CHRISTMASTIDE REVIEWED.

———<>———

THERE is no season, fete, or festival of the year which is subject to such glowing anticipation as Christmas.

"By a beautiful road our Christmas comes,

A road full twelve months long,

And every mile is as warm as a smile,

And every hour is a song."

To people of the Christian faith Christmas Day is the most revered, honoured, and the happiest day in their

calendar, being no less than the natal day of their founder—that Christ from whom the day is named and

whom they believe to be the Saviour of all mankind. Even to the great mass of persons of other creeds or

beliefs, or those who do not actively practise religion of any kind, the season has become recognised as one

of peace and goodwill, of social good fellowship, when a tacit armistice exists for all feuds and quarrels, and

happiness and joy hold sway. And whether as a sacred festival or a purely social holiday, there are few parts

of the world that are not amenable to the peace-giving influence of this festive season. To the young

especially it is rich in story and in song, and whether the legend has for its central figure Santa Claus, St.

Nicholas, or Kris Kringle, it is always in some way associated with the child Christ. One writer says : "

There are many beautiful and interesting customs followed by the people of the " European nations in their

celebration of Christmas." In Germany before the war it was customary for shoes to be laid before the doors,

which were found to be filled with the good and useful things of life. The Kris Kringle of the young

Hollander was a merry chap, up to all sorts of tricks, who was supposed to reward the good child and to have

a rod in pickle for the bad one. In Sweden Santa Claus is not unlike a brownie who brings gifts for the

children. A pretty ceremony is the heaping of blazing pine torches before the church door as each head of the

family enters. In Norway, after the church service, fun, frolic and dancing ensues, and is kept up for some

days. A quaint custom in Russia is the laying of a cloth on a table covered with straw, on which there- are

many good things to eat. The young folks finally draw straws from underneath the cloth, and it is presumed

that the one who draws the longest will be married first. In Poland there is not so much merriment. Santa

Claus comes in at the front door while the little ones are saying their prayers. It is stated that England is

indebted for the introduction of the Christmas tree to the Prince Consort, husband of Queen Victoria. But the

custom of bringing in the Yule log was a very old English one, and was accompanied with great ceremony.

The famous old Christmas dinners, which have been immortalised by Dickens, need only a passing

reference, as, while not inconsistent with the cold climate of the north, they are unsuitable to the summer

conditions of the Antipodes. We are told that the observance of the carnal birth of the Lord does not date

back many centuries. C. A. Miles, in his "Christmas in Ritual and Tradition," etc., says :

"When and where did the keeping of Christmas begin? " Many details of its early history remain in

uncertainty, but it is fairly clear that the earliest celebration of the birth of Christ on 25th December

took place at Rome about the middle of the fourth century, and that the observance of the day spread

from the western to the eastern church, which had before been wont to keep 6th January as a joint

commemoration of the nativity and the baptism of the Christ. The first mention of a nativity feast on

25th December is found in a Roman document known as the Philocalian Calendar, dating from the

year 354, but embodying an older document evidently belonging to the year 336 . . . In the East, as has

been seen, the birth of the Christ was at first celebrated not on 25th December, but on 6th January, the

feast of the Epiphony or manifestation of His glory."

The question is often asked, why did the Church select 25th December for the anniversary of her founder's

birth? The Romans of the Empire distinguished the 25th of December as the birthday of the sun god.

According to the Julian calendar, the unconquered sun, on 25th December, began to rise to new vigour after

his autumnal decline. Says Miles :

"The Dies Natalis Invicti was first probably celebrated in Rome by order of the Emperor Aurelian

(2705), an ardent worshipper of the Syrian sun-god Baal. With the Sol Invictis was identified the

figure of Mithra, that strange eastern god whose cult resembled in so many ways the worship of Jesus,

and who was " at one time a serious rival of Christ in the minds of thoughtful " men. . . . Mithraism

resembled Christianity in its monotheistic tendencies, its sacraments, its comparatively high morality,

its doctrine of an intercessor and Redeemer, and its vivid belief in a future life and judgment to come.

Moreover, Sunday was its holy day dedicated to the sun. What more natural than that the church

should choose this day to celebrate the rising of her Sun of Righteousness with healing in His wings,

that she should strive thus to draw away to His worship some adorers of the God whose symbol and

representative was the earthly sun? There is no direct evidence of deliberate substitution, but at all

events ecclesiastic writers, soon after the foundation of Christ, made good use of the idea that the

birthday of the Saviour had replaced the birthday of the sun."

To all students of the occult—and there are many in Masonry—Christmas has a deep meaning. It is

penetrated by the mystical spirit—" that the sense of the Infinite in the finite without which," says Miles, "the

highest human life is impossible. . . . Christmas stands peculiarly for the sacramental principle that the

outward and visible is a sign and a shadow of the inward and spiritual. It means the seeing of common,

earthly things shot through by the glory of the Infinite. . . . Christmas is the festival of the Divine

Immanence."

In Craft Freemasonry it is, of course, impossible to single out any one faith or creed for special observance,

when it is a principle to have no distinction. But there is one rite in Freemasonry which is essentially

Christian in its constitution, and, we hope, in practice and example. And in America it is, very properly, as it

appears to us, subject to special observance. We have before us the special greeting of the head of one

section of the Christian rites, and we feel sure that the beautiful language and the sentiments expressed will

find an echo in the breast of every true Mason, no matter what his especial creed may be.

My Dear Fraters

I greet you in the spirit of the memories sacred to this day: Again there breaks through the walls of silence

the heavenly harmony " Glory to God in the highest." Grant that you may help to make this year radiant

with the light of love vitail with the breath of Bethlehem, and may your ministries be in tune with the

anthem of the angels.

" Peace on earth and good will to men " is the sweetest message ever sung. It presages that this warring,

turbulent world shall know peace ; that man, buffeted and tempest-tossed by ill-wind, discord, envy,

jealousy and hatred, may know and experience the antithesis of this in Good Will. It foreshadows the

advent of the day when " The mountain of the Lord's House shall be established on the top of the

mountains ; when swords shill be beaten into ploughshares and spears into pruning hooks; when nation

shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more;" when man shall be to his

brother man a friend and protector ; when the Golden Rule shall he the guide to every man's conduct;

when the morality of Masonry shall be made the measure of a Mason's duty. Then that long-expected day

of universal peace and good will shall break into a hallelujah of reality, and reign triumphant.

Sir Knights, let us assemble on Christmas morning and participate in the sentiment proposed to our Grand

Master, inviting all sojourning Knights to be present and join in this observance; keeping within our

hearts the spirit of love for others, remembering the unfortunate and their necessities, and giving at least a

portion of that which we have been permitted to receive ; ever keeping in mind that, " Inasmuch as ye

have done it unto one of the least of these, My brethren, ye have done it unto Me."

At this especial time, when so many of our kindred are suffering, it almost savours of inane frivolity to wish.

each other a " merry " Christmas. At any time this accustomed form does not comprehend the warmth or

intention of the kindly seasonable greeting. Therefore we- will content ourselves with wishing all our

brethren, wheresoever dispersed, as happy a festival as their circumstances will allow. May we at home

reflect on the awful nature of the great butchery of mankind, and offer one small petition to the God of

Battles that before another Christmas shall come round the sound of the cannon shall have ceased, the sword

shall be sheathed, that men shall have ceased to murder their fellows and that the darkness that has enveloped

this great conflict shall result in the lighting of the great lamp of universal peace, that nation shall never more

war against nation, and men shall learn to war no more.

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THE RELIEF FUNDS OF THE GRAND LODGE OF

NEW ZEALAND.

——<>——

When the Grand Lodge of New Zealand instituted the Special War Fund in 1914, it was found that some

Lodges, acting under the persuasion that the war would only last a few months, in their desire to augment the

fund, apparently directed their attention to making one supreme effort. As this was a manifest danger to the

Fund, we felt constrained to point this out, and suggested that all efforts should be of a sustained character,

calculated to extend over a period of two or three years. To this we added the following :— "It must be

understood that whatever is done for this special fund, should not in any way interfere with the Annuity

Fund. But we know there is a tendency in this direction, and that donations towards the special fund are

really being subverted from the older fund." It is now found that the position foreshadowed in 1914 is in

evidence in 1916. Some Lodges apply the offertory taken at installation meetings to the war fund, thus

diverting it from the Annuity Fund. In other Lodges, there appears to be considerable difficulty in

maintaining contributions to the two funds. As we said on a former occasion, this no doubt involves no little

sacrifice, but is not the present time an epoch in history that demands special sacrifice? Another cause may

be found in the fact that other Lodges and brethren are devoting much of their energy towards the

augmentation of outside patriotic funds, and while we have not one word to say against the merits of any of

such funds, yet if brethren in their Masonic capacity are canvassed to so subscribe we do not see how it can

be done without prejudice to the Special Grand Lodge Funds. Further, if the Special War Fund is to be

augmented at the expense of the Annuity Fund, complications may at any time arise. We desire to see the

War Fund increase very materially, and we are constrained to believe that in the aggregate contributions

received the Brotherhood as a whole has not done itself justice. But the Annuity Fund is on a different plane.

Obligations have been, and are being, entered into every month, for which an assured annual income is

required, and this income is obtained from interest accrued on the capital amount. The time may probably

come when, perhaps, a portion of the annual contributions can be appropriated to meet current expenditure,

but that time is not yet, as the present capital is not by any means abnormal in amount, and we are sure that

no brother would care to know that the annual income had fallen short of the actual requirements, and that

special arrangements would have to be made to enable the Annuity Board to meet its engagements, We

therefore earnestly appeal, not for the diversion of any portion of donations from one fund to the other, but

that the Annuity Fund should be maintained as a first charge, while at the same time the War Fund should

also be substantially augmented, as promised at the last meeting of G.L.

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ENGLISH MASONIC LODGES AND THE ENTERTAINMENT TAX.

——<>——

As private individuals we are apt to growl at the additional war taxation imposed in New Zealand, but we

have not the same experience Masonically with regard to taxation as our brethren have at Home. It would

appear that Parliament imposed what is known as the Entertainment Tax, under the Finance (New Duties)

Act," and the amount of the tax is twopence on every shilling paid for admission to entertainments, which

include songs, music, cinema shows, etc. But as the Pres. of the B. of G.P. put it, it came as a bolt from the

blue when the stewards of the Royal Masonic Institution for Girls received a claim from the Customs

Commissioners for entertainment tax in connection with the usual annual festival. And later it developed that

every Masonic Lodge, having any form of entertainment at its festive board, other than speeches, is liable for

the tax. A special deputation from G.L. interviewed the Commissioners, who, it is stated, "were very polite,

but very firm, and meant to have the money." Opinion of counsel was taken, but this was in favour of the

legality of the claim, and although the president of the Board—who by the way, is engaged in the Press

Gallery during Parliament—was emphatic in the opinion that not one member recognised the far-reaching

effects of the new tax, it is there, and will have to be paid. The difficulty that was being experienced when

the G.L. of England met on the 23rd September was as to the assessment, and which the excise authorities

had not elucidated. In the debate which followed the reading of the Board's report, several suggestions were

made, but no one appeared to contemplate the excision of entertainment from the festive board of the Lodge.

Presumably an attempt will be made at the next session of Parliament to place Masonic Lodges in the list of

exemptions from the tax.

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It is of the greatest importance for a man to know himself, but this cannot be brought about by thinking, but

by doing. Do your duty as it presents itself to: you each day, and you will know what you are worth.

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News and Notes.

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W. BRO. W. H. SIMCOX, P.M., of Lodge Otaki, has practically held some office since the Lodge was opened

twenty-five years ago, but, owing to the infirmities of age, especially deafness, he has now ceased active

work. A noble example for the younger members or those inclined to be discouraged or faint by the way.

LAST month we had the pleasure of meeting W. Bro. Rainbow, the I.P.M. of Prince of Wales Lodge, N.S.W.,

who is paying an extended visit to New Zealand for health reasons. Our brother's stay in Wellington was

limited, as he made Wanganui his headquarters. Fortunately, we had the opportunity of making him

acquainted with R.W. Bro. McFarlane, the Prov.G.M. of the Wanganui (Ruapehu) District.

THE annual convocation of the Sup. G.R,A. Chapter of New Zealand will probably be held in Auckland on

Wednesday, 7th February, 1917.

THE usual Christmas holidays will necessitate the CRAFTSMAN going to press on the 21st inst.

THE annual meeting of Victory R.A. Chapter, Nelson, was not only a very enjoyable function, but was a

record in point of numbers, and contrasted most favourably with meetings for many years past. The two G.

Chapter officers (M.E. Comps. Williams and Porritt), who undertook the conferrance of the side degrees, the

conclave of I.P., and the B. of I.M.M., in the afternoon had a very arduous task, most admirably carried

through. As the first companion was in very indifferent health, the gigantic effort was the more

praiseworthy.—[Communicated.]

THE Masonic brethren in Trentham Camp, in appreciation of the warm and fraternal manner in which they

have always been received by Lodge Waiwhetu, Lower Hutt, took advantage of the November meeting to

offer for the acceptance of the Lodge a D. of C. collar and jewel. The presentation was made by W. Bro.

Sergt.-Major Williams, G.L. representative in Trentham Camp, who most ably voiced the appreciation of the

soldier brethren for the many kindnesses received from Lodge Waiwhetu. W. Bro. Leighton expressed the

appreciation of the Lodge for the kindly spirit that had dictated the presentation.

THE balance-sheet of Victory Chapter was submitted and approved at the installation meeting, and showed a

substantial credit of over £30, after having provided for certain new regalia. The general position is very

cheerful, and marvellous progress has recently been made. Bros. H. P. Stephenson, T. Houlker, and A. E.

Davies (Victory), W. C. Hyde (Moutoa), and G. Stratford (Manawatu Kil.) were successfully balloted for,

bringing the total companionship up to 56. Reference was made at the convocation to the fraternal spirit

shown by Waterloo Chapter towards Victory in loaning certain portions of its regalia for the installation. The

Chapter might have been awkwardly placed but for this, and its expression of appreciation was consequently

very warm towards Waterloo. Next year Victory will have its full "kit." Thanks were also extended to M.E.

Comps. Porritt.and Williams for again sojourning to Nelson and rendering much service. The companions

have a warm spot for these distinguished visitors.

THE last meeting of Scinde Lodge, No. 5, was graced by the presence of R.W. Bro. Peterkin, Dep.G.M., who

came all the way from Wellington to keep a promise he made eighteen months ago, and present to Scinde

Lodge a handsomely framed enlarged photo of himself in full regalia as Dep.G.M. W. Bro. Bishop, W.M., in

a few well-chosen words, thanked R.W. Bro. Peterkin for his thoughtfulness and kind action in making such

a presentation, which would be preserved with the "Historic Hat" amongst the treasures of the Lodge. He

also eulogised the work that our R.W. brother had put in for the Craft in general.

W. BRO. E. W. RUDMAN, D. of C., of Victory Lodge, has received notice to transfer to Wellington head

office. The brethren received the information with extreme regret. He is a very popular brother, and has

taken a prominent part in the Lodge, both ceremonial and social. As a reciter he is par excellence. W. Bro.

Rudman only in October was installed as 3rd Prin. of Victory Chapter, which unfortunately he is not able to

see through.

FROM a Masonic viewpoint we deeply regret to learn that W. Bro. F. J. Hunn, P.G.D. of C., has left

Masterton for the purpose of taking up his residence in Australia. Whether as a Freemason, a citizen, or a

social entertainer for patriotic purposes, he has always been a real live man and white all through. We

cordially wish him every prosperity and happiness.

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SOUTHLAND NOTES.

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The regular meeting of St. John's Lodge on 20th October will doubtless be remembered by members and

visitors as one of the finest and most pleasant in their experience. Representatives were present from all

Lodges in the district (except the two Lake Lodges). The Third Degree was worked. In the refectory W. Bro.

F. Butterfield fairly captivated and charmed his large audience with his lecture "Robert Burns," which was

interspersed with songs and recitations from the poet's works by capable brethren. Enthusiasts voted the

lecture a masterpiece. At its close W. Bro. F. Butterfield was heartily congratulated on his carefully prepared

and admirably delivered effort.

* * * *

The double event at Otautau on 25th October attracted a large attendance. In fact, the arrival of so many

motor cars and other vehicles in the township gave rise to much speculation on the part of the inquisitive and

uninformed. The installation of officers of Wallace Chapter commenced at 5 p.m. The Installing Principals

were M.E. Comp. W. Smith, P.G.Z., and V.E. Comps. C. J. Ronaldson and F. A. Steens. The new Principals

are E. Comps. A. A. Stewart (Z), G. H. Stevens (H.), and Geo. Kelly (J.). After the ceremony the visitors

were entertained at dinner by Wallace Chapter. At 7.30 brethren assembled for the installation of officers of

Wallace Lodge. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. Hoyles, Prov.G.M. Bro. J. T. Booker is the new

Master. Both ceremonies passed off very successfully, and the Otautauites spared no effort, and succeeded to

perfection in making the occasion thoroughly enjoyable for their visiting brethren.

* * * *

The speech of the Prov.G.M. at the Otautau function was the gem of the meeting. It was practical and

instructive throughout, admirably delivered, and on lines likely to broaden and elevate a brother's conception

of Freemasonry.

* * * *

Taringatura Lodge installation took place on 15th November. When it is pointed out that the units of this

Lodge are widely scattered, and a thirty-mile journey not considered a great distance, an attendance of well

over a third of the members on the roll may be deemed creditable. The Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Hoyles,

performed the ceremony. Bro. Herbert Beer was installed Master. On behalf of the Lodge, R.W. Bro. Wm.

Smith presented W. Bro. Walker, I.P.M., with a handsome P.M.'s jewel, suitably inscribed. A banquet in

every sense of the term followed the meeting.

* * * *

Patriotism and fidelity are distinguishing characteristics of Taringatura Lodge. The brother who was elected

to the office of J.W. had in the interval enlisted, been accepted, and gone to camp. The office is to be filled

by P.Ms. in turn pending the return of the absent one. Every good wish goes with their soldier brother

(Andrew Seator), and sincere hopes that he may come back safe and sound from serving his King and

Country and resume his place—an honourable one—in Taringatura Lodge.

* * * *

W. Bro. G. H. Stevens, Wallace Lodge, has been presented with a P.M.'s jewel.

* * * *

On the announcement being made that W. Bro. Wm. Robison, W.M. St. John's Lodge, had found his "better

half," and that the union was to be consummated at an early date, his brethren could not allow the occasion to

pass without expressing in a tangible way their good wishes for the future happiness of Bro. and Mrs.

Robison. If Bro. Robison has assimilated and acts upon all the advice so freely offered when being made the

recipient of two useful cases of cutlery at the last meeting of his Lodge, he must possess a marvellous

memory.

* * * *

At a meeting of representatives of all Lodges in the district, preliminary arrangements were made for the

reception of G.L, in May next. R.W. Bro. A. le H. Hoyles, Prov.G.M., is chairman, and R.W. Bro. Wm.

Smith, P.D.G.M., secretary of the general committee. Subordinate committees were also set up. Indications

point to a successful meeting socially.

* * * *

When it became known that Bro. Newton Hanan, Lodge St. John, had been dangerously wounded in France,

and was lying helpless in hospital in Birmingham, a private cable was sent to M.W. Bro. Lord Plunket

requesting Masonic visits to him, Bro. Hanan having no relations m England. Lord Plunket is chairman of

the New Zealand War Contingent Association in London, and it is well known in New Zealand that His

Lordship has practically given his whole time to looking after our men at Home in many different ways.

Lord Plunket was kind enough to reply : " War Contingent Association regularly visiting all wounded New

Zealanders, including Hanan. Have also arranged Masonic visits. To-day's report, chance of improvement,

cheery.— Plunket." Our brethren who have friends at Home wounded can rest assured that everything is

being done to assist and cheer them up.

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CANTERBURY CHIPS.

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The special Masonic effort which is being made in Canterbury for the Red Cross Funds has already a sum of

between £600 and £700 in sight, and further progress towards the £1000 mark should be made before the

fund closes on 30th November. The money is to be forwarded direct to London.

