THE REPUTATION OF FREEMASONRY.

——<>——

IN another column of this issue will be found a letter

signed by P. Colville Smith, G.Sec. of the G.L. of

England, and which was sent to a number of the

principal London newspapers. Several of them

offered comment strongly in favour of Freemasonry,

and we publish that of the "Daily Telegraph," which

appeared under the heading of "A Vindication of

Freemasonry." It is patent that the letter of the

G.Sec. was an official document, and it is presumed

that it was inspired by the highest official authority.

Indeed, some of our contemporaries make no secret

of the matter. The step taken was an extraordinary

one, and we think has no precedent, therefore it is

safe to assume that the procedure was warranted by

special circumstances, winch, except in one

instance, appear to be shrouded in mystery, which

we beg to suggest was a mistake, as Freemasonry is

sufficiently strong to refute any calumny, no matter

what its source may be. The "Masonic Chronicle."

however, preserves no such reticence, and thus throws some light on the reasons that led to the official public

pronouncement. In its issue of 7th August it says :—

"The M.W.G.M. has evidently had his attention drawn to the series of articles which have lately appeared in

one of the leading daily papers. The ridiculous rubbish that has been printed, and in which the name of

Freemasonry has been freely introduced, is really beneath contempt so far as the Craft in England and other

English-speaking jurisdictions are concerned, save that, without notice being taken the old cry will be raised:

It must be true, Freemasons cannot deny it.' And this view is held, not only by outsiders, but even by many

of those within the Craft. "

A week later the same journal, in discussing what was practically a message to the public from the

M.W.G.M., thus again refers to the primary cause : —"We do not propose at the moment to analyse the long

rigmarole/ of calumny redished-up by the 'Morning Post.' . . . . . The charges made against the "Craft of

Freemasonry are beyond contempt." This statement will have the effect of fixing the chief calumniator, while

from the letter of repudiation it can be gathered that the charges include " a participation in public and

political affairs " and "an interference with religious opinion. " The G.Sec.'s letter clearly points out that the

abstention from matters religious or political has always been rigidly observed by English-speaking

Freemasons. The principal matter of regret is that a public repudiation such as has been made was

necessitated by vile calumny. Had the offending newspaper desired any information as to the operations or

status of Freemasonry, such information could have been easily obtained, and the fact that no effort was

made to do so before rushing into publicity would indicate that other motives were responsible for the action

than the public welfare. The action taken by the G.L. of England should serve to show very clearly that

Freemasonry has no fear of the exposure of its inner life and action. That it is quite prepared to prove by

irrefutable evidence that it has not swerved from the policy that was formulated hundreds of years ago.

Indeed, the inauguration of such change would sound the death-knell of Freemasonry as at present

constituted. The correspondence published should offer a moral with which to adorn the tale. Occasionally

one hears a suggestion made that Freemasonry should take a more prominent part in the public life of the

community. Quite recently at a Large Masonic function we heard an eminent brother say "that he felt this

institution should speak on national questions with no uncertain sound. It seemed to him that this great

assemblage of representative Freemasons should create a general public opinion. "We were subsequently

informed that the eminent brother's remarks did not bear the construction put upon them, especially by the

outer world. This was reassuring, but the fact remained that when speakers do not quite mean what they say,

they should at least endeavour to say what they mean, especially when such utterances are fully reported in

the newspaper press, and public interpretations do not usually lean to the charitable side. The action of the

G.L. of England in defending the reputation of Freemasonry is of inestimable value to the Craft, and will no

doubt be received with general satisfaction and appreciation.

—————————

THE ISOLATION OF MARLBOROUGH.

———<>———

Though the seaport of this large and flourishing district is only fifty-three miles from the Capital City of the

Dominion, it is the worst served in point of communication throughout. New Zealand, having a steamer

service three times in seven days and a train connection between Picton and Blenheim which is held in

general scorn and derision. Some months ago a self-constituted body of ci-devant legislators and would-be

reformers formed what they were pleased to term a Progress League, and the immediate outcome was a

picnic to Marlborough, where meetings were held in conjunction with some local people, and resolutions

were passed affirming the desirableness of prosecuting the South Island Main Trunk railway, which will

have its terminus at Picton, and strenuously advocating a drastic alteration in the wretched steamer service.

Worthy objects, both. A large deputation waited on the Government, but quite failed to galvanise Ministers

into renewed railway activity. Communication was had with the Union Steam Ship Company, and Mr. A.

Morton was appointed organiser. The Progress League subsequently announced that the Union Company had

decided to replace the old and obsolete steamer "Mapourika " by the " Arahura," now trading on the East

Coast, and to inaugurate a daily service to Picton. Considering the vast volume of traffic that is continually in

evidence on this route, one rare only wonder why such proposed action was not taken years ago. If the Union

Company made any such promise to the League. it certainly gave no guarantee of performance, as

notwithstanding the continual boasts of the League, though the months of October is well advanced, there is

not the slightest sign of any transit change. The disappointed Marlboroughites appeal to the Wellington

members of the Progress League to hustle round and push on the work, but the Wellington inaugurators of

the League retort that they will back up Marlborough in any action it may take, and there the matter appears

to rest. We should have thought that the Marlborough folks would have recognised the value of a large

market near at hand—with quick transit—for all their produce, and the Capital City would have welcomed

such an addition, which in these days is of so much importance, and would have been prepared to have done

something more practical than passing bald resolutions in between the toasts at the refreshment table. But

there is another phase of the question which closely affects Freemasonry, as there are a number of branches

of that institution scattered throughout the isolated district. The aid of brethren from the Capital City is not

infrequently invoked, and a number of brethren is always quite willing to assist, but what is invariably

considered a labour of love in this case often becomes a very great trial, owing to the abominable transit

conditions. Recently a dozen Wellington brethren essayed the trip. The weather was bad going over, and

absolutely vile returning. Cold, rain, blowing a living gale, crowds of sea-sick passengers, and no deck

accommodation. Some of the brethren were ill for days after their return, and it will have to be a most

important function that will induce some of them to renew their experience. Perhaps a knowledge of the

Masonic disabilities may induce more energetic and practical action, especially in the town of Blenheim, to

lessen the isolation of Marlborough.—[Since the foregoing was written, we hear that it is possible the

"Arahura" will be put on the run during the month of November.—ED.C.]

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

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

AT the meeting to welcome M.W.G.M. Bro. T. Ross to Lodge Tuatapere, Bro. W. Tomkins, of Lodge

Orepuki, a member of the N.Z.E.F. (in Palestine and Egypt) Masonic Association, was present, and gave a

very interestng account of his experiences at the great meetings in the Mosque of Omar on 6th April, 1918,

and was much appreciated and thanked for his address.

A W.M. RETIRING from the chair recently eulogised the work of his Lodge, and with what he, no doubt,

assumed to be caustic wit, reflected on the N.Z. CRAFTSMAN, for leaving the meetings unnoticed, oblivious

of the fact that, unlike other W.Ms., he had made no effort to have any of his meetings reported or other

information sent to the Masonic journal for insertion, but with some hazy idea that the editor should be

intuitive.

TWENTY-TWO E. and P. Prins. were present at the opening of the new Chapter in Blenheim in September

last, and the meeting was a peculiarly happy one.

NEW Lodge Renown is to be opened in Wellington City about the end of November. The M.W.G.M. will be

responsible for the ceremonial work, and the M. W.G.Sec. will come down from Auckland for the occasion,

if well enough. At present he is not enjoying the best of health.

AT the opening of the Nelson and Marlborough Rose Croix Chapter in Blenheim in September last, three

brethren took part in the ceremony whose united age was 232 years.

BRO. MATTHEW WALKER has again been elected Tyler of Hiram Lodge, Dunedin. He has reached the age of

ninety years, is hale and hearty, and generally speaking is going strong, especially in Freemasonry. The

CRAFTSMAN offers congratulations to the aged brother.

"GONE West," said Bro. Rev. E. Garth Ireland, preaching at a Masonic service held at the old Parish Church,

Aldershot, was one of the most beautiful expressions the war had given us. To go West, as the sun sets in the

west, was but to enter upon a more glorious day, for we remember that the sun only sets to rise again, and

that beyond this life there is another, and a greater and a more beautiful life, to which we shall go.

NEW Lodge Ohura, No. 214, which has been on the stocks for a considerable time will be launched with all

ceremony on the 4th November. M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson, P.G.M., will officiate on the occasion.

W. Bro. C. ILLINGWORTH, late of Southern Cross, No. 9, has affiliated with Lodge Ngauruhoe, No. 205,

Ohakune (at which place lie now resides), and is taking a keen interest in Lodge affairs, especially the Lodge

of Instruction held every Tuesday evening.

ON 28th October the Rev. A. L. Canter was to be installed as W.M. of Lodge Acacia, No. 209. It was

expected that a great crowd of visitors would be present.

THE newly-installed W.M. of Lodge Waihenga, No. 150, intimated in his remarks on installation night that it

was his intention to have the Lodge tyled sharply to time.

STILL another nonagenarian Tyler, in the person, of Bro. C. M. Moore, of Nelson, who has passed his ninety-

third year, is still in active office. Victory Lodge proposes to present him with an enlarged portrait of

himself.

THE W.M. of Lodge Waimarino, No. 175, and his officers paid an official visit to Lodge Ngauruhoe on the

12th October, worked a Second Degree, and put up a very creditable performance. At the Fourth Degree W.

Bro. T. Harris was at his best in his usual humorous tales of what happened in the backblocks of the North

Island of New Zealand in the early days.

THE G.M. has authorised the issue of a charter for a new Lodge to meet at Wanganui, and to be designated as

Whanganui, No. 219. The consecration and dedication will be conducted by the G.M. on Monday, 22nd

November.

THE G.M. hopes to be present at the installation meetings of Lodge Otaki, No. 72, on Wednesday, 24th

November, and Lodge Tararua, No. 67, Pahiatua, on the following day.

—————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

———<>———

It is pleasing to report that W. Bro. Finlay, W.M. of Lodge Taringatura, is progressing satisfactorily.
  

W. Bro. Derbie, W.M. of Lodge Victoria, has for the past three weeks been confined to his bed. All join in

wishing him a speedy recovery.
  

W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, W.M. of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, is once again about, and occupied the chair for

the October meeting, when the Prov.G.M. (R.W. Bro. A. B. Haggitt), accompanied by G.L., was present.
  

The fact that M.W. Bro. T. AL Ross, G.M., was present seems to have excited some of the brethren of Lodge

Southern Cross, No 9. One W. brother was called upon by the W.M. to propose a candidate for admission to

our Order, and did so with a very neat speech, but in the excitement of the evening placed a black ball in the

ballot box.
  

Bro. C. J. Hewlett (Lodge Waihopai), now resident in Wellington, has been on a visit to the Cold Lakes

district this month. He also paid a visit to Invercargill, and attended while there the October meeting of

Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, also Southern Cross Chapter, No. 3. Bro. Hewlett regretted very much being

unable to prolong his visit in order to attend the meeting of the Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, but attended

the rehearsal meeting held a few days previous to the regular gathering. Bro. Hewlett acted as Sec. of Lodge

Waihopai whilst resident in Invercargill.
  

The installation meeting of Lodge Otautau took place on Wednesday, 13th September, when a large

attendance of members and visitors was in evidence. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. A. B.

Haggitt, assisted by G.L. officers and W.Ms. of sister Lodges. W. Bro. J. Kerse, of Lodge. Victoria, No. 147,

acted as D. of C., and carried the ceremony through in great style. About ten members of Victoria, No. 147,

journeyed to Otautau from Invercargill by motor, a trip full of incident. After the ceremony a ball was held in

the Town Hall.
  

Southern Cross R. A. Chapter advanced four candidates at their October convocation.
  

R.W. Bro. A: B. Haggitt, P.G.M., paid an official visit to Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, on Monday, 18th

October. He was accompanied by a number of G.L. officers.
  

W. Bro. Farrant, W.M. of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, paid a flying visit to Wellington this month.
  

Bro. W. Falconer is at present laid up in Southland Hospital with pneumonia, and the brethren wish him a

speedy recovery.
  

Bro. N. C. Blackmore has been transferred from here to the Prisons Staff, Wellington.
  

At the meetings of Lodge St. John lately the brethren have been inquiring for W. Bro. Robison, who is

usually such a constant attender, although he has sometimes to come late owing to business. We trust these

inquiries will not be made any longer.

—————————

MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

———<>———

Owing to there being .a meeting of the Rose Croix Chapter on the evening on which it had been intended to

hold the second ladies' evening in connection with Lodge Unanimity, the function will take place on Friday,

5th November. A children's party will be given on the following afternoon.

  
Both the candidates who were initiated in Lodge Unanimity at the October meeting came of Masonic

families, one of them being able to trace his "pedigree" back several generations.
  

Bro. J. S. Emerson, who recently became a member of Wairau Lodge, has received notice of his transfer to

Wellington in the service of Messrs. Levin and Co. Bro. Emerson received his Third Degree in October.
  

A P.M. of Lodge Unanimity was felicitated last meeting on the birth of another daughter. After his health

had been drunk the question of appropriate honours was raised, and "a voice" suggested, "Prosper the art." It

was some time before gravity again prevailed.
  

An interesting lecturette was given by Bro. J. Bary during the "Fourth" at Lodge Unanimity in October. I3ro.

Bary brought with him a framed copy of the Mosaic discovered near Gaza by the Anzac Mounteds, and

explained the meaning of the various characters depicted thereon. The lecture was greatly appreciated by the

brethren.

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

CONSECRATION OF PARITUTU R.A. CHAPTER, No. 40.

———<>———

The M.E.G.Z., Comp. T. Hobson, arrived in New Plymouth on Tuesday, 12th October, for the purpose of

consecrating this Chapter, the youngest under the N.Z.G. Chapter. He was accompanied by R.E. Comp. A. J.

Graham, G.H., G.Supt. of this district, and V.E. Comp. W. R. Snellgrove, P.Z. of Ruapehu Chapter, who all

had paid an official visit to the Egmont Chapter at their convocation in Inglewood the previous evening.

