THE GRAND LODGE OF QUEENSLAND.

A PERUSAL of the May issue of the "Queensland Freemason"
would indicate that the position of Freemasonry in that State
is little short of a scandal, and that special efforts appear to
be in the making to intensify the unsavoury position of the
Craft in the banana State.

In 1903 a number of Lodges and brothren took steps to
inaugurate a sovereign G.L., in imitation of the action of every
other State and Colony in Australasia, and on 25th April, 1904,
the G.L. was formed. 'Whether such action was wise or judicious
need not here be considered. Suffice it to -say, a G.L. was

THE GRAND LODGE OF QUEENSLAND.

———<>———

A PERUSAL of the May issue of the "Queensland Freemason" would indicate that the position of

Freemasonry in that State is little short of a scandal, and that special efforts appear to be in the making to

intensify the unsavoury position of the Craft in the banana State.

In 1903 a number of Lodges and brethren took steps to inaugurate a sovereign G.L., in imitation of the action

of every other State and Colony in Australasia, and on 25th April, 1904, the G.L. was formed. Whether such

action was wise or judicious need not here be considered. Suffice it to say, a G.L. was constituted, and the

whole nature of the proceedings has been discussed through the columns of this journal. In 1905 an

agreement was made between the three British G.Ls., in effect that new G.Ls. should not be recognised

unless two-thirds of the local Lodges of each constitution should participate in the organisation of the same,

and not then unless all the three G.Ls. concurred. The Irish delegates demurred to this concordat, and

ultimately only reluctantly consented for the sake of harmony. But in 1909 the G.L. of Ireland granted

recognition to Queensland on the ground that the agreement it had reluctantly entered into was not

retroactive. Since that date efforts have been made to effect a fusion, which should present little difficulty in

such an institution as Freemasonry, but the English and Scottish Dist.G.Ls. have always manifested the most

virulent animosity. Later the G.Ls. of England and Scotland accorded permission to allow votes being taken

in the English and Scottish Lodges in Queensland on the question of a sovereign G.L. These votes were

taken in 1911 and 1912, and the results were astonishing, as the English Lodges lacked only one of the two-

thirds required by the tri-partate agreement, while in the Scotch Lodges the majority was largely in excess of

the two-thirds required, this clearly showing that the rank and file did not participate in the animosity of their

leaders, but, on the contrary, were desirous of healing the breach. But no action resulted. It now appears that

the matter has assumed a new phase, inasmuch as the Dist.G.Ls. of England and Scotland are pestering the

Home G.Ls. to be allowed to form a G.L. of Queensland apart from that already in existence, and

suggestions for consideration by the Home authorities in connection with the settlement of this matter have

been made, some of which are :-

(1.) That intervisitation between the constitutions should be allowed.—To this the answer was
emphatically " No."

(2.) That the E.C. and S.C. in Queensland be permitted to form a G.L. of Queensland.— The answer was
that, if we in Queensland can agree, the G.L. would endeavour to bring about an amalgamation of B.C. and

S.C. with a view to forming a G.L. of Queensland.

(3.) And, failing the latter, that recognition be given to the present irregular body.—The answer to which
was also "No."

Assuming, for the sake of argument, that the initial action of the G.L. of Queensland was ill-judged and

unwise, which assumption is not warranted, does the present action show any desire to bring about Masonic

unity or make a basis of union possible? Rather it would appear that premeditated action is being taken to

irretrievably complicate the present position and injure as far as possible the existing Masonic authority.

According to the last report we have to hand (1916), the G.L. of Queensland has 69 Lodges, is recognised by

66 G.Ls., including the whole of the Australian jurisdictions and New Zealand. The present G.M. has held

office for some years, and is deservedly held in the very highest esteem by the leading dignitaries of the

Masonic Craft throughout Australia. His efforts to fuse Freemasonry throughout his State have been of the

most pacific and dignified character, and offer striking contrast to the bellicose and bombastic attitude of

those who are using every effort to bring discredit upon our ancient and honourable institution. If the feelings

of certain individuals are so highly strung as to make the prospect of Masonic union impossible, there is still

no reason why they should not agree to differ, and at least offer no obstacle to the majority dwelling together

in harmony. The easiest solution of the whole difficulty, and a fitting commemoration of the bi-centenary

celebration, would be for the G.Ls, of England and Scotland to agree to recognise the existing G.L. of

Queensland, which, outside a few individuals, would secure the approbation of the Masonic world.

—————————

HONOUR AND EXAMPLE.

———<>———

The practical expression of appreciation and esteem made to R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin last month by the

brethren of the Wellington District merits something more than a passing notice, if only from the fact that the

venerable brother has arrived at the ripe old age of four score years, and until a few months ago was still

"going strong" in Freemasonry. Then, again, it is only a few weeks since he retired from the position of

Dep.G.M., and a brother filling such an exalted position, with so many years to his life's credit, is almost a

rara avis in the Craft. Last, but not least, there is the consideration of our R.W. Bro.'s unabated enthusiasm

for Freemasonry, which might well put to shame the cool indifference of younger men. A few facts from our

brother's active Masonic career may serve to point a moral with which to adorn the tale. He was initiated in

the Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia, in Sydney, under the I.C., on 25th January, 1816, which gives him

forty-one years of Masonic life, which has increased in activity with age, in inverse ratio to the usual

Masonic experience. From Sydney he removed to Westport, then to Christchurch, on to Dunedin, back again

to Westport, finally finding a resting place at the Lower Hutt. In each place he identified himself with

Masonic work and filled the Master's chair, usually per medium of instituting a new Lodge. One of his

greatest feats was in connection with Aorangi Lodge, Denniston. For two years he held a Lodge of

Instruction there, journeying to the "City on the Hill" every Saturday night, returning at midday on Sunday.

As the hill journey had to be performed by pedal locomotion, it was fortunate that our brother was not

burdened with a super-abundance of adipose tissue, and that his extremities were specially adapted for hill-

climbing and rapid travelling. In any case it was a wondrous feat, evincing the greatest self-sacrifice and

invincible determination. Again, when at seventy-four years of age he undertook the arduous duties of

Prov.G.M. of Wellington, which was then an undivided district, he not only established a record, but offered

an example worthy of imitation. And were it not that the occupation in a cause- he loved so well was

responsible for giving him a renewed lease of life, we should be inclined to doubt whether the exercise of his

enthusiasm was not detrimental to the best interests of himself and his family from a pecuniary point of view.

But the great moral which should adorn the tale is the force of example. We recently heard a younger brother

gently chided for neglecting his Masonic opportunities. He replied that he was tired of it. He could not get

office, and consequently he could not get anything out of Freemasonry. And just here we have two view-

points diametrically opposed. It was Bro. Peterkin's creed to give to Freemasonry time, service, energy, and

even money. The younger brother, who, unfortunately, is representative of a class, had but one desire—to

take; and, showing no justification for personal aggrandisement or the reception of special benefits, became a

Masonic failure. To others who are discouraged and are inclined to faint by the way, a career such as Bro.

Peterkin can show should present a sterling example. It should point to the elimination of self and selfish

desires, and, without setting up any lofty ideal, to devote one's energies to the general good, to endeavour to

please each other, and unite in being happy and communicating happiness. This, we believe, has been Bro.

Peterkin's goal in Freemasonry, and he has pursued it unswervingly. His great efforts have been crowned

with the second highest office which is in the power of the brethren to bestow, and, better still, with the

special exhibition of the appreciation of his brethren for his life's work and their marked love and esteem for

himself. How better can such a history be closed? We shall not essay the platitude of wishing our venerable,

brother many more years of active Masonic work. He has earned repose. Should he in the evening of his life

be able to still meet his brethren in Lodge assembled, they will welcome him with open arms, ever

remembering the years of happy days he devoted to the work of Freemasonry.

—————————

SALUTING GRAND OFFICERS.

———<>———

A correspondent draws our attention to a practice, which he avers is becoming a regular custom in at least

one city in the Dominion, His complaint is that, when prominent G. officers visit private Lodges

accompanied by other G. officers, the whole remain seated while the usual honours are being accorded. His

contention is that all should participate in the honours who are below the rank of the brother saluted. We are

of opinion that the objection taken is well founded, and we think the practice arises from a misconception,

for which the D. of C. fs sometimes responsible, as one occasionally hears the announcement : " The

brethren will salute the G. officers," etc. As a matter of fact, the honour is accorded to the highest G. officer

in attendance, and the number is regulated accordingly. All the accompanying G. officers should remain

standing, and all those below the highest rank should take part in the salute. We are sure there is no intention

of discourtesy, but simply a misapprehension, which the slightest explanation will at once remove.

—————————

WAR EXIGENCIES.

———<>———

We regretfully announce to our readers that with the present issue the outer dressing of the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN

will assume a different hue. The blue cover, which, by the way, is symbolic of Craft Freemasonry, will have

to give place to a white adornment, at any rate until after the war. It will, of course, be generally known how

greatly printing paper has advanced in price, and some classes are almost unobtainable. In having to bow to

the exigencies of the present war we find ourselves in good company, as the London " Freemason " has for

some considerable time adopted the white cover, and the last prominent journal to succumb to necessity is

the " South African Masonic Journal." We are very confident that our New Zealand readers will fully

appreciate our difficulties and accord us their sympathy.

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

News and Notes.

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

AN amended by-law recently adopted by the De Burgh Adams Lodge, I.C. New Plymouth, provides, "That

no member shall be eligible to the office of W.M. who is not capable of properly conferring the different

degrees."

FREEMASONS from New Zealand who belong to the N.Z.E.F. have had their centre at the Warner Lodge, No.

2256, Royal Forest Hotel, Chingford, and the second Anzac Festival was celebrated there this week. Several

hundreds of men on service have visited it during their stay in England. Major T. H. Dawson, Lodge Te

Awamutu, No. 2221, on behalf of the New Zealand Freemasons, presented their acting-Chaplain, the Rev. A.

J. Parry, W.M.-elect of the Warner Lodge, with an illuminated address, written both in English and in Maori,

and also with a gold watch suitably inscribed. Mr. Parry was greeted with "He's a Jolly Good Fellow" in

Maori. A special "Anzac toast" was proposed by the W.M., Bro. Joseph S. Bridges.

AN especial meeting of the Dist.G.L. of Canterbury, E.C., was held in the Masonic Hall, Christchurch, on

23rd June, in celebration of the bicentenary of the G.L. of England. A motion of congratulation was proposed

by the Dist.G.M., and appropriate addresses were given. Musical selections were rendered under the

direction of W. Bro. A. J. Morton, P.D.G., Organist. We were not able to obtain a full report before going to

press.

M.W. BRO. M. NICCOL, G.Sec., visited the capital city last month, and was accorded a hearty welcome at the

special meeting of Lodge Leinster. He is as genial as of yore, and the accumulation of years does not worry

him.

THE B. of G.P. has decided that no report of "Proceedings" be printed this year, unless a special

communication of G.L. should be held. The usual reports and statements have been issued to Lodges, but the

roll of honour will be deferred until next year.

THE G.Sec. has been instructed to convey the congratulations of the G.L. of New Zealand to the especial

communication of the United G.L. of England, which was to be held in the Royal Albert Hall, London, on

23rd June, in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the G.L. of England.

THE B. of G.P. of the G.L. of New Zealand has been notified by a certain Lodge that two members had been

sentenced to permanent exclusion on the following charges :—

" 1. That the harmony of the Lodge was disturbed by their presence.

" 2. That on divers occasions they conspired with certain brothers to abuse the privileges of the ballot."

WHETU KAIRANGI LODGE, Seatoun, means business.The building of a new hall was commenced last month,

and will be completed within twelve weeks from date. The hall proper will have seating accommodation for

over a hundred persons, and on extraordinary occasions can be extended' by throwing in the refectory. There

are also the usual dressing rooms, kitchen, etc. Full details will be supplied when the hall is completed,

THE annual meeting of Lodge Greytown was held on the 25th ult., owing to St. John's Day falling on the

Sunday. There was a good attendance, a lumber of soldier brethren from the Featherston Camp being

present. A report will appear in our next issue.

AT the annual meeting of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution it was announced that the donations for

the year had reached the handsome total of £50,500, and that the Province of Staffordshire had contributed

one-fifth of that amount. This special benevolent institution is to provide annuities for aged Freemasons and

the widows of Freemasons. The effort is a record, with the exception of one occasion, at the festival of the

Royal Institution for Girls, when the G.Sec., Sir Edward Letchworth, presided,

THE financial year of the Masonic Newspaper Company ter. urinated on 31st May, and accounts are now

being rendered. The directors would esteem it a favour if subscribers in districts where there are no agents

would kindly remit amounts direct to the secretary, as no travelling representative has yet been appointed.

LODGE LEINSTER will hold its annual festival on Monday, 2nd July, when the installation will be conducetd

by R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.A.I.

BRO. R. A. NICOL, has been elected W.M. of Lodge Otari, Khandallah, and will be installed on Tuesday,

10th inst. The ceremony will be in charge of V.W. Bro. Col. J. J. Eason, C.M.G., who will have the

assistance of several G. and P.G. officers.

IN connection with St. Andrew Kil., it is interesting to note that the suggestion of W. Bro. S. P. Smith, in a

paper given at the meeting of Prov.G.L. of Canterbury, and reported in last issue of the CRAFTSMAN—that

Lodges of Instruction should be established in every Lodge, for the benefit of initiates and others—has

already been carried out in this Lodge. The P.Ms. have arranged to take charge of this instruction class for

terms of three months each. W. Bro. Craig presided at the last meeting over an attendance of about twenty

members, and the interesting and instructive lecture or "talk" given by him was much appreciated. There is

no doubt that these Lodges of Instruction, which are distinct from regular ritual work, prove an effective

means of education, and at the same time assist in strengthening the bond between brethren, who may not for

the time being hold any particular office in the Lodge. We heartily commend the suggestion and advice of

W. Bro. Smith to all Lodges, as the establishment of these classes is greatly appreciated both by the

instructors and the instructed.

—————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

———<>———

Invercargill is busy with the installation season.

* * * *

The Masonic orchestra is now an established institution. When G.L. communication was being arranged for,

a musical committee was set up, and as "every cloud has a silver lining," so the cloud of disappointment

caused by the lapse of G.L. proceedings has evolved an extremely brilliant silver lining in the way of a

permanent orchestra. Bro. P. MacDonald, of Lodge Victoria, and Bro. S. E. Wootton, of Southern Cross,

seem to be the guiding stars of the combination. These two are kindred spirits, and have lots of enthusiasm.

Already the orchestra has been heard to advantage at the installation ceremonies. The combination is

excellent, and with combined practices there are great probabilities ahead.

* * * *

Lodge Waihopai has been in existence since 1912, and it is pleasing to notice that each year is marked by an

improvement, the result of voluntary contribution. On Monday, 21st May, the electric light was turned on for

the first time, and was greatly admired. The fittings are in keeping with the rest of the Lodge furniture. It was

a curious coincidence that on the Prov.G.M. assuming the chair the light in the East should have gone out.

* * * *

With W. Bro. Campbell invested as G. Organist, the complete chain of G.L. officers has been held at one

time or another by Southland brethren.

* * * *

R.W. Bro. W. Timpany was in particularly happy mood at Waihopai banquet. In referring to the Masters of

the town Lodges, he amusingly spoke of the youthful appearance of the present holders of office. His good-

natured reference to W. Bro. Frain regarding his locks—or rather, his lack of locks—caused great merriment.

* * * *

Lodge Wallace was well represented by visitors at Waihopai installation, the cause, no doubt, being that four

of the invested officers commenced their Masonic life in Wallace.

* * * *

W. Bro. A. Wilson, in vacating the chair, leaves Lodge Victoria in a very prosperous state. Bro. Wilson is an

extremely good ritualist. His work during the year has been marked by an earnest attention to detail.

Instruction meetings have been regularly and consistently carried out, with the result that W. Bro. Buchanan

and his officers take up their duties fully prepared.

* * * *

W. Bros. E. Parker and W. R. Rusden are consistent visitors, and show a fine example which may be well

followed by brethren of Lodge Fortitude.

* * * *

W. Bro. Bonifant takes over the control of Lodge St. John with a splendid lot of officers. The close attention

to detail paid by W. Bro. Robison is reflected in those who have worked with him, and as I.P.M. he should

be of great assistance to the newly installed Master.

* * * *

Lodge Southern Cross completed its fifty-third year in May, when W. Bro. W. A. Stout handed over the reins

of control to W. Bro. I. Copeland. Bro, Stout has been particularly busy during the year, owing to shortage of

staff due to the military call. He has, however, always made time to attend to Lodge work. Like many other

W.Ms., he feels that his year of office has passed all too quickly. Southern Cross will, no doubt, benefit from

Bro. Stout's assistance as I.P.M.

* * * *

Two pleasing ceremonies were performed at Southern Cross installation meeting—one in the Lodgeroom,

where W. Bro. Geo. Kelly was presented with a P.M.'s jewel; and the other at the social board, where R.W.

Bro. Wm. Smith was the recipient of a handsome pair of spectacles from Lodge Harvey.

* * * *

W. Bro. I. Copeland assumes control of Lodge Southern Cross with a very fine lot of officers. Bro. Copeland

is an enthusiast, and he has already laid his plans for several months ahead. He has every prospect of a

successful year.

* * * *

R.W. Bro. Rein, in proposing the toast of the W.M. at Lodge Victorla installation meeting, referred to W.

Bro. Buchanan as a "solid" man—not solid like a sergeant-major of police, but a man with solid opinions.

Bro. Buchanan, in replying to the toast, said his first duty would be in the direction of forming a committee

for the purpose of fulfilling the Prov.G.M.'s wishes in connection with augmenting the benevolent funds in

accordance with the simple scheme outlined by R.W. Bro. A. le H. Hoyles. Bro. Buchanan, being a "solid"

men, can be relied on to see this duty done. It is advisable for other W.Ms. to early bestir themselves in a

similar direction.