* * * *

That the Freemasons of Britain in their turn are contributing handsomely to the need arising from the war is

shown by the following paragraph, taken from the London "Truth," 13th September :—"The Freemasons'

War Hospital, Fulham Road, is now completed, and will be occupied almost immediately. It contains sixty

beds, and has an up-to-date equipment, including operating theatre, X-ray department, and apparatus for

radiant-heat treatment. The hospital will be under the control of the War Office and the British Red Cross

Society. Sir Horace Marshall is the hon. treasurer, and further financial help is needed."

* * * *

With the enlistment of Bro. R. A. Colville, the number of Avon members who are doing, or have done, their

part in the war, reaches eleven, or about ten per cent. of the membership.

* * * *

Sergt.-Major P. E. Billson, who was in Christchurch on his final leave at the last meeting of Lodge Avon,

was presented with a waistcoat and money belt as a token of esteeem. Bro. Billson is Senior Steward this

year, and W. Bro. L. B. Hart, in making the presentation, congratulated Bro. Billson upon his investiture in

that position, and trusted that he would be spared to return and fill it ere the year's office terminated. During

his connection with the Lodge, Sergt.-Major Billson had won a place for himself in the hearts of members,

and their very best wishes went with him to the great adventure. The Sergt.-Major suitably responded, and

was heartily cheered on conclusion. Several expressions of regard from citizens and swimmers—Bro. Billson

having been in charge of the Municipal Swimming Baths before enlistment—were received by Bro. Billson

while in Christchurch.

* * * *

An interesting feature of the speeches accompanying the presentation was the presence of W. Bro. Hobbs, of

Lodge Waiwhetu, near Trentham. Sergt.-Major Billson referred to the efforts made by the Masonic brethren

in Trentham to keep in touch, and the value of the services rendered by Staff Sergt.-Major Williams, P.M., in

this respect, When brethren were able to make an outside visit they were delighted to visit Waiwhetu Lodge,

where they were always sure of a hearty welcome. For that welcome and hospitality enjoyed in the past he

would thank W. Bro. Hobbs, the W.M., who was then present. In speaking later, W. Bro. Hobbs expressed

the pleasure he and his Lodge felt in welcoming brethren from Trentham at any time.

* * * *

In the account of the presentation made by Lodge Lincoln to W. Bro. J. Graham last month, it should have

been stated that this was on the occasion of his enlistment, and not because of a transfer.

* * * *

A full official visit was paid by Lodge Avon to Civic Lodge on 7th November, and careful arrangements had

been made for an attendance of over forty brethren, but certain circumstances, not, perhaps, disassociated

with the disastrous fire at the Addington Trotting Grounds, clipped the prospective record and reduced the

number to twenty-four. The visit was in every way enjoyable, the address by Surgeon-Captain W. H.

Simpson in the "Fourth" especially commanding attention.

Much sympathy was felt throughout Avon Lodge for Bro. H. J. Barron in the loss of his eight-year-old

daughter, Jean, from diphtheria. The funeral took place on Thursday, 17th November, and some fifteen or

sixteen brethren attended as a mark of respect to Bro. Barron, who has of late suffered much domestic

trouble, to the regret of members. A handsome wreath was sent from the Lodge.

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NELSON NOTES.

——<>——

Victory Lodge hardly needed inducements to bring their members to instruction classes, which are regularly

attended by twenty and over, but a short social function is held after each rehearsal and the attendants say

"it's good !" It seems to be bringing quite a lot of new talent out.

* * * *

At the Lodge installation at Wakefield on the 15th, the newly installed W.M. ventured to say he had the best

set of officers the Lodge had ever had. A tribute was then given to W. Bro. Franklyn, the retiring Master,

who apparently was responsible for the increased efficiency of the officers. In replying to his toast, the

I.P.M. stated that during the year he had held forty Lodge meetings of various kinds, a remark that brought

forth a little Masonic fire. For a country Lodge so many meetings seemed somewhat remarkable. In the work

of the Lodge, the energetic efforts of W. Bro. H. C. Fitzsimmons, the keen Lodge Secretary, must not be

overlooked. Matters are Masonically bright in Forest.

* * * *

The Motueka Lodge brethren are becoming most interesting in Capitular Freemasonry. Four P.Ms. are now

going through the Degrees, and will be exalted on the 23rd. It is on the cards that Motueka in due course may

apply for dispensation to open a new Chapter. St. Cuthbert's (Collingwood) are throwing out "feelers" for the

advancement of Masonic knowledge, and the same remark applies to Forest, Wakefield, where already there

are several companions. Things were never brighter in the Masonic world in Nelson.

* * * *

We are rather inclined to the opinion that on the last visit of the G. Supt. (M.E. Comp. Porritt) and G.S.E.

(M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams), a good impression was made upon these distinguished companions by the

progress of Victory Chapter and the introduction of music into the ceremonies. All the Degrees are musically

conducted, and even some larger Chapters might take a leaf out of Victory's book.

* * * *

M.E. Comps. Porritt and Williams had a real strenuous time on the occasion of the installation of Victory

Chapter. Business commenced early in the afternoon with the conferring of Ark Mariners', Red Cross, and

Installed Mark Masters' Degrees. There were eight candidates for the two former Degrees. What with the

early preparation of the Lodgeroom for the work, the installation of Principals, and the banquet following,

these two hard-worked companions must have been on duty quite twelve hours on end.

* * * *

A special feature, favourably commented on by all, was the exceedingly prompt manner in which the G.S.E.

(M.E. Comp. Williams) got the certificates through, all being presented at the meeting. All told, there was a

record of 34 certificates presented, a very formidable list!

* * * *

W. Bro. and V.E. Comp. Harton, of Waterloo, Wellington, has come to Nelson to stay, and has linked up

with Victory, an appropriate continuation of names. It has been proved beyond doubt that he is musically

disposed, and may be induced to take a leading part in the "Fourth" at no distant date. Judging by the way he

"drives" on the bowling green, and sings in the choruses, and takes part in other things elevating to the mind,

as well as to the body, he is sure to "make good." At all events, his many Wellington friends may rest assured

he is not neglected.

* * * *

W. Bro. J. A. Wallace, of Motueka Lodge, has been elected Mayor of Motueka. The residents have made no

mistake in their choice, as Bro. Wallace is very thorough in his undertakings.

* * * *

There was a whisper at the Victory Chapter-Installation that M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams was to relinquish the

office of G.S.E. On this side we have nothing but praise for this distinguished and well-versed companion.

We pay a tribute to him for his untiring efforts and his promptness on all occasions. We believe he is still fit

for much work, and we hope he may be induced to remain in an office which few in the Dominion can fill

with equal satisfaction.

* * * *

Victory Lodge has created a new office, that of Lodge Lecturer. W. Bro. A. W. Oxley has been invested into

this office, and it is likely to be most capably filled. Bro. Oxley is a real Masonic student.

* * * *

The funeral of the late Bro. and Comp. George Paton, of Kawatiri-Westport Lodge and Chapter, took place

Saturday, 18th November, at Brightwater, Nelson, where the brother passed away. By request, a Masonic

service was held. The ceremony was conducted by W. Bros. A. D. Syder, W.M., H. Franklyn, I.P.M., and H.

C. Fitzsimmons' Sec. The pallbearers were W. Bros. Syder and Franklyn, Bros. E. Skilton (Lodge Kawatiri-

Westport) and L. H. Baigent (Forest Lodge). The deceased brother was buried in St. Paul's Church cemetery,

Brightwater.

* * * *

Bro. A. Sievwright, of Victory Lodge, met with a nasty accident on Monday, the 13th, by colliding with a

motor car. He had only taken his Third the previous Thursday, but, having had his collarbone broken, besides

receiving a general shaking, he considers the second "knock-out" was much more impressive than the first.

He is progressing well.

————————

TARANAKI TRIFLES.

——<>——

The event of the month Masonically in this district was the Ikaroa installation at Opunake.

* * * *

Visitors were there in force, Hawera and Eltham being particularly well represented.

* * * *

R.W. Bro. Sargent; Prov.G.M., took charge of the installation ceremony, and he was ably assisted by R.W.

Bro. Corkill, P.P.G.M., and others.

* * * *

A feature of the meeting was the muster of P.Ms. of Ikaroa. Opened in 1898, with R.W. Bro. Corkill as

W.M., the P.Ms. were almost all present at this year's function.

* * * *

In W. Bro. G. W. Rogers, Ikaroa have a secretary who is the king pin of the Lodge, a clever organiser and an

indefatigable worker.

* * * *

Lodge Moa had a "gala " night on the 10th, when W. Bro. Olsen and Bro. Hogg were present on final leave

from Trentham.

* * * *

The mention of a night out reminds one that it is hardly safe to ask the W.M. of St. John's, No. 95, or those

who accompanied him to Opunake if it is comfortable sleeping in a motor garage.

* * * *

The usual monthly meeting of Egmont R.A. Chapter was held on the 13th. An emergency meeting to work a

Mark Degree will be held at Inglewood on the 20th.

* * * * *

Takahoe R.A. Chapter had arranged a meeting at Eltham for the 16th to work an Excellent and R.A. Degree,

but owing to an unfortunate combination of circumstances the gathering did not eventuate.

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

MASONIC CHURCH SERVICE.

——<>——

In accordance with the wish expressed by the M.W.G.M. at the last annual communication of G.L., the W.M.

(Bro. A. McKenzie), the officers and members of Lodge Oceanic officially attended divine service at Holy

Cross Chapel of Ease, St. Kilda, on Sunday, 15th October. The date was considered suitable as it was the last

Sunday in the present W.M.'s year of office. The R.W.Prov.G.M. (Bro. A. Flett) and G.L. officers were also

present, and there was a numerous attendance of both members of the Lodge and visitors. Hymns and lessons

suitable to the occasion were used, and an eloquent and appropriate sermon was preached by Bro. Rev. A. L.

Canter, Chaplain-elect of the Lodge.

————————

VISIT OF THE M.W. GRAND MASTER TO LODGES IN THE GOLDFIELDS AND THAMES

VALLEY DISTRICT.

——<>——

As it is impossible for the G.M. to visit every individual Lodge in the jurisdiction, he does the next best

thing, by visiting districts and the groups of Lodges within them. Thus on the 8th November M.W. Bro.

Nicholson attended the annual meeting of Lodge Ohinemuri, Paeroa, and the following Lodges were

included in the official gathering: — Sir Walter Scott No. 15, Thames, Coromandel No. 17, Te Aroha No.

52, Waihi 112; and Piako No. 160. The M.W.G.M. was accompanied by M.W. Bro. M. Niccol, G.Sec., R.W.

Bro. F. Kearsley, P.D.G.M., R.W. Bros. J. Catchpole and M. J. Harris, P.G.Ws., and other G. officers. There

were some 160 brethren present, the Lodge being opened at 7 p.m. by W. Bro. C. B. Gentil, W.M. On

entering, the G.M. assumed the chair, and with his officers conducted the ceremony of installation. R.W.

Bro. J. Catchpole acted as S.G.W., R.W. Bro. M. J. Harris as J.G.W., W. Bra. W. R. T. Leighton as G.D. of

C., and W. Bro. Burns as G.Purs. The Master-elect (Bro. F. A. B. Cameron) was presented by W. Bro. F. L.

Cunnold, W.M. Lodge Corinthian, 1655, E.C., and W. Bro. R. Darrow, W.M. Lodge of Light, 454, I.C. The

Master-elect was addressed by the G.M., and after subscribing to the ancient charges was obligated, and

M.Ms. retired. A Board of I.Ms. having been formed, Bro. Cameron was installed as W.M. On the re-

admission of the brethren, proclamations were made in the E., W., and S., and W.Ts. were presented by W.

Bros. A. I. Clarke (Lodge Te Aroha), R. Hay (Lodge Waihi), A. L. Read (Lodge Sir Walter Scott). The

address to the W.M. was given by M.W. Bro. M. Niccol, G.Sec. The W.M. then invested the following

officers :—D.M.. R.W. Bro. C. Rhodes, P.J.G.W.; S.W.. Bro. L. F. Ott; J.W., Bro. G. E. Allen; Chaplain, W.

Bro. F. A. Balcke ; Tress., W. Bro. W. J. Towers ; Sec., W. Bro. C. B. Gentil; D. of C., Bro. J. A. Reid; S.D.,

Bro. G. A. Chappell ; J.D., Bro. B. Gwilliam; I.G., Bro. E. Chester ; Tyler, Bro. W. Campbell ; S.S., Bro. A.

Stewart; J.S., Bro. R. W. Medhurst ; Auditors, W. Bro. R. M. Aitken and Bro. J. Cochrane ; Preceptor Lodge

of Instruction, R.W. Bro. M. J. Harris, P.J.G.W.. The address to the Wardens was in the hands of R.W. Bro.

F. Kearsley, and the M.W.G.M. delivered the Final Charge to the brethren. A solo, "Crossing the Bar," was

rendered by Bro. Jessop. After the ceremony the brethren adjourned to the theatre, where refreshments were

served, and an excellent musical programme was enjoyed. The toast of the M.W.G.M. was most

enthusiastically received, and was supported by each of the Masters of the group Lodges. M.W. Bro.

Nicholson, in response. delivered an excellent address, for which he was most vociferously applauded.

During the proceedings the. G.M. presented W. Bro. Aitken, W.M. of Lodge Piako, and W. Bro. J. C. Watts,

of the same Lodge, with a case of pipes each, as both brothers are about to leave for the Trentham training

camp. The proceedings of the evening were most enjoyable, and the M.W.G.M. was very gratified at the

warmth of his reception.

————————

VALEDICTORY TO W. BRO. F. J. HUNN, P.M. OF MASTERTON LODGE, No. 19.

——<>——

At the meeting of Masterton Masonic Lodge, No. 19, held on Wednesday, the 8th inst., there was a very

large attendance of brethren. P.P.G.M. Bro. J. Moncrieff, the W.M. and officers from Lodges St. Marks,

Carterton, and Waihenga, Martinborough, were also in attendance. As this was the last opportunity the

Lodge had of in some way recognising the long and faithful services rendered to No. 19 by W. Bro. F. J.

Hunn, who leaves for Australia very soon, the interest in the gathering was very keen. An apology was

received from the R.W. Prov, G.M., Bro. Ellison, who was unable owing to another engagement to be

present. After the work for the evening had been completed, which was to raise Bros. Wagg and Kelly to the

high and sublime degree of M.Ms., the W.M., W. Bro. J. L. Hughes, asked W. Bro. Hunn to be placed on the

dais. W. Bro. G. Hyde, the oldest P.M. in active association with No. 19, then in a capital address expressed

the deep regret felt by every brother in the Lodge, and, indeed, throughout the Valley Lodges, too, at the

departure of our W. brother. On behalf of the Lodge he presented W. Bro. Hunn with a very handsome

secretarial jewel, and wished him health and prosperity in his new sphere of labour. W. Bro. Hunn thanked

his brethren. for their good wishes and handsome gift, at the same time assuring them that he much regretted

leaving them, but he would never forget his association with No. 19., After the Lodge was closed a pleasant

time was spent in the refectory, when our departing brother's health was heartily toasted, W. Bro. J. B. Henry

being entrusted with the toast, which was spoken to by the visiting brethren.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

MEETINGS IN FRANCE.

——<>——

A member of the Craft, writing from France, makes mention of the gatherings of members of the Masonic

Order which were held in connection with the New Zealand Division. He says that three meetings took place,

particulars of the first of which have already appeared in this paper. At the second meeting a most interesting

address was delivered by R.W. Bro. Major G. Barclay, while at the third meeting a quantity of routine

business was transacted, and a resolution of congratulation to the new G.M. of New Zealand (M.W. Bro.

Oliver Nicholson) was unanimously passed. A discussion also took place with respect to the best means of

perpetuating after the war the union of military Masons which had been inaugurated under such unusual

circumstances in France. Various suggestions were brought forward, and the matter was ultimately adjourned

for future consideration.

————————

THE ST. KILDA MASONIC HALL COMPANY.

——<>——

The annual meeting of the shareholders of the above company was held on the 3rd ult., when there was a

moderate attendance of shareholders. Mr. D. Harris Hastings presided.

Upon the motion of the chairman, seconded by Mr. A. Stoneham, the following report was adopted:—

Your directors regret very much having to record the decease of Mr. D. A. Jolly, who was the first and only

chairman during the existence of the company. When the St. Kilda Masonic Hall Company was first formed,

Mr. Jolly took a more than keen interest in the proposition. He was the largest shareholder in the company,

and spared neither time nor expense to further its interests. His death has been an individual loss to each of

his fellow directors, and we feel sure that the shareholders fully appreciate the good work he did for the

company.

It will be seen from the balance-sheet that, owing to loss of tenants and a general diminution of revenue, it

will be impossible to declare a dividend this year. Whilst regretting this fact, the directors feel that the time

has arrived when some permanent arrangement should be made whereby the company can be absorbed in

Lodge Oceanic. From a business point of view the company should go into liquidation, but the directors feel

that they have a moral obligation to certain of the large shareholders, and until their claims can be equitably

satisfied they are not prepared to recommend the shareholders to adopt the extreme course. They would,

however, suggest that during the forthcoming year an effort should be made by the Lodge to acquire the

interest held by the shareholders referred to, and if this was done no difficulties would arise in the liquidation

of the company.

Two new directors will be required, the one to fill the vacancy caused by the death of the late Mr. Jolly ; Mr.

A. Stoneham retires by rotation, and is eligible for re-election.

It will be necessary to appoint an auditor in the place of Mr. J. A. Cardno, who has left the district, and the

thanks of the directors are due to Mr. Cardno for his voluntary services for the last five years.

The directors have much pleasure in announcing that Mr. E K. Broad has seen his way to continue as

honorary secretary in the meantime. Too much thanks cannot be given to Mr. Broad for the voluntary work

he has done for this company.

[Messrs. A. Stoneham and A. Sinclair were elected directors, and Mr. W. L. Lee auditor.

————————

THE MILITARY CROSS.

——<>——

LIEUTENANT KIBBLEWHITE'S DISTINCTION,

———

AN AWARD OF HIGH MERIT.

———

On the 19th October, at the luncheon tendered to the local men for the Twenty-second Reinforcements, the

Ven. Archdeacon Russell, in referring to the gallantry of the New Zealanders at the front, specially

mentioned the distinction that had been awarded the late Lieutenant E. H. T. Kibblewhite. For a very gallant

act performed on the night 8th-9th of July, 1916, Lieutenant Kibblewhite had been recommended for the

Military Cross, and a copy of the original memorandum of recommendation had been forwarded to the

relatives of the late lieutenant, and by the courtesy of Sergeant-Major Kibblewhite Archdeacon Russell was

able to read from the treasured document the official statement of the recommendation for the honour.

The recommendation was dated 13th August, 1916, and emanated from the officers of the First Brigade,

New Zealand Division, 2nd Anzac Corps.

The memorandum gives the full name and rank—Lieutenant Edward Henry Turner Kibblewhite—and the

unit to which he belonged—let Machine Gun Company, New Zealand Machine Gun Corps.

In the column headed "Action for which commended" there is inscribed a description of the act of gallantry

in the following terms :—"On the night of 8-9th July, 1916, the enemy raided the mushroom, near the village

of Chapelle de Armentieres. The officers of the First Canterbury Infantry Battalion were both killed.

Lieutenant Kibblewhite took charge, and when the enemy had gained access to the mushroom he rallied the

men (who had retired) and gallantly led them back. His prompt action drove the Germans out, and prevented

them from entering the trenches." Numbers of the maps of reference are also quoted, evidently for the

purpose of locating the exact position of the "mushroom."

The recommendation is signed by Major J. M. Rose, commanding the 1st Machine Gun Company, and

Brigadier-General F. S. Johnston, and the honour or reward recommended is the Military Cross.

At the foot of the memorandum is the endorsement of the recommendation, which reads as follows :—

"Military Cross awarded to Lieutenant P. H. T. Kibblewhite, Wellington Regiment and New Zealand

Machine Gun Corps, A.A.A. Please convey Army and Corps Commanders' congratulations. Please also

convey the congratulations of the General Officer Commanding to Lieutenant Kibblewhite.—(Signed) H. G.

