THE CRAFT AND THE...
















    THE CRAFT AND THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    ITH accelerated and almost bewildering rapidity, the implications of total warfare are being grasped


    and put into operation both by the community in general and by the Craft in particular. British-


    speaking Freemasonry has in its long history witnessed and survived many wars, and, of course, will do so


    again in this instance; but it may be taken as assured that no war of the past, not even the 1914-1918 world


    war, which was the most widespread and destructive international conflict on record up to the outbreak of the


    present cataclysm, has ever exercised so drastic and far-reaching an effect on the Craft as the present war has


    done and is doing to-day.


    The last world war, relatively speaking, exercised little disturbing effect on the Craft, and interfered but little


    with normal Masonic practices and customs. That it affected Masonic psychology and affiliations, opened


    new avenues for Masonic charity, and had a bearing on the reception of initiates, is, of course, true; but it did


    not to any great extent affect or vary, even temporarily, our fundamental usages. It was not a "total" war as


    we understand that term only too well to-day. This war, however, is total war, and will become even more so


    as an ever-increasing proportion of our wealth and services is poured into the struggle. Compared with what


    is happening to-day, the last war made little demand on civilian manpower or the services of older men; but


    the development of air warfare has turned a fresh and grim page in the story of human conflict; and raised, in


    the form of civilian property protection, and anti-air-raid and fire prevention services generally, a crop of


    new duties that have to be undertaken by men who, on account of years or infirmity, are not absorbed into


    the fighting forces of the country.


    As this service has quite properly been made universal and compulsory, it is substantially correct to say that


    the great majority of New Zealand Freemasons are now subject to these semi-military and semi-civilian


    public duties, and under constant call to maintain that condition of preparedness and skill on which the safety


    of the towns and cities of the Dominion, in case of hostile attack, will largely depend. This has already


    exercised a rapid and drastic effect on Masonic usages and practices, and the Board of General Purposes is to


    be congratulated on its prompt and effective reaction to the new conditions now prevailing, temporarily we


    all hope.


    There is for one thing the question of costume at Masonic meetings; not, admittedly, a fundamental issue, but


    nevertheless important. By log-established Craft tradition we normally meet in evening dress, thus securing


    uniformity of costume, the visible symbol of the fact that herein all men are equal. Incidentally, this


    uniformity and formality of garb have conduced in no small measure to the impressiveness and dignity of our


    assemblies; indeed, it is only now that we have had to abandon it for the time being that we realise just what


    an important role it played. However, for national service reasons it is not now feasible for many brethren to


    dress in time for Lodge; and as they are liable to be called out for duty, either singly or en masse, it is


    essential that they should be clad in a manner appropriate for such duties. We shall, however, almost all


    welcome the time when our previous dignified and leisurely proceedings can be resumed; and even as things


    are to-day, such reasonable steps as are possible to preserve uniformity and harmony of appearance, and


    avoid jarring notes, should be taken. For example, where possible a dark-coloured suit should be worn on


    Lodge days, and all brethren could at least wear white collars, hard or soft, and sober-coloured ties.


    A more serious matter perhaps is the question of varying the hour of Lodge meetings, for example, tyling at


    5.30 or 6 o'clock, so as to enable brethren with public duties later in the evening to come straight to Lodge


    from work, and then go on duty. There are, of course, obvious psychological objections that in normal times


    would be decisive against such early meetings; but where for many brethren it is a choice between


    attendance at an earlier hour and not attending at all, the earlier hour should be adopted without hesitation;


    but this is clearly a matter on which uniformity of procedure is not possible or desirable.


    As things are at present, the problem for many Lodges will be to "hang on" and preserve their individual


    continuity. In no circumstances should Lodges go dormant, either technically or in fact, if this can possibly


    be avoided, and earlier meetings will in many cases be of assistance in this direction. It will, of course,


    involve the temporary disappearance of the festive board as we have hitherto known it, in the case of these


    W




    earlier meetings, and this is a pity, since it is at such gatherings that so many valuable personal contacts are


    cemented, but this is an inescapable incident of the present crisis.


    There is also the problem of Lodge agenda. It is undesirable for a Lodge to meet without definite business;


    and it looks as though, for the time being, our most important business, that of initiating new brethren and


    raising them to the status of Master Masons, will be restricted to very modest dimensions as compared with


    what we have become accustomed to. However, if we cannot employ our time in making new Masons to the


    extent we should desire, we certainly will have the opportunity to strengthen existing brethren in our


    Masonic faith, and cement the bonds of brotherhood among them, and in any case, we hope, degree work


    will not entirely disappear, even temporarily.


    Broadly speaking, there will be less emphasis on Masonic procedure and ceremonial, and there should be


    more emphasis on Masonic teaching, principles and ethics. This affords an unexampled opportunity for


    Masonic leadership in the highest sense of the term; and also a call for high personal qualities from our


    leaders, and notably from our Provincial and District Grand Masters, which we are confident they will not


    fail to display. That the Craft in general will also rise to the measure of its responsibilities, and adapt itself


    temporarily to the new conditions, is also a matter in which we entertain no doubts.


    —————————


    TRUTH.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    "Theories which thousands cherish,


    Pass like clouds that sweep the sky;


    Creeds and dogmas all may perish;


    Truth Herself can never die.


    Worldlings blindly may refuse Her


    Close their eyes and call it night;


    Learned scoffers may abuse Her,


    But they cannot quench Her light.


    Thrones may totter, empires crumble,


    All their glories cease to be;


    While She, Christlike, crowns the humble,


    And from bondage sets them free."




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


    News and Notes
    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    It is very cheering to learn of a great improvement in V.W. Bro. S. Cannington's health. He must still


    continue his rest cure, however. Keep the good work going.


    ———


    We regret the death of M.W. Bro. E. W. G. H. Watts, Past Grand Master, who died in Dunedin on 10th


    February. He occupied many important Grand Lodge offices, and also that of Grand Master (1929). The


    Lodge will display mourning at this coming meeting.


    ———


    Extract from the Proceedings of the Grand Chapter of Illinois, 1941.


    "The Jubilee Memorial Scholarship has reached a considerable sum and it is hoped that enough more would


    be raised in the coming year to inaugurate the Scholarship. When our Grand Lodge held its Centennial


    Anniversary the programme consisted of a huge dinner and a few speeches. In a few hours a lot of money


    was disposed of and nothing but a memory remains. How different the New Zealand way of celebrating their


    anniversary. The money raised for this scholarship will continue to do good down through many years and


    who can tell what some recipient may do for his country or Capitular Masonry."


    ———


    A considerable number of craftsmen attended a special service held in the Salvation Army Citadel, Hamilton,


    on Sunday evening, 22nd February, to commemorate the jubilee of the foundation of the Supreme Council of


    the Royal Arch Chapter. The service was conducted by Major Clarence Lee, of the Salvation Army, who in




    his address showed how Freemasonry and Christianity could be reconciled by observing the principles


    inculcated by Freemasonry and symbolized by the Volume of the Sacred Law, the square, and the


    compasses. The lessons were read by M.E. Comp. C. L. MacDiarmid, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of


    New Zealand, and by W. Bro. H. M. Kirby, of Hamilton Lodge. Solos were sung by Bro. A. J. Connell, and


    special hymns were rendered by the Salvation Army choir and by the congregation. The visitors were given a


    most cordial reception, and were entertained to supper by the Hamilton Salvation Army.


    ———


    THE WAR.


    ———


    Grand Lodge Announcement.


    The great difficulties which some Lodges are experiencing in functioning normally, owing to conditions


    brought about as the result of the war, are fully recognized by the Board of General Purposes, but the Board


    strongly urges Lodges to make every effort to hold meetings regularly.


    The regular monthly meeting should be called even if it is thought that there is a possibility of an insufficient


    number of members being present for the meeting to be proceeded with. If necessary, members of other


    Lodges should be invited to attend for the purpose of assisting in the ceremonies.


    Dress. The Board of General Purposes strongly recommends the wearing of ordinary dress at Lodge


    meetings for the duration of the war. The Apron must be on the outside of the coat if ordinary dress is worn.


    This recommendation is made in view of the fact that all our members up to the age of sixty-six years are


    required to register for Emergency Precautions Service and, in the event of an emergency, are likely to be


    called away for duty during the progress of a meeting. In such an event the Lodge should immediately be


    closed and the Lodge's property made secure. If the candidate has not been obligated, the whole ceremony


    should be repeated at a later date, but if he has taken the obligation the ceremony should be continued later


    from the point already reached.


    The Board strongly urges Lodges to make every effort to surmount difficulties as they arise, and to continue


    to hold their regular meetings.


    ADMISSION OF VISITORS AND ENDORSEMENT OF GRAND LODGE CERTIFICATES.


    The Board of General Purposes, London, desires once more to emphasize the importance, especially at the


    present time when so many brethren from overseas are in this country, that only those who belong to


    Jurisdictions recognized by the Grand Lodge are admitted as visitors. It is not sufficient that visitors should


    be proved in the usual manner. They must, in addition, produce documentary evidence that they belong to a


    Jurisdiction so recognized. In all cases of doubt, enquiries should be made in the first instance to the Grand


    Secretary or the Provincial Grand Secretary, as the case may be.


    In this connection, the Board wishes to make clear the irregularity of the practice which obtains in some


    Lodges of having the visiting brother's certificate endorsed by the Master, testifying that he has visited the


    particular Lodge. A brother's Grand Lodge Certificate is a document issued by the authority of his M.W.


    Grand Master, and should not bear any endorsement or inscription other than that which may be specially


    authorized by the Grand Master


    ————


    The following letter from W. Bro. Major A. R. Cockerell, H.Q., 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force,


    Egypt, is published for information of the brethren.


    2nd N.Z.E.F., Masonic Association,


    31st July, 1941,


    W. Bro. Philip K. Francis, P.G.D.,


    Dist. Grand Secretary,


    District of Natal,


    P.O. Box 386,


    Pietermaritzburg,


    Natal, Union of S.A.


    Dear Sir and Wor. Brother,


    I am directed to express to you the appreciation and thanks of all Brethren of the 2nd N.Z.E.F. Masonic


    Association serving with the New Zealand Forces in the Middle East. for the kind hospitality and privileges


    extended to our Brethren whilst visiting Lodges under your jurisdiction.




    Those Brethren of our Association who have been privileged to visit lodges in your territory during their


    movements between New Zealand, Great Britain and the Middle East have told us of the splendid manner in


    which Brethren of your Lodges have received them.


    You will be interested to note that we have formed an Association for the benefit of our Brethren with the


    New Zealand Forces in this country. This organization is functioning extremely well, and is proving of


    special value in keeping up the Masonic interest of our Brethren whilst absent from their own Lodges.


    With heartiest good wishes and fraternal greetings.


    I am, dear Sir and Wor. Brother,


    Yours faithfully and fraternally,


    A. R. COCKERELL,


    Major, P.M.,


    Secretary,


    2nd N.Z.E.F. Masonic Association.


    Major A. R. Cockerell,


    G.S.O. 2,


    H.Q. 2 N.Z.E.F. Base,


    Egypt.


    From Report of Proceedings of Natal District Grand Lodge of England.


    —————————


    THE MERCHANT NAVY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    "The heroism and endurance of the men of the Merchant Navy have been made public, but those who could


    still be told are in actual fact innumerable. Entire volumes might be written, each eloquent of a spirit as


    indomitable and dauntless as anything in all Britain's maritime traditions, from the great days of the


    Elizabethan seamen onwards. And not the least notable feature of it all is that the men concerned are so


    unassuming, so finely free from any touch of vainglory, so matter-of-fact in acceptance of their hazards and


    hardships as merely part of the day's work."—The "Liverpool Echo."


    —————————


    JUBILEE OF WAIRARAPA ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    By V.E. Comp. Ben Iveson, P.Z.


    ————


    This year (1942) the Wairarapa Royal Arch Chapter, No. 10. will celebrate its fiftieth anniversary, having


    been instituted at Greytown on 7th June, 1892. It was in the latter year that the New Zealand Royal Arch


    Grand Chapter came into existence. The early minute books of the Chapter have been lost, but from old


    documents in the writer's possession and minute books of later years he has been able to compile a history of


    Royal Arch Freemasonry in the Wairarapa. A report of Grand Scribe E., dated 19th January, 1893, stated that


    Grand Chapter had then only been in existence eight months, having been regularly instituted in Auckland on


    28th April, 1892, when it was decided that the date of constitution should be from 1st January, 1892. The


    number of this Chapter was 10. Auckland was not instituted till 15th July, being thus over a month later than


    Wairarapa, but Auckland is No. 9 Chapter on the register. The explanation of this is that the Supreme G.R.A.


    Chapter of N.Z. had been practically founded by Auckland members but owing to differences of opinion in


    regard to going over from the English Constitution to the New Zealand Constitution, the Auckland Chapter,


    though its application had been sent in earlier than Wairarapa, was not constituted till some weeks later than


    Wairarapa. The foundation members of Wairarapa Chapter were James G. Cox, who was subsequently made


    a life member of the Chapter; Nat Grace, of Gladstone; H. S. Izard, of Greytown; Dick Bright, of Greytown;


    Neff King. of Greytown, who was Janitor; A. Booth, of Carterton; William Cullen, of Masterton; A. E.


    Copping, of Masterton; Dan Cameron, of Greytown; T. H. Kirby, of Cross Creek; Rev. W. E. Paige; of


    Masterton, who was the first Z. of the Chapter; Rev. T. Porritt, of Featherston, who is listed in the


    membership as from "Waterloo R.A. Chapter, No. 166" and who was First Principal in 1893 and 1900; Dr.


    Bey, of Greytown, also of Waterloo R.A. Chapter, No. 166; and A. L. Webster, of Greytown. Most of these


    Companions went through the Mark, Excellent and Royal Arch degrees in one night, either on 4th July,


    1892. on 5th July, 1892. On 30th June, 1893, there were also in the Chapter T. E. Price, of Masterton;


    Charlie Pownall, of Masterton; W. Benton, of Featherston; F. C. Smith, of Featherston; W. J. Lindop, of


    Carterton, former Scribe E.; Charles Jury, of Greytown; Robert Darby of Masterton; George Flux, F. W.




    Connell, of Upper Hutt; W. H. de Lisle, of Masterton; and George Reynolds, of Featherston. The Rev. T.


    Porritt was First Grand Principal in 1899. At the end of 1893 Wairarapa, No. 10, had a membership of


    twenty-one, the Scribe E. being F. C. Smith, the previous Scribe E. having been J. G. Cox. Membership fee


    in those days was £3/3/- per annum, in addition to which diplomas cost 10/6. In 1892 the Chapter spent over


    £54 in jewels, gavels, working tools, etc., but a few years later M.E. Comp. Porritt reported that the Chapter


    possessed no regalia, but hoped to have it for the next Installation. The Chapter has had for many years


    excellent regalia. Many Companions in those early years took the side degrees of Ark Mariners, etc. It would


    appear that there was no set rule as to how regalia should be worn, because in 1893 a letter from Grand


    Scribe E. (Herbert J. Williams) to M.E. Comp. Porritt, Z., stated that the First Grand Principal had issued


    instructions that it was essential there should be uniformity in the wearing of Royal Arch regalia.


