THE IMPORTANCE OF LITTLE THINGS.

EXPERIENCE of life inevitably teaches, let the lessons be heeded or not, the high importance of the "little

things." To this end have been handed down from generation to generation quite a number of wise old

maxims, such as : Take care of the pence, " and the pounds will take care of themselves;" " Many a " mickle

makes a muckle ;" "A stitch in time saves nine:" " A place for everything, and everything in its place,— "A

pin " a day is a gross a year ;" etc., etc. Unfortunately, by the great majority of careless, self-confident, and

arrogant humanity these old "saws" are neglected and despised, with the result that much which is irritating

and troublesome in life, instead of being avoided, is constantly occurring and recurring. Why is it that these

wise old sayings of our forebears have lived through the centuries? Simply because experience of life in its

varied channels has proved irrefutably that their observance makes for orderliness, thrift, method, and

discipline.

Freemasonry is no more exempt from the operation of the law of the "little things" than is any other human

institution, such as the home, the schools, the office, and so on, even up to and including Parliament itself. It

may justly be contended, on the contrary, that Freemasonry, properly understood and sincerely carried out,

peculiarly demands the strictest and never-failing attention to the trifles—the " little things "—because such

ie necessary, to the complete harmony of the whole. A Masonic Lodge, under review by an experienced

brother, is not judged solely by the correctness of its ceremonial, the beauty of its furnishing, or the

eloquence of its members. In the eyes of the experienced reviewer, what shall it profit a Lodge that all these

are beyond cavil if its members are noticed to be incorrectly attired, slouching of deportment, careless and

awkward of pose, irreverent of demeanour, and inattentive to the proceedings? Yet, doubtless, these things

are regarded in these "progressive" days as merely trifles not worth bothering about. But, well within the

recollection of many brethren of New Zealand Masonry, these " trifles " would, if they were in evidence at

all, in years gone by have been classed as serious defects, needing—and receiving—speedy amelioration at

the hands of the Rulers.

Can any one doubt that laxity in these small matters fore-shadows a growing laxity in the greater? In far too

many Lodges, however, this laxity prevails at the present time, To take the question of Masonic attire, which

is clearly defined in the B. of C. for every brother to re-ad and note, it is quite a common experience to come

across the black tie, and to notice the absence of the white gloves. Sad to relate, among the most inveterate

offenders in these respects are very worthy and experienced, even distinguished, brethren, to whom one

naturally looks for the setting of example. Why this persistent defiance of both regulation and of what is

fitting? Again, as to deportment, every novitiate is taught what is proper and peculiar to the Mason in this

regard. But the rule is more honoured in its breach than in its observance; little attention is paid to smartness,

uprightness, and precision of movement. Even the time-honoured salute is perfunctorily given, in a manner

often diametrically opposed to the Masonic ideal, and as though the act was a disagreeable duty, to be hastily

and hurriedly performed and done with, instead of, as it really is, a most important and symbolic Masonic

function. Consider the pose of many of the brethren in the Lodge, even of those in the high places, during the

current proceedings and ceremony. One looks in vain for the alert, attentive pose, the attitude denoting

respect for the W.M. and the proceedings generally, and the reverent demeanour of him who fully recognises

the seriousness and solemnity of the occasion. Instead, one probably observes a number of quite worthy

brethren slouching and lolling in their seats, or, if standing, in an attitude reminiscent of the typical Britisher

before his fireplace—hands beneath his coat-tails, legs and feet wide apart. So little thought is given to this

matter that not infrequently those entrusted with the responsible duty of teaching the brethren by performing

certain parts of the ceremonies will themselves stand in this un-Masonic attitude. One recalls with a shudder

having once seen a brother delivering a most beautiful, instructive, and solemn charge with one hand in his

trousers pocket and the other hooked in the armhole of his waistcoat.

Mere trifles, of course, these things. But let every Mason seriously ask himself : Are they ? Speaking with a

due sense of responsibility and a. lengthy and varied Masonic experience, this journal unhesitatingly affirms

that it is just such laxity in the strict Masonic observance of trifles of this nature which will, unless promptly

checked, prove a menace to the reputation, usefulness, and tone of the Masonic institution. The solemn,

impressive, and artistic proceedings of our Lodges represent the foundations of the Masonic edifice. Permit,

any rot to set in in these foundations, and the stability of the whole structure is weakened and threatened. Not

that the destruction of one or all of these foundations would destroy Masonry. Such is impossible. The Hun,

in his materialism and his kultur of frightfulness, has destroyed the finest and most ancient specimens of

ecclesiastical architecture ; but he has not destroyed, nor can he destroy, the religious faith which those

sacred buildings symbolised. Similarly, the tenets and principles, the simple faith, high aspirations and

ideals, represented by Freemasonry, are beyond the powers of any set of men to destroy. But careless and

negligent members of its profession may seriously impair its reputation, lower its tone and dignity, and so

lessen its usefulness. Laxity in trifles represents an insidious disease of slow, but steady, growth, and is a

danger to be checked before its roots become too firmly imbedded. Every individual Mason is vitally

concerned in this matter, and it is well, therefore, occasionally to concentrate his attention on the high

importance of "little things."

—————————

INEXCUSABLE VERBOSITY.

———<>———

Though brevity is admittedly a virtue at the Masonic refreshment board, it is but ton frequently honoured in

the breach rather than in the observance. In those cases where plenty of time is allowed for carrying out the

refreshment function decently and in order, there can be no objection to any brother who has something to

say for the good of Freemasonry in general saying it. But, as it has been frequently pointed out where labour

does not cease until nearly 11 p.m. long addresses are inexcusable, even from the highest, officers in the

Craft.

Indeed, at such times a sit-down function is a mistake, and should yield place to the buffet system. It must be

evident that, when the business of the Lodge is not concluded until within sixty minutes of midnight, the

brethren must of necessity be wearied with "long talking" ; and if the dreary nothing but words, words, words

is continued where relaxation is sought, it cannot be a matter of surprise if some resentment is subsequently

evinced.

In London, to-day, it is imperative that all Masonic meetings must terminate at 10 p.m.—exactly why, we are

not reliably informed; and though some resentment was in evidence at first, it is now admitted by fraternal

journals that the new order is not an unmixed evil, as of necessity it has absolutely curtailed long speeches,

and brevity not only reigns supreme, but is giving the greatest satisfaction. The present writer was present a

few months ago at an installation meeting of a country Lodge, where the proceedings were inordinately

prolonged in the Lodge-room, with the result that the refreshment stage was not cached until 11 o'clock. The

W.M. was nervous, and did not in any sense rise to the occasion, and the toast list "dragged." One of the

earlier speakers was a brother distinguished in the purple, who prefaced his remarks by saying that owing to

the lateness of the hour brevity must be observed, and then he spoke for nearly half an hour. Another brother,

in responding for the visitors, gave a dissertation on ritual work, and contrasted in detail the work performed

in this Lodge and in the Lodges in the district in which he formerly resided, and quoted points of personal

differences—and the hour was 1 a.m.

In view of the fact that the difficulties of the position are not in any sense insuperable, it is amazing how in

so many Lodges the same silly blunder is perpetuated year after year. There are few Lodges that could not

open one, or even two, hours earlier on one night in the year. If that course is barred, simply to conform to

the sheep-following performance, then it is not impossible for the proper officers to enforce greater celerity

in carrying out Lodge ceremonial and work. But in cases where the late arrival in the refectory is adhered to,

the G. officers especially should steadily set their faces against speech-making, and we are assured this

example would speedily become contagious. There is also another remedy for Lodges so desirous of

maintaining the usual hour of opening. It is by ceasing to hold a formal refreshment meeting on the night of

installation, deferring it to a special night selected for this purpose alone, when toasts could be fittingly

honoured, a proper musical programme could be thoroughly enjoyed, and the gathering would be a Masonic

festival in very deed, where everything could be done decently and in order. We understand there is one

Lodge —the Civic, Christchurch—which has adopted this plan, which gives pleasure to all. The inexcusable

verbosity to which we draw attention is, for some extraordinary reason, the growth of hurried and late

meetings. Singular to say, on an evening specially dedicated to the purpose one rarely hears what may be

termed a bad speech„ probably because the brethren who are included in the toast list give some thought to

the subject entrusted to them, and go to the meeting with something to say.

—————————

A CORRESPONDENT, writing from Dunedin, informs us that the installation of Bro. J. A. -McPhee as W.M. of

Lodge Ionic, No. 191, was made the occasion of a large number of the members of Otago R.A. Chapter, No.

7, journeying to Green Island on 8th July to do honour to that companion. The proceedings had a good deal

of interest for those brethren connected with R.A. Freemasonry, as this was the first occasion on which V.E.

Comp R. Hawcridge (as Prov.G.M. of Otago) appeared as I.M.

Our correspondent adds that Otago Chapter is very proud of its Green Island enthusiasts, who evince a real

interest in capitular Freemasonry, and can always be relied upon to be present at instruction and regular

meetings.

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

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

M.W. BRO. C. J. W. GRIFFITHS, P.G.M., has not been in the best of health lately, but had recovered

sufficiently to attend the installation meeting of Wairau Lodge, No. 42 (Blenheim), where he delivered the

Address to the Brethren in his usual impressive manner.

THE two brethren who were invested as Wardens at the installation meeting of Wairau Lodge, No. 42, at

Blenheim last month (Bros. T. E. Cleator and A. E. Jellyman), are both on the staff of the local newspaper,

the "Marlborough Express," and it was a happy inspiration that entrusted the address to the Wardens to W.

Bro. R. P. Furness, proprietor of the "Express," who is a member of the sister Lodge in Blenheim.

R.W. BRO. A. VEITCH, P.G.W., of Wellington, has taken up his residence in Sydney. Owing to his wife's

indifferent health, Mr. Veitch and his family migrate to the warmer climate during the winter months.

THERE was a very large attendance of brethren at the annual meeting of Leinster Lodge, Wellington, held on

1st July. In addition to the popularity which this Lodge enjoys, the M.W.G.M. made his first official visit to

Wellington City, and received a most enthusiastic reception, he being deservedly esteemed in the capital city.

He had the escort of a large number of G. and P.G. officers, including two P.G.Ms. The whole function was

exceedingly pleasant.

BRO. ALEXANDER FERGUSON, the new W.M. of Otari Lodge, Khandallah, had a great reception on the

occasion of his installation on 6th July. The weather was bad and materially affected the attendance, and the

W.M. had virtually got, out of a sick bed to be present. The function was all that could be desired, and was

fully appreciated by those in attendance.

AT recent Masonic meetings, especially installations, brevity of speech has been strongly advocated, and

practised, by several distinguished brethren.

AT an emergency meeting of the United Manawatu Lodge, No. 1721, E.C., on 12th July, advantage was

taken of the opportunity to bid farewell to W. Bro. R. M. McKnight, who is leaving for the Christchurch

branch of the N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Co. Many laudatory speeches were made by members and

visitors, all testifying to his Masonic ability, earnestness, and research, the latter especially having been

manifested in several excellent addresses he has given from time to time. Bro. McKnight also recently

became a member of Manawatu R.A. Chapter, which had previously bidden him farewell. All join in regret

at his departure, wish him prosperity, and hope for his speedy return.

BRO. D. MCLEAN visited St. John Lodge, Invercargill, while on final leave from camp and had a good

reception. His camp anecdotes were received with great interest, and the empty bottle incident with much

amusement.

THE W.M. visited Lodge Waikaka in connection with their installation, in company with W.M. and brethren

of Lodge Harvey. Unluckily, the floods were at their height, and motor travelling was not very pleasant. Bro.

Clark, however, braved the elements and got a small party through safely, although he was a bit afraid of his

car catching. "hydracarburettoritis," as they had to go through about three feet of water at one part of the

road.

RECENTLY the brethren of Lodge St. John, Invercargill, met, to bid God-speed to Bro. W. W. Murray, who is

leaving for camp, and presented him with a case of pipes as a small token of the esteem in which he was

held.

THE matter of providing a special charity is now before St. Augustine Lodge, Christchurch. The following

three schemes have been outlined for a selection : (1) A cot in the Christchurch Hospital at a capital cost of

£909, or an annual subscription of £45. (2) A scholarship in the Boys' High High School at an estimated cost

of £10 10s. per annum. (3) A nominated annuitant to the Annuity Fund of the G.L, of N.Z. at a cost of £400.

WE regret to report the death of Bro. J. T. Blampied after a short but very severe illness. The burial took

place on Sunday, 14th July, and was attended by the W.M. and brethren of Lodge St. John as a last tribute to

a highly-esteemed brother.

THE installation of W. Bro. N. L. Macbeth as Dist.G.M. of the Dist.G.L. of Canterbury, E.C., was arranged

to take place on 25th July, too late for a report to appear in the present-issue of the CRAFTSMAN.

THE agenda of Lodge United Service, Auckland, for June, included one ballot, election of auditors and

investigation committee, installation of W.M., and investiture of officers, and to raise four brethren. We are

not aware if this programme was carried out in its entirety. If it was, then the brethren had a night out.

DON'T keep your Masonry for the Lodgeroom, and put your ideals away as carefully as you put away your

apron. Bring them out with you into the day's work, and use them as a factor in your business decisions, in

your judgments of your fellow-men, in your attitude towards your country and the services she is demanding

of you in her hour of need. By filling our thoughts and our lives with the teachings of the Craft it will

inevitably follow that we will each do our share towards making Masonry even broader in its Charity, deeper

in its Faith, higher in its Ideals.--[W. Bro. R. Stiles, Victory Lodge, Nelson.]

"THE year 1917-18 was the greatest year experienced in the history of the Lodge."— [Victory Lodge report.]

Judging by the following details, we readily accept this statement. Number of degrees conferred, 51;

meetings held, 12 regular, 4 emergency, and 1 Lodge of Sorrow. Total attendance at all meetings, 971. which

included 270 P.Ms., being an average of 57 and 17 P.Ms. The admissions during the past five years have

numbered 78.

LODGE Ulster, Petone, has a Lodge Benevolent Fund, with a capital of £260. Also a Building Fund, which

totals £260. The value of the assets of the Ledge is £1105.

THE Auckland Prov. R.A. Chapter usually meets at 5 p.m. and calls off at 6 to tea, which is provided in the

hall. The Comps. then resume work like giants refreshed and are able to conclude the sederunt at a

comparatively early hour.

WE express regret at certain inaccuracies and errors which appeared in our last issue, and which are not in

any sense characteristic of the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN. Overwork in our office led to lax reading, to the

encouragement of the printer's demon.

AT the Lodge of Sorrow held in Dunedin to the memory of the late R.W. Bro. T. S. Graham, Dist.G.M.,

E.C., the-scholarly address given by R.W. Bro. R. Hawcridge was quite a distinctive feature of the solemn

occasion.

W. BRO. W. C. LUCAS, P.M., and for the past six years the energetic Sec. of Lodge Wairau, Blenheim, has

received his marching orders, and is now in camp at Trentham. He was farewelled by his brethren prior to

departure, and cordial appreciation was expressed of his past valuable services.

AT the installation banquet of Lodge Mataura, No. 174, in proposing the toast of " Our Brethren on Active

Service,"V.W. Bro. Rev. W. W. Brown, P.G.C., paid a great tribute to those who are fighting and dying in

the cause of freedom. V.W. Bro. Brown has just returned from Home and could speak from first-hand

knowledge of the very great sacrifice our brethren are making, and making cheerfully, without regret, and

concluded a very fine oration by reciting the "Bells of Oxford " as being applicable to the theme.