Reid, Lt.-Col., A.A., and Q.M.G. New Zealand Division."

The Military Cross is a distinction of high merit. In order of precedence it is second only to the -Victoria

Cross, and the holder of the decoration is entitled to write the letters "M.C." after his name.

—"North Otago Times," Oamaru, 20th October, 1916.

————————

BEARDING THE LION IN HIS DEN.

——<>——

AN INTERVIEW.

———

While pursuing the even tenor of our editorial way on a certain memorable day last month, an alarm was

heard at our sanctum door, and on opening to ascertain the cause we found three brethren, who craved

permission to enter, which being accorded, they stated that having met together in the Capital City to wish

their sons bon voyage, and the war as a topic of conversation having become exhausted, they agreed to beard

the editorial lion of the CRAFTSMAN in his den to have a heart-to-heart talk with him. As each hailed from .a

different part of the Dominion, we will designate them "Auckland," "Marlborough," and "Dunedin"

respectively, or A., M., and D.

A.—Bro. Editor, we apologise for our intrusion, but must plead our high appreciation of your opinions on

matters generally, especially those Masonic, even though we may not always quite agree with some of them.

ED.—As there is no intrusion, no apology is needed; and, may I say, when all my views find universal

acceptance, it will be time to get another editor for the CRAFTSMAN. Now, brethren, what is the special

subject of your trouble to-day?

D.—Well, Bro. Editor, as you have better opportunities of knowing the position than we have, with only

local knowledge, can you tell us how the war has affected Freemasonry in New Zealand generally?

M.—Before you reply, I would like to observe that at the commencement of the war there were some

extraordinary ideas prevailing, and the one that seemed to gain most support was that the "Fourth" should

cease " during the war."

ED.—In one district the suggestion was also made that Lodge meetings should cease during this period. For

some reason a gloomy view was fostered, and the progress of a few Lodges was arrested, and I believe they

have not quite recovered yet. Of course, one can readily understand that such an extraordinary crisis would

naturally be productive of extraordinary ideas, and in August, 1914, the feeling was very prevalent that no

war of such magnitude could possibly last more than three months, or the nations engaged would become

bankrupt.

D.—Outside this district what has been the effect?

ED.—Lodges and members wisely agreed that no good purpose could be served by setting up unusual

conditions, and they simply pursued the even tenor of their several ways, and generally the position soon

became normal.

A.—At the commencement of the war there was a sprinkling of members in many Lodges of German

nationality, was there not? Can you tell us if any direct action has been taken to exclude any Germans from

attending their Lodges?

ED.—I am not aware of any action in New Zealand, but, of course, you know that very drastic action was

taken in England.

M.—May I ask if you would approve or support any such action in the CRAFTSMAN?

ED.—No. These brethren have rights as members which can be alienated on cause being shown. But they

cannot be judged as guilty of any charge until they have been tried.

M.—You have suggested, I believe, that G.L. should be prepared to provide for after-war conditions. Do you

propose that they should apply to existing alien members?

ED.—No ; they can be dealt with under our present laws, if the necessity arises.

D.—Is it correct that there is a sort of Masonic boom in the training camps?

ED.—I would not say that, but there did appear to be a somewhat abnormal desire for soldiers to become

Freemasons a few months back. But this has been checked through the influence of the G.L. representative at

Trentham, who is exercising a powerful influence for good, not only in this but in many other ways. There

can be no doubt that where so many men are assembled together, very great care in selection is necessary as

regards applicants for Freemasonry.

A.—With regard to the G.L. War Fund, is it increasing at a satisfactory rate, or up to the expectations of last

G.L. meeting?

ED.—I do not think so. The addition has been £1,000 in seven months. In many towns a patriotic fund is

increased by five or six times that amount in one day, and these funds, if not becoming legion, are very

numerous.

D.—Yes, but the number of subscribers is greater than the members under G.L.

ED.—I do not think the number of subscribers in any city would number more than 15,000 in one day. In any

case, I had anticipated that the G.L. Fund would have reached the £15,000 limit by this time.

M.—Are your feelings as to the necessity of holding the next G.L. meeting changed since last May?

ED.—I prefer not to discuss that now that G.L. has given its decision.

D.—Will there be much business at the next meeting of G.L.?

ED.—I have no idea, but I do not know of any new policy measures, nor do I think it desirable that any

should be submitted, unless in connection with the war.

M.—You do not think that Masonry has suffered any diminution in New Zealand on account of the war?

ED.—Speaking more particularly for the North Island, the reverse is the case. As an example, I have a Lodge

circular before me for the November meeting, containing eight second notices of candidature, two first

notices, and four initiations. On the West Coast the loss of so many young men is being severely felt, and

industries are suffering, especially mining. This is bound to reflect upon all social institutions.

A.—We thank you very heartily for your kind talk, and hope we have not wasted too much of your time, but

the information we have acquired will be useful when we return home.

ED.—I am most pleased to meet you, brethren. No time is wasted discussing Freemasonry. Good-bye !

Kindly give my greetings to the brethren in your respective districts.

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

————————

THE FREEMASON'S CREED.

——<>——

The following declaration of Masonic belief was presented , by Bro. Sidney Galbraith, a member of the

Thirty-second s Degree, at a meeting held recently at Johnson City, Tennessee, U.S.A. :—

1. The Mason believes in God, and in the Supreme Ruler are securely founded faiths and hopes. In the
God of our rite are united all the perfected virtues of humanity and presided over by a supreme intelligence

and perfect wisdom. His justice and mercy are in equilibrium and absolute harmony. We adore, revere, and

love Him because He is worthy of adoration, reverence and love, and our highest privilege is to honour Him

by practising the virtues.

2. The Mason believes that his soul is immortal, and that, escaping from its material dwelling, it shall, in
perfect freedom, and with unending opportunities, continue throughout eternity the worthy tasks commenced

in life, and begin others not revealed in earth's visions. We believe the immortal soul begins its life at our

birth, and that we must do nothing to degrade it, to dwarf its growth, or weakens its hopes and aspirations

while its habitation is human.

3. The Mason believes in religion—in the positive religion that finds its highest expression in doing good,
not merely because it is a duty, but because it gives joy ; a religion that ' not only accepts right, but wars

against wrong ; a religion that acknowledges the Fatherhood of God in the practice of human brotherhood.

4. The Mason believes in human friendships, and his brother is his second self, whose welfare he guards
as he protects and guards his own. Through misfortune no estrangement comes, and adversity only

strengthens the bonds of affection. The memory of his friend is sacred, and he guards its honour as jealously

as he protects the good name of the living.

5. The Mason strives earnestly toward the mastery of his passions, but has forgiveness and charity for the
error of others. He dare not indulge in any excesses that would degrade his body, weaken his intellect, or

deform his soul. He lends a helping hand to a weaker brother, and points him to firmer foundations.

6. The Mason hears much, speaks little, and acts well. For a good deed his memory reaches through
eternity, for a wrong or weakness forgetfulness comes with the sunset. The good name of a brother is sacred,

and within his own bosom are enfortressed the human frailties of the weak. For evil good is rendered, and

strength and superiority are captive to a neighbour's needs.

7. The Mason is a workman. He avoids idleness. He would become a master of industry and production.
The world—material, intellectual, social, spiritual—is the forge where Nature is shaped, the factory where

minds are fashioned, the fields where the relationships of men are nurtured, the studio where souls are

polished, and in them all the Mason labours seeking the perfect man.

8. The Mason believes in purity of life; he protects virtue and guards the home. To the sacredness of
fatherhood and motherhood his truest allegiance is given, and the cry of the orphan and widow to him makes

the deepest appeal. To him the home, with all its joys or its griefs, its richness or its needs, its fullness or its

emptiness, is ever present with supreme claims.

9. The Mason is a champion of freedom—freedom in the national life, guaranteed by justice; freedom in
work, guarded by the good angels of temperance; freedom in thought and speech, under the banners of

prudence; freedom in conscience, with fortitude to meet the judgment of eternity.

10. The Mason believes in the absolute supremacy of the moral forces, and that from their arbitration there
can be no appeal. He believes that the three greatest of all the moral forces in the universe are Faith, which is

the only true Wisdom, and which is the very foundation of all government; Hope, which is strength, and

which insures against failure in all the worthy ambitions of life; and Charity, which is beauty, and which

alone makes possible the animated united effort of men in building with their fellow-men the temples of a

more perfect life.

————————

THE PAST.

——<>——

A GIFT OF WAR.

————

[By MRS. HUGH ADAMS, in Pearson's Magazine.' ']

————

His Lordship had gone to the Front.

Her Ladyship had also gone to the Front. Needless to add, they had not gone together. They never went

anywhere together.

For a year or more they had lived their lives ostentatiously apart. Their quarrels and differences were so

numerous and so modern, that all the world knew of them, and they had long since ceased to be a nine days'

wonder.

Fortunately, or unfortunately, both were so well off and so well dowered with residences in various parts of

the country, that it was no difficult matter for each to spend a strenuous pleasure-loving existence, never

meeting the other save for an occasional encounter in Bond Street or at the Ritz, where they dined or lunched

at different tables, surrounded by their own particular circle of friends, thereby causing no little amusement

to onlookers, who easily recognised them from their photographs, lavishly enlarged and reproduced in the

Society papers.

"One might imagine she bad sprung from the stage instead, of belonging to a good family, so great is her

passion for the limelight," said a sister-in-law who had been the cause of half of their original quarrels.

If this was true of her, it was equally true of him.

The one thing that neither of them apparently could do was to live a quiet, uneventful existence. Their love

of sensationalism was what had originally attracted them to one another.

"There is never any knowing what they will do next from fighting to flying," was a witticism that became

common property concerning them.

Needless to say, the outbreak of war made picturesque appeal to both of them.

His regiment was one of the first to go out. She was not long in making her plans for departure. A nursing

certificate all too easily obtained, a baud of doctors and nurses as proficient as money could secure, an

equipment as perfect as possible, and a pressure of influence such as only a really pretty woman can

command and know how to use—and the thing was accomplished.

Almost before anyone had waked up to the difficulties that later on hedged such a proceeding round, she was

installed in a large private chateau in France, working her hospital with that warm enthusiasm that she threw

into each new venture.

There had been the usual sensational send-off, the ubiquitous smiling fancy-dress photographs, for the

illustrated papers, in which she posed as the central figure, the same gushing paragraphs concocted by

enthusiastic journalists—all of which had come to be regarded as characteristic preliminaries of everything

she undertook.

Once in France, however, everything was changed. For the first time in her life she found herself up against

something very different to the frivolous existence that hitherto had spelt excitement for her. At first it

astonished and annoyed her to find that she was not the person of greatest importance in her own immediate

circle.

Very soon she found her level. It wasn't anything like as exalted as she had hitherto imagined it to be.

In face of real pain and suffering the ornamental nursing certificate had gone by the board. It had required no

one to point out how inadequate it was amid the nightmare tragedies of pain and suffering that surrounded

her, providing excitement enough to last a lifetime, excitement that was curiously sobering in its effect. A

few days' experience of the pitiful sufferings of the first mangled specimens of humanity who came to be

tended taught her that nothing save the most expert nursing could avail them anything.

She was content, more than content, to wait and serve and do the odd, uninteresting tasks that called for no

special knowledge and no training, but which nevertheless had their use.

If she could not relieve their pain, at least she could relieve the anxiety of those who waited so anxiously at

home.

In addition to her many duties she spent hours writing letters for the patients, letters full of direct human

sympathy and real living interest for those who received them.

It was a curious experience, and taught her more of life's realities than all her sensational experiences. Many

of the replies came direct to her—some deeply bordered in black, tragically sorrowful, others so exultantly

proud—all lifting a hitherto impenetrable veil revealing human interests, such as she had never been

privileged to enter into before.

Reading them, she was conscious of a sense of isolation. Who was there who would really care—as those

writers so intensely cared—if anything should happen to her? Or, for the matter of that, who was there to

take that precious personal interest if anything happened to him, whose welfare should—and would a short

time ago—have meant the world to her?

The problem set her thinking. She wondered had this war, this terrible devastating war, cured his craze for

excitement, as it was fast, curing hers? Was he, too, looking forward to the charms of humdrum common-

place existence?

She heard of him from time to time—but never from him.

Scraps of news from every quarter filtered through to her quiet House of Pain. She gathered that if she had

found him difficult and inconsiderate, others had been able to discover many kindly qualities to place to his

credit.

The men of his company, whom she had nursed, lauded his bravery.

His name had been mentioned in dispatches, and he had been recommended for the D.S.O. From a

correspondent in one of the English- papers she read an account of his exploits, and learnt that out of all his

regiment he and the Colonel alone had escaped injury and death. Almost unconsciously the knowledge

brought a glow of triumph—a sense of pride that through it all his magnificent physique had stood fatigue,

hardships, and exposure better than admittedly strong men.

In the same way news of her filtered through to him.

The sensational photographs made his lips curl with disgust. How dare she make so terrible a thing as war a

medium to satisfy her greed for self-advertisement?

He had experienced the full horror of what war really meant. He had been in the foremost ranks right from

the beginning, had gone through the long retreat, had seen his best friends killed, and whole regiments wiped

out of existence.

Recognising his wife's smiling face—her beauty idealised by the art of the photographer—he felt an

unreasonable anger that she should associate his name with such vain play-acting.

The tragic happenings of the past few months had completely obliterated his original point of view, and he

had no tolerance with anything so childish as her latest pose.

Little by little, however, his attitude towards her changed, as rumours reached him of her devotion and

untiring care.

The same tale was related by all who had visited her hospital. The truth of all she was doing was brought

forcibly home to him when a young lieutenant, who had been wounded and patched up there before going

home, returned to the trenches full of the wonders she was accomplishing.

The description left him wondering—had he ever understood her? Wherein had he failed that for all his

affection he had only seen the weak side of her character, had only known her as a spoilt child, who stormed

with disappointment and discontent when she did not get her own way in everything?

The boy, however, was never weary of singing her praises ; he never lost an opportunity of reverting to his

laudatory chatter.

His Lordship gathered that she was fighting other battles save the petty jealousies of a staff that, meant to be

so heroic, but proved so human. The long strain seemed to threaten a financial crisis-, too. With her usual

enthusiasm, she had drawn recklessly upon her own fortune, had taken no heed of diminishing dividends.

Everything the patients needed she supplied; the latest appliances, the best advice was theirs, if she could

obtain it, all given generously, with no thought of what such lavish open-handedness might lead her to.

"There is a pinch, an undoubted pinch," the boy had said, not without intent, for his Lordship was admittedly

a rich man. "And it is a shame, a crying shame, that all her splendid work should be crippled for want of

funds."

The lieutenant was young and enthusiastic; he possessed nothing except his pay, a fact that imbued him with

expansive and lavish ideas as to how the rich should spend their fortunes.

His Lordship listened in silence, but it gave him infinite satisfaction to write to his bankers authorising them

to let his wife know that an anonymous donation of £500 a month would henceforth be paid to her hospital

fund by a client who wished to express his gratitude for the work she was doing.

The letter came at a moment when for the first time her brave spirit flagged—a day when a combination of

difficulties and disappointments confronted her, seeming to threaten to overwhelm all her efforts. The

encouragement, even more than the actual relief that the money brought, helped to heal her troubled outlook.

Up to the present all that she had done had been taken so much for granted—everything left so completely in

her hands—that her sense of isolation was beginning to grow oppressive and become strangely depressing.

This anonymous expression of appreciation changed the entire outlook. The cloud of anxiety lifted. Her

buoyant optimism reasserted itself. Never had she appeared more attractive, more warmly sympathetic with

the patients and the tired, overworked staff, than when she entered the wards that day.

A load had been lifted off her mind, and the sunshine of her mood infected all with whom she came in

contact.

Yet the work was heavier than usual. An unexpected train-load of wounded had arrived, making urgent claim

upon her hospitality. Every bed was full, emergency ones had been made up everywhere, and the rush of

work was overwhelming.

In no way did she spare herself. Late into the night she sat penning letters for patients, determined at all costs

to dispatch her messages of hope and what little comfort she could impart, her recent, experience having

shown her how inspiriting communications even from an unknown writer could prove.

It was the same feeling that compelled her to sit down and write to the man who was still her husband—the

one sincere letter she had written him during the past three years.

She wondered at the ease with which the words flowed. She had been contemplating the idea for days,

dreading the ordeal, fearful that he might misunderstand her motive. Pride held her back—not of owning

herself in the wrong, but a fear that he might imagine that she wanted help in her enterprise. Now that

restraint had been removed, she penned her message of humility and pride as naturally and as spontaneously

as she had written to him in the days when they were first married.

It was not a long letter ; the gist of it lay in the confession : "You have done without me what I never had the

power to help you do. The experiences of the past few months have shown me my own limitations ; war

accomplishes such wonders —it blots out so much. If only our past could be blotted out, and the chance

given us to begin all over again, I do not think I should make so many mistakes."

Her letter was so much a statement of facts, facts that she felt she had no right to keep to herself, that it was

almost bald in its brevity. It made no proposition as to the future—it required no answer ; still, she felt she

must be honest—she must tell him what he had a right to know, and she hoped the knowledge might comfort

and console him for much that she was conscious she had made him suffer.

Whether he received it or not she was not destined to learn for some time. Posts are erratic on battlefields,

and it was on a battlefield that he was heard of last.

A week after her letter had been dispatched she received an official intimation from the War Office

announcing that his name was amongst those who were missing.

The horror of the situation affected her as nothing else could have done.

Her intimate knowledge of the sufferings endured by the wounded even wider the most advantageous

conditions, made her realise all too vividly what " Missing, probably wounded," meant.

Always she pictured him helpless, neglected, alone—even more tragically alone than she herself was in this

crisis.

The modern method of frankness concerning one's matrimonial differences was curiously comfortless, she

had to own, as she perused her private correspondence, reading too clearly between the lines those haltingly

expressed, restrained congratulations and forced condolences.

With renewed energy she threw herself into her work, trying in every way possible to beguile the suspense of

waiting—waiting indefinitely, wishing always the same wish that she had expressed to him : " If only the

past could be blotted out!"

Friends suggested she should return to England, but she wanted no other environment than that surrounding

her.

It was here, and here only, that the past was blotted out. The poor sick men whose wants she daily ministered

to knew nothing of the history of those sordid bickerings and those selfish quarrels that had wrecked the past

few years.

A whisper went round the wards; her news became common property long before the casualty list publicly

announced the facts, and a wave of sympathy warm and sincere went out to this lonely woman who stood in

such sore need of it. It was the one thing she craved for, the one thing that she had made it impossible for her

friends to offer her.

So the days dragged on—all her influence, all her exertions directed to trying to trace him, but no word or

sign came.

Yet day in, day out, she lived obsessed by the one wish that she was beginning to fear could never be

fulfilled.

But tragically and literally it came to pass.

When even she had almost given up hope, news came that he was in a German hospital, normal as regards

health, but his memory a blank. He had no recollection of anything that had happened prior to the moment

when a fragment of shell had laid him insensible upon the battlefield.

So far as mind and memory were concerned, he was a child, with a child's eagerness to learn and a child's

perception—a child's outlook on life.

The only way that they had been able to discover his identity was by means of the letter she had written him,

to which he had clung as a child clings to a favourite toy.

By happy chance this had been taken to be translated by a German officer who months before had been

nursed back to health in her hospital. His gratitude took the practical form of writing direct to her and

exerting high influence to have her husband sent home.

* * * * *

So he came back to her. For him at least the past was blotted out—irretrievably, irrevocably. Every doctor

and surgeon who examined him expressed the same opinion, that the risk of the operation that might relieve

the pressure on his brain was far too serious to attempt.

She accepted what the war had given her back uncomplainingly. If to him she must always be a stranger—a

beautiful, gracious stranger—he was Heaven and Earth to her. But indelibly stamped upon her mind was one

ray of consolation : on the back of the letter she had written him, which was still in his possession, she found

scribbled in pencil, not in the childish handwriting that she was teaching him to trace, but in his old firm

caligraphy, the prophetic words, " The past is blotted out !"

