A MUCI-DNEEDED AMENDMENT.

IT has been the custom with the G.L. of England in the past, and

it is so with quite a number of jurisdictions at the present time, to

limit by law the number of persons who may be admitted into

Freemasonry in one day to five.. But quite recently that G.L.

amended its law and narrowed the. limitation to two, and has

also included the conferral-me of the other degrees in the

operation of the amended law, which now reads as follows:—

" No Lodge shall initiate or confer any one degree on more "

than two candidates on the same day unless by a dispensation

" from the G.M. or the Prov, of Dist. G.M.

A MUCH-NEEDED AMENDMENT.

———<>———

IT has been the custom with the G.L. of England in the past, and it is so with quite a number of jurisdictions

at the present time, to limit by law the number of persons who may be admitted into Freemasonry in one day

to five.. But quite recently that G.L. amended its law and narrowed the limitation to two, and has also

included the conferrance of the other degrees in the operation of the amended law, which now reads as

follows:—

"No Lodge shall initiate or confer any one degree on more than two candidates on the same day unless

by a dispensation from the G.M. or the Prov, of Dist. G.M.

"The application for such dispensation shall specify the names of candidates, the degree to be

conferred, and the special circumstances under which the application is made. The dispensation if

granted shall also state the names of the candidates and the degree to be conferred."

The alteration has not been favourably received by a section of the English brethren, and some foreign

Masonic journals have offered unfavourable comment. So far, as the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN is concerned, the new

departure has our warmest approval, and we hope at some time that it may be subject to local application.

* * * * * *

Presumably the intention is to put the brake on the system of railroading persons into Freemasonry, which is

frequently the subject of some bitter complaint from our American brethren. Whether five persons are

admitted by initiation en globo or separately is not very material, and the only comment that can be applied

is "wholesale admissions." Those brethren who have witnessed the initiation of a group of five have

invariably conceded that the complete absence of solemnity was the price paid for the wholesale admission.

To others who have endured a five-fold repetition of the same ceremony it has been an utter weariness to the

flesh, which would be loth to submit to a second trial.

* * * * * *

And exactly the same argument will apply to the conferrance of the degrees, only more so. Consider for one

moment the beautiful language of the M.M. Degree, the poetic pleading, the sad and mournful lessons, and

the solemnity of the whole environment, which culminates in joy and rejoicing when the candidate's eyes are

raised to the rising of the Heavenly Star. Let the whole ceremony pass in review, and then contemplate the

possibility, if you have never witnessed the actuality, of five participants in this otherwise beautiful

phantasm, in which life, death and resurrection are so powerfully depicted. We speak from experience on this

point, having passed through the ordeal in a company of five, and the principal impression it left on our mind

was that of absurd burlesque, which nearly terminated our association with the fraternity.

* * * * * *

We have no knowledge of the purpose our English brethren had in view in submitting this reform,

consequently out assumption may be quite wide of the mark, But we feel that the primary motives were to

conserve the interests of the Craft in an attempt to more closely guard the portals. In any case, that must be—

if not wholly—still a partial effect, and for that reason alone, were there none other, we give it our hearty

support. Only last month we were impelled to write on the subject of too free and hasty admissions, which

we era very sure are detrimental to the best interests of the Craft. Therefore we hail with the utmost

satisfaction a movement by any Masonic body that is calculated to exert a restraining influence on these

whose ill-judged enthusiasm requires repression.

* * * * * *

It has been pointed out that the new regulations, if adopted in New Zealand, might be prejudicial in some

instances, as, for example, in the opening of a new Lodge. Personally we fail to recognise any necessity in

such a Case; indeed, we quite fail to see how such procedure could be consummated under existing laws. But

in any case the amended law of the G.L. of England provides that, should exceptional circumstances arise,

they may be met by a special dispensation, should the surrounding circumstances appear to warrant such a

course in the eyes of the M.W. or Prov. G.M. When the time comes for the G,L of New Zealand to resume

normal business, we hope that a similar procedure may be submitted for the consideration of the members of

that body.

————————

THE BI-CENTENTARY OF THE G.L. OF ENGLAND.

———<>———

We regret to notice that the report of the B. of G.P., which was to have been presented at the annual

communication of the G.L. of Now Zealand, does not make even a passing reference to the bicentenary of

the G.L. of England, which will be celebrated on 23rd, 24th and 25th June next. We prefer to think that the

omission is accidental; otherwise it reflects on the Masonic courtesy of a G.L. which is in fraternal

communication with the G.L. of England, and which has the honour of having the M.W.G.M. of England as

its Patron.

At first sight it might be assumed that the matter is one for the consideration and action alone of the G.L.

affected. But it little reflection will show that the event is worthy of general celebration, especially as it has a

world-wide significance. A fraternal journal thus comments on the matter : "The bicentenary celebration of

the foundation of the G.L. of England, which will be held next year, will not be a merely local event. It will

be the two hundredth anniversary of the birth of the first G.L. of Freemasons—the parent of every other G.L.

in the world. There was established in 1717 a foundation that can never be shaken. The growth of Masonry

since that date has been phenomenal. Many private Lodges m England now boast a membership larger than

the total membership of that parent G.L. There is not a Lodge in any of the great cities of the United States

that has a lesser membership."

* * * * * *

We are further told that "America intends to celebrate the anniversary," and one writer says "She could not

celebrate it in a more fitting way, cement the bonds of fraternity more firmly, or add greater lustre to the

highest Masonic ideals, than by uniting all her forces in the inauguration of a Supreme G.L. of the United

States." With that phase of the question it is not our business to offer comment, as the position and

government, of the United States of America differs from that of any other part of the world; and what may -

be suited to the requirements of American Freemasons might not find much favour in other countries, But

the fact remains that America will share in the bi-centenary jubilation, thus indicating its co-partnership in

Freemasonry and its fraternal feeling with the G.L. of England.

* * * * * *

Twenty-seven years ago a majority of the Lodges of New Zealand were branches of the English Masonic

tree, and to-day there are still off-shoots of that good old tree working side by side and hand in hand with

them New Zealand brethren. Thus, if it is moot and proper for American brethren to take part in the great

demonstration, how much more fitting should it be for New Zealand, with its close association with the G.L.

of England, the warm feeling of its members, and whose sympathies—so far as the older brethren are

concerned—have never been alienated, to assist in celebrating so momentous a Masonic occasion. The form

of demonstration is of little moment, so long as it is pronounced, A special Lodge service, followed by a

modest festival, would probably meet the case, But, in our opinion, G.L. should promote the object, fix the

date, and announce the programme. It would cause but little trouble, no expense, would constitute a distinct

epoch in Now Zealand Masonic history, and would indicate to our English .brethren that we were not

unmindful of the claims of courtesy or fraternal affection.

————————

ANNUAL COMMUNICATION OF THE G.L. OF

NEW ZEALAND.

———<>———

Consequent on the strike of the coalminers of the Dominion and the curtailment of the railway service, the

M.W.G.M., after conferring by telegraph with the members of the B. of GP, non-resident in Auckland,

whose replies were practically unanimous, has decided to allow the annual communication, fixed for 2nd

May, to lapse. The difficulty in connection with the election of new G.L. officers may be overcome by the

present G. officers resigning, when the vacancies can be filled by new appointments being made under Rule

23, B. of C., which provides that—

" Should any vacancy occur in any office of G,L. (other than that of G.M.), or in either of the

Boards, by death, resignation, or from any other cause, the G.M. may appoint another brother to fill

the vacant office until the next ensuing communication of G,L., when a duly qualified brother shall

be appointed or elected, as the case may be,"

The M.W.G,M, and the B. of G.P. are to be congratulated on their promptness in dealing with a very difficult

question, and the fact that brethren who were consulted outside Auckland were unanimous in their

concurrence in the proposal indicates an appreciation of the action taken, It is stated that, if necessary, a

special communication can be convened when the present crisis is over. But as the derangement of railway

traffic arises from a two-fold source—" war necessities" as well as the miners' cessation of work—it does not

appear probable at present that relief in travelling is likely to be given until the close of the war.

With our brethren in Southland we have every sympathy. They have been actively engaged for some months

preparing to give visiting brethren a warm welcome, and from personal experience we know it would have

been of the warmest character. We hope that the poignant disappointment which they will suffer will be

borne in mind by their brethren, and it might not be difficult for some other district in the not distant future to

forego any rights or privileges it may have in favour of Invercargill.

[Since the foregoing was put in type, we have received an explanatory letter from the M.W.G.Sec., which is

published in another column—ED.]

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

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

LAST month two well-known companions of the R.A, Degree journeyed from Wellington to Stratford in the

interests of the Capitular branch of Freemasonry. The journey occupied ten hours and a half; and in the

evening the travellers met the local companions in the Masonic Hall, and assisted to prepare it far the

ceremonies to be performed the following clay. These were commenced at 2 p.m., and eight degrees were

conferred by 8.30. At 7.30 the Chapter installation ceremony took place, followed, of course, by a festive

function. Next day the pair harked back to Palmerston North, and conferred the side degrees upon nine

candidates, At 3.30 a.m, the following day they entrained for Wellington, arriving at 6.30, after a most

strenuous time and a big mental and physical effort, which was not lessened from the fact that one

companion is in his eightieth year and this other in his seventieth.

TWO Lodges in England claim to have every member in the Army. One is situated in London, and the other

in Hounslow, Middlesex.

DETROIT has six lodges with a membership of upwards of 1,000. Palestine heads the list with a membership

of close upon 2,500.

LAST month Stratford Lodge celebrated its twenty-fifth annniversary. Only three of the original founders

were present. M.W. Bro. H J. Williams, who constituted the Lodge, and some years subsequently

consecrated the hall, was unable to accept the invitation to be present. At the regular meeting, to be held this

month, several of the older members have been invited to become reminiscent.

THE "Masonic Sun" is the authority for the statement that the net gain in the membership of the various

G.Ls, in the United States for the past year, as each G.L. computes it, was 97,700. There are 48 G.Ls., 14,610

constituent Lodges, and 1,630,267 members. This estimate is made up from the most reliable statistics

available.

THE G.M. of England has intimated that he will preside at an Especial G.L. Communication, to be held in the

Royal Albert Hall, London, on Saturday, 23rd June, 1917, in celebration of the bicentenary of the foundation

of the G.L. of England. It is expected that His Royal Highness will also be present at a special Masonic

service in the same building on the morning of Sunday, 24th June, St. John Baptist's Day in Harvest, that

being the 200th anniversary of the first meeting of G.L. in St. Paul's Churchyard in 1717.—" Masonic Sun."

AT a recent meeting of Lodge Eketahuna Bro. Greathead referred to the cordial reception he had received

from Lodge Clutha during his visit south.

BRO. OLSON, P.M., of Lodge Moa, has kindly forwarded us for publication a group picture which included a

number of Craftsmen and others. But the fact of Bro, Olson being "at sea" at the time precluded him from

knowing that such publication might be an infringement of the War Regulations. And as the N.Z.

CRAFTSMAN is loyal, if nothing else, it would not willingly be guilty of such an offence. Still, we thank Bro.

Olson.

THE following is the syllabus of lectures and work for the Masters' Lodge, No. 161, for 1917: "The First

Degree," R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, P.Prov.G.M.; "The Ethics of Freemasonry," R.W. Bro. Boyd; "Little Things

that Count," R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick; "Hiram Abif and the Masonic Legend," V.W. Bro. R. Hawcridge; "The

Work of other G.Ls. in 1916," W. Bro. D. Harris Hastings; "The Installation Degree Exemplified," the R.W.

Prov.G.M., and P.Prov.G.Ms. Clark, Watts and Stoneham ; illustrated lecture—"Travels in the Orient,"

W.W. Bro. H. O. Fenton ; lecture, W. Bro. A. Jolly ; "The Egyptian Book of the Dead," R.W. Bro. T. Ross.

Questions every night.

MAJOR H. E. AVERY, D.S.O.; who was recently appointed D.A.Q.M.G. to the New Zealand Division in

France, is a member of the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, No. 106. He left for the front with the Main

Body, and was among the last to leave on the evacuation of Anzac.

LODGE MANGONUI has removed its habitat from the name town to Kaitaia, and the first meeting in the new

location, which was also the annual meeting, was held on 8th February. Owing to gales, severe floods and

blocked roads, G. officers were prevented from being present. However, there was a very successful

meeting, and. W. Bro. Watts efficiently carried out the duties of installing Master.

THE EDITOR of the CRAFTSMAN had some hopes of being able to get away to Rotorua during the present

week to undergo a course of medical treatment, but at the time of writing the coal strike would appear to

interpose an insuperable difficulty.

THE annual meeting of St. Mark Lodge, Carterton, took place on the 28th ult., when W. Bro. R. Stout was

installed for a second term.

ACTING under instruction from the M.E. 1st G. Prin. of the Sup. G.RA. Chapter of New Zealand, M.E.

Comp. H. J. Williams journeyed to Westport on 22nd March for the purpose of installing RE. Comp. J. H.

Harkness as D.G.Z, Considering the inclement weather, the attendance was excellent. At the conclusion of

the installation the Chapter worked the Mark Degree, and subsequently, by special request, M.E. Comp.

Williams delivered an address.

AT the meeting of Lodge United Service held on 28th March the following comprised the agenda Two

ballots for affiliation, two proposals for membership, raising four brethren. It is clearly a case of business as

usual, in spite of the war.

We have before us the balance-sheet of Manawatu Kil. Lodge for the year ended 31st March, which shows

excellent results. The balance of assets over liabilities is £1,573 1s. 3d. During the past year £150 was paid

off the mortgage, which now stands at £636 19s., and as the Government valuation of the hall property is

£2,028, a very safe margin remains. As the dues received amounted to £301 10s. Od., the working expenses

of the Lodge came well within legitimate revenue.

WE have to thank the Government Statistician for a copy of the "Year Book " for 1916. As usual it is replete

with information, and reflects the utmost credit on Mr. Malcolm Fraser and his department.

THE M.W.G.M. of England, the Duke of Connaught, has accepted the appointment of Colonel-in-Chief of

the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.

————————

CANTERBURY CHIPS.

———<>———

A record in long-distance travelling to attend an installation must surely have been established on 12th April,

in connection with the initiation into the Chair of K,S., at Rakaia, of Bro. G. Edwards. R.W. Bro. J. Thornton

and his officers of Prov. G.L. motored down from Christchurch (some 40 miles) and thought they were doing

fairly well, but their performance was completely outclassed by the appearance of a car load of brethren from

Kurow, in North Otago, who had come 147 miles to be present, The party left Kurow before 9 o'clock in the

morning, and reached their destination at 5 o'clock. Throughout the whole journey the rain came down in

torrents, but it was futile against the warmth of Masonic fellowship possessed by these brethren. The

explanation of this long journey was that Bro. Edwards had formerly been stationed at Kurow, and had won

such gulden opinions that his former brethren took this method of honouring him.

* * * * * *

In spite of the very adverse weather conditions, the installation at Rakaia was of a happy nature. The

gathering of brethren and visitors was large, and seemed to auger a revival of Masonry in the district. Owing

to a disorganised train service, because of the holidays, the opening was delayed from 7 p.m. to 8.15, but

thereafter there was no hitch in the programme. The time spent in the "fourth" was very pleasant, a

presentation to Bro. May of a special character, causing a very great deal of amusement. Rumour has it that

this presentation was made by the inimitable Prov.G.Sec and that it had something to do with the W.T.'s of

an infant.; What is certain, however, and not rumour, is that the collection in aid of widows and orphans was

double that of last year,— a very healthy sign for the good of Freemasonry.