* * * *

On Friday, 15th June, W. Bro. Bonifant presided over his first meeting of Lodge St. John. One candidate was

passed to the F.C. The Deacons and Wardens were well prepared, and the ceremony was a pleasing one.

* * * *

It was good to see W. Bro. Geo. Reid back again at St. John Lodge after a very long illness, the result of an

accident. Bro. Reid still requires the assistance of a stout stick for support. He delivered the Charge in the

S.E. After the Lodge was closed he was surrounded by brethren offering their congratulations on his

recovery.

—————————

CANTERBURY CHIPS.

———<>———

The wonderful gathering of 460 Masons in the combined meeting of 13th June has supplied one unfailing

topic of conversation in all circles of the Craft since. Appreciation on all sides has been most marked, but it

has perhaps received fullest expression from the visitors from the south, many of whom have written to the

Prov.G.Sec., W. Bro. Bishop, their congratulations upon the arrangements made and the wonderful success

of the gathering. One brother, in writing, expressed in glowing terms his appreciation of the brotherly spirit

animating the gathering, and particularly referred to the exhibition of "brotherly love and unity" afforded by

the Prov.G.M., N.Z.C., and the Dist.G.M.., E.C. entering the Lodge side by side. That sight, he said, "did him

good."

* * * *

Although 460 were counted in the hall (including the Stewards, who retired at an early stage of the

proceedings), this does not represent all who desired to attend, as probably more than a score of brethren,

when they saw the exceptional attendance, decided to relieve the pressure by themselves going elsewhere.

* * * *

The following figures demonstrate the extensive support given to the meeting. Out of 42 Lodges in the

district, 40 were represented; out of 42 sitting Masters, 30 were present; and 13 Lodges from outside the

borders of Canterbury were represented. Thus the representatives of 53 Lodges met together in Masonic

unity—a splendid total indeed, and one that will probably remain unbeaten for a long time.

* * * *

A very graceful compliment was paid to W. Bro. L. B. Hart by the members of Avon Lodge at their last

meeting. A couple of months ago W. Bro. Hart and .a score of members of the Lodge paid a visit to Akaroa,

worked a degree, caught and ate flounders, and conducted a concert in aid of the Red Cross funds that will

long be remembered by all present. The whole visit was of so memorable and successful a character, thanks

to the energy and "verve" of W. Bro. Hart, that those who took part in the outing decided that it would be

only fitting on their part to present their leader with some small token by which to remember the occasion.

Accordingly, at the last meeting Bro. W. E. Scott, S. W., took charge in the "Fourth" and presented to W.

Bro. Hart a special jewel suitably inscribed. This jewel, said Bro. Scott, was to be worn only in the "Fourth,"

and it was desired that it should serve to remind W. Bro. Hart of the high esteem in which his brethren held

him for his very successful leadership at Akaroa. During his short speech Bro. Scott was careful to conceal

the character of the jewel, but as he pinned it on the Master's coat a great shout of appreciative laughter went

up, for it was seen that it was cast in the appropriate form of a gold flounder. W. Bro. Hart was much

touched by this kindly presentation, and feelingly thanked the brethren.

* * * *

"We want more." This is the feeling which has been uppermost in Akaroa since the visit of Lodge Avon and

the historic performance in the public hall which raised £13 10s. for the Red Cross Fund, and a request has

consequently been forwarded through the Mayor of Akaroa that a return visit should be paid. This request is

to be complied with in the next few weeks, when another bumper house in the cause of charity is assured.

* * * *

A sitting Christchurch Master has found it necessary to resolve that for the future he will attire himself in his

Masonic apron the night before he intends paying a visit. Three times within recent date he has found himself

in the Lodgeroom without this necessary apparel, and now, after much chaff, he has resolved upon the course

indicated (or some efficient substitute).

* * * *

With almost a plethora of musical talent, Avon Lodge now finds itself able to establish its own orchestra,

which will for the future supply the musical part of the ceremony. The idea originated with W. Bro. Hart,

who has succeeded in bringing together the following talented combination, all of whom are well known in

local musical circles : Conductor, Bro. A. R. Horne; first violins, Bros. E. Sandston and O. Naumann ;

second violins, Bros. C. K. Whale and C. Brown; viola, W. Bro. W. P. Cookson; clarionette, Bro. A. J.

Clarkson; bassoon, Bro. Mainland; double bass, Bro. A. L. Sutton; 'cello, Bro. N. F. Westwood; harmonium,

Bro. R. Lake. The provision of a piccolo player, which will make a complete orchestra, is not expected to be

beyond the resources of the Lodge. The orchestra will make its advent into the life of the Lodge at the July

meeting, which is the twenty-first anniversary of the establishment of Avon Lodge.

* * * *

A remarkable feature of the splendid gathering on 13th June, when South and North mingled in harmony,

was the number of old friends who were brought together after the lapse of years. While the gathering was in

progress W. Bro. S. A. Orchard, who has one of those faces that will neither rust nor wear out, created great

laughter by standing beside a burly grey-haired and be-whiskered country friend, who looked a score of

years older than himself, and solemnly declaring that they had been in the same class at school, and had not

met for nearly thirty years. Many other incidents of a similar nature occurred, and meetings of old friends

who had not seen each other for from ten to twenty years were so numerous as to give rise -to the comment

that this one factor alone amply justified the meeting. As a matter of fact, while old friendships were thus

renewed, many new ones were established, so that the benefit of this meeting will permeate Canterbury for

decades yet.

* * * *

W. Bro. F. R. Flatman, of Lodge Geraldine, was amongst those present on 13th June, he having made a

complete recovery from the nasty accident of which he was the victim several months ago.

* * * *

W. Bro. T, Kirker, of Robert Burns Lodge, was a justifiably proud man on the evening of 19th June, for he

then had the pleasure of presiding over a working of the Third Degree (upon a brother of unusual promise),

which earned the very highest praise of the R.W. Prov.G.M., Bro. John Thornton. The ceremony was

performed in the presence of a very large attendance of brethren and visitors, and on its conclusion the R.W.

Bro. specially complimented the Master and his officers upon their very fine working.

* * * *

The candidate for the evening was the Rev. W. W. Tanner, a Congregational minister, whose advent into

Masonry is being heartily welcomed as an event of much promise of benefit to both the Craft and the rev.

brother. After his raising, Bro. Tanner, in the refectory, made a speech which was heartily described to the

writer by a brother of standing as " one of the finest speeches at a Masonic gathering I ever heard." Before

referring to the benefits he expected to derive from Masonry, the newly made brother said : "I wish to rescue

this word 'benefits' from its material aspects. The greatest things we receive in life are not material things.

The greatest things we possess are in our own individual souls, and those principles and truths which you

have sought to teach me in these three degrees form the greatest influence we can secure within our own

experience. And if I am to be a true brother I must seek to carry them out in the highest and noblest way."

* * * *

Another thought of interest in Bro. Tanner's speech was this " Is it not possible," he said, "for one to become

so used to the Masonic ritual and to hear its truths given forth so often that they have very little influence or

effect upon our lives or conduct? There is such a thing as a ritualist, but I think I know I shall attempt to be a

literalist in respect to our ritual, and to read every benefit of Freemasonry into my own life."

* * * *

"The secrets of Freemasonry are not everything. To merely keep the secrets sacred is to fail. Freemasonry

should contribute to a nobler life in an individual, so that others might see that there is something in

Freemasonry that transcends its secrets and which is a help to men to live the life they ought to live." This

was the concluding passage of Bro. Tanner's speech, which earned for him sustained applause. Bro. Tanner

has been appointed a chaplain to one of the Reinforcements. He will certainly be a man amongst men.

* * * *

The unity, concord and happiness amongst the Lodges of Canterbury was the theme of a few happy remarks

by the R.W. Prov.G.M. at the Robert Burns meeting. W. Bro. Kirker had remarked to him, said "Brother

John," that now, nearing the end of his year, he liked to think of his Lodge as the Lodge of Happiness. It was

fine to be able to say that, and he hoped that character would continue in Robert Burns Lodge. This feeling

of happiness was now very prominent in the Canterbury Lodges, as had been shown a few nights previously.

The keynote of that big gathering had been happiness. He had heard it said that Masonry now was different

from Masonry in- the old days. This was true, and the reason was that now they were not so exclusive and

self-centred in their Lodges as they used to be. They now recognised that they were members of one great

big fraternity, and not merely members of their own individual Lodge, although that form was adopted for

convenience of working.

—————————

INVESTITURE OF GRAND OFFICERS IN DUNEDIN.

———<>———

The investiture of R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark as Dep.G.M., R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett as Prov.G.M. of Otago, and the

other Otago G.L. officers for 1917-18, which was held within the precincts of Lodge Otago Kil., No. 143, on

the 7th ult., was the most brilliant Masonic function that has been held in Dunedin since the installation of

M.W. Bro. M. Thompson as G.M.

W. Bro. J. Sinton opened his Lodge at 7.30 p.m., and after the reception of the visitors, of whom there must

have been over 250, representing all the Lodges of the various constitutions in and around Dunedin, as well

as numerous country representatives, R.W. Bro. T. Ross, P.D.G.M., accompanied by the majority of the

present and past G.L. officers belonging to the district, was received, saluted, and assumed the chair. The

Dist.G.M., N.Z. South S.C. (R.W. Bro. D. A. Cooke), the D.D.G.M„ RC. (R.W. Bro. R. S. Webb), and the

P.G.W., I.C. (R.W. Bro. J. Scott), accompanied by their district officers, were then admitted.

Before proceeding with the business R.W. Bro. Ross explained how it was that the meeting of G.L., which

was to have been held in Invercargill, had lapsed, and there had been no election of G.L. officers. The

M.W.G.M. had taken the authority vested in him in Rule 23 of the B. of C., and appointed all the officers in

accordance with the recommendations of the various Prov.G.Ms. and the B. of G.P.

The R.W. Dep.G.M.-designate (R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark), who was attended by the W.Ms. of the district as

Stewards and carrying his regalia, was announced, received, obligated, invested, and inducted to the chair in

ancient form. The appointment having been announced, he was saluted in the W. and the S. The R.W.

Prov.G.M. of Otago designate and the G. officers-elect were then received. Before proceeding with the

investiture of R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett as Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Clark referred in very flattering terms to the

work done by R.W. Bro. Flett during the past year, and felt sure that in the coming year he would put up a

similar record. R.W. Bro. E. W. G. H. Watts, P.Prov.G.M., then invested R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett as Prov.

G.M., and he was saluted in the West. After the usual flourish of trumpets and proclamation, R.W. Bro. A.

Stoneham, P.P.G.M., then invested the following G.L. officers : J.G.D., W. Bro. H. W. S. Hellyer; G. Bible-

Bearer, W. Bro. J. H. Dumsday ; G.St.-B., W. Bro. W. Henderson; G.S., W. Bro. R. Somerville. This

concluded the investiture of G.L. officers.

Hearty greetings were tendered to the D.G.M. by the following representatives of G.Ls. : Scotland, R.W.

Bros. D. Cook and T. Ross; England, R.W. Bro. R. S. Webb ; Ireland, R.W. Bro. G. Scott; Louisiana, R.W.

Bro. E. W. G. H. Watts; Queensland, R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham; Nova Scotia, W. Bro. D. C. Cameron;

Oregon, R.W. Bro. A. Fieldwick.

R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark said that he hoped that he and all the other officers who had been invested that evening

would prove worthy of the confidence which had been placed in them by the M.W.G.M. and be better

Masons and citizens. Freemasonry was the oldest institution of its kind in the world, but it was only two

hundred years ago on the 24th of the present month that the mother of all the G.Ls., the G.L. of England, was

formed, when in the Apple Tree Tavern Bro. Albert Sayers was installed as the first G.M. of England. From

this humble beginning had grown the world-wide institution of to-day. He hoped that the forthcoming

anniversary would not be passed by without recognition. He understood that in Christchurch a

commemoration service had been arranged, and if the Dist.G.M. of the E.C. here would arrange a similar

gathering he could assure him of the hearty support of the New Zealand G.Ls. and Prov.G.Ls. He thanked all

present for their kindly greetings and good wishes.

After solemn prayer by V.W. Bro. the Rev. H. O. Fenton, P.G. Chaplain, the National Anthem was sung. W.

Bro. J. Sinton then re-assumed the chair of his Lodge, and congratulated the R.W. and W. brethren who had

that evening been invested, and also thanked the Dist.G.Ls. and the visiting W.Ms. and brethren who were

present for their attendance. The Lodge was closed in the Third Degree, and an ode for the brethren at the

front was sung. The Lodge was closed in the Second Degree. G. and D.G. Lodge officers retired, and the

Lodge was closed in peace and harmony about 10 p.m.

The arrangements, which were carried out without a hitch, were in charge of the acting-G.D. of C., R.W.

Bro. A. Fieldwick, P.G.W. Bro. A. Harrop, who had associated with him a strong Masonic choir, was

Organist, and the music certainly contributed very greatly to the success of the gathering. Bro. H. Hoffman

was trumpeter.

There was a large attendance upstairs afterwards in the supper room, where an enjoyable hour was spent in

the usual way. The general opinion expressed was to the effect that, although every one regretted not having

been able to attend the G.M.'s installation in Invercargill; the evening's ceremony was not a bad substitute.

—————————

COURTESY AND PUBLIC SPIRIT.

———<>———

A REMARKABLE MEETING.

The final meeting of Lodge United Service, No. 10, for its official year was a remarkable one. During the

year the retiring W.M., W. Bro. W. Tailby, had made himself very popular in the Lodges of Auckland and its

suburbs by the assiduity with which he had carried out his visitation policy, and as the result the Masters of

twelve Lodges paid a visit to United Service to do him honour on the occasion of his final sitting as Master.

The business set down for the evening was initiation, and the work was divided amongst the whole of the

visiting Masters—Masters of Lodges holding under the English, Irish, Scotch, and New Zealand

Constitutions. Needless to say, in such skilled hands the ceremony was performed with more than ordinary

smoothness.

Another feature of the evening was the way in which the veteran ex-Treas. of the Lodge, Bro. L. H.

Neumegen, who held the purse-strings of the Lodge for twenty-five years, moved the feelings of the brethren

in a patriotic cause. Bro. Neumegen sprang a surprise upon the gathering by asking the permission of the

W.M. to make an appeal—in what interest he did not at first indicate. Having obtained leave, Bro.

Neumegen made an eloquent speech upon the claime of the Red Cross movement to financial support, and

wound up by offering to supplement any sum that might be- raised in the room with a cheque of his own for

an equal amount. The result of the collection that ensued, with Bro. Neumegen's supplementary cheque, was

the subscription of a sum of £25 for a very worthy cause.

R.W. Bro. T. W. Allen, who has held the office of Sec. to United Service for a period of nearly thirty years,

with only one short interval, is this year laying down the cares of office. He is succeeded by W. Bro. W.

Tailby, the I.P.M.

—————————

PRESENTATION TO R.W: BRO. T. A. PETERKIN, P.D.G.M.

———<>———

A large gathering of brethren in the Wellington District assembled within the body of Lodge Leinster, in

Wellington City, on 6th June, to assist at a special presentation to R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M., who

for four years was in charge of the district. Leinster Lodge convened a special meeting for the purpose,

which was presided over by W. Bro. A. Longmore. The meeting was also made the occasion of the

investiture of a number of G. officers appointed for the current year.

M.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol, P.G.M., came specially from Auckland to represent the G.M., and was escorted

into the Lodge by a large train of G. and P.O. officers, and was inducted into the chair, when he invested

R.W. Bro. A. Veitch as S.G.W., W. Bro. Gavin Menzies as G.Supt. of W., W. Bro. E. P. Rishworth as G.D.

of C., W. Bro. Rev. W. W. Brown as G. Chaplain, and W. Bro. R. Roberts as G.S.

MW. Bro. Niccol voiced the deep regret of the M.W.G.M. at his enforced absence that evening, which was

due to domestic affliction, and, on the motion of M.W. Bro. Williams, a resolution was adopted expressing

the sympathy of the Wellington brethren with M.W. Bro. Nicholson.

M.W. Bro. Niccol then resigned the chair in favour of R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M., who proceeded

with the primary business, the presentation to Bro. Peterkin. In doing so he referred to the long service of the

recipient in the army of Freemasonry, and especially to his good work as Prov.G.M. of the Wellington

District. The committee who had arranged the matter had considered that it would be in consonance with

Bro. Peterkin's own wishes if the memento took the form of a suite of regalia, which would be of service for

the remainder of his Masonic life. Bro. Ellison then invested Bro. Peterkin with the clothing of a

P.Dep.G.M., and wished him many years to wear it. The Prov.G.M. also asked Bro. Peterkin to accept an

envelope with an enclosure. - Some very handsome articles of plate were then displayed, which the

Prov.G.M. intimated were to be conveyed to Sister Peterkin as some little solatium for the many lonely hours

she had suffered during her husband's many absences.

R.W. Bro. Peterkin, who was very much affected, on rising to respond, said that he had only left a sick bed

that afternoon in order to be present. He related some events of his Masonic career and his association with

the Dist.G.Ls. of Canterbury and Otago under the E.C. He spoke of the happy period during which he held

the office of Prov.G.M., and regretted that his health would not allow him to take it again. After thanking the

brethren very feelingly for the presentation, he announced that Bro. Williams would reply on behalf of Mrs.

Peterkin. The M.W. Bro. was somewhat startled at the suggestion, but as the champion of the fair sex he rose

to the occasion and fairly convulsed the meeting with his reply.

Refreshments were subsequently served, and a very merry two hours was spent, concluding a most pleasant

evening.