————————

THE MAN WHO WALKED IN HIS SLEEP.

——<>——

CAN A SOMNAMBULIST BE GUILTY OF MURDER ?

————

[By J. L. Stellmann, in the "Argonaut."]

————

It was the second night after the tragedy, and to-morrow we were due in New Orleans. In a bunk, below and

forward, a Polish woman's body lay with a stab-wound in the throat. And somewhere aboard—fore or aft,

above or below, no one knew—a criminal roamed at large. For all we could tell he rubbed elbows with us,

sat at our table, made up our berths, or cooked our food.

There was no clue. The woman had come aboard alone at New York and associated with no one afterward,

Apparently she could not speak English. She was a singularly handsome woman, though past her first youth,

and of the peasant class. It was easy to suspect a jealous lover, but, according to the testimony of her

neighbours, she had not even spoken or been spoken to. Her effects revealed nothing. Her ticket was signed

with an absolutely undecipherable name.

She had gone to bed at the usual hour three nights before. Toward morning the Frenchwoman in the berth

under her was aroused by a slight tumult and swiftly departing footsteps. An investigation of the upper berth

precipitated a panic among the steerage passengers. They had slept on the deck ever since.'

An official investigation headed by the captain was practically barren of results. The night watch had noticed

a, light gleaming and moving about the lower forward deck at four bells after midnight. He had supposed

that someone was ill in the steerage, and descended to investigate, but found everything quiet.

A cabin steward reported that an unlisted berth had been slept in on the night of the murder. A paring knife

was missing from the kitchen. But, strangest of all, the wireless connections had been cut.

And, as I have said, this was the third night the Thing had been our travelling companion, and among us

stalked one, unsuspected, with the brand of Cain.

The doctor from Troy, travelling for pleasure, looked up from his contemplation of the neurotic professor

from Philadelphia, travelling for health.

"Yes," he said. "Thank the Lord, we'll reach port tomorrow. I'll be glad to see land again and get away from

this tragedy that Fate has tied, like a tin can, to our tail."

"Is there anything further in the way of explanation or hypothesis?" queried the invalid pedant. Evidently the

thing had got on his nerves more than on anyone else's. The circles under his eyes had deepened during the

last few days, and he seemed more easily startled. Poor chap! The sea voyage wasn't bracing nerves as it

should have done—and doubtless would have under normal conditions. Perhaps the fact that the

mysteriously occupied cabin was just across from his own helped to increase his nervousness.

"Nothing new," replied the physician, perfunctorily.

"Did the wireless operator get New Orleans ?" asked the New York editor.

"Yes," said the doctor. "We're to bring the body there for a coroner's inquest. They'll send a detective aboard

with the pilot."

"What good will that do?" scoffed the Texas lawyer. "Is he going to line us all up and arrest the one who

can't control his heart's action ? That's the latest scientific method of detecting culprits in the English schools,

isn't it, doctor?" "Something like that," Dr. Enslow answered absently. Just then a combination of breeze and

the roll of the ship slammed the smoking-room door smartly. Professor Alvord jumped as though a live wire

had been suddenly applied to his spine. It was grotesque as well as startling to see—for all the world like a

jumping jack when its arms fly up at right angles and then flop, jerkily, down again.

The doctor arose in professional solicitude. "Good heavens, man !" he said. "You've got to take care of

yourself. Aren't sleeping right, are you?"

"No," replied Alvord. His body still quivered and his tone was hardly above a whisper. "It's this cursed

insomnia. I can't relax. I lie awake and my nerve centres throb and roar like the ship's engines. And, when I

finally do fall asleep—" He broke off, and a look of horror came into his eyes.

"You have bad dreams, of course," said Dr. Enslow. "Everybody has them now and then. They're a symptom

of neurasthenia—but don't let that worry you. Forget this steerage affair. We'll be rid of it in the morning.

Get off to bed with you now. I'll look in on you after a while, and if you are not snoring I'll give you a

powder to settle your nerves."

So he coaxed the poor devil into his cabin by dint of much cheering-up and patting on the back.

Halley's comet flamed high in the heavens that night and most of us went out on deck to watch it. The

diversion of amateur astronomy and the approaching end of our voyage lifted the pall of our tragedy and

loosened our tongues. We told stories, exchanged addresses, said good-nights and goodbyes. One by one the

voices ceased and the figures vanished from the neck until I was startled to note that I had outstayed them all.

The night watch glanced at me suspiciously as be passed, but on his next time around he stopped to ask for a

light and we chatted awhile. I was talking with him about the light he had seen in the steerage on the night of

the murder when he gripped my arm excitedly.

There, in the light of the newly risen moon, skulked a bent figure, half creeping, half walking toward the rail.

Suddenly my companion gave a shout and rushed forward. The man ahead was climbing over the rail. It was

nip and tuck, but the night watch caught him just as he got both feet over and dragged him back. I lent a hand

and we soon had the would-be suicide sprawling on the deck. We dragged him under a light to look him

over.

He was Professor Alvord.

Fortunately we didn't make enough noise to arouse many passengers, and we hustled the professor into his

cabin before the wakeful ones who were curious enough to dress could reach the deck.

Dr. Enslow was summoned as quietly as possible and seemed much astonished.

The man was sleeping fifteen minutes ago," he said, perplexedly. "I went direct from his cabin to mine and

had just undressed when you called me."

He worked over Alvord for some time before the latter grew rational. He appeared to be labouring under a

sense of inordinate terror.

Dr. Endow informed me that the invalid was apparently much exercised over a bad dream. "I think it has

something to do with the murder," he said. "Naturally he'd dream of that. But the poor devil wouldn't tell me

about it. Seemed to think it might lead to his being suspected. The man's more than half insane—on the verge

of brain fever. He'll have to be watched till we get into port and then turned over to a hospital."

We sat in the little stateroom and talked in low tones, for the doctor had given his patient a soporific and he

slumbered with twitching eyelids and spasmodic jerkings of limb that it made me nervous to see. After a

time, glancing up, I saw that the professor was awake. His great, round eyes were fixed on mine with the

same look of terror they had held before, but he did not move. The doctor, following my glance, arose.

"Well," he said cheerfully, "how goes it, brother?" Feel a bit rested, don't you?"

"Doctor," said the neurotic, "tell me this"—his claw-like hand clutched the physician's arm—"can they

punish a man who has—committed a—crime—in his sleep ?"

The doctor started. A thrill of vague, horror-laden apprehension shot through me. Was the mystery about to

be solved? "What do you mean?" asked Dr. Enslow, sharply.

"Answer my question," the professor demanded. "If you can't do it get the lawyer chap. I've got to know—

now. Do you hear?"

He was becoming hysterical again. The doctor forced him gently back on his pillow. "Why, of course, he

couldn't be punished," he returned, soothingly. "You don't need a lawyer to tell you that. Everyone knows a

man's not responsible for somnambulistic acts. Now lie still. You'll feel better in a little while."

"No," said the professor, "I won't lie still. I've got to get this thing off my mind before it kills me. Now

listen—" He glared at us as though to compel our attention. "Listen," he said again. "I walked in my sleep

three nights ago. I've done it before. It's nothing new. But I awoke about dawn —in a strange cabin—with a

knife in my hand!"

Dr. Enslow dropped the man's wrist. He took a step backward and wiped his forehead, mechanically, with

the back of his hand. We stared at each other aghast. The thing seemed too awful, too incredible, for belief.

"What did you do, then?" said the doctor, finally, turning to Alvord.

"I threw the thing away—overboard—and went back to my stateroom. It was just across the hallway."

"Did you look at the knife? Was there anything on it? Any stain?"

"I don't know. I was dazed with sleep. I think it was discoloured, yes."

"And you remembered nothing—of what had taken place?"

"No, nothing. There was a sense of horror—but I have felt that before when awaking from somnambulism.

Of course when I heard of the murder I recalled the knife. Since then every minute has been a nightmare, a

living hell. What do you advise me to do? Will it be safe to tell my story to the police? Would they believe

me?"

"I think so," said the doctor; "Let me work out this problem to-night. Think no more about it and compose

yourself. You've got to relax now and get some rest. You've shifted a part of your burden. We'll straighten it

all out and tell you what to do in the morning."

Weakly, the invalid caught the doctor's hand and pressed it. There were tears in his eyes--of gratitude and

relief. We waited until he fell asleep again—more natural slumber than before—and then took a turn on the

deck together.

"Poor devil !"' said the doctor, compassionately. "Poor, poor devil!"

"What will you advise him to do?" I asked, curiously.

"God only knows," returned the doctor, wearily. "The police won't believe his yarn. Scientific and

psychological evidence has been done to death lately. They're not likely to believe me, either. And if they put

him in prison he'll go crazy or die. I think I'll keep him asleep till I get him into a hospital at New Orleans."

About two in the morning the pilot boat came alongside and two men got aboard. One was a plain-clothes

officer from New Orleans. He had a short conference with the captain and descended into the hold,

accompanied by several deck-hands and one of the mates. There they arrested a stoker named Tony Pollak,

wanted in New York for murder. There was also a subpoena for the dead woman as a witness for the people.

Pollak fought like a fiend. Afterward he broke down and confessed both the murder in New York and that

aboard the ship. The woman had recognised him one day when he came on the forward deck, and he was

afraid she might betray him. So he killed her and tried to incapacitate the wireless.

As for the professor; a lengthy rest put him on his feet, and he resumed his labours at college. It took hard

work to convince him that he had done nothing worse than steal a dirty knife from the pantry during his

somnambulistic vigil. However, the horror of that awakening has cured him of sleepwalking, and now, a

little greyer but otherwise entirely normal, he teaches dead languages. But one mark remains of his dreadful

experience. He abominates the sea.

————————

THE HOSPITAL SHIP "MAHENO."

——<>——

SUCCOURING WOUNDED FROM GALLIPOLI.

————

At the meeting of Lodge Civic, Christchurch, on 7th November, Surgeon Captain Simpson, a member of the

Lodge, entertained brethren and visitors in the "Fourth" by an intensely interesting account of the work done

by the Hospital Ship "Maheno" in the Mediterranean. The health of the returned officer was first honoured,

on the call of W. Bro. Bothell, who said how proud Lodge Civic was of the work that had been done by

Captain Simpson.

Captain Simpson, who was received with sustained applause, repudiated the idea that he had done anything

to be proud of. He had merely answered the call of duty when he read in the papers of how our wounded

were lying on the beaches at Anzac for days before attention could be given them. Only a medical man could

appreciate what that involved, and, therefore, he had hurried to offer his services. Sketching in briefly the

early stages of the voyage and the happy experiences enjoyed at Adelaide and Ceylon, the Captain came to

their arrival at the Suez Canal. Here they definitely entered the war zone with the sight of a big French

battleship, whose crew, in response to the playing of the "Marsellaise" by the bugler of the "Maheno," gave

"heep, heep, hoora" in their best style, while their band played "God Save the King." Trenches on the banks

of the Canal, and riddled iron boats, showed where the Turkish assault had been made. From Alexandria the

"Maheno" was sent on at once to Mudros. On the way they saw that most pitiable of all sights at sea—

abandoned boats. These were some of the remains of a transport that had been torpedoed some forty-eight

hours previously. Mudros Harbour presented a wonderful sight, one that could never be forgotten. There in

that magnificent harbour of at least eight miles in extent were vessels, vessels everywhere. Innumerable

trawlers and patrol boats—whose work could never be too highly appreciated—were moving hither and

thither against the majestic background afforded by hundreds and hundreds of war vessels, ranging from the

powerful battleships and battle-cruisers down through the various classes to destroyers, torpedo boats,

submarines, and even the new monitors. The assembly of so many vessels in this huge base, guarded by nets

and sweeping patrols, was a distinct testimony to the reality of the submarine menace,

The pressing need at Anzac made the "Maheno's" stay at Mudros very short. The vessel arrived at Anzac—

the object of all their hopes—in the early afternoon, and she was taken along to her anchorage half a mile

from the beach by a destroyer. Here they had, as it were, front seats before that stage on which momentous

issues were being played out. They were within a mile of the trenches, and could see far more of the

operations than if they had actually been in the front line. The forbidding nature of the coast line impressed

them. Unlike New Zealand scenery, not a tree could be seen. There was some scrub, and there had been

gorse, but not a thing was in bloom. Below the trench lines and on the beach were, here and there, hospital

marquees with the Red Cross flying, and then, tucked away on the beach itself, were the concealed British

howitzers. Four miles to the left lay Suvla Bay, with its wide expanse of dried-up lake and burning sand. The

evening "hate" started shortly after their arrival, and with destroyers, monitors, and battleships throwing

shells viciously upon the Turkish trenches, at this time freely exposed by the setting sun, they found it very

impressive. A few rifle shots came aboard by accident the first evening, but at no time was the vessel

deliberately fired on. In this, as in many other respects, the Turk showed himself the gentleman of the East

and a fair fighter. The Turkish batteries did not speak as often as did ours, with the exception of that gun of

theirs which was nick-named "Beachy Bill." This gun was marvellously well concealed, and really must

have been on rails underground, for after a terrific concentration of fire upon its position it would bob up

serenely and send more shells into our lines. It had the range of our landing pier to a nicety, and whenever

men concentrated there a shell was sure to arrive. Every disembarkation usually meant half a dozen

casualties.

When a monitor, half a mile behind them on that first evening, let go its guns as they were at dinner, nearly

every man in the mess rose two feet off his chair. He himself made sure the boat had been torpedoed. The

noise was something terrific.

Next day in the daylight with their glasses they could study that shore position which became so familiar to

them later. The men could be seen in their trenches, and in the communication trenches, doing various tasks;

despatch riders could be seen making their way along the beaches ; and the whole life of the front lay before

them. One of the despatch riders was a study. For a certain distance he was safe and ambled along with au

apparent contempt for the Turks. But at a certain spot he came within range, and here he put down his head,

drove in his spurs, and rode like fury, while every sniper's rifle within range cracked vindictively. Yet he was

never hit. Here at Anzac Bay they could see exactly what the position was. They had heard in New Zealand

and at Alexandria that our men had got halfway across the Peninsula. Unfortunately, that was not true. A

comparatively small area only had been secured, but, precarious as it was, it was held with the utmost

grimness in spite of shrapnel, high explosive) and infantry assaults, The Turks were distinctly "nervy," and at

night time they would see a line of fire start at one end of a trench and run its whole length. This did not

herald an assault, but was merely a case of contagious nervousness. The Turk was a decent fighter. Time and

again our men, in going out on night attacks, would completely lose their way in the dark and winding

gullies and be separated from their fellows. In the morning the Turks would round up these stragglers and,

after taking their boots and other trifles they fancied, would say, "Now your lines lie over there." This

frequently happened.

The "Maheno" was fortunate in being the first well-equipped hospital ship on the spot. The English hospital

ships were mostly transports with a doctor placed in charge. Because of our splendid equipment we were

able to do much valuable surgery work. The flies made it impossible to do this ashore, and to wait till the

man got to Alexandria would frequently have been too long, so that out on the cool "Maheno" we did much

to save men's lives. There were two classes of patients —the walking cases and the cot cases. Each man as he

came aboard had a label through his buttonhole detailing his wound or illness and the treatment given ashore.

The lightly wounded were of course glad to be out of it for is time. The fortitude and gratitude of all the

wounded were marvellous. They were intensely grateful for any little thing we could do for them. Many of

them on coming aboard and seeing a sister— a woman —for the first time for months burst out crying. "I

cannot have the impertinence to praise these men," said Captain Simpson. "They were doing far more than

we were doing. We felt, however, a great satisfaction in being there, and in being able to do something for

them"

Their first experience of heavy work came speedily, and for sixty-five hours on end they were going at it

hammer and tongs. Amputations were frequent, and of course the sights were most horrible. If men were

waiting, the "Maheno" would become a full ship in five hours. At different times, of course, she carried sick

as well as wounded.

At night time the dugouts on the shore, each with its light showing seawards, presented a brilliant spectacle.

Occasionally there would come floating out snatches of song or the sound of a gramophone. The favourite

song, a parody on "My little grey home in the West," was called "My little dugout in the East."

The work of the aeroplanes was always very interesting, but he had never seen the Turkish shrapnel burst

within 600 yards of any machine. An amusing incident was the sinking of a dummy "Queen Elizabeth,"

which was sent inshore to discover any hidden batteries. Her 15-inch guns (made of wood) calmly floated off

as the vessel settled.

Interesting references to the visit of Lord Kitchener, the calibre of some British troops, visits to Malta and

Alexandra, were also made, and the speaker concluded by saying that at some future occasion he would,

perhaps, say something about the experiences of the staff in Britain.

The address was listened to with rapt attention by every brother present, and merited the applause bestowed

on its conclusion.

OBITUARY.

——<>——

W. BRO. WALTER RUTHERFURD, P.M.

———

News of the death of Bro. Walter Rutherford, one of the best known and most worthy

citizens of Palmerston, was received on 13th November with manifold and sincere

expressions of sorrow from his friends and fellow-townsmen. Bro. Rutherford passed

away at Paekakariki just before 9 o'clock on Saturday evening. He had been in ill-health

for some time, and his condition was regarded with grave anxiety during the week. About

twelve years ago he suffered a serious breakdown, having to take a trip to the Old

Country to recuperate, but though greatly improved physically, his vitality was greatly

impaired by the illness. In 1914 he again found it necessary to go abroad, and returned

apparently greatly benefited. About two months ago the deceased gentleman, while

visiting Wellington, become seriously indisposed, and upon his health improving

somewhat he went to Paekakariki, where the improvement continued. Last week,

however, there was a. relapse from which he never rallied. As a member of the Masonic

fraternity he stood high in the estimation of the Craft. He joined Lodge Manawata Kil. in

1883, and became a P.M. many years ago, and was also a G.L. officer. He was also a P.Z.

of the Manawatu R.A. Chapter.

THE FUNERAL.

IMPRESSIVE MASONIC CEREMONY.

The wide esteem in which the late Bro. Rutherford was held was evidenced at the funeral,

which took place on 14th November, on the arrival of the 10.40 train from Paekakariki,

which brought the body to Palmerston North. The train was met by a large gathering of

relatives, friends, representatives of local bodies with which the deceased gentleman was

associated, and members of the Masonic fraternity. The pallbearers at the station were

members of the Manawatu Land Drainage Board and Kairanga Count Council, Messrs.

Small, A. Lancaster, Collins, Moody, Collis and J. Johnston. The cortege was headed by

members of the local Masonic Lodges, followed, by the chief mourners, Messrs. G.

Limes, J. P. Innes, F. D. Opie and G. H. Scott. Mr. F. W. Connell, of the firm of

Rutherford and Connell, was also present. Then came representatives of the Manawatu

Land Drainage Board, Kairanga County Council, Palmerston Hospital and Charitable Aid

Board, Manawatu A. and P. Association, Borough Council, New Zealand Society of

Accountants (Palmerston branch) and main council of the Society. Wellington.

Representatives of the many bodies for which the deceased's firm had acted is

accountants were also present, as well as a number of private friends, the cortege

comprising over thirty motor cars in addition to other vehicles. From the railway station

to the cemetery the pallbearers were members of the Masonic Lodges, R.W. Bro. J. A.

Nash, W. Bros. W. Turner, A. Morgan, L. R. Bryant and Bro. F. D. Opie, acting. After

the burial service had been read by Rev. A. Doull, R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, assisted by W.

Bros. A. Hopwood, A. Clark and Dawick, carried out the impressive Masonic rites. Bro.

H. S. Porteous presided at the organ. The final hymn of the Masonic service was "For

Ever with the Lord," it being referred to as a special favourite of their departed friend and

brother, and those assembled it the graveside were invited by the officiating brother to

participate in the singing. There was a very large number of Masons present from the

local and sister Lodges.

———————

W. BRO. HUGH McPHEE, P.G.PURS., CARTERTON.

———

It is with the greatest sorrow we chronicle the death of one of the best-loved brothers in

the Wairarapa district, who succumbed to an attack of the dreaded cancer on 13th

November, after a short illness. W. Bro. McPhee was a P.M. of St. Mark's Lodge,

Cartertou, and held the office of G. Purs. in 1912. He was admitted into Wairarapa R.A.

