News and Notes. OWING to the...















    News and Notes.


    OWING to the large number of Lodge reports, consequent on June installation meetings, we are compelled to


    hold over leading and other matter.


    FROM a private letter from R.W. Bro. Geo. Barclay, we learn that he is fit and well, and is still engaged in the


    same duty.


    "PLEASED to say last month's CRAFTSMAN was fully up to usual standard, containing a lot of interesting and


    useful reading. Speaking Personally as a young Mason, in a Lodge where there are practically no old


    members attending; I have gained more knowledge of Masonry from THE CRAFTSMAN than from any other


    source. Trusting you have regained some at least of your past vigour during your brief spell out of


    harness."—A brother from Central Otago.


    A CORRESPONDENT writing from the front in France gives some particulars in reference to a gathering


    organised by the recently-formed N.Z.E.F. Masonic Association. The meeting took place on the 23rd April,


    and was numerously attended, some 80 odd Lodges being represented. It was decided to take steps for the


    adoption of a membership badge, the arrangements being left in the hands of the chairman and secretary.


    Alter a quantity of other business had been transacted, the remainder of the evening was devoted to harmony,


    an enjoyable programme being carried through. A feature in connection with the meeting was the attendance


    by invitation of a number of visitors (representative of English Lodges) from a neighbouring division.


    Numerous applications for membership of the association continue to be received by the General


    Secretary—some from as far away as Egypt.


    W. BRO. OXLEY, the Lecturer of Victory Lodge, Nelson, had a sudden seizure after the regular convocation


    of Victory Chapter on 28th June. He had not been too well of late, and evidently the heavy work of the


    evening was too much for him in his indifferent condition. It was necessary to call in Bro. Dr. Washburn, and


    W. Bro. Oxley is now confined to a private hospital, and up till now has not been in a fit state to receive


    many visitors. It is, however, pleasing to report that Bro. Oxley is mending, and hopes to be his good self


    before long. Bro. Oxley, who is well known in Invercargill, has made many friends in Nelson, and in the


    matter of Masonic knowledge is par excellence.


    BRO. N. R. WILLIAMS has lost a brother killed in action, and Bro. C. E. Scully a son. The sympathy of the


    .brethren has been extended to these brethren.


    AT the annual festival of Ara Lodge, No. 348, I.C., there were 65 P.Ms. present. The meeting was held as


    usual at high noon, and attracted a very large attendance, including representatives of all the local sister


    constitutions. An interesting address by R.W. Bro. Rees, Prov.G.M., will be found in another column of this


    issue.


    THE DEP.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, of Dunedin, visited a number of Lodges last month included in the


    Canterbury, Wellington, and Ruapehu Districts. He also invested the Prov.G.M. of the latter district.


    THE installation meeting of Leinster Lodge brought together the largest assembly of brethren recorded in


    Wellington City for some considerable time past. Indeed, the capacity of the Masonic Hall was taxed beyond


    its limits. The Board of I.M. would have constituted a respectable Lodge in itself. R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison,


    Prov.G.M., who is also a member of the Lodge, conducted the ceremony, being assisted by a number of G.


    and P.G. officers, including the veteran, R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M.


    THE annual meeting of Lodge Ulster, Petone, was held on Saturday, 23rd June, instead of Wednesday, 20th,


    probably to suit the exigencies of a restricted train service. Albeit, it was an atrocious night so far as weather


    conditions were concerned, there was a marvellous attendance, and an abnormal B. of I.M. The meeting


    commenced at 5 p.m., which allowed ample time in the refectory to prepare for the soaking "paddle" through


    ponds of water to the station. Jupiter Pluvius was at his best.




    THE accounts of the New Zealand Masonic Newspaper Co. have all been rendered, and the manager will


    esteem it a favour if subscribers will forward amounts to him where there are no local agents. The directors


    regret that the services of a travelling agent are not yet available. A brother was appointed in February last,


    but from sundry causes has not been able to take up the duties. But the question will be considered at an


    early date.


    THE war and its effects were in evidence at the last meeting of Lodge St. Andrew, when reference was made


    to the bereavement suffered by two members, Bros. Lawrence and Christie, each of whom, has recently lost


    a son in action. Bro. W. B. Calder, a former member, energetic in his time, who fell shortly after his arrival


    in France, was remembered by the brethren. On the brighter side, cheerful news from Bro. E. T. Hawkes,


    who has been on active service for a long period, was passed on to the Lodge, and a member now in camp


    who attended was felicitated on, his wearing evidence of promotion.


    THE excellent supper at the annual meeting of Lodge Otari, Khandallah, was provided by the wives of the


    members, who were the recipients of the highest encomiums for the many toothsome good things. Even


    oatcake was not omitted, and it was not difficult to see that it was of Scotch descent.


    IT is worth recording that over thirty of the brethren of Lodge Tutanekai (about one-third of the number on


    the roll) have enlisted since the outbreak of hostilities.


    AT the meeting of the Wellington United Board of Enquiry held on 17th July, W. Bro. Firth, President,


    presented W. Bro. C. W. Neilsen with a P.P.'s jewel to mark the appreciation of the members of the Board of


    the good work performed by him during his term as President for the year 1916-17. W. Bro. Neilsen, in


    responding, congratulated the Board on the good work it was doing, and expressed the hope that it would


    continue to do good work for the benefit of the Lodges in Wellington and the Craft in general.


    With reference to our note in last month's issue in connection with what was termed an amended by-law


    adopted by De Burgh Adams Lodge, New Plymouth, we are now informed by the Secretary that the by-law


    has been in operation for many years, and in more than one instance has been productive of beneficial


    results. Somewhat strangely, the efforts made at different times to introduce a similar law in the New


    Zealand Constitution have always met with failure.


    ————————


    SOUTHLAND NOTES.


    ———<>———


    A MUSICAL TREAT.


    It was a happy inspiration that prompted W. Bro. J. Buchanan, W.M., to invite the Masonic Orchestra to his -


    first meeting, thereby affording quite a feast of excellent music to members of Lodge. Victoria and visitors.


    The orchestra has already been mentioned in THE CRAFTSMAN as assisting at the installation meetings, but


    the evening of 13th July witnessed this musical combination at its best in rendering a full programme. The


    instrumentalists are from all the town and suburban Lodges :—Piano, Bro. P. Macdonald ; violins, Bros. J.


    McCrostie, S. Clark, G. Turner ; flute, Bro. F. Robinson; comets, Bros. W. McLean, J. Storrie • trombine,


    Bro. S. Wootton. The programme rendered was :—Intermezzo, by orchestra ; song, "Old Cathedral Door,"


    Bro. Macdonald; instrumental quartette, "Plainthe d'Amour," Bros. Macdonald, Robinson, Wootton,


    McCrostie; recitation, " The Bells," Bro. Wootton; Caprice, orchestra; song, " Sleep and, The Roses," Bro.


    McCrostie ; instrumental duet (flute and guitar), Bros. Robinson and Wootton; vocal quartette, " Stars of the


    Summer Night," Bros. Macdonald, Wootton, McCrostie, Clark; mandolin solo, "Cyce," Bro. Wootton ; vocal


    duet, " Nocturne," Bros. Wootton and McCrostie; flute solo, Bro. Robinson; entr'acte, orchestra. Much praise


    was bestowed on the orchestra at the close of the programme, critics (musical and otherwise) being delighted


    with the performance right through. In fact, Bro. Booth, who is a very active citizen in promoting patriotic


    concerts, with some difficulty had to be restrained from appropriating the company for a concert tour. At the


    after meeting, everyone referred, as opportunity offered, to the excellent standard of music reached, due to


    consistent practice and praiseworthy enthusiasm. The W.Ms. of the other Lodges are now comtriving to


    arrange their work to allow for an evening free from ritual. The toast of "The Orchestra" was proposed by W.


    Bro. W; Petrie, and responded to by Bro. J. McCrostie (leader) and Bro. S. Wootton.


    * * * * *


    At the annual meeting of the Board of Enquiry, R.W. Bro. T. M. Rankin was elected president; R.W. Bro. W.


    Smith is secretary pro tem. The Board voted five guineas to the Soldiers' Club, and a similar amount to the


    G.M. War Fund.




    * * * * *


    Members of Lodge St. John and of sister Lodges join in sympathy extended to W. Bro. E. H. Whitmore in


    his bereavement in the loss of a daughter, "a patient sufferer at rest."


    * * * * *


    A much appreciated visitor from Gisborne, W. Bro. Jones, Lodge Montrose, was present at Southern Cross


    meeting. Called upon to propose the health of the newly-initiated brother, he treated all to one of the


    kindliest homilies one could listen to. His apt allusion to the "youngest Mason in the world," his references to


    the name of the Lodge, and what that name signified, his interpretation of the education and instruction he


    himself had received that evening, and his sincere advice to the W.M. and officers of the Lodge, were deeply


    impressive. W. Bro. Jones's words will be long remembered.


    * * * * *


    Two other visitors at the same meeting, brethren from Wellington, commented with great favour on the


    Lodgeroom and appointments. Invercargill Freemasons have always taken pride it the property under their


    care, and it is pleasing when visitors from the larger centres express their appreciation.


    * * * * *


    W. Bro. E. Parker, W.M. Lodge Fortitude, is noted for his geniality. Visitors to Bluff can always rely upon a


    smiling welcome if they call on Bro. Parker. Just now the smile is happier than ever ; some say it is owing to


    the new interest being shown by members of the Lodge—record attendances at both emergency and regular


    meetings. Our worthy brother is being rewarded for his zeal.


    * * * * *


    The military demands continue to deplete local membership, but brethren going to camp and further afield to


    the battlegrounds of Europe will always find scope for their usefulness as members of the Craft. From Lodge


    St. John, Bro. J. Thorn left to join the 32nd Reinforcements, and Bro. W. Veitch leaves shortly to join the


    33rds. From Southern Cross W. Bro. G. Kelly and Bro. J. Donaldson have gone with the 32nds, and Bro. S.


    Clark goes with the 33rds. Bro. Beatings, of Lodge St. John, who went away with the Main Body, and took


    part in the strenuous work, was wounded, and returned some months ago. He has received his discharge, and


    is being married at Tapanui on the 25th. After Lodge of Instruction on Monday evening references were


    made to Bro. Bastings, and good wishes expressed for his future happiness. W. Bro. Bonifant promised to


    wire congratulations.


    * * * * *


    Some time ago humorous reference was made to the crockery, and its "harlequin" appearance, that graces the


    social board at Invercargill. It is now explained that the crockery partakes of the nature of the controlling


    committee. This explanation will not hold, for when a combination of human intelligence is required it is


    more fruition of usefulness, if harlequin in originality, but that should not prevent a uniform finding. Besides,


    the crockery is harlequin in more ways than one, and the comparison with that of Waihopai has lost nothing


    from the explanation offered.


    * * * * *


    Mataura installation drew visitors from Gore, Wyndham, Invercargill, and surrounding districts. Those from


    town had a very enjoyable outing, and, no mishaps occurring, were all home at a reasonable hour. In the


    absence of R.W. Bro. Timpany, E.W. Bro. Smith was called upon at a moment's notice to propose "Our


    Brethren at the Front." Needless to say, he did it, and did it well but it is not a fair thing to call on a brother,


    however talented, without giving some amount of time for collecting thoughts.


    * * * * *


    Absentees whose names appear on programmes should give sufficient reason for not appearing, and also


    plenty of timely warning to have someone appointed in their stead. The same fault, occurred in the


    investiture of the Deacons, and the ceremony loses thereby.


    * * * * *


    The Southland correspondent of THE CRAFTSMAN was present by special invitation at a recent Lodge of


    Instruction of Lodge St. John. He was given a very hearty welcome, and was afforded an. opportunity, in


    replying to the toast of THE CRAFTSMAN, to explain the importance and value attached to a wide circulation


    of the Masonic journal. His visit will surely result in the gathering in of interesting notes from the Lodge. It


    is a -'Pity that similar opportunities do not exist for a little heart to heart talk with Lodges at a distance, for if


    such could be arranged, then news items would appear every month from each of the seventeen Lodges in


    the district. Some are never heard from. The correspondent is anxious to receive notes from these silent




    brethren. How about dropping a line to him right away? His address is: H. J. Farrant, Pomona Road,


    Invercargill.


    * * * * *


    An interesting item at Lodge Mataura after-meeting was given by Bro. Sutton on a "cello" made by himself


    at a total cost of about sixpence. Bro. Sutton is evidently a musical genius, for he succeeded in extracting


    something rich and rare from his home-made instrument. R.W. Bro. Smith's funny story in allusion to a


    Scotchman's idea of violin-playing needs to be heard to be appreciated.


    * * * * *


    Bro. Tully, Lodge Waihopai, was absent from his music stand at the orchestral concert on the 13th. He is still


    suffering from the effects of a recent accident.


    * * * * *


    Amongst other visitors at Lodge Victoria was W: Bro. Scurr, W.M. Lodge St. Patrick (Dunedin). A brother,


    in speaking in reply to a toast, entered a plaint that brethren on the floor of the Lodge were overlooked; that


    much talent was possibly lying dormant; and that W.Ms. and officers should climb down and mix more with


    brethren, thus giving them encouragement. W. Bro. Scurr rose to the occasion, and after "The Visitors" had


    been duly honoured, he took advantage to reply to the alleged grievances. His remarks were based on "As ye


    sow, so shall ye reap." According as a brother gave of himself to Freemasonry, so in like proportion would


    he receive benefit therefrom. Bro. Scurr would probably have said more had he been in his own Lodge, but


    still his modesty as a visitor did not prevent him from imparting a useful and instructive lesson. . The


    occasion was an opportune one for an experienced Master to speak and guard the landmarks from intrusion.


    There is no gainsaying the fact that much could be argued in furtherance of the complaint; likewise, a great


    deal more could have been said in reply thereto.


    * * * * *


    R.W. Bro. Hoyles was in specially good form at Lodge Mataura installation meeting. On every possible


    occasion he appeals to the brethren to exercise charity, and he makes his appeal in such kindly earnestness


    that must find good ground and bring forth fruit in abundance. So mote it be.


    ————————


    CANTERBURY CHIPS.


    ———<>———


    A speech that will live long in the memories of those fortunate enough to hear-it was delivered at the July


    meeting of Civic Lcdge by R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, Dep.G.M., who attended the lodge on his way through to


    the North Island. Bro. Clark explained that the G.M. had been prevented by the illness of his wife from


    carrying out his intention of visiting districts in the South Island, and had therefore asked him, as Dep.G.M.,


    to visit such districts as he could. He was very glad indeed to accede to this request, particularly so far as it


    concerned Christchurch.


    * * * * *


    A thumb-nail picture of R.W. Bro. Clark's many-sided activities was given by R.W. Bro. J. Thornton, when


    proposing his health. " R.W. Bro. Clark," he said, " is a very active and able Freemason—his position


    indicates that ; he is a very prominent and capable citizen, because for the second time he has been elected


    Mayor of the City of Dunedin; and that he adds the love of sport to his splendid qualities of mind and heart is


    shown by the fact that he is president of the Otago Cricket Association. He is therefore a complete character


    in every sense of the term."


    * * * * *


    A tribute to the memory of the late R.W. Bro. F. C. Binns was paid by Bro. Clark in the early passages of his


    speech. "Freemasonry in Christchurch," he said, "is always associated in my mind with one of the best


    friends I ever knew—R.W. Bro. Binns. Although dead, we do not look upon him as being gone. His memory


    is still here, and will always be here for us. Indeed, it will be many a long year before his memory fades from


    the minds of the Freemasons of Canterbury, or, indeed, of New Zealand. For myself I shall never forget the


    lovable personality, the genuine nature, and the inspiring presence of our late brother."


    * * * * *


    "The charm of Freemasonry," went on R.W. Bro. Clark, " is the real strong brotherhood that is in it, and may


    it long continue so. Some people say Masonry is grand because it is old, but I say it is old because it is grand.


    If its principles had not been grand it would not have existed through these untold centuries. We looked.




    down the long lane of history, and we saw that amidst the horrors of war, upheaval, turmoil and trouble, and


    amidst the crash of Empires and the fall of thrones, Freemasonry was the one institution that survived. It


    possessed principles that would facilitate and make certain the advent of the real golden age on earth—when


    the Gods came down amongst men—and that was what we in these days had to work for."


    * * * * *


    "Freemasonry is more potent to-day for good than at any time during the previous centuries of its existence.


    When the hurricane blows of war swept across the world, and the call to arms came ringing round our


    Empire, amongst the first to spring to arms were the men of our mystic rite. Our Lodges are depleted. We


    miss many familiar faces, but we do not bid them stay. We gladly let them go because we know they are


    carrying out the true mission of Freemasonry. These brethren of ours have proved themselves better soldiers


    and nobler men because they are Freemasons. (Applause.) I have been enormously impressed in the last two


    years by the letters I have received from brethren at the front. Every one of these letters have emphasised the


    little touch of fraternal love brought into the writer's life by Freemasonry. . . . And are we who are left behind


    doing our part for these brethren of ours?