* * * * * *

The committee appointed by the Avon Lodge to consider the celebration of its 21st anniversary, in July next,

reported no, the last meeting that the following procedure be-followed : (1) That the July meeting be opened

at 7 p.m,, to permit of an early adjournment to the refectory, where a suitable programme of toasts and

speeches suitable to the occasion might be gone through; (2) that a ladies' evening be held in July; and (3)

that a banner be procured by members and presented to the Lodge at the July meeting, to be a permanent

memorial of the occasion. The report was unanimously adopted.

* * * * * *

A visit paid to the Methven Lodge by the Robert Bums Lodge, in order to work the Third Degree, proved to

be a very pleasant and profitable outing. The support accorded W. Bro. T. Kirker was good.

* * * * * *

The Prov. Grand Lodge paid an official visit to Lodge Concord, on 28th March, when the Third Degree was

worked by P.Ms. of the Lodge, five of whom were past officers of Prov.G.L.

* * * * * *

R.W. Bro, C. J. Ronald.son, P.Prov.G.M. of Southland, has now taken up his residence in Christchurch as

manager of the National Bank, and has been given a cordial welcome to Masonic circles by all from the

R.W. Prov.G.M., Bro. J. Thornton downwards, R.W. Bro. Ronaldson was present at the St. Augustine

Lodge's installation.

* * * * * *

Do many brethren know what the W.T.'s of the "Fourth" Degree are? W. Bro, W. G. Cookson enlightened

the members of Avon Lodge as to their nature in the social hour following their last meeting. This

composition is a humorous catalogue of the virtues and uses and moral significance of the knife, fork and

glass, and the explanation by the W. Bro. was greeted by successional bursts of laughter.

* * * * * *

The R.W. Prov. G.M., the genial and popular Bro. John Thornton, is becoming concerned in his mind as to

whether he is an evil genius casting a malevolent influence over all with whom he comes in contact. Here is

his record : Installation at Timm—new W.M. smashed up in a few days' time by a motor cycle; installation at

Pareora—W.M. meets disaster in a motor car smash ; installation at Pleasant Point—new Master of Koranga,

in proceeding thereto, suffers another motor mishap. Accordingly, the R.W. Bro. at Pleasant Point most

solemnly warns the new Master to have nothing whatever to do with motor cars in any shape or form—and

finds subsequently that he is the local garage proprietor!

* * * * * *

But the latest mishap is unfortunately of a somewhat serious character. The Prov.G,M, installed W. Bro. F.

R. Flatman into the Chair of K.S., at Geraldine, on 21st March last, and within a few days he was seriously

injured about the head by an explosion in the petrol tank—in fact, it is reported that possibly the sight of one

eye may be affected. W. Bro. Flatman is the chairman of the local Road Board, and a most popular man in

the district, so that great sympathy is extended to him in his misfortune.

* * * * * *

A very witty retort has to be placed to the credit of W. Bro. Mitchell, of Christchurch Lodge. As brethren

were leaving the last meeting of the Prov. Board of General Purposes, W. Bro. Mitchell said, jokingly, that

he was about to go to the front with the Gordon Highlanders. W. Bro. Nordon, who is not unremotely

connected with the gentlemen of Judea, responded : " Well, as I am a countryman of yours, I will also join

the Gordon Highlanders." "That will be very nice," said Bro. Mitchell, "the only difference between us will

be that between the hard and the soft G." (The Jordan Highlanders.)

* * * * * *

V.W. Bro. Julius, of Akaroa, Prov. G. Chaplain, sends the following curious paragraph from a Home

journal:—"The Bishop of Chelmsford has recently shared a strange experience with members of the

Springfield Lodge of Freemasons. The brethren, desiring to hold their annual meeting, were unable to gain

admission to the Church Hall, which they use as a "Temple" on such occasions, as it was in the possession of

the military. No other building was available, and accordingly they obtained a special dispensation and

assembled in H.M. Prison, Springfield. The Bishop, who has been a Freemason for many years, was invested

as S.W. of the Lodge, which is composed mainly of residents in the parish of Springfield, in which also his

Episcopal residence is situated. It is probably the first time in the history of the craft that brethren have met

for a Lodge within the walls of a convict prison."

* * * * * *

To celebrate the opening of the new Masonic Temple (which has been such a source of benefit to

Christchurch Masonry) a social was held on Monday, 16th April. There was a large attendance of brethren

and ladies, and a very pleasant evening was spent. The first part of the evening was spent in the Temple,

when several musical selections were given by brethren and three speeches made. The speakers were R.W.

Bro. S. C. Bingham, chairman of the Masonic Hall Company, M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, P.G.M., and W. Bro,

N. L. Macbeth, D.D.G.M. At 9 o'clock an adjournment was made to the refectory, where, after light

refreshments had been handed round, a further musical programme was given. Those who contributed to the

musical side of the evening were Bros. C. H, Schwartz, E. T. Lawn, W. Trewern, W. Joll, and M. Orchard, in

addition to a very capable choir, W. Bro. Dr. Crooke acted as accompanist, and W. Bro. A. J. Merton,

P.D.S.O., as musical director. Recitations by Miss Lissack were very acceptably received.

* * * * * *

The social was of a very happy nature, and the statement of R.W. Bro, Bingham, that it is hoped to hold

similar evenings in the future was received with pleasure. There is, of course, a business side to these

evenings, as the RM. Bro. explained, that it was hoped by their means to largely reduce the burden of debt

hanging over the hall. In his capacity of chairman of directors, R.W. Bro. Bingham detailed the history of the

erection of the hall, and said that it was doing much for Masonry in Christchurch,

* * * * * *

"Duty" was the theme of a very fine speech by M. W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, P.G.M. That building was, he said,

the result of a sense of duty amongst the brethren of the city. He referred to the fact that the idea of such a

hall, long held in times of peace, had only been consummated in days of war, and was then consummated, he

believed, because of the high sense of duty and sacrifice present amongst them. It was this sense of duty

which was a cardinal point in the British character and would carry them to success in this war. He drew a

contrast between Napoleon, with his appeals to glory and Nelson and Wellington, with their calls to duty.

The same spirit of duty was existent to-day, and the way in which millions of men and women were

responding to its call gave us great hope for the future. Freemasons professed the highest ideals, and he hold

it to be their bounden duty in the present time to assist in the struggle against extravagance. They stood for

the liberty of the subject, but it might be that in their devotion to the liberty of the subject they might loosen

the value of discipline. It was the lack of discipline which had destroyed Greece and Rome, and we should

see that in these days it did not take hold of this Empire and lead it to ruin.

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

A LODGE HISTORY.

———<>———

For some time past, M.W. Bro. C. J. W. Griffiths, P.G.M., has been engaged in compiling a history of the

Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, No, 106, of which he has been a member since its foundation in 1869,

being initiated on the day after its consecration. M.W. Bro. Griffiths has now brought the record up to 1913,

and his intention is to have the fifty years completed in time for the jubilee of the Lodge in 1919. Our

esteemed M. W. Bro. has done a great deal for Lodge Unanimity during his long connection with it, and the

history of its first fifty years promises to constitute the keystone of his labour of love. The earnest wish of

every member is that he may in vouchsafed health and strength to celebrate his Masonic jubilee among the

brethren by whom he is held in such high regard.

————————

A MASTERS' LODGE—ITS PURPOSE AND

CONSTITUTION.

———<>———

[Paper read by V.W. BRO. HAWCRIDGE, P.G.O., at the installation meeting of the Masters'

Lodge, No. 161, in lieu of the customary address to the brethren.]

————

I have been asked by the R.W. the Master of the Lodge to read a short paper upon the aims and objects of a

Masters' Lodge. It is not my purpose to weary you with a lengthy dissertation on the bye-laws or the

organisation of such a Lodge, nor to deliver a series of platitudes on the moral and intellectual purposes

which a Masters' Lodge may servo. I have endeavoured shortly to set forth the case for the claim to existence

for such an institution, to define its sphere of action, and to suggest what appears to me an ideal membership

for the Lodge, and it may be enabled to discharge the functions which naturally pertain to it.

A Masters' Lodge has two main claims for existence :

1. To provide an outlet for the energies of Master Masons who have occupied the Chair of K.S.

2. To form a body of educated opinion and ripe experience for the training of W.Ms., and for their
reference upon difficult points of Masonic etiquette, jurisprudence, procedure, ritual and

research.

Speaking purely from the viewpoint of Craft Masonry, it appears pitiable that, just when a Mason, by his

accumulated experiences as subordinate officer, principal officer, W.M., and I.P.M., has become a

magnificent, asset to the Craft, he should cease to have the opportunity to exorcise his ripe and cultivated

powers for the benefit of Free Masonry. This is strictly true, foe Grand Lodge Office falls to the

comparatively very few, and the opportunities for service to one's own Lodge, other than as secretary, or

possibly organist, are trivial.

But, as a member of a Masters' Lodge, the mellow expert has the opportunity to meet his peers—actually

upon the level—to change experiences, to shed the light of his own specialised knowledge, and to sun

himself in the like accumulated wisdom of his fellow members.

If he be specially energetic, he may fight his battles o'er again by passing through the offices of the Masters'

Lodge, this time being not anxious to attain the chief chair, but rather desirous of approaching that eminence

by as many steps as may be possible that the pleasure may be a lingering sweetness long drawn out,"

It may be urged that supplemented by the Higher Degrees, Capitular Freemasonry supplies all that a Past

Master can need in this way, but we only need look at the R.W.M. of this Lodge, a Past Grand Principal of

Supreme Chapter and an initiate in many higher mysteries, and also bear in mind that very many of his

officers and members have held high positions in Red Masonry, to realise that the further one dips into the

mystic lore, the deeper his desire to live in Masonry and to seek in such a Lodge as this to add to one's store

of Masonic knowledge and to bask in the luxury of an atmosphere of Masonic Culture.

A well-known business aphorism runs " If you want anything done instantly, take it to the busiest man you

can think of," and it is these Masons whom enthusiasm and love for Masonry have led through the higher

paths of the Ancient Art, who have founded this Masters' Lodge and kept aloft its head through its many

vicissitudes.

There is then no conflict between a Masters' Lodge and the Higher Masonry, on the contrary, they are the

complement of each other. What the Master learns in this Lodge will stimulate his interest in every bye-path

of Freemasonry, while the Higher Knowledge will only convince the Past Master of the absolute necessity of

such an institution.

We may look for a moment then upon the second claim for the existence of the Masters' Lodge. "To form a

body of educated opinion and ripe experience for the training of W.Ms. and for their reference upon difficult

points of Masonic etiquette, jurisprudence, procedure, ritual and research."

It may be considered at first glance that this suggests somewhat a trespass upon the domain of Grand Lodge;

but such a view would be very superficial. Grand Lodge exists for the governance of Lodges, just as the

Lodge exists for the guidance of its members. Grand Lodge governs the united interests of the Lodges in

their dealings with each other and with like associations of Lodges. The welfare of the Lodges and of

Freemasonry, as represented by the members under its control; the unification of the aims and conduct of the

Lodges ; and the proper management of the common funds created for charitable and other purposes—these

occupy the whole energies of Grand Lodge, so that although the final arbiter within its jurisdiction in all

Masonic matters other than research, the Rulers would welcome the thorough ventilation of any subject by

such a responsible body of opinion, before its submission to them for adjudication.

It may be taken for granted then that the existence of a Masters' Lodge, as an educative body, in any district,

would be most welcome to the Grand Lodge controlling that territory.

But there is one weak feature in the frame-work of a Masters' Lodge. In an Association of P.Ms. for the

education and assistance of ruling W.Ms., it would be is plain absurdity to limit the membership to P.Ms. It

would not be enough even to admit W.Ms. to membership. An ideal arrangement would appear to be to have

three classes of members :—the P.M., the W.M., and the Warden. The Warden being, as it were, the E.A. of

the Masters' Lodge; the W.M., the Craftsman.; and the P.M., the M.M. With such a constitution, a Masters'

Lodge could serve its purpose with the greatest advantage to the Craft, while it would be difficult to

overestimate the value of the opportunity afforded to the Wardens even more than to the W.Ms. of

discovering how varied an assortment of pitfalls lie in the path of the representative of K.S., and how best to

avoid or surmount them.

From the P.M.'s point of view, it should be remembered that from the aspirant is most likely to spring the

question which proves the open sesame to the treasure eaves of Masonic Lore. No questions have interested

me so much during the past year as the apparently trivial, if not foolish, " Who was Jachin?" and " Who was

Hiram Abif?" These questions have opened up such a vast field for research and debate, that I at least admit

that I have been greatly indebted to the propounders of the queries. But this is because it is my special

domain. Similar pleasures await the W. brethren who are learned in etiquette, jurisprudence, procedure in the

ritual, or the stage management of our ceremonies, if only we can accustom the- brethren to lay their doubts

and difficulties, however trifling they may appear before the Masters' Lodge.

Let me urge then, the enlargement of the interest of the Lodge by the inclusion of Wardens, Let me also urge

upon the members of the Masters' Lodge the importance of regular attendance and, once within the Lodge,

the equal importance of entering into any debate on Masonic questions, candidly exposing to the convocation

any desire they may have for information upon any subject pertaining to the Craft, any doubts they may

entertain as to the soundness or truth of the Masonic point of view or any misgiving as to historic accuracy in

the Masonic claim or narrative.

So shall our Lodge flourish, serving a useful and, therefore, a high purpose in, the maintenance of that great

beacon of civilisation which crowns the edifice whereat countless generations of Freemasons have toiled,

striving to make it perfect to the glory of the Great Architect, that it may shed its glorious cheering beams

upon that poor humanity, which scarred by innumerable conflicts, yet toils ever higher until it shall unite

itself in perfect charity with the Divine Purpose.

————————

TOOLS EGYPTIANS USED.

———<>———

UNEARTHED BY A SCIENTIST AND SAID TO BE

MORE THAN 40,000 YEARS OLD,

————

Stone implements and household tools, estimated to be 40,000 years old, forming part of a collection owned

by Meremptah, son and successor to Rameses the Great, 1,300 years before Christ, have been unearthed in

the prehistoric monarch's palace at Memphis, ancient capital of Egypt.

In a full report Dr. Fisher, of Philadelphia, describes wanderings through the spacious halls of the great

palace that for centuries lay buried in ancient Memphis. Gold ornaments, scarabs, vessels of various kinds

and vases were found intact, just as they must have been when the lords of those days departed,

Many of the relics found, says Dr. Fisher, date back to the Stone Age. Traces of a fire that must have ravaged

the palace are found on every side, according to the archaeologist,— " Masonic Sun."

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

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

The G.L. of Sweden was formed in 1760 and has now an aggregate membership of 14,811.

* * *
Three-fourths of the present Congress of the United States is composed of members of the Masonic Order.

* * *
Chicago has 120 Lodges with all aggregate membership of more than 50,000 members.

* * *
In Johannesburg, South Africa, the fees for the degrees in Masonry are 150 dollars.

* * *
The G.L. of Netherlands has thirty-two Lodges in South Africa, all of which are said to be good, healthy,

progressive Lodges.

* * *
Masonry is stronger in Brazil than in any other South American country, there being 506 lodges with an

aggregate membership of 52,912.

* * *
The G.L. of Porto Rico now has forty constitutional Lodges and about 1,600 members.

* * *
Every Mason is his brother's keeper, and his Masonry is guaged by the manner in which he performs that

duty.

* * *
The G.L. of Denmark has jurisdiction over twelve Lodges, with a total membership of 6,000.