Chapter on 8th July, 1903, and was exalted on 27th August following. Of a singularly

modest and retiring disposition, our late brother was universally beloved.

THE FUNERAL.

The funeral took place at Carterton on 15th November, and was one of the largest ever

seen in the Wairarapa, all classes of the community being represented. A short service

was held in the house by the Revs. Thompson and Tippler, and the cortege to the

cemetery included members of St. Mark's Lodge. and other Masonic Lodges in the

Wairarapa and members of the Wairarapa R.A. Chapter. It was headed by pipers, who-

played " Lochaber No More " and the " Flowers of the Forest." After the church service

R.W. Bro. J. Moncrieff most impressively read the Masonic service, W. Bro. Stout,

W.M., deposited the apron in the grave, and the brethren finally cast the sprigs of acacia.

The coffin bore a fine representation of the V. of S.L. and the square and compasses, and

on the plate were delineated the Masonic Pillars and the All-seeing Eye. Very many

beautiful wreaths were sent by the various organisations with which the deceased had

been connected, as well as by numbers of friends and relatives. The whole of the

ceremonial was most ably and impressively carried out, and its nature and the great

concourse gathered round the grave were eloquent, if sad, tributes to the worth of a settler

whose earthly career—all too short—had been blameless, and whose personal qualities

and kindly activities had always tended to the benefit of his fellow men and the

advancement of the district in which his life was spent.

————————

CHURCH SERVICE.

——<>——

The church service held by Lodge Taringatura, No. 100, on 12th August was riot so well attended as was

expected. The great majority of our members live at a distance, and were unable to be present, though a

number did travel ten, twelve, or fifteen miles to attend. The brethren assembled at the hall and marched to

the Presbyterian Church, where the service was conducted by the Rev. D. K. Fisher, Chaplain, the Precentor

by Bro. S. E. Griffiths, J.W., Miss Fisher being organist. There was also present the usual congregation. The

discourse was based upon four Scriptural texts, Gen. xii, 7; I Kings viii, 13 ; I Corin. iii, 9, " Ye are God's

building "; Reb. iii, 6, " Whose house are we." In the first the preacher pointed out that we had the material

act of worship on the part of the individual, in the second the natural worship of the G.A. manifested in the

real Temple of Solomon, while the two New Testament texts furnished the ethical and spiritual application of

the material ideas expressed in those of the Old Testament. The elaboration of this theme was closely

followed by the assembled congregation, and the hymns sung afforded. further illumination. At the Lodge

meeting on the following Wednesday, on the motion of the W.M., Bro. D. Walker, a cordial vote of thanks

was accorded to the Rev. Bro. Fisher for his able and instructive discourse.

————————

GRAND MASTER'S TOUR OF VISITATION.

——<>——

The G.M. G.M. of New Zealand, M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson, proposes to make his first tour of official

visitation outside Auckland, where his home is, in the early part of December. It is his intention to visit the

Wellington, Wanganui, Hawkes Bay, and Taranaki districts, though not necessarily in the order here given.

The itinerary of the trip has not yet been arranged, but M.W. Bro. Nicholson will attend meetings of Lodges

in each district in the first week of November the G.M. will pay a visit to the Thames section of the

Auckland district, during which he will instal the newly-elected officers of Lodge Ohinemuri, at Paeroa.

[Owing to illness in the family of the M.W.G.M., it may be necessary to further postpone this visitation.—

ED.C.]

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

Poetry.

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

IF WE ONLY UNDERSTOOD.

——<>——

If we knew the cares and trials,

Knew the efforts all in vain,

And the bitter disappointment,

Understood the loss and gain—

Would the grim, eternal roughness

Seem—I wonder—just the same ?

Should we help where now we hinder?

Should we pity where we blame ?

Ah ! we judge .each other harshly,

Knowing not life's hidden force—

Knowing not the fount of action

Is less turbid at its source !

Seeing not amid the evil

All the golden grains of good ;

And we'd love each other better

If we only understood.

Could we judge all deeds by motives

That surround each other's lives,

See the naked heart and spirit,

Know what spur the action gives—

Often we would find it better

Just to judge all actions good;

We should love each other better

If we only understood.

—Rudyard Kipling..

————————

KING SOLOMON AND THE ANTS.

——<>——

[Here is a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, telling a gracious story of how greatness is better shown by

simple kindness than by pride—the kindness which embraces all living things.]

Out from Jerusalem

The king rode with his great

War chiefs and lords of state,

And Sheba's queen with them,

Comely, but black withal,

To whom, perchance, belongs

That wondrous song of songs,

Sensuous and mythical,

Whereto devout souls turn

In fond, ecstatic dream,

And through its earth-born theme

The love of loves discern.

Proud in the Syrian sun,

In gold and purple sheen,

The dusky Ethiop queen

Smiled on King Solomon.

Wisest of men, he knew

The languages of all

The creatures, great or small,

That trod the earth or flew.

Across an ant-hill led

The king's path, and he heard

Its small folk, and their word

He thus interpreted :

"Here comes the king men greet

As wise and good and just,

To crush us in the dust

Under his heedless feet."

The great king bowed his head,

And saw the wide surprise

Of the Queen of Sheba's eyes

As he told her what they said

"O king !" she whispered sweet,

"Too happy fate have they

Who perish in thy way

Beneath thy gracious feet !

"Thou of the God-lent crown,

Shall these vile creatures dare

Murmur against thee where

The knees of kings kneel down ?"

"Nay,": Solomon replied,

"The; wise and strong should seek

The welfare of the weak,"

And tuned his horse aside.

His train, with quick alarm,

Curved with their leader round

The ant-hill's peopled mound,

And left it free from harm.

The jewelled head bent low.

"O King!" she said, "henceforth

The secret of thy worth

And wisdom well I know.

"Happy must be the State

Whose ruler heedeth more

The murmurs of the poor

Than flatteries of the great."

————————

PERAMBULATION ODE.

——<>——

[Dedicated by W. Bro. J. H. Lewis to the brethren of Coalfield Lodge, Springs, Transvaal.]

————

FIRST PERAMBULATION.

Come, Master Masons, gather, come answer to the call,

Salute our new-made Master, salute him one and all !

God grant that he may prosper in this forthcoming year,

To rule our Lodge with wisdom—'tis to our hearts most dear.

All hail to our new Master, O may he prosp'rous be !

God guide and guard and bless him with true fidelity.

SECOND PERAMBULATION.

And now again as Craftsmen we raise our tuneful lay ;

We promise to assist him and also to obey ;

O may his fame as Master be heard of far and wide,

As one who does his duty whatever shall betide.

Salute our new-made Master, salute him on the square !

God grant him grace arid wisdom to govern in the chair.

THIRD PERAMBULATION.

And once again we gather to try our 'prentice hand,

To sing our joyful anthem : a strong and faithful band.

O may our Master's watchwords be love and charity,

And may his kindly actions be known o'er land and sea.

All hail to our new Master, O may he prosp'rous be !

God guide and guard and bless him with true fidelity.

—"S.A. Masonic Journal."

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

————————

CHINESE MASONRY.

——<>——

Dr. W. A. De Wolf Smith, G.L. correspondent for British Columbia, in his 1915 report, gave a very

interesting review of North China, among which are the following paragraphs :-

Recent reference in the public press to Chinese Freemasons and the introduction of Chinese as members of

our Institution cannot be passed over without some comment in this district, especially as they have given

cause for enquiry amongst some of the brethren. In this connection I will first quote a lecture given some

years ago by Prof. H. A. Giles (than whom there is no higher authority on things Chinese). When lecturing

on Freemasonry in China, he said: "If, by Freemasonry, we mean the comparatively modern society in vogue

among Western nations at the present day, with its ritual of doubtful date, its passwords, signs and Book of

Constitutions, then it has never existed in China. If, however, by Freemasonry, we mean ‘that higher scheme

of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols drawn from the operative Craft, which was

initiated in prehistoric times, when the human race, emerging gradually from savagery and barbarism, first

turned to contemplate the wondrous works of the G.A.O.T.U., and began to recognise the mutual obligations

existing between man and man—for this is the Masonry that every enlightened Mason should seek to

cultivate, the Masonry not of forms and ceremonies, but of the heart—then the Chinese have gone a long

way in that direction.' "

The square and compasses have been used from time immemorial by Chinese writers, either together or

separately, to symbolise the same phases of conduct as in our own system of Freemasonry. They invert the

order and say, "compasses and square." In the Book of History, an ancient record, are found these

expressions : "Ye officers of government apply the compasses." "The man on the level" was used when

speaking of a judge. Confucius says that only at seventy years of age could he "venture to follow the

inclinations of his heart without fear of transgressing the limits of the square." But the philosopher Mencius,

who died nearly three hundred years before the Christian era, says, "A Master Mason, in teaching his

apprentice, makes use of the compasses and square. Ye who are engaged in the pursuit of wisdom must also

make use of the compasses and square." And the following is from the Chinese Proverbial Philosophy, "The

Holy Doctrine (Confucianism), in its education of mankind, uses the compasses and square."

The Triad Society have "working tools," and among them is a 12-inch gauge ; they have a W.M., a "Great

Brother," and a "Second Brother," corresponding to our S.W. and J. W. ; a "first point" and a "second point,"

corresponding to our S.D. and J.D. ; an inner and outer guard. They recognise three degrees—"affiliated

younger brother," "obligated elder brother," and "obligated uncle," or the E.A., F.C., and M.M. 'Degrees.

They have a Book of Constitutions, and issue certificates and give badges, to each member in the form of a

medal to be carried about with him. At initiations the candidate is first purified by ablution, his upper

garments are removed, and he is then clothed in white; his shoes and stockings are pulled off, and straw

sandals are put on his feet. The obligation consists of thirty-six articles. A white cock is sacrificed. The bird

is an emblem of vigilance. The candidate performs the eight salutations to Heaven, Earth, the Sun, the Moon,

the five founders of the Society, to Wan-Yun-Lung, a former Grand Master, to the brethren present and

absent, and to the glorious reputation of the Order.

The following paragraph, under the head "Chinese Freemasonry," which appeared a few months since in a

local newspaper, created a most erroneous impression in the lay mind as well as in the minds of some young

Masons. It reads as follows :

"The persecution of the Chinese Freemasons in Kirin Province by the Chinese authorities is becoming more

relentless daily. In the Shuangyang Prefecture, the Prefect himself led a party of troops and police in a raid

on a Masonic Temple. They destroyed the Temple, together with the idol contained therein. The persecution

has had a reactionary effect on the believers and has made them quite willing to die as martyrs to their creed.

Their number in both Kirin and Heilungkiang Provinces has already reached 100,000. The "Manchurian

Daily News" states that their movements are being closely watched by the authorities, as there is suspicion of

their being in communication with Manchu Loyalists."

For the benefit of those who give credence to this last reference, I may state that to my personal knowledge

there is no such body of 100,000 Freemasons, as we know Freemasonry, in Manchuria. While we are not

only unwilling, but decidedly opposed to making any public contradiction of such a paragraph as I have read,

it is as well, for the benefit of those who may be apt to be led to believe such irresponsible statements, to

refer to the matter at this time. As you all know, Freemasonry knows no creed or dogma, but it has essential

beliefs which we recognise as Landmarks. First and foremost of these, belief in the G.A.O.T.U. and

recognition of the V.S.L. as the rule and guide of our faith are fundamental. It is, therefore, obvious that the

large body of so-called Chinese Freemasons can have no connection with the Craft as we know it; they may

belong to some such society as described by Prof. Giles. I would ask you to remember that we are a

conservative body, and it is only by strict observance of our laws in all essentials that our order has reached

the pre-eminent position in which we find it to-day. Be careful, then, brethren, to permit no innovations or

suggest anyone for membership who cannot unreservedly and with all reverence comply with those two great

Landmarks to which I have already referred.

————————

HIRAM, KING OF TYRE.

——<>——

[By Edw. ROSS.]

He was the son of Abibal, and the contemporary of both David and Solomon. In the beginning of the

former's reign, he sent messengers to him, and Hiram supplied the Israelitish king with "cedar-trees and

carpenters, and masons : and they built David a house." (2 Sam. v., 11). Nearly forty years-afterward, when

Solomon ascended the throne and began to prepare for building the temple, he sent to the old friend of his

father for the same kind of assistance. The king of Tyre gave a favourable response, and sent workmen and

materials to Jerusalem, by the aid of which Solomon was enabled to, carry out his great design. Historians

celebrate the friendly intercourse of these monarchs, and Josephus says that the correspondence between

them in respect to the building of the-temple was in his days preserved in the archives of the kingdom of

Tyre. The answer of Hiram to the application of Solomon is given in the first Book of Kings (v., 8, 9), in the

following language : "I will do all thy desire concerning timber of cedar and concerning timber of fir. My

servants shall bring them down from Lebanon unto the sea ; and I will convey them by sea in floats unto the

place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and thou shalt receive them ;

and thou shalt accomplish my desire in giving food for my household." In return for his kindness, Solomon

gave Hiram 20,000 measures, or corim, of wheat, and the same quantity of oil, which was nearly 200,000

bushels of one and 1,500,000 gallons of the other ; an almost incredible amount, but not disproportioned to

the magnificent expenditure of the temple in other respects. After Solomon had finished his work, he

presented the king of Tyre with twenty towns in Galilee, but when Hiram viewed these places, he was so

dissatisfied with their appearance that he called them the land of Cabul—which signifies barren, desolate—

saying reproachfully to Solomon, "Are these, my brother, the towns which you have given me ?" On this

incident the Scottish Rite Masons have founded their Sixth' Degree, or Intimate Secretary.

Hiram appears, like Solomon, to have been disposed to mysticism, for Dius and Menander, two Greek

historians, tell us that the two kings proposed enigmas to each other for solution. Dius says that Solomon

first sent some to Hiram; and that the latter king, being, unable to solve them, paid a large sum of money as a

forfeit, but that afterward he explained them with the assistance of one Abdetmon; and that he in turn

proposed some to Solomon, who, not being able to solve them, paid a much better sum to Hiram than he had

himself received on a like occasion.

The connection of the king of Tyre with King Solomon in the construction of the temple has given him a

great importance in the legendary history of Masonry. Anderson says (Constitutions, 1838, p. 15), "The

tradition is that King Hiram had been Grand Master of all Masons ; but when the temple was finished, Hiram

came to survey it before its consecration, and to commune with Solomon about wisdom and art ; and, finding

that the Great Architect of the Universe had inspired Solomon above all mortal men, Hiram very readily

yielded the pre-eminence to Solomon Jedediah, "the beloved of God." He is called in the rituals one of our

"Ancient Grand Masters," and when the Mythical Master's Lodge was held in the temple, is supposed to have

acted as the Senior Warden. It is said, too, that in the symbolic supports of Masonry he represented the pillar

of strength, because "by his power and wealth he assisted the great undertaking" of the construction of the

temple. He is reported, also, to have visited Jerusalem several times (a fact on which profane history is silent)

for the purpose of consultation with Solomon and his great architect on the symbolism of the word, and to

have been present at the time of the death of the latter. Many other legends are related of him in the Master's

Degree, and those connected with it, but he is lost sight of after the completion of the first temple, and it is

seldom heard of in the higher degrees.

Hiram reigned over the Tyrians for thirty-four years; he permitted Solomon's ships to participate in the

profitable trade of the Mediterranean and Jewish sailors, under the instruction of Tyrian mariners, who were

taught how to bring from India the gold to enrich their people and beautify the temple of their king. Tradition

says that Hiram gave his daughter in marriage to King Solomon.

Near Tyre there is a tomb which, to this day, has been pointed out as that of Hiram, King of Tyre.—"The

Trestle Board."

————————

"THE VISITORS."

——<>——

A GUARANTEE OF FRATERNITY.

————

By its very frequency, the toast of "The Visitors" in our Lodges is apt to become hackneyed and formal. The

toast is usually entrusted to some mature brother, who has vivid early recollections of the careers of visiting

brethren, and, referring to these incidents, expresses his personal pleasure at seeing these brethren present.

This type of speech is apt to become common and rob the toast of much of the feeling that might be imparted

to it.

Recognising this tendency to formalise the toast, the W.M. of Avon Lodge, W. Bro. L. B. Hart, at the

November meeting, called upon one of the junior members of the Lodge to propose the toast. Of necessity

this brother had to take a line other than personal reminiscence, and the result was a little speech which

occasioned welcome comment from the visiting W.Ms.

He had sometimes heard, said the speaker, that this toast should be abolished on the ground that it had

become hackneyed and formal, and so devoid of interest. To his mind that would be a grievous mistake, and

would rob Masonry of much of its essential spirit. Fundamentals in Masonry were fellowship and hospitality,

but how could these attributes be preserved if brethren had no opportunity for their practice? Just as it took

two to make a quarrel, it took two parties to establish friendship, and, if Lodges as a whole abandoned the

toast, the feeling of fellowship would decline because of lack of objects upon which to bestow it. Lodges

would become self-sufficient, the spirit of Masonry would decay, and within a short time the spectacle might

be presented of brethren ringing the changes upon the splendid phrases of our sacred ritual, but knowing

nothing of the practice of the principles contained therein. There never was a time when there was greater

need for the preservation of the spirit of fellowship amongst the Masons of the Empire than the present.

Never before had so many brethren been thrown into the vortex of world travel; never before had so many

brethren been converging from all the distant outposts of Empire upon the Mother Country in preparation for

the battlefields of France. We looked to fellowship to smooth the path of these travelling brethren. Masonic

journals all over the world at the present time were stressing the need for fellowship. The journals of Britain

were revealing the principle in practice. In the records of the meetings of British Lodges now it was

interesting to notice the welcome extended to visiting brethren from Overseas. At the meeting of one London

Lodge, twenty New Zealand brethren had been present, while mention of the presence of Canadian,

Australian, and South African brethren was frequent. Where would be the value of Masonry to these visitors

to the heart of the Empire had they not been welcomed in the traditional manner? Could they imagine the

feelings of those twenty New Zealand brethren attending the Lodge in London if no notice were taken of

their, presence, and no welcoming hand extended to them'? They would have left that Lodge heart-sick and

sore at the neglect. Not that they would have gone there in the expectation of having a fuss made of them, but

in the natural desire for fellowship experienced in a strange land. Masonry supplied this, fellowship, and it

was essential that its springs should be maintained by practice. If the toast were abolished, and visitors:

ignored, then human nature being what it was, visitors would gradually come to feel themselves interlopers,

would thereupon refrain from attending outside Lodges, would even lose interest in their own Lodges, and

irreparable damage thus would be done to Masonry. In honouring the toast of their immediate visitors,

brethren should recognise the vital principle of fraternity that was involved, and resolve that neither they nor

their Lodge should ever be backsliders in the practice of this principle of the Craft.

All the visiting W.Ms. congratulated the brother upon his speech, and W. Bro. Bottrell, W.M of Civic Lodge,

remarked that it was 'very' :many years since he had heard this toast proposed in such an interesting way.

————————

RETRIBUTION.

——<>——

"With what measure' ye mete it shall be measured unto you again."

————

We all know the graphic story of the mighty Haman, who was hung upon the very gallows which he had

prepared for the Jew, Mordecai. It was a case of swift- retribution, and few felt any kind of pity for the proud

and merciless man. It was a striking instance, of poetic justice, and satisfied the multitude, who usually have

a very strong sense of what is fair play. "To hoist a man with his own petard" is a Shakespearean phrase, and

again and again we find in life that evil is rewarded by evil and good by good. It is a fundamental truth of the

universe. It is absolutely true that we get out of the world what we put into it. We cannot sow tares and

expect to reap wheat. We cannot mete out injustice, and expect to receive justice and mercy ourselves.

Nature always answers to the effort made. Every force works against some other force. "Not a leaf moves,"

says a clever writer, " but in some infinitely delicate measure the stars a billion miles away, make response."