About forty companions, mostly from "round the mountain," assembled to greet the M.E. and to wish the

new Chapter all good success in the future. The M.E. himself was the Consecrating Officer, and he was ably

assisted by V.E. Comp. W. H. Besley as G.H., R.E. Comp. A. J. Graham, G.H., as G.J., V.E. Comp. J.

McAllister as G.S.E., E. Comp. Christiansen as G.S.N., E. Comp. W. R. Snellgrove as 1st Soj., E. Comp. G.

Young as 2nd Soj., E. Comp. W. Bleakley as 3rd Soj, Egmont Chapter supplying their own Janitor in the

person of Comp. S. Spurdle. The ritual and ceremonial of the consecration was beautifully rendered with

great reverence and solemnity. The presentation of the Elements by V.E. Comps. McAllister, Young,

Christiansen and Snellgrove was a most expressive rite, while the perambulations with censer by the Acting-

G.J. was a very striking portion. The M.E.G.Z. gave a most serious and impressive address on the objects of

R.A. Freemasonry, basing his thoughts on the consecration of persons and things. The words conveyed to the

assembled companions a very high ideal as to the requirements of Capitular Masonry, made a very deep

impression on the minds of all, and showed our M.E. companion to be indeed worthy of the exalted position

he holds. If these could be printed in the CRAFTSMAN they would be read by all with profit and education.

R.E. Comp. A. J. Graham, G.Supt., then proceeded to install V.E. Comp. A. L. Moore as Z., E. Comp. M. D.

Stagpoole as H., E. Comp. W. P. Nicoll as J. and invested E. Comp. R. N. Renaud as S.E., E. Comp. H. A.

Stratford S.N., E. Comp. Burton 1st Soj., E. Comp. J. Down 2nd Soj., E. Comp. W. J. Cleland 3rd Soj., V.E.

Comp. T. Furlong as Treas. A very pleasant hour was spent- in the refectory, all the companions expressing

their great pleasure at a happy and successful gathering. Very great regret was expressed at the absence of

the G.S.E., who is so well known and appreciated in this district.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

—————————

VISIT OF THE GRAND MASTER TO SOUTHLAND.

———<>———

M.W. Bro. Thomas Ross, G.M., paid a visit to Southland recently and met the brethren in Invercargill, as

well as in several parts of the Western District. The Prov.G.M. (R.W. Bro. A. B. Haggitt) being prevented by

professional engagements from accompanying the G.M. in his tour of the country Lodges, the arrangements

were taken in hand by M.W. Bro. Maurice Thompson, P.G.M., who personally conducted the party

throughout. The G.M., who was accompanied by R.W. Bro. G. Barclay, Asst.-G.Sec., reached Invercargill

on the evening of Tuesday, 28th September, and on the following morning left on a tour of the Western

District. Departing from Invercargill by road at 8.30 a,m., Winton was reached an hour later, and a halt was

made at the Masonic Hall there, where the brethren of Lodge Winton, No. 108, had assembled in goodly

numbers to greet the ruler and head of the order. Bro. Ross addressed those present, and after partaking of

morning tea, the party left for Nightcaps. The weather was fine and the roads in good order, and the run

through the fine country which lies to the west of Invercargill was much enjoyed. Heddon Bush and Wrey's

Bush, both well-known and old settled parts of Southland, were passed en route. Nightcaps was reached

shortly after 11 a.m., and the brethren of Lodge Wairaki, No. 145, were found gathered in the local hall,

where the G.M. again received a loyal welcome, and was introduced to those present. Later the visitors were

entertained at lunch by the Nightcaps brethren. In the afternoon a start was made for Tuatapere, and under

the guidance of Bro. McGregor, an opportunity was afforded of seeing the Ohai coalfields, a valuable asset

of the province of Southland, and which are in process of further development. The road led through Mount

Linton Station, Birchwood, Feldwick and Orawi. At the first-mentioned place (the residence or Bro.

McGregor) a brief halt was made for afternoon tea, Tuatapere being reached about 5 o'clock. The G.M.

attended the regular meeting of Lodge Tuatapere, No. 210, when there was a large assemblage of the Craft,

the brethren of Lodge Orepuki, No. 137, having come over in strong force. A very excellent exposition of the

ceremony of working the Third Degree was given by the local brethren. R.W. Bro. A. le H. Hoyles,

P.P.G.M., came out from Invercargill to attend this meeting, and was the recipient of a presentation from the

brethren of the Lodge, consisting of the gavel used by him when consecrating the Lodge some eighteen

months ago. The G.M. received a most enthusiastic reception from the brethren, and in the refectory he

spoke at some length in reference to G.L. matters. After the meeting the party were compelled, owing to lack

of hotel accommodation at Tuatapere, to proceed to Otautau, taking the road via Merrivale and Raven's Gap.

The following morning the G.M. met the members of Lodge Wallace, No. 129, in the Otautau Masonic Hall,

and spent an hour with them, after which he travelled via Fairfax to Riverton. On arrival there at noon, the

brethren of Lodge Aparima, No. 77, were found assembled in the local hall, and after the usual reception an

adjournment was made for lunch, at which the G.M. and those accompanying him were the guests of the

local brethren. In the afternoon an hour or so was spent at "The Rocks," where the seaside residence of M.W.

Bro. Thompson is situated. Invercargill was reached the same evening, where M.W. Bro. Ross delivered his

lecture on "The Egyptian Influence on our Masonic Ritual and Ceremonial." There was a good attendance,

and the lecture was much appreciated by those present. On the following afternoon (Friday) a visit was made

to the Bluff, where the members of Lodge Fortitude, No. 64, were met at the Lodgeroom. Afternoon tea was

provided, and the G.M. again had an opportunity of explaining G.L. activities. In the evemng M.W. Bro.

Ross visited Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, where there was a large assemblage of members of the Craft. In

addition to the four town Lodges, the brethren of Lodge Mokoreta, No. 63, also attended. The G.M. was

attended by M.W. Bro. M. Thompson, P.G.M., R.W. Bros. W. Smith, P.D.G.M., Haggitt, Prov.G.M.,

Rankin, Steans and Hoyles, P.P.G.M., and other G.L. officers. In the after meeting the address delivered by

the G.M. was attentively listened to and keenly appreciated. At the various places at which he spoke, M.W.

Bro. Ross gave special attention to the proposed increase of the Annuity Fund, and strongly urged the

brethren to give their best efforts towards the attainment of the additional £10,000 aimed at. From the interest

and enthusiasm which the Southland brethren with whom he came in contact evinced in the proposal, M.W.

Bro. Ross is satisfied that the district will stand in a good position when the final figures are published.

During his tour, the G.M. was much struck by the keen interest taken by the brethren generally in the doings

of G.L., and he was gratified at the numbers which met him at the various places visited, many, having had

to leave their work., and some having also had to 'travel long distances in order to be present. The

arrangements made by M.W. Bro. Thompson were very complete; no hitch of any kind occurred, and each

place visited was reached exactly at schedule time. The G.M. returned from Invercargill to Dunedin on the

morning of Saturday, 2nd October, having during his tour met the brethren of twelve of the Southland

Ledges.—[Specially Communicated.]

—————————

EARLY FREEMASONRY IN CHRISTCHURCH.

———<>———

At the meeting of St. Augustine Lodge, No. 4, held on the 12th October, R.W. Bro. S. C. Bingham, D.G.M.,

placed the brethren still deeper in debt to him when he made what he described as some brief references to

the history of St. Augustine on this the sixty-seventh anniversary of its founding. in a measure the history of

the St. Augustine Lodge may be deemed to be part and parcel of the history of our city, the preliminary

meeting to discuss the advisability of its erection having been held in the month of November, 1851—less

than a year after the arrival of the historic first four ships—and consequently very close to the establishment

of this city of the plains. The senior Lodge of the province is, of course, Unanimity, of Lyttelton, which was

erected only the month previous to the meeting just referred to. There were present in the house of Bro. John

Seager Gundry, who was in the chair on that historic occasion, four other brethren, viz., William John

Disbar, Isaac Luck, Richard Pollard and John E. Thacker. The petition was also signed by Bros. J. C. Watts

Russell, Charles Simeon and Thos. R. Moore, and after much delay was eventually forwarded through the

Pacific Lodge, Wellington, to the G.L. of England. Communication was difficult and slow in those early

days, and it was not until 19th October, 1853, that the warrant of constitution was acted upon. It is on record

that thirty-five brethren were present at the Magistrate s Room on that occasion, including W. Bro. A. J.

Alport, W.M., and Bros. McDonald, S.W., and B. W. Mountford, I.G. of Unanimity, all names well known

to those familiar with the history of the province. Bro. John Seager Gundry was installed as first W.M., and

he appointed as officers Bros. Isaac Luck, S.W., John Marshman, J.W., Captain Simeon, Sec., Cyrus Davie,

S.D., John Beswick, J.D., James Fry, I.G., — Ford, Tyler, Bro. J. C. Watts Russell being elected and

invested as Treas. It is recorded that the presiding officer, W. Bro. C. B. Fooks, delivered a highly interesting

address to the officers and brethren, which was received with marked attention, whilst Bro. Rev. R. B. Paul

gave an excellent oration. If the subject matter of these had been preserved, it would have been extremely

interesting to have had them repeated this evening. One of the visitors present, who had just arrived from the

Old Country (Bro. Stericker) was known to our Prov.G.M., who met him, if my memory serves me well, in

Timaru some few years ago. After the ceremony the Lodge was called from labour to refreshment, and

adjourned to the Draught Room, where, according to the record, "a banquet was prepared that would have

reflected credit upon any caterer of the Old Country. Many excellent songs enlivened the banquet, and the

evening will live long in the memory of those present." A long toast list was also gone through, the W.M.

giving the concluding one, "To all Poor and Distressed Masons," after which the Lodge was recalled to

labour, and closed in ancient form. It will be noted that what is commonly but incorrectly termed the Fourth

Degree was included in the Lodge business. Amongst the eight candidates proposed for initiation on that

eventful evening were C. E. Fooks, son of the consecrating officer, W. Guise Brittan, the Rev. Octavius

Matthias and Edward J. Wakefield. Two months later Bro. W. Guise Britten presented the Lodge with that

section of land in Hereford Street upon which now stands the old Colonial Bank building, and a Building

Committee was set up, which included Bro. C. W. Bishop, a family name well and deservedly known in the

Masonic history of this province. In 1859 Bro. J. C. Watts Russell was appointed Dist.G.M. of Canterbury,

and the Dist.G.L. formally inaugurated. Some five years later a second Lodge was deemed necessary, and the

Canterbury Lodge came into existence accordingly. It would take far too long to refer at any length to the

many distinguished citizens of Christchurch who saw the light of Freemasonry in St. Augustine Lodge, and I

must perforce risk an accusation of being invidious by mentioning only a few. The Hon. William Rolleston,

a Superintendent of the province, was initiated in 1869, and two years later Dr. Deamer became a member.

Despite a somewhat inauspicious commencement (the story is fairly well known in Christchurch), this

brother become most enthusiastic, and at the time of his sudden death in 1889 was the moving spirit, in

conjunction with three other brethren, viz., Henry Thomson, Frank J. Smith and R. C. Bishop, in the Masonic

activities connected with St. Augustine in those days, comprising, in addition to the Lodge, a R. A. Chapter,

Preceptory of K.T. and Chapter of R.C. Of these distinguished brethren, the only survivor is with us to-night.

I need not name him to a Christchurch audience (R.W. Bro. R. C. Bishop, P.G.W.). At the formation of the

G.L. of New Zealand, the choice of the brethren for the important and onerous office of G.M fell upon one of

the finest Freemasons ever associated with the Craft in New Zealand, in the person of the late M.W. Bro.

Henry Thomson, a joining member of the Lodge. In the teeth of bitter and determined opposition he steered

the bark of G.L. through the rough seas of fortune for the first difficult two years, and his forceful and

earnest personality will never be forgotten by those of us who had the privilege of meeting him on the

square. I have incidentally mentioned the name of W. Bro. C. W. Bishop, a Dep.Dist.G.M., father of R.W.

Bro. R. C. Bishop, who heads the list of active P.Ms., and uncle of our Prov.G.M. I have been informed on

the best authority that this brother was a most accomplished ritualist, and that his rendering of the ceremony

of installation was perfect. In those good old days it was no slight task to conduct installations, especially

outside the city. As an instance, to do so at Kaiapoi it was necessary to make the journey on horseback, and

previous to the annual ceremony there were generally three or four "Thirds" to work, it being the custom of

Southern Cross Lodge to save these up during the preceding twelve months as a compliment to the

distinguished visitor. At what hour the proceedings terminated perhaps it would be better not to enquire. The

late R.W. Bro. F. J. Smith was first elected Treas. in 1876, and with the exception of eleven months in 1878,

served that office continuously for over thirty years, till he received his final summons. In 1891 W. Bro. H. I.

Hobden (who for some years subsequently was Preceptor of the Lodge) was installed as W.M., the G.M.

conducting the ceremony, which was the first under the new regime. Of the officers invested on that evening,

Bro. W. J. Hawley, S.D. (W.M. in 1894), is the only brother remaining on the roll. The visitors' toast on the

occasion was responded to by Bro. Rev. Charles Clark, well known to an older generation as a gifted

lecturer. I will just mention three brethren who at different times have filled the onerous office of Sec., viz.,

R.W. Bros. H. Y. Widdowson, J. J. M. Hamilton and G. W. Hulme. The Lodge had the distinction of

furnishing the first Pro-G.M. and first Prov.G.M. of Canterbury, in the person of our late beloved brother,

M.W. Bro. F. C. Binns, who became a member on removing from Wellington, where he had been a very

active brother of the Pacific Lodge, and had also held various offices in the Dist.G.L. of Wellington.

