WOMEN AND FREEMASONRY.

———<>———

THE question of the admission of women into Freemasonry is not by any means original, and it periodically

recurs. It was recently made the subject of an address at a "ladies' night" held by a Wellington Lodge, and it

may here be interesting to review the action taken in the past with reference to the association of women with

Freemasonry. And we may preface these remarks by saying that there is only one instance recorded —which

is generally accepted as fully authenticated—of a woman being admitted into Freemasonry—viz., the Hon.

Mrs. Aldworth, who, it is traditionally stated, was initiated in a Masonic Lodge in Ireland as the penalty of

eavesdropping.

Whatever may be the value of the tradition, there is no further mention of any kind subsequently with

reference to this lady. It is somewhat singular that during the two hundred years of the existence of

Speculative Freemasonry so few attempts have been made to admit females to an active actual participation

in the institution proper. And it speaks volumes for the fidelity of the brethren, and not a little for the good

sense of their women relatives and friends.

* * * * *

Probably the first attempt to associate women with presumed Freemasonry occurred in 1774. Macky says

"Our French brethren, with that gallantry for which the nation is proverbial, sought, by the establishment of

societies which had but a faint resemblance to the peculiar organisation of Freemasonry, to enable females to

unite themselves in some sort with the Masonic institution." And as a consequence "Adoptive Lodges" were

formed, and the Duchess of Bourbon was installed as Grand Mistress of the Adoptive rite. It consisted of

four degrees—viz. ; (1) Apprentice, (2) Companion, (3) Mistress, (4) Perfect Mistress. The First Degree was

simply introductory to prepare the candidate for initiatory ceremonies. The Second Degree illustrated the

temptation in the Garden of Eden, and the candidate was reminded of all the unhappy results of the first sin

of woman. The building of the Tower of Babel and the dispersion of the human race constituted the legend

of the Third Degree. In the Fourth the ceremonies and instructions refer to the passage of the Israelites

through the wilderness, as a symbol of the passage of the human race through this to another and better

world. No exception can be taken to the lessons of these degrees, but if there is any connection with

Freemasonry it is of the remotest kind. Mackey is the authority that "it is not surprising that every meeting in

these Lodges was followed by a banquet or a ball. And Clavel says : "These things are inseparable from a

Lodge of Adoption, and are the real designs of its organisation, the initiatory ceremonies being but a

pretext." Though popular for a time, except in England, where they were always regarded with contempt,

these Lodges suffered greatly by the Revolution, and later fell into disuse, and prior to the present war there

were very few, if any, Lodges in very active existence.

* * * * *

During the second half of the last century (1855) a Bro. Rob. Morris, of America, established the order of the

"Eastern Star," in five points. But though admission is restricted to wives, widows, sisters, and daughters of

Masons, it is not claimed that the order is a Masonic one or has any actual association with Freemasonry; so

much so that some State jurisdictions refuse to recognise it, and do not allow Masonic halls to be used for

Eastern Star meetings. Outside the ceremonial the work of this order is of a philanthropic character, and in

some instances is said to be doing good work. Yarker, the historian, is responsible for the statement that

Scotland attempted the working of the "Eastern Star" and "Adoptive Masonry," but not successfully. The

different degrees of the "Eastern Star" are named as follows (1) Jephtia's Daughter, or the Daughter's Degree;

(2) Ruth, or the Widow's Degree ; (3) Esther, or the Wife's Degree ; (4) Martha, or the Sister's Degree; (5)

Electra, or the Christian Martyr's Degree.

We will now very briefly refer to another species of androgynous Masonry, which bears the official

designation of Co-Masonry. To understand this more clearly it is necessary to state that there are two

Theosophical societies, one of which is located in India, with Mrs. Annie Besant at its head, while the other

is located in California, and owns allegiance to Alas. Katherine Tingley. In connection with the Indian

branch there is attached a so-called Masonic body, yclept "Co-Masonry." Mrs. Besant claims to be the head

of this self-constituted institution, and further signs her name and affixes 33rd degree to it. For a few years

this new androgynous order published a journal under the title of "Co-Masonry," but it soon died, and if this

so-called order still exists it is confined exclusively to the members of the theosophical cult in India. But it is

only right to state that the Theosophists in America do not recognise it in any form, and absolutely repudiate

the right of Mrs. Besant to assume any claim to having received any Masonic degrees.

* * * * *

We have little knowledge of Theosophy, but we do know that Madame Tingley, its head in America, edits

one of the brainiest literary sectarian journals published in America, the land par excellence of sectarian and

fraternal literature. And on the question of Co-Masonry she has spoken with no uncertain sound. She says ;-

"Let me first state what is my attitude towards Masonry. Many of the happiest recollections of my

childhood are associated with my dear grandfather, who was one of the best known Masons in

Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and received some of the highest Masonic honours in these States. It

was from him that I received my earliest education. It, was from his Masonic books that I learned to

read and spell and draw, and from his noble and sweet character I came to regard Masonry as associated

with the best in life. In fact, I came to think that all the best men in the world must be Masons.

"Now, it does not necessarily follow that this last statement is true, for some of the noblest men I have

met have not been Masons. Still, on the other hand, many of the best men I have known have belonged

to the Masonic order, and I have seen nothing but best results flow from a deep interest in Masonry

wherever I have known of it, and from my knowledge and acquaintance of Masons I regard Masonry

and the principles which underlie it as a great force for good in the world."

"I cannot understand how any true woman would wish to intrude into an order held to be exclusively for

men. There are lines of work which I hold are exclusively in the province of men, just as there are lines

of work which are exclusively in the province of women. I hold that women can only yield her full share

of influence in the world from a knowledge gained by using and fulfilling her opportunities as a woman,

and in her own sphere. I consider that she steps away from her true position and greatly lessens her

influence by seeking to invade the sphere of man.

"Why should women be disturbed that men have an organisation which is exclusively for men? As I

understand Masonry, it seems to inculcate all the virtues—honour, rectitude, chastity, etc.—for this

much has often been publicly stated by Masons ; and, speaking generally, I have no hesitation in saying

that, from my experience, the majority of them—to a degree at least—try to exemplify these virtues in

their lives. There may may be some who fall far short of the Masonic ideals —in our present disturbed

civilisation it can hardly be expected otherwise—but that cannot be laid at the door of Masonry, but of

human frailty, and as a result of men's failing to grasp their higher opportunities in life.

"Many a woman has known of the uplifting and refining power, tending toward self-restraint and

nobility and virtue, which Masonry has exercised in the life of brother, husband, or son; and without in

any way encroaching on Masonry or seeking to pry into its secrets, every true woman, in the light of the

knowledge that is publicly given out by Masons themselves of Masonic principles, can, if she will, help

brother, husband, son, or friend to be true to these principles and be a true Mason."

"What is needed to-day by both men and women is a greater respect, first for themselves, in their true

natures as man and woman, and following that, a greater respect each for the other—of women for men

and of men for women. Such respect implies no invasion of one another's sphere, but the very contrary,

and in fact can only suffer terribly from such invasion.

"There is a common ground on which men and women can meet, which is pre-eminently in the home. It

is also in the world of art, music, literature, education, and all the highest ideals of social, civic, and

national life.

"I have had many letters from all classes, asking questions as to my attitude in this matter, seeing that

the name Theosophy has, most unfortunately, and without any warrant, become associated with 'Co-

Masonry'. Such association is absolutely unwarranted, and I hold that no true Theosophist will give his

adherence or support to 'Co-Masonry.' The fact that any person or body of persons should attempt to

attach themselves to an organisation from which, by the rules of that organisation, they are excluded,

would make me seriously question their motives, and one would probably find such people to be either

fanatics or extremely credulous, or — (!) Whatever knowledge such people may think they have in the

matter, it must indeed be very limited, or rather no knowledge at all, otherwise they would see the

absurdity of trying to attach themselves to an organisation in which, in the very nature of things, they

would be out of place. If it were possible to conceive of the secrets of Masonry being given to a woman,

from my understanding of the matter it could be only through some one unfaithful to his vows as a

Mason, and no true and self-respecting woman would think of availing herself of such information; nor

could it, by the nature of things, be held to be reliable, for he who is unfaithful in one thing will be

unfaithful in others, and I prophesy that this attempt of certain women to seek admission where they do

not belong can result only in confusion, disaster, and serious embarrassment for all such women."

————————

A GRAVE PROBLEM.

——<>——

We direct attention to a very excellent article published in another column of this issue, entitled "Duty or

Sentiment," contributed by a well-known and much esteemed brother, and we at once say that we fully

concur in all the arguments put forward. It may be that when the war is over the Governments of Great

Britain and its dependencies may make special laws for the exclusion of undesirable aliens, which would, of

course, include persons of German nationality. But, on the other hand, it is equally possible that the fatuity of

the past, which made Great Britain and her colonies the dumping ground and asylum for criminals and the

scum of creation, may be continued, and the bare or remote possibility of such a thing is sufficient reason for

the G.L. of New Zealand taking all proper and prudent steps for the future protection of Freemasonry in this

Dominion. We are also pleased to notice that our contributor makes special reservation with regard to the

German brethren who are present members of New Zealand Lodges. Most of us can confirm his statement

that "the great majority of these brethren are blameless in their conduct, and quite loyal in their attitude

throughout a very distressing time." This journal has always taken the stand that the German brethren who

were attached to New Zealand Lodges at the time of the outbreak of the war had Masonic rights which

should be respected, so long as no disloyalty was manifested to the country of their adoption, or to the Craft

of Freemasonry. The very large majority are entitled to the deepest commiseration of the brethren for the

unfortunate position in which they have been placed through no fault or action of their own. We should be

glad to see the B. of G.P. take this matter into consideration, as well as the suggestion made in a previous

issue of the CRAFTSMAN for the issue of cards as a temporary substitute for diplomas, to brethren on service.

Enquiries have been made by quite a number of brethren who leave with the next Reinforcements as to

whether any consideration has been given to this important matter. In connection with Freemasonry after the

war, the general position will be exceedingly peculiar, in so far as the nations allied to Great Britain are

concerned. The Freemasonry of France consists of two governing authorities, "The Grand Orient" and the

"Grand Lodge of France," neither of which are in fraternal communication with the G.L. of England, in

consequence of the V.S.L. being excluded from the Lodges. Another G.L. of France was constituted by the

G.L. of England shortly before the outbreak of the war, but we are informed it only holds three Lodges to its

allegiance. Belgium is also an unrecognised Masonic jurisdiction, the same grounds of objection applying as

in the case of France, while Russia is a non-Masonic country. Though Freemasonry has had birth there, it

died young, as the result of persecution, it being regarded by the authorities as a secret society, and therefore

dangerous. It remains to be seen whether the interdict will be removed after the war, and Freemasonry be

established as one of the progressive, social, educational, and philanthropic institutions of this Empire. We

do not think a thorough fraternity of feeling can exist with France and Belgium, and their ally— Great

Britain—until the complete brotherhood of Freemasonry is thoroughly consummated, which should not be a

difficult task to effect. If Freemasonry is to be capable of exercising any power or influence in promoting the

world's peace, in the future, it can only be by a fusion of Masonic interests by the leading nations, and the

excision of all politics from the councils of the Craft.

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

News and Notes.

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LAST month a July number of the CRAFTSMAN was returned to us, the wrapper bearing the request to "cease

sending," but there was no name of the sender to indicate whom it came from, the post mark on the wrapper

being "Ross." Unless we have more definite instructions, we must keep sending the paper, and probably later

some brother will indignantly state that he gave notice to stop.

THE annual meeting of Lodge Leinster, Wellington, was very largely attended, notwithstanding that the

weather was one of Wellington's most atrocious samples. Some sixty P.Ms. formed the B. of I.M., and the

visitors included R.W. Bro. Peterkin, D.G.M. ; R.W. Bro. Seaton, P.G.W. ; V.W. Bro. Bridge, P.G.Lect., and

others. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M.

TUTANEKAI has earned the title to being the presentation Lodge of the Dominion. The gifts it has received

become nauseating to other Lodges. Its latest good fortune was a set of massive candlesticks in brass and a

handsome cabinet to hold them. This will mean another visit of inspection for the Editor. The Lodge will

soon be suffering from an embarrassment of riches.

OTARI LODGE installation, held on 11th July, was sandwiched in a rainy week, and the wet climb up the

muddy road to the heights of the Lodgeroom situation was most trying to the robust seniors, who deplored

their superabundance of adipose tissue. A char-a-banc, which the D.G.M. would persist in styling a caravan,

essayed the road, but as the machine would insist on going two wheels forward and slipping two back, the

passengers considered themselves fortunate in arriving in time for supper. At least, that was the tale.

LODGE TUTANEKAI has instituted a Masonic library, and a number of members have already made donations

of books, while one P.M. has presented an excellent bookcase. The library is intended to embrace not only

Masonic works, but books of arts, sciences, travel, biography, etc.

AT the annual meeting of Greytown Lodge the genial P.M., Bro. Hugh Morison, was installed as W.M.