—————————

BELGIAN ORDER OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM.

———<>———

Circulars have been addressed to our Lodges by Freemasons in London appealing for contributions on behalf

of the " Belgian Order of St. John of Jerusalem."

Several Lodges having written to me regarding the genuineness or otherwise of the affair, I brought the

matter before the B. of G.P., and have been instructed to give the following information to Lodges for their

guidance.

(a) The Order of St. John of Jerusalem is admittedly not a Masonic body, and the circular referred to
should not have been addressed to our Lodges without first obtaining the consent of G.L.

(b) There is no reason to doubt the genuineness of the appeal, but on the other hand it does not appear to
possess transcendent merits or to appeal specially to Freemasons.

(c) The Board recommends Lodges to transmit to G.L. any money which they desire to donate for the
relief of Belgian Freemasons, and such donations will be sent to the G.L. of England for expenditure.

—Yours fraternally,

MALCOLM NICCOL, G.Sec.

Auckland, 18th June, 1917.

—————————

WEST AUSTRALIA.

———<>———

The M.W.G.M. of West Australia (His Grace Archbishop Riley) is one of the most humorous after-dinner

speakers in Australasia. The following quaint extracts are taken from a response made in reply to his health

at the annual communication of the G.L. of that State in April last :—" I once went with an Irish and a

Scotch P.M.—I was English (laughter)—and each of them wanted his own way. But I said I was going to

have mine, and that was the only way in which we could consecrate a Lodge with any degree of peace. I

daresay I was wrong, but that did not matter; somebody had to be in control, so we got on all right.

(Laughter.) But I have often told you of the way in which I was received in Western Australia. It is pleasing

to receive to-night such a splendid reception, but when I landed at Albany twenty-two years ago I preached

in the morning, and then the rector preached at night. He took as his text—(I had left by the night train to

Perth): ` When they saw him they besought him to depart out of their coast.' (Laughter.) That was my first

introduction here, and since then I have noticed all kinds of curious things. The first time I preached on the

goldfields was in a tin shanty where there had been a prize-fight the night before, and they had not taken the

ring away, nor the sawdust, and I stood - in the ring and delivered a sermon on peace. (Laughter.) I have had

curious times in Western Australia; I nearly did a perish from thirst—I have always had a thirst ever since.

(Laughter.) Lately I have very nearly done a perish on the mighty ocean—that is quite another story. I do not

think you mind dying on land, but I have the greatest objection to dying at sea."

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

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

A PROTEST.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO. —I received the enclosed " letter " two or three days ago. What I wish to know is—Are

these anonymous "letters" approved by G.L.? The veiled threat of misfortune, the crude superstition

surrounding the tenth day, and the imperative command concerning the breaking of the chain are all insults

to every brother of the Craft. It is no wonder that our "brother Mason" is ashamed to sign his name. As other

brethren will receive copies, and may hesitate to break the chain, I am sure you would be doing a Masonic

act by mentioning the matter in the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN."—Yours fraternally, R. GEO. CUMING,

Lodge Otago Kil, No. 143, Dunedin.

Patea, 14th June, 1917.

————

[LETTER REFERRED TO.]

DEAR SIR,—In compliance with a Masonic request I am passing to you as one of the nine friends and

brothers the following ancient prayer :—

"Oh, Lord, I implore Thee to bless mankind ; bring us to Thee ; keep us to dwell with Thee."

This prayer was said by Masons in ancient times, and all who wrote it would be free from calamity, and all

who did not pass it on would be in danger of misfortune. It is sent over the world at this time. Copy it and

send it to nine of your friends, and on the tenth day you will find some great joy. Do not break the chain.—

Fraternally yours,

Dunedin, 5th June, 1917. A BROTHER MASON.

————————

"CLEANING THE SLATE."

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—Alter reading the last number of the CRAFTSMAN I am constrained to send you a

notice for an emergency meeting, from which you will see it is proposed to raise five brethren. I am also

sending you the dates of their election, initiation and passing. It is the W.M.'s last meeting. There are no

further propositions, and the incoming Master starts with a clean slate.—Yours fraternally, J.G.

[We are of opinion it would be greater kindness to the new W.M. to leave him some work rather than a clean

sheet.—ED. C.]

————————

THE LATE BRO. HENRI"THOMSON.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO. —I was much interested in your kindly notice of the late M.W. Bro. Henry Thomson,

P.G.M. I believe I may safely say that he and I came to New Zealand together from Melbourne in the year

1856 in the same old craft—a schooner named, if I remember rightly, the "Emerald." Having lost all my

diaries, dating from 1844, also those of my father, going back to 1815, and most of my family relics and

heirlooms, in a disastrous fire, I cannot fix the exact date. We were both young men (D.V., I shall enter on

my eighty-sixth year on the 12th of this month). There were only four passengers, the other two being a

gentleman who brought a consignment of shoes and shoe leather with him on spec, and his wife, who was

very sick and who kept to her cabin and lived on pickles all the way across. We never saw them, so Thomson

and I were thrown very much together; and a more kind-hearted, nicer fellow I never met. At that time the

Yarra was a muddy stream, and its embouchure in Port Philip a series of uninviting mud flats. We first

caught sight of the skipper on the riverside wharf. He had just invested in a pair of thigh boots, which he

wore day and night. They must have been a tight fit, for on the morning of our arrival in Wellington I saw

him limping about the beach in dancing pumps. We began our voyage by drifting down the river, and

running foul of a coasting vessel moored alongside the river-bank, and sending our mainsail boom through

the cook's galley. This produced the customary flow of torrid language. Parting company, we managed to run

on a sand-bank at low water, where we stayed for the night. It appeared to me that the skipper was rather

perturbed in his mind, for it seemed that he had not only evaded the health authorities, but also the

Customhouse officers. Things were rather loosely managed in those days, when Billy Hayes, whom I

afterwards saw in confabulation with Edward Hargreaves in Lyttelton, was in his prime and defied all

authority and morality—and shipping agents. However, we improved our stay on the sand-bank by catching

a gigantic ray, or stingaree, which formed part of our daily menu of lobscouce; for beyond that, a large open

box of raisins on the cabin table, and some potatoes, I think that was all we had to live on. Our crew, in

addition to the skipper, consisted of the mate, two seamen, and the cabin boy or cook. I don't think this

young man brought any Pear's soap with him, as I perceived the same grimy marks on his face day after day.

I noticed that the mate, whose name I think was Blair, looked very seedy. He told me the cause. Last

Saturday he had dined at a leading restaurant in Melbourne, and plentifully indulged in tripe, a favourite dish

with him; but was afterwards taken with severe vomiting. The next day (Sunday) he had to pay a farewell

visit to some friends at St. Kilda. He was very poor company all that day. On Monday morning the first thing

that caught his eye in large type in the paper was the heading "Several People Poisoned—Arsenic used in

Mistake for Flour," etc. Mr. Blair lost no time in consulting a doctor, who told him that he was a fortunate

man, as the over-dose of arsenic he had taken had saved his life. I heard afterwards that the poor fellow was

drowned at sea. Thomson, Blair and myself had some merry times on the old hooker, and, having been

educated on the Continent in my youthful days, I contributed the ever-green "Marseillaise," 'Le Chant des

Girondins," "La Parisienne," "La Brabançonne," "Partant pour la Syrie," etc., to the harmony of our

evenings. As to the skipper, "a wet sheet and a flowing sea" was more to his taste; for, although badly found

in sails, etc., we made the run across in ten days. There were no inter-colonial steamers then. The mails from

Wellington to Sydney were carried by the "Wyvern," a very fast schooner, formerly a first-class yacht, which

foundered at sea with all hands. On the way over we sometimes whiled away the time at cards. The weather

was cold, so we had a fire in a small stove in the cabin aft. But the chimney fell short of the ceiling by two or

three inches; so when we could no longer stand the smoke we would grab a handful of raisins and rush on

deck. I am sorry I never renewed my acquaintance with Bro. Thomson, although before the completion of

the Moorhouse tunnel I left Wellington for Canterbury, and was stationed at Lyttelton both as town surveyor

and resident engineer, while he had established a flourishing business in Christchurch. I was not initiated into

Freemasonry until 1863, although, before leaving England in 1855, a friend in Birmingham—a R.A.

companion—strongly recommended me to join the fraternity, as I was about to travel to the Antipodes. I then

found, to my surprise, that my father, a retired naval officer, had once belonged to the Royal Kentish Lodge

of Antiquity. I first saw the light of Freemasonry in the Lodge of Unanimity, Lyttelton.

—Yours fraternally,

CHAS. MOORE IGGLESDEN, P.M,, P.P.Z., 18 deg., P. Dist. G. Sec. , N. I. N. Z .

Wellington, 9th June. 1917.

————————

A GREAT GATHERING.

———<>———

MASONIC UNITY IN CANTERBURY.

——————

MEMORABLE AND HISTORIC MEETING.

——————

Masonic history was established in Christchurch on the night of 13th June, for then the magnificent temple,

which has been such a stimulus to the local Craft during the past year, was taxed to its utmost to

accommodate a unique gathering of the fraternity. The occasion was the reception of one hundred re-

presentatives from the Lodges of South Canterbury by the Lodges of North Canterbury—irrespective of

Constitution—and the popularity of the event was evidenced by the fact that a total of 460 brethren found

accommodation within the hall. Every Lodge in the Canterbury District was represented—this in itself being

the first time in local history that every Lodge has so met in the course of Masonic work. The Masters of the

Kaikoura and Waimate Lodges—representing the two extremes of the district, some 260 miles apart—met in

Lodge for the first time, as, of course, was the case also with many other Lodges. In another respect also the

gathering was remarkable. It probably represents the largest gathering of Masons ever held in New Zealand

to witness the conferring of a degree, and the brother who was raised on the occasion—Sidney Charles

Dixon, of Canterbury Lodge, 1048, E.C.—may well feel proud of having attained the Sublime degree under

such unique auspices.

The gathering was conducted as a regular Lodge, the charter of the St. Augustine Lodge, No. 4, being used,

and the officers' chairs being filled by the sitting Masters of the city Lodges, while the Masters of country

Lodges assisted in the work. The sight presented by the closely-packed hall was wonderfully fine and

inspiring to a degree. The difficulty presented by the very large attendance was admirably handled by the D.

of C. and the special Stewards, and extra accommodation was provided until the floor space was

considerably encroached upon. Then, with five long rows upon each side, and a crowded gallery overhead,

those upon the well-filled dais Were afforded a sight that for effective dignity and harmony will not be

matched in New Zealand for many a long day. It remains to be said that everything pertaining to the conduct

of the evening matched the importance of the occasion. The whole ceremony was impressive to a degree,

each and every part of the work being performed with distinct success and feeling. The tone for the evening

was indeed set by a thrilling effect achieved by the singing of "Lead, Kindly Light" in the initial

perambulation of the candidate. As the voices of the choir floated out in the darkness, the beautiful strains

were softly taken up all over the building, with an effect upon all that was simply thrilling. So seasoned a

campaigner, indeed, as W. Bro. A. J. Merton, who officiated at the organ, afterwards in the refectory stated

that it was not often that he was now thrilled, but he had been thrilled by the splendid effect of those subdued

voices. The atmosphere established by that first verse was not lost in the subsequent ceremony, so that the

evening, apart from the occasion, was memorable on its merits.

OFFICERS AND VISITORS.

The Lodge was officered by the following W. brethren :Master, J. A. Stables (St. Augustine, No. 4); I.P.M.,

D. E. L. Collett (Unanimity, No. 3) ; S.W., S. A. Orchard (Canterbury, 1048, E.C.); J.W., C. E. Baynon

(Southern Cross, No. 6); Chaplain, J. Mitchell (Christchurch, No. 91); Treas. and Sec., T. Kirker (Robert

Burns, No. 139); S.D., J. W. H. Francis (Concord, No. 39); J.D., C. S. Johnston (Crown, No. 138); D. of C.,

J. Fry (Conyers, No. 1916, E.C.); Asst.D. of C., W. T. V. I. Bottrell (Civic, No. 157); I.G., P. B. Hume,

P.D.G.W. (St. Albans, No. 2597, E.C.).

After the Lodge had been opened, the visitors from South Canterbury were announced, whereupon a unique

sight was witnessed. Through both sets of big double doors came the visitors, two by two, till, forming in

hollow column, the eleven visiting Masters marched through, formed across the floor in front of the chair of

K.S., and, upon a given word, they and their brethren simultaneously saluted. The visiting Masters were :—

W. Chapman (St. John, No. 1137, E.C.), W. Cranston (Caledonian, No. 16), F. R. Flatman (Geraldine, No.

27), G. Tate (St. George, No. 29), H. H. Pawson (Methven, No. 51), J. Manchester (St. Augustine, No. 99),

T. J. Kennedy (Thistle, No. 113), C. E. Hopgood (Pareora, No. 134), L. A. Woodward (St. Martin, No. 162),

W. A. Johnston (Timaru, No. 196), J. W. L. McA. Soutar (Koranga, No. 197), with their officers and

brethren, while brethren also attended from Winchester No. 1737, E.C., Ashburton No. 1811, E.C., South

Rakaia No. 31, Mackenzie No. 93, and Erewhon No. 200.

The Lodge having, been advanced to the Third Degree (after the W.M. had briefly but heartily welcomed the

visitors), R.W. Bros. M. S. Brown, D.G.M. of Canterbury, E.C., and John Thornton, Prov.G.M., with their

officers, were received and saluted. Thereafter M:W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, P.G.M., accompanied by. G.

officers, was received and duly honoured.

Apologies for non-attendance were received from the following W. brethren :—Leech (Tawera, No. 188),

Hunter (Amuri, No. 184), Cederman (Canterbury Kil., No. 23), Morson (Erewhon, No. 200), Osborn

(Waihora, No. 141), Fraser (Cheviot, No. 124), Forbes (Mairaki, No. 131), and R.W. Bro. S. C. Bingham,

P.Prov . G. M.

GRAND LODGE INVESTITURES.

Before the candidate was raised R.W. Bro. J. Thornton formally invested R.W. Bro. R. B. B. Willis as

J.G.W., and W. Bro. E. Haley as G.S.

THE RAISING.

As stated before, the actual working of the degree was very impressively performed, the Master being

assisted in the different parts by the following :—P.G. and P.W., R.W. Bro. W. Broadley, P.G.W. (Masters

and Past Masters, No. 130) ; Exhort., R.W. Bro. M. S. Brown, D.G.M., E.C. ; 15 F.Cs. to Raising, R.W. Bro.

Jno, Thornton, Prov.G.M. ; Charge, W. Bro. J. T. Withers (Ashley, No. 28) ; Ss., W. Bro. D. Collett

(Unanimity, No. 3); Charge after I., W. Bro. A. Howard (Kaikoura, No. 60) ; Special Apron Charge, W. Bro.

L. B. Hart (Avon, No. 185); T.H. and T.B., W. Bro. T. Kirker (Robert Burns, No. 139); W.Ts., W. Bro. J. D.

Cameron (Ahurewa, No. 181); Charge after R., W. Bro. J. Mitchell (Christchurch, No. 91); V.S.L., M.W.

Bro. J. J. Dougall, P.G.M.

LODGE CLOSED.

Before the Lodge was closed, M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, ere retiring, congratulated W. Bro. Stables upon

occupying the chair upon a remarkable day in the Masonic annals of the Dominion. It was, he said, a very

happy thought indeed to bring about this gathering, and he hoped the brethren of Christchurch and North

Canterbury would repay it at no distant date.

R.W. Bros. Brown and Thornton also added their congratulations upon this unique occasion, after which, the

Master having suitably responded, the Lodge was closed in P., L. and H., and an adjournment made to the

refectory.

THE SOCIAL HOUR.

Thanks to very skilful work on the part of the Stewards, the tables had been amply prepared for supper, but

as the building had not been provided with elastic sides, a little double-banking was necessary. All, however,

were well cared for, and an extremely pleasant and memorable time was spent.

After the formal toasts had been honoured, R.W. Bro. Jno. Thornton rose to propose the toast of "Our

Visitors." "I esteem it," he said, "a very great favour indeed to submit the toast of our brethren of South

Canterbury. As far as I am concerned, it has been the dream of my life since I have been Prov.G.M. to see in

Christchurch such a gathering as we have had tonight. Talk about Freemasonry, brethren; its benefits and

privileges! Look at it to-night! (Applause.) We feel here, I am sure, that we are indeed brethren. To-night the

Master of Waimate Lodge, our most southern Lodge, and the Master of Kaikoura Lodge, our most northern

Lodge, can shake hands at a Lodge meeting. (Applause.) Such a thing has never been in Canterbury before.

They have been, both north and south, excellent amongst themselves, but in travelling throughout

Canterbury, it, has been my dream, my hope—I have exerted all the influence I could to bring them together,

and here they are !" (Applause.)

In the name of North Canterbury he cordially welcomed the brethren from the south. He had expected a good

meeting, but he had to confess that the result far exceeded his anticipations. He had hoped for 300, but to see

well over 400 brethren present was indeed a great source of gratification to him. He was also gratified by

another phase of the good such a gathering did. For instance, he had seen brought together that evening two

brethren who were made Masons in Canterbury Lodge 43 years ago. If that was not binding the past with the

present, he did not know what was. Although it had been his aim for so long to bring the north and south

together, the idea of this particular meeting came from W. Bro. Souter, of Lodge Koranga, Timaru.

(Applause.) W. Bro. Souter was with them that night, and he could assure the Christchurch brethren that he

was a man of many parts, as the Timaru brethren well knew. (Applause.) They would have a taste of his

quality by-and-bye, `And in concluding," said R. W. Bro. Thornton, "I wish to express my gratification, as

Prov.G.M., at seeing such a hugely successful meeting as we have had to-night." (Loud applause.)

