FREEMASONRY AND EDUCATION.

LSEWHERE in this issue we print a striking paper, entitled "Freemasonry and Education," recently read

before the Hawke's Bay Research Lodge by V.W. Bro. Wm. Martin, B.Sc., Past Grand Lecturer and Past

Master of the Research Lodge of Wellington. This address is not only opportune in view of current social

perplexities, but courageous and searching in its diagnosis of what is undoubtedly a serious defect in

Masonic practice, not only in this territory, but probably everywhere at the present time. We commend the

paper to the serious perusal of all our readers. It will repay careful study; and, indeed, could well be placed in

the hands of every member of the Craft.

Bro. Martin is well qualified, not only by his Masonic rank and experience, but by his position in the

educational service of the Dominion, to express views on this subject that should command respectful

attention; and in addition he makes a number of practical suggestions which we view with unqualified

approval, and to which we may make reference in the future. While we are satisfied that in the main the

views submitted and conclusions drawn in this paper could not be refuted, we do not necessarily endorse in

detail every statement made. In fact, Bro. Martin has not by any means said the last word on some of the

topics he has raised, though he has provided a most suggestive basis for further discussion.

The paper opens by commenting on the obvious fact, a fact discussed frequently in these columns and

elsewhere, that the Masonic education of the majority of brethren usually ceases when the three degrees have

been conferred upon them, and their significance explained in terms of the ritual. With commendable

fairness, however, the paper points out:

The study of the ritual is in itself an education in right living and correct conduct, and an excellent

guide to what today we vaguely call 'The New Order'; and if every Mason were to practice his

Masonic teachings in his daily contacts with his fellow men, his influence and example would make a

very big contribution to the realisation of those world conditions of life which we hazily visualise

under the name New Order.' "

This we think is profoundly true; but it goes far deeper than the question of Masonic education, reaching

down into the character and sincerity, of the Craft and its members. Bro. Martin however considers that even

such Masonic knowledge as is drawn from a study of the ritual is inadequate, rather a disconcerting

conclusion in view of the fact that even the ritual receives "study" of only the most fugitive and superficial

character in many cases. He goes on to the more debatable proposition enshrined in the following vivid

sentence:—

"The great army of unattached Masons is annually reinforced from Master Masons suffering either

from Masonic malnutrition or Masonic starvation, resulting if not mainly, then frequently, from the

W.M.'s failure to impart light and instruction to the brethren of his Lodge."

This picturesque passage appears to embody an element of exaggeration; and, indeed, hardly to square with

the reproach levelled in the opening paragraph that "in most Lodges a night when there is no candidate is

regarded as an off-night, usually reflected in a small attendance alike of members and visitors." One would

think that if members felt themselves starved of Masonic knowledge, attendances would be greater, and not

less, when Masonic instruction is the order of the evening.

Our desire to witness a widely prevalent zeal for Masonic knowledge is as keen as that of Bro. Martin, but

we feel that a realistic attitude is necessary, here as everywhere else. Observation leads us irresistibly to the

conclusion that, outside the compass of ritual repetition, Masonic education in either a casual or a systematic

fashion is not greatly desired or valued by the average Freemason. It should be, but in fact it is not. Any

leakage of membership or general falling away in interest is attributable, we think, mainly to other causes.

The function of educational activity in craft lodge practice today seems to be to act as a stop-gap in the

absence of a candidate and ritual work.

It must further be admitted that the proportion of W.Ms. with the culture and Masonic knowledge and

experience fitting them adequately for the task of imparting light and instruction to the members of their

E

Lodge is not large. A brother usually reaches the Chair comparatively early in his Masonic life, and during

that year he is mainly preoccupied with matters of ritual and administration, which leave him, notably in

view of his visitation obligations, little time for any other Masonic activities. Such work, if it were done at

all, would have to be done by his predecessors; and the number of Past Masters able and willing to carry out

this function on a high plane is not great. There is the further fact that if a lodge is busy with candidates, a

full educational programme would entail an abnormal number of meetings, or meetings unduly long for

profit and pleasure to result.

If we take a somewhat wider view of this educational Problem, we find that most if not all efforts at adult

education, in any systematic and thorough sense of the term, have been frustrated, or at all events prejudiced,

by the obvious fact that most adults, after a day of worry and toil, desire recreation in their evening hours,

and are not prepared to undertake serious and sustained study for the purpose of making a daily advancement

in knowledge, Masonic or otherwise. Once again it would be unrealistic to overlook this fundamental

difficulty.

However, difficulties exist to be overcome, and the neea tor a diffusion of Masonic education and culture is

made urgently evident by Bro. Martin, It may be that it will be confined largely to an elect few, and through

them the lump will be leavened. Only by education, as the paper points out in citation of the ritual, are we

made fit members of regularly organised society; and the need has never been more apparent than it is today,

and seems likely to become in the future.

Again we commend the views expressed in this paper co the attention of readers. To expect hundred per

cent. compliance with the ideals expressed by Bro. Martin would be unduly optimistic, but all the same we

are convinced that the seed so well sown will not fall wholly on sterile ground.

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ORDER OF THE SECRET MONITOR.

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We are informed that a petition has been forwarded to London for a warrant of constitution for a new

Conclave to be called "Waikato Conclave" to meet at Hamilton.

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MASONIC JUBILEE OF M.W. BRO. OLIVER NICHOLSON,

P.G.M., PROV.G.M. AUCKLAND DISTRICT.

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A EULOGY.

———

(By V.Wor. Bro. Albert Bright, G.Lect.)

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" . . . and to enforce, by example and precept, the tenets of the system."

Thus is every Master Mason directed; and surely this injunction was never more worthily fulfilled by any

Freemason, than him, whose Masonic jubilee we celebrate this month; that well beloved ruler in the Craft,

M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson.

One of the tenets of Freemasonry is the practising of every moral and social virtue, which means the

fulfilment of one's duty to one's fellow men; a duty, the qualities of which are clearly defined by Masonic

teachings and by direction from the V.S.L.

The primary object of Freemasonry is to mould and develop the character of its members in such a manner

that they are brought to realise that it is only by self-sacrifice and service that it will be possible to bring

about a brotherhood of men, bound together by mutual respect and goodwill; a brotherhood based on natural

equality and mutual dependence; a brotherhood with a consciousness that spiritual consolation is more

acceptable when accompanied by material assistance.

M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson has ever striven, by example and precept, to promulgate these tenets of

Freemasonry.

When he was elected Grand Master in 1916, he said that success should not be measured by numerical or

financial strength, but by the manner in which members of the Craft exemplified the principles of

Freemasonry; and he appealed to the brethren to come to a realisation of their duties as Freemasons, and

more particularly those duties pertaining to the care of fallen and distressed brethren and their dependants.

And throughout all the years that he has been Provincial Grand Master of the Auckland District he has never

failed to urge the brethren to give a practical exposition of a real Freemasonry; and the high level of the

contributions to the W.O. and A.M. Fund, attained by the Auckland brethren, is due, in no small measure, to

the example and precept of M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson.

As a ruler in the Craft, his actions have ever been directed towards promoting peace and harmony; and there

are many Wor. Masters who have cause to be grateful that they were able to harmoniously adjust some of

those awkward problems which sometimes arise in a Lodge, by acting upon the helpful advice, so kindly and

freely given by him. At the same time, although actuated by a desire to promote peace and harmony, he has

ruled with fortitude and justice, and has always jealously guarded the honour and dignity of the Craft.

His wonderfully human understanding, his kindly disposition, and the cheerfulness with which he has

accepted the responsibilities of his position, have been an inspiration to those privileged to serve under hm.

It were an easy task to multiply the sterling qualities of this M.W. Brother, who for the past 50 years has in

such an ungrudging manner given so much to this glorious Institution.

By his exemplification of the tenets of Freemasonry and by his life of devotion and service to the Craft, he

has endeared himself in the hearts of all good Masons, and has provided an example which all might well

strive to emulate.