R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M., officiated in the East, and was assisted by M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams and

W. Bro. Oscar Neilson, of Wellington. Huge jugs of cream and milk from Bro. Morison's farm were features

of the subsequent feast, and the Dep.G.M. was absent. He will never forgive himself.

LODGE ST. ANDREW was pleased to welcome at its last meeting M.W. Bro. Williams, P.G.M., and R.W. Bro.

Peterkin, Dep.G.M., who dropped in informally to witness the working of the Second Degree. The concise

and clean-cut rendition of the Lecture on the T.B. that was given by the J.W. well deserved the

complimentary references that were made to it by the two G. officers who were present.

LODGE ROBERT BURNS, Reefton, is moving to limit refreshments after Lodge meetings to coffee, with

biscuits or sandwiches, during the war.

THE balance-sheet of Lodge Ulster, Petone, just to hand, shows a balance of assets of £1,051 10s. 10d. The

freehold property is valued at £500, Benevolent Fund £242 5s. 3d., and Building Fund £125 15s.

WE draw the attention of our readers to an advertisement with reference to "Rolls of Honour" and "Honours

Boards." A copy of one recently presented to Manakau Lodge may be seen at the office of the New Zealand

CRAFTSMAN.

THE Dep.G.M. was in a particularly ferocious humour at the Otari animal meeting, and threatened to slay

some one at the next annual, if Bro. Peterkin was not in the programme for work. He was readily appeased

when a brother whispered that there would be work for him at Coronation Lodge, Johnsonville (the adjoining

township), the following Saturday—on oysters or pies.

BRO. MOORE, the Tyler of Lodge Victory, Nelson, was at the last meeting presented with a case of pipes as a

souvenir of his 90th birthday. The CRAFTSMAN heartily congratulates Bra. Moore, and hopes the moderate

use of the pipes will long be a solace to him.

————————

EXPLANATION OF THE MASTER MASON'S DIPLOMA.

——<>——

(By W. Bro. FRANK ROBINSON, Master of Hinemoa Lodge, No. 122.)

————

The picture here produced is designed to convey important and instructive lessons, and is a fine specimen of

the designer's art. It is the handiwork of W. Bro. Robert Hawcridge, P.M., of Maori Lodge, Dunedin.

The general scheme of the design is a Symbolic Lodge as viewed from west to east, and embodies most of

the emblems of the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, often called Blue or Symbolic Masonry. At the

threshold of the Lodge a Maori storehouse is placed, imparting a distinctive national character. Interwoven

with the pataka are the New Zealand Arms, the motto of which is " Onward." Beneath the store-house or

paepaekaiawha is a circular space reserved for the seal of our G.L., surmounted by two shields. One bears

the arms of the United G.L. of England, the mother G.L. of the world. To this G.L. may be traced all the

Freemasonry in existence to-day. The other shield bears the arms of the G.L. of New Zealand, symbolising

the close bond of union between the Mother Country and ourselves. Between these two shields are fronds of

fern and a Maori koruru or parata, all typical of New Zealand. At the lower edge of the circle are entwined

the rose, shamrock, and thistle, symbolical of the three constitutions under which New Zealand Masonic

Lodges worked prior to the inauguration of our own G.L. At the apex of the roof and over all are the Royal

Arms. At the entrance (in the west) stand those noble pillars, Joachim and Boaz, so full of significance to the

Freemason. They are an outstanding feature of the design. I am frank in my admiration of them. One can

read them as they stand boldly out, and our worthy Bro. Hawcridge is deserving of special thanks for his

unique conception of them. He has given us something never before attempted, and they will stand as a

monument to patient thought and deep research. It would be difficult to give a detailed account of these

pillars here, and I would refer the researchful brother to the V. of S.L. (Book of Kings, Chronicles, and

Jeremiah), although he will be not a little puzzled by the discrepancies there as to the architecture of these

important symbols.

On the floor of the Lodge, variegated and chequered, is the Mosaic pavement representing the universe, and

pointing out the alternating prosperity and adversity in the life of man. It is referred to in the T.B. Lecture of

the First Degree as "the beautiful flooring of the Lodge." The indented or tesselated border is representative

of the movements of the planets round "that grand luminary, the Sun." It is depicted as circular, because the

circle is the recognised symbol of eternity, emblematically reminding us that our path should be constantly

guided by the V. of S.L., just as the planets are guided by the sun; and it also enjoins us not to be boastful,

but to walk with humility before the G.A.O.T.U., ever remembering that, as our eyes rest upon this mosaic

work, it will prompt us to cultivate harmony, practise charity, and live in concord with all the world.

On the pavement, a little to the south, we find the Rough Ashlar, rude and imperfect, emblematic of man in

his natural state, ignorant and uncultivated. Under the influence of education he expands his intellect,

restrains his passions, and purifies his life, till he may be aptly compared with the Perfect Ashlar—the

emblem, or jewel, of a perfect Mason—which in skilled workmen's hands has been shaped and smoothed,

and can take its place in the building, accurate in all its parts. The Perfect Ashlar is here seen suspended from

a tripod.

The Lewis sustaining it denotes strength, and symbolises the son of a Master Mason, and is amply referred to

in the T.B. Lecture of the First Degree. It is gratifying to see these symbols given such prominence, as the

beautiful lessons they afford are of particular value and interest to the Masonic fraternity. Resting against one

of the pillars is a T.B., depicting the 47th problem of Euclid's first book. This was called by Dr. Anderson

"the foundation of all Masonry, sacred, civil, and military." For this famous proposition the craft is indebted

to the ancient philosopher, Pythagoras, and it has been adopted as the badge of a P.M., though it is uncertain

when or why. It is given a prominent position in the frontispiece to the Constitutions of 1723 (the earliest

issue), but was not prescribed to be worn by a P.M. until the edition of 1815.

The next emblem we observe is that of the Two Great Parallels, one of the most glorious of our symbols,

when clearly understood and properly applied. They are representative of King Solomon and Moses, and are

here represented by two accented tangental lines running from west to east, and touching the basic circle of

the Altar Steps, which next arrest our attention. They represent the upward way from darkness to light. Here

we have an illustration of the mystic numbers-3, 5, and 7—having reference to the "three who rule a Lodge,

five who hold a Lodge, and seven who make it perfect." These numbers again have an expressed application

in the step taken in each degree. Hence, as we ascend these steps it is as well to notice that 3 is the mystic

number of the First Degree, 5 of the Second Degree, and 7 of the Third Degree. So on the third step are the

W.Ts. of an E.A., on the fifth step, the W.Ts. of a F.C., and on the seventh or perfect step the W.Ts. of a

M.M.

On the summit is the Altar, consecrated with the V. of S.L. —the First Great Light in Masonry—which is

always laid open upon it during the solemn ministrations of the Lodge. The Square and Compasses, properly

arranged on the open page, are indispensable. No lawful labour can be performed until all these, the Three

Great Lights in Freemasonry, are properly displayed. The Bible, Square, and Compasses point out the sacred

source of faith and the rectitude of practice ; for while the former is considered the rule and standard of our

faith and hope, the two latter have the same reference to our lives and actions. I may observe that the Altar is

placed in the centre of the pavement to agree with the teachings of the T.B. Lecture of the First Degree.

The designer has here given us a good illustration of the point within a circle (the V. of S.L.), the pivot of

Masonry, represented in the central position of honour.

The Blazing Star, emblem of prudence, is placed in front of the Altar, so that every brother's eye may be

upon it, to cleanse his heart and influence his actions, that his conscience may never accuse him of exceeding

the bounds set by his Masonic obligations. The starry zone of prudence is the sacred envelope of all human

virtues. The Candlesticks, here shown at the Altar, are representative of the Lesser Lights, so well known in

our Lodges.

In the south, to the right of the picture, are the words, "Ne varietur" (lest it should be changed), having

reference to the ancient custom of requiring a brother, when he receives his certificate, to affix his signature

in the margin in open Lodge, as a precaution, and to enable brethren to recognise the true owner of the

certificate; thus an impostor, who has obtained one surreptitiously, may readily be detected. It really means

that our signatures should not be subject to alteration.

The most striking features of the design are the five pillars of the Ionic, Doric, Corinthian, Tuscan, and

Composite orders. The first three will be recognised as wisdom, strength, and beauty respectively, the main

supports of all Masonic Lodges, here supporting the entablature or architrave. The two latter are free, as,

generally speaking, they have little (if any) bearing on Craft or Symbolic Masonry, owing to the want of

antiquity. They are placed in the picture evidently to complete the five noble orders of architecture.

Surmounting the entablature appear representations of Moses at the northern extremity, and Solomon, King

of Israel, at the other. King Solomon was the first prince who excelled in Masonry, and under his royal

patronage many of our rites had their origin. Moses, here seen with the Tables of the Law, was responsible

for Masonry deriving its origin from ancient Egypt (vide the T.B. Lecture of the Second Degree).

Above is heaven's great canopy, the covering of all Masonic Lodges, the seven symbolic stars, and the

moon—" an ethereal mansion not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."

Finally, overlooking all, the All-seeing Eye, irradiating refulgent rays of divine light. This emblem

symbolises the omnipresence of the G.A.O.T.U., in his watchful care over his creatures, and also reminds us

" that wherever we are, and whatever we do, He is with us, and His All-Seeing Eye observes us."

I cannot conclude this explanation better than in the words of the late Bro. Morris, P.G.M. of Kentucky :—

"The All-seeing Eye, that reads our hearts

Doth bear us witness true

That we still try to honour God

And give each man his due."

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Correspondence.

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

QUERY?

——<>——

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO,—Will you kindly give a suggestion, or invite correspondence through the CRAFTSMAN,

as to the following :—A brother of a Lodge is automatically excluded for non-payment of dues (Rule 180, B.

of C., 1913), or has been struck off according to the by-laws of his Lodge. This brother makes numerous

excuses that his financial position will not permit him paying up his arrears, therefore he is struck off. After

three or fours years his financial position improves, and he pays up the arrears, also joining fee, and wishes

to be reinstated (Rule 182), so that he may obtain his demit to show that he has discharged his debt to that

Lodge, or that he may be leaving that district and wish to join another Lodge in a district in another part of

the Dominion. Constitutional law and by-laws of the Lodge are complied with, he is proposed and balloted

for, but not elected. What is the position of that brother ? How can he obtain his demit ?.—Yours fraternally

CURIOUS.

[As this is a question that requires an official ruling, not an opinion, we advise you to submit it to the B. of

G.P.—ED. C.

——————————

SHORT CUTS.

——<>——

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—Every Mason must have noticed that at most installation meetings there is a tendency

to shorten the ceremony by cutting out what some may consider nonessentials.

While recognising that prolonging the ceremony unduly is a mistake and a weariness, I should like to protest

against the slip-shod, get-through-quick methods adopted at some installation ceremonies.

In this connection no part of the ritual suffers more than the presentation of the W.Ts. in the different

degrees. Why are the W.Ts. presented at all ? To hear the apologetic manner in which some W. brethren give

them, or dodge giving them, one would think that those who compiled the ceremony of installation had made

a mistake in including the W.Ts. A little thought about the subject should convince any one of the fact that

the W.Ts. are the symbols of the particular degree with which they are associated, and when the

proclamation is made, say, in the E.A. degree, the W.Ts. are presented and explained, not because the W.M.

may be ignorant (he would not be there if he was), but as pledging the fealty of the E.As., as an

acknowledgment that they know their duty, and as a recognition of the authority and rule of the newly

installed W.M., and, of course, the same reasoning applies to the other degrees.

Viewed in this light, it is surely ungracious for the representatives of the E.A., the F.C., and the M.M. to

inform the W.M. that he knows, or ought to know, the tools as well as they do, and that they will not take up

the time of the brethren by explaining them.

There are other thoughts that suggest themselves in connection with the installation meeting that might be

enlarged upon, but I am diffident about using your valuable space for what, after all, may only be my

personal views, and which may be quite contrary to the ideas of the fathers of the Craft.— Yours fraternally,

A YOUNG P.M.

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

ENQUIRIES ON MATTERS OF MASONIC INTEREST.

——<>——

Q.—Re Ballot : What is the correct answer for the W. to give when asked, "How stands the ballot," etc.

A.—The custom of taking the ballot to the W. is fast becoming obsolete. The answer formerly was, "Clear,"

or "Cloudy, ' as the case might be.

————————————

A BRIEF SKETCH OF FREEMASONRY IN EGYPT.

——<>——

[By R. W. BRO. GEO. BARCLAY, W.M.]

During the time I have been sojourning in Egypt, I have made it my business, so far as my official duties

would permit, to obtain what information I could with respect to Freemasonry in the country, and

particularly in regard to that portion of the Order which is governed by the National G.L. and attendant

organisations.