THE late Robert Caldwell, who died very suddenly at his home at Karori on 14th Julys was an old member of

the fraternity, having been installed W.M. of Lodge Ngamotu, No. 2053, E.C., in 1887, immediately after

which he was transferred from New Plymouth to Wellington. W. Bro. Caldwell did not identify himself with

the Craft here, the upbringing of a family of nine on the income of a draughtsman in the Land and Survey

Department fully taxing his resources. He was active in church work, and will be greatly missed in parish

and diocesan circles. Four of his sons are on active service, three at the front and one in camp. Farewell,

brother!

It is suggested that the Stewards of Lodge Mataura, No. 174, in some measure emulated the miracle related

in Holy Writ of the loaves and fishes. Certainly they must have been somewhat exercised at the great array

of visiting brethren, but happily they were men of resource and successfully rose to the occasion.

A SERIOUS accident occurred last week to Bro. Arthur Heighway, agent at Pukekohe, Auckland, for Messrs.

Wright, Stephenson, and Co. As he was out rabbit shooting in that district he received a charge of shot in his

left foot through the accidental discharge of his gun. The foot was badly injured, and the big toe has been

amputated in a private hospital in Auckland. It is hoped that the foot may be saved. Bro. Heighway, who is a

son-in-law of Bro. J. B. Armit, of Wellington, was at different times on the literary staffs of the Otago Daily

Times, Christchurch and New Zealand Times, retiring from journalism on account of a nervous breakdown.

During his residence in Christchurch Bro. Heighway acted as agent for the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN.

EVIDENTLY Lodge Coronation is not en rapport with the official meteorologist, as each succeeding year the

atmospheric condition became more execrable. We suggest that the Lodge should make its peace with Mr.

Bates before next annual.

WE hope to be able to present .a portrait of the M.W. Grand Master, with short Masonic biography, in our

next issue.

—————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

Those brethren who journeyed to the installation meeting at Mataura on 10th July were well repaid. Though

held under full midwinter conditions, the meeting was attended by 84 brethren from different parts of the

district. W. Bro. E. C. Smith, as D. of C., appears to come in for the major share of praise for his work, and

the palm for the best speech goes to W. Bro. Brown in his manner of proposing the toast "Brethren on Active

Service."

✳ ✳ ✳

Special heating arrangements are being made at Lodge Waihopai Freemasons' Hall. Visiting brethren are

now assured of a warm reception in every sense of the word.

✳ ✳ ✳

The following excerpt from a letter received by R.W. Bro. W. Smith speaks for itself. It was written at flood

time by W. Bro. D. Gee, Secretary of Lodge Harvey : "Floods again, and poor old 49 in it as usual. Got all

things off the floor, so it only remains for us to get busy with brooms and clean out when water goes down."

✳ ✳ ✳

W. Bro. H. D. Lowry, as D. of C. of Lodge Southern Cross, is undoubtedly the " right man, etc." His conduct

of the ceremony left nothing to be desired, and at the social part of the evening a full toast-list was honoured,

fully interspersed with musical and elocutionary items, and yet the "last car" was easily caught by those who

remained to the finish.

✳ ✳ ✳

A toast which was omitted from the installation meeting of Lodge Victoria was honoured at the July

assembly, being capably proposed by W. Bro. J. G. Petrie, and responded to by the Wardens, Bros. A. Greig

and A. Derbie.

✳ ✳ ✳

W. Bro. J. T. Prain, the first W.M. of Lodge Waihopai, died at his residence, Gladstone, on Thursday, 11th

July, aged 54 years. The late brother had lived a particularly active life, and up till some two months ago had

enjoyed good health. Bro. Prain, for quite a long time, gave a lot of service to his Lodge, but pressure of

outside business compelled his retirement about a year ago. The funeral took place on Saturday, and was

largely attended.

✳ ✳ ✳

W. Bro. W. T. Waters, by special request, delivered an address (illustrated by charts) at a recent instruction

meeting of Lodge St. John, his subject being "Symbolism." He repeated the lecture to an instruction meeting

of Lodge Southern Cross on 11th July. At both meetings Bro. Waters was heartily thanked, the lecture being

thoroughly appreciated.

✳ ✳ ✳

Instruction meetings at each of the local Lodges are being conducted as their title signifies they should, and

young Freemasons look forward with interest to short papers by P.Ms. of repute. At Lodge Waihopai, W.

Bro. C. B. Haggit, D. of C., is putting forward all his energies in the direction of assisting his brethren to a

better understanding of Masonry in general.

✳ ✳ ✳

There are many P.Ms. who have studied the many mysteries and history of the Craft, and who are ready to

give of their knowledge. If, as during the past year, the regular meetings are to be absorbed by ritual work, an

excellent opportunity is afforded at instruction meetings for brethren to be given an opportunity of

advancement in Masonic knowledge.

✳ ✳ ✳

Lodge Southern Cross adopted a wise procedure in passing a resolution at its first meeting instructing the

Wardens to take up collecting for the Annuity Fund right away instead of waiting till the last remaining

month of the year, when unforeseen circumstances may arise to interfere with this important duty. After all,

most brethren only require a reminder, and if the Wardens commence their activities early in the day Lodge

Southern. Cross should make a good showing when returns are published.

—————————

NOTES FROM NAPIER.

———<>———

Lodge Scinde is fortunate in again having the services of W. Bro. A. E. Currie as librarian. It is entirely due

to W. Bro. Currie's initiative and vigorous prosecution that Lodge Scinde has now the nucleus of what in the

near future may develop into a valuable Masonic library. Every Freemason is, or ought to be, enjoined to

study literature in every form and aspect ; therefore, whilst literary tastes are widely varied, every Lodge

should have its adherents to the study of Masonic literature, and to such students in Lodge Scinde W. Bro.

Currie is rendering invaluable service. Books form so important a factor in professional and social life that

one is amazed at the indifference with which the average person regards them. When we reflect that the

discoveries, achievements, and thoughts of some of the greatest minds that have lived during centuries of

time are recorded amid stored away in books, one marvels that we do not make better use of this priceless

inheritance. A. great Englishman, Richard de Bury, Bishop of Durham, writing in praise of books more than

five hundred years ago, well said : "These are the masters who instruct us without rods or ferules; without

hard words and anger ; without clothes or money. If you approach them they are not asleep ; if, investigating,

you interrogate them, they conceal nothing ; if you mistake them they never grumble; if you are ignorant

they cannot laugh at you. The library, therefore, of wisdom is more precious than all riches, and nothing that

can be wished for is worthy to be compared with it. Whosoever, therefore, acknowledges himself to be a

zealous follower of truth, of happiness, of wisdom, of science, or even of faith, must of necessity make

himself a lover of books." Regrets have from time to time been expressed that certain records pertaining to

time Grand Lodge of New Zealand have been lost. Such a loss is not likely to occur in the future, as the

proceedings of Grand Lodge are to a great extent recorded in the N.Z. Masonic organ, the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN,

the volumes of which should be a desirable possession for any Lodge, as it contains reports and records of

most of the Lodges of time N.Z. Constitution. But, perhaps, most valuable of all are the contributions to its

pages by N.Z. Freemasons, many of which are so high in tone, and of such far-reaching moral value in

pr6mulgating the tenets of the Craft, that they will doubtless inspire future generations; and it may be said of

them that " great writers never die."

"He is not dead whose glorious mind

"Lifts thine on high.

"To live in hearts we leave behind

"Is not to die."

A prominent feature of our book shelves is the numerous volumes of N.Z. CRAFTSMAN, and brethren can

rely on our librarian's good taste in time selection of other works. Perhaps the greatest reward the brethren

could bestow on W. Bro. Currie in appreciation of his efforts would be a more vigorous co-operation in the

work of establishing a library, and a more effective use of what he has provided.

✳ ✳ ✳

At its May meeting Lodge Scinde adopted a resolution to levy its members 10s. per member during the

coining year for the purpose of augmenting G.L. War Fund.

✳ ✳ ✳
A somewhat surprising fact in connection with Lodge Scinde is that, although one of the oldest Lodges in the

Dominion, it has, as subscribing members, only twelve P.Ms. and four affiliated P.Ms.

✳ ✳ ✳

W. Bro. C. L. Thomas is to be heartily congratulated on the efficient manner in which he carried out the

duties of toastmaster at the installation meeting of Lodge Scinde ; the most pleasing feature of which was the

fact that every visitor was present to respond to the Tyler's toast.

✳ ✳ ✳

At its installation meeting Lodge Scinde decided to conform to its usual custom of making up the collection

for the G.L. W., O. and A.M. Fund to £21.

✳ ✳ ✳

A feature of the installation banquet was the efficient manner in which the stewards carried out their duties

of hospitality. Bro. S. B. Houghton is to be congratulated on the prompt and attentive manner in which the

guests were served.

✳ ✳ ✳

R.W. Prov.G.M. Bro. H. L. Harston was in excellent form in the ceremony of installing W. Bro. A. E.

Currie: his interrogatory work, ob., and charge being unusually impressive, and generally, his 49th

installation ceremony was one to be remembered.

———————————————————————————————

LODGE OF SORROW.

———<>———

A Lodge of Sorrow, to pay respect to the memory of the late R.W. Bro. Thomas Sherlock Graham, was held

in the Masonic Hall, Moray Place, Dunedin, on Sunday afternoon, 23rd June, under the auspices of

Dist.G.L., E.C., Otago and Southland. The four English Lodges that were under the jurisdiction of R.W. Bro.

Graham were strongly represented by members of the Craft from Port Chalmers, Lawrence, and Dunedin;

the three other Constitutions were also well represented; and, indeed, there were present Masons from all the

outlying districts, the attendance numbering fully 250.

The ceremony was conducted by V.W. Bro. J. S. Webb, D.D.G.M., E.C., assisted by his Dist.G.L. officers,

together with V.V. Bro. the Most Rev. the Primate, P.P.G.C. (Staffordshire); R.W. Bros. D. Cooke, D.G.M.

(S.C.); R. Hawcridge, Prov.G.M. (N.Z.C.); and G. Scott, P.G.J.W. (I.C.)

The St. Andrew's Orchestra, under the direction of Bro. J. Flint, with W. Bro. R. Bennell, D.G.O., at the

organ, opened the ceremony with the Dead March from " Saul," and afterwards played Chopin's Funeral

March in impressive style. Suitable hymns were led by a choir of all Constitutions, every brother joining

most heartily in the singing. The Scripture reading was given by V.W. Bro. the Rev. R. Evan Davies, D.G.C.

V.W. Bro. J. S. Webb carried out the ritual prepared for the service. During the ceremony W. Bros. C.

Mitchell, D.J.G.M., H. H. S. White, D.S.G.W., and W. R. Hayward, P.G.B.P., deposited floral emblems on

the casket, and made appropriate remarks. The Masters of the four Lodges under the jurisdiction of the

deceased occupied positions as guardians. The whole of the proceedings, which had been most completely

and lovingly thought out in every detail, were ably perfected under the direction of W. Bro. E. E. Cayzer,

D.G.D.C. Great credit is due to the way the Lodge of Sorrow was appointed and to the care exercised in

every particular by Bro. Nisbet.

The addresses were impressive. Bro. T. S. Webb, D.D.G.M., and Bro. A. Bagley, P.D.S.G.W., spoke on the

universality of death. The Most Rev. the Primate, in the course of his remarks, likened the occasion to that of

the felling of a large historic tree. It was missed, but the space that it occupied was not a void. So it was with

the removal of the late Bro. Graham. His geniality of temperament and his high character had so enlarged his

circle of influence as to embrace all Constiutions of the Order, and his death had therefore made a wide

space, which seemed to be, but in reality was not, empty, for his good works followed him. He had been

called on for higher work by T.G.A.O.T.U., and for that higher work he had been given a temple not made

with hands. In the new life he was now called to his virtues and his characteristics would shine far more

brililantly than any of the Masonic jewels that he wore on earth.

R.W. Bro. D. Cooke, D.D.G.M., dealt with Bro. Graham's Masonic career. He had been engaged in Masonry

in this district for fifty-seven years, and was Dist.G.M. of the E.C. in Otago and Southland for thirty-seven

years, succeeding Bro. J. Hyde Harris. During his office as D.G.M. he had many troubles to overcome.

Amongst these was a loss by fire. Shortly after the Masonic work was started on a site now occupied by the

Criterion Hotel the place was burnt out, and a great many documents were destroyed. This caused a setback.

But, owing largely to Bro. Graham's indefatigable efforts and the efforts of others, the Masonic operations

were continued. The present high standard of the E.C. in the district was undoubtedly owing to his efforts.

Perhaps it was an advantage that Bro. Graham had only four Lodges under him. He was thus able to devote

more attention to the members individually than if there had been a greater number of Lodges. As a result,

every member of the E.C. was brought into personal contact with him. He did not, however, confine his

efforts entirely to the E.C. There could be no doubt that Masonry generally in this part of the world was

steered by him through many anxious periods of difficulty. He was always willing to give any help he could

to any Mason of every Constitution, and he was looked upon by the members of the whole fraternity as the

father of Masonry in this district.

Bro. R. Hawcridge, Prov.G.M., said in the course of his address: " The Lodge of Life had many degrees, and

we are passed, raised, acknowledged, exalted, and so forth, just when and as the G.M. directs. We enter this

life poor, penniless, and naked ; but, all too soon, we clothe ourselves in a pitiful garment of pretence, which

separates us from our other self— our true, eternal self—that entered with us and still stands at our side

throughout the labours and the refreshment of this Lodge of Life. Sometimes, if we keep our hearts young

and hold fast to the golden thread of love, given us to guide us through the labyrinth of our earthly

experience, we can hear the whispers, feel the inspiration, of this other self. But too frequently, alas, we only

hear its promptings while our years are few, before the garment of pretence is closely knit about us, and

before our innocence is shrivelled in the chill air of experience. For experience of the unrealities of this finite

life soon banishes all sense of the realities of the infinite. Freemasonry is spread over the whole surface of

the globe. It embraces all nations, all creeds. But there is no true Freemason—be he Brahmin, Buddhist,

Mohammedan, Confucian, Jew, or Christian—but is in perfect agreement with Him who says, A new

commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another.' For the outstanding lesson of Freemasonry is love.

The threefold watchword of Freemasonry—' Fraternity, equality, charity '—teaches three lessons. Fraternity

teaches love of the brotherhood ; equality teaches us that all men, being equal in the sight of God, as they are

equal in the presence of Death, are all brothers; and Freemasonry has ever held that the highest of all human

virtues is charity—love towards all men. Yet are these three lessons but one lesson—love. No one could

associate, however casually, with the late Bro. Thomas Sherlock Graham without perceiving immediately

that his ruling passion was good-fellowship—not the good-fellowship which is a synonym, or at least a

cloak, for self-indulgence, but love for his fellow man. He breathed it in, he breathed it out. God's mercies

seemed to him so great, the world so beauteous, and his fellow man seemed so full of sympathy and

kindness, that he could not help exhaling an atmosphere of old-world courtliness and grace of sweetness and

light which, unfortunately, is fast dying along with his generation. He, surely, kept his heart young. He,

surely, kept fast hold of the golden thread of love. And, as the thread of Ariadne guided her beloved Theseus

through the labyrinth of Crete, so was our beloved brother guided safely through the intricate windings of

this mortal life, until, having slain the Minotaur of selfishness and fear, he sloughed off all that remained of

his garment of pretence, joined hands with his true self, and passed safely into the haven where he would

be—the Eternal Temple not made with hands—in the sure hope that he would be bidden to enter, being of

good report."