Not a thistledown floats across a summer meadow but the whole universe is sensitively sympathetic with its

errand. Wherever a human hand is lifted to violence or love, all beneficent forces are instantly aroused to

repel the violence and reward the love. Action and reaction, as Newton discovered, are for ever equal.

A well-known Persian proverb says, "If we would be sweet we must lie among the flowers."What we get

from other people is chiefly their answer to what we carry to them. It is always night to a blind man. If we

give evil, if we mete out injustice, hate, wrong, we shall assuredly find in the end that we get hoist with our

own petard. These solemn words in Holy Writ are as true to-day as when first they rang out : “With what

measure ye mete it shall be measured unto you again.”

You may prepare the gallows for others, but you are only ensuring your own doom thereby. We are so ready

in this world to declare others to be the sinners, to pronounce punishment upon the wrongdoers, but we

overlook our own lapses until the day of retribution comes upon us. Now I would ask you what is the

measure you are meting out to others around you, to your own relations, to your parents, children, husband,

or wife, to your friends, your clients, your employers, your servants, those who work for you and those for

whom you work. Is it good measure pressed down and running over, or is it an unjust measure, a false

balance which is an abomination to our Maker? For assuredly whichever it may be, so assuredly will be the

same measure meted out to you in return.

It is a very solemn thought, and one which we should be prepared to answer, fairly and squarely. Are your

scales evenly adjusted, or do they weigh down ever so little to your advantage? What we give away in love,

in kind actions and words, comes back unto our own bosoms in tenfold measure, while the hate, the petty

mean spite, the ill nature, the unkindness we so often show comes back to ourselves just in the same way,

and we are left miserable and unloved as the years pass by. Look at the miser who hoards up his gold, who

will not even spend a penny on necessary food or clothing, who drives every beggar and outcast from his

door. What does he get back? What is his old age but a time of desolation and misery? Then, indeed, he

proves the truth of these words, "With what measure ye mete it shall be measured unto you again."

Don't mix water with your milk of human kindness, don't put sand into the sugar of your home love, don't let

your good deeds be spoilt by your unjust ones. Rise above all these small petty feelings, these mean

jealousies, this bitterness and strife. Don't give false coin and unjust weight because your neighbour has done

so; rather strive after higher things and nobler deeds, for thus will your own measure be also a higher and

nobler one.

————————

ENGLAND.

——<>——

I feel in regard to this aged England, with the possessions, honours, and trophies, and also with the

infirmities, of a thousand years gathering around her, irretrievably committed as she now is to many old

customs which cannot be suddenly changed; pressed upon by the transitions of trade, and new and all

incalculable modes, fabrics, arts, machines, and competing populations—

I see her not dispirited, not weak, but well remembering that she has seen dark days before; indeed, with a

kind of instinct that she sees a little better in a cloudy day, and that in storm of battle and calamity she has a

secret vigour and a pulse like cannon.

I see her in her old age, not decrepit, but young, and still daring to believe in her power of endurance and

expansion.

Seeing this, I say, All hail, Mother of Nations, Mother of Heroes, with strength still equal to the time; still

wise to entertain and swift to execute the policy which the mind and heart of mankind require at the present

hour, and thus only hospitable to the foreigner, and truly a home to the thoughtful and generous, who are

born in the soil.

So be it. So let it be!

—Emerson.

————————

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE WORD "BLUE."

——<>——

[By George L. Barker.]

————

This article is mainly a collection from the works of others, better qualified to write upon the subject than I

am, and it is not meant that this should finally settle the matter, but rather that it might suggest some material

for others either to build upon, or tear down, as their own reasoning and research directs them.

The majority of us, upon being initiated into Masonry, focussed our minds upon certain customs, words, and

various other parts of this institution and wondered what they meant, or what their derivation was. The bold

among us worried others for an explanation; some have lost their not "understandables" in the sea of

forgetfulness; others still have their wonders drifting like flotsam and jetsam, while the most fortunate have

received light and understanding and have safely anchored their doubts.

There are, as we are all aware, a number of other names which might be used to designate this Lodge; a vast

number of shades of blue possible to use, and used in connection with the Blue Lodge, and what I tried to fix

to my own satisfaction was, why it is called the "Blue Lodge," the actual shade of blue, and at the same time

have good and sufficient reason for the conclusion decided upon.

After passing through doubts and various conditions, the clearest and purest shade of sky blue, found when

the heavens are without blemish, seemed the most suitable shade that could be chosen as the pattern for the

Blue Lodge colour.

We will now consider some of the main points and reasons for this decision, and as we run over them you

will understand the grouping. There is quite a host of Masonic historical data, and it has been covered very

fully at different times; probably best by J. W. Crowe, and W. J. Chetwode Crawley. Much of their work has

appeared from time to time in the "Ars Quatuor Coronatorum' '—that most excellent Masonic journal, and I

have, drawn freely from their summaries. A somewhat similar line of thought was covered recently in the

"Prize Essays" published in pamphlet form in Baltimore.

The term "Blue Lodge" has come down for evidently many centuries, and so far as I can find the first

authentic Masonic record in regard to the colour blue is in the English and Irish G.L. minutes for 1731 and

1734, where they order the three G.L. officers to have blue silk linings to their aprons and blue ribbons for

their jewels. The Masters and Wardens of the subordinate Lodges to have white ribbons for their jewels,

white aprons, and no other colours whatsoever.

In the Scottish G.L., green is used largely, and their colour records date back to 1637; but the first three, or

rather four, Degrees are known with them as the Blue Lodge, and in their Third Degree work they make a

very marked reference to blue, especially just previous to the raising.

In the Lodge records the shade of blue varies; it is at one time termed as of a watery tinge, which is pretty

near the conception we are considering; again, as "Garter blue."

Garter blue can be little used as a guide unless we could hit upon the exact shade used about 1730. Because

there has been a great range of shades called Garter blue. Even to-day two paintings hang side by side in the

National Portrait Gallery of Knights of the Garter, and the shades of blue in the painted costumes do not

coincide—one is light and the other dark. In the reign of George the Third, Garter blue is styled as a

"heavenly colour." But there is no doubt that Garter blue has changed at times—certainly in the Tudor period

and again in the Hanoverian.

Now, if a little deduction be allowable, and if we believe something of Masonic and other history, the Craft

being more ancient than the Golden Fleece, more honourable than the Garter, then most likely it is older than

the Garter. Also, the, Order of the Garter having always been the first Order of Knighthood of England, it is

hardly likely that the Knights of Garter would care to have their colour appropriated, as it were, and then join

this Lodge and stand for the lecture which goes with the Apron. So we can practically ignore Garter blue as

giving us any solution to our wonder.

It seems to be taken as an establislied fact that the Lord Kingston was Grand Master of England in 1729 to

1730, and in the following year he was Grand Master of Ireland and used the light of sky blue shade in both

G.Ls., and that shade can be verified by comparison with the ribbon attached to the Charters of that date

(1731). These are about, the principal facts so far as I can trace back in recorded Masonry.

Now we will step back a little further to ancient and Biblical history, and there we find an abundant field for

research. Blue was almost universally associated throughout Christendom with the Virgin Mother, and it was

one of the principal colours of the Orders of Imperial Rome, Byzantium, and Egypt. The other colours of

importance connected with them are white—red—and purple; but we will only mention these in passing as

we are at present in search of the blue.

Still further back we pass the Temple of Solomon, which we find was patterned after the Tabernacle of

Moses. The Tabernacle was erected to commemorate the passing of the Children of Israel through the Red

Sea, and here we find blue especially mentioned in connection with this structure and feel tempted to

exclaim like the Greek philosopher, "Eureka!" for here there is a fund of information.

In Exodus xxv., 1-8, we find, "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, "Speak unto the children of Israel

that they bring me an offering; of every man "that giveth it willingly with his heart" ye shall take my

offering. And this is the offering which ye shall take of them—Gold, and silver, and brass. And BLUE and

purple and scarlet, etc., and let them make me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them."

Exodus xxvi., 1 and 4, "Moreover thou wilt make the Tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twined linen and

blue and purple and scarlet, etc. (4) And shalt make loops of BLUE upon the edge of the one curtain, etc."

Then in Numbers xv., 37-39, we have a very decided reference. (37) "And the Lord spake unto Moses

saying, (38) 'Speak unto the Children of Israel and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of

their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of the borders RIB-BAND OF

BLUE. (39) And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye make look upon it and remember all the

commandments of the Lord, and do them, and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, etc."

So in summing up the matter from what has gone briefly before, it seems a natural sequence that the

fraternity should be known as the Blue Lodge, as blue figures prominently as the colour of the majority of

orders, and is certainly due to the significance which God through Moses gave to it.

If a promise is to be kept, then when we look upon that colour it will recall the obligation. Blue being almost

universally present with us, what is more natural than that the heavenly shade should have been adopted

which, when it is at its best, is the purest possible shade of blue. When there is a cloud or a haze or any other

colouring present it becomes dingy and the purity departs. It is the intensification of pure white light which

gives us the best shade of blue; and so when we tinge our obligation to our fellowman by the slightest

deviation we spoil the highest conception.

Further, the ancient brethren held their meetings on high hills or in low dales with the canopy of heaven as a

covering, so it would require no great stretch of imagination to see the connection or the reason why they

would probably adopt the sky or heavenly blue as their colour, and especially so because of their familiarity

with the Biblical associations of the blue colour. The sky being always present with them recalled the vast

extent covered by Freemasonry, and the blue would continually remind them of the purity to which they

endeavour to train the standard of their living.—"New Age."

————————

UNIQUE EVENT IN THE HISTORY OF ARA LODGE, No. 348, I.C.

——<>——

Over nineteen years ago, V.W. Bro. G. A. Gribbin was installed as W.M. for a second term by W. Bro. E. R.

Piggott. During that term a son was born to the W.M., and the name given to him was Raymond Lewis. The

name Lewis (son of a mason) was the suggestion of Bro. Piggott, the father's old co-worker in the Lodge. At

the early age of two weeks the boy was dedicated to Freemasonry. This dedication was consummated by the

boy's initiation in the Lodge on 6th November last. A special dispensation had first been granted by the

M.W.G..M. of Ireland for his admission, seeing that he has not yet attained the age of twenty-one years, and

in view of the fact that he was about to leave Auckland for active service at the Front. The young candidate

was duly accepted by the brethren on the nomination of Bros. Piggott and Bloomfield. There was a large

gathering of members on the occasion. V.W. Bro. Gribbin duly obligated his son into Freemasonry. The

Lights of Freemasonry and the candidate's preparations were explained by V.W. Bro. Schnauer, and W. Bro.

R. J. Lusher, W.M., imparted the Secrets of the Degree. The Charge of the N.E. Corner and the Lecture on

the T.B. were given respectively by V.W. Bro. Piggott and R.W.G.W. Bro. Powley. The R.W. Prov.G.M.,

who was present, stated that in looking back down the long avenue of time of nearly fifty years he could

honestly say that the initiation of the son of V.W. Bro. Gribbin was one of the best ceremonials he had ever

witnessed. The occasion operated as a red letter day in the history of Ara Lodge. He saw that night the

reverse side of war and the brotherhood of Freemasonry as illustrated by the fact that the J.D. was Bro. Lieut.

E. A. Craig, whose duty it was to guide his young brother soldier's first footsteps in Freemasonry. He

congratulated V.W. Bro. Gribbin on his having been spared to obligate into Freemasonry a boy he had

dedicated to the Craft nineteen years ago. Bros. Rees also congratulated the old P.Ms. upon their work that

night. He had no doubt that their united prayers would be offered to the G.A.O.T.U. that His fatherly care

and love would surround their brethren at the Front, and that in all cases of difficulty and danger He would of

His infinite mercy protect them and bring them back to their dear ones at home. He charged the young

brother to live his life according to Masonic rule, and he impressed upon him that even if he should hear the

footsteps of the Great Stranger approaching he should with a calmness enquire "Who goes there ?", and,

when a reply would come soft as the bells of evening in the valley far away, saying, "Friend," he would have

sure hope and trust in the great Architect, and, as he answered "Pass, friend, for all is well," he would be

enabled to trample the king of terrors beneath his feet.

During the evening W. Bro. J. S, Brigham, W.M. of Lodge Te Awamutu, E.C., whose meeting was being

held on the same evening, forwarded a wire extending the fraternal congratulations of the members of his

Lodge to their "youngest brother." His kind and fraternal action was very much appreciated by the members

of No. 348.

On Wednesday the 8th November, Bro. R. L. Gribbin was passed to the Degree of F.C., and, on Friday the

10th, he was raised to the sublime degree of a M.M., and before the close of the Lodge he was presented with

his G.L. Certificate.

At the "Fourth," Bro. Piggott presented Bro. Gribbin, on behalf of the Lodge, with a handsome copy of the

V.S.L., a sealskin pocketbook and money case suitably engraved, and also a pipe, and, in proposing the toast

of the newly-raised brother, he alluded in feeling terms to the years his father and himself had worked

together in the Lodge for Freemasonry. He felt that a goodly portion of his father's mantle in this respect

would fall upon him, and he freely charged him to be careful to always uphold the dignity of his high calling

as a Freemason, not only in the Lodge, but out of it. He felt sure that the fountain pen in his pocketbook

would ever remind him that the pen was mightier than the sword, and that he would ever call to his mind that

the thoughts of the loved ones at home would be constantly of him at the Front, and that the ink from his pen

should very frequently flow in kind and thoughtful messages from him to them. He hoped that he would

always be true to that inward monitor which would constantly warn him not to listen to the voice of the

tempter, and that he would ever keep before his mind's eye that his duty would be to abstain from all evil and

to keep himself unspotted from the world.

The pleasant evening was brought to a close by the singing of Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem.

————————

ENQUIRIES ON MATTERS OF MASONIC INTEREST.

——<>——

Q.—On a brother accepting nomination and appointment to office in G.L., should he deem it his duty in

consequence to attend the Prov.G.M. of his district whenever that officer is visiting a Lodge therein

officially?

A.—Certainly, if his private avocations will permit him.

Q.—Should a W.M. at his installation remain seated when hymns appropriate to the occasion are being

sung?

A.—No one, no matter how high his rank, should remain seated during the singing of hymns or the offering

of prayer.

Q.—Should the floor officers of the Lodge remain seated when the address to the brethren is being given?

A.—In this district it is not customary for any brethren to stand during this address. It causes too much

confusion, and is apt to disconcert the addressing officer.

————————

GREAT THOUGHTS.

——<>——

They only live who dare.—Sir Lewis Morris.

Light to-morrow with to-day.—Browning.

He serves all who dares be true.—Emerson.

He rightly lives that nobly dies.—Quarles.

Who best can suffer, best can do.—Milton.

He never errs who sacrifices self.—Lytton.

The path of duty leads to happiness.--Southey.

Blessings ever wait on virtuous deeds.—Congreve.

The aids to noble life are all within.—Matthew Arnold.

Simple duty bath no place for fear.—Whittier.

Life is too short for mean auxieties.--Kingsley.

To believe in the heroic makes heroes.—Disraeli.

'Tis not the fight that crowns, but the end.—Herrick.

'Tis looking downward makes one dizzy.—Browning.

Choose an author as you would choose a friend.—Dilton.

Dare to be true, nothing can need a lie.—Geo. Herbert.

Watch thy tongue ; out of it are the issues of life.—Carlyle

Better not to be at all than not to be noble.—Tennyson.

Pride is at the bottom of all great mistakes.—Ruskin.

Everything that lives, lives not alone nor for itself.—Blake.

What is death, so it be glorious? It is a sunset.—Byron.

A noble aim, faithfully kept, is a noble deed.—Wordsworth.

Only once is it given to live in the world.—Goethe.

No height is so high but you can fall from it.—Alex. Smith.

It is always safe to learn, even from one's enemies.—Colton.

The man who wills it is the man who can.—Senica.

They never fail who die in a great cause.—Byron.

They only the victory win, who have fought the good fight.—W. W. Storey.

It matters not how a man dies, but how he lives.—Dr. Johnson.

The great aim of life is not knowledge but action.—Hexley.

Want of care does more harm than want of knowledge.—Victor Hugo.

"Pis not the whole of life to live, nor all of death to die.—Montgomery.

Through the pass of -" By-and-by " you get to the valley of never.— Geo. Eliot.

Let us fight evil thoughts with good actions.—Vachell.

'Twere better to strive and fail, than never to strive at all.—W. Raleigh.

Defer not till to-morrow to be wise ; to-morrow's sun to thee may never rise.—

Congreve.

————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 20th NOVEMBER, 1916.

——<>——

R. J. McCausland (Morrinsville), Private V. O. Tribe (Trentham), G. W. Primrose 11/8, D. N. West 4/-

(Hamilton), G. E. Charlton 10/- (Tautapere), C. B. Harton 10/- W. C. Hyde 15/- (Nelson), O. Nielson 20/-, J.

Gentles (Wellington), N. Paton (Blenheim), P. C. Watt 10/- (Berhampore), W. Robinson, J. Critchfield 10/-

(Invercargill), G. G. Jackson 10/- (Cross Creek), J. McCaffry (Petone), J. W. Hillary (Opawa), Sec. Lodge

Avon (Christchurch), J. R. Scrimgeour (Ngaio), H. McDougall 15/- (Rangiora), H. A. Goudie

(Whakarewarewa), W. Stevens (Seatoun), A. A. Brown 25/- (Otaki), W. L. Foxcroft 10/- (Tauranga), A. J.

Reynolds 12/6 (Carterton), K. Rohertshaw (Miramar), Geo. Whale 10/- (Oamaru), W. Richardson

(Mangatiria, Westport), R. B. Cole 15/- (Waimiha), R. G. V. Parker (Island Bay), J. Cox (Utiku, Taihape), R.

W. Rasmussen (East Chatton), W. Gardiner (Taumarunui), G. Hinchcliffe, G. Burrows (Clyde), A. Black

(Takapau), J. J. Clark, S. S. Tresider, S. F. Bridgman, A. McKenzie, A. E. Jenkins 8/4 (Dunedin).

(All 7/6 except those noted.)

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

Reports.
———————————————————————————————————————————

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

——————————

SOUTHLAND.

Taringatura, No. 100.—The installation meeting on 15th November, though well attended, scarcely reached

the number of several former years. Still, nearly forty members and about thirty visitors signed on, there

being sixteen P.Ms. as against twenty last year. Formal business occupied the early part of the evening. One

candidate was balloted for, one brother proposed for re-affiliation, and one brother received his M.M.

certificate. Visitors were then received, and the R.W. Prow. G.M., Bro. A. le H. Hoyles, accompanied by

R.W. Bros. W. Smith, Rankin, and Timpany, P.P.G.Ms., and other G.L. officers, were received. R.W. Bro.

Rankin discharged the duties of G.D. of C. The ceremony was carried through without a hitch, reflecting

credit on all those concerned. R.W. Bro. Hoyles acted as I.M., and he was ably assisted by R.W. Bro. Smith,

who addressed the brethren in addition to presenting the W.Ts. in the I.M. Degree; R.W. Bro. Timpany, who

invested and addressed the S.W. (the J.W. nominated having volunteered for active service, that office was

left vacant); the W.Ts. in the several Degrees were presented by W. Bros. W. A. Stout, W.M. Lodge

Southern Cross, No. 9, J. J. Griffiths, I.P.M., Lodge Mataura, No. 174, and Rusden, P.M., Lodge Fortitude,

No. 64. The Antient Charges were read by W. Bro. W. H. Clark. The officers were invested by R.W. Bro.

Smith, W. Bros. Rusden (No. 64), A. N. McGibbon (W.M. Lodge Mataura, No. 174). Apologies for absence

were received from M.W. Bro. M. Thompson, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. Stearns, P.D.G.M., and many other W.

brethren, whose absence was regretted. R.W. Bro. Smith, on behalf of the Lodge, presented to the retiring

Master a handsome P.M.'s jewel. W. Bro. Walker fittingly acknowledged the presentation. Following is a list

of office-bearers :—W.M., Bro. Herbert Beer; I.P.M., W. Bro. D. Walker ; S.W., Bro. S. E. Griffiths ; J.W.

