THE WORLD'S MENACE.

———<>———

WHAT CAN FREEMASONRY DO ?

THE termination of the Great War has naturally

induced a world-wide jubilation, and great exultation

to the victors. But it has also resulted in bringing

absolute chaos in at least two empires, and the

development of practices which would appear to be

dictated by a desire to outrage and debase the worst

characteristics of human nature. To assert that the

Bolsheviks of Russia are endeavouring to emulate

wild beasts is almost an insult to even the grosser

forms of animal life. And as an example of the easy

descent to evil, latest advices tell us that this

confederation of murderous barbarians have an

immense army well organised for absolutely evil

purposes. We are further told that Bolshevism is

rapidly spreading westward, and there appears to be

little or no attempt being made to stay the flood of

this organised band of assassins, whose doings have

out-Heroded the bloodthirstiness of all previous

revolutions. And no one can venture to predict when

or where this new flood is going to stay its course. It has extended to the German capital under the title of the

Spartacus Band, and though the fortunes of this body have waned somewhat, it has been promised the

assistance of an immense body of Russian Bolsheviks to bolster up the cause of anarchy, rapine, and

bloodshed. The following particulars published by the Wellington "Evening Post " are both instructive and

interesting in the face of this worldwide menace :—

"A correspondent writes to 'The Post' asking for information regarding the Spartacus Party in Germany.

Little information is available about it beyond what has been given in the cable news. The party

corresponds to the Bolsheviks in Russia. The word Bolshevik is understood merely to mean majority, and

'menshevik' is equivalent to minority ; and the two parties were groups into which the Socialist Party

divided. A somewhat similar division existed in the German Socialist Party. The 'Majority Socialists'

were much less antagonistic to the Government than the Minority group, usually referred to as the

Independent Socialists. The Bolshevik group in Russia is said really to have been, at least in its earlier

history, smaller in numbers than the Menshevik. Its policy was extreme, and it sought to bring about the

social revolution from beginning to end at one stroke, hence its other name 'Maximalist.' The other group

preferred to work a little at a time—the 'Minimalist' process. In Germany the revolution opened much as

in Russia (though not with the same causes), with an outburst against monarchy and militarism ; and it

sought to give expression to the national will by securing the right of the people to govern. In Germany

the franchise has been extended universally to all the men, and voting is secret, but in spite of this the

Reichstag has never possessed any real power, hence the desire of the revolutionary party, which set

Ebert at its head, to hold a new general election and establish a Constituent Assembly. The Spartacus

group is opposed to the representative principle under the present franchise, and, like the Russian

extremists, it seeks to destroy completely the power of wealth and interests of all kinds, and to

monopolise the whole conduct of the State in the hands of the workers— in short, to establish a working-

class Government. Dr. Liebknecht, its chief leader, whose death has been reported, was a member of the

Reichstag, and figured in the early stages of the war as a singularly independent and fearless critic of the

Government and of its war policy, and he was imprisoned on that account. As for the name 'Spartacus,' it

" has been adopted for figurative purposes, to indicate that the motive of the party is liberation. Spartacus

was a Thracian slave, who served in the Roman army, and was trained as a gladiator. He broke out of his

servitude, gathered a band of escaped slaves and other adventurers, and established himself on Mount

Vesuvius. The Romans endeavoured to starve out the rebels, but were routed, and it took two years to

destroy the band. The so-called Slave or Gladiatorial war began in 73 B.C. and ended in 71 B.C., when

the then much-increased army of Spartacus, after a series of victories, was finally overwhelmed, and

Spartacus was among those who fell in the battle."

The avowed policy of both Bolshevik and. the Spartacusans is most comprehensive, and promises a very bad

time to all those who are outside the circle of these bodies. It has been published in the following terms :—

"The first step will be the confiscation of private fortunes and incomes, and the cancellation of the public

debt, including war loans, except small amounts subscribed by poor people. Banks, mills, and other

commercial enterprises will be confiscated. The leaders said they were determined to carry on the

struggle until a working-class Government was established. They said they represented the aspirations of

the working class throughout the whole world."

This may very well be called a policy of confiscation, repudiation, and spoliation, and one can well imagine

that it will appeal to a very large number of people who have not an abundance of this world's goods. And

herein lies the great menace. Freemasonry, not being a militant body, can do little in opposition to the

movement, but if there was ever a time when its fraternal aspect should be something, more than a name I

then that period would appear to be rapidly approaching. It will be patent to many brethren that outside the

Lodgeroom Masonic fellowship is not a very potent factor. The Masonic charges point the way, but perhaps

the iteration dulls the sound.

“You are to encourage industry, and reward merit, supply the wants and relieve the necessities of brethren

to the utmost of your power and ability, and on no account to see them wronged, but timely to apprise

them of approaching danger, and to view their interests as inseparable from your own."

He would be a bold man who would assert that these precepts find general application. In the event of a

world trouble from the cause we have detailed, Freemasonry could only exercise moral suasion, but still it

might become possible that it should be that little leaven for good that would leaven the whole mass. We do

think the time has come for a closer fraternal association within, and a commingling of general interests,

which would redound to the honour and glory of the institution, and would show that it is possible for Free-

masons to have even higher ideals than simply to dwell together in unity.

————————

THE PROPOSED ANGLICAN MEMORIAL CATHEDRAL

TO BE ERECTED IN WELLINGTON.

———<>———

A letter in our correspondence columns on the above subject is worthy of more than passing notice. After the

glorious victories obtained in the great European war, in which our New Zealand soldiers so largely

participated, it is most fitting that some worthy and enduring memorial should be erected to perpetuate the

heroic sacrifice made by so many thousands of New Zealand's sons. And we concur with our correspondent

that no more suitable form of memorial could be suggested than the proposed Anglican Cathedral, which will

endure for centuries to come, and where all classes and sects may meet to offer up their worship to the Most

High. As so many Freemasons and Masons' sons have been engaged in the great strife, the proposal to

dedicate some special portion of the building to the institution of Freemasonry should appeal to the brethren

generally. In order to make the position quite clear, we have gathered the following particulars from Bro.

Rev. C. F. Askew, who is the foremost worker in connection with the proposed building, and is leaving for

England in the course of a few months to further and promote the work : "The Anglican Church has decided

to build a cathedral in Wellington as a great memorial to the men fallen in the war, and as a great thank-

offering to T.G.A.O.T.U. A noble site has been chosen adjoining the playing-fields of Wellington College

and fronting the Basin Reserve. The age through which we have just passed has been pre-eminently

materialistic in its views of the world and life. It was an age in which faith in the spiritual, the unseen, the

eternal, seemed to be utterly perishing out of the hearts of men.

"The worship of God was rapidly being supplanted—for man must worship something—by the worship of

the twin deities of Materialism : Mammon and Moloch, Wealth and Power. If it be true that the German

peoples became the votaries of Moloch, it is equally true that we had become the votaries of Mammon.

Neither deity had any use for cathedrals. If, as a recent visitor remarks, Moloch shelled cathedrals, Mammon

despised them. How, then, could- we better inaugurate the New Age than by the erection in this capital city

of our Dominion of a great and noble cathedral, which by its prominence, its beauty, and its dignity shall

witness to men, even to those who can see only with their outward eyes, that there is a nobler worship than

that of Mammon and Moloch, and which shall be the symbol to generation after generation that there is a

nobler and wider citizenship than the restricted citizenships of earth, even citizenship in that spiritual and

universal Commonwealth whose Builder and Maker is God. These noble and eloquent words embody the

faith and aspirations of the Anglican community who have set out to build a cathedral with the idea that if

man is the noblest- work of God, a cathedral is the noblest work of man. As far as possible, it is intended to

employ and use New Zealand labour and material. The cathedral is to be as beautiful as love, art, and money

can make it. The Military Chapel will contain the names in gold letters on marble tablets of every New

Zealander—soldier, sailor, doctor, nurse—who has made the supreme sacrifice in this and the South African

War. Its beautiful windows will symbolise in rich stained glass the military campaigns in which the New

Zealanders have been identified, while the colours of the Allies will hang in the series of bays assigned to the

various Allied countries. Its barrel-vaulted ceiling will glitter with Venetian mosaics, and pictorial art will

depict in many places scenes and incidents connected with the war. Externally, and internally, the chapel will

have a series of canopied and pedestalled niches containing figures of those most prominent leaders of the

Empire, soldiers and martyrs ; and there will be a story running through each scheme in connection , with all

painting, sculpture, and carving. This building will be of national and historic value in the days to come—a

building of which the people will be supremely proud, and to which they will have access at all times, a

building whose every part will be a memorial to the glorious dead or a thank-offering for the noble living. A

cathedral occupies an unique position in the minds of the people, for there is something different from a mere

church about it, something which makes all men—Anglican or Presbyterian, Methodist or Baptist, Jew or

Gentile—feel that it is a common heritage in which they have a share, something wider even than the

Anglican Communion. Most of the cathedrals have been associated with the Craft and Masonic ritual, and

the brethren have almost invariably been closely identified with them. One of the great pillars in

Christchurch Cathedral was given by the Masons of the Canterbury Province. It is hoped that the brethren

will take a really worthy part in the building of what will be incomparably the finest cathedral in the

Southern Hemisphere."

————————

THE G.R.A. CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND.

———<>———

A special convocation of G. Chapter was convened to meet in Wellington on the 23rd January, after the N.Z.

CRAFTSMAN had gone to press. During the twenty-seven years of the life of G. Chapter, annual

convocations have been regularly held, but at the meeting held in January, 1918, the following resolution

was unanimously agreed to : "That this convocation of the Sup.G.R.A. Chapter of New Zealand is of opinion

that, owing to the long duration of the war, sacrifices should be made where possible, and that the utmost

economy should be practised in connection with the administration of funds of G. Chapter, and hereby orders

that the annual convocation, which would in ordinary course be held in 1919, be not so held, but Sup. Com.

is hereby empowered to take such action as may be deemed necessary, without incurring any expenditure,

for the installation of Principals and the investiture of officers." The motive of the resolution was quite clear.

G. Officers and members of G. Chapter, were asked to depart from established custom and fore-go the usual

fraternal gathering, for the purposes of economy and the conservation of funds, which have never been very

elastic in this branch of Freemasonry. It will be noted that, in connection with the special convocation, there

will not be any transit expenditure, and the special business is to install G. Principals and to invest G.

officers. Twelve months hence the usual meeting will be resumed, and probably the most interesting question

that will be discussed will be proposed alteration of laws to provide for holding biennial instead of annual

convocations, a motion affirming the desirableness of this change having been carried with a margin of two

votes at the last convocation.

————————

A VENERABLE AND TALENTED BROTHER.

———<>———

Reference was recently made in the columns of this journal to a very beautiful work of art, consisting of the

Lords' Prayer, which was sent to us by W. Bro. Hindmarsh, of Reefton. We now learn that the original was

illuminated in colours and gold, and was completed by Bro. Hindmarsh on his eighty-fourth birthday, the 5th

October last. The original was presented to the British Red Cross League for art union purposes. Our veteran

brother is a man of many parts. As an author he published a most readable work, entitled, "Tales of the

Golden West," which should specially appeal to the hearts of all "West Coasters," more particularly to those

of a former generation. As a poet, our brother's "In Memoriam" to the late John Bevan, "There is no Death,"

should secure to the writer undying fame. And he is also a musician of no mean ability, as his services to

Lodges in his district, in the capacity of organist, have frequently testified. Our venerable brother is a

member and P.M. of Pacific Lodge, Reefton, under the E.C., but he is always ready to assist in the services

of any Lodge. Notwithstanding his age, Bro. Hindmarsh is in the enjoyment of good health, and is the

esteemed and active secretary of the Reefton Electric Light Co. It is pleasing to know that the evening of a

long and well-spent life is both peaceful and happy, and our venerable brother's many friends will re-echo

the wish, " So may it long continue."

