


    evening's enjoyment.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Rawhiti, No. 66.—The monthly meeting was held on 13th April. The W.M., W. Bro. W. Snell, presided, and


    there was a large attendance of members and visitors. The work consisted of one initiation and' one raising.


    In the ceremony of initiation W. Bro. Snell obligated the candidate and communicated the Ss. ; Bro. J. C.


    Davidson, S.W., invested; W. Bro. Soundy gave the N.E. Address; R. for Prep. was explained by Bro. C. R.


    James, J.W. ; W.Ts. were presented by Bro. C. T. Brown, S.D. ; and the Final Charge by W. Bro. F. Craven.


    In the ceremony of raising the candidate was obligated by W. Bro. Escott, W.M. of Lodge Ruahine, who also


    communicated the Ss. ; Bro. Lyons, J.D. (Exhort.); the Secrets and Signs were communicated by Bro.


    McFarlane, S.W. ; W. Bro. Cartwright gave the T.H. ; T.S. were explained by Bro. Elder ; W.Ts., Bro.


    Toogood, S.D. ; Final Charge, Bro. Burley, J.W. ; and the V.S.L. was presented by Bro. Gardiner, Chaplain.


    W. Bro. Snell thanked the W.M. and officers of Lodge Ruahine for coming through from Woodville to work


    the Third Degree, and also congratulated them on the very efficient way in which they performed the


    ceremony. W. Bro. Escott, on behalf of himself and officers thanked W. Bro. Snell for inviting them to come


    through to perform the ceremony of raising, which was a pleasure, and they appreciated the invitation very


    much. After the Lodge was closed a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    TARANAKI.


    Hawera, No. 34.—The regular meeting was held on 4th April, when a brother was raised to the degree of


    M.M. W. Bro. Jno. W. Harding presided over a large attendance, and everything went off with a splendid


    swing. The ritual work was considered by the visitors present to be letter-perfect. The candidate, who was a


    particularly "good" one, was obligated by the W.M., W. Bro. Kimball gave the Exhort., R.W. Bro. Sargent


    communicated the Ss., after which the J.W., Bro. L. S. Tarrant, announced Hightime, when the brethren


    adjourned for refreshment, and on resuming labour the candidate was invested by Bro. H. D. Caplen, S.W.,


    and was given the T.H. by W. Bro. Asher, whose rendering of this beautiful charge was highly appreciated


    by all present; W. Bro. E. Evans presented the W.Ts., and the V.S.L. was presented with appropriate remarks


    by Bro. Magnusson, Chaplain, after which the new M.M. received the "finishing touches' at the hands of the




    W.M., in the Final Charge. After the ceremonial work, the usual routine business of the Lodge was


    concluded, when one W. brother was proposed for affiliation, and the W.M. was elected as the Lodge


    delegate to the forthcoming G.L. Communication. The W.M. announced to the brethren the sad loss recently


    sustained by our worthy brother, H. E. Candy, in the death of his sixteen-year-old son, and a vote of


    condolence was carried by the brethren, standing in silence. A very pleasant half-hour was afterwards spent


    in the refectory, where several brethren gave some splendid renderings, and all got home early after a


    thoroughly enjoyable evening.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Moa, No. 110.—The W.M., Bro. .J. Roberts, had every reason to be pleased with the large attendance of the


    members of the Lodge at the regular meeting on 14th April—his first meeting after installation. The


    .ceremonial was an initiation, the W.M. being assisted with the work as follows:— W. Bro. Hamerton; N.E.


    Charge, W. Bro. Winfield; R. for Prep., W. Bro. Surrey ; W.Ts., Bro. Taylor, J.W. ; Final Charge, W. Bro.