So far as Freemasonry under the jurisdiction of the British Constitutions is concerned, there was not much

difficulty in obtaining information, as any enquiries were readily answered by the brethren interrogated, and

there was also the annual handbook issued by the Dist.G,L, of Egypt and the Sudan, under the E.C. ; but

when it came to seeking information with respect to the working of the G.L. of Egypt, the matter became one

attended with considerable difficulty—a difficulty due to various causes. In the first place, there were

comparatively few Britishers associated with the G. L. mentioned, there being only six English-speaking

Lodges on its roll—one in Alexandria, and five in Cairo, and the brethren mentioned appeared in the main to

know little of the working of their parent body, except in so far as their own particular Lodges were

concerned; secondly, the fact that what proceedings are published are in higher Arabic, and therefore

unintelligible to a considerable number of brethren ; and thirdly, the want of a knowledge of the languages

used by the members—Arabic, French, Italian, Greek, etc. However, notwithstanding these drawbacks, I

have been able to obtain a certain amount of data of more or less interest, which I shall proceed to set out

below.

It is said that Freemasonry was introduced into Egypt by Napoleon, in 1798—I believe Gould makes this

statement. Existing records have proved that some three years later there were several French Lodges

working in the country. English Masonry was introduced into the country in the year 1862, .when the St.

John's Lodge was opened at Alexandria ; Scottish Freemasonry is of comparatively recent growth. Several.

attempts have been made at the establishment of local government in the country. A certain number of the

Craft Lodges were at one time under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Council of Egypt, 33deg., but in 1886

the present National G.L. of Egypt was formed, and took control of Blue Masonry. This G. body was

recognised by the G.L. of England, one of the conditions of such recognition being, however, the retention of

the right to issue warrants for the erection of Lodges for the use of English subjects in the territory. The

Lodges on the roll of the National G.L. of Egypt are numbered to over 200, but a considerable number have

ceased to exist, while others are in a moribund state. The natives of the country, and also foreigners after a

lengthy residence in a climate such as that of Egypt, become indolent in their habits, and this reflects upon

their practice of Masonry; consequently the Lodges are not worked with that zeal and enthusiasm which we

are accustomed to see in more temperate lands. Meetings are allowed to lapse on very slight Pretext, and

frequently Lodges are allowed to fall into abeyance for a longer or shorter period, when they might, by a

small amount of exertion, be kept in an active state. A certain number of the Lodges have been opened

merely to gratify the ambition of some particular individual or individuals, and when that has been

accomplished, the working has been allowed to terminate. The National G.L. of Egypt issues warrants to the

representatives of practically all the nations which make up the cosmopolitan population of the country, and

permits them to work in their own particular language; thus there are to be found Lodges working in English,

French, Italian, Greek, Armenian, and Arabic. German Lodges also existed prior to the outbreak of war. At

the Masonic Hall at No. 5 Rue de l'Egise Maronete, Alexandria, which is the meeting place for the Lodges

working under the National G. body, ten Lodges have their headquarters, viz., four Arabic, one English, one

French, one Greek, two Italian, and one German (dormant), in addition to which there are several R.A.

Chapters, and also a number of Chapters of Rose Croix Masons. This temple, I may mention, is the property

of the Greek brethren of the city.

The present G.M. of Egypt is H.E. Idris Bey Ragheb, while the G.Sec. is e brother of Greek nationality, but

who speaks English fluently. The G.M. holds the rank of P.G.W. of England, and is also the G.

Representative of the G.L. of England near the G.L. of Egypt; he is also a P.D.G. Mark Master of English

Mark Masonry for the District of North Africa. The G.M. is elected annually, but is eligible for re-election,

and as a rule holds office for an indefinite period. Office in G.L. is conferred upon brethren of all

nationalities, thus bestowing representation upon all the Lodges. The G.L. meets yearly, and the executive

business is conducted by a B. of G.P. The business of G.L. is conducted in Arabic, and all official documents

and proceedings are printed in the same. There are no Prov. or Dist. G.Ms. appointed, any supervision which

may be exercised, and which, so far as I could ascertain, is of a decidedly negligible quality, being carried

out by the brethren, who may for the time being hold office in G.L. The Constitutions require that every

candidate shall have attained the age of 21 years before he is eligible for the membership of the Order, and

amongst the Egyptians only the Effendi, or better classes, are received for initiation. A period of three

months is required to elapse between the conferring of each degree, although the G.M. may grant a

dispensation even to the extent of authorising the conferring of two degrees at the one sitting. The colour

adopted by the G.L. of Egypt for its regalia is green, ornamented with gold embroidery; while among the

Daughter Lodges green facings and rosettes are worn upon the aprons, except that in the case of the Arab

Lodges the rosettes are of red. The G.L. has a Benevolent Fund, the maintenance of which is secured by an

annual charge of ls. per member from all Lodges. In G.L. the members have affixed to their names the

prefixes "Most Honourable," "Honourable," etc., instead of the title of "Worshipful,' etc., as used by us. The

fees chargeable to candidates, and the annual tests of membership, are very similar to those existing in New

Zealand.

The Egyptian is said in many cases to make a good Freemason, and to live up to the standards of the

Institution, although. there are, I believe, numerous instances of where he fails to appreciate the necessity of

a strict adherence to the Constitutions and other requirements of the Order. An instance of this recently

occurred in Alexandria, where one of the Arab Lodges initiated two Englishmen, members of the military

forces. The ceremony was carried out in the native language, with which the candidates were quite

unfamiliar. The local E.C. Lodge protested against the proceedings, and with such effect that the charter of

the Lodge has been withdrawn pending further investigation into the circumstances. I had been very desirous

of attending a meeting of a Lodge working in Arabic, which is the vernacular of the country, and therefore I

readily availed myself of an invitation to be present at Lodge Hazab Eskenderia, No. 94, which met at the

hall at Alexandria, previously referred to. I received a very cordial welcome from the brethren whom I met in

the anteroom, although probably the colour of my uniform, rather than any personal recommendation, was

the passport to their favour. I found the premises to be fairly commodious. On the walls of the anteroom I

noticed many objects of interest in the shape of Masonic documents of a varied nature. Some of them were

very handsomely executed pieces of workmanship, and bore seals of varied colours and designs. There were

quite a number of charters in Arabic, issued by the local governing body to the various Lodges meeting at

this particular hall. There was also a warrant issued by the G.L. of Greece; another from the G.L. of France

(not the recently-formed body), and a third from the G.L. of Hamburg; also charters from the Supreme

Councils of France, Greece, Italy, and Egypt, for the holding of Chapters of Prince Masons (18deg.). I also

noticed a warrant from the G. Orient of Spain for a Lodge which, I was informed, is not at present in

working order. There were also displayed on the walls portraits and photographs of the G.Ms. of Egypt,

Tunis, Italy, Greece, and other jurisdictions, together with those of the Sovereign G. Commanders of France,

and other Supreme Councils. I was introduced into the Lodgeroom by the D. of C., who spoke English fairly

well, and was conducted to a seat on the Master's immediate right. The Egyptian shows that love of colour

and display which is such a pronounced characteristic of all Orientals, and this was manifested in the

decorations of the Temple. On the walls were painted various scenes portraying incidents, etc., referred to in

the T.H. of the Order—the Forests of Lebanon, the Quarries, the Entrance to King Solomon's Temple, the

Interior of the Temple, the various W.Ts. and Emblems of Masonry, life-sized figures of the Patrons of the

Order, and of our two first G.Ms., Tubal Cain at his anvil, etc., while in the East were representatives of the

Pyramids, Sphinx, palm groves in the desert, and other scenes characteristic of the land of the Pharaohs.

There was also displayed a number of handsomely-worked banners belonging to the different Lodges and

Chapters, while immediately behind the W.M.'s chair was a large transparency of the All-seeing Eye, with

smaller transparencies of the sun and moon on the right and left respectively. The room was equipped with a

well-arranged system of lighting, which produced an effect very pleasing to the eye. One of the first things

which took my attention was the position of certain of the officers, who were differently arranged to what I

have been accustomed to see. Sitting on the extreme right of the dais in the East was the Sec., with the

Chaplain or Orator seated at a similar table on the left. The Deacons were both in the East, seated on a level

with the lowest step of the dais, the senior on the right and the junior on the left, while on the floor of the

Lodge the Treas. occupied a table on the right, and the Almoner or Treas. of the Benevolent Fund a similar

position on the opposite side. On the Altar there were no less than four books, which I afterwards found to be

the Holy Bible in English and in Arabic, the Greek Bible, and the Koran. The last-named book, I need

scarcely mention, was used for the obligation of Mohammedan candidates, the Coptic or Christian Egyptian

being obligated on the Arabic copy of the V. of S.L., while the Greek is always obligated upon the Greek

Bible. The national habit amongst the Egyptians is to keep the head covered, and this was followed in the

Lodgeroom, even by the candidate while undergoing obligation. The red fez (or tar brush) is the almost

universal form of head covering amongst the Effendi class, a small number only wearing the white turban.

The bulk of the members were in European attire, but a few wore the flowing Arab robe of white or purple,

these colours all contributing to make the scene one of a unique nature to the stranger unaccustomed to such

sights. The Egyptian is very voluble, and several matters which came up for consideration in connection with

the correspondence were discussed at very considerable length, and without any regard to the rules of debate.

There were several points connected with the customs of the Lodge which attracted my attention. I noticed,

for instance, that a member on entering the Lodge took three steps and gave the sign three times, glancing

respectively at the W.M. and S.W. and J.W., all of whom returned the salute. Here we have an echo of the

old Scotch custom of saluting the Master and his Wardens. When required to signify their approval "in the

manner usually observed amongst Freemasons," the brethren raised the right hand with the forefinger

pointing upwards. The Wardens did not use columns upon their pedestals. The ritual work was not at all well

carried out. The natural indolence of the East no doubt mitigated against any .successful effort to properly

master the working. The consequence was that the officers had to make frequent use of their books during

the ceremony, in some instances having no hesitation whatever in openly reading their portions of the work.

This naturally very seriously detracted from the impressiveness of the proceedings. During the ceremony of

initiation three perambulations of the Lodge are made by the candidate. During the first perambulation a

great clamour takes place in the room—this is emblematical of the passions of the world. While the

candidate is making the second circuit, the voice is considerably subdued, representing the gradual extinction

of all worldly passions. In the third perambulation there is utter quietness, showing that the unruly and base

passions of the world have been completely subdued. In the course of the initiation, an instrument with a

blowpipe attachment is brought into play, and throws a burst of flame into the face of the candidate—this has

reference to purification by fire, one of the tests in connection with certain of the ancient mysteries. At a

certain point in the ceremony a lavish display of swords takes place, every member present being supplied

with a weapon for the purpose of assisting. The W.Ts. were presented to the candidate, but with practically

no explanation of the symbolic import, while the other addresses were also considerably abridged. Before the

closing of the Lodge a collection was made on behalf of the Charity Fund, after which the W.M. (or

"Venerable," as he is styled), in a good deal of language, emphasised by many gestures, expressed his

appreciation of my visit, the purport of his remarks, and also my reply, being interpreted by Bro. D. of C.

Greek is always obligated upon the Greek Bible. The national habit amongst the Egyptians is to keep the

head covered, and this was followed in the Lodgeroom, even by the candidate while undergoing obligation.

The red fez (or tar brush) is the almost universal form of head covering amongst the Effendi class, a small

number only wearing the white turban. The bulk of the members were in European attire, but a few wore the

flowing Arab robe of white or purple, these colours all contributing to make the scene one of a unique nature

to the stranger unaccustomed to such sights. The Egyptian is very voluble, and several matters which came

up for consideration in connection with the eorrespondence were discussed at very considerable length, and

without any regard to the rules of debate. There were several points connected with the customs of the Lodge

which attracted my attention. I noticed, for instance, that a member on entering the Lodge took three steps

and gave the sign three times, glancing respectively at the W.M. and S.W. and 3.77., all of whom returned

the salute. Here we have an echo of the old Scotch custom of saluting the Master and his Wardens. When

required to signify their approval "in the manner usually observed amongst Freemasons," the brethren raised

the right hand with the forefinger pointing upwards. The Wardens did not use columns upon their pedestals.

The ritual work was not at all well carried out. The natural indolence of the East no doubt mitigated against

any .successful effort to properly master the working. The consequence was that the officers had to make

frequent use of their books during the ceremony, in some instancee having no hesitation whatever in openly

reading their portions of the work. This naturally very seriously detracted from the impressiveness of the

proceedings. During the ceremony of initiation three perambulations of the Lodge are made by the candidate.

During the first perambulation a great clamour takes plahe in the room—this is emblematical of the passions

of the world. While the candidate is making the second circuit, the voice is considerably subdued,

representing the gradual extinction of all worldly passions. In the third perambulation there is utter quietness,

showing that the unruly and base passions of the world have been completely subdued. In the course of the

initiation, an instrument with a blowpipe attachment is brought into play, and throws a burst of flame into the

face of the candidate—this has reference to purification by fire, one of the tests in connection with certain of

the ancient mysteries. At a certain point in the ceremony a lavish display of swords takes place, every

member present being supplied with a weapon for the purpose of assisting. The W.Ts. were presented to the

candidate, but with practically no explanation of the symbolic import, while the other addresses were also

considerably abridged. Before the closing of the Lodge a collection was made on behalf of the Charity Fund,

after which the W.M. (or "Venerable," as he is styled), in a good deal of language, emphasised by many

gestures, expressed his appreciation of my visit, the purport of his remarks, and also my reply, being

interpreted by Bro. D. of C.

