THE CRAFT AND THE WAR. ...













    THE CRAFT AND THE WAR.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    T is interesting to observe that in recent appearances at important Masonic gatherings in England,


    the M.W.G.M. (H.R.H. the Duke of Kent, KG.) has not lost the opportunity to stress the importance


    of the World War for the present and future welfare of the Craft as well as of the Empire and our


    Allies. In his remarks at the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of England in December


    last, and at the recent Installation meeting of the New Zealand Lodge in London, His Royal Highness


    referred to Masonic activities in the national cause, and indeed treated it as axiomatic that the interests


    of the Empire and the Craft are identical. We have no doubt whatever that the commonsense and


    innate convictions of Freemasons everywhere will endorse this attitude.


    It is true that Freemasonry is universal in its appeal, and international in scope. It is not confined to


    any race or nation or country, and it is not committed to or bound up with any specific type of


    Government organisation. It is, however, also obvious that the universality of the Craft can extend


    only to those who accept its basic principles: the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man. The


    Craft is willing to welcome as friends and potential brethren those who subscribe to these


    fundamentals, but those only. If, however, men individually or collectively, deny or flout God, then


    Freemasonry as such can have no part or lot with them. Neither, as long as they retain such belief, or


    absence of belief, do we, as Freemasons, have any obligation towards them of a specifically Masonic


    type.


    Similar considerations apply in the case of those men or groups of men who repudiate our second


    fundamental principle of the brotherhood of men. It is hard to believe that in the present age there are


    countries of allegedly white civilization that reject this basic humanitarian principle. The Nazi idea of


    a Herrenvolk or master race does however seem to come into such a monstrous category. It would


    seem that the dominant party in Germany to-day regards the Germans as a sort of super-race, and


    other nations as of inferior quality, and fitted only to minister to the needs and desires of the master


    race. It is surely obvious that as long as such a view is held, those holding it can have no part or lot


    with Freemasonry, and indeed would not desire to do so. Those nations rejecting the ideals of the


    Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man clearly are, as long as they retain such views, outside


    the scope of Masonic universality, and the Craft as such owes them no specific duty.


    Somewhat similar considerations apply, we suggest, in the realm of Government. Freemasons, both


    individually and collectively, could accommodate themselves with little difficulty to any rational


    system of civilized Government, provided it is compatible with the basic ideals on which the Craft


    depends. This is rendered all the easier by the fact that Freemasonry as we understand it takes no part


    whatever in political life, or in political issues, which are frequently of a contentious character, and


    quite properly so. Individual Freemasons do, and should, take part in Government and political


    controversy, but in their capacity as citizens, and not as members of the Order, and politics are left


    outside the door of the Lodge. The correct attitude in this matter has never been better summed up


    than in the following passage from an address delivered by the late M.W. Bro. J. J. Esson, whose


    memory is still so fresh among us:


    "It is not the duty of Freemasonry to solve the problems of the State, or to become involved in


    its administration; but as a State can be improved only as its constituent members are made


    better, national service is rendered through the improvement of the individual."


    In actual practice, however, the march of events and the rude clash of war may prevent the Craft from


    maintaining its neutrality in a benevolent secular atmosphere; and while this is not at the moment an


    imminent danger to us, it has happened elsewhere, and the "it can't happen here" outlook of futile


    optimism is one that is now being rapidly discarded. The safety of the Craft, from this point of view,


    I




    is intimately bound up with the result of the war, and the measure of success that crowns the Allied


    arms. In countries of dictatorial type Freemasonry has been discouraged, suppressed, or driven


    underground. If as the result of adverse war happenings, this territory, for example, had a totalitarian


    Government imposed from without, or a dictatorial form of Government grown up from within, it


    cannot be assumed that the Craft would be permitted to function undisturbed in the future as it has


    done in the past.


    In regard to internal problems, Freemasonry also has two principles of importance on which it relies,


    and these are freedom of the individual in speech and thought; and toleration of the opinions, speech


    and thought of others. Few are now so naive as to think that, if the democratic ideals for which the


    Allies are fighting were not to prevail, freedom and toleration would be permitted to survive. Such


    conceptions, among the most precious of civilized humanity, have already been swept away in


    countries that have come under the heel of the Nazi, That they would suffer likewise here in similar


    circumstances hardly admits of doubt.


    It is on account of considerations such as these that responsible leaders of English-speaking


    Freemasonry see clearly that the issue of the present war touches us all very deeply not only as


    citizens, but as members of the Craft. A victory for the Allies means also a victory for the Craft, while


    any other outcome of the war raises issues for Freemasonry of a kind none of us would care to


    contemplate. The moral of this situation is plain. However repugnant in general terms war is to


    Masonic ideals, as indeed it is to all idealism whatever, there are greater evils than war. When our


    liberty, as citizens and Freemasons, is at stake; indeed, when it is a matter of our very existence as an


    organised body, there is no room for hesitation. All Freemasons to whom the Craft means something


    are under an imperative duty to get behind the war effort to the full extent of their power and ability.


    ————————


    CONSECRATION OF MASONIC TEMPLE AT WHANGAREI


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    A red-letter day in the history of Lodge Whangarei. No. 102, was 13th April, when the beautiful


    temple erected in 1934 was consecrated. The ceremony was performed by M.W. Bro. Nicholson,


    P.G.M., Prov.G.M., assisted by a number of Grand Lodge officers who had accompanied him from


    Auckland. At the conclusion of the ceremonial, which was carried out most impressively, the


    Prov.G.M. expressed joy that he had been permitted to consecrate a building the foundation stone of


    which he had laid.


    In the evening M.W. Bro. Nicholson installed Bro. Eric Rudolf Stainton, W.M. of the Lodge, in the


    presence of a very large gathering of brethren, including representatives of many Lodges throughout


    Northland. V.W. Bro. G. Rowland Hutchinson, Jnr., G.D. of C., was Director of Ceremonies and W.


    Bro. L. R. Hegley, W.M., Lodge Parahaki, No. 269, and W. Bro. L. R. Le Ruez, W.M., Star of the


    North Lodge, No. 1647, E.C., were Presenting Officers. Other officers installed were: S.W., Bro. W.


    H. Calvert; J.W., Bro. J. S. T. Tudehope; Chaplain, W. Bro. J. A. Inkster; Treas., Bro. A. H. Kearne;


    Sec., W. Bro. P. S. N. Connell; D. of C., W. Bro. W. J. McLeod; S.D., Bro. E. Woledge; J.D., W. Bro.


    W. J. Dodd; Organist, W. Bro. R. T. Tudehope; I.G., Bro. J. Fuge; S.S., Bro. A. Fricker; J.S., Bro. A.


    Hilton; Tyler, W. Bro. A. H. Curtis. A very happy time was spent in the refectory.


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


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


    At the May meeting of Lodge Waimea, No. 266, V.W. Bro. F. C. J. Cockburn delivered a very


    instructive address dealing with the "Relationship of Symbols to the Craft."


    ————


    The Company has sent the following circular letter, dated 27th April, to all Lodges, Chapters, etc.,


    advertisers, and is self-explanatory: —


    At a meeting of the Directors of the Company held on 24th April, 1942, the question of the greatly


    increased cost of printing and publishing "The N.Z. Craftsman" was considered.




    The published price per annum of "The Craftsman," 10/-(including cost of postage) and Lodge


    advertisement rate, £1 (including copy of the paper) has remained stationary for many years. Both are


    very low figures, particularly the latter.


    The cost of publication since 1936 has increased by at least 33⅓ per cent., and up to the present such


    increase has been borne by the Company, which of late years has been running at a loss.


    Owing to war conditions, the Company is now faced with a further immediate increase of 40 per cent.


    for printing alone, and is no longer able to carry on without an addition to its revenue. The Directors,


    after most careful consideration, have decided to increase the Lodge advertisement rate to £1 7s. 6d.


    per annum, including a copy of the paper, as from the June issue. This small additional sum will not


    affect Lodge finance, but will be a very considerable help to the Company, and the Directors feel sure


    that all Masonic bodies will agree to the small additional charge.


    The Directors do not propose to increase the rate of subscription at present. It is encouraging to report


    that, notwithstanding the difficult times through which we are passing, our circulation has slightly


    improved.


    The Directors would be glad if Worshipful Masters and Officers of Lodges, etc., would endeavour to


    induce more of their members to become subscribers.


    CHAS. W. NIELSON, Chairman.


    JAMES W. JACK, Secretary. ---


    ————————


    PRESENTATION TO R.W. BRO. J. A. NASH, PROV.G.M., RUAPEHU DISTRICT.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The Installation meeting of Lodge Te Awahou, No. 133, took place in the Masonic Temple, Foxton,


    on 16th May, when Bro. G. F. W. Smith, S.W., was installed as W.M. There was a very large


    attendance, the temple being taxed to its utmost capacity. The ceremony, conducted by R.W. Bro. J.


    A. Nash, Prov.G.M., and G.L. officers, was carried out in an impressive and dignified manner. What


    might be termed a unique record was the attendance of four brothers of the W.M.-elect, two of whom


    came by plane from Dunedin and the other two from North Canterbury, W. Bros. Charles and Edward


    taking part in the work.


    Their presence was greatly appreciated by the brethren of the Lodge.


    It being the 25th occasion on which R.W. Bro. Nash had conducted the Installation ceremony in this


    Lodge, the members made him a presentation of a beautiful Prov.G.M. jewel to mark the memorable


    event. The presentation was made by the Master, W. Bro. G. F. W. Smith, who referred in very


    eulogistic terms to the great interest R.W. Bro. Nash had taken in Lodge Te Awahou, further the fact


    that he was born in Foxton, reference was also made to his fine record of public service. R.W. Bro.


    Nash, in accepting the jewel said that he had been taken by surprise. He thanked them for their kind


    gift and considered that the Lodge had done him a great honour in inviting him, no less than 25 times,


    to conduct their installations. Congratulatory messages were read from the M.W. the Grand Master,


    R.W. Bro. H, A. Lamb, G.Sec., W. Bro. N. R. Bain, D. Dist. G.M., E.C., and many others.


    In the refectory the usual toasts were honoured. The W. Master, in proposing the toast of the


    R.W.Prov.G.M., made special reference to his lengthy Masonic career, which extended over 44 years,


    he also enumerated the various offices held by him in Grand Lodge and his service and devotion to


    the Craft and stated he was expressing the sentiments of the brethren of the Ruapehu District and


    beyond its borders and trusted that R.W. Bro. Nash, in the not distant future, would still attain higher


    honours. A huge cake had been made supporting 25 candles. These were lit, the lights lowered, and


    the candles extinguished by the recipient. Feeling reference was made to the illness of Mrs. Nash, and


    a beautiful bouquet of flowers, prepared by wives of the Foxton brethren, wat handed to the


    Prov.G.M. for transmission to Mrs. Nash. R.W. Bro. Nash very feelingly responded to the toast,


    expressed his sincere thanks to the Lodge and said he deeply appreciated the gift from the ladies to his


    wife.


    R.W. Bro. Nash proposed the toast of the, "Smith" family, pointing out how the sons had followed in


    the footsteps of their late father, who was a respected Past Master of Lodge Ashley. He also made


    some humorous references to each of the brothers and their callings in life. W. Bros. Charles, Edward




    and Bros Stanley and Arthur all responded to the toast each making a delightful speech and containing


    a great deal of humour.


    The Installation of W. Bro. G. F. W. Smith will long be remembered by the brethren of the Lodge and


    all those who were in attendance.


    ————————


    AS OTHERS SEE US.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Lamartine (1790-1869), French, poet, historian and statesman, although widely read in his day, is


    known but little to the moderns. He was of the romanist school, which we have outgrown. He was


    popular and commanded universal influence, which, however, he could not turn to his own advantage.


    Although not a Freemason, he had the greatest admiration for the institution.


    "What is Freemasonry?" was once asked of him. His reply was: "I see only in the secrets of the


    Lodges a veil of modesty thrown upon truth and charity to heighten their beauty in the eyes of God


    and man. But for this modesty you would not conceal from men the secrets which your actions reveal.