Probably one of the greatest services rendered to Freemasonry by the Lodge was in the generous way in

which it met the various Lodges and Chapters who at various times were its tenants. For many years all the

Masonic bodies in Christchurch, with the exception of two, held their meetings in St. Augustine Hall, and the

Lodge's balance sheets for a long period indicated in no uncertain manner that it was anything but a harsh

landlord. As a member of more than one of these bodies, I desire to emphasise this fact, that our experience

was that the rent charged was based on our ability to pay, rather than on a fair return on capital involved. My

own mother Lodge will never forget the kindness and consideration thus extended to it in its early years of

struggle. Nevertheless, the Lodge minutes reveal that the vexed question of better accommodation was

frequently under review, particularly about 1899-1900, when, however, it was decided that a tender of

£2,200 for a new building could not be entertained. As an indication in the progress of the Craft during the

subsequent fifteen years, in 1915 we accepted a tender of £5,500 for a similar purpose.

Brethren, there are doubtless many sins of omission in this brief sketch of St. Augustine, but I have

endeavoured, as well as time will permit, to touch upon some of the special features in the history of the

Lodge which first planted the banner of Freemasonry in our fair city of Christchurch, and though

experiencing, in common with the province, its periods of depression as well as prosperity, is yet flourishing,

and will, I trust, continue to flourish and carry on with renewed vigour and enthusiasm the work of which the

foundations were so well and truly laid by the five brethren who met in the house of Bro.John Seager Gundry

on 27th November, in the year of grace 1851. They have gone to their eternal rest, but the savour of their

good deeds yet remains.

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

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

THE SOUTH WELLINGTON LODGES.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR.

DEAR SIR AND BRO.,—In the last issue of your interesting paper there appeared a letter by "Slow and Sure,"

entitled " A Questionable Move," in which it was stated :—"It is proposed to form a 'Council' of South

Wellington Lodges with the object of severing their connection with the town Lodges, including the Board of

Enquiry." Now, Sir, nothing has been done in Hinemoa Lodge to warrant those remarks. A notice of motion

(enclosed) was tabled by our Treas., a diligent and respected P.M. and G.L. officer, "That the three Lodges

named be invited to appoint three delegates to meet three representatives of Hinemoa Lodge to consider the

advisability of forming a 'Federal Council of Advice and Combined Enquiry Board,' to carry out certain

purposes mentioned and others subsequently decided upon," one of which, No. 4, is "To co-operate in any

movement instituted for the benefit of the Craft." Trusting that abler pens will hesitate to thresh out this

matter until at least they are acquainted with the notice of motion,— Yours fraternally,

S. MARTIN

[Came too late for last issue.—ED.C.]

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

A VINDICATION OF FREEMASONRY.

———<>———

We publish to-day a letter from the G.Sec. of the United G.L. of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of

England, designed to remove misapprehensions which "appear to be entertained in some quarters concerning

the aims and relationships" of that body. It is clear from this letter that the form which these mis-

apprehensions take is a belief that the presiding authority of the art or Craft of Freemasonry has departed

from its ancient and honourable tradition by allowing itself to take part in politics, ecclesiastical or secular.

In whatever quarters such a belief may have arisen, it will hardly need this letter to convince the public in

general that it has no foundation in fact. The general reputation of Freemasonry in this country is one of

which its members may justly be proud, and even among those who know least about it its name stands high

as realising the ideal of mutual help and of brotherhood for which alone it is understood to stand. Its attitude

throughout its history has been one of unswerving loyalty to God and King, as may be seen from the fact that

a belief in T.G.A.O.T.U. was always required of all those desiring initiation, and from the long and

honourable conection which our Royal Family has had with the Craft since early in the eighteenth century. It

is true that on the Continent Freemasonry has developed along different lines from those of the Anglo-Saxon

branches. Tendencies both political and anti-religious have there brought it into conflict with various State

authorities and with the Roman Catholic Church. But the English Lodges have held resolutely aloof from any

such development. To quote perhaps the most salient sentence in the G.Sec.'s letter :— “Every English

Lodge at its consecration is dedicated to God and to His service; no one can become a Mason until he has

declared his faith in the Supreme Being. As a consequence, men of every shade of political opinion and

ministers of all religious denominations are members of and office-bearers in our organisation, and Masonry

thus provides a platform on which men of all conditions, classes and creeds can work together for the

common welfare." This is the voice of one who speaks with authority, and his statement leaves little room

for misapprehension of the kind which is complained of. It is to be hoped that no such misapprehension will

rise again in the future; for in these times of stress, when men of evil mind are to be found on all sides setting

class against class and nation against nation for the furtherance of their own iniquitous ends, we can ill spare

a platform on which "men of all conditions, classes and creeds" can come together as friends to work in

concord for the benefit of the whole community. The chief text of all the false prophets of the day is, "The

part is greater than the whole." Euclid in his day examined this idea and handed down to posterity his terse

comment that it is absurd. It is perhaps a significant fact that Euclid's name is mentioned with peculiar

honour in the earliest legends of the origin of Freemasonry.—" The Daily Telegraph," London.

—————————

ETHICS OF FREEMASONRY.

———<>———

TO THE EDITOR OF "THE DAILY TELEGRAPH."

SIR,— As a great deal of misapprehension appears to be entertained in some quarters concerning the aims

and relationships of the United G.L. of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of England, I have been desired

by the G.M. to make the following statement regarding them. The G.L. of England, of which His Royal

Highness the Duke of Connaught has been for twenty years G.M., in succession to the late King Edward

VII., himself G.M. as Prince of Wales from 1875 to 1901, has held strictly aloof throughout its history,

which dates from 1717, from participation in public or political affairs, either national or international,

considering itself precluded from taking any share in discussions on State policy. While thus standing aside

from party divisions, it has always inculcated patriotism in the citizen and loyalty in the individual. It had not

long been established when it publicly gave assurance of this to one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of

State. The assurance thus given in the reign of George I. is emphasised in a special degree in that of George

V. Everyone who comes into Freemasonry is strictly enjoined at the outset not to countenance any act which

may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of society, to pay a due obedience to the law of any

State in which he resides, and never to be remiss in the allegiance due to his Sovereign. No secret is

attaching to these duties, which are of the essence of Masonry as practised under the jurisdiction of the

United G.L. of England, as well as by the sister G.Ls. of Ireland, Scotland, Canada, Australia and New

Zealand, and, I have reason to believe, of the remainder of the English-speaking world. Every English Lodge

at its consecration is dedicated to God and to His service ; no one can become a Mason until he has declared

his faith in the Supreme Being. As a consequence men of every shade of political opinion and ministers of all

religious denominations are members of and office-bearers in our organisation, and Masonry thus provides a

platform on which men of all conditions, classes and creeds can work together for the common welfare. In

Masonic Lodges all discussions on topics of a political or theological nature are strictly forbidden. Because

of its determination to preserve the position it has upheld for over two centuries, the G.L. of England never

takes part in any Masonic or quasi-Masonic gathering in which the fundamental ancient landmarks of

Freemasonry, which have been indicated above, are allowed to be regarded as open questions.—Yours

faithfully, P. COLVILLE SMITH, G.Sec.

Freemasons' Hall, Great Queen Street, W.C. 2, 5th August, 1920.

—————————

A. AND A. RITE UNDER THE SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENGLAND AND WALES.

———<>———

CONSECRATION OF NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH CHAPTER, No. 206.

————

The constitution and consecration of this Chapter took place at Blenheim on the 2nd September under the

most favourable auspices, eleven E. and P. Prins. having journeyed from Wellington to assist in bringing the

new Chapter into life. The Chapter-room was very splendidly furnished, and reflected the utmost credit on E.

and P. Bro. Griffiths, the M.W.S. designate, and the Blenheim brethren. The E. and P. brethren having been

assembled in the Chapter-room by E. and P. Bro. H. H. Seaton, as D. of C., the Dep.Insp.Gen., Ill. Bro. H. J.

Williams, 32deg., was announced, and was accompanied by Ill. Bros. Rev. T. Porritt, 30deg., as Prelate, J.

Rod as 1st Gen., G. Russell as 2nd Gen., Rev. A. M. Johnson as Recorder, and C. G. Morice as Captain of

the Guard. Ill. Bro. Williams and his officers at once assumed the chairs and opened a Chapter of P.R.C. of

H. Prayer was then offered by the Prelate, and the D. of C. addressed the. Dep.Insp.Gen., who called upon

the Acting-Recorder, Bro. A. M. Johnson, to read the warrant. The Consecrating Officer then constituted the

Chapter, after which the elements were distributed, and the Prelate ceased the Chapter. Roses were strewn by

the Consecrating Officer, who solemnly consecrated and dedicated the Chapter. The Emblem was displayed

with the usual invocation, and a hymn was sung. Proclamation by the D. of C. concluded the ceremony of

consecration, after which E. and P. Bro. Rev. A. M. Johnson delivered a short address on the "Rite of Rose

Croix," which was fully appreciated by the E. and P. brethren. The M.W.S. designate, E. and P. Bro.

Griffiths, was at once presented by the D. of C. for installation, and was installed in the chair of his office

according to ancient custom by the D.G.I.G. The M.W.S. then appointed the following officers :—E. and P.

Bros. W. J. Girling, Prelate ; G. Logan, 1st Gen. ; G. Russell, 2nd Gen. ; C. H. Mills, Treas. ; J. J. VC White,

Recorder. The concluding Installation Charge was delivered by Ill. Bro. Rev. T. Porritt, 30deg. After the

ceremonies a large amount of 'lousiness was transacted, including the adoption of by-laws, and it was

resolved to hold the first meeting for ritual ceremonial on the 29th October. A number of very handsome

presents were made to the new Chapter, which completed its business at 11 p.m. An adjournment was made

to the refectory, where an oyster supper was provided and was very fully appreciated. Some excellent

speeches were made, and the function was not brought to a conclusion until nearly 1 a.m., after a most

pleasant evening had been spent.

—————————

ANCIENT HISTORY.

———<>———

A correspondent has kindly placed at our disposal a copy of Reports of the Proceedings of the Dist.G.L. of

Canterbury, E.C., for 20th September and 1st October, 1883. The special business of these meetings was to

receive recommendations for the office of Dist.G.M., vice R.W. Bro. W. Donald, resigned. V.W. Bro. Henry

Thomson, D.D.G.M., who was subsequently the first G.M. of the G.L. of New Zealand, presided, and there

were large attendances on each occasion. A perusal of the names recalls old remembrances, though most of

the brethren have now passed hence. Our old friend, T. A. Peterkin, who is still with us, was present, also C.

P. Hulbert and W. F. Marley, who are residents of Wellington. There were two candidates voted on by

Lodges. Bro. Thomson secured 13 votes and Bro. Dr. Deamer 6. Bro. Thomson held the position of

Dist.GM. from 1883 until he resigned it in 1890 to assume the office of G.M. of the G.L. of New Zealand.

—————————

PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OF CANTERBURY.

———<>———

The annual communication was held in the Christchurch Masonic Hall on 18th October, R.W. Bro. F. C. B.

Bishop, Prov.G.M. presiding over a very satisfactory attendance. R.W. Bro. S. Clifton Bingham, Dep.G.M.,

attended officially, and was accompanied by several present and past officers of G.L. The R.W. Prov.G.M.

made feeling reference to the loss Masonry has recently sustained by the deaths of R.W. Bro. Albert Kaye.

P.D.G.M., and V.W. Bro. G. B. Perkins, P.G.D. of C.; also to the bereavements suffered by several members

of Prov.G.L. during the last six months; and the sympathy of those present was expressed in the usual

manner.

W. Bro. W. E. Scott, Prov.G.Treas., presented the annual statement of accounts and the balance-sheet, which

showed that Prov.G.L. was in a very saisfactory financial condition. W. Bro. A. H. Hobbs, P.G.Supt. of W.,

Pres. of the Prov. B. of G.P., and W. Bro. F. L. Adams, Pres. of the Prov. B. of B., presented the reports of

their respective Boards, and they were received and adopted without discussion, there being nothing

controversial in them. W. Bro. T. Kirker, Prov.G.Sec., had the pleasure of reporting that all the Lodges were

clear on the books. The Prov. B. of G.P. presented a list of recommendations for the various offices for the

ensuing year, and all the brethren named therein were elected, with two exceptions caused by W. brethren

having to decline the office owing to personal reasons, and those who were present were invested by R.W.

Bro. Bingham, D.G.M.

The following is the list of officers for 1920-1921 :—Dep.Prov. G.M., W. Bro. W. McBride (Caledonian,

No. 16); Prov. S.G.W., W. Bro. T. J. Kennedy (Thistle, No. 113); Prov. J.G.W., W. Bro. G. R. Hadfield (St.

Augustine, No. 4); Prov. G. Chaplain, Bro. Rev. J. W. P. Dyer (Cheviot, No. 124); Prov. G. Treas., W. Bro.

W. E. Scott (Avon, No. 185); Prov. G. Reg., W. Bro. T. H. Williams (Civic, No. 157); Pres. Prov. B. of G.P.,

W. Bro. B. Falck (Avon, No. 185); Prov. G. Sec., W. Bro. T. Kirker (Robert Burns, No. 139); Pres. Prov. B.

of B., W. Bro. C. P. Agar (Lincoln, No. 33); Prov. G.Ds. of C., W. Bros. J. Hurley (Civic, No. 157) and A. E.

Smith (St. George, No. 29); Prov.S.G.D., W. Bro. W. M. Robinson (Robert Burns, No. 139); Prov. J.G.D.,

W. Bro. A. Cooper (Mackenzie, No. 93); Prov. G.Supt. of W., W. Bro. C. H. Smith (Unanimity, No. 3);

Prov. G.B.B., W. Bro. R. Holland (Erewhon, No. 200); Prov. G.Sd.B., W. Bro. J. E. Dunstan (Ionic, No.

212); Prov. G.St.B., W. Bro. L. A. Woodward (St. Martin's, No. 162) ; Prov. G. Organist, W. Bro. J. T.

Withers (Ashley, No. 28) ; Assist.-Prov. G.Sec., W. Bro. A. J. Nicholas (Concord, No. 39); Prov. G.I.G., W.