    At the quarterly convocation of the Chapter held in 1897 (convocations appear to have been held either bi-


    monthly or quarterly) it was resolved : "That with the consent and assistance of Craft Lodges in the district a


    social should be given to celebrate the annual Installation on the following terms: that members of the


    Chapter should have the privilege of inviting one gentleman and two ladies, members of the Craft, on


    payment of 5/-, could invite two ladies, and that the general public and unaffiliated Masons could be present


    on invitation by the payment of 5/- for a gentleman's and 2/6 for a lady's ticket." On other occasions after the


    Installation ceremony, Companions, their wives and daughters were entertained at an "At Home," and


    Companions were by dispensation allowed to wear their Royal Arch regalia.


    For eight years (1892 till 1899) convocations were held at Greytown. In 1900 a change was made to


    Carterton, but the meetings were again held at Greytown, it being considered that the Carterton temple was


    unsuitable. However, Carterton's day was to come later on, and in turn Carterton had to give way to


    Masterton. In 1903 a resolution was carried that in future meetings of the Chapter be held at Carterton. At the


    bi-monthly convocation held at Carterton in 1915 it was decided to remove the Chapter to Masterton.


    Convocations may be held in any Wairarapa centre. Convocations have been held at Eketahuna, Greytown


    and Carterton.


    A glance through old minute books would suggest that free and easy methods were in operation in some


    directions in connection with the Royal Arch Chapter as compared with the strict business methods of to-


    day.


    Gifts of regalia, etc., were made to the Chapter, and at the June meeting in 1898 a handsome oil painting of


    himself was presented to the Chapter by M.E. Comp. G. H. Powley, First Grand Principal. Attending


    meetings and visits in the early days presented travelling difficulties—indeed, right up to the advent of the


    motor-car there were always these difficulties to contend with, and they are still with us now that there are


    petrol restrictions. A visit to a Wellington Chapter meant a two days' visit. The Chapter in the 90's was a


    generous giver to any worthy humane object.


    In the years of the slump loyal Companions kept the Chapter from going out of existence. In this connection


    special reference must be made to M.E. Comp. R. W. McVilly. a member of the Chapter, who by his


    example, his sympathetic encouragement and assistance in many directions gave heart to the companions to


    "carry on" over a very difficult period, with the result that to-day the Chapter is one of the most flourishing


    in the Dominion. Another Companion to whom the Chapter is much indebted for help and advice on many


    occasions is R.E. Comp. F. J. Rea, Grand Scribe E. The Chapter to-day has many stalwarts still in its ranks


    who have rendered valuable service. Great service was rendered by R.E. Comp. R. J. Foss, Z., in 1914 and


    1918. In 1908 R.E. Comp. Foss was made a member of the Chapter and was elected Third Principal in 1912.


    From the day he entered the Chapter he threw himself whole-heartedly into the duties. His enthusiasm and


    his marked ability as a Freemason had a wonderful effect upon Companions. He is to-day probably the most


    loved Companion in the Chapter and the sympathy he extends to new Companions and the encouragement


    he gives them has endeared him to every member, Even though he has lived for many years at Levin he


    frequently visits the Chapter and his attendance is always marked by intellectual treats in his speeches, and


    he radiates good fellowship and sympathetic understanding.


    Other Companions giving assistance to Royal Arch Freemasonry may be mentioned: V.E. Comp. R. J. King,


    who was made a member in 1913 and who became Z. in 1921. He is one of the most stout-hearted


    Companions in the Chapter and has few equals as a ritualist in the Wellington Province. He keeps a strict eye


    on the landmarks of the Chapter. A kind critic, no task is too formidable for him. It is interesting to note that


    the late V.E. Comp. F. J. Hunn, whose services to Freemasonry generally are well known, was made a


    member the same night as V.E. Comp. King. Another valued Companion who is noted for the splendid


    service he has rendered No. 10 and for his all-round thoroughness and brilliance as a ritualist, is V.E. Comp.


    Harold Dixon, who has been Scribe E. for several years. He was elected a member of the Chapter in 1915,




    was Third Principal in 1924 and Z in 1926. In 1917 there was proposed a Companion who is held in very


    high esteem by Companions—V.E. Comp. A. W. Chapman, who was twice Z. in 1922 and 1923. He has


    obtained high honours in various branches of Freemasonry and no one has been more worthy of them.


    The present Z. of the Chapter, V.E. Comp. W. J. Candy, was proposed in 1926, his proposer being E. Comp.


    R. Smith, and he has always taken an interest in the affairs of the Chapter. Other Companions were V.E.


    Comps. W. H. Judd, joined in 1922, J. G. Shearer (popularly known as "Dad"), R. Lambert (who with E.


    Comp. J. G. Shearer joined in 1926), W. W. Diggle (for many years Scribe E., and now resides in


    Wellington), H. A. R. Dunderdale (a former Scribe E., who has rendered valuable service as Auditor for


    many years and whose financial schemes helped to keep the Chapter afloat in its lean years), L. Houlbrooke,


    who thought nothing of travelling fifty miles to a practice or convocation, C. W. Walker, W. H. Saunders,


    and Frank Shearer, E. Comp. G. Malmo, Comps: B. Braggins, George Scrivner, Herb. Jones, "the willing


    horse" of the Chapter, Dick Jenkins, Reg. Mills, George Russell (Organist for many years), Jack Kerslake,


    Dick Smith, and the Janitor, E. Comp. George Gurney. Of the younger companions in membership the


    services of Comp. Wally Wiggins, of Greytown, must not be overlooked. No history of the Chapter would be


    complete without a reference to the loyal and practical support given for many years past by M.E. Comp. J.


    Rod, of Wellington, who in the dark days of the Chapter came to its rescue with other Wellington


    Companions and helped it along the road to brighter days.


    —————————


    INSTALLATION ADDRESS


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    By W. Bro. Albert Bright, W.M., United Masters Lodge,


    No. 167. Read 23rd October, 1941.


    ————


    Brethren, in presenting my Installation Address, I do not propose to speak on any particular Masonic


    problem, but rather to view the aims and ideals of the Craft in a general way, and to see what relation they


    bear to the problems which confront the world to-day.


    The ideals of Freemasonry are not new; indeed, they have existed ever since man first desired human


    companionship on the basis of natural quality and mutual dependence. From time immemorial, Freemasonry


    has planned to bring about a universal brotherhood by medium of the teachings .of the V.S.L., and the


    promotion of moral and social virtues. Its ideals do not change; indeed, it is one of the highlights of the Craft,


    that throughout its history, throughout all, the troublous times through which it had passed, it has never had


    to alter its foundation or plan; Freemasonry has never been in conflict with its own past. Its lofty ideals have


    endured and stand to-day with the same purity of ambition and the same steadfastness of purpose.


    We witness to-day a world in which enmity seems to be more in evidence than amity; a world torn with


    conflict, which in the moral sense, is a conflict between the powers of good and evil; a conflict between


    brutal dictatorship and orderly and peaceful democracy. Let us not misunderstand that much abused word,


    democracy, and let us recognise at once that there can be no democracy unless there is obedience to


    authority.


    Freemasonry itself is a democratic order; not only democratic in its constitution but also in its ideals. What


    could be more democratic than by "doing unto him, as in similar cases you would wish he should do to you."


    Freemasonry stands for Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, or in other words, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity,


    but it wisely exerts a restraining influence upon these desirable ideals, to prevent Liberty degenerating into


    License, Equality becoming Anarchy, and Fraternity sinking into godless socialism or communism.


    The Craft demands obedience to authority, and as Freemasons we are told that distinctions among men are


    necessary to preserve subordination and to reward merit and ability; and we are also enjoined to do nothing


    that would subvert the peace and good order of society.


    Freemasonry will not permit any "infringement of our rites or deviation from established usage and custom,"


    and it also demands that the ancient landmarks shall be preserved pure and inviolate.


    Thus Freemasonry protects its high ideals; but Brethren, high ideals alone are not sufficient. What good shall


    we accomplish if our Freemasonry ends in expressions of lofty sentiment or emotional fervour, if we have


    only shadows but no substance. Every Initiate is told that the foundation on which Freemasonry rests is the


    practise of every moral and social virtue.


    It is sometimes asked, "What is Freemasonry doing for the world to-day?" Brethren, as an institution, we can


    do little or nothing. Freemasonry embraces men who differ widely in their doctrines and creeds, men whose




    political and economic views are widely divergent, and any attempt on the part of Freemasonry to find a


    solution for the political and industrial problems of the world, would only lead to discord and disruption in


    the Craft. The strength of Freemasonry as an institution lies in its ability to hold itself above the arguments of


    doctrines, above the strife of politics and above the bitterness of industrial disputes.


    What then is the mission of Freemasonry? For surely, although it seems to hold itself aloof from the


    problems of the world, it is not unmindful of them. When Sir Charles Fergusson was installed as Grand


    Master, he said, "Freemasonry as I understand it, aims at moulding the lives and characters of the Brethren in


    such a way that as individuals they are brought to recognise and live up to their responsibilities." This,


    Brethren, is how Freemasonry plays its part; it aims at the betterment of the world through the betterment of


    the individual. It has been said that the world will never be better than the men who inhabit it, and that,


    "where manhood fails, nations perish." Brethren, the great need of the world to-day is for men who are


    imbued with a true Masonic spirit, not only men who can conceive and devise, but also those who are willing


    to execute the design.


    The mission of Freemasonry is to unite men in the bonds of Brotherhood, and in the fashioning of these


    bonds there is work for all. The Craft has many avenues of service in which all can find a place; some can


    assist by promoting the spiritual and moral teachings, others by historical and allegorical research, some find


    their place in the field of benevolence and charity, and others find pleasure in the working of the Ritual,


    some are fitted to rule and teach, and we must remember that "they also serve, who stand and wait." To


    some, the cultivation of the social activities represents an important part of Masonry, and we must remember


    that many lasting friendships have been formed in our refectories.


    All these services are necessary to complete the structure, and although we do not travel the same road, we


    hope to arrive at the same goal. Freemasonry does not demand —nor would it be at all desirable—uniformity


    of opinion, but it does desire unity of purpose.


    In striving for universal brotherhood we most guard against lowering the high ideals of the Craft, for just as


    surely as the ideals of Freemasonry are worth promoting, so they are worth defending. Freemasonry must


    ever set its face against any system that would take away the spiritual liberty of the individual or destroy the


    sanctity of the home. Many Freemasons at this time are giving patriotic service in defence of all those things


    which are so dear, not only to the Craft, but also to the Empire of which we are proud to be part. Although


    we are directed to spread the mantle of Masonic charity over all men, this does not mean that we must so


    lower our standards that we can recognise all and sundry as fit and proper persons to be admitted to the Craft.


    Remember that Freemasonry does not set itself the task of making bad men good. rather it seeks to make


    good men better. Freemasonry demands that men shall prove themselves worthy before they are admitted,


    and the greatness of the Craft lies not so much in its numerical strength as it does in the character of its


    members. In seeking to bring about the Brotherhood of Man. Freemasonry relies on the Manhood of the


    Brother.


    In conclusion, Brethren, I would urge you to play your part as individuals; we are not all cast in the same


    mould, or blessed with the same talents, but we can exert those talents wherewith God has blessed us, and we


    can each do our part. Somewhere in the Temple, the stone which you are preparing, you will find another to


    which it can be fitted, and so the structure will grow, and by playing your part as Masons, you Cannot fail to


    enhance your value to society, and the world will be the better, because of the influence of the Masonic


    fraternity.


    —————————


    MEN WHO FORETOLD THIS WAR REVEAL THE FUTURE.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    By Campbell Nairne, in "The Masonic Club Journal" (Syd.)


    ————


    Curiosity about the future is one of the oldest human instincts, and even in civilized countries there is always


    a hearing for the clairvoyant and astrologer. Not unnaturally their predictions receive special attention in


    times of uncertainty and danger like the present. A long record of prophecies that went astray ought to make


    us chary of believing that the future can be foretold. On the other hand, some forecasts have proved


    remarkably accurate. It will hardly do to dismiss all prophetic utterances as rubbish.


    About a year ago the Polish Press Bureau in London thought it worth while to publish a fifty-year-old


    prophecy that has a bearing on the present war. In justification they could have pointed to the fact that some


    of it has already come true. It foretold, for example, that the whole world would be soaked in blood in 1913


    (which is near enough to the date of the outbreak of the First World War), and also the rebirth of Poland:




    "Out of the conflagration of the world" Poland shall rise again after the two eagles (symbols of Imperial


    Russia and Austria) have fallen into dust"


    WHEN PEACE WILL COME.


    The prophecy had a strange origin. It was uttered by a medium named Tegoborza at a seance held in 1893 in


    south-eastern Poland, at the house of a man interested in spiritualism, one Wielogolowski, who presented a


    record of it to the Ossolinski Library at Lwow.


    The prediction that Poland would regain her independence was accompanied by a warning that "her fate shall


    for a long time remain ill-omened and her dreams shall not be easily realised."


    The rise of the swastika and the first German conquests seem to be foretold in this passage: "When the Black


    Eagle shall besmirch the sign of the Cross and spread out its ill-boding wings, two nations shall fall without


    anyone being able to save them,"


    Whether the rest of the prophecy will be fulfilled may depend on the turn the war takes in the next few


    months. It predicts a conflict between Germany and Russia (or possibly a joint military venture), ending in


    the destruction of both and the restoration of Poland to her ancient greatness: "The besmirched Cross shall


    fall together with the Hammer and the predatory powers shall be left with naught, while the Masurian Land


    (East Prussia) shall return to Poland and Danzig will be our port."


    Half a century is mentioned as the time Poland must wait before her fortunes are re-established. On this


    reckoning the war will be over by 1943 at latest.


    A CHEERING VISION.


    The Tegoborza Prophecy was not the first to foretell the resurrection of Poland. In 1766 a Polish-Ukrainian


    seer named Vernyhora predicted that Poland would become an independent nation again when the Turks


    watered their horses in the Vistula. That was fulfilled to the letter; in 1917 Turkish troops arrived on the


    Eastern front to reinforce the Austrians.


    In his fascinating little book, "Great Prophecies About the War," Mr. Clarence Reed takes a famous medieval


    prophecy and shows that it can be related to current events. The Prophecy of St. Odile, as it is called, is


    named after the patron saint of Alsace, who was born in 657. It was probably composed by a monk. Though


    it had, been known for centuries—to Cardinal Newman, among others—it was not published until 1916,


    when a copy appeared in Paris.


    There is an apparent reference to Hitler in the prediction that a conqueror of German race, starting from the


    banks of the Danube, will involve twenty nations in the most frightful war mankind has ever suffered. "He


    will win victories on land, by sea, and even in the air. For his warriors will be seen, winged, in unimaginable


    career riding up into the firmament to catch the stars in order to hurl them down on towns and ignite great


    fires."