————————

ADVICE has been received in Blenheifn that Flight-Lieutenant Gordon P. Robertson, who is a member of

Lodge Unanimity, No. 106, has been repatriated to England from Germany. About a year ago Lieutenant

Robertson, while engaged on a "stunt," had the misfortune to be brought down behind the German lines. The

treatment to which he was subjected while a prisoner of war was so severe that his hair turned white.

Towards the end, however, matters improved considerably. Lieutenant Robertson may be sure of a specially

warm welcome from the members of the Craft on his return to Blenheim.

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

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

THE M.W.S. of the newly-constituted Hawkes Bay Rose Croix Chapter was, metaphorically, entitled to

shake hands with himself on the success of the second meeting of his Chapter, held in Hastings on the 9th

January.

WITH the demobilisation of the men at Trentham Camp, the Masonic Association has ceased to exist.

Secretaries of Lodges are requested not to send any more circulars. W. Bro. J. hams, who represented G.L.

there, has secured an appointment as secretary and accountant of the Co-operative Fruit Company, Nelson.

We congratulate him on his appointment, and wish him all prosperity in the future. The up-to-date Victory

todge will no doubt soon have the opportunity of welcoming our active and energetic brother.

AMONG the brethren at the last. regular meeting of Lodge Tutanekai, it was noticed that two of the members

were wearing the medal of the N.Z.E.F. Masonic Association.

IT is now well known that for years prior to the war it was a general custom with German officers to drink

the toast of "The Day " at all their festive gatherings. But the full text of the toast is not generally known. It

was as follows :—" To the Day of Supremacy on the Land and on the Sea, under the Sea, and in the Air,

Germany victorious for ever and ever."

FOR the very large number of cards and letters conveying greetings and good wishes received from Lodges,

Chapters, and brethren, our warmest thanks are tendered. We very gratefully esteem the many expressions of

goodwill so fraternally expressed.

THE M.W. G.Sec., Bro. M. Nicol, who spent the Christmas holidays in Nelson, returned very greatly

benefited by the rest and change of air and scene.

BRO. ARTHUR CLOTHIER, of Dunedin, having retired from the Government service, has commenced business

as valuer, arbitrator, financial and confidential agent, and has offices in Queen's Rooms, 11 Crawford Street,

Dunedin. His long experience will specially fit him for the preparation of land and income tax returns for

farmers and others.

VICTORY LODGE, Nelson, has decided to erect two pillars in the Lodgeroom, as a memorial to two W.

brethren, Bros. Jas. Honlker and A. E. Hedges, who gave their lives in the cause of freedom and justice.

THE headstone in memory of the late R.W. Bro. Dr. L. G. Boor, and subscribed to by all the Freemasons'

Lodges of Nelson and Marlborough District, has been erected, and contains the following inscription :—"

Erected by the Freemasons' Lodges of Nelson and Marlborough to the memory of Dr. Leonard George Boor,

First Provincial Grand Master, who died on February 11th, 1917. Aged 92 years. A life well spent."

BRO. C. A. INNES, the Wellington Masonic bookseller, has been discharged from military service and is

conducting his business as aforetime. Brethren requiring Masonic publications should communicate with

Bro. Innes.

A PROPOSAL has been brought forward to form a Lodge in London for New Zealand Freemasons—a Lodge

which would be a rallying place for members of the Craft who are resident in England, as well as for those

who may be visiting from the Overseas Dominions. Any New Zealand brethren who are interested in the

matter are desired to communicate with Bro. Lieutenant-Colonel G. Barclay, V.D., Commanding New

Zealand Engineer Reserve Depot, at Boscombe, Hants.—" The Freemason," London.

AMONG the commodities which increased in price during the war, probably none reached the over-normal

level of printing paper of all classes. Latest advices indicate that the limit of increase has not yet been

reached. This is shown by a cablegram received by a Christchurch firm, to the effect that there has been a

further increase in American paper of all grades of four cents, or twopence, per pound. The same cablegram

states that the shipping difficulties will be acute for some time to come.

VICTORY LODGE, Nelson, has decided to entertain the members of the Nelson Returned Soldiers' Association

in the social hall of the Lodgeroom on 3rd February. It is proposed to present a souvenir of the occasion to

each guest.

R.W. BRO. J. H. HARKNESS (of Westport), P.D.G.M., and 1st G. Prin. of Sup. G.R.A. Chapter, visited

Wellington last month to conduct a special convocation of G. Chapter.

————————

NELSON NOTES.

———<>———

M. W. Bro. Malcolm Niccol returned to Wellington two days before the regular meeting of Lodge Victory in

January. This caused much disappointment, as brethren had hoped to shake the hand of the genial Sec. and

wish him, better health.

✳ ✳ ✳

Staff Sergeant-Major W. Bro. Williams, renowned for his Masonic as well as his military work in Trentham,

has come to reside in Nelson, having taken up the secretaryship of the Nelson Co-op. Fruit Company. He is

not altogether unknown to Nelson, and now returns to us with a special mark of approval. It won't be Bro.

Williams's fault if he doesn't make good.

✳ ✳ ✳

We had Bro. D. C. Cameron, representative of the CRAFTSMAN, with us a short, while back, and business

was said to be good, in spite of the fact that he struck us in epidemic times.

✳ ✳ ✳

Lieut–Colonel Bro. C. B. Brereton has returned home after the best part of four years' service abroad. His

many friends were glad to see him looking so fit.

————————

NAPIER NOTES.

———<>———

Owing to the influenza epidemic, the installation of Lodge Waikaremoana was postponed until January.

✳ ✳ ✳

Deep regret will be felt by Hawkes Bay brethren at the death of W. Bro. Ramsey, of Lodge Heretaunga. Bro.

Ramsey was well known and highly esteemed both in the "Blue" and Capitular Masonry, and his loss will be

keenly felt.

✳ ✳ ✳

Lodge Victoria is undergoing a most strenuous time in so far as ceremonial work is concerned, during which

W. Bro. Jarvis is receiving excellent support from its P.Ms. The writer had the pleasure of attending the

November meeting, when no less than eight P.Ms. assisted in the ceremony. That Bro. Jarvis is appreciative

of their attention is evinced by the strenuous work he is putting in in perfecting the junior officers in the

discharge of their duties, all of whom acquitted themselves admirably, whilst Bro. Jarvis himself gave an

excellent rendition of the T.H.

✳ ✳ ✳

At the October meeting of Lodge Victoria, R.W. Bro, H. L. Harston expressed his deep regret at being

unable to accept his appointment, by the M.W.G.M., of Prov.G.M. for Hawkes Bay for a further term. W.

Bro. Harston also expressed regret that owing to the amount of work entailed in, conducting installation

ceremonies and other matters, he has not been able to attend Hawkes Bay Lodges in an unofficial capacity as

often as he would have liked.

✳ ✳ ✳

Lodge Victoria is to be heartily commended for its generous donation to the Cheero Hutment Fund. The

Lodges' vote of £10 10s. is a handsome sum, but being supplemented by a contribution of equal value by a

W. brother makes a splendid contribution.

✳ ✳ ✳

In the month of April, 1915, was founded Heretaunga Chapter, No. 38. As quite a number of Hasting

companions were at that time members of Victoria Chapter, and held several important offices in the

Chapter, it was felt that withdrawal to form the new Chapter would, to some extent, retard the progress of the

mother Chapter, notwithstanding the fact that some of these companions still retained their membership in

Victoria Chapter.

But so well did the companions rally, that, in the following year, on the invitation of the V.E.Z. of

Heretaunga, Chapter, the officers of Victoria Chapter went to Hastings and worked the R.A. Degree under

the leadership of V.E. Comp. H. L. Harston, thus constituting an epoch-marking event in the history of the

Chapter, not only from the fact that it was the first ceremonial work undertaken by Victoria companions

outside their own Chapter, but also because it signalised the advent of interchange of visits, for the purpose

of degree-working, between R.A. Chapters of Hawkes Bay. From that time onwards the progress of Victoria

Chapter has been sure if not rapid, and with its Ark Mariners' Lodge and Council of Red Cross Knights fully

officered, is able to deal with all the work as occasion demands. Its membership is now made up largely of

young and enthusiastic Masons, who, now that there is every prospect of a lasting peace, look forward to the

future with every confidence.

✳ ✳ ✳

After perusing the reference in the December CRAFTSMAN to that journal, the writer feels that he should, on

behalf of Napier brethren, tender an expression of appreciation for what has been done. That our

distinguished brother has rendered it possible for the Freemasons of New Zealand to obtain the N.Z.

CRAFTSMAN during the war period at the same time as heretofore, without curtailment in volume or literary

excellence, is, we think, rendering the Craft signal service, and we hasten to express appreciation, and tender

our hearty thanks, and also wish him the Compliments of the Season.—[Many thanks for appreciation. Too

late for last issue.—ED. C.]

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

INSTALLATION ADDRESS.

———<>———

[Delivered to the brethren on the occasion of the Installation Ceremony at LODGE OTAGO KIL., No. 143,

Dunedin, by BRO. R. HAWCRIDGE, Prov.G.M., Otago.]

In this year of grace 1919 we can meet each other happily, and without the slightest reserve, or, as the French

say, "back thought " (arrière pensée), that little thought lurking at the back of one's head, that little voice

whispering in one's ear, " Am I justified in thus enjoying myself, while my brother is offering his very life to

safeguard my happiness?" Thank God, all that has passed away. Our enormous national sacrifices have not

been in vain. Freemasonry, in common with every other force in the Empire, has played a part worthy of its

traditions, and can "look the whole world in the face, and fear not any man." It is fitting that we should keep

green the memory of those of our brethren who have laid down their lives to achieve this great victory of

Right over Might. But that memory should not be a doleful one. Rather should we remember them with

intense pride, mingled even with envy of their lot. No one should realise more deeply than the Freemason the

boundless duration if that which we call time. History shows us that it has existed for thousands of years;

geology teaches us that it must have endured for millions ; and astronomy bases its deductions on time

having existed for millions of millions of years. We know positively, alas, that human life is but a brief span,

an infinitesimal fraction of eternity. Whence we cone and whither we go we know not; but we Freemasons

do at least know that the whole object of our Order from times prehistoric has been to encourage the

Craftsman to make a decent exit from the stage of life, to pass into the Great Unknown with fortitude, in the

consciousness that patience, industry, and merit entitle the worthy Mason to a participation in its secrets.