Bro. J. Gough (Crown, No. 138) ; Prov. G.Ss., W. Bros. H. R. Davison (Amuri, No. 184), R. Hyman

(Koranga, No. 197), P. W. Hislop (Geraldine, No. 27), H. Maginness (Methven, No. 51), C. E. Manchester

(St. Augustine, No. 99), and G. J. Leech (Tawera, No. 188); members of the B. of G.P., W. Bros. A. J. Allan

(Cheviot, No. 124), J. R. Buchanan (Avon, No. 185), W. G. Carson (Canterbury Kil., No. 23), C. Kay

(Canterbury Kil. No. 23), and G. J. Leech (Tawera, No. 188), and the W.Ms. of Lodges in the Prov. District;

members of the B. of B., W. Bros. C. Barnes (Cheviot, No. 124), C. W. Cooper (Mairaki, No. 131), T. E.

McKenzie (Phœnix, No 43), S. F. Pawson (Erewhon, No. 200), and J. T. Withers (Ashley, No. 28), and the

W.Ms. of Lodges in the Prov. District.

The R.W. Prov.G.M. reappointed W. Bro. William McBride as Dep.Prov.G.M. The levy was fixed at the

same amount as it has been for some years past—viz., 2s. per member. W. Bro. T. Newburgh was re-elected

Auditor. Several matters of local interest were mentioned, and referred to the Prov. B. of G.P. for

consideration. The R.W. Prov.G.M. spoke at some length on several questions relative to the welfare of

Prov.G.L. After the R.W. Dep.G.M. had tendered greetings on behalf of G.L. and retired, Prov.G.L. was

closed in due and ancient form.—[Specially communicated.]

—————————

SUBSCRIPTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED.

———<>———

J. B. E. Hird, R. W. James, W. A. Carter, P. W. Tombs (Hastings), D. Fraser 20/- (Northern Wairoa), W.

Tailby 22/6 (50 copies), Dr. Herne, C. Baderley 20/-, G. F. Henry, S. J. Wilson, J. Weir (Auckland), J. Bary

20/-, Dr. Redman 40/- (Blenheim), A. Dowgray, N. Jorgeson, S. Paul (Granity), J. Purdy 31/-, — Chilman

18/6, S. T. Harrap, G. Cameron, J. W. Jack (Wellington), J. E. Robinson (Karamea), A. R. Harrison (Green

Island), H. J. Newling 17/- (Ormondville), D. Wilkinson (Geraldine), A. Scott (Invercargill), J. Sutton

(Winton), A. A. Lee 20/- (Arthur's Pass), W. C. Hewitt 6/- (Morrinsville), F. E. Barker 26/8 (Cambridge), E.

O. Lightband 7/6 (Ohakune), A. G. Clark (Te Kuiti), J. Manchester, A. J. Jones, C. R. Bateman (Waimate),

H. E. Wade 20/- (Wairoa, H.B.), A. G. Steffensen (Petone).. (All 8/6 except those noted.)

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

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

[Secretaries and Scribes are requested to forward Reports.]

————

CRAFT LODGES.

————

SOUTHLAND.

Southern Cross, No. 9.—The regular meeting was held on 1st October in Invercargill. W. Bro. Farrant

presided. M.W. Bro. Thos. Ross, G.M., honoured us with a visit. R.W. Bro. A. B. Haggitt, P. G. M., received

the M.W.G.M. , who was accompanied by a large number of W. brethren. R.W. Bro. Geo. Barclay, Assist.-

G.Sec., who is travelling with the G.M. through the Southland district, was present also. The ceremony was

the passing of three candidates, and was conducted in the usual Southern Cross style. After the ceremony a

splendid social meeting was held in the refectory. The usual toasts were given and received, interspersed

with song and story. The G.M. delivered a very interesting address, while R.W. Bro. G. Barclay gave us

spme very interesting stories relating to his travels while on active service.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Taringatura, No. 100.—Although there was considerable rain on 27th September, there was quite a good

attendance. A lengthy programme of business, including nominations of office-bearers, was dealt with. Three

candidates were passed to the F.C. Degree. Owing to the absence of the W.M. through continued ill-health,

Bro. S. E. Griffiths, I.P.M., presided, and conducted the ceremony. He was ably assisted by W. Bros. G. F.

Johnson, P.M. [Secrets); H. Beer, P.M. (S.E. Corner); and Bro. H. Ewen, J.W. (W.Ts.). W. Bro. Johnson

delivered the Charge after Passing. The customary hour in the refectory passed pleasantly. Owing to the

difficulty in securing the necessary material, work at the Lodge's social hall has in the meantime been

suspended.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Clearer writing of copy would be appreciated both by the editor and

printer.—ED. C.]

————

Victoria, No. 147.—The installation ceremony was held on 13th August at Invercargill, when there were

about 180 brethren present to do honour to the W.M.-elect (Bro. Alex. Derbie). It was a splendid meeting,

being truly representative of Freemasonry in Southland, and exhibited in a marked manner the wisdom of

changing the date of the installation from June to August. The ceremony was in the capable hands of W. Bro.

A. Geddes, who was ably supported by W. Bro. J. Kerse. R.W. Bro. A. B. Haggitt, Prov.G.M., accompanied

by G.L. officers, was in attendance. R.W. Bro. the Hon. H. L. Michel, P.D.G.M., (West Coast), favoured us

with a visit. The W.M.-elect was presented by the D. of C., and addressed by the Installing Master. Ancient

Charges were read by W. Bro. McDonald. The following are the officers for the ensuing year : W.M., W.

Bro. A. Derbie; I.P.M., W. Bro. A. Greig ; S.W., Bro. Fraser ; J.W., Bro. H. Geddes; Treas., W: Bro. Yule ;

Sec., W. Bro. Brokenshire ; S.D., Bro. Denton ; J.D,, Bro. R. Buchanan ; D. of C., W. Bro. A. D. Wilson;

Preceptor, W. Bro. A. Geddes ; Chaplain, Bro. Battersby ; Organist, Bro. W. Beck; I.G., Beta McEachran;

O.G., W. Bro. Walker ; Stewards, Bros. Ellis, A. A. Geddes, Dennison, and G. H. Caddie; Auditors, W.

Bros. Smith and A. Campbell. The Wardens were invested by W. Bro. Brokenshire, and addressed by R.W.

Bro. Haggitt, P.G.M., while the address to the brethren was delivered by R.W. Bro. the Hon. H. L. Michel,

P.D.G.M. After the ceremony of installation a splendid banquet was provided in the refectory at the rear of

the hall.—[Lodge Correspondent.] [Though the meeting chronicled in this belated report was held on 13th

August, the said report did not reach this office until 23rd September, too late even for the October issue.—

ED. C.]

The regular meeting was held on the 8th October, when W. Bro. A. Geddes occupied the chair. There was a

good number of brethren present. The ceremony was passing two E.As. W. Bro. Geddes was assisted in the

ceremony by W. Bro. Petrie, the two Wardens (Bros. Fraser and H. Geddes), also W. Bro. A. D. Wilson.

After the ceremony the customary social hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waihopai, No. 189,—The regular meeting was held at Gladstone on 20th September, when W. Bro. Thos.

Bird, I.P.M., iii the absence of the W.M., presided over a large attendance. W. Bro. Farranb (W.M., Lodge

Southern Cross, No. 9), accompanied by a large number of brethren, was present. W. Bro. Alex. Derbie also

paid a visit. Two ballots were taken. The ceremonial was the raising of three F.Cs. The following took part in

the ceremony :—The W.M. (Ob.) ; W. Bro. V. Smith, D. of C. (Exhort.); W. Bro. Todd (L. of a 31.111.)Bro.

W. Mitchell, S.W. (Invest.); R.W. Bro. Haggitt, P.a.M., and W. Bro. Bird (T.H.) ; Bro. &oho, J.W. (W.Ts.);

W. Bro. A. Scott (Final Charge). The work was carried out in a very impressive manner, but, owing to the

large amount of business on hand earlier in the evening, it was after 10 o'clock before the Lodge closed and

an adjournment made to the festive board. In consequence, many of the visiting brethren had to hurry away

to catch the car to town. However, a pleasant half-hour was spent, with profit and pleasure to all.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

OTAGO.

Hiram, No. 46.—An emergency meeting was held on the 21st September at 7.30 p.m., when Bros. J. W.

Duncan, W. Shardlow, and E. A. Barrow were raised to the Third Degree.

The regular monthly meeting was held on the 28th September it 6.45 p.m., and, notwithstanding the

unfavourable weather, large number of visiting brethren and members of the Lodge were present. This may

be taken as a special compliment to the W.M. (Bro. J. McNaughton, who, during his term of office has ruled

well and wisely, and has been assiduous in paying fraternal visits to sister Lodges. A ballot was taken for the

affiliation of Bro. C. G. Dobson (Lodge Clutha, No. 14) and Bro. W. J. Coleman (Lodge Jordan, No. 1402,

E.C., Torquay), both brethren being elected. Five candidates for initiation were elected. Bro. G. Cardno.

S.W., was elected W.M. for the ensuing year. W. Bro. J. Wilson, P.M., was re-elected Treas., and Bro.

Matthew Walker as Tyler. Bro. Walker has now attained the age of ninety years, is still hale and hearty, and

as far as appearance goes has a good prospect of reaching his century. The ceremonial business consisted of

raising four brethren to the Third Degree the work being carried out in a solemn and impressive manner by

the W.M., officers, and brethren of the Lodge. The Lodge closed at 10.10 p.m., and the usual social meeting

was then held.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

CANTERBURY.

Unanimity, No. 3.—The regular meeting was held on the 5th October. The W.M. (W. Bro. Law) presided

over a good attendance of members, W.Ms., and P.Ms. Two brethren were passed to the Second Degree, the

work being in charge of the W.M., who gave the Ob. and also communicated the Ss., assisted by W. Bro.

Smith. W. Bro. Doreen gave the Charge after Investiture. W. Bro. McKeown delivered the S.E. Charge. W.

Bro. Brown (W.M., Lodge Canterbury Kil., No. 23) presented the W.Ts., and W. Bro. D. E. L. Collett gave

the Final Charge. W. Bro. Taylor's explanation of the T.B. was very effective and much appreciated by all

the brethren. After H.G.W. the Lodge was closed, and a pleasant hour was spent in the refectory.

An emergency meeting was held on Monday, 11th October, for the purpose of initiating a candidate who

belongs to the mercantile marine. The W.M. (W. Bro. Law) obligated the candidate ; W. Bro. Hatton

communicated the Ss. ; Bro. Olsen, J.W., gave the Charge after Investiture; Bro. Owen, S.W., delivered the

N.E. Charge W. Bro. Williams (W.M., Civic, No. 157) presented the W.Ts. ; and W. Bro. Pearson delivered

the Final Charge.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 4.—The regular meeting, held on 12th October, marked the 67th anniversary, and the

degree work (Third) was entrusted to a team of P.Ms. V.W. Bro. A. Freeman occupied the chair, and gave

ample evidence that fourteen years ago the work was in capable hands, and, with the assistance of V.W. Bro.

T. W. Rowe, W. Bros. Whiteside, McGregor Wright, Richardson, Ker, Locke, Stables, Weston, Boyd, Duff,

and R.W. Bro. Arnold, impressed the numerous visitors (including W. Bro. D. C. Cameron, of THE

CRAFTSMAN) that " Emulation," as portrayed by No. 4, has much to commend it. During the evening a very

interesting item was the reading of the minutes of the first anniversary of the Lodge, when the story of the

laying of the foundation stone was unfolded. In the refectory R.W. Bro. Bingham's address was enjoyed by

all.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Methven, No. 51.—The monthly meeting was held on 13th October, when there was a large attendance. W.

Bro. Stanley Smith, W.M., was confined to his room through illness. W. Bro. Hy. Maginness, I.P.M.,

conducted the business in his stead. It was a red-letter day in Lodge Methven, W. Bro. S. Smith having

presented to the Lodge a magnificent set of W.Ts. contained in a handsome polished oak case, suitably

inscribed, other very handsome furniture was also presented, W. Bro. Hy. Maginness, I.P.M., giving a

Chaplain's chair ; Bro. J. Osborne, S.W., a chair for the S.D.; Bro. J. Campbell, J.D., a chair for the J.D. ; W.

Bro. W. W. Goodwin,. P.M., a chair for the D. of C. ; Bro. A. Adams, S.D., a chair for the S.W. ; and Bro.

W. D. Phock, J.W., a chair for the J.W. ; these chairs being of figured rimu, and emblems of each office very

neatly carved upon them. W. Bro. J. F. Stone, D. of C., also presented the Lodge with a handsome V.S.L.

and a suitable cushion. W. Bro. Hy. Maginness, in thanking the donors for their very handsome gifts, stated

his sincere regret at W. Bro. Smith's absence, which, of course, was unavoidable, and he was sure that he was

safe in saying that the donors had the sincere thanks and good wishes from every member of the Lodge. The

W.M. would be in attendance at the next meeting and would have something to say, but he personally was of

the opinion that there was ample room for some of the other brethren to take upon themselves the beautifying

of the inside walls of the Lodge, so as to be worthy of the furniture which had been donated. The initiation of

two candidates was next proceeded with, W. Bro. Hy. Maginness, I.P.M., in the chair, assisted by the officers

of the Lodge, the ceremony being put through in a very commendable manner indeed. A large number of

visiting brethren from Lodge Ashburton, No. 1811, E.C., were in attendance, and from other Lodges. At the

conclusion of the ceremony the J.W. invited all to attend in the refectory for refreshments, and a very

enjoyable hour was spent, opportunity being taken to say "au revoir" to W. Bro. R. McKee, P.M., who was

being transferred to Frankton, this information only coming to hand a day or so before. The brethren joined

unanimously in wishing W. Bro. R. McKee happiness and prosperity in his new position, musical items

being provided by several of the visiting brethren, and the usual toasts duly honoured.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Christchurch, No. 91.—The monthly meeting was held on the 28th September in the Masonic Hall,

Christchurch, W. Bro. L. N. Newth (W.M.) presiding. After the usual routine business the W.M. asked W.