    You are, in my opinion, the great eclectics of the modern world. You call from all time, all countries,


    all systems, all philosophies, the evident, eternal and immutable principles of universal morality, and


    you blend them into an infallible and unanimously-accepted dogma of fraternity. You reject


    everything that divides minds, and profess everything that unites hearts. You are the manufacturers of


    concord. With your trowels you spread the cement of virtue about the foundations of society. Your


    symbols are but figures. If I am not mistaken in this interpretation of your dogmas, the curtain of your


    mysteries might be drawn without the fear of revealing anything but services rendered to humanity."


    —"The Northern Freemason."


    ————————


    WESTMINSTER LODGE, No. 308.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    PRESENTATION OF UNIQUE ASHLARS.


    Arrangements extending over many months culminated successfully on Friday, 15th May, 1942, at


    the 24th regular meeting of Westminster Lodge. There was no degree work, the whole evening being


    devoted to an interesting and unusual ceremony, the unveiling and dedication of the Lodge's ashlars,


    rough and perfect.


    After the reception of the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. S. M. Stone, and Grand Lodge officers,


    and of R.W. Bro. J. W. Jack, District Grand Master, accompanied by District Grand Lodge officers of


    the English Constitution, the W. Master, W. Bro. C. M. Bowden, briefly explained the purpose of the


    meeting, acknowledging the help of M.W. Bro. Viscount Bledisloe, P.G.M., Bro. His Excellency Sir


    Cyril Newall, S.W., W. Bro. W. J. Jordan, High Commissioner for New Zealand in Great Britain, and


    the Rt. Rev. Bishop Paul de Labillière, Dean of Westminster, in obtaining the blocks of Thirteenth


    Century Reigate stone from which the ashlars had been fashioned. The stone had been taken from the


    ruined portion of Westminster Abbey, despatched to New Zealand, and there modelled, wrought into


    due form, and rendered fit for its intended purpose.


    The W. Master concluded by delivering that part of the charge on the Tracing Board of the First


    Degree relating to the rough and perfect ashlars, and called upon V.W. Bro. David Calder, P.G.Chap.,


    to deliver an address upon The Ashlar.




    THE PERFECT ASHLAR.


    We may study any one of the symbols depicted in our Lodges either as to its historic value, or as to


    its power to give us material upon which to moralise. From the historic point of view it is difficult


    to find very much that deals with the ashlar. "Plato," says an eminent Masonic writer, "thought of


    the world as a cube rather than as a sphere." St. John the Divine conceives the ideality of the world


    to come as featured in a celestial city that is a perfect cube—"the length, and the breadth and the


    height of it are equal." Just in what way Plato justified his idea we do not know; but the writer of




    the Apocalypse thought in the language of symbols, even as Masons do to-day, and his description


    can be taken as the true symbolic language of a seer. He means by his statement that the City of


    God has an inherent quality wherein the conditions are perfect, and perfectly proportioned the one


    to the other. If therefore even the historic value of our chosen symbol leads to the exaltation of


    moral values, we may safely give our time to study these with care.


    The thoughtful craftsman will soon find that there is no symbol depicted in a Masonic lodge room,


    or considered in the Masonic body of thought that is quite so full of wholesome teaching as the


    Perfect Ashlar. The Stone is described in our ritual as being one of "true die or square, fit only to


    be tried by the square and compasses." This simply states that the stone is a perfect cube—that is,


    it is equal in length, breadth, and height; and, that it is a stone whose lines are in perfect


    proportion, each to all the others. This implies the further fact that the corners, and edge lines are


    cleanly cut and are in exact relation to the other corners and edge lines—each side being a perfect


    square. We may also presume that the stone itself is of good quality as a stone, and that the


    finishing and polishing of the surfaces have been attended to by the skilful and patient workman.


    The teaching we give as to this symbol of so many good qualities, is set out in our ritual in the


    following terms: "This represents the mind of man in the decline of years after a life well spent in


    acts of piety and virtue, which can no otherwise be tried and approved but by the square of God's


    Word and the compasses of his own self-convincing conscience." Thus the Perfect Ashlar sets out


    what the worthy "elderly" brother- has become. His has been a good life—true, full and


    wholesome. Let us therefore consider its qualities in detail.


    Length ! It is good that a man should desire a long life. The Volume of the Sacred Law gives it as


    the due gift of God to the righteous, and no one need question that it is both natural and


    wholesome to desire to live many years. We, who have known childhood, youth and manhood,


    should still look forward to full age, to the quieter years of advanced life, when the passing storms


    with their fret and worry have given place to the calm of evening, to the time when we may pursue


    our chosen pleasures without the necessity of having to toil for our pay. Our pleasures may be even


    strenuous hobbies, or they may mean doing little more than study and contemplation; but in either


    case life can, and should be, more and more desirable in its advanced years. The LENGTH of a


    man's life is good.


    Breadth ! If, however, we would live many days, we must live each of them well. We want more


    than the thin long line of mere living. He is a happy man who has many interests—who adds to his


    business, due elements of sport, travel, culture and scholastic refinement, Such bring Breadth of


    Life. A man widens his outlook as he takes his part in the social and cultural welfare work of his


    community. To be a man of many parts, with each part well played, is to have breadth, and to be


    appreciated accordingly by one's fellows.


    Height ! Still we want something more than length and breadth. Such excellent qualities may be


    found allied to thinness of being. To spread oneself over many interests may quite conceivably be


    consistent witn shallowness of character, may find us living for the laudations of our fellows rather


    than with a genuine concern for their good. We must put our heart into the business. We must


    manifest a true desire to help our fellow men. In short, we must have "soul." Else, what we do, and


    what we are, is of little worth.


    The Length, the Breadth and the Height are equal ! Have you ever tried to draw a perfect cube?


    Even the most expert draughtsman will generally fail to do so. Similarly, it is a task of the utmost


    magnitude for any man to bring his character into the cube of perfect human measurement. The


    task, nevertheless, is ours, and where a task is great the only thing to do is to work steadily and


    without remission to the end of life's day; and, as we do so, to seek the help of Almighty God. We


    may on some day of personal stocktaking surprise ourselves at the good success we have achieved.


    "If only we strive to be pure and true, to each of us all there will come an hour when the tree


    of life will burst into flower, and rain at our feet a glorious dower of something grander than


    we knew."


    To have lived a full life where age, experience, and the fraternal goodwill of our fellows have


    made it rich, is to be rich indeed. The life of the Grand Lodge Above is well described in Holy


    Writ as a cube: "The Length, the Breadth and the Height of it are equal." It is more than a life of




    mere goodness. It has its place for business, charity, intellectual attainments, and for the social


    amenities.


    We need say but little about the Quality of the stone, for the teachings of the Craft have little to say


    about it. The reason is not far to seek. Our Order is composed of men chosen in the first place


    because they already were good men and true. I find only one indirect reference in our ritual to the


    quality of the material in the hands of the workman, and that is in a higher degree. It shows a


    supervisor, or overseer, testing the stone for its quality by striking it with his tool of office. We


    very naturally take a pride, each in h's own personal qualities, innate or acquired, and also in the


    stock from which we have sprung. Who will doubt that he is what he is, chiefly because he was so


    made. It is not paradoxical, however, to emphasise that we are not dead stone; but of a material


    that can in some measure be moulded by the supreme efforts of our lives. Happy is the' man who


    can live in constant thankfulness to the Great Architect because of a liberal natural endowment.


    Happier still the man who has used all his powers to such purpose that the Ashlar of his character


    has been fashioned, smoothed and polished to such purpose that it responds unfailingly to trial by


    the square of God's Word and the compasses of his own self-convincing conscience.


    There still remain several important things to be said about the Perfect Ashlar: we choose three of


    them.


    1. The Ashlar is always on its base, however upset it may have been. Thus it teaches us to meet
    every emergency of life with quiet dignity and fortitude. Each sudden experience should find us


    masters of ourselves and courteous to those with whom we have to do.


    2. The polishing is never finished. The visitor to London who is fortunate enough to see the
    Grand Masonic Temple finds in it an example of finished art and beauty; but he is somewhat


    surprised to learn that stonemasons are continually at work polishing and re-polishing the lovely


    marble. Thus no brother dare relax the vigilance by which alone he can retain .the reputation of a


    workman who needeth not to be ashamed.


    3. The finished Ashlar is suspended from a tripod in the West. It hangs between earth and


    heaven, ready for removal to the building for which it was hewn. The light of the Western Sun


    casts a soft, warm glow upon it, and makes it a thing of beauty.


    A party of tourists had spent the greater part of an afternoon in Salisbury Cathedral. I was with


    them, and it seemed to me that the stately edifice had more sanctity about it than several others we


    had visited. It had an atmosphere of quiet holiness. The visit over, I lingered on the spacious lawn


    in front of the Western facade. I saw the individual stones as well as the whole front. Some of


    them were weather worn with age and some were lichen covered. I thought of the stonemasons and


    imagined one of them standing beside me, pointing out a stone he himself had worked. That


    evening I was walking in the Constable country to the West of the Cathedral, and being attracted


    by something unusual, I turned to see the noble pile of masonry gleaming a rich, opalescent pink.


    The evening sun had caught and transfigured the whole into a celestial temple of rarest worth, and


    each stone was perfect in beauty as well as honourable in place and position. May it be given to


    each of us thus to have a place in the Temple of God, graced finally with the Light that only the


    Divine Being can cast upon it.


    Bro. His Excellency Sir Cyril Newall, Senior Warden of the Lodge, then addressed the brethren on the


    Abbey itself.


    The task of compressing the history of Westminster Abbey into a short space of time will be


    appreciated, and in the time available it is only possible to pick out a few milestones.


    "The Collegiate Church of St. Peter's, Westminster" (now Westminster School).


    The earliest history of Westminster Abbey is based on the legend that it was built on the site of an


    old Temple of Apollo and later destroyed by an earthquake. The next information regarding the


    Abbey was that it was said to be founded about 616 and built by Masons for King Sebert of the


    Saxons, and St. Peter himself is said to have appeared to give his blessing. King Sebert's tomb is


    still shown in the Abbey.


    The first undoubted reference to Westminster Abbey is in a charter issued by Offa, King of


    Mercia, dated 785, as "the Church of St. Peter on Thorney Island" (an island formed between the




    River Tyburn, the River Thames, and what was known as the Long Ditch, which was probably an


    artificial watercourse).


    In 1050 Edward the Confessor started to build a new Church as a condition that the Pope should let


    him off a previous vow to make a pilgrimage to Rome. The Church was consecrated on the 20th


    December, 1065, though still incomplete. Edward the Confessor, who died on the 6th January,


    1066, was buried in the new building. William the Conqueror was crowned in the Abbey on


    Christmas Day, 1066—all previous Saxon kings having been crowned in Winchester Cathedral,


    and every Sovereign since William the Conqueror, except Edward V, Edward VIII (who was never


    crowned at all), and possibly Mary I have been crowned in Westminster Abbey. The famous


    Coronation Chair was even used by Cromwell in 1657, but he removed it to Westminster Hall.


    In 1220 Henry III started rebuilding the Church, which was not completed until 1269. Edward the


    Confessor' body was removed to its present site in the Chapel bearing his name. This new Church


    is the main part of the Abbey to-day.


    In 1503 Henry VII started building the Lady Chapel, and the work was originally carried out by


    Freemasons under the direction of Robert Vertue, one of Henry's Master Masons. It has been


    described as the richest specimen of Tudor architecture. Henry VII had originally intended the


    Lady Chapel as a shrine for the body of Henry VI, who was expected to be canonised, the Pope


    having agreed to make him a Saint, but Henry VII refused to pay the sum demanded, and therefore


    decided to dedicate the Chapel to the Virgin Mary. Before it was finished he was buried there


    himself in 1509 in a tomb built by Torrigiano, who was paid £1,500 for his work, This Chapel is


    now the Chapel of the Order of the Bath, founded by Richard II, and is, I think, possibly the most


    beautiful part of Westminster Abbey. It contains stalls allocated to the senior members of the


    Order of the Bath, the banner of the present occupant hanging over the stall and the Coats of Arms


    of previous occupants being displayed on the back of the stall.