(vacant); D. of C., W. Bro. H. Graham; Treas., W. Bro. G. F. Johnson (almost continuously in office for

thirty years, holding every office from Deacon to W.M.) ; Sec., W. Bro. W. H. Clark (invested for 19th

consecutive year) ; Chaplain, Rev. Bro. D. K. Fisher; S.D., Bro. Geo. Finlay; J.D., Bro. D. F. McLeod; I.G.,

Bro. G. E. Fowler ; Tyler, Bro. J. K. Thomson; S.Ss., W. Bro. Thos. Campbell, Bros. J. C. Clive, Wm.

Stewart, W. McDonald, and P. McIntosh. W. Bro. C. Campbell, of Lodge Waihopai, No. 187, proved an

efficient organist, and contributed in no small measure to the success of the gathering. At the close of the

Lodge meeting, a supper was served in the old garage, adjoining the Elbors Hotel, which had been tastefully

decorated for the occasion. Visitors one and all declared that it was a most excellent repast, reflecting highest

credit on Host and Hostess Clisby. A toast list of moderate length was gone through, the speeches being of a

high order, and the vocal and other contributions worthy of the occasion. A most enjoyable reunion

terminated somewhere near the "we sma’oors," so the visitors were all in ample time for the early morning

trains and their return journey to larger centres of population.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

OTAGO.

Oamaru Kil., No. 82.—The installation meeting of the above Lodge was held in Oamaru on 19th October,

and was well attended by a large number of members and visitors. The R.W. Prov.G.M. of Otago, Bro. A.

W. Flett, was present, although fairly busy with the same function in his southern Lodges, and having also

attended the installations of Lodges Kurow and Ngapara within the previous month. Three Lodges were

represented by the W.Ms. and officers, while brethren from ten other Lodges signed the appearance book,

one brother hailing from the United States. The ceremony was well and ably conducted by the retiring

Master, W. Bro. D. Herron, and P.M., Bro. W. Miller; W. Bro. D. Miller, D. of C., assisting very effectively

in his usual efficient manner. Bro. William Charles Dickson was duly installed as W.M., and afterwards

invested his officers in a very happy and impressive style. The following brethren were invested in their

several offices as under :—S.W., Bro. J. Crombie; J.W., Bro. D. A. Bee; Treas., Bro. G. M. Procter, P.M. ;

Sec., Bro. J. M. Brown, P.M. ; Chaplain, Bro. W. Miller, P.M. ; D. of C., Bro. D. Miller, P.M.; S.D., Bro. W.

Brown; J.D., Bro. J. McLaren ; I.G., Bro. G. Puttick ; Organist, Bro. J. B. Fergusson ; Ss., Bros. Hanibleton,

Harvey, Toner, Farnelton, and Rudduck; Tyler, Bro. A. M. Tait. The R.W. Prov.G.M. addressed the W.M.,

and presented the Charter and B. of C. and Bye-laws. W. Bro. G. M. Procter addressed the Wardens, and W.

Bro. W. Waddell the brethren. The R.W. Prov.G.M., having given congratulations and good wishes, with his

G. officers retired. A brother having been proposed for affiliation completed the business, and the Lodge was

closed at an early hour. The brethren then adjourned to the refectory, where a very modest repast was spread,

the Lodge having very wisely decided to reduce the refreshment expenses, which will result in saving from

£9 to £10 for the G.L. War Fund. Yet every one seemed happy, and enjoyed themselves in listening to some

good speeches on Masonic matters, some excellent songs and recitations and good music. The R.W.

Prov.G.M. was very impressive in his remarks on the duty of contributing to the War Fund, and expressed

himself as particularly pleased with the course the Lodge had adopted. Nearly the wee short hour ayont the

twal closed a very enjoyable evening.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Oceanic, No. 154.—The annual meeting for the installation of the W.M. and the investiture of officers was

held in the Masonic Hall, St. Kilda, on 18th October. The Lodge was opened at 4 p.m., and before the

ordinary business was dealt with votes of condolence and sympathy were passed to Bros. T. M. Rallingshaw

(the. Lodge Auditor), W. H. Dunnage and J. Dawson (foundation members of the Lodge), all of whom had

recently had sons killed whilst serving their King and country somewhere in France. The Lodge having been

opened in the Third Degree, R.W. Bro. A. Flett, Prov.G.M., was received. A B. of I.M. was then opened, and

Bro. Arthur J. Cannon was installed in the chair for the ensuing year. He having invested the I.P.M., W. Bro.

A. McKenzie, the Board was closed and the Lodge called off. On resuming in the evening, there was a very

large attendance of both members and visitors. R.W. Bro. D. Cooke, Dist.G.M. South S.C., and his officers,

were present, and apologies for non-attendance were received from R.W. Bro. T. S. Graham, D.G.M., E.C.,

and R.W. Bro. J. Scott, P.G.W., I.C., both of whom were on the sick list. The R.W. Prov.G.M. and the

present and past G.L. officers having been received and honoured, W. Bro. J. Coachman was invested as

D.M. The usual proclamations and salutes were given, the W.Ts. presented, and the Lodge was closed to the

E.A. Degrees. W. Bro. H. G. Deal, G.Sd.B., invested Bro. A. Walker as S.W. and Bro. W. H. Mills as J.W.

The newly invested Wardens were addressed by R.W. Bro. J. Quaile, G.J.W. V.W. Bro. Rev. G. H. O.

Fenton, G. Chaplain, then invested the remaining officers as follows :— Treas., Bro. A. J. C. Runciman;

Sec., W. Bro. W. Jacobsen, P.G.S.; S.D., Bro. H. F. Harris; J.D., Bro. M. T. Pierce; D. of C., W. Bro. H. W.

S. Hellyer ; D. of Music, W. Bro. J. D. Cameron ; Organist, Bro. C. G. Titchener ; I.G., Bro. W. H. Riddell ;

Chaplain, Bro. Rev. A. L. Cantell ; Tyler, Bro. C. Tilleyshort; Ss., Bros. R. Mercer (senior), C. T. Lee, J. R.

Ellis and A. Couchman. W. Bro. A. Allan, P.G.S., addresesd the brethren. R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, P.Prov.

G.M. then presented W. Bro. A. McKenzie, I.P.M., with a P.M.'s jewel, and in so doing referred to W. Bro.

McKenzie's services not only during his year as W.M., but since he had joined the Lodge. Oceanic had many

worthy W.Ms., and Bro. McKenzie was not the least of those. His time and energies had always been at the

service of the craft in general and Oceanic in particular, and he well deserved the recognition which the

brethren were giving him. W. Bro. McKenzie thanked R.W. Bro. Stoneham for his remarks, the brethren for

their kindness, and his officers for the way they had supported him during the last twelve months. He did not

intend to relax his interest in his Lodge. After the usual congratulations and greetings the Lodge was closed.

W. Bro. C. W. Lischner, P.G. Supt. of W., acted as G.D. of C. ; W. Bro. J. D. Cameron, D. of Music; and

Bro. G. C. Titchener was at the organ. The installation supper was held in the -St. Kilda Town Hall, and a

couple of enjoyable hours were spent there by the brethren.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—The monthly meeting was held on 7th November, when the W.M., W. Bro. Pearson,

presided over a good attendance, including a fair number of visitors from the City. The Third Degree was

worked, after a considerable amount of business had been disposed of, the W.M. being assisted by W. Bro.

Kiddey (W.M. of Christchurch Lodge), W. Bro. North (W.M. of Concord Lodge), W. Bro. Flavell, P.M., W.

Bro. Hatton, P.M., and Bro. Connal, J.W. A collection on behalf of the "Empty Stocking Fund" was taken

up, and a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, several musical items being given.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The monthly meeting was held at Kaiapoi on 2nd November. There was a good

attendance of members, the W.M., Bro. T. Hoskin, presiding. This was the night fixed for the annual election

of officers, and resulted in most of the officers moving up one step. The degree work was the initiation of

one candidate. Owing to his military duties intervening, this candidate was nearly one month behind, but

hopes to be a M.M. before leaving the Dominion. In the unavoidable absence of the J.W., W. Bro. Stanton

filled that office. The W.M. obligated and continued up to the Secrets. W. Bra. McKeown, of Ashley Lodge,

communicated the Secrets, and the S.W., Bra. Baynon, invested the candidate, after which W. Bro. Stanton

gave the Charge after L W. Bro. Gribble delivered the N.E. Charge, and W. Bro. Stanton explained the R. for

Prep. W. Bro. Kiddey, W.M. of Christchurch Lodge, presented the W.Ts., and W. Bro. Stanton gave the

Final Address. At the request of the W.M., W. Bro. Gribble delivered the Lecture on the 1st T.B. H.G.W.

having been expressed by visiting brethren, the Lodge was closed, and an adjournment made to the refectory,

where an enjoyable and social time was spent. Next meeting being installation night, we expect and hope to

get a record attendance of visitors from the surrounding Lodges.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Lincoln, No. 33.—The regular meeting was held on 7th November in the Lodgeroom, Lincoln; when W.

Bro. W. T. Street made his first appearance in the chair of K.S. The work of the W.M. and his officers was of

a most creditable character, and consisted of the initiation of the Rev. W. B. Scott, of Springston. The W.M.

obligated the candidate and entrusted him with the Secrets of the Degree; the N.E. Charge was delivered by

Bro. W. L. Morgan, J.W. ; the R. for Prep. were explained by W. Bro. A. Cookson, Organist; the W.Ts, were

explained by W. Bro. J. Jackson, Sec. ; and the Final Charge was delivered by Bro. C. P. Agar, S.W. The

claims of the Masonic Red Cross Fund were placed before the brethren, and after discussion a sum was

donated from the Lodge funds and a subscription list was circulated among the brethren. A vote of sympathy

was passed to a brother through bereavement in his family, the brethren standing in silence. H.G.W. were

tendered by Lodges Avon, Ahurewa, and Lincoln. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Concord, No. 39.—The regular monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Papanui, on 25th October,

the W.M. (Bro. North) presiding over a good attendance of brethren and visitors. Three candidates were

elected. V.W. Bro. Bingham attended the meeting as a deputation from the Masonic Red Cross Fund

Committee, and put the claims very clearly and forcibly before members, with the result that £31 7s. 6d. was

promised in the room. This amount is to be subsidised by £20 by Lodge, and it is hoped that after all absent

members have been canvassed that a very much larger sum will be available as Concord's quota. The First

Degree was conferred on one candidate. The W.M., Bro. North, obligated and communicated the Secrets,

Tokens and Words; Bro. Francis, S.W., invested our brother with B. of E.A.F.M. ; the Charge after

Investiture was rendered by W. Bro. Hart, W.M. of Avon Lodge; Bro. Nicholas, J.W., gave the Address in

the N.E.; the R. for Prep. were given by W. Bro. A. H. Hobbs; W. Bro. Kirker, W.M. of Robert Burns Lodge,

presented the W.Ts., while the Final Charge was given by Bro. Francis, S.W. One proposal for affiliation

was received.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.—The monthly meeting was held on 24th October, W. Bro. W. E. Kiddey, W.M.,

presiding. The ritual work was the passing of two brethren to the Second Degree. The candidates were

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

delivered by W. Bro. Bottrell (W.M. of Civic Lodge); the Charge in the S.E. was given by W. Bro. Parkes,

P.M.; the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Hart (W.M. St. Augustine Lodge, No. 4) ; and the Final Charge

was given by W. Bro. Thomas, P.M. The Lodge having been closed in due form, an hour's social intercourse

was enjoyed in the refectory. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Augustine, No. 99.—Owing to the fact that the regular meeting night fell on 8th November, and that being

the centre of the Christchurch Show week, and also owing to the fact that the W.M. and some other officers

of the Lodge desired to be in Christchurch on that date, dispensation was sought to hold our monthly meeting

on the 14th November, and it was granted. A splendid muster of the brethren greeted the W.M. on his

opening the Lodge, the roll being signed by 43, among whom were several representatives of other Lodges,

and, in addition, the W.M. of Lodge St. John, No 1137, E.C., Timaru, accompanied by a retinue of seven of

his P.Ms. and brethren, paid an official visit to No. 99, and was received in due form. The Lodge having

been opened by W. Bro. James Manchester, W.M., a ballot for a new member was taken and was successful.

Bros. John Bird and Arthur Coulbeck were passed to the Third Degree. The work was participated in by the

following officers :—Ob., W. Bro. James Manchester, W.M. ; Exhort., W. Bro. D. Fulton, P.M. ; 1st part

T.H., W. Bro. W. Lee, P.M.; Emblems, W. Bro. H. Ruddenklau, P.M.; Secrets, W. Bro. J. Menzies, P.M. ;

2nd part T.H., T.B., and further Signs, W. Bro. A. J. Hoskins, P.M. W.Ts., W. Bro. Chas. Bateman, S.W.;

Final Charge, W. Bro. Colville, P.M. At the close of the ceremony each of the newly raised brethren was

presented, by the W.M., with the copy of the V.S.L. on which he had been obligated. H.G.W. were tendered

the W.M. by Lodge St. John, No. 1137, E.C., Teviot, No. 418, Caledonian, No. 16, Timaru, No. 196, Harvey,

No. 49, and his own Lodge. Bro. W. Pelvin received his diploma. Several apologies from prominent brethren

were received, and W. Bro. J. Menzies expressed his sincere appreciation of the kind note of sympathy

received by him from the Lodge on the occasion of his recent illness. An adjournment to the refectory

followed, where a very enjoyable "Fourth" was carried out.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Avon, No. 185.—There was a very good attendance of members and visitors at the monthly meeting on 2nd

November, when the First Degree was worked with two initiates. The work was capably done by the officers

of the Lodge. over whom W. Bro. L. B. Hart presided. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Bottrell; the

Charge at the N.E. Corner was delivered by W. Bro. J. E. Hood ; the Charge after I. by W. Bro. Wauchop ;

the R. for Prep. were given by W. Bro. Smith, and the Final Charge by W. Bro. Cummings. It was

announced that the Lodge and private donations to the Red Cross Fund would total about £50. A very bright

hour was spent subsequently in the refectory.

————————

NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH.

Victory, No. 40.—This Lodge held its regular meeting on 9th November, there being a large attendance of

brethren. W. Bro. J. L. Ching presided. Southern Star, E.C., paid an official visit. An interesting letter was

read from Bro. G. C. McLaren, who is now in France, and it gave some idea of the vast work carried out by

the field hospitals. Dr. H. E. A. Washbourn was elected to membership, and W. Bro. C. B. Hatton (Lodge

Waterloo) and Bro. W. H. Thompson (Lodge Hinemoa, S.C.) were proposed for affiliation. W. Bro. Oxley

was invested as Lodge Lecturer. The work was the raising of three brethren, the following P.Ms. assisting in

the ceremony :—R.W. Bro. W. Moyes, W. Bros. J. A. Orsman, B. H. Moller, R. W. Stiles, H. A. Hobbs, and

E. W. Rudman. It was reported that a further contribution had been forwarded to the War Benevolent Fund,

making the total contribution to date £82 10s. The W.M. announced that at the December meeting he would

initiate Dr. H. E. A. Washbourn and Messrs. H. C. Hill and W. W. Snodgrass. The Lodge membership has

now reached 109.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Forest, No. 116.—The installation of Bro. A. D. Syder as W.M. and the investiture of officers took place at

Wakefield on 15th November, in the presence of a large number of brethren. Southern Star and Victory

Lodges were well represented, and visitors were present from several district Lodges. R.W. Bro. C. H. Mills,

P.G.M. (Blenheim), was the installing officer, W. Bro. E. Dimant D. of C., and Bro. G. A. Edmonds acted as

Organist. The following officers were invested by W. Bros. H. J. Harris, R. W. Stiles, and E. W. Rudman :—

I.P.M., W. Bro. H. Franklyn ; S.W., Bro. J. R. Gaukrodger; J.W., Bro. H. H. Horner; Treas., Bro. R. W.

Noake; Sec., W. Bro. H. C. Fitzsimmons; Chaplain, W. Bro. W. Thorn; D. of C., W. Bro. W. Cowin; S.D.

Bro. L. O. Baigent ; J.D., Bro. V. N. Granville; I.G., Bro. S.D., H. Price; Tyler, W. Bro. W. G. Syder. R.W.

Bro. Mayes and W. Bros. J. A. Orsman, W. H. Short, A. W. Oxley, and J. L. Ching assisted in the ceremony.

Following the installation, the usual banquet was held, and Masonic and loyal toasts were honoured.

————————

HAWKES BAY.

Victoria, No. 21.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Napier, on 7th November. Bro. H.

Hill, W.M., presided, there being a very satisfactory attendance. The degree work was the initiation of two

candidates. The W.M. was very ably assisted in the ceremonial as follows :—Ob. and Secrets, W. Bro. H. W.

Whitton ; Investiture, W. Bro. W. A. Wilkie; Charity Charge, W. Bro. Jas. Redshaw, G.S. ; R. for Prep., W.

Bro. W. A. Kirk, I.P.M. ; the W.Ts. were explained by the J.W., Bro. W. G. Jarvis ; and the Final Charge was

delivered by W. Bro. W. A. Wilkie, P.M. The Lodge is now in recess until February, when the W.M. will

open the New Year proceedings with a heavy business paper. Chief among the visitors was W. Bro. Major C.

Clifton, who is on sick leave. Bro. Clifton first saw the light in Victoria Lodge, and was delighted to renew

old acquaintances after a long absence. After H.G.W. from the visitors the Lodge was closed, and the

brethren adjourned to the refectory, where a very enjoyable hour was passed, the Lodge orchestra rendering

several fine items, and W. Bro. Major Clifton gave a very interesting address on his experience while serving

at the front, and was very attentively listened to by the brethren. The major has been wounded twice, and is

in the unique position of having read his obituary notice in the press.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 66.—The ordinary meeting was held on the 19th October, when there was a very fair

attendance. The Rev. W. Bro. Robertshaw delivered an address, the title of which was, "What is Masonry?"

The lecture was very interesting, and was earnestly listened to by the brethren, by whom it was very much

appreciated. At the close of the lecture, the W.M., W. Bro. Davidson, thanked W. Bro. Robertshaw, and in

doing so hoped that on some future occasion another would be given. W. Bro. Robertshaw thanked the

W.M., and said he was pleased at all times to do anything he could in the interest of the Lodge, and Masonry

in general. Some discussion took place during the evening re the method of nomination and election of

officers, and after the matter was fully gone into it was decided to allow the present method to remain. The

Lodge at the present time is in a good sound financial position, having a large roll of members, and it is

pleasing to note that the work is carried on in a very satisfactory manner and in the best of harmony. After

the Lodge closed a pleasant time was spent in the refectory in song and story, the meeting finishing up at

about 11 p.m.

The monthly meeting was held on 16th November, the W.M., W. Bro. J. C. Davidson, presiding. The

attendance was not up to the usual standard, and were it not for the fact that the majority of those who were

present had participated in the visit to Ormondville earlier in the week, one might have been inclined to the

belief that the hospitality of Lodge Lion had incapacitated quite a number of Rawhiti-ites. The absentees

with however, have to tender some other excuse for having failed to attend to their Masonic duties. W. Bro.

Snell, I.P.M., in accordance with notice given at the previous monthly meeting, moved that Bros. F. G.

Cowper and Chas. Baddeley be elected life members of the Lodge, and, in the course of his remarks, stated

that it was particularly fitting that this matter should be before the Lodge on the twenty-sixth anniversary of

the Lodge. Both Bro. Cowper and Bro. Baddeley are Charter members of Rawhiti Lodge, and Bro. Cowper

was its first J.W. Bro. Baddeley was for many years its Treasurer. The motion was carried unanimously. Bro.

W. Dobson gave an interesting and instructive address on the "First Twelve Landmarks of the Order." This

was the second occasion of recent years when such an address has been delivered, V.W. Bro. Robertshawe,

P.G.C., at the previous monthly meeting having lectured on the subject of “What is Freemasonry?" Bro.