Bro. G. Scott, P.P.G.J.W., made a few well chosen remarks dealing with the great brotherly feeling that Bro.

Graham evinced to every member of the Craft of every Constitution. He was always ready to give good

advice, not only to those who held high office, but to the last apprentice or time youngest initiate. All had

equal access to his help and assistance.

OBITUARY.

———<>———

THE LATE R.W. BRO. DR. T. J. WITHERS, P. D. G. M.

Another of the pioneer Freemasons in Canterbury passed away on 5th July, 1918, in the person

of R.W. Bro. Dr. Withers, P.D.G.M. Up till about two years ago our esteemed brother enjoyed

the best of health, but at that time he had a severe attack of pneumonia, which left him with a

weakened heart. Acting on advice from his medical adviser, the doctor took a prolonged holiday

in Auckland and Rotorua. For a time after coming back it was hoped by his friends that a

permanent cure had been effected, but this was not so, for gradually it was apparent that the

doctor's days were numbered, and his sudden end was not unexpected.

Dr. Withers was initiated in Lodge Progress in October, 1892, and in 1896 was installed at

W.M. In 1894 he was appointed G.Std.B., in 1897 G.Pur., in 1900 S.G.D., in 1903 S.G.W., and

in 1908 Dep.-G.M. During his Masonic career, R.W. Bro. Withers took a keen interest in

R.A. Freemasonry, and at one time was 1st Prin. of Chapter, St. Augustine, No. 1. When Lodge

Ahurewa, No. 181, was consecrated in 1911 he was the first P.M., and up till a few weeks ago

he was a regular attendant. At the time of his death he was Treas. to the Lodge.

The funeral of our late brother, which took place on Sunday, 7th July, was the largest ever held

in the district. Over 120 vehicles, mostly motor-cars, followed the hearse from the residence at

Southbridge, and others joined in en route to the Ellesmere Cemetery. A short service was held

at the Lodge of Progress, at the conclusion of which the members, together with a number of

brethren from Lodges Waihora and Ahurewa, and M.W. Bro. J. J. Dougall, P.G.M., R.W. Bro.

S. Clifton Bingham, P.Prov.G.M., and V.W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop, Prov.G. Sec., marched to the

late Dr. Withers's residence, where they formed up in single file between the entrance gate and

the hearse. At the cemetery the Masonic brethren marched ahead of the hearse to the graveside.

The service at the grave was conducted by the Rev. J. S. Reid, of Dunsandel, Moderator of the

Southbridge Presbyterian charge, assisted by the Rev. G. Lindsay, of Riccarton, late

Presbyterian minister of Southbridge. The Masonic service was read by R.W. Bro. S. C.

Bingham, P.Prov. G.M., and V.W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop, Prov. G.Sec. At the conclusion the

Masonic brethren filed past the grave, and each deposited a sprig of acacia upon the coffin. The

pall-bearers were :—Messrs. W. F. Lill, D. T. Wraight, A. W. Scott, W. M. Gabbie, W. Scott,

and W. Abbott. Every local body and organisation in the district was represented, and there

were many people from Christchurch and elsewhere.

——————

BRO. WALTER G. NEVILLE, S.W.

———

A special meeting of Lodge Rawhiti was held on 13th July it the request of Lodge Puketoi, No.

149, Pongaroa, for the purpose of conducting the funeral of the late Bro Walter O. Neville,

S.W., of Lodge Puketoi, who passed away at a local private hospital after a lingering illness.

The late Bro. Neville was managing accountant for W. Bro. Frank Armstrong at Akitio, and

during a long residence on the Coast had made many friends, by whom he was held in very high

esteem. Despite the long distance and the state of the roads, no less than twenty nine members

of Lodge Puketoi signed the attendance book on Saturday morning.

After opening the Lodge W. Bro. Thomsen handed over the gavel to W. Bro. Harold Thomas,

W.M. of Lodge Puketoi, who, with his officers, conducted the major portion of the ceremony in

the Lodge, and the concluding portion at the graveside.

After the conclusion of the funeral ceremony, and before the Lodge closed, W. Bro. Thomas

expressed the appreciation of his Lodge for the fraternal assistance accorded by Lodge Rawhiti

in affording the last sad tribute of respect to departed merit.

W. Bro. Thomsen, on behalf of this Lodge, expressed deepest sympathy with Lodge Puketoi in

the loss sustained by the death of its S.W

—————————

NEWS FROM HOME.

———<>———

The following excerpts are taken from an interesting and chatty letter received from R.W. Bro. Lieut.-

Colonel Geo. Barclay :—

"N.Z.E. Reserve Depot,

Christchurch, Hants,

England, 13th May, 1918.

"I was pleased to get your letter a little time ago. We have just recently moved into our summer quarters

(under canvas) at Christchurch ; so that explains the change of address. Boscombe and Christchurch are,

however, only about tire miles apart. Spring is with us, and the country has during the past few weeks

undergone a delightful change, and now looks very pretty and green. To a New Zealander the English

countryside is very attractive at this time of the year. I put in one Sunday afternoon collecting wild primroses

and wood hyacinths in the New Forest—it will be something to look back upon. In about another two weeks

the rhododendrons will be in full bloom, and as there are some noted drives in this neighbourhood, I am

looking forward to seeing a fine display of colour. I was in seeing Bro. Colville Smith, the new G. Sec. of the

G.L. of England, when in London on a recent visit. He appreciates our help in connection with the

investigations for candidates. He was endeavouring to get the Australians and Canadians to organise a

somewhat similar arrangement, but no one appears willing to move in the matter on behalf of either

dominion. It is a pity, as a large number of both are going through now. I wrote to Bro. Niccol with regard to

the recognition of the G.L. of France. It would be a good thing if this could be arranged. The G.L. of France

has English-speaking Lodges working at Paris, Rouen, Havre, and Boulogne ; and our brethren are invited,

and do, I know, go to the meetings. The G.L. of England recognised this G.L. when it was formed about

1913 or 1914, and Bro. Colville Smith tells me that everything is quite in order. I told the G.Sec. to write to

Bro. Niccol on the matter. Our Association is doing good work in England, although in France circumstances

have been against the holding of meetings to any extent. The Division has been a great deal on the move, and

Bro. Hardie told me in a recent letter that he was travelling light, and had had to leave all his Masonic papers

in the rear. In response to a request from the Bournemouth brethren, our Association there is going to show

them some New Zealand workings. We have selected the Alternative Third, and will, no doubt, be able to

show them something which will be new to the majority of the brethren. Most of the Lodges are calling off

now, and there will be a cessation of meetings in this neighbourhood for three or four months."

—————————

TAIHAPE FROM THE HILL.

———<>———

[To the Brethren of Lodge Otaihape, No. 142.]

————

High o'er the narrowing scenes of life—

The littleness of all !—

My soul doth breathe a purer air ;

A vision spread beyond compare,

To in my dreams recall.

The autumn sun may pass away,

And come the winter chill ;

Spring roses bloom and then decay ;

But in my heart thou'lt live for aye-

Taihape from the Hill !

April, 1918. —Acton Aynsley.

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

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

TURNING TO THE EAST.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO. ,—In your last issue a correspondent takes exception to the growing practice of turning

to the east for the purposes of prayer, and quotes the Jewish ritual in support of his contention. He states that

the Jew never turns to the east when praying. He is quite wrong. All synagogues are built due east and west,

with the ark containing the scrolls of the law always in the east. A worshipper in the synagogue is never

allowed to turn his back to the ark except when the scrolls have been taken therefrom. All important prayers

are recited with the worshipper facing the east. This method has no ritualistic significance except the

reverence which the Jew entertains for the great Mosaic law contained in the scroll. This writer begs to

humbly submit that it matters not whether, in the sacred precincts, one turns to the north, east, south, or west.

It is sincerity which counts, not ceremonial, although the latter is a necessary adjunct to our working.—

Yours fraternally., E. NORDON.

—————————

POINTS OF MASONIC PRACTICE.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO. ,— Your July article was specially interesting. I quite agree that the Tyler's Toast

should be given by that officer, be drunk standing, and with silent honours. As to its wording, it should

contain some reference to relief and return, but the old wording has become very mangled. In the Lodge in

which I was initiated forty-one years ago it ran : "To all poor and distressed Masons, wherever they may be

on land or sea, a speedy relief from all their troubles, and a safe return to their own country, should they so

desire." Kipling has supplied a verse at the close of his "Widow at Windsor," which might either be used as

the toast, or be sung after it :—

"Here's to the Sons of the Widow,

Wherever soever they roam ;

Here's all they desire, and if they require,

A speedy return to their home."

In the musical setting; this leads into the last two lines of " Home, Sweet Home.

On the question of H.G.W., I suggest that all difficulties may be overcome if the brother says : " H.G.W. as a

member of Lodge," etc.

Please allow me in conclusion to thank M.W. Bro. Griffiths for his sound reasoning against floor members

doing ritual work. It is well that one of high authority thus cautions the W.M. in regard to his duty. Let

members take any part at rehearsals, but allow none but P.Ms. or W.Ms. to deliver charges to candidates. I

appreciate M.W. Bro. Griffiths' remarks, because I know him to be an expert. When I visited Lodge

Unanimity, Blenheim, in 1880, he came to prove me, and gave me nearly an hour's run, through all the

"lectures," as well as the other things, and as I was then fresh from a chair in my Mother Lodge we then had

mutual pleasure and profit.—Yours fraternally, PENTALPHA.

—————————

A MASONIC MEETING IN JERUSALEM.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO. ,— I have just received a very interesting letter from Bro. G. Lovelock, P.M., now in

Palestine, and thought it advisable to send same on to you for the CRAFTSMAN, because it will, I feel sure, be

read by the brethren of this Dominion. The letter is dated 9th April and from Palestine, viz. :—

It is very stifling and hot to-day and I feel in no mood for letter-writing, but nevertheless I must let you know

all about an event of a special interest to Masons in general in New Zealand. It was W. Bro. General

Meldrum's great hope that New Zealand Masons should hold a meeting as near as possible to the site of

K.S.T., and I am glad to be able to tell you that that great event took place on Saturday, 6th April, at 3.15

p.m., and with greater success than any of us had dared to hope for considering the difficulties that had to be

overcome. But, as Bro. General Meldrum afterwards remarked, we gained all our objectives. We had been on

a very trying "stunt" to the Mecca Railway, about twenty miles east of the Jordan in very cold, wet,

miserable weather, and had returned to the tropical climate of Jericho in the Jordan Valley, when it was

suggested that, as we were twenty miles of Jerusalem, we should make an attempt to go there and hold the

meeting. At first it seemed as though we were doomed to failure, as it was not until the Friday evening that

permission was granted for us to go. On Saturday morning we mustered some thirty members and made a

very pleasant trip to the Holy City in motor-cars very kindly placed at our disposal by General Chaytor. We

arrived there at mid-day, and after lunch at the new Grand Hotel (the best meal many of us had had for

months), we made our way through the narrow streets of the old city to the Mosque of Omar, which covers

the rock on which Abraham is said to have offered Isaac as a sacrifice, and on which King Solomon stood.

Beneath the rock is a cave, and this we decided was the best place for our purpose, and with the help of the

Sheikh of the Mosque (who proved himself on the S. and much backsheesh, we obtained the privacy of the

cave for fifteen minutes, in which time we assembled and opened the Lodge, passed a few appropriate

resolutions, and closed the Lodge again. We then went outside and were photographed, so that we might

have some record of the gathering. The principal officers were :— W.M., W. Bro. General Meldrum ; S. W.,

W. Bro. Colonel McCarrol, of Auckland ; J. W., your humble servant; Sec., Bro. Padre Wilson. The principal

officers each provided their own gavel, and after the meeting was over we each realised the value of those

gavels, as one worthy brother remarked it was the first Masonic meeting held on the spot for 3000 years, and

our great difficulty was that we had not the minutes of the last meeting.

The gavels used were made of acacia and cedar wood from Lebanon.

R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash has since received the G. and A. used by W. Bro. Lovelock on this memorable

occasion, with the request that it should be presented to his Mother Lodge, Manawatu Kilwinning, No. 47,

and Lodge Otangaki, of which he was a member at the time of enlistment. — With kind regards, yours

fraternally, J. A. N ASH, P.S.G.W.

—————————

GREETINGS.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

Christchurch, Hants, England,

17th May, 1918

DEAR SIR AND M.E. COMP., — On behalf of the R.A. Companions who have been enrolled as members of

the N.Z.E.F. Masonic Association, I desire you to convey congratulations to M.E. Comp. J. H. Harkness

upon his appointment as 1st G.Prin. of N.Z., and the best wishes of the companions for the success of

G.Chap. during his term of office. — Yours faithfully and fully,

GEO. BARCLAY, Lieut.-Col., N.Z.E., P. 1st G.Soj.,

President, N.Z.E.F.M.A.

To M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams.

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

ROMANCE-AND HISTORY.

———<>———

What may be regarded as a romance of Freemasonry, and a fact in the history of the Craft that ought to be

memorable for all time, is referred to in a letter from Brigadier-General W. Meldrum, C.M.G., to Bro. W. H.

Smith, of Palmerston North, It is no less than the holding of a Masonic meeting in Jerusalem, as near as

possible to the site on which our chief legend is reported to have originated. And it is the more interesting to

us because it was held by New Zealand Freemasons, and was the first held in the ancient city for many

centuries. Macaulay imagined a New Zealander in the dim and distant future, sitting on London Bridge and

sketching the ruins of St. Paul's ; but this records the New Zealanders practising Masonic rites on the site

where over two thousand years ago the three G.Ms. held sway. How those fortunate brethren present, on that

occasion must have been thrilled by memories of the past and though W. Bro. Meldrum, with characteristic

modesty, does not supply even a summary of his address, one may be sure that he rose to the occasion with

his accustomed ability and eloquence. But here is the letter of the brother who had the honour of presiding on

this ever-memorable occasion. He writes under date, Jericho, 11th April, 1918, and, after some purely

personal remarks, says:—

" We have at last managed to hold our meeting of Freemasons on the Temple site. I got special leave to take

the party from here on Saturday last, 6th April. There were twenty-eight of us in all, representing twenty-

seven different Lodges in New Zealand. We held the meeting under the Holy Rock, on which the sacrifices

in the old Temple were offered. I was in the chair ; Lieut.-Colonel McCarroll, Auckland Mounted Rifles, was

S.W. ; and Sergt. Lovelock, of Palmerston North, was J.W. ; and an Arab Sheik — a Freemason — acted as

Tyler. The Lodge was opened in the First Degree. Resolutions were passed conveying fraternal greetings :

(1) To the brethren of all Lodges represented, (2) to the sister Society in the N.Z.E.F. in France, and (3) to

wounded brethren unable to be present. I then gave a short address, and, as visitors were entering the

Mosque, the Lodge was formally closed. Our attendance-book was signed by all present. The aprons used

were white handkerchiefs bought in Jerusalem. The mallets were of acacia, grown near, and manufactured in

Jerusalem. The square was of olive wood, and the compasses of steel. The V.S.L. also was bought in

Jerusalem. These various things we are, of course, preserving as mementoes, and I posted you a few days

ago a photograph of the Temple, with letterpress also, which, I have no doubt, you found interesting. We

believe our meeting was the first occasion on which a Lodge has been held on this ancient site— at least, in

the place we held it-since the destruction of the Temple, B.C. 600.