    In 1517, one Islip, the last of the great Abbots, completed the Nave, and the interior of the Nave


    structurally is practically the same to-day. The Monastery was dissolved in 1540, and Queen


    Elizabeth established it as a Collegiate Church in 1560.


    Many famous men have been educated at this School, including Jonson, Cowper, Dryden, Wren,


    Warren Hastings, Gibbon, etc.


    As to the outside of the Abbey, Wren (who was a member of my Craft Lodge in England—the


    Lodge of Antiquity) added the western towers between 1713 and 1740, and the whole exterior was


    restored, though perhaps not very well, in the 19th century.


    Westminster Abbey has long been regarded as the last resting place of the most famous


    Englishmen, although no Kings have been buried there since George II. There are also many


    monuments to famous men who are not actually buried in the Abbey, such as Disraeli, Salisbury,


    Charles Bannerman, Asquith, Joseph Chamberlain, and Shakespeare, Milton, Scott, Gray, Burns,


    Coleridge, and Wordsworth.


    Immediately inside the West Tower is the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior whose body was


    interred on the 11th November, 1920. Amongst the inscriptions on the grave is the following:


    "They buried him among the Kings because he had done good toward God and toward his


    house."


    Possibly some brethren were present to see the Coronation of our present King and Queen in


    Westminster Abbey. I have been privileged to see many magnificent ceremonies in England and in


    other parts of the Empire, but never have I imagined such a magnificent and moving ceremony as


    that which I witnessed in Westminster Abbey on that occasion. As will be appreciated, the normal


    seating accommodation of the Abbey is quite inadequate, and tier upon tier of seats were erected


    throughout the Abbey. We were fortunate in England at that time to have a very able and ex,-


    tremely artistic First Commissioner of Works, and the whole scheme of decoration, which was


    dark blue and gold, was simply magnificent. The music and the general pageantry were the essence


    of solemn grandeur and solemnity almost beyond description.


    As you are aware, on the 10th May, 1940, the Abbey was damaged in a bombing raid. The low


    tower in the centre was burnt and destroyed and the debris fell on the actual site of the Coronation




    in the Lantern, leaving the roof open to the sky. Fortunately, there was a 4,000-gallon tank in the


    western tower which probably saved the Abbey from total destruction, and we can be happy in the


    thought that there has been no permanent structural damage.


    Westminster Abbey has been described as (1) the great centre of the Empire's spiritual life" and (2)


    "the most lovely and lovable thing in Christendom." Westminster Abbey is indeed the heart of the


    Empire, and we are greatly indebted to the Right Reverend Paul de Labillière, Dean of


    Westminster and formerly Bishop of Knaresborough, and also to Mr. W. J. Jordan, High


    Commissioner for New Zealand in London, and the New Zealand Shipping Company for


    facilitating the arrival of these stones in New Zealand.


    May these ashlars, fashioned from stones from Westminster Abbey, damaged by a pagan enemy,


    be an inspiration to us all and help us to do our duty as Masons to God, The King, and our fellow-


    men.


    At the conclusion of the address the Senior Warden stepped down from his Chair to the table in front


    of his pedestal, on which the ashlars were standing covered with a flag, and formally unveiled them


    and dedicated them to their future use.


    The Wor. Master then called upon the Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. E. A. Wallace, to read the


    inscriptions. The plate fastened to the stand of each ashlar bears the same wording :


    THIS ASHLAR


    IS A PIECE OF 13TH CENTURY REIGATE STONE


    TAKEN FROM THE DAMAGED PORTION OF


    WESTMINSTER ABBEY


    AFTER THE BOMBING ON MAY 10TH, 1941.


    THE RIGHT REVEREND PAUL DE LABILLIERE,


    DEAN OF THE ABBEY, PRESENTED THE STONE TO


    WESTMINSTER LODGE.


    UNVEILED MAY, 1942.


    Dedicating the ashlars, Bro. His Lordship H. St. Barbs Holland, Bishop of Wellington, said:—


    When a few minutes ago I saw the two ashlars unveiled, there was one word from the Sacred


    Writings which flashed to my mind. "What mean ye by these stones?" Bro. Calder has in his


    address expounded in a very vivid way their symbolic meaning. As the roughly-squared stone


    becomes one of perfect proportion so character is shaped and chiselled by the experience of years


    and the direction of God's Spirit towards the ideal of perfection.


    I want in the few minutes during which I speak to you to suggest another meaning that we can


    attach to these stones. Do they not serve to remind us who are assembled here of the debt we owe


    to the pioneers in this country who brought with them the faith of their fathers? As years go by the


    actual links and memories of the Old Country will fade and our generation will be succeeded by


    new generations which know not the rock from which they were hewn. For them as for us these


    stones are symbols. They are stones from a holy building reminding us not only of the national


    character but of the spiritual heritage which our forefathers brought with them from the Mother


    Country.


    Remember that these stones were hewn in the first instance not simply to provide shelter from


    wind and weather but to express the uprising of the human spirit towards God, the author of all


    life. The work of the builders of Westminster Abbey were far removed from being utilitarian. It


    expresses itself in richness of design and in wealth of ornamentation, as those of us who have


    visited the Abbey know well, which are an enduring commentary on the divine truth about life that


    man cannot live by bread alone.


    The events of to-day are themselves stressing the value of the message of these stones. The links


    between us and our Mother Country must become closer and closer in these days of common peril




    not only in defence of our material and economic possessions, but also in defence of the great


    imponderable values for which we stand to-day. The bonds which unite us to Britain are not only


    those of common interest but bonds which take their strength from a common heritage and a rich


    tradition.


    It is for that reason that these stones from Westminster Abbey will ever be a treasured possession


    of the Westminster Lodge. They will take us back in recollection to the stately building which


    stands in the centre of the Empire's life as guardian of the mother of Parliaments proclaiming to all


    who pass that way that God reigneth over all.


    Placing one hand on each Ashlar, Bro. Holland concluded with the formal dedication:


    "By this act I dedicate and set aside these stones for the Masonic purpose for which they are intended,


    and to the glory of God.


    "O Almighty God, Maker of Heaven and Earth, who didst choose the stone which the builders


    rejected, who dolt over-rule the imperfect designs of men for Thy glory: Look upon us in mercy and


    so direct our building, that, established upon sure foundations and joined together in unity of spirit, we


    may be made an holy temple acceptable to Thee."


    Bro. R. L. Button, Chaplain of the Lodge, then read the passage from the V.S.L. known as "Solomon's


    Prayer": I Kings, viii, 22-42.


    The Wor. Master expressed the thanks of the Lodge to those who had taken part in the ceremony.


    Before the Lodge was closed, R.W. Bro. Stone, Prov.G.M., at the Wor-Master's request, presented to


    Bros. G. G. Shirtcliffe and W. G. Harrison, two members of the Lodge, their Grand Lodge Certificates


    as Master Masons.


    In the refectory a further informal ceremony took place. The Wor; Master called upon Bro. His


    Excellency Sir Cyril Newall to unveil a pictorial representation of the Badge of the Lodge; the chief


    charges from the coat of arms and crest of the City of Westminster, the Portcullis, and the united red


    and white Roses of Lancaster and York, being incorporated. Sir Algernon Tudor-Craig, Librarian to


    the United Grand Lodge of England, had submitted the design, and the Grand Secretary had obtained


    permission from the City of Westminster for the charges to be incorporated in the Badge. The motto


    of the Lodge: "Loyal to God and King" appears below.


    In unveiling the Badge, Bro. Newall spoke briefly about the City of Westminster, recalling scenes


    familiar to many of the brethren present.


    The evening was in many respects unique. It will form a pleasant and inspiring memory for the large


    number of brethren who were present.


    ————————


    MASONRY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    "In all lands where Masonry does not now exist and where the great light of the Order does not shine,


    dawn soon will appear, and the Masonic beacon will shine forth with all its splendour, providing those


    countries expect peace, prosperity and good-will towards all.


    "The very fact that throughout the United States and the British Empire, and among other free and


    enlightened peoples of the world, so many who are interested in conserving civil, social and political


    order are active and prominent Masons, alone proves that Masonry is a thoroughly patriotic and loyal


    institution, believing in good Government, which requires good men and true to represent it.


    "Masonry is an institution honouring God. It is a social order with a system of government. It is an


    educating influence. It is of non-partisan character. It contains all the essential and necessary elements


    of true brotherhood, destined to exist and prosper, world without end."


    —"The American Tyler-Keystone."


    ————————


    A man can be pretty accurately measured by the size of the thing that makes him angry.


    A picture is a poem without words.—Horace.




    ————————


    BIBLE LESSON.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    A Brigade Major with General Allenby's forces in Palestine during the last war was reading his Bible


    one night by the light of a candle, looking for the name "Mishmash."' His brigade had been ordered to


    capture a village of that name which stood on a rocky hill just across a deep valley. The name had


    seemed vaguely familiar.


    Finally, in Samuel I, Chapter 13, he read: "And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people with them,


    abode in Gibeah of Benjamin: but the Philistines encamped in Mich-mash." The major went on to


    read how Jonathan and his armour-bearer went over to the Philistines' garrison alone one night,


    through a pass that had "a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name


    of one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh." They climbed the rocky hill till they came to "a


    half acre of land, which a yoke of oxen might plow." Then the Philistines awoke, thought they were


    surrounded by the armies of Saul, and "the multitude melted away."


    Saul then attacked with his whole army, and "so the Lord saved Israel that day."


    The major thought to himself, "This pass, those two rocky headlands and the flat piece of ground are


    probably still there." He woke the brigadier, and they read over the story. Scouts were sent out and


    found the pass, thinly held by the Turks; rocky crags were on either side—obviously Bozez and


    Seneh—and high up in Mishmash moonlight showed a small flat piece of ground.


    Then and there the general changed his plan of attack: instead of sending the whole brigade; one


    company alone was sent along the pass at dead of night. The few Turks met were silently dealt with;


    the hill was climbed; and just before dawn the company found itself on the flat bit of ground. The


    Turks awoke, thought they were surrounded by the armies of Allenby, and fled in disorder. Every


    Turk in Mishmash was killed or captured that night.


    And so, after thousands of years, the tactics of Saul and Jonathan were repeated with success by a


    British force. —Major Vivian Gilbert, "Romance of the Last Crusade" (Appleton-Century).


    ————————


    SUPREME GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    A meeting of Supreme Committee was held on 30th April.


    The Chairman, R.E. Comp. J. R. Robertson, extended a welcome to M.E. Comp. Sandford, Pro G.Z.,


    who had travelled from Raetihi to attend the meeting. He, the Pro G.Z., advised that at the request of


    the First Grand Principal he had paid official visits to the Taranaki and Ruapehu Districts.


    It was resolved that the time allowed by Law 16 for payment of fees for Grand Officers be extended


    by one month.


    The quotation of Messrs. Wyatt & Wilson Ltd. for printing 1,000 copies of the Ritual was accepted.


    Grand Officers, 1943/1944: M.E. Comp. Geo. Russell, P.G.Z., R.E. Comp. S. T. S. Martin, P.G.H.,


    and V.E. Comp. H. Hatch, P.G.D.C., were appointed a Committee to prepare and submit to the next


    meeting a scheme of distribution of Grand Officers for 1943/1944.


    M.E. Comp. Sir Cyril Newell, G.Z., wrote conveying the following message from Lord Bledisloe :—


    "In token of my most happy association with New Zealand Freemasonry and in appreciative


    recognition of the honour which my New Zealand brethren have conferred upon me, I should much


    like to present either to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand or its Royal Arch Chapters some article of


    furniture or equipment which may seem appropriate to the Chief Officers of Grand Lodge or to the


    Grand Z. and his colleagues. I would gladly pay £25 sterling for it."


    The Grand Z. advised that the message had been referred to Grand Lodge, who thought that the offer


    was for Grand Chapter. Resolved that:


    Supreme Committee gratefully accept the gift on behalf of Grand Chapter and that Lord Bledisloe be


    informed accordingly.




    That R.E. Comp. R. C. Burton and V.E. Comp. L. C. Gibbins confer with Bledisloe Chapter, No. 77,


    as to the nature and design of the gift.


    That the gift become the property of Bledisloe Chapter, No. 77.