    The prophet goes on; "The nations will be astonished and will exclaim: "Whence comes his strength? How


    has he been able to undertake such a war?' ''


    It is cheering to read that a time will come—somewhere in the second year of the war—when the victor will


    have no more confidence in his armies. -This will be called the period of invasion, because the country of the


    conqueror will be invaded in all directions and laid waste in righteous retribution for his acts of injustice and


    irreligion. About the mountain will flow streams of blood; it will be the last battle, Nations will chant their


    hymns of thanksgiving in the temples of God and will thank Him for their deliverance, because there will


    have appeared a warrior who will scatter the troops of the conqueror, whose armies will be decimated by a


    great unknown illness."


    The famous Russian novelist, Leo Tolstoy, is generally credited with having foretold the last war in a


    prophecy he made a few months before death in 1910. It appeared in several newspapers at the time.


    "MAN WHO IS NEVER WRONG."


    Tolstoy predicted quite correctly that the first countries to be engulfed by a flame of war would be those of


    south-eastern Europe, bat he was a little out in his dates. According to him the conflagration was to begin


    about 1912 and develop into a "destructive calamity" in 1913, "In that year," he wrote, "I see all Europe in


    flames and bleeding. I hear lamentations on huge battlefields."


    It has been suggested that after the war Europe may be "federated." This gives interest to Tolstoy's.


    prediction that the Old World will eventually form itself into a federation of united States. He foresaw the


    partitioning of the European nations into four giant blocks—the Anglo-Saxons, the Latins, the Slays, and the


    Mongolians. The omission of the "Aryans" from this New Order must be very galling to Hitler!




    At the present time the prophecies of Michel de Nostre Dame or Nostradamus, to give him his Latin name,


    are again attracting attention, Nostradamus has been called "The Man Who Is Never Wrong." He was a


    student of astrology who lived in the south of France in the sixteenth century, and his reputation is based on a


    book of verse prophecies, "The Centuries," which he published in 1555.


    His clairvoyant gifts so impressed Henry II, King of France, and his Queen, Catherine de Medici, that they


    summoned him to Paris and consulted him about their children. He successfully predicted that Henry II


    would be killed in a tourney and that Catherine's three sons would all be kings. The second of these sons,


    Charles IX, appointed him court physician.


    His prestige grew in England after the execution of Charles I, which was held to be a fulfilment of the


    prophecy that "The Parliament of London will put the King to death." An English translation of his book was


    published in 1672, and the Young Pretender is said to have pored over it in the hope of finding some


    prediction that would encourage his supporters.


    THE BLACK MONK.


    The fame of Nostradamus reached new heights during the French Revolution. And no wonder. It was found


    that, besides foretelling the date when "the revolution of the century" would break out, he had predicted in


    detail one of the most dramatic incidents: the King's flight to Varennes. "The night will came to the forest of


    Rheims. A black monk in grey under the name of Cap will cause tempest, fire, blood and knife."


    Louis XVI did try to escape through the forest of Rheims in the disguise of a monk. Cap suggests Capet, the


    name he was given. His flight cost him his head, and his death marked the beginning of the Reign of Terror,


    during which the knife (Madame la Guillotine) claimed hundreds of victims and the gutters of Paris ran with


    blood.


    Equally uncanny was Nostradamus's prevision of Napoleon's rise to greatness. "From a common soldier," he


    wrote, "will be made an Empire. From a short coat he will go to a long mantle. Valiant in arms, he will be a


    thorn in the side of Church and priests." It all came true!


    Nostradamus took care to safeguard himself by writing in parables, and he was generally a little vague about


    dates. Nevertheless, there is good reason to think that he foresaw the Franco-Prussian War, and he was


    certainly not far out in predicting that France would march against an enemy after four Saturnian cycles from


    the date of the French Revolution. Four cycles of about thirty years each brings us roughly to the outbreak of


    the First World War.


    PROPHECY THAT HAUNTS HITLER.


    It is startling to come upon a prediction that Germany would invade France in 1940 after feigning friendship,


    and even more startling to read that the Germans would have a leader named Hister, Spelling was not


    Nostradamus's strong point, and Hister must be reckoned a pretty good guess at Hitler. We are told that


    'France by a neglect shall be assaulted on five sides. Tunis, Algiers shall be moved."


    Astonishing, too, are the prophecies concerning modern Italy: "Naples, Palermo, and all Sicily shall be


    inhabited by foreign violence. Corsica, Salerno and Sardinia — hunger, plague and war. . . . The pretended


    union shall not last long, most shall change their opinion; in the fleet the people shall be paralysed, then


    Rome will have a new dictator . . . Weep, Milan, Lucca and Florence, that thy great Duce mount the chariot


    of war!"


    Can we deduce from these utterances that Nostradamus foresaw the disasters that Mussolini has brought


    upon Italy?


    The eventual fate predicted for Hister, by the way, is imprisonment in an iron cage. Hitler must know of this,


    for he has never disguised his interest in astrology and at one time he kept his own astrologer, the luckless


    Czech, Hanussen. Let us hope he has been suitably impressed!


    —"The Victorian Craftsman."


    —————————


    WHAT HAS BECOME OF THEM?


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (By Frank S. Moses, 32 deg.)


    ————


    What has become of them—George Washington, John Paul Jones, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson,


    Alexander Hamilton. Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee—our national heroes, to say nothing of the sturdy


    Pilgrims and all of those other stalwart souls who carved our great nation from a vast and savage-infested




    wilderness? Probably, in the answer to this question, we will find the answer to the question in the public


    mind as to the morale of our draftee army, to vicious labour strikes in a national emergency, to greed on the


    part of business when the weal of our country lies prone beneath the Damoclean sword of a foreign despot.


    There are those of us who, at the turn of the present century or in the first few years of it, were of that im-


    pressionable time of life commonly known as the schoolboy age. How we thrill to look back upon it! Those


    carefree school-day mornings when young voices were raised in song. Always were included the "Star


    Spangled Banner," "America," "Battle Hymn of the Republic," or "Columbia the Gem of the Ocean." We


    knew them all.


    And we were proud, proud of the story of Francis Scott Key, and how he penned his immortal words. "Oh,


    say, can you see"; proud, too, of Washington, at Valley Forge, praying in the snow. How we thrilled at the


    words of Patrick Henry, "Give me liberty or give me death." We were proud of Paul Revere and his famous


    ride, proud of Bunker Hill and of Commodore Perry's "Don't give up the ship." Of such pride is born


    Patriotism—Morale. We had pride in our national heroes, pride in those inspired songs penned by patriots


    whose hearts were offered a willing sacrifice on the altar of a new nation.


    Yea, more! Well do we remember our teacher reading a Psalm. and all heads were bowed as the Lord's


    Prayer droned softly over the classroom. We feared God. We knew respect for His Holy Word.


    What has become of all of them—our national heroes, our national songs, our God?


    Many of us have watched our children grow up through the grammar grades, high school, and perhaps


    college. We have heard much of science, much of higher mathematics, much of "social science." but, as we


    review these later years, we are shocked and amazed. When did our children ask us for the story of a


    revolutionary hero? How often did we hear them hum a patriotic air'? What has become of them'?


    It matters not what the influence has been that so subtly has erased these things from our children's minds.


    Sternly points the accusing finger at each of us, saying, ''Where has your influence been? What have you


    done with your heritage?"


    If ever there was a time for Scottish Rite Masons to take an interest, an active interest, if you please, in our


    schools and their pupils, it is now. Perhaps a little late, but not too late. Some have passed our way, but


    millions more will follow. May it be said of them that they know why they worship at the shrine of Liberty.


    —————————


    MASONRY IS NOT MY RELIGION.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (By Grady L, Bain, 33deg.)


    ————


    Quite often I have heard some enthusiastic member of the Order exclaim, "Masonry is my religion." I have


    no quarrel with such brother for his statements or for his faith. However, my own conscience will not permit


    me to concur with him in either. My belief in God and reverence for His works undoubtedly encouraged me


    to seek admission into the Lodge, and surely my profession has its influence in my election by the brethren.


    Therefore, I had at least some religious foundation before my experience as a Mason. I still have faith in that


    religion, only more deeply grounded since my studies of the philosophies and precepts of the ancient Craft.


    My attachment to it is more binding and more satisfying since my initiation into the mysteries. It is not


    through a sense of egotism that I say I believe that I have been a better Mason because of my previous


    religious opinions and deep rooted beliefs.


    It is true that my opinions have changed as I have advanced in Masonry and received additional light, and


    with it all my faith has deepened. Opinions do not remain the same. Every new word we hear, each new


    thought we entertain alters our opinions. Does that mean that our opinions necessarily improve with each


    change? Perhaps, but not always so. That may depend upon the experiences, education, and sources of our


    information which affect them. For thousands of years many honest men saw the sun travel around the earth


    each day, yet we now know that it did not do just that.


    Faith, in the sense that we apply it to religious beliefs, is a living, growing, or diminishing thing. So


    frequently have we read and sung "Faith of Our Fathers Living Still." That, too, depends on what the faith of


    our fathers was. Faith in some things, yes. Most of them perhaps. But truth is forever replacing untruth as


    light is gradually added, so that things we once sincerely believed in and so ardently laboured for no longer


    interest us and may be undesired now. Masonry has not supplanted my earlier religion, but has strengthened


    it and made my feeling of contentment in that faith more secure.




    Because of my religion I think more of my Masonry and because of my instructions received in the Order I


    have more faith and satisfaction in my religious beliefs.


    —————————


    CANADA.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    "Canada is the linchpin of the English-speaking world. Canada with those relations of friendly, affectionate


    intimacy with the United States on the one hand, and with her unswerving fidelity to the British


    Commonwealth and the Motherland on the other, is the link which joins together these great branches of the


    human family—a link which, spanning the oceans, brings the Continents into their true relation, and will


    prevent in future generations the division growing between the proud and the happy nations of Europe and


    the great countries which have come into existence in the new world."—The Prime Minister.


    —————————


    JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS OF GRAND CHAPTER IN SOUTH ISLAND.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    In accordance with the wish of Grand Chapter, a Thanksgiving Service was held in the Freemasons' Temple,


    Invercargill, on Sunday afternoon, 1st March, when a gathering of 50 Royal Arch Masons assembled to give


    thanks to T.T.A.L.G.M.H. for the achievements recorded in the cause of Royal Arch Freemasonry during the


    past 50 years. V.E. Comp. W. R. Allen, Z., Southern Cross, No. 3, occupied the chair and called on the


    Companions to sing the 1919 Peace version of the National Anthem. Several appropriate hymns were sung


    with E. Comp. Geo. F. Griffiths at the organ. Scripture readings were given by M.E. Comp. T. M. Rankin,


    P.G.Z., and R.E. Comp. F. A. Steans, P.G.J. Prayers by R.E. Comp. Sydney C. K. Smith. P.G.J. The main


    address of the service was delivered by M.E. Comp, E. C. Smith, P.G.Z., who paid a striking tribute to the


    vision and faithful service of pioneer Royal Arch members throughout the Dominion and the Southland


    District.


    ADDRESS BY M.E. COMP. E. C. SMITH, P.G.Z.


    At this Jubilee Commemoration Service it was fitting that the Companions should first remember with


    gratitude and admiration the sacred source from whom all blessings flowed. It is recorded in the Sacred


    Volume that when the Israelites entered the Promised Land and occupied it, Joshua, their leader, called upon


    them to make choice between the God who had led them out of Egypt and the gods of the peoples amongst


    whom they had journeyed. "For his part," he declared, "as for me and my house we will serve the Lord."


    Amongst those exiled Jews who dwelt in Babylon in later years were those who kept their windows


    constantly open towards Jerusalem and who while they wept under the willow trees beside the still waters of


    a foreign land remembered Zion. In that immortal story around which the story of the Royal Arch Degree is


    woven it was recorded that when the city walls were rebuilt the people assembled and entered into a solemn


    covenant with God to serve and obey Him. Their first thought when their work was finished was to thank


    their God far His goodness and His guidance and to resolve that they would obey His commandments. Like


    them, the Companions of to-day could well thank Him for what was past and resolve that their future should


    be lived in accordance with His will and word.


    It was fitting, too, that they should that day remember the Companions who fifty years ago established the


    Grand Chapter of New Zealand. There were 220 of them, members of 12 Chapters. It was no easy task they


    undertook, the building of a new Institution in New Zealand, Like Zerubbabel of old, they doubtless had to


    overcome opposition from without, faint-heartedness within, but they succeeded in their enterprise and at the


    end of 10 years the membership had increased to 600, of whom only 26 remained, two being members of


    Southern Cross Chapter, No, 3. It was not his purpose to individualize, but he would say that those who by


    their wisdom and enthusiasm during that first period of ten years were deserving of all praise. It was not


    always easy to start an enterprise. But the start had behind it the first flush of enthusiasm. It was perhaps the


    second or some succeeding year that was difficult. All honour to those who had carried the institution when


    difficulties arose and interest flagged. For the great majority the evening came, and the shadows fell, the


    night drew down, the third veil parted before them and they passed to a safe lodging and a holy rest and


    peace at the last. Those who remained might well rejoice in the result of their labour seen to-day in the


    structure built upon the foundation they had laid. He had never ceased to admire the high ideals and moral


    standard set for the Craft by those who were responsible for Speculative Freemasonry. In an age noted for its


    low moral level, it was greatly to the credit of the early brethren that they laid such an enduring foundation of




    faith in God, loyalty to the Crown, and charity towards the brethren. These enduring truths had been the very


    reason the Craft had withstood all opposition and would continue to do so,


    The veteran Companions might well rejoice, too, that there were so many members to-day to carry on their


    work. They were all familiar with the statement that the rites and ceremonies of Royal Arch Freemasonry


    had been handed down by a chosen few unchanged by time and uncontrolled by prejudice. The Companions


    of to-day were grateful for their heritage and would assure their eider brethren that their gift would be


    regarded with the same veneration and handed down with the same scrupulous purity to their successors.


    The Craft was well worth working for. One Grand Master of an American Constitution had said: "In a world


    of greed and force Freemasonry teaches self-restraint and reason. In a world permeated with the spirit of


    selfish rivalry it teaches universal brotherhood. In a world of intolerance and bigotry it teaches tolerance and


    kindness. In a world of cynical disbelief it teaches reverence for Diety. In a world floundering in the depths


    of a great moral and spiritual depression it teaches industry and self-reliance and temperance and integrity.


    Its emphasis is always on the nobler point of view, the finer choice of conduct. It leaps the barriers of race


    and space to draw together the finest aspirations of all men and unite them in a universal brotherhood."


    Such was the heritage which has been handed down to the Chapters of to-day, a heritage which was at one


    and the same time a tribute to those who left it and a challenge to those who were now entrusted with it. For


    "We must keep splendid loyalties and not fall prey to lesser things.


    What use are breath and strength if we no longer feel


    The thrill of battle for some holy cause


    Or hear high morning bugles calling us away.