Upon another occasion I was fortunate enough to strike a meeting of another Arabic Lodge at the same

hall—the El Aziz, No. 166—when a ceremony of raising a candidate to the Third Degree was carried out. In

connection with the questions addressed to the candidate, the invitation to the brethren to put forward

additional questions for the candidate, was not a dead letter, as with us, but was, and I am informed is,

invariably availed of to a considerable extent, many of the interrogations being upon matters of a private or

domestic nature. The greater portion of the ceremony of raising was performed in a separate and smaller

apartment, reserved entirely for this degree. Before adjourning to this room, the brethren reversed their

aprons and collars, thus exposing the black lining, on which was depicted the emblems of mortality. The

apartment was draped in black, with appropriate emblems on the walls, and in front of the pedestals of the

three principal officers were shown transparencies symbolic of the degree. The ceremony was somewhat

curtailed, the narrative in particular being extremely short, and the W.Ts., although presented, were not

explained at any length. At this meeting a presentation of a P.M.'s jewel was made to one of the members, an

act which was acclaimed by the brethren present loudly clapping their hands, a proceeding to which we, as

Freemasons, are altogether unaccustomed. The jewel, which I afterwards had the opportunity of examining,

consisted of the square and compasses, with a setting maul in the centre, and was suspended on a ribbon of

green, edged with red,

ROYAL ARCH.—In connection with Egyptian Masonry there is a Sup.G.R.A. Chapter, of which the G.M. is

also 1st G.Prin. The English system has practically been copied, the Chapter taking the same numbers as the

Craft Lodges to which they are attached, and working the R.A. Degree only. In Alexandria there is one, and

in Cairo two Chapters working in English under the local G. Chapter, while quite a number work in Arabic,

French, etc. The colour of the R.A. regalia is red, closely resembling that of Irish Capitallar Masonry. There

is no Mark or Excellent Degree in connection with Capitular Masonry in Egypt, but a considerable number

of the natives take advantage of the English Mark Lodges in order to obtain the first-mentioned degree.

ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE.—There is a Supreme Council of Egypt for the Ancient and

Accepted Scottish Rite 33deg. This Supreme Council was founded in September, 1864, and it has issued

warrants for Rose Croix Chapters (18deg.), which work at Cairo and Alexandria., in Arabic, French, and

English. The Supreme Councils of Greece, Italy, and France also have Chapters of Princes Rose Croix

working in the country. There is also in Cairo a Consistory of the 30deg., warranted by the Supreme Council

of Egypt. The Supreme Council of Turkey was founded by the Egyptian body. The former, however, was

guilty of a Masonic offence in founding Chapters in Egyptian territory.

(To be continued.)

————————————

AN INTERESTING CEREMONY.

——<>——

A large and representative number of brethren from the different Auckland Lodges assembled at the regular

meeting of Manakau Lodge, No. 24, Onehunga, on the evening of 5th July, for the purpose of witnessing the

unveiling of the handsome Roil of Honour, and also the handing over of the cancelled Charter of Manakau

Lodge, No. 586, S.C., under which the Lodge originally worked prior to the formation of the N.Z.C.

After the reception of M.W. Bro. M. Niccol, P.G.M., G.Sec., the W.M., Bro. D. C. Fraser, requested M.W.

Bro. Niccol to perform the first ceremony. After first apologising for the unavoidable absence of the

M.W.G.M., Bro. Niccol gave a spirited address on the great war, and eulogised the action of those members

of the Lodge whose names appear do the Roll, on their leaving the Dominion in defence of King and

Country. He then unveiled the Roll, the brethren standing and singing the Soldiers' Hymn. Bro. Niccol later

dilated on the beauty of the design, and complimented Bro. Park on the artistic manner in which he had

carried out the work.

After a few introductory remarks by the W.M., M.W. Bro. Niccol then proceeded with the next business, that

of handing over the cancelled Charter. The ceremony was unique in that Bro. Niccol was the first W.M. of

the Lodge, in the year 1876. He gave a very interesting, and at times amusing, address on the vicissitudes of

the Lodge in the early days, and dealt largely on its many ups and downs. He then formally handed the

Charter to the W.M.

W. Bro. C. V. Hill, W.M. in the year 1880, thanked M.W. Bro. Niccol for the trouble he had taken in

securing the Charter as a memento of the old days, and for his kindness in attending and performing the

ceremony that evening, whilst W. Bro. G. J. Browne had much to say with regard to the Lodge in later years,

and tracing it up to its present prosperous condition.

G.L. then retired, and on the closing of the Lodge the brethren were entertained in the refectory, many vocal

items of special merit being rendered by the town brethren.

OBITUARY.

——<>——

BRO. GEORGE WYNDHAM HENDERSON.

When the news came through that Bro. Henderson had died of wounds sustained in

France, there was general regret in New Plymouth, and particularly among his

fellow members of Ngamotu Lodge. He was proposed for initiation on 24th June,

1903, and his death occurred on 24th June, 1916, the same day that his mother

passed away in New Plymouth. Bro. Henderson was well known in most parts of

the Dominion as one of the most energetic employees of the Dresden (now Bristol)

Piano Co., whose business in Taranaki he managed for a number of years with

considerable success.

When war was declared he offered his services and received a commission as

lieutenant. He was invalided home from Gallipoli, and upon recovery went to the

western front. He was of a very sunny disposition, and quickly made friends

wherever he went.

————————————

DUTY OR SENTIMENT?

——<>——

A GRAVE PROBLEM.

————

[Contributed.]

————

The amazing experiences of this terrible and devastating war, deliberately planned for years before its

outbreak by Germany, with the view to world domination by that nation, must inevitably, upon its

conclusion, bring all British Masonic governing bodies face to face with a very serious problem. That

problem will be no more and no less than the immediate necessity of carefully, but firmly, defining the

attitude to be assumed by British Masons towards, and in connection with, German Masonic governing

bodies, and German Masons generally. Let it be noted that it is not the war—the fact that British and German

Masons have had to bear arms against each other in the service of their respective countries—which has

originated the necessity for such action, but the experiences arising out of the war. They have been of a

nature so unexpected, so horrifying, so devilish, that their mere recital sounds like the wild and obscene,

raving of a mind diseased. These experiences, which have filled the civilized world with loathing and

disgust, have all been the outcome of acts perpetrated by Germans, with the full approbation and acclaim of

the German people, and acts directly authorised by the highest German officials, civil and military, as part of

a matured scheme and system for the prosecution of the war. It is unnecessary to sully the pages of the

CRAFTSMAN with such details of these experiences as are to be found in the published results of Lord Bryce's

Commission of Enquiry, and also of the French Government's Commission. Suffice it to say they include the

deliberate murder of non-combatants, male and female, of all ages, horrible bestiality towards defenceless

women and girls, cruelty more or less refined wherever possible towards the conquered peoples, and enemy

prisoners, the submarine crimes, the Lusitania murder, the murdering of Nurse Cavell, and the barbarian

destruction and spoliation of all enemy property left in German hands, together with the shelling of ancient,

historical, ecclesiastical edifices, and educational buildings and treasures of learning and art, all of which

was sheer wanton savagery, and in no way demanded by military necessity. The Germans explain these acts

as part of their war plans in carrying out a policy of "frightfulness," which is a part of their nation's

philosophic "kultur," and in full keeping with their religious belief in a God of Might as opposed to a God of

mere Love, Mercy, Justice, and Truth. It is jest here where British Masonry is brought into direct conflict

with German thought and belief. Let it be clearly understood that the male youth of Germany for some forty

years Taut has been tutored in the national schools, from the national pulpits, and in the German professorial

lecture rooms and literature, in this grossly material doctrine of might as against right, of hate as opposed to

love, of cruelty as opposed to mercy, of lies as against truth, of miming, deceit, and espionage as against

candour, straightforwardness, and honour, and it must be realised that the German Masons of to-day cannot

be held guiltless of this doctrine, or as apart in any way from the German nation as a whole, in regard to the

odium attaching thereto. But here is the real point. The Supreme Being worshipped by the German Mason

cannot be the Supreme Being revered and worshipped by the British Mason, and the principles and tenets of

British Masonry are as divergent from, and as far and away above, the principles and tenets of German

Masonry, as is light from darkness, civilisation from savagery, and religion from paganism. Is it possible,

then— is it right— that two such bodies should coalesce, should maintain even the semblance of union, or

mutual association ? It surely would be the height of hypocrisy, and a lasting degradation of Masonry and its

teachings as understood of, and approved by, British Masons. It is understood that the United G.L. of

England has already taken certain steps in this matter. Here, however, in New Zealand, we have our own

territory, and the New Zealand G.L. of Freemasons should even now be up and doing, considering this

weighty problem, and formulating its action towards the Teutonic G.Ls. and their members when hostilities

shall have ceased. In this connection, however, there is just one matter which should be referred to, lest

injustice be done to individuals. There were at the outbreak of the war many German brethren among the

members of N.Z.C. Lodges. So fat- as is known, the great majority of these German brethren have been quite

blameless in their subsequent conduct, and quite loyal in their attitude thrOughout a very distressing time for

them. In whatever steps the New Zealand G.L. may, in its wisdom, elect to take, these brethren at least

should receive every fraternal consideration, and such local Masonic rights as they have should be carefully

conserved.

————————————

THE LATE FIELD-MARSHAL BRO. EARL KITCHENER

OF KHARTOUM AND ASPALL,

K.G., K.P., G.C.B., O.M., G.C.S.L., G.C.M.G., G.C.L.E.

——<>——

H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, M.W. G.M. of the United G.L. of Ancient and Accepted Freemasons of

England, at a great assembly of Freemasons at the Royal Albert Hall, held in 1897 in honour of the Diamond

Jubilee of Her late Majesty Queen Victoria, conferred Past Rank as S.W. of the G.L. of England upon Lord

Kitchener.

In 1899 he was appointed first Dist.G.M. of. Egypt and the Soudan, now consisting of thirteen Lodges, and

the Lord Kitchener Lodge; which meets in Cairo, was named after him.

In 1902 he was appointed Dist.G.M. of the Punjaub, a district consisting of twenty-nine Lodges, one of

which, " The Kitchener," meeting at Simla, took his name.

————————————

BIOGRAPHICAL.

——<>——

R.W. BRO. JOHN WYTRANTS ELLISON, PROV.G.M. OF WELLINGTON.

————

Our R.W. brother was initiated in December, 1875, and raised in May, 1876, in Lodge St. Andrew, No. 418,

Auckland. He afterwards came to Wellington and took part in the foundation of Lodge Leinster, No. 469,

I.C., in 1882. He filled several offices in this Lodge, and was elected W.M. in 1886. On returning to

Auckland in 1887 he affiliated to Lodge United Service, then No. 421, I.C., in which Lodge he was elected

W.M. in 1891, and acted for about three years as Preceptor of the United Service Lodge of Instruction, and

held the office of G.Sd.B. in the Prov.G.L., I.C., in 1889. Bro. Ellison took an active part in the steps leading

to the erection of the G.L. of New Zealand in 1890, and attended every meeting of the Committee of Union

at Auckland. In 1897 he was elected G.D. of C. In 1902 he returned to Wellington, and rejoined Lodge

Leinster. In 1895 he was exalted to the R.A. in Auckland Provincial Chapter, No. 9, and on returning to

Wellington joined Waterloo R.A. Chapter, in which he now holds office as 1st Soj.

He was often asked to accept nomination for other offices, but declined owing to having been fully engaged

with his official duties. Bro. Ellison having now retired from the public service, is enabled to take a more

prominent part in Freemasonry, and as he is a man of leisure, will be able to devote much time to the duties

of the office of Prov.G.M. which will, no doubt, be a pleasing interlude to the quiet of private life after so

long a period spent in strenuous public service. When in a reminiscent humour our brother can provide a

fund of entertainment, of which his unconscious " Hibernianisms '' are not the least. There is little doubt that

he will prove an able and popular successor to his veteran predecessor.

R.W. BRO. J. W. ELLISON, PROV. GRAND MASTER OF WELLINGTON, 1916

————

R.W. BRO. WALTER MORETON HINDMARSH,

————

R.W. Bro. Hindmarsh was initiated into Freemasonry in Lodge St. George, No. 1228, E.C. (Lawrence) on

10th September. 1885, and was installed W.M. in 1891. He joined Lodge Canterbury, No. 1048. E.C.

(Christchurch) in 1899, and affiliated to Lodge Unanimity, No. 106, N.Z.C. (Blenheim), in 1900; joined

Lodge Waitaki, No. 11 (Oamaru),

in 1903, and Lodge Koranga, No.

197 (Timaru), in 1913, in which

Lodge he still retains

membership. He was D. of C. in

the Prov.G.L. of Canterbury for

the year 1913-14, and was

appointed S.G.W. in the G.L. of

New Zealand in May last.

In Capitular Freemasonry he takes

a very lively interest, and holds

office in G. Chapter for the

present year. His record shows

that he was exalted in Waitaki

Kil. Chapter, No. 8 (Oamaru), on

15th August, 1906. He became 1st

Prin. in 1910, and remained in

attachment to the Chapter until

1913, when he joined the Timaru

Chapter on taking up his

residence in that town. At the

annual convocation of Sup. G.