    ————————


    GREAT PRIORY OF THE ORDER IN THE TEMPLE OF SCOTLAND.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    DISTRICT GRAND PRIORY OF NEW ZEALAND.


    ————


    Extracts from the Minutes of the Annual Meeting held on Tuesday, 17th February, 1942, in the


    Hinemoa Masonic Temple, Donald McLean Street, Wellington South.


    There was a good attendance, including most of the Officers of District Grand Priory, which was


    opened by the V.E. D.G. Prior, followed by prayer. The Muster Roll revealed that each of the twelve


    Preceptories under District Grand Priory were represented. District Grand Treasurer presented a


    Statement of Receipts and Payments showing a credit balance of £18 14s. 9d. Reference was made to


    the passing of the D.G. Beaucennifer, Ven. Fra. W. J. Churchill, and a standing vote was recorded.


    The Secretary's report showed a total membership of 374 members.


    Most of the Preceptories had complied with the requirements of Great Priory regarding annual


    meetings and Installations.


    V.E. Fra. Russell, D.G. Prior, expressed his sincere thanks to those Officers of District Grand Priory


    who conducted the various meetings and to officers and members of Preceptories for their continued


    co-operation and support.


    District Grand Secretary referred to the uncertainty of receiving Certificates and other matters from


    Great Priory and appealed for assistance from Secretaries re outstanding orders or any they may have


    received direct.


    Great Priory is most anxious that Preceptories should keep faith with the terms of their Charters and


    the Book of Statutes by holding Musters regularly, if only for short session, and forward returns as


    early as possible.


    Great Priory has made ample provision by way of Dispensation to enable the smallest Preceptory to


    carry on for the duration.


    By order of the Grand Master the following circular was issued for information:—


    "Under present circumstances a general dispensation is issued to Preceptories authorising that the


    requirements of the Statutes relating to Compulsory Musters may be waived, but this does not imply


    an order not to meet."


    "This dispensation also covers permission to alter time, date and place; for example many


    Preceptories might find it possible to hold a Muster on Saturday or other afternoon."


    "If possible, an Election and Installation Muster should be held, the Installation Ceremony being cut


    down to the Administration of the Oath of Office to the Officers."


    "It is thought that many Preceptories may wish to continue their present officers in office, the


    authority is given for this without the formality of a Muster for Election and Installation in such


    Preceptories as find it impossible to hold such a Muster."


    In addition, the V.E. District Grand Prior has recommended that for the duration in order to make it


    convenient for members engaged in Home Service that they assemble in morning dress and if possible


    at the earlier hour as authorised by Great Priory.


    In the past there have been some omissions by Elected Officers to forward Patent of Office fees and it


    was decided to withhold the patent until the fee has been received.


    Leave of absence was granted to all Fraters unable to attend the Annual Muster.









    ————————


    REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


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


    ————


    MONTANA-1941.


    136 Lodges, 17.811 members, a gain of 6.


    75th Annual Communication held at Missoula, 20th and 21st August. M.W. Bro. John T. Orr, G.M.,


    presiding. Eighteen P.G.Ms. were present.


    Six Special Communications were held, two to lay cornerstones, one to constitute a Lodge and three


    to dedicate Temples.


    There were 33 men and 11 women, of an average age of over 70, in the Masonic Home.


    The Communication was described as the "Diamond Jubilee" of the Grand Lodge, and M.W. Bro.


    Lew L. Callaway, P.G.M., delivered a commemorative address, in the course of which he said: "In


    1916 there were 101 active Lodges, with 9,902 members. Following our entry into the war in April,


    1917, our membership increased heavily. In retrospect, we realise that this was not altogether


    beneficial. In the hysteria of war our Lodges permitted too much laxity. Men in considerable numbers


    who did not measure up to our standards were admitted; a large number of these disappeared from our


    rolls for one reason or another. It is impossible to create a Mason by the mere process of initiation. If


    one is not a Mason in his heart, he never is a Mason. We lost members also because of the great


    depression starting in 1929, which is not yet ended. Nevertheless, the present Grand Lodge has 136


    constituent Lodges, all active, with a combined membership of 17,809, and the membership is


    increasing all over the state.


    "I hope and believe that we have learned that it is quality and not quantity which is to be regarded


    with favour; I wish we could have both."


    The Grand Chaplain, R.W. Bro. Dr. John A. Meeke, spoke on Life's Long Trail—a short but able and


    inspiring address.


    M.W. Bro. Canon S. H. Middleton, P.G.M. of Alberta, delivered a splendid address, the finish of


    which was greeted with "standing applause." His theme was the need for a "League of Masons," and


    in the course of his address he said: "And here I want to fling out the challenge this morning, that


    never in the course of human history was so much needed for so many from so few, and it is to us


    who are Masons who can and ought to save it from destruction. Let every Mason of every Lodge, of


    every Grand Lodge, join in unison and say: WE CAN and WE WILL."


    "One last thought. Wherever I have been during the past several weeks in the Eastern and Western


    States of America I have been touched with emotion to see the Stars and Stripes on the one hands and


    the Red, White and Blue of the Union Jack on the other; and the sight of these two emblems of two


    great nations has given me a holy thrill. Therefore I say to you, my brother Masons of America, and


    especially to my brethren of Montana, these two countries, which God in His infinite wisdom has


    brought together, let no man cast asunder."


    The Reviews of other Jurisdictions are published in a separate volume of 102 pages. A very


    appreciative summary of our 1939 Proceedings is included.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Hon. Ralph M. Hattersley, Conrad.


    Grand Secretary : R.W. Bro. Luther T. Hauberg, Helena.


    Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. S. A. Holt, Broadus.


    Grand Representative at N.Z.: V.W. Bro. J. G. L. Hewitt, P.G.R., Auckland.


    ————


    ILLINOIS-1941.


    989 Lodges, 189,184 members, a loss of 3,652.


    102nd Annual Meeting held at Chicago, 14th and 15th October, M.W. Bro. Dan De Baugh, G.M.,


    presiding. All of the nine living P.G.Ms. were present. Distinguished visitors from nine other U.S.A.


    and one Canadian jurisdictions were welcomed.




    The G.M. reported that no Lodge was then two years in arrears, which was the first time for many,


    many years. There were 124 men and 56 women in the Masonic Home,


    64 being in the Hospital; and 121 children in the Orphans' Home.


    The Grand Orator, R.W. Bro. Edgar A. Jones, delivered the customary oration.


    The minimum fee for the three degrees was fixed at 30 dollars, and in the cities of 50,000 or more 50


    dollars.


    The Lodges are divided into 100 Districts, each supervised by a District Deputy Grand Master.


    There is a very long list of "Grand Lecturers" whose duties are not clear to us.


    The Review of Foreign Jurisdictions, covering 103 pages, was contributed by M.W. Bro. Elmer E.


    Beach, P.G.M., who in the course of his Foreword said: —


    "During the past twelve years the net loss in membership in most English-speaking Grand Lodges,


    outside of England, has been disturbing. This loss has been less pronounced in the Canadian and


    Australian Grand Lodges than in those of the United States, while in England there has been a net


    gain. We have never been satisfied with the cheerful and complacent explanation by so many Grand


    Masters that this has been a "weeding out" process and elimination of useless dead timber and that, as


    a result, the Lodges would be stronger, more virile and useful than heretofore. Like most half truths,


    this explanation has failed to explain. There is probably little doubt that a large number of victims of


    the weeding out process were earnest, sincere Masons, who would have been glad to retain their


    memberships, but who had been overtaken by financial misfortune, economic reverse, or


    unemployment. That this is not mere theory has been proved by the reports of the officers and


    committees of many individual Lodges who were not inoculated with the too prevalent virus of


    indifference and apathy, and who acted in accordance with an intelligent and fraternal analysis of


    conditions and sincerely believed that as careful and thorough an investigation of conditions should be


    made before brethren were 'purged' as was made when they sought admission to the Fraternity."


    His Review of New Zealand, 1940, is short but informative and appreciative. He has made one


    mistake, however, in showing V.W. Bro. Mason as Grand Secretary.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Karl J. Mohr, Rockford.


    Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Richard C. Davenport, P.G.M., Hamburg.


    Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Geo. E. Carlson, Moline.


    Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. A. C. Andrews, P.G.W., Christchurch.


    ————


    OHIO-1941.


    622 Lodges, 173,812 members, a gain of 1,409.


    132nd Annual Communication held at Columbus 15th and 16th October, M.W. Bro. Charles R.


    Wilson, G.M., presiding. Fifteen of the eighteen living P.G.Ms. were present.


    A welcome was extended by Bro. John W. Bricker, Governor of Ohio.


    1,000 dollars were sent to the G.L. of England for the Royal Masonic Hospital and 2,500 dollars to be


    used for the relief and comfort of brethren in England.


    Fifty-year Medals and Lapel Emblems were presented to no less than 229 brethren.


    The Ohio Masonic Historical Society, Inc., was recognised as an honorary society for the promotion


    of Masonic information and education among the Master Masons of Ohio, the Historian of the G.L. to


    serve as President of the Society.


    There were 223 men, 185 women, 56 boys and 34 girls in the Masonic Home, an admirably


    conducted institution.


    The Proceedings of 68 Grand Lodges were reviewed by M.W. Bro. Earle Stewart, P.G.M., who


    devotes two pages to New Zealand. 1940, quoting an excerpt from our G.M.'s address, and expressing


    pleasure at our adoption of the war prayer, a copy of which is included.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Charles B. Hoffman, Dayton.


    Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Harry S. Johnson, P.G.M., Cincinnati.


    Grand Representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. Earle Stewart, P.G.M., Irdnton.


    Grand Representative at N.Z.: M.W. Bro. C. L. MacDiarmid, G.M., Hamilton.





    ————


    NEW MEXICO.


    56 Lodges, 6,195 members a gain of 82.


    64th Annual Communication held at Albuquerque 20th and 21st October, M.W. Bro. Adolph S.


    Walter, G.M., presiding. Twelve P.G.Ms., two P.G.Ws. and two P.G.Ts. were present.


    The G.M. said that it had been stated that there were two hundred organisations (in America) basing


    membership on Masonic affiliation.


    In reporting his visits during the year the G.M. briefly but constructively criticised some of the


    Lodges.


    2,650 dollars were loaned to 11 students to assist them in obtaining higher education.


    1,722 dollars were disbursed by the Committee on Masonic Relief in assisting 14 cases.


    The Reviews by M.W. Bro. John Milne do not include New Zealand.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. James A. Elrod, Clovis.


    Grand Secretary (since 1884): M.W. Bro. Alpheus A. Kean, P.G.M., Albuquerque.


    Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Joseph L. Paxton, Elida.


    Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Wm. Mclndoe, P.G.W., Clinton.


    ————————


    INVESTIGATING CANDIDATES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    There is perhaps no duty pertaining to the affairs of the Lodge and to Masonry that is more important,


    nor one that is more neglected and abused, than that of a proper investigation of those who seek to


    become members in the fraternity.


    How few brethren there are who fully comprehend the real service and the real responsibility that is


    implied when he accepts the obligation of investigating character of a petitioner for the degrees in


    Masonry.


    The purpose of this article is to outline, to some extent, just what each member of an investigating


    committee should do, and the brother who for any reason cannot fulfil the requirements should so


    notify the Master at once that the business of the Lodge may not be delayed.


    Each member of a committee should be provided with the name and address of the candidate, and


    each should bear in mind that he is required to see the candidate personally and interview him. Each


    should proceed at once, without delay, so that prompt and intelligent report may be made,


    remembering that each must investigate individually and report separately, in person.


    The best procedure is to call upon the candidate in his home, by appointment. By so doing you have


    opportunity to observe general surroundings and will, to a considerable degree, be able to learn


    whether or no he can afford to spend the money that is necessary to make him a Mason. If that is not


    possible, invite him to call upon you at your office.


    Verify his age, occupation, how long he has lived in the jurisdiction and where previous. Ask him


    frankly what was his motive that prompted him to petition, what benefit, pecuniary or otherwise, he


    expects to derive from being a Mason. If he is married, learn whether his action meets the approval of


    his family and if the money he is to spend in that way will deprive his dependents of things they need


    more.