    * * * * *


    I was in a remote Lodge in the backblocks recently where there are only 30 members all told, and out of their


    number six are at the front. To my astonishment I found that at every meeting six members take it in turn to


    write two letters to the brethren at the front, and never a month has gone by but those brethren at the front


    have received these letters, and so far the Lodge brethren have regularly received replies in their turn. That is


    the real, the true spirit of fraternity, and I do hope that every one of us will never forget these brethren of


    ours at the front."


    * * * * *


    "We have all got good reason to remember the exceptionally good work M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall did as G.M.


    in establishing the fund for our soldier Masons (applause), and may the day never come when a brother of


    our mystic tie who has fought for us will have to look to the Government or to the patriotic societies for


    assistance. I say we are going to take their burden upon ourselves and not allow them to carry it. And when


    we do that we can say there is something more in Freemasonry than a name—more in it than mere


    symbolism or a gathering of men round the festive board—that there is in it a real living vital principle that


    grips us and that changes our lives and makes us brethren in the true sense of the term. Masonry will be


    proved in this war and after this war is over by the manner in which we act up to our principles." (Applause.)


    With these words R.W. Bro. Clark brought to a close a speech that was vibrant with feeling and that closely


    touched all brethren present.


    * * * * *


    In other remarks R.W. Bro. Clark expressed himself as delighted with the vigour of Freemasonry in this


    district, and said he would have much pleasure in informing the G.M. of the fact, and of the kindly and


    generous treatment meted out to himself.


    * * * * *


    Capitular Masonry is benefiting from the very healthy atmosphere surrounding matters Masonic in this city.


    The Prince of Wales Chapter is in course of raising to the E.A. Degree four brethren from one Lodge. These


    candidates were advanced to the degree of E.M. on Wednesday, 11th July, by the St. Augustine Chapter on


    the request of the Prince of Wales Chapter, and made the further step on 18th July. Each of the candidates is


    described as being "of promising material," and their remarks in the refectory were listened to with much


    interest. Further nominations for membership have been received, and this branch of Masonry bids fair to be


    of growing value and importance.


    * * * * *


    An unusual incident formed part of the proceedings in Civic Lodge at the July meeting. Some months ago


    the Mayor of the city, Bro. H. Holland, was raised to the full rank of a Mason in this Lodge, and advantage


    was taken of R.W. Bro. Clark's presence to ask him to present to his brother Mayor his M.M.'s certificate.


    Thus the Mayors of Dunedin and Christchurch, associated as they are in their civil capacity, met interestingly


    upon the floor of the Lodge.


    * * * * *


    The sitting Masters of Christchurch paid a special compliment to Avon Lodge on the occasion of its twenty-


    first anniversary, for every one—with one exception, that of Canterbury Lodge—was present with a goodly


    band of followers. In the case of Canterbury, W. Bro. S. A. Orchard was represented by his I.P.M., W. Bro.


    B.. Kennett. A band of fourteen brethren from Phoenix Lodge, Akaroa, travelled to the city under W. Bro.




    Kerridge, and were very heartily welcomed by the Avon brethren, who gratefully remember the wonderful


    "flounder trip." The W.Ms. of Amuri and Ashley Lodges were also present to strengthen the country


    representation.A great number of apologies for non-attendance were received from distinguished brethren


    and other Lodges together with their good wishes. R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, Dep.G.M., in regretting his absence,


    explained that he had arranged to attend that evening at Palmerston North.


    * * * * *


    Mention of Akaroa reminds me that on the day following their "night-out," Avon brethren to the number of


    29 journeyed to that popular spot, where, after working a degree for Phoenix Lodge, they gave on the night


    following their promised return concert. This netted a total of £81 for the Mine Sweepers' Fund. I have been


    told a lot about this trip, which seems to have rivalled its predecessor in interest, and I would pass on some of


    my information if it were not for three good reasons.


    The first is that I must catch this mail, and my time is limited, and my hand tired ; the second is I received no


    flounder (neither did anybody else), and a flounder is my tariff for reports on Akaroa trips ; and the third is


    that I can see in my mind's eye the editor's waste paper basket, and I know from my own professional


    experience where too prolix writers land themselves. I would, however, like to say that W. Bro. Nordon


    auctioned one of his treasured curios—a menu card from the ill-fated "Lusitania "—and received for it £56.


    It was finally bought by the Mayor of Akaroa to be hung in the Borough Council Chambers. A "Flounder


    Club " was also instituted ——— (censored).


    * * * * *


    Some candidates of distinct promise have recently been admitted into our mystic circle in Christchurch. In


    Civic Lodge the other evening, J. B. Laurenson, for many years president of the Canterbury Industrial


    Association, was initiated. The ceremony greatly impressed him for, in response to the toast of his health, he


    said that he had been greatly effected by the solemnity and sublimity of the ritual. "Indeed," he said, "I am


    convinced that if I prove myself a good Freemason, I will be a citizen of no mean Empire."


    * * * * *


    A good working motto for brethren in their Lodge (especially if they are of a backward nature), is the


    following little jingle which was quoted by a local brother in response to some words of appreciation of work


    he had done :—


    What I can do I ought to do.


    What I ought to do, I can do.


    What I can do and ought to do


    —That is what I should do.


    * * * * *


    Not to be outdone by Avon, Crown Lodge celebrated its 35th anniversary a few nights after the former


    celebrated its 21st, and had a very fine attendance of brethren and visitors. Among the latter were M.W. Bro.


    J. J. Dougall, P.G.M., and B.W. Bro. J. Thornton, Prov.G.M., with officers. The Second Degree was worked,


    the Master, W. Bro. Johnson, being very impressive in his work. No brother in this district has a better record


    for attendance at Lodge meetings, as it almost passes the wit of man to say at which meeting for the last


    several years he has not been present. The Lodge was fortunate in having in attendance W. Bro. J. C.


    Watson, who was the first Master on the inception of the Lodge 35 years ago. Even before that occasion W.


    Bro. Watson had filled the chair. He is now 77 years of age, and is still full of vigour.


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


    COMING OF AGE.


    ———<>———


    AVON LODGE CELEBRATIONS.


    ———


    A SPLENDID GATHERING.


    ———


    Avon Lodge, No. 185 (Christchurch), is now of age. On the evening of 5th July last it passed from its stage


    of lusty youth into mature manhood, and is looking into the future for the fulfilment of many promises of


    useful Masonic life.


    The birthday celebrations passed off with conspicuous success, for the meeting was in every way


    memorable. In spite of a very early tyling, 65 brethren were present at the calling on, 165 visitors from other


    Lodges were received later, and the representatives of Grand, Provincial, and District Lodges totalled 48, so




    that the capacity of the hall was more than comfortably taxed. W. Bro. Hart filled the chair, and was


    naturally a proud man at the hearty reception given his Lodge on attaining mature rank.


    PRESENTATION OF BANNER.


    After M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall and R.W. Bro. J. Thornton, with their officers of Grand and Provincial Lodge


    respectively, and the Dist.G.L., had been received, W. Bro. M. Wood, P.M. of Avon Lodge and D. of C.,


    asked permission to address R.W. Bro. J. Thornton, which being granted, he asked him to present to the


    W.M. the Lodge banner which had been subscribed for by the brethren to celebrate this unique occasion.


    R.W. Bro. Thornton said that it was with very great pleasure indeed that he responded to this request. He


    believed that every Lodge should have its own banner, which, in Lodge meetings, should be placed at the


    right of the W.M., and at quarterly and annual communications on the floor of the Lodge, with the brethren


    ranged round it. There were not many banners in Christchurch, and he would like to see more. The banner


    for Avon was of very handsome design, and was very appropriate indeed. The stream from which Avon took


    its name was there, and upon its banks stood a representation of the splendid statue of Bro. Captain Scott, of


    Antarctic fame, who, as most of them knew, took his Third Degree in Christchurch. Whether they agreed


    with Antarctic expeditions or not, they could not but admire Bro. Scott's life and character, and this picture


    on the banner would be an incentive to all to work in their degree. The Latin motto also, which, being


    interpreted, meant, " Nothing without work," was most appropriate, for if there was one Lodge more than


    another which had worked, and worked hard, it was the Avon Lodge. "I know Avon Lodge quite well, from


    the youngest to the oldest—and you are a band of workers; you work together in harmony and in accord—


    and I hope that will ever be a characteristic of Avon Lodge. Worshipful Master, I have now much pleasure,


    on behalf of your brethren, in handing you this banner, to be used and cared for I am sure-you will receive it


    with very great satisfaction indeed."


    In thanking the R.W.Prov.G.M. for the presentation of the banner, and the brethren of the Lodge for their gift


    of it, W. Bro. Hart said that Bro. Captain Scott was a character who would be impressed upon the minds of


    the rising generation in our schools. As many of these schoolboys grew up, they would enter Masonry, and


    when they saw the banner of Avon Lodge, and the man whom they as a Lodge sought to emulate, they would


    realise that Freemasonry was capable of playing a great part in every man's life. He took charge of the banner


    with great pleasure, and thanked his Lodge brethren on behalf of future generations who would meet beneath


    its folds.


    THIRD DEGREE WORKED.


    The work set down for the evening was the Third Degree, and this was done in very impressive fashion. The


    newly-formed Avon Lodge orchestra was present in full strength, and played its part with such artistic taste


    as to make the whole ceremony peculiarly impressive. The work was carried out very largely by the P.Ms, of


    the Lodge, those who took part being W. Bro. Hart (Ob.), W. Bro. Myhre (Exhort.), W. Bro. Wood (Signs


    and Secrets), W. Bro. Smith (T.H.), W. Bro. Nordon (further Signs and Secrets), W. Bro. Main (Charge after


    Raising), and W. Bro. Sorenson (V. of S.L.). In addition, R.W. Bro. Thornton gave "Remember Now Thy


    Creator." W. Bro. Fry (Conyers Lodge) gave the Address after Investiture, and W. Bro. Johnson (Crown)


    gave the W.Ts. Bro. Jell sang "Crossing the Bar " while the candidate was out.


    GRAND LODGE CONGRATULATIONS.


    Before retiring, M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall said that it gave him very great pleasure indeed, not only on behalf


    of G.L., but on his own behalf, to convey to the Lodge very hearty good wishes and felicitations on the fact


    that it had attained its twenty-first birthday. Avon Lodge now had a banner that was unique and unparalleled


    in Australasia—in fact, the Lodge itself was probably unparalleled from the fact that it was in direct


    antagonism to the object with which it was created. [The Avon Lodge grew out of the District Grand


    Stewards Lodge, E.C., which for many years was not a "working" Lodge.] He might say, however, that Avon


    Lodge was one which might very well be emulated by many other Lodges in New Zealand, It had a most


    admirable record, and that evening had achieved something else in the establishment of an orchestra, which,


    judging by its first performance, would add greatly to the harmony which had filled the Lodge ever since it


    came into existence. The Lodge could be very heartily congratulated upon its splendid banner. The Avon, the


    Southern Cross, and Captain Scott's monument made a fine combination. Captain Scott gave a worthy


    example; he was of the type which had made the Empire and was winning the war. It was a compliment to


    his memory that the Lodge had placed him upon its banner. In conclusion, he congratulated W. Bro. Hart


    upon being privileged to preside over such a very fine Lodge.


    HAPPY SOCIAL HOUR.


    The social hour spent in the refectory was of a very pleasant nature. The orchestra dispensed sweet music,


    and this, with the good cheer provided, went far to satisfy all the wants of brethren. In honour of the




    occasion, Bro. Taigel, a newly-raised brother, had drawn upon his professional skill, and donated a monster


    three-tier birthday cake, which was the hugest success with all. Unquestionably it was the finest cake ever


    seen at a Masonic meeting in the Dominion, and the health of its creator was duly honoured.


    In addition to the formal toasts, R.W. Bro. Thornton proposed "Avon Lodge" in a neat and complimentary


    speech. There was, he said, a lot of healthy new blood in Avon Lodge, and they were doing things well. That


    night they had attained their majority, and he expected fine work from them in the future, but he trusted they


    would always possess the distinguishing characteristic of modesty.


    Replying, W. Bro. Hart said that he would be excused for being a proud man that night. He fully appreciated


    his position and what Avon Lodge had done for him. He had affiliated with the Lodge some ten years ago,


    and from then till now had had a happy time amongst the brethren; but never in his wildest imaginings had


    he dreamed of such a meeting as they had that evening. It was hard for him to find the proper words for such


    an occasion, but he felt the honour done the Lodge and himself keenly. By a curious coincidence, it was 21


    years since he himself became a Mason in Lodge St. Andrew, No. 8, Auckland, and no doubt his mother


    Lodge would be glad to know of this coincidence.


    Bro. A. J. Heighway, in order that youth might pay its tribute to age, proposed the toast of the P.Ms. of Avon


    Lodge. He compared them to the annual rings of a tree, who by their steady growth and vigour brought


    sturdy perfection out of small beginnings. One man reaped where another sowed, but in their present


    comparative strength they must look back and pay tribute to those men whose care had fostered their growth.


    W. Bros. N. Wood and F. M. Collins responded on behalf of the P.Ms. with happy and interesting speeches,


    which testified to their deep regard for the welfare of the Lodge.


    A memorable evening was terminated a little after midnight.

















    ————————


    BI-CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS.


    ———<>———


    MEETING IN CHRISTCHURCH.


    ————


    FINE ADDRESS BY W.M. BRO. J. J. DOUGALL, P. G. M. , N. Z . C.


    ————


    The bicentenary of the establishment of the G.L. of England was celebrated in Christchurch by the holding of


    a special meeting of Masons under the banner of the Dist.G.L. In addition to the brethren of the English


    Constitution, there was a large attendance of brethren from the New Zealand Constitution, so that fully 300


    brethren filled the Temple. The meeting was presided over by R.W. Bro. M. S. Brown, Dist.G.M., and there


    were received as guests the R.W.Prov.G.M., Bro. J. Thornton, and officers of Prov.G.L., and M.W. Bro. J. J.


    Dougall and officers of G.L.


    CONGRATULATORY MOTION.


    After a musical item had been given, R.W. Bro. Brown gave a short address on the formation of G.L. in


    1717, in the course of which he interestingly outlined the previous history of Masonry in England. He


    concluded his address by moving the following motion :—" That the G.L. of England be congratulated on


    celebrating its bicentenary and on the success it has attained during the last 200 years."


    R.W. Bro. C. Dillworth Fox, P.D.G.M., seconded the motion, which was formally carried after it had been


    supported by M.W. Bro. Dougall.


    A GLANCE INTO HISTORY.


    A broad view of Masonic history was taken in his remarks by M.W. Bro. Dougall. In the first place, he


    thanked the R.W. brother for granting him the privilege of saying a few words in support of the resolution,


    but he must confess that he would have been glad to know that he was to be granted this privilege prior to


    entering the room. However, with that limitation he hoped they would bear with him. There could be no


    doubt whatever that those few brethren who met together in the Gridiron Tavern in 1717 builded much better


    than they knew. He could not conceive that any one of those men had the remotest idea that they were going


    to found an institution such as the world had never known before. Masonry had then reached a deplorable


    position—it had sunk so low that it could hardly sink lower without passing out of existence. What Masonry


    was before the founding of G.L. was somewhat difficult to say. There was no doubt that Masonry in some


    shape or form existed right back to the beginning of history, because the earlier records of history that we


    had—and much of that history was of quite recent discovery—all showed that a Masonic body, not perhaps


    of the character known to-day, but still a Masonic body, did exist in the countries of olden times.


    Excavations in Chaldea quite recently produced a Masonic mark almost precisely the same as the mark of the


    ancient Egyptian, and that same mark was also to be found in Central America. Excavations made in Central


    America showed that a great civilisation existed there at some period of which we to-day had no knowledge.


    Thus the same Masonic marks which were known in ancient lands, and especially were practised in Asia,


    were also to be found in Central America. We did not know quite what form these bodies worked in, nor did


    history give ne very much information up to the time of the Roman Empire. The Greeks, although great


    builders in stone, did not affect that Masonic organisation which was known subsequently throughout the


    whole of civilised Europe. The Roman Empire and the Roman Republic, however, both in a marked degree


    favoured Masonic organisation. Through the Germany of the ninth, tenth, and eleventh centuries Masonry


    was undoubtedly a very strong body indeed, and there is in existence to-day a written record of a Lodge Ghat


    met in Germany in the ninth century.


    THAT WONDROUS CHANGE.


    So far as Great Britain was concerned, the Dist.G.M. had ;old them of the gathering by Athelstan at York and


    the institution of what was said to be a Lodge of Masonry. There was no doubt that some such organisation


    did exist. Where it came from they did not know, but they did know this—there was written record of this:


    That the Knights Templars landed in England after being expelled from Malta somewhere in the thirteenth


    century, and that they founded a Masonic body, which was not altogether operative, but had something of. a


    speculative character in it. However, there was no doubt whatever that at the beginning of the eighteenth


    century Masonry had become almost a thing of the past. It existed in 1717 in a form that was not in any sense


    operative, and then an idea came to make it purely speculative "to improve the morals and manners of men."