Chapter, held in February of the

present year, Comp. Hindmarsh

was elected to the important

office of G.S.N. In ordinary life

our distinguished brother devotes

his attention to the banking

profession, and is the manager of

the Bank of New Zealand in

Timaru. He is a most consistent

Freemason, being always ready to

take any part that may he assigned

to him, and being blessed with a

genial sunny temperament, it is

little wonder that he commands

the respect and esteem of all who

are privileged to know him.

R.W. BRO. W. M. HINDMARSH, SENIOR GRAND WARDEN. 1916.

————————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 22nd JULY, 1916.

——<>——

J. S. Tingey 2/6 (Feilding), W. Matthews 4/2, G. Tyer 20/-, H. W Lacy (Featherston), J. Jacobson 4/2

(Whangarei), R. L. M. Kitto, 0. McMillan 29/2, A. J. Turville (Napier), R. MacRae (Waiotapu), W. Carter

15/- (Tahuna), J. R. Anderson 20/-, A. Hopwood 15/-, A. L. Cook 10/-, A. France 10/-, W. Dawick, J. M.

Collins 24/2 (Palmerston North), A. Doig 20/10, A. G. Bignell 10/., J. Stevenson, C. D. Fraser, J. McFarlane

10/-, D. McFarlane 10/, N. Meulli (Wanganui), H. C. Blendell 4/2 (Kawakawa), H. Toogood 10/- H. H. S.

Ryder 10/-, W. K. Welch, J. V. Gordon 10/- (Masterton), C. Bourke 10/- (Papanui), C. E. Smith 5/10

(Hawera), F. Thompson 25/- (Ruahine), C. S. Hay 20/- (Kai Iwi), J. McKenzie (Tai Tapu), T. H. Garrett, W.

Ogilvie 41/8 (Gisborne), G. Allport, H. H. Dunn 2/6, C. M. Igglesden 6/-, R. Witheford 10/-, S. E. Harrap, H.

Matthews 20/-, J. D. Broughton 20/-, J. W. Sexton 10/-, G. Menzies 12/6 (Wellington), F. W. Benus 4/2, A.

M. McKelvie 10/10, F. E. Dobson 16/8, T.R. Inglis 25/-, A. Erickson, F. R. Trevithick 5/-, C. H. Jenkins, A.

R. Hislop 31/8 (Auckland), F. Spenser 4/2, J. Mogridge, E. Lloyd 17/6, W. M. McCully 5/10 (Marton), C. H.

Lord, — Vicary (Otorohanga), G. S. Fleming (Birkenhead), H. S. Valentine 10/-, T. E. Hughes 6/8, C. S.

Stimpson (Mercer), D. M. Robertson (Cross Creek), A. F. Tunks 6/8 (Tauranga), W. Messana 10/-, S. B.

Sims 10/-, R. H. Webb, T. W. Burley 19/2, J. W. Hodd (Hamilton), T. Pennycook 20/- (Karewarewa), N. G.

Wohlman 10/-, J. Say (Waihi), E. F. Stubbs 27/6 (Takapau), F. H. Knight, C. W. Nichol] 10/- (Ashburton),

A. McFarlane 21/8, C. M. Strouts 1/8, E. C. Wood 1/8 (Patea), J. W. Wood 13/4, E. Nordon 12/6, D. Manson

10/-, F. C. B. Bishop (Christchurch), H. Dick (Taumarunui), W. H. Humphrey 2/6, W. Dean (Inglewood), A.

Norris 22/6 (Ohingaiti), R. B. Cole 2/6, F. Miller 15/- (Hunterville) E. R. Beckett 10/10, W. Coath

(Waimate), G. Hastie 10/- (Timaru), C. Potts 5/-, S. F. Johns 10/- (New Plymouth), A. W. Woodward 10d, J.

J. Henderson 35/- (Oamaru), J. McLachlan (Wyndham), C. Flavell 9/4 (Heathcote Valley), W. H. Allen

(Tirau), J. Munro (Waipukurau), J. Motley 30/- (Te Aroha), W. Hamilton 20/-, J. Munro 10/-, A. McKenzie-

12/6 (Mangaweka), C. Leech 10/- (Rangiora), G. G. Schwartz 20/- (Lower Hutt), R. T. J. Henderson 10/-

(Whitianga), S. Smith 1/8, E. H. Whitmore 40/- (Invercargill), G. Lumsden, A. Stoneham, T. Ross, H. W. S.

Helyer, G. G. Adess, S. G. Smith 1/8, J. H. Walker 10/10, C. A. Ralston, G. G. Cardno (Dunedin), .N. F.

Marley 15/- (Upper Hutt), W. R. Leighton (Henderson), Dr. Boor, R. W. Stiles 5/10 (Nelson), W. H. Simcox,

L. St. George 10/- (Otaki), J. Foot 17/6 (Piri Piri), R. Cleave (Kerikeri), J. H. Inglis 20/- (Geraldine), T.

Hunter 30/- (Waiutu), J. Gee 61/8 (Riversdale), D. Ross 51/8, Dr. T. Harrison 4/2 (Palmerston S.), C.

McIntosh 10/- (Fairfax), A. K. Wrigley (Frankton Junction), R. E. Toogood 10/-(Woodville), P. McCaffrey

(Puponga), M. E. Perreau 20/- (Foxton), A. Gilbert 10/10 (Greymouth), C. A. C. Hardy (Rakaia), J. Walker

5/- (Denniston), H. Ewen (Dipton), C. J. Bilton 10/- (Temuka), J. Hutton (Millerton), J. Moncrieff, A.

Phillpotts, A. Booth, P. A. Cole, A. J. Reynolds, H. McPhee, W. F. Roydhouse, J. J. Knox Smith, H. E. Hart

(Carterton),. J. Franklin 55/10 (Whakatane), C. H. Taylor 10/- (Manaia), M. Dixon 3/4 (Nightcaps), W. E.

Dorset 29/8 (Wairoa), W. G. Jarvis (Greenmeadows), H. H. Edwards (Stoke), H. C. Fitzsimmons 20/-

(Wakefield), W. Moorhouse 46/8 (Glenhope)e J. H. Morrison 31/8 (Ormondville), E. Haley (Sydenham),

McGregor Wright (Woolston), W. H. Shaw 10/- (Collingwood),. J. Barr-Brown 10/- (Putaruru), J. Rountree

30/- (Willowby), E. Corbett 5/- (Stratford), J. Best 17/6 (Eltham), W. J. Alexander 30/- (Mon Creek), A.

Jacobson (Skippers).

(All 7/6 except those noted.)

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Reports.
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[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

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CRAFT LODGES.

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SOUTHLAND.

Taringatura, No. 100.— The meeting on 10th July was well attended. After routine business, one joining

brother (a former member) was balloted for and accepted. Two candidates were proposed and one joining

member. It was decided to hold a religious service later in the year. The decision was come to after limo. G.,

E. Griffiths, J.W., at the request of the W.M., read from the CRAFTSMAN the recent address to G.L. by the

M.W.G.M. The special business of the meeting was the initiation of one candidate. The ceremony was

performed by the W.M. (Bro. F. Walker), assisted by W. Bros. Graham (Secrets), Roxburgh (Charity

Lecture), Clark (R. for Prep.). Johnson (Antient Charge), while Bro. Griffiths, J.W., presented the W.Ts.

Before the close of the meeting, W. Bro. Lutz congratulated the W.M. and the Lodge on their having secured

the century of members, thus equalling the roll to the number of the Lodge. After H.O.W. were received

from visiting brethren, the Lodge closed at 10 p.m. and a pleasant half-hour was spent in social converse

before the brethren separated.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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OTAGO.

Otago, No. 7.—Another largely attended and successful meeting was the unanimous expression of opinion

respecting the regular meeting of this Lodge, held in the Masonic Hall, King Street, Dtmedm, on 12th ult. W.

Bro. E. T. Moller, W.M., opened the Lodge, when the correspondence and business was transacted. The

Lodge was then opened in the Second and Third Degrees, when the visiting W.Ms. and brethren were

admitted. The W.M. and officers of Lodge Palmerston, No. 26, having been specially invited to attend and

conduct the ceremony of initiation, were introduced and welcomed. R.W. Bro. T. S. Graham, D.G.M., E.C.,

and his D.G. Lodge officers, were then announced and welcomed, and also R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett,

Prov.G.M., and G.L. officers. The usual salutes were tendered to our distinguished visitors. W. Bro. W. H.

Hopkins, W.M., and the officers of No. 26, were then invited to occupy their respective positions. The

ceremony of initiation was ably carried out. The W.M. gave the Obligation and Charity Charge ; W. Bro.

Ross the Secrets and Signs ; W. Bro. J. B. Smith the W.Ts.; W. Bro. S. Beck the Charge on Preparation; and

Bro. Guffie, S.W., the Final Charge. W. Bro. Hopkins thanked the W.M. of No. 7 for his invitation to attend

and work the Degree, and for the hearty welcome accorded to them. W. Bro. Moller, W.M., on resuming the

chair, tendered to W. Bro. Hopkins, W.M., and the twenty-five brethren who had accompanied him, the best

thanks of No. 7 for their attendance, and for the thoroughly able manner in which they rendered the work of

the First Degree. As a memento of the auspicious occasion, the W.M. presented W. Bro. Hopkins with a

W.M's gavel, suitably inscribed. The W.M. thanked R.W. Bro. Flett, R.W. Bro. Graham, W.Ms., and

brethren generally for their attendance, some 200 being present. After suitable responses, the W.M. invited

all to the refectory in the I.O.O.F., and closed the Lodge in due form. Over 150 brethren sat down to supper,

the W.M., Bro. Moller, presiding. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were proposed and responded to. It

having been the custom in this district for some years past to present each Prov.G.M., at the end of two years

of office, with a fall suit of P.Prov.G.A.L's regalia, opportunity was taken to make the presentation on this

occasion to R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, P.Prov.G.M. R.W. Bro. Flett, Prov.G.M, made the presentation, R.W. Bro.

T. S. Graham congratulating Bro. Clark, after which Bro. Clark suitably responded, thanking the Lodges in

the Otago district for their expression of goodwill and for their recognition of his services. After an

interesting entertainment by W. Bro. Booth and some musical items, the function terminated.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Kurow, No. 164.-There was a good attendance at the meeting on the 13th July. No degree was worked on

account of Bro. Ensor having met with an accident, having his shoulder dislocated. Being a military man,

and having gone through the Boer war, Bro. Ensor made light of his accident, and motored home eighteen

miles, manipulating with left hand only. The nomination of officers was carried out, and the ballot taken,

which proved clear. Bro. Harris, of Lodge St. Augustine, No. 99, was declared duly elected. Bro. Wm.

Lundie, of Hakataramea Valley, who was balloted for in June, was present. The Lodge closed at 9.30, when

a pleasant hour was passed in the "Fourth," in which the toast of our brethren at the Front was drunk, and to

which Bro. Sinclair, a returned trooper, responded. We have seven brothers at the Front, Bro. Sinclair

returned, and one of our young brethren, Bro. Evison, going in August. We hope they will all return safe

after the war.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

[Heartily reciprocate your kind regards.-ED. C.]

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CANTERBURY.

Southern Cross, No. 6. — The monthly meeting of the Lodge was held at Kaiapoi, W. Bro. Thos. Hoskin

presiding over a good attendance of members and visitors. The work was the initiation of one candidate. The

event was interesting on account of the candidate being brother to R.W. Bro. Broadly, P.S.G.W. On this

account the Master entrusted the work of the Obligation and communication of Secrets to our distinguished

brother, also a number of S.X. Bro. Baynon, S.W., invested, and Bro. Croft, J.W., gave the Charge after

Initiation. The N.E. Address was delivered by W. Bro. W. A. Gribble, and the Final Charge was given by the

J.W. At the request of the W.M., W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop, P.G.S., presented several brethren with

certificates, at the same time explaining the value of them to the recipients. H.G.W. were received from a

number of visiting brethren, including the W.Ms. and brethren from Miraki Lodge. The brethren retired to

tine refectory, where the Tyler, Bro. Mealings, had provided a hot supper, which was greatly appreciated on

account of the very frosty night.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.— The monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall on 27th June, W. Bro. Kiddey,

W.M, presiding over a good attendance of members. The ritual work consisted of the passing of a brother to

the Second Degree. The R for Prep. were explained by W. Bro. J. Robertson, P.M. The candidate was

obligated by the W.M., receiving from him the Secrets. The Charge after Investiture was delivered by Bro.

Sheffield, J.W. ; the S.E. Charge by W. Bro. Parks, P.M. ; the W.Ts. were explained by W. Bro. Wauchop,

W.M. St. Augustine, No. 4; the Final Charge was delivered by Bro. Mitchell, S.W. After the Lodge had been

closed in due form, a pleasant hour was enjoyed in the refectory.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.— Wednesday, the 12th July, saw a very good muster of the brethren on the occasion

of the P.Ms. of the Lodge undertaking to work the Third Degree. W. Bro. T. W. Manchester and his officers

very considerately gave the "veterans" an opportunity of renewing their acquaintance with the routine work

of a Degree, and it may be perhaps that it was the reason for a rather better assemblage than meals as 37

signed the appearance book. The father of the Lodge now, W. Bro. A. C. Colville, occupied the chair, taking

over from W. Bro. Manchester in the Second Degree. The other chairs were all filled by P.Ms. as follows :—

I.P.M., W. Bro. Hertslet; S.W., W. Bro. Lee; J.W., W. Bro. Shackleton; S.D., W. Bro. Hoskins; J.D., W. Bro.