Ought we not, then, to feel elated, to shout more lustily than at any football match, when a brother passes the

Great Barrier and gains the goal with such unmistakable evidences of having been "faithful even unto

death"? Should we not envy him his glorious certainty, — rather than mourn over his "going west" as though

some awful fate had befallen him? We must all die. Happy the Craftsman who dies in honour, for "death has

no terrors equal to the stain of dishonour. " Let us thus look upon the lengthy list of glorified Freemasons

upon our Rolls of Honour. These are not dead to Freemasonry ; they are our very strongest members, our

greatest asset. There should be no hesitation in pronouncing this the happiest year Freemasonry has ever

known. Its principles have achieved a signal triumph; its aims are nearer fruition than at any period of its

history; the brotherhood of man is immeasurably nearer for this huge world war, which has broken down so

many barriers between nation and nation, bringing the white, yellow, red, and black races into more intimate

understanding than a thousand years of peace could have accomplished. Or, since charity begins at home, is

it a small thing that our huge war effort should have revealed us Britishers to each other as the most

wonderful nation the world has ever known? We are immeasurably greater than we were five years ago, not

because we have conquered the Germans, but because we have conquered our own apathy ; because we have

sunk every selfish prejudice to achieve a common end. Take a typical instance expressed in an American

epigram, one of the cleverest ever penned : " Lloyd George commenced this war as a politician; at the end of

the first year he had ceased to be a politician and became a statesman; at the end of the second year, he was

no longer a statesman, he had become a man; now, at the close of the third year, he is not even a man, he is

an embodied purpose." And this is true of the great heart of the whole British race. The war has purged us of

selfishness. It has lifted us out of our little narrow grooves and compelled us to think broadly ; to look not for

our selfish interests, but for the good of the whole nation. And shall we drift back into the old ways? Shall

we besmirch the glorious page which these willing martyrs, these self-sacrificing heroes of every class, have

opened up for us? Prince and peasant, scientist and navvy, organiser and worker, have stood shoulder to

shoulder and triumphed over militarism. Let us stand shoulder to shoulder a few years longer and triumph

over social injustice, over the problems of poverty, suffering, misunderstanding, and their foul offspring,

class hatred. It can be done. The outstanding unanimity of the voice of Britain, proclaimed in the recent

General Elections at Home, shows that the old party system is discredited, that the people want, to be united

and to hold fast to the good-fellowship engendered by common sacrifice in the face of death. As Freemasons

let us do all in our power to foster the spirit of fraternity. Let us be true to our great principles. Let us scatter

the seeds of true charity and brotherly love now, while the soil is freshly broken by the plough of sacrifice

and the harrow of suffering—now, while the earth is rich with the blood of millions of martyrs in the cause

of Right, Justice, and Liberty, lest to-morrow the weeds of selfish exploitation and class hatred spring up

more thickly than ever.

————————

A NONSENSICAL PROPOSITION.

———<>———

I knew it would come—the proposal that Freemasons of the world should rebuild the Temple of Solomon at

Jerusalem, now that the extremely dilapidated, trivial, and filthy town has fallen to the British arms. A

brother at Johannesburg, South Africa, is circularising the Craft with such object in view, One may be

permitted to admire the zeal of such an one, while particularly questioning his judgment, and lack of

information. The Masonic tradition associated with the hill that was said once to have been the threshing-

floor of the Jebusite farmer has no basis on fact. King Solomon had no more to do with Masonry than the

Great Cham of Tartary. It is not needed to go into the conclusions of Biblical critics that the ruler himself is a

myth, and the glories of his building a fiction invented long after the time of his alleged reign. The practical

truth is that the sentiment of sacredness with which this bit of rock is invested is shared by the adherents of

three great religious systems. The Moslem world regards the Mosque of Omar, which crowns the Temple

area, as hardly less holy than the shrine at Mecca. To profane such site would rouse the fanaticism of

millions. The British Government, it may be confidently asserted, will take no chance of stirring the

resentment of its vast Mahommedan populations to no other purpose than to enable a few believers in old

stories to shine as re-builders of a fane that probably never existed. Nor would the Jews, nor even the

Christian peoples of the world, be inclined to remain silent if a purely secular society was allowed privilege

of exploiting a patch of ground associated with their sacred traditions and history. During the war, and after

the war, Masons as well as other people will need their money for good uses nearer home. The Temple of the

Living God is in the soul. To aid those who of loss or weariness have ceased in their building of such

structure is that which will mean more, for time and eternity, than any foolish project to pile up stones, in

Jerusalem or elsewhere, as mere matter of show and incongruous advertising.—" American Freemason."

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

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

CHRISTIAN INFLUENCES IN MASONRY,

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,— If your correspondent, "Pentalpha," does not wish to be misunderstood, I would

recommend him to adopt a different method of expressing himself. To anyone of ordinary intelligence his

former letter would appear to contain an emphatic sneer at ecclesiastical symbolism. When the Charge or

Exhortation from which I quoted was written, Freemasonry was essentially a Christian institution, and the

reference to the Morning Star had nothing to do with the " glimmering light in the East" (which, by the way,

wasn't a star at all), but, was intended as a direct allusion to the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, and the

words "peace and salvation" were in the original phraseology of that Exhortation. The substitution of

"tranquillity " for " salvation " came later. I shall be glad if your correspondent will be good enough to

inform us what is the modern Masonic interpretation of the Morning Star, as I am only acquainted with the

original symbolic meaning and intention. I regret that my study of the Ancient Mysteries is limited, being

chiefly confined to Sainte Croix's voluminous works on the subject, which, owing to his decease, he left

unexhausted. To say that they were the origin of our mysteries is supremely apocryphal. Some of the earlier

Masonic historians have designated them Pagan mysteries as the spurious Freemasonry of antiquity, to

distinguish it from the pure Freemasonry of antiquity alleged to have been practised by the Jews, and that the

two systems fused at the building of the Temple at Jerusalem—the pure under Solomon and the spurious

under the two Hirams, and to this they ascribe the origin of Freemasonry in its present form. This, however,

is merely a theory that has never been proved a fact, but, on the contrary, has been rejected by the critico-

Masonic school as historically untenable. It has always appeared to me a curious idiosyncrasy that the

ordinary Freemason is prepared to accept anything Jewish or Pagan as more or less Masonic, but anything

Christian is most illogically and ungrammatically miscalled sectarian," notwithstanding that Christianity has

had more to do with the physical development of the Craft than any other religion, although its ethical

evolution as a peculiar cult is still, as it always has been, a mystery. The numerous Christian references in the

lectures, the old MSS., and the mediæval Charges attest this. I think it will also be admitted that the teachings

of Masonry are more in accord with the Sermon on the Mount than with the Mosaic code of ethics, or any

Dionysiac system of morality. So where does "Sectarianism" come in? If "Pentalpha" likes to communicate

with me, I shall he glad to hear from him, although for the life of me I don't see why he should not come out

of his shell.—With the Season's Greetings, I am, yours fraternally,

JOHN W. WARREN, P.M., P.Z.

Hamilton, 18th December, 1918.

————————

MASONS AND A NATIONAL MEMORIAL CATHEDRAL.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—Some months ago, if you remember; I wrote to you on the above subject, but peace at

that time seemed afar off, and, though serving to break the ice as it were, the time was unpropitious for

sympathetic consideration of a proposition the carrying out of which was more or less indefinite and

problematical. Now, however, the strife has ceased, and ears are straining for the joy-bells of peace—a peace

which must come, and which we pray may be, if not permanent, at least of long duration. And the reason of

the coining of this peace is that, by the mercy of the Supreme Ruler, our arms have been victorious. With

hearts overflowing with gratitude to Him, naturally the idea of the erection of a national memorial to His

honour and glory, as an expression of our thanksgiving, has again come to the fore, and events have moved

so rapidly that it is quite assured now that this national memorial will take the form of a noble and stately

Anglican Cathedral in this central position, the Empire City of the Dominion. It is proposed that just as the

military, the different parishes, and, doubtless, various large associations of men and women throughout the

Dominion shall, if they feel so disposed, be privileged to have their special niche in the great edifice in which

to demonstrate their thanks to Almighty God for His mercies, and in which to honour the -memory of their

fallen heroes, so likewise shall similar opportunity be there afforded the Freemasons of this New Zealand

territory. I would ask the brethren what more appropriate place could they, as an institution or association, as

a whole find for a Dominion memorial to those brothers who have made the great sacrifice in the terrible war

just ended? Would not such a memorial, and in such beautiful and solemn surroundings, be preferable to

several monuments scattered over the Dominion, or perhaps just the Honour Boards in the various Lodge-

rooms, though these last should certainly remain for all time, and be duly valued and revered? The form the

Masonic share in the cathedral erection should take has been suggested as that of two of the great marble

pillars, or a great memorial window, a matter of detail which could be settled anon, but, be it said, that the

cost of either of these is well within the Masons' ability to raise, say, in five years' time, without unduly

taxing any individual brother. May I point out to those of the Craft who may urge denominational reasons for

not helping to erect an Anglican Cathedral, that such line of argument will on careful thought be found

fallacious, because, as is evidenced by the experience of cathedrals in the Old Country, the peoples services

in these sacred buildings are such that every phase of Protestantism can attend them without strain to

conscience or principle, or violence to religious scruple. Further, I would add that the point of view for the

Mason in this matter is that the proposed cathedral is after all to be an edifice erected to the glory and

worship of the Supreme Being, T.G.A.O.T.U., and as such is not only a project worthy of their co-operation

and assistance, but also one which should appeal to their sense of Masonic love and duty. Let it be

remembered that our old operative brethren spent their lives and their talents in just such a cause, and gloried

in conscientious work while so engaged.—Yours fraternally,

HERBERT B. BRIDGE, P.M.

————————

KIPLING AND FREEMASONRY.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,— There is a letter from a correspondent in your last issue re "Masonic Practices among

the American Indians," in which he mentions how skilfully Kipling brings Masonry into his stories. Like

myself, he is apparently an admirer of that writer. If he gets the December number of the "Metropolitan

Magazine," he will find a most entertaining story written by him, in which he deals with Freemasonry in

London during the war period.—Yours fraternally, N. OF E.

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

LESSONS IN FREEMASONRY.

———<>———

There is a power, as of the everlasting Gospel, in the life of every man whose heart is fixed in the truth. He

who is, in his own heart, good and true will be a help to somebody. It is the nature of righteousness to flow

out of the soul that has it, and strengthen and bless and encourage the world. The brook that runs down

through the landscape waters the valley and the meadow through which it goes, and everywhere the grasses

grow green along its banks. It cannot be otherwise. So, too, in the life of a man. Give him something that has

value in itself, and it will touch other hearts than his own. The world is blest, and community is glorified by

every honest hope, and pure desire, and manly impulse that takes root in the life of man. How can he help

being a benefactor? He has that within him which will not abide in darkness. As One of old did say, "He that

is of the truth cometh to the light." But, in addition to this, the genius of Freemasonry inculcates fraternity. It

binds men by the sacred ties of friendship. It teaches them to consider a brother's welfare as their own ; it

pleads for mutual remembrances, and by the pledge of a fivefold tie, it bids one think of the forces that are

able to raise humanity from the "dead level" of ignorance and sin, to the "living perpendicular" of integrity

and truth. It can do none of these things alone. It asks men to join in hearty accord that its word of assistance

may be given in the name of peace and love and unity." It may be said in objection to this plea of

brotherhood, that the institution is narrow in its application of the principle, that it does not reach the broad

ideal of humanity, that it leaves many a man outside of the gate, and gives no assistance to those who have

not received the benefits of initiation. But am I not increasing the sum total of good in the world, when I join

hands with one I love, and with mutual pledges I with him agree to defend the truth, to oppose error, to aid

the helpless, to comfort the sorrowing, and promote as best we may the cause of righteousness? Suppose I do

not claim to regenerate the world, am I not doing something towards it, when I strive with loyal heart to

strengthen and educate the man who stands next to me? Sometimes theories of benevolence overreach

themselves. Love to all mankind is a commendable feature in any theory of living, but when a mortal man

begins to apply it, he will find that the field of action is necessarily limited. We must begin somewhere, lie

must continue his work along definite lines of labour. He cannot touch all souls. Let him do the best he can

for those who stand beside him. Humanity gains something in that. But this criticism on the narrowness of

these Masonic ideals is not well founded. Although the letter of its ritual is continually reminding one that he

is bound to his brothers of the mystic tie, by something more than ordinary human relations, yet it never

makes this the end of its rope. This is but the groundwork in which a broader charity seeks the good of all

mankind, but Freemasonry is not merely a charitable institution. It would not admit a man into its ranks who

came for the purpose of being assisted. There is in it a spirit of fraternity. It has no sympathy with that spirit

that is willing to lie down before the difficulties of life, and be carried into its rest. It makes honest toil the

basis of its benefaction. Its duties are mutual, as well as its benefits. But when a man has learned that the

grandest characteristics of human life are hospitality, integrity, and disinterested benevolence, he can be

trusted everywhere. When a man vows to sustain unsullied the dignity of a true manhood, and do all he can

to maintain it in those with whom he is associated, he will not be a hindrance to the growth of pure principles

anywhere. He will ever be the reverse of this. Is not that the noblest charity which teaches mankind to honour

the truth, to defend the right, to cherish within the heart that spirit of justice that would give to all their due?