    Almost from the day of, its inception the G.L. on this basis had a most marvellous success—not only in


    itself, but in inspiring others to copy the example set by Masonry. The number of secret institutions in




    England became so great that a law had to be passed suppressing them, but from this law Masonry was the


    only organisation which was exempt. This was due largely to the fact that Freemasonry from its outset laid


    down the foundation principle that every brother of the Masonic order must subscribe his allegiance to law


    and order. Royalty from the outset took the Masonic Order under its care. The first Royal Prince to be


    initiated into Freemasonry was, curiously enough, a Catholic, Prince Francis of Lorraine, who subsequently


    became Emperor of Austria. So long as he was a Prince he was an ardent Freemason, but when he became an


    Emperor he lost his enthusiasm, and certainly did nothing to stop the- persecution of Masons in Austria and


    Germany. Frederick the Great of Prussia was a. Mason, and founded the "Three Globes," one of the great.


    Lodges in Germany, and during the whole of his life he promoted the Masonic Order throughout the Prussian


    Dominions. The newly-formed G.L. of England was not accepted by the whole Masonic body, for there was


    very bitter internal warfare for nearly 100 years. There was not only one other G.L. formed, but several, but


    they ultimately resolved themselves into two, which bore the names of "Ancient" and "Modern," and these


    coalesced in 1813.


    HUMANITARIAN INFLUENCE.


    " Now, brethren," said the M.W. brother, " I think it is perfectly safe to say that the G.L. of England has done


    an incalculable amount of good to humanity throughout the world. The foundation that was laid in 1717 has


    resulted in a worldwide Freemasonry. Throughout the whole civilised world it would be difficult indeed to


    find now a country that does not possess Freemasonry in some shape or form, even in Roman Catholic


    countries, The Masonic Order still exists in Russia. France even—a universally Catholic country—in the


    eighteenth century took up Freemasonry, and became responsible for the production of the highest degrees in


    Freemasonry, numbering at one time 99, although 66 have disappeared since then. Napoleon Bonaparte,


    although there is no evidence that he was himself a Freemason, took such a keen interest in it that he caused


    Masonic Lodges to rise in almost every regiment throughout his armies, and these Lodges were carried with


    their regiments over Europe, and Lodges were held wherever the regiments happened to be situated. With the


    British people something of the same sort occurred. A great number of our regiments had Lodges, and these


    carried Freemasonry with them in their travels to Asia. and America.


    "The example of the English G.L. in the way of benevolence is being copied by every G.L. throughout the


    world. I represent to-night the G.L. of New Zealand, and as a member of this Lodge I pay my tribute of


    respect and homage to the G.L. of England. I was, and still am, a member of the English Constitution, but I


    agree with many of the greatest lights in English Freemasonry in saying that every country ought to have its


    own sovereign G.L., and that that sovereign G.L. ought to have no competitor in its own particular territory.


    That, however, is by the way. I wish to supplement and endorse the able remarks of the two speakers, and to


    express to the G.L. of England the very deep homage and respect of the G.L. of New Zealand. We trust that


    for many centuries to come—as long- as humanity exists upon this earth—the Masonic principles endorsed


    by it will be disseminated far and wide."


    FREEMASONS' HOSPITAL.


    Before the gathering dispersed a collection was taken up for the Freemasons' Hospital for Wounded in


    London, by which £21 was realised. Subsequently, in the refectory, the auctioning of a copy of the "London


    Freemason " by Bro. W. E. Simes (Avon Lodge) and W. Bro. Whitesides (Canterbury) raised this total to


    £75.


    ————————


    ST. JOHN'S DAY IN WANGANUI.


    ———<>———


    A HISTORIC MEETING.


    ————


    Sunday, 24th alt. (St. John's Day) will long be remembered by those members of the Craft who on that date


    met in the Masonic Hall, Wanganui. The bi-centenary of the G.L. of England, the Mother G.L. of the world,


    had arrived, and, in response to the joint summons issued by their respective Masters, the members of


    Lodges Tongariro, E.C., St. Andrew Kil., N.Z.C., and Mouton, N.Z.C., together opened a joint Lodge of


    Commemoration.


    Freemasonry has flourished in Wanganui for some sixty years, and to-day there exists amongst the brethren


    of that town the truest and highest spirit of brotherly love and fraternal affection, which rises superior to all


    arbitrary distinctions of Constitution of Lodge.




    The evening marked not only the close of an era full of great traditions, but also the dawn of a century in


    which Freemasonry may accomplish the work for which it is destined—i.e., the universal brotherhood of


    man. It was apparent that the brethren appreciated fully that it is their privilege to live sat such a period in


    Masonic history, and a feeling of solemnity pervaded the whole meeting—a feeling that was deepened as his


    hearers listened to W. Bro. J. H. Burnet when he expounded the idea of a future great empire .of


    Freemasonry—an empire that would unite the whole of mankind into one great and true brotherhood, freed


    from the burdens mid miseries which now fetter mankind, and joined together under its true and rightful


    Emperor—T.G.A.O.T.U.


    The Lodge was tyled at 7.15 p.m., W. Bro. G. W. Daggett (W.M. of Lodge Tongariro, No. 705, E.C.)


    occupying the chair, while occupying the Wardens' chairs were W. Bro. A. E. King (W.M. of St. Andrew


    Nil. Lodge, No. 79, N.Z.C.) and Bro. F. Symes (S.W. of Lodge, Moutoa, No. 195, N.Z.C.), the latter taking


    the place of the W.M. of his Lodge, who was absent in the South Island.


    Two interesting and appropriate charges were given by the Wardens during the evening, and the Chaplain,


    W. Bro. D. Meldrum, invoked the guidance of T.G.A.O.T.U. in special prayer.


    The. W.M. directed the attention of the brethren to the significance of the evening, and in a brief though


    dignified address showed what wonderful possibilities there are for the Craft in the coming century.


    R.W. Bro. D. McFarlane, Prov.G.M., carefully and pointedly showed the brethren the nature of the duties


    that they one and all had undertaken when they had joined the Craft, and in his remarks made a close and


    personal appeal to each menthe/ present, his remarks concerning the V. of S.L. being very impressive.


    W. Bro. J. H. Burnet showed the members the wide nature of Freemasonry, how high its ideals were, and


    what potentialities there were for the Craft if the energies were directed into the right channel and each


    brother did his duty. W. Bro. Burnet reached a high note, and showed, without doubt, his hearers a vision of


    the great Masonic Brotherhood of the future.


    The special characteristic of the meeting was its great solemnity— a solemnity enhanced by the high ideals


    propounded by the speakers, by the beautiful music, and, above all, by the fact that the Freemasons of


    Wanganui felt that they were for the first time in their history assembled in their Lodgeroom on the Sunday


    evening to jointly acknowledge the guidance and support of the Great Creator.—[Communicated.]


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


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


    PRECEDENCE.


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—Last month you inserted a short article on a point of etiquette—" Saluting Grand


    Officers." A number of obfuscated brethren would like your opinion on another point of etiquette. Last June


    a number of New Zealand Masons were present by invitation at the installation of the Master of an English


    Lodge. When the G.L. officers went in, those of, the N.Z.C. marched in first, and afterwards the Dist.G.M. of


    the E.C. came in. We all thought it was wrong, and that the highest rank determined the question of


    precedency. Which is right ?—Yours fraternally, P.G. OFFICER.


    [If the officers of the G.L. of New Zealand were visiting as representing the Constitution, and there were any


    officers of higher rank than the Dist.G.M., they were entitled to enter last.—ED. C.]


    ————————


    FOR GOD AND EMPIRE.


    ———<>———


    TO THE EDITOR.


    DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—The movement, so eloquently voiced by Bro. the Rev, Askew, to as speedily as may


    be erect an Anglican Cathedral in the Empire City as a national memorial in connection with this epoch-


    making war, presents an opportunity to the Freemasons of Wellington City and suburbs of which, with the


    consent of the Anglican Church authorities, they should be prompt to avail themselves. Our brethren who


    have made the great sacrifice in this war for God, for King, for Empire, for us, deserve at our hands full




    meed of honour, but —what is of more importance—that their names shall be imperishable by the


    knowledge of them passed on to posterity, which will owe them so vast a debt of gratitude. The cathedral


    which it is hoped to erect will be a great, grand, and magnificent temple to the Supreme Being—a people's


    temple. In this sense, putting aside all thoughts of petty sectarian differences, it may be regarded as truly a


    Masonic temple. Where could be found a more suitable place in which to set forth, in due keeping with the


    surrounding art and beauty of the edifice, the tabulated names of our fallen brethren, for future generations of


    Wellington citizens to honour and revere? Hence the opportunity afforded to Freemasons of this city and


    suburbs ; and the suggestion I would diffidently make is that the fourteen Lodges concerned—the E.C.


    Lodges being, of course, included—should contribute a sum of £100 or £150 for the purpose of affixing to


    one of the columns of the building a brass plate constituting the aforesaid memorial by the Freemasons of


    Wellington ; or, it might be, a memorial window having the same object in view. Details, however, after


    consultation with Bro. the Rev. Askew, could be left to a committee, which I trust the R.W. Prov.G.M.


    would see his way to head, in co-operation with the R.W. Dist.G.M. of the E.C. Personally, I should be glad,


    if deemed necessary, to lend all assistance in my power, either clerical or in addressing the Lodges on the


    subject, or both. Should you, sir, favour this roughly outlined suggestion of mine, might I also crave your


    assistance editorially.—Yours fraternally, HERBERT B. BISHOP, P.M., P.G.L.




    OBITUARY.


    ———<>———


    W. BRO. W. H. COLLINGWOOD, P.M.,


    PALMERSTON NORTH.


    ————


    Another good man and earnest Freemason has been called from labour, Bro. W. H.


    Collingwood, a P.M. of Lodge Manawatu Kil., having died on 29th June. For some years he


    was chief reporter on the "Manawatn Daily Times," under the editorship of Bro. W. H. Smith,


    and he subsequently became Town Clerk of Palmerston North, a position in which he displayed


    marked ability, and a perfect knowledge of Local Government work. Thoroughly conscientious


    and painstaking, he was also a master of method, and he exhibited these qualities in his Masonic


    work. He was one of the most esteemed P.Ms. of his Lodge, and in the last two or three years of


    his secretaryship he was mainly instrumental in getting the finances of the. Lodge into a most


    satisfactory condition. He did not confine himself to ritual work, but frequently gave lectures on


    subjects connected with the Craft, thus enabling the brethren to benefit by his research and skill.


    The last sad offices of respect were paid to him on Sunday, let July, when there assembled for


    the funeral ceremony over a hundred brethren of the mystic tie, including visitors from United


    Manawatu, E.C., Huia, Otangaki, Feilding, Levin, Rongotea, Wanganui, Wellington, and


    elsewhere. There was also a very large attendance of the public, and members of local bodies.


    The pall-bearers were the Mayor, Mr. J. A. Nash, and Bro. Spooner, P.M., and Messrs. Crabb,


    O'Reilly, Broad, and Rolfe (all Borough Councillors). Among the representatives of local bodies


    were W. Bro. A. E. Bennett, P.M., and Bros. H. J. Canton and J. Link-later. The brethren


    assembled at the Lodgeroom, and marched in procession to the house, and from thence to the


    graveside. After service by the Rev. A. Macdonald Aspland, followed the Masonic service,


    conducted by the W.M., Bro. W. Mundy, assisted R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, P.G.S.W., W. H.


    Smith, P.G.J.W., and W. Bros. A. Hopwood and A. Clark (Chaplain). W. Bro. W. Dawick acted


    as D.C. and Marshal, and Bro. H. S. Porteous presided at the organ. Prior to the service, R.W.


    Bro. Nash delivered a brief but effective eulogism of deceased. The floral tributes of respect


    were very numerous ; these, and the remarkably large attendance, testify to the high esteem in


    which our late brother was held.













    REVIEW.


    ———<>———


    " MASONIC EMBLEMS AND JEWELS." By BRO. WILLIAM HAMMOND, F.S.A.


    A splendidly got up book, comprising 96 pages of descriptive letterpress, 32 pages of half-tone illustrations


    in black and white, 13 pages of illustrations in colour. The preface to this book sets out most clearly and


    concisely in a few lines the object sought to be attained, and we quote the lines verbatim.:—" To many


    people it will come as a great surprise when they learn that there is in London a library and museum


    containing exhibits so valuable as those to which their attention is here drawn. It is only possible to give a


    selection from the many items at Freemasons' Hall; but enough is brought forward to show how varied is the


    collection, and how interesting, not merely for those who belong to the Order of Freemasons, but also for all


    who are interested in world history and antiquities." Though the author only professes to give descriptions of


    the various illustrations in his letterpress, yet such descriptions are made most interesting and informative.


    The introduction contained in the first eight pages deals most concisely and in very practical form with


    Ancient Guilds," "Speculative Freemasonry," "The First Grand Lodge," and "Ancestry." The fund of


    information contained in these few pages impresses the facts more indelibly on one's mind than pages of


    detailed history, and from them we are led to infer that Bro. Hammond's vocation should be that of Masonic


    historian. In his reference to the first G.L., he states that there exists in the muniment room of the library a


    complete series of minutes, duly recorded and signed, from 1717. This comes as a surprise, as we have been


    led to believe that they were irregular and fragmentary during the first six or seven years of the history of


    G.L. Bro, Hammond holds, with Hughan and other writers, that Speculative Masonry was grafted on to the


    operative, and the change was incidental to the admission of gentlemen who were non-operatives, and that


    the leaven of evolution commenced to work from the year 1700. He is, further, at one with the late Bro. R.


    Freke Gould, that there is nothing historically to show that Sir Christopher Wren was ever a Freemason, his


    association only being with the "Guild Masons of London." Included in the interesting descriptions is an ex-


    planation of the Order of Menses, which derived its name from the Mops dog— the symbol of fidelity. In


    this order females were admitted, and it would appear to have been instituted under Roman Catholic


    authority. It was formed in 1738, and died out, or was absorbed in the French Adoptive Lodge in 1774. The


    illustrations in the work are very beautiful and artistic, and the letterpress and the whole ensemble reflect the


    highest credit on the printer. In this day of dear paper, and the difficulty of obtaining any, that used in Bro.


    Hammond's book excites our admiration and our envy. The work is published at 5s net by George Philip and


    Son, Ltd., 32 Fleet Street, London, and we can conscientiously recommend it to every brother who is in any


    way interested in the history of the Craft.


    ————————


    ADDRESS TO THE W.M. OF ARA LODGE, No. 398, I.C.,


    BY THE PROV.G.M., R.W. BRO. W. J. REES.FOR GOD AND EMPIRE.


    ———<>———


    WORSHIPFUL MASTER,— I congratulate you heartily on your accession to the Mastership of your Mother


    Lodge, the highest honour in the power of your brethren to confer upon you. I consider the Mastership of any


    Lodge to be an honour. Flow much more so iii the case of an important Lodge like this, which to-day is


    celebrating its '74th anniversary. As you contemplate the list of P.Ms. for the past seventy-odd years you


    must realise very fully the weight of responsibility that now rests upon you, the latest on the list, to maintain


    in its fullest splendour the high prestige attained by this Lodge. I shall not spend any time in speaking on the


    routine work of the Lodge. The officers of No. 348 are trained so carefully and skilfully that they are fully


    competent to discharge the duties of their offices as soon as they enter upon them. I desire in the few minutes


    at my disposal to emphasise one or two of the Masonic virtues symbolised in one of the most interesting of


    our Masonic ornaments -that generally known as " Jacob's ladder." This refers to the celebrated dream of the


    great Patriarch Jacob, as recorded in the 28th chapter of Genesis. We read of many famous dreams in the


    Word of God, but none to equal this one. You will remember how Jacob, trekking from Beersheba to Haran,


    one night, steeping under the canopy of heaven, had a wonderful dream. He saw a ladder reaching from earth


    to heaven on which angels were ascending and descending, and in this dream is recorded the marvellous


    covenant made by God with his servant Jacob. In our Lodges we use this ladder to inculcate song of our


    chief moral lessons. The ladder is fixed on the Word of God, as no man can ascend to the immortal mansions


    above but by a belief in Holy Writ and a life founded on the principles therein contained. There are


    numberless rungs in the ladder, of which we represent three-designated Faith, Hope, and Charity. You will




    recollect that St. Paul, speaking: of these three great virtues, proclaims Charity to be the greatest. I draw your


    attention specially to the first-Faith in God. Our Empire now has been for three years at war with a


    determined, powerful, and unscrupulous foe. Had any one said on St. John's Day, 1914, that the Germans


    would drown women and little children, violate Belgian women, murder aged men, and drop bombs on


    innocent little kiddies attending infant schools, we would have laughed him to scorn, but they have proved to


    be utterly lost to all decency and fair play. Nothing is too vile or loathsome for them to adopt in their


    insensate hatred of Britain. Some people talk of reprisals, but Britons could never indulge in reprisals in


    kind. Would any man in this room who has a son in the R.F.C. like his son to stain his soul with the blood of


    little German children? Would any of us care to have British Tommies act like demons of hell to young


    women and maidens? Not for one moment!! But make no mistake. The cries of the drowning women and


    children, the wailing re the mutilated school children, the agonising shrieks of violated women, and the


    "groans of tortured aged victims— do you think these will arise to the throne of Almighty God unheeded ?