"We are kept pretty busy scrapping, and are in almost daily touch with the Turks. We suffer casualties, of

course, and some fine fellows have been lost. But the New Zealand boys are of fine mettle, and always do

well. With kind regards.-Yours sincerely and fraternally, W. MELDRUM."

—————————

EXTRACT FROM PALESTINE LETTER, DATED APRII, 1918.

———<>———

"We have been busy lately. I have been wondering what was the horse-power of the trumpet blown by

Joshua, for it did its work so effectively that there is no trace now of its. objective. 'there are blasts these

days, but they are not trumpet blasts-they are frequently issued with iron rations to the people over the way.

"This part of the world is not a salubrious climate, and I would not recommend it for a health or pleasure

resort. The existence is submarine in one sense, and yet if one goes down to the sea one cannot sink lower

than the armpits. It is no place for a Royal Humane Society. I have procured 100 lantern slides of this part of

the world, and hope to give you a show when I return. I hope to get you some photos of models of King

Solomon's Temple at various periods. They are quite good, and should prove very interesting. The Jews'

wailing place is part of the old Temple, and to me appears to be the most authentic part of Jerusalem. There

seems to be considerable doubt about most of the rest of the ancient city.

"There is a New Zealand Masonic Association here, and there was a meeting of it held recently in Jerusalem

'on the spot.'

I did not attend, as I had not quite recovered from the effects of the last 'stunt.' the brethren in New Zealand

may be interested in the views of the meeting on the ancient site." — [Contributed.]

—————————

SECRETARIES' NIGHT AT HINEMOA LODGE.

———<>———

An unique gathering took place at the Masonic Hall, Wellington South, on 27th June, when the Secs. of city

and suburban Lodges were invited by the W.M. (W. Bro. the Rev. G. Knowles Smith) to work the Third

Degree. The seating capacity of the Lodgeroom was taxed to its utmost, and the gathering together of the

Secs. of so many Lodges was a memorable event.

The W.M. handed the gavel to W. Bro. J. H. Worboys, P.S.G.D. (Lodge N.Z. Pacific), who appointed the

following officers: S.W., W. Bro. G. E. Smith (Lodge Waterloo); J.W., W. Bro. H. Hobbs (Lodge

Waiwhetu); Chaplain, W. Bro. S. T. S. Martin (Lodge Hinemoa); D. of C., W. Bro, R. Wylie (Lodge Ulster);

S.D., W. Bro. W. A. Baudinet (Lodge Leinster) ; J.D., W. Bro. A. T. Wells (Lodge St. Andrew) I.G,, W. Bro.

M. W. Thew (Lodge Brooklyn); S.S., Bro. E. Howell (Lodge Tutanekai); J.S., Bro. T. S. Robertson (Lodge

Whetu Kairangi). W. Bro. J. Rod, P.J.G.D. (Lodge St. Andrew), and W.. Bro. A. Schmidt (Installed Masters'

Lodge) also took part.

Added interest was given at this stage by the entrance of the Prov.G.M. (R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison).

Immediately afterwards the G.Sec. (M.W. Bro. M. Niccol: P.G.M.) was received. The usual honours were

accorded in both instances, and the Welcoming Ode was sung to these eminent brethren.

The degree work was then proceeded with. Two brethren were raised to the Degree of M.M. At the

conclusion M.W Bro. Niccol presented each candidate with a copy of the V.S.L The ceremonial work all

round was considered a good rendition of ritual working. Afterwards W. Bro. Worboys returned the gavel to

the W.M. in a felicitous speech.

Opportunity was embraced to make a presentation of a silver tea set to W. Bro. A. T. Wells (Sec. of Lodge

St. Andrew; for his zeal and assiduity in connection with the Silver Baton Art Union lately held. M.W. Bro.

Niccol made the presentation on behalf of the Organising Committee.

After H.G.W. from the W.Ms. of N.Z. Pacific, Waterloo. St. Andrew, Leinster, and Brooklyn Lodges, and

various other brethren, the Lodge was closed according to ancient custom.

The subsequent proceedings in the refectory were much enjoyed, the talent being of a high standard. Song

and story held sway, and the speeches were above the average. On rising to respond to the toast of his health,

M.W. Bro. Niccol received an ovation. The brethren were much impressed by his bright and eloquent

oration. His vast knowledge of ancient Craft lore, his urbanity of disposition, and his zeal generally and

fraternal devotion to the Craft are well known and much appreciated. Of the many fine items given, special

mention must be made of the Masonic Quartette (W. Bros. G. E. Smith and J. Connell, P.Ms., and Bros. W.

Thompson and W. Scammell). It fairly excelled itself. This, in all probability, will be the last opportunity of

hearing this fine combination, as Bro. Scammell is about to enter camp.

The Secretaries' night in Hinemoa Lodge will long be remembered by those who had the good fortune to be

present.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 23rd JULY, 1918.

———<>———

W. Haines 60/- (Dannevirke), W. S. Harvey 60/- (Weber), G. Rogers 10/- (Hamilton), W. C. Pickett 30/-

(Ohaupo), J. Moncrieff, A. Philpotts, J. J. Knox-Smith, A. Booth, P. A. Cole, W. Roydhouse, H. E. Hart, R.

Stout, A. J. Lindop, J. A. Rayne, J. B. Bairstow (Carterton), L. G. Armstrong 10/- (Te Awamutu), Executors

D. Gardner 10/10 (Rotorua), F. J. Hunn 20/-, A. Chapman, H. Toogood 20/- (Masterton), J. Milne 20/-, J.

Thomson, J. Best 10/- (New Plymouth), J. Richardson, B. McGregor Wright (Woolston), F. E. Williams 10/-

(Cheltenham), Captain Savident 10/- (Te Kopuru), R. Ormsby 18/4 (To Kuiti), S. Milroy 10/-, G. Fowlds, A.

Burns, H. Garland 10/-, J. Reid 2/6, A. Morgan 9/2, R. B. Cole 17/6, W. Goodwin 4/2, R. Mackrae 17/6

(Waiotapu), G. W. Primrose 20/- (Claudelands), D. T. Gibbard, A. Dalliston, Captain Simpson, F. S. Wood,

J. Davies, H. R. Evans, G. H. McElwel 10/-, E. Skelton (Westport), C. J. Kent-Johnston 10/- (Devonport),

W. J. Cox 3/9, H. Dustin 3/9, E. Edwards 3/9, H. Harris 3/9, W. Jeffery 3/9, W. J. Kirkwood 3/9, H. L. Lloyd

3/9, R. H. May 3/9, J. T. Midland 3/9, S. H. McIlveen, A. W. Pooley 3/9, C. H. Salt 3/9, A. V. Swales 3/9, D.

Skinner 3/9 (Auckland), F. Kearsley 10/-, J. Tamblyn, S. Harrap, H. P. Donald, O. Neilson 6/8, J. Sexton

17/6, M. J. McLeod 17/6, H. B. Bridge, T. Bush 20/- (Wellington), A. H. Andrews 10/- (Eltham), H. H.

Clegg 17/6 (Napier), F. C. B. Bishop, H. Hopkinson 20/-, P. H. Gwynn, W. Arrow 20/-, O. Anderson 5/10,

T. Ker, R. Kitto 30/6, J. A. Stables, O. H. Duff (Christchurch), A. E. Smith (Cashmere), H. Mercer, H.

Hesketh (Taihape), D. B. Wallace 5/10 (Kohukohu), R. Wylie (Petone), F. J. White 2/6, G. Cottle 2/6, W.

Fletcher 2/6, Captain Colclough 3/4, Dr. Telford 2/6, G. Harker 2/6, —. Richmond 3/4, E. F. Guinness 3/4,

F. Wade 27/6, A. Naylor 10/- (Greymouth), F. Webber 10/-, A. E. Yelland (Rangataua), C. Dawson 50/-

(Matamata), D. H. Guthrie 10/- (Feilding), R. E. Toogood 20/- (Woodville), A. C. Steele 10/-, T. Perry 1/6

(Gisborne), A. H. Strong (Whakatane), L. J. Mathews 10/- (Mangonui), R. Cleave 17/- (Bay of Islands), E.

F. Nicoll 10/- (Ashburton), Messrs. P. and P. Hansen 5/- (Raetihi), G. T. Hutton 20/- (Martinborough), F.

Thompson 20/- (Ruahine), C. J. Bilton 10/- (Temuka), W. Coath 5/- (Waimate), C. Leech 10/- (Rangiora), P.

McCaskill 14/2, R. Jamieson 17/6, T. S. Tressider 17/6, T. Ross G. T. Lumsden, A. Fieldwick, A. Stoneham,

J. J. Clark, F. Bridgeman, T. Gallagher, D. Cooke, J. Wood, J. S. Douglas, R. Hawcridge, J. W. Senior, D. J.

Calder 8/9, G. G. Adess, J. W. Raffils, H. W. S. Helyer, A. McKenzie, E. T. Moller, J. Watt, R. Macadam,

A. McLachlan, J. King, W. H. McLeod, A. E. Jenkins, W. McKinley 30/-, G. Rawnsley, J. S. Webb, J.

McCormack, — Srimgeour, J. A. McPhee, J. E. Atkins, J. Couchman, R. H. Bagshaw, M. Winning, J. J.

Dumsday 10/-, C. W. Lichner 17/6, G. G. Cardno 10/10, J. M. Rodger, J. A. Sparrow, W. Mills, A. Bremner,

A. Cannon, H. E. Woodhead, J. Pringle, J. McClymont, W. T. Smellie, C. Scott, J. Bissland, G. Scott, E.

Harroway, E. J. Thomson, B. J. McArthur, J. A. Davie, J. H. Wilson, W. J. May, N. Wood, W. McCrone, J.

A. Dove (Dunedin), F. Maul 10/- (Ashhurst), R. A. Stewart 17/6 (Reefton), Dr. E. C. Roberts 10/- P. O. H.

Peterson 4/2 (Cambridge), P. N. Jolley 5/-, R. Tucker, C. H. Martin 17/6, W. R. Wright, Dr. De Lisle 10/-, A.

Weaver, McGlashan, G. Roach, W. H. Scott (Hastings), W. J. Smith 10/- (Nelson), J. Munnings 10/-

(Riccarton), M. S. Montford 20/- (Denniston), D. P. Mumm 20/- (Seddonville), T. P. Pattison 14/2

(Runanga), Akaroa Lodge 36/8 (Akaroa), Executors. W. J. Price 29/2 (Piriaka), J. R. Robertson (Petone), J.

Madden 10/- (Newmarket), R. P. Furness 27/6 (Blenheim), T. B. Salmon 6/8, W. Searle 17/6, A. Mackay

27/6, G. Whale 17/6, H. M. Roxby 27/6, Sergeant Stagpoole 27/6, J. M. Forrester 20/-, G. Snadden 17/6, W.

J. Ritchie 5/-, J. Main 11/8, A. Riach 2/6, W. Miller 10/- W. Turvey 20/-, W. White 30/10, H. Fitzsimmons

20/- (Wakefield), H. H. Edwards 10/- (Stoke), G. A. Kisling 1/8 (Kaiapoi), A: E. Rouse 1/8 (Sydenham), D.

Bryce, J. T. Gibson, C. Findlay, — McLean, C. Seddon, C. Leith, W. Scott, J. Mitchell, R. H. Thomson

(Mosgiel), H. Palmer (St. Andrews),, N. Mathews 10/- (Featherston), W. H. Shaw 10/- (Collingwood), L. R.

Willis 30/- (Greatford), C. A. C. Hardy (Rakaia), J. A. Reid 3/4 (Paeroa), W. Kirk 70/- (Takapau), T. Hobson

(Levin), A. A. Lee 35/10 (Canterbury), T. S. Robertson (Worser Bay), W. Crawford 20/. (Inaha), A. H.

Charlton 10/- (Clinton).

(All 7/6 except those noted.)

—————————

A LITTLE EXCURSION AMONG THE DEVONSHIRE FREEMASONS.

———<>———

A wet Sunday afternoon and a little book with a faded blue back have afforded opportunity and material for

quite an interesting study of names familiar to all residents of this district, and especially to those who, or

whose progenitors, are identified with the founding of the infant settlement of New Plymouth. The Devon

and Cornwall Masonic Register for the year 1873-74, printed in Old Plymouth, contains the usual Masonic

information of the period with complete lists of the officers of each Craft, Lodge, Chapter, and Preceptory in

the two counties, and one cannot but be struck with the large number of names which, since the "Amelia

Thompson " landed her passengers on Ngamotu beach in 1841 have become well known and honoured in

this community. Tradition has it that most of the worthies who came here under the auspices of the Plymouth

Company of New Zealand were yeomen of a type more at home in the smock frock than the regulation

evening dress which constitutes the garb of a Mason, but many of their descendants here have discarded the

one for the other, and it would appear that a generation or so after our pioneers loft the Old Land numbers of

their kinsfolk had similarly developed and attained some prominence in the social life of the Herne towns.

By way of frontispiece there is a photograph of Prov.G.M.. the Earl of Edgcumbe, whose father's title is

perpetuated in one of our streets, while the Secretary of the Committee of Petitions, and also Secretary of St.

John's Lodge, No. 70 (Plymouth), is V.W. Bro. Gover, whose namesake street in this town is the main road

to the racecourse and daily trod by so many of the Central School children. A Bro. Allen is the Worshipful

Master of Lodge No. 106 (Plymouth) and John Searle its Organist. William Joll figures as the W.M. of

Fidelity Lodge No. 230 (Devonport), and the name of Thomas Bayly seems quite appropriate in the

treasurership of Sincerity No. 189 (Stonehouse). Bro. Brooking appears as I.P.M. of True Love and Unity

Lodge, No. 248 (Brixham), and Isaac Watt is also a P.M. of Harmony No. 156 (Plymouth). It is a remarkable

coincidence that the Tyler of Perseverance Lodge, No. 164 (Sidmouth) is Bro. Prout, the mention of whose

name may bring to the minds of old Masons in Taranaki the brother who once upon a time held the same

office in the Mount Egmont, Lodge. Space does not permit of detailed reference to other familiar names, all

holding offices in Devon Lodges in the year 1873, among which are Bros. Way, King, Harrison, Avery,

Lethbridge, Andrews, Knuckey, Halse, Moon, Murch, Rowe, Putt, Harris, Moyle, Sampson Kingdon, Wood,

Davy, Hellier, Sutton, Gilbert, Conley, Watson, Snell, Loveridge, Foote, and Ford, while the lists are

represented by the Treasurers of Loyal Lodge, No. 251, and Loyalty and Virtue Chapter, both at Barnstaple.

Well-known Taranaki names also figure in prominent positions in the Cornish Lodges, and after wading

through all the pages of the little book one does not feel that the time has been spent among strangers.—

"Taranaki Daily News."

—————————

A NEW ZEALAND WRITER'S WORK ENDORSED BY HIGH AUTHORITY.