May the Great Architect continue to sustain and bless him in this noble work.

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ROSE CROIX HEADQUARTERS, LONDON, DAMAGED.

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We much regret to announce that advice has been received that the Headquarters of Supreme council, 33°, 10

Duke Street, St. James', London, S.W.1., were severely damaged in a recent air raid and consequently, there

may be some delay in the receipt of certificates, etc.

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MASONIC BRETHREN IN WELLINGTON HOSPITALS

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COMMITTEE REPORT No. 8.

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The following brethren were visited in Ewart Hospital: —Bro. Rowland Hill, Lodge Pacific; Bro. W. B.

Swan, Lodge Empire; and Bro. Lauchlan, Lodge Renown.

In the Public Hospital the following brethren are patients and were visited during the month :—Bro. L. S.

Davies, Lodge Waitohi; Bro. D. E. McKay, Lodge Otari; Bro. E. Swailes, Scinde Lodge, Napier; Bro. L.

Jellicoe, Lodge Otari; Bro. Lieut. Reg. Shaw, Lodge Tongariro, No. 705 E.C.; and Bro. I. Robinson. Lodge

Mokoia.

Bro. Davies is going home to Picton for three months and we hope and trust that he will make continued

good progress and benefit from his stay at home.

Bro. McKay has so fully recovered that he has been discharged from hospital.

All the other patients are making steady progress towards recovery, and they each send their best wishes and

fraternal greetings to their respective Lodges.

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REUNION OF COMPANIONS OF BROOKLYN R.A. CHAPTER, No. 24.

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On Monday, 17th April, V.E. Comp. L. A. McAlister, 1st Principal, had every reason to congratulate himself

on this innovation in Brooklyn Chapter. The idea was enthusiastically received by all Companions.

After the routine business, M.E. Comp. R. W. McVilly, Grand Supt. of the District, was received with

honours. V.E. Comp. J. D. Davis, P.G.D.C., then announced R.E. Comp. S. T. S. Martin, Depute Grand Z.,

who was received by the Grand Supt. with the honours due to his exalted rank, this being his first official

visit to the Chapter.

Of the 19 Past 1st Principals on the roll, 14 were present. Apologies were forwarded by the remaining five.

The 1st Principal gave a short resume of the history of the Chapter since its Dedication 38 years ago. The

only remaining foundation member, V.E. Comp. Sir Charles Norwood, the third installed 1st Principal on the

honours list, was present at the meeting and was given a most enthusiastic welcome.

Of the Chapter's strength of 89 members all but eight were accounted for during roll call — 51 Companions

answered to their names, 20 forwarded apologies, and 10 were either in camp or overseas.

A very happy time was spent in the refectory. After the Loyal Masonic Toasts the 1st Principal proposed the

toast of Depute Grand Z., which was replied to by R.E. Comp. Martin in his usual able way. The 1st

Principal then proposed the toast of the Past 1st Principals of the Chapter, and in doing so drew attention to

all Past 1st Principals, mentioning each by name. This toast was ably supported by M.E. Comp. McVilly, G.

Supt. of the District, and a member of the Chapter. Four Past 1st Principals replied. In the refectory all

present showed their keen appreciation of the musical items rendered by E. Comp. Williams, Comp. Elston

and Comp. L. E. Alexander.

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EXTRACTS.

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G. B. Shaw: "This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognised by yourself as a mighty one;

the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; the being a force of nature, instead

of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself

to making you happy."

Emerson: "I look on that man as happy who, when there is a question of success, looks into his work for a

reply, not into opinion, not into patronage. . . . Men talk as if victory were something fortunate. Work is

victory. Wherever work is done, victory is obtained."

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MASONRY IS MORAL GEOMETRY.

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(By Bro. Rev. Dr. J. Fort Newton.)

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Masonry is moral geometry; its truths are a part of the order of nature. Take a snowflake and look at it under

a glass and you will find it to be an exquisite example of the geometry of God —squares, circles, triangles,

pentagons, hexagons, parallelograms, more exact and delicate than the deftest hand could trace.

Such is the structure of nature, and it is no wonder that Pythagoras saw in these signs and designs,

everywhere present, the thought-forms of the Eternal Mind—else they would not be the natural self-sought

forms of matter. One of his sayings that has floated down to us is: "All things are in numbers; the world is a

living arithmetic in its developments—a realised geometry in its repose."

From Pythagoras this insight passed to Plato, whose genius gave eloquent expression to the doctrine of num-

bers. When asked by a pupil what God does, Plato replied : "God geometrizes continually." Over the porch

of his academy at Athens he inscribed the words: "Let no one who is ignorant of geometry enter my doors,"

meaning that all his teachings rested upon the science of numbers. Science confirms his doctrine, as we may

read in the last chapter of the study of the spider, by Henri Fabre.

Geometry, that is to say, the science of harmony in space, presides over everything. We find it in the

arrangement of the fir-cone, as in the arrangement of the spider's web; in the spiral of the snail shell; in

the chaplet of a spider's thread, and in the orbit of a planet; it is everywhere as perfect in the world of

atoms as in the world of immensities. And this universal geometry tells us of a Universal

Geometrician, whose divine compass has measured all things.

No wonder, then, Robert Southey spoke of the spider as "the old Free Mason." For when we try to think the

thoughts of God after Him, we find ourselves thinking in terms of law, order, number; and no doubt that was

what Plato meant when he said that by the art of measurement the soul is saved. Aristotle said that "man is

the measure of all things," and Ovid added that "our measure is in our immortal souls." So all the mighty

thinkers agree that the human mind is made in the image of the Eternal Mind; that we can follow the

thoughts of God—which means that our faith is not a mere guess, that truth, justice, beauty in man is of the

same nature as truth, justice and beauty in God, however they may differ in degree.

There is also a moral geometry, tested by long and often sorrowful experience. Every evil way has been

often tried. No prophet is needed to predict the final issue; it is a problem in geometry. Moral idealism is not

the musings of a visionary; it is the calm geometry of life. The moral life is as logical as Euclid, and result

follows cause—defeat follows evil—as surely as suns rise and set. The wit of man cannot outwit the moral

law.

Thus Masonry deals in a practical way with the geometry of manhood, its proportions and dimensions

seeking to give us symmetry, of character—poise, balance and beauty also of soul. It tries to build the

character of man after the pattern of the City of God in the book of Revelation, a city whose length and

breadth and height are equal. How seldom one meets a symmetrical character. Most of us are lop-sided or

unevenly developed, in one way or another. Often enough the mind of a philosopher is attached to the

appetite of a pig, or the faith of a saint with the sneer of a snob.

The basis of the triangle of character as we are taught in the first degree of Masonry, is righteousness. Purity

is the first dimension of a man. Morals are ever the boundaries of liberty and the first measure of manhood.

Honesty, purity, truthfulness—nothing can take their place, and without them religion is either a superstition

or an empty form.

But, strangely enough, a man may be moral and yet mean. He may be clean but cruel; honest but

uncharitable; truthful but narrow, bigoted, hard. He may throw a poor family out of his house for lack of rent

and be perfectly honest—and inhuman! If there is anything worse than the wrongs wrought by wicked men it

is the evil done by good men. That which gives breadth, mellowness and loveliness to character is sympathy.

And so to purity we must add pity. Justice runs lengthwise of life, but mercy is width and is an evidence of

nobility and refinement of spirit. No matter how righteous a man may be, unless he carries in his heart an'

alabaster box of sympathy, pity, pathos, he lacks much of being a man. Blest be a broad and sunny sympathy

in which bigotry and cynicism melt away; it is the second dimension of character "according to the measure

of man that is, of the angel."

But there is another dimension of manhood, too often forgotten in our day, which we may call piety. Some

think it a kind of fourth dimension—a thing which you may argue exists, but which we can never realise. Not

so. It is a natural, normal development of man, without which his life lacks sympathy and is a temple without

a tower. Man must seek the heights of life, must be tall of soul as well as broad—tall enough to see over

walls of sect, party, nation and race. Altitude of soul shows us that many things that men wrangle about are

insignificant, and that other things, like a cup of water given to a brother with a gesture of kindness, are of

eternal moment.