    Surely not ! I hear a voice, "Vengeance is mine," saith the Lord; "I will repay."Yes, God will repay to the


    uttermost farthing.


    We Masons profess to be God-fearing men. Before we can enter a Lodge we affirm that we believe in God


    Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and later on we solemnly affirm that in all dangers and difficulties we


    place our trust in God. Are we trusting in God now when our nation is in an unprecedented position of


    danger and difficulty ? I recall another grand Israelite of the olden time, that famous old fighting general,


    Joshua. I sometimes think that our great general, Sir Douglas Haig, is founded on the same grand lines. You


    remember how Joshua, in a time of great stress, challenged the people of Israel, "Who is on the Lord's side?


    Choose ye this day whom ye will serve, As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." What are we


    doing? We fathers are ready enough to pray to God to protect our boys at the front, and we call upon Him to


    give us victory over our enemies. Are we fighting for Him? Let us do the fair thing. Let us act squarely and


    honestly with our God. Every man in this room should say, "As tor me and my house, we will serve the


    Lord." And you, Worshipful Master ? I adjure you and the Worshipful Masters and Past Masters sitting


    around you on the dais to proclaim, "As for me and my Lodge, we will serve the true and living God, and


    Him only will we serve." May our Divine Grand Master guard you and direct you till your term expires, and


    with a sigh of content you lay down your gavel, and you hear Him .say, and you hear your brethren say,


    "Well done, good and faithful brother."-SO MOTE IT BE.


    ————————


    SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 20th JULY, 1917.


    ———<>———


    W. Dawick, T. Graham, P. Robert 10/-, W. H. Smith £1, J. W. Sinclair £1 (Palmerston North), G. Burrows,


    G. Hinchcliffe, R. Bringans 1/8, J. L. Davidson 9/2 (Clyde), D. Congalton 2/6, G. H. Wallace 17/6


    (Cambridge), A. J. Tong 10/10 (Waharoa), G. Cottle £1 (Greymouth), F, H. Meuller £1, D. Haniason


    £1/10/s, S. Milroy £1/6/8, J. W. Wiseman £1, N. T. Williams 5/-, J. Reid 15/- M. McLean £1, A. C. Hallitt,


    A. Erickson, T. R. Trevithick 18/, N. Williams 2/6, W. H. Dew 10/-, S. J. Moncrieff, W. Perry 17/6


    (Auckland), F. Fothergill £2, C. R. Baines £1/10/- (Ormondville), W. M. Cann 14/2, J. Hodd, A. Bullock


    £1/13/4, R. English 14/2, W. Dey 21/- (Hamilton), P. G. Grant 10/- (Norsewood), A. Bray 10/-, L. G.


    Armstrong 12/- (Te Awamutu), T. H. Kirby 10/-, J. R. Blencowe £1 (Rotorua), E. O. Mackay 10/6, A. F.


    Howarth £1/12/6 — Dickey, K. Munro £2/10/- (Tarras), F. A. Piper £2 (Havelock), J. Barr-Brown 10/-


    (Pataruru), F. V. Hewitt 17/6 (Shannon), Rev. A. M. Johnson £1, A. L. Johnson £1, H. J. Freeman 10/-, J. R.


    Palmer 7/6, H. J. Baillie 10/-, G. Wilson 17/6, H. Preston 10/-, A. Jolley 17/6, G. C. Edwards 3/2, C. F.


    Johnson £1, A. F. Perston 4/2, R. Powell, L. McGregor 10/-, J. Tamblyn, G. Russell 10)- (Wellington), D. R.


    de Costa £1/10/, A. Kirk £1/9/2 (Gisborne), C. A. C. Hardy (Rakaia), J. J. Jackson 1/- (Te Kopuru), Sergt. N.


    Miller 10/-, Dr. J. A. Cowie 6/8, G. J. W. Gill 6/8, H. H. S. Ryder 10)-, J. V. Gordon, W. H. Judd 6/8


    (Masterton), A. Phillpotts, J. Moncrieff, A. Booth, P. A. Cole, A. J. Reynolds, W. F. Roydhouse. J. J. Knox-


    Smith, H. G. Hart, R. Stout, A. J. Lindop, Dr. Johnston 4/2 (Carterton), H. Jaggard £1/14/6 (Cheltenham), T.


    S. Bishop, N. G. Wohlmann 10/-, J. Thornton 15/-, Mr. Smithson £1/10/-, T. Newburgh £1, Mansfield Bros.,


    J. Ashley £2/5/-, T. McCracken £1 (Christchurch), A. W. Press £1/7/6 (Day's Bay), Jones Bros. 17/6


    (Paengaroa), A. Burgess £1/7/6 (Rongotea.), H. F. Ayson (Rarotonga), T. A. Peterkin 17/6 (Lower Hutt), F.


    J. Cowlrick £1. J. W. Bates, T. Ritchie. R. W. Jones, J. A. Miller. Dr. de Lisle, A. Weaver 17/6, A.


    McGlashan 17/6, J. C. Scott 17/6, W. M. Bartle (Hastings), W. Mouldey 10/-, J. W. Deen £2/2/6, H. G.


    Rush, J. McFarlane 10/- (Wanganui), J. Reid 10/- (Paeroa), F. W. Robinson 10/-, W. Hindmarsh (Reefton),


    H. L. Michell 10/- (Hokitika), H. Clough £1/16/8 (Inglewood), A. Christensen 10/- (Patea), W. Greggan




    (Weraroa), T. Trembath (Frankton Junction), W. H. Allen (Tirau), T. C. Revell £1/10/10 (Koeke), W.


    Harrison (Waipukerau), E. H. Brewer (Waipawa), W. L. Bagley £1/2/6 (Halcombe), J. Hutton, H. R.


    Hopcroft £2/3/4 (Westport), C. J. Bilton 10/- (Temuka), W. Johnston 21/10/-, W. J. Neville £1, J. J. K.


    Gilmour £1/7/6, B. Bagley (Dannevirke), R. A. Nicol £1 (Khandallah), J. J. Math (Riversdale), A. Brown


    £1/6/8 (Tauranga), T. F. Herdman 10/- (Lyttelton), E. E. Woodley, J. Benjamin 15/10, G. W. Cobb 17/6, F.


    Dick 17/6, J. W. Kershaw 17/6, H. Lawson 17/6, A. D. McLeod 17/6, A. McGregor £1, A. Wright 10/-, S. C.


    Chapman, G. T. F. Hutton 10/- (Martinborough), J. T. Spargo £2/1/8 (Thames), R. T. J. Henderson 10/-


    (Whitianga), Dr. Willis 10/- (Feilding), Geo. E. White £2/10/- (Utiku), R. Wylie £1 (Kaiapoi), R. W. Martin


    10/- (Tologa Bay), H. W. Lacey, P. Matchford £2, C. J. ,Carlyon 17/6, F. C. Everton £1/7/6, F. Henry 17/6,


    J. M. Holland 14/2, W. H. Kendall 16/8, J. A. McCarthy £1/10/-, F. Merlet 17/6, R. Margin 16/8, H. Tabery


    10/10, J. T. Tilson, J. H. Fieldhouse, Mr. Matthews 10/- (Featherston), W. Marchetti 10/- (Rona Bay), H. E.


    Wilson (Mangaweka), M. Cameron 5/-, J. R. Douglas £1/1/- (Hampden), W. Quayle 17/6 (Manakau), C. M.


    Gilmour (Morrinsville), C. A. Eckford 10/- (Blenheim), S. J. Ball 2/6, W. S. Smith £1. S. F. Bottern


    7/- (Nelson), J. W. Nicholson (Tapanui), Dr. Stenhouse 10/- (Balclutha), J. L. Kingsland 10/- (Wyndham), J.


    B. Bricknell 17/6, W. A. Hutton, E. Larkin £1 (Greytown), — Middlemiss £2/9/2 (Bulls), C. Leech 10/-


    (Rangiora), E. F. Nicoll 10/-, G. Meddins, A. McClure £1/2/6 (Ashburton), T. Black £1/0/10, Inspector


    Hastie 10/-, J. R. Joyce 14/2, J. C. Mahon £1/10/10, G, Murdock £1/0/10, S. Moyes 4/2, G. J. Wallace 10/-,


    C. W. Wood, C. Hopgood (Timaru), W. Pearson (Bannockburn), A. E. Willet 10/- (Riverton), G. E. Hughes


    10/- (Mercer), E. Williamson 40/- (Blackston Hills), K. Munro 50/- (Tarras), J. Trotter 20/- (Fairlie), W. A.


    Carruth 30/- (Whangarei). T. Mills 72/6 (Milton), W. E. Searle 5/- (Omani), A. H. Waring 13/3 (Taepiri), R.


    Daniel (Puponga) T. Ramsbottom (Waitotara), J. R. Scrimgeour (Ngaio), B. Gee 31/6 (Invercargill), W. Hall


    17/6, J.W. Mills 20/-, W. H. Purdie 11/8, — Butland 10/- (Pahiatua), B. C. Gibson 27:6 (Normanby), J. Gray


    (Nightcaps), C. F. Johnston 20/- (Haititi), W. M. Crombie 10/- (Raetihi), S. J. Ball 1/8 (Canvastown), G. F.


    Browne 10/- (Karaka Bay), L. A. Thimbleton 10/- (Gore), W. Hokin, J. Thomson (New Plymouth), G. T.


    Lumsden, H. W. S. Hellyer, G. G. Adus, A. E. Jenkins, T. W. Raffils, A. Fieldwick, J. J. Clark, A. Stoneham,


    T. Ross, W. G. Hayes 9/2, T. Gallapher, A. McKenzie, S. F. Bridgman, J. Wood 10/10, E. Tomkinson 12/6,


    A. S. Cookson 12/6 (Dunedin), A. Kennedy 10/-, — Hindmarsh 17/6 (Timaru), W. H. Simcox 12/6 (Otaki),


    H. S. Palmer 4/2 (St. Andrews), L. Nesbit 13/- (Kaeo), D. P. Mumm 40 /- (St. Helens), Southern Star Lodge,


    S. F. Bowers, M. J. S. Smith 20/- (Nelson), T. Ker 1/8, J. A. Frostick 10/- (Christchurch), L. St. George 10/-


    (Otaki), F. G. Hilton (Marton), T. Jordan 20/-, A. V. .Sims (Stratford), M. Vance 10/- (Ohakune).


    (All 7/6 except those noted.)


    ————————


    MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE.


    ———<>———


    WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE CONSTITUTIONS


    OF THE G.L. OF ENGLAND AND NEW ZEALAND.


    ————


    (By BRO. J. COURTNEY-GREER, M.M.)


    ————


    Our usual conception of a Constitution is a, more or less ,defined and ultimate standard by which the validity


    of any law may be tested; as for example, the Constitution of the U.S.A., a document framed shortly after the


    Declaration of Independence. To this American Constitution all Acts of Congress are supposed to conform,


    and on more than one occasion the Supreme Federal Court has, on reviewing a specific Act, found it to be at


    variance therewith, and has therefore set the Act aside. In like manner only a few weeks ago the power of our


    own Dominion Parliament to pass an Act under which certain persons were convicted of sedition was called


    in question, and it is to be noted that, while the full Supreme Court declared the law constitutional, the


    Court's own authority to sit in judgment on an Act of Parliament was taken for granted.


    The Constitution of the British Empire is different only in detail from those we have been considering. One


    of its principles is that it can he altered by an Act of the Imperial Parliament; .consequently any Act of that


    body at variance with our previous conception of the Constitution automatically alters the Constitution to suit


    itself. This very principle, however, carries with it an overriding principle which, at least in one respect,


    places even the Imperial Parliament under the Constitution-that is to say, the Imperial Parliament cannot pass


    a valid Act which limits its own powers. Such an attempt would result in an Act unconstitutional and invalid,


    simply because it would not be binding on Parliament.




    A Masonic Constitution is different to any of these. It corresponds more to an Act of Parliament, G.L. being,


    as it were, the Parliament; the real Constitution with which all Masonic legislation is tested being the


    Landmarks, and these are unalterable. No authority has ever compiled a complete list of the Landmarks, nor


    can it be specified as to where the Landmarks end and the mere precedents of the Craft begin. But there are


    certain fundamental principles, each as the necessity for a belief in the Supreme Being, which are


    unquestionabiy unalterable. It was the abandoning of the clause requiring this in the Constitution of the


    Grand Orient of France which caused the United G.L. of England to withdraw its recognition of that body.


    Another Landmark of not quite such general acceptance is "the right,'' subject to proper behaviour, "of every


    Mason in good standing to visit and sit in every regular Lodge." As we shall see presently, the N.Z.


    Constitution, No. 122, in theory limits this right. No one, however, would say that the G.L. of New Zealand


    acted contrary to the Landmarks in framing this law; but, on the other hand, if any G.L. within our Empire


    were to order the removal of the V.S.L. from its Lodges, we venture to suppose that many, if not all, of the,


    W.Ms. would deem the order as in conflict with their S.Os. and the Ancient Charge to which they agreed,


    that "it is not in the power of any man or body of men to make innovation in the body of Masonry," and so


    would not execute the order. The G.L. of England withdrew recognition of the G.L. of Peru for this.


    We thus find that the two books which form the groundwork of our paper are really statutes, framed by their


    respective supreme legislatures, both of which are subject to those great indefinable principles, whose


    influence is shed universally over all the world, and in respect to which the sun is always at its meridian. The


    books in question, which instruct the initiate " in the duties he owes to the Craft in general," and which set


    the W.M. " right in all cases of difficulty " which occur in his Lodge, are divided into sections relating to


    G.L, Prov. and Dist. G.Ls., private or Craft Lodges, and certain Boards connected with G.L. The writer, an


    Associate of this Lodge, and not having any experience or being a member of G.L., feels that it might hardly


    be deemed good taste if he addressed M.W., R.W., and W. brethren who are members of such august


    assemblies on the jurisprudence pertaining thereto. And even in confining his remarks almost entirely to the


    private or Craft. Lodge, he is conscious of being, perhaps, the youngest Mason present, and so submits the


    results of his research and limited experience with what, he hopes is a due sense of Masonic modesty .


    The E.C. speaks of a Private Lodge, while the N.Z.G. refers to the same thing as a Craft Lodge, the latter


    probably to distinguish those Lodges which work in the first three degrees from those which work in. the


    Mark and Excellent— two degrees recognised by the N.Z.C. but not by the E.C. We need not dwell on the


    regulations snider which a Lodge is originated, save to refer to certain differences which the world-wide


    jurisdiction and the ancient standing of the United G.L. of England respectively requires and renders


    possible. Au E.C. D.G.M.," if specifically authorised to do so, can grant provisional warrants for the


    formation of a new Lodge within his district, and G.L. rulings show that, after the regular warrant has been


    duly applied for, it remains in force if the permanent one is not received, even at the election of a Master for


    the second year of the Lodge's existence. But the D.G.M. may cancel the provisional warrant, and, it being


    issued subject to his personal discretion, it would appear that no appeal lies in respect of his so doing. In the


    E.C. the seven founders of a Lodge must all be registered under that Constitution, while it is only natural to


    find that the N.Z.C. is satisfied if all of the seven have a status under any recognised G.L. Moreover, the


    N.Z.C. permits, subject to dispensation, a M.M. to be installed asW.M. of a new Lodge without his having


    served as Warden; and, if a member of any New Zealand Lodge, a brother, having duly served as Warden


    under any recognised Constitution, is eligible for election as Master; whereas there is no exception to the


    E.C. rule that the Master-elect must be qualified by duly filling an E.C. Warden's chair. But an Irish P.M.


    who has never served as Warden may sit on a B. of I.M. Au interesting case may be quoted in this


    connection. A Scottish P.M., having served as both J.W. and S.W. in an E.C. Lodge, was elected Master


    thereof, He claimed, by virtue of his Scottish installation to be installed on this second occasion with the.


    abridged ritual usual in the case of a P.M. (W. brethren will understand what this is better than the-writer).