That is an abuse of charity which would have one go through life with an open hand, bidding him take who

will. The world needs examples of manhood, not distributions of alms ; honest ties of affection and

fraternity, not universal handshaking and sentimental gush. Thou art doing something for thy fellows, Oh,

man! when thou art doing something that is noble and true. Enquire not what has been given in the name of

charity ; enquire, rather, what of virtue and true manliness the world has known. This alone is the measure of

real worth. In giving this, one becomes a benefactor, and fulfils the highest aim.

The third lesson to which I would refer, is that which reminds us of our duty to God. There is one question at

the threshold of Masonic life, a question that none of you, have forgotten, whose answer lies at the very heart

of things. Verily, my brothers, this world is governed by some power that is, in itself, wise and just and true.

We quibble not with questions of method, or form, or name. We ask no man the shape of his phylactery, or

the size of his prayer book, or the length of his creed. Let him arrange all such things for himself. But God is.

The deepest convictions of an intelligent soul speak of an intelligence which transcends all earthly thought.

The purest love that warms the heart of mortal, pleads for a love that is not bounded by the flight of years.

Each cry for justice that goes out from the human nature, is a prophecy of some everlasting law of right that

holds the universe. This idea is everywhere present in the ritual of the Order. It is in no sense a godless life

that Freemasonry asks you to live. It is a life inspired with the thought of the Highest. There is reason for our

plea in the name of a just and true manhood, for He Who gave us being is Himself just and true. There is a

reality in our thought of fraternity, for we are of one family, and God is our Father. The thing that man is

constantly saying shows, in some measure, the bent of his mind, and the structure of his heart. Men are not

hypocrites by nature. This constant appeal to God for help is not all cant. It expresses the honest desire of the

soul. 'But the truth of God's presence and nature as portrayed in these rites and emblems that we use, is

broader and deeper than even the most zealous among us are apt to imagine. Not merely as a general

principle, but as a vitalising force, this thought of God abides.

From the time when on bended knee you said your trust was in Him, until with hands and hearts closely

interlocked you breathed the name of "Emmanuel" ; there is no single step that does not remind you of some

tie that binds the life below to the life above. I need not repeat them here. That which is lost from out of the

graces and powers of life, by the usurping force of sin, is but the influence of that sacred name. That which is

found as a nobler manhood builds anew the temple of a redeemed character, is but the thought of God. Man

is strongest when he feels the touch of divine life ; when earth seems to be reaching up and blending into

heaVen. Ah ! my brothers, I cannot tell you how, but in some way the thought of God is a power in human

life. There is something in it which speaks of victory, and peace, and rest. I may be told that I cannot know

that God exists, that these emblems which are said to portray His attributes are imaginations and fancies ;

that the mission of " the immaculate Jesus " was but a dream of human theology ; that the story of the Cross

is but a scheme on which to build a church ; but my inmost soul repudiates the carping unbelief, and I know

that love and truth and life, thrilling as they do my very nature, are from a higher source than anything I see

in matter. In the midst of the conflict I meet the "all-devouring scythe of time." I see the emblems of death. I

feel the blow of contention and hate. But beyond them all, on the wings of faith, I rise, and there, by the

borders of "the silent sea," I read the promise of eternal life—" In hoc signo vinses "—and I am at rest. For

more than a quarter of a century I have seen the working of this Order. It has brought me nothing but good.

And although I have not always reached its high ideal, yet I cannot but acknowledge that it has been the

solace of many a weary hour, and a revelation of some of the noblest traits of human character. Jesus said of

some men of His time, "By their fruits ye shall know them." I am willing to let this institution, whose very

name we love, stand on that foundation. Its first and last lesson is this : " Be true ! True to thyself ; to thy

neighbour ; to thy God." What canst thou ask of mortal man more than this? — Rev. Bro. T. E. St. John, in

"New England Craftsman."

————————

A COMPARISON OF SOME MASONIC CHARITIES.

———<>———

It is not out of place to record the charitable activities of Masonry in different parts of America.

From the foundation of the oldest Masonic Lodge of England, the Mother Lodge of 1717, Masonry has

devoted a large part of its energies to relieving the distress of needy brethren. In 30 jurisdictions, homes for

the old and indigent, hospitals for the sick and afflicted, and orphanages are conducted.

In seven States the Masonic Order maintains separate institutions for the old and the children. Pennsylvania

maintains three.

In every instance the Order of the Eastern Star has voluntarily contributed to these charities.

In Oklahoma, Ohio, Alabama, Kansas, and Missouri, the O.E.S. has built hospitals in connection with the

established Masonic homes. Kentucky claims to be the pioneer in Masonic home work, having established

her home in 1871.

The amount of money invested in Masonic homes of America is $15,000,000. About 5,000 old people are

being cared for in 39 institutions. The following States maintain homes :—

Alabama has, near Montgomery, on an estate of 326 acres, a Masonic Home established in 1912-13, with

hospital built and furnished by Order Eastern Star in 1915. Assets, $133,408.83.

Arkansas has a Masonic Orphans' Home at Batesville on an estate of 100 acres. Cost $125,000. Established

in 1909.

California has two homes. Assets $449,596.48. The De Soto Home for adults, on an estate of 267 acres, was

established in 1889. The San Gabriel Home for boys and girls was established in 1909. The G.L. of

California has established a third home. On 20th May, 1916, there was laid at Covina the corner stone for a

new Masonic Home for children.

Connecticut has a home at Wallingford on an estate of 100 acres. Resources, $158,015.95. Established in

1889.

Delaware has a small but beautiful home at Wilmington, established in 1912. Assets, $30,144.04.

The District of Columbia has a home at Takoma Park, established in 1913, which represents an outlay of

more than $100,000. Established by the Sisters of the Order of the Eastern Star, and is now receiving the

support of the Masonic fraternity. The G.L. of the District of Columbia taxes each of its members $1.00 per

year to support the same. Endowment fund, $4,080.02.

Florida has no home, but has accumulated for the establishment of a Masonic Home and Orphanage a fund

of $27,866.69.

Georgia established a home at Macon in 1905 on an estate of 100 acres. Assets, $45,000.

Illinois has two homes. The Sullivan Home, established in 1914, with its hospital, built in 1915, is on an

estate or 474 acres, all of which was donated, and is very valuable. Cost of buildings, $350,000. The La

Grange Orphans' Home, erected in 1910, has assets amounting to $165,000.

Indiana laid the corner stone of a new Masonic Home at Franklin in 1916, on an estate of 273 acres. The

Order Eastern Star contributed $32,000.00 of the $246,000.00 raised, and there is no debt on the property.

Kansas has a home at Wichita, established in 1896. Assets, $275,000.00, of which $25,000 is endowment

fund.

Kentucky was first in America to establish a home, and now has two homes. The Masonic Widows' and

Orphans' Home was founded in Louisville in 1871. Assets, $694,016.03, of which $327,859.24 is

endowment fund. The old Masons' Home at Shelbyville was established in 1901 on property valued at

$65,000.00.

Massachusetts opened its Masonic Home at Charlton in 1911 on an estate of 397 acres. Assets,

approximately $250,000.

Michigan maintained a Masonic Home for 20 years at Grand Rapids. It was lost by fire in 1910. A generous

friend, Mr. Ami Wright, although not a member of the Craft, gave to the G.L. of Michigan in 1911 its

present home at Alma, which, after remodeling and the addition of a $35,000.00 hospital, is valued at

$220,000.00, and has bequests of over $25,000.00.

Minnesota is raising a home fund, and has about $75,000.00 of the $100,000.00 required before starting to

build. Of this the Order Eastern Star has contributed $25,000.00.

Mississippi has an orphanage at Meridian.Established in 1911. Assets, $195,460.00, of which $112,460.00 is

endowment fund.

Missouri has a home at St. Louis, founded in 1889, and a hospital erected in 1915 at a cost of $100,000.00.

Assets, $638,450.00, of which $130,950.00 is endowment fund.

Montana established a Masonic Home near Helena in 1909. Assets, $83,526.45.

Nebraska established a home at Platte Mouth in 1903. Assets, $211,653.29.

New Hampshire established a home at Manchester in 1903.

New Jersey established a Masonic Home and Orphanage at Burlington in 1898 on a large farm. Additional

assets, $267,000.00.

New York established a Masonic Home at Utica in 1902 at a cost of $638,965.24.

North Carolina established a Masonic Orphans' Home in 1874 at Oxford on a fine farm, and care for nearly

400 children. A Masonic and Order Eastern Star Home for old people was opened at Greensboro in 1914 on

property valued at $48,000.00.

Ohio established a home in 1897 on an estate of 150 acres near Springfield. Assets, besides the land, about

$600,000.00, of which $153,964.00 is endowment fund.

Oklahoma has transferred the old Indian School Reservation at Darlington, with building and 674 acres of

land, into a Masonic Home, which was opened in 1910. Assets, $191,050.00.

Pennsylvania has three homes. The Broad Street Home and the William Elkins Orphanage are included

under the title, "The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania," and are controlled by a corporation. Established in

1885. Assets, $981,636.84. The G.L. Home at Elizabethtown was opened in 1913 on an estate of 982 acres.

The cost was $1,188,000.00. The home will accommodate 700 persons. It is said to be the largest and

costliest Masonic home in the world.

South Carolina has no home, but has accumulated a home fund of $100,000.00.

Tennessee established a Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home at Nashville in 1892 on property valued at

$50,000.00. An old Masons' Home is being built, and will soon be opened.

Texas has two homes. The G.L. controls one at Fort Worth with an investment of $426,375.00, and an

endowment fund of about $200,000.00. The Home for Aged Masons was established in 1911 at Arlington at

a cost of $78,000.00.

Virginia established a Masonic Orphanage near Richmond in 1890 on an estate of 63 acres. Assets,

$130,000.00, including an endowment of $30,000.00, besides the buildings.

Washington opened a Masonic and Order Eastern Star Home at Puyallup in 1914. It has a beautiful and

valuable location, and in addition an investment of $65,000.00, and a bequest of $150,000.00.

The G.L. of West Virginia has recently received a handsome legacy, which is to be used for a Masonic

Home.

Wisconsin has a Masonic Home at Dousman under the control of Wisconsin Consistory. Arrangements are

being made for it to pass to the control of the G.L. of Wisconsin.