———<>———

A paper read at the Wellington Lodge of Installed Masters some few months ago, by Bro. Colonel Purdy,

entitled " Elocution and the Masonic Ritual," in due course found its way to the Emulation Lodge of

Improvement, London ; and the W.M. (W. Bro. A. P. Crabb), in the course of an acknowledgment recently

received, said : Bro. Tracy Inglis duly forwarded me letter enclosing pamphlet, which I in turn immediately

forwarded to Bro. Rankin for his opinion. Bro. Rankin writes as follows :—

"The account given in the New Zealand paper of the word "hele " is quite the best I have seen, and seems to

me not only full, but accurate. There is only one point on which I differ from the author, and that is, on the

facts given, I come to a totally opposite conclusion. Emulation Lodge of Improvement and its committee are

concerned in preserving unaltered a traditional working, and for that reason we must continue the old

pronunciation of the word ; but, quite apart from that consideration, it does seem to be most reasonable that a

word which has become obsolete should preserve its obsolete sound, while words that continue alive should

acquire the living, and therefore the changing, sound.' "

Bro. Colonel Purdy may, metaphorically, pat himself on the back at receiving an endorsement for his paper

from so eminent än authority.

—————————

FIFTY YEARS A MEMBER OF ONE LODGE.

———<>———

Central Otago, with its healthful, invigorating climate, can boast a number of residents who have passed the

allotted span, but few Freemasons can claim the distinction of being for the full terns of fifty years a

contributing member of the one Lodge. P.M. Bro. Robert Johnstone, of Blackstone Hill, has continued his

membership of Lodge Mt. Ida since his initiation on the 17th June, 1868, after which he was passed on 15th

July, and raised on 12th August of the same year. In 1878 he was invested as S.W., and on St. John's Day,

1880, was installed in the Chair of K.S., retaining the office of W.M. for two years. Bro. Johnstone has now

been made a life member of the Lodge, an honour which it was proposed to confer some time back, but at his

own request he continued his contributing membership until he attained his jubilee. Having been identified

with the Lodge through the whole period of its existence, may he long continue, as he now is, the oldest

surviving member.

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

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

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————

SOUTHLAND.

Southern Cross, No. 9 —The regular meeting was held on 5th July. W. Bro. W. F. Irvine, W.M., presided.

The annual report and balance-sheet were adopted, and showed that the Lodge is in a satisfactory condition.

Two candidates were passed. The Ob. and Ss. were communicated by the W.M., the Charge in the S.E. by

W. Bro. W. T. Waters, and the Final Charge by W. Bro. W. A. Stout ; the 1st T.B. was explained by Bro. H.

J. Farrant, J.W., and the W.Ts. were presented by the W.M. and Wardens. The meeting, though not largely

attended, was very enjoyable, the whole ceremony being faithfully and efficiently rendered.— [Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

St. John, No. 94.—The first monthly meeting was held in June and there was a good attendance. Among the

visitors were the W.Ms. of Lodges Southern Cross and Waihopai. One candidate was initiated. The N.E.

Charge was given by W. Bro. Aitken, Prep. by W. Bro. Bonifant, W.Ts. by W. Bro. Fortune, and S.O. and

Exhort. by the W.M. W. Bro. Fortune presented Bro. Young with his certificate, he having taken his 2nd and

3rd Degrees during W. Bro. Fortune's term as W.M. A very pleasant hour was afterwards spent in the

refrectory.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Taringatura, No. 100.—The monthly meeting was held on 24th June, W. Bro. S. E. Griffiths presiding. W.

Bros. W. A. Roxburgh and Geo. Johnson, P.Ms., were elected members of the Board of Enquiry for the

ensuing term. Special business was the initiation of one candidate by the W.M., assisted by W. Bros. Graham

(Secrets), Johnson (Charity Lecture and Ancient Charge), H. Beer (Prep.), G. Findlay, J.W. (W.Ts.). A vote

of sympathy was passed to Bro. Win. Chartres aid family in the sad news of his son, Bro. Wm. Chartres,

Junr., being taken prisoner by the Germans. One candidate was proposed for admission. Hearty good wishes

were received from Lodge Orepuki, No. 137. The brethren then spent a pleasant hour in the refectory.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Lodge Victoria, No. 147.—At the regular meeting on 12th July W. Bro. J. Buchanan, I.P.M., occupied the

chair in the unavoidable absence of the W.M., a very fine rendering of the S. Degree being given. One

candidate was passed. W. Bro. J. Buchanan gave the Oh. and Ss. ; the W.Ts. were presented by the W.M.

and Wardens, the S.E. Charge by W. Bro. J. Kerse, and the Final Charge by W. Bro. N. J. Brokenshire. The

brethren afterwards adjourned to the refectory, where a very pleasant time was spent.—[Special

Correspondent.]

————

Mataura, No. 174.—The installation took place on 10th July, Bro. James Newsham West being installed as

W.M. by W. Bro. D. D. Steadman, assisted by the P.Ms. of Lodge Harvey, No. 49. A record of visiting

Masters, P.Ms., and brethren was in attendance, and some very marked expressions of approval were passed

on the excellent manner in which the ceremonial work was carried out. R.W. Bro. A. he H. Boyles, P.G.M.,

accompanied by R.W. Bro. W. Smith, pain an official visit, and addressed the brethren. R.W. Bro. Smith

addressed the Wardens. The following officers were invested and installed :— W.M., Bro. James Newsham

West.; S.W., Bro. F. W. Brown ; J.W., Bro. R. W. Colthind ; S.D., Bro. D. McK. McDonald ;

J.D., Bro. D. R. Howden ; I.G., W. C. Dunlop; Treas., Bro, John Taylor; Tyler, Bro. Alex. Todd. A banquet

was held after the meeting, at which the P.G.M. gave a resume of Lodge matters generally, and urged upon

all brethren to loyally support the W. and O. and A.M. Fund and the various funds promoted by G.L. for the

benefit of our brethren on active service.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waihopai, No. 189 —The monthly meeting was held on 17th June at Gladstone. Notwithstanding the fact

that Invercargil has been experiencing during the last couple of months a carnival of installations, there was a

fair attendance of members The night was one of the coldest experienced in the district this season and had a

very cooling effect on the two candidates The work was the raising of two F.Cs. W.M. Bro. A. B. Edmonds

was in the chair, and was efficiently assisted by the various officers of the Lodge. The Ob. was given by

W.M. Bro Edmonds. R.W. Bro. Timpany gave the Retro. The Secret were given by W. Bro. Todd, while the

investiture was given by the S.W., Bro. Bird. W. Bro. Haggett gave the T.H., while the J.W., Bro. Connor,

explained the W.Ts. The business portion of the meeting occupied a considerable time, and it was not until

10.30 that the members retired to the social board. Here a short period was spent in harmony and

refreshment, but the extreme cold soon saw most leaving for home.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

OTAGO.

Oceanic, No. 154.—The ordinary meeting was held on 19th June in the St. Kilda Masonic Hall, when W.

Bro. A. Walker presided over an extra large attendance. Three brethren were raised, the W.M. giving the

Ob., W. Bro. H. C. Anderson the 1st Ss., Bro. H. F. Harris the Exhort., W. Bro. A. Cannon the Emblems of

M., Bro. A. Runciman the Narrative, W. Bro. H. W. S. Hellyer the Final Ss., W. Bro. J. Couchman the

W.Ts., and Bro. W. Mills the Final Charge. One candidate was elected, and Bro. W. J. Selden, of Lodge St.

John, No. 461, S.C. (Milton), having been presented with his M.M.'s diploma on behalf of his mother Lodge,

was balloted for as an applicating brother and unanimously accepted. It is worthy of note that one of the

brethren who was raised was a lieutenant in the Imperial Army, on furlough, who had been initiated in Lodge

Charity, No. 563, E.C., Umballa, India; received his Second Degree in Lodge Dunedin, E.C. ; and received

his Third in Oceanic in order that he could proceed on his travels armed with his full credentials as a M.M.

An emergency meeting was held on the 22nd, when three more brethren were raised. W.Bro. A. Walker,

W.M., gave the Ob. ; W. Bros. Anderson and Hellyer, the Secrets ; W. Bro. Runciman, ; the Exhort. W. Bro.

W. Jacobsen, the Emblems of M. ; Bro. W. Riddle, the Narrative ; Bro, Harris, the W.Ts. ; and Bro. Mills,

the Final Charge. In this, as at the previous meeting, the work was performed in a manner satisfactory to the

visitors and impressive to the candidates, and the general opinion expressed was that Oceanic still can hold

its own in working a Third. On both evenings enjoyable hours were spent in the supper room, the usual loyal

and Masonic toasts, including brethren at the front, being honoured.—[Lodge Corresporndent.]

————

Ionic, No. 191.—The annual installation took place on 8th July, in the presence of a record attendance of

brethren from all quarters. R.W. Bro. Hawcridge, Prov.G.M. for Otago, attended with a large number of G.L.

officers and was received with honours, as was also R.W. Bro. D. Cooke, D.G.M., N.Z.(S.1.); S.C. The

Prov.G.M presided, and, supported by his G.L. officers, impressively installed Bro. J. A. McPhee as W.M.

The proclamations were given by R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett, G.D. of C., and the W.Ts. were presented by W.

Bros. Inston, C. W. Lischner, P.G.Supt. of W., and A. J. Cannon (Lodge Oceanic). The Installing Master

presented the Chapter and the Book of Constitution. R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett, P.P.G.M., addressed the W.M.

W. Bro. H. W. S. Hellyer, P.J.G.D., invested Bro. W. T. Smellie, S.W., and Bro. R. Benfell, J.W. The

address to the Wardens was given by R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, P.D.G.M. W. Bro. A. J. Cheyne, P.G.B.B.,

invested W. Bro. A P. Bremner, Treas, and W. Bro. S.F. Bridgman, Sec. W. Bro. W. G. Hay, G.S.B.,

invested W. Bro. J. Pringle, Chaplain, and W. Bro. J. L. Miller, D. of C. W. Bro. J. J. H. Dumsday, P.G.B.B.,

invested Bros. A. R. Harrison, S.D. ; T. Graham, J.D. ; T. Tomkins, I.G.; A. Fleming, Tyler ; Bro. Steele,

Steward. The address to the brethren was given by R.W. Bro. E. G. H. Watts, P.P.G.M. Occasion was taken

during the evening to invest the following G.L. officers, by R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, P.D.G.M. ; W. Bro. W. G.

Hay, G.S.B. ; W. Bro. H. E. Woodhead, G.P., and W. Bro. D. Scrimgeour, G.S. The Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro.

Hawcridge presented a P.M.'s jewel to W. Bro. J. C. McClymont, I.P.M., who suitably responded, and took

opportunity of presenting Mrs. Miller, through the retiring secretary, W. Bro. J. L. Miller, with a handsome

lady's reticule, suitably inscribed, W. Bro. Miller, in reply, thanked the Lodge for its kindness to Mrs. Miller

and himself. As G.D. of C. R.W. Bro. Flett, ably assisted in the ceremonial work, while W. Bro. G. West,

who acted as organist, contributed to the harmony of the gathering. A most successful function was tendered

by a pleasant time in the refectory. The Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro. Hawcridge, gave a capital address on

Freemasonry in responding to the G.L. toast, while R.W. Bro. J. J. Clark, P.D.G.M., impressively and

forcefully proposed that of "Our Brethren at the Front,"—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

CANTERBURY.

St. Augustine, No. 4.—The regular meeting was held in the Christchurch Masonic Hall on 9th July. W. Bro.

Redpath, W.M., opened the Lodge with a good attendance of brethren. The discussion on the suggested

special charity for St. Augustine was postponed for twelve months, in view of the number of brethren

affected by Class C and Class D ballots. V.W. Bro. Bishop received a unanimous nomination as Prov.G.M.

The W.M. was assisted in the passing ceremony by W. Bro. Wilson (Lodge Robert Burns), Charge after

Investiture ; W. Bro. Scott (Lodge Avon), W.Ts. ; and W. Bro. Wauchop, I.P.M., S.E. The usual social

period was rendered more enjoyable by the valedictory speeches of W. Bros. Wilson and Scott, both of

whom were " P.P.C." Bro. Hunter (W.M.-elect of Lodge Robert Burns) and Bro. Hurley (W.M.-elect of

Lodge Civic) also made a trial of their oratorical powers.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 6.—The regular meeting was held at Kaiapoi on 4th July. The W.M. (Bro. R. H.

Croft), who was down on final leave from camp, presided over a good attendance. The work consisted of the

initiation of a candidate, and the W.M. was assisted by the P.Ms. of the Lodge. Votes of sympathy were

passed to the relatives of the late Bro. A. Johnson, a former member of the Lodge, and to Bro. T. P. Mably,

Treas., who is laid aside by illness. The Lodge was closed at 10 p.m. and the brethren retired to the refectory,

where an enjoyable time was spent. The brethren took the opportunity of wishing the W.M. farewell and

God-speed, and also of presenting him with several articles of use to a soldier. The W.M. thanked the

brethren for their loyalty to him during his seven months as W.M., and during his terms of office as Sec.,

J.W., and S.W., also expressing his thanks for the useful articles presented to him. He also gave a short

account of his camp experiences, and W. Bro. T. Lang followed with a few reminiscences of life as a soldier

in India and other places sixty years ago. A rather later hour than usual, which, under the circumstances, was

entirely excusable, saw the close of a very pleasant and enjoyable evening. The scribe and the S.W. duly saw

that W. Bro. Croft boarded the " Maori " on the Wednesday night following.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Lincoln, No. 33.—The tempestuous weather effectively settled our regular meeting, but an emergency on

the 11th ult. wits held, when W. Bro. Sheffield (of Lodge Christchurch, No. 91) brought out a team and

passed a Lincoln brother in an admirable manner. The meeting was rather a memorable one, by reason of the

fact that, for the first time for years, the Treas.'s balance was a credit one. It is just over seven years since the

Lodge property was purchased from the late Bro. F. W. East, and the brethren feel a natural gratification that

their efforts have resulted in the possession of a well equipped room, which will serve them for many years

yet. The last improvement to it was the substitution of electricity for acetylene, and the cost of this has been

met by voluntary subscription. In the refectory the health of W. Bro. G. H. Ward, a highly esteemed P.M.,

who goes into camp shortly, was drunk, and general regret was expressed at the departure of Bro. J. G. Scott,

J.W., who has left for Blenheim.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Concord, No. 39.—The monthly meeting was held at Papanui on 26th June, when the Second Degree was

conferred on Bro. W. J. Trustumm. This was the first meeting since the installation, but the working was

nevertheless extremely "clean." At the conclusion of the actual ceremony, Bro. L. E. Strachan (who leaves

for camp next month) gave the explanation of the 2nd T.B. A word of praise is due to W. Bro. H. S. Wilson

(Preceptor) for his excellent coaching of new Lodge officers, the absence of any weakness in the "working"

being largely due to his efforts. The subsequent proceedings in the refectory were, as usual, marked with a

spirit of good fellowship, and the time passed all too quickly. It being the 76th birthday of Bro. Gibbs,

occasion was taken to toast our brother, and the W.M., on behalf of the brethren, expressed the hope that

Bro. Gibbs would celebrate many more birthdays in Concord Lodge. He can still surpass many of the

younger brethren. Our W.M., Bro. A. J. Nicholas, was called up for service in one of the recent ballots, but

was classed C2 by the Medical Board, so the Lodge will not be deprived of his guidance during the coming

year.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Methven, No. 51.—There was a very full attendance on the 19th. This was W. Bro. J. F. Stone's first

meeting in the chair, and the P.Ms., visitors, and brethren, as well as the I.P.M., gave our new W.M. great

credit for the manner he conducted the raising of two brothers. The W.M. was assisted : W. Bros. Holland

(E.), Goodwin (Fifteen F.C.), Todd (Ss.), Mitchell (T.H.), Pawson (E. of Ss.), while Bro. McDonald gave the

Charge. Bro. Maginnis, S.W., invested the brethren and addressed them the third T.B. ; Bro. W. T. P. Lode,

J.D., explained the W.Ts., and Bro. Osborn, S.D., delivered the C. after R. The W.M. presented the newly-

raised brethren with a copy of the V.S.L. in a very impressive speech, and congratulated the candidates on

their being raised to the 3rd Deg. A very profitable and pleasant hour was spent in the Fourth. The chief item

was a very nice address by the W.M. on his visit to the North Island and his happy reception at several

Lodges ; the second was an able speech by W. Bro. Mitchell on the G.L. Assembly, and its good work, at

Wellington. The last item was a very instructive address by W. Bro. Goodwin on honour paid to Ds. of C.,

and the advantage of every Freemason aiming at the advancement of the Craft. W. Bro. Hall was asked by

the W.M., and consented, to get up a paper for our next regular meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91—The monthly meeting was held on 25th June, in the Masonic Hall, W. Bro. D.