* * *
There are 11,811 Master Masons in Sweden, and the Lodges of that country are reported as being in a very

healthy condition.

* * *
There is in existence to-day a constitution of Ancient Operative Masons of Torgan in Saxony, dated in 1462,

thirty years before America was discovered.

* * *
New South Wales has 260 Lodges and a total membership of 21,502.

* * *
Cuba has ninety-two Lodges, with a total membership of 5,183. Besides the Craft is growing gradually in

Cuba, as well as elsewhere.

* * *
Seattle's new 200,000 dollar Masonic temple was finished up recently and dedicated in regular form to the

satisfaction of many thousand Masons of Seattle and the State of Washington.

* * *
The first legitimate Masonic Lodge in the Philippines was opened in 1762 by British troops at the time of the

invasion due to the war between Spain and England. In 1898 the Philippines passed under control of the

United States and Masonry came to its own. To the North Dakota volunteers belong the credit of establishing

the first Lodge under American rule.

* * *
A temple was completed in Cairo, Egypt, last year for the use of the English Lodges of Masonry in that

country.

* * *
A Glasgow, Scotland, paper says that there is an association which has existed for nearly 900 years. Such is

the length of days achieved by Glasgow St. John Masonic Lodge. It received its charter of incorporation

from Malcolm II., King of Scotland, as far back as the early part of the Eleventh Century.

* * *
Recently in going over the records of Hiram Lodge No. 40, Raleigh, N.C., it was discovered that the

communication opened on the evening of 17th April, 1865, the night that the news was sent broadcast that

President Lincoln had been assassinated., had never been officially closed. So on the evening of 17th

January, 1917—fifty-two years later—it was closed in due form by the same Master, John Nichols, who is

now eighty-three years old. Brother Nichols was placed in the East on the latter occasion to especially

perform that part of his work that had so long remained unfinished. Certainly a very distinguished honour,

* * *
The oldest Lodge in Virginia is Richmond, No. 10, and was instituted 28th December, 1780. A good

substantial and commodious hall or temple was built in 1785, which was used strictly for Masonic purposes

for more than a century.

* * *
In a little case, the wood of which was taken from Mount of Olives, are a number of Masonic' jewels which

have become corroded with age. These jewels are the relics of a crusader and were found in the grave of a

Knight Templar. They were discovered by an archaeologist near the embankment of an ancient temple from

which the Templars took their name, and were supposed to have been buried there during the eighth century.

Among the jewels is a large cross set in pearls, showing that the deceased Mason must at one time have been

a member of much importance. An ancient Mason's maul, used by Egyptian operative Masons more than

4,000 years ago, is another relic considered to be very valuable. The maul is still in perfect condition. It was

found by James T. Dennis while he was directing excavations at Thebes several years ago. Among the

possessions is an ancient plub-bob, which was found under the ruins of the Temple Coum-Mumbers, Egypt.

This Temple was built 400 years before the birth of Moses. It was found by James E. Tyson, and presented to

G.L. of Maryland in 1875. A piece of the original coffin in which George Washington was buried ; a Latin

bible published in 1482, ten years before Columbus discovered America ; several pieces of stone taken from

Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, and various curios are included in the lot.

* * *
"Light" is responsible for the statement that the G.L. of Scotland has chartered a negro Lodge in Panama.

* * *
Any one of the first three officers of a Lodge in Kentucky can resign after being installed.

* * *
Italy requires three years between the first two degrees and two years before a candidate can be raised.

* * *
The Duke of Connaught visited the Freemasons' War Hospital, London. England, on 1st December, and

spoke with several Canadians. This hospital is supported by Masons all over the world, including many who

are interned at Ruhleben.

* * *
In Masonic membership, the countries now at war stand as follows : England, 400,000; Germany, 65,744 ;

France, 40,000 Belgium, 1,250; Italy, 21,200; Hungary, 6,997; Serbia, 90.

* * *
However well qualified a Master may be for discharging the routine duties of his office, unless he

understands the meaning of Masonry and the obligation it imposes ; unless he can grasp the grandeur of its

message of love and sympathy and its spirit of brotherhood, he fails of reaching the standard of the ideal

Master.

* * *
The clothing or regalia of a R.A. Mason in the American system consists of an apron, a scarf of scarlet

velvet, or silk, on which is embroidered or painted, on a blue ground, the words, "Holiness to the Lord"; and

if an officer, a scarlet collar, to which is attached the jewel of his office. The scarf, once universally used, has

been very much abandoned. Every R.A. Mason should also wear at his buttonhole, attached by a scarlet

ribbon, the Jewel of the order.

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

The Pro-G.M., Bro. Lieut.-Col, Lord Ampthill, has been gazetted to command a labour battalion attached to

the Leicester Regiment. In this connection "Vanoc," in a recent issue of the "Referee," writes :—It is also

incredible that under the new Government—God bless it !—some of the actions of the late Government will

be allowed to stand. Here is a case of injustice to a servant of the Crown who has " made good." Lord

Ampthill put in two years' hard work at home with his battalion. He does not drink; has been Viceroy India.

He has been taken from soldiers whom he has trained for war and is transferred to a stranger unit abroad.

Faithful and alert watchmen of the new Government will take note of acts and will see that justice is done to

the servants of the country.—" The Freemason."

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

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

ANNUAL COMMUNICATION ALLOWED TO LAPSE.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—All arrangements for holding the annual communication of G.L. at Invercargill, on

2nd May had been completed, and the usual concession on fares had been granted by the General Manager of

Railways.

Recently, somewhat drastic cutting down of the ordinary railway time table was announced to come into

effect on and after 1st May, but we ascertained that, although G.L. officers and Lodge delegates would be

subjected to considerable delay and inconvenience on their return journey north, it would be quite possible to

make the trip to Invercargill and back to their respective homes. Yesterday, however, still more severe

cutting down of the railway service was announced to come into effect at once, and the prospect of total

cessation of steamer and railway services in the near future was plainly indicated.

Under these circumstances it became necessary to consider whether it would be safe or prudent to make the

trip to Invercargill, and whether the nature of the business to be transacted in G.L. justified the very serious

risk involved. After consultation with the. President of the B. of G.P., the G.Reg. and myself, the G.M.

expressed the opinion that the meeting at Invercargill should not proceed, but he directed me to ascertain the

views of the Dep. G.M., the I.P.G.M., the ten P.G.Ms., the G.Ws. and the Chairman of the Invercargill

Entertainment Committee. Telegrams were sent to these brethren, and replies received from the whole of

them. With one exception they supported the G.M. in proposing to allow the annual communication to lapse,

and M. W. Bro. Nicholson then decided to accept the responsibility as G.M. of acting in the emergency as

the interests of G.L. appeared to demand.

Under instructions from the G.M., I thereupon notified all our Lodges by telegram that the annual

communication would be allowed to lapse, and directed them to inform their representatives.

The G.M. has power under Rule 63 to summon a special communication of G.L. whenever the good of the

Craft in his opinion requires it, and he may exercise that power at a later stage should facilities for travelling

be restored, but the G.M. will obtain the advice of the B. of G.P. before taking action in that direction,

The most curious difficulty resulting from the lapsing of the annual communication will be that G.L. officers

for 1917-18, who were selected under the Scheme of Distribution agreed upon by the B. of G.P., cannot be

formally confirmed in their respective offices as required by G.L. laws.

To meet that difficulty it is proposed to ask the present G.L. officers and members of the Bs. of B. and G.P.

formally to resign, so that vacancies thus created may be filled by the G.M. under Rule 23.

By this means, officers chosen in the ordinary constitutional manner will obtain the positions to which they

are entitled.

The reports of the E.Bs. of G.L. will be sent to all Lodges as usual, but although these cannot be adopted

until G.L. meets, no serious inconvenience will result.

I am directed by the G.M. to express his deep regret that untoward circumstances have prevented our

partaking of the hospitality of our Southland brethren on this occasion, and his grateful recognition of the

loyal and generous spirit displayed by them in meeting their disappointment and regarding the matter only as

it would have affected the interests of their visitors.— Yours fraternally, MALCOLM NICOL, G.Sec.

Auckland, 20th April, 1917.

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

THE ACACIA.

———<>———

Masonic writers and Masons generally are so much accustomed, when speaking of the "Evergreen Sprig," to

designate it by the wrong word, that we feel assured they will pardon us for reminding them of their error. It

frequently arises from carelessness, and perhaps not unfrequently from ignorance; for though, as a fraternity,

Masons are as intelligent and well informed as any other class of the community, they are not all scholars.

The acacia referred to in our ceremonies is the Mimosa Nilotica, of Linnaeus. It is a small shrub, and

anciently grew in great abundance in the neighbourhood of Jerusalem. Cassia is a very different plant, and

did not grow about Jerusalem. One species of it is a native of Egypt and both Indies, and another of Persia

and Arabia. Cassia is also the name of a species of Laurus, the bark of which usually passes under the name

of cinnamon. Mackey, in his Lexicon, says that, "according to the Jewish law, no interments were permitted

within the walls of the city, and it was unlawful for the cohens or priests to pass over a grave; it therefore

became necessary to place marks wherever a dead body bad been interred, to enable them to avoid it. For this

purpose the Acacia was used." Malte-Brun, in his description of Egypt, says : " With respect to the

mummies, some are placed in wooden cases shaped like the human body, round which leaves and flowers of

the Acacia are often found." The Greek word "axaxia" (acacia) signifies "innocence, or the freedom from

sin." The proper word that Masons use is "Acacia," and not "Cassia."—" Scottish Rite Bulletin."

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

VISIT TO AKAROA.

———<>———

AVON LODGE "ON THE LOOSE."

————

(By a Scribe who wasn't there.)

————

I am compiling this account under difficulties. I was nimble to be a member of the party, and so must rely

upon the various versions of the happenings supplied me by divers brethren of the group of twenty who

made the trip on Friday, 13th April. These one and all returned full of fishy matter-literally and

metaphorically— but even after discounting some of their stories it does scorn to have been a trip to "beat the

band." From first to last they revelled in flounders. It was flounders here, flounders there, flounders

everywhere, until in self defence I simply had to point out the utter unreasonableness of asking anyone to

write about flounders without giving him one. I strengthened my position by the simple ultimatum— no

OBITUARY.

41. __

W, BRO. JULIUS ALBERTI, AGED 85.

The Lodge of Otago, No. 7, Dunedin, lost our of their
elderly and much esteemed brethren on 16th March. IV.
Bro. Julius Alberti had been a member of No. 7 foe 27
years, and bad always taken an interest in his own Lodge
as well as doing everything possible to help young
Lodges. He passed away peacefully at his residence at the
ripe age of 85 years, and leaves a widow (74 years) to
mourn his loss. .They were married in 1863. There wa s no
family. Though W. Bro, Alberti was an Italian, and his
English was somewhat broken, it was wonderful how well
he mastered our ritual and ceremonies, nd the delight it
gave him to take part in our work. Tie made a study of
Freemasonry in all its aspects, and endeavoured
to faithfully live up to its principles and ideals. For
some years he acted as Preceptor to Lodge of Otago, No. 7, and
riod.ge 'Maori, No. 105, Ravensbourne.

___________ •

GRUBR-On 23rd March, 1917, at his late residence, 70,
London Street, Lyttelton, James Grubb, Master
Shipwright, in his 64th year.

The above notice 'will convey the news that in the death
of our late Bro. James Grubb, the members of the Canter -
bury Kil. have lost one of the oldest of their members, and
one to whom the members are much indebted for the
present position and prosperity of the Lodge.

.Our late brother was •a native of Lyttelton, and the
second son of the late Mr. John Gmbh, who arrived in
.Lyttelton previous to the advent of the first four ships.
He received his education at what was then called the
Scotch High School, presided over by the Into Rev, 3.
D. Ferguson; after leaving school, he served under his
father, learning the -trade of a shipwright, completing his
course at Dundee. On returning to New Zealand he took
over his father's business,. and for the last 35 years was
master shipwright for the Union Co. at Lyttelton, He
took an active part in all matters affecting the welfare of
Lyttelton, entering the .Borough Council in 1895, again
in 1898, and was elected Mayor in 1902, iu which year
the Borough Look over the Gas Works. His connection
with the Canterbury Kil., No. 585 S.C., dates from its
foundation, as our late brother was one of the first
initiates, joining with his father on the same date in
December, 1875. He was in due course elected to office,
and for many years remained in harness, working nobly,
and often at personal sacrifice to himself, for the welfare
of his Lodge. The present Lodge room stands as a me-
anento of his efforts, in conjunction with his father, who
acted as Treasurer for many years. He served the office
of R.W.M. for the years 1881-83-87-90-93, a record of
which any brother may be proud. In 1883 the Dist.G.
Lodge of Canterbury was erected with the late Rev,
James Hill as Dist.G. M., and here also our brother occu -
pied prominent positions, ranking as P.G.D.W. Ln 1890
the Lodge joined the N.Z. Constitution, taking its present
No. 23, and for many years our brother took an ac tive
part in its proceedings, attaining the rank of P.G.D. Our
worthy brother was senior P.M. of his Lodge, and, .
although for the last few years failing health prevented
him from taking an active part in Lodge, work, his heart
was always with his Lodge.

In public and private life he was much respected, and
he will be greatly missed by all, more especially by those
connected with the shipping.

Bro. GrUbb lost his wife twelve years ago, and he leaves
a family of two sons and five daughters. Both of his sons
have served their country loyally, the. eldest being
wounded at the Somme, and the second, who was at the
landing at Gallipoli, has since been invalided home.

flounder, no report— and the bluff won. I enjoyed the flounder (beautifully cooked by the secretary last

night). This morning I fulfil my obligations.

Welt the ostensible reason for the outing was the working of the third degree for Phoenix Lodge, but I am

inclined to think that the real motif of many was merely flounder. The motor-cars stood the test well except

that the secretary's alleged "express" was continually holding up the procession. (The driver claims

otherwise, but that yarn is obviously "fishy.") W. Bro. J. Kerridge, V. W. Bro, Rev. Julius, and all the

officers and brethren of Phoenix who were available, gave the visitors the heartiest of greetings, and

promised them the best of times— a promise only too well fulfilled. The R.W. Prov. G.M. Bro. J. Thornton

accompanied the party in his private capacity, and after W. Bro. L. B. Hart and his officers had been received

and installed in their chairs, he was received. The working of the degree was carried out in a most impressive

and capable manner, the officers being W.M. Bro. Hart; I.P.M., W. Bro. J. Hood; Chaplain, W. Bro. W. G

Cookson; S.W., Bro. W. E. Scott; J.W. Bro. S. K. Bassett; S,D., Bro. H. Hatch; J.D., Bro. J. W. Hillary ; I.G.,

Bro. F. W. Cooper ; D.C., Bro. B. Falck; Treas., Bro. H. F. Stevens. The charges were given as follow :— C.

after I., Bro, Hatch; Apron Charge, W. Bro. Hood; T.H., W. Bro. W. G. Cookson; F., S., and Ss., W. Bro. A.

Cookson; W.Ts., W. Bro. Hart; and the Final Charge by R.W. Bro. P. Thornton.

On turning from labour to refreshment, the spirit of fellowship enjoyed full sway. The different accounts of

this "fourth" all stress the plentitude of flounder. Indeed, I am credibly informed that there were literally

baths full of flounders in readiness for the visitors. As in one car there were five men who totalled over 70

stone in dead weight, these preparations were not amiss. By my Masonic vow I am obliged to believe the

reports of my brethren, but to account for the disappearance of the multitude of fish I must take the view that

instead of drinking the toasts the brethren ate them in flounders! Acting on that assumption, I shall now

proceed to report the toast list. After duly honouring the King and the Craft, W. Bro, Taylor called upon the

brethren to eat a flounder in honour of W. Bro. Hart, about whom he said many things which caused the

brethren to reach hurriedly for the salt cellars! Not having been allowed to eat this toned of founder W. Bro.