Bro. A. C. Andrews to take the chair for the purpose of initiating his son and two other candidates. The

candidates were obligated by W. Bro. Andrews, who was assisted by R.W. Bro. S. C. Bingham, V.W. Bro.

H. Hopkinson, P.M., W. Bros. Newth, W.M., Andrews, Sheffield, P.M., Yellowlees (P.M. Conyers Lodge,

E.C.) and Bro. Dickenson, J.W. The ritual work having been completed, the W.M. resumed control of the

Lodge, and the nomination of officers was taken for the ensuing year, and the election of auditors. A notice

of motion raising the initiation fee to £10 10s. was carried. The Lodge having been closed, the usual social

hour was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. Augustine, No. 99.—The annual installation and investment of officers took place in Waimate on the

11th August, when R.W. Bro. W. McBride, Dep.Prov.G.M. of Canterbury, installed Bro. Reginald Creeser.

The Prov.G.M.. R.W. Bro. F. C. B. Bishop, was unavoidably absent through indisposition. W. Bro. Creeser

is an affiliated member of this Lodge, having joined it seven years ago from a Manchester- (England) Lodge.

He has been keen and attentive, and has worked up through the grades of office in his adopted Lodge with

credit. The Dep.Prov.G.M. was attended by the following officers of Prov.G.L.:— W. Bros. A. J. Hoskins as

Prov.G.S.W., R. C. Littlejohn as Prov.G.J.W., Rankin as Prov.G. Chaplain, Thos. Kirker, Prov.G.Sec., F. R.

Flatman as Prov.G.D. of C., C. O. Johnston, Prov.G.D. of C., G, Burns as Prov.I.G. A B. of I.M. was opened

by W. Bro. Kicker, Prov.G.Sec., and Bro. Creeser obligated and installed. H.G.W. were expressed by the

Dep.Prov.G.M. and the representatives of Lodges. At the conclusion of the ceremony an adjournment was

made to the Olympia Hall, where Bro. Barford had provided a sumptuous and self-satisfying banquet, and

the time was spent very enjoyably in toasts and song. The following is the list of new officers:— W. Bro.

Reginald Creeser ; I.P.M., W. Bro. C. E. Manchester ; Dep.M., W. Bro. E. R. Beckett ; S.W., Bra. W. E.

Evans ; J.W., Bro. S. I. Fitch ; Chaplain, Bro. B. Watkins ; Treas., W. Bro. G. J. Shackleton ; Sec., W. Bro.

A. J. Hoskins; D. of C., W. Bro. A. Colville ; S.D., Bro. A. J. Jones ; J.D., Bro. S. Malthus ; I.G., Bro. A. S.

Blake: Organist, Bro. R. Steele; Stewards, Bros. W. Barford and M. W. McDonald ; Tyler, Bro. J. F.

Bastings ; Auditor, Bro. A. J. Manchester.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Robert Burns, No. 139.—At the regular meeting, held in Christchurch on Tuesday, 21st September, the

W.M. (Bro. W. E. Rogers) presided, and there was a large attendance of members, despite the inclemency of

the weather. The annual report and balance-sheet was read, and showed the Lodge in a flourishing condition.

The special business was the initiation of two candidates, and on this, his first night in the chair, W. Bro.

Rogers, by the impressive manner in which he performed the ritual, showed that he thoroughly appreciated

the position, and that he would uphold the reputation of the Lodge for ritual work. The W.M. was assisted in

the ceremony by W. Bros. Daltry (Lodge Conyers, E.C.), R. W: S. Eastwood, G. A. Blackmore, and C. Voss

(Lodge Avon, father of one of the candidates). In the refectory the usual toasts were honoured, and W. Bro.

R. L. Bush, who has just returned from a trip to America, gave an amusing account of his experiences.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

There was a large attendance at the regular meeting of the Lodge in October, when W. Bro. W. E. Rogers,

W.M., presided. After the preliminary business had been completed the W.M. handed the gavel to the I.P.M.,

W. Bro. G. A. Blackmore, who conducted the ceremony of passing five brethren. W. Bro. Blackmore was

assisted by Bros. A. J. Towns, A. Ryland, L. W. Ormandy, and R. MacRae. W. Bro. W. E. Rogers assumed

charge of the Lodge. A large number of visitors were admitted, and the ceremony of raising was carried out

on two brethren. The W.M. was assisted in the ceremony by Bro. L. W. Ormandy, W. Bros. T. Kirker, W. M.

Robinson, W. S. Eastwood, J. W. Hillary (W.M., Lodge Avon), and G. Pengelly (Lodge Canterbury, E.C.).

Among the visitors were a number from a distance, including W. Bro. D. C. Cameron, CRAFTSMAN

representative. A pleasant hour was afterwards spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Acacia, No. 209.— There was a good attendance at the regular meeting on 30th September. Lodge

Amberley paid a visit and worked the Third Degree in a creditable manner. It was W. Bro. Cadman's last

night in the chair, and he has had a busy year. His energy has been the means of keeping Acacia going in the

"top gear" all the time. A very pleasant was spent in the refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON.

Victory, No. 40.—The regular meeting for September took place on the 9th, when there was a good

attendance. W. Bro. A. G. Shrimpton presided. Demits were granted to W. Bro. R. H. Bourke (now of

Dunedin) and Bro. G. N. L. Kyngdon (transferred to Greymouth). A sum of £35 was voted, in order, with

Lodge Southern Star, to increase the size of the ante-room, the Lodge outgrowing itself in respect to

accommodation. The matter of raising the Lodge quota towards G.L. appeal for an additional £10,000 for the

Annuity Fund was left to the W.M. to devise his scheme, but the Lodge made the target at £144. The Lodge

proposes to present to the Lodge Tyler (Bro. C. W. Moore) an enlargement of himself. He has passed the age

of 93, and is still "not out." A motion asking each P.M. to present to the Lodge a cabinet photo of himself

was carried. The work was the raising of three brethren of Lodge Victory and one on behalf of Lodge

Ashburton. The following brethren assisted in the work : R.W. Bro. Stiles and W. Bros. Menzies, Eastcott,

Ching, Williams, Scottick, and Harton. One candidate was proposed for initiation. [Too late for last issue.—

ED. C.]

The regular meeting was held on the 15th October, the attendance numbering nearly sixty. W. Bro. A. G.

Shrimpton presided. Three candidates for initiation were elected. Bro. W. C. Hyde was granted his demit.

The work of the evening was the initiation of three candidates, and the W.M. was assisted by R.W. Bro.

Stiles and W. Bros. Hobbs, Orsman, Reynolds, and Ching, whilst Bro. H. H. Edwards, S.W., delivered the

very fine Apron Charge. Bros. D. R. Edwards (Shanghai), E. E. Beveridge (Scotland), A. Sievwright (Auck-

land), A. O. Keating (Auckland), J. S. Nelson (Gore), G. N. L. Kyngdon (Greymouth), R. E. Savage

(Palmerston North) wrote forwarding good wishes. It is singular that almost half this Lodge's strength is

away from the city, but the frequent messages received indicate a devout interest in the mother Lodge. The

W.M. expressed extreme regret at the approaching departure of W. Bro. L. Reynolds (I.P.M.), W. Bro. C. B.

Harton (Lecturer), Bro. J. G. Robertson (J.W.), and Bro. A. C. McKillop (J.S.). The loss of so many good

brethren (all officers) is a severe one. There will be a big "send-off" in a fortnight. One candidate was

proposed for initiation, and Bro. L. E. Carter (Lodge Waihora) for joining.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Havelock, No. 104.—At the regular meeting in August we were favoured by a visit from a number of

brethren from the Blenheim Lodges, including the W.M. of Lodge Unanimity (W. Bro. Rudd). W. Bro. G.

Logan gave an interesting paper on Freemasonry, which the brethren greatly appreciated, and a hearty vote

of thanks was accorded W. Bro. Logan. There was no degree work, but two candidates were elected, also one

as a joining member. During the evening a surprise was sprung on to Bro. A. E. Barrowclough, S.W., who

was shortly leaving for Upper Hutt, where he had received an appointment. The W.M. called upon W. Bro.

F. Thomas to present Bro. Barrowclough with a handsome P.Sec.'s jewel, suitably inscribed, from the

brethren of the Lodge, and in doing so W. Bro. Thomas expressed the great regret of the brethren at losing so

worthy a brother, who had faithfully done the Sec.'s duties for several years in a most creditable manner, and

was also the coming W.M. The Lodge could ill afford to lose him, but he carried with him the very best

wishes of his Lodge for his future health and prosperity. Bro. Barrowclough briefly thanked the members for

their kind present, and in the refectory he gave a lengthy address, expressing his own regret at having to

leave a Lodge where lie had spent so many happy and pleasant times, and he would always look back on

them with pleasure, and would always value the handsome present from the brethren, for which he heartily

thanked them. A number of eulogistic speeches were then made by several of the visiting brethren, who

came to bid farewell to the guest.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Unanimity, No. 106.—There was a very good attendance at the monthly meeting on the 14th October, the

W.M. (W. Brow W. G. Rudd) presiding. Three candidates for affiliation were elected, and one joining

brother. The sum of one guinea was voted in response to an appeal on behalf of the widow and family of a

deceased P.M. of Lodge Golden Bay, E.C., and the hope was expressed that the brethren would also

contribute privately. In connection with the proposal to increase the W. and O. and A.M. Fund by £10,000, it

was decided to place a subscription list in the ante-room, and later on to issue circulars soliciting

contributions. Two candidates were initiated, the W.M. being assisted by W. Bros. Furness, Lambie,

Lightfoot, Girling, and Bros. Halligan (S.W.) and Nathan (J.D.). The collection amounted to £3 4s. 6d. R.W.

Bro. Redman, P.P.G.M., presented two brethren with copies of the V.S.L., and W. Bro. R. P. Furness,

Dep.Prov.G.M., presented W. Bro. Lambie, I.P.M., with his P.M.'s certificate and two brethren with their

M.M.'s certificates. W. Bro. Furness also handed to Bro. J. H. Foster, who recently vacated the office of

Tyler after twenty-three years' continuous service, with the apron which he had worn during the greater

portion of that period. The health of Bro. Foster was enthusiastically honoured at the supper-table. An

interesting programme of toasts was gone through, and songs were rendered by Bros. Croft (Wairau), Plum,

Gray and Collier, while W. Bro. Lambie and Bro. Horlock contributed recitations.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

HAWKES BAY.

Scinde, No. 5.—The regular meeting was held in the Lodgeroom on the 21st September, the W.M. (W. Bro.

Harris) presiding. The Lodge was in mourning on account of the death of W. Bro. J. Johnston, the oldest

P.M. and a member of Scinde Lodge for forty-five years. W. Bro. Harris emphasised the loss the Lodge had

sustained by his death, and as a tribute of respect asked the brethren to stand to the S. of F. while the "Dead

March" was played by Bro. Organist. One member was affiliated. Two brethren were passed by the W.M.,

who was assisted in the ceremony by his officers and P.Ms. Later, in the refectory, the W.M. had the

pleasure of entertaining a goodly number of visitors, amongst whom were the W.M. of Lodge Victoria (Bro.

Funke), W. Bro. Wilson (Auckland) and W. Bro. Liggett (of Lodge Clarendon, Manchester), who was

heartily welcomed on his arrival in the Dominion.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Victoria, No. 21.—The regular Meeting was held in the Lodge-room on 5th October, when a good muster of

brethren was present. The W.M. (Bro. H. F. Funke) presided, and the ceremonial work was the initiation of

one candidate. The W.M. was assisted by the following officers, viz. : W. Bros. Jarvis, E. J. Bull, A. W.

Kirk, H. Hill, and H. W. Whitton. Four brethren were presented with their M.Ms.' certificates. The

recommendation of the Finance Committee to increase the initiation and joining fees was adopted. H.G.W.

were tendered by the visitors, and the Lodge closed at 9.30 p.m. A very pleasant hour was spent in the

refectory.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

AUCKLAND.

United Service, No. 10.—The September meeting, held on the 27th, was, notwithstanding the inclemency of

the weather, and the difficulty and inconvenience of transit owing to the cessation of the tram service, well

attended by members and visitors, and proved to be most profitable and pleasurable, the W.M. (W. Bro.

Hallett) presiding. The ceremonial work consisted of the initiation of one candidate, and was very

impressively carried out by the W.M. and his officers, assisted at the N.E. corner by W. Bro. Allingham

(R.W.M. Lodge Ponsonby). H.G.W. having been extended by W. Bros. Allingham (R.W.M. Lodge

Ponsonby), Verran (W.M. Lodge Onewa), Searl (Lodge Ohinemuri), Johnston (Lodge Ashly), Broadley,

P.S.G.W. (Lodge Southern Cross), Yemm (Lodge Christchurch), the Lodge closed in P., L. and H., and an

adjournment was made to the refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent, the usual toasts being honoured.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Abercorn, No. 76.—The annual installation meeting was held on 7th September. M.W. Bro. Nicholson,

Prov.G.M. who had intended to be present, found it impossible to leave Auckland, and the duties of

installing officer were placed in the capable hands of R.W. Bro. A. Stoneham, P.Prov.G.M., Otago District,

who has lately taken up his residence in Gisborne, and is proving himself a very decided acquisition to local

Freemasonry. The W.M.-elect (Bro. Frank Foote) must have been gratified at the large attendance of

brethren to do him honour. The Dist.G.L. of Auckland, E.C., was represented by W. Bro. R. Robertson,

P.G.W., and other officers. The W.Ms. of Lodges Montrose, S.C. (W. Bro. W. D. Christie), and Turanganui,

E.C. (W. Bro. J. A. Nicol), who were present, accompanied by a large number of brethren from their

respective Lodges, acted as presenting officers. V.W. Bro. J. S. Allan, G.D. of C., fulfilled the duties

pertaining to his office. R.W. Bro. G. T. Bull acted as S.G.W., and W. Bro. D. S. Jamison as J.G.W. The

newly installed W.M. invested his officers as follows: I.P.M., W. Bro. Grant; S.W., Bro. Oxenham ; J.W.,

Bro. Muis ; Treas., V.W. Bro. Allan ; Sec., R.W. Bro. Bull ; D. of C., W. Bro. Rowley ; Organist, W. Bro.