Sheffield, W.M., presiding over a good attendance of members. Of the ritual work, consisting of the passing

of two candidates, the obligation was administered by the W.M. ; W. Bro. Geo. Yemen, P.M., communicated

the Secrets ; the Charge in the S.E. was delivered by W. Bro. F. L. Adams, P.M. ; the charge after investiture

by the J.W., Bro. Newth; the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Danks (W.M., Lodge Canterbury, No. 1048,

E.C.) ; the Final Charge being delivered by the S.W., Bro. W. T. Doig. The brethren and visitors spent a

social hour in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—The regular meeting was held on 19th June. A fair number of the brethren met the

W.M. The work was the initiation of one candidate. The working of the degree was allotted as follows :—

O., W.M. Bro. C. Bateman; Ss., W. Bro. Jas. Manchester, I.P.M. ; A.C., W. Bro. A. J. Hoskins, P.G.Purs. ;

N.E., W. Bro. D. A. Fulton, P.M. ; W.Ts., Bro. E. Beckett, S.W. ; R. for P., Bro. E. J. Atwill; F.C., W. Bro.

W. Coath, P.M. A brother from Lodge Erewhon was affiliated. Two ballots for joining members were

successful. The brethren afterwards adjourned to the refectory for a short space of time.

An emergency meeting was held on 10th July for the purpose of conducting a raising. The ceremony of

conferring the Third Degree upon Bros. A. Slade and R. B. Hurst was carried out as follows :— Ob. and

Exhort., W. Bro. C. R. Bateman, W.M. ; first part T.H., W. Bro. W. Lee, P.M. ; Emblems, W. Bro. H.

Ruddenklau, P.M. ; first part Ss., W. Bro. Jones, P.M., Lodge St. John, No. 1137, S.C., Timaru ; continuation

T.H., W. Bro. A. J. Hoskins, P.M. ; W.T., Bro. E. Beckett, S.W. ; Final, W. Bro. A. Colville, P.M., D. of C.

H.G.W. were tendered by representatives of Lodges St. John, No. 1137, E.C., and Conyers, No. 1916, E.C.,

and from Canterbury Kil., No. 23. The election of officers for the ensuing year was taken. I will give you full

list next month. The Lodge was then closed and an adjournment made to the refectory, where an enjoyable

hour was spent.

The regular meeting was held on 17th July. One unenlightened individual was elected, and an East Indian

brother (nathless a white man) was elected a joining member. The work was the initiation of two candidates.

The ceremony was carried out by the W.M., Bro. Bateman, assisted by P.M. and officers. —[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Amuri, No. 184.—The monthly meeting was held on 21st June, W. Bro. Hunter presiding over a good

attendance, including several members of Lodge Amberly. A motion of sympathy with Bro. Buchan, of

Lodge Methven, in the loss of his wife was passed. The ceremonial work was that of raising. W. Bro. Hunter

obligated, raised, and communicated the Secrets. The Address on the Emblems was given by Bro. H. R.

Davison, J.W. Bro. C. E. Derrett, S.W., invested the brother and gave the Final Charge. The Address after

Investiture was delivered by Bro. Dunbar. The W.Ts. was presented by Bro. R. J. Lewis, D. of C., W. Bro.

Munro gave the T.H. The further Secrets were given by W. Bro. Dr. Turnbull. The usual time was spent in

the "Fourth."

Since the meeting our district has been visited by the heaviest snowfall since 1867. As the majority of

Amuri's members are farmers, their losses will be very severe. W. Bro. Turnbull had a trying time, having to

leave his car on the main road for fourteen days, he having to procure a draught horse to reach his home.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Victory, No. 40.—The visit of the M.W.G.M. on 21st June created more than the ordinary amount of

Masonic interest. The whole of the Lodges were represented, together with Lodge Southern Star, E.C., the

gathering being a most unique one. The chairs were occupied by Lodge Victory. The Prov.G.M, R.W. Bro.

C. H. Mills, attended, with representatives from Blenheim and of the district. R.W. Bro. Mills received M.W.

Bro. Hon. A. L. Herdman and welcomed him in felicitious terms. He briefly outlined for general information

the Lodges in Nelson and Marlborough district which were originally under the Grand Lodge of England, but

were now arraigned under the banner of their adopted country. He expressed the belief that Freemasonry

would lose none of its prestige under the presidence of M.W. Bro. Herdman. All the Lodge representatives

voiced similar feelings and contributed to the warmth of the welcome. The G.M. expressed himself

agreeably surprised with the large and representative attendance and the evidence of goodwill and fellowship

shown. He took occasion to pay a tribute to past G.Ms., and also to the work performed by the G.Sec. M.W.

Bro. Malcolm Niccol. He stressed the necessity for all to maintain and uphold the principle of the Order, and

noted the marked good feeling that existed on the West Coast (where he had recently visited), and in Nelson,

between the Lodges of sister constitutions. At the festive table many eloquent speeches were made, the

brethren at the front not being overlooked. The following contributed to the harmony. The Victory Glee

Club, W. Bros. E. Dimant and Whelan and Bros. T. A. H. Field, T. Houlker„, J. H. Thorp, and H. Everett,

whilst during. the Lode meeting Bro. A. CI. Thompson sang from "The Messiah," "Why do the Nations."

The regular meeting of the Lodge was held on 11th July, when W. Bro. C. M. Whelan presided, and there

was an attendance of fifty-nine. The work was the initiation of five candidates, when the following P.Ms

assisted : W. Bros. Milne (Secrets), W. H. Short (N.E. Corner), B. H. Moller (M. of P.), H. H. Johnston

(W.Ts.), and J. L. Ching (Final Charge). W. Bro. R. Scoltock, of Lodge Phoenix, No. 1690, E.C., .Westport,

and Bro. A. W. Playle, of Lodge Manawatu Kil., were admitted by affiliation. There was also one successful

ballot for initiation. Two further propositions were received for joining and one by initiation. W. Bros.

Moller, Johnston, and Stiles were elected on the Masonic Hall Committee. W. Bro. H. G. Stephenson

received his P.M.'s certificate. It was reported that- Lodges Forest and Motueka had entered into a joint

agreement with Victory in connection with the making of adequate enquiry concerning their candidates for

Freemasonry.

An emergency Lodge was held on Thursday, 18th July, when three military brethren received their Third

Degree. There was a large gathering, the only two visitors being those who have been proposed to "join up"

with Victory. The ceremony was impressively worked by W. Bro. E. W. Rudman, of Wellington, who had

accepted the special invitation of the W.M. to work the Degree. W. Bro. Rudman, who is a member of

Victory, has been passed as fit for military service. The following assisted in the ceremony : W. Bros. Stiles

(Secrets), Hobbs (Exhort.), Eastcott (Charge), Barton (Sub. Secrets), Scoltock (W.Ts.), and Whelan (Final

Charge). R.W. Bro. Moyes gave the Lecture. The ceremony was enhanced by the installation of an electrical

plant for displaying the emblems, etc., and provided by Bro. A. Neil (called up for service). The Lodge

tendered its thanks to Bro. Neil, and, with the candidates, was wished good luck whilst on service.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

HAWKES BAY.

Scinde Lodge, No. 5.—The installation meeting was held on 19th June, the W.M., Bro. Bowes, presiding.

The Lodge was tyled at 4.30 p.m., and after calling off was resumed at 7 p.m. Visiting Lodges having been

duly received, the R.W. Prov.G.M. (R.W. Bro. Harston), who was received with G. honours, proceeded with

the work of installing Bro. Archibald Ernest Currie, W.M.-elect. Bro. Currie having been presented to a

board of installed W.Ms., was installed as W.M. The brethren were readmitted. The usual proclamations

were made, and the honours accorded. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. A. J. McGlashan (Lodge

Heretaunga), Cooper (W..M., Lodge Heretaunga), and Jarvis (W.M, Lodge Victoria). The address to the

W.M. was impressively delivered by W. Bro. C. H. Critchley. The W.M. then prodeeded to invest W. Bros.

J. Bowes as I.P.M., Bro. A J. Turville as S.W., and Bro. R. V. C. Harris as J.W. W. Bro. R. Chadwick,

P.G.S.B., addressed the Wardens, after which W. Bro. J. Bowes invested the remainder of the officers as

follows :—Treas., Bro. T. W. Bear; Sec., W. Bro. L. Freedman, P.S.G.D. ; Chaplain, Bro. J. W. Simkin ; D.

of C., W. Bro. C. L. Thomas; S.D., Bro. J. Morling; J.D., Bro. H. E. K. Bourgeois; I.G., Bro. A. A. Hastings ;

Ss., Bro. S. B. Houghton ; J.S., Bro. G. H. Bickerstaff. R.W. Bro. H: L. Harston addressed the brethren and

handed the gavel to the W.M. W. Bro. J. Bowes was presented to the R.W. Prov.G.M., who presented him,

on behalf of Lodge Scinde brethren, with a handsome P.M.'s jewel, and congratulated him on the fact that

from his initiation up to that time W. Bro. Bowes had not been absent from a single Lodge meeting. W. Bro.

Bowes, in returning thanks for the gift, said that he would endeavour to carry out his Masonic duties in the

same regular and consistent manner in the future as he had done in the past. The collection for the W. and O.

Fund was then taken up, resulting in the sum of upwards of £12. Grand Lodge then retired, after H.G.W.

from the R.W. Prov.G.M. (Bro. H. L. Harston) Visiting brethren having tendered H.G.W., the Lodge was

then closed. An adjournment was made to the Princess Hall, where an appetising repast, provided by Bro. J.

H. Murdoch, was done ample justice to. The usual toasts, interspersed with musical items, were honoured,

and the brethren dispersed, after a most enjoyable meeting, at 11.45 p.m.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Victoria, No. 21.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Munro-street, Napier, on 2nd July,

the W.M. (W. Bro. W. G. Jarvis) presiding. There was only a fair attendance on account of the weather

conditions being so bad, Although the attendance was so small, the business paper for the evening was a

large- one : six ballots all clear and three initiations. The W.M. was assisted by the following : W. Bros. W.

A. Wilkie, H. Hill, E. J. Bull, H. W. Whitton, E. Chegwidden, and Bros. H. Bate, S.W., and H. F. Funke,

J.W. There appears to be a wave of Masonic prosperity passing over Victoria Lodge; no fewer than seven

candidates awaiting initiation, together with several good candidates waiting in the background to be brought

forward at a later period.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 66.—The monthly meeting was held on 20th June, the W.M., Bro. Carl Thomsen, presiding.

For the first time for many months there was no ceremonial business. The statement of accounts for the past

year was submitted and the by-laws were read. W. Bro. H. G. Smith, P.M., gave a most instructive and

comprehensive address on "The Duties and Privileges of Freemasonry," in the scope of which he furnished

the limited number of brethren present with much wholesome food for thought and self examination. It is a

matter for regret that a larger attendance of members was not secured. Those brethren who failed to put in an

appearance on this occasion certainly missed a treat, and it is to be hoped that W. Bro. Smith will have an

opportunity, in the not too distant future, of delivering another, address. What the audience lacked in regard

to numbers was certainly made up for in appreciation, as was amply evidenced in the vote of thanks which

was accorded W. Bro. Smith.

The monthly meeting was held on 18th July. The ceremonial work consisted of initiating one candidate, who

was obligated by the W.M., W. Bro. Thomsen. The address in the N.E. was .delivered by W. Bro. Soundy,

the E. of P. by Bro. D. N. Wilson, S.W., the W.Ts. were explained by W. Bro. Fred Craven, and the Final

Charge was given by W. Bro. H. G. Smith, P.M. The W.M., with the S.W. and J.W., were appointed a

committee to arrange for the visiting of all sick brethren. Bro. Larritt, who has been resident in Dannevirke

for the past six years, announced that before the Lodge again assembled he would have taken his departure

for Otahuhu, Auckland, where he intends to reside. Bro. Larritt is highly esteemed by the members of

Rawhiti, and we commend him the fraternal attention of members of the Craft, both individually and

collectively, in the locality to which he is removing. The newly-formed choir is already giving evidence that

it will fill a long felt want, and be of material assistance, both in the ceremonial work and in the refectory.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Heretaunga, No. 73.—The annual meeting was held on 10th July, and as the elements were favourable, an

overflowing meeting was held for the purpose of installing Bro. C. H. Martin as W.M. for the ensuing year.

R.W. Bro. Harston, Prov.G.M., had the conduct of the function. Two P.Prov.G.Ms. were also present—viz.,

R.W. Bros, F. De Lisle and T. Hobson. The acting G.L. officers were selected from all over the Hawkes Bay

district. About 150 brethren were present, inclusive of 44 P.Ms. —a mark of honour to our new W.M., who

has recently returned on furlough from France. The ceremony was conducted as usual with a dignity and

high state of excellence usual in our annual gatherings and festal days. If I omit much of the usual padding, it

is owing to your request for brevity during these days of stress: The musical arrangements, both in the

Temple and refectory, under W. Bro. Percy Tombs, were of a very high standard of excellence. The W.M.

gave a very interesting fifteen minutes on matters of great interest from the Western Front, and was very

attentively listened to by the large assembly of brethren. Toasts and replies, song, recitation, and story all

helped to pass a very pleasant, instructive, and entertaining evening. I omitted to mention earlier that R.W.

Bro. Harston, on behalf of the Heretaunga members, presented a P.M.'s jewel to W. Bro. J. A. Miller in a.

very happy manner, and the recipient replied. The following officers were invested: S.W., Bro. J. E. Jones;

J.W., Bro. W. R. Wright.; Treas., W. Bro. W. A. Carter; Sec., W. Bro. T. Morgan ; D. of C., W. Bro. R.

Shaw ; Organist, W. Bro. P. Tombs ; Chaplain, Bro. R. Waugh ; S.D., Bro. J. Foot; J.D., Bro. T. Short ; I.G.,

Bro. A. W. Hamilton ; Tyler, Bro. J. Burns ; Ss., Bros. Cowlrick and Palmer. —[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ruahine, No. 80.—The annual installation meeting was held on 26th June, when, notwithstanding the

inclemency of the weather, the lodgeroom was taxed to its utmost to hold the record attendance of visiting

brethren, who came from far and near. Lodge Rawhiti was specially conspicuous, for not less than seven car-

loads of brethren journeyed the seventeen miles to do honour to the W.M.-elect, Bro. R. E. Toogood, long

and favourably known throughout the district. The ceremony was performed by R.W. Bro. H. L. Harston,

Prov.G.M. of Hawkes Bay. The address to the W.M. was given by W. Bro. Hewat, of Lodge Tararua, and W.