Hart was perhaps a trifle peckish, and so was not unduly long in his reply. A smaller flounder was then

served round with which to honour the fortitude with which the candidate had endured the evening. This was

easily disposed of, but as the natives desired not to unduly tax their visitors all at once they took the next

round on themselves by eating a flounder to "Avon Lodge." (This gave the visitors a fine spell.) The oratory,

which served as sauce in this case, was supplied by W. Bro. Julius and Bro. W. E. Scott. Refreshed by their

spell, the brethren of Avon then insisted on honouring Phoenix Lodge in similar fashion, and succeeded in

extracting from W. Bro. Kerridge a promise to bring a "team" to Avon's birthday party in July next.

At a little before midnight the electric light, owing to the shortage of water, failed ; but thanks to his fish diet,

which has long been recommended as a brain food, W. Bro. Hart had foreseen this, and arranged for the

candles from the E.N. and S. to be brought in. Under these novel conditions a "fifth" was entered upon. As

the supply of fish was still apparently unexhausted, W. Bro. Hart begged the brethren to have one with him;

and the response was creditable to the valour of all concerned. Joking aside, however, it may be recorded that

brethren and visitors enjoyed one of the most outstanding evenings in their memory, and departed homeward

in good time fit and ready for the morrow's doings.

And what doings there were on the morrow. I quail before the recital of them. They were overwhelmingly

great. Inspired by the vitality of the air and their own good spirits, one and all had the time of their lives.

First of all there was the inspiration— the inspiration that caused a concert to be given which will never be

forgotten in Akaroa. At breakfast the word was breathed ; "Let's give a concert, this evening." On the

moment the secretary started at a run to do things. He darted to the printing office and ordered two hundred

dodgers headed "War Extra, Special Concert To-Night," and promising the delights of talent imported from

New York, London, and Paris. He commandeered the Boy Scouts to distribute the dodgers, he secured two

great placards on his car, and proceeded round the town shouting the glad and joyful news. Everything in

train, the party proceeded by launch to Tikau Bay, where, having had the faith to bring only bread and butter,

they east the trawl and secured two good hauls of flounders, With six rousing fires those were cooked in the

open, the whole experience in a day of glorious sunshine being simply unforgetable. Even the quiet ones—

"give these quiet fellows a dig," said one brother— came out of their shone and enjoyed themselves as never

before.

And so back to the concert—the great, the wonderful concert. The ball was packed to the doors, everyone

was brimful of life and humour, the singers sang as they never sang before, and the audience laughed till it

was loathe to leave. Every item was encored, and then they wanted more. W. Bro. Bart (again thanks to the

fish diet) developed a talent for entertainment in his managerial capacity that should be profitably exploited.

He personally introduced each performed in the most extravagant style, caused nervousness and stiffness to

vanish and was the live-wire of the evening. Space forbids the recital of more. The night must be judged by

results. The sum of £13 10s was handed to the Mayor of Akeroa Mr. S. Armstrong, on the stage, to be

divided equally between the Red Cross and Lady Liverpool Funds, and a prominent resident of Akaroa,

remarked.: "If you fellows came back and advertised yourselves as the 'Flounder Push' you'd repeat this

house at double the price."

So did the musical talent of Avon Lodge justify itself. Brothers Cropp, Taylor, Bennett, Hatch, Joll, Hart, W.

Cookson, and Scott all excelled themselves and far more than the ordinary vote of thanks must be given, to

W. Bro. A. Cookson for his exceptional accompaniments.

On the Sunday it was a tired and happy band that piled itself into the cars, was given a cheering farewell by

the whole populace of Akaroa, and came back to this city of the plains. They had many adventures on the

way— but I think I have written enough to pay for my solitary flounder.

————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 23rd APRIL, 1917.

———<>———

W. Britland £1. 9s. 2d, (Pahiatua) ; C. C. Nicholas (Orepuki), R: H. Devonport 21 (Seatoun), E. E. J.

Cammond £1 10s. (Tauranga), F. Pritchard, F. A. Steens (Invercargill), G. Allan, J. Passmore (Wanganui), T.

M. Weller, A. C. Yelland, M. Vance 10s. (Ohakune), P. H. Gwynn, J. A. Scuff, G. Yemen £2 G. Ellis £1, J.

A. Stables (Christchurch), A. Cisholm (Waipukurau), P. C. H. Peterson (Hautapu), M. M. McDonald

(Tahakopa), J. J. Dickson £3 15s. 10d. (Wairoa), G. A. Edmonds (Nelson), H. Graham, P. McIntosh

(Lumsden), J. Cox 10s. (Utiku), F. Thomas £1 (Canvastown), L. H. Carrel. (Hawera), W. E. Mayes £1 9s.

2d, (Bunnythorpe), J. Cowan M. Johnson, T. Ritchie, R. W. Jones, J. A. Miller, A. A. Stanley, R. Stanley, W.

R. Wright, T. P. Short, Dr. De Lisle (Hastings), J. Metcalfe, W. R. Waldin, F, E. Robinson (Eketa huna),

Sergt.-Major Collins, A. W. Daniel, J. S. Young £1.10s., D. C. Waldie 14s. 2d. (Wellington), Rev. W. W.

Brown £1 (Mataura), J. W. Boothman, Dr. Martin 3s. 4d. (Palmerston) G: A. Storrah £1 9s. 6d. (Whangarei),

Dr. P. R. Cooke 6s. 8d (Masterton), A. R. Harrison (Abbotsford), C. Batt (Mangaweka), G. Robson, S.

Gempten, A. A. Hastings, S. Glazer, D. E. P. Hamlin, G. H. Biekerstaff (Napier), R. H. Croft (Kaiapoi), M. J

Harris 10s. (Paeroa), J. T. Steel (Pongaroa), H. Langdon 11s. 2d. (Waihi), G. W. Ollard 14s. 2d. (Cambridge)

J. Banks 4s. 6d. (Reefton), P. B. Curtis £1 0s. 10d. (Wyndham), G. Asquith £2 (Chatto Creek), A. J. S.

Seaton 9s. (Kaikoura), W. H. Nicholson (Calverdon).

(All 7s. 6d. but those noted.)

OBITUARY

———<>———

W BRO. JULIUS ALBERTI, AGED 85

———

The Lodge of Otago, No. 7, Dunedin, lost one of their elderly and much esteemed brethren

on 16th March. W. Bro. Julius Alberti had been a member of No. 7 for 27 years, and had

always taken an interest in his own Lodge as well as doing everything possible to help young

Lodges. He passed away peacefully at his residence at the ripe age of 85 years, and leaves a

widow (74 years) to mourn his loss. .They were married in 1863. There was no family.

Though W. Bro, Alberti was an Italian, and his English was somewhat broken, it was

wonderful how well he mastered our ritual and ceremonies, and the delight it gave him to

take part in our work. He made a study of Freemasonry in all its aspects, and endeavoured to

faithfully live up to its principles and ideals. For some years he acted as Preceptor to Lodge

of Otago, No. 7, and Lodge Maori, No. 105, Ravensbourne.

——————

GRUBB - On 23rd March, 1917, at his late residence, 70, London Street, Lyttelton, James

Grubb, Master Shipwright, in his 64th year.

————

The above notice will convey the news that in the death of our late Bro. James Grubb, the

members of the Canterbury Kil. have lost one of the oldest of their members, and one to

whom the members are much indebted for the present position and prosperity of the Lodge.

Our late brother was a native of Lyttelton, and the second son of the late Mr. John Grubb,

who arrived in Lyttelton previous to the advent of the first four ships. He received his

education at what was then called the Scotch High School, presided over by the late Rev. J.

D. Ferguson; after leaving school, he served under his father, learning the-trade of a

shipwright, completing his course at Dundee. On returning to New Zealand he took over his

father's business, and for the last 35 years was master shipwright for the Union Co. at

Lyttelton, He took an active part in all matters affecting the welfare of Lyttelton, entering the

Borough Council in 1895, again in 1898, and was elected Mayor in 1902, in which year the

Borough took over the Gas Works. His connection with the Canterbury Kil., No. 585 S.C.,

dates from its foundation, as our late brother was one of the first initiates, joining with his

father on the same date in December, 1875. He was in due course elected to office, and for

many years remained in harness, working nobly, and often at personal sacrifice to himself,

for the welfare of his Lodge. The present Lodge room stands as a memento of his efforts, in

conjunction with his father, who acted as Treasurer for many years. He served the office of

R.W.M. for the years 1881-83-87-90-93, a record of which any brother may be proud. In

1883 the Dist.G. Lodge of Canterbury was erected with the late Rev. James Hill as Dist.G.

M., and here also our brother occupied prominent positions, ranking as P.G.D.W. In 1890 the

Lodge joined the N.Z. Constitution, taking its present No. 23, and for many years our brother

took an active part in its proceedings, attaining the rank of P.G.D. Our worthy brother was

senior P.M. of his Lodge, and, although for the last few years failing health prevented him

from taking an active part in Lodge, work, his heart was always with his Lodge.

In public and private life he was much respected, and he will be greatly missed by all, more

especially by those connected with the shipping.

Bro. Grubb lost his wife twelve years ago, and he leaves a family of two sons and five

daughters. Both of his sons have served their country loyally, the eldest being wounded at

the Somme, and the second, who was at the landing at Gallipoli, has since been invalided

home.

————————

WHITHER ARE WE DRIFTING?

———<>———

Is the Masonic Institution drifting into eleemosynary and philanthropic channels without providing income to

carry on its works?

Are we in danger of meeting with the experience of those earlier day fraternal (?) insurance organisations,

which failed to collect adequate fees and dues to fulfill their obligations, to the disappointment of the

members who had been led to expect of such organisations more than could be accomplished?

Are we going to try to get away from the ancient landinttrke and ignore the ancient charges; forgetting that

Freemasonry was brought into being for the specific purpose of teaching men to be moral, independent, self-

controlled and self-reliant?

These are questions that are being asked by every intelligent Freemason who is familiar with the present drift

of thought and practice in the fraternity. These questions must be answered directly and fully, if we would

avoid some very unpleasant experiences, unless reason and sound business judgment are applied to this

subject of institutional relief before we go very much further in this matter.

Wherein do the ancient charges indicate or suggest that any Freemason is justified in asking, or in allowing

other Freemasons to ask, that the fraternity or institution assume his personal responsibility to provide for

himself and family, or to meet those common emergencies which come to its all in the course of life's

experiences?

Wherein does Freemasonry teach that a Freemason is justified in ignoring or in neglecting to make provision

for the material care of himself and those dependent upon him, when accident, illness, loss of income on

death visits the home?

Wherein is any Freemason taught to put his trust in the Lodge, or in the strength of his more intelligent

brothers of the Lodge, instead of putting his trust in God, and of making individual effort to fulfill those

obligations to himself and family which all intelligent persons know moist be made, if adversity is not to

overwhelm them?

In which particular degree, lesson, paragraph, sentence or word do Freemasons find excuse or license for

making effort to encourage less intelligent members of the fraternity to neglect their individual

responsibilities, and to ignore their plain duties by encouraging such persons to think that the fraternity will

assume and discharge their personal responsibilities through its various and multiplied farms of institutional

relief?

The tenets of Freemasonry are very well known to every member of the fraternity. Brotherly Love, Relief

and Truth are inculcated in such way as to be burned into the memory. Is Brotherly Love exemplified when

we permit any brother to go on in life ignoring his opportunities to provide for emergencies, through laying

aside something for the day when it will be needed, or in permitting him to neglect to insure his future

against illness or death, because we are apparently providing for such emergencies through our organised

relief?

Are we not deceiving ourselves and those who do not stop to consider the cost, when we give such wide and

boisterous publicity to these forms of effort when we are not making provision for the future conduct of

these forms of relief?

Any institution, whether economic, public, or eleemosynary, that does not pay its running expenses from its

income, and is obliged to seek new capital continuously to pay its fixed charges, is in grave danger of

bankruptcy. What is the situation in regard to many, if not most, of our Masonic Lodges and other bodies?

Are these paying their fixed charges from income from dues, or are they obliged to use the fees from

initiation, to help to bridge the gap?

To-day members are flocking into the fraternity. The contributions of these new members are being used to

help pay the running expenses. When the day comes for these to expect relief from the Lodges or the other

bodies, and new members are not to be secured, because they will see the defect in our economy, where is

the money coming from to meet the situation ?

Because Freemasons are taught to give individual relief to worthy distressed Masons and those dependent

upon them, is this a logical reason for expecting the institution to become an alms-giving institution ? Does a

Freemason fulfill his obligation by voting the funds of the Lodge as a substitute for the relief he has

promised to give, so far as his means will permit?

Is not the entire tendency of to-day an evasion of personal obligation on the part of those of us who substitute

institutional charity and alms-giving for the relief they have obligated themselves to give?

Do we exemplify the spirit of Truth when we advertise our fraternity as one of the growing institutional

philanthropies, when we know that we cannot continue in the present course without making provision for

much larger income if we are to continue in the way we have begun?

Every day men are becoming members of Masonic Lodges and other bodies allied with Freemasonry, who

are destined to be greatly disappointed in the days ahead. Many of these learn of the benefits to be expected,

through our constant talk and other advertising of our organised relief. Undoubtedly—yes, positively—some

of these come to us for the benefits they expect to receive in a financial way.

Are we honest or truthful in our representations of the benefits of being a member of a Masonic Lodge, if we

represent these benefits to be of a financial character, or if we permit persons to become members without

making it plain and clear that no financial benefits are to be expected?

Is it a proper answer that each person has been asked his reason for becoming a member, and has assured

those who ask that he is not influenced by mercenary motives, when neither we, nor the new man, think of

our relief organisations as being mercenary?

Is it not time that we gave this subject the attention it needs? Are we justified in ignoring it?

It is apparent that few of us realise how large a place we are giving in our thoughts and conversation to alms-

giving and institutional philanthropy. Many of us are confusing these things with charity, or Brotherly Love.

Some of us have not appeared to recognise that charity, or Brotherly Love, is one of the great constructive

forces in life, while alms-giving, which is the office of institutional philanthropy, is largely, if not wholly,

one of the most destructive influences.

Charity, or Brotherly Love, is one of the aids to the building of character, while almsgiving, say nothing of

the receiving of alms, is one of the most destructive practices. Brotherly Love is an individual and personal

virtue, and is Masonic in principle ; while alms-giving, or institutional philanthropy, is the measured

calculation of organised society to do penance for its wrongs to the individual, and is not Masonic.

Charity, or Brotherly Love, is a strengthening influence in the life of both giver and receiver, while alms-

giving tends to encourage a false sense of superiority in the giver and an increased feeling of inferiority on

the part of the receiver. The first is a personal service, while the second is a pittance given as a sop by

society, of which the giver is a part.

"Charity," or Brotherly Love, " seeketh not her own," while alms-giving and organised philanthropy is too

often an attempt to buy off approaching danger.

The thought is growing that we, as Freemasons, will do well to exercise more Brotherly Love in our relations

with each other, encouraging each other to be more independent, more self-reliant, more inclined to assume

our personal responsibilities, more eager to make the individual effort to help ourselves, instead of giving so

much thought to the subject of institutional philanthropy.