These institutions are established and are maintained by appropriations from the G. bodies, contributions,

legacies, and nearly every jurisdiction levies a per capita tax, the G.L., A.F. and A.M., tax ranging from 20c.

to $1.50, 50c. being the usual assessment. The Eastern Star tax ranges from 5c. to 25c. per capita., but the

Star supplements this tax with contributions on Home Day and from entertainments.

Rhode Island and New Mexico G.Ls. are accumulating home funds, and several others are considering the

advisability of doing so. All but four of the G. jurisdictions of the Order of Eastern Star are each

accumulating funds for a home, either independent, or in connection with the Masonic Home, and these four,

as also many others, have each a charity or benevolent fund .—" New England Craftsman."

OBITUARY.

———<>———

W. BRO. A. RAMSEY, P.M.

———

It is with great regret that we have to record the passing of W. Bro. Alexander Ramsey at the

age of fifty-three years. Our late brother had been ill for a considerable time with an insidious

disease that appeared to baffle the medical skill of Hastings. Taken to a private hospital at a

certain stage in his illness, he showed no signs of improvement, only fitfully, to the time of his

death, which occurred on Sunday, 8th December, despite all the attention of family and friends.

Bro. Ramsey held the position of chief clerk at the Hastings Post-office, and during the number

of years he occupied that great responsibility, he was recognised as one of the most obliging

officers in the Public Service. As far as the writer can gather, the particulars of his career as a

Freemason are as follows :— Initiated at St. Mark's Lodge, No. 53, Carterton, in the year 1900,

he worked right up to the proud position of presiding officer ; P.Z. of the Wairarapa R.A.

Chapter, No. 10; also P.Z. of the Heretaunga, R.A. Chapter, No. 38; and at the time of his death

was the respected Treasurer of that body. He leaves a widow and three in family to mourn his

loss, to whom the sincere sympathy of his brethren of the Heretaunga Lodge is offered. The

obsequies of our departed brother were solemnised on the 10th December, at the Hastings

Cemetery, the Rev. J. Hobbs reciting the beautiful service of the Church of England at the

graveside. W. Bro. Ramsey was kind, generous, and wholly unselfish, and our Lodge will miss

him very much, but his memory will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know

him. He was a man who commanded the esteem and regard of his fellowmen to an exceptional

degree.

——————

BRO. JAMES RIGGIR, DANNEVIRKE.

———

The recent severe epidemic of influenza which visited the Dominion and took such a heavy toll

of the population has, we regret exceedingly to say, removed from among us one who was

highly esteemed and respected by all who came in contact with him. The late Bro. Riggir passed

away in the Dannevirke Hospital on 16th November, at the early age of forty years. The case is

rendered doubly sad by reason of the fact that our late brother predeceased his wife by one day.

Two little girls are left to mourn their loss. Our late brother was a member of Lion Lodge, No.

114, Ormondville; and the members of his Lodge, together with other Masonic friends,

assembled at the Dannevirke Cemetery to pay their last tribute of respect to the memory of a

worthy Mason. He was a man of many estimable qualities, and always the same loyal, generous,

and genial friend. His perpetual smile and happy disposition endeared him to all his friends—

and they were many—in Southern Hawkes Bay. In fact, his smile continually reminded us of

the poet's words :

"Life's a mirror : if we smile

Smiles come back to greet us."

We have indeed lost a great enthusiast, and one who was a credit to our Lodge. Though he was

only I.G., so great was his zeal for Masonry, and such was his ability, that he would rapidly

have risen to a position of eminence. We regret his early death, but have the satisfaction of

knowing that Lion Lodge is the better for having had our departed brother as one of its

members.

—————

BRO. F. A. THOMPSON, NELSON.

———

The fading hours of 1918 saw the passing away very peacefully of the above esteemed brother.

He was a living monument of a true Freemason, doing unto others as he would wish them to do

unto him. In fact, it may be truly said of him, he played the game of life according to the gospel

of our ritual. He was laid to rest on 1st January. Initiated 9th September, 1915; passed, 14th

October, 1915 ; raised, 11th November, 1915.

————————

VISITS TO THE MEETING PLACES OF TWO HISTORIC LODGES.

———<>———

[BY R.W. BRO. G. BARCLAY, P.S.G.W.]

I recently spent a few clays in Edinburgh, when I had the opportunity of seeing a good deal of interest from a

Masonic point of view. I called upon R.W. Bro. David Reid, the G.Sec. of Scotland, and enjoyed a

conversation with him. I was shown over the fine premises which the G.L. possesses in George Street. The

grand hall is a handsome chamber, and is adorned with the paintings and busts of the various distinguished

brethren who have held the office of G.M.M. of Scotland. The library and museum contain many articles of

considerable Masonic interest. The St. Clair Charters, dated 1600 and 1628, are probably the most highly

prized, but other valued possessions are the minute-books of the Lodge of Aitchison Haven, dated 1664, and

of the Jacobite Lodge in Rome, 1727, the clothing worn by King Edward in his capacity as G. Patron of

Scottish Freemasonry, Burns's apron, and minute-book bearing his signature, etc. I visited the meeting place

of the Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary's Chapel), No. 1, and was shown the celebrated minute-book—the oldest

Masonic book of its kind in the world—the first entry being dated 31st July, 1599. The writing is still quite

clear, and one noticeable thing is that the officers of the Lodge whose signatures appear in the book have all

appended their marks. The Lodge prides itself in the fact that the Mark Degree has been worked within its

portals continuously from that remote period down to the present day. In the Lodge-room my attention was

drawn to the sun-dial opposite the J.W., -with the shadow cast at 12 o'clock, and I was told that it was always

referred to by the officer mentioned before answering one of the questions in the ceremony of calling-off the

Lodge. There were many interesting mementos of the past—the by-law book contains the signatures of all

the brethren who have been admitted to membership, and these include the late King Edward and many

distinguished statesmen, soldiers, and others. My visit to the premises of the Canongate Kil. Lodge, No. 2, in

St. John's Close, off the Canongate, was also very interesting. There I found a very large collection of

Masonic antiquities. The Lodge-room, which, I believe, is the oldest Masonic meeting place extant, is

familiar to many Masons from the picture of Robert Burns's inauguration as Poet Laureate. The arrangement

of the Lodge-room, different to what we are accustomed to see, was also full of great interest.

————————

LOYAL MASONS.

———<>———

GREAT MEETING IN TOWN HALL, SYDNEY.

———

One of the largest gatherings of Freemasons ever seen in Sydney—more than 4,000—assembled in the Town

Hall recently to commemorate the termination of the war and the victory of the Allied armies. A special

communication of the G.L., with all its impressive and picturesque ceremony, marked the proceedings. The

Chair was occupied by the M.W.G.M., Bro. William Thompson, who was supported by M.W. Bro. W. H.

Simpson, P.G.M., M.W. Bro. H. Montgomerie Hamilton, P.G.M., M.W. Bro. C. U. Carruthers, P.G.M.,

R.W. Bro. Dr. J, C. Sly, P.D.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. Goulston, D.G.M., and a large number of past and present

G.L. officers Distinguished military officers present included :—Lieutenant-Colonel J. B. St. Vincent,

Welch, D.S.O.; Lieutenant-Colonel A. Borlase Stevens, C.M.G., D.S.O. ; Major George D. Ross, V.D. ;

Lieutenant D. T. Campbell, M.C., Lieutenant W. P. Gates, M.C., Lieutenant W: J. Daly, and Lieutenant L. D.

Walsh.

The G.M. described the purpose for which they had met. More than 2,900 members of their Order had heard

the call of country and duty, and to these, and particularly to those who had died for freedom, they rendered

homage. For four years they had gone through the valley of the shadow, and had seen devastation and

outrages committed by a callous and brutal soldiery—" fiends utterly lost to all the dictates of humanity." In

Australia, so far from the seat of the struggle, a large section of the people failed utterly to visualise the war

and all it meant. For their immunity from the horrors of the war they had to thank the brave, constant, and

chivalrous British Navy. (Cheers.) The dignified and contemptuous silence with which our Navy received

the surrender of the great German warships was a fitting comment upon the entire naval situation. (Cheers.)

A certain dishonourable section of the Australian people a few months ago cried aloud for peace at any price,

and were prepared to accept any terms, and let martyred Belgium and France go without compensation for

their wrongs — but the voices of these men were without weight. The heart of the Australian people was as

sound- as that of their gallant Allies, who were prepared to fight on until right was enthroned over might,

whatever the cost. They had ended with one great era, and were at the dawn of another. With the end of the

war came the difficult and complicated problems of peace, and to meet them they must display patience,

calmness, a readiness for sacrifice for the public good. They had in Australia some elements difficult to deal

with, some wild and dangerous creeds, which were pursued with unscrupulous fanaticism. The red flag of

treason and sedition had been freely raised. These problems, however, were but a challenge to the patriotism

and intelligence of the Australian people, and they would be solved by the practical application of the

Masonic principles of truth, justice, and liberty. (Applause.)

Judge Montgomerie Hamilton moved, in the following terms, an address of loyalty to the Throne :—"That

this meeting of the United G.L. of New South Wales of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons, representing

26,000 subscribing members, desires most respectfully to approach His Most Gracious Majesty the King,

and to express its sincere jubilation at the glorious victory which, under T.G.A.O.T.U., has been achieved by

the naval, military, and air forces of His Majesty and his Allies in defence of the great Masonic principles of

right, justice, and liberty, and to assure His Majesty of its ever fervent loyalty to his throne and person." This

was seconded by Mr. John Goulston who declared, amid applause, that King George stood more firmly in

the hearts of his subjects to-day than, perhaps, monarch ever did before—and carried.

A programme of attractive musical items included organ selections by Bro. Arthur Massey, solos by Bros. A.

Goossens, C. Smythe, Philip Newbury, and A. B. Sedgley, and a quartette by Bros. Archer, Richards, Gehde,

and Benham. A special choir of 200 voices, under Bro. N. J. Gehde, performed excellently. Prayers were

offered by the G. Chaplain (V.W. Bro. Rev. S. G. Fielding).

————————

IMPOSSIBLE PENALTIES.

———<>———

Considerable thought is being given to the subject of modifying the penalties in the Blue Lodge Degrees, and

Making them conform to the spirit of the age in which we are now living. It is contended by some

commentators that there is no common sense in fixing penalties that would never be carried out in the terms

of the ritual. The situation, if literally considered, is as though the law should prescribe that a man who stole

a horse should be boiled in oil, and one who broke into a house should have his eyes plucked out, his feet

chopped off, and his fingers smashed on an anvil, whereas no such horrible sentences are ever carried out in

these enlightened days. Punishment corresponding in ferocity to these, however, were once inflicted, and our

own penalties have come down from these barbarous days, testifying, in their very impossible cruelty, to the

antiquity of the Order. This fact gives a basis of reason to the argument that they should be abolished, and

could be abolished, without affecting the immemorial character of the fraternity. Our personal opinion is that

the changes suggested would be entirely in order since no candidate ever believes that these penalties will be

inflicted upon him, and therefore no good lesson is inculcated in threats that will never be carried out. The

Masonic law and discipline, as established by the several G.Ls., meet every practical requirement. Why,

therefore, retain these mummied beasts that seem ready to devour the false and the traitorous, and which

everybody knows are but withered, decayed, and dried up ? Perhaps they were once alive and devoured

somebody. But they lost their teeth centuries ago.— "Kansas City Freemason."

————————

MEANING OF "PROFANE."