THE WAR AND THE CRAFT.

Three of the visiting Masters were called upon to respond.

W. Bro. W. Chapman said that he must express the great pleasure it had given the" brethren of South

Canterbury to be present on this historic occasion. It showed what Freemasonry could do, was doing, and

would do. They believed in South Canterbury that the war was largely responsible for the present success of

Freemasonry in Canterbury. The Germans, when they started to break up the British Empire, found that they

were making it instead of breaking it. In South Canterbury, in common with other parts of New Zealand and

of the Empire, Freemasonry was going ahead, instead of declining, through the war. They were very pleased

to be in such distinguished company that evening, and were also very grateful for the delightful way they had

been treated. He could not avoid mentioning in conclusion the work done in connection with the visit by W.

Bro. Wallace, P.M. of Lodges Caledonian and Koranga.

W. Bro. H. H. Pawson briefly expressed his pleasure at being able to fraternise with the brethren of North

Canterbury, and endorsed the reference to W. Bro. Wallace, who had worked out the details of the visit with

unflagging enthusiasm. He sincerely hoped they would see more of such gatherings in the future, and assured

the brethren that the support of Lodge Methven on such occasions could always be counted upon.

"ONE CRAFT ONLY."

In addition to the visiting Masters, W. Bro. Dr. Russell Rendle, P.Prov.G. Officer of Devon, England, who is

about to proceed to Samoa on service, also replied to the toast. A gathering like this, he said, made one think.

He had seen larger ones at Home, but he thought this was the largest he had seen in New Zealand, or was

likely to see. It had certainly proved to him personally that he had a much larger Masonic acquaintance than

he had thought. It would be a very good thing to get np a gathering of this kind again, and for the south to

entertain the north. "Another point of view that strikes me very forcibly," said W. Bro. Rendle, " is that this

is a gathering of Freemasons generally. It is not a meeting of New Zealand or English Freemasons, but of

Freemasons as a whole. We are all one brotherhood, although we are of different constitutions, and

personally—although I do not wish to raise any controversial questions—I hope the day will come, and come

soon, when there will be one Craft in this country, and one Craft only. (Hear, hear.) New Zealand has won

her place as a member of the Empire well, and more than well, in the last three years, and I hope the day will

come when we will all meet as New Zealand Masons." (Hear, hear.)

THE ORIGINATOR.

Loud applause greeted W. Bro. Souter, the originator of the idea, as he rose to speak. He had been fortunate

enough to foresee, he said, that the time was ripe for a fraternal gathering between North and South

Canterbury. His confidence in the support of the brethren of the south had not been misplaced. He thanked

R.W. Bro. Thornton for the graceful and cordial sentiments he had expressed, and for the flattering remarks

he had made. The credit for the success of "the invasion" belonged very largely to W. Bro. Wallace, who had

acted as secretary. He had laboured late and early to secure its success, and they were fortunate in having

such an energetic brother in their midst. (Applause.) W. Bro. Bishop, Sec. to the Prov.G.L., had also been

most enthusiastic over the trip, and had put in a great deal of work. (Hear, hear.) "My opinion of visiting,"

declared W. Bro. Souter, "is that it broadens our vision, creates good brotherly feeling, and displays our

interest in our fellow-men. I have on my left here a brother — W. Bro. Manchester, of St. Augustine, 99—

who has been Master for some ten months, and during that time he has travelled 892 miles in his motor car

visiting the various Lodges in his district. I think that is a record that will be very hard to beat. " (Hear hear)

W. Bro. Souer proceeded to say that he admired the new hall in Christchurch very much indeed. The

relations between the Christchurch and Timaru brethren could not be too close, and he expressed a keen

desire that the southern men should be enabled to take part in the Masonic bowling tourney being organised

amongst the Christchurch Lodges for next season. This desire was heartily welcomed by the bowlers in the

gathering. Very hearty thanks to the brethren of North Canterbury for their entertainment concluded W. Bro.

Souter's remarks.

The toast of "Our Brethren on Active Service" was honoured on the call of R.W. Bro. M. S. Brown, and

"Our Newly-raised Brother" on the initiative of W. Bro. S. A. Orchard. A deserved compliment was paid the

Prov.G.Sec., W. Bro. F. C. Bishop, by his health being drunk in recognition of his organising work.

The speeches were interspersed with very excellent items from Bros. M. Orchard, Hyman, and O. Naumann,

and the special choir from Canterbury Lodge, under the direction of W. Bro. A. J. Merton. A gathering that

will Jong live in memory broke up at midnight, a great number of brethren having sacrificed their last car in

order to miss nothing of the proceedings.

TRIP TO CASHMERE HILLS.

On the following morning some fifty of the visitors were taken in a special car to the top of Cashmere Hills,

from whence a glorious view of the snow-capped Alps and sun-baked plains was obtained. This outing

further cemented many friendships, which it is expected will be at least annually renewed, as the idea is to

make a return visit next year, and institute an annual trip.

————————

FREEMASONRY AND THE GREAT WAR.

———<>———

A LECTURE TO THE MASTERS' LODGE, No. 161., MAY, 1917

——————

To most of us the war, though ever present, is a vague unreality—a fog which has descended upon our daily

life and through which we stumble blindly and uncertainly. After nearly three years of titanic conflict, after

volcanic outpourings of every conceivable instrument of death—of gas, of liquid fire, of molten metal—after

world tremors which have rent asunder the social and political fabric, blasting alike its every element,

conservative, reactionary, radical, socialist, even anarchical; after all this—perhaps because of it—the war is

still a dream. It is a nightmare from which we struggle to awake, and failing, puzzled and amazed, we gaze

sullenly upon the spectacle of blood-stained horror. The world, the universe, revolves about it; and

fascinated, spell-bound, we watch the maelstrom suck into its insatiable vortex all our youth, beauty,

chivalry—all that we treasure—till in a frenzy of passionate protest we know that life itself were a small

price to pay to end it all.

When such is the obsession exercised by this fantastic crisis it is difficult to attempt even to detach oneself

sufficiently to consider dispassionately the relation of Freemasonry to war in general, and in particular how

far we are justified in invoking its moral support in the present war. For it is generally admitted that we turn

our meetings frequently into recruiting meetings and are doing so without any sense of wrong-doing, but, on

the contrary, with a distinct feeling that Freemasonry demands of us the strongest support and the greatest—

even, if need be, the supreme—sacrifice, for the punishment of Germany's wickedness and vice and for the

maintenance of true morality and virtue. Let us try to analyse the position.

I. WHAT IS FREEMASONRY ?

It is a religious and social institution.

Contrary to the usual custom, we will consider it first as a social institution, because, whatever high claims

may be made and substantiated as to its antiquity and the recondite nature of its symbolic teaching, there can

be no doubt that its survival has been chiefly due to the fact of its being a social refuge for men only. This

admission must not be misconstrued. Freemasonry only encourages and enjoins conviviality as it enjoins

prayer and theism—in due proportion. Every Masonic meeting portions out labour, prayer and refreshment—

epitomising, as it were, human existence—endeavours to correlate theism and humanism. Encouraging, as it

does, congeniality, it is essential that, in defence of its own good name, it should shut out woman from its

meetings. We all know how unjustly our Ordey suffers from imputations of excess and intemperance. What

would be the charges of equally ignorant outsiders should our secret meetings include women?

Although we boast that all meet upon the level, there is no doubt that the rigid minute observance of nice

distinctions of rank and precedence and the accompanying atmosphere of silent respect, so prominent a

feature of our meetings, leave little opportunity there for forming friendships by intercourse and

conversation: we largely take brethren with whom we are unacquainted on trust, relying on the general desire

of Freemasons to admit no one to the Craft who is unworthy of confidence.

Yet our exclusiveness and decorum do not go the lengths of the club in which a new member, having the

misfortune to trip over the feet of an old member, apologised for his clumsiness. To add to his dismay, the

old member burst into tears. Appalled at the evident pain he had inflicted, he redoubled his self-accusations,

but was interrupted by, "Ah it is not that, sir, it is not that. I am deeply moved because you are the first

member of the club who has spoken to me in twenty-five years." So rigidly may the rule of silence be

obeyed.

Of course, like all clubs, during the war we have lost members. We hope they are only lent to the larger

cause (though many, alas, have already been admitted to the Eternal Lodge), and we have in consequence

suffered some financial constriction. But, unlike purely social clubs, we are not justified in breaking down

any barriers in order to attract new blood. On the contrary, it is an added burden— a burden which loyalty to

our absent brethren demands we should bear without respite, without shirking. It is, indeed, our bounden

duty to examine more scrupulously than ever the qualifications of aspirants for admission to our ancient

Craft. No financial considerations, no personal ambitions of rulers of the Craft, no selfish desire to make

things easy should allow any Lodge to take as members men whose duty can be clearly seen to lie elsewhere,

men who at such a time are not justified in wasting the necessary fees, or men whom they cannot feel proud

to introduce to the brethren who have " done their bit " when it shall please the Great Architect to restore

them to their Lodges.

Generally speaking, all these inconveniences have been counterbalanced by the evident desire of the brethren

to practice self-denial and financially to contribute largely to meet moral responsibilities towards brethren on

service and towards their dependents.

In calling Freemasonry a religious institution, lest one give offence, it is necessary to define the sense in

which we use the word religion. Religion is the "binding back " to an old faith; so that we may roughly

define religion as applying to an ancient and tried system of ethics. In this sense Freemasonry is undoubtedly

a religious institution. "Ethics" embraces more than morality; it includes the whole range of the "springs of

action," from the loftiest love down to impulses which in themselves are non-moral (not immoral) and

instinctive.

Nothing has done more to damn the Craft than the loose definition : "Freemasonry is a peculiar system of

morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." This blundering and unscientific definition has laid

up open to the very serious charge of having a system of morals peculiar to Freemasons— in other words, of

being in opposition to the prevailing morals of our time, or, speaking still more baldly, of being immoral.

What the older exponents meant to say was : " Freemasonry is a peculiar system for inculcating (impressing)

morality by teaching truths veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols."

Freemasonry looks upon human society as a vast building in process of erection to the glory of the Great

Architect. Men of all colours and religious beliefs are the rude material sent from Nature's quarries to

undergo selection, to be fashioned in the workshop of the Great Craftsman, and finally incorporated in the

eternal edifice. Freemasons, wrought into the perfect ashlars by education in the science, by undergoing the

severe moral discipline of the Order, by having their every moral and intellectual faculty polished into due

subjection to perfection, are naturally the choicest of all material for the Great Architect, and are raised by

Him by means of a Lewis (His Son) and the combination of all powers, known as the Divine Law, to great

heights and fixed upon their proper bases.

Obedience to God's law, Love for our brother-man, Faith, Hope and Charity-these are the supreme aims of

Freemasonry, in which "no man seeks his own, but each another's good." Surely pure enough aims, and aims

shared by every great moral teacher, even Christ Himself.

Morals are concerned with the ultimate ends of action. An end of action is ultimate if pursued for itself alone,

but it is contributory if pursued as a means for some other end. Of course, an end may be both ultimate and

contributory— sought for on its own account and as a means of procuring something else. It is in the first of

these capacities-the ultimate-that it concerns morality: Utlimate ends are mainly either egoistic or altruistic,

egoistic ends being those immediately profitable to the agent, altruistic ends being those that are not (ego, I;

alter, the other fellow). But this distinction does not mean necessarily that altruism is right and virtuous,

while egoism is wrong and vicious.

To pursue honesty as the best policy, while right, is clearly egoistic ; while to pursue honour (really the same

thing as honesty) because "noblesse oblige "-merely because it is right and your duty, or debt, to others, is

altruistic.

Freemasonry, then, balances egoism and altruism in its ideals of equality and fraternity. In placing Charity on

the highest Pinnacle it declares altruism its supreme ideal, its ultimate end. (To be Continued.)

————————

A PLEASING CEREMONY.

———<>———

A very pleasing little ceremony took place at the last meeting of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 432, S.C., held in

Dunedin on Tuesday, 12th June. It was the R.W.M.'s (W. Bro. R. Bennell) last night in the chair, and some

250 Freemasons gathered to give him a fitting "send-off." A presentation of two divan chairs had been made

to him on behalf of the members of the Craft in and around Dunedin, as some token of appreciation of his

support not only as a visitor at the various meetings, but also on account of his musical assistance. Before he

closed the meeting he called up before him four W.Ms. of other Lodges-viz., W. Bro. J. Sinton (of Lodge

O.K. No. 143, N.Z,C.), W. Bro. J. Mason (Lodge O.K., No. 417, S.C.), W. Bro. H. H. Sterling (Lodge Otago,

No. 844, E.C.), and W. Bro. J. Scurr (Lodge St. Patrick, No. 468, I.C.); and, after thanking them for

supporting him so freely during his term of office, asked them to accept on behalf of their Lodges a silver-

mounted and inscribed gavel. Needless to say, the recipients were highly pleased, and each expressed his

thanks to the donor in fitting terms.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

MASONIC GATHERING AT SEA.

———<>———

FRIDAY, 12TH JANUARY, 1917, AT 8 P.M.

—————

PRESIDENT.— W. Bro. Geo. Page, W.M.

TOAST LIST.-" The King and the Craft," the President; " Our Brethren on Active Service," W. Bro. G. T.

Weston; "Mothers, Sweethearts, and Wives," Bro. W. Little; " Kindred Constitutions," W. Bro. F. G. Taylor;

N.Z.C., Bro. D. V. Hanna; E.C., Bro. G. H. Moss; S.C., Bro. J. C. Hewson; I.C., Bro. A. AI. Davies; U.G.L.

of N.S.W., Bro. G. W. Francis; V.C., Bro. F. W. Errington; U.S.A., Bro. C. E. Hooper ; "The Navy and

Army," Bro. W. R. Ingram; Tyler's Toast. God Save the King.

19TH REINFORCEMENT. - W. Bro. Geo. Page (689, E.C.), W. Bro. G. T. Weston (4, N.Z.C.), W. Bro. F. G.

Taylor (3, N.Z.C.), Bro. C. Albiston (1916, E.C.), Bro. T. Battersby (147, N.Z.C.) Bro. W. B. Calder (32,

N.Z.C.), Bro. R. A. Coming (1916, E.C.), Bro. W. E. Cooper (88, N.Z.C.), Bro. A. M. Davies (348, I.C.),

Bro. H. C. F. Clarke (112, N.Z.C.), Bro. T. A. Ecclesfield (88, N.Z.C.), Bro. C. L. Hooper (17, U.S.A.), Bro.

F. Hughes (1229, E.C.), Bro. J. Hill (228, I.C.), Bro. E. Jones (1916, E.C.), Bro. J. D. Munro (178, N.Z.C.),

Bro. G. H. Moss (1453, E.C.), Bro. D. Menzies (197, N.Z.C.), Bro. H.W. Martin (689, E.C.), Bro. H. J.

Martin (82, N.Z.C.), Bro. J. L. Nicholson (184, N.Z.C.), Bro. S. Perkins (147, N.Z.C.), Bro. J. M. Rosie (82,

N.Z.C.), Bro. L. R. Ritchie (687, E.C.), Bro. A. W. Smith (12, N.Z.C.), Bro. E. Stackhouse (1009, E.C.), Bro.

H. W. Thomas (138, N.Z.C.), Bro. J. T. Turnbull (50, N.Z.C.), Bro. O. C. Thompson (1229, E.C.), Bro. H.

W. Wilson (1916, E.C.), Bro. F. S. Willis (50, N.Z.C.), Bro. J. Waugh (88, N.Z.C.).

R.N.V,R.— Bro. Bredin (156, N.Z.C,), Bro. D. V. Hanna (1, N.Z.C.), Bro. J. C. Hewson (708, S.C.), Bro. W.

R. Ingram (1338, E.C.), Bro. L. Jenkinson (182, N.Z.C.), Bro. S. H. McIlveen (10, N.Z.C.).

SHIP'S COMPANY.— Bro. C. Bolton (N.Z.C.), Bro. F. W. Errington (122, V.C.), Bro. J. L. Fairbairn (176,

N.Z.C.), Bro. G. W. Francis (135, N.S.W.), Bro. W. Little (E.C.). Bro. W. F. McIntyre (24, N.Z.C.), Bro. N.

McCaig (556, S.C.), Bro. J. Oates (56, E.C.), Bro. E. W. J. Steer (1223, E.C.), Bro. E. H. Thorpe (2752,

E.C.), Bro. T. Welch. (.347, S.C.), Bro. D. H. Waldie (84, N.Z.C.).

OBITUARY.

———<>———

W. BRO. JOHN REID, G.S.

———

The death of W. Bro. John Reid (W.M. of Wairau Lodge, No. 42), which occurred in the

Wairau Hospital at an early hour on Thursday morning, 31st May, will cause general

regret to his Masonic brethren, also in business and social circles. It removes from the

commercial circles of Blenheim a notable figure, and deprives the community of one of

its worthiest of citizens. W. Bro. Reid, who had been in failing health for some months,

underwent an operation of a serious nature, this being the only chance of prolonging his

life. The operation was a successful one, and gave promise of restoration, but finally the

sufferer succumbed to heart failure. The deceased, who was 61 years of age, was born at

Elgin, Scotland, and in his youth entered the service of the New Zealand Loan and

Mercantile Agency Co., Ltd., at London. When 21 years of age he was transferred to New

Zealand for the benefit of his health, and he joined the company's staff at Christchurch,

where he was stationed for some years, and about 19 years ago removed to Blenheim to

take over the managership of the company's branch there. He held this position until the

time of his death, applying to his responsibilities high standards of ability and integrity,

which made for a full measure of business success, and earned for him personally general

confidence and respect. Throughout his residence W. Bro. Reid took a prominent part in

the promotion of the trade and commerce of the town and district, and almost to the last

he was foremost in movements which had for their object the improvement of mercantile

and producing interests. He was a pillar of strength to the Marlborough Chamber of

Commerce, of which he was president for a term. The deceased, who was at one time

president of the Caledonian Society in Christchurch, was the first president of the

Marlborough Scottish Society. He was one of the most active and valued members of the

Blenheim Bowling Club, in which he held office. In his earlier years he was an

enthusiastic volunteer, and gained no small amount of success in rifle-shooting circles.