We can all do much more constructive work in assisting each other to become better Masons by following

the injunctions given on the five points of fellowship. We can go out of our way, send out good thoughts and

aspirations to each other, keep each other in our hearts, in brotherly and kindly remembrance, whisper to

each other those kind words of counsel which we all need, and hold out the hand of help, as individuals,

when one of us slips or is overwhelmed by trouble that he could not avoid, after having taken all the

precautions in our power.

In all of these activities we shall be closer to the fulfillment of our personal obligations. We shall accomplish

more good, "letting not our left hand know what our right hand is doing."

We shall build better individuals and a better fraternity if we do more personal and individual Masonic work.

— G. W. McFatrick, in "Oriental Consistory Bulletin.

————————

TWO HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY.

———<>———

Saint John's Day in summer of this year will be the two-hundredth anniversary of the organisation of

Speculative Masonry under the present G.L. system—known as the " Revival"—and the following from the

"London Freemason" will be of interest to the Craft in America :—

The celebration of the bicentenary promises to be well observed in every part of the globe. In the United

States of America, in particular, preparations for the observance of the 200th anniversary of this historic

event are being made—and in some parts on a more lavish scale than will be possible in this country. A

writer in the "Masonic Chronicler," of Chicago, thus sets forth the reasons why American brethren should

recognise and celebrate the bi-centenary.

Any movement or influence that serves as a spur or leads to a revival of the study of Freemasonry should be

heralded and accepted with unanimous and world-wide enthusiasm. Perhaps no occasion has presented such

an auspicious period as the year 1917, which will be generally observed as the bi-centennial or 200th

anniversary of the birth of the first G.L. of Freemasons. While this historic event may be signalised by a

continuation of the warring of brother against brother, or at least shadowed by the memory of the fearful

devastation and carnage, the call of Christianity has never sounded so pleadingly for an inter-communion of

sentiment and principle in sublime effort to minimise—or to eradicate, if that be possible —the strife and

hatred that have burdened the whole world with woe unutterable.

There is not a picture in history more intense and vital, not only to the Masonic view, but to the vision of the

world at large, than that presented in February, 1717, when representatives of the four Lodges of the City of

London met in Apple Tree Tavern, for the first time, constituted a G.L. and voted the oldest member present

into the chair as the Master or Presiding Officer. The event was followed by the assembly and feast in June

of the same year at the Goose and Gridiron Tavern. Lodges in those days, in the absence of appropriate halls

and temples, all met in taverns.

The Masonic student or historian who surveys these facts closely feels about him an atmosphere tinctured

with the crude but ambitious completion of the highest civilisation then existing. Literature, art, invention,

and the industries were then, comparatively speaking, in their infancy. We may rightly strive to realise how

potent an element was that first official Masonic group in helping to form, to forward, cement, and control

the destinies of nations. They helped to make history. They established a foundation that can never be

shaken. Their mission, while inherently devoted to the practical and unselfish betterment of humanity, has

branched out into a thousand collateral avenues, purifying the great mass, assuming its burdens and

responsibilities, patiently, foremost and fervent wherever fraternalism or charity called for a champion or a

martyr. —" Virginia Masonic Journal."

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

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

SCOTCH NICHT IN TUTANEKAI.

———<>———

'Twas in young Tutanekai

The brithers gethered for the Fry;

A Scottish nicht was in for try,

Wi' haggis, pipes and Scottish pie.

Pipes played in the Master,

And brithers gethered roon' ;

Burns' grace was reverently said

Before we all sat doon

Wha should address the haggis

But oor Cheftien, P.M. Watt?

And a gran' job he made o't,

And a master o' the art,

What oor Scottish bard had said

In Tarbolton Lodge in Ayr

Was given by Brither Paton—

Of course, he's on the square.

"I canna' leave the auld folks noo,

We'd better bide a wee,"

Was given by Brither Forrester

In fine auld Scottish glee.

Men of Scottish tongue

Sang wi' micht and main;

The pipes played a selection,

And then came "Auld Lang Syne."

Now Master, brithers, freens an' a'

I thank you for this Scottish ca'.

Strong memories I shall reca'

Those happy scenes when far awa'.

————————

EXTRACTS OF SPEECH.

———<>———

In reply to Toast of Initiates into the Fellow Craft Degree, at the Robert Burns Lodge, No. 139, 20th

March, 1917 ; by REV. WM. TANNER.

—————

I have to thank you for the eulogistic way in which the toast has been proposed, and deeply conscious of the

most impressive, uplifting, and inspiring ceremony we have just passed through, one desires that your

expectations and our vows may materialise in rich fruition.

I have been exceedingly gratified at the magnificent cordiality of your intercourse.

If one may say it without arrogance or egotism, there was a certain amount of enquiry and testing in my mind

when first I came among you ; but one has found that the toast proposed to-night is not merely convention,

but rather the actual expression of all the brethren.

In all my intercourse I have found the truest instinct of and for brotherhood.

One realises that the brotherhood into which one is being initiated makes exacting demands, but it also holds

out a wealth of promise, which, if accepted, will enrich not only one's own life, but also the life of the world.

I have been especially pleased to learn through the medium of a paper recently received from England that

there, where Freemasonry has not been received with unanimous favour by the Church, a Lodge has been

formed in connection with a church of my own order, i.e., the Streatham Hill Congregational Church, the

aim being to promote Masonic fellowship among the local churches irrespective of creed.

The consecration ceremony was performed by V.W. Bro. Sir Edward Letchworth, G.Sec., assisted by several

W. Bros, of the Church of England, and by the Pastor of the church, the Rev. Oswald Bannon.

The first joining member proposed was the Rev. A. G. Sleep, of the Congregational Colonial Missionary

Society, and the first initiate was a deacon of the church.

And in this fact one sees the magnificent dynamic of Freemasonry achieving the wider spiritual unity where

other efforts have proved impotent.

Here at once we have the power and obligation of our Order ; a trust to keep inviolate, a contribution to this

world of the highest and noblest

One is convinced that the reason so many have been averse to the Order to which we belong is because (if I

may invert a well-known text) "They speak of that they do not know, and testify concerning the things they

have not seen."

Then, in my capacity as a minister and also as a member of this Lodge, it will be my endeavour by life and

conduct to uphold not only the great traditions of our order, but also to give expression to the excellent

principles which are ours, and with which we can enrich the world.

————————

FRATERNAL VISITATION.

———<>———

On Wednesday, 4th April, the W.M. and officers of Robert Burns, No. 139, visited Lodge Methven, and

raised a brother of Lodge Methven to the Third Degree. The W.M. Bro. Kirker, was assisted by the following

officers :—Bro. T. W. A. Wilson, S.W. ; Bro. A. Hunter, J.W. Bro. Geo. Blackmore, S.D. ; Bro. W, Rogers,

J.D. ; and Bro. B. MacLachlan, I.G.

The brethren of the Methven Lodge accorded a hearty reception to the visitors from Christchurch, and

expressed their thanks for, and appreciation of the work done, by the brethren of the Robert Burns Lodge.

This was a return visit, Methven Lodge having about eighteen months ago visited and worked a Second

Degree for the Robert Burns.

The brethren from Christchurch had a very enjoyable time with the Methven brethren, and the hope was

expressed that there would be mere frequent exchanges of visits between the Town and Country Lodges.

Among the visitors to Lodge Methven were W. Bro. F. Pawson, W.M. of Lodge Erewhon, Mount Somers,

and W. Bro. Kennedy, W.M. of Lodge Caledonian, Timaru. The visitors spent an enjoyable time in the

refectory after the Lodge, staying the night at Methven, and returned to Christchurch the next morning, the

journey by the slow train proving rather monotonous, leaving Methven at 6.55 a.m., and reaching

Christchurch at 10.40 a.m.

————————

A NOTE OF ORIGINS.

———<>———

(By V.W. Bro. the Rev. Alfred Gifford, G.C.)

————

The spade is working with magical results on behalf of ancient history. One fact mentioned by Sir Arthur

Evans, D.Litt., LL.D., at the recent Neweastle-on-Tyne meeting of the British Association for the

Advancement of Science, torpedoes many ancient systems and theories. He says : "Late discoveries have

revealed an artistic level in South-Western Europe, at a modest estimate, some ten thousand years earlier

than the most ancient monuments of Egypt or Chaldea." Once Gerald Massey taught us that everything good

we have almost came from Greece. Then Crete was thought the birthplace of European civilisation. Now the

spade, with which scientists have been directing at work in Servia, Asia Minor, Greece, Borne, and Britain

has made it necessary to re-write a great many confident assertions about ancient man and his doings. Rock

paintings discovered in Spain have revealed the high cultural level of man at an age that was once thought

barbarous. Paleolithic Man seems to have been as wise an artist in his later stages as we have usually

credited Neolithic Man with being.—" S.A. Freemason."

————————

SUMMARY OF CASH BALANCES OF THE G.L. OF NEW ZEALAND

AS AT 31st MARCH, 1917.

———<>———

£

Widows' and Orphans' and Aged Masons' Fund 29,777

Fund of Benevolence 2,479

Circular Appeals 1,510

Special War Fund ... 10,068

Representation Fund 677

Belgian Masonic Relief Fund... 14

General. Fund ... 4,349

Total ... £48,875

BENEVOLENT FUND.

During the year the sum of £445 16s. 11d. was disbursed from the Fund of Benevolence, in addition to a sum

of £165, which was subsequently refunded.

ANNUITY FUND.

At the end of the year there were 45 annuitants, receiving £1,155 from the Annuity Fund. The increase in the

Capital Value of the fund during the year was £2,324 18s. 7d. The-interest earned by the fund during the year

was £1,418, and it is estimated that the amount derivable for the year 1917-1918 will be £1,500. This will

leave a margin of £344 for the creation of new annuities.

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

Reports.
———————————————————————————————————————————

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————————

SOUTHLAND.

Taringatura, No. 100.—The meeting on 2nd April was well attended. The ceremonial work was the raising

of four brethren. The work was capably performed by the W.M., Bro. H. Beer, assisted by W. Bros.

Campbell (Retro.), Graham (Ex.), Johnson (T.H. and Secrets) and D. Walker (Ancient Charge), while Bro. S.

E. Griffiths presented the W.Ts. Several accounts were passed for payment, and the W.M. was elected

Lodge- representative to the G.L. meeting on 2nd May. The ballot was taken on two candidates, and both

were accepted, while one candidate was proposed. Bro. Graham's motion re hall was discussed. An

amendment was proposed, but ultimately a decision upon the question was deferred till next meeting. The

meeting closed at the approach of Tuesday, 4th April.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

OTAGO,

Otago, No. 7.—The regular monthly meeting was held in Masonic Hall, King Street, Dunedin, on 14th

March. W. Bro. J W. Hardy, W.M., presided, and there was a large attendance of members and visitors.

V.W. Bro. H. O. Fenton, G. Chaplain, delivered a travel lecture entitled "The Gates of the Orient," illustrated

by 150 slides. The lecture dealt with towns, mosques and Arabs of Tunisia, in North Africa, with a glimpse

of the desert. It was exceedingly interesting and instructive, especially as the photographs, which were of a

very high class, were taken personally by Bro. Fenton, and his explanations and historical references were

apt and appropriate. The large gathering showed their appreciation by according Bro. Fenton a hearty vote of

thanks. The lantern was skilfully manipulated by R.W. Bro. Fieldwick. Two candidates were proposed for

membership, and a pleasant hour was spent in the social hall.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Arrived too late for

last issue.—ED. C.]

————

Oceanic, No. 154.—The usual monthly meeting of this Lodge was held in the St. Kilda Masonic Hall on

21st March, when there was a full attendance of both members and visitors. The latter included several

W.Ms. and P.Ms. In the absence of the W.M. the chair was taken by W. Bro. J. D. Cameron. Bro. Trotter

was raised to the Third Degree, the W.M. giving the Ob. ; W. Bros. J. Couchman, H. C. Anderson and H. W.

S. Hellyer the various Secrets; Bro. H. Harris, S.D., the Ex.; W. Bro. W. Jacobsen, the E. of M. ; W. Bro. D.

Harris Hastings, the Narrative; Bro. W. Mills, J.W., the H.W.Ts. ; and Bro. A. Walker, S.W., the Final

Charge. The usual pleasant hour was spent in the supper room.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Hercules, No. 36.—The installation meeting, for the purpose of installing Bro. J. W. Nicholson, was held in

the Masonic Hall, Tapanui, on 11th April, when thirty-seven brethren signed the attendance-book. The

Lodge was tyled at 5.30 p.m., and the usual business was transacted. It was then opened in the Third Degree

for the purpose of raising one brother. The W.M., Bro. Gillies, obligated the candidate, and was further

assisted by W. Bros. Quayle, Buchanan, Keeley, Lischner and Bro. Nicholson, S.W. The Lodge was then

adjourned till 7.30. The officers of G.L. were then received, R.W. Bro. Flett, P.G.M., acting as Installing

Master. W. Bro. A. Steel acted as D. of C. ; W. Bro. C. W. L. Lischner, as G.J.W.; W. Bro. W. Robb, as

G.S.W. ; W. Bro. Ridd, as G.S.D. ; W. Bro. McIndoe, as G.J.D. Bro. R. E. Hyde officiated at the organ. The

address to the Master was delivered by R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett; the addresses to the Wardens and brethren by

W. Bro. W. C. L. Lischner. The W.Ts. in. the several degrees were presented by W. Bro. Robb, P.M. ; W.

Bro. Mclndoe, W.M. and W. Bro. Ridd, W.M. The officers were invested (in the unavoidable absence of W.

Bro. R. Jamieson, G.D.) by W. Bro. Robb. Following is the list of office-bearers :—W.M., W. Bro. J. W.

Nicholson; I.P.M., W. Bro. J. A. Gillies; S.W., Bro. H. S. Jackways; J.W., Bro. W. C. Dale ; Sec., Bro. A. H.

Hawkins; Treas., W. Bro. T. J. Quayle, P.M. ; Organist, Bro. R. E. Hyde; D. of C., W. Bro. D. D. Cleghorn,

P.M.; S.D., Bro. G. Fowler; J.D., Bro. J. Clouston; I.G., Bro. J. W. Beattie; Ss., Bros. N. S. McCormick, J.

Smith and C. Sutherland. The R.W. Installing Master presented W. Bro. D. D. Cleghorn with a P.M.'s jewel

on behalf of the Lodge. Before the closing of the Lodge the W.M. received the congratulations of G.L.,

visiting Lodges and brethren. After the Lodge was, closed the brethren adjourned to the Commercial Hotel,

where an excellent repast was partaken of, and afterwards a very pleasant hour or two was spent in music,

song and story.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Masters' Lodge, No. 161.—The annual meeting for the purpose of the installation of the W.M. and the

investiture of Officers was held in the Great King Street Hall on 29th March. There was an excellent

attendance of both members and visitors, all the town and country Lodges being well represented. After he

Lodge had been opened, and before proceeding with the business of the evening, R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick

referred in sympathetic terms to the recent death of W. Bro. Alberti. He ;aid that there was no keener or more

genuine Mason than the deceased brother, and the life he led was in every respect a lesson to them all. Upon

Bro. Fieldwick's motion it was decided to place on record in the minutes the good work Bro. Alberti had

accomplished for the Craft. R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett, P.G.M., accompanied by R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, P.P.G.M.,

and the G.L. officers, was received and saluted, and then took charge of the Lodge. He then obligated and

invested R.W. Bro. Thomas Ross, P.D.G.M., as W.M. for his second term. The W.M. having invested W.