    Nay, we must keep faith with the unnumbered brave


    Who pushed aside horizons, that we might reach


    The better things We cannot rest until


    We have put courage once more upon the throne:


    For honour clamours for her heritage


    And Right still claims a kingdom of her own."


    The meeting was of a quiet and dignified nature, an expression of praise and thanksgiving for favours


    bestowed over the period of years since the establishment of Grand Chapter, and a resolve to press forward


    in the development of all that is best in man's nature—which we know to be the virtues of unselfishness and


    love of God and of our neighbour—to the exclusion of the destructive instincts. The former we know to be


    the copestones of our beloved Royal Craft. Until they are in their proper place—in the centre of the arch of


    human endeavour— we cannot reach that haven toward which we are enjoined to travel, the goal of "The


    Brotherhood of Man." It is therefore our duty as Masons generally and Royal Arch Masons in particular to


    make known the ennobling effect of the Craft by our own example of the purifying influence of the tenets of


    our ancient institution.


    "Hold high the torch; we did not light its glow,


    'Twas given us from other hands, you know.


    'Tis only ours to keep it burning bright,


    Ours to pass on when we no more need light."


    —————————


    THE IMPERSONATION OF EVIL.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    “He belongs to the gangster type. He is a callous murderer and perjurer. The unexpected ease of his earlier


    achievements has filled him with the insane ambition of conquering the whole world. Neville Chamberlain


    described him to a friend of mine as ‘the blackest devil I have ever met,’ and history will probably confirm


    this severe verdict.” — Dean Inge. “Possible Recovery?”


    —————————


    “The two hard years that lie behind us have left us all unshaken in our determination to see justice and


    freedom re-established throughout the world” — His Majesty the King.











    —————————


    REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (Published by the Authority of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand)


    ————


    RHODE ISLAND-1940-41.


    43 Lodges, 14.178 members, no change in total.


    Semi-annual Communication held 18th November and 151st Annual Communication held 19th May, at


    Providence, M.W. Bro. George F. Ward, G.M., presiding at each. Seventeen of the 23 living P.G.M.'s were


    present at the latter meeting.


    The G.L. authorised the preparation of a cipher ritual thereby joining the growing number of United States


    jurisdictions following that practice.


    We note in the reports of the various District Deputy G.M.'s that they presided at the elections and installed


    the officers of all the Lodges.


    The sum of 5,211 dollars was disbursed in relieving 43 cases.


    A committee to report on the advisability of establishing a Masonic Home presented a comprehensive report


    including analyses of the details of over 30 such Institutions.


    A charitable corporation was incorporated under the name "Masonic Grand Lodge Charities of Rhode


    Island" for the purposes of receiving and administering property and funds of a charitable nature.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Raymond L. Vaughn, Providence.


    Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Harold L. McAuslan, Providence.


    Grand Representative of New Zealand: W. Bro. Herbert M. Sherwood, Providence.


    Grand Representative at New Zealand: R.W. Bro. Thos. C. Fookes, P.Prov. G.M., New Plymouth.


    QUEENSLAND-1940-41.


    368 Lodges, 17,190 members, a gain of 48.


    Special (Installation) Communication held 24th July and Quarterly Communications held 4th September, 4th


    December, 5th March and 4th June at Brisbane, M.W. Bro. Sir Leslie Orme Wilson, G.M., presiding at each.


    Another Special Communication was held on 17th April for a Memorial Service to the late M.W. Bro. Alex.


    Corrie, first G.M. of the United G.L. of Queensland, at which M.W. Bro. W. H. Green, Pro. G.M., presided.


    £2,000 was lent to the Commonwealth Government free of interest and £250 was granted to the Red Cross


    Appeal.


    The debt of £69,000 on the Masonic Memorial Temple in Brisbane, which was completed in 1930 at a cost


    of £127,000, was reduced in 10 years to £16,000.


    Past rank was conferred on 67 Brethren. The status of Grand Tyler was altered so as to be one of the offices


    of honour, instead of being an office of employment only.


    Many Brethren and Ladies assembled around the Memorial Urn at the entrance of the Masonic Memorial


    Temple in Brisbane on the morning of Anzac Day, when tribute was paid to those members of the Craft who


    had made the supreme sacrifice in the Great War.


    The aged Masons, Widows and Orphans' Institution disbursed £1,434 in grants as well as maintaining 14


    Brethren in the Masonic Homes.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Rt. Hon. Sir Leslie Orme Wilson, P.C., G.C.S.L.. G.C.M.G., G.C.I.E., D.S.O.,


    Brisbane.


    Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. L. P. Marks, P.D.G.M., Brisbane.


    Grand Representative of New Zealand: R.W. Bro. R. L. H. Peterson, Brisbane.


    Grand Representative at New Zealand: R.W. Bro. Col. A. Stoneham, P.D.G.M., Gisborne.


    MISSOURI-1941.


    620 Lodges, 85,468 members, a loss of 689.


    121st Annual Communication held at St. Louis, 30th September and 1st October, M.W. Bro. Senator Harry


    S. Truman, G.M., presiding. Fifteen of the 17 living P.G.M.'s were present.


    There were 102 mem 156 women, 42 boys and 39 girls in the Masonic Home. The average patients per day


    in the Masonic Infirmary was 75.


    Honorary membership of the Grand Lodge was conferred upon Bro. General John J. Pershing.




    Special attention was drawn to the presence of the W.M. of Jacoby Lodge, No. 447, who was at the time 92


    years old, yet strong and vigorous, in full possession of his faculties, and "one of the best W.M.'s that Lodge


    had ever had"; with the exception of six years during which his wife was an invalid he had been an active


    member and worker in his Lodge since he became a member.


    The Missouri Lodge of Research was formally constituted and its Charter presented during Communications.


    The sum of 7,000 dollars was voted for Military Camp Activities.


    "The Masonic World," by M.W. Bro. Ray V. Denslow, P.G.M., includes a very interesting 14-page history


    of Freemasonry in the Philippine Islands. The remainder of his reviews are on the topical system and make


    very interesting reading. A special section is devoted to Australia and New Zealand.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Harris C. Johnston, Boonville. Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Dr. Arthur Mathey, St.


    Louis.


    Grand Representative of New Zealand: W. Bro. Louis F. Graue, Mexico.


    Grand Representative at New Zealand: R.W. Bro. C. A. Eckford, P.Prov. G.M., Blenheim.


    BRITISH COLUMBIA-1941.


    118 Lodges, 13,305 members, a loss of 151.


    70th Annual Communication held at Vancouver, 19th and 20th June, M.W. Bro. W. R. Simpson, G.M.,


    presiding. Fifteen P.G.M.'s, one P.G. Secretary and 82 P.District Deputy G.M.'s were present.


    One Lodge surrendered its Warrant.


    The reports of the 19 Dist. Deputy G.M.'s cover the transactions and condition of the various Lodges in full


    detail.


    Grants made by the Board of Benevolence totalled 8,669 dollars, in addition to which a grant of 305 dollars


    was made from the War Relief Fund. It was resolved to expend an additional 10,000 dollars for war


    purposes.


    A number of historical sketches written by himself and other Brethren were supplied by the Grand Historian,


    and are included in the proceedings.


    A complete copy of the nine issues of the "Masonic Bulletin" is also included in the proceedings. It is well


    worthy of permanent record, containing many short but interesting articles.


    A committee to which had been referred the revision of the Constitution presented its report and after con-


    sideration the whole was with minor amendments adopted.


    The Reviews were contributed by M.W. Bro. W. A. De-Wolf Smith. The portion devoted to N.Z. is confined


    to an appreciative review of our Jubilee "History," ending with the words "All of which is a record of which


    any Grand Lodge might be proud."


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. B. A. Stimmel, Trail.


    Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Frank S. McKee, Vancouver.


    Grand Representative of New Zealand: R.W. Bro. J. J. Miller, P.D.D.G.M., Vancouver.


    Grand Representative at New Zealand: R.W. Bro. Col, K. Mackenzie, P .D.G.M. , Gera ld in e .


    —————————


    TYRANNY — IN TERRORS


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The terror of the tyrant


    Knows no distinction. If he does not fear,


    He hates, and if he does not hate, he scorns;


    And scorn and hate and fear are all with him,


    And alike deadly; he therefore, insecure;


    For man by man, each slays him in his mind.


    — Bailey















    —————————


    SOME NOTES ON THE ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT


    OF AMERICAN FREEMASONRY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (By F. H. P. Rogers.)


    ————


    Documentary evidence and tradition are alike silent with regard to the introduction of Masonry into America.


    Perhaps the earliest reliable evidence we have is the fact that Governor Belcher, the Crown's representative


    in Pennsylvania, was initiated in 1704 in England, and carried back with him in 1705 upon his return to the


    Colonies some of the traditions and principles of the Craft. Ten years later in 1715, a letter is said to have


    been written by John Moore, the King's Collector at Philadelphia in which he alludes to spending a few


    evenings with his Masonic brethren.


    There is also in the Grand Lodge records of Massachusetts for 1883, reference to a lodge warranted in


    Boston in 1720, but which died out shortly afterwards owing to the strenuous opposition it encountered.


    After this we have nothing authentic till 1730, when the real history of Masonry in the United States may be


    said to have its commencement; and we are confronted with a mass of complicated and interesting


    information, both reliable and unreliable.


    In an article such as this it is an impossible task to give more than a most superficial account of the history,


    development, and achievements of Masonry in the United States of America.


    The Colonies were under the government of England, both politically and Masonically, and it was not until


    after the successful Revolution that American lodges were free to develop in the Craft as their inclinations,


    desires, and attainments required, and for fully a hundred years they were under the supervision and rule of


    the G.L. of England, this being acceptable to them.


    Accordingly, when Benjamin Franklin, having been received in St. John's Lodge in February, 1731,


    succeeded to the position of W.M. in 1734, we find him making application to the G.M. of Massachusetts; a


    very prominent man and Mason. one Henry Price of Boston, for a charter to be granted by the G.L. of


    England, whose appointee Price was, for the formation of an American G.L. with all necessary powers for


    granting charters to new lodges to be constituted throughout the country,


    It is interesting to note that St. John's Lodge styled itself as the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts though


    applying to Bro. Price for a G.L. charter, and though Henry Price was G.M. for all America, he would have


    to refer St. John's Lodge's application to the G.L. of England. This charter was not granted till 1749, when


    Franklin held the position of Provincial G.M. One of the contributing factors to this delay was a tragic


    occurrence happening in Philadelphia in 1737, whereby a young man, believing he was being initiated into a


    genuine lodge, was, by a number of false and pretending Masons, so severely burned while undergoing the


    spurious initiating ceremonies that he died from his injuries the next day.


    This most unfortunate incident severely handicapped the growth and prosperity of the Order at that time.


    At the first G.L. held under his "deputation," or Charter as we now term it, of 5th September, 1749, Franklin


    appointed his Grand officers, and granted a warrant to St. John's Lodge in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in


    which city the first Masonic Hall was erected, in 1754; and in 1760 Franklin was present at a meeting of the


    G.L. of England, under the title of Prov. G.M. of Philadelphia.


    The last official act of the "First Lodge in Philadelphia" occurred in 1782, at which date it still existed, but in


    a state of suspended animation, and with few members. About 11 years later all the lodges in that city under


    the original G.L. of England ceased to exist, being evidently replaced by lodges founded and fostered by the


    American Grand Lodge authorities. The Masonic Hall was sold, and the proceeds, nearly £600, were donated


    to the civic authorities to buy coal for poor people.


    We may note here that no record of any of the Philadelphia lodges, constituted and sanctioned by the G.L. of


    England, ever appeared on its rolls. But it was not so with some of the Massachusetts lodges.


    The "First Lodge in Boston," or "Holy Lodge of St. John," was constituted 31st August, 1733, by Henry


    Price, Provincial Grand Master, as evidenced by letters in the Boston records, one letter also having been


    transcribed into the minutes of Lodge Glasgow, Kilwinning, in 1736, having been discovered and published


    in the "Keystone" of June, 1880. This "First Lodge in Boston" was placed on the Roll of the G.L. of England


    in 1734, and also on the Roll of Irish Lodges for 1735, under the name "Lodge of the Hoop," Walter Street,


    Philadelphia—which latter listing is apparently erroneous, though no explanation exists.




    At each capital, Boston and Philadelphia, there was a Society of Masons. meeting sometimes as a Grand, and


    at other times as a Private Lodge.


    Henry Price appears to have been Master of the "Lodge of Masters," and also of the "Second Lodge of


    Boston," in 1738 and 1750 respectively. In the first lodge, only two degrees were conferred, the third not


    given in it till 1794. A separate set of minutes were kept of the "Master Masons' Lodge," or, in other words,


    of the "Lodge of Masters," and it was a common procedure throughout the country to keep independent


    records of the Third Degree.


    Masonic authorities have estimated that between 1733 and 1739, one hundred and five Masons were


    identified with the "First Lodge in Boston," fifteen of whom founded the "Master Masons' Lodge," and only


    six were subsequently raised therein. From 1739 to 1751, two hundred and thirty-eight joined the lodge, of


    whom eighty-four became Master Masons, so that many appear to have been content with the First and


    Second Degrees, just as we find was formerly the case in Scotland, where the practice was a very general one


    until late in the last century, and was still extant in Germany in 1880.


    Henry Price held the office of Grand Master four times, resigning it intentionally, for the good of Masonry,


    no less than three times. At his last installation in 1767, he was installed at Boston as the "Grand Master for


    North America." This remarkable man and Mason instituted forty-two new lodges, as Prov. Grand Master,


    before his induction as G.M. for North America, this culminating rank granted to him by the G.L. of


    England, through Lord Viscount Montague, "Grand Master of Masons." Among the lodges constituted by


    Henry Price was the lodge at Fredericksburg, Virginia, in which George Washington received the degree in


    1752; and we find the name of Paul Revere with the honourable title of Deputy Grand Master, in 1792.


    Enough has been shown in a brief sketch of the birth and early history of Masonry in the United States of


    America. From the foregoing it is possible to realise the growth and development of the Order in the leading


    colonies up to the Revolutionary period.


    Let us now look into some of the leading characteristics of American Masonry extant today. One cannot fail


    to be struck with the multiplication of Societies founded upon, or connected with, the Ancient Art.


    Every student of Masonic literature is cognisant of the flourishing existence in America of Temple Masonry


    of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.


    But to our British brethren, the titles of "The Order of De Molay," the "Tall Cedars of Lebanon," the


    "Grotto," the "Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine," etc., are quite incomprehensible.


    Americans are a gregarious race, they naturally gravitate to each other in Clubs, Societies, and Fraternities.


    They find mutual enjoyment in each other's society. From their first days in any of the larger universities


    they learn the advantages to be gained in college fraternities; the working man joins his Union or his club,


    such as "The Elks," "The Red Men," or "The Foresters." In every phase of life, the desire for collective union


    is predominant, and why not? "Vox populi, vox Dei," is as true today as ever, and "In the multitude of


    Counsel there is Wisdom."


    In no other country in the world, is the desire for social co-mingling more freely expressed and enjoyed.