    Determine what his religious ideas are, particularly as to a belief in God. What are his habits,


    especially as to temperance, profanity and associates. Where and how does he spend his evenings and


    Sundays. Learn as to his physical qualifications, whether he- can conform to the various requirements.


    Find out whom he patronises in a business way, and learn from them whether he takes care of his


    obligations. Does he understand the seriousness of Masonry and does he realise that it is not merely a


    place of entertainment and amusement or social centre.


    When you have learned all you can by personal contact with the candidate, verify your conclusions


    and make further investigation among his acquaintances and associates.




    Finally, permit no sentiment to enter into your consideration. Deal honestly and on cold facts and


    based on careful observation and diligent inquiry, Make your report positive; either favourable or


    unfavourable. A report that you find nothing particular against him, or that he is as good as some


    others who are members is no report at all. Such a report is sufficient grounds for rejection, and merits


    it. A candidate should always possess sufficient good qualifications to recommend him, otherwise he


    should not be admitted.


    It is a deplorable fact that three-fourths of our investigations are merely perfunctory. A little inquiry


    among two or three who know a little something of the candidate, a mere acquaintance in many


    instances, and a favourable report is forthcoming.


    Little wonder that Lodges arc frequently put to shame by the actions of some member; little wonder


    that there are so many Lodge trials, so much friction and ill-feeling. The facts are, and the cause may


    be traced directly to an investigation that did not investigate, otherwise the offending party would not


    be in a position to make trouble.


    —"Masonic Voice-Review."


    ————————


    A ROBERT BURNS STORY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    From an early Scotch edition of Bro. Robert Burns' letters and poems, and from a letter of Gilbert


    Burns, his home brother, friend, and confidant, dated "Mossgiel, 2nd April, 1798," we gather the


    following:—


    "The poem, `Death and Doctor Hornbook,' though not published in the Kilmarnock edition of Robert's


    poems, was produced early in the year 1785. The schoolmaster of Tarbolton set up a shop of grocery


    goods. Having fallen in with some medical books, he added the sale of a few medicines to his little


    trade. He got a shopbill printed, at the bottom of which he advertised that advice in common disorders


    would be given, gratis, at his shop.


    "Robert about this time was at a Masonic meeting in Tarbolton when the 'Doctor' or 'Dominie'


    (groceryman and schoolmaster) unfortunately made a too ostentatious display of his medical skill. As


    Robert departed that evening from the place where he describes his meeting with death, one of those


    float-ideas of apparition, such as he mentions in a letter to Doctor Moore, crossed his mind. This set


    his brain to work on his way home. These circumstances (of production of the poem) he related when


    he repeated the verses to me the next afternoon, as I was holding the plough and he was letting the


    water off the field beside me."


    John Wilson was a schoolmaster in Tarbolton; he was a fair scholar and a very worthy man, but vain


    of his knowledge in medicine—so vain that he offered advice gratis. As stated, it was his misfortune


    to encounter Burns at a Masonic meeting, who, provoked by a long and pedantic speech from the


    Dominie, exclaimed, "Sit down, Doctor Hornbook." On his way home the Masonic poet laureate,


    Burns, seated himself on the ledge of a bridge, composed the poem and, overcome with poesie and


    drink, fell asleep and did not wake until the sun was shining over Galston Moors. The first verse


    reads:


    Some books are lies from end to end,


    And some great lies were never penn'd;


    Even ministers, they ha'e been kenn'd;


    In holy rapture,


    A rousing whid, at times to vend.


    And nail't wi' Scripture.


    The hornbook was an elementary school book used in England down to the time of George II. It was


    made of a single leaf, on which were written the alphabet in large letters, the Roman numerals and the


    Lord's Prayer. The leaf was sometimes pasted on a slice of transparent horn, hence the name. It had a


    handle through which a string was inserted to tie around the waist. —Masonic Journal of South


    Africa.





    ————————


    THE BELIEF IN IMMORTALITY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    By Bro. Rev. W. H. Irwin.


    ————


    Upon every Freemason there is impressed the value of the contemplation of death. We are invited, to


    reflect upon the closing hour of our existence, and are led to think solemnly of our inevitable destiny.


    Some may object that meditation on so sombre a subject tends to lower our vitality. Rather, they urge,


    let us think of bright and happy things so that life goes merrily as a song. Doubtless extravagant


    contemplation of death may sink into morbidity, and by the too much dreaming on the grave, one may


    lose touch with the practical affairs of life. To the healthy mind, however, nothing but good can come


    from meditating on this awful subject. We do not overcome our fears by seeking to banish them from


    our thoughts, but, by facing them boldly. In this way our minds may bid defiance to mortality, and


    seek to tread the king of terrors beneath our feet. Life brings us many adventures, and we pass


    continually to new scenes where we must play our part. "We pass through many opening doors into


    knowledge, into beauty, into love and the fulness of life. At length we stand before the last open door


    and look out into the dark. Does it usher us to a new and thrilling adventure or is it the end of the


    whole story?"


    "Strange is it not? That of the myriads who


    Before us pass'd the door of darkness thro'


    No one returns to tell us of the road


    Which to discover we must travel, too."


    From the dawn of history man has been surrounded by marvels and wonders, which at first seemed


    absolutely inexplicable, and therefore appalling. But, one after another, he has succeeded in


    explaining them. Nevertheless, one secret remains as of old—unfathomable, inscrutable. We are still


    seeking an answer to the question, man giveth up the ghost and where is he?


    One answer to this question is the doctrine of the immortality of the soul. The problem of a future


    existence was born long ago, but it never grows old. Each generation finds it nagging at its mind for a


    solution. No failures to solve the problem can crush the spirit of inquiry. The idea of a future life is


    thought to have arisen from the phenomena of dreams. In sleep, man's soul seemed to be independent


    of his body and to wander away at will. Likewise his departed friends appeared to him in the land of


    dreams. But there are much deeper reasons for the widespread prevalence of the belief in immortality.


    Man is by nature a rationalizer. He cannot and never does accept the facts of life, or human


    experience, at their face value. We live, we die. These are facts. But man seeks to know the reason


    why. Hence, as he contemplates human life and death, growth and decay, he finds so much that this


    earthly life is totally unable to explain that he is driven perforce to suppose a future life. In other


    words, the idea of immortality is necessary to give sense and meaning to our present existence. Are


    we justified in thus seeking to explain our present life in terms of an immortal life? Nobody can deny


    that existence after death is possible. The Power which has brought us into existence must surely be


    able to work the lesser marvel of continuing us in existence. Survival is certainly possible. The


    practical question for us is whether it is probable.


    We shall find, I think, that our view of human destiny depends upon two things. In the first place it


    depends upon our estimation of the value of human nature. A future life appears probable or


    improbable as we think nobly or ignobly of the soul. When, we guide our reflections to that most


    interesting of all human studies, the knowledge of ourselves, what do we discover? What opinions do


    we form of the nature of man? Some, beholding our animal origin, consider that primarily our lives


    are directed towards satisfying our hunger and reproducing our species. To them we are as the beasts


    that perish. Consequently they see no reason why our fate should be any different from that which we


    believe awaits them. Thus, the estimation of the value of man settles the problem of immortality for


    those who think in this way. For them death ends all.


    But when we think nobly of man's nature, a future life becomes easily credible. Man is more than a


    bundle of blind animal instincts. Nature has endowed him with memory and imagination. She opens




    up before him long vistas of thought and wonder. "She dowers his heart with love of love, the hate of


    hate. She even lures him on with the vision splendid of spiritual communion with the Eternal." When


    Hamlet reflected upon human life he exclaimed: What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason!


    How infinite in faculties; in form and moving how express and admirable in action, how like an angel,


    in apprehension how like a god! "If a man die, shall he live again?" It depends on what we mean by


    man.


    The whole question is at bottom one of values. In the course of his life man learns of truth, of beauty


    and of goodness. These supreme values are, as it were, wrapped up in his personality. But if death


    blots out the souls of men, no matter how noble their characters have become, if all are simply thrown


    to the scrap heap, this is a mad world. Yet the study of nature shows the universe to be rational. By


    using his reason man progressively understands the world in which he lives, because the same kind of


    reason and thought created that world and sustains it. Science assures us that the universe is not


    insane. We infer then that the highest values, expressed in human lives, are not wasted, but a rational


    universe conserves them all.


    The second basis upon which the belief in immortality rests is the character of God. This demands


    human survival. For the Divine Creator would be none other than a cynical maker of useless


    experiments if men who have sought to serve Him here perish utterly as their bodies decay. Can we


    believe that God plays with us as children with sand castles, building elaborately and content to see


    the waves wash all away? For children play with senseless sand, but men and women think and feel.


    "Pietro, the tyrannical Duke of Florence, in one of his capricious moods, ordered Michael Angelo to


    mould a statue of snow—a statue that the warmth of an Italian sun would dissolve in a single day. A


    sad waste of artistic skill. But that is as nothing compared to the prostitution of creative power in


    making beings like, ourselves to rot forever in the tomb." The deepest part of our nature cries out that


    God could not be so cynically wasteful, for then He would be inferior even to ordinary men, how


    much more to the noblest and truest of our race.


    In every age when the problem of immortality is debated—and it has been debated in every age—we


    meet with two opposing types, two contrary attitudes towards the question. One is affirmative, the


    other negative. Though the desire for a life after death is so human that it may almost be said to be


    universal, yet there has always been a minority who have held death as the total end of us all, and this


    minority is probably larger now than in any former period. Some do not wish to survive, but actually


    welcome the thought of extinction. They gladly think of death as a sleep from which there is no


    waking, where all the ache of life is ended and all desire killed. Perhaps we all have had this thought


    at times, but it is when our lives are tired, our hopes are low, and the times seem out of joint. On the


    other hand, when we feel most alive and vigorous in soul and body, when we feel surest that we are at


    our best and our thought at its best, then do we desire immortality and feel in our bones that a universe


    which could allow human personality to vanish would be no better than a mad universe.


    Most men will admit that there is great force in the argument that a rational universe will not allow the


    values created in human life to utterly perish. But is it possible to conserve human values without


    preserving the individuals who have produced those values? Important thinkers of our day answer that


    it is possible, Individual values are incorporated in social values, they urge. "Social and political


    institutions survive their founders; the poet's and the artist's work survives to be a source of delight


    and inspiration for centuries after the poet and the artist have become dust; a good life is a source of


    moral inspiration to many generations; even the most intimately personal goods, our loves and


    affections live on after us in their effects on the lives and characters of those we leave behind."


    Though God buries His workmen, He carries on His work, and it is the work and not the tools which


    is the great thing. God's work, on this view, is to build up His Kingdom on earth. Therefore, when we


    look to the future, let us not worry over our own petty interests. Let us set before us the ideal of a


    perfect social state as an object worthy of our reverence, commanding the utter devotion of our lives.


    These things shall be; a loftier race


    Then e'er the world hath known shall rise,


    With flame of freedom in their souls


    And light of knowledge in their eyes.


    New arts shall bloom of loftier mould,




    And mightier music thrills the skies,


    And every life shall be a song


    When all the earth is paradise.


    This is a grand ideal, with which all men of goodwill must sympathise. But, alas! though all those


    beateous ages we shall moulder cold and low, without even a faint glow of satisfaction in knowing


    that we helped on the great consummation.


    You will notice that this argument for corporate immortality, in place of individual immortality, takes


    for granted the performance of the human race, for if the race is not immortal, all human values are


    doomed to destruction at the last. Now, so far as science is able to see to-day, there is no more reason


    for believing in the immortality of the race than for believing in that of the individual. Scientists tell


    us that our world is cooling down, and must inevitably become unfit for human habitation. There must


    come a time when the human race begins to fail, and we can foresee for our civilisation, no matter


    how perfect it may become, only a long drawn-out but inevitable death from senile decay.


    The cloud-capp'd towers, the gorgeous palaces,


    The solemn temples, the great globe itself,


    Yea, all which it inherit shall dissolve,


    And, like this unsubstantial pageant faded,


    Leave not a rack behind.