He won the London Volunteer Shooting Cup, and carried on his devotion to this cause as

an officer of the Canterbury Scottish Rifles and an officer of the Blenheim Defence Rifle

Club. W. Bro. Reid was a Justice of the Peace, and was frequently called on to occupy a

seat on the Bench. W. Bro. Reid was initiated in Wairau Lodge, No. 42, in 1913. His

interest in Freemasonry was keen, and as a ritualist he had very few equals. His kindly,

obliging, and generous disposition, and his willingness to aid in the work of the Lodge,

soon gained him promotion, and he was installed as W.M. on 27th June, 1916, and G.S.

1917-18. The community has lost an excellent citizen. A kindly, courteous, and gifted

personality has gone from Wairau Lodge. But happy thoughts remain. Indeed, no one has

left us more pleasant memories than W. Bro. Reid. The heartfelt sympathy of all goes out

to our late brother's family. The funeral of the late W. Bro. Reid, which took place this

morning (Thursday, 1st June), was one of the largest yet held at the Omaka Cemetery.

Those who assembled to pay their last tribute to the deceased included the Mayor of

Blenheim, the member for the district, representatives of local bodies, the agricultural and

pastoral industry, mercantile and other business pursuits, the Scottish Society, and the

Blenheim Bowling Club. The Masonic brotherhood was present in very strong force, this

being the largest Masonic funeral held in Blenheim, sister Lodges being well represented.

The service at the graveside was performed by R.W. Bro. C. H. Mills, Prov.G.M., and

M.W. Bro. C. J. W. Griffiths, P.G.M. Many floral tributes testified to the general esteem

in which the deceased W. brother was held.

————————

TRENTHAM MILITARY CAMP.

———<>———

The meetings at Trentham, conducted by the G.L. representative, Bro. Sergeant-Major J. Williams, continue

to be well attended, an average of between 20 and 30 being present each week. No doubt many more

brethren would be present if their Lodges would let them know that there is a G.L. representative in camp,

and also a roam where they can meet once a week and make the acquaintance of brother Masons of all

constitutions, and from all over the world. The usual procedure at these meetings is : First, Bro. Williams

proves all members appearing for the first time (of that more anon). Minutes of previous meetings are read

and confirmed. Circulars from various Lodges are read-by the way, the G.L. representative would be pleased

to receive circulars from any Lodge that does not already send one. By this means the Lodges would be kept

in touch with the fact that there is a representative here, and in the event of a brother coming into camp from

their Lodge, a note on the back of the circular would suffice. A paper is then read by the G.L. representative,

or by some other brother at his request, either from the CRAFTSMAN or the proceedings of M. and P.M.

Lodge, No. 130, Christchurch, of which the G.L. representative has recently become an associate member,

with the object of obtaining fresh papers. Matters of interest are then discussed. Members are then introduced

by the chairman calling the roll from the attendance hook, which each brother signs on entering the room,

each brother standing as his name is called, and thus becoming known to the brethren present by sight. A

pleasant half-hour is then spent in chat and story, and the brethren disperse to their various huts, refreshed in

the knowledge that they can still make a steady advancement in Masonic knowledge, even if away from their

Lodge. Re proving, the G.L. representative would most respectfully beg to suggest that Masters of Lodges

would do well to see that any of their brethren proceeding to camp are able to prove themselves. It is often

necessary to prove as many as ten fresh visitors each meeting, and when a brother is anything but sure of his

ground, it becomes a somewhat tedious process to those who are waiting. Indeed, some brethren, even

though in possession of their G,L. certificate and a letter from their W.M. or Sec., are absolutely unable to

tell their interrogator a word, and reluctantly have to be denied admission. In fact, the opinion was expressed

last night that it would be time well spent for a time to be set apart each Lodge night for instruction in how to

prove, as it is quite a common event for P.Ms, who present themselves here to admit that they have never

been proved before in their Masonic career, and it is obviously a thing that should be looked to, to enable

brethren who are going to the other end of the world to partake of such Masonic hospitality as may come

their way.-Jas. Williams, G.L. Rep., Trentham M.C.

————————

NO HOLIDAY IN MASONRY.

———<>———

Our nightly prayer offered up in every Masonic Lodge to the Sup. G.M. is that He will so influence our

hearts and minds that we may, each one of us, practice out of the Lodge those great moral duties which are

inculcated in it. How that prayer is answered I need not tell you, To too many of us, I am afraid, our Masonry

is what their religion is to some professing Christians; just as they reserve their religion for use only on

Sundays, so do some of us, I am afraid, reserve our Masonry for our Lodge nights. No Mason should, of

course, bring his business into his Lodge ; but that need not preclude him from taking his Masonry into his

business. Nay, that is his duty; the very name of Mason should be a guarantee, not alone to the Fraternity, but

to the whole world, of incorruptible honesty, strict integrity, and that personal fidelity upon which every one

may, with the utmost confidence, rely.

I care not how far, nor with what speed, he may have progressed in the Fraternity, He may be so well

provided with the world's goods that he may have been able to pay for degrees enough to make him what the

ignorant term a clever Mason; he may be privileged to wear the Cross of Malta, or the Double Eagle, and in

the lapel of his coat the Scimitar and Claws; he may be a Thrice Illustrious Prince, a Sovereign Master, or an

Imperial Potentate; but if he be a grocer and sell sand for sugar, he is not a Mason; if he be a tailor, and for

wool sell shoddy, he is not a Mason; if he be a lawyer, and instigate and encourage litigation, or otherwise

attempt to obtain a benefit for himself at the expense of his client, or, by improper methods, a benefit for his

client, to which under the law he is not entitled, he is not a Mason; if he be an employer of labour, and take

an unfair advantage of the poverty and distress of those who must hire to him, he is not a Mason; _ if he be

an employee, and fail in the duty expressed in the quaint language of the ancient charges, " truly to see and

work for the advantage " of him by whom he is employed, he is not a Mason.

And until that day comes, and that it may be the sooner here, each of us must do his whole duty as he sees it;

and this, brethren, as it seems to one who loves Masonry, is our duty as Masons in business and in politics—

to live honestly and uprightly; to act fairly and justly with all men ; in business as in all else to deal as we

would be dealt by ; to take an active and intelligent interest, not only in public questions involving the whole

nation, the welfare of the whole people, but as well in the politics of our own communities—to cast our votes

for no man whom we do not believe upright and honest and fitted for the office to which he aspires; and,

above all, to be faithful and loyal to the government under which we live and to be willing and anxious to

believe that in our public servants, as in other men, goodness and truth and honour and virtue do exist, and

will be discovered when we seek for their motives with the searchlight of true Masonic charity—that charity

which envieth not and doth not think evil.—" London Freemason."

————————

A STRANGE -CASE.

———<>———

Bro. Jesse M. Whited is our authority for the following, says " The New Age" :

“Bro. Shepheard was a master mariner. He received his First Degree in a cave near Alexandria, Egypt, from

a French Lodge, Masonry at that time being under the ban of the Turkish Government. Before being passed

to the Degree of F.C. he was ordered to proceed to the West Indies for a cargo. He applied for his Second

Degree to a Lodge at Kingston, Jamaica, but upon examination was found to know work so radically

different from that practised by the English Lodges, that he was initiated again. Before he could be passed he

was ordered to New York, where he again made application for the Second Degree. He encountered the same

difficulty here and was again required to be initiated in the American 'work.' He then sailed for California as

master of the ship Arkansas. He stopped at Rio de Janeiro, where he applied for his F.C. Degree, and

received it in St. John's Lodge, No. 703. When he arrived at San Francisco he petitioned California Lodge to

be made a M.M. He had so mixed his French, English, and American versions of the work that he was

required to take the Second Degree again, and was in due time raised. He remained a member of California

until October, 1853, when he demitted, to become the first Master of Mt. Moriah, No. 44, San Francisco.

In addition to being made an E.A. three times, a F.C. twice, and a M.M. once, Bro. Shepheard had the

distinction of actually being buried three times. On his death he was interred in what was supposed to be the

plot of Mount Moriah Lodge in the Masonic cemetery at San Francisco. The superintendent paced off the

distance, but made a mistake, and the grave was located in the portion of the plot belonging to California

Lodge. The body was transferred to what was supposed to be the centre of Mount Moriah's plot, where it was

intended to erect a monument to Bro. Shepheard as the first Master of the Lodge. The plans were again

changed, and as it was decided to run a walk through the centre of the plot, the body was again transferred to

grave No. 44. His wife is buried next to him in grave No. 42."

————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 23rd JUNE, 1917.

———<>———

H. Scott £1/16/6 (Patange), F. Steans, A. L. Cropp, F. M. Cooper, H. Billens £1/2/6, N. S. Anderson, M. B.

Wright, W. Hale, W. Wraight (Christchurch), W. Wooffinden (Puketoi), L. Wright (Makotuku), W. R. L.

Williams (Blenheim), J. R. Robertson (Petone), F. Kearsley, G. H. Fawley (Auckland), R. N. Todd 10/-, J. J.

Hiskins (Invercargill), E. H. Fintham (Toko), J. Lound 10/-, J. L. Martin (Hawera), It. Tood £1 (Dunedin), J.

Gordon £1, W. Mills, G. C. Edwards £1/1/-, W. Bethune, A. Mackay, J. Mowat, A. T. Wills £1/10/-, J. W.

Ellison, C. W. Nielsen (Wellington), G. B. Smith (Palmerston South), F. R. Ford (Waitara), W. Brown 1/6

(Mataura), J. W. Elliott (Hatuma), R. C. Tapsley (Taupeka), W. Mackay (Apiti), F. W. Gore (Waipukurau),

A. L. Cropp, F. M. Cooper, H. Billens £1/2/6, M, B. Wright, W. Hale, N. S. Anderson, W. Wraight, J.

Munnings (Christchurch), S. Crooks 10/- (Ashburton), W. G. P. O'Callaghan 18/- (New Plymouth), J. H.

Thompson 10/- (Clive), F, Howard 10/-, J. R. Foot 11/-, W. H. Scott, W. E. Campbell, C. Palmer (Hastings),

W. S. Stewart, J. Burgess 10/- (Dipton), — Ewan, G. F. Johnson, S. E. Griffiths, R. Taylor (Lumsden), W.

Chartres, F. A. Browning (Mossburn), J. R. Thomson (Caroline), H. J. Henricksen, A. Rasmussen, D.

Walker (Balfour), A. F. Muir (Five Rivers), R. Seaton £2/12/6 (Garston), T. Mather, T. E. Shiel £1/10/10

(Lower Butt), J. Mackenzie (Tai Tapu), T. W. Allen (Henderson), W. A. C. Morris (Eketahuna), S. H. Finch

£1, W. Hall 10/- (Runanga), W. H. Titchner, J. T. Collins (Timaru), W. Young £2 (Winton), H. Copeland

10/-, W. H. Whitton £1, A. J. Turville, R. A. Talfer, R. V. C. Harris, J. Bowes (Napier), C. J. Jury £2

(Carterton), W. McCulloch 10/- (Musselburgh), F. A. Kemp (Orepuki), W. McKay (Pahiatua), G. Darricott

(Eyre Creek), Sergt-Major Sutton 10/- (Gore), F. W. Jewell, J. F. Manning, T. P. Robbins, J. B. Lachlan

(Palmerston North), D. Darrach, E. Skiton, G. Simpson, J. Hobbs, A. H. Dalliston, T, S. Wood, H. R. Evans,

J. A. Davies (Westport), C. E. Derritt (Waiau), L. M. Estcourt, G. Stratford (Nelson), W. Cawley 10/6

(Manunui), J. I. Monfries (Taumarunui), A. K. Hansen £2/7/6 (Bideford), C. and W. Chapman (Masterton).

(All 7/6= except those noted.)

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

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

Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————

SOUTHLAND.

Southern Cross, No. 9.—This, the oldest Lodge in the Southland District, held its annual meeting on 1st

June. The attendance of town brethren was very good, but, owing to the recent floods, the attendance from

the country was small. R.W. Bro. A. le H. Boyles was assisted in his work by G.L. officers : Bros. A. E.

Smith (Ancient Charges), Wm. Smith (address to brethren), Wm. Timpany (address to Wardens); also W.

Bros. F. Bonifant, A. Wilson, Vernon Smith, A. B. Haggitt, J. G. Petrie, and J. M. Aitken. M.W. Bro. M.

Thompson invested the Chaplain, Treas., and Sec.; R.W. Bro. T. M. Rankin invested the Wardens; and W.

Bro. R. Prentice, G.D. of C., carried out the duties of D. of C. Bro. Isaac Copeland was duly installed as

Master. Following are the officers:—S.W., Bro. W. F. Irvine; J.W., Bro. W. H. Johnson; Chaplain, R.W.

Bro. F. A. Steans; Treas., W. Bro. E. B. Pilcher ; Sec., W. Bro. C. H. Roberts; D. of C., W. Bro. J.

Critchfield; S.D., Bro. L.L. Padget; J.D., Bro. H. J. Farrant; I.G., Bro. B. J. Glancefield; Ss., Bros. F. R.

Padget, F. C. Page, J. H. Bocock, and G. H. Brown. The orchestra was again heard to advantage, adding

considerably to the pleasure of the meeting. Refreshments were subsequently served, and the usual toasts

were honoured.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Fortitude, No. 64.—The annual meeting was held at Bluff on 13th June. The ceremony was conducted by

R.W. Bro. A. le H. Hoyles, Prov.G.M.; W. Bro. W. R. Rusden, P.G.S., filling capably the duties of D. of C.

W. Bro. E. Parker, P.M., was installed as Master, and the following officers were invested : S.W., W. Bro.

James Walker; J.W., Bro. R. C. Skipage; Chaplain, W. Bro. E. Johnson; Treas., W. Bro. F. H. Johnson;-Sec.,

W. Bro. J. C. Imlay; D. of C., W. Bro, W. R. Rusden; S.D., Bro. R. C Harboard; J.D., Bro. H. Robins; I.G.,

Bro. W. B. Dixon; Tyler, Bro. J. P. Svendsen ; Ss., Bros., W. H. Johnstone, W. Parker, W. Clare. After the

ceremony a social dance was held, but up till time of writing no other particulars of the evening are to hand.

————

St. John, No. 94.—The annual installation meeting was held on 18th May at 6.45 p.m. At 7.15 visitors were

received, followed by the Prov.G.M. and G.L. officers. R.W. Bro. le H. Hoyles was assisted by R.W. Bros.

Timpany, Smith, Prentice, Steams and Rankin ; also W. Bros. Ward, Tilley, Excell, MacGibbon, Nicholas

and Gilchrist. Bro. Frank Bonifant was duly installed as Master. Bro. J. S. Lipscombe was invested as S.W.;

Bro. Jas. Manson, J.W.; W. Bro. J. M. Aitken, Chaplain; W. Bro. Robt. Smith, D. of C. ; Bro. D. Kingsland,

Organist ; R.W. Bro. T. M. Rankin, Treas.; Bro. E. Lyon, Sec. ; Bro. Robt. Hyslop, W S.D.; Bro. J. R. Fraser,

J.D. ; Bro. D. A. Street, I.G. ; W. Bro. Jas. Walker, Tyler; Bros. W.W. Murray, C. W. Wilson and

D. L. McLean, Ss. After the ceremony nearly all present adjourned for light refreshments and social

enjoyment. In responding to the toast of G.L., Bro. Hoyles was again heard to advantage. R.W. Bro. W.

Smith proposed the toast of "Our Brethren at the Front." Bro. W. D. Shelton, a member of Lodge St. John

who returned from the front at Christmas time, responded.—[We regret that, owing to pressure of space, we

have had to prune this report.—ED. C.]

————

Taringatura, No. 100.—The meeting on 4th June, probably on account of the holiday, was not so well

attended as usual, several apologies for absence being forthcoming. The special business was the passing of

one brother to the F.C. Degree. The ceremony was performed by the W. Bro. H. Beer, assisted by W. Bros.

Johnson (Secrets), Walker (Address in S.E.) Roxburgh (Ancient Charge), while Bro. S. E. Griffiths, S.W.,

presented the W.Ts. One candidate and one joining member were balloted for and accepted. Correspondence

was dealt with, the usual half-yearly accounts passed for payment, and a donation ordered to be forwarded to

the funds of the Belgian Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The two Lodge members of the United Board of

Enquiry were re-elected, and one of the papers recently read at the M. and P.Ms.' Lodge, of Christchurch,

was read to the brethren by Bro. D. K. Fisher, Chaplain. This paper was listened to with close attention, and

was much enjoyed. Soon after 10 p.m. the Lodge was closed, and a pleasant half-hour was spent in social

converse.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Victoria, No. 147.—The annual meeting was held on Friday, 8th June. Bro. John Buchanan was duly

installed in the chair. There was a very good attendance of members and visitors. The ceremonial work was

in the hands of R.W. Bro. Hoyles, Prov.G.M., assisted by G.L. officers, and was faithfully carried out in

every detail. W. Bro. R. Prentice, P.G.D. of C., was again at his best as D. of C., while the musical portion,

rendered by the Masonic Orchestra, was all that could be wished for. Officers invested were : I.P.M., W.

Bro. A. Wilson; S.W., Bro. P. B. Macdonald; J.W., Bro. A. Greig ; Treas., R.W. Bro. N. J. M. Rein; Sec., W.