———<>———

A brother asks why those who are not Masons should be called " profane," since there are very many persons

who are not members of the Order who are by no means profane. The brother confuses two very different

meanings of the word. It is derived from two Latin words, "pro," meaning before, and " fanum," meaning

temple. The word "profane " therefore means before or outside of the temple. In its present-day ordinary

sense it means one who, withholding himself from sacred things, has no reverence for God or holiness. In

this sense it is a term of reproach, and is a comparatively recent definition of the word. In Masonic language

it means one who is without the temple of Masonry, and in this sense is derived from its ancient meaning of

"one not initiated into the inner mysteries." Masonry is an ancient institution, and uses many words in a sense

now largely disused. This is one of the proofs of its antiquity, and is a badge of distinction.—" Masonic

Bulletin."

————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED TO 20th JANUARY, 1919

———<>———

G. W. Todd 25/-, D. N. Thomson (Oamaru), D. Munro, R. Cameron, T. Macdonald, J. Philp, W. McGregor

(Palmerston South), W. A. Brown (Greymouth), Rev. A. L. Canter (Waikari), J. S. Gerard, L. A. Little, A.

McInnes (Otekaike), F. G. Quaife, J. Easton, Rev. W. V. Willis, J. I. Melville, J. Pringle (Kurow), D.

McPhail (Ravensbourne), A. Wilby, C. E. Jarrett, W. Berry I5/-, Rev. C. F. Askew, A. B. Duff 10/-

(Wellington), R. M. Tinsley 20/- (Raetihi), — Jorgenson (Westport), W. A. Watt 50/10 (Waipukurau), F. W.

Benns 5/-(Auckland), H. A. Norris (Petone), W. A. Hutchison, W. Cathro 10/-, H. G. Rush, J. E. M. Rose, D.

McFarlane 10/- (Wanganui), G. Bell, J. Forrester, P. Laughton (Ranfurly), A. E. Brown (Naseby), G. P.

Howell (Pataroa), R.. Johnson, H. H. S. White (Dunedin), Major McCristell 20/- (Trentham), A. J. Murray

(Kaikoura), G. S. Fleming (Birkenhead), F. Matheson (Fairlie), H. Goudie (Whaka), J. F. Menzies (Taihape),

C. Walker (Taieri), 0. Kitchingman 57/6- (Rahotu), J. L. Ching 40/- (Nelson), C. J. H. Trim (Lower Hutt),

W. E. Wooddisse 10/- (Timaru), W. P. T. Lock (Methven), exors. C. G. Lewis 27/6 (Invercargill).

(All 7/6 except- those noted.)

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

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

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————

SOUTHLAND.

Taringatura, No. 100.—The regular meeting was held on 16th December, W. Bro. S. E. Griffiths presiding.

Owing to the influenza epidemic, the installation that was arranged for the 20th November had to be

postponed. Before proceeding with the business, a vote of sympathy was passed to the widow and family of

our late Bro. David Jack. The deceased was employed on Pamara Station mustering, about seven miles from

Fairlight Siding, and was taken suddenly ill with influenza, and while being conveyed by train to the

Invercargill hospital double pneumonia set in, which carried him off after about two days in the institution.

Much sympathy is felt by the brethren for the widow and seven of a family, who, I am given to understand,

are not well provided for. A vote of sympathy was also passed to Bro. Wm. Taylor, a newly joined member,

who lost his wife at Dipton, after a few days' illness, of the same terrible disease. Much sympathy was also

expressed by the brethren in this case, the father being left with some young children. Very few houses in

Lumsden have escaped. Some of the cases have been very severe, but I am pleased to report that only one

person, a resident of Lumsden, has succumbed. The Lodge was put in mourning for the deceased brother.

Two guineas was voted to each of two appeals. It was also unanimously decided that a notice of motion be

sent to G.L. to be dealt with at their next communication in May :—" That no Germans or persons of enemy

origin should be allowed to become members or be initiated into any, Masonic Lodge throughout the

Dominion holding under the G.L. of New Zealand for the next ten years." One candidate was proposed. The

Lodge was then closed at 10 p.m., after the W.M. had wished the brethren a joyous Christmas and a

prosperous new year, and congratulated the Lodge on the fact that no brethren of Lodge Taringatura had lost

their lives at the front during the four years of terrible bloodshed.

The regular meeting was held on 13th ult., W. Bro. G. E. Griffiths presiding. Two candidates were initiated.

The work was conducted by the W.M., who administered the Ob. ; the Signs and Secrets were communicated

by W. Bro. D. Walker ; N.E. Charge by W. Bro. M. Graham ; Ex. of Prep. by Bro. M. Beer, I.P.M.; the

W.Ts. by Bro. G. Findlay, J.W. and the Final Charge by W. Bro. G. F. Johnson. The Lodge was favoured by

a visit from several brethren of various Lodges. The standing committee decided to hold the postponed

installation in March, which the W.M. announced to the brethren, at the same time hoping to have the

pleasure of honouring and welcoming home some of our returned brethren from the front.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

OTAGO.

St. John, No. 84.—The annual meeting was held in the Oddfellows' Hall, Mosgiel, on 9th January, at 5.30

p.m., when W. Bro. C. Findlay was installed for the second term as W.M. The ceremony was conducted by

R.W. Bro. R. Hawcridge, Prov.G.M., who was accompanied by several G.L. officers. W. Bro. Alex. Allan

acted as G.D of C. The following were invested as officers for the current year :—W.M., W. Bro. C. Findlay;

S.W., Bro. C. H. Leith ; J.W., Bro. J. Mitchell; Treas., W. Bro. W. E. McLean ; Sec., Bro. J. Williamson ;

Chaplain, Bro. C. Seddon; D. of C., W. Bro. A. Davidson; Organist, W. Bro. A. F. Cheyne; S.D., Bro. A.

Kennedy ; J.D., Bro. J. A. Armstrong ; I.G., Bro. C. Walker ; Tyler, Bro. R. Muirhead ; Stewards, Bros. W.

L. Craig, R. F. Gall, J. Strachan, D. Bryce, and J. Frame ; Auditors, W. Bro. A. E. Hunter and Bro. R.

Muirhead. The officers were invested by the Prov.G.M., W. Bros. J. Sinton, W. H. S. Hellyer, and D.

Scrymgeour. The Prov.G.M. addressed the W.M., W. Bro. J. W. Raffills the Wardens, and W. Bro. E. T.

Miller the brethren. P.M.'s jewels were presented to W. Bros. A. F. Cheyne and W. Scott for their past

services. The W.M. thanked the Prov.G.M. and visitors for their attendance. An efficient orchestra gave

valuable assistance, W. Bro. Cheyne acting as conductor. The Lodge was closed at 8.30 p.m., when an

adjournment was made to the Coronation Hall. Several interesting addresses were given in response to the

usual toasts, and some excellent songs and recitations filled in a very enjoyable evening. The W.M.

expressed his gratification at the success of the function, and reported the Lodge to be in a thoroughly

satisfactory condition.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Otago Kil., No. 143.—The installation of Bro. Alex. McLachlan as W.M. took place in the Masonic Hall,

Dunedin, at 4 p.m. on 7th January. W. Bro. R. Hawcridge, Prov.G.M., conducted the ceremony, in the

presence of a goodly representation of the Rulers of the Craft. R.W. Bro. A. W. Flett acted as G.D. of C. The

W.M. invested W. Bro. A. F. Browne as I.P.M. R.W. Bro. J. S. Webb, Dep.D.G.M., E.C., was in attendance,

and conveyed H.G.W. from Dist.G.L. of Otago, E.C. The Lodge was " called off " at 5.15 p.m., and

reassembled at 7.30 p.m., when there was a large attendance of W.Ms., P.Ms., and brethren of sister Lodges.

R.W. Bro. Hawcridge, Prov. G.M., accompanied by three P.Prov.G.Ms. and a large retinue of G. and P.G.L.

officers, was received and accorded the customary honours. The address to the W.M. was delivered by the

Prov.G.M., to the Wardens by R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, and to the brethren by W. Bro. W. G. Hay. R.W. Bro.

A. Fieldwick invested W. Bro. J. Sinton as D.M., W. Bro. Sinton invested the Wardens, R.W. Bro. Fieldwick

the Treas., Sec., Chaplain, and Organist, and W. Bro. H. W. S. Hellyer the other officers and Stewards. Bro.

R. Bryant rendered an appropriate vocal item in his usual satisfactory manner. After the offertory was taken

on behalf of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund, the W.M. addressed the Lodge, thanking the Prov.G.M. and other

visitors for their attendance and assistance, especially the brethren of No. 143 for electing him as W.M. The

Lodge was closed at 9.45 p.m., and the brethren adjourned to the refectory, where justice was done to the

excellent supper provided. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were ably proposed and responded to. The

interesting response by R.W. Bro. Hawcridge, Prov.G.M., we publish in another column. Bros. Bryant,

Mearns, and Wall rendered solos, and W. Bro. W. Mills gave one of his humorous recitations. Lodge St.

Andrew orchestra contributed some excellent items, under the leadership of W. Bro. Bennell. W. Bro. E. A.

Jenkins, P.G. Organist, made an efficient accompanist. From a ceremonial and social point of view, the

installation gathering was a decided success, and indicative of the prosperous condition of the Lodge. The

following is a full list of the officers for the ensuing year :— W.M., Bro. Alex McLachlan ; I.P.M., W. Bro.

A. F. Browne ; D.M., W. Bro. J. Sinton ; S.W., Bro. J. E. Gallie ; J.W., Bro. R. Clark ; Treas., W. Bro. G. G.

Adess ; Sec., R.W. Bro. Geo. Watts ; Chaplain, Bro. J. Main ; Organist, W. Bro. A. E. Jenkins ; D. of C., W.

Bro. R. Jamieson ; S.D., Bro. R. H. Bagshaw ; J.D., Bro. A. Miller ; I.G., Bro. F. W. Parker ; Tyler, Bro. J.

Nisbet; Stewards, Bros. A. H. Allan (S.S.), E. Sincock, D. Y. M. Millar, G. Lord, W. T. Waldren, R. Trezise,

E. Reed, A. C. Pitts, B. G. Midgley, W. Sharp, R. Brugh, P. Pomeroy.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Ionic, No. 191.—After an enforced interval of two months, on account of influenza epidemic, Lodge Ionic

resumed in regular session on 13th January. W. Bro. J. C. McPhee, W.M. presided, and the proceedings were

graced by the presence of,R.W. Bro. Hawcridge, P.G.M., and visitors. Assisted by his officers, the W.M.

impressively bestowed the Second Degree on Bro. J. C. Lindsay. The work was distributed as follows : Ob.,

W.M. ; Secrets, W. Bro. J. C. McClymont ; S.E. Charge, W. Bro. Bremner ; W.Ts., Bro. R. Benfell; Final

Charge, Bro. W. T. Smellie. Donations were voted in aid of the P.G.M.'s special appeal for widows and

orphans who have been bereaved during the recent epidemic, and who are now in need. Two circular appeals

were assisted, and the usual collection was made for the G.M's War Fund. One candidate was proposed for

membership, and one member was received by affiliation. A pleasant time was -spent at supper.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

CANTERBURY.