    From the highest esoteric, scientific, and educational founts of human thought and aspiration, to the crudest


    and most materialistic aspects of life, there runs an irresistible, irrepressible motive of sharing with one's


    fellow-men, the joys, the trials, achievements, and accomplishments, though oftentimes futile and barren


    they may be. Americans are a sentimental people, susceptible to their emotions to a far greater degree than


    the British, but the effects are dissolved and forgotten more quickly. Warm-hearted when their sympathies


    are aroused, their generosity is ready and ample, and the numerous Masonic Homes throughout the whole


    country are magnificent testimonials to their innate sense of duty and kindness.


    While the lack of formality upon occasions at which the Britisher expects and demonstrates its presence,


    appears crude and careless, still inevitably will be found there, a certain hidden sense of decorum and


    sincerity, bashful at being displayed to the gaze of onlookers. To this very prominent feature of American


    life and habit, that of mixing freely among every social stratum, is probably a clue to the tendency of the


    American freely to give voice to his, or her, opinions, in or out of season. He, almost invariably, has his


    personal viewpoint to express, and in congenial surroundings, expatiates, cogently and forcibly on his views.


    Towards what our British brethren term "The Classics," such as Literature. Art, etc., he is inclined to be


    indifferent, assuming that such things are not of apparent value in this practical world; but at the same time


    he fully appreciates an apt poem, or a well-rounded speech, and will, tersely and cordially, so let the speaker


    know.




    Probably to British brethren it will be interesting to hear something of the well-developed system in America


    pertaining to the material welfare and assistance, organised throughout the country on behalf of the members


    of the Craft. In almost every city and town the length and breadth of the United States, there exists a Masonic


    Bureau manned with a conscientious, practical, and devoted staff selected for their ability along these lines.


    The expense of running these Bureaux is met in most cases by a per capita tax on the membership of the


    Blue Lodges, merely a few cents per member, monthly. Some Bureaux in addition are helped out by grants


    from the State Grand Lodge, but this is not generally done.


    The paid staffs in every instance are ably assisted, gratuitously, by a number of brethren belonging to the


    legal, medical, and industrial professions, and it is impossible to describe adequately the generosity and


    value of these brethren, who frequently have their own struggles to wrest a competency for themselves, yet


    who freely give of their talents to help those who are temporarily in need of their services.


    When it is realised that there are now in the United States, as of 1st January, 1941, no less than 15,270 Blue


    Lodges, with a membership of 2,464,590 members, compared with only 9,775 lodges, and 569,304 members


    in 1885, it is evident that this tremendous increase entails a heavy strain on the sociological phases of


    attending to the requirements of those travelling throughout the country, on their different missions, aims,


    businesses, and every Bureau has plenty to do.


    It may not be out of place in a sketch of this nature, to make reference to the generous help extended by the


    various Orders of Freemasonry to the brethren in Britain, in these days of "danger, necessity, and


    tribulation."


    The A.A.S.R. alone has sent 145,000 dollars to Britain and to other countries; and the Knights Templar as


    much more; various Grand Lodges of Blue Lodge Masons about 100,000 dollars in addition, all of which


    eloquently testifies to the type of practical Masonry inherent in American Masonry. The generous hearts of


    all branches of Freemasons, wheresoever dispersed in America, beat most strongly and sympathetically for


    the brethren, not of Britain alone, bit of other and more distressesd countries, and feel confident that Truth


    and Right will ultimately prevail. —"The Freemason's Chronicle."


    —————————


    PUT THEM TO WORK.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    It has frequently been declared that the most successful Master of a lodge is the one who finds work for the


    greatest number of members. There are plenty of Masters who are willing to assume the burden of endless


    routine work involved in the administration of the lodge's affairs, evidently being imbued with the idea that


    the way to make sure that something is done is to do it yourself. Their faithfulness and self-sacrifice are to be


    commended, but it is doubtful whether they will achieve the greatest possible success by pursuing this


    course. Such an industrious Master will find sufficient outlet for his energies in seeing to it that those


    commissioned to perform a duty are successful in carrying out his plans and instructions.


    All lodges have members on the side lines who are not only willing to do something for the lodge, but will


    be gratified by being given the opportunity to become active. In fact, in their subconscious mind there is a bit


    of resentment that they are not called upon for service of some kind or other. Some of them may not appear


    to be likely material for competent workers, but many of them will develop surprisingly if given the


    opportunity. The real value, however, is not so much in their accomplishments as in the fact that it


    tremendously stimulates their interest in the lodge's work. Giving them something to do, however trivial it


    may be, fills them with a feeling of responsibility and value to the lodge.


    Some Masters appoint an imposing list of members of committees, which is a step in the right direction, but


    there is a tendency to designate officers, Past Masters, and active members, because of their greater


    experience and known reliability. The point is to develop new workers, members who are inclined to be


    backward, newly raised members, and even non-attending members. There is a gold mine of potential values


    in these neglected quarters which the energetic Master may call into action. Let them know that they are part


    and parcel in the administration and furtherance of the lodge's work, and in most cases they will readily


    respond.


    Masters and officers will plead with their members to visit the sick, and do other things of a like nature, and


    the members fail to heed his call for help, simply because what is everybody's business is nobody's business.


    Assign a man a specific duty, to visit a certain indisposed brother, for instance, and the chances are much


    better that he will make good. The personal touch glorifies the task, even if it is only running an errand.




    Along this line we copy from a message sent by the Grand Master of Virginia to the Masters of the lodges in


    that Jurisdiction. He says, in part:


    "I would remind you that no real progress in Freemasonry is possible without the help of all our members.


    Too few there are who assume the burden and the responsibility for carrying on the work which needs to be


    done. The best Master of his lodge is that brother who deliberately forgoes the opportunity of doing


    everything himself and who, on the other band, arranges matters so diplomatically that the actual details of


    his lodge's programme are performed by the other officers and by the members (at least some of them) who


    ordinarily sit on the side lines. Even in our smaller lodges there are many things which the 'ordinary' member


    can do. The Master has only to call upon him and nearly always the desired response is forthcoming. Let me


    urge that he take to heart the suggestion given, and that he strive to make his year distinguished by the one


    fact that, during his administration of the lodge's affairs, he had more members actively participating in the


    work of the Lodge than any Master before him. In my judgment this is a most laudable ambition and will


    redound to the bene-, fit not only of his particular lodge but, what is more, to Masonry throughout our entire


    jurisdiction." —"Masonic Chronicle."


    —————————


    THE ARCHITECTURE (PLANNING).


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Addresses given by the following at Communication of Dist. Grand Lodge of Natal.


    ————


    W. Bro. W. J. Beall, P.Dist.G.W.


    ————


    The first essential in architectural planning is the determination of factors such as the nature of the site, the


    extent of the intended structure, the limits of its several parts and their relations one to another, as well as the


    materials to be used.


    To co-ordinate these factors into a practicable and harmonious scheme is the function of planning.


    Without planning we can be no more than caretakers of the structure we inherit from our fathers.


    Furthermore, the external appearance of the building has to be expressive of its purpose. All these


    considerations figure in our Masonic plan. The controlling factors are determined by the Almighty Architect


    and laid down for our guidance in the Volume of the Sacred Law.


    For foundations we have available those of our operative predecessors whose architectural achievements,


    notably the Cathedrals, are our "Goodly heritage" to-day.


    Indeed it is from the mediaeval Cathedral we may draw a stimulating example for our own planning.


    The creative instincts of the Cathedral Builders expanded along the bed of a great current of human


    endeavour; the work they have left us testifies to the unconquerable human soul; to man's strength, both in


    patient routine and in far flung adventure.


    The Cathedral was usually in a state of development, either by alteration or extension. New Work was


    fashioned in contemporary style, but invariably made to harmonize with that which had been done before.


    Further, the Cathedral was obviously designed for purposes additional to orthodox worship. Sculpture,


    stained glass and mural paintings represented the incidents of Bible History from the creation to the


    redemption of mankind. The virtues and vices, with their symbols, were displayed along with their reward or


    punishment; Saints and Angels told of the better life, and the various handicrafts, both of peace and war,


    were portrayed.


    I have mentioned that a building must be expressive of its purpose. What impression does our Masonic


    structure convey to "the man in the street"—the passer-by?


    Is our planning likely to enhance the public reputation of the institution?


    People are interested by Freemasonry. Many hold it in respect from personal knowledge of its members and


    of the services it has rendered in response to public appeals; and some are those who have benefited as


    dependants of deceased, or distressed brethren, for the Craft is mindful of these obligations which it has


    assumed to itself.


    Others would have us believe that the impression our plan conveys to them is no more than that of any social


    institution save, perhaps, that we are apt to pay undue compliments to one another.


    The plan we envisage for our Masonic structure has a sanctuary for the practice of our rites and ceremonies;


    a place where those who truly seek inspiration may find it in pursuit of the hidden truths and in the society of




    their brethren. Its portal, though guarded against towns and intruders, is really wide, for the qualifications for


    admission are not exacting to the average "man of good report." Its windows are obscured and analogous to


    the stained glass windows of the Cathedral which display beauty that is visible only to the eyes of those who


    seek it within the Sanctuary. Ample accommodation is provided for those who seek, in all sincerity, to enter


    the Temple of Freemasonry. It is available to men of all races, creeds, castes and colours and includes men of


    all degrees of culture and learning. It offers the fulfilment of the desire, which is inherent in all normal


    human beings, for friendship, social contact, brotherhood. It includes a code of life and conduct and


    encourages cultivation of the higher qualities of the mind.


    There can be no question that every Initiate, by his obligation, must regard himself as on the architectural


    staff in this planning, and consciously seek the vision necessary to develop it on the lines the requirements of


    the order call for. This is indeed an abiding responsibility with every one of us who participates in its


    mysteries.


    In the present disturbed conditions, due to the war, many Lodges find they have little to do in the way of


    degree working, and this suggests a practical extension of plan.


    In most Lodges there are brethren possessed of knowledge, or experiences, which it would be interesting and


    instructive for those present to hear about. If the question is only to put to them "Have you anything to


    communicate?" the response would, no doubt, be as immediate as that of the candidate for initiation and no


    further prompting would be required.


    Some Lodges already make a practice of such lectures. Some of us can recall one given years ago by the late


    W. Bro. De Fenzi, of particular interest to the Craft on the marks and symbols on Kaffir Snuff Spoons, and


    there were other talks, notably by medical brethren, on the hidden mysteries of nature and science contained


    in the human body.


    Freemasonry encourages progress. The Entered Apprentice, by application and industry, becomes a


    Craftsman; the Craftsman by practice becomes skilled; if he has vision and imagination he attains,


    ultimately, to creative art which stamps him as a Master.


    We are told "It is the hope of reward that sweetens labour." To the true craftsman the sweetest reward must


    needs be the approbation of his fellow craftsmen whose expert judgement is naturally more authentic than


    public opinion.


    In the old City of Florence, there are, at the Baptistery, some very beautiful bronze doors with panels


    modelled in relief to represent scenes from Old Testament history, one of the scenes being the visit of the


    Queen of Sheba to King Solomon's Temple. The craftsman who designed and wrought the doors (in the 15th


    century) was Lorenzo Ghiberti, and when they were completed he sought the judgement of his friend Filippo


    Brunelleschi, a great master of design and craftsmanship, as to whether the doors were worthy of their


    purpose and Brunelleschi's reply was: "They are worthy to be the gates of Paradise"; and that is still the name


    by which they are known.


    But our immediate concern is with the present. We have inherited a historic tradition which requires from us


    the expression of our own generation, otherwise we shall fail in the responsibility which has been entrusted


    to our keeping.


    We are conscious of fundamental changes in our world; and yet those changes should bring us not despair


    but hope; for those who design in the spirit there can be no final failure; so long as the Order continues to be


    animated by men who have the vision to perceive the wisdom, strength and beauty of its objective, so will it


    prosper.


    Our constant aim must be so to plan that our work shall endure, and generations to come shall count us


    among the most worthy of their predecessors.


    ———


    THE CONSTRUCTION (BUILDING).


    W. Bro. E. S. Henochsberg, K.C., P.Dist.G.W., Dist.G.D.C.


    An Architect is usually employed to lay lines and draw designs before the construction is commenced.


    Particularly is that so with all stately and superb edifices. It is, however, the Builder aided undoubtedly by


    many Artificers who is employed in the construction or erection of an edifice. Both Builders and Artificers


    require Tools and Materials to work upon and those materials may vary from raw matter to prepared stone.


    What is more, during the course of construction the work may frequently be hidden from view by


    scaffolding.




    Although such a building is designed by man—the Architect—built by man—the Builder—for the use of


    man yet it is undeniable that every part is inspired by the G.A From Him came the mind and His was the


    hand to guide the construction. Man may, nevertheless, be himself regarded as a building or temple and yet


    also as the builder thereof, because it is he who has the construction of the building or temple. But in that


    construction the work of man is guided by God.


    The plan is without question correct for man is God's conception. God created man in His own image. He


    breathed into him the breath of life and gave unto him a living soul.


    The real mission of Masonry is to build in human life, an Ideal Temple and Masonry provides a plan for the


    guidance and instruction of each workman that he may build a Temple in his own life. As in the building of a


    physical structure, so in this construction must there be a solid foundation. What then is the foundation upon


    which this Temple is to be built? It is faith in the G.A. A Mason's first act before his initiation is to declare


    his trust in the G.A. He is according to the First of the Antient Charges obliged by his tenure to obey the


    moral law, and if he rightly understand the art he will never be a stupid atheist, nor an irreligious libertine.


    He is particularly bound never to act against the dictates of his conscience.


    The greatest possible care should be taken not to dampen the ardour of an initiate. A building can so easily


    be ruined by the weakness of its foundations. Too many Masons have been spoilt by bad examples. An


    initiate's ardour can easily be dampened by a bad impression created by indifference, ridicule, scorn,


    contempt and such like faults on the part of those who ought to know better. It is for the same reason that


    strict and stern control ought to be exercised over the ceremonial and later during the refreshment period.


    Thoughtless levity and rude jesting are quite out of place. As stated in the Sixth of the Antient Charges, you


    may enjoy yourselves with innocent mirth, treating one another according to ability, but avoiding all excess.


    Upon the foundation of the Masonic Temple thus laid, the construction may be erected, but as in the case of


    all beautiful edifices an immense number of Builders and Artificers are necessarily employed. These


    Builders and Artificers will be found to be of all types and characters, each playing varying parts in the


    construction of the life of the Mason all about whom they will range themselves, just as in the construction


    of a physical edifice varying parts are played by the craftsmen of the various trades and professid,ns.


    The best Builders and Artificers will be found to be men who practise their craft both inside and outside the


    Temple; men to whom the burdened heart may pour forth its sorrows, to whom the distressed may prefer


    their suit, whose hand is guided by justice and whose heart is expanded by benevolence; Masons who raise a


    superstructure perfect in its parts and honourable to the builder. All Masons shall work honestly on working


    days that they may live creditably on holy days.