    This privilege being refused, he appealed with success to G.L., and was ultimately installed in the way he


    wanted. Owing to the delay, however, he only had a few months in the English chair, and on retiring he was


    refused the status of an English P.M. On a further appeal his claim was disallowed, as it was held that he


    might have accepted the installation offered without prejudice to his former appeal, and thus served the full


    year necessary to qualify him as a P.M. As to the election of Master, a New Zealand Lodge may in its bye-


    laws specifically provide for one or other of two methods. One is the same as the English, whereby the


    summons which calls the meeting at which election takes place contains a list of all members eligible. From


    this each voter selects the name of the brother he desires to see in the chair, writes it on the ballot paper and


    hands it in. By the other method candidates for the position are nominated and seconded from among the


    brethren eligible at the meeting previous to the election. In the N.Z.C. details of machinery are provided that




    at an election the successful brother must have in his support a majority of votes of those present and voting.


    The E.C. only provides that the ballot shall be declared in favour of the candidate who has the largest number


    of votes of those present and voting. In the E.C. the Master appoints his officers, while in the N.Z.C. the bye-


    laws specifically provide whether this method shall obtain or a method of election similar to that for the


    Master.


    The confirmation of Masonic minutes in some cases has an importance absent in respect of those of any


    other institution of which we are aware. At meetings of the profane the only question is—is the minute a


    correct record of what took place? But in the case of certain Masonic resolutions the issue is not valid until


    the minute is confirmed—that is to say, the Constitutions provide that the brethren shall have a chance of


    reconsidering their action and of falling from their decision if, on second thoughts, other judgments prevail.


    In the N.Z.C. this applies, so far as we can find, only to the election of Master and officers. If we may


    venture for a moment to allude to the jurisprudence of the English G.L., we find it also applies to grants of


    money, and it is reasonably held that Private Lodges are similarly bound. English G.L. resolutions relating to


    constitutional changes require confirmation before being valid, and in this connection we find that in 1856


    G.L. actually passed a resolution which recognised the Mark Degree, and it was only non-confirmation of the


    minute relating thereto which has kept this degree without the pale of English Freemasonry. At the time of


    writing a friend and nominee of the author's is awaiting initiation into an E.C. Lodge. Being a military person


    below the rank of corporal, it was necessary under Constitution 188 to obtain a dispensation, and this


    notwithstanding that in March last G.L. deleted the clause referred to. At all events, the R.W.D.G.M., who


    must have had the minutes in his possession a day or two previously, did not inform the Lodge Sec. that the


    dispensation was now unnecessary. We take it that this constitutional change is not valid till confirmed at the


    June communication of this year (1917). The non-confirmation, however, in such a case, requires notice of


    motion. N.Z. Constitution Rule 133 makes it beyond all doubt that, except in elections, the confirmation is


    only a certificate of the correctness of the record. The E.C. is not so clear, and it has been held—not,


    however, by any recognised authority—that the minute of every Masonic resolution can be upset by non-


    confirmation. Bro. Lawrence gives a case of reductio ad absurdum in which a small majority voted non-


    confirmation of a minute recording the rejection of a candidate in the ballot. This left the caudidate free to be


    immediately proposed and balloted for again, notwithstanding the rule that he cannot be proposed again


    under a specified period, provided for in English bye-laws and N.Z.C. Rule 150. We have no doubt that an


    appeal against this non-confirmation would have been upheld.


    (To be continued.) -


    ————————


    ZEPPELIN RELICS.


    ———<>———


    USED AS MASONIC REGALIA.


    ————


    In the presence of nearly 500 members of the Craft, the G.Sec., Sir Edward Letchworth, on Saturday


    consecrated the Royal Navy Anti-aircraft Lodge, No. 3790. The membership will be limited to members-of


    the Anti-aircraft Service.


    The V. of S.L. used in the ceremony and the warrant of the Lodge were bound with boards cut from a piece


    of the propeller of one of the Zeppelins brought down in England, and part of the regalia of the Lodge


    officers was made of aluminium from the Zeppelins brought down at Cuffley and in Essex.


    Sir Edward Letchworth was assisted by Admiral Sir Hastings Markham, Rear-Admiral E. F. Inglefield


    (Prov.G.M., Buckingham), Inspector-General Belgrave Ninnis, the Bishop of Willesden, and Mr. G. Woods


    Wollaston, M.V.O.


    Lieutenant D. A. Elliott was installed as the first W.M. of the Lodge. There were ninety-eight founders of the


    Lodge.


    ————————


    FREEMASONRY HERE NOW BLAMED FOR WAR.


    ———<>———


    GERMAN PAPER TELLS 1TS READERS WILSON, BRYAN,


    AND ROOSEVELT ARE ALL FREEMASONS.


    ————


    AMSTERDAM, 11th April.




    The Catholic "Volks-Zeitting " of Berlin, under the caption " Set Your Teeth," sorrowfully admits that the


    whole New World From Hudson Bay to Cape Horn seems fated to array itself against the Central Powers,


    and exhorts Germans not to lose the true perspective of things.


    The "Volks-Zeitung" also attacks Freemasonry, which it blames for a large share in the present war. It says


    that "Wilson, Bryan, and Roosevelt are Freemasons, and Freemasonry is rampant in all departments of


    American Government."


    Commenting on the breaches with South American Republics, the "Cologne Gazette" says that further


    assaults on German trade may be expected and are unavoidable. It adds :—"The Entente is becoming such a


    monstrosity that its hollowness must soon be apparent. Further accretions can only be regarded as a tribute to


    Germany's gigantic strength."


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


    Reports
    ———————————————————————————————————————————


    [Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]


    ————


    CRAFT LODGES.


    ————


    SOUTHLAND.


    Southern Cross, No. 9.—The regular meeting was held on 6th June. The work was Initiation. W. Bro. I.


    Copeland, W.M., was assisted by his officers, and W. Bro. H. D. Lowry (Charge in the N.E.), W. Bro. C.


    Illingworth (W.Ts.), W. Bro. J. Critchfield (R. for Prep.), and M.W. Bro, M. Thompson . (Final Charge). The


    whole ceremony was conducted with a pleasing accuracy, and W. Bro. Copeland has every reason to be


    satisfied with his first meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Harvey, No. 49.—The regular meeting was held on the 4th ult., when W. Bro. Steadman and his


    officers did their first degree work, and did it well. Every officer assisting knew his work thoroughly, and the


    ceremony was a most impressive one. It must have been very gratifying to the W.M. to see so marked an


    improvement in the attendance of members and visitors—may the improvement continue. Another member


    joined, and two others were proposed for affiliation, bringing the roll number up to 111. The Lodge again


    suffered through the flood in May last, but not to the same extent as on the previous occasion, in 1913.


    Whilst the liability on the building still remains, the Lodge has very little to come and go on from a financial


    point. of view, but arrangements are being made to remedy this, and then, in about fifteen months' time, with


    the building free of debt, it is intended to form the nucleus of a benevolent fund, and at the same time to


    effect several necessary improvements.— [Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Fortitude, No. 64.—On 13th June, R.W. Bro. A. Le H. Hoyles, Prov.G.M. of Southland, visited the


    southernmost port of the Dominion, and there installed into the chair of the Lodge W. Bro. Edward Parker.


    The Lodge opened at 6.30 p.m., when a ballot was taken for affiliation, and another for a new member, and


    both were declared all clear. The visiting Lodges were present in great force when the Prov.G.M. entered,


    Lodges St. John, Southern Cross, Victoria, Waihopai, Taringatura, Wallace, Concord, Wairaki, and others


    being represented. For the first time in twenty years R.W. Bros. W. Smith and T. M. Rankin were unable to


    be present, their absence unfortunately being due to illness. Amongst the visitors was Bro. A. Forbes, of


    Lodge St. John and Lodge Wallace, one of the oldest members of the Order in Southland, who was paying


    his first visit to Lodge Fortitude, In his, address to the W.M.-elect, the Installing Master referred to the


    honour conferred upon W. Bro. Parker by his Lodge in choosing him for a second time to fill the chair,


    which denoted the esteem in which the members held him. [W. Bro. Parker occupied the chair in 1910-11.]


    After the administration of the oath of fidelity by the Installing Master, the brethren assembled sang "Our


    Soldiers on the Battlefield "in honour of the brethren at the front. Lodge Fortitude's Roll of Honour,


    displayed in the body of the Lodgeroom, contains the names of five members, and one of these, Bro. W. A.


    Knowles, who had been wounded and was returned home, was present in the Lodgeroom, and officiated


    during the earlier meeting as I.G. The Prov.G.M., assisted by the G.L. officers, completed the ceremony in


    accordance with ancient custom, and the following officers were also invested :—I.P.M., W. Bro. C. W.


    Bradshaw; 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.


    Harbord; J.D., Bro. H. Robins; I.G., Bro. W. B. Dixon; Tyler, Bro. J. P. Svendsen; Stewards, Bros. W. H.


    Johnstone, W. Barker, W. Clare ; Auditors, W. Bro. G. R. George and Bro. R. J. King. The investing officers


    were :— R.W. Bro, Wm. Timpany (P.P.G.M.), W. Bros. I. Copeland (Lodge Southern Cross), F. Bonifant


    (Lodge St. John), V. Smith (Lodge Waihopai) J. Buchanan (Lodge Victoria), H. Beer (Lodge Taringatura),


    C. C. Nicholas (Lodge Orepuki). R.W. Bro. Le Hoyles at the conclusion of the ceremony addressed the


    brethren, stressing the need for support from the Southland` Lodges for the fund for [information not


    supplied.—ED.], and it is hoped brethren will act upon his remarks. The brethren were afterwards entertained


    at a social evening in an adjoining hall, when a pleasant evening was spent in the presence of members of the


    fair sex.—[Too late for last issue.—ED.]


    An emergency meeting, for the purpose of initiating a candidate before going into camp, drew a record


    attendance on 20th June. W. Bro. E. Parker, W.M., did the principal .work, assisted by W. Bro. Imlay


    (Charge in the N.E.), Bro. Skipage (W.Ts.), W. Bro. Walker (R. for Prep.), W. Bro. Bradshaw (Final


    Charge), W. Bro. Rusden (T.B.).


    The regular meeting held on 11th July was also largely attended. The ceremony was passing. The S.E.


    Charge and 2nd T.B. were given by W. Bro, Rusden; W.Ts. by the W.M. and Wardens. Bro. Jory, of Lodge


    Concord, became affiliated by ballot.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Taringatura, No. 100.—The monthly meeting on 2nd July was well attended. The special work was


    the raising of one brother. The ceremony was performed by the W.M. (Bro. H. Beer), assisted by W. Bros.


    Johnson (Ss. and T.H.), Graham (Exhort.), Walker (Ancient Charge), while Bro. Griffiths, S.W., presented


    the W.Ts. One Candidate was balloted for and accepted, and his M.M. certificate presented to one brother.


    Other business, including the reading of a paper, was deferred, and the Lodge closed early on account of


    serious illness in the W.M.'s family, who had a 12-mile ride to accomplish before reaching home.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Victoria, No. 147.—The regular meeting held on 13th June, set apart as a musical evening, was very


    largely attended. W. Bro. J. Buchanan, W.M., has commenced his year of office in an interesting and unique


    manner. A report of the concert appears elsewhere in this issue.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Mataura, No. 174.—The installation meeting was held on 11th July. Some seven or eight motor car


    loads of visitors came along to honour the occasion. The W.M. enters upon his second year of office. The


    other officers invested were:— I.P.M., W. Bro. J. J. Griffiths; S.W., Bro. J. N. West; J.W., Bro. F. W.


    Brown; Chaplain, Bro. P. Tait; Sec., Bro. A. J. Thompson ; Treas., Bro. John Taylor ; S.D., Bro. R. W.


    Cotherd ; J.D., Bro. W. J. Barrett ; I.G., Bro. D. N. McDonald; Stewards, Bros. W. Mowat, D. R. Howden,


    A. W. Cameron; Tyler, Bro. A. Todd. The Prov.C..M., R.W. Bro. A. Le H. Hoyles, was installing officer,


    and the duties of D. of C. were faithfully performed by R.W. Bro. T. M. Rankin. Others assisting were :—


    W. Bro, Walter Gee (Lodge Harvey), W. Bro. Frank Young (Lodge Mataura), W. Bro. J. T. Prain (Lodge


    Waihopai), W. Bro, J. Buchanan (Lodge Victoria), W. Bro. D. D. Steadman (Lodge Harvey), W. Bro.


    Vernon Smith (Lodge Waihopai), and R.W. Bro. Smith, P.D.G.M. The ceremony was very attractive. Bro.


    Rankin, as D. of C., has natural ability developed to a more than ordinary degree, and his method of losing


    no time, yet not hustling the work, was apparent right through.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Waihopai, No. 189.—The regular meeting was held on 16th July, when two candidates were raised.


    The Prov.G.M. and G.L. officers were present.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    OTAGO.


    Otago, No. 7.—The W.M., officers, and brethren—some fifteen in all— journeyed to Lodge Palmerston,


    No. 26, on 6th July, and by invitation conducted the ceremony of initiation. The visitors were heartily


    welcomed by W. Bro. W. H. Hopkins, W.M., and at the close of the meeting were hospitably entertained. W.


    Bro. J. W. Harvey, W.M., conducted the ceremony and administered the Ob. ; W. Bro. J. E. Atkins gave the


    Secrets and Signs ; W. Bro. D. C. Cameron, the N.E. Charge; W .Bro. N. Wood, the Prep. Charge; W. Bro.


    E. T. Möller, the W.Ts.; and Bro. F. W. Browne, the Final Charge.




    On 11th July Bro. Hopkins, W.M., and a large contingent of his officers and brethren returned the visit to


    Lodge Otago, No. 7, Dunedin, and by invitation conducted the ceremony of Raising. W. Bro. Hopkins,


    W.M., conducted the work, and was ably assisted by W. Bro. S. Beck, Bro. W. McGregor, S.W., and Bro. D.


    Munroe J.W. R.W. Bro. A. W Flett, Prov.G.M. of Otago, favoured the occasion with his presence, also a


    large number of W.Ms. and visiting brethren. A very pleasant time was afterwards spent in the social hall,


    where the usual Masonic and patriotic toasts were proposed and responded to.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Oceanic, No. 154.—The monthly meeting of this Lodge was held in the St. Kilda Masonic Hall on 20th


    June, when the W.M. (Bro. A. Cannon) presided over a more than average attendance of both members and


    visitors, the latter including several W.Ms. of all constitutions. Amongst the correspondence was a letter


    from a brother in France, who gave an account of a Masonic gathering he had attended near the front, which


    was presided over by R.W. Bro. Major G. Barclay. There being no ritual work, lectures were delivered by


    R.W. Bro. J. Quaile, P.S.G.W. ("The Qualifications of a W.M."), and W. Bro. D. Harris Hastings (" The


    Duties of Lodge Officers "). These papers gave rise to an interesting discussion, and the hope was generally


    expressed that it would not be the last time that representatives from the Masters' Lodge would be present to


    interest and instruct the brethren. Sacred solos which were much appreciated, were sung by Bros. More and


    Hart. The usual hour was spent in the supper room, when toasts, songs, and stories brought to conclusion a


    successful and enjoyable gathering.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Received too late for last issue.—ED. C.]


    Notwithstanding that there was no ritual work at the last meeting of this Lodge, which was held in the St.


    Kilda Masonic Hall on the 18th ult., in every respect it was a great success. In addition to a more than


    ordinary number of visitors, R.W. Bro. A. Flett, P.G.M., attended by past and present G.L. officers, paid an


    official visit. W. Bro. Hay gave an excellent charge on "The Duties of Freemasons," and W. Bro. Boyd, of


    Lodge St. Patrick, read a paper on "Ethics of Freemasonry.' Both the charge and the paper were of a very


    high literary character, and conveyed instruction and admonition to the brethren. Upon the motion of the


    W.M. (Bro. A. Cannon), seconded by R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, P.P.G.M., a hearty vote of thanks was


    accorded to both the W. brethren. Bro. A. McKenzie contributed a solo, and what added to the success of the


    gathering was the presence of W. Bro. Bennett, of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 432, S.C., and his Masonic


    orchestra. In the Lodgeroom, and afterwards in the supper-room, the selections given by this orchestra were


    greatly appreciated. A special collection, which was liberally subscribed to, was taken up for the G.M.'s War


    Fund. The social hour in the supper-room was well attended, the visiting talent being very strong.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    ————


    Kurow, No. 164.—The regular meeting was held on 5th July. The W.M. (W. Bro. H. Barclay) presided. The


    ceremony of initiating two persons was conducted by the W.M., and he was ably assisted by. W. Bro. C. L.


    Ayson (Secrets), W. Bro. A. N. Hayes (Exp. Prep.), Bro. G. P. Martin (W.Ts.), and W. Bro. R. H. Appleby


    (Final Charge). It was decided to send a soldier's parcel to each of our members at the front. No doubt, this


    action will be very acceptable to and duly appreciated by our brethren who are doing their share to keep the


    flag of freedom flying. After the Lodge had been closed a pleasant time was spent in the supper room. W.