It is when we add this third dimension that we see that man, measured by the Angel in him, is

immeasureable. Everywhere in Masonry—from the moment when we first enter its temple as a pilgrim

seeking light to the day when it lays us to rest. and deposits its little white apron in our tomb—we are taught

to pray, for wisdom and light, for ourselves and for each other, each praying for all and all for each one. Yet

how little men realise the power and worth of prayer to lift us out of a narrow, self-centred, restless life into

the large, serene, joyous "life which moves and cannot die."

No wonder our sums do not work, and we never find the answer to the riddle of life, because we are trying to

build the House of Life in only two dimensions. It cannot be done, and it will not stand when the winds blow

and the floods beat upon it. Let us dare to judge our own life and the life of our fellows by what is highest, so

that, at last, when we are tested by "the measure of the Angel" —that is by the Angel of Death—we may be

found to have attained in some degree, to the measure of the stature of a true, upright, brotherly Mason. And

by as much as we have failed, by so much let us trust the mercy of God which is without measure and knows

no end.

—"Freemasons' Chronicle."

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The "Pastmasters' Night" of Lodge Karori, No. 247, was held on 31st March. The ceremony was a "raising.

The following P.Ms. occupied the chairs:—V.W. Bro. C. Taylor, G.Reg., W. Bros. R. Ross, G. A. Laird,

P.G.S., John E. Hunt, P.G.S., E. Bennett, R. McCluggage H. Taylor, L. Frew. W. Bro. Ross presided. The

W.M., W. Bro. A. E. Kennard. P.G.Swd.B., W. Bro. W. Burd, W. Bro. T. A. Fletcher, and W. Bro. R. Smith

also took part in the ceremony. Every surviving Past Master within travelling distance of the meeting was in

attendance.

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The Ara Lodge, No. 1, has issued the invitation to attend the regular monthly meeting of the Lodge, which

will be held in the Masonic Temple, St. Benedict's Street, Auckland, on Tuesday, 9th May, 1944, at 7 o'clock

punctually. The meeting is being held to honour the Provincial Grand Master, Most Wor. Bro. Oliver

Nicholson. P.G.M., upon the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of his initiation on 9th May, 1894.

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ALTERATIONS TO MASONIC BODIES' ADVERTISEMENTS.

The notice which appeared in last month's issue had the desired effect of bringing in a sheaf of corrections.

For this action the respective executive officers are heartily thanked, No doubt many lodge and chapter

advertisements are still out of date and require amendment. Will secretaries kindly oblige?—Manager, "N.Z.

Craftsman."

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FREEMASONRY AND EDUCATION.

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(Lecture by V. Wor. Bro. Wm. Martin, B.Sc., P.M. of Wellington Research Lodge.)

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HAWKE'S BAY RESEARCH LODGE, No. 305.

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It is a commonplace that, in very many of our lodges, practically every meeting is devoted to the ritualistic

working of one or other of the three symbolic degrees. It is no less true that in most lodges a night when

there is no candidate is regarded as an off-night, usually reflected in a small attendance alike of members and

visitors. The further instruction of the Master Mason finds no place in the year's work, and all too often the

W.M. is scarcely conscious of any moral obligation or responsibility in this regard.

As members of a Research Lodge you will not require me to point out that the great army of unattached

Masons is annually reinforced from Master Masons suffering either from Masonic malnutrition or Masonic

starvation, resulting if not mainly, then frequently, from the W.M.'s failure to impart light and instruction to

the brethren of his Lodge. Neither will you require to be reminded of the fact that the average Mason knows

little or nothing of Masonry who knows only the text of his ritual.

In saying this I am not unmindful that the study of the ritual is in itself an education in right living and

correct conduct, and an excellent guide to what today we vaguely call "The New Order"; and if every Mason

were to practise his Masonic teachings in his daily contacts with his fellow men, his influence and example

would make a very big contribution to the realisation of those world conditions of life which we hazily

visualise under the name "New Order."

I am well aware that, from the dawn of time, men have dreamed of their Utopias, and am under no delusion

that the millenium is at hand; for until men have evolved to a moral and ethical plane far beyond that

observable today, and have escaped the shackles of materialism and of "High Finance," such Utopias must

remain dreams and visions. Much of mankind today finds itself starved physically, mentally, morally, and

spiritually, and such conditions are not conducive to the inauguration of an idealistic State. Yet the world is

comprised of individuals, and the moral tone and social efficiency of any State or society is a resultant of the

quality of these individuals. Hence if the 3,000,000 Masons in the world today individually practised their

Masonry in their social and business contacts, and offered their services in community, civic, or State

leadership, the world would benefit not a little, and Utopia would be markedly nearer.

It is my personal belief that Freemasons, drawn as they are from the better elements of society, are capable of

pulling their weight in the evolution of the post-war world to an extent far beyond their present dreams or

attainments. In the world of politics and social service how many Masons do we find? True that, in the

aggregate, their number is considerable; true also that many holding the highest office in the State and

municipality are Freemasons; but relative to the 27,000 Masons in this country their total is clearly not five

per cent. "Service before Self" is not a motto for the Rotary movement only. It is the most important

ingredient in the recipe for any effective new social order; and, while the discussion of politics is very wisely

banned from our lodge-rooms, it is nevertheless incumbent on Freemasonry to impress on its adherents and

members their moral and civic obligation to render community service. Only men of education and of high

moral sense and purpose are capable of framing, initiating, and implementing any worthwhile New Order

free from graft and the other besetting sins of the past and present.

A Freemason's politics must ever be his own private matter, but as a citizen of the world, he is expected to

fulfil the duties required of every worthy citizen and to render community service in whatever realm or

capacity his talents lie. Only by a campaign of Masonic education in the principles of the Order and the

duties of the members, will Masons ever rise to their opportunites.

On the night of his initiation, every candidate declares a desire for knowledge and a SINCERE WISH TO

RENDER HIMSELF MORE EXTENSIVELY SERVICEABLE TO HIS FELLOW CREATURES, as two

reasons for wishing to join the Craft. By implication the Craft is expected to assist the candidate to achieve

both his wishes. I therefore put two questions to you—

(1) Are Master Masons receiving adequate instruction in the principles and tenets of the Order, and the
duties they owe to God, to their fellow-men, and to themselves?

(2) Is there any evidence that Master Masons are "more extensively serviceable" to their fellows after
joining the Craft?

How, then, may each Lodge best fulfil its obligations to the candidate? Early in the First Degree we find the

answer. The chisel points out to us the advantages of EDUCATION, BY WHICH MEANS ALONE WE

ARE RENDERED FIT MEMBERS OF REGULARLY ORGANISED SOCIETY. In like manner the rough

ashlar represents man in his primitive state till, by means of a liberal and virtuous education, his mind

becomes polished and he becomes both an asset and an ornament to society. But the final charge of the First

Degree adds a vital supplement when it admonishes the candidate TO EXERCISE THOSE TALENTS

wherewith God has blessed him as well to His glory as TO THE WELFARE OF HIS FELLOW-

CREATURES.

The obligation to render social and community service 's definite and precise. Every Freemason, however,

must interpret this in action as he feels himself best capable of service. The pre-requisite which enables the

Mason to render the highest service is education, both virtuous and liberal. Such education is not to be

limited to a strictly Masonic education—i.e., an education in the aims, objects and tenets of Freemasonry,

though this may be an important part. Education in its widest scope and amplest proportions, symbolised by

the seven liberal arts and sciences, alone will suffice. No man today can comprehend the gamut of human

knowledge, but he can make some part of it his own—this is a duty no less than a privilege. Indeed, it is only

possible by the study of the liberal arts and sciences to comprehend even in small degree the amazing

beauties and marvels of creation.