    The young Mason is first entered as apprentice and taught to build. His first lesson is "Know Thyself." He is


    presented with his first tools, the 24" G., the common Gl. and the Ch. Thereafter having correctly divided his


    days into prayer, labour, leisure and charity, the E.A. with those tools to aid him commences the


    construction. Self-examination and self-pruning will be his job. He must be ready to give of his time—his


    charity—and to spare a thought for others. His mind prepared by the Ch. should recognize more rapidly his


    old faults and failings.


    What materials is he to use, however? His personal gifts, his qualities or attributes, his judgement, stability of


    faith, honesty of purpose, loyalty and self control, all these and others are available to him. What in others is


    found to be praiseworthy he is to imitate and what defective to amend.


    As in the case of all buildings, however, the mass of material assembled for the use of the builder must be


    resolved from disorder and chaos in the mass. Difficulties and trials must be faced before order can be


    created. Passing from apprenticeship he becomes a F.C. and after his labours with the 24" G., the common


    Gl. and the Ch., he next makes use of the S.L. and P.R.


    He applies, to the work without a thought, such daily expressions as fair and square, a square deal, on the


    level, on the square, an upright man and above all he begins to apply the tools to himself. He must judge


    himself by the S., the L. and the P.R. and adjust his life within the scope of their influence. By so using these


    tools the Mason is not only enabled to use them upon himself, but also to learn to judge others by them.


    When so judged none ought to be found wanting. The Mason is taught the great influence of Benevolence


    and Charity and used in their wider and nobler sense they form the pillars in his new structure.


    Whilst the building is thus progressing the Mason frequently withdraws within himself, as it were behind a


    barricade or scaffolding. This gives him time for quiet contemplation and a silent weighing up. The


    scaffolding has many forms according to the man—it may be a natural reserve—a mannerism—fear—an


    apparent indifference—or even a flippancy. These form the outer shell, but behind, the building continues.




    Occasionally the outer shell is pierced by an intimate and sympathetic brother and a glimpse of the Temple


    behind the scaffolding reveals a man of true worth.


    All with whom the Mason comes in contact leave their influence on his life, hence he should surround


    himself with good sound and loyal friends. Such friends can by heart to heart talks frequently assist in the


    building. As it progresses so old ideals pass and new are created, in fact the old order yieldeth place to new.


    This at any rate would seem to be what the ceremony of the 3rd D. teaches. The O. in that d . . . , so full of


    significance lends an added strength and purpose to life and character and gives to the brother such a


    different outlook that his building is raised to the status of a Temple indeed.


    Now he learns that all his mental and physical powers are to be used as the cement of brotherly love. His


    mind is thus purified from all baneful and malignant passions and his labour enriched and ennobled. He is


    now entrusted with new implements, the Sk. P & C. all simple, but full of meaning for the progressive


    Builder. Finally, he is told that the C. circumscribe the area of his influence and that area depends upon his


    own efforts.


    Thus we come to our own Temple and those in building around us. Every virtue we possess must be given,


    to its full, if we are to contribute to the work of Masonry and benefit mankind and the world at large.


    We are building every day


    In a good or evil way:


    And the structure as it grows


    Must our inward self disclose,


    Till in every arch and line


    All over hidden faults outshine.


    Do you ask what building this,


    That can show both pain and bliss—


    That can be both dark and fair?


    Lo! its name is Character.


    Build it well, whate'er you do!


    Build it straight, and strong, and true!


    Build it clean, and high and broad!


    Build it for the eye of God!


    High, fine and beautiful are the faith and vision which Masonry gives to those who foregather at its shrine.


    Loyalty, the great corner stone, and Charity the Corinthian pillar, give strength and solidity with grace and


    beauty to the edifice of our own lives, while joy and pleasure in the success of others provide further adorn-


    ments.


    Slowly the building grows, fashioned by the thoughts and righteous acts of devout and free men—built in


    their own hunger for truth—their love of the G.A. and their loyalty to themselves and each other.


    Older Masons well know that patience and industry, with sincerity and truth, will build a Jacob's ladder


    reaching from earth to heaven, while a Tower of Babel can easily result from the employment of wrong


    materials and. methods and a lack of unity among the builders.


    Yet be slow to criticize for remember we all come under the test of the S. and C . . . s Criticism is useless


    unless it is fair and just and tempered by a kindliness that will help, encourage and inspire. Thus Masonry


    helps to build and perfect our own lives; truly, this is a difficult task, but nothing comparable to a noble and


    beautiful character faithful to its plan and faithful to itself.


    We are blind until we see, that in the human plan


    Nothing is worth the making, if it does not make the man,


    Why build cities glorious, if man unbuilded goes,


    In vain we build the work, unless the builder also grows.


    The art of building is a living allegory in which man imitates, in miniature, the world temple and seeks by


    every means to discover the secret of its stability. A life's work is the adornment of the soul. So we may


    strive to raise in our souls a temple not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens, and to build a construction


    perfect in its parts and honourable to the builder.











    ————


    THE STRUCTURE.


    By R.W. Bro. W. A. D. Russell, District Grand Master.


    Our whole Order is founded upon, and permeated by, the rules and traditions of that most ancient craft of


    Building. It is fitting, therefore, that when we are gathered together in numbers greater than ordinary


    circumstances permit, as in our local Lodges, we should give some time and thought to the nature of these


    rules and traditions, and examine for ourselves their value and significance for us. Life, we know, is


    manifested by constant movement and change; hence every truth which is really vital must be capable of


    ever fresh presentation and ever fuller interpretation as the experience of men and communities and nations


    is amplified and enriched. "Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers" the poet tells us, and all the knowledge


    of our Craft which we are constantly at pains to acquire will remain but a sterile appanage unless we take


    trouble to vivify it by reflection and practice. It is for this reason that I have chosen the general topic of


    today's addresses.


    We have listened with care and attention to those which have already been delivered. We have followed in


    imagination the thought, the care, the meticulous attention to detail which skilful planning entails, and have


    paid tribute to the vision which must inform the mind of the architect ere his creation takes its first form in


    line. From the plan we have followed the steps of construction, noting the exactness of procedure, the


    strength and quality of material, as we have been led from vision to execution. Now we come to the stage of


    achievement.


    The completed edifice, material or spiritual, has its own significance. What is that of our material centre—


    our Masonic temple? It is planned with care; it is constructed according to plan, finished and fitted in


    harmony with the strict requirements of our fellowship, held sacred to our private use. What is it then td us?


    Let us recognize that it is, to us, what each of us makes it. What it should be is a shrine of fellowship within


    the walls of which no disturbing factor is allowed to operate; a refuge from daily cares and fretting distrac-


    tions; a sanctuary to which we come to offer the best of ourselves to our fellows, and to look for the best in


    them. Here, if anywhere, is the place where we should be able to prove the truth of the words.


    "Be noble, and the nobleness that lies


    In other men shall rise to meet thine own."


    If the Temple be less than this to any one of us, let such an one consider whether he has brought of his best to


    the heart and centre of his craft. Let him also consider whether he has striven consistently to keep from it all


    threats to harmony. Has he left upon the threshold all that might cause or foster friction—politics: business,


    family, or personal differences: even questions of religion? We know too well how easily trouble may be


    caused by any one of these, and without a true endeavour on the part of each of us to exclude them from our


    sanctuary, its atmosphere can never be what in our hearts we all desire to find it.


    But we must remember that if we find the core of our fellowship within, there are still those without, who are


    not of our brotherhood. They are without; nevertheless, the Temple is before their eyes. If they cannot


    penetrate the inner mysteries, yet the very existence of the building says something to them. It should be to


    them a symbol of all that they have learnt to associate with our Order, and what they have learnt is what we


    have taught them. How often has it been said that in the principles of Masonry there is no secret, in their


    application no mystery? In their apprehension there need be no uncertainty, if every individual brother does


    his utmost to carry into his daily life the practice of those tenets which he has learnt in the Temple. So will


    our material centre, a sanctuary to us, become to those without a symbol of the love and kindness and


    righteous dealing for which they seek. Wherever they fail to find it, let them not fail here,


    We have thought of what our material edifice may mean to ourselves and to others. Let us not forget that as


    we go about our daily business we are architects also of a spiritual edifice, of a character and personality


    which should gain in depth, in richness and in influence through our connexion with this great Order.


    Whenever our eyes chance to fall, in these days, upon a bookseller's window, we see staring at us copies of a


    book with an intense immediate appeal "The Bombing of London." On the paper cover is an unforgettable


    picture. Serene above drifting clouds of smoke and dust, the immediate foreground a sea of debris, is the


    dome and cross of St. Paul's. That dome covers ground familiar to many of us, hallowed by tradition to all


    civilized nations, and it stands, as a great sanctuary should, a symbol to all who pass by of imponderable


    realities which sweeten life and strengthen fortitude both in prosperity and adversity. Beneath it numbers of


    us have read the memorial tribute to him whose architectural genius gave to his country and his people a


    sanctuary and a symbol which has served and heartened them for many generations. May I remind you how


    that tribute ends? "Si monumentum requieris, circumspice" which, freely translated, is "If any of you seek




    this man's monument, look around." Brethren, it is not given to many of us to build an actual temple to the


    glory of God, but it is given to all to build what they will into character. With a clear plan in view, with good


    will to put our very best into the structure, we may hope that, should any man in the future seek for a


    memorial of us, achievement may be such that those who look around may say, "Here is this man's


    monument—here is where he left the world a little better than he found it."


    —————————


    THE CLOUDS.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The wavering clouds, above—below,


    This shifting, drifting, earthly ball—


    What anchor can the worn heart know


    Except the Lord who made them all.


    In perfect peace the man shall be


    Whose mind, O God, is stayed on Thee.


    —————————


    GOOD v. EVIL.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    "A noted Churchman stated the other day that the foundation of all true education is religious. I am sure he


    did not mean the dogmatic religion belonging to any particular church, but religion in the wide dictionary


    sense, founded on a belief in the moral order of the universe, within which order we, inescapably, as free


    human spirits, have to take our full responsibility whether or not we fully understand how we shall be held to


    account for the way we discharge those responsibilities. The good life, therefore, which I conclude is what


    we are all promising ourselves after the war, is not primarily a thing of codes and systems, but of spirit—


    spirit based on a faith in ultimate goodness; a faith strong enough to be the 'avenue to knowledge'—


    knowledge of the ultimate realities upon which all our education and culture must be based if we would build


    a better world." —W.E.E., "Liverpool Express."


    —————————


    OBITUARY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    W. BRO. T. E. McKENZIE, P.M.


    ———


    Lodge Phoenix, No. 43, Akaroa, suffered a great loss by the death at Christchurch Hospital, on 21st


    December, 1941, of W. Bro. T. E. McKenzie, after an operation.


    W. Bro. McKenzie was initiated in Lodge Phoenix on 29/2/1912, installed into the Chair of King Solomon


    on 12/9/1919, and was appointed Secretary on 12/9/1930, which position he held up to the time of his death.


    He was also Secretary of the Akaroa District High School Committee, Banks Peninsula Rugby Football Sub-


    Union. Both positions he held for a number of years, and for the past two years he was Secretary of the


    Banks Peninsula Agricultural and Pastoral Association.


    Bro: McKenzie was cremated at Christchurch, the service being conducted by the Rev. Hayward, assisted by


    the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. H. J. Moore.


    The service was a very impressive one, both Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodge were represented,


    besides a large number of P.M.'s and Brethren of the Lodge.


    The pall-bearers were members of Phoenix Lodge, W. Bros. F. Davis, W. E. M. Jacobson, A. M. Helps, C.


    Stewart, P. G. Riches and A. H. Williams.


    The sympathy of a large number of Craftsmen and friends in Canterbury will be extended to the widow of


    our late Brother and his three sons.













    —————————


    M.W. BRO. E. W. G. H. WATTS, P.G.M.


    ————


    On the 10th day of February last, there ascended to the Grand Lodge above Most Worshipful Bro. George


    Watts. The passing of a vivid and lovable personality is always difficult.to believe. We yet expect to see the


    familiar form and hear the cheery voice. As a close personal friend I should like in my own halting way to


    pay tribute to one who figured so largely in the Masonic life of this country for 'more than a generation. I


    would that these my words of appreciation could borrow the atmosphere and vitality with which my subject


    himself was so bountifully endowed. And where to begin? '


    How can one define a personality which made all feel when he entered a temple that he was at once a leader


    and a brother! What were the qualities which gave us this impression?


    His was a rare combination of commonsense, upright intentions, methodical thoroughness, vivid appreciation


    of his fellow men, all flavoured with a genial sense of humour. In his daily walk he combined excellent


    artistry with commercial understanding—a rare achievement, and one greatly appreciated by the firm which


    employed him. In his elevated sphere in the Craft he took part in many of the great occasions of our Order.


    One cannot forget the oratory of his farewell speech to our distinguished and Most Worshipful Brother Sir


    Charles Fergusson. At the Grand. Lodge Communication in November last he conducted the Installation


    Ceremony with distinction, though the hand of death was even then upon him.


    And though he walked with Kings he ne'er forgot the common touch. On the day of his funeral a small boy


    asked that the few simple flowers which he had brought should be buried with his friend. Here is a true index


    to the delightful character of the Brother we admired, and whose loss we now mourn. One remembers the


    words in the Volume of the Sacred Law, "Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of


    such is the Kingdom of God."


    As a ritualist blessed with a fine voice and elocutionary appreciation, his work was always well and truly


    rendered. How oft will the Brethren of his own Lodge recall his wonderful recital of the Retrospect. And yet


    that is not the correct word. He gave such a charge not as a recital but as a message from an experienced and


    sympathetic brother to another who was fumbling and feeling his way.


    He could stand up for what was right with no uncertain tone. He abominated shams and pot-hunting, but


    anyone in distress could always rely upon his helping hand. He was full of wisdom, learned in the hard


    school of the world's ways, and could always give a reasoned judgment. He had faults—which of us has


    not?—but they were greatly outweighed by his many virtues.


    As Shakespeare said of Brutus: "His life was gentle; and the elements so mix'd in him that nature might stand


    up and say to all the world 'This was a man.'"


    And so we leave him, never forgetting however that he was a Brother who carried the tenets of our Order—


    Always onward—ever upward.


    —————————


    LIFE.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (By Charles D. Lewis, 33deg.)


    When we gaze, on a moonless, clear night, at the heavens glittering with stars, and know that each fixed star


    of all the myriads is a sun, and each probably possessing its retinue of worlds, all peopled with living beings,


    we sensibly feel our own unimportance in the scale of creation, and at once reflect that what has, in different


    ages, been religious faith could never have been believed, if the nature, size, and distance of those suns, also


    of our own sun, moon and planets, had been known to the ancients as they are to us. To them, all the lights of


    the firmament were created only to give light to the earth, as its lamps or candles hung above it. The earth


    was supposed to be the only inhabited portion of the universe. The world and the universe were synonymous


    terms. Of the immense size and distance of the heavenly bodies, men had no conception.