    Further, the belief in a perfect earthly society is doomed to disappointment if each and every man is


    annihilated at death. Of those who hold the contrary we must say that their hearts are better than their


    heads. For a while they may comfort themselves with the notion of self-sacrifice. They may think,


    "What matter if I pass! let me think of others." But the others have become contemptible to no less


    than their own selves. What is the use of spending ourselves for the benefit of future generations who


    are to be as evanescent as we are supposed to be?


    Manifestly it makes a great difference to the conduct of life whether we believe ourselves and our


    fellows to be only transient appearances, mere bubbles on the stream of time, or pilgrims in search of


    a city whose builder and maker is God. The Freemason who in all his pursuits keeps eternity in view


    will have a general attitude towards this life which will be distinctive. He will see passing events in


    their true perspective. The petty worries that harass our daily life, even great sorrows, will appear to


    him in a different light as he realizes that they are but for a time. The very idea of immortality can


    give to common men a widening of their horizon, a sense of the dignity of life, and a feeling of


    freedom. The sure and certain hope of everlasting life has inspired men to great deeds and long tasks.


    Change and decay in all around we see, but the doctrine of a future life bestows upon us a sense of


    performance otherwise lacking. "The hopes we form of our few and hurrying years on earth certainly


    have little stability unless truly they are backed by hopes that go beyond." If I think nobly of the soul,


    my idea of the education fitted for it will differ widely from that of the man who regards men as


    animals, who have to be taught some tricks to make them profitable or least injurious to society. Our


    sense of the solemnity of life will grow the more we are convinced that our conduct now must


    influence the destinies of our own and other souls forever.


    Immortality or Mortality. Which shall we believe! The issue is not only theoretical; it is intensely


    practical. Also the issue cannot be avoided. Shall we live as if we were immortal, or shall our hopes


    and fears be confined to this life only? Here, in Pascal's words, you must make the wager. Not to bet


    is equivalent to betting against.


    —"South Australian Freemason."


    ————————


    TRANSITION.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Nearly twenty years ago Dr. Inge wrote : "The future will show whether civilisation, as we know it,


    can be mended or must be ended. The time seems ripe for a new birth of religious and spiritual life,


    which may remould society, as no less potent force would have the strength to do." The question


    whether civilisation is to be mended or ended is to-day a very urgent and terrifying one. Unless a


    definite victory is attained against Nazism in a comparatively short time and a stalemate avoided




    civilisation as we know it may well go down the drain. Years ago the late Bishop of Ripon raised a


    violent but quite unintelligent storm by saying that man's scientific advance had so outstripped his


    moral and spiritual advance as to constitute a grave danger.


    He was perfectly right. Science daily puts into our hands ever greater powers. But unless there is an


    advance in moral character equal to the advance in knowledge the results must be mischievous. It is


    like putting a stick of dynamite into the hands of a stupid, reckless, and ill-matured body of men. The


    fruits of knowledge without moral character are what we are experiencing to-day. Will the new birth


    of spiritual life which Dr. Inge so wisely declared necessary manifest itself?


    There have been several times since 1900 when such a thing seemed possible. In the opening years of


    the century, when the dead hand of nineteenth-century was being lifted, writers in England, France,


    Germany, Spain and Russia, as well as in other lands were expressing, each in his own way, the same


    thought that Euchen expressed in Germany when he said that the Spirit of God was "blowing amid the


    dead bones of the world." But heady Imperialism in England and a growing nationalism in every


    country in Europe were not then friendly to the growth of spiritual religion.


    After World War I there was much talk here and there of the need for "spiritual sanctions" if


    civilisation was to be rebuilt. But there seemed to be a desire rather to use God than to serve Him.


    Indeed, it might almost be said that politicians and public men generally wished to co-opt God that He


    might make Himself generally useful. Yet the one great truth which Communism, Fascism, and


    Nazism agree in teaching is that man does not live by bread alone, but that some great ideal to which


    man can sacrifice himself is the one potent force strong enough to remould society. Guns before butter


    may not be an ethically good ideal and the remoulding of society which it effects more deforming


    than reforming, but it has a power which appeals that mere selfish and private aims will always lack.


    Will the Church or Freemasonry supply the potent force which will be needed?


    Many spiritual leaders seem too inclined to promise a brave new world, too inclined to dwell on the


    enormous self-sacrifice and toil that will be called for. When peace comes it will not be a question of


    wearing patched pants. The lucky ones will be those who still have any pants to patch.—"Masonic


    Craftsman."




    ————————


    OBITUARY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    W. BRO. GEORGE F. SMITH.


    There passed to his eternal rest on 1st May W. Bro. George Ferris Smith, of Lodge Oceanic, No. 15. A


    very large gathering of friends and members of the Craft paid their respects to his memory at the


    interment of one who was recognised as a zealous man and a true Freemason. The service at the Chapel


    was conducted by Craft members, W. Bro. Pearson, prayers and Scripture reading, and R.W. Bro. Col.


    Barclay a eulogy of our late brother's services as a man, a soldier and a Freemason. He was a brother


    that always endeavoured to bring forth the true spirit of Freemasonry and at all times gave of his best


    in the interest of the various Masonic bodies with which he was associated. At all times it was a pleasure


    to listen to him give the various charges with dignity and firmness, and though his voice is still for ever


    it will still ring in the ears and hearts of all who knew him. We recall his cheery smile and word of


    encouragement—it will long be remembered by those brethren and companions who were honoured by


    his friendship. To his wife and daughter our heartfelt sympathy is extended in their time of great sorrow


    and distress. May they find some comfort in the thought that our Bro. was honoured by those who knew


    him—by his comrades who served with him while fighting for the Empire in a distant land, by those


    who were associated with him in his daily walk of life, and by his brethren and companions in many


    Lodges. He leaves an example of a life well spent and of work well done. At the Chapel, the pall-bearers




    comprised members of the South African Veterans' Association (Boer War) and at the graveside, where


    Bro. Rev: Thompson, of Lodge Waverley, conducted the service, were representatives of Lodge


    Oceanic, No. 154, and Maori Chapter, No. 28.


    ————————


    AUCKLAND NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    A Jubilee Church Service for Royal Arch Freemasons was held at St. Mary's Cathedral, Parnell, on


    Sunday, 10th May. There was a large attendance of Companions, who assembled in the Schoolroom


    and led by the M.E. the First Grand Principal, Sir Cyril Newell, proceeded to the church. E. Comp. V.


    Rev. Dean Fancourt conducted the service and gave a stirring address on Haggai, the Prophet. The


    First Lesson was read by R.E. Comp. James Armstead, Grand Superintendent, Auckland District, and


    the Second Lesson by M.E. Comp. Sir Cyril Newall. Altogether the gathering was a most fitting


    celebration of the Jubilee of R.A. Masonry.


    There was a well-attended meeting of Sitting Masters at the Temple on Wednesday, 22nd April. W.


    Bro. Les. Salter occupied the chair and gave a resume of the work of the Service Brethren's


    Entertainment Committee. He then suggested that as the work of this committee had been much


    reduced it would be more appropriate for a Sitting Master to be in the chair. V.W. Bro. W. C. Finnis,


    W.M., Combined Forces Lodge, was unanimously elected Chairman.


    Discussion on many points of mutual interest to the various Lodges took place. W. Bro. Salter was


    thanked for the good work that he had carried out as Chairman.


    Bro. J. Seeley, of Lodge Onewa, No. 182, while holidaying in Kaikohe visited the Installation


    meeting.


    Two well-known brethren in Lodge Selwyn, No. 274, Bros. L. J. Keyes and H. Rothery, had the


    pleasure of seeing their sons initiated into Freemasonry recently.


    ————————


    TARANAKI NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    At Lodge Manaia on 11th May, the S.W., Bro. A. H. Yarrow, was duly installed as Master.


    The ceremonial work went smoothly, the Prov.G.M, (a$ always) being efficient and impressive,


    It was stated by one speaker that the Lodge property was now free of debt and a substantial credit


    balance in hand. This is a splendid record, considering the comparatively short time the Lodge has


    been in existence.


    Lodge Stratford was favoured by a visit from the G.Lect. V.W. Bro. A. Coleman, who gave a splendid


    lecture on the First Degree. He also spoke in the refectory, the subject being "Some English Poets." On


    18th May the Past Masters of Lodge Ngamotu worked a Third Degree.


    Bro. R. A. Wilton, S.W., of Lodge Taranaki, was installed as Master on 21st May. He is the 21st


    W.M. of the Lodge and there is some talk of having a "coming of age" celebration during the year.


    Lodge Taranaki invariably has a happy, and bright annual gathering and this year was no exception.


    The Prov.G.M. is a charter member of this Lodge and was the third to occupy the Master's chair.


    The first Master and virtually the founder of the Lodge, W. Bro. Hayton, P.G.St.B., was also present


    and spoke in the refectory. The high light of the evening was the speech of W. Bro. Hobbs in proposing


    the toast of the Prov. G.M. and G.L. officers. It was far above the average in every way, the matter


    excellent and the delivery pleasing.


    Lodge Hawera, at the May meeting, raised a candidate on behalf of Lodge Manaia, the latter Lodge


    attending in force.


    Lodge Ngamotu arranged to hold an emergency meeting early in the month to initiate a candidate, but


    the military authorities got in first and the candidate going to camp, the Masonic function had to be


    postponed.


    Patea Kil., No. 18, put two brothers through the Third at the May meeting.




    The Installation ceremony in Egmont R.A. Chapter was held on 4th May, when E. Comp. R. R. Curtis


    was installed as First Principal and the other officers invested. General regret was expressed that E.


    Comp. Fred Cook was too ill to attend. The Grand Superintendent, R.E, Comp. W. W. Thomson carried


    through the ceremony in good style, with dignity and confidence and the evening proved profitable and


    pleasant.


    ————————


    SOUTHLAND NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The installation of Bro. Michael Little as Master of Lodge Taringatura, No. 100, and the investiture of


    his officers on 9th May passed off most successfully.


    R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., was in attendance supported by a good following of Grand Lodge


    officers, and acted as Installing Master.


    Owing to war restrictions and the prevailing influenza epidemic, the attendance was somewhat smaller


    than usual.


    V.E. Comp. W. Kelman and officers of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3, worked the three degrees


    peculiar to this branch of Capitular Freemasonry in a most impressive manner at the quarterly meeting


    held on 16th May.


    The work of Comp. G. G. Webb as P.G.W. at this meeting was of a particularly high order and called


    for high praise from members and candidates alike.


    W. Bro. H. F. Drewe, a prominent Mason of many years in Lodge St. John, No. 94, and Lodge


    Waihopai, No. 189, was recently called to the Grand Lodge above after a somewhat prolonged illness.


    During his day our worthy brother not only served the Craft faithfully and well but took a keen interest


    in business affairs and the general well being of the community. As a foundation member of Lodge


    Waihopai, No. 189, he rendered excellent service to the Craft. By his passing Freemasonry and the


    world at large has lost one whose place will be hard to fill.


    A bus load of members of Lodge Winton, No. 189, 21 all told, led by their Master, W. Bro. R. B.


    Wilson, paid an official visit to the recent Taringatura Installation.


    R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M., assisted by G.L. officers and Past Masters, conducted the


    Installation of Lodge St. John, No. 94, on 21st May. Grand Lodge was represented by R.W. Bro. A,


    Noble, Prov.G.M., and many G. officers.


    The ceremony of Exaltation was conducted by V.E. Comp. W. Allen, Z., and officers at the regular


    meeting of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, on 27th May.


    R.E. Comp. Geo. H. Brown, G.Supt., was present at this meeting supported by a number of G.


    Chapter officers.


    The Combined Social Committee is meeting with a fair measure of success this season in spite of war


    restrictions.


    Arrangements are in hand to hold a meeting of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3, at Gore, at an


    early date this month.


    The quarterly meeting of the Southland Preceptory of Knight Templars was set down for 30th May.


    R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., made fitting reference to the excellent services rendered to Lodge


    Taringatura, No. 100, by W. Bro. H. Graham, P.G.S., when speaking at the recent Installation of this


    Lodge. A feature of the festive board proceedings was the proposal of the health of "The Visitors" by


    W. Bro. T. Campbell and the dramatic "fire" which accompanies this toast.


    R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., and his usual strong following of G. Lodge officers attended the


    annual meeting of Lodge Waikaka, No. 151, on 25th May and installed W. Bro. G. C. Sim for a


    second term as Master. During the past twelve months this Lodge has functioned well.


    Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, worked a "Third" at their regular meeting last month.


    The annual report and balance-sheet recently issued by Lodge Harvey, No. 49, discloses another most


    successful year and reflects great credit on the retiring Master, W. Bro. F. J. Murray, and his officers.




    E. and P. Bro. J. J. Griffiths, P.M.W.S., has been elected to "honorary" membership in Murihiku Rose


    Croix Chapter, No. 36.


    Installation meetings will be held by Lodges Southern Cross, No. 9, and Fortitude, No. 64 (Bluff) this


    month.


    Comp. N. Macwilliams delighted members of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, and Lodge


    Waihopai with a series of moving pictures at recent meetings.


    The ceremony of Initiation was conducted by the Masters and officers of Lodge Harvey, No. 49, at


    their last regular meeting.


    Past Masters of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, with W. Bro. J. Chaplin in the chair, will work the Third


    Degree this month.


    We regret to report that Bro. A. Bailey, of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, has lost a second son on


    active service.


    Past Masters of Lodge Fortitude, No. 64, worked the First Degree at their regular meeting held on


    16th May.


    The First and Second Degrees were conducted on 19th May by the Master and Officers of Lodge


    Wallace, No. 129.


    Members of Lodge Harvey, No. 49, in strong force attended Divine Service at the Holy Trinity


    Church (Gore) on Sunday, 31st May, when V.W. Bro. W. W. Powell, P.G. Chap., delivered a telling


    message of interest to Freemasons and the public generally.


    Lodge Victoria, No. 147, passed an E.A. of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, at their regular meeting last


    month.


    In the absence of ceremonial work at the forthcoming meeting of Lodge Victoria, No. 147, this month


    it has been arranged to conduct a series of "short talks" surrounding the following subject: "Does


    Freemasonry play a useful part in modern conditions." Two teams of speakers, three from Lodge St.


    John, No. 94, and three from Lodge Victoria, No. 147, will take part in the discussion, which should


    prove of outstanding interest to deep thinking members of the Craft.


    Ill. Bro. C. B. Gibbs and Invercargill members of the Zealandia Consistory, 30°, journeyed to


    Dunedin on 23rd May and took part in the half-yearly meeting of this Masonic unit.


    ————————


    NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The Ashley Chapter is having quite a busy time and holding on in spite of reduced numbers. V.E.


    Comp. Arthur Williamson, Z., and his Companions have worked hard for this Chapter.


    V.E. Comp. Geo. Harlow, Scribe E., of Ashley Chapter, has been on the sick list but is getting on well


    again.


    Bro. Ted Blackett, Ashley's true and trusty Secretary, has resigned after many years of reliable and


    faithful service and his place has been filled by Bro. L. D. J. Smith, P.O. Box 75, Rangiora. Bro.


    Blackett is the Senior Secretary in the North Group of Lodges, and has done wonderful work.


    Kaikoura Lodge, under the guidance of W. Bro. L. McLeod, is getting along nicely and the meetings


    are now held on the second Thursday of each month.


    It is pleasing to know that Mairaki has a couple of candidates and W. Bro. Prouse has a good kick off


    for his second year as Master.


    Tawera is on the map again with a candidate and W. Bro. Stevens has his team in fine shape ready for


    the job.


    W. Bro. Lancelot Watson is still going strong at Tawera and is hale and hearty.


    Southern Cross and Ashley also have work on, and help each other as much as possible.


    Amuri Lodge is having quiet but profitable meetings and the brethren are keeping their Lodge in


    running order and some very interesting talks have been given by the Past Masters on interesting


    subjects.




    Acacia Lodge is having a spell at present and W. Bro. Dr. Page is preparing a programme of useful


    events for the winter months. Visitors are invited to visit this cosy, happy little Lodge.


    W. Bro. Archie Hill, Master of Cheviot Lodge, is getting into gear and has a very attractive list of


    items for his brethren during the next few months.


    Visiting in the North Group is drastically curtailed at present, therefore the Lodges welcome anyone


    who is handy to attend their meetings and help in the task of keeping going.


    The Great North Group conference and re-union scheduled for August may have to be altered and


    curtailed owing to transport and other difficulties of staging a "full dress" show.


    The Amberley Installation was a bright and brilliant function. W. Bro. Reg. Harris was installed for


    the second time as Master. R.W. Bro. Purchase and a special team of District Grand Lodge officers


    did the job in a faultless fashion. There was an attendance of over fifty—quite good under the


    circumstances.


    The refectory proceedings were right up to standard. R.W. Bro. Purchase, D.G.M., made one of his


    usual inspiring and educative speeches and the St. Albans Quartette and other talent were in action.


    The Ladies, as usual, were-thanked for their useful part in the "decorations and dainties."


    W. Bros. Bathurst and Billens will be having a meeting shortly on important matters concerning their


    groups, and brethren will be notified regarding future arrangements.


    R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson and officers of Prov. Grand Lodge, have a busy time ahead and are


    overcoming their transport difficulties by various methods.


    R.W. Bro. John Du Feu sends his kind regards to his many Masonic friends.


    W. Bro. Cooper, of Mairaki Lodge, has been ill and the Group wish him a speedy recovery.


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


    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.


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    SOUTHLAND.


    Taringatura, No. 100.—Our Installation meeting was held on 9th May, when W, Bro. A. A.


    Johnstone, W.M., presided over a good attendance of members and visitors, including R.W. Bro. A.


    Noble, Prov.G.M., and Grand Lodge officers. The installation of Bro., Michael Little, S.W., as Master


    was conducted by the Prov. G. Master, assisted by R.W. Bros. W. F. Irvine, in the chair of S.G.W.; S.


    C. K. Smith, in the chair of J.G.W.; F. A. Steans, Chap.; W. Bros. W. Kelman, G.Purs., and G. J.


    Reed, A.G.D.C. Master-elect was presented by W. Bro. Johnstone and A.G.D.C.; Antient Charges by


    W. Bro. W. T. Johnstone, P.G.St.B.; and presented to a B. of I. Masters, Obligated by R.W. Bro. Jas.


    Manson, P.Prov.G.M.; Trad. History by Inst.O.; Working Tools presented by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans,


    W. Bros. J. R. Battin (W.M., No. 94), R. B. Wilson (W.M., No. 108), W. Irvine, Jnr. (W.M., No.


    289); Presentation of By-laws, B. of Con., Charter and Address to W.M. by R.W. Bro. A. Noble,


    Prov. G.M. The Wardens were invested by R.W. Bro. A. Derbie and addressed by V.W. Bro. J. D.


    Campbell, P.G.D.C. The Chap. and Treas. were invested by R.W. Bro. W. F. Irvine, P.G.W., Sec. and


    D.C. by V.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, P.G. D.C., Deacons by W. Bro. A, L. Kay, G.S., I.G. and Org. by


    R.W. Bro. Sydney Smith, J.G.W., Stewards and Tyler by W. Bro. P. Bayne, S.G.D. Address to


    Brethren by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson. The newly installed Master briefly addressed the meeting. The


    Lodge being closed an adjournment was made to the Social Hall where a sumptuous supper was done


    ample justice to by members and visitors alike. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly


    proposed and responded to interspersed by several well-rendered items. The Tyler's toast closed


    another successful Installation meeting.


    ———————




    OTAGO.


    Maori, No. 105.—The new year in Lodge Maori, No. 105, commenced on 1st March with the re-


    installation of W. Bro. A. McC. Ross as W.M. for the second consecutive term of office—an honour


    not frequently bestowed. We are grateful to W. Bro. Ross for undertaking again the onerous


    responsibilities which he ably discharged during 1940-41. He spent a very great deal of time in


    visiting other Lodges, in fact he constituted something of a record in that respect, until the workaday


    world recalled him from independence to the old life in which there is once more a figure that says the


    war effort means overtime, so Mac, like a dutiful Briton, left his life of comfort to do his bit for an old


    employer, and in doing that, of course, his Masonic visiting had to be reduced. His care of the Lodge,


    however, did not suffer and so on 1st March he found himself being re-installed in the Master's chair.


    Notwithstanding the difficulties of the times, some sixty-odd brethren gathered for the occasion,


    which was conducted by R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes, Prov.G.M., and his G.L. officers. There were also


    present M.W. Bro. W. Lishner, P.G.M., and R.W. Bro. G. Barclay, P.D.G.M., whose presence in


    Masonic circles is as much loved as they are familiar. W. Bro, J. R. Gillies was re-invested as I.P.M.,


    and welcome he is in this capacity for another year, for Jack is a kindly soul. W. Bro. E. T. Monk was


    invested as Deputy Master, Bro. A. A. Packer as S.W., and Bro. J. D. Rodger as J.W. The following


    are officers for the current year: Chap., Bro. A. H. Dowall; Treas., W. Bro. G. H. C. Green; Sec., W.


    Bro. A. Jordan; D. of C., W. Bro. J. C. Seelye; Org., V.W. Bro. Axel Newton; S.D., Bro. S. Marshall;


    J.D., Bro. R. H. Mayfield; I.G., Bro. G. W. Anderson; Tyler, Bro. R. W. Hughson; Stewards, Bros.


    John Key, A. A. Baird, E. Williams, Robt. Ross, F. Wheeler.


    The April meeting saw the working of the Third Degree. The writer has not a note of the particulars,


    so readers must take it for granted that the working was well done. That is one thing, among many,


    that Maori can be justifiably proud. As everyone knows hereabouts, there are many "old stalwarts"


    who can be relied upon at short notice, and officers take their duties seriously, so slips are few.


    Nevertheless, it is not untimely to emphasize here the great need for Masons to rally round their


    Lodge. The calls of the war become increasingly pressing. Many simply cannot attend and, in their


    stead, it is up to those who can to do their part, even though much water may have flowed since last


    they took an active part in ceremonies.


    This is now the time when brethren may show what their Freemasonry is worth—whether it is to them


    merely a hobby in which they have lost interest, or something more abiding which demonstrates the


    character of the man. Ritual has its uses for the sake, of form, tradition and good government; but


    underlying ritual lie principles. It is those principles we ought to recall to-day, so that not only shall


    our own particular Lodge immediately benefit by renewed interest of those who have become


    lackadaisical in Masonic affairs, but, adding to the sum of world opinion, we may help shape our


    destinies, more particularly our children's destinies, in the years which lie ahead.


    Lectures in the three Tracing Boards were delivered at the May meeting. W. Bro. W. Thornicroft took


    the first and W. Bro. J. C. Seelye the second and third. Both brethren have the happy knack of


    delivering their lectures in a pleasant conversational manner that has no trace whatever of the


    recitation of a set piece. They understand the Boards thoroughly and explain their significance in a


    most lucid way. Brethren stood in silence in memory of the late R.E. Comp. Geo. F. Smith, of Maori


    Chapter, No. 28. W. Bro. Smith was a member of Lodge Maori, No. 105, for many years. He did


    much for Freemasonry both in Craft and Chapter. He has been for long Scribe E. and no Chapter


    surely had a better, few his compere. He will be much missed among us.


    ———————


    AUCKLAND.


    Wairoa, No 55.—The Installation meeting of Lodge Wairoa, No. 55, was held on 20th April, when


    W. Bro. W. J. Dunn, W.M., received the large and representative gathering of visitors to see Bro. R.


    Duncan installed as W.M. M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., Prov.G.M., was Installing Master,


    and he was assisted by R.W. Bro. R. Hay, P.G.W., as D. of C., and Grand Lodge officers. The


    Presenting Officers were W. Bros. C. J. Ellis, W.M., Lodge Auckland, No. 87, and C. H. Hayhow,


    W.M., Lodge Arohanui, No. 264. The Working Tools were presented by W. Bros. R. Isaacs, W.M.,


    Lodge Ara, No. 1, H. M. Dodd, W.M., Lodge Selwyn, No. 274, and N. Bow, W.M., Lodge


    Papatoetoe, No. 227. The Address to the W.M. was given by R.W. Bro. R. Hay, P.G.W.; to the




    Wardens by W. Bro. D. Penman, P.G.S., and to the Brethren by M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M.