    Bro. Melville, who has been recently transferred to this district from Arrowtown, was welcomed by the


    W.M. In replying, he expressed his intention of being a regular visitor, and offered to assist in every possible


    way.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    CANTERBURY.


    Caledonian, No. 16.—At the regular meeting held on 2nd July the Lodgeroom was filled with members and


    visiting Lodges from all parts of South Canterbury, the occasion being an official visit of R.W. Bro. J. J.


    Clark, D.G.M., G.L. being represented by the R.W. Dep.G.M. ; R.W. Bro. Gifkin, P.Prov. G.M. ; R.W. Bro.


    Hindmarsh, P.G.W. ; W. Bro. Calder, P.G.D. ; W. Bro. Hoskins, G.P.; W. Bro. Fife, P.G.S.B.; Bro. A.


    Newton, P.G.O. ; Prov.G.L. of Canterbury was represented by W. Bro. K. Mackenzie, Dep.Prov.G.M., and a


    number of past and present Prov.G.L. officers; also the Dist.G.L. of Canterbury, E.C., represented by W.


    Bro. Jones, P.D.G.W. W. I.ro. Mackenzie, in a few well chosen remarks, welcomed the R.W.D.G.M. and his


    officers to South Canterbury, R.W. Bro. Clark responding, after which W. Bro. Foden was conducted to the


    pedestal and invested to the office of G.S. 'I tie gavel was successively returned to W. Bro. Cranston, W.M.


    of the Caledonian Lodge, to proceed with the ceremonial work ; the Ob. being given by the W.M.; W. Bro.


    Wallace, Secrets and Signs; W. Bro. M`Bride, Address after Ines. and Special Apron Charge; W. Bro.


    Chapman, W.M. of Lodge St. John, E.C., the N.E. Charge; W. Bro. Simpson, W.Ts. ; W. Bro. Souter, W.M.






    of Lodge Koranga, R. for Prep. • and W. Bro. Burns, the Final Charge. Prior to retiring, R.W. Bro. Clark, D.


    N., congratulated W. Bro. Cranston and his officers on the manner in which the work was conducted. The


    brethren afterwards partook of supper at the Arcade Cafe, when the usual toasts were honoured. A special


    feature, and one that the brethren will never forget was the speech by R.W. Bro. Clark. Tt included a most


    eloquent and touching appeal to Masons concerning our duty 'to King and country and to the Craft, and our


    debt of gratitude to our gallant brethren who are fighting for us at the front. This meeting marked an epoch in


    the history of Masonry in Timaru.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Christchurch, No. 91.—The monthly meeting was held on 26th June in the Masonic Hall, W. Bro. Mitchell


    (Master) presiding over a good muster of members. The ritual work, consisting of the Lectures on the 1st and


    2nd T.Bs. was proceeded with. W. Bro. Torrance, P.AL, delivered the lecture in the First Degree, and W.


    Bro. Hopkinson that of the Second, both being excellently rendered. After the Lodge had been closed in chie


    form, a hearty gathering of brethren and visitors spent a pleasant hour in the refectory.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    ————


    Cheviot, No. 124.—The regular meeting was held on 5th July, the W.M. (W. Bro. A. D. Fraser) presiding.


    The business was carried out in Cheviot's well-known perfect style. During the meeting the Lodge was


    presented with a handsome chair for the use of the Master and coming Masters of the Lodge, the donors


    being W. Bro. E. Powis and Bro. H. Billens, J.D. The W.M. (W. Bro. Fraser), on behalf of the Lodge,


    thanked the donors for their useful and generous gift, which he was proud to sit in, and hoped the givers


    would both be installed into it. An adjournment was then made to the refectory, where a pleasant hour was


    spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Lodge Amuri, No. 184.—An emergency meeting was held on 29th June. The special business was the


    passing of a brother. The ceremony was performed by W. Bro. D. W. Hunter, W.M., who obligated and


    communicated the S., T., and W. The Address after Investiture was given by Bro. C. E. Derrett, J.W. ; the


    S.E. Charge was rendered by Bro. T. G. Thomson, S.W.; the W.Ts. were presented by Bro. H. R. Davison,


    S.D. ; W. Bro. Munro gave the Final Charge. Occasion was taken in the " Fourth" to bid farewell to Bro. T.


    G. Thomson, S.W., who was leaving for Trentham on 3rd July. Eulogistic references were made to our


    worthy brother, who will be greatly missed; his genial smile and true Scotch nature were ever impressed on


    members.


    The regular meeting was held on 6th July, the W.M., W. Bro. Hunter, presiding. The ceremonial work was


    the passing of a brother. The W.M. obligated and communicated the S., T. and W. The investiture was


    performed by Bro. J. Heasley, S.W. ; the Address after being given by Bro. Nicholson, J.D. The Charge in


    the S.E. was given by Bro. C. E. Derrett, J.W. The presentation of the W.Ts. was entrusted to Bro. H. R.


    Davison, S.D.:the Final Charge benig ably rendered by Bro. R. J. Levin, D. of C. The usual pleasant time


    was spent in the refectory, where W. Bro. Webb, P.Prov.B.B., a very worthy representative of Lodge


    Concord, was accorded a hearty welcome, our respected brother having recently recovered from a severe


    illness, which has kept him from Masonic intercourse for some time.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    WESTLAND.


    Kawatiri-Westport, No. 152.—The monthly meeting was held in Westport on 11th June. The W.M., W.


    Bro. D. T. Gibbard, occupied the chair. After the usual business an address was given by the R.W.


    P.Prov.G.M., Bro. J. H. Harkness, on some of the questions asked prior to passing. The address was intensely


    interesting from a Masonic standpoint—an intellectual treat. Indeed, had the proceedings taken place in the


    "Fourth," the brethren would have clamoured for further. information on several vital points scarcely, if ever,


    touched upon in Lodges. W. Bro. S. Paul, P.M., moved a hearty vote of thanks and appreciation to R.W. Bro.


    Harkness for the splendid address, which would create interest in the Craft ; seconded by W. Bro. P.


    Bowater. The W.M., in conveying the resolution, expressed the extreme pleasure the address had been to the


    brethren and himself ; it would stimulate the members to greater effort. R.W. Bro. Harkness thanked the


    W.M. and brethren for the resolution and the splendid hearing that had been extended, and hoped some good


    had been achieved by the effort. The Lodge was closed, and a very pleasant hour was spent in the refectory


    afterwards.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————




    W. BR O . L . B . HART , M A STER O F AV ON L ODG E . 1 8 5 ,


    Who has pres i ded over th e Lodge i n i t s mos t succes s fu l year , w i th the Bann er pres en ted by the bre th ren upon the Twen ty - f i r s t


    Ann i ver sa r y , and the s p l end i d Mas t e r ' s Co l l a r , wh i ch was the g i f t o f B ro . C . K . Whale.




    MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.


    Victory, No. 40.—The regular meeting was held mi 12th July, and was again very largely attended. W. Bro.


    H. P. Stephenson occupied the chair. Successful ballots were taken on behalf of two affiliates and two


    candidates. A motion of sympathy was extended to W. Bro. Oxley in his illness. The evening's work


    consisted of the raising of two brethren by the W.M. and his officers, supported by the following P.Ms. : W.


    Bros. J. L. Ching (Secrets), H. A. Hobbs (Exhort.), R. W. Stiles (Charge), J. A. Orsman (Substituted Secrets),


    R.W. Bro. W. Moyes (T.H.), W. Bros. E. J. Thomas (W.Ts.) and B. H. Moller (Final Charge). It was


    reported that £120 had been subscribed by brethren to free the Lodge of the mortgage on the property.


    Certificates were presented to three brethren. Several members of the Sister Consitutions were present. Three


    candidates were proposed for membership. H.G.W. were extended on behalf of Lodges Golden Bay,


    Southern Star, Robert Burns, and Forest.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    HAWKES BAY.


    Scinde, No. 5.—The annual meeting of Scinde Lodge was held on 20th July in the Lodgeroom, Tennyson


    Street, Napier, when the W.M., W. Bro. R. Bishop, presided over a very large attendance of members and


    visitors, over 150 being present. The installation of Bro. Jas. Bowes was conducted by R.W. Bro. H. L.


    Harston, who was supported by R.W. Bros. F. C. De Lisle and T. Hobson, P.Prov.G.M. ; W. Bro. W. A.


    Carter, G.S.D., as G.S.W. ; W. Bro. Jas. Redshaw, P.G.S., as G.J.W. ; W. Bro. E. Eales, as G.S.D. ; W. Bro.


    G. F. Roach, as G.J.D. ; W. Bro. C. L. Thomas, as G.D. of C. ; W. Bro. W. Pasco, as G.I.G. ; W. Bro. W.


    Kirk, as G.Sd.B. ; Organist, Bro. A. Hobson ; Herald, W. Bro. Chegwidden. The newly installed Master must


    feel highly gratified at the large assemblage of eminent Craftsman who came to do him honour. The W.Ts


    were presented as follows: I.M. Degree, R.W. Bro. T. Hobson, P.Prov.G.M. ; Third, W. Bro. W. A. Wilkie


    (W.M., Lodge Victoria, No. 21); Second, W. Bro. Cooper (W.M., Lodge Heretaunga, No. 73); and First, W.


    Bro. R. Bishop (W.M., Scinde Lodge, No. 5). W. Bro. G. W. Harding (Lodge Waikaremoana, No. 158)


    addressed the W.M., and W. Bro. R. Chadwick. P.G.S.B., gave the address to the Wardens. The W.M.


    invested the following officers: Bro, A. E. Currie: J.W., Bro. A. J. Turville: Treas. Bro. T.W. Bear Sec., W.


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


    A. Williams: J.D., Bro. R. V. C. Harris ; I.G., Bro. J. Morling; S.S., Bro. H. E. K. Bourgeois ; J.S., Bro. A. A.


    Hastings; Tyler, Bro. T. M. Thornton. The address to the brethren was rendered in a most impressive manner


    by R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston, Prov.G.M. Before retiring, R.W. Bro. Harston had the pleasure of presenting W.


    Bro. R. Bishop with a P.M.'s jewel on behalf of the Lodge, and in a very sincere address eulogised the work


    W. Bro. Bishop had carried out during his year of office. Hearty congratulations were tendered by visiting


    brethren from North Cape to Invercargill, from Australia, England, Scotland, etc. An adjournment was made


    to the Princess Hall, where a splendid supper was provided by Bro. J. H. Murdoch. The usual toasts and


    speeches followed, the speeches being of an all-round excellence and songs splendidly rendered by Bros. S.


    H. Tuck, D. H. Wilmot. G. Tudehope, and T. M. Thornton; W. Bro. L. Freedman, monologue. A special vote


    of thanks was passed to Mrs. Freedman for her artistic floral decoration of the tables. The gathering broke up


    about midnight, after one of the most memorable and enjoyable meetings in the annals of Scinde Lodge. —


    [Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Bedford, No. 25.—A very pleasant evening eventuated on the occasion of our last monthly meeting (4th


    July), when we were honoured by an official visit from the W.M., officers, and members of Lodge Abercorn,


    No. 30, Waipawa. W. Bro. Parkin, W.M., was received in customary form, and by invitation of out W.M.,


    W. Bro. Chambers, at once assumed the chair of K.S., and requested his officers to repair to their respective


    stations for the purpose of conducting the ceremony of passing a candidate. The candidate was obligated by


    W. Bro. Parkin, entrusted by W. Bro. Robin, and invested by W. Bro. Williams, S.W. W. Bro. Pasco. I.P.M.,


    gave the S.E. Address ; Bro. Milburn, J.W., presented the W.Ts.; and the Final Charge was delivered by W.


    Bro. Williams, S.W. In returning the gavel W. Bro. Parkin expressed his appreciation of the cordial welcome


    extended. and W. Bro. Chambers, responding, thanked the brethren of Abercorn, and the W.M. in particular,


    for undertaking the work, and complimented them on the efficient manner in which the ceremony had been


    carried out. The social side of Freemasonry, which is a bright spot every month in Bedford, was enhanced on


    this occasion by the very genuine fraternal spirit so much in evidence in the "Fourth.;' A happy gathering


    terminated by the singing of "Auld Lang Syne."—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————




    Ruahine, No. 80.—The annual installation of officers was held on 6th June, when a very large attendance of


    visiting brethren comfortably filled the hall. R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston. Prov.G.M. for Hawkes Bay, in a most


    impressive manner installed Bro. J. A. Fraser in that chair of wondrous history, and placed in his hands the


    government of the Lodge for the ensuing twelve months. The newly installed W.M. received the W.Ts. from


    W. Bro. Pickatt (Lodge Puketui), W. Bro. Riddell (Lodge Tararua), and W. Bro. James (Lodge Rawhiti),


    after which he duly installed his Wardens—Bro. B. Toogood in the W., and Bro. J. Elder in the S. He then


    called upon W. Bro. A. Stevenson to invest the remaining officers. W. Bro. H. P. Horne was again invested


    with the badge of ceremony, and Bro. J. H. Ebbett was for yet another year entrusted with the control of the


    funds over which he has so long exercised a judicious care. Unfortunately, Bro. R. Gardner, who had been


    elected Chaplain, was unable to be present, he having just learned of the loss of his eldest son, who had made


    the supreme sacrifice for King and country on the battlefield in France. W. Bro. H. Purvey was again given


    the badge of Organist, a position he has long and worthily filled: and Bro. Offwood was invested with the


    badge of S.D. Bro. T. Hutchins, who has grown white in the service of Masonry, was again placed as


    guardian outside the door of the Lodge ; and Bro. Wilkinson received the badge of Stewardship. The


    addresses were particularly good. W. Bro. R. Chadwick (Lodge Lion) addressed the Master, W. Bro. R.


    Gillespie (Lodge Rawhiti) tendered words of much wisdom to the Wardens. and R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston,


    P.G.M., delivered the closing address to the brethren. The collection in aid of the W. and O. Fund was


    liberally treated, after which G.L. retired. H.G.W. from the many Lodges represented were accorded the


    newly installed Master. At the close of the Lodge the brethren retired to the Foresters' Hall, where Bro.


    Turnbull had prepared an elaborate supper, to which full justice was done. A couple of hours were spent with


    that harmony which characterises Freemasons, and the annual installation of Lodge Ruahine became but


    another of those happy memories which help to hind the brethren in one intensely happy brotherhood.—


    (Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    AUCKLAND.


    United Service, No. 10.—The installation of W. Bro. John W. Swales, P.M., took place at the Freemasons'


    Hall, Auckland, on 27th June, in the presence of a large gathering, representative of all Constitutions.


    TheG.M., M. W. Bro. O. Nicholson, was present, accompanied by R.W. Bro. F. Kearsley, P.D.G.M., R.W.


    Bro. G. Powley, P.D.G.M., and a strong retinue. The installation ceremony was performed by the retiring


    W.M., W. Bro. Wm. Tailby, with uncommon ability. The presenting officers were W. Bro. A. O. Graham


    (W.M. of Lodge Ara, No. 348, I.C.) and W. Bro. A. Barlass (W.M. of Lodge Ponsonby, No. 708, S.C.). W.


    Bro. M. Copeland acted as D. of C The W.Ts. of the three degrees were presented by W. Bros. P. M.


    Macfarlane (Maungawhao, No. 168), F. Mason (W.M. of Lodge Auckland, No. 87), and C. A. Coppins


    (W.M. of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 8). The G.M. presented to the W.M. the G.L. Warrant, B. of C , and By-


    laws ; R.W. Bro. F. Kearsley delivered the Address to the W.M., R.W. Bro. Powley the Address to the.


    Wardens, and the G.M. the general address to the assemblage. Other officers were invested as follow :—


    W.M., W. Bro. J. W. Swales, P.M., P.G.S. ; I.P.M., NV. Bro. W. Tailby; S.W., W. Bro. A. W. Morris, P.M. ;


    J.W., Bro. M. Berry ; Treas., W. Bro. J. C. Spinley, ; Sec., W. Bro. W. Tailby ; Dep. Master, W. Bro. A.


    Erickson, P.M., P.G.Swd.B. ; D. of C., W. Bro. M. Copeland, P.M. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. J. C. Pelham, P.M.,


    P.G.Std.B.; S.D., Bro. A. C. Hallett; J.D., Bro. H. T. Garratt; Org., Bro. A. Perry; I.G., Bro. H. Gribble; S.S.,


    Bro. R. H. Smythe; J.S., Bro. W. R. Jeffery; Assistant Stewards, Bros. E. Mills, W. E. Smith, and H. G.


    Stevens; Tyler. Bro. T. M. Green ; Preceptor, W. Bro. W. Tailby. An exceptionally handsome jewel, bearing


    the ornate emblem of the Lodge, was presented to the retiring W.M., W. Bro. Tailby. An early adjournment


    was made to the refectory, where an interesting episode was the reading by W. Bro. Tailby of letters received


    from brethren absent at the front.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Ponsonby, No. 54.—The annual meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Jervois-road, on 3rd July. when


    there was a very large attendance. M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson, accompanied by ten G. officers and R.W. Bro.