    If, with the great telescope of Lord Rosse, we examine the vast nebulae of Hercules, Orion, and Andromeda


    and find them resolvable into stars more numerous than the sands on the Seashore; if we reflect that each of


    these is a sun, like and even many times larger than ours, each beyond a doubt, with its retinue of worlds,


    swarming with life; if we go further, in imagination, and endeavour to conceive of all the infinities of space,


    filled with similar suns and worlds, we seem at once to shrink into an incredible insignificance.




    Many men do not feel the worth of their own souls. They are proud of their mental powers, but the intrinsic


    inner, infinite worth of their own minds they do not perceive.


    For the dying soul there is no lamentation; for the lost soul there are no obsequies. And yet the mind and soul


    of man have a value which nothing else has. They are worth a care which nothing else is worth, and to the


    single, solitary individual, they ought to possess an interest which nothing else possesses.


    The stored treasures of the heart, the unfathomable mines that are in the soul to be wrought, the broad and


    boundless realms of thought, the freighted argosy of man's hopes and best affections are brighter than gold


    and dearer than treasures. And yet the mind and soul is little known or considered. It is all which man


    permanently is, his inward being, his divine energy, his immortal thought, his boundless capacity, his infinite


    aspirations. Nevertheless, few value it for what it is worth. Few see a brother-mind in others.


    Men doubt, whereas a diligent study of astronomy and creation in all their various forms will very quickly


    convince the most sceptical that the physical part of man is only transitory and that the real and everlasting


    man is the spirit and soul. The difference among men is not so much in their nature and intrinsic power as in


    the faculty of communication.


    Life, compared to eternity, is but a dream at best, and therefore we owe it to ourselves to get the most out of


    it, which naturally can best be done through study and enlightenment, for as we sow, so shall we reap.—


    "The New Age."


    —————————


    LINES TO AN ENGLISH CHILD.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Sleep, peacefully, O child;


    Above thy head, high in the sky


    Ride gallant souls, whose destiny


    To keep thy peace safeguarded,


    So thou, when our own anguish o'er.


    Shall come to man's estate


    May build upon the wreckage of this hour


    A structure into which is wrought


    The steel of sacrifice and courage


    Unbreakable in face of awful things—


    Performed in Satan's name;


    To perpetrate upon thy faith


    A travesty of force, unspeakable


    In brute ferocity.


    Through all the night the shymen ride,


    Seeking the vultures who would rob thee


    Of thy heritage, O child!


    But blissfully sleep on, then wake


    To brighter morn, with rising Light


    Bespeaking better days.


    When thou and others of thy like


    Shall make of earth a happier place


    To 'live and work; where God of Right


    Shall triumph over darkness,


    And renew men's confidence in Him


    Who built this sphere, which


    Evil men have sought to spoil by hatred—


    Through their foul designs,


    This is the prayer thy parents offer up;


    That thou be saved to do all this;


    That errors of the past may not recur,


    But life to all may happier be,


    And glory rise to heights sublime


    Through service and thanksgiving lo the God


    Whose mercy brought thee through Gethsemane,




    Like that His Son passed through on Calvary.


    Sleep on, O little one. Thy hour shall come;


    The battle's on; but victory'll yet be won.


    ALFRED HAMPDEN MOORHOUSE.


    —————————


    AUCKLAND NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    To be installed in the Chair of K.S. for the third time in thirty-two years is a record that is unique. V.W. Bro.


    W. C. Finnis, P.G.D.C., was first installed in St. Augustine Lodge, No. 4, in 1910, and when the Combined


    Forces Lodge, No. 284, was formed in 1925 he was its first Master and since that day has been a vital force


    in raising this Lodge to its present high standard, not only of efficiency but of fraternal spirit. Now, in 1942,


    he again occupies the chair of this Service Lodge, lacking nothing in the zeal for which he is noted.


    W. Bro. Ronald Isaacs, Am Lodge, No. 1, and his officers, initiated two candidatees at the regular meeting


    on 11th March.


    W. Bro. A. Bright, W.M., United Masters Lodge, No. 16'7, gave a most interesting and instructive address at


    the regular meeting of Lodge Albion, No. 45.


    W. Bro. H. M. Dodd and his officers carried out the ceremony of raising a candidate at Lodge Selwyn, No.


    274, on 4th March.


    W. Bro. Arthur E. Playle, W.M., Lodge Manukau, No. 24, is to be congratulated on his appointment to an


    important post in U.S.A. shipping control in Australia. W. Bro. Playle has proved a popular Master during


    his term of office.


    At the Installation meeting of Combined Forces Lodge, No. 284, M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M.,


    Prov.G.M., on behalf of the brethren of the Lodge, presented Bro. Harry Woolley with a beautiful china


    coffee service in recognition of his services as Organist for the past 17 years. The Prov.G.M. made a very


    appropriate reference to the work of Bro. Woolley, to which he suitably replied.


    W. Bro C. V. Casbolt, of Lodge Takapuna, No. 202, and his officers carried out the ceremony of raising a


    candidate at the regular meeting on 16th March.


    A change from the usual practice will take place when Lodge Owairaka will hold its Installation meeting on


    Saturday, 21st, in the Temple, St. Benedict's Street.


    At the first meeting of the year of the Sitting Masters' Committee for the Entertainment and Assistance of


    Service Brethren, W. Bro. Les. Salter presided. W. Bro. S. H. Clark, who has been acting as Secretary, was


    elected to that office and W. Bro. J. Blazey is Treasurer. There was a good attendance of Sitting Masters or


    their representatives. The minutes of the annual meeting were read and confirmed. A great deal of good work


    has been done during the past year and contact has been maintained with the various liaison officers in all


    camps. Those Lodges that have been assisted in various ways have expressed their appreciation of the work


    of the committee. The Chairman gave the opportunity after the business had been transacted for a general


    discussion on any matters pertaining to the welfare of Lodges in general in the district and members felt that


    this was all to the good. A sub-committee, comprising the Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and one other


    Master, was given power to act in any urgent matter that arose between the regular meetings of the general


    committee.


    —————————


    TARANAKI NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Taranaki Rose Croix Chapter's meeting on 9th February was the first held since the petrol restrictions and the


    "blackout," The attendance was surprisingly good and the meeting was voted a fine one. The Chapter is


    doing well as far as membership is concerned. Three names were approved at this meeting.


    Lodge Hawera worked a Third at the February meeting and two joining members were balloted for.


    E. Comp. R. R. Curtis is First Principal in Egmont R.A. Chapter and will be installed at the April meeting.


    Bro. A. J. Gibbs, S.W. of Lodge Patea, was duly installed as W.M. of Lodge Patea on 11th March. The


    function was successful in every way and the new Master has very bright prospects for the coming year.


    R.W. Bro. J. C. Barclay, Prov.G.M., conducted the meeting, and the Deputy G. Master was present.




    Mt. Egmont Lodge, No. 670, E.C., now meets in the Robe Street Hall, and Lodge Ngamotu, No. 48, meets in


    the Te Henui Temple.


    The W.M. of Lodge Ikaroa had the pleasure recently of initiating his brother.


    The following appears on the Taranaki Lodge notice: "W. Bro. T. G. Liddington has resigned as Secretary of


    the Lodge after about nine years' efficient service in that office. During that period he endeared himself to the


    brethren by his genial, sympathetic, tactful and efficient disposition." A eulogistic resolution was passed. The


    writer would like to endorse these sentiments, having enjoyed W. Bro. Liddington's friendship for nearly


    forty years.


    W. Bro. S. R. Veitch has been appointed Secretary and the Lodge can be congratulated on the appointment.


    W. Bro. D. S. Richardson has been made an honorary member of Lodge Taranaki as a reward for


    outstanding service.


    A Masonic church survive was held at St. Mary's Anglican Church, Hawera, on 15th March.


    E. and P.P. Bro. J. Christoffel, Jun., has been nominated as M.W.S. of Pukekura Chap. R. Croix.


    St. John's Lodge, No. 95, held the Jubilee Installation meeting in February and had a very successful


    gathering. The Prov.G.M., accompanied by a goodly number of G.L. officers, attended and congratulated the


    Lodge on its fine record of 50 years. The S.W., Bro. J. Madden, was installed as Master and can be depended


    on to maintain the high standard set by his predecessors and carry on the good traditions of the Lodge.


    W. Bro. J. L. Campbell compiled a history of the Lodge, which was circulated in the form of a pamphlet. In


    an interesting speech W. Bro. Campbell emphasized a number of statements contained in the booklet.


    Lodge Moa, No. 110, celebrated their Installation on 16th March, when Bro. Ron. Ashton was placed in the


    chair. There was a good attendance, indeed, the visitors turned up almost like old times.


    There is a fine spirit in the Lodge and the I.P.M., W. Bro. Ross, has reason to be satisfied with his year just


    closed.


    Bro. O. Spurdle, who has been Tyler for 45 years, has resigned and the Lodge presented him with an


    armchair, a gift of special significance as all who know Lodge Moa will understand. By special request, Bro.


    Spurdle sang the ballad of "The Old Armchair."


    —————————


    SOUTHLAND NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The first City Installation meeting of the present year was held on 11th March when W. Bro. D. S. Troon


    was placed in the chair as Master of Lodge Southland, No. 273, for a further term,


    R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., was in attendance with his Grand Lodge officers and had charge of the


    ceremony.


    V.W. Bro. L. Ireland, G.L. officer, Irish Constitution, who is in camp at Invercargill, was present at this


    meeting, supported by a number of military brethren.


    The annual Installation of Lodge Wairaki, No. 145, held on 14th March, attracted a wonderful attendance of


    members and visitors and should be very encouraging to the newly-installed Master, Bro. Jas. Ed. Lewis.


    The Combined Social Committee commences operations for the 1942 winter season this month, and hopes to


    have another successful season.


    The Directors of the Invercargill Freemasons' Hall Co. will in future hold their monthly meetings on the 4th


    Thursday of the month at 8.30 p.m.


    The question of providing suitable "black out" equipment for the Forth Street Temple has been dealt with by


    the Hall Company.


    The enthronement of E. and P. Bro. J. C. Mackenzie as M.W.S. of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36,


    was ably carried out by E. and P. Bro. W. F. Irvine, P.M.W.S., on 31st March.


    Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, conducted the ceremony of Exaltation at their regular meeting


    last month.


    The investiture of V.E. Comp. Geo. H. Brown as Grand Supt. was carried out at this meeting by M.E. Comp.


    T. M. Rankin, P.G.Z.


    The Installation of Lodge Orepuki, No. 137, was held at 3 p.m. on 21st March, followed in the evening by a


    similar function at Tuatapere by Lodge Tuatapere, No. 210.




    Sympathies are extended to W. Bro. F. J. Logan, P.G.S., in the recent death of his wife.


    Past Masters of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, with W. Bro. C. W. Francis in the chair, conducted the third at


    their March meeting.


    The Thanksgiving Service held in the Forth Street Temple by Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3,


    was of a most dignified and impressive nature. An assemblage of 50 Companions was delighted with the


    masterly address delivered by M.E. Comp. E. C. Smith, P.G.Z.


    The hand of death has again been active in the district during the past month. Lodge St. John, No. 94, lost


    Bro. J. S. Brass, Lodge Victoria, No. 147, Bro. J. H. Roderique, and Lodge Taringatura, No. 100, W. Bro. H.


    Graham, P.G.S.


    When visiting Tuatapere to conduct the Annual Installation of Lodge Tuatapere, No. 210, on 21st March,


    R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., and a number of Grand Lodge officers called on R.W. Bro. Geo. E.


    Charlton, P.G.W., who has been laid aside for the past twelve months or more.


    As a war measure, conventional evening dress will be conspicuous by its absence from Invercargill Lodges


    for the "duration."


    Explanation of the Tracing Boards and the ceremony of raising were conducted at the March meeting of


    Lodge Harvey, No. 49.


    R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., when speaking at the festive board proceedings of Lodge Wairaki, No. 145,


    warned brethren of difficult days ahead and called on all to be loyal to King and Country and their beloved


    Craft; and in working for the good of humanity try to repay in a small measure their debt of gratitude to the


    old pioneer members who laid the foundation of our fair Dominion and our respective Lodges.


    W. Bro. F. Murray, Master of Lodge Harvey, No. 49, accompanied by several brethren, paid an official visit


    to Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, last month.


    V.E. Comp. W. R. Allen, Z., presented a full report of the Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter at the


    February meeting of Southern Cross R.A. Chapter, No. 3.


    Master, officers, and a number of members of The Hiram Lodge, No. 46 (Dunedin) paid an official visit to


    Lodge St. John, No. 94, on 28th March, and raised one of their own brethren also a member of Lodge


    Southland, No. 273, to the Third Degree.


    Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, will hold its regular meeting a week later this month owing to the Easter


    holidays.


    The ceremony of passing was conducted in Lodge Fortitude, No. 64, on 21st March, by the Master and


    officers of Lodge St. John, No. 94.


    W. Bros. W. Kelman, P.A.G.D.C., and F. Tilley, P.G.Org., made a name for themselves as vocalists at the


    recent Installation meeting of Lodge Orepuki, No. 137. W. Bro. G. J. Reed, Asst.G.D.C., also contributed a


    couple of excellent elocutionary items. These talented brethren will no doubt be in great demand at future


    meetings.


    Bro. A. King has a record of about 25 years as Tyler of Lodge Orepuki, No. 137. Truly an outstanding


    example of service to the younger members of our noble Craft.


    W. Bro. A. L. Kay, who was unable to attend the Annual Convocation of Grand Lodge, was invested as


    Grand Steward at the annual Installation of Lodge Orepuki, held last month.


    The retiring Master of Lake Lodge of Ophir, No. 85, recently enjoyed the unusual privilege of installing his


    successor into the Chair of K.S. The Master-elect, Bro. R. J. Buckham, unfortunately could not obtain the


    necessary leave from Air Force Camp at Levin to enable him to attend the regular Installation meeting on the


    14th February. However, advantage was taken of his being home on final leave a week later to call an


    emergency meeting, under dispensation, for the 24th February, when the ceremony of Installation was duly


    carried out by W. Bro. G. J. Jones, assisted by the Past Masters of his Lodge. The standard of work was


    surprisingly good, particularly in view of the short time available for preparation, and all those concerned


    thoroughly appreciated the opportunity of contributing to this ceremony. The newly installed Master has


    since left for overseas to continue his training.


    —————————


    NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Sympathy from the North Group is extended to V.W. 13ro. A. T. C. Sellars in his sad loss.




    Acacia had a very good night at its last meeting, when W. Bro. A. D. Fox explained the First Tracing Board


    in his usual expert and thorough manner. There was a large attendance of brethren.


    Mairaki is having quite a busy time and have a couple of candidates. W. Bro. Prouse has had a very good


    year and the installation of his successor will be in April. City and Country Lodges are invited, and, as usual,


    Mairaki will be ready to receive the crowd expected.


    The Ashley Chapter is very busy and recently exalted three companions and there was quite a good


    attendance to see V.E. Comp. Williamson and his Companions do such a splendid job of work and as usual


    V.E. Comp. George Harlow, Scribe E., took a leading part with his usual vigour.