    The following officers were invested: W.M., W. Bro. R. Duncan; I.P.M., W. Bro. W. J. Dunn; D.M.,


    W. Bro. H, Nutt, G.Supt.W.; S.W., Bro. R. Crawley; J.W., Bro. T. Dean; Chap., W. Bro. L. E. Smith;


    Trees., W. Bro. P. S. Wallis; Sec., W. Bro. W. V. Smith; D. of C., W. Bro. G. F. Smither; S.D., Bro.


    V. S. Smith; J.D., Bro. C. D. Birchfield; Org., Bro. C. J. M. Thompson; Asst. Sec., Bro. A. H. Law;


    I.G,, Bro. H. Betts; Tyler, Bro. I. S. Kerr; S.S., Bro. J. Forbes; J.S., Bro. A. J. Johnston.


    ————


    Kaikohe, No. 255.—The Installation of Lodge Kaikohe, No. 255, was held on 29th April. M.W. Bro.


    Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., Prov.G.M., journeyed from Auckland, accompanied by G.L. officers, to


    carry out the ceremony of Installation, The Presenting Officers were W. Bros. C. Hingston, W.M.,


    Lodge Ohaeawai, No. 101, and F. E. Taylor, W.M., Northern Light Lodge, .No. 1878, E.C. The


    Working Tools were presented by W. Bros. G. M. Clarkson, W.M., Lodge Morningside, No. 288, L.


    A. Johnson, P.M., Lodge Parahaki, No. 269, and W. H. Roberts, .W.M., Lodge Waitakerei, No. 170,


    The Address to the W.M. was given by R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, P.G.W.; to the Wardens by W. Bro. H.


    Nutt, G.Supt. Works; and to the Brethren by M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson. The following officers


    were invested: W.M., W. Bro. W. H, Knudsen; I.P.M., W. Bro. E. Williams; D.M., W. Bro. J. J.


    Bedggood; S.W., Bro. R. P. Garner; J.W., Bro. F. J. Williams; Chap., W. Bro. F. H. Bedggood;


    Treas., Bro. J. F. Frain; Sec., W. Bro. A. P. Leigh; D. of C., W. Bro. G. G. McNickle; S.D., Bro. L. T.


    Dwan; J.D., Bro. G. Williamson; Org., W. Bro. K. W. Harold; I.G., Bro. R. T. Smith; S.S., Bro. T.


    Guerin; J.S., Bro. G. Ritchie; Tyler, Bro. W. S. Thorpe. A very happy social hour was spent in the


    refectory after the ceremony.


    ————


    Arohanui, No. 264.—W. Bro. C. H. Hayhow, W.M., received the visitors at the Installation meeting


    on 12th May. There was a very fine gathering of brethren to pay a tribute to both W. Bro. C. H.


    Hayhow and the W.M.-elect, Bro. T. W. Chalcraft. M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., Prov.G.M.,


    conducted the ceremony of Installation, and assisting him was V.W. Bro. F. G. Alpe, P.G.D.C., and


    Grand Lodge officers. The Presenting Officers were W. Bros. B. Millar, W.M., St. Andrew Lodge,


    No. 8, and H. M. Dodd, W.M., Lodge Selwyn, No. 274. The Working Tools were presented by W.


    Bros. G. G. Spink, W.M., Lodge Rongomau, No. 280; S. T. Carter, W.M., Lodge Onewa, No. 182;


    and E. P. Wright, W.M. Lodge Arawhaiti No. 267. The address to the W.M. was given by R.W. Bro.


    R. Hay, P.G.W.; to the Wardens by W. Bro. A. L. Nugent, P.S., and to the Brethren by M.W. Bro.


    Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M. The following officers were invested: W.M., W. Bro. T. W. Chalcraft;


    I.P.M., W. Bro. C. H. Hayhow; D.M., W. Bro. A. S. Henshaw; S.W., Bro. W. L. J. Cahill; J.W., Bro.


    W. P. Traill; Chap., W. Bro. J. B. Blakemore, P.G.O.; Treas., Bro. C. J. Edmonds; Sec., W. Bro. J. S.


    Palmer; Asst. Sec., Bro. W. Clark; D. of C., W. Bro. F. A. Osborne; S.D., Bro. H. H. Ward; J.D., Bro.


    G. J. Maddren; Org., Bro. L. Kelway; I.G., Bro. A. C. N. Bellemy; H.S., Bro. W. H. Clayton; S.S..


    Bro. R. A. Henshaw; J.S., C. A. J. Watling; A.S., Bro. W. T. Moore; Tyler, W. Bro. C. H. Gladding.


    A very enjoyable social hour was spent in the refectory after the ceremony.


    ——————


    HAWKE'S BAY.


    Tauhara, No. 307.—Owing to the unavoidable absence of W. Bro. T. A. Heath, W.M., the visitors at


    the annual Installation ceremony of Lodge Tauhara, No. 307, on the 11th inst, were received by the


    Deputy Master, W. Bro. H. Faulknor, when Bro. S. G. Christensen was installed. R.W. Bro. A. W.


    Parkinson, Prov.G.M., was Installing Master, assisted by W. Bro. C. Pirrie, G.D. of C., and G.L.


    officers. Working Tools were presented by W. Bros. Sheaf, W.M., Rotorua, No. 153, Ellingham,


    Napier, No. 268, and Cox, Omarunui, No. 216. R.W. Bro. Parkinson, Prov.G.M. invested W. Bro.


    Faulknor as D.M. and W. Bros. Hastings, Young, Mahony and Sheaf assisted the W.M. in the


    investiture of other officers, The following officers were invested: W.M., W. Bro. C. P. Christensen;


    S.W., Bro. V. T. Fail; J.W., Bro. A. S. Henry; Chap., Bro. F. Fletcher; Treas., Bro. W. Andrew; Sec.,


    W. Bro. B. Grahame; S.D., Bro. R. Anderson-Bak; J.D., Bro. H. J. Holder; I.G., Bro. F. Gradwell;


    Tyler, Bro. J. Taylor; S.S., Bro. J. Gamble; A.S., Bro. J. Story. During the ceremony the Prov.G.M.


    expressed regret at the enforced absence in hospital of W. Bro. T. A. Heath and hoped that he would


    soon be restored to health. Among the visitors from Lodges Rotorua, No. 153, Omarunui, No. 216,




    Napier, No. 268, Victoria, No. 21, Lion, No. 114; Tirau, No. 193; Abercorn, No. 30; St. John


    Kilwinning, No. 62; Heretaunga, No. 73, were a number of Freemasons from Waiouru Military


    Camp., whose presence in uniform reminded the brethren that our fair country was at war. The social


    hour which followed was a very pleasant and successful function.


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    ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Southern Cross, No. 3.—The regular monthly convocation, held on 22nd April and presided over by


    V.E. Comp. W. R. Allan, Z., attracted a good attendance. A well-known Past Master of one of the


    Invercargill Lodges was elected to membership. The ceremony of Holy Royal Arch was conducted by


    V.E. Comp. W. R. Allen and his officers. Obligation, Investiture and Discovery Charge by First


    Principal; Signs by V.E. Comp. G. J. Reed; Signs Further, R.E. Comp. S. C. K. Smith, P.G.J.;


    Working Tools by V.E. Comp. A. Derbie, P.G.Supt.W.; Final Charge by R.E. Comp. W. F. Irvine,


    P.G.H. Chapter closed and a retirement made to the social room where a quiet hour was spent around


    the festive board. The Chapter was in mourning as a mark of respect to the late V.E. Comp. John


    Rennie, P.Z., an old Past Principal, who had recently passed to the Grand Chapter above. The Janitor's


    toast terminated a profitable meeting,


    ————


    Rawhiti, 30.—The monthly convocation was held on 4th May, V.E. Comp, J. B. Dales, Z., presided


    over a good attendance of Companions. The ceremonial business consisted of the elevation of five


    candidates to the Ark Mariner Degree, and although the ceremony is not so frequently carried out as


    those of the other degrees, the work was carried out in a most efficient and impressive manner. The


    first annual convocation for the year in this territory, that of Heretaunga Chapter, No. 38, was held at


    Hastings on 9th May, R.E. Comp. C, J. Hansard, G.Supt., availed himself of the opportunity to invest


    V.E. Comp. T. Rowe as G. Chancellor. R.E. Comp. E. E. Bott was presented, on behalf of the


    Chapters in the Hawke's Bay district, with an undress suit of Past G. Supt.'s regalia in recognition of


    his four years' service in control of the district. R.E. Comp. Bolt was taken completely by surprise and


    experienced some difficulty in finding words in which to acknowledge the gift. A feature of the


    gathering was the representative attendance from Bedford, No. 39, Waipukurau, of which Chapter


    Comp. Bott is a member. The attendance included seven Past Grand Superintendents.


    ————


    Huiroa, No. 47.—Our regular monthly convocation was held on 9th May, when V.E. Comp. G.


    McLeod, Z., presided over a large attendance. The routine business being completed, the Chapter


    adjourned and a Lodge of Mark Master Masons opened by W.M. Master Graham and officers and


    three candidates advanced to the Mark Degree. The W.M.M. was assisted by W. Bros. E. C. Smith, H.


    C. MacGibbon, J. McDonald and W. H. Marshall. Lodge of Mark Masons closed and labour resumed


    in the Chapter and seven Companions presented with their R.A. diplomas by M.E. Comp. E. C.


    Smith, P.G.Z. On retiring to the refectory a pleasant hour was spent around the festive board.


    ————————


    SOUTHERN CROSS CRYPTIC COUNCIL, No. 3.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The regular meeting, held on 16th May and presided over by V.E. Comp, Wm. Kelman, T.I.M.,


    attracted a satisfactory attendance of members. Three well-known Royal Arch Companions were


    elected to membership and presented themselves for the Royal Masters' Degree and conducted


    through the beautiful ceremony peculiar to this point by Comp. Gordon Webb, P.G.W. Obligation by


    T.I.M.; Historical Lecture by R.E. Comp. S. C. K. Smith, P.T.I.M.; Final Charge and Investiture by


    T.I.M. Council of Select Masters then opened and candidates instructed in the mysteries of this


    degree. Ob. by R.E. Comp. A. Scott, P.T.I.M.; Ss. and Lecture by R.E. Comp. S. C. K. Smith;


    Historical Lecture by R.E. Comp. A. Scott; Working Tools by E. Comp. E. McK. Lyon; Final Charge


    by V.E. Comp. Kelman. Council of Super Excellent Masters was then opened by V.E. Comp. W. R.


    Copland, Depute, who obligated the three candidates as Super Excellent Masters. Lecture on the




    Square by Comp. G. G. Webb, P.Con.Works. The Triangle by V.E. Comp. Kelman; the Square by


    V.E. Comp. W. Allen; Ss.- by R.E. Comp. S. C. K. Smith; Final Charge by V.E. Comp. W. R.


    Copland. V.E. Comp. Kelman was presented with his chair diploma by R.E. Comp. A. Scott. Council


    was then closed and a retirement made to the festive board where a pleasant half-hour was spent.


    ————————


    A. & A.S. RITE.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Murihiku, No. 36.—E. and P. Bro. J. C. Mackenzie, M.W.S., presided over a good attendance of


    members at the regular quarterly meeting held on 29th April. The annual report and balance-sheet


    were before the meeting and disclosed another successful year's working. The ceremonial work was


    the exemplification of the Degree of Secret Master (Fourth Degree) and was conducted by Ill. Bro. A.


    Scott, 30°, assisted by Ill. Bro. S. C. K. Smith, 30°, as M.C. The beautiful charges peculiar to this


    most instructive degree were read by Ill. Bro. C. B. Gibbs, 30°, E. and P. Bros. Alex Derbie, and W.


    F. Irvine, P.M.W.S., and Ill. Bro. S. C. K Smith, P.M.W.S. The degree was greatly appreciated by all


    present and afforded members another opportunity of making a further advance in Masonic


    knowledge. E. and P. Bro. J. J. Griffiths was elected as the first honorary member of this Chapter on


    his removal to Dunedin: The usual social hour terminated a very enjoyable meeting.