Dobson, in his opening remarks, expressed the opinion that Lodges devoted too much time to the making of

Masons, and little or no attention to holding them after admission, and he advocated Lodges devoting, say,

half the year to Degree work, and the remainder of the term to instructive lectures on many of the important,

subjects which came well within the scope of Masonic investigation. W. Bro. Snell, in proposing a. vote of

thanks to Bro. Dobson for the comprehensive address, expressed the hope that he would deal with the

remainder of the Landmarks on a future occasion.—[Lodge Correspondent.'

————————

TARANAKI.

Moa, No. 110.—An emergency meeting was held on 3rd November to pass two brethren at present in camp

at Trentham. The W.M. was assisted by W. Bros. Hamerton, Young, and Branch, and. Bro. Petch, I.G., in the

various addresses. The 1st and 2nd T.Bs. were explained by W. Bros: Winfield and Lightfoot. W. Bro.

Winfield has a happy and interesting method of connecting the 1st T.B. with the actual ornaments and

furniture of the Lodge in a way that adds to the Masonic education of candidates and even to the more

experienced Craftsman.

The regular meeting, held on 10th November, was of exceptional interest in that W. Bro. Ernest Olsen and

Bro. Wm. Hogg, who assisted in the work, appeared as soldiers of the King. The business was an initiation,

and in addition to the brethren already mentioned, the W.M. had the assistance of W. Bros. Winfield and de

Launay, S.W., and Bro. Hutton, J.D., in the addresses. The candidate was a popular bank official, and this

fact, coupled with the intimation that the meeting would be attended by Bros. Olsen and Hogg, then in

Inglewood on final leave, resulted in an extra large attendance, although the usual attendance at our meetings

of late has been a source of gratification to the W.M. In the "Fourth" our military brethren had a toast to

themselves. During the course of their replies, both brethren touched on their camp experiences in an

interesting and amusing manner, the "Little Corporal" (Bro. Hogg) being in particularly good form. We are

not divulging a military or Masonic secret when we record the fact that his tunic had to be specially

prepared—stock sizes not being equal to the size and extent of the work the military tailor had to engage

upon. Bro. Hogg also delivered the W.Ts. of this Degree in his usual happy manner. Both the brethren have

been active and regular members of the Lodge, and our best wishes go with them as they depart to serve their

King and Empire.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

RUAPEHU.

Huia, No. 171.—The monthly meeting was held on the 2nd November, which proved to be the middle of the

annual show, the result being, as in former years, that many brethren were unavoidably absent. Nevertheless,

a fair number of visitors were present. The ceremonial work consisted of the passing of a brother, the work

being apportioned as follows :— Obligation, W. Bro. Spooner, I.P.M. ; Secrets and Signs, W. Bro.Smith;

S.E. Corner, W. Bro. Stone; W.Ts., W. Bro. Spooner and the two Wardens conjointly; Final Charge, W. Bro.

MacLean, I.P.M., Lodge Rangitira. The Acting-W.M. welcomed back Bros. Lachlan and Anderson, and the

Hon. Dr. MacNab, each of the first-named having passed through a severe illness, evidence of which was

plainly visible in their altered appearance. The W.M. invited Dr. MacNab to deliver an address, a task which

was easily performed by our distinguished brother, and the address proving to be most interesting to all

assembled. At the conclusion of the meeting, the unanimous verdict of all present was that the Lodge work

more than compensated for the loss of attendance which was due to the many counter-attractions prevailing

at the time.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

WELLINGTON.

Ulster, No. 62.—The regular meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Petone, on 15th November. There

was a good attendance of members and visitors. The principal business was passing two E.As. to the F.C.

Degree, the ceremony being performed by the W.M., Bro. R. Jenkins, assisted by W. Bro. J. C. Davis. The

address in the S.E. was given by the J.D., Bro. P. Macbride; the W.Ts. were presented by the J.W., Bro. A.

G. Steffensen; and the Final Charge was given by the S.W., Bro. T. Mather. The Lecture on the 2nd T.B. was

given by W. Bro. R. Colquitt. One candidate was proposed for initiation. The meeting was over at an early

hour, and the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where the visitors were entertained and the usual toasts

honoured.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tararua, No. 67.—Our installation night, the 10th ult., was sufficiently fine, after forty-eight hours' rain, to

enable brethren and visitors to attend in fair strength. R.W. Bro. Ellison, Prov.G.M., supported by W. Bro.

Preston, G.Sd.B., and W. Bro. Veitch, G.S.D., represented G.L. Lodge tyled punctually at 6.30 p.m., W. Bro.

Bacon, W.M., presiding A candidate was elected, and a proposal for affiliation was received. Lodge being

without a regular Tyler during the year (W.M. and J.W. attending to Tyler's refectory duties), it was decided

that the amount of the usual fees be divided equally for the G.L. War Fund and Tararua Benevolent Fund.

Visitors were admitted, and the Prov.G.M. and G.L. officers were received with due honours. W. Bro.

Stevenson (Lodge Ruahine) and W. Bro. J. H. Griffith (Tararua) acted as S.D. and J.D. respectively. W. Bro.

Preston, G.Sd.B., and W. Bro. Veitch, G.S.D., were then conducted to S.W. and J.W. chairs respectively, W.

Bro. G. C. Miller (Tararua), acting as I.G. W. Bro. Hewat, D. of C., presented the Master-elect, who took the

usual Ob. A. B. of I.Ms. was opened, and Bro. Riddell was installed in the Chair of K.S., the W.Ts. being

given by the Prov.G.M. The M.Ms. were readmitted, the regular calls being given by Trumpeter Bro. H.

Mills, and Proclamations by the D. of C. The W.Ts. in each degree were given respectively by W. Bro.

McFarlane (W.M„ Ruahine), W. Bro. W. White Scott (Tararua), and W. Bro. Renment (W.M., Eketahuna).

The W.M. presented the Charter, Constitution and By-laws, and invested the officers, who were : S.W., Bro.

R. V. King; J.W., Bro. A. A. Vaughan; Chaplain, W. Bro. J. H. Griffith; Tress., W. Bro. A. Ross ; Sec., W.

Bro. Geo. Moore; S.D., Bro. P. Burrell; J.D., Bro. W. R. Richardson; I.G., Bro. G. D. H. Smith; Tyler, Bro.

C. Stokes; D.M., W. Bro. W. White-Scott; D. of C., W. Bro. T. F. Hewat. The address to the W.M. was

given by W. Bro. Veitch, G.S.D. ; to the Wardens by W. Bro. Preston, G.Sd.B. ; and to the brethren by W.

Bro. Hewat, D. of C. The collection for the W. and O. and A.M. Fund amounted to £4 4s. W. Bro. Bacon

called on the Prov.G.M. to present W. Bro. W. White-Scott, D.M., with a handsome P.M.'s jewel. The

Prov.G.M., in making the presentation, pointed out that to be elected as D.M. was a special favour of the

Lodge, and showed that the holder of the office was one who had given specially good service in the Lodge.

H.G.W. were then given by the Prov.G.M. and visitors, and the Lodge was closed. An adjournment was

made to a ball a little distance away to partake of refreshment and to honour loyal toasts. The toast of

"brethren at the front " by W. Bro. Stevenson was something to listen to, as also was the reply by W. Bro.

Major Clifton, who, being in Napier, received orders (which are always received when not wanted—a way

they have in the Army) the day before to report next afternoon (installation day) at Masterton at 3 p.m.,

which, as a good soldier, he did, and then made a bid for Pahiatua by next train, arriving in time to attend

most of the ceremonies. Specially pleasing comments were made by the Installing Master and .W. Bro.

Veitch on the very efficient manner in which W. Bro. Hewat, D. of C., carried out his duties. We hear that

W. Bro. Major Clifton has been passed as fit again for active service. Much appreciated musical items were

rendered by our quartette. The Tyler's toast concluded a pleasant evening.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Otaki, No. 72.—The installation meeting was held on 8th November, when Bro. W. Quayle was placed in

the Chair of K.S. As usual, the rain teemed down, but the weather did not prevent the Foxton and Levin

brethren from being present in good numbers, and a car load came through from Palmerston, The train

conveying G.L. officers broke down at Te Horo, so a car went down and brought them to Otaki. The

ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. Ellison, Prov.G.M., assisted by R.W. Bro. Nash, P.G.S.W. ; W. Bro.

O. Neilson, P.G.S.D. ; W. Bro. Veitch, G.S.D. ; and W. Bro. Rod, P.G.D., who acted as D. of C. The W.Ts.

were presented by W. Bro. Berry (Te Awahou), W. Bro. Bagrie (Horowhenua), and W. Bro. Roe, P.M. R.W.

Bro. Nash invested the officers. W. Bro. Veitch (in the absence of M.W. Bro. Williams, P.G.M., through

indisposition) addressed the W.M., W. Bro. Rod addressed the Wardens, and W. Bro. McIntyre addressed

the brethren. The Prov.G.M., on behalf of the Lodge, presented W. Bro. Simeon, P.G.S.D., with an

Organist's jewel. The collection on behalf of the Annuity Fund amounted to £2 13s. 6d. An adjournment was

made to the refectory, when the usual toasts were honoured. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held on 2nd November, Bro. A. A. Whitelaw, W.M.,

presiding over a very large attendance of members and visitors. The latter included R.W. Bro. Ellison,

Prov.G.M., accompanied by W. Bro. Firth, P.G.S.D., and W. Bro. C. W. Neilson, G.S. Official visits were

also paid by the W.Ms: of Lodges Waterloo, Hinemoa, Waiwhetu, and Whetu Kairangi. A letter of sympathy

was sent to the mother of Bro. A. G. Stirrat, who was killed in action in France. Two ballots for initiation

were taken and proved clear. Bro. J. S. Bladin, of Lodge Waiwhetu, was raised to the Third Degree, the

ceremony being performed by the W.M., assisted by W. Bro. Neilson, P.M. Lodge Hinemoa, who gave the

Exhort. ; W. Bro. Alexander, Signs; W. Bro. Harrap, 15 F.C. and T.H. ; Bro. Sexton, W.Ts. ; and Bro.

Lenzini, J.W., Final Charge. After apologies and H.G.W. had been received, the Lodge was closed and a

quiet time spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The first meeting after the installation was held on 8th November, the newly-installed

officers for the year occupying the chairs, and by the very excellent working which was displayed by them it

augurs well for the coming year, and the new W.M. can well congratulate himself on the way they all carried

out the duties allotted to them. It was a great pity the night turned out so stormy, as it rather tended to make

the attendance small, but for all that there was a fair attendance, including a good number from the Camp

under the wing of W. Bro. Williams, camp representative, who, before the formal business commenced,

made a presentation to the Lodge on behalf of the brethren in Camp of a handsome D. of C. collar and jewel,

as a slight token of the appreciation of those brethren in Camp who had visited Waiwhetu Lodge and been

received in such a brotherly manner and always made so welcome. W. Bro. Leighton thanked W. Bro.

Williams and the brethren in the Camp for their handsome present, and for the kindness and thoughtfulness

which had prompted them to give it. The work was the raising of three brethren, one of this Lodge, one on

behalf of Lodge Waitaki, and one from Lodge Oamaru Kil. W. Bro. Leighton obligated the candidates and

was assisted in the rest of the ceremony of raising by W. Bro. Guiness and R.W. Bro. Peterkin; W. Bro.

Rishworth communicated the Signs, Tokens and Words ; Bro. Teagh invested ; and W. Bro. Williams gave

the Address after Investiture ; W. Bro. Hobbs gave the T.H. ; and Bro. Teagle presented the W.Ts. R.W. Bro.

Peterkin presented the Oamaru brethren with their M.M. certificates, and W. Bro. Compton presented the

V.S.L. on which each of the candidates had been obligated. The Lodge was then closed in the Third and

Second Degrees. The Auditors then presented their report and balance-sheet, and, on the motion of the

I.P.M., it was received and adopted. One candidate was proposed for initiation. A pleasant hour was spent in

the refectory, enlivened by a splendid programme of toasts and items arranged by the S.W., who must be

congratulated on his first night in that chair.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

Otago, No. 7 and Maori, No. 28.—The joint installation of these Chapters took place in the Masonic Hall,

St. Kilda, on 1st November. Shortly after 8 p.m., M.E. Comp. T. Ross, G.Z., accompanied by G. Chapter

officers, was received and saluted, and the work of installing the six different Principals was at once

proceeded with. R.E. Comp. E. Lane, G. Supt. of Otago, was also in attendance, and to him was allotted the

major portion of the ceremonial proceedings. E. Comp. G. T. Lumsden now occupies the chair of Z. of

Otago, No. 7, and E. Comp. T. W. O'Driscoll that of the Maori Chapter. E. Comp. A. Stoneham (Otago), and

E. Comp. J. G. Ross (Maori), are in the chairs of H. respectively, and E. Comp. A. McKenzie (Otago), and E.

Comp. C. F. J. Bell (Maori), that of 3rd Prin. J. M.E. Comp. A. Clothier, P.G.Z., invested the various

remaining officers in the two Chapters. During the evening T.E. Comp. J. W. Raffills was presented by the

Maori Chapter with an I.P.Z.'s jewel. The presentation was made by R.E. Comp. E. Lane. In the case of

Otago Chapter, their 1st Prin. for the year just ended was V.E. Comp. R. V. Parker, who, not long after being

installed to that position, proceeded to the front, and is at the present time serving his King and Country.

During his absence, V.E. Comp. H. C. Anderson has filled the chair on every possible occasion, and, as a

slight form of Otago's recognition of his services during that time, he was unanimously elected to represent

the Chapter at the next annual convocation of Sup.G. Chapter. V.E. Comp. W. Miller, G.D. of C.,

accompanied the G. Supt. from Oamaru, and carried out his duties in a very able manner. Altogether, this,

the third joint installation of these Chapters, was a very memorable one, and that a good deal of interest is

shown in Capitular Freemasonry in these quarters was evinced in the refectory later in the evening. A very

hearty invitation has been received from the G. Supt. to visit the "White City," and, probably early next year,

I shall be able to forward you a full account of our trip, and the reception received from our companions in

Oamaru.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Manawatu, No. 11.—The usual meeting was held on the 16th November. The Chapter having been opened

by the 1st Prin., V.E. Comp. Stone, it was adjourned for the purpose of working the Mark Degree. Bro.

Stone, W.M.M., presided, and with his officers conferred the Degree upon the candidate. The following

brethren held the various offices, and creditably supported the W.M.M. :—S.W. Bro. Gallichan; J.W., Bro.

Hewlett; S.D., W. Bro. Smith; J.D., Bro. Canton; M.O., Bro. Oliver ; S.O., Bro. Tucker; .J.O., Bro. Cook;

and I.G., Bro. Boothman. The Observation was given by the W.M.M. ; the Signs by Bro. Dawick, P.M.M.

W.Ts., Bro. Gallichan; Final Charge, W. Bro. Grove. The Chapter having been resumed, the P.Z., R.W. Bro.

Dawiek, in moving a motion of sympathy on behalf of the Chapter, referred to the loss sustained by the death

of one of the Charter members, viz., T.E. Comp. W. Rutherford, and in addition to the foregoing referred to

the loss sustained by Comp. Holben, who recently bid us farewell before going to offer his services to the

Imperial Authorities, and who dul? arrived in the Old Land just in time to witness the death of his only son,

Lieut. Holben, who passed away from wounds received somewhere in France. The motion was carried in

silence. One brother was proposed for membership, which ended a good meeting. In conclusion, a meed of

praise is due to our S.E., who is a tower of strength to the Chapter. H.G.W. were offered by the visitors, and

light refreshments were partaken of in the ante-room.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Victory, No. 12.—The installation of this Chapter took place on Wednesday, 26th October, when E.

Com_p., W. Widdowson was installed as 1st Prin., E. Comp. A. W. Oxley as 2nd Prin., and E. Comp. E. W.

Rudman as 3rd Prin. The installation was conducted by M.E. Comp. T. Porritt, 0. Supt. Wellington District,

assisted by M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, G.S.E., of Wellington, and V.E. Comps. W. Moyes, G.S., B. H.

Moller, P.G.D.C., and S. F. Bolton, and E. Comp. A. W. Oxley. There was a large attendance of companions.

Other officers invested were as follows :—S.E., V.E. Comp. R. W. Stiles; S.N., V.E. Comp. A. E. Cresswell;

Treas., V.E. Comp. B. H. Moller ; let Soj., E. Comp. L. Reynolds; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. C. M. Whelan ; 3rd

Soj., E. Comp. A. G. Shrimpton; Organist, E. Comp. G. A. Edmonds ; Ss., E. Comps. H. H. Edwards and F.

A. Thompson ; Janitor, E. Comp. C. W. Moore. V.E. Comp. J. L. Ching took the I.M.M. Degree. After the

evening ceremony there were the usual banquet and loyal and Masonic toasts.

On the afternoon of the same day an Ark Mariners' Lodge and Council of Knights of the East and West was

opened and presided over by M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, who was assisted in the various offices and work

by M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt, V.E. Camps. B. H. Moller, A. W. Oxley, J. A. Orsman, R. W. Styles, and E.

Comp. Widdowson. Degrees were conferred upon the following companions :—V.E. Comps. A. E.

Cresswell, W. H. Short, Comps. H. H. Edwards, G. A. Edmonds, F. A. Thompson, E. J. Winter, F. K

Durbridge, and C. L. Harvey.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Wanganui, No. 23.—The regular monthly meeting was held on the 2nd ult., when there was a very good

attendance of members, and several visitors, including Comps. Longshere and Robb, Otago Kil. Two

companions were duly admitted to the E.M. Degree, and the ceremony was very ably conducted by V.E.

Comp. Runnerstrum and his officers. R.E. Comp. Palmer gave the lecture in his usual impressive manner to

the candidates. A very agreeable time was spent in the refectory. As showing the enthusiasm of the Chapter,

it was decided to hold a special emergency meeting on the second Thursday in December, in order to put

through several waiting candidates. The Chapter will then go into recess till February.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]

—————————

A. AND A. RITE.

Lathom, No. 93.—The annual festival took place on 21st November, in the Masonic Hall, Wanganui, Bro.

G. S. Gordon, W.W.S., presiding. The attendance was the largest at this Rite in Wanganui for many years.

The visitors included Ill. and P. Bro. Surgeon-General R. S. F. Henderson, M.W.S. of Wellington Chapter,

No. 91, Ill. and P. Bro. Rev. T. Porritt, and Ill. and P. Bro. H. J. Williams, all of the 30 deg. E. and P. Bro.

Mather, of the Wellington Chapter, was also present. One brother was perfected to the 18th deg., the M.W.

being assisted by his officers and Ill. and P. Bros. Henderson and Porritt. On the conclusion of the Rite of

Perfection, Ill. Bro. Henderson assumed the chair and installed E. and P. Bro. Dr. Hatherly, P.M.W.S., into

the chair of the Chapter, the latter afterwards appointing the following officers :—Prelate, Bro. J. Ashwell,

P.M.W.S. ; 1st General, Bro. E. E. Porritt; 2nd General, Bro. N. Roulston; Treas., Bro. D. McFarlane,

P.M.W.S. ; Recorder, Bro. G. W. Palmer, P.M.W.S. ; D. of C., Bro. A. A. Gower, P.M.W.S. ; Marshall, Bro.

A. G. Muir; Raphael, Bro. F. G. Beaven ; Herald, Bro. J. C. Greenwood; C. of G., Bro. Runnerstrum ; O.G.,

Bro. J. K. Revell. The concluding charge was delivered by Ill. and P. Bro. Rev. T. Porritt. The M.W.S.

delivered a brief address, and, after the closing of the Chapter, an hour was spent in the refectory, where the

usual toasts were honoured.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

THE NEW YEAR.

. . . " Toll ye the church bel ls sad and

low, And tread sof tly and speak low, For

the Old Year l ies a -dying."

So wrote Tennyson. But the Old Year is dead, and there will be

few to sorrow over its demise, with all its awful memories.

Another year of " Hell broke loose," of rivers of blood, of

ferocious, wholesale murder, demonstrating the cheapness of

human life, and creating a new era of white slavery unparalleled

Supplement to “The New Zealand Craftsman”

Supplement to “The New Zealand Craftsman”