Bro. N. J. Brokenshire; Chaplain, W. Bro. J. K. Jarneson; assist-Chaplain, W. Bro. G. J. Yule ; S.D., Bro. A.

Derbie; J.D., Bro. A. Marshall; D . of C., W. Bro. J. Kerse ; Organist, Bro. D. Kingsland ; I.G., Bro. C. J.

MeEachran; Tyler, W. Bro. J. Walker ; Ss., Bros. C. Ellis, W. Fraser, T. Denton, A .A. Geddes, and J. A.

Nisbet. The address to the W.M. was given by the Prov.G.M.; investiture of Wardens, by R.W. Bro. F. A.

Steans; address to Wardens, by R.W. Bro. Wm. Smith; address to brethren, by R.W. Bro. W. Timpany; the

investiture of officers, by W. Bros. I. Copeland, F. Bonifant, and V. Smith. The Lodge was tyled punctually,

and the whole ceremony carried through with very creditable expedition. The reply by the W.M. was

characteristic of Bro. Buchanan, and evoked a well deserved compliment, from Bro. Hoyles. After receiving

H.G.W. from many quarters, even (by letter from Bro. Battersby) from brethren in the trenches, the Lodge

was closed, and an adjournment made to the social hall. A short toast list was honoured, whilst the inner man

was refreshed. During the evening W. Bro. Brokenshire was specially honoured. For some years past he has

rendered invaluable service to the Stewards, and during 1916-17 had succeeded beyond all expectations to

provide hospitable fare without any encroachment on Lodge funds. This result was obtained only after much

diligence and vigilance, and in recognition of the keen interest he had taken a presentation was made to him.

The gift was unique—a P.M. Steward's jewel. The happy ceremony of presenting the jewel was in the hands

of the Prov.G.M. Bro. Brokenshire made a very modest and suitable reply, quite characteristic of himself. —

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waihopai, No. 189.—There was a very large attendance on 21st May, when Bro. Vernon Charles Smith was

installed as W.M.. The Prov.G.M. conducted the ceremony. R.W. Bro. R. Prentice, as G.D. of C., carried out

the whole ceremony with becoming dignity. R.W. Bro. Hoyles addressed the Master; R.W. Bro. Rankin, the

Wardens; and R.W. Bro. Smith, the brethren. The officers invested were : S.W., Bro. A. B. Edmonds ; J.W.,

Bro. T. Bird.; Chaplain, Bro. H. T. Conner; Treas., W. Bro. A. McNeil.; Sec., Bro. Geo. Gilchrist; S.D., Bro.

W. Mitchell; J.D., Bro. R. W. Thompson; D. of C., W. Bro. R. N. Todd; Organist, W. Bro. C. Campbell;

I.G., Bro. J. S. Anchor; Tyler, Bro. W. V. Tully; Ss., Bros. J. C. McLachlan, H. Catton, F. Webb, W. Bird

and E. L. Pont. During the evening the Prov.G.M. invested Bro. Chas. Campbell as G. Organist. After the

installation ceremony the brethren assembled in the Parish Hall, where a banquet was spread, and a lengthy

toast and musical items were carried on. Lodge Waihopai continues to make steady progress.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

OTAGO.

Kurow, No. 164.—The W.M. (W. Bro. H. Barclay) presided over a large attendance of members and

visitors at the regular meeting on 7th June. The ceremony of raising two candidates was conducted by the

W.M. in an impressive manner, and he was ably assisted by his officers. The W.M. obligated the candidates,

the Exhort. being entrusted to W. Bro. N. Hayes; the Charge and W.Ts., W. Bro. D. Gillies; the T.H. was

given by W. Bro. R. Appleby. Bro. R. J. Meldrum, who made a special trip from Oamaru, kindly filled the

position of Organist, and rendered some very good music, which greatly brightened and contributed to the

success of one of the most successful and enthusiastic meetings held here for some considerable time. Ballots

were taken on behalf of two candidates, both receiving a favourable result. After the usual offertory on

behalf of the Annuity Fund the Lodge was closed, and the brethren adjourned to the refectory. In proposing

the toast of our newly raised brethren, W. Bro. N. Hayes, in a highly interesting speech, gave them some

good sound advice, .and W. Bro. R. Gillies welcomed the visitors in his usual eloquent manner. Several

musical items were rendered, and Bro. R. J. Meldrum, besides rendering a violin solo, officiated at the

piano.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—The regular meeting was held on 5th June, the W.M. (W. Bro. Collett) being in the

chair. The cutting-out of night trains on the Lyttelton-City line has, in addition to paralysing the Port

business after 7 -p.m., prevented City brethren from visiting Lyttelton Lodges, but the deficiency has been

somewhat rectified by the large attendance of Canterbury Kil. brethren, headed by their W.M. (W. Bro. W.

M. Cederman) at our meetings; and, of course, Unanimity is reciprocating. Owing to calls to active service,

changes in office-bearers are inevitable. Bro. W. G. Dennis being in camp, W. Bro. T. C. Hatton has returned

to the Sec.'s harness, with Bro. Robinson as assistant. The First Degree was worked, the W.M. being assisted

by W. Bros. Cederman, Furneaux and Pearson and Bro. Connal, S.W. One candidate was proposed, and two

resignations were received. The Lodge was closed at 9.40, and an adjournment was made to the refectory.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The regular meeting was held at Kaiapoi on 7th June. The W.M., W. Bro. C. E.

Baynon, presided over a good attendance of members. The degree work for the evening was to pass two

brethren to the F.C. The W.M. obligated the candidates, and was assisted in the work by W. Bro. Hoskin

(Secrets), and the S.W. invested. The Charge after I. was given by the J.W., Bro. Garnett; and Bro. Croft,

S.W., gave the F.C. to the candidates. At the request of the W.M., W. Bro. Papprill presented his P.M.'s

certificate to W. Bro. Hoskin and his M.M.'s certificate to Bro. A. Broadly. On behalf of the Standing

Committee, W. Bro. W. A. Gribble gave notice to move at the next meeting; that the dues be raised, with a

view of placing the Lodge in a better financial position. Two propositions for membership were received.

The Lodge was closed in due form, mid the brethren retired to the refectory, where a social hour was

spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Lincoln, No. 33.—On 3rd April W. Bro. J. Cadman, Master of Lodge Ahurewa, and his principal officers

made the journey from Dunsandel to be present to work the degree of passing. W. Bro. Street, Master of

Lincoln Lodge, welcomed the visiting brethren, and invited W. Bro. Cameron to occupy the Chair of K.S.

and work the degree. W. Bro. Cameron entrusted the candidates with the Secrets of the degree, and the

Charge in the S.E. was given by W. Bro. F. Lill, D. of C. The S.D., W. Bro. Wraight, invested the newly

passed brother and also presented him with the W.Ts. of the degree, and the Final Charge was delivered by

W. Bro. Cameron. Representatives from the following Lodges were present : Unanimity, Masters' and Past

Masters', and Christchurch. The W.M. of Lincoln Lodge thanked W. Bro. Cameron and his officers for being

present and working the degree in the very creditable manner they did, W. Bro. Cameron replying. A

pleasant hour was then spent in the refectory.

The monthly meeting on 8th May was P.Ms.' night at Lodge Lincoln, and our ever-worthy and esteemed

P.M., W. Bro. Jno. McKenzie, P.G.S., the senior P.M. of the Lodge, was voted to the Chair of K.S., assisted

by the following P.Ms. : S.W., W. Bro. A. Cookson, P.G.O. ; J.W., W. Bro. J. W. Kime ; S.D., W. Bro. C.

M. Suckling, P.P.J.W. ; J.D., W. Bro. G. H. Ward ; D. of C., W. Bro. C. J. Morland ; and I.G., Bro. R. G.

Forbes, P.W. The work was raising. The candidate was obligated by W. Bro. McKenzie, P.G.S., and the

Emblems of Mortality were explained by W. Bro. Morland. The newly raised brother was then invested by

W. Bro. Cookson; the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Kime; the T.H. was explained by W. Bro. Cookson ;

and the Final Charge was given by W. Bro. Ward. On W. Bro. McKenzie vacating the chair, the Master

thanked him and his P.Ms, for the very efficient manner in which they worked the degree, the working being

perfect in every detail. W. Bro. McKenzie acknowledged the compliment.

The W.M. of Lodge Lincoln (W. Bro. W. T. Street) occupied the Chair of K.S. on the evening of 5th June,

the work of the evening being that of raising. The Master worked the degree and obligated the candidate, and

the Exhort. was given by W. Bro. Morland. The Emblems of Mortality were explained by W. Bro.

McKenzie. The newly raised brother was then invested by Bro. C. P. Agar, S.W., and the W.Ts. were

explained by W. Bro. Kime, and the Final Charge was given by W. Bro. Ward.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Concord, No. 39.—The installation meeting was held in Papanui on 23rd May. The Lodge was tyled at 6.15

p.m., and after routine business the visitors were received. All the sister Lodges were well represented. The

installation ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. John Thornton, Prov.G.M., assisted by officers of

Prov.G.L. W. Bro. McBeth, Dep.Dist.G.M., and members of Dist.G.L., E.C., and R.W. Bro. Broadley and

members of G.L. attended, and were received with customary honours. The W.M., W. Bro. T. H. North,

presented Bro. J. W. H. Francis, S.W., Master-elect. A B. of I.Ns. was opened by R.W. Bro. Jno. Thornton,

and Bro. Francis was installed into the chair according to ancient custom. The W.Ts. were presented and

explained by W. Bro. A. H. Hobbs, G.Supt, of W. ; Trumpet Call and Proclamation in E. W. and S. ; the

W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Staples (W.M., Lodge St. Augustine, No. 4), W. Bro. S. Orchard (W.M.,

Canterbury Lodge, No. 1048, E.C.), and W. Bro. C. E. Baynon (W.M., Lodge Southern Cross, No. 6), the

address to the W.M. being given by W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu, P.G.D. of C. W. Bro. G. Yemm, S.G.D., then

invested and installed Bro. A. J. Nicholas as S.W. and Bro. J. W. Beanland as J.W., the address to the

Wardens being rendered by W. Bro. F. Lill, P.J.G.W. The following other officers were invested : Chaplain,

W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu; Treas., W. Bro. A. H. Hobbs ; Sec., W. Bro. R. Baldwin; S.D., Bro. G. F. Drury ; J.D.,

Bro. J. M. Gow ; D. of C., Bro. G. P. Turner ; Organist, Bro. R. S. Olliver ; I.G., Bro. G. Snoad; S.S., Bro. H.

W. Giddings (away in Trentham); assist.-Ss., Bros. A. P. A. Nicholls, F. H. E. Chester, F. Laws, C. B. Higgs,

and L. E. Strachan; Tyler, Bro. G. May; assist.-Tyler, Bro. R. Patrick ; Preceptor, W. Bro. H. S. Wilson. W.

Bro. J. Gillanders addressed the brethren. The usual collection for the Annuity Fund was well responded to.

After H.G.W. the Lodge was closed in due form. In the refectory adjoining a very pleasant social hour was

spent, and, taking the fine gathering of 23rd May, 1917, as an augury for the year 1917-18, I am sure W. Bro.

Francis will have a very successful and happy year of office.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.—The monthly meeting was held in the Masonic Hall on 22nd May, W. Bro. Jas.

Mitchell, W.M., presiding over a good attendance of members. After routine business had been disposed of,

a brother was raised to the H. and S. degree of a M.M., being obligated and raised by the W.M. The S.W.,

Bro. Sheffield, gave the T.H. ; the T.B. was explained by W. Bro. Torrance, P.M. ; the W.Ts. were presented

by W. Bro. Jim. Thomas; the Apron Charge by W. Bro. Parks, P.M. ; the F.C. being delivered by W. Bro. G.

H. McLean, P.M. The Lodge having been closed in due form, members and visitors fraternised in the

refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—Wednesday, 6th June, was the date of the regular meeting of the Lodge, and about

fifty brethren signed the appearance book. It was also the occasion of what has now become an annual

function—viz., the working of the Third Degree by the P.Ms. of the Lodge, and it must be admitted that the

veterans performed their various duties in exceedingly good form, not a hitch marring their work. The Lodge

being duly opened, the P.Ms. entered the room as a Lodge, and were received by W. Bro. Jas. Manchester,

officers and brethren with due ceremony. W. Bro. Manchester presented the gavel to the P.M., Bro. Wm.

Lee, and asked him to carry out the work of raising Bros. Malthus and Marshall to the H. and S. degree of

M.Ms. The following W. brethren were conducted to their respective positions by W. Bro. Colville D. of C.,

as follows :—S.W., W. Bro. A. J. Hoskins; J. W., W. Bro. A. Garland ; Chaplain, W. Bro. Shackleton;

S.D., W. Bro. D. A. Fulton ;W. Bro. Brydone ; Organist, W. Bro. Menzies ; I.G., W. Bro. T. W. Manchester ;

W. Bro. Colville taking position as I.P.M. The various parts of the ceremony were carried out as follows :—

Ob., W. Bro. Lee; Exhort., W. Bro. W. Coath ; 1st part T.H., W. Bro. Menzies ; Emh.,W. Bro. T. Dyer,

whose beautiful and effective rendering made them most impressive ; Secrets, W. Bro. T. W. Manchester;

2nd part T.H., further Signs, and T.B., W. Bro. Hoskins; W.Ts., W. Bro. Wright; and Final Charge, W. Bro.

Colville. In returning the gavel W. Bro. Lee thanked W. Bro. Jas. Manchester for the opportunity given the

P.Ms. to renew their acquaintance with the ritual. This meeting was that appointed for the nomination of

officers' and only one office is to be contested. Your correspondent holds the view that all the floor officers

ought to be contested ; such procedure would show that the Lodge was in a state of healthy competition, thus

showing that some of the brethren were keen to rise. Proceeding from chair to chair implies that the spirit of

advancement to which every candidate is urged is wanting. The opinion is the writer's only, but he deemed it

worthy of expression. A Lewis was successfully balloted for. H.G.W. were tendered from Nos. 16, 23, 29

and 159, and No. 942, E.C. A short hour in the refectory followed.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Robert Burns, No. 139.—The June meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Christchurch, on the 19th, W.

Bro. T. Kirker in the Chair of K.S. After the usual formal business the nomination of officers for the ensuing

year was taken. Visitors were then admitted. The Prov.G.D. of C. was announced, and Prov. G.L. admitted,

there being about 120 brethren present. The Prov.G.M. was received with honours due to his rank, and

thanked the brethren. He then handed over the gavel to W. Bro. Kirker for the purpose of raising Bro. Rev.

Tanner. The W.M. was assisted during the ceremony by the following brethren : W. Bro. Taylor, (Inv.); W.

Bro. C. A. Kestall (Raising); W. Bro. R. W. Eastwood (Light of M.M.); W. Bro. W. M. Robinson (S.S.);

Bros:T. W. W. Wilson, S.W., and A. Hunter, J.W. (T.H.); Bro. G. A. Blackmore, J.D. (Ext. S.); and W. Bro.

Fry, W.M., Conyers Lodge (W.Ts.). The charge to the brother after raising was most impressively delivered

by R.W. Bro. J. Thornton, Prov.G.M. The R.W. Prov.G.M., before retiring, congratulated the W.M. and

officers upon their excellent working, the brethren upon the correct deportment, and the newly raised brother

upon his evident appreciation of the ceremony. The Lodge was then closed, and the brethren adjourned to the

refectory, where the usual pleasant time was vent. In proposing the toast of the P.G.M., W. Bro. Kirker

expressed his pleasure at having the honour of the presence of the Prov.G.M. and his officers. In the course

of his reply W. Bro. Thornton stated that it afforded him very great pleasure to attend the Robert Burns

Lodge. W. Bro. R. H. Taylor, I.P.M., proposed the toast of the newly raised brother, and Bro. Tanner, in the

course of his reply, expressed the hope that his association with Freemasonry would enable him to better his

work among his fellow-men. Bro. Tanner is a very fluent speaker, and his response was listened to with very

great interest by the brethren present, the opinion being expressed that it was one of the finest speeches ever

heard in the Masonic Hall. Robert Burns Lodge feels that Bro. Rev. Tanner will be a great acquisition to the

Craft, and looks forward to his future Masonic career with pleasure.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Amuri, No. 184.—The regular meeting was held on 8th June, when the W.M., W. Bro. D. W. Hunter,

presided over a good attendance. The ceremonial work consisted of the initiation of two candidates. The

W.M. obligated and communicated the S., T. and W. The Charge after Invest. was delivered by Bro.

Nicholson, J.D. ; the N.E. Charge by Bro. T. G. Thomson, S.W. Bro. H. R. Davison presented the W.Ts. The

R. for Prep. was explained by Bro. C. E. Denett, J.W. ; the ceremony being concluded by W. Bro. Hunter

rendering the Final Charge. Visitors representing Tawera, St. Augustine No. 4, Conyers, Cromwell Kil.,

Concord, and Methven were heartily welcomed in the " Fourth," a pleasing incident taking place 'midst song

and story. by W. Bro. Knight, of Lodge Methven, presenting to Bro. Duff, of Lodge Methven, who has

settled amongst us, a handsome rug, which his brethren had forwarded as a mark of appreciation of their

worthy brother. The usual happy time was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH.

Victory, No. 40.—The installation took place on 24th May, the anniversary day of its inauguration, when

there was a record attendance for Nelson present. Bro. H. P. Stephenson, S.W., was duly installed Master by

R.W. Bro. C. Mills, Prov.G.M. of the district. W. Bro. H. H. Johnston acted as D. of C. The following

officers were invested : I.P.M., W. Bro. J. L. Ching; S.W., Bro. W. Widdowson ; J.W., Bro. C. M. Whelan;

Trees., R.W. Bro. W. Moyes, P.P.G.M. ; Sec., W. Bro. R. W. Stiles, P.G.J.D. ; S.D., Bro. L. Reynolds,; J.D.