We as citizens are members of a great democracy, but no democracy can be a success unless it has an

educated and enlightened citizenship. Of course, education alone will not make it work, but an intelligent and

honest vote can be cast only by an educated citizen; hence it is not at all surprising that in both the First and

Second Degrees stress should be so constantly laid on the value of education. The greater comprehends the

lesser, and so in the narrower Masonic sense, "by the teaching of our Masonic art, the candidate will be

enabled to display the beauties of true godliness to the honour and glory of His Holy Name." This is that part

of education which the ritual describes as VIRTUOUS, and which is a most necessary complement to that

other part which we term LIBERAL. In the final charge of the First Degree, the parting recommendation to

every candidate is threefold :—

(a) To dedicate himself to such pursuits as may enable him (1) to retain his self-respect; (2) to
render useful service to his fellow-creatures; (3) to become an ornament to Freemasonry in

general and to his lodge in particular.

(b) To study such of the liberal arts and sciences as may lie within the compass of his attainments.

(c) To endeavour to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge.

MEANS TO THIS END

A candidate for Freemasonry must be 21 years of age or more before he is eligible for initiation in the

ordinary course of things. He has therefore passed beyond the stage or normal schooling, unless possibly he

is still a university student. But to the progressive and thoughtful citizen many avenues of further education

remain open. In the realm of books he has available the accumulated 'knowledge of the ages. There are books

both technical and popular on every conceivable branch of human knowledge. There are University

extension lectures, W.E.A. classes, debating, dramatic, and musical societies, scientific societies, and a host

of others providing educational facilities for the tastes of all. Then there is the Book of Nature ever open for

all to read who have learned its alphabet. The rocks, the rivers, the plants, the animals—all are proclaiming

their story and history to all who will attend. "Sermons in Stones" might well be modified to "Sermons by

Stones." Allow me to illustrate. I once marshalled about 100 Training College students on the bank of a

stream, and asked them to record anything that the stream and its banks told them. Some saw much and

recorded much; some saw little and recorded little; yet that bank told a vivid story of active volcanoes, of

lava flows and ash showers, of ancient and extinct plants, of rivers flowing -millions of years ago, and a later

stream flowing long enough to carve out huge valleys and cut through solid rock to the depth of hundreds of

feet. Those that have eyes to see and ears to hear, let them see and let them hear.

It was not without reason that the study of Nature and of Science was so strongly recommended to every

Freemason, for Nature in its widest scope is the only subject available for study, and Science is just

demonstrable knowledge.

In the more restricted sphere of Masonic knowledge there are numerous sources from which to draw for our

daily advancement. These might be summarised as follows:—

(1) By regular attendance at lodge and active participation in its activities.

(2) By taking further degrees and familiarising oneself with their ritual and teachings.

(3) By instruction imparted to the lodge by the W.M. or one of the P.Ms. in the form of short papers or
addresses on topics of Masonic import.

(4) By attending a lodge of instruction or lodge of improvement.

(5) By joining a Research Lodge and so hearing the papers and discussions, and reading the printed
lectures.

(6) By utilising the services of the Grand Lecturer.

(7) By using the library facilities of the local lodge or Research Lodge.

(8) By the purchase of selected Masonic literature.

(9) By becoming a contributor to the Craftsman or other Masonic paper or journal.

(10) By oneself preparing short papers or lecturettes necessitating study and research.

Now there are many brethren who, for one reason or another, progress little or slowly in their knowledge of

Masonry and who cannot be expected to model their lives on a creed not known or understood by them. If

such are starved out of our lodges we lose their potential services, and they lose the help that Masonry is

capable of giving, not only by positive teaching of its tenets but by the friendships and companionship of the

members.

My plea tonight is for the fuller instruction of our Master Masons in particular in the real meaning of

Masonry, and for bringing before them positive means of pulling their weight in re-establishing a war-sick

world in post-war days. Masonry's opportunity will never have been greater. Without an educational

campaign this opportunity appears liable to be lost. It is my firm belief that some of our Research Lodges

could become a greater power for imparting knowledge than has hitherto been the case. I have no intimate

knowledge of the work done by the Hawke's Bay Research Lodge, or of the scope of its activities, but I think

it should be the aim of all Research Lodges in New Zealand to have enrolled as member lodges every lodge

in the territory, and to have all sitting Masters accessible to the meetings, attend every meeting of the

Research Lodge, preferably as members. It should be made widely known that every Master Mason is

eligible for associate membership and would be welcomed at Research Lodge assemblies. The dates of the

meetings of Research Lodge should appear on the summons convening all meetings- of member lodges in

the territory.

It should be understood that the purpose and nature of the Research Lodge is that it should be the servant and

mentor of all lodges in the territory; that it exists for the benefit of these lodges as a whole, and not for the

benefit of the few who now attend; that it will provide lecturers for lodge meetings on application; and that

its library facilities are available to all lodges and individual members under necessary safeguards. It should

be ready to supply answers to questions submitted, and generally to assist Worshipful Masters to fulfil their

installation obligation to impart light and instruction to their officers and brethren. I would venture the

opinion that the remarkable growth both in numbers and in usefulness of the Masters and Past Masters'

Lodge at Christchurch followed immediately on a campaign to fulfil the obvious duties of any Research

Lodge along lines similar to the above. The Auckland United Masters' Lodge has a circulating library system

worthy of imitation by others, whereby selected books specially suitable for the younger Masons are sent to

lodges as required. I believe that the Research Lodges have it in their power to enormously improve the

educational work so necessary amongst Master Masons, to initiate and sponsor activities to assist Masons to

take a fuller part in their capacity as citizens as well as Masons, and to promote movements towards the New

Era and New Order immediately ahead. As Lodges, we have no politics and preach none. As citizens we

must have politics, and we have a duty to use them to the greatest advantage of the people as a whole.

The Grand Lecturer in any district can be a very busy man if his services are adequately availed of. As I

understand his duties, they are to take up the education of the Master Mason where the average W.M. leaves

off; to instruct him in the true meaning and significance of our symbols and ceremonies, of our ritual, and of

our history and ethics.

The Masonic newspaper known as the Craftsman fills a very useful place in the Masonic education of New

Zealand Freemasons by keeping them in touch with the activities of all lodges in New Zealand, as well as in

passing on Masonic information of a very acceptable nature.

Of all available sources of information, however, the Research Lodge library takes first place and should be

available to and be availed of by all who desire more knowledge of the Craft and its teachings.

A VIRTUOUS AND LIBERAL EDUCATION

In totalitarian countries the value of education is thoroughly well known and exploited, but it is neither vir-

tuous nor liberal. Pupils are taught very thoroughly in what it is decreed they should be taught, but

information is withheld or distorted as best suits the purposes of the State. Education is entirely

indoctrination, the search for truth as we understand truth being no part of the system. Truth is relative to the

needs of the moment. By the age of twelve a pupil's reflexes have been so conditioned that his future conduct

and thinking are inextricably sunk in a predetermined groove. No pupil is taught how to think, much less

how to think straight; but he is taught, and taught very thoroughly, what to think. One thing is taught more

thoroughly than in any democracy, and that is loyalty and service to the State. The State is all, the individual

nothing. The soul is a figment of imagination.

In marked contrast, we of the democracies believe in the basic unity of mankind, and desire to see greater

unity both in spirit and in organisation. We believe that "the very essence of progress is to be found in the

richest and most unfettered growth of individual human beings sharing in the 'common life of their own

people and of mankind at large. The growth of the human spirit seems to us therefore the supreme fact of

history, and our foremost practical aim is to give it expression." This is essentially an educational aim to

which the whole structure of our economic, social, and political life should minister.

"Freemasons, no more than anyone else, will ever feel the call of education unless they also feel the call to

SERVE as citizens in the growing world commonwealth." May I repeat that my appeal is that Freemasons

will give thought to the implications of our ritual teachings and examine themselves to see in what manner

they can themselves make a contribution to the new World Order.