St. Augustine, No. 4.—The embargo of the Health Department fell heavily on No. 4, the edict taking effect

on the day previous to the November meeting, and only being withdrawn some six days prior to the regular

date for the December meeting. The W.M. decided there was not sufficient reason for summoning an

emergency meeting, consequently the Lodge did not meet again until January. The following is a copy of the

Masters' letter to his brethren :—" Christchurch, 20th December, 1918. Dear Brother,—The period of anxiety

and suspense during which our November and December Meetings were abandoned has fortunately

terminated, and I trust you have quite recovered from any ill effects of the epidemic. Just as we were on the

threshold of peace, we have been brought into intimate contact with the perils of an epidemic, and many of

us have gained some slight idea of the horrors through which our brethren have been passing in the last four

years. To all those who have suffered and lost dear ones in the past heartrending period I extend, on behalf of

their brethren, fraternal sympathy, and feel sure that the teachings of the Order, and their trust in the G.A.,

has enabled them to bear their heavy burdens more cheerfully. When we meet again in January it is my

intention to ask the brethren to record their gratitude to the G.A. for the relief from the horrors of war, and to

express a fervent hope that the genuine principles of our Order may become so extensively practised that

never again will it be necessary to resort to warfare. I am approaching the end of my year of office, and take

this opportunity of stating that, with the cheerful co-operation and assistance of all my officers, I have

endeavoured, to the best of my ability, to fulfil the grave responsibility devolving on me as your Master. We

have striven to maintain the traditions of our Lodge, and have to that end closely guarded the portals, and

endeavoured to conduct the business in the quiet and dignified manner owed to the solid foundations laid

sixty-five years ago, and to the trust handed down from our predecessors. In conclusion, I confidently ask for

my successor the same loyal support that has been accorded to me during my term as Master of No. 4.

Wishing you all prosperity and good health in the coming year,— Fraternally yours, D. Redpath, Master."

The regular meeting was held in the Christchurch Masonic Hall on 14th January, after a break of two

months. The attendance was satisfactory, the holiday season and sickness accounting for quite a few

brethren. Before tackling the accumulation of business W. Bro. Redpath, W.M., made feeling reference to

the recent death of three brethren, and asked the brethren to express their sympathy with the relatives. He

also solicited, on behalf of the sufferers by the recent heart-searching epidemic, the fraternal sympathy and

assistance of the brethren. R.W. Bro. Bishop, Prov.G.M., took occasion to refer to the glad news of the

armistice, and submitted the following resolutions, to be recorded in the minutes : "That brethren of this

Lodge desire : (1) To record their gratitude to T.G.A.O.T.U. for the relief from the horrors of warfare, and

fervently hope that the genuine principles of our Order may become so extensively practised that never again

will it be necessary to resort to war. (2) To extend their fraternal sympathy, and pray that T.G.A.O.T.U. will

give strength and courage to the relatives and friends of those who have laid down their lives. (3) To pledge

themselves that they will, to the utmost of their ability, assist those brethren who have been called to take an

active part in the recent upheaval in rehabilitating themselves and in resuming their normal lives." The

proposition was confirmed. W. Bro. Treasurer's statement was received, and the financial outlay, including

donations to the Nurse Maude Association, Empty Stocking Fund, and G.L. circular appeals, approved.

Voluminous correspondence was got through, and visitors admitted to witness the ceremony of passing two

brethren. The W.M. was assisted by W. Bro. Bailey (W M.; Lodge Conyers, No. 1916, E.C.), W.Ts. ; W.

Bro. McGregor B. Wright, P.G.B.B., S.E. ; and W. Bro. Swales, Charge after Investiture. Our Lake

Coleridge illuminant failed at a critical period, and the remaining business was conducted in flashes.

Propositions were read from two joining brethren. Bro. W. Joh, who has made a popular re-appearance as a

civilian, was a welcome aid to the usual enjoyable refectory proceedings.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————

Methven, No. 51.—There was a very large attendance at the regular meeting on 15th January. P.Ms. turned

up in good numbers. A motion of sympathy to W. Bro. Mangins, in the loss of his son at the front on the eve

of the final battle, was carried, the brethren standing at F. A further vote of sympathy was carried to our

esteemed Bro. Angus McKay, Treas., he having met with an accident in alighting from a friend's trap, and

broken his left arm. Strange to say, Bro. McKay fractured the left humerus one year ago. The business was

the raising of one brother. The Alternate Scotch was worked, and great credit is due to W. Bro. J. F. Stone,

W.M., for the very solemn and efficient manner in which the degree was worked. The following brethren

assisted the W.M. : The candidate was obligated and Secrets given by W. Bro. Pawson, I.P.M. ; the Further

Secrets, W. Bro. Goodwin ; Sub-Ss. and 15 F.Cs., W. Bro. Mitchell ; Charge after R., Bro. D. McDonald ;

Light of a ALM., Bro. W. P. T. Lock ; W.Ts., Bro. S. Smith, Sec.; solo, " Days and Moments," W. Bro.

Todd, T.H. The work of Bro. Osborn, S.D., was very ably carried out. On closing the Lodge at 10 p.m., the

brethren were invited to light refreshments, when a pleasant and profitable hour was spent in responding to

the toast to the senior P.M. present. He expressed pleasure, after thirty-five years of happy Masonic life, in

witnessing a Scotch Third wrought, he declared, even better than when, under the same working thirty-five

years ago, he was the candidate. An invitation which was heartily given to the P.Ms. to work it in April by

the W.M. was accepted, when W. Bro. Stone expects to tax our seating accommodation.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

—————

Kaikoura, No. 60.—Owing to the prevalence of the epidemic, our November meeting was abandoned. At

our usual meeting in December we had the pleasure of seeing a young candidate take his third. W.M. Bro.

Richardson conducted the ceremony, receiving assistance from his brethren as follows :—First part Exhort.,

Bro. Bussell (Tyler) ; second part, Bro. Hitchcock (acting-S.W.) ; Charge, Bro. Walter (S.D.) ; Charge after

Investiture, Bro. Burrows (Chaplain) ; T:H. and Signs and Secrets, W. Bro. Morrison (P.M.); and W.Ts., W.

Bro. JohnsVitti (P.M.). At the conclusion, W. Bro. Morrison was called upon to present the newly-raised

brother with the V. of S.L. on which he had taken his final obligation, and he did so in his usual charming

manner. Mention was made in the Lodge of the recent death of our late respected brother. Bro. W. J.

McInnes. Subsequently a happy hour was spent in the refectory, the usual toasts, especially that of the

newly-raised brother, being enthusiastically honoured. We are now expecting visits from several of our

neighbouring Lodges. Already two have entered into arrangements for a fraternal tour to Kaikoura, and we

shall be pleased to welcome any others—especially those who owe us visits—who feel similarly inclined. —

[Lodge Correspondent.]

—————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—The regular meeting took place on 18th December, when a very successful working

of the Third Degree was carried out by the W.M. (Bro. E. R. Beckett), assisted in the work by the following

P.Ms. and brethren as appeareth herein :—Ob., W. Bro. Beckett; Exhort., W. Bro. Bateman; 1st T.H., W.

Bro. Jas. Manchester ; Emb., W. Bro. Ruddenklau ; Signs, W. Bro. Fulton; 2nd T.H., T.B., and further Signs,

W. Bro. Hoskins ; Final Charge, W. Bro. Colville; and W.Ts., Bro. Creeser, J.W. Prior to the degree work

two ballots for membership were successful. Among other business were two appeals for assistance, each of

which was granted two guineas. Letters from Prov.G.L. were read, intimating the acceptance of this Lodge's

invitation to hold the quarterly communication in Waimate in the month of January. The officers of the

Lodge were authorised to make the necessary preparations. Two diplomas were respectively presented by the

W.M. to Bro. A. Macdonald, of this Lodge, and to Bro. Travis, of Lodge Koranga. W. Bros. T. W:

Manchester and E., E. Beckett were appointed delegates to the South Canterbury Board of Enquiry. Letters

of condolence were authorised to be sent to the widows of Bro. F. Pelvin and Bro. J. M. Patterson, both

victims of the prevailing epidemic. The case of Mrs. Patterson was a very sad one, as she was married to her

late husband on the 14th November, and he succumbed on the 25th of the same month. To Bro. W. Renshaw,

who has just recovered from a very severe attack of influenza, a letter of sympathy in his illness, and

expressing hopes for his perfect recovery, was authorised. Wishing Mr. Editor and the staff of the

CRAFTSMAN the compliments of the season and a very successful future. — [Lodge Correspondent.]—[Good

wishes heartily reciprocated.—ED.C.]

—————

Amuri, No. 181.—The usual meeting was held on 20th December, W. Bro. C. E. Derrett presiding over a

good attendance. Two worthy appeals were supported to the extent of £1 ls. The ceremonial was the passing

of a brother. W. Bro. Derrett obligated, the Secrets being communicated by W. Bro. D. W. Hunter. Bro. H.

R. Davison, S.W., invested the brother, Bro. J. Wilson giving the Address after Investiture. The Address in

the S.E. was given by Bro. Dunbar, S.D., the W.Ts. being ably explained by Bro. Davison. The Final Charge

was entrusted to W. Bro. Munro.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

——————————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Victory, No. 40.—After a month of recess, an unusual occurrence for the Lodge, the brethren again

assembled for labour on 9th January, when there was the usual good attendance. W. Bro. C. M. Whelan

presided. Successful ballots were taken on behalf of two affiliating brethren. Five brethren were given the

Second Degree, one on behalf of Lodge Waitaki Kil. The W.M. regretted the Lodge was again in mourning

for two brethren (W. Bro. W. H. Short, Chaplain, and Bro. F. A. Thompson) who had transferred to the G.L.

above. Both had worthily upheld the traditions of the Order. The Lodge has been a heavy sufferer by death

during the past twelve months, five being P.Ms. The Lodge has approved of the suggestion of a general

meeting of brethren to entertain the members of the Nelson Returned Soldiers' Association on the 3rd

February. The idea has been taken up enthusiastically by both Lodge and Association, and promises to be a

successful function. The object of the meeting is to express to the returned soldiers the thanks of a peace-

loving society for the part they have played in the satisfactory termination of the war.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

—————

Wairau, No. 42.—The monthly meeting was held in the Lodgeroom, Andrew Street, on 6th January, W.

Bro. W. Tyler, W.M., presiding. There was a large attendance of members. Two brethren were raised to the

degree of M.M. by the W.M., assisted by W. Bros. Nosworthy, McKinley, and McKenzie, and Bros. Cleator,

Jellyman, and Hadfield. W. Bro. W. Lucas. having been discharged from military service, resumed his duties

as Sec. of the Lodge. Bro. C. Tunnicliffe, who has been acting-Sec. during W. Bro. Lucas's absence, was

complimented by the W.M. on the efficient manner in which he had discharged the duties as Sec., and on the

motion of the W.M. he was unanimously elected a life member of the Lodge. Two circular appeals were

considered and the sum of £1 ls. voted to each.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

—————

Unanimity, No. 106.—The regular meeting was held on 9th January. It was the first meeting since October,

the November and December fixtures having been abandoned owing to the-epidemic. There was a large

attendance, including 14 visitors. Greetings were received from several brethren on active service. The new

organ which the Lodge decided some time ago to purchase has been secured. Donations amounting to over

£24 have been promised towards defraying the cost. The business was to pass four brethren, and the W.M.

was assisted by. W. Bros. Girling, Eckford, and Furness, and Bro. Lambie, S.W. Two P.Ms. were nominated

for G.L. offices. Three ballots for membership were taken, and all proved successful. Despite the lateness of

the hour, a good number of brethren remained to supper, and a very enjoyable time was spent.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

——————————

HAWKES BAY.