Hookey; Chaplain, Bro. Rev. W. T. Drake; S.D., Bro. Mitford ; J.D., Bro. Collin; I.G., Bro. Perry ; S.S., Bro.

J. D. Smith; J.S., Bros. Plank, Berry, and Munns. The collection for the W. and O. and A.M. Fund amounted

to £33 16s. 3d.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Pono, No. 203.—On the 29th September distinguished Masons from all over New Zealand arrived at

Dargaville to assist in the installation of Bro. Duglas Leith Ross, who is a very popular and energetic Mason.

Eight G.L. officers accompanied M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., Prov.G.M., from Auckland, and the

attendance taxed the Lodgeroom to its utmost. M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson was Installing Master, and W.

Bros. Reid (W.M., Lodge St. George, No. 1801, E.C.) and J. C. Queen (W.M., Lodge Ruawai, No. 207) were

the presenting officers. After the ceremony the brethren retired to the Parish Hall to partake of the good

things provided by the Pono brethren. The usual toasts were proposed and responded to, and a very pleasant,

enjoyable, and instructive evening closed at 1 a.m. The following were the officers invested: W.M., W. Bro.

D. L. Ross; I.P.M., W. Bro. J. C. Griffiths; S.W., Bro. H. C. Searle; J.W., Bro. F. C. Davey ; Chaplain, Bro.

H. C. Polson; D. of C., W. Bro. A. J. Finch ; Treas., Bro. E. F. Smith; Sec., W. Bro. S. L. Spanhake; S.D.,

Bro. A. Costello ; J.D., Bro. S. G. Chaplin ; I.G., Bro. A. M. Wordley ; S.S., Bro. A. V. Docherty ; J.S., Bro.

J. J. Powell ; Assist-S., Bro. R. A. Powell ; Organist, W. Bro. E. Henshall; Tyler, Bro. J. Parkinson.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————————

TARANAKI.

Ngamotu, No. 48.—The installation of Bro. A. C. St. Paul, S.W., as W.M. took place on 22nd September.

The Lodge was tyled at 4.30 p.m., when all the formal business was disposed of. Then came the installation

ceremony, the newly elected W.M. being placed in the chair by the I.P.M. (W. Bro. E. Bary. The Lodge was

called off, and resumed at 7.30 p.m. Visiting Lodges and visitors were then received, and the investiture of

officers for the ensuing year proceeded with. The proclamations and regular addresses were also given. The

following is a list of the .officers for 1920-1921 : I.P.M., W. Bro. E. Bary ; S.W., Bro. P. V. E. Stainton ;

J.W. Bro. E. G. McDougall; Chaplain, Bro. T. C. List ; Treas., W. Bro. F. S. Johns (re-elected) ; Sec., W.

Bro. R. N. Renaud (reappointed) ; D. of C., W. Bro. W. P. Nicoll (reappointed); S.D., Bro. A. L. B. Ross;

J.D., Bro. S. C. Novell ; I.G., Bro. A. E. Washer ; Ss., Bros. Pickering; Fairbrother, Bottrill, and Morton;

Tyler, W. Bro. A. Case (re-elected). A specially pleasing feature was the large and representative attendance,

the accommodation being taxed to the utmost. Among those present were R.W. Bro. T. C. Fookes and R.W.

Bro. R. W. Sargent, P.Prov.G.Ms., and R.W. Bro. W. N. Ewing, Prov.G.M. Almost every Lodge in the

district was represented. After the ceremony was concluded a very pleasant hour was spent in the refectory,

where the usual toasts were honoured and a programme of musical and elocutionary items rendered.—

[Lodge Correspondent.] [We agree with our correspondent that concise reports are preferable to diffuseness.

—ED. C.]

————————

RUAPEHU.

St. Andrew Kil., No. 79.—More than usual interest attached to the October meeting. The main business was

the initiation of two candidates, the W.M. (W. Bro. P. Evans) being assisted by W. Bros. A. Doig and John

McFarlane. The question of contributions to the W. and O. and A.M. Fund aroused keen interest. At the

previous meeting it was decided to take up a collection for the fund on each installation night. W. Bro.

Keesing, who was obliged owing to illness to leave Lodge during the discussion, immediately afterwards

gave notice of motion to rescind the resolution. This was a subject of much discussion among brethren

during the month, and when the motion came before Lodge it was debated at great length. Eventually W.

Bro. Keesing succeeded, the previous motion being rescinded. The need for increasing the donation to the

W. and O. and A.M. Fund was fully recognised, and it is understood that the opponent of installation night

collection intends to propose another method which they feel will not only realise a larger contribution, but

be free of levy on members of other Lodges. One incident which served to prove the true brotherhood of the

Craft occurred during the meeting. While serving with the forces, Mr. N. Tyler, of Wanganui, became a

Freemason in Lodge Hartley, Wineton House, Kingswear, Dartmoor, England. Lodge Hanley, E.C., asked

Lodge Kil., N.Z.C., to present Bro. Tyler's diploma to him. This was to have been done, but it so happened

that on that evening Lodge Tongariro, E.C., was paying an official visit. St. Andrew Kil. thereupon asked

Bro. Murdoch, I.P.M. of Lodge Tongariro, to make the presentation. This happy little incident will

undoubtedly cause pleasurable comment among the brethren in the historic Devonshire town. A very

interesting coincidence in connection with Bro. Tylers initiation was mentioned during the presentation of

the diploma. While the ceremony of initiation was in progress his daughter was born. To mark this striking

event the little girl was christened Norma Hauley.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Huia, No. 171.— The monthly meeting took place on the 7th October. Three candidates—two joining and

one for initiation—were elected. The ceremonial work consisted of passing four brethren. The W.M. was

assisted by W. Bros. Lauchlan, Stubbs, S.W. and J.W., Snell. A lecture on the 2nd T.B. was delivered by the

S.W., at the conclusion of which W. Bro. .Toogood presented a diploma. W. Bro. Graham stressed the.

urgent necessity of making a special appeal to all brethren to contribute to the W. and O. and A.M. Fund as

outlined by G.L. The W.M. endorsed the same, enlarging upon the rising cost of living with which we are

faced, also suggesting that any small contribution would materially assist to strengthen the position, which is

one of serious moment. One proposition was received for a joining member. An excellent working and a

good attendance tended to make a good and instructive meeting. The customary toasts being given and

received in the refectory, terminated the proceedings.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Moutoa, No. 195.—The regular meeting was held on the 23rd September. The weather was very wet and

boisterous, which doubtless prevented a good many brethren from attending. However, an official visit from

Lodge St. Andrew Kil., No: 79, helped to swell the attendance. The ceremonial work was passing three

candidates, two from St. Andrew Kil. and one from a Dunedin Lodge. The W.M. and S.W. of St. Andrew

Kil. ably assisted in the work. The explanation of the 2nd T.B. was given by Bro. Runnerstrum, S.W. Bro. N.

B. Allen, who has been over to Sydney with the intention of settling, found it did not agree with his health,

so has returned. He was warmly welcomed back to his mother Lodge.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

WELLINGTON.

Masterton, No. 19.—A departure from the usual working of the Lodge was made on Wednesday, 13th

October, when the evening, both in the Lodgeroom and the refectory, was devoted almost entirely to a

programme of music and entertainment. In the Lodgeroom, after the transaction of the routine business,

interspersed with items from choir and individual members, and the receiving of Wardens' reports on one or

two propositions, the lst T.B. was very capably explained and demonstrated by Bro. H. Morton, S.D., and the

Lodge having been closed in the usual way, an early adjournment was made to the refectory. Here a special

effort had been made to promote the social side of the gathering, and under the direction of V.W. Bro. F. J.

Hunn, P.G.D. of C., an excellent programme of music, song and story was offered. There was a good

attendance of visitors, who were warmly welcomed by W. Bro. O. N. C. Pragnall, P.M., and an appreciative

response was made by the visitors. The evening was declared a great success, and the W.M. was

congratulated on the thought he had evidently given to the arrangements.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

St. John's, No. 37.—R.W. Bro. Geo. Russell, Prov.G.M., accompanied by M.W. Bro. H.J.Williams, R.W.

Bro. J. Moncrieff, W. Bro. A. A. George, S.G.W., with W. Bro. Futter as D. of C., journeyed to Featherston

on the 11th October to install Bro. F. J. W. McKeown, S.W., as W.M. With such distinguished veterans, the

ceremony was impressively performed. The presence of the only surviving founder in the person of M.W.

Bro. H. J. Williams was of considerable interest to the brethren, few of whom had had the pleasure of

meeting their P.M., who has played such an important part in New Zealand Freemasonry. He told the

gathering that he had no hesitation in stating that the working of S. John's in 1881 was unsurpassed by any

city Lodge at that time; thus St. John's of to-day has a difficult task before it to compare with their brethren

of forty years ago, especially when it is remembered that the certificate of the W.M.-elect is of barely four

years' standing, and those of the five principal officers of still more recent date. The depletion of the older

members has led to rapid promotion of younger men, and the past year has shown that the work will be

energetically taken up. It is significant that the whole of the officers were elected unopposed, and to W. Bro.

McKeown harmony is assured. The investiture of officers, undertaken by W. Bro. George, was altogether a

delightful feature of the evening's work. The masterly address to the W.M. by R.W. Bro. Moncrieff, the

address to the Wardens by W. Bro. Futter, that to the brethren by M.W. Bro. Williams, and the presentation

of W.Ts. by W. brethren representing Masterton, Greytown and Waihenga Lodges, contributed worthily to

the work of R.W. Bro. Russell, who is to be congratulated upon carrying through a ceremony the like of

which has not been witnessed at St. John's for many a year. All Wairarapa Lodges were represented.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Brooklyn, No. 132.—The annual festival was celebrated on the 7th October in the Masonic Hall of the "City

on the Hill." The attendance was good, and G. officers asesmbled in force, including M.W. Bro. H. J.

Williams, R.W. Bro. Geo. Russell, Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, P.P.G.M., R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton,

P.G.W., V.W. Bro. H. B. Bridge, P.G.Lect. ; V.W. Bro. J. Rod, P.G.D., W. Bros. Shand and Parsons, G.Ss.

R.W. Bro. Geo. Russell conducted the ceremony of installation, with V.W. Bro. Bridge as S.G.W., R.W.

Bro. Seaton as J.G.W. and V.W. Bro. J. Rod as G.D. of C. Bro. Walter Parkin, the second of that ilk who has

secured eastern rank in this Lodge, was installed as W.M. in accordance with usual custom. W.Ts. were

presented by W. Bros. Robertson, S. C. Russell and Berry, and R.W. Bro. Ellison presented the Ry-laws, B.

of C. and Charter with fitting explanation. The following officers were invested by V.W. Bro. A. A., George

in an impressive and expeditious manner :—S.W., Bro. H. Hanson ; J.W., Bro. C. Eggie ; Sec., W. Bro. M.

W. Thew, P.M. ; Treas., W. Bro. T. A. Webster ; D. of C., W. Bro. H. V. Futter, P.M. ; Chaplain, W. Bro. W.

J. Westwood, P.M. ; S.D., Bro. L. H. Hartley ; J.D., Bro. J. I. Goldsmith; I.G., Bro. J. Parkin; S.S., Bro. A.

Turner ; J.S., Bro. E. W. Smeldt ; Asst.-J.S., Bro. S. T. Wilson ; Tyler, Bro. J. W. Richardson. The W.M. was

addressed on the duties of his office by R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, R.W. Bro. Ellison charged the Wardens on

their responsibilities, and the concluding charge to the brethren devolved upon M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams.

The W.M. delivered a short address, which was a model of what such addresses should be—concise, of

excellent diction and comprehending the most beautiful sentiments. A presentation was made to the retiring

W.M. by the Prov.G.M. and acknowledged by the recipient. The usual collection was made on behalf of the

Annuity Fund of G.L., and the usual refreshments were subsequently-served in the Lodgeroom, thus

completing a very successful meeting.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waihenga, No. 150.—The installation meeting took place at Martinborough on the 7th October, when Bro.

G. W. Cobb, S.W., was installed as W.M. Over one hundred brethren were in attendance. R.W. Bro. G.

Russell, Prov.G.M., was Installing Master, and carried out those responsible duties in his usual impressive

manner. W. Bro. George, S.G.D., invested the officers, and V.W. Bro. J. F. Hunn, P.G.D. of C., was D. of C.

The address to the W.M. was given by R.W. Bro. Russell, Prov.G.M., to the Wardens by W. Bro. Lawson,

and to the brethren by R.W. Bro. Moncrieff, P.D.G.M. The W.Ts. were presented by W. Bros. Conder

(Masterton), Hart (St. Mark's) and Griffiths. The newly-installed W.M. briefly returned thanks, and solicited

the hearty co-operation of the brethren. The impressiveness of the ceremonial was very greatly enhanced by

the assistance given by musical talent from Masterton, No. 19. Visiting brethren were present from all the

Wairarapa Lodges, as well as many Lodges in other parts. Masterton Lodge was represented by over thirty

brethren. After the Lodge was closed a pleasant time was spent in the refectory. Some noticeable features of

this part of the evening were the brevity of the speeches, the excellent quality of the musical and other talent,

and the waiting of all the visitors for the Tyler's toast. R.W. Bro. Russell in his remarks referred to a

challenge, issued by Lodge St. Andrew, No. 32, to collect more than any two Lodges (member for member)

for the G.L. Benevolent Fund appeal. This challenge has been taken up by the two Lodges situated in the

towns representing M.M. They will be heard from in due eourse.—[Lodge Correspondent.]—[Names of

officers for alteration of advertisement not furnished.—ED.C.]