    Geo. Fowlds, P.D.G.M., was present. R.W. Bro. Fowlds took the chair to receive the G.M., who was


    received with the honours due to his rank. W. Bro. Hamann assumed the chair and conducted the installation


    ceremony, which was carried out in a most efficient manner. At the B. of I.M. there were over sixty W.


    brethren present. The Roll of Honour was presented by Bro. W. Grevatt donating the oak and the carving


    thereon, W. Bro. T. McNab the marble, and Bro. Geo. Knox the writing; which is a most beautiful asset to


    the Lodge. A very fine organ (new) also became the property of the Lodge through the generosity of Bro.


    Jethro Lock, who made a very great reduction in the price, and the brethren generously contributed to the


    purchasing of it. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Wilson (of Lodge Ara, No. 1), W. Bro. Potter (Lodge




    Titirangi), and W. Bro. D'Ewes (Lodge Wairoa). The M.W.G.M. presented the Warrant, Constitution, and


    By-laws, and R.W. Bro. G. Fowlds addressed the W.M. The following officers were invested by R.W. Bro.


    Geo. H. Powley, P.D.G.M., who also charged the Wardens:— W. Bro. C. T. Haynes ; I.P.M., W. Bro. L. C.


    E. Hamann ; D.M., W. Bro. C. R. Munro; S.W., Bro. C. E. Dutton ; J.W., Bro. W. J. Stancombe; Treas., W.


    Bro. J. A. Cooper; Sec., W. Bro. F. A. Koenig ; Chaplain, W. Bro, M. Blair; D. of C.. W. Bro. T. M’Nab,


    S.D., Bro. F. S. Shell; J.D., Bro. F. Bell-Booth : H.S., Bro. W. T. Smith ; I.G., .Bro. J. Lock ; S.S., Bro. T. W.


    Brough; J.S., Bro. O. I. Lovegrove; Asst. Ss., Bros. F. Horning and C. H. Cook; Tyler, W. Bro. J. W. Boag.


    The M.W.G.M. suitably addressed the brethren, and also unveiled a Roll of Honour. A handsome P.M.'s


    jewel was presented to the retiring Master by R.W. Bro. Fowlds, and was acknowledged in fitting terms. W.


    Bro. F. A. Koenig acted as D. of C., and Bro. J. H. Philpot as Organist. At the close of the meeting the usual


    refreshments were served.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Piako, No. 160. — The regular meeting of Lodge Piako was held in the Lodge-room un Wednesday, 4th


    July, there being a good attendance of brethren and visitors. The business for the evening was the raising of a


    brother, which was duly carried out by the W.M., Bro. R. Parlour, assisted by his P.Ms. and officers. The


    working was alternative Scotch, the 1st and 2nd Secrets being given by W. Bro. H. J. Clifford, Exh. by W.


    Bro. G. W. Bradshaw, Charge by Bro. S. B. Sims; 3rd Secrets by W. Bro. Ashwood; T.H. by W. Bro. C. M.


    Gummer ; W.Ts. by J.W., Bro. F. Pickett ; T.B. by Bro. R. J. M'Causland; and Final Charge by S.W., Bro. N.


    D. Clifford. There were two new proposals for initiation and one for affiliation, Now that the affiliation fee


    has been reduced to 5s we hope to see quite a number of the unattached brethren in the district coming


    forward for membership. A pleasant hour in the refectory brought the evening to a close.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.] [The Lodge copy of the CRAFTSMAN is regularly mailed to Bro. C. M. Gummer]


    ————


    Ara, No. 348, I.C.—The annual meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Auckland, on Monday, 25th


    June, at High Noon. W. Bro. R. J. Lusher, W.M., presiding. There was a very large attendance of members


    and visiting brethren. R.W. Bro. W. Jr. Rees. Prov.G.M., accompanied by the officers of Prov.G.L., I.C., was


    received with the customary honours. The following distinguished brethren were then received and accorded


    the honours due to their respective ranks :—W. Bro. Plummer, S.P G.M., S.C., R.W. Bro. W. S. Furby,


    D.D.G.M., E.C., M. W. Bro. M. Niccol, P.G.M., M.Z.C., R.W. Bro. Rees, before returning the maul to the


    W. M., expressed his appreciation of the large gathering, and for the cordial good wishes expressed in the


    telegram of apology for the unavoidable absence of R.W. Bro. A. S. Bankart and M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson,


    who were attending the civic welcome to the Prime Minister. Rt. Hon. W. F. Massey, and Sir Joseph Ward.


    R.W. Bro. Rees also referred to the fact that 24th June, 1917 was the bi-centenary of the formation of G.L. of


    England, and suggested that we record our hearty congratulations and fraternal good wishes with our sister


    Constitution on this event. W. Bro. Fisher having assumed control of the Lodge, called on W. Bro. A. G.


    Graham(W.M., Lodge Ara, No. 1), and W. Bro. J. A. Messenger (W.M., Lodge Waitemata. No. 689), who


    had kindly consented to act as presenting officers, to conduct R.W. Bro. Powley to the S.W. chair and W.


    Bro. Watson to the J.W. chair, and W. Bro. P. M. M`Farlane to I.G., and present Bro. Wilson, M.- elect.


    V.W. Bro. Blomfield headed the procession as Chaplain, carrying the V.S.L. to the W.I.M. pedestal, when


    Bro. Wilson was presented for the purpose of installation. The W.M., having addressed a few observations to


    the W.M.– elect, directed his attention to W. Bro. Sec., who read the Charges. The B. of I.M. followed,


    during which Bro. Wilson was installed into the chair of K.S., according to ancient custom. All Masons


    having been admitted the ceremony of investiture of officers was proceeded with. R.W. Bro. W. J. Rees,


    P.G.M., addressed the newly installed Master with words of council as to the duties of his high office and the


    virtue attached thereto. The Wardens were addressed by R.W. Bro. W. S. Furby, D.D.G.M., E.C. After the


    remaining officers had been invested, the brethren were addressed by M.W. Bro. M. Niccol, P.G.M., N.Z.C.


    W. Bro. Lusher mentioned that Bro. Craig, S.D., was absent on active service, and trusted T.G.A.O.T.U.


    would spare him to return to the Lodge after the war. Offertory for charity, £8 5s 3d. R.W. Bro. Rees, in a


    few appropriate words, presented W. Bro. Lusher with a handsome P.M.'s jewel, also a framed photo shield


    of his executive. W. Bro. Lusher, in responding for the gifts, thanked the P.G.M. and brethren for their


    kindness to him, and the officers for their loyal support during his term of office, trusting that his successor


    would receive the same consideration from them as he had. The W.M. rose for the first time when greetings


    were extended from G.L. of N.Z., from D.G.L., E.C., and D.G.L., S.C., also D.G.L., I.C. The W.M. rose for


    the second time when apologies were received for the absence of V.W. Bro. Wiseman, W. Bro. A. M.


    Bartley, W. Bro. E. Bartly, and Bro. Westpfahl. The W.M. rose for the third time when congratulations and




    good wishes were tendered from all visitors present. The Lodge was closed at 2.15 p.m.—[Lodge


    Correspondent]


    ————————


    TARANAKI.


    Hawera, No. 34.—The annual installation meeting was held on 10th July, Lodge being tyled at 6.45 p.m.


    Visiting Lodges were received at 7.30 p.m., and a record attendance was noticed ; thirty P.Ms. were present.


    W. Bro. Alan R. Thompson was installed into the Chair of K.S. by R. W. Bro. R. W. Sargent, Prov.G.M.,


    with great solemnity. Officers for ensuing year were invested. During the evening, Bro. H. Caplen, P.A.G.R.,


    on behalf of his sari, W. Bro. B. D. Caplen (on active service) presented to the Lodge a pair of beautiful


    Wardens’ columns which W. Bro. Caplen had sent out from England. Needless to say, this was greatly


    appreciated by the brethren, as also was the fact of the presence of V.W. Bro. Caplen, who is one of the


    oldest members of the Lodge, being W.M. in 1883 and 1885, then under the S.C., and later in 1890 under the


    N.Z.C. In submitting his annual report for the year just ended, W. Bro. Harding (as deputy for W. Bro. H. D.


    Caplen) stated that twelve regular, two emergency, and thirty-five instruction meetings had been held during


    the year, at which he had delivered six lectures on Masonic subjects and five instructions on "Proving " had


    been carried out. Five new members were initiated, four were passed, and five were raised. three members


    had joined from other Lodges, and three members had left by demit, thus making a total gain in membership


    of five for the year. During the evening one candidate for admission and one W. brother as a joining member


    were successfully balloted for, and one brother was proposed as a joining member. R.W. Bro. Sargent


    invested W. Bro. G. Smart and W. Bro. J. W. Stubbs with their insignia of G.L. office. A hearty vote of


    thanks was accorded to W, Bro. Harding for his untiring efforts during the last two years in the interests of


    the Lodge, and as a mark of appreciation, W. Bro. Thompson, on behalf of the Lodge, presented W. Bro.


    Harding with a P.M.'s jewel. H.G.W. were tendered by visiting Brethren from Riverton to Auckland, and by


    Bro. E. C. Hayton, from Hawera Lodge. After the Lodge closed, W. Bro. Thompson invited the brethren to


    supper at the Central Tearooms, where a very pleasant couple of hours were spent and the usual toast-list was


    gone through, interspersed with song and social discourse.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    De Burgh Adams, No. 446, I.C.—The installation of Bro. William Cyril Norman Stone Brown Hoskin as


    W.M. took place on 28 June, in the presence of about 100 brethren. The Lodge was tyled at 7 p.m. The


    installation was conducted by V.W. Bro. Robert Mahon Conley, P.P.G.S.W., assisted by W. Bro. J. W.


    Hayden as D. of C. The presentation of the W.Ts. were made as follows :—I.M. degree, V.W. Bro. R. M.


    Corney ; 3rd, W. Bro. J. W. Hayden, P.G.S.D, ; 2nd, W. Bro. J. Toms, P.P.G.S. ; 1st, W. Bro. W. W.


    Thomson, P.G.S. R,W. Bro. A. Goldwater, Dep.Prov.G.M., gave the address to the W.M. V.W. Bro. A. L.


    Hammond, P.P.G.S.W., the address to the Wardens. R.W. Bro. W. F. Brooking, P.Dep. Prov. G.M.,


    addressed the brethren in his usual impressive manner. The W.M. invested the following officers :—S.W.


    Bro. H. M. Smith ; J.W., Bro. C. D. Grant ; Treas. and Sec., R.W. Bro. W. F. Brooking; Chaplain. V.W. Bro.


    A. L. Hammond; D. of C, W. Bro. J. W. Hayden ; Org., Bro. E. Heath ; S.D., Bro. N. S. James ; J.D., Bro. A.


    Milne; I.G., Bro. H. T. Ainsworth ; S.S., Bro. E. Sole; J.S., Bro. A. A. Wooller. Before retiring, R.W. Bro. A.


    Goldwater presented W. Bro. J. Toms with a P.M.'s jewel, suitably subscribed, and expressed the brethren's


    appreciation of his help and assistance, which were always cheerfully given. The Lodge was closed at 10.15,


    after which the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where ample justice was done to a supper provided by


    Bro. A. A. Wooller. R.W. Bro. Sargent. P.G.M. of the N.Z.C. of Hawera was present, and expressed his


    pleasure of again visiting the De Burgh Adams Lodge, and that the W.I.M. was to be heartily congratulated


    on the manner in which the installation ceremony passed off. The usual toasts and speeches followed,


    intermingled with songs, etc. The proceedings terminated about midnight.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    RUAPEHU


    St. Andrew Kil., No. 79.—The monthly meeting was held on 7th ult., the W.M., Bro. A. E. King being in


    the chair. The Lodge was tyled at 6.45 p.m., in the presence of a large gathering of brethren. The celebration


    of the evening was the installation of Bro. Robt. W. Green, S.W., as W.M. We were honoured by the


    presence of the R.W.D.G.M., Bro. J. J. Clark, who was received by R.W. Bro. D. McFarlane, Prov.G.M. of


    Ruapehu District. R.W. Bro. Clark took the opportunity of investing W. Bro. Svenson, of Lodge Moutoa, as


    G.S., and also formally appointing W. Bro. A. James, of Lodge Otaihape, to his position on the B. of G.P.


    The installation of Bro. R. W. Green as W.M. was then conducted by W. Bro. W. J. Treadwell, who, with


    those assisting in the ceremony, gave the utmost pleasure and satisfaction to the assembled brethren. The




    following officers were invested : S.W., Bro. J. E. M. Rose; J.W., Bro. J. McFarlane; Chaplain, Bro. Carew-


    Thomas ; D. of C., W. Bro. J. C. Richardson ; Treas., W. Bro. J. L. Stevenson ; Sec., W. Bro. N. G.


    Armstrong ; Choirmaster, Bro. T. L. Sperring; Organist, Bro. S. L. Weller; S.D., Bro. P. Evans; J.D., Bro. I


    Stephenson; I.G., Bro. F. M. Spurdle; Tyler, Bro. J. K. Revell ; S.S., Bro. J. D. Anderson; J .Ss., Bros. W.


    Rees-Jones, J. H. Passmore, and John Robertson. After the installation ceremony had concluded, W. Bro.


    Green returned thanks for the honour conferred upon him. R.W. Bro. D. McFarlane, on behalf of Lodge St.


    Andrew Kil, in a short speech, congratulated the retiring W.M., Bro. A. E. King, on his satisfactory conduct


    of the Lodge during the year just completed, and asked his acceptance, on behalf of his brethren, of a P.M.'s


    jewel, suitably inscribed. W. Bro. King acknowledged the gift in brief, but sincere, manner, and took the


    opportunity of expressing his thanks to the officers under him for their assistance during the past year. After


    H.G.W. and congratulations from visiting brethren, the Lodge was closed at 10 p.m., and an adjournment


    made to the Druid's Hall supper-room. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly honoured. R.W. Bro.


    Clark, in replying to the toast of G.L., delighted his hearers with a retrospect of Freemasonry, brief but


    effective, and enjoined upon the brethren the need of being constantly on their guard to maintain and


    preserve unsullied the high ideals of Freemasonry. It was an address worthy of travelling a long way to hear,


    and we were all very sorry that R.W. Bro. Clark's engagements prevented him remaining longer with us. We


    enjoyed his visit very much, and look forward to again having the pleasure of welcoming him to our Lodge.


    In proposing the toast of "Our Brethren at the Front," a most interesting address was also given by W. Bro.


    Treadwell, who has just returned from a visit to England. We trust we will have the privilege of hearing this


    W. Bro. again upon some of his observations and gleanings during his travels. Musical items were also


    rendered, and installation night of 1917 will long remain a pleasant memory in the minds of those who were


    privileged to be present.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Kimbolton, No. 123.—The monthly meeting was held in the Lodgeroom, Kimbolton, on the 5th inst. The


    work was the passing of one brother, and was carried through by the W.M., assisted by W. Bros. Baddeley


    and Bailey and Bro. Short, S.D. The J.W. presented the W.Ts., and the S.W. delivered the Charge. In the


    refectory the toast of the newly made F.C. was taken with musical honours, and neatly responded to by Bro.


    Calder. The brethren also decided to commemorate the services of brethren at the front by a Roll of


    Honour.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Huia, No. 171.—The usual meeting took place on 5th July, the ceremonial work consisting of the passing of


    three candidates to the F.C. Degree. Additional interest was added to the meeting by the presence of G.L.


    officers, the Dep.G.M. (R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark) of Dunedin, and R.W. Bro. D. MacFarlane, P.G.M. The date


    of the meeting synchronised with their arrival, advantage being taken to invest the following officers : W.


    Bros. Dawick, Moggridge, Frew, and W. H. Smith, all the foregeing being duly invested into the various


    G.L. offices; also R.W. Bro. MacFarlane has assumed the position of P.G.M. for another term of office,


    which met with unanimous approval by the various Lodges in the Ruapehu District. A most striking feature


    of the meeting was the fine and original addresses delivered by G.L. officers—In the opinion of all


    assembled, the very best it has been our privilege to listen to, couched in convincing language. At the


    conclusion of the work an adjournment was made to the refectory, when several appropriate toasts were


    proposed and duly responded to, thus ending a good and instructive meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————————


    WELLINGTON.


    St. Andrew, No. 32.—The regular meeting was held on 16th July at the Freemasons' Hall, Bro. A. Schmidt


    presiding over a satisfactory attendance of brethren, which included sundry visitors from local and oversea


    Lodges. A proposition of a candidate for initiation was balloted upon, the result being favourable. The


    ceremonial was to initiate two candidates, one of them being a Lewis and a son of a member of the Lodge,


    on whose behalf a dispensation had been granted. This candidate, however, had left the Dominion two days


    before on active service, on unusually short notice. The other candidate was regularly initiated by the W.M.,


    assisted by his officers and W. Bro. W. Simpson (Invest. Charge), W. Bro. A. T. Wells (N.E. Address), Bro.