Scinde, No. 5.—The regular meeting was held on 17th December, the W.M. presiding. The Lodge having

been duly opened, reference was made by the W.M. to the death of Bro. Stichbury, who was recently passed

to the F.C. Degree, and a vote of condolence was passed, the brethren standing to the sign of F. W. Bro. Sec.

then read two circular appeals from G.L., to which two guineas each was voted. A ballot for a candidate for

initiation proved clear. W. Bro. Currie then proceeded with the ceremony of initiation, and was assisted in

the work as follows :—Ob., by the W.M.; Ss., W. Bro. Freedman N.E. Corner, R.W. Bro. Harston; R. for

Prep., W. Bro., Bowes; W.Ts., S.D. Bro. Morling; Final Charge, S.W. Bro. Turville. A motion was then

moved by R.W. Bro. Harston as-follows :—" That Scinde Lodge accept the offer made through W. Bro.

Bishop, trustee for Mr. Newman, to hand over the property leased by him on 31st March, 1919, with rent,

rates, and insurance paid up to date, and that if the Lodge .accept the offer, immediate steps be taken to re-let

the premises. After a spirited discussion the motion was carried, and, on the motion of Bro. Hobson, a

committee was set up to go into the matter of re-letting the premises. A resolution was passed by the brethren

to refund to Mrs. Stichbury the initiation fees of our late brother, departed. The usual collection was then

taken up, after which the Lodge was closed, when an adjournment was made to the refectory, where a

pleasant social hour was spent.—[Lodge Correspondent.]—[Too late for last issue.—ED.C.]

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TARANAKI.

Moa, No. 110.—The W.M. (Bro. Geo. Taylor) presided over a good attendance of brethren at the monthly

meeting in the Lodgeroom, Inglewood, on 10th January. Two brethren (father and son) were passed to the

Second Degree, and considering the break during the epidemic, the work was very well done. The W.M.

obligated the candidates, and the Ss. were given by W. Bros. Allemann and Winfield respectively. W. Bro.

Branch gave the S.E. Charge, and W. Bro. Hamerton the Final Charge. W. Bro. Surrey brought forward a

notice of motion altering two by-laws. The first was to make the new year begin on 1st March, and the

second to make the subscriptions paid annually instead of quarterly. The motion was carried with very little

discussion. Officers were nominated for the ensuing year. During the refectory an enthusiastic welcome was

accorded to W. Bro. Olson on his return from the front. Our W. brother, although over the age limit,

volunteered over two years ago, and recently returned in safety, and received the congratulations of his

Lodge. We miss the face of our late Bro. A. Y. Coldwell, who was promoted to a higher Lodge during the

influenza epidemic. Our late brother was a popular Mason, and did good and useful work. He was always

willing to do all he could, and he is sadly missed by his brethren. Our sympathy goes out to his bereaved

wife and three little sons. His funeral was largely attended, proving the respect in which he was held. He was

one Lodge Moa could ill spare. Our worthy Chaplain, W. Bro. Young, had a very critical time during the

epidemic, and his brethren had many an anxious moment. However, we are happy to have him back with us

again, looking ever so much better, and at present he has gone on a health tour for three or four weeks. We

express the hope that he will return completely restored and occupy the chair which for so long he has held

with dignity to the Lodge and credit to himself. More than once the subject of Lodges of Instruction has

cropped up—or rather the sparse attendance. One quite agrees that the W.M. and Wardens need every

support they can get, and I believe more would attend their Lodges of Instruction if they felt their work and

perseverance would receive due merit. Often it happens that brethren who never attend are put in office, and

the poor slogging brother is passed over. It is not encouraging for brethren to attend Lodges of Instruction,

when their year's patient work and enthusiasm is passed over or ignored. I make the suggestion that once a

year the names and number of attendances at instructions shall be read out in open Lodge before nomination

night. Lodge Moa has the proud reputation of a happy Lodge, as well as a hard-working Lodge, and there is

no reason why it should not continue .so.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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RUAPEHU.

Te Awahou, No. 133.—The regular meeting was held on 9th December, when there was a good attendance

of brethren. The ceremonial business was initiation. W. Bro. J. J. Stevenson, W.M., assisted by his officers,

put the candidate through in a very able manner. Special mention might be made of the work of Bro. W.

Renton, J.W., who gave the lecture on the T.B7, and in so doing used the Lodgeroom and symbols as

illustrations. After the ceremony of initiation W. Bro. J. J. Stevenson, W.M., presented the Lodge with a

splendid set of P.M's. W.Ts. in a plush-lined case, and a framed steel engraving of K.S.T. The, tools and case

were the work of his own hands. W. Bro. J. K. Hornblow, in thanking W. Bro. Stevenson on behalf of the

Lodge for his most useful gift, drew attention to its very fine workmanship. The business was concluded at

9.30 p.m., and the brethren then adjourned to the refectory. After the usual toasts were honoured, W. Bro. J.

J. Stevenson entertained the brethren with the history of the P.M's. W.Ts. he had presented that evening. All

the different parts were begged from brethren, without their knowing the use these parts were to be put to.

The blade of the trowel was made from the back of an old pressure gauge, and was given by W. Bro. J. J.

Stevenson. Part of the handle (brass wire) came from W. Bro. J. Ross, while the grip was a vulcanised pipe

stem contributed by Bro. Claris. The ferrol on grip was part of the remains of an umbrella belonging to C.

Hunt. The rule was made from the binding of an old spirit level, the plumb was turned from an old brass

steam cock, and the line was hand-twisted blue silk cord, all from J. J. Stevenson. The case was made from

two cigar boxes given by Bro. E. Ball. The brethren were all much interested in this unique presentation. The

tools were greatly admired, many complimentary remarks being passed. Lodge Te Awahou is exceptionally

fortunate in having for its W.M. such an enthusiastic member possessing such marked ability.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

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Mouton, No. 195.—The Lodge met on 19th December, when W. Bro. F. Symes, presided over a large

attendance of brethren, which was considerably augmented by the official visit of R.W. Bro. J. H. Keesing,

D.G.M. and his officers, and the W.M. and brethren of Lodge St. Andrew Kil. The W.M. entrusted W. Bro.

Svenson, P.M., with the gavel, and asked him to conduct the ceremony of initiating two candidates. The

ceremony which followed was unique in the history of Lodge Mouton, one of the candidates being a son of

W. Bro. Svenson, and the working that of the I.C. The brethren greatly appreciated the opportunity of

witnessing an Irish working, and W. Bro. Svenson is to be congratulated upon the way in which he

conducted the ceremony. W. Bro. Svenson was ably assisted by W. Bros. Lance, Craig, Symes, and Bullock,

and Bro. F. Bourne, S.W. W. Bro. Symes, W.M., then assumed control of the Lodge, and before closing

called upon R.W. Bro. J. H. Keesing, D.G.M., to present two M.Ms.' diplomas.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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WELLINGTON.

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held in the Freemasons' Hall, Berhampore, on 9th January.

The W.M., Bro. G. E. Lenzini, occupied the chair. There was a large attendance of brethren and visitors. The

routine business consisted of the annual election of officers, and two ballots for joining members. The

ceremonial portion was the passing of five brethren. The W.M. obligated the candidates; the S.W. invested;

S., T., and W. were given by the Sec., Bro. E. Howell; the Apron Charge, W. Bro. Whitelaw; Address in

S.E., Bro. Key; the W.Ts. were presented by W. Bro. Shand, assisted by the Wardens; and the Final Charge

was in the hands of the S.W., Bro. C. Martin. The Lodge closed at 10.15, and an adjournment was made to

the refectory, where the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The usual monthly meeting was held on 8th January, but being so soon after the

festive season, and so many brethren being away on holiday, there was not a large attendance of members

and visitors; but, notwithstanding, a very pleasant meeting was held. The business was the conferring of the

Third Degree upon one candidate, and although this was the first time W. Bro. Harman and his officers had

worked the Third, they went through their duties in a satisfactory manner. W. Bro Harman obligated; W.

Bro. Teagle continued until after the Raising ; R.W.

Bro. Peterkin gave the Exhort. ; W. Bro. Guiness

communicated the Ss. ; Bro. Carver, S.W., invested;

W. Bro. Leighton gave the Apron Charge; W. Bro.

Hobbs gave the T.H.; and W. Bro. Williams gave the

further explanation of the Ss., T., and W.; Bro.

Carver presented the W.Ts. ; W. Bro. Burns

presented the V. of S.L. R.W. Bro. Peterkin

presented Bro. Ginger with his certificate. It was

decided to take part in the thanksgiving service to be

held in the Town Hall, and the W.M., I.P.M., and

Sec. were appointed to represent the Lodge as

delegates. Nominations for G.L. officers were

received, and two ballots taken for initiation, and

both declared clear. Several brethren were

apologised for. W. Bro. Williams asked the Lodge to

take care of three small T.Bs. used in the camp at the

Masonic meetings held there, as now the camp was

practically closed. This being all the business, the

Lodge was closed at 9.45, after a very pleasant

meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

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ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

St. Augustine, No. 1.—The regular meeting was

held in the Christchurch Masonic Hall on 8th

January, V.E. Comp. J. A. Stables presiding. After

the ordinary business a Mark Lodge was opened by

W.M.M. J. A. Stables. R.E. Comp. C. Flavel

installed W. Bro. Geo. Yemm, also, by request of

Timaru Chapter, Bro. R. Hyman, as W.M.Ms.

W.M.M. G. B. Perkins, acting-G.D. of C., made the

Proclamation. Lodge was closed, and a Lodge of

I.Ms. was opened by E.M. H. Hopkinson. W. Bro. D.

Sheffield was S.W. ; W. Bro. Geo. Yemm, J.W. ;

and Bro. C. S. Johnston, I.G. Bro. J. Richardson

conducted. E.M. Bro. W. F. McLean and Bros. C. T.

Johnston, and J. Gillanders were Captains of the

Veils. Bro. Symone was acknowledged as an E.M.

E.M. Bro. Hopkinson obligated ; E.M. Bro.

Robertson delivered the Final Charge. Nothing

further offering, Lodge and Chapter were closed

after H.G.W.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

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A. AND A. RITE.

Wellington, No. 91.—The quarterly convocation was held on 17th January, Bro. R. J. Foss, presiding. The

attendance was very large. Four candidates received, the Rite of Perfection from the M.W.S., who was

assisted by Ill. Bros. Surgeon-General Henderson, 31deg. ; Rev. T. Porritt, 30deg. ; H. J. Williams, 30deg. ;

E. and P. Bro. J. Moncrieff, and the officers of the Chapter. Three candidates were elected subject to the Rite

of Perfection. A request was made to the Court of Honour to formulate an amendment to the law relating to

the proposition of candidates. Owing to the lateness of the hour, the proceedings in the refectory were

considerably curtailed.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

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Hawkes Bay, No. 199.—The first meeting following the consecration of the Chapter was held at Hastings on

9th January, E. and P. Bro. E. Hosking, M.W.S., presiding. The officers of Wellington Chapter having been

invited to work the rite of Perfection, eight were present for that purpose. In the absence of the M.W.S. of

Wellington Chapter, Ill. Bro. Surgeon-General Henderson, 31deg., P.M.W.S., conducted the ceremony,

assisted by Ill. Bro. H. J. Williams, 30deg., E. and P. Bro. Sir Alfred Robin, E. and P. Bro. H. H. Seaton, E.

and P. Bro. G. Allport, E. and P. Bro. Greer (who presided at the organ). Six candidates were elected, three

of whom were admitted to the rite of Perfection. Two brothers were proposed for Perfection, and one E. and

P. brother for joining. The visitors were subsequently entertained in the refectory, and the remainder of the

evening was devoted to the "feast of reason and the flow of soul."