————

Tutanekai, No. 156.—The regular meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Berhampore, on the 7th October.

There was a large attendance of brethren and visitors present. The W.M. (Bro. Key) presided. After routine

business was transacted one candidate was initiated. The W.M., who administered the Ob., was assisted in

the ceremony by W. Bro. Sexton (Signs), Bros. F. Read, S.W. (Investiture), Morton (Apron Charge),

Shapcott (N.E. Charge), Donald (Prep.), Jones (W.Ts.) and F. Read, S.W. (Final Charge). W. Bro. Martin

presented the candidate with the B. of C. and By-laws. W. Bro. L. George, of Mokoia Lodge, presented

several of the brethren with G.L. certificates. After H.G.W. from the visitors, an adjournment was made to

the refectory, where a pleasant hour was spent.— [Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Waiwhetu, No. 176.—The annual installation meeting took place on the 13th October, and although the

night turned out very wet, the attendance was quite up to the average of previous years. G.L. was well

represented by M.W. Bro. Williams, P.G.M., R.W. Bro. Russell, Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Ellison, P.P.G.M.,

V.W. Bro. Bawden Harris, P.G. Chaplain and other. G.L. officers, the various city and suburban Lodges

being present in force. Lodge was tyled at 5.45 p.m., and G.L. entered at 6.15, and R.W. Bro. Russell,

Prov.G.M., assumed the chair and installed Bro. James Robert Purdy as W.M. V.W. Bro. Rishworth, P.G.D.

of C., made the proclamations in the E., W. and S., and Bro. Jeness gave the trumpet calls. The W.Ts. were

presented by W. Bros. Berry (W.M. Lodge Waterloo), Greening (of Lodge St. Andrew) and Clark (of Lodge

N.Z. Pacific). R. Bro. Ellison presented the Charter, Warrant and B. of C. W. Bro. Henry Hobbs, Sec.,

invested the following officers :—S.W., Bro. J. W. F. McDougall ; J.W., Bro. W. H. Frethey ; D. of C.,. W.

Bro. E. J. Guiness; Sec., W. Bro. Henry Hobbs; Treas., W. Bro. J. McLachlan ; Chaplain, W. Bro. W. N.

Dempsey ; Organist, Bro. B. W. Blakeley; S.D., Bro. W. B. Hardy; J.D., Bro. A. Burgess ; I.G., Bro. T. H.

McIntyre ; S.S., Bro. J. E. Ellis ; J.S., Bro. J. E. Heyes; Asst..-J.Ss, Bros. Brown and Davidson ; Tyler, Bro.

H. Sladden. W. Bro. McLachlan gave the address to the W.M., W. Bro. Tamblyn to the Wardens,. and W.

Bro. Teagle to the brethren. After remarks by the newly-installed W.M., a collection was taken up on behalf

of the G.L. W. and O. and A.M. Fund, when the sum of £8 2s. was collected. R.W. Bro. Ellison presented W.

Bro. Carver, I.P.M., with a P.M.'s jewel as an apreciation of the way he had fulfilled his duties during the

year. An adjournment was then made to the Lyceum, where the installation banquet was laid, and a very

pleasant time was spent in song and harmony, the Tyler's toast being given just after 11 p.m.—[Lodge

Correspondent.]

————

Installed Masters, No. 194.—The annual meeting was held in-the Masonic Hall on the 5th October, R.W.

Bro. H. H. Seaton presiding. Included in the list of visitors were M.W. Bro. H. J. Williams, R.W. Bro. G.

Russell, Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, P.P.G.M., R.W. Bro. Col. J. J. Esson, S.G.W., V.W. Bro. H. B.

Bridge, P.G.Lect., V.W. Bro. J. Rod, P.G.D., and others. It being the festival night, the work was confined to

the ceremony of installation, which was conducted by R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, the retiring W.M., V.W. Bro.

C. W. Nielsen,. P.G.Reg., being installed for the current year. The W.M. appointed the following officers :—

S.W., Bro. C. G. F. Morice;: J.W., Bro. J. McLachlan; Sec., Bro. A. Schmidt; Treas.. (elected), Bro. J. Rod;

D. of C., Bro. T. Mather ; S.D., Bro. J. C. Riddell; J.W., Bro. — ; I.G., Bro. R. H. Webb. The charge to the

W.M. was delivered by V.W. Bro. H. B. Bridge, to the Wardens by Bro. A. Schmidt, and to the brethren by

R.W. Bro. J. J. Esson. The W.M., in a brief address, referred to the work of the Lodge, and offered some

advice as to the-future, especially to the younger members. At the supper table some exceedingly interesting

speeches were made, fitly concluding-an enjoyable evening.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Whetu Kairangi, No. 201.—The installation meeting was held in the Lodgeroom, Seatoun, on the 9th

October, when an excellent attendance of members and visitors, including M.W. Bro. Williams, showed the

esteem in which is held the W.M.-elect;. Bro. G. F. Browne. R.W. Bro. G. Russell conducted the-ceremony,

assisted by R.W. Bro. T. A. Peterkin, R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison, R.W. Bro. H. H. Seaton, W. Bro. J. Rod and

W. Bro. A. A. George. The W.Ts. in the several degrees were given by W. Bros. Russell (of Hinemoa

Lodge), Clarke (of N.Z. Pacific-Lodge) and L. George (of Mokoia. Lodge). R. W. Bro. Peterkin, presented

the W.M. with the Charter, B. of C. and By-laws. The address to the W.M. was delivered by R.W. Bro.

Seaton, and W. Bro. A. A. George invested the following officers:— S.W., Bro. C. E. Bennett; J.W., Bro. J.

H. Sykes; D. of C., W. Bro. T. O. Fox ; Treas., Bro. F. W. Bedford; Sec., Bro. A. R. Perston; S.D., Bro. H.

Boon ; J.D., Bro. R. Huggins; I.G., Bro. S. M. Stone; Tyler, Bro. E. Rough; S.S., Bro. G. Day. The address to

the Wardens was given by W. Bro. Rod, and R.W. Bro. Ellison addressed the brethren. At the conclusion of

the-ceremony R.W. Bro. Russell presented the retiring W.M., W. Bro. T. S. Robertson, with a P.M.'s jewel

from the members of the Lodge as a token of their appreciation of his services during the previous year. As

W. Bro. Robertson had on several occasions urged the great necessity of the brethren doing their utmost in

response to the appeal being made on behalf of the W. and O. and A.M. Fund, he was also handed a cheque

for inclusion in the collection taken up that evening, which resulted in £16 6s. 4d. being added to the fund.

At the adjournment to the refectory the usual toasts were honoured and a pleasant hour spent. The only regret

of the brethren was the absence of V.W. Bro. Porritt, who was unable to make the journey from Greytown.—

[Lodge Correspondent.]

————

Mokoia, No. 213.—The regular meeting was held in Wellington South on the 28th September, W. Bro. L. A.

George, W.M., presiding. There was a good attendance. The business was the initiation of four candidates.

Assisting the brethren in this ceremony were W. Bros. H. Futter, A. A. George, Bros. H. Flanagan, J. D.

Eves, J. Perry, O. Mazengarb, Harlen, Stone. R.W. Bro. Ellison, P.P.G.M., presented M.Ms.' certificates to

ten brethren who had completed their degrees this year. At the request of the W.M., R.W. Bro. J. W. Ellison,

in a felicitous speech, presented to W. Bro. O. Neilson a very fine set of G.L. regalia on behalf of the Lodge.

It consisted of collar, jewel and apron of the office of P.G.S.D. W. Bro. O. Neilson feelingly responded,

stating that he had now been actively connected with Freemasonry for over thirty years. A happy hour was

spent in the refectory at the close of a most enjoyable and instructive meeting.—[Lodge Correspondent.]

————————

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.

St. Augustine, No. 1.—The annual installation meeting was held on 13th October. The ceremony was

conducted by R.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop, G.Supt. and officers of G. Chapter. V.E. Comp. J. N. Du Feu

acted as G.D. of C. E. Comp. Yemm, as Z., was obligated by the G.Supt. ; E. Comp. McFarlane, as H., by

M.E. Comp. Bingham, P.G.Z.; and E. Comp. Richardson, as J., by V.E. Comp. A. H. Hobbs, G.Sd.B. The

following officers were invested by R.E. Comp. Flavell, D.G.Z. :—Z., V.E. Comp. G. Yemm ; H., E. Comp.

R. McFarlane ; J., E. Comp. Jno. Richardson ; Treas., E. Comp. Jno. Brown ; S.E., E. Comp. Jas. Gillanders ;

S.N., E. Comp. D. Sheffield ; Organist, R.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop ; 1st Soj., E. Comp. C. S. Johnston; 2nd

Soj., E. Comp. R.. W. S. Eastwood, 3rd Soj., E. Comp. A. L. Gray ; Chaplain M. and E., V.E. Comp. T. W.

Lee; J.D., E. Comp. G. F. Gee ; I.G., E. Comp. C. H. Duff ; Janitor, H.E. Comp. H. F. Arnold. The address to

the 1st Prin. was delivered by R.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop, G. Supt. The address to the officers was given by

V.E. Comp. J. Robertson, P.S.G.W., while V.E. Comp. H. F. Arnold, P.G.Soj., addressed the companions. A

banquet was afterwards held in the refectory.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Southern Cross, No. 3, and Wallace, No. 34.—The annual installation meeting of Southern Cross and

Wallace Chapters was held in the Masonic Hall, Invercargill, on 24th September. It took the form of a

combined meeting—a somewhat novel idea as far as Southland is concerned. It was, however, a complete

success, and should serve to bind the two Chapters still more closely together. There was a good number of

Southern Cross companions present, while the Wallace companions motored into town in strong force. The

Chapter was opened by V.E. Comp. W. Irvine, assisted by E. Comps. Rusden and R. Smith. R.E. Comp. A.

A. Stewart. G.Supt. of Southland, was received with fitting honours. The two 1st Prins.-elect (V.E. Comps.

R. Smith and Ed. Henderson) were installed by R.E. Comp. A. A. Stewart and invested by R.E. Comp.

Rankin, P.G. Supt. The two 2nd Prins.-elect (E. Comps. W. R. Rusden and A. Grieve) were installed and

invested by V.E. Comp. G. H. Stevens. The two 3rd Prins.-elect (E. Comp. Boyles and J. Clapp) were

installed and invested by V.E. Comp. Geo. Kelly. V.E. Comp. W. F. Irvine installed the 3rd Prins. as

Installed M.Ms. The address to the 1st Prins. and the presentation of the Charters was in the capable hands of

R.E. Comp. T. M. Rankin. The address to the 2nd Prins. was delivered by V.E. Comp. G. Stevens ; while

V.E. Comp. G. Kelly addressed the 3rd Prins. V.E. Comp. R. Smith invested the Scribes E. and N and the

Treasurers. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Sojs. were invested by E. Comp. Rusden; and the Ds. of C., Organists,

Stewards, and Janitors were invested by E. Comp. Boyles. R.E. Comp. addressed the 1st Prins., V.E. Comp.

Brokenshire the officers, and M.E. Comp. Wm. Smith the members. R.E. Comp. F. A. Steans, P.G.Supt.,

officiated as D. of C. After the installation ceremony the companions retired to the refectory, where a

pleasant hour was spent. The following are the officers for the current year :—Southern Cross, No. 3: 1st-

Prin., V.E. Comp. R. Smith 2nd Prin. E. Comp. W. R. Rusden ; 3rd Prin., E. Comp. A. le H. Hoyles; S.E., E.

Comp. Sydney Smith; S.N., E. Comp. Robt. Winning; 1st Soj., E. Comp. V. C. Smith; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. A.

Scott; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. A. D. Wilson ; Treas., R.E. Comp. Rankin ; D. of C., Comp. F. A. Steans; Organist,

Comp. J. Aldridge; Auditors, E. Comps. Pilchers and A. E. Smith; Ss., Comps. Stevenson, Brown, and

Davies; Janitor, V.E. Comp. Jas. Walker. Wallace, No. 34 : 1st Prin., V.E. Comp. Henderson; 2nd Prin., E.

Comp. A. Grieve ; 3rd Prin., E. Comp. J. Clapp ; S.E., E. Comp. J. Brass; S.N., V.E. Comp. G. Kelly; 1st

Soj., E. Comp. Sinclair ; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. J. Thomas; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. McCallum; Treas., V.E. Comp.

G. Stevens.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Otago, No, 7.—The fact that the members of Iwikatea Chapter, Balclutha, had notified their intention of

paying an official visit to Otago Chapter and assist in the exaltation of two brethren was, no doubt,

responsible for the large number of companions present at No. 7's last convocation. V.E. Comp. A.

Stenhouse (1st Prin.) obligated the candidates, and he was assisted by the following officers :—V.E. Comp.

B. Whiting, E. Comps. R. McGillivray, J. Muir, Geo. Henderson and Rev. J. Perkins (Conductor). R.E.

Comp. H. W. S. Hellyer (G.Supt.), in conveying H.G.W. from Sup.G. Chapter, expressed his pleasure at

being present, and hoped that the visits of these two Chapters would be more frequent, and congratulated

V.E. Comp. Stenhouse on the fine exposition of the degree he and his officers had portrayed. On adjourning

to the refectory, the various speakers expressed pleasure at the progress now being made in Capitular

Freemasonry, and the visitors from Balclutha were made the recipients of some very eulogistic remarks

bearing on their keenness in Chapter work. During the evening no less than nine brethren were proposed for

membership in the Otago Chapter, and as several more are "on the list," it is just possible that the incoming

year may see just an accession to our ranks.—; [Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Waitaki Kil., No. 8.—The convocation held for the installation of the officers took place in the Masonic

Hall, Oamaru, on the 22nd September, and brought together something over one hundred members and

visitors, among the latter being the G.Supt. of Otago, R.E. Comp. H. G. W. Hellyer, and M.E. Comp. A.