    Young. While the candidate was being restored Bro. Hutton, J.D., gave an interesting paper dealing with


    points of variation in the conduct of the ceremonial, etc., that he had observed in Lodges he had visited at


    different times. The paper resulted in an entertaining and instructive discussion. As usual the proceedings in


    the "Fourth" were of a bright character, advantage being taken to couple with tile toast of the visitors two


    brethren whose attendance of late has not been as frequent[ as it should have been. In replying to the toast


    both culprits promised to be good bays in future.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    WELLINGTON.


    N.Z. Pacific, No. 2.—The annual meeting for the installation of W.M. was held in the Boulcott Street


    .Masonic Hall on 27th March. Following usual custom, the Lodge met at 3.30 p.m., W. Bro. E. Norton


    presiding. For an afternoon meeting the attendance was excellent. M.W. Bro. Herbert J. Williams—who is a


    member of the Lodge—acted as I.M., and was assisted by R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro.


    H. H. Seaton, P.G.W., as G.D. of C., W. Bros. J. H. Worboys and J. Rod, P.G.D., W. Bros. C. M. Igglesden,


    T. Gibson, and others. Bro. Arthur Scott, S.W., was presented by the G.D. of C. and Bro. Gavin Menzies,


    P.M., and after subscribing to the Ancient Charges was Obligated, and subsequently in a B. of I.M. was


    installed as W.M. of the Lodge. The Lodge was then called off and resumed at 7.30, when there was a very


    large attendance. The usual proclamations were made by the G.D. of C., Bro. M. Manthel acting as


    Trumpeter. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. E. Blundell, A. Ramsay, and I. Salek, R.W. Bro. Peterkin


    presented the W., C. and By-laws, and a quartette was admirably rendered by W. Bros. G. E. Smith, J. S.


    Connell, Bros. A. Longmore, and W. Thomson. The following officers were ably invested by W. Bro. T.


    Gibson, without wearying exordiums :—S.W., W. Bro. Tamblyn; J.W., W. Bro. R. H. Webb ; Chaplain, W.


    Bro. W. A. Ramsay, P.M; Treasurer, W. Bro. T. Gibson, P.M.; Secretary, W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, P.M.;


    P.G.S.D.; S.D., W. Bro. J. H. Hutchings; J.D., W. Bro. G. W. A. Clark; D. of C., W. Bro. J. S. Connell, P.M.;


    Organist, Bro. W. H. Godier ; I.G., Bro. P. Connell ; S. S., Bro. T. Queree; J.S., Bro. F. Thomson; Asst.


    Stewards, Bros. C. R. Ingram and A. G. Cate; Tyler (acting), Bro. A. J. Colmer. The address to the W.M.


    was given by W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, who incidentally referred to a number of members of the Lodge who


    had at various times held high positions, both in the political and Masonic world. W. Bro. G. Menzies


    charged the Wardens, and R.W. Bro. the Prov.G.M. delivered the address to the brethren. The W.M., in


    thanking all and sundry, delivered an excellent address, which evinced that he was not troubled with the


    usual new Master's complaint— nervousness. The Past G.M. presented a jewel to the retiring Master, who


    effectively replied, and the Prov.G.M. said a few words of farewell preparatory to his retirement from the


    office he now holds. An offertory was taken up for the G.L. War Fund, and the Lodge was closed at 9 p.m.,


    thus giving ample time for the refectory proceedings, when the usual toasts received full consideration.


    ————


    St. Andrew, No. 32.—On 17th April the regular meeting was held, Bro. W. Simpson, W.M., presiding over


    a good attendance. The visitors included the W.Ms, and brethren of Lodges Waterloo, Brooklyn and Otari,


    and a number of military brethren, who were heartily welcomed. The ceremonial was to initiate two


    candidates, which was done by the W.M., assisted by his officers. The Charges and Address were given by


    Bro. A. Schmidt, S.W. (Investiture and Final Charge); W. Bro. F. C. Broomhall (Charge on Invest.); W. Bro.