Bro. D. Harris Hastings, P.G.S.B., as I.P.M., the customary proclamations and salutes were given in each

degree. After the presentation of the Charter and B. of C., the R.W. Prov.G.M. invested the following

officers:— D.M., W. Bro. T. Gallagher; S.W., W. Bro. J. H. Dumsday ; J.W., W. Bro. J. Couchman; Treas.,

R.W. Bro. J. Quaile; Sec., W. Bro. W. Lischner; D. of C., R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick; Chaplain, W. Bro. C.

Thomson; Organist, W. Bro. A. E. Jenkins; S.D., W. Bro. W. J. Owen; J.D., W. Bro. H. Woodhead; I.G., W.

Bro. A. Allen; Tyler, W. Bro. E. T. Möller; Ss., W. Bros. J. G. Ross and A. Watson. In place of the

customary addresses to the W.M., Wardens and brethren, R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark delivered an eloquent and

interesting address on the aims and objects of Freemasonry, in which he set a very high ideal for the W.M.,

officers and brethren of the Lodge to look up to. V.W. Biro. R. Hawcridge spoke on the aims and objects of

the Masters' Lodge, and his remarks will be found in another column. After the usual collection for the W.

and O. Fund and the customary greetings, the Lodge was closed at 9.30 p.m. R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick acted

as G.D. of C. ; W. Bro. A. E. Jenkins, P.G.O., as Organist ; V.W. Bro, R. Hawcridge, P.G.O., as D. of M.,

and Bro. H. Holland was Trumpeter. The installation supper was well attended, and after the toasts and a

short musical programme W. Bro. Booth kept the brethren entertained with his sleight of hand.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—Being the first meeting since the installation a quiet, small assemblage was looked for

on 6th March; but rather the unexpected happened, for, although there were few visitors, the attendance of

members was very satisfactory. The W.M. (W. Bro. Collett) presided, and was assisted in the working of the

Second Degree by W. Bro. Johnston (W.M., Crown Lodge), also by W. Bro. Flavell and Bros. Connal, S.W.,

and Smith, J.W. The thanks of the Lodge were accorded to the W.M. for a set of ceremonial music books

presented by him. In the refectory the toast of the visitors was responded to by W. Bro. Johnston, also by W.

Bro. N. W. Taylor (P.M., Canterbury Kil., No. 23) and several brethren from ships in port. A programme of

music and recitations was given.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Arrived too late for last issue.—ED. C.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The regular meeting was held on 5th April. The W.M., Bro. Baynon, presided over

a good attendance of members. The work was the raising of two brethren. The W.M. obligated the

candidates, and was assisted in the work by the following brethren : Retro., W. Bro. Hoskin; C.A. Rais., W.

Bro. W. A. Gribble; Secrets, W. Bro. Hoskin, W.M. ; Invest., Bro. Croft, S.W. ; T.H., W. Bro. Wylie; F.Ss.,

W. Bro. Stanton; W.Ts., W. Bro. Hoskin; Final Charge, W.M. The W.M. presented each brother with the

V.S.L. on which the O. had been taken, and expressed his pleasure at Bro. King being spared, after two years

of service at the front, to receive the Degree of M.M. in his own Lodge. One candidate for initiation was

balloted for and declared duly elected. Some discussion having taken place re the method adopted in taking

the ballot, it was resolved to procure an up-to-date ballot-box for the use of the Lodge. A committee was set

up to obtain information re the lighting of the Lodgeroom with electricity, the current that night having been

switched on to Kaiapoi for the first time. The W.M. was elected as representative of the Lodge to the G.L.

communication. The brethren adjourned to the refectory, where a pleasant time was spent, the evening being

enlivened considerably by a number of musical brethren.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Concord, No. 39.—The regular meeting, held on 28th March, was a very interesting one, inasmuch as the

working of the degree was done by P.Ms. of the Lodge, namely : W.M., W. Bro. A. H. Hobbs; I.P.M., W.

Bro. T. H. North; S.W., W. Bro. R. Baldwin; J.W., W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu; S.D., W. Bro. W. Gasson; J.D., W.

Bro. H. Wilson; D. of Cs, W. Bro. J. Bosomworth. R.,W. Bro. Thornton, Prov.G.M., and members of

Prov.G,L. attended, and there also was a goodly number of visitors and brethren present. The officers for the

ensuing year were nominated. The Third Degree was conferred on two candidates. W. Bro. Hobbs, assisted

by W. Bro. North, obligated the candidates and communicated the S., T. and W. of the degree. "Remember

now " was rendered by W. Bro. Bosomworth. W. Bro. Baldwin invested our brethren with M.Ms.' badges,

the charge after being given by W. Bro. North. The T.H. was very ably explained by W. Bros. Baldwin and

Du Feu. W. Bro. Wilson presented and explained the W.Ts. of a M.M., the Final Charge being given by W.

Bro. Casson.

An emergency meeting was held in Masonic Hall, Papanui, on Wednesday, 11th. April, when the Third

Degree was conferred on two candidates. W. Bro. T. H. North was in the chair, and, despite a wet night,

there was a fair number of members and visitors present. W. Bro. North, W.M., and W. Bro. Wilson, I.P.M.,

obligated the candidates and communicated the S., T. and W. Bro. Francis, S.W., invested our brethren with

distinguishing B. of M.M. The Charge after Investiture was rendered by W. Bro. Wilson, W. Bro. Hart,

Master of Avon Lodge, No. 185, gave a very fine address to the candidates on what the Badge stands for, etc.

The T.H. was explained by W. Bros. Hobbs and Gasson. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Fry, Master

of Conyers Lodge. The Final Charge was rendered by Bro. Francis, S.W. As our next regular meeting is to

be the final meeting over which W. Bro. North will preside, we hope to have a large attendance of visitors

and members, and are looking forward to a very enjoyable time.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.—The Lodge held its monthly meeting on 27th March in the Masonic Hall, W. Bro. J.

Mitchell, W.M., presiding over a good attendance of members. The W.M. was elected Lodge representative

to the animal communication of G.L. The ritual work consisted of one initiation. The W.M. obligated the

candidates and communicated the S., T. and W. Degree. The Charge-after Investiture was delivered by W.

Bro. Thomas, P.M.; the N.E. Charge by W. Bro. Parks, P.M.; the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Fry

(W.M., Conyers Lodge, E.C.); the Final Charge being delivered by the S.W., Bro. Sheffield. The usual

routine business having been disposed of, the Lodge was closed. Members and visitors then adjourned to the

refectory for social intercourse.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—The regular meeting was held on 7th March, when W. Bro. James Manchester

presided over a large attendance of members and visitors. W. Bro. C. J. Mahan, Master of Lodge Timaru,

No. 196, with his officers and a good number of the brethren of his Lodge, had journeyed from Timaru to

pay a promised fraternal visit. The routine business was disposed of before the reception of our visitors. W.

Bro. James Manchester was appointed our representative at the annual communication of G.L. in May. A

ballot was taken for a candidate for Freemasonry and proved clear, and a brother of Lodge Caledonian, No.

16, was proposed for affiliation. The W.M., officers and brethren of Lodge Timaru, No. 196, were then

announced and admitted, and heartily welcomed by W. Bro. James Manchester, who handed the gavel to W.

Bro. Mahan, requesting him and his officers to conduct the ceremony of passing a brother to the Second

Degree. The work was excellently carried out by W. Bro. Mahan and his officers. The Ob. and Secrets were

communicated by W. Bro. Mahan; the Apron Charge by Bro. F. Torrie, S.W. ; the S.E. Charge by Bro.

Stowell, D. of C. ; the W.Ts. by Bro. McKittrick ; and the Final Charge by Bro. D. A. Morgan. At the

conclusion of the ceremony W. Bro. Mahan handed the gavel back to W. Bro. Manchester, and expressed the

great pleasure it had afforded to himself and members of his Lodge to visit Lodge St. Augustine, No. 99, and

work a degree. W. Bro. Manchester, in reply, expressed the pleasure and appreciation of the members of No.

99 for the able manner the work had been carried out. The Lodge was then closed, and a very enjoyable tune

was spent in the refectory, the Timaru brethren leaving by motor cars on their return journey just a wee while

before the witching hour.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

Wednesday, 4th April, was the date of the regular monthly meeting, when a very fair attendance of brethren,

along with three visitors, faced W. Bro. James Manchester on opening. The principal business embraced the

balloting for a new member; also for one of the visitors, Bro. J. Robertson, as a member of the Lodge (both

of which were successful), and the initiation of a candidate. The work of the degree was carried out by the

W.M. (Ob.), assisted by W. Bro. Fulton (Secrets); the Charge after Invest. was admirably given by W. Bro.

A. J. Hoskins ; N.E. Charge, W. Bro. Shackleton; W.Ts., Bro. C. Bateman, S.W. ; R. for Prep., Bro. E. J.

Atwill (the Admiral); Final Charge, W. Bro. N. C. Colville. At the pause in the N.E. Charge W. Bro. Hoskins

sang "Charity." In the absence of the Organist (Bro. R. Steele), W. Bro. J. Menzies took the organ. One

proposal was received —that of the eldest son of a respected P.M. of the Lodge. A sum of money having

been voted by the Waimate Chapter to Lodge St. Augustine, with an intimation that it be devoted to the

purchase of a set of W.Ts., it was decided to supplement this amount by a sum from the Lodge funds for the

purchase of a good set. Those in use have served the purpose for many years, and were rather out of date in

these modern times.

H.G.W. having been received from Lodges Koranga, No 197, and St Andrew, No 432, S.C., the Lodge was

closed in harmony and peace. An adjournment for an hour for refreshment, song and chat was made. A Toast

with which the brethren are becoming somewhat familiar in this Lodge now was that of farewelling a brother

departing for the trenches. Bro. A. F. McMurtrie, head of the school at Morven, will probably not have an

opportunity of meeting the brethren before his departure for foreign parts. Bro. McMurtrie briefly thanked

the brethren for their good wishes. Any Lodge desiring a lesson in the rendering of "fires" would gain one in

noting the fervency of those led by our D. of C., W. Bro. Colville.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

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

when the W.M., W. Bro. T. Kirker, presided over a good attendance. The ceremonial work, consisted of the

passing of two brethren, the W.M. being assisted by the following brethren : W. Bro. Johnson (W.M., Crown

Lodge), Investiture ; Bro. A. Hunter, J.W., S.E. Corner; W. Bro. L. B. Hart (W.M., Avon Lodge), W.Ts. ; W.

Bro. H. Wyatt, Chaplain, T.B. The Lodge was then closed, and the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where

the usual happy time was spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Avon, No. 185.—The attendance at the meeting on 5th April, the night before Good Friday, was below the

average, on account of the proximity of the holdiay period, but the pleasurable harmony of the evening was

most noticeable. The work for the evening was the initiation of two candidates, which was carried out by the

W.M., Bro. L. B. Hart, and his officers with efficiency. The Address after I. was given by W. Bro. T. Kirker,

of Robert Burns Lodge; the Address in the N.E. Corner was given by W. Bro. J. Hood; the W.Ts. were

presented by W. Bro. S. A. Orchard, of Lodge Canterbury ; and the R. for Prep. by W. Bro. S. P. Smith. His

P.M.'s certificate was presented to W. Bro. J. R. Buchanan by W. Bro. Daltry, who also presented their

M.Ms.' certificates to Bros. Whale and Moyle.

————————

NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH.

Unanimity, No. 106.—An emergency meeting was held on 22nd March, the business being to raise two

brethren. The chair was occupied by M.W. Bro. C. J. W. Griffiths, P.G.M., the "father" of the Lodge, who

was assisted by the following. G.L. and P.G.L. officers : R.W. Bro. C. H. Mills, Prov.G.M.; and W. Bros, J.

Brown, P.G.D. ; R. P. Furness, P.G.B.B.; and W. J. Girling, G.Supt. of W. The degree went with a. swing,

and the ritual work was excellently done, the M.W. P.G.M. setting a worthy example in this regard. There

was a good attendance, including five members of the sister Lodge. A very pleasant hour was afterwards

spent in the refectory, musical items being contributed by Bros. G. Jackson (Wairau), W. Lambie and T. F.

Bull, and recitations by Bros. W. R. Williams (Wairau) and H. B. White. The W.M. (W. Bro. A. Weaver)

expressed the hope that he might be able to prevail upon M.W. Bro. Griffiths to work another degree during

his term of office.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

HAWKES BAY.

Scinde, No. 5.—The regular monthly meeting was held on 17th April at the Lodgeroom, Tennyson Street,

Napier. There was a record attendance of members and visitors, and W. Bro. R. Bishop presided over one of

the best meetings held for some time. One brother was raised to the Degree of M.M. by the W.M., who was

assisted in the ceremony by W. Bro. Ritchie (Exhort. and Raising), W. Bro. W. Kirk, of Victoria Lodge, No.

21, reciting the Scriptural quotation from Ecclesiastes; R.W. Bro. Harston, Prov.G.M. (Charge after Raising);

W. Bro. L. Freedman (Secrets), W. Bro. R. Bishop (T.H.), Bro. A. E. Currie, J.W. (W.Ts.), Bro. J. Bowes,

S.W. (Final Charge). The nomination of W.M. and officers was taken, and resulted in keen competition for

the junior offices, showing the increased interest evinced by the younger brethren for the welfare of Scinde

Lodge. The W.M. referred to the fact that this completed the year's ceremonial work, and that, as the next

night was the first free night during his year of office, besides the reading of the by-laws and election of

W.M. and officers, he hoped that R.W. Bro. Harston, Prov.G.M., would attend and deliver an address. R.W.

Bro. Harston notified his consent, and stated that his address would be on "Harmony."—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Bedford, No. 25.—In spite of heavy and continuous rain, seventy-six signed the attendance-book on the

occasion of the installation of W. Bro. W. A. Chambers as W.M. of Bedford, which ceremony was

conducted by R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M. of Hawkes Bay, on 11th ult. The ordinary routine

business was attended to in the afternoon, the Lodge being tyled at 5 p.m. This enabled the brethren to be in

readiness to receive visitors and G.L. promptly as from 7.30 p.m. Usually visitors are waiting to be received,

but in this instance the reverse was the case. However, after a wait of half an hour or more the Prov.G.M. and

his officers were announced, and were accorded the customary honours. No less than thirty P.Ms. were in

attendance, which I believe to be a record for Bedford. Once commenced, the installation service was carried

out with becoming dignity under the directorship of W. Bro. Critchley. The various addresses were delivered

effectively, and everything worked smoothly and well, so much so that the Lodge was closed at 10.10 p.m.

During the presentation of the W.Ts. in the Installed Masters' Degree R.W. Bro. Thos. Hobson, P.Prov.G.M.

of Hawkes Bay, took advantage of the opportunity to present the set of tools to the Lodge, remarking that

about seventeen years ago he had purchased the set for the purpose of explaining their symbolical meaning to

each successive Master installed, as was the custom in those days. It had now become customary for Lodges

to be in possession of their own Tools, and he therefore had much pleasure in asking the W.M.'s acceptance

of this set. W. Bro. Chambers acknowledged the gift in appropriate terms, and thanked R.W. Bro. T. Hobson

very cordially, on behalf of his Lodge, for his thoughtful action. The gift was yet another link which bound

the name of Bro. Hobson, P.M., to Bedford. It was decided to engrave the donor's name on the trowel. The

following officers were invested : I.P.M., Bro. W. H. L. Williams ;W. Bro. W. A. Chambers; S.W., Bro. H. J.

Newling; J.W., Bro. H. Hobson; Treas., Bro. R. J. Fleming; Sec., W. Bro. J. W. Elliott, P.M.; Organist, W.