May I also repeat that I neither believe in the possibility nor the probability that any successful New Order

will ever come into being through Acts of Parliament and international conferences. These may set up useful

and necessary machinery, but the New Order commences only in the hearts of men, and finds expression in

their own community .environment. To this end the all-important aid is a virtuous and liberal education such

as our ritual so frequently postulates.

It may be of interest to note that just such an education is today the objective of all democracies, including

our own. As never before, our schools, particularly our primary schools, are teaching pupils to do their own

thinking, to think straight, and to express their own opinions and conclusions instead of being yes-men,

subject to mob rule, mass hysteria, and to the rule of the emotions, as so large a proportion of our citizens are

today. Propaganda preys on the uneducated in every community, for they are the easy victims of shibboleths

and slogans, and are ruled by these rather than by principles and precepts and sound argument. These are

they who put the brake on progress, their own included. The vote of the uneducated and easily led or misled

citizen weighs as much in political affairs as that of the philanthropist or statesman; so that, as democratic

society must ever remain at a level representing the average moral and educational standard of its citizens,

new and improved conditions of life can result only from improvement in the lives and educational standards

of these citizens. How well the framers of our ritual knew this! How insistent were they on education as a

first requisite in the uplift of each individual

The two main curses of our age appear to me to boil down to selfishness and ignorance. The cure for the first

commences with a VIRTUOUS education, as that of the other does in a LIBERAL education. More and

better education leading to more enlightened and better living is demanded. Education in its widest scope

concerns the whole of our being—physical, mental, moral, aesthetic, spiritual. The first duty of man, as our

ritual postulates, concerns his relation to the Great Architect of the Universe; next comes service to his

fellows; and only third comes self-pleasing. Giving brings a greater joy than getting. It is "in moments of

high purpose we forget self; and that is when we are happiest." These words of Ramsay Muir are true, if only

men would try it out and both prove and experience it. True and lasting joy does not and never did come

from self-indulgence and gain-getting. It comes from service to others and sometimes from service

amounting to sacrifice. We get the kind of world we make and deserve.

As Freemasons we can make a solid contribution to the well-being of the New Era on which we are about to

enter if, in our capacity as citizens of the world and as individuals, we seek positively to translate our

teachings into practice. In furtherance of this objective, permit me to suggest a few contributions that

Freemasons could easily make if, acting solely as citizens and definitely not as Freemasons, they so chose.

(1) More active participation might be taken in organisations having for their object the welfare of
society.

Such bodies as Parliament, Education Boards, School Boards or Committees, Hospital Boards, City or

Borough Councils, Boy Scout Committees, Church organisations require' the services of men of high

purpose and selfless devotion.

(2) Try to develop an attitude of mind that places the welfare of society above class welfare and
privilege.

(3) Vote on principle rather than on party. Vote for the man rather than the creed.

(4) Practice your Masonry as a daily creed.

(5) Neglect no opportunity for self-education.

(6) Eliminate improper dealing in all business transactions.

(7) Sponsor and further any local movement to educate the electors in the major problems of the day.

(8) Use your influence to counter the predominantly materialistic outlook of the people as a whole. That
they have been so engrossed in material aims as to have almost wholly neglected their spiritual ends of

life needs no labouring. As with individuals, so with nations the Golden Rule is the only sound basis

of life.

(9) Strengthen your connection with Church life. An atheist cannot be found in the ranks of Freemasonry.
You may have no patience with "the creeds and formularies of the Churches," but you will not be ex-

cluded on that account. Try to give as well as to receive in this as in other matters.

(10) Try to preserve an open mind on the problems of the day. Study both sides before arriving at your
decision.

I do not expect that listeners will agree with all of these suggestions. Indeed, it is most unlikely that they will,

but I offer them as concrete suggestions whereby your Masonic education may yield tangible results of a

kind that will promote the type of society visualised in our ritual and longed for in the coming New Order.

Let me close with a paragraph from "A Better Britain in a Better World," by Ramsay Muir:

"Finally, there is in Man something in which no other animal has a share—an impelling desire for

RIGHTNESS; for the rightness of form and colour which is Beauty, for the rightness of fact and of

thought which is Truth; for the rightness of relations with his fellows which is Justice; for the rightness

of character and of conduct which is Goodness. This yearning after Rightness exists in every man, and

it is the thing that has driven him forward in the quest for a better world. In the best men it is so

powerful that it is stronger than even the love of life. The Artist will starve in the pursuit of his

conception of Beauty; the Scholar will sacrifice ease and comfort in the pursuit of Truth; the Reformer

will give his life for the achievement of Justice; and to the Saint all things are but dust in the scale of

comparison with Goodness."

Let us learn the lessons of the chisel and, by seeking to educate ourselves in the needs and problems of the

times, strive to make a positive contribution of which Masonry may be proud. Man today, remembering that

the Cross preceded the Resurrection, that in pain and tribulation all new life is born, should take courage and

hope for the future, remembering, however, that Faith without Works is dead.

So mote it be.

———————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

———<>———

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

———

MISSOURI-1943.

616 Lodges, 86,691 members, a gain of 1393.

123rd Annual Communication held at St. Louis, 28th September, M.W. Bro. Forrest C. Donnell (Governor

of Missouri), G.M., presiding. There were 15 P.G.Ms. present. 2360 Brethren were raised during the year,

620 were affiliated and 1560 reinstated.

Fifty-year Buttons were awarded to 125 Brethren.

Three Lodges lost their identity by merging with three other Lodges.

There were 97 men, 150 women, 34 boys, and 29 girls in the Masonic Home at St. Louis.

There was an average of 59 patients a day in the Masonic Infirmary, the total number treated during the year

being 329, and in addition 21,793 out patients' treatments were given.

A representative of Scottish Rite Freemasonry informed the Grand Lodge that the Supreme Council of the

Southern Jurisdiction of the United States had voted one million dollars for the assistance and relief of

Masons and their friends wherever located, who had been or might be the objects of persecution in the war

zones, or who might suffer as a consequence of the actions of dictators. He said that a large part of the

money had been expended. Incomplete statistics available showed that 34 Grand Lodges, composed of 2,713

Lodges, with a membership of 285,356, had been exterminated.

The Communication lasted from 8.30 a.m. until 6.10 p.m., with an interval of 12 hours for lunch.

"The Masonic World," by M.W. Bro. Ray V. Denslow, P.G.M., is as interesting and instructive as usual. In a

section entitled "Pearl of the Pacific, a Story of Freemasonry in the Hawaiian Islands," he mentions that

Captain James Cook was a Freemason. In another section, "Masons in the News," he mentions, as usual, the

names of various prominent people in different parts of the world who are Craftsmen. Dr. Monroe McKenzie

Mathis, of Fairview, Oklahoma, is said to be the oldest Freemason in the world, having been born in Paris,

Tennessee, on July 3rd, 1840, and initiated in Paris Lodge, No. 108, in 1862.

New Zealand is given nearly two pages, concluding with these words: "Any Grand Lodge with assets of

three-quarters of a million dollars, such as this Grand Lodge has, is a going concern."

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. William F. Woodruff, Kansas City.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Dr. Arthur Mather, St. Louis.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. J. Fred Park, West Plains.

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

———

DELAWARE-1943.

22 Lodges, 5165 members, a gain of 69.

138th Annual Communication held at Wilmington on 6th and 7th October, M.W. Bro. J. Thomas Warren,

G.M., presiding. 12 P.G.Ms., 19 P.G.Ws. and 1 P.G.T. were present. There were visitors from 9 Grand

Lodges, including 5 Grand Masters.

In the course of his address the G M. said: "It is no wonder to me that the uninitiated look up to Masons with

an awe and respect that is accorded so sparingly in this world of today. Where else are the laws, rules and

edicts of an organisation so zealously respected and obeyed, its ancient landmarks, usages and customs so

meticulously guarded and revered? Where beside a Masonic Lodge may the high, the low, the rich, the poor

meet on a common level, and be regarded not for worldly wealth or honor, but for that innermost part of man

which leaves its quiet, unobtrusive stamp as a pattern of Masonry everywhere? Blest are we all that our

Brethren saw fit to accept our petitions and grant the desires of our hearts and extend to us the light of

Masonry."