Brydon ; I, G., W. Bro. Wright; D. of C., W. Bro. Fulton; Organist, W. Bro. Menzies.; and (pardon the

omission in proper order) W. Bro. Garland, Chaplain. The ceremony on the whole was well carried out, and

the "veterans" did not lessen their prestige. The work was divided thus :— Ob., W. Bro. Colville; Verses,

Eccles. and Prayers, W. Bro. Garland; Exhort., W. Bro. Hertslet ; 1st part T.H., W. Bro. Lee ; Emblems, W.

Bro. Ruddenklau ; Secrets, W. Bro. Felton; 2nd part T.H., W. Bro. Hoskins; W.Ts., W. Bro. Menzies; Final

Charge, W. Bro. Coath. At the conclusion of the ceremony, W. Bro. Colville returned the gavel to W. Bro.

Manchester and thanked him on behalf of the P.Ms. for giving them the opportunity of working the Degree.

In reply W. Bro. Manchester said he and his officers were only too glad to have the chance of giving the

P.Ms. the work to do, and expressed the opinion that it was, when opportunity afforded, right and proper that

P.Ms. should have the privilege of renewing their acquaintance with ritual work, and congratulated W. Bro.

Colville and his officers on the character of their work. Incidental to the work of the evening were four

ballots, three for membership and one for affiliation. The exact number of OW' membership, Mr. Editor, I do

not at the-moment of writing know, but it is approaching 120 — not bad for a country Lodge. Following was

the election of officers, and they were elected without opposition. My next report (D.V.) will convey to you

their names. In the refectory a short and happy time was spent. The toast of the candidate was proposed by

Bro. E. C. Hayes, Deputy Mayor he being, closely connected in business with the newly raised brother, Bro.

Lewis, who occupies the position of Town Clerk of the Borough of Waimate. Bro. Hayes spoke most

favourably of his connection with Bro. Lewis, and said he had no doubt that he would be as efficient as a

Freemason as he was as Town Clerk. May I be permitted to add a word or two re giving P.Ms. work? In

every Lodge where the numbers and work warrant, I am strongly of opinion that the best interests of the

Lodge would be well served if once a year a Degree, a First or Third for preference, were worked by the

P.Ms. It encourages and increases their interest in their Lodge, and it heightens the interest of the brethren

also. More I might say, but space is short, so I commend this to the notice of fairly strong and busy lodges.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Robert Burns, No. 139.— The monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Christchurch, on 20th June,

when the W.M., W. Bro. Taylor, presided over a large attendance. The W.M. gave an interesting account of

his recent visit to the G.L. session at Auckland. The ceremonial work, that of raising a brother, was

proceeded with. The W.M. was assisted by the following brethren :— Bro. W. E. Rogers, I.G. (Investiture);

tiro. T. Kirker, S.W. (Exhort.); W. Bro. R. Brighting (Light of M.M.) Bros. A. Hunter, G.W., and T. McRae,

S.D. (Traditional History); Bro. E. Blackmore, J.D. (Signs); W. Bro. J. R. Buchanan, W.M. Avon Lodge

(W.Ts.); and W. Bro. H. Wyatt, P.M. (Charge after R.) Nominations of officers for the ensuing year were

taken. After the Lodge was closed, the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where the usual pleasant hour was

spent.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Amuri, No. 184.— The regular meeting was held on 14th July, W. Bro. Goulding presiding over a good

attendance. The work was the raising of a brother. The raising, communication of the Secrets, and

Exhortation were performed by the W.M. W. Bro. Thompson, I.P.M., gave the T.H. in an impressive

manner. The Charge after Raising was rendered by Bro. R J. Lewis, D. of C. ; the Address after Investiture

by Bro. H. R. Davison, J.D.; the W.Ts. were ably explained by Bro. D. W. Hunter, S.W., and the Final

Charge was delivered by Bro. T. G. Thomson, J.W. A pleasant time was spent in the refectory, one toast

honouring Bro. J. Nicholson, who had received his call to Trentham. This is the fourth brother who has

answered the call.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Victory, No. 40.—The regular meeting was held on 13th July, and was exceedingly well attended, every seat

being filled. W. Bro. J. L. Ching presided. The work was the initiating of two candidates, the Master being

ably assisted by the following P.Ms.:— Bros. Stiles, Orsman, Hobbs, Bartlett, and Rudman. One candidate

was successfully balloted for, and two others were nominated for brotherhood. One of the most pleasing

features of the evening was the presentation of a case of pipes, suitably engraved, to the venerable Tyler,

Bro. C. W. Moore, who had just passed his nineteenth birthday. R.W. Bro. W. Moyes, one of the oldest

members of the Lodge, made the presentation, and voiced the feelings of the brethren in his appropriate

references to the valuable and lengthy services of Bro. Moore. The latter was agreeably surprised by the

practical good wishes of the members, and challenged any other Lodge to beat his record. W. Bro. Hedges,

I.P.M., who leaves for Trentham in a few days, received a preliminary farewell from the Lodge through the

W.M. Bro. Hedges, who is married, is going into the N.C.O.'s camp, and hopes to be successful in obtaining

a commission. Bro. Hedges has been a devoted and active member of the Lodge, and expressed thanks for

the comments made, and he also thanked the brethren for their welcome co-operation and goodwill. Later on

he will be the subject of a farewell in a more tangible form, The Lodge regrets to record the death on 2nd

July, after a long and varying illness, of Bro. W. E. Sims, who was connected with the Nelson postal

department. Deceased was highly respected and took much interest in cricket, football, and bowling games.

He leaves a widow, but no family, also several brothers, all of whom are active members of the Craft. The

late Bro. Sims was formerly a member of Lodge Unanimity, Marlborough, and joined Victory in March,

1915. A Lodge of sorrow was held on 5th July, the day of the funeral, the service being conducted by R.W.

Bro. Moyes. The pall bearers were from the postal service and the Lodge, W. Bros. Rudman and Oxley, and

Bros. Edwards and Thompson assisting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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HAWKES BAY.

Scinde, No. 5.—The installation meeting was held on 21st June. There was a large attendance of brethren,

including numerous visitors from Waipawa, Waipukurau, Ormondville, Auckland, and one from

Constantinoule. The ceremony of installing Bro. Robert Bishop was performed in a most efficient manner by

R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M., who was assisted by W. Bro. R. Chadwick as G.S.W., W. Bro J

Redshaw as J.G.W., W. Bro. G. F. Roach, G.S.D., W. Bro. W. A. Carter, G.J.D., W. Bro. C. L. Thomas,

G.D. of C., W. Bro. A. J. McGlashan, G.I.G., W. Bro. E. Eales, G.Sd.B., W. Bro. E. Chegwidden, Herald,

and Bro. A. Hobson as Organist proved the right man in the right place. The address to the W.M. was ably

rendered by W. Bro. L. Freedman, P.G.D., the address to the Wardens by W. Bro. C. H. Critchley, and the

address to the brethren in a most impressive manner by R. W. Bro. Harstom, Prov.G.M. The following

officers were invested by the W.M., W. Bros. Ritchie, Thomson, and Freedman:— I.P.M., W. Bro. J. P.

Thomson; S.W., Bro. J. Bowes: J.W., Bro. A. E. Currie; Treas., Bro. T. W. Bear ; Sec., W. Bro. L.

Freedman, P.G.D. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. J. W. Ritchie; D. of C., W. Bro. C. L. Thomas; S.D., Bro. A. J.

Turville; J.D., Bro. E. A. Williams; Organist, Bro. A. Hobson; I.G., Bro. Louis Wood ; S.S., Bro. J. Morling;

J.S., Bro. R. V. C. Harris; Tyler, Bro. T. M. Thornton. The usual offertory was taken up for the Annuity.

Fund, which, with the amount donated from the Lodge's Benevolent Fund, makes the total £21. After the

close of the Lodge, the brethren were entertained in the usual manner at the Princess Hall. The usual toasts

were honoured, and with musical selections, recitations and songs the time passed away all too quickly. Bro.

Bishop, our new W.M., is to be heartily congratulated, is he holds the unique position of being a Mason for

over thirty years before obtaining the chair of K.S. Younger brethren who are inclined to feel aggrieved

because they are not placed in office in their first year should take this to heart. With a fine set of officers to

assist W. Bro. Bishop, Scinde Lodge should have a prosperous and happy year ahead of them.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Victoria, No. 21.—The regular meeting was held at Napier on 4th July, the W.M., Bro. H. Hill, presiding.

There was a very large attendance, and it must have been very encouraging to the W.M. and his officers on

their first evening's work, and should also be an incentive to them to make the ceremonial work of the Lodge

bright and attractive. The work was the raising of a candidate. The W.M. was ably assisted by W. Bros.

Whitton, E. J. Bull, Chegwidden, Andrew, and Wilkie; the W.Ts. were presented by Bro. W. G. Jarvis, J.W. ;

the Final Address to the candidate was delivered by W. Bro. L. Freedman, P.S.G.D. of Scinde Lodge, No. 5;

W. Bro. J. Redshaw, G.S., on behalf of G.L., presented W. Bro, W. A. Kirk with his P.M.'s Certificate. In

recognition of the valuable services rendered to the Lodge by a worshipful brother, who is in very indifferent

health, it was unanimously decided to exempt him from all Lodge fees. We trust that our W. brother may live

long to enjoy this small recognition of his brethren. The W.M. of Scinde Lodge, supported by a number of

his officers and brethren, paid a casual visit, which was greatly appreciated by the brethren. After the Lodge

was closed a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, the Lodge orchestra, which is composed of Bros. C. R.

Bowman and H. F. Funke, violins, Bro. J. D. Briasco, flute, Bro. J. Rockell, piano, W. Bro. E. Chegwidden,

cornet, rendering some very fine items, prominent among them being a selection, "Chimes of Normandy,"

and a cornet solo, "North Wind." The artists are entitled to a fair measure of appreciation for their efforts in

making the social side of the evening so enjoyable, which was greatly appreciated.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

AUCKLAND.

United Service, No. 10.—The installation of Bro. William Tailby into the chair was carried out in the

Auckland Freemasons' Hall on the 28th June with more than ordinary brightness. The attendance of members

was the largest known for many years past, and sister Lodges were well represented. The formal introduction

of visiting Lodges was dispensed with, enabling the real work of the evening to be commenced at an early

hour, and the ceremony was carried out with exemplary smoothness, and completed before 10 p.m., leaving

ample time for a pleasant hour in the refectory. M.W. Bro. Niccol, P.G.M., G.Sec., was present. R.W. Bro.

Murdoch McLean, P.D.G.M., Prov.G.M., acted as Installing Master, and the W.M.-elect was presented by

W. Bro. A. E. Bagnall, W.M. of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 8, and W. Bro. L. C. E. Hamann, W.M. of Lodge

Ponsonby, No. 54. The W.Ts. of the three Degrees were presented by W. Bro. R. J. Lusher, W.M. of Lodge

Ara, No. 348, I.C. (Third Degree), W. Bro. V. R. Anderson, W.M. of Lodge Albion, No. 45 (Second

Degree), and W. Bro. W. G. Mason, W.M. of Lodge Auckland, No. 87. The other officers of the Lodge were

invested as follows :—S.W., W. Bro, J. W. Swales, P.M. ; J.W., W. Bro. A. W. Morris, P.M.; Treas., W.

Bro. J. C. Spinley, P.M. ; Sec., R.W. Bro. T. W. Allen, P.M. ; Dep.M., W. Bro. M. Copeland, P.M.; D. of C.,

W. Bro. G. E. McCarthney, P.M.; Chaplain, Bro. A. B. Carmichael; S.D., Bro. M. Berry; J.D., Bro. A. L.

Brown; I.G., Bro. A. C. Hallett; Organist, Bro. G. F. Cater ; S.S., Bro. H. Gribble; J.S., Bro. H. L. Lloyd;

Assist.-Ss., Bros. J. S. Palmer and E. Mills. The address to the W.M. was delivered by R.W. Bro. G. H.

Powley, P.D.G.M. ; that to the Wardens by R.W. Bro. J. Catchpole, P.G.W. and that to the brethren by M.W.

Bro. Niccol, P.G.M. ; W. Bro. J. C. Spinley, P.M., acted as D. of C., Bro. J. H. Philpott as Organist, and Bro.

G. F. Cater as Herald. A capital musical programme was provided during the hour spent in the refreshment

room.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ara, No. 348, I.C.—The annual meeting was held on the 24th June at noon, the weather conditions being

very bad, but in spite of that 260 of the brethren rolled up to do honour to our 73rd meeting. Out of the 260

there were 95 P.Ms.— a fine gathering of the G.L., N.Z., the D.G.L., E.C., and the P G. L., S. C., N. I. The P.