Clothier, who never neglects an opportunity of visiting the little "Fishing Village by the Sea," and a goodly

number of representatives of various Chapters from north and south. One notable exception was much

regretted, being the absence of R.E. Comp. E. Lane, G.J., through sickness. The usual business and

correspondence, embracing a large number of congratulatory letters and telegrams, having been disposed of,

Comp. William Brown, the newly-elected V.E.Z., was presented, and having assented to the ancient laws

and regulations, the companions retired, and a Conclave of Installed Principals was opened by the retiring

V.E.Z., Comp. J. Crombie, Comp. Brown was then duly installed as V.E.Z., Comp. Thomas Herron as E.H.,

and Comp. James G. Wallace as E.J. The conclave was then closed and companions admitted. The V.E.Z.

then invested his officers as follows :—Treas., V.E. Comp. A. Mackay; S.E., M.E. Comp. J. M. Brown; S.N.,

E. Comp: T. B. Salmon ; D. of C., V.E. Comp. William Miller; 1st Soj., Comp. J. C. Dickson; 2nd Soj.,

Comp. Jacob Mitchell; 3rd Soj., Comp. William Sherkey; Organists, Comps. F. C. Burry, R. J. Meldrum and

A. G. Kemp; Stewards, Comp. E. Hambleton (Chief) and Assistants ; Janitor, R.E. Comp. R. H. Cuthcart.

The charge to the 1st Prin. was given by the R.E.G.Supt., who also presented the Charter, to the 2nd Prin. by

V.E. Comp. W. Miller and to the 3rd Prin. by V.E. Comp. D. Miller. R.E. Comp. R. H. Cathcart then

addressed the Principals, M.E. Comp. A. Clothier the officers, and M.E. Comp. J. M. Brown the

companions. On rising for the first time the V.E.Z. expressed his cordial thanks to the G. officers and the

visitors from various Chapters for their attendance, and also to the members of the Chapter for the honour

they had conferred upon him, and trusted all would work harmoniously together for the prosperity of

Capitular Freemasonry in general and the welfare and well-being of this Chapter in particular. The V.E.Z.

rose for the second time. The R.E.G.Supt. and M.E. Comp. Clothier tendered congratulations and good

wishes, and with their G. officers retired. A large number of visitors also gave H.G.W. and congratulations.

A proposal for membership closed the business at an early hour, when an adjournment was made to the

refectory, where a very enjoyable time was spent, not only in speeches, music, song and story, but in

renewing old acquaintances and reminiscences of Auld Lang Syne.—[Chapter Correspondence.]

————

Manawatu, No. 11.—The installation and investiture of officers for the ensuing year was held on the 23rd

September. V.E. Comp. A. J. Graham, O.S.E., performed the ceremony of installing V.E. Comp. J. W.

Sinclair as 1st Prin. for another term of office, associated with him being : 2nd Prin., Comp. J. Y. Oliver ; 3rd

Prin., Comp. S. W. Oliver. The remaining officers are : ؙ —1st Soj., Comp. W. Mundy; 2nd Soj., Comp. A.

Cook ; 3rd Soj., Comp. N. D. Stubbs; S.E., Comp. S. H. Snell; S.N., Comp. H. J. Canton ; Treas., Comp. S.

Abrahams ; Janitor, Comp. H. Ehron; D. of C., E. Comp. J. Stone. V.E. Comp. A. W. Gallichan, G.S.,

assisted with the ceremony of investiture of minor officers. V.E. Comp. Snellgrove acted in the capacity of

D. of C. Addresses were impressively delivered by the installing officers to those elected to the various

positions, the keynote to the whole being the continuation of cohesion and a spirit of unanimity to actuate our

efforts during the forthcoming year. After the Chapter closed, the usual toasts were honoured in the

refectory, also suggestions were invited by E. Comp. Sinclair with a view to any improvements generally in

the future. The S-N. was unanimously appointed to act as Chapter correspondent, which was accepted

conditionally, with the proviso that he would apt spare them in any report if laxity prevailed in their

individual share of the work.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Victory, No. 12.—The installation, which took place on the evening of the 25th October, was attended by

more than the usual amount of interest, the M.E. 1st G.Prin., Comp. T. Hobson, having graciously consented

to be present, and we believe we are indebted to our worthy Supt., R.E. Comp. G. Russell, for the numerous

and distinguished retinue that accompanied him on his second official visit. M.E. Comp. T. Porritt was

accorded a very cordial reception, and V.E. Comps. S. T. S. Martin and Jas. Rod were made to feel very

much at home on their first visit to the Chapter. It is needless to add the installation was a very great success,

and the large number of companions who attended were well repaid for the time spent in honouring the 1st

G.Prin, and his G. Chapter officers, and in addition, seeing E. Comp. A. G. Shrimpton installed into the 1st

G.Prin.'s chair. Those who assisted were :—M.E. Comp. T. Hobson, 1st G.Prin. ; M.E. Comp. T. Porritt,

P.G.Z.; V.E. Comp. S. T. S. Martin, G.Chan. ; V.E. Comp James Rod, P.G.S.B.; M.E. Comp. W. J. S. Smith

(Trafalgar Chapter, Nelson). The remaining officers invested were :— 2nd Prin., E. Comp. T, D. Milne; 3rd

Prin., E. Comp. H. H. Edwards ; S.E., V.E. Comp. R. W Stiles ; S.N., V.E. Comp. J. L. Ching; Treas., V.E.

Comp. S. F. Bolton; D. of C., V.E. Comp. C. B. Harton; Organist, E. Comp. G. A. Edmonds ; 1st Soj., E.

Comp. L. M. Estcourt ; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. R. B. Witty ; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. A. C. McKillop ; 1st Steward, E.

Comp. C. M. Collins ; 2nd Steward, E. Comp. P. W. Harrold ; 3rd Steward, E. Comp. A. E. Davies ; Janitor,

E. Comp. C. W. Moore. V.E. Comp. Harton, Asst.-G.D. of C., acted as D. of C. Trafalgar Chapter, S.C., paid

on official visit. The ceremony was followed by a sumptuous banquet, and there were special decorations for

the occasion. V.E. Comp. Martin gave an excellent address, and both M.E. Comp. Hobson and R.E. Comp.

Russell gave some good council to the assembled companions. Since the installation V.E. Comps. Hasten

and L. Reynolds and E. Comp. Dr. A. C. McKillop are about to leave Nelson. V.E. Comp. Harton goes to

New Plymouth, and E. Comp. McKillop to Dunedin on promotion. They will be a great loss to the Chapter,

but Nelson's loss will be some other districts' gain. The absence of M.E. Comp. H. J. Williams at the

installation was much regretted. If there is any companion Victory cares to have at its meetings and festive

board it is Comp. Williams. However, we do the next best thing—we wish him well.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]

————

Waimate, No. 16.—The 15th September saw the installation of E. Comp. C. E. Manchester as 1st Prin. of

the Chapter by R.E. Comp. F. C. B. Bishop, G.Supt. of Canterbury, who was accompanied by R.E. Comp. C.

Flavell, Dep.G.Z., and attended by the following officers :—V.E. Comps. A. J. Shackleton as G. Chaplain, J.

W. Souter as G.D. of C., A. J. Hoskins, P.G.St.B., A. Colville as 1st G.Soj., J. Menzies as 2nd G.Soj., and T.

W. Manchester as 3rd G.Soj. A Conclave of I.Ps. was opened, and the Z. and J.-elect were duly obligated by

the R.E.G.Supt. and R.E. Conmp. Flavell respectively. Conclave closed and companions re-admitted, when

E. Comp. C. Manchester was invested and enthroned as Z. by the R.E.G.Supt. V.E. Comp. Beckett, P.Z., was

invested and installed as H. by V.E. Comp. A. J. Hoskins, and E, Comp. Wm. E. Evans was invested and

installed by R.E. Comp. Flavell. The addresses to the Principals were given by R.E. Comp. Flavell and V.E.

Comp. Hoskins. The closing addresses were respectively given by R.E. Comp. Bishop, G.Supt, V.E. Comps.

Souter and W. McBride, P.Zs. of Timaru Chapter, No. 15. The other officers of the Chapter were invested by

R.E. Comp. Flavell, as follows:— I.P.Z., V.E. Comp. E. R. Beckett, P.Z. ; S.E., V.E. Comp. Menzies,

P.A.G.Reg.; S.N., Comp. B. Watkin ; Treas., .V.E. Comp. Jas. Manchester ; 1st Soj., E. Comp. A. Jones; 2nd

Soj., Comp. A. S. Blake; 3rd Soj., Comp. S. Matthews; D. of C., V.E. Comp. Colville; Janitor, E. Comp. F.

Bastings. V.E. Comps. E. R. Beckett and Jas. Manchester were respectively appointed Mark Master and E.

Master. The Chapter being closed in due form, an adjournment was made to E. Comp. Barford's rooms,

where an enjoyable time was spent in feast, toast and song.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Waikato, No. 22.--The annual meeting took place on the 28th September, when a record number signed the

attendance-book. M.E. Comp. M. J. Harris, G.Supt., conducted the installation, being assisted by V.E.

Comps. W. S. Wohlmann, 1st G.Soj., S. S. Allen (1st Prin. of Ohinemuri Chapter), and H. Coop (P.Z. of

Waikato Chapter, who now lives in Auckland, but especially journeyed down for the installation, an honour

much appreciated by the companions). The following are the officers for the coming year :— Z., V.E. Comp.

R. English; I.P.Z., V.E. Comp. S. B. Sims ; H., E. Comp. E, A. Bryant ; J., E. Comp. H. M. Thorpe; S.E., E.

Comp. Jas. W. Hodd; S.N., E. Comp. G. W. Primrose; Treas., V.E. Comp. C. Speight; Organist, E. Comp, T.

S. Webster; 1st Soj., E. Comp. A. G. Sanford; 2nd Soj., E. Comp. A. Bullock ; 3rd Soj., E. Comp. D.

Andrews ; Janitor, E. Comp. G. Jamieson. Everything points to a very successful year. Our 1st Prin., V.E.

Comp. English, is one of our most enthusiastic Masons in the district, and certainly very hard to equal as a

ritualist. He is only a comparatively young Mason, but as time goes on he should be heard more of with G.L.

or G. Chapter honours. The usual harmonious hour in the refectory concluded an enjoyable evening.—

[Chapter Correspondent.]

————

Wanganui, No. 23.—The newly-installed V.E.Z. (Comp. J. R. Foster) and his officers took their chairs for

the first time at the convocation on the 7th October. The Chapter was suspended, and a Lodge of M.M.Ms.

opened, the V.E.Z. presiding as W.M.M., Comp. Longshaw as S.W. and Comp. Passmore as J.W. One

candidate was advanced to the degree of Mark Master. The W.M.M. was assisted by V.E. Comps.

Higginbottom (Ss.), Runnerstrum (W.Ts.), Palmer and Moutray (the Trad.) and Bullock (Final Charge). Six

proposals for membership were made, five for affiliation and one a candidate for R.A. honours. The Chapter

appears to have a good future before it, and the prospects for the coming year are very bright. The officers

(invested in September) for the year are as follows :—Z., Comp. J. R. Foster ; I.P.Z., Comp. P.

Higginbottom; H., Comp. W. E. Longshaw; J., Comp. J. H. Passmore; S.E., Comp. C. H. Jacob ; S.N.,

Comp. F. Stevens; 1st Soj., Comp. D. Munro; 2nd Soj., Comp. F. Flavell; 3rd Soj., Comp. E. Senior ; D. of

C., Comp. G. G. Bullock ; Stewards, Comps, F. Haywood and H. Goodwin; Janitor, Comp. J. K. Revell.

After H.G.W. from visiting companions, the Chapter was closed, a pleasant hour being afterwards spent in

the refectory.—[Chapter Correspondent.]

————————

A. AND A. RITE.

Under the Supreme Grand Council of England and Wales.

Wellington, No. 91.—The annual meeting was held in the Chapter-room, Boulcott Street, on the 15th

October, E. and P. Bro. J. Rod presiding. There was a very large attendance, and the greatest enthusiasm was

evinced in the proceedings. Ill. Bro. H. J. Williams, 32deg., Dep.G.Insp.-Gen., was received and

congratulated by the M.W.S. on his elevation and new official position. Correspondence was read from Ill.

Bro. Sir R. F. S. Henderson, 32deg., also from Ill. Bro. J. C. F. Tower, G.Sec.- Gen., and from Ill. Bro. M.

Niccol, G.Insp.-Gen., with reference to the foregoing appointment. A resolution of condolence was passed to

E. and P. Bro. Rev. Knowles-Smith on the death of his wife, and a special resolution of thanks and

appreciation was ordered to be sent to Ill. Bro. Henderson, 32deg. Ill. Bro. Williams then assumed the chair

and installed E. and P. Bro. Rev. A. M. Johnson as M.W.S., who appointed the following officers :—E. and

P. Bros. Rev. J. H. Sykes, Prelate; H. B. Bridge, 1st Gen. ; H. H. Seaton, 2nd Gen. ; Col. J. J. Esson,

Marshal; W. H. Jones, Treas. (elected) ; G. E. Smith, Recorder ; Rev. T. Porritt, D. of C. G. Russell,

Raphael; J. W. Jack, Herald; W. N. Dempsey, C. of G. ; J. Cowley, Organist; M. Gardner, O.G. The

concluding installation address was rendered by E. and P. Bro. Rev. T. Porritt. The M.W.S. expressed thanks

for his election. E. and P. Bro. Moncreiff moved a resolution of congratulation and appreciation to the

Dep.G.Insp.-Gen., who replied at some length,

dealing with the position and future of the A. and A.

Rite in New Zealand. An appropriation was made to

the Recorder for past services, and the future

honorarium was fixed at ten guineas per annum. An

early adjournment was made to the refectory, and in

the course of the proceedings, the M.W.S. delivered

a most inspiring allocution. Brethren were present

from Napier, Hastings, Greytown and Carterton, and

were honoured with a special toast. Musical and

other items were interspersed, and one of the

happiest and most effective meetings the Chapter

has held was terminated at 11 p.m.—[Chapter

Correspondent.]