184 Brethren were "entered," 17 admitted, and 23 reinstated during the year.

There were 12 male and 20 female guest's in the Masonic Home. The average age of seven who passed on

during the year was 86, and their average residence at the Home 11 years and 1 month.

The Reviews were curtailed because of the increased cost of printing, but quite an appreciable amount of

New Zealand's 1942 Proceedings were quoted in two-thirds of a page of small type.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Walter W. Hynson, Smyrna.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Chester R. Jones, Wilmington.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Haldeman C. Stout, Wilmington.

Grand Representative at New Zealand: R.W. Bro. Wilfrid W. Wright, P.G.W., Auckland.

———

CALIFORNIA, 1943.

581 Lodges, 129,510 members, a gain of 3,193.

94th Annual Communication held at San Francisco, 11th to 15th October, M.W. Bro. Leslie E. Wood, G.M.,

presiding. There were 21 P.G.Ms. present, 545 Lodges being represented by 1278 officers and

representatives.

In the course of a most inspiring and uplifting opening service, the V. Reverend Grand Chaplain, Byrl F.

Babcock, speaking on the theme, "Faith for These Times," said:

"There are other things in life besides kilowatts and horsepowers. Our moral idealism must be kept alive. We

must not allow our technique to outstrip our morals. We must not permit our machines to develop faster than

our manhood. The humanising aspect of life must be developed along with the machine itself. We need and

must have modern inventions and products of the research laboratories. We need and must have the most

highly improved processes of manufacture, yet it is vital indeed that we build the manhood of our country in

equal proportions so as to direct this machinery and properly use these instruments. Progress in science

makes progress in morals necessary; and when we increase the power of man we must at the same time

increase the strength of the check rein. The materialistic emphasis alone spells disaster.

"Do you think, America, that you are going to live because you can build your buildings so high that they

seem to part the stars?

"Do you think, America, that you are going to live because of the sense of security which you have in the

money that is in your vaults?

"Do you think, America, that you are going to survive because of the length of your railroads and because of

the great physical sense of security which you possess? If you do, then you don't know history.

"Call the roll of the nations: Assyria, Phoenicia, Chaldea, Babylonia, Egypt, Greece and Rome. Let

civilisation pass by in its unimpeachable verdict. And what is that verdict? No nation has ever lived, and no

nation can live in the future of civilisation that does not use its physical and material power as the

opportunity for conserving and maintaining spiritual and moral ideality.

"Just what does live in civilisation? Tell me, if you will, the name of a single banking house of Ancient

Rome. Give me the name of a single ship that carried the commerce of Greece. Their ribs are bleaching

white today, buried under the sands of the sea these many centuries, and no one knows their names and no

one cares. But Plato lives; Aristotle lives, Socrates lives, Livy lives, Tacitus lives, Hippocrates lives—and

why? Because they touched humanity with a spiritual and an intellectual inspiration that permanently

maintains itself in the ceaseless struggle of the human heart to lift upward and to love life. As tested through

the experiences of the nations of old, the supreme product of civilisation is man himself. . . "

In the course of his address the G.M. said: "I recommend that our Lodges be required to notify their members

of all applications for the degrees or for affiliation within ten days after their reception by the Lodge. That

the notice shall carry the full names, residence and business addresses and the age and occupations of the

applicants.

This may be new to California Masonry, but it is not an innovation, as this practice has been followed by

several of the largest jurisdictions of the United States, including New York, Massachussetts and

Pennsylvania, together with every Grand Lodge in the Dominion of Canada and many of the Grand Lodges

of the world. If a candidate is passed upon by every member of the Lodge and is elected, we may feel

assured that he is worthy and well qualified. If he cannot pass this test, Masonry will be better off without

him."

This recommendation is to be dealt with at the next Communication.

One dispensation to form a new Lodge was issued during the year to Fortitude Lodge, U.D., Chungking,

China. The ultimate plan of the Grand Master in granting the dispensation was to hold the Lodge and all of

its funds for final disposition by the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands.

Since the war started, requests from other Grand Jurisdictions were received for courtesy degrees totalling

2,274, while California made 823 similar requests; 7,344 brethren were initiated, 1,051 affiliated, and 840

reinstated.

91 Fifty-year Buttons were presented.

A very fine Annual Oration, by W. Bro. Arthur Paulsen, Grand Orator, fills eight pages of the Proceedings.

The War Service Committee gave a full report of the service and relief done and planned for members in the

Armed Forces and their families.

The Reviews are on the Topical System, and contain no reference to New Zealand.

Grand Master : M.W. Bro. Claude H. Morrison, San Diego.

Grand Secretary: V.W. Bro. Lloyd E. Wilson, San Francisco.

————

NEW MEXICO.

56 Lodges, 6421 members, a gain of 139.

66th Annual Communication held at Albuquerque, 18th and 19th October, M.W. Bro. Eric S. Kintsel, G.M.,

presiding. 11 P.G.Ms.. 2 P.G.Ws. and 1 P.G.T. were present.

226 Brethren were initiated, 102 admitted, and 139 reinstated.

The Committee on Masonic Relief disbursed $2127.

The new Grand Master was installed by his father, M.W. Bro. Herbert B. Holt, who was G.M. in 1926, and

who initiated his son in 1916.

The 60 pages of Reviews by M.W. Bro. John Milne include a page devoted to N.Z., 1942.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Edwin L. Holt, Lasbruces. Grand Secretary (since 1884): M.W. Bro. Alpheus A.

Keen, P.G.M., Albuquerque.

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

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

———————

A BOY'S GOOD WORK

———<>———

"The Church Leaflet" of the Papakura Parochial District contains the following interesting paragraph by the

Vicar, the Rev. J. G. Heath:—

"There is one incident which occurred while I was away which I think you should all know about. On one

Sunday morning several members of the Junior Church came to church, not realising that I was away. Also

by chance the organist was there. After waiting a while they (the young people) decided that if the organist

would play for them they could hold a service themselves. This they did under the leadership of one of the

boys who was able to tell the others what to do and also to read the Lesson. When I heard this I was thrilled,

for that is the spirit that I have tried to build ever since the Junior Church was started. That these young

people are able to stand on their own feet and take their part in the worship of the Church is the aim and

object of the whole thing. I feel sure that you, too, will realise the importance of this 'incident' and will

rejoice with me."

The leader referred to is one of the boys of the Papakura Masonic Home. In his letter to V.W. Bro. Tustain,

Master of the Home, the Rev. Mr. Heath says: "— is a very excellent lad and should go far in this world. He

has always been a great help to me at Church and has always been ready to do anything that I have asked of

him. Actually I have always admired his great sense of the spiritual in life, which is not always apparent in a

boy of his age, more especially as it goes hand in hand with a desire and ability to do well from the physical

side of life."

The above incident must be pleasing to the well-wishers of this Masonic Boys' Home, and serves to illustrate

the good work being accomplished by the management.

(We are indebted to the President of the Board of Benevolence for this information.—Ed.)

———————

OBITUARY.

———<>———

R.W. BRO. LIEUT.-COL. GEORGE BARCLAY, P.D.G.M.

————

Within recent years Otago has been bereft of many of its leading Masonic figures, but none will be more

universally missed than R.W. Bro. Lieut.-Col. George Barclay, P.Dep.G.M., who passed away just before

last Christmas. Seventy-seven years of age on the day of his death, our late brother had devoted practically

the whole of his adult life to the work of the Craft, and was generally recognised as one of the most reliable

authorities in our Territory on Masonic Ritual and History. His zeal for Masonry in all its branches was

bounded only by the physical ability of one man to take a prominent part in every activity of every Degree.