    A. W. Rowlands (N.E. Charge); Bro. J. C. Riddell, J.W. (R. for Prep.); Bro. W. Greening, S.D. (W.Ts.).


    During the ceremony the opportunity afforded by the N.E. Charge was availed of, and a collection taken up


    in augmentation of the G.M.'s War Benevolent Fund. H.G.W. were tendered by visitors, and after notice of


    proposition of a candidate for initiation, the Lodge was closed in harmony and concord and a brief




    adjournment was made to the refectory, where the usual toasts were honoured and acknowledged.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    ————


    Tutanekai, No. 156.—The monthly meeting was held on 6th April, in the Masonic Hall, Berhampore. The


    W.M., Bro. A. A. Whitelaw, presided over it large attendance of members and visitors, the latter including


    M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, Prov.G.M., the W.M. of Lodge Hinemoa, and


    several P.Ms. A ballot was taken for one candidate, who was elected. It was unanimously decided that the


    Lodge pay £5 5s. a quarter to the G.L. War Fund until the end of the war. Two brethren were passed to the


    Second Degree, the ceremony being performed by the W.M., assisted by W. Bro. Harrap, Signs and Secrets ;


    Bro. Howell, S.E. Charge; W. Bro. Alexander, . Charge after Investiture; the W.Ts. were presented by the


    W.M., S.W. and J.W. each explaining their respective jewels ; Bro. Sexton, S.W., Charge after Passing; Bro.


    Lenzini, J.W., Lect. on the 2nd T.B. After the Lodge was closed a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.


    —[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ———————————


    ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.


    Waimate, No. 16.—The regular bi-monthly electing took place on 22nd March. After the Chapter had been


    opened by V.E. Comp. D. A. Fulton, it was adjourned to work the Excellent Degree. The ceremony was


    carried out by W.E.M. Bro. A. J. Hoskins, who, with the assistance of his officers as below, conferred the


    Degree upon Bros. Creaser, King and Blake, of Lodge St. Augustine, No. 99 :—Ob., W.E.M. A. J. Hoskins ;


    Cond., Bro. C. Bateman; Capt. 1st Veil, W. Bro, Menzies ; Capt. 2nd Veil, Bro. J. W. Manchester ; Capt. 3rd


    Veil, Bro. C. Coventry; Lect. and Ss., W. Bro. Menzies ; Final Charge, W. Bro. A. Colville. The Chapter


    resumed and was closed in due form.—[Chapter Correspondent.]


    ————


    Wanganui, No. 23.—The regular convocation was held on 6th April, V.E. Comp. G. G. Bullock, Z.,


    presiding. An interest was added to the gathering by the labours of the evening being carried out in Gonville.


    Through the courtesy of the brethren of Lodge Moutoa, No. 195, the companions were able to meet in the


    Masonic Hall there. There was a good attendance to witness the acknowledgement of two brethren as E.M.


    Later in the refectory the usual toasts were honoured. This part, of the evening is not the least instructive, for


    a practice has developed of discussing points of Masonic interest, expecially those connected with our


    particular branch. R.E. Comp. Palmer has a fund of information at the disposal of the companions, and it is


    with the feeling of having made some advancement in Masonic knowledge that the members are able to


    leave.—[Chapter Correspondent.]


    ————


    Egmont, No. 37.—The annual meeting of Egmont R.A. Chapter was held at Inglewood on 10th April, when


    there was a fair attendance of companions. R.E. Comp. G. W. Palmer, G.Supt., was the installing officer, and


    was ably assisted by V.E. Comp. H. Priestley as G.D. of C. ; V.E. Comp. T. E. Hamerton, As. G.St.B. ; V.E.


    Comps. F. E.Dobson and J. Phillips. E. Comp. G. Young was installed as Z, E. Comp. J. McAllister as H., E.


    Comp. F. Copestake as J., and Comp. A. M. Spilman as S.E. After the ceremony refreshments were served in


    the refectory, and a very pleasant hour was spent.—[Chapter Correspondent.]