Bro. R. Gillespie performed a similar service to the Wardens. The address to the brethren was most

impressively delivered by the R.W. Installing Master. The presentation of W.Ts. was in the capable hands of

W. Bros. Thomson (W.M., Rawhiti Lodge), Benson (W.M., Lion Lodge), and King (W.M., Tararua Lodge).

The W.M. invested his S.W. (Bro. J. Elder), his J.W. (Bro. R. A. Offwood), and his Sec. (W. Bro. A.

Stevenson), who later invested the remaining officers :—Treas., Bro. J. H. Ebbett ; S.D., Bro. R. Bly ; J.D.,

Bro. J. M. Hutchinson; I.G., Bro. A. H. Hustwick ; D. of C., W. Bro. H. P. Horne ; Chap., Bro. R. Gardner;

Org., W. Bro. Turvey; S.S., Bro. D. Dodd ; A.Ss., Bros. R. Leach and W. H. Wilkinson ; Tyler, Bro. T.

Hutchins. The control of the details of the ceremonial was entrusted to W. Bro. H. P. Horne, D. of C., who

filled the position with ease and dignity. A solo, tastefully rendered by Bro. J. Elder, S.W., was greatly

appreciated. The R.W. Installing Master heartily congratulated the W.M., wishing him a most successful

year of office. H.G.Ws. were tendered from the many Lodges represented, as well as from the W.M.'s own

Lodge, and the meeting, which will be long remembered, was closed in the usual manner. A retirement was

then made to the Foresters' Hall, where Bro. S. Turnbull had prepared an excellent supper, much enjoyed by

the brethren. A couple of hours were spent in harmony and good fellowship, which proved both pleasant and

instructive, and the brethren parted with every good wish for a splendid Masonic year.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

AUCKLAND.

Maniapeto, No. 206.—The regular meeting was held on 18th June, the W.M. (W. Bro. Henry Benner)

presiding. The ceremonial work consisted of passing one brother, and was exceptionally well done by the

W.M., assisted by W. Bro. Black, Ins.; Bro. Hosking, the S.E.; Bros. J. A. Ruddy and Stuart, W.Ts. ; and

Bro. Heerdegen, Charge after Passing. Bro. Hosking reported that all preliminary steps had been brought to a

successful issue for the acquisition of the fee simple of the Lodge's leasehold section. One candidate was

elected. The brethren spent a pleasant hour in the refectory.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

TARANAKI.

Hawera, No. 34.—The annual installation meeting was held at the Temple on 4th July, when Bro. E. C.

Hayton was duly installed in the chair of K.S. by R.W. Bro. R. W. Sargent, Prov.G.M. R.W. Bro. J. Keesing,

Dep.G.M., was to have been present, but was tumble at the last moment to come, owing, I believe, to illness

in his family. The attendance of members and visiting brethren, especially of P.Ms., easily constituted a

record for this Lodge. Greetings were tendered by representatives of twenty-seven Lodges. The following

officers were invested for the ensuing year :—Bro. Colter Brown, S.W. ; Bro. J. L. Martin, J.W. ; W. Bro. F.

G. Kimbell, Treas. ; W. Bro. Alan Thompson (I.P.M.), Sec.: Bro. F. G. Magnusson, Chaplain; W. Bro. S.

Till, D. of C. ; Bro. W. S. Gibson, S.D. ; Bro. C. H. Bowman, J.D. ; Bro. F. G. Hancock, I.G. ; Bro. H.

Robinson, Organist; Bros. L. H. Carrel and Don Campbell, Ss. ; and Bro. T. E. Sunderland, Tyler. The

brethren afterwards adjourned to the Central Tea Rooms, where a pleasant time was spent in harmony, and

the usual toasts were duly honoured. I note that your space is becoming somewhat overtaxed, so I have

endeavoured to be brief.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Thanks—ED.C.]

————————

RUAPEHU.

Manawatu Kil., No. 47.—The regular meeting on 12th June was exceptionally well attended. Included

among the visitors were a number in uniform from Awapuni Camp, also Bros. L. and A. Mowlem, both

members of the. Lodge, the former being now resident at Thursday Island in the wireless service, and the

latter practising his profession of solicitor at Auckland. The occasion of Bro. L. Mowlem's visit to

Palmerston was his marriage, and at an interval in the proceedings he was warmly congratulated and the

heartiest good wishes were extended. The principal business of the evening was the initiation of two candi-

dates, and the W.M. (Bro. Dustin) again gave good evidence of his ability. His officers also acquitted

themselves well. The N.E. Charge was given by Bro. A. Hopwood, P.M., the W.Ts. by Bro. W. Mundy,

I.P.M., the T.B. lecture by Bro. Torstorsen, P.M., the E. of P. by Bro. Wright, I.G., and the Final Charge by

Bro. W. H. Smith, P.G.J.W. Four candidates were accepted and two proposed for membership. A special

feature of this Lodge is the attention given to sick or distressed members. At every meeting the Wardens

report on visits made, sympathy or relief given, and also detail cases where visitation is required or

desirable.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Andrew Kil., No 79.—After fulfilling an eventful year of office, which included the jubilee celebrations,

W. Bro. R. W. Green retired from office and Bro. J. E. M. Rose was installed in his place. The ceremony of

installation took place on 11th July, in the presence of 145 brethren, of whom forty were P.Ms. The

ceremony was conducted by W. Bro. H. C. Price in an able and impressive manner. The W.M.-elect was

presented by W. Bro. J. C. Richardson, and the Ancient Charges were read by R.W. Bro. J. Stevenson,

P.G.S.W. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros, S. Murch (W.M., Lodge Tongariro, E.C.), F. Symes

(W.M.; Lodge Moutoa), and G. S. Gordon. The Warrant was presented by R.W. Bro. D. McFarlane. Prov.

G.M., who also delivered the charge to the brethren. The charge to the W.M. was delivered by W. Bro. S. G.

Bullock and to the Wardens by W. Bro. A. Doig. The investiture of officers was improvisedly performed by

W. Bro. W. J. Treadwell. At the conclusion of the ceremony a P.M.'s jewel was presented to the retiring

W.M. by the Prov.G.M. in recognition of the earnest manner in which he had carried out his duties during his

term of office. After hearty good wishes from visitors and the local sister Lodges, an adjournment was made

to the assembly hall, where the customary festivities were indulged in. A feature was made of the decorations

which, in order to do honour to the new W.M., consisted of "roses white and roses red." The programme, too,

was rosy in character, every singer finding something to sing in praise of that flower. 'The brethren thus

expressed their appreciation of W. Bro. J. E. M. Rose, and he is sure of their hearty support during his term

of office. In a short but able speech the W.M. expressed his thanks, and set a high ideal for all Freemasons in

their Lodge and private life. The final toast was drunk in the " wee sma' hours " after a very successful and

happy gathering.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [List of officers omitted.—ED.C.]

————

Kimbolton, No. 123.—The monthly meeting was held on 23rd May. Owing to the very stormy weather the

attendance was small, some of the brethren, including officers, being held up by flooded rivers. The work

was the passing of two candidates. The ceremony was conducted by the W.M., who obligated Bro. Clapham,

and was further assisted by W. Bro. McKay (Ob. to Bro. Osborne and address in S.E. to Bro. Clapham), W.

Bro. Nix (Ss. to Bro. Clapham and address in S.E. to Bro. Osborne); and Bro. E. S. Davies, I.G. (Ss. to Bro.

Osborne). The J.W. presented the W.Ts. and the S.W. delivered the Charge. After the Lodge was closed

brethren adjourned to the refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent, and the usual toasts were honoured,

including that of " Brethren at the Front."

The monthly meeting was held on 27th June. The weather was again very stormy, and precluded some of the

officers from attending, flooded rivers barring the way. The work was the raising of one brother. The intense

cold was indeed a severe trial of the fortitude of the candidate. The ceremony was conducted by the W.M.,

who gave the Ex., and was further assisted by W. Bro. Andrews (Lodge Victoria, No. 21), who was related

to the candidate, and had come a long way for the special privilege of obligating him ; W. Bro. McKay,

I.P.M. (Ss.), W. Bro. Bailey (T.H.), and Bro. E. S. Davies, I.G. (Charge). The J.W. presented the W.Ts., and

the S. W. delivered the Charge after Raising. H.G.W. were tendered on behalf of Lodge Victoria, No. 21, and

Lodge Plunket, by visiting brethren. The usual refectory degree was worked.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Mouton, No. 195.—The monthly meeting was held at Gonville on 28th June. The W.M., Bro. F. Symes,

presided, and intimated to the brethren that he hoped the evening would prove as he wished, one of

instruction, particularly to the newly-admitted brethren. He then called upon Bro. D. Campbell, Chaplain,

who delivered a most impressive address, his subject being "A Study of the M. of N. and Science." W. Bro.

N. P. Svenson, who also assisted, gave a most interesting address on "The Ancient Landmarks." The W.M.

then mentioned that W. Bros. Bullock and Doig had kindly consented to give instruction in proving. The

brethren were keenly interested in this work, and greatly appreciated the knowledge imparted. The W.M.

then spoke of the recent departure of Bro. C. P. Bates for Ohakune, and whilst regretting the loss of so

worthy a brother, he was pleased to know that Bro. Bates had received promotion, to which he thought he

was justly entitled. At Lodge of Instruction on 12th June he had taken the opportunity of saying au revoir to

Bro. Bates, and the feeling at this little function was such that all present spoke of their admiration for Bro.

Bates. The annual report of W. Bro. G. McLean, I.P.M., now on active service, was then circulated, and thus

concluded one of Moutoa's most enjoyable evenings.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

WELLINGTON.

Masterton, No 19.—An emergency meeting was held on 26th June, three brethren being passed. The W.M.,

Bro. O. N. C. Pragnell, presided over a good attendance of brethren and visitors. In the refectory, Bro. Rev.

Halliday, ex-Captain-Chaplain, gave a most interesting address, entitled "Some of My Experiences at the

Front." Bro. Halliday related many incidents, both grave and gay, and mentioned the very high esteem in

which the New Zealand boys are held, both in the Old Land and in France. We hope to have the pleasure of

again hearing this brother on some future occasion.

The regular monthly meeting was held on 10th July, when there was a good attendance. Two brethren were

raised. The W.M. presided, and was assisted by the following officers :— Secrets, W. Bro. R. J. Young ;

Exhort., W. Bro. R. J. King; Charge, W. Bro. J. B. Henry ; T.H., W. Bro. Hyde ; Ss., W. Bro. Winzenburg ;

W.Ts., Bro. S. D. Pearce, J.W ;. Final Charge, Bro. C. W. Perrin, S.W. A pleasant hour was spent in the

refectory at the close of the meeting.

On Sunday, the 14th, a Masonic service was held in the Lodgeroom at 3.15 p.m,, when the seating

accommodation was fully taxed. The members, accompanied by their wives and relatives, attended in full

numbers, in spite of the adverse weather. Bro. Rev. Halliday preached an eloquent sermon, basing his

remarks on the text, "I will build a Temple to God's name." Appropriate hymns were sung, and the choir

rendered three sacred male voice anthems. The W.M. has every reason to be proud of his first Sunday

service, and we hope the future may have more of them in store for us.--[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Andrew, No. 32.—The monthly meeting was held on 15th July, Lodge being opened at 7.15 p.m. by W.

Bro. J. C. Riddell, W.M., in the presence of a satisfactory attendance of members. There was very little

preliminary business to transact, and the Lodge proceeded with the ceremonial of initiating two candidates,

for which purpose W. Bro. G. F. Lenzini, of Tutanekai Lodge, was handed the gavel, and was assisted by the

officers of his own Lodge. W. Bro. E. D. Alexander delivered the Address after Investiture, and the R. for P.;

W. Bro. P. C. Watt was responsible for the N.E. Address and W. Bro. Anderson for the W.Ts. ; Bro. C. W.

Martin, S.W., rendered the Final Charge, and W. Bro. G. F. Lenzini expounded the T.B. The officers proper

resumed their seats, and Lodge was closed after the announcement of three propositions. The Lodge was

glad to welcome several old P.Ms. of Tutanekai, whose reappearance revived old recollections. A brief

adjournment to the refectory proved very enjoyable, and gave an opportunity for fresh blood, notably a

member of Thespian Lodge, Victoria.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Leinster, No. 44. — The installation meeting was held on 1st July. In order that visitors be admitted at 7

p.m., the Lodge was tyled at 6.20 p.m., W. Bro. A. McLaren, W.M., in the chair. Routine business having

been disposed of, visitors were admitted, there being a large attendance. The Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. W.

Ellison, was admitted and received with honours, and assumed the chair. The G.M., M.W. Bro.W L.

Herdman, attended by W.M. Bro. M. Niccol, P.G.M., M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. A.

Veitch: P.G.S.W., R.AV. Bro. H. H. Seaton, P. of B. of B., V.W. Bro. G. Russell, G.D. of C., and other G.L.

officers, was admitted and received with honours. The W.M. elect, Bro. R. J. Shakes, was presented, and the

Ob. of F. was administered by the retiring W.M., W. Bro. A. McLaren in a very able manner, characteristic

of the way in which he had conducted the business of the Lodge during his term of office. A Board of I.Ms.

was then formed, presided over by R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov.G.M., who installed Bro. Richard J.

Shakes. The address to the W.M. was delivered by M.W. Bro. M. Niccol, G.Sec., in a manner which, no

doubt, was appreciated by all present. R.W. Bro. A. Veitch, P.G.S.W., addressed the Wardens, and M.W.

Bro. H. J. Williams, P.G.M., in his eloquent address to the brethren, added lustre to the ceremony of the

evening. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. O. N. G. Pragnell (W.M., Lodge Masterton), W. Bro. J.

Gordon (W.M., Lodge Waterloo), and W. Bro. A. G. Steffensen (W.M., Lodge Ulster). V.W. Bro. W. H.

Jones. P.G.D. of C.. invested the officers as follows :—S.W., Bro. W. J. Garrett ; J.W., Bro. D. Parnell ; Sec.,

W. Bro. W. A. Baudinet, P.G.S. ; Chap., W. The. R. H. Wilson, P.M. ; D. of C., W. Bro. E. B. Parsons, P.M.

; S.D., Bro. E. C. Smyth ; J.D., Bro. H. W. McCarthy ; I.G., Bro. J. Jackson ; Tyler, Bro. M. J. F. Gardner ;

S.S., Bro. A. F. Baudinet ; J.S., Bro. A. E. Thompson ; Asst.Ss., Bros. A. M. Taylor and C. R. Bowater ;

Act.-Org., Bro. J. Cowley. W. Bro. W. Wills, P.M., Treas., was unable to be present, having met with a slight

accident. At the request of the W.M., M.W. Bro. A. L. Herdman, G.M., presented the retiring W.M. (W. Bro.

A. McLaren) with a handsome P.M.'s jewel as a. token of the esteem of the brethren of the Lodge for the

very able manner in which he had conducted the business of the Lodge during his term of office,

The brethren spent a very enjoyable time in the " Fourth," the proposers of the various toasts and the replies

being listened to with great attention, which we feel sure must have been gratifying to all present.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Tararua, No. 67.—The regular monthly meeting was held on 27th June, with a fairly good attendance,

which was spoilt by the inclement weather. This was rather unfortunate, as our P.Ms. worked the degree—

the raising of a candidate—with an evenness and perfection which stamps them as pastmasters. W.M. King

handed the gavel to W. Bro. W. Britland, who had with him the following officers :—S.W., W, Bro. Barrell;

J.W., W. Bro. Griffith ; Chap., W. Bro. Hewat, G.S. ; S.D., W. Bro. Riddell ; J.D., W. Bro. Miller; I.G., W.