G. M., I. C., expressed his great pleasure in welcoming the M.W.G.M., Bro. Nicholson, and congratulated

him on his election and installation as G.M. of the N.Z.C. The G.M. of the N.Z.C. expressed his thanks for

the cordial welcome he and his officers had received, and trusted that the brotherly esteem and regard that

had always existed between the I.C. and the G.L. of New Zealand would ever continue. R W. Bro. A. S.

Bankart and M.W. Bro. W. Handley, P.D.P.G.M., returned thanks on behalf of the E.C. and S.C. I do not

think in the course of my Masonic life I ever heard the charge to the brethren given with more feeling and

pathos than on this occasion, as given by R.W. Bro. M. McLean. The work of the Installing Master, W. Bro.

S. I. Crookes, was carried out in a very efficient manner, as also the investiture of officers by the newly

installed W.M., Bro. R. J. Linten. At this stage of the proceedings the retiring W.M., W. Bro. S. J. Crookes,

stated that the Lodge had conferred life membership upon R.W. Bro. W. J. Rees, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. F. J.

Whitaker, R.W. Bro. G. A. Powley, V.W. Bro. G. A. Gribbin, and V.W. Bro. E. R. Piggott for their valuable

services rendered to the Lodge for so many years. A special certificate had been made certifying to the

honour conferred, but the artist had only been able to prepare one for to-clay's function. W. Bro. Crookes

handed over to R.W. Bro. W. J. Rees, P.G.M., his life member's certificate, expressing the hope that long

years of life were before him to enjoy the respect and esteem of his brethren. The P.G.M. returned thanks for

the great honour that had been conferred upon him, and said that it would be treasured as one of his most

valued possessions. The P.G.M. presented to W. Bro. S. J. Crookes a P.M.'s jewel and a shield of the

portraits of the officers that had worked under him for the years 1915 and 1916, and was pleased to express

his opinion of the very efficient manner in which he had carried out his duties as W.M., and also the

masterful way in which he had installed his successor. W. Bro. S. J. Crookes, with deep feeling, expressed

his thanks for the kind words spoken and for the presentations made, which he would value highly, and

returned thanks to the brethren for their help and loyalty and affection toward him, and to the old P.Ms. of

the Lodge for the great assistance and loyalty they had ever shown towards him. M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson,

G.M., N.Z.C., in conveying congratulation and good wishes to the newly installed W.M., said, from what he

knew of him, his term of office would be a success, and he desired to express his fraternal thanks to the

brethren of 348 for their letter of congratulation on his becoming G.M. of the N.Z.C., and he greatly

appreciated the kindly feelings contained in that resolution, and wished the old Lodge continued success and

prosperity. A vote of sympathy was passed to our esteemed Sec., W. Bro. W. H. Pattinson, who was unable

to be present owing to the serious sickness of his wife. Lunch was provided, and 246 sat down. The whole of

the afternoon's work was of a very pleasing nature, and the 73rd annual meeting of the old Lodge was a

pronounced success. We were glad to see our old and esteemed P.M., Bro. A. Kidd, on the dais.

————

Lodge of Light, I.C.—The installation of Bro. J. D. Darrow as W.M. took place at the Thames on the 14th

July. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. W. J. Rees, Prov.G.M., the W.Ts. being presented by W.

Bro. R. Lusher, W.M. of Lodge Ara, No. 348, and by W. Bro. Hay, W.M. of Lodge Waihi, N.Z.C. Other

officers were invested as follows :— I.P.M., W. Bro. L. Griffin ; S.W. Bro. E. G. Coutts; J.W., Bro. G. W.

Stamper; D. Of C., S.W., Bro. A. S. Ensor; Sec. and Treas., W. Bro. W. J. Simmonds ; S.D., Bro. L. A.

Duffield; J.D., Bro. J. Robertson ; Organist, Bro. H. J. Silcocks; LG., Bro. J. Galloway ; Stewards, Bros. W.

B. Macdonald, J. Allan, J. Driver, H. C. Oaten, and J. Weaver; Auditors, W. Bros. G. Cullen and J. Coats.

The address to the W.M. was delivered by the Prov.G.M., the address to the Wardens by W. Bro. F.

Wiseman, and that to the brethren by W. Bro. C. Schnauer. The I.P.M., W. Bro. L. Griffin, was presented

with a P.M.'s jewel.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

TARANAKI.

Hawera, No. 34.—The annual installation meeting was held at the Temple on 29th June, being held a few

days earlier in order to avoid clashing with the opening of the annual Winter Show. The W.M.-elect, Bro. H.

D. Caplen, S.W., was presented by his father, V.W. Bro. H. Caplen, P.A.G.R., and was obligated by the

retiring W.M., W. Bro. Harding. Officers for the current term are as follows :—W. Bro. Jno. W. J. Harding,

I.P.M.; Bro. L. S. Tarrant, S.W.; Bro. E. C. Hayton, J.W.; W. Bro. F. G. Kimbell, Chaplain; W. Bro. J. Quin,

Treas. ; W. Bro. J. C. Cawsey, Sec. ; Bro. Colin Brown, S.D. ; Bro. C. H. Taylor, J.D. ; W. Bro. G. A.

Burgess, D. of C. ; Bro. R. F. Page, Organist; Bro. F. G. Magnusson, LG.; Bros. C. S. Davis and E. A. Burge,

Stewards ; Bro. F. G. Hancock, Tyler. One of the special features of the evening was it beautiful address on

Charity by R.W. Bro. T. C. Fookes, P.Prov.G.M. followed by a perfect quartette rendering by W. Bros.

Burgess and Thompson and Bros. Thompson and Smith, both items being highly appreciated by members

and visitors alike. After the Lodge was closed, the brethren invited the visitors to the usual banquet at the

"Central Dining Rooms," where the usual toasts were duly honoured, interspersed with musical items, and

every Brother present thoroughly enjoyed himself. Special reference was made to our new W.M., who is

leaving on 20th inst. for England to join the Inns of Court Regiment with a view to taking an active part in

the world's great struggle.

A quiet little Masonic social was held at Hawera by No. 30 on Thursday evening, 6th inst., when about 55

brethren and their ladies assembled for the purpose of bidding farewell to our new W.M., W. Bro. Caplen.

During the evening W. Bro. Harding, on behalf of the Lodge, in a few appropriate and feeling remarks, made

a presentation to W. Bro. Caplen of a pair of military hair brushes and shaving set, suitably inscribed. W.

Bro. Caplen in reply thanked the members for their thoughtfulness.

An emergency meeting of Lodge Hawera was held on 14th ult., when W. Bro. Caplen and his new staff of

officers worked a Third Degree, assisted by W. Bro. Kimbell, who gave the Exhortation and Charge, W. Bro.

Evans the Secrets, W. Bro. Burgess the further Secrets, R.W. Bro. Sargent, Prov.G.M., the T.H., Bro.

Hayton, J.W., the W.Ts., and W. Bro. Harding the Final Charge. The Chaplain presented the copy of the

V.S.L. At the "Fourth" a special toast was given in honour of our departing W.M., in reply to which W. Bro.

Caplen expressed himself as perfectly satisfied with the working of his new set of officers, with whom, under

his I.P.M., Lodge Hawera would prosper during his absence on His Majesty's service.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Moa, No. 110.—A good attendance of members greeted the W.M. at the monthly meeting on 14th July. The

principal business was the passing of two brethren. The candidates were not put through together, and as the

W.M. therefore had an opportunity of dividing the work to a considerable extent, he invoked the aid of W.

Bros. Surrey, Young, Winfield, Hamerton, Olsen, Alleman and de Launay. In the case of the second

candidate, the regular officers were relieved by Bros. Hodges, Petch, Hogg, Ross, and Caldwell. "The

amateurs," as they were termed in the "Fourth" Degree, did their work well, and proved that the Lodge has in

training a number of brethren who will doubtless arrive at the East in due course. Before the Lodge was

closed, an interesting and useful discussion took place regarding matters pertaining to our ceremonies. The

future will prove that the time occupied in the discussion was well spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

RUAPEHU.

St. Andrew Kilwinning, No. 79.—The installation of Bro. A. E. King, S.W., as W.M. for the ensuing year

took place at the Freemasons' Hall on 13th ult. There was a good attendance of members and visitors,

representatives from sister Lodges, and of Lodges from all parts of the Dominion, being present. G.L. was

represented by R.W. Bro. D. McFarlane, Prov.G.M., Ruapehu district, R.W. Bro. J. H. Keesing, P.G.S.W.,

R.W. Bro. John Stevenson, P.G.S.W., W. Bro. J. C. Richardson, P.G.S.B., and W. Bro. G. S. Gordon, G.P.

W. Bro. N. G. Armstrong conducted the installation ceremony in an able manner, assisted by G.L. officers

and W. Bro. J. C. Richardson as D. of C. W. Bro. G. G. Bullock invested the officers for ensuing twelve

months as follows :—I.P.M., W. Bro. L. Craig; J.W. Bro. J. E. M. Rose; D. of C., W. Bro. J. C. Richardson ;

Chaplain, Bro. Carew Thomas ; Treas., W. Bro. J. L. Stevenson; Sec., W. Bro. N. G. Armstrong; Organist,

Bro. S. Weller; Choirmaster, Bro. T. L. Sperring; S.D., Bro. J. McFarlane; I.G., Bro. I. Stevenson; Tyler,

Bro. J. R. Revell; S.S., Bro. J. D. Anderson; J.Ss., Bros. F. M. Spnrdle, W. J. Andrew, and J. Passmore. Bro.

R. W. Green, who had been elected S.W., was unable to be present owing to ill-health, and Bro. Percy

Evans, the newly-elected J.D., was also unable to attend, he being at present in camp at Featherston. The

presentation of W.Ts. in the various degrees was made by W. Bro. A. Gifford, P.M. Lodge Rangitikei, W.

Bro. A. G. Muir, W.M. of Lodge Tongariro, and W. Bro. J. W. Deem, P.M. of Lodge Moutoa. The musical

portion of the ceremony was in charge of Choirmaster Bro. Sperring, who was supported by a band of eight

performers, and which added materially to the pleasure of the ceremony. After the investiture a quartette

consisting of Bros. Sparring, Gilbey, McFarlane, and Neverman rendered the item, "Hymn before Action."

The Charge to W.M. was given by R.W. Bro. D. McFarlane, Prov.G.M., that to the Wardens by W. Bro. H.

Rice, and the Final Charge to the brethren was entrusted to W. Bro. L. Craig, I.P.M. The whole of the

ceremony was conducted in a dignified and impressive manner, and will remain a pleasant memory in the

minds of the brethren who attended the function. During the evening, R.W. Bro. Keeling was entrusted with

the pleasant duty of presenting to W. Bro. Craig, I.P.M., a P.M.'s jewel, from the brethren of Lodge St.

Andrew Kilwinning, which was done in the R.W. brother's usual happy manner, W. Bro. Craig suitably

responding. Before the Lodge closed, W. Bro. King tendered his thanks to the brethren for the honour they

had conferred upon him by electing him to the honourable position in which he was now placed, and also to

the R.W. Prov.G.M., the I.M., and to all who had so ably assisted in the ceremony. After Lodge closed, the

customary adjournment was made to the Assembly Hall, where supper was partaken of. The usual list of

toasts was honoured. A feature of the toast list was that of the "Army and Navy," proposed in an eloquent

address by W. Bro. Armstrong. This toast is peculiarly appropriate at the present time, and when W. Bro.

Armstrong resumed his seat there was not a brother among the 120 assembled at the refectory who did not

feel a thrill of pride in the fact that he was a British subject. Songs and short speeches occupied the

remainder of the evening, and the brethren dispersed with the feeling that the installation ceremony of St.

Andrew Kilwinning for 1916 will long remain a happy Masonic recollection to those who were privileged to

attend.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

WELLINGTON.

St. Andrew, No. 32.—The regular meeting was held on 17th July, the W.M., Bro. W. Simpson, presiding

over a satisfactory attendance of members and visitors, the latter including M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams and the

Dep.G.M., R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, who visited unofficially, the W.Ms. of Lodges Leinster and Otari, and a

number of P.Ms. Minutes were read and approved and formal business transacted, three ballots being taken.

The latter included two candidates for initiation, and all were accepted after reports were received thereon.

The principal work was to pass a candidate, and the ceremony was performed by the W.M., assisted by his

officers and brethren present. The Dep.G.M. delivered the Investiture Address, Bro. G. Lawrence addressed

the candidate in the S.E. Corner, and the two Wardens and the S.D. (Bros. A. Schmidt, J. C. Riddell, and W.