Bro. A. G. Shrimpton ; Lecturer, W. Bro. A. W. Oxley ; D. of C., W. Bro. R. A. Scott; Chaplain, W. Bro. W.

H. Short; Organist, Bro. G. A. Edmonds; I.G., Bro. H. H. Edwards; S.S., Biro. G. J. Robertson; J.Ss., Bros.

G. A. Edmonds, A. E. Davies, J. Morgan; Tyler, Bro. C. W. Moore ; Auditors, Bros. L. M. Eat. court and F.

A. Thompson. The investitures were conducted by. W. Bros. It. P. Furness, P.G.S.B., A. W. Oxley, and R. A.

Scott; whilst the addresses were delivered by W. Bro. J. M. Lightfoot, P.G.S. (to the Wardens), and R.W.

Bros. Mills (to the brethren) and Wm. Moyes (to the Master). The W.Ts. were given by W. Bros. J. A.

Orsman (Installed Master), H. A. Hobbs (M.M.), T. Eastcott (F.C.), and J. L. Ching (E.A.). The newly

installed Master gave a stirring Masonic address, exhorting one and all on the necessity of living up to the

tenets and principles of the Order, and a close study and following-up of the practical side. The brethren

stood in memory of those of the Order who had passed away during the year. The collection in aid of the W.

and O. and A.M. Fund realised £8 10s., the largest yet given in the Lodge. There were one successful ballot

and two propositions received for membership. The installation was attended by visitors from all over the

district, some of whom came very long distances. At the festive board several loyal and Masonic toasts were

honoured, whilst the following contributed to the evening's harmony : W. Bros. E. Richards and E. Dimant

and Bros. E. H. Short, A. G. Thompson, C. M. Whelan, and H. H. Edwards. Bro. N. R. Williams

accompanied.

The first working by the new officers took place on 14th June, when again every seat was occupied, giving

promise of a successful year. W. Bro. H. P. Stephenson presided. The work was the raising of three brethren.

The degree was impressively given, and the following P.Ms. assisted :—W. Bros. J. L. Ching (Secrets), H.

A. Hobbs (Exhort.), R. W. Stiles (Charge), J. A. Orsman (Substituted Secrets), A. W. Oxley (T.H., etc.), B.

H. Moller (W.Ts.), and E. W. Rudman (Final Charge). Sympathetic reference was made to bereavements

suffered by Bros. F. W. Hamilton (who had lost his child), T. J. Harford (on the death of his mother), and to

the death of Bro. J. L. Adams, one of the pioneer members of Southern Star Lodge. A demit was granted to

Bro. T. H. Bannehr, of Geraldine. Certificate No. 17234 was presented to Bro H. E. Jeffreys. W. Bro. W. J.

G. Hartill, I.P.M., Lodge Otaki, and Bro. A. Neil, Footscray, St. John's Lodge, V.C., were proposed for

affiliation, and another for membership. The Sec. (W. Bro. Stiles) presented the balance-sheet for the year,

showing a credit balance of £.44 4s. 3d. In the annual report it was shown that the membership stood at 113.

R.W .Bro. L. G. Boor and Bro. M. E. Sims had passed away, whilst demits were granted to Bros.

McCormick. and Cowie. The record for active service showed W. Bro. J. Houlker (died of wounds) and

Bros. J. S. Nelson, P. C. McLaren, V. J. Blake, – Huffam, and J. M. Burlinson (still at the front), with Bro.

Lt.-Col. P. O. Andrew and W. Bro. Hedges in camp. The following had been initiated : Bros. H. E. Jeffreys,

A. Sievwright, H. T. Kidson, H. Collins, H. G. Hill, H. O. Washbourn, M. M. Snodgrass, H. E. A.

Washbourn, M. D. S. Johnston, and E. E. Beveridge. The following had been elected by affiliation : W. Bros.

A. M. Oxley, C. B. Harten, F. Gibbons, and Bros. W. C. Hyde, G. Stratford, and F. H. Garth. There had been

eleven initiations, eight passings, and three raisings—a total of twenty-two workings. A new office, that of

Lodge Lecturer, had been created, with very much profit to the brethren, whilst the increasing attendance at

the Lodge necessitated the appointment of four Stewards. The social side had been especially marked, whilst

in the inner chamber the dictates and teachings of the Order had lost none of its lustre in the hands of capable

officers and P.Ms. Attendance at instruction meetings had increased. The amount collected in dues had been

£178 ls. 6d.—an increase of £57 over the previous year. £57 13s. had been received in initiations and

joinings, whilst £34 had been forwarded to War Benevolent Fund, making a total sum sent of £96 10s. The

total amount paid in G.L. dues, War Benevolent Fund, W. and O. and A.M. Fund, and appeals was £80 7s.

On the property mortgage £100 had been paid off, leaving a balance of £300. In April brethren started a fund

to clear the Lodge of its indebtedness, and at the June meeting it was reported that a sum of over £100 had

been received. It was stated that in no previous period had there been such a record, and the harmony of the

Lodge remains in the same perfect state as it had done for years past. Every member seems imbued with that

brotherly love that should characterise all Freemasons. The adoption of the report was accompanied by

eulogistic references. – [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

HAWKES BAY.

Scinde, No. 5.—The regular meeting was held on 15th May in the Lodgeroom, Tennyson Street, when there

was a large attendance of brethren and visitors, W. Bro. R. Bishop, W.M. in the chair. There was no degree

work. The election of W.M. and officers took place, and Bro. Jas. Bowes, S.W., was unanimously elected to

the Chair of K.S. The Prov.G.M. of Hawkes Bay, R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, attended officially, and invested

W. Bro. J. W. Ritchie with his regalia as G.S. for the ensuing year. R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M., at

the invitation of W. Bro. R. Bishop, W.M., gave a very interesting address on "Harmony." R.W. Bro.

Harston contended that every Lodge should be a harmonious brotherhood, acting together, living in peace

and friendship, and that every brother should strive to be a harmoniser. If we made that our aim we would

always have harmony—Peace, Love, and Harmony. Our work in the Lodge is to initiate accepted men into

Masonry, to help to make them better citizens, more useful in life and to associate with brethren of all classes

and creeds in a bond of friendship and unity, meeting on the level and parting on the square. In referring to

those grand charges given during the degree work and at installation ceremonies, R.W. Bro. Harston stated

that they were soon forgotten by some of our brethren, more especially the Final Charge, which we hear at

every Lodge meeting. One of the disturbing elements of harmony is talking outside, discussing Masonry in

public places in the presence of non-Masons. We are charged consciously to avoid doing so.

The most important toasts are " the newly initiated," " passed," " raised " brethren, and the W.M. at his

installation. Songs or recitations before the response in each instance should be appropriate to the toast, • an

item that will not disturb the thoughts and impressions of the brother that has to respond. More regard should

be paid to the Tyler's toast. After the Tyler has proposed the toast, the response is, "To all poor and distressed

Masons," and not to repeat the proposer's words in full, and the honours given in silence. Musical honours

should be encouraged and sung as originally designed—not mutilated, as some of them are now by some

Lodges, more especially "Prosper the Art and "Worthy Masons All." The melody and words are traditional,

and were intended to be sung three times in succession in three degrees of expression.

About 1870 W. Bro. Dr. Spark, P.P.G.O., England, harmonised the melody of both, and if they are sung as

arranged they are very effective. Unfortunately some of our Lodges have rearranged "Prosper the Art,"

slightly altering the melody, and they sing at a gallop rate, regardless of expression, "Prosper the man," etc.,

"Prosper the Lodge," etc., "Prosper the Craft," etc. In "Worthy Masons All " I have heard it rendered "

Worthy Mason he, worthy Mason he, the ring and the Craft and the mystic tie worthy Mason he." These

innovations are disturbing elements of harmony. R.W. Bro. Harston concluded by singing these musical

honours as originally composed, and the brethren joined in on the third tune with good effect, finishing

with:—

Let us have Harmony,

Peace, Love, and Harmony ;

Join all in Harmony.

A pleasant hour was spent in the refectory, where a number of brethren assisted with music, song, and story,

and two members of Scinde Lodge were farewelled—one on leaving for camp, and the other removing to

Wairoa, Both received tangible expressions of the goodwill of their brethren. The meeting, which broke up

shortly before midnight, was clearly one of the most enjoyable in the history of Scinde Lodge, and a fitting

close to W. Bro. R. Bishop's year of office, which has been a record for work and harmony amongst the

brethren. One of the dominating features was the large attendance of members of Victoria Lodge, No. 21,

showing the good feeling existing between the two Lodges.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Victoria, No. 21.—The installation of W. Bro. William Alexander Wilkie as W.M. took place on 6th June.

Owing to the unavoidable absence of the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, at Woodville, the installation

was conducted by P.Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Thos. Hobson, of Takapau, assisted by the following acting-G.L.

officers : G.S.W., W. Bro. W. A. Carter ; G.J.W., W. Bro. L. Freedman, P.G.S.D. ; G.S.D., W. Bro. J. H.

Morrison; G.J.D., W. Bro. J. P. Thompson; G.I.G., W. Bro. W. Pasco ; G.S.B., W. Bro. L. Wright; G.D. of

C., W. Bro. E. Eales. There was a record attendance, no less than 119 signing the attendance book, the

seating accommodation of the Lodgeroom being taxed to its utmost. No doubt, the I.M. must have taken it as

a very great compliment in having the honour of presiding over such a large assemblage of the Craft. The

presentation of W.Ts. was made as follows : I.M. Degree, W. Bro. W. H. Hobin ; 3rd, W. Bro. A. Parkin

(Abercorn Lodge, No. 30) ; 2nd, W. Bro. R. Bishop (Scinde Lodge, No. 5); 1st, by W. Bro. J. A. Miller

(W.M., Heretaunga Lodge, No. 73). W. Bro. E. Hosking gave the address to the W.M. ; W. Bro. T. H.

Barclay addressed the Wardens. The W.M. then invested the following officers : S.W., Bro. W. G. Jarvis;

J.W., Bro. H. Bate ; Treas., W. Bro. E. Chegwidden, P.M.; Sec., W Bro. Jas. Redshaw, P.G.S.Chaplain, W.

Bro. W. A. Kirk, P.M.; D. of C., W. Bro. H. W. Whitton, P.M. ; Organist, Bro. Joseph Rockell; S.D., Bro. H.

F. Funke ; J.D., Bro. W. E. Yates; I.G., Bro. Geo. Bennett ; S.S., Bro. Jas. Berry ; J.S., Bro. P. J. Russell;

Tyler, Bro. Geo. Robson. The address to the brethren was very impressively delivered by R.W. Bro. Hobson.

Before retiring, the I.M., on behalf of the Lodge, presented the I.P.M. with a very handsome P.M.'s jewel,

suitably inscribed, and also asked the W.M. to accept a set of W.Ts. for the I.M. Degree, which were

gratefully received, and will fill a long-felt want in that degree. After congratulations had been tendered to

the W.M. by the visiting brethren, the Lodge was closed, the brethren present adjourning to the Foresters'

Hall, where ample justice was done to a sumptuous supper provided by W. Bro, J. B. Andrew. The usual

toasts and speeches followed suitable to the occasion, the proceedings terminating about midnight, the

visiting veterans vowing with the local ones that it was one of the most successful installation ceremonies

they had ever witnessed in connection with Victoria Lodge. Thus another page in the Lodge's history is

turned. Next day R.W. Bro. Hobson was taken for a motor drive round the suburbs by the, J.W., Bro. H.

Bate, the W.M. and several other officers accompanying our distinguished visitor. A stop was made at the

Greenmeadows Vineyard, the S.W., Bro. W. G0. Jarvis, explaining all the mysteries of wine-making.

Samples were taken and pronounced excellent. A start was then made for Hastings. On arrival W. Bro. J. A.

Miller, W.M., of Heretaunga Lodge, took charge, as his guests at dinner at the Hastings Club, after which a

start was made for home, arriving about 9 p.m., happy with ourselves and with each other.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 66.—The installation of Bro. C. R. James as W.M. took place on 30th May, in the presence of

120 brethren. The Lodge was tyled at 3.30, and the usual business transacted, and called off at 4.30 and

resumed at 6.55. A goodly number of visiting brethren were admitted. R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M.,

officiated as Installing Master, assisted greatly by the efficient manner in which W. Bro. R. A. Gillespie

carried out the duties of D. of C. The Ancient Charges were read by W. Bro. T. Paton. The W.Ts. were

presented by W. Bro. C. F. Barker (Lodge Lion), W. Bro. E. F. Stubbs (W.M., Ruataniwha), and by W. Bro.

S. Gibson (Lodge Puketoi). A solo, "Consider the Lilies," by Bro. D. N. Wilson, was greatly appreciated by

the brethren. After the address to the W.M. by W. Bro. T. Hobson, P.Prov.G.M., the W.M. (W. Bro. C. R.

James), assisted by W. Bro. Snell, invested the following officers : S.W., Bro. C. L. Thomsen; J.W., Bro. D.

N. Wilson; D.M. W. Bro. T. Paton; Chaplain, Bro. G. Anderson; Treas., W. lira. F. Craven; Sec., Bro. C. T.

Brown; D. of -C., W. Bro. Gillespie; S.D., Bro. A. Mollgaard ; J.D., Bro. G. Harris; I.G., Bro. J. K. Gilmour ;

Organist, Bro. A. Collett ; Ss., Bros. H. Parker, R. Hendy, and A. Nash ; Tyler; Bro. J. C. Carston. W. Bro. J.

P. Thompson addressed the Wardens, and R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M., the brethren. The collection

in aid of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund was exceptionally well responded to. The Lodge was closed at 10.30,

after which the brethren adjourned to the Town Hall, where full justice was done to the excellent repast and a

most enjoyable and instructive time spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Heretaunga, No. 73.—Owing to the flooded condition of Hawkes Bay and all communication with Napier

being cut off, it appeared very doubtful if we could hold our annual meeting on the day appointed in our by-

laws, but R.W. Bros. De Lisle and T. Hobson, at a few hours' notice, saved the situation by attending at great

inconvenience to themselves; and amid adverse climatic conditions we were able to hold our installation of

W.M.—if not, as arranged, before the flood, but just at the conclusion of the visitation ; and it shows

convincing argument of the attractiveness of our annual meeting and of the popularity of our W.M.-elect,

Bro. L. T. Cooper. About sixty brethren attended, and their reward was a very fine evening's entertainment,

everything going smoothly throughout the ceremony and after, and we for the time forgot the discomforts,

sufferings, and losses of many of our neighbours through this the most serious flood in the history of Hawkes

Bay. The Lodge members met in the afternoon for ordinary business, and at 7 p.m. for the ceremony of

installing the W.M.-elect, Bro. L. T. Cooper, for the following year. R.W. Bros. De Lisle and T. Hobson

were assisted by W. Bros. Colebourne, Ritchie, Hosking, I. Hobson, and Carter, Bro. Sec. acting as D. of C.

The choir, under W. Bro. Tombs, was assisted by a splendid orchestra, and they were just very first-class,

and added very materially to the complete success of the evening. Our regret was great at missing the old and

new faces of our brethren from the Napier Lodges, who from time immemorial have graced us with their

presence and materially assisted us in our work. The W.M.-elect was regularly installed in the B. of I.M.;

and, the brethren being re-admitted, he was proclaimed and saluted in the three degrees. The W.Ts. were

presented by W. Bros. Tombs, Hird, and Roech respectively. The W.M. was addressed by the installing

officer, R.W. Bro. De Lisle, the Wardens by W. Bro. Colebourne, and the address to the brethren was

carefully recited by R.W. Bro. Hobson. A P.M.'s jewel was presented to W. Bro. J. H. Colebourne by the

I.P.M., Bro. Miller, who voiced the opinion of the brethren in words of esteem for the recipient; and later W.

Bro. Miller changed places from the presenter to the receiver of a very fine enlarged framed photograph of

himself and his team of officers for the year of his Mastership. W. Bro. Miller was very emphatic in assuring

the brethren that it was not destined to be hung (with many others) in his bathroom, but would adorn his

dining-room, in spite of all blandishments to shift it to the other gallery. After many years' experience, I must

admit that the speeches are happily improving; both visitors and brethren, in their remarks, certainly strike

me as of a better and higher order than is generally usual at these gatherings. We all wish W. Bro. Cooper a

very happy and useful year of office; and his energy, assisted by a really good set of officers, ought to

produce good results and keep Heretaunga's reputation up to the high mark she has attained. The W.M.

invested his officers, with the exception of Bro. Sec., who was invested and addressed by his old friend and

brother, R.W: Bro. T. Hobson. The list of officers invested is as follows :—S.W., Bro. R. W. Jones; J.W.,

Bro. J. E. Jones; Treas., W. Bro. W. A. Carter,. Sec., W. Bro. T. Morgan; Organist, W. Bro. P. W. Tombs;

Chaplain, W. Bro. E. J. Murray; D. of C., W. Bro. R. Shaw; S.D., Bro. W. R. Wright; J.D., Bro. J. R. Foot;

I.G., Bro. T. P. Short; Tyler, Bro. J. Burns; S.S., Bro. A. W. Hamilton; J.S., Bro. C. J. Tipping; assist.-Ss.,

Bros. F. Jackson and F. J. Cowlrick.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

AUCKLAND.

Ponsonby, No. 54.—The regular meeting of the above was held on 5th June. There was a large attendance of

both visitors and brethren. It was election night, and, there being no other work, V.W. Bro. Rabbi Goldstein

delivered a lecture on the Second Degree, which was appreciated very much, and a hearty vote of thanks was

accorded the Rabbi.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Piako, No. 160.—The monthly meeting was held on 6th June, the attendance of brethren and visitors being

somewhat smaller than usual. The business was the passing of one candidate, the Ob., also the S. and S.,

being given by the' W.M., Bro. R. Parlour, the Address in the S.E. by Bro. McCausland, W.Ts. by Bro. F.