Truly might it be said of him that he was a "glutton for work."' It is quite unnecessary here to recount the

number of offices he held at various times in Lodges or in Grand Lodge. Suffice it to say that, whether as

Grand Secretary or as First Grand Principal in Grand Chapter, or as Head of the numerous Higher Degrees in

which he was interested, he was always ready and willing to give of his knowledge and experience to those

who stood in need of assistance and were entitled to receive it. His lectures and papers on Masonic subjects

were always highly appreciated by all who were privileged to hear them. No request was ever lightly brushed

aside; indeed, time and opportunity alone set a limit to his readiness to serve and teach.

Yet with all his devotion to Masonry, he never neglected his duties as a citizen, but found time to take an

active part in the activities of other bodies, especially of such as were concerned in the welfare of the

community. He was an enthusiastic volunteer, and rose to the command of his Engineering Battalion in the

First World War, while in connection with the St. John Ambulance Association and Brigade he was justly

held in the highest esteem from one end of New Zealand to the other. The high honour of Knight of St. John

conferred upon him was not too great a reward for one who had assisted in the foundation of the first

Ambulance Brigade Corps founded outside of the British Isles, and he had for over half a century given

untiring service to the furtherance of this valuable public asset. Not a few of those who knew him intimately

tried in later years to persuade our departed brother to moderate his exertions and to withdraw to some extent

from the arduous labours which were clearly sapping his strength, but unavailingly. His enthusiasm for his

voluntary tasks was too great to permit him, even on a bed of sickness, to neglect any of the duties he had

undertaken until his medical adviser sternly insisted on a period of rest, which came unfortunately too late.

True to the end in his desire to be of use to others, R.W. Bro. Barclay expressed the wish that his Masonic

Library should be handed over for the benefit of the Craft, and it is now in the custody of the Research

Lodge, No. 161, at Dunedin. His memory lives in the hearts of his Dunedin brethren in particular and the

Dominion brethren in general.

———————

SUPREME GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND.

———<>———

The Supreme Committee met in Dunedin on Thursday, 16th March.

The Chairman made feeling reference to the death of M.E. Comps. G. Barclay and J. R. Dreaver, stating that

their loss would be severely felt in that part of the territory, and the members stood in silence for a few

moments in tribute to their memory.

The Chairman, R.E. Comp. T. O'Shea, in extending a welcome to those present, expressed the pleasure of the

committee at the presence of the F.G.P.Z. and the I.P.F.G. P.Z., as well as R.E. Comp. W. A. Waters, G.

Supt. of the Ruapehu District. He felt sure that the committee would do its best for the welfare of the Royal

Craft throughout the Dominion, and looked forward to its co-operation in all proceedings.

The Treasurer presented a statement of receipts and payments, showing credit balance in the bank account of

£221/14/11 and in the P.O.S.B. account of £2178/18/5. The action of the Trustees in converting £150 N.Z.

Govt. inscribed stock into the 3 per cent. Loan, maturing 15th April, 1960/63, was approved.

It was decided to submit the name of R.E. Comp. Evan Rackley, P.G.Supt., as the Representative of the

Grand Chapter of New Brunswick near this Grand Chapter. The recommendation of a Representative for the

Grand Chapter of Texas was held over pending a reply from that Grand Body.

It was resolved that the recommendation of the outgoing Supreme Committee as submitted to the Annual

Convocation regarding Honoris Causa Rank for V.E. Comps. A. T. Peterkin and R. J. Allingham be

confirmed and that their appointment be dated 15th March, 1944.

V.E. Comp. E. Cannons was re-elected Auditor for the coming year.

The First Grand Principal intimated, after consultation with the Committee, that should the travel restrictions

be lifted by the end of July he purposed calling a Special Convocation to deal with the Agenda for 1942 and

1943. The Grand Scribe E. was desired to communicate with the Grand Superintendent of the Wellington

District to ascertain if the Convocation could be held there.

It was resolved that the printing of the Book of Proceedings be held in abeyance in the meantime.

The Scrutineers, M.E. Comps. G. Russell and R. W. McVilly, advised that V.E. Comp. G. R. Magee had

been elected to the office of Grand Sword Bearer.

A sub-committee consisting of R.E. Comps. J. C. Seelye, G.Supt., E. Rackley, P.G.Supt., and the Chairman

was appointed to prepare and submit a scheme of distribution of Grand Officers for 1945-1946.

Advice by telegram had been received that a Petition for the formation of a Chapter at Opunake was in the

post. Unfortunately this was not received. The Petition was recommended by the Grand Superintendent of

the District, and a sub-committee consisting of the First Grand Principal, the Chairman and the Grand

Registrar was appointed to deal with it. The Petition has been granted and the number allotted is 78.

The date of the next meeting was fixed for Wednesday, 5th July, and no further notice will be given to

members outside the District.

———————

SOLICITATION—PROPER AND IMPROPER.

———<>———

By Bro. John Anderson,

———

One of the things that frequently perturb the thoughtful initiate at the outset of his Masonic career is the

question of solicitation.

He has most likely been told—probably by his proposer —that "nobody is ever asked" to join the Craft, and

that the initiative must come in every case from the candidate himself.

Before the beginning of the initiation ceremony he is required to pledge himself that in seeking to be

admitted he was unbiased by improper solicitation of friends. The use of that qualifying word "improper"

will naturally suggest to his mind the idea that there may be such a thing as "proper" solicitation.

At the end of the Charge he is told that his fidelity must be exemplified by a strict observance of the consti-

tutions of the Fraternity, and by refraining from recommending anyone to a participation of our secrets

unless he has strong grounds to believe that by a similar fidelity that person will ultimately reflect honour on

his choice. He therefore turns to the constitutions which he is enjoined strictly to observe, but finds that they

are silent on the question of solicitation.

His mind -goes back to the Charge. Just what do those words "refraining from recommending" mean?

Obviously they mean, among other things, that he should never submit as that of a candidate for initiation the

name of any person as to whose fidelity he has doubts; and that he should never vote in Lodge for the

election of any such person. So much for the negative import of the words. But they seem also to imply, on

the positive side, that he has the right to recommend anyone on whose fidelity he can rely. In that case, what

does "recommend" mean? Does it mean merely that he may submit the name of a prospective candidate to

the officers or appropriate committee of his Lodge, or does it mean that he is at liberty to "recommend" a

friend, in whom he has confidence, to seek admission to membership of the Craft?

Let us refer the problem to that great authority on Masonic matters, Bro. the Rev. John T. Lawrence. In his

work on "Masonic Jurisprudence" Lawrence says : "The term 'solicitation' needs some reference. It is

understood that we do not 'tout' for membership, but it is a question whether that means that the idea has in

every case originated with the candidate. He declares at a subsequent stage that he has not been subject to the

'improper solicitation' of friends. Does that mean that the fact of solicitation is improper, or solicitation of an

improper kind?"

We all know people well qualified to become Masons; but, just because they are so well qualified, they are

probably the sort of people who would consider it "polite to wait until they are asked," and, because they do

not know that they are never likely to be asked—at any rate directly—they never come forward, and thus the

Craft is deprived of the services of those who might have become some of its brightest ornaments.

The writer shares the view that there is such a thing as "proper solicitation," and recently sought the opinion

of another worshipful brother of wide experience, who not only expressed the view that there is nothing

improper in tentatively broaching the subject to a suitable person, but went so far as to suggest that it may be

the duty of a Mason of experience to endeavour to bring at least one suitable candidate into the fold.

Obviously there must be no suggestion of any mercenary motive, and the greatest caution should be

exercised in seeking a method of approach. To quote the worshipful brother whose opinion I have just cited,

it would, for instance, be distinctly improper to suggest to a man that membership of the Craft would help

him in his business as a commercial traveller; but would be quite proper to hint to him that such a

membership would be helpful to him as a student of architecture.

The manifesto issued by Grand Lodge to the public through the newspapers at the beginning of the war pro-

vides a safe and easy method of approach to a suitable candidate. It can hardly be wrong for a Mason to tell

to a personal friend those things about the principles of Masonry which Grand Lodge itself was so anxious to

broadcast to the world at large.