Bro. Ross. The W.M. obligated the candidate and gave the P.G. and P.W., also the Final Charge ; W. Bro.

Hewat, G.S., the. Ex. and 3rd T.B. ; W. Bro. Barrell, the Charge ; W. Bro. Riddell, the T.H. ; and W. Bro.

Griffith, the W.Ts. Later, the W.M. recalled the fact to W. Bro. Britland, who was pleased to be reminded of

it, that in June twenty-one years ago he had been initiated in Lodge Tararua, and trusted that he would see at

least another twenty-one years in his Mother Lodge. After discussion of the proposals set out by the W.M. in

regard to enlargement of hall the matter was left to stand indefinitely. We have to record with sincerest regret

the death of Bro. Lieut. A. G. R. Crawford from wounds received in action in Palestine; also regret to hear

that Bro. Lieut. J. Trevor Thomas has been wounded and is unfortunately a prisoner of war, though some

leaven is to be found in the fact that he has won the Military Cross. The W.M. has taken up the matter of

getting a fund started on his behalf, to be sent to a reliable authority in London, to see that the most suitable

essential articles are sent to him as often as might be allowed to a prisoner of war, to show he is at least

thought of. The W.M. read a paper on the 47th problem, because of its being the P.M.'s jewel, and also

presented the candidate and another brother with a copy of the V.S.L., pointing out that the V.S.L. is the

Book on which Freemasonry is established, and the further a Freemason proceeds in his desire for the truths

set out for us in our various charges, the more he will want to read his V.S.L.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Greytown, No. 74.— The annual meeting for the installation of W.M. and investiture of officers was held on

24th June, W. Bro. J. B. Brickell presiding. The attendance was sufficiently large to make the atmosphere in

the unventilated Lodgeroom oppressive. Included in the list of visitors were : M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams,

P.G.M. ; R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, Prov. R.W. Bro. Major Newcombe, P.Dist.G.W., E.C. ; R.W. Bro. J.

Moncrieff, P.D.G.M. ; V.W. Bro. Geo. Russell, G.D. of C. ; W. Bro. T. F. Hewatt, G.S. R.W. Bro. Ellison

conducted the ceremony, and installed Bro. D. P. Loasby us .W.M. The proclamations were made by V.W.

Bro. Russell, G.D. of C., Bro. Christie acting as Herald ; and the W.Ts. were presented by V.W. Bros. King,

Kendall, and Pragnall. The following officers were invested by W. Bro. Larkin :— Organist, Bro. A. W. H.

Compton ; I.P.M., Bro. J. B. Brickell ; S.W., Bro. W. A. Hutton ; J.W., Bro. C. J. Polson ; Treas.. Bro. Alf.

Low ; Sect, W. Bro. E. Larkin. P.M. ; S.D.. Bro. F. V. Kempton ; J.D.. Bro. A. Johnson ; I.G., Bro. A. O.

Casey ; S.S. Bro. O. Peterson ; .J.S., Bro. W. Trott ; Tyler. Bro. C. J. Beard. The addresses to the W.M. and

Wardens were given by R.W. Bro. J. Moncrieff ; and M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams gave the concluding address

to the brethren. At the close of the Lodge refreshments were served, and the usual toasts were interspersed

with songs and recitations. Owing to the long toast list and the length of many of the speeches, the

proceedings were not brought to a close until long after midnight.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Coronation, No. 127.—The annual festival was held on 20th July, W. Bro. A. H. Maidenhall presiding. The

attendance was very large, G.L. being in great force, and its representatives included M.W. Bros. M. Niccol

and H. J. Williams, P.G.Ms. ; R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M. ; R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, P.G.M. ; V.W.

Bro. H. B. Bridge, P.G.Lect. ; V.W. Bro. Colonel J. J. Essen ; V.W. Bro. Geo. Russell, G.D. of C., and a

number of others, W. Bro. J. Firth acted as D. of C. and Bro. G. King was Herald. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams

conducted the ceremony, installing Bro. Knollys M. Carter as W.M. for the current year. R.W. Bro. J. W.

Ellison, Prov.G.M., presented the W.Ts. in the Board of I.Ms., and also the Warrant, B. of C., and By-laws in

the Lodge. W. Bros. Steffensen, Jerram, and Webb were responsible for the presentation of the W.Ts. and

the D. of C. for the Proclamations. V.W. Bro. Colonel J. J. Esson invested the following officers in a most

happy and exemplary manner :—W.M., Bro. K. M. Carter ; S.W., Bro. W. S. Radcliffe ; J.W., Bro. F. A.

Jacobsen; Chaplain, Bro. Wm. Rowe ; Treas., W. Bro. T. W. Kirk ; Sec., Bro. A. W. Robertson ; D. of C.,

W. Bro. R. Turner ; S.D., Bro. V. A. Mills; J.D., Bro. R. B. Mills; I.G., Bro. .J. A. Campbell ; S.S., Bro. T.

N. Harris ; J.S., Bro. A. J. Sharpe ; Tyler, W. Bro. H. E. Harrap ; Organist, Bro. C. Gray. The address to the

W.M. was admirably delivered by M.W. Bro. M. Nicol. W. Bro. J. G. Harkness fittingly charged the

Wardens, and veteran Bro. T. A. Peterkin feelingly addressed the brethren. At the request of the W.M., M.W.

Bro. H. J. Williams unveiled a new Honours Board, with most appropriate reference to the occasion. M.W.

Bro. M. Niccol presented a jewel to the retiring W.M., in appropriate terms, to which W. Bro. Maidenhall

suitably responded. R.W. Bro. Ellison presented diplomas to two brethren, The W.M. suitably addressed the

brethren, expressing his thanks to all and sundry. A collection for the Annuity Fund was taken up, and

following H.G.W. the Lodge was closed. The usual refreshments followed, all the speeches being

characterised by commendable brevity. The whole function was most enjoyable, and visitors from town were

well repaid, notwithstanding the boisterous weather.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Berhampore, on 4th July. The

W.M. (Bro. J. Lenzini) presided over a good attendance of brethren and visitors. After routine business had

been disposed of, the ceremonial work was the initiation of four candidates. The W.M. obligated; W. Bro. P.

C. Watt gave the S., T., and W. ; the S.W. (Bro. C. Martin) invested ; Bro. E. Howell gave the Apron

Charge; the J.W. (Bro. Key) addressed the candidates in the N.E.-; Bro. Donald, I.G., explained the Prep. ;

Bro. Morton, J.D., presented the W.Ts. the Constitution and By-laws were handed over by the W.M. ; and

the Final Charge was rendered by W. Bro. Sexton, I.P.M. The Lodge closed at 9.45, and a profitable hour

was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Otari, No. 190.—The installation meeting on 9th July was indeed a brilliant and successful gathering. The

attendance was representative, G. L. being particularly well represented, amongst those present being M.W.

Bros. Malcolm Niccol and H. J. Williams P.G.Ms., R.W. Bros. T. A. Peterkin, P.D.G.M. ; J. W. Ellison,

Prov.G.M. ; H. H. Seaton, P.S.G.W.; V.W., Bros. C. W. Nielsen, G.Reg.; Colonel J. J. Esson, Pres, B. of

G.P.; H. B. Bridge, P.G.Lect. ; and others. Bro. Alex. Ferguson, S.W., well known and highly esteemed in

local business circles, was installed in the chair of K.S. M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams and V.W. Bro. Colonel J.

J. Esson acted as Installing Masters, and were most ably assisted by R.W. Bro. Seaton as G.D. of C. M.W.

Bro. Niccol addressed the W.M., R.W. Bro. Ellison the Wardens, and V.W. Bro. Bridge the brethren. V.W.

Bro. C. W. Nielsen delivered the Charter and Constitution to the W.M., while the W.Ts. were presented by

the W.Ms. of Lodges N.Z. Pacific No. 2, St. Andrew No. 32, and Coronation No. 127. W. Bro. Jerram made

a most successful investing officer, and discharged his duty with dignity and grace. The P.G.Ms., M.W.

Bros. Niccol and Williams, were never heard to better advantage, and their perfect rendering of the ritual on

this occasion will long remain a pleasant memory in the mind's of those who had the pleasure of listening to

them. Truly "age cannot stale nor custom change" either of these veterans, who, with the passage of years,

increase the hold they have upon the hearts and affections of their brethren. The P.Ms. of the Lodge assisted

throughout, and more than maintained the excellent reputation they have already established in connection

with ceremonial work. The newly-installed W.M. delivered an excellent address, which gave ample evidence

of his ability and conveyed a hint of disciplinary powers which he has long been suspected of possessing.

The following are the officers for the ensuing year.—I.P.M., W. Bro. R. A. Nicol; D.M., W. Bro. J. G.

Harkness, P.G.D. ; S.W., Bro. W. A. Tanner ; J.W., Bro. J. T. Mair Treas., W. Bro. S. P. Curtis; Sec., W.

Bro. J. R. Srimgeour; D. of C., V.W. Bro. Colonel Esson; Chaplain, Bro. J. Craig; S.D., Bro. A. Patrick; J.D.,

Bro. F. Holdsworth; I.G., Bro. W. H. Gledhill; Organist, Bro. T. Chamberlin-Chamberlin ; Ss., Bros.

Sutherland and Colpus; Tyler, Bro. R. Aplin. In the refectory an excellent spread was provided by the wives

of the members, whose continued practical interest in the welfare of the Lodge we are pleased to note was

duly appreciated by those present. The excellence of the speeches delivered by the distinguished brethren

who proposed and responded to the various toasts excited much favourable comment and added largely to

the success of a memorable gathering.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

Otago, No. 7.—A sudden call to Wellington on account of the serious illness of his mother, who, I regret to

say, has since died, prevented V.E. Comp. A. Stoneham presiding over the convocation held in Dunedin on

6th July. V.E. Comp. G. T. Lumsden, P.Z., occupied the chair of 1st Prin., and was attended by V.E. Comp.

A. W. Oxley (Victory Chapter, No. 12) and E. Comp. J. Pringle (Otago Chapter). A very agreeable surprise

was the appearance of R.E. Comp. E. Lane, G. Supt. of Otago, who had journeyed from Oamaru to be

present with us that evening, The exaltation of a brother was carried out in quite an impressive manner, the

officers of the Chapter being assisted by V.E. Comp. Oxley (Signs) and the G. Supt. (Signs Further

Illustrated) in the performance of the work. Comps. A. J. Cannon and R. J. Shearing were presented with

R.A. diplomas, anti the insignia of office of G.S.N. was handed over to the Acting 1st Prin., on behalf of

V.E. Comp. H. W. S. Hellyer. Replying to the toast of his health at the supper table, R.E. Camp. Lane

suggested, among other things, the advisability of holding weekly meetings of the Chapter members. The

effect would be to add increased interest in the work, and by conversing with one another and reading papers

on Masonic work the information derived from such meetings would have a far-reaching effect. The speaker

illustrated how the holding of weekly meetings in Oamaru had improved the attendance of the Chapter, and

urged on those present that evening to make an effort to hold these meetings. The companions present were

much impressed by the G. Supt.'s remarks, and we all felt that his appearance among us oftener would- be

much appreciated, and tend to enlighten those of us who yearn for further information in R. A.

Freemasonry.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Manawatu, No. 11.—This Chapter is progressing by leaps and bounds. At the May meeting ten candidates

were exalted, and at a meeting on 20th June three were advanced and acknowledged, both ceremonies being

presided over by V.E. Comp. Stone, Z. The three mentioned are the W.M. and S.W. of United Manawatu

Lodge, No. 1721, E.C., and a brother of Lodge Huia, No. 171. The Chapter is now on a firm foundation,

financially sound, and its members are characterised by enthusiasm. The hope is entertained that it will

become one of the strongest and most efficient Chapters in the Dominion.

The monthly meeting was held on 18th July. V.E. Comp. W. H. Smith assumed the chair, in the enforced

absence of V.E. Comp. Stone. The reception of the officers and members of the Wanganui Chapter followed,

Manawatu officers vacating the chairs. The visiting officers conducted the ceremonial work, which consisted

of an Exaltation,, the work being performed most impressively, at the conclusion of which all assembled in

the refectory, when the usual toasts were honoured; there was a certain amount of valuable discussion

relating to the welfare of the R.A.C. Included among the visitors were representatives of Egmont and

Ruapehu, and other distinguished visitors, all of whom assisted to make the proceedings interesting and

instructive, and, no doubt, it will be an incentive to one and all to continue to work with unabated zeal and

energy in the future.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Waimate, No. 16.—The correspondent regrets that the reports from this Chapter have of late been far

between, owing to matters of local importance. A meeting was held on 26th June, when an Exaltation was

worked. V.E. Comp. Jas. Manchester, 1st Prin., being ably assisted by E. Comp. W. E. Evans, 1st Soj., E.

Comp. C. R. Bateman (" The discovery of which has heen made ' ), V.E. Comp. Colville, P.Z. (Signs), and

V.E. Comp. A. J. Hoskins, P.Z. (Final Charge), conferred the degree on Comp. Anderson. Notwithstanding

the infrequency of working this degree, the work was most creditably gone through, and Comp. Evans

rendered the part of 1st Soj. admirably. Five brethren of Lodge St. Augustine were proposed for

membership, and it is hoped to get them through before the installation in September, as we meet at call. A

pleasant hour was afterwards spent in the refectory.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Waikato, No. 22.—A convocation was held in the Lodgeroom, Hamilton East, on 18th June, when one

brother was exalted. 'The ceremonial work was conducted by V.E. Comp. Gummer, assisted by V.E. Comp.

Speight (Secrets), and further explained by V.E. Comp. J. C. Williams, the W.Ts. by E. Comp. Webster, and

the Charge by E. Comp. Andrews. Ten brethren were balloted for and three proposed, which shows the

Chapter to be in a very flourishing condition. Of course, this Chapter is geographically situated in the centre

of a very large Masonic district, and we are in the fortunate position of getting a large number of members

from outside Craft Lodges.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]

————

Wanganui, No. 23.—The monthly convocation was

held on 4th July, when V.E. Comp. C. C. Moutray

presided. The R.A. Degree was conferred on two

brethren, The ceremony was performed by the

V.E.Z., ably assisted by R.E. Comps. Palmer and

Gordon, V.E. Comps. Bullock, Roulston,

Runnerstrum, and E. Comp. Symes. Nominations of

officers for the ensuing year were dealt with, also a

candidate proposed for R,A. Masonry.— [Chapter

Correspondent.]

————

Rawhiti, No. 30.—The Chapter met on 1st July,

V.E. Comp. Fred Craven, acting-Z., presiding.

Associated with him were E. Comp. Carl Thomsen,

H., and E. Comp. J. C. Davidson, J. One candidate

for advancement was balloted for and accepted. The

Chapter then adjourned for the purpose of conferring

the side degrees on four candidates. An Ark

Mariners' Lodge was opened under the presidency of

W. Bro. J. Brown and the degree conferred in

accordance with ancient custom. The remaining

degrees were conferred on the same candidates by

W. Bro. R. A. Gillespie. R.E. Comp. Gillespie,

G.Supt. of Hawkes Bay District, is desirous that

every Chapter within his jurisdiction will make an

effort to work these degrees, and thus curtail the

amount of work which in past years was usually left

to be performed at the annual convocation, in

addition to the installation ceremony.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]