Greening) presented in concert the W.Ts., the S.W. (Bro. A. Schmidt) subsequently delivering the Final

Charge. Bro. J. C. Riddell explained the T.B. relative to the degree in a manner which reflected considerable

credit upon him, and indicated previous painstaking preparation. Lodge resumed in the E.A. Degree, when

two propositions were announced, one for affiliation and another for initiation. Greetings were tendered and

Lodge was closed, when an adjournment was made to the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Leinster, No. 44.—The annual Meeting for the installation of W.M. and investiture of officers was held in

the Freemasons' Hall on 3rd July, there being a large and representative attendance, nearly all the W.Ms. of

the city and suburban Lodges being present. The Lodge was opened at 6.40 p.m., W. Bro. F. G. Cooper,

W.M., presiding, and after the visitors had been received, R.W Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M., was

announced and received with honours, and assumed the chair. R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, D.G.M., and G.L.

officers, were announced and received with honours. The W.M.-elect, Bro. Alfred Longmore, was presented

by W. Bro. W. H. Jones, P.G.D. of C., and W. Bro. C. Haynes, and after assenting to the Ancient Charges,

was obligated and subsequently in a B. of I.M. was installed as W.M. by R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M.

W. Bro, F. Silver, in his very able manner, invested the officers as follows :—I.P.M., W. Bro. F. G. Cooper ;

S.W., Bro. A. McLaren; J.W., Bro. R. J. Shakes; Treas., W. Bro. W. Wills, P.M.; Sec., W. Bro. W. A.

Baudinet, P.M. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. R. H. Wilson, P.M. ; D. of C., W. Bro. E. B. Parsons, P.M.; S.D., Bro.

W. J. Garrett; J.D., Bro. D. Parnell; I.G., Bro. E. C. Smyth; S.S., Bro. F. W. Duncan; J.S., Bro. H. W.

McCarthy; Asst.Ss., Bros. J. Jackson and K. Shaw; Organist, Bro. W. H. Godier; Tyler (acting), Bro. A. E.

Colmer. The address to the W.M. was given by W. Bro. R. H. Wilson, to the Wardens by W. Bro. Jas.

Robertson, and to the brethren by R.W. Bro: T. A. Peterkin. The usual proclamations were given by W. Bro.

W. H. Jones, Bro. M. Manthel acting as Trumpeter. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. J. McLachlan,

W.M. Lodge Waiwhetu, A. Erskine, W.M. Lodge Waterloo, and J. H. Jerram, W.M. Lodge Otari. During the

ceremony, a quartette was rendered by W. Bros. G. E. Smith and J. S. Connell and Bros. W. Thompson and

W. J. Scammell. R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, at the request of the W.M., presented the retiring Master with a

handsome P.M.'s jewel. The W.M. thanked the visitors for their attendance and honour done thereby, and

also the orchestra for their valuable assistance. Regret was expressed that illness in his family prevented

M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams attending, as he was to have addressed the brethren, which address is always

listened to with great interest. A collection was taken up for the G.L. Annuity Fund, and the Lodge was

closed at 9.40 p.m. In the refectory the usual toasts received full. consideration.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ulster, No. 62.—The regular meeting was held at the Freemasons' Hall, Petone, on 19th July, there being a

large attendance of members, and some visitors. One candidate passed the ballot "all clear," and a further

candidate was proposed for initiation, and also one brother as a joining member. The ceremonial work was

the initiation of two new members by the W.M., Bro. R. Jenkins, assisted by W. Bro. Richards, I.P.M., and

W. Bro. G. D. McEwen. The Address in the N.E. was given by Bro. Mather, S.W., the Mode of Prep. was

explained by W. Bro. J. C. Davis, the W.Ts. were presented by Bro. Steffensen, J.W., and the Final Charge

was given by W. Bro. Colquitt, The balance sheet for year ended 30th June was considered satisfactory, and

adopted. Bro. R. H. Wilson, who has been Treasurer for a number of years, was accorded a hearty vote of

thanks for his services. It was decided in place of holding the usual social that the children of members

should be given a social evening, and the matter was left in the hands of the officers to arrange. W. Bros. J.

T. King and R. Colquitt were appointed delegates to the United Board of Inquiry. The business was

concluded shortly after 10 o'clock, and the brethren then adjourned to the refectory, where an enjoyable hour

was spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Coronation, No. 127.—The happy installation function has passed and left nothing but pleasant memories,

as usual. W. Bro. Harrap presided, opened the proceedings, and received the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. W.

Ellison, who in his turn received Bro. Williams, P.G.M. (whom we are always so pleased to welcome), R.W.

Bro. T. A. Peterkin (who plays such havoc with our pies), R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton (who has become staid

and ceased his tricks), and V.W. Bro. H. B. Bridge, P.G.Lect., who were properly marshalled by W. Bro. J.

Firth as G.D. of C. R.W. Bro. Ellison, Prov.G.M., acted as I.M., and inducted Bro. R. Turner into the Eastern

chair with the customary solemnity. W. Bros. Jenkins, Scott, and Futter presented the W.Ts., and V.W. Bro.

H. B. Bridge, P.G.Lect., ably invested the following officers :—W.M., Bro. R. Turner; S.W., Bro. A. H.

Mildenhall; J.W., Bro. K. M. Carter; Treas., W. Bro. R. P. Cook; Sec., W. Bro. W. S. Radcliffe; D. of C., W.

Bro. 0. Jerusalem ; Chaplain, W. Bro. T. W. Kirk; Organist, Bro. C. Gray; S.D., Bro. F. A. Jacobson; J.D.,

Bro. H. B. Wolf ; LG., Bro. J. W. McCrae ; Tyler, Bro. Lauson; S.S., Bro. V. A.. Mills; J.S., Bro. A. W.

Robertson. The addresses to the Master, Wardens, and Brethren were delivered by R.W. Bros. Seaton and

Peterkin, and M.W. Bro. Williams respectively. M.W. Bro. Williams by request presented Bro. Harrap, the

retiring Master, with a very handsome P.M.'s jewel, who acknowledged the kindness of his brethren. The

"Fourth" was characterised by fun and humour, and never lagged from start to finish. The D.G.M. would like

a repetition next Saturday.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held on 6th July, the W.M., Bro. A. A. Whitelaw, presiding

over a large attendance of members and visitors. R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, D.G.M., was accorded the usual

honours, the brethren being pleased to have him with us once again. Two candidates were raised by the

W.M., assisted by W. Bros. Alexander and Watt, R.W. Bro. Peterkin (15 F.C. and Raising), W. Bro. Shand

(Exhort. and Signs), Bro. Howell (Invest. Charge), W. Bro. Harrap (T.H.), Bro. Lenzini, J.W. (W.Ts.), Bro.

Sexton, S.W. (Final Charge). By request, the Dep.G.M. presented the candidates with the copies of the

V.S.L. on which they had been obligated, and addressed them in appropriate terms. Bro. Shirer, Chaplain,

presented Bro. L. C. Whitelaw, son of the W.M. who is leaving for the Front, with his M.M. Certificate,

wishing him God speed and a safe return. The library committee presented their reports, and it was decided

that the library consist of Masonic literature, works of arts and sciences, and trades. Bro. Jones was

appointed librarian. Books were received with thanks from the W.M. and Bro. Vine. The Lodge voted for the

purchase of books. The Lodge passed a hearty vote of thanks to Bro. Reid, I.G., for the presentation of three

metal candlesticks, which were much admired by all present. The Lodge was closed in due form, and a

pleasant time was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The usual monthly meeting was held on the 12th July, when there was a good

attendance of brethren and visitors. This being the first meeting after the sad accident at the Camp, when W.

Bro. Captain Beekman lost his life, before the business started the W.M. asked the brethren to stand to order

and pass a vote of sympathy at his sad loss. Our brother, Lieut. Bale, who was also injured, was reported to

be progressing very favourably. After the usual routine business the work was the initiation of four

candidates. W. Bro. McLauchlan obligated; W. Bro. Williams, P.M. of Lodge Thistle, Ashburton,

communicated the Secrets and Signs; Bro. Leighton invested; R.W. Bro. Peterkin gave the N.E. Charge; and

Bro. Leighton, S.W., gave the Charge after Initiation. Applications were received from four Lodges to pass

E.A. to the F.C.. Degree, and an emergency meeting was arranged for the 27th. After the Lodge was closed a

very pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Otari, No. 190.—This Lodge celebrated its fourth annual anniversary on the 11th July, and was fortunate in

having its first Master, V.W. Bro. Col. J. J. Esson, to conduct the ceremony. Old Jupiter Pluvius was having

a gay old time, which effectually prevented an overflow meeting. Included in the list of those who braved the

elements were M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, D.G.M., R.W. Bros. J. W. Ellison,

Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, and V.W. Bro. Surgeon-General Henderson. W. Bro. J. H. Jerram,

W.M., presided, and took the first portion of the installation ceremony, the Master-elect, Bro. E. Meek, being

presented by W. Bro. J. R. Scrimgeour, who acted most ably as D. of C. V.W. Bro. J. J. Esson opened a B. of

I., and inducted Bro. E. Meek into the chair according to prescribed custom. On the M.M. reentering, the D.

of C. made the proclamations, Bro. M. Manthell being the trumpeter. W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros.

Harrap, Scott, and Simpson, and the Prov.G.M. presented the Constitution, By-laws, and Charter. W. Bro.

Scrimgeour invested the following officers, impressively and concisely W. Bro. J. G. Harkness, P.S.G.D. ;

S.W., Bro. R. A. Nicol; J.W. Bro. A. Ferguson ; Treas., W. Bro. S. P. Curtis ; See., Bro. J. T. Mair ; D. of C.,

W. Bro. J. R. Scrimgeour, P.M.; Chaplain, Bro. W. A. Tanner; S.D., Bro. H. E. Anderson; J.D. Bro. J. Craig;

I.G. Bro. A. J. Patrick; S.S., Bro. F. Holdsworth; J.S. Bro. W. H. Gledhill; Organist, Bro. T. C. Chamberlain.

The address to the Master was given by R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton. The Wardens were charged on their duties

by W. Bro. J. G. Harkness, and the Final Address to the brethren was in the hands of M.W. Bro. Williams.

The W.M. briefly returned thanks, the usual Annuity Fund collection was taken up, and the Lodge was

closed at 8 p.m. The nature of the refreshments was characterised with becoming modesty, but the function

was an especially happy one. Some inspiriting addresses were delivered, and Surgeon-General Bro.

Henderson was especially interesting in his Indian reminiscences, as was Bro. Esson in his Egyptian

references. The only fly in the ointment was having to face the disquieting elements in the prosecution of the

homeward journey.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

St. Augustine, No. 1.—The regular meeting was held in Christchurch Masonic Hall on 12th July, V.E.

Comp. W. Broadley presiding. W. Bro. R. H. Taylor, W.M. Robert Burns Lodge, and Bro. C. H. Chapman,

M.M. Lodge, Ahurewa, were elected for membership. Bro. C. S. Johnston was exalted to the H.R.A. V.E.

Comp. W. Broadley obligathd, and E. Comp. J. A. Staples presented the W.Ts. V.E. Comp. W. F. McLean

gave the P.G. and P.W. V.E. Comp. T. W. Lee illustrated the Signs, and V.E. Comp. J. Robertson delivered

the Charge. M.E. Comp. S. C. Bingham presented Comp. J. Gillanders with his R.A. and A.M. Certificates.

The ceremony was conducted in good style.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Victory, No. 12.—The regular convocation was held on 22nd June, V.E. Comp. J. L. Ching presiding. A

Mark Lodge was opened, with Bro. S. F. Botton as Mark Master, and Bros. H. H. Edwards and G. A.

Edmonds were advanced. V.E. Comp. A. W. Oxley, of Invercargill, who was proposed for affiliation, gave

an interesting and comprehensive lecture on the Mark Degree, receiving a hearty vote of thanks Bro. F. A.

Thompson was proposed for companionship. There has been quite a steady influx of members lately, and

quite a number are seeking admission from Lodge Motueka. The improved finances of the Chapter now

warrant the serious consideration of new equipment in the shape of regalia and furniture.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]

————

Waimate, No. 16.—The regular meeting of the Chapter was held an 3rd July. The work was of a two-fold

nature, an acknowledgment and an exaltation. One candidate presented himself for the former ceremony, and

was duly acknowledged. Chapter being resumed, the work of exalting Bros. Creeser, King, and J. Patterson

was very ably carried out by the V.E. Comp. Fulton, assisted by P.Prins. Menzies, Colville and Hoskins. Our

Chapter, as a rule, avoids giving more than one degree at a convocation. On this occasion, however, Bro. J.

Patterson, who has enlisted and is now in the training camp, having been advanced prior to enlistment,

expressed his desire to acquire the full status of a R.A. Mason before his departure from these shores, hence

the double working. The usual adjournment to the refectory followed, where a short time was spent in social

chat, etc.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Wanganui, No. 23.—The regular convocation took place on 6th July, V.E. Comp. G. G. Bullock presiding.

After routine business, the Chapter was adjourned for the purpose of working the Red Cross Degrees. The

President, R.E. Comp. G. W. Palmer, conducted the ceremonies. On resuming, nominations for officers for

the ensuing year were taken, a fact which should help to remind neighbouring Chapters that the installation

takes place on 7th September. In the refectory we were indebted to R.E. Comp. Palmer for an interesting

lecture on the historical foundations of the Red Cross Degrees, and their intimate connection with the

rebuilding of K.S.T.—[Chapter Correspondent.]