Bro. J. Scholes, P.M. ; D. of C., W. Bro. W. H. Booth ; S.D., Bro. O. A. Sutherland ; J.D., Bro. G. F. W.

Gay; I.G., Bro. J. H. Wilkins; S.S., Bro. D. Armand; J.S., Bro. P. J. Ryan ; Tyler, Bro. E. Fee. The pro-

ceedings in the refectory were characterised by the usual swing, and the harmony for which Bedford is noted.

Songs and recitations were of a high order, and well received. Twelve distinct Lodges were represented,

which lent interest to the visitors' toast. A happy social evening was brought to a close by the singing of

"Auld Lang Syne. "— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Abercorn, No. 30.— The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Waipawa, on 2nd April, W. Bro. A.

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

candidate being obligated by the W.M. ; the Secrets by W. Bro. Hobin ; S.E. Charge, W. Bro. Pasco ; Bro. J.

Milburn, J.W., presented the W.Ts. ; the S.W. gave the Final Charge; Bro. E. E. Bott explained the 1st T.B.

W. Bro. A. Parkin was appointed representative to G.L., meeting in Invercargill. Three circular appeals were

received and responded to. After the Lodge was closed the usual pleasant time was spent in the refectory,

where the customary toasts were honoured.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

AUCKLAND.

Ponsonby, No. 54.—The regular meeting was held on 6th April. There was a very large attendance, W. Bro.

L. C. Hamann, W.M., presiding. A notice of motion, "That this Lodge hold its installation on the first

Tuesday in July for all time, in lieu of May," was carried. The business of the evening was the raising of a

brother. In the absence of the S.W. (Bro. C. Haynes), W. Bro. T. McNab occupied the position. The W.M.

delivered the Exhort. and Final Charge. W. Bro. Doubble, W.M. of Lodge Waitakerei, delivered the Raising

Charge; W. Bro. Gill explained the S. of a M.M.; W. Bro. Munro, the T.H. ; and W. Bro. Dickenson, of

Lodge Ara, No. 348, I.C., presented the V. of S.L. on which the candidate was I., P. and R. Bro. C. Dutton,

J.W., presented the W.Ts. There being no work for our May meeting, on the proposition of W. Bro. McNab

it was decided to have a harmony night. Bro. J. H. Philphot and Bro. Brough kindly consented to arrange the

programme. With hearty good wishes to yourself and staff.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Wairoa, No. 55.—The installation of W.M. and investiture of officers took place on 16th April; and,

notwithstanding the night being like a small deluge, there was a very good attendance of brethren from the

city and suburban Lodges. The Installing Master was W. Bro. H. Nutt, the Lodge's Sec., and he performed

his task with credit. The presenting officers were W. Bro. W. G. Mason (W.M. of Lodge Auckland, No. 87)

and W. Bro. C. A. Coppings (W.M. of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 8); D. of C., W. Bro. G. J. Kent-Johnston,

P.G.S.; S.G.W., W. Bro. A. G. Graham (W.M., Ara Lodge, No. 1); J.G.W., W. Bro. W. Tailby (W.M., Lodge

United Service, No 10); I.G., W. Bro. V. R. Anderson (W.M., Lodge Albion, No. 45); Musical Director, Bro.

A. J. Burrow ; and Herald, Bro. H. Cleland. The officers for the ensuing year are as under :— W.M., W. Bro.

A. J. S. D'Ewes; I.P.M., W. Bro. A. Hewson; S.W., Bro. E. R. Pilkington; J.W., Bro. G. V. Westbrooke;

Trees., Bro. J. Dykes (re-elected); Sec., W. Bro. H. Nutt, P.M. ; D. of C., W. Bro. C. J. Kent-Johnston,

P.G.S.; S.D., Bro. A. McDonald; J.D., Bro. G. P. J. Bracewell; I.G., Bro. W. H. King; S.S., Bro. S. M.

Knight ; J.S., Bro. F. C. Barber ; Tyler, Bro. A. Hadfield. Before the conclusion of the evening M.W. Bro.

M. Niccol presented W. Bro. Hewsou with a P.M.'s jewel from the Lodge. The G.Sec. also addressed the

W.M. and brethren, and W. Bro. W. R. T. Leighton, G.D. of C., addressed the Wardens.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Tauranga, No. 125.—A Lodge of Sorrow was convened for 3rd. April in connection with the death of our

late W.M., Bro. T. R. W. Philpotts, which occurred about 4 a.m. on Sunday, let April. The Lodge

accompanied the funeral cortege to the grave-side, and paid a last Masonic tribute to our deeply respected W.

brother. V.W. Bro. C. L. Tuke, P.G. Chaplain, officiated as Chaplain. Our brother's death was very sudden,

he being in apparent good health on retiring to rest on the previous evening. He practically died while

asleep.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

TARANAKI.

Hawera, No. 34.—Our regular monthly meeting was held at the Temple on 3rd April, when a brother was

raised to the Third Degree. There was quite a large gathering of members and visiting brethren present. The

acting-W.M., W. Bro. Harding presided, and obligated the candidate, and afterwards gave the Secrets and the

Final Charge. W. Bro. Alan Thompson gave the Exhort. and Charge; W. Bro. J. Hunt gave the W.Ts. ; R.W.

Bro. Sargent communicated the T.H. and Further Secrets; and Bro. Magnusson finally presented the newly

raised brother with a copy of the V. of S.L. on which he was obligated. During the evening W. Bro. Harding

gave a short lecture on the "Three Degrees of Freemasonry," which was much appreciated. Three brethren

were presented with their M.M. certificates. A vote of condolence was carried in favour of Bro. A. Cocker,

owing to the death of his father. This was carried by the brethren standing in silence. It was decided to cable

the sum of £25 to W. Bro. R. H. Nolan as an Easter offering from this, his mother Lodge, to the wounded

soldiers under his charge in London as a token of appreciation of the good work that W. Bro. Nolan's

Institution is doing for our wounded soldiers in London. At the "Fourth" the usual hour was spent in

conversation, music and harmony. I also have pleasure in reporting that on Tuesday, 10th inst., instead of the

usual practice meeting being held, the brethren foregathered at the Temple for the purpose of bidding

farewell to our congenial Bro. Geo. Sheppard, who is on final leave prior to his departure with the 27th

Reinforcements. B.W. Bro. Sargent, on behalf of the Lodge, presented Bro. Sheppard with a set of military

brushes and case, suitably inscribed with a silver plate. All the brethren present heartily endorsed R.W. Bro.

Sargent's remarks as to our popular Bro. Sheppard's sterling qualities and the great sacrifice he was making

in going to the war. Bro. Sheppard, who, by the way, is looking very fit, suitably responded and promised to

tell us all about the march into Berlin when he returns.—Lodge Correspondent.

————

Stratford, No. 75.—The installation meeting was held on 21st March, when there was a good attendance, it

being the twenty-fifth anniversary of the consecration of the Lodge; and the members, wishing to celebrate it

in some form or other, decided to make several worthy and esteemed brethren life members, viz. : W. Bro.

A. W. Reid (first Master and still an active member, but unfortunately, not able to be present at this meeting),

W. Bro. G. Smart (who has been a tremendous worker for the Lodge for twenty-five years, including Sec. for

two years), W. Bro. J. Thomson (Charter member, and took keen interest in the Lodge all down the years of

struggle), W. Bro. T. E. Hamerton (M.M. for fifty years, and a great worker for the Craft all over Taranaki) ;

also two brethren on the floor of the Lodge, who through unavoidable circumstances have not been able to

take office, but have been active members for a great number of years—Bros. A. E. Cole and J. Henry. R.W.

Bro. T. C. Fookes, P.Prov.G.M., acted as Installing Master in his usual excellent style ; assisted by R.W. Bro.

R. Mr. Sargent, Prov.G.M., W. Bros. G. Young, J. McAlister, T. E. Coleman, W. H. H. Young. Bro. W. H.

Besley was installed in the chair, I and afterwards invested his own officers as follows : S.W., Bro. J. H.

Ashton; J.W., Bro. A. M. Spilman; Treas., W. Bro. J. McAlister; Sec., Bro.. T. Richardson ; Chaplain, Bro.

A. V. Simms; D. of C., W. Bro. G. Smart; S.D., Bro. E. A. Drake; J.D., Bro. H. E. Lawerance ; I.G., Bro. R.

M. Peattie; Tyler, W. Bro. W. E. Webb. Whlist investing W. Bro. Webb the W.M. told the brethren that Bro.

Webb was present at the consecration, and that he had tyled the Lodge for twenty-one years and only missed

two meetings. In the refectory afterwards the honoured brethren gave a good account of what the Lodge did

over twenty years ago. The newly installed W.M. made a very fine speech in it, dropping a few hints about

books, which resulted in a few being promised, and thus the nucleus of a library was formed. In fact, if he

goes on he will be aspiring to another W.M.'s (Wm. Massey) position.—{Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

RUAPEHU.

Kimbolton, No. 123.—The monthly meeting was held in the Lodgeroom on 5th April. There was an

unusually large muster of the brethren, including W. Bro. J. S. McIntyre, home on final leave. There being

no degree work, the W.M. called upon W. Bro. Jarrett, who read a most weighty and timely paper on "The

Duties of a Proposer and Seconder. " W. Bro. Jarrett was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for his trouble in

preparing the paper. Upon adjourning to the refectory advantage was taken of the presence of W. Bro.

McIntyre to wish him God-speed on the "great adventure," and at the same time to present him with a

wristlet watch as some slight token of his brethren's esteem for him. The usual toasts, interspersed with songs

and recitations, completed a very pleasant and harmonious evening.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Huia, No., 171.—The monthly meeting took place on 5th April, when, notwithstanding the Easter holidays

being responsible for the absence of several of the principal officers and brethren, a good attendance was

recorded, one of the most satisfactory features of the meeting being the very able manner in which the

acting-officers discharged their duties—a fact which proves that all the talent is not exhausted by the

enforced absence of the recognised officers, who have been duly invested. The routine business, in addition

to the ordinary, consisted of the election of a Sec. and Tyler, the position being : for Sec., Bro. H. C. Le

Grange; Tyler, Bro. J. W. Boothman. The ceremonial work performed consisted of the initiation of a

candidate, the work being distributed as follows : Ob. and Secrets, W.M.; the Investiture by the acting-S.W.,

Bro. Oliver; N.E. Corner by the I.P.M., W. Bro. Turner; Prep. Charge, the acting-J.W., Bro. Snell; Final

Charge by the W.M., W. Bro. Gallichan. On the completion of the work H.G.W. were tendered by various

representatives of Lodges who happened to be on a visit to the district, their presence being very much

appreciated by the officers and members of this Lodge.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

WELLINGTON.

N.Z. Pacific, No. 2.—The annual meeting held on 26th March should have been most gratifying to the

newly inducted W.M., as it was presumed that the attendance was a record one. The proceedings commenced

at 3.30 p.m., and after formal business, which included several ballots, the W.M. (Bro. A. Scott) called the

Lodge to order to receive officers of G.L., who included M.W. Bro: H. J. Williams ; R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison,

Prov. G.M.; R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, P.G.W.; V.W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, P.G.D. ; V.W. Bro. H. B. Bridge,

P.G. Lect. ; and others. R.W. Bro. Seaton acted as G.D. of C. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams at once proceeded

with the ceremony, installing Bro. Joseph Tamblyn, S.W., as W.M. At 5 p.m. the Lodge was called off, and

re-assembled at 7 p.m., the attendance of members and visitors being very large. Amongst the latter were W.

Bro. Surgeon-General Henderson, W.W , W.M. of Lodge Aorangi, E.C., and W. Bro. J. W. Jack, a P.M. of

the same Lodge. There were also two W. brethren from Nevi South Wales. Proclamations have been made

by R.W. Bro. Seaton, with Bro. Manthell as Trumpeter, the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. H. A. Bruce,

W. A. Ramsay, and Bro. I. Salek respectively. W. Bro. E. A. Blundell presented the Charter, Constitution

and By-laws. Officers were invested by W. Bro. T. Gibson as follows :—I.P.M., W. Bro. A. Scott; W.M.,

Bro. J. Tamblyn ; S.W., Bro. R. H. Webb ; J.W., Bro. J. H. Hutchings ; Chaplain, Bro, Rev. J. H. Sykes ;

Treas., W. Bro. T. Gibson, P.M. ; Sec., W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, P.G.D. ; S.D. Bro. G. W. A. Clark; J.D. Bro.

P. Connell; D. of C., R. Wor. Bro. H. H. Seaton, P.G.W. ; Organist, Bro. W. H. Godier ; I.G. Bro. F.

Thomson ; S.S., Bro. T. Queree; J.S., Bro. A. G. Cate ; assist-Ss., Bros. C. R. Ingram and A. E. Kennard;

Tyler (acting), Bro. M. J. Gardner; Auditors (appointed by W.M.), Bro. Jas. Kellow, F.P.A.,N.Z., (elected)

Bros. Ernest W. Hunt, F.P.A.,N.Z., and A. J. Petherick, F.P.A.,N.Z. A quartette by W. Bros. G. Smith, J. S.

Connell, Bros. W. J. Scammell and W. Thompson was most artistically rendered. The addresses to the W.M.,

Wardens, and brethren were very finely given by W. Bros. J. H. Worboys, P.G.D., Govin Menzies, P.M., and

H. B. Bridge, P.G.Lect., respectively. An offertory on behalf of the G.L. War Fund was taken up. M.W. Bro.

H. J. Williams, by special request, presented a P.M.'s jewel to the retiring Master in very felicitous terms,

who feelingly replied. After the usual greetings the Lodge was closed at 9 p.m., thus allowing ample time for

the festive board before the rush for the trams set in. The feature of the latter function was the excellent vocal

items rendered, the quartette party again delighting the brethren. By general consent the meeting was voted

the acme of success.—{Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Andrew, No. 32.—The regular meeting was held on 16th April. The W.M., Bro. A. Schmidt presided,

the attendance of members being satisfactory. Preliminary business was attended to and disposed of, one

matter being the proposition of a candidate for initiation, in whose case the ballot resulted favourably. A

number of visitors were announced and received, including the W.Ms. and officers of Lodges N.Z. Pacific,

Waiwhetu, Otari, and P.Ms. from Gisborne, Warkworth, and other districts. The ceremonial of the evening

(the initiation of four candidates) was performed by the W.M. and his officers, the following brethren taking

part : W. Bro. O. Neilson (Investiture Address), W. Bro. C. W. Nielsen (N.E. Address), Bro. G. Lawrence,

J.D. (R. for Prep.), Bro. Fox (W.Ts.), W. Bro. A. W. Rowlands (F.C.), Bro. J. C. Riddell, S.W. (Lecture).

Before closing, apologies from a number of brethren unavoidably absent were tendered; and Lodge having

been closed in due form, a retirement was made to the refectory, where a most attractive series of musical

and recitative items were rendered. The meeting was responsible for good and useful work, well handled by

those concerned and concluded within reasonable time. A welcome feature of the evening's ceremony was

the contribution at an appropriate stage of the hymn, "Lead, Kindly Light," by the Lodge choir and Organist.

— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ulster, No. 62.—The regular meeting was held in the Freemason's Hall, Petone, on 18th April, when there

was a good attendance. One brother was elected as a joining member. The ceremonial business was the

raising of two F.Cs.' the work being done by the W.M., W. Bro. R. Jenkins, assisted by W. Bros. Cox,

Richards, Schwartz, and Wylie. The T.H. was explained by W. Bro. Macgregor, the W.Ts. presented by W.