    The Ashley Installation was a brilliant function and in spite of petrol shortage, etc., there was an excellent


    attendance. Bro. Robert McIntyre is the new Master, and he was installed by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, and


    his officers were installed by officers of Prov. Grand Lodge, and they all made a good job of their parts. As


    usual, the refectory proceedings were right up to standard.


    Kaikoura had quite a nice meeting for its first under the direction of W. Bro. Lance McLeod, and there was a


    good attendance. It was decided to wear ordinary dress at future meetings till the emergency is over.


    Amuri is in working order once again and had a very good meeting recently when a very interesting paper on


    old timers was read.


    The Hanmer Brethren are all very busy and any visiting Home Guardsmen can get a good welcome if they


    see Bros. MacDonald, Jordan or Andrews at Hanmer, who will show them all the "Beauty Spots."


    The Tawera Installation went well and Bro. John Stevens was installed as Master by R.W. Bro. C. S.


    Thompson, assisted by officers of Prov. Grand Lodge.


    It was a wonderful meeting and the many visitors greatly enjoyed themselves.


    As usual, the Tawera ladies, under the direction of W. Bro. Inwood, put on an excellent supper, and music


    and speeches made the proceedings go well.


    Southern Cross, being near the City, gets its full share of visitors, and W. Bro. Tavendale and his officers and


    brethren are keeping the Lodge going strongly.


    W. Bro. Archer had a grand finish to a busy year at Cheviot, and a full attendance, and he was thanked for


    his skill and energy during his year of office.


    Every Lodge in the North Group has brethren overseas, and the group wish them well.


    W. Bro. Les. Gibbs, c/o Wigram, can assist any airmen brethren if they look him up.


    Anybody sick in hospital should get in touch with W. Bro. Theo. Seward, Ranfurly Street, St. Albans, who


    will be pleased to visit them.


    Petrol is the item that controls our movements from a distance at present.


    The brethren in the North Group have been very busy with harvesting and sheep sales, etc., lately, and then


    for the week-end, by way of a "nice change"—they have been having some nice digging picnics, etc., with


    various organisations in their district—no gold or oil has been struck yet —but the Waikari-Hawarden men


    have dug up a lot of "sea shells," luckily of the non-exploding type—sharks' teeth and fish bones and an odd


    moa's leg have been found in various places—and all over North Canterbury there are some nice little


    gardens ready for planting.


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


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


    It is requested that Correspondents will be good enough' to limit the length of their reports by making them


    as concise and brief as possible. The Editor reserves the right to condense and shorten over-long reports.


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


    CRAFT LODGES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    SOUTHLAND.


    Orepuki, 137.—W. Bro. W. J. Ferguson, Master, presided over a good attendance of members and visitors


    held in the Masonic Hall, Orepuki, on 21st March. Visitors, including R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., and


    G.L. officers, were received. The ceremony of installing Bro. Jas. S. Morrison was impressively conducted


    by the Prov. G. Master, ably assisted by W. Bro. G. J. Reed, A.G.D.C. Ob. of Master by R.W. Bro. A.




    Derbie, P.Prov.G.M.; W.Ts. explained by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M.; Address to Master by


    Prov.G.M. The Wardens were invested by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M., and addressed by R.W. Bro.


    A. Derbie. Further assistance as Investing Officers was given by V.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, P.G.D.C., W.


    Bros. P. Bayne, S.G.D., J. I. Dixon, P.G.S., Wm. Kelman, and H. J. J. Pierce, P.A.G.D.Cs. Address to


    Brethren by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M. Collection in aid of W.O. & A.M. Fund was well


    supported. On retiring from the lodge room all retired to the refectory, where an enjoyable hour was spent at


    the festive board.


    ———


    Wairaki, No. 145.—W. Bro. A. E. Potter, Master, presided over a good attendance of members and visitors


    at our Installation meeting held on 14th March. Grand Lodge was represented by R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.


    G. Master, R.W. Bro. S. C. K. Smith, J.G.W., and a strong following of Grand Lodge officers. The


    Installation of Bro. J. E. Lewis was in the capable hands of the Prov.G.M. The duties of Asst.G.D.C. were


    carried out by W. Bro. Gordon J. Reed. W. Tools were presented by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M., and


    the A.G.D.C. Address to newly installed Master by the Prov.G.M. The Wardens were invested by R.W. Bro.


    Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M., and addressed by R.W. Bro. Syd. C. K. Smith. The junior officers were invested


    by V.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, P.G.D.C., W. Bros. Wm. Kelman, H. J. J. Pierce, J. A. Cushen, P.A.G.D.Cs.,


    and A. R. Malcolm, P.G.S. Address to Brethren by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M. A handsome Past


    Master's jewel was presented to W. Bro. A. E. Potter as an expression of appreciation by his brethren for ser-


    vices rendered to his Lodge. Collection in aid of W.O. and A.M. Fund was well supported. The newly-


    installed Master returned thanks with a few well-chosen words and invited all to assemble at the local Town


    Hall and enjoy a social hour around the festive board. The Tyler's toast terminated a most successful and


    enjoyable meeting.


    ———


    Tuatapere, No. 210.—There was a good attendance of members and visitors present at our Installation


    meeting, held in the lodge room, Tuatapere, in March, when Bro. W. A. Low was installed into the Chair of


    K.S. at the hand of R.W. Bro. Andrew Noble, Prov.G.M., and G.L. officers. The Master-elect was obligated


    by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M., in the presence of a strong Board of Inst. Masters. On resuming in


    open Lodge the customary proclamations, salutes, and processions were made in the three degrees under the


    direction of the A.G.D.C., W. Bro. G. J. Reed. Pres. of Charter, B. of Const., By-laws, and Address to Master


    by the Prov.G.M. The Investiture and Address to the Wardens were given by R.W. Bros. A. Derbie and Jas.


    Manson, P.Prov.G.Ms. The beautiful Address to the Brethren was delivered in an impressive manner by


    R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M. The Chaplain and Treas. were invested by V.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell,


    Sec. and D.C. by W. Bro. Wm. Kelman, P.A.G.D.C.; Deacons by W. Bro. Peter Bayne, S.G.D.; Inner G. by


    W. Bro. J. A. Cushen, P.A.G.D.C., and the Stewards and Tyler by W. Bro. R. A. Garden, P.G.S. Past


    Master's certificate was presented by the Prov.G.M,, and a P.M.'s jewel to W. Bro. E. D. King by R.W. Bro.


    A. Derbie as a mark of esteem by members of the Lodge. The newly installed Master briefly thanked all for


    the high honour conferred on him. The subsequent proceedings in the refectory contributed much to a most


    enjoyable and successful meeting.


    Southland, 273.—Our annual Installation was held in the Masonic Temple, Forth Street, Invercargill, on


    11th March, when W. Bro. D. S. Troon, Master, presided over a good attendance of members and visitors,


    including R.W. Bro. Andrew Noble, Prov.G.M., and Grand Lodge officers. The ceremony of the evening


    was conducted by the Prov.G.M., assisted by W. Bro. G. J. Reed. A.G.D.C. The present Master, W. Bro. D.


    S. Troon, was presented by W. Bro. E. H. J. Preston and addressed by the Inst. Officer, and placed in the


    chair for a second term. W. Tools presented by W. Bro. G. J. Reed, A.G.D.C. Presentation of Charter, B. of


    Con., By-laws, Charter and Address to Master by R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M. The Wardens were


    invested and addressed by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov. G.M., and R.W. Bro. Sydney Smith, J.G.W.,


    respectively. The remainder of the officers were invested by W. Bros. W. Kelman. Wm. J. Watson, H. J. J.


    Pierce, P.A.G.D.Cs., W. Bro. Peter Bayne, S.G.D., and W. Bro. C. J. McEachran, G.S. The Address to the


    Brethren was delivered by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M. A Past Master's jewel was presented to W.


    Bro. E. H. J. Preston by the Prov.G.M. on behalf


    of his brethren. The Lodge was closed and a


    retirement made to the refectory, where a dainty


    banquet was enjoyed. The usual loyal and Masonic


    toasts were proposed and acknowledged


    interspersed by several acceptable items.




    —————————


    AUCKLAND.


    ———


    Papakura, No. 56 —We regret to record the passing of W. Bro. Joseph E. Elliott. P.M., which occurred in


    Auckland on the 2nd March. "Joe," as we familiarly called him, was one of the best. His life was given to


    Education and for 16 years he was headmaster of the local school. Many of his pupils have gained high


    positions and owe their success to the foundations laid by our late W. Brother. For his age, 70 years, and up


    till the last year he enjoyed a healthy and energetic life. At the time of his decease he was a member of the


    Auckland Education Board and was also connected with other activities. Of cheerful disposition and happy


    nature he was always a bright light in the refectory. His grasp of ceremonial work fitted him for any office in


    the Lodge. The last rites were carried out at the Waikumete crematorium on the 3rd, where the Masonic


    service was ably and impressively conducted by W. Bro. Geo. Stobie. W.M. There was a large gathering of


    members to pay their last tribute. We shall miss him, for he was both our counsellor and friend.


    Resuming labour for the new year there was a fair gathering at our February meeting when the nomination of


    officers took place, the election being on 3rd March. The Installation is set down for 7th April.


    The Lodge paid a visit to Lodge Prince of Wales, No. 1338, E.C., on the 12th March, when an interesting


    event took place. A handsome Organist's jewel was presented to the late Bro. Major Pirie, just fifty years


    ago, who at that time had completed twelve years' service at the organ in that Lodge. Bro. Pirie had made the


    request that upon his decease the jewel was to be handed back to the Lodge. One of his sons was entrusted


    with the mission. The son took seriously ill and passed away. The jewel lay in the possession of the son's


    widow for some ten or fifteen years and was forgotten until recently when Mrs. Pirie was packing up to


    move to Auckland. It came into the hands of our Bro. Secretary, who interviewed Mrs. Pirie, and obtained


    the facts. The jewel was handed to the W.M. of Lodge Prince of Wales in open lodge by our Bro. Secretary,


    who thus carried out the request of Bro. Major Pirie and fulfilled a promise made to Mrs. Pirie (the son's


    widow) that it would be returned to the Lodge by Bro. Secretary's own hand.


    The late Bro. Major Pirie was an Organist of outstanding ability and also a composer of rare talent. He was


    closely associated with the late Bro. Dr. Erson, P.Dist.G.O. of Onehunga, who also was a composer of more


    than usual distinction.


    The W. Master, in acknowledging the return of the jewel, paid a neat compliment to Lodge Papakura, No.


    56, and also to our Bro. Secretary for the trouble taken in carrying out a request and a promise. W. Bro. Geo.


    Stobie. W.M. of Lodge Papakura, No. 56, made the preliminary remarks.


    ———


    Combined Forces, No. 284.—In spite of the war situation, which has naturally depleted the ranks of all


    Lodges, there was a really fine attendance of sitting Masters and brethren at the annual Installation ceremony


    of the Combined Forces Lodge, No. 284, where they were received by W. Bro. L. E. Salter, W.M. V.W. Bro.


    W. C. Finnis. P.G.D.C., was installed in the chair by M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., Prov.G.M., who


    paid tribute to V.W. Bro. Finnis, who was being installed for the third time. He was assisted by V.W. Bro. G.


    Rowland Hutchinson, G.D.C. The Presenting Officers were W. Bros. S. H. Clark, W.M., United Service, No.


    10, and A. E. Playle, W.M., Manukau, No. 24. Bro. Harry Woolley officiated at the organ and W. Bro. H. C.


    Strong was Herald. The Working Tools were presented by W. Bro. C. J. Ellis, W.M., Lodge Auckland, No.


    87. W. Bro. H. M. Dodd, W.M., Lodge Selwyn, No. 274, and W. Bro. S. T. Carter, W.M., Lodge Onewa,


    No. 182 R.W. Bro. W. W. Wright presented the Warrant, Book of Constitutions and By-laws. The Address


    to the W.M. was given by V.W. Bro. Spencer R. Mason, G.R., to the Wardens by W. Bro. W. E. Carter,


    J.G.D., and to the Brethren by M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson. The following officers were invested: W.M..


    V.W. Bro. W. C. Finnis, P.G.D.C.; I.P.M., W. Bro. L. E. Salter; D.M., W. Bro. N. H. Good; S.W., Bro. G A.


    Woolter; J.W., Bro. W. G. Gladding; Chaplain, W.V. Bro. S. R. Mason, G.R.; Trees., Bro, R. G. Seller; Sec.,


    W. Bro. V. Dunne; D.C., W. Bro, E. N. Kirtlan; S.D., Bro. J. Horspool; J.D., Bro. E. D. Chapman; LG., Bro.


    W. E. Maguire; H.S., Bro. J. A. Jenks; S.S., Bro. M. Watson; J.S. Bro. A. G. Anderson; Tyler, Bro. D. E.


    Sarney. A pleasant social hour was spent in the refectory.


    ———————


    HAWKE'S BAY.


    ———


    Ruahine, No. 80.—At the regular monthly meeting for March there was a good attendance of officers and


    brethren, the ceremonial work being a "raising." The Past Masters, under the direction of V.W. Bro. W. H.




    Nicholas, Past. G. Chap., as Acting W.M., worked the Degree, The candidate is serving in H.M. Forces. The


    ceremony was conducted in a very dignified manner, reflecting credit on the P.Ms. At the conclusion of the


    work, V.W. Bro. Nicholas expressed his thanks to the W.M. for the opportunity of raising his son. Despite


    the difficult times being experienced, the Lodge is maintaining a high standard of work and all officers and


    brethren are evincing a lively interest in Lodge matters.


    —————————


    ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Southern Cross, No. 3.— The regular monthly convocation was held on 25th February in the Masonic


    Temple, Invercargill, with V.E. Comp. W. R. Allen, Z., in the chair. After dealing with the routine business


    the Chapter was adjourned and a Lodge of Excellent Masters opened by W.E. Master H. J. J. Pierce and


    officers. Two candidates were acknowledged. Bible readings by Bro. B. J. Perkins, Historical Lecture by W.


    Bro. G. H. Brown, Final Charge by W. Bro. C. B. Gibbs. On resuming in open Chapter arrangements were


    made for the Thanksgiving Service held in the Temple on Sunday, 1st March. The usual social hour around


    the festive board was most profitable and enjoyable.


    ———


    Huiroa. No. 47.—The regular convocation was held in the Masonic Hall, Gore, on 7th March, V.E. Comp.


    G. McLeod, Z., presiding over a good attendance of companions. The V.E. Comp. First Principal, who was


    delegate to the recent Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter at Wellington, presented a most interesting


    report of the business transacted at that important function. The ceremony of exalting four Companions was


    ably carried out by V.E. Comp. McLeod, assisted by M.E. Comp. E. C. Smith, P,G.Z.. V.E. Comps. R. P.


    Boyne, P.G.D.C., J. Robertson and Thomson. Three propositions were placed before the members. An


    enjoyable social hour terminated a successful meeting.