    Fox (R. for Prep.), Bro. Paton (W.Ts.), Bro. J. C. Riddell (F.C.). The singing of appropriate odes by the


    brethren, led by the Lodge choir, contributed much to a smoothly rendered and efficient ceremony. The


    W.M. made reference to the heavy loss sustained by two members (Bros. Lawrence and Christie), each of


    whom had recently received advice of the death of a son in action, and motions of sympathy were carried


    and recorded. A brother present referred to the recent death of an ex-member of the Lodge (Bro. W. B.


    Calder) in the firing-line in France, reported in the press. He had not very long before left New Zealand, and




    on the voyage home attended a meeting of Craftsmen held on the transport, where he represented his old


    Lodge. A motion expressing deep regret at receipt of the news was carried, and directed to be transmitted to


    the deceased's next-of-kin. After propositions of one joining brother and two candidates for Freemasonry


    were announced, H.G.W. were tendered, and Lodge was closed.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Leinster, No. 44.—The installation meeting was held on 2nd July in the Lodgeroom, Boulcott Street, where


    there was a very large attendance. The Lodge was opened at 6.20 p.m. by W. Bro. A. Longmore, W.M. After


    the usual formal business, which included the ballots for three affiliating brethren, all of which proved


    favourable, had been disposed of, visitors were admitted, all the city and suburban Lodges sending


    representatives. The Prov.G.M., Bro. J. W. Ellison, was admitted. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M.. and


    R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M., and G.L. officers were admitted and received with honours. The W.M.-


    elect, Bro. Archibald McLaren, was presented by W. Bro. E. B. Parsons, D. of C., and installed into the


    Chair of K.S. by R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M. The address to the W.M. was delivered by W. Bro. Jas.


    Robertson. W. Bro. F. Silver, P.G.S.B., invested the officers as follows : S.W., Bro. R. J. Shakes; J.W., Bro.


    W. J. Garrett; Treas., W. Bro. W. Wills, P.M. ; Sec., W. Bro. W. A. Baudinet, P.M. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. R. H.


    Wilson, P.M. ; D. of C., W. Bro. E. B. Parsons, P.M. ; S.D., Bro. D. Parnell; J.D., Bro. E. C. Smyth ; I.G.,


    Bro. F. W. Duncan; Organist, Bro. W. H. Godier; S.S., Bro. H. W. McCarthy; Bro. J. Jackson; Assist.-Ss.,


    Bros. D. Gilchrist and F. A. Brownjohn; Tyler, Bro. M. J. F. Gardner. The address to the Wardens was given


    by W. Bro. W. A. Baudinet, P.G.S., and M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., addressed the brethren. R.W.


    Bro. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M., presented the Warrant, B. of C. and By-laws. W. Bro. T. Mather (W.M. of


    Lodge Ulster), W. Bro. J. Tamblyn (W.M. of Lodge N.Z. Pacific), and W. Bro. W. J. Westwood (W.M. of


    Lodge Brooklyn) presented the W.Ts. in the various degrees. R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M., presented


    W. Bro. A. Longmore, the retiring W.M., with a P.M.'s jewel as a token of the esteem of the brethren. The


    collection in aid of the G.L. W. and O. and A.M. Fund realised £7.


    At the festive board the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured, and a number of brethren contributed


    to the evening's harmony.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Ulster, No. 62.—The installation meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Petone, on 23rd June, when Bro.


    T. Mather, S.W., was installed by R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M. There was a very large number of


    visitors and members in attendance, and the accommodation was taxed to the utmost. W. Bro. F. Silver,


    P.G.S.B. invested the officers; the address to the W.M. was given by W. Bro. C. W. Neilsen, P.G.S., and to


    the Wardens by W. Bro. Gavin Menzies, G. Supt. of W., and the address to the brethren by M.W. Bro, H. J.


    Williams, P.G.M. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. A. Longmore, H. E. Leighton, and R. Turner


    respectively. The following officers were invested—viz. : S.W., Bro. A. G. Steffensen; J.W., Bro. Y. G.


    Carver ; Chaplain, Bro. F. L. Matthews; Treas., Bro. D. M. Armstrong; Sec., Bro. R. Wylie; S.D., Bro. P.


    Macbride; J.D., Bro. R. A. Scott; D. of C., Bro. W. Cox ; Organist, Bro. B. W. Blakeley; I.G. Bro. W. H.


    Melhuish; S.S., Bro. W. H. Richards; J.S., Bro. F. J. Steinmuller; I.G., Bro. H. Steinmuller. The Lodge was


    tyled at 5 pm., and the business was got through at a reasonably early hour. An adjournment was made to St.


    Augustine's Hall, where the visitors were entertained.— [Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Tararua, No, 67.—The regular meeting, 'held on 5th July, will long be remembered as a memorable one in


    Lodge Tararua's history. The business was to raise two brethren. For the first time in Lodge Tararua the


    P.Ms. worked this degree, and in a masterly, efficient manner. The W.M. handed the gavel to W. Bro. T. F.


    Hewat, D. of C., when W. Bro. Geo. Moore, taking the D. of C.'s duties, placed the following W. brethren as


    follows : W. Bro. White-Scott, as S.W.; W. Bro. C. E. Clifton, as J.W. ; W. Bro. T. Bacon, as Chaplain; W.


    Bro. W. Britland, as S.D. ; W. Bro. H. Griffith, as J.D. ; and W. Bro. A. Ross, as LG., when the Lodge was


    raised, after the questions had been satisfactorily answered. The Ob. and Ss. were given by the W.M. ;


    Exhort, by W. Bro. W. Britland; Secrets, by W. Bro. H. Griffith ; W.Ts., W. Bro. Wm: McKay ; T.H., W.


    Bro. White-Scott; Final Charge, W. Bro. T. Bacon. W. Bro. A. Barrell presented each of the candidates with


    a V. of S.L. W. Bro. Bacon was presented with his P.M.'s certificate by W. Bro. White-Scott, who, in the


    course of his remarks, stated that W. Bro. Bacon was the most regular member we had had, for during eight


    years in the various chairs the worthy recipient had only missed practice and Lodge on three or four


    occasions, and he was quite sure that wherever he went he would be a sterling example to all. After closing, a


    particularly felicitous hour or so was spent in the refectory, where, on top of very apt and happy speeches,


    Bro. Paterson, in reply, made a speech such as is seldom ever heard at a Lodge function. It has been the talk


    of all who heard it, and regret is expressed by those who were absent. Such a speech should have been




    secured on a dictaphone, but it will make 5th July, 1917, in Tararua be ever remembered. We much deplore


    the loss for a while of this young and able brother, who goes to the front. Sincerely we look for his return,


    and, in the words of a visiting W. Brother : " Kindly let me know when Bro. Paterson comes home and you


    give him a welcome. I shall bring members from my Lodge with me, as the reply to-night was worth going


    the length of New Zealand to hear, and his experiences later will be worth listening to."—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    ————


    Otaki, No. 72.—The regular meeting was held on 4th July. A brother was passed to the F.C. Degree. The


    W.M., Wardens, and brethren of Lodge Horowhenua were then admitted, and the W.M. announced that he


    had asked W. Bro. Bagrie and his officers to work the Third Degree. W. Bro. Quayle then handed the gavel


    to W. Bro. Bagrie, who requested his officers to take their respective chairs. The candidate was asked the


    usual questions and retired, when the Lodge was opened in the Third Degree and the candidate admitted. The


    acting-W.M. gave the Ob. ; W. Bro. McIntyre, the Exhort. ; W. Bro. Blenkhorn, the Light Charge and Signs;


    W. Bro. Row, the 1st part of the T.H. ; Bro. Harding, acting-J.W., the 2nd part; the acting-Chaplain W. Bro.


    Webb, the W.Ts. ; and W. Bro. Whittaker, the Final Charge. After H.G.W. had been offered, the Lodge was


    closed and an adjournment made to the refectory. — [Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Eketahuna, No. 92.—The regular meeting was held on 6th July, a good number of members being present,


    presided over by the W.M., W. Bro. T. Knight. The ceremonial work was the passing of a candidate. The


    W.M. gave the Ob. and Ss., and, with the assistance of his Wardens, presented the W.Ts. The Address in the


    S.E. Corner was given by Bro. H. E. Greathead, J.D., and the Final Charge by the I.P.M., W. Bro. J.


    Remnent. After the Lodge was closed a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Berhampore, on 5th July, when


    the W.M., W. Bro. J. W. Sexton, presided over a good attendance of members and visitors. The ceremonial


    work was the raising of one candidate. The W.M. who obligated, was assisted by W. Bro. Ivory (Exhort.),


    W. Bro. Watt (F.F. and Raising), W. Bro. Alexander (Signs), W. Bro. Shand (Apron Charge), W. Bro.


    Harrap (T.H.), Bro. Lenzini, S.W. (W.Ts.), Bro. Martin, J.W. (Final Charge). Bro. Rev. W. Shirer, Chaplain,


    presented the brother with the V. of S.L. on which he was obligated. W. Bro. George, of Lodge Hinemoa,


    presented one of the brethren with a M.M.'s certificate. After H.G.W. from the visitors, the Lodge closed at


    10.15, when an adjournment was made to the refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent.—[Lodge


    Correspondent.]


    ————


    Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The regular meeting was held on 11th July. Two brethren were passed to the Degree


    of F.C. A brother in camp, from Lodge St. Mark's, was also on the circular, but, unfortunately, he went into


    hospital. W. Bro. Leighton obligated ; W. Bro. Hobbs communicated the S., T. and W. ; Bro. Teagle


    invested; W. Bro. Williams, Camp Representative, gave the Charge after Invest.; Bro. Harman, J.W., gave


    the S.E. Charge; and Bro. Purdy, J.D., presented the W.Ts. Bro. Gray was then raised to the Degree of a


    M.M. V.W. Bro. Leighton obligated ; W. Bro. Rishworth raised the candidate ; R.W. Bro. Peterkin gave the


    Exhort. ; W. Bro. McLachlan communicated the Secrets ; Bro. Teagle invested; W. Bro. Williams gave the


    Charge after Invest.; W. Bro. Guiness, the T.H.; and Bro. Teagle, the W.Ts. After the Lodge meeting the


    brethren spent a pleasant hour in the refectory, and Bro. Colonel Potter being present, opportunity was taken


    of congratulating him on receiving the honour of a C.M.G. from His Majesty the King, and he responded to


    the toast of his health in a very humorous speech.—[Lodge Correspondent.]


    ————


    Otari, No. 190.—The annual meeting was held at Ngaio on 10th July, when Bro. Robert Arnot Nicol, S.W.,


    was installed as W.M. There was a large attendance of past and present G.L. officers, amongst the number


    being M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M.,; R.W. Bros. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M.; J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M.; H.


    H. Seaton, P.G.W.; V.W. Bro. H. H. Bridge, P.G.L. ; W. Bros. J. G. Harkness, Colonel J. J. Esson, C.M.G.,


    and J. H. Worboys, P.G.Ds. ; and W. Bro. J. R. Scrimgeour, P.G.S. Visiting Lodges were well represented,


    particularly N.Z. Pacific, No. 2, in which the W.M.-elect was initiated, and of which he has been a member


    for many years. The retiring W.M., Bro. E. Meek, conducted the ceremony up to the retirement of M.Ms,,


    when, by special request, M.W. Bro. Williams assumed control, and, assisted by the G.L. officers named


    above, also by W. Bros. Curtis and Jerram, carried out the remainder of the ceremony with that dignity and


    grace which always characterises his work. The W.Ms. of Lodges Coronation, No. 127, St. Andrew, No. 32,




    and N.Z. Pacific, No. 2, presented the W.Ts. in


    the different degrees. W. Bro. Esson invested


    the officers, while the addresses to the W.M.,


    Wardens, and brethren were impressively


    given by R.W. Bros. Seaton, Peterkin, and


    Ellison respectively. W. Bro. Scrimgeour


    made a most efficient D. of C. At the


    conclusion of the proceedings, which were


    marked throughout by regularity and


    smoothness, an adjournment was made to the


    refectory, where ample justice was done to the


    splendid supper provided by the wives of


    members, whose practical expression of


    goodwill towards the Craft was very much


    appreciated. High-class vocal and instrumental


    items were rendered by several of the best-


    known exponents of music in local Masonic


    circles. Quite a feature of the after-part was a


    most eloquent and inspiriting speech by W.


    Bro. Harkness in proposing the toast of


    "Visiting Brethren." R.W. Bro. Seaton


    provided a mystifying and amusing item,


    which was much appreciated by all present.


    The officers for the year 1917-18 are as


    follows : W.M., Bro. R. A. Nicol; I.P.M. E.


    Meek ; D.M., W. Bro. Harkness, P.S.G.D. ;


    S.W., Bro. A. Ferguson; J.W., Bro. W. A.


    Tanner; Treas.,. W. Bro. S. P. Curtis; Sec., W.


    Bro. J. R. Scrimgeour, P.G.S. ; D. of C., W.


    Bro. J. J. Esson, P.S.G.D. ; Chaplain, Bro. H.


    E. Anderson; S.D., Bro. J. Craig; J.D., Bro. A.


    J. Patrick; I.G., Bro. F. Holdsworth ; S.S., Bro.


    J. Merit; J.S., Bro. W. Hutchings ; Organist,


    Bro. T. C. Chamberlain ; acting-Tyler, Bro. R.


    Aplin ; assist.-S., Bro. E. N. Sutherland ;


    Auditors—appointed by W.M., Bro. W. H.


    Gledhill, elected, Bros. F. Holdsworth and A.


    Ferguson.—[Lodge Correspondent.].


    ————————


    ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS. -


    Otago, No. 7.—Probably the largest number


    of members and visitors that has assembled in


    the Chapter-room for many years greeted the


    V.E.Z. of the above Chapter at its last


    convocation. On each occasion of its meeting


    since the beginning of the year, the attendance


    has gradually increased, culminating in a


    "record" on 2nd June. Whether this good result


    can be ascribed to the Saturday night meeting,


    or to the increased interest at present being


    accorded Capitular Freemasonry, your


    correspondent is not in a position to say. The


    change to Saturday night is certainly


    convenient to many. Probably another reason for the good attendances is the interest taken in the work of the


    different degrees of the various officers. Without wishing to detract in any way from the good work


    accomplished in the past by the V.E.Zs. of this Chapter, all are unanimous that in V.E. Comp. G. T.




    Lumsden, Otago No. 7 has the right officer in the right place. It is quite refreshing to see him, previous to the


    work of the evening being commenced, carefully examining all details connected with the ceremony.


    Nothing is left to chance, and everything is in its place when he takes the chair. Added to this, he is well


    supported by his various officers, who have been complimented by visiting companions on several occasions


    lately for their efficiency in the knowledge of the ritual. It should be mentioned, too, that Otago No. 7 has


    been fortunate in the choice of her 1st Prins. Regularly every meeting we can count on V.E. Comps. H. W. S.


    Hellyer (1st G.Soj.), G. H. Westwood, and H. C. Anderson being present, and willing to take part in the work


    should they be required. The future of the Chapter promises well. Sufficient candidates are hi sight to end the


    present- successful year, and, looking down the list of those who are eligible for the different chairs, there


    appears to be no reason why Otago No. 7 should not continue to prosper.—.[Chapter Correspondent.]


    ————


    Victory, No. 12.—The regular convocation was held on 28th. June, when, V.E. Comp. W. Widdowson


    presided. The business was the acknowledging of four brethren as E.M.. E. Comp. A. W. Oxley was assisted


    by several V.E. companions. Motions of sympathy were passed to Comps. G. A. Edwards, N. R. Williams,


    and C. E. Scully, who had suffered bereavements, the two latter by the loss of a brother and son respectively


    killed in action. V.E. Comp. C. B. Harton was elected D. of C. The Chapter now approaches 60 strong, and is


    working splendidly.—[Chapter Correspondent.]


    ————


    Wanganui; No. 23.—A very successful meeting was held on 5th July, V.E. Comp. Runnerstrum presiding.


    The business was the conferring of the Mark and E.M. on one candidate. The Mark Masters' Lodge was


    presided over by V.E. Comp. T. Bullock, assisted by R.E. Comp. Palmer, V.E. Comp. T. Gordon, Rolston,


    and King. The degree of E.M. was then conferred by V.E. Comp. Runnerstrum, assisted by the same


    companions who worked the Mark Degree. Routine business, nomination of officers, etc., brought the


    working of the Chapter to a close, and a very enjoyable time was then spent in the refectory, where the usual


    toasts were honoured. The next meeting will be -held on 15th August, when the Manawatu Chapter will visit


    and work the R.A. Degree. A very instructive and enjoyable time is looked forward to.—[Chapter


    Correspondent.]