Pickett, J.W., the Charge by Bro. N. D. Clifford, S.W., and the T.B, by W. Bro. C. M. Gummer. One brother

was duly balloted for, and accepted for affiliation, It was decided to send a letter of congratulation to Bro. R.

S. Allen, who has just been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

TARANAKI.

Hawera, No. 34.—The regular meeting was held on 5th June, when a brother was initiated by W. Bro.

Harding, assisted by W. Bro. Evans, who gave tire N.E. Corner, W. Bro, Keen the R. for Prep., Bro. Hayton,

J.W., giving the W.Ts., and R.W. Bro. Sargent the Final Charge.

An emergency meeting was held on 12th June, when a brother was passed to the Second Degree by W. Bro.

Harding, assisted by W. Bro. Evans, who gave the S.E. Corner, and W. Bro. Burgess the Final Charge. The

W.Ts. were given in sections by the W.M., S.W., and J.W. At this meeting W. Bro. Harding explained that in

accordance with notice issued to members he proposed to call for fresh nominations for the office of W.M.,

owing to Bro. Tarrant, S.W., having decided, in the interests of the Lodge, not to allow himself to be elected,

owing to his removal to Wellington since being nominated for the office of W.M., and a resolution was

carried by the brethren, expressing their high appreciation of the action taken by Bro. Tarrant in sacrificing

his own Masonic interests for the sake of the welfare of the Lodge. W. Bro. Alan R. Thompson, late W.M. of

Manawatu Kil., was nominated for the position by Bro. Hayton, J.W. The brethren are now preparing for the

installation, which is to take place on Tuesday, 10th July.—[Lodge Correspondent]

————

RUAPEHU.

St. Andrew Kil. No. 79.—The regular meeting was held on 14th June, the W.M., Bro. A. King, presiding

over a large gathering of brethren. Lodge Tongariro paid a fraternal visit, and was represented by about 20

members, including W.M. Bro. Baggett. After routine business was disposed of, two E.As., one from Lodge

Pahiatua and the other from Lodge Heretaunga, were passed to the F.C. Degree. The W.M. conducted the

ceremony, and was ably assisted by W. Bros. Craig and Richardson. During the evening R.W. Bro. D.

McFarlane, Prov.G.M., on behalf of M.W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol, had the unique privilege of presenting to

our Lodge the original Charter to St. Andrew Kil. from the G.L. of Scotland. This had been granted in

February, 1867, and had now been forwarded by G.L. of Scotland to our G.S. Needless to say, this

interesting document will be suitably framed and preserved in Freemasons' Hall. The brethren were reminded

of the joint meeting to be held on Sunday, 24th inst., in commemoration of the bicentenary of the formation

of G.L. of England. The three W.Ms. of local Lodges will occupy the principal chairs, and it is expected that

there will be a large and representative gathering of Freemasons from this district. After Lodge closed, the

usual adjournment was made to the refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent with our visiting brethren.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Kimbolton, No. 123.—The usual monthly meeting was held in the Lodgeroom on 15th June, there being a

strong muster of members. In the absence of W.M. Bro. McKay, who was absent in Wellington seeing his

brother off for the front, the Lodge was controlled by the I.P.M., W. Bro. J. M. Turnbull. The work was an

initiation. The ceremony was most impressively conducted by I.P.M. Bro. Turnbull, assisted by W. Bros.

Baddeley, Bailey, and Beard, and Bro. Short, S.D. W. Bro. Nix, Acting-J.W., presented the W.Ts., and the

S.W. delivered the Charge. The solemn demeanour of the candidate, and his obvious sincerity, augured well

for his future as a Freemason. In the refectory, his modest little reply to the toast of his health further

confirmed the good impression his carriage during the ceremony inside the Lodge had produced. The

evening was pleasantly rounded off with songs and toasts, and an account by Bro. Short of the visit to the

Mangateweka installation meeting. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Huia, No. 171.—The monthly meeting took place on the 7th June, when a splendid attendance was recorded.

Included were several visitors from both within and outside the Dominion. W. Bro. Budden, Lodge Conyers,

E.C., also Lodge Victoria and several other Lodges were represented. The work performed consisted of an

initiation, distributed as follows :—Ob., W. Bro. A. W. Gallichan; S. and S., W. Bro. Turner ; the Address in

the N.E. Corner by W. Bro. W. S. Smith ; W.Ts. by Bro. Richardson; Prep. Charge, Bro. Stubbs; Final

Charge by the W.M., W. Bro. Gallichan. Two names were proposed for initiation, which in the face of

present war conditions is encouraging, and denotes that the interest, in Lodge matters is very much alive. At

the conclusion of the meeting an adjournment was made to the refectory, for which purpose the table was

laid with a light refreshment in honour of the last three candidates duly initiated, this innovation being most

acceptable and much appreciated after having been dispensed with for the last twelve months. An

interchange of courtesies took place, when all retired, well satisfied, having spent a profitable- evening.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

WELLINGTON.

St. Andrew, No. 32.—The monthly meeting was held on 18th June at the Boulcott Street Hall, when the

W.M., Bro. A. Schmidt, presided over a good attendance of members and visitors, who, notwithstanding

most inclement weather, braved rain and cold winds. One matter produced such a crop of motions and

amendments (all under consideration together) that the ultimate decision is still veiled in some obscurity, but

your correspondent doubts not that chaos will yield to order in the matter eventually. The ceremonial was to

pass two candidates, who at their examination anent the First Degree acquitted themselves most creditably.

The W.M. performed the ceremony, assisted by his officers, W. Bro. O. Neilson rendering the investiture

address ; Bro. Paton, the S.E. Charge ; Bros. Riddell, Greening, and Lawrence, the W.Ts. (in concert); and

Bro. Riddell, S.W., the F.C. The J.W., Bro. A. Greening, instructed the candidates and several young F.Cs.,

by the aid of the T.B., in the degree, being assisted therein by the Chaplain, W. Bro. C. W. Nielsen, who read

the appropriate passages of the V.S.L. The Preceptor of the Lodge (it now has such an officer, who is

inexorable and merciless in criticism) expressed himself in private conversation as satisfied, which result is,

no doubt, attributable to the close watchfulness displayed by him on instruction occasions. Before closing, an

interesting incident transpired—the presentation to the Lodge of a Roll of Honour, bearing thereon the names

of members absent on active service. The donors are members of the Lodge (who prefer to remain

anonymous), who have contributed labour, skill, and materials. The workmanship displayed is excellent, and

the product will be an acquisition to the Lodgeroom, where it will be placed. Labour completed, brethren

repaired to refreshment, where the usual toasts were intermingled with song, story, and chestnuts. —[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Tararua, No. 67.—The regular meeting was held on 7th June, there being a very good attendance,

considering twenty members had attended the installation at Ruahine the evening before. The regular

business being disposed of, the ceremonial work of initiating two candidates was proceeded with by the

W.M. and his officers; the W.M. obligating and giving the Secrets, in the latter assisted by W. Bro. White

Scott, D.M., who also gave the Final Charge. The N.E. Address was given by W. Bro. A. Ross; Prep., by W.

Bro. T. Mainfold.; W.Ts., by W. Bro. T. F. Hewat, D. of C. After closing, a further hour was spent in the

refectory. Bro. A. Weston has gone into camp. At the moment of writing, word has just come to hand that W.

Bro. A. Ross's son, Burns, has been killed in action, and we naturally extend our sympathy to our worthy W.

Bro. in his severe loss. Next meeting (5th July), the P.Ms. will take charge and raise Bros. F. G. Thompson

and H. Paterson, when we expect a large gathering, as (for one reason) on 1st August Bro. Paterson goes into

camp, proceeding very shortly to the front in charge of one of the medical units. Also, it will be a pleasure to

see our P.Ms. working.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Hinemoa, No. 122.—On 24th June the G.L. of England, the mother G.L. of the world, was formed, and the

wildest dreamer could never have realised that in two centuries it would become one of the most vital and

potent forces in the world, exerting a silent and almost imperceptible influence, directly and indirectly, upon

millions of lives in every part of the globe, uniting men together in universal principles of brotherhood for

the benefit and in the interest of humanity. Two hundred years later a small Lodge in a country town in the

North Island of New Zealand planned to visit a Lodge in the suburbs of Wellington; and that visit of Otaki

Lodge to Hinemoa Lodge on 14th June will live in the memories of the 140 odd brethren privileged to

participate in that interesting event, and who can say that from that meeting there may not come forth ideas

and influences calculated to inspire and enthuse the Masonic fraternity in the years that are to come. Some of

the Otaki brethren arrived by the 12.15 train, and were met by a number of Hinemoa brethren, who escorted

them to their hotel, and after lunch took them sight-seeing per motor cars, and a most enjoyable time was the

result. Other Otaki-ites arrived by later train, were taken charge of, and later brought to the Lodgeroom in

Daniel Street. The Lodge had tyled at 7.15 p.m., and having disposed of ordinary business, were ready to

receive their visitors in good time. The W.M. of Lodge Horowhenua, a neighbour of Otaki Lodge, was

received with honours and welcomed, and immediately afterwards Bro. Quayle, W.M. of Otaki Lodge,

accompanied by his officers and brethren, was admitted, and received a Masonic welcome. Without loss of

time Bro. George, W.M. of Hinemoa Lodge, presented the gavel to Bro. Quayle, and requested him, with the

assistance of his officers, to work the degree of the evening, that of initiating two candidates into the

mysteries of the First Degree. To say they were surprsied is to put it mildly—they were almost frightened.

One hundred and twenty pairs of eyes concentrated upon 20 brethren who had ventured over 40 miles to pay

a fraternal visit and work the degree was an ordeal, and not a few city Lodges would have felt a keen sense

of nervousness. Otaki Lodge, however, had nothing to be ashamed of. The W.M. was an expert ritualist, and

his officers knew their work from beginning to end, and were thus enabled to create an impression upon the

candidate and the brethren assembled. The W.M., who administered the Ob., communicated the Secrets, and

delivered the Charge after Investiture, was further assisted by W. Bro. Watson, Acting-S.W., who also gave

the Address in the N.E. Corner; W. Bro. Wendley, Acting-J.W., who explained the R. for Prep.; Bro. Allen,

who carried out the duties of Chaplain ; W. Bro. Williams, Acting-S.D., who presented the W.Ts. ; Bro.

Johnson, J.D., Bro. Bright, I.G., W. Bro. Freeman, I.P.M., and the Sec., W. Bro. Swaney, who gave the

Charge after Initiation. During the interval for restoration Bro. Wright contributed a solo, and the hymn for

"Brethren at Sea " was sung. At the conclusion of the ceremony Bro. Quayle, W.M. Otaki Lodge, in handing

back the gavel to Bro. George, W.M. of Hinemoa Lodge, expressed the pleasure it had given himself, his

officers, and brethren to visit Hinemoa Lodge and work the degree, suggesting that the function should be

established as an annual one, and venturing the opinion that if continued it would benefit the country Lodges,

and unite them in the bonds of brotherhood as perhaps nothing else could do. W. Bro. George, in returning

the compliment, congratulated the Otaki-ites, and would endeavour to further cement the union by future

visitations. After H.G.W., the Lodge was closed, and an adjournment made to the refectory, where by

speech, song, and story a pleasant hour was spent, all expressing their satisfaction with visit, visitors, and

host.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Puketoi, No. 149.—At the last regular meeting a motion by Bro. W. G. Neville, J.W. : "That the use of

intoxicating liquor in this Lodge be discontinued for the duration of the war ; the amount saved, estimated by

the average cost per month of liquor used in the past, to be paid to the G.L. as a contribution to the Masonic

Wounded Soldiers' Fund "—was carried. Some discussion whether the proposal should apply at our

installation meeting next February took place, but it was felt that visitors will welcome the opportunity of

making a small sacrifice for Masonic wounded soldiers. Perhaps the war will end before February. So mote it

be. The business of the evening was initiation of two candidates. After W. Bro. S. Gibson, W.M., obligated

the candidates, he delegated the rest of the service to the junior members of the-Lodge—a very successful

innovation. Chaplain J. C. Davies gave the N.E. Charge; Bro. R. M. Robertson, the Address on Prep.; Bro. P.

R. Kent, the W.Ts.; and Bro., W. Ormiston, the Charge after Initiation. Two members were elected and two

proposed for membership, after which a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Berhampore, on Thursday, 7th

June, the W.M. (Bro. J. Sexton) presiding. There was a large assemblage of members and visitors, amongst

the latter being several naval brethren. After the usual routine business had been disposed of, three

candidates were presented for passing. The W.M. obligated, and, with the assistance of the Wardens,

presented the W.Ts. The Address in the S.E. was given by the S.W., the Signs by W. Bro. Alexander, and the

Final Charge by the J.W. The Lodge closed in peace and harmony at 9.30, when an adjournment was made

to the refectory, where a pleasant time was spent in music, song, and story.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The monthly meeting was held on 13th June, when there was a good attendance of

members, but not a great number of visitors. This, no doubt, was owing to the night being wet, and also on

account of the curtailment of the train arrangements; but we were very pleased to see Lodge Waterloo

represented by W. Bro. Robinson and four other brethren, who came out by car. The ceremonial work was -

the raising of two brethren by W. Bro. Anson as W.M. and the filling of the various chars by the P.Ms. of the

Lodge. It was a great pleasure to the members to see W. Bro. Anson once more taking an active part in the

work. He was one of the foundation members, and acted as the first S.W. when it was constituted under R.W.

Bro. Peterkin. W. Bro. Anson obligated the candidates and gave the Exhort ; W. Bros. Rishworth and Hobbs

raised the candidates separately ; W. Bro. Hobbs communicated the Secrets ; W. Bro. Guineas gave the T.H.;

W. Bro. Burns, the W.Ts. ; and W. Bro. Robinson, of Lodge Waterloo, presented the V.S.L.; and, all things

being considered, the old has-beens got through the evening fairly well. Letters were read from brethren at

the front, sending fraternal greetings—one from a brother who went with the 15ths and had only taken his

First Degree, but had been sup. plied with a letter written by the Sec. and signed by the W.M. and brother in

question, giving full particulars re his only having his First. This was presented to the Sec. of the Lodge of

Hope, No. 433, Brightlingsea, Essex, near where they were camped, and they made arrangements to give

him his Second Degree; but, unfortunately, before the meeting he was transferred to another camp at

Boscombe. He again presented his letter to Boscombe Lodge, No. 1258, and they were kind enough to give

him his Second and Third Degrees, which goes to show that, as long as they have proper credentials, the

Lodges at Home are quite willing to assist any New Zealand brethren and give them a hearty welcome. Two

candidates were proposed for initiation, and after the usual routine business the Lodge was closed in love,

peace and harmony at 10 p.m.. —[Lodge Correspondent. ]

————

Whetu-Kairanga, No. 201. — The regular meeting was held at Worser. Bay on 9th June. There was a large

attendance of members and visitors, and when all had been admitted W. Bro, Aston presided over as large a

number as the hall would conveniently hold. It had been arranged that five members of Hinemoa Lodge

should be passed to the Second Degree, and W. Bro. George and the officers of Hinemoa Lodge, with that

true brotherly spirit which always characterises their dealings with Whetu-Kairanga, had agreed to attend and

conduct the ceremony. The ceremony of passing was performed by the visiting Master and officers in a very

interesting and efficient manner. W. Bro. George, having received the gavel from W. Bro. Aston, assumed

control of the Lodge, and having appointed his officers to their different stations, the ceremony of passing

was proceeded with. W. Bro. George obligated the candidates and communicated the S., T. and W. ; Rev.

Bro. Knowles-Smith and W. Bro. Aston invested the S.E. Address was given by W. Bro. O. Nielsen; the

W.Ts. presented by W. Bro. Robinson, Rev. Bro. Knowles-Smith, and Bro. Shannon in concert; the Charge

after Passing was given by Rev. Bro. Knowles-Smith ; and the Lecture on the T.B. delivered by W. Bro.

Martin. At the close of the meeting a very enjoyable hour was spent in the refectory, where Bro. Robertshaw,

who can always be depended on for something good and original, ably assisted by Bro. Mildenhall and the

Ss., had provided a fish supper, which, in the opinion of those partaking of it, "just touched the spot." During

the month a visit was paid by motor 'bus to Coronation Lodge at Johnsonville, when some fifteen members

made the trip, and were rewarded by a fine moonlight drive, splendid hospitality, and an interesting

ceremony.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

———————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

Victory, No. 12.—On 30th May the regular convocation was held, V.E. Comp. W. Widdowson presiding.

Comps. H. P. Stephenson, T. Houlker, A. E. Davies, W. C. Hyde, and G. Stratford were exalted by the 1st

Prin., assisted by V.E. Comps. Stiles, Ching, Moller, Mayes, Oxley, and Bolton. E. Comp. Reynolds acted as

Conductor. V.E. Comp. C. B. Harton (of Waterloo Chapter) was unanimously elected D. of C., and a motion

providing for an Organist and two Stewards amongst the list of officers was carried. This Chapter has

extended to Sup. G. Chapter an invitation to hold its next annual communication in Nelson, and it is hoped

"Victory " may be accorded the pleasure of meeting the representatives of the New Zealand Chapters in

sunny Nelson—the land of fruit and flowers and other things that "make good." Victory Chapter was

constituted at a meeting held on 10th November, 1892, so that 10th November, 1917, will see its 25th

birthday. It is quite on the cards there may be "something doing " to celebrate the event. —[Chapter

Correspondent.]