Bro. Castle, and the Final Charge given by W. Bro. Richards. W. Bro. Matthews presented each candidate

with the V. of S.L. on which they had been obligated. The amendments and additions to by-laws passed at

last meeting were duly confirmed. Two candidates were proposed for initiation, and one brother as a joining

member. Nominations were taken for officers for the year 1916-17. The meeting concluded at 10.20 p.m.,

after which an enjoyable hour was spent in the refectory. At the next meeting the officers of Lodge

Waiwhetu will attend and work the Third Degree.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Eketahuna, No. 92.—The ordinary meeting was held on the 13th March. A fair attendance of brethren was

present, presided over by the W.M., W. Bro. J. Remnent. After routine business had been disposed of the

election of officers was proceeded with, Bro. T. Knight being elected W.M. for the ensuing year The special

work was to raise a brother, it being carried out very impressively by the W.M. and his officers : The W.M.,

(Ob., Ss., Raising, and the Investiture Charge), W. Bro. Wilson (the Exhort. and Investiture), W. Bro. Leslie

(W.Ts.), W. Bro. Rowden (T.H.), and Bro. J. Keer, J.W. (the Final Charge). After the Lodge was closed a

social hour was spent in the refectory in song and story, the W.M. taking the opportunity of thanking the

officers and brethren for their support during the year, which has been very successful.

On the 4th April the W.M. and fourteen brethren visited Lodge Tararua, No. 67, and had a very pleasant

time.

There was an excellent attendance of members on 23rd March, when an emergency meeting was held for the

purpose of raising a brother. A decided innovation was the filling of all the offices with P.Ms. of the Lodge.

The W.M., Bro. J. Remnent, presided till the Exam., and then handed the gavel to W. Bro. Wilson, who

carried out the work, assisted by W. Bro. Pilling, S.W.; W. Bro. Dempsey, J.W.; W. Brit, Rowden, S,D. ; W.

Bro. Dr. Simmers, J.:D.; and W. Bro. Leslie, I.G. W. Bro. Wilson gave the Ob., Exhort, and Raising; W. Bro.

Pelling, Investiture and W.Ts. ; W. Pro. Dempsey, Sub-S. and T.H. ; W, Bro. Leslie, Invest. ; and W. Bro.

Rowden, Final Charge. H.G.W. were extended from Otangaki, No. 70, and Tararua, No. 67. After the Lodge

was closed a pleasant time was spent in the refectory. The Tyler's toast brought an exceptionally pleasant

evening to a close, and the hope was expressed that, though the first P.M. night, it would not be the last. —

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—An emergency meeting was hold in the, Masonic Hall, Berhampore, on 29th March,

the W.M., Bro. J. Sexton, presiding over a fair attendance of members and visitors. The business was passing

two candidates. The W.M. obligated and (assisted by the I.P.M.) gave the Signs. The W.Ts, were presented

in concert by the WM. and Wardens. The Address in the S.E. was given by the J.W. The T.B. was explained

by the S.W., who also gave the Final Address. After the Lodge closed an adjournment was made for

refreshments, and the used loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured.

The usual monthly meeting was held on 5th April in the presence of a good attendance of members and

visitors. The W.M., Bro. J. Sexton, presided. After the formal business had been disposed of the W.M.

handed the gavel to W. Bro, Shand, who, with the assistance of the P.Ms., worked the Third Degree. Two

candidates presented themselves, and were duly obligated by W. Bro. Shand, who, also, with the assistance

of W. Bro. Watt, explained the Signs. W. Bro. Neilsen gave the Exhort. Charge; W. Bro. Watt, F.F. ; W. Bro,

Sexton, W.Ts. ; W. Bro. Harrap, T.H. ; the S.W., the Final Charge. W. Bro. O. Neilsen presented a copy of

the V. of S.L. to each of the newly raised brethren. After the Lodge closed a pleasant hour was spent in the

refectory. — [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetu, No. 176.— The usual meeting was held on 11th April, when there was another large gathering of

brethren and visitors, this being the night on which the W.M., officers, and brethren of Lodge Ulster, No. 62,

paid their annual visit and worked the degree, which was the passing of three brethren. The brethren of

Lodge Ulster turned up in full force, and on entering the Lodge W. Bro. Leighton welcomed them and asked

W. Bro. Jenkins to assume the chair and take charge of the gavel. He then called upon his D. of C. to conduct

the officers of his Lodge to the respective chairs. The three brethren were passed to the Degree of F.C. W.

Bro. Jenkins obligated and communicated the S:, T. and W. ; Bro. Mather, S.W., invested; W. Bro. Matthews

gave the Charge after Investiture; W. Bro. Schwartz, the S.E. Charge; W. Bro. Davis presented the W.Ts.;

W. Bro. Wylie gave the Charge after Passing; and W. Bro. Richards gave the Explanation of the 2nd T.B.

The Lodge was then closed in the Second Degree, and W. Bro. Jenkins thanked the W.M. for having given

Lodge Ulster the opportunity of filling the various chairs, and invited W. Bro. Leighton and his officers to

return the compliment at Petone at their May meeting. . Three candidates were balloted for, and one brother

was proposed for affiliation. The Sec. was asked to write a letter of sympathy to the family of Bro. Glennie,

who had been wounded in France. Great regret was felt at the absence from the meeting of R.W. Bro.

Peterkin, who was too unwell to attend.

An emergency meeting was held on 21st March for the purpose of raising two members of this Lodge and

one brother on behalf of Lodge Hobson, Aratapu, and at the invitation of the W.M the degree was worked by

brethren from Trentham Camp, W. Bro. Williams, G.L. Representative in camp, being in the chair, assisted

by the following officers 1.P.M., W. Bro, Knight (Lodge Thistle, No. 113) ; S.W., W. Bro. S. Oldfield

(Lodge United Waiuku, No. 90); J.W., W. Bro. Rundle (Lodge Mawhera, No. 136) ; S.D., Pro, T. Shankland

(Lodge Ashley, No. 28) ; assist-S.D., Bro. Goldwater (Lodge De Burgh Adams, I.C.); J.D., Bro. A. W.

Rapley (Lodge Ruahine, No. 80); 1.G., Bro. Lacy (Lodge St. John, No. 37); D. of C., W. Pro. G. H. Weir

(Lodge Canterbury, No. 108, E.C.); Chaplain, Bro. Gibbs (Lodge Montrose, No. 722, S.C.); Organist, Bro.

A. C. Webb (Lodge Hawera, No. 34). The Alternative Scotch was worked. W. Bro. Williams obligated and

gave the Exhort., W.Ts., and the additional Final Charge. W. Bro. Weir gave the Light of a M.M.; W. Bro.

Knight, Charge after Investiture and first part of T.H. ; W. Bro. Oldfield communicated the Secrets and

second part of T.H.; W. Bro. Rundle gave the Apron Charge; and Bro. Rynd, of Lodge Dante, No, 3707,

E.C., gave the Final Charge. W. Bro. Leighton congratulated the brethren on the excellent manner in which

the degree had been worked, and W. Bro. Williams replied on behalf of the camp brethren, and thanked the

Lodge for allowing them the opportunity of filling the chairs. W. Bro. Williams was accompanied by forty-

five brethren from camp, representing almost every Lodge in the Dominion.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Whetu Kairangi, No. 201.—The regular meeting of the Lodge was held on 10th March, when W. Bro.

Aston presided over a good attendance of members and visitors, the latter being welcomed with that warmth

which a young Lodge in particular always shows to visitors, who by their presence and kindly interest

materially assist in making the meetings successful and enjoyable. Amongst the correspondence was the

circular and agenda paper for the installation meeting of Lotus Lodge, Cairo, received from Bro. A. G.

Williams, who wrote to say that he was visiting Lodges as occasion presented. All were glad to hear that

Bro. Williams was keeping fit and well. The ceremonial business was the passing of a brother, who proved

an apt candidate, the knowledge he displayed when questioned being favourably commented on. W. Bro.

Aston obligated the candidate; V.W. Bro. Porritt communicated the S., T. and W.; Bro. Bennett delivered the

Address in the S,E, ; Bro. Robertson presented the W.Ts. ; W. Bro. Ashton gave the Charge after Passing;

and Bro. Fox explained the T,B. A soldier brother from Trentham was presented with his M.M. certificate on

behalf of Ngamotu Lodge. W. Bros. Smith and Connell and Bros. Thomson and Scammell made a most

tuneful quartette, and during a break in the ceremony delighted everybody with a most appropriate item.

They also - as did several other visiting and home brethren— contribitted several items in the refectory, the

whole making up a very pleasant evening.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Too late for last issue.—ED. C.]

—————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS,

Victoria, No. 1.—The regular convocation was held on 29th March at the Masonic Hall, Munroe Street,

Napier. R.E. Comp. Freedman presided over a fair attendance of companions. Two brethren were exalted to

the H.R.A. Degree, the ceremony being carried out by the 1st Prin., R.E. Comp. L. Freedman, who had the

assistance of V.E. Comp. H, L. Harston, P.Z. (Ob.); V.E. Comp, J. Redshaw, P.Z. (Address after Investiture);

R.E. Comp. Freedman (Secrets, Extended Secrets, and Lecture on the Pedestal); E. Comp. H. W. Whitton, J.

(W,Ts.); the Charge being given in a most impressive manner by E. Comp. A. J. Turville. Victoria Chapter is

to be congratulated on its junior officers, and E. Comp. J. Bowes as 1st Soj. must be specially complimented

on his work.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Manawatu, No. 11 —The usual date of meeting of the Chapter had been adjourned to 4th April, when M.E.

Comp. H. J. Williams, G.S.E., and M.E. Comp. T. Porritt attended for the express purpose of conferring

several side degrees upon the candidates, who had been anxiously awaiting the opportunity of receiving the

same, the general verdict of the recipients being that they highly appreciated the privilege. The attendance

was somewhat sparse, on account of several of the faithful few being called away by public duties; and the

Easter holidays also militated against a good attendance; nevertheless the lengthy experience of many of the

companions enabled them to be prepared for all emergencies and not to be disappointed in well-doing. In this

connection their motto is : Forward ; always evince a live interest in the work, coupled with loyalty to the

ancient institution, which has withstood the storms of criticism and opposition for ages, and always emerged

triumphant to march forward to greater victories in the future.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Heretaunga, No. 38.— The annual convocation was held on 4th April, Sup. G. Chapter being represented

by M.E. Comp. L. Freedman, P.D.G.Z.; R.E. Comp, Thos. Hobson, G.J.; and R.E. Comp. R. A. Gillespie,

G.Supt. for Hawkes_ Bay, as web as a number of G. and P.G. officers, V.E. Comp. M. Dobson, P.G.C. of

Rawhiti Chapter, acting-G.D. of C., having announced the G.Supt., he was enthroned and received the

honours due, whereupon the M.E.D.G.Z, and other G. Chapter officers were received and saluted. The

installing of E. Comp. J. A. Miller is 1st Prin., E. Comp. Ritchie as 2nd Prin., and E. Comp. S.B. Dodge as

3rd Prin. was conducted by R.E. Comp. G0. Supt., who received most able assistance from the G. Chapter

officers present at the conclave of Installed Principals. The conclave was closed, and the Chapter was

reopened in the evening, when the ordinary business having been dealt with, the acting-G.D. of C.

announced G. Chapter representatives, who were duly admitted and received with usual honours. The 1st

Prin.-elect was then presented and invested and addressed by the G.Supt., after which the 2nd and 3rd Prins.

were duly invested and addressed by G. Chapter officers, the officers generally being invested by Comp. A.

Ramsay, G. F. Roach, and J. A. Miller, V.E. Comps. of Heretaunga Chapter. The addresses to the officers,

and companions were delivered by R.E. Comp. Thos. Hobson and V.E. Comp. M. Dobson. The 1st Prin.

having expressed the thanks of the Chapter to the G.Supt. and G. Chapter officers present, who at first time

of asking expressed the H.G.W. of. Sup. G. Chapter for the welfare of Heretatinga, No. 38, retired; after

which representatives of district Chapters present having expressed their H.G.W., the Chapter was closed,

and the companions retired to the refectory, where a profitable and pleasant hour was spent in harmony and

good fellowship. The speeches made by some of the prominent G. Chapter officers which were listened to

with rapt attention, admonished all those present to endeavour to carry out their duties to Capitular

Freemasonry to the utmost of their power and ability, and endeavoured to impress upon all present the

necessity for each of us to give to R.A. Freemasonry the same attention, enthusiasm, and interest which we

as young Masons devoted to Craft Freemasonry, pointing out to us the great field of usefulness before this

and every other Chapter if we would only make the necessary effort, and expressing the hope that

Heretaunga Chapter, which, to say the least, is most favourably situated, should not fail to make the most of

its opportunities, and that now, while still in its infancy, the foundation so well and truly laid should be built

upon with ever eager and willing hands, and that the outcome may be a superstructure which will be an

incentive not only to the companions, thereof, but to R.A. Freemasonry in general.—[Chapter

Correspondent]

————

Egmont, No. 57.—The annual meeting was held at Stratford on 3rd April, A preliminary meeting was held

at 2 p.m., when a conclave was opened by M.E. Comps. Rev. T. Porrit and H. J. Williams and the Principals,

and I.M.M. Degrees were conferred. The Ark Mariners and Red Cross Degrees immediately followed, there

being ten candidates. As a finish to a very busy afternoon's work, two candidates received the Chair Degrees.

A good attendance assembled at 7.30, with V.E. Comp. G. Young in the chair. After the transaction of

formal business the following visitors were received : M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams, acting-Supt. of the West

Coast (N.I.) District; M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt, G.Supt. of Wellington; V.E. Comp. G. Young, as G.D. of

C.; V.E. Comp. T. E. Hamerton P.A.G.S.B. ; and

V.E. Comp. H. Priestley, P.G. Supt. of W. M.E.

Comp. H. J. Williams assumed the chair, and

installed V.E. Comp. J. McAllister as Z. Comps, F.

Copestake and W. H. Besley, as H. and J., were

respectively invested by M.E. Comp. Rev. T.

Porritt. V.E. Comp. McAllister then invested the

following officers— Comp. A. M. Spilman; Treas.,

Comp, R. M. Peattie; 1st Soj., Comp. F. J. Hodges;

2nd Soj: Comp. G. H. Hutton; 3rd Soj., Comp. G.

Smart. M.E. Comp. Rev. T. Porritt addressed the lst

Prin., and M.E. Comp. Williams charged the office-

bearers and companions. At the conclusion of the

ceremonial work an adjournment was made for

refreshment. Subsequently the customary toasts

were honoured, and some excellent speeches were

made. The electing terminated shortly after 10 p.m.,

a very pleasant evening having been spent. It is

satisfactory to note that Egmont Chapter,

notwithstanding its depletion on account of the war,

is slowly but surely progressing.

———————

A. AND A. RITE.

Wellington, No. 91.—The quarterly meeting was

held in the Masonic Hall, Wellington, on 20th April,

Ill. Bro. R. S. F. Henderson, 30 deg., presiding. The

attendance was eminently satisfactory, and the

whole proceedings were of a most interesting

character. Two brethren were perfected in the 18

deg., the M.W. Sovereign being assisted by his

officers and Ill. Bros. Rev. T. Porritt, H. J. Williams,

and E. and P. Bro, J. Reid. A further proposition

was received for membership. In the refectory the

M.W.S. gave a most interesting and instructive

address on the "Intermediate Degrees," The

proceedings terminated at 11 p.m.