In conclusion, therefore, while it would appear that there is such a thing as proper solicitation which not only

may, but should be, practised, great discretion should be exercised in the choice of prospective candidates,

and the answer to the question, "Who are fit and proper persons to be made Masons?" which is familiar to

every member of the Craft, should be most carefully borne in mind.

Anything in the nature of "touting" for membership would be abhorrent to the mind of any true Mason; but it

does seem a pity that the Craft should be deprived of the services of so many able men because brethren are

so much inclined to regard all solicitation as "improper." Probably on the whole, however, the young Mason

will feel that it is wise to leave "solicitation" to Masons of greater experience, contenting himself, for the

time being, by making his own "recommendations" through official channels.—"South Australian

Freemason."

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THE LEAVEN.

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It seems to me that there are two aspects in which Freemasonry may be regarded. From the lodge goes out a

great wave of noble ideals. Where the crest of that wave will break we do not know, but we do hope and we

do pray that that wave may not break too soon, but may sweep forward carrying everything with it in its

good influence, and spreading itself over society and over the community, bringing health and life wherever

it goes. That dispersion of the ideals of Freemasonry is the thought of Freemasonry in its broadest sense. But

there is another aspect of Freemasonry which, I think, touches us as individuals much more closely, and it is

this which I have referred to before, and to which I think it is fitting to refer a second time. It is this : that

Freemasonry, and the value and influence of Freemasonry, depend on the individual actions of each member

of a lodge. It is like the leaven that leavens the lump. Speaking from that point of view, the workings of

Freemasonry are unseen and almost imperceptible. They can only be judged by the results, but it is surely

true that by the acts of each individual brother will the Craft be judged, and it behoves every single one of us

to see that by our lives and actions we are living up to our pledges and to the principles laid down in the

V.S.L. When we can, each one of us should think that what we are doing and the life we are leading is the

standard by which Freemasonry as a whole will be judged. It behoves us to apply a simple test, and, perhaps

the best test is consideration of the great principle of brotherly love.—M.W. Bro. Sir Charles Fergusson, Past

Grand Master, New Zealand.

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RECTITUDE.

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In all things preserve integrity, and the consciousness of thine own uprightness will alleviate the toil of busi-

ness, soften the hardness of ill-success and disappointment, and give thee an humble confidence before God

when the ingratitude of men or the iniquity of the times rob thee of other reward.—Paley ("Masonry—Day

by Day").

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AUCKLAND NOTES.

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The annual meeting of Lodge Owairaka, No. 294 (which usually meets at Mt. Albert), was held at the

Temple, St. Benedict Street, on 23rd March, and a very large attendance of brethren witnessed the

Installation of Bro. Frank B. Watts as Master. The ceremony was conducted by the Prov.G.M., M.W. Bro. O.

Nicholson, P.G.M., the Address to the Master was given by R.W. Bro. A. Pople, D.G.M., and the Wardens

were addressed by W. Bro. A. Addison, G.Swd.B.

At the regular meeting on 29th March the United Service Lodge, No. 10, conducted the First Degree. There

was a very gratifying attendance of visiting brethren, and W. Bro. McAdam can congratulate himself on a

most successful evening.

Bro. G. A. Wooller, S.W., was installed as Master of the Combined Forces Lodge No. 284, on 14th March,

in the presence of a good attendance of visitors. This Lodge has over 50 members overseas on active service,

and the attendance of its own members suffers accordingly. Notwithstanding this, however, the Lodge has

been very active, and has had a very successful year. The Installing Master was the Prov.G.M., and R.W.

Bro. A. J. Pople, D.G.M., addressed the Master and W. Bro. Addison, G.Swd.B., the Wardens. A tribute was

paid at the meeting to the energetic services rendered by the outgoing W.M., W. Bro. W. G. Gladding. The

W.M. had the pleasure of investing his father, W. Bro. Harold Wooller, P.M. of the Lodge, as Treasurer.

An Installation meeting which has lost none of its popularity is that of Lodge Waitakerei, which was held at

Henderson on 15th March, and attracted an attendance of visitors from city and suburban Lodges which

taxed the accommodation to its limit. Bro. C. J. Matthews, S.W., was installed by the Prov.G.M., M.W. Bro.

O. Nicholson, and was afterwards addressed by the D.G.M., R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople. The refectory

proceedings were held at the Town Hall, and as usual the resources of the district in the matter of fruit were

exhibited to the full. In this regard the services of W. Bro. Perris, P.M., must be acknowledged. It was

unfortunate that through unforeseen circumstances, one of the oldest P.Ms. of the Lodge, R.W. Bro. W. R. T.

Leighton, P.D.G.M., was unable to attend.

The many Southern friends of M.W. Bro. Maurice Thompson, P.G.M., will be glad to know that he

continues in good health and was present at the Installation meeting of his Lodge, Owairaka, No. 294.

The Installation meeting of Lodge Manukau, No. 24, was held at the Temple, Onehunga, on 5th April, and

Bro. I. E. Hammond, S.W., was installed as Master by the Prov. G.M. It was fitting that the Address to the

Master should be given by a P.M. of the Lodge in the person of R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, D.G.M. The new

W.M. has been on military service almost right up to his Installation, and the brethren of the Lodge are

happy to have him once again with them.

V.W. Bro. Albert Bright, G.Lect., has resumed his many Masonic activities after his sojourn in hospital, and

his large circle of friends are indeed glad to see him fit and well again.

The question of the adoption of formal wear for Lodge meetings has been discussed by most of the city and

suburban lodges, and the recommendation of the Board of General Purposes has been substantially adopted.

It is generally felt that the dignity of the ceremonials has been greatly enhanced in consequence.

The Installation meeting of Lodge Wairoa, No. 55, was presided over by M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson,

Prov.G.M., P.G.M., who installed Bro. Thomas Dean, S.W., as Master. The Master was addressed by the

Deputy Grand Master, and the Address to the Wardens was given by W. Bro. A. Addison, G.Swd.B. There

was a large attendance of visitors, which filled the Temple at Ellerslie to capacity, and a very happy function

concluded with the honouring the usual Masonic toasts in the adjoining refectory. V.W. Bro. Val. Kirk,

G.D.C., directed the proceedings.

W. Bro. C. E. Anderson, P.G., formerly Secretary of the United Service Lodge, No. 10, is now in the

Christchurch Hospital as a result of a breakdown in health following on military service. His many friends

hope for his speedy return to health and to his Lodge.

At several of the recent Installation meetings, the Prov. G.M., W.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, has referred to

the excellent work being carried out at the Masonic Boys' Home, Papakura, and to the happy relations

existing between the boys and the resident manager, V.W. Bro. Louis Tustain, P.G Lect. The latter has been

prevented by travel difficulties from attending with his former regularity at Masonic gatherings, but has been

able recently to attend his own Lodge (United Service) and an Installation or two, where he has been able to

inform the brethren of the activities of the Home.

A feature of Installation meetings of recent months has been the illuminating and instructive addresses given

by the D.G.M., R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, who has taken the opportunity when replying to the toast of Grand

Lodge to present some aspects of the spiritual side of Freemasonry (and in particular the personal application

of its teachings to the individual), which have been of great interest and should be of abiding value to

brethren.

A great deal of Masonic activity was compressed into a short period recently when the Prov.G.M., M.W.

Bro. O. Nicholson, travelled North with a party of G.L. officers (comprising R.W. Bro. F. G. Alpe, P.G.W.,

V.W. Bro. Val. Kirk, G.D.C., and W. Bros. Alfred Addison, G.Swd.B., H. French, P.G.Swd.B., and C. J. S.

Lea, G.S., and P.E. Bradstreet, G.S.) and installed Bro. J. S. T. Tudehope as Master of Lodge Whangarei,

No. 102, on the 12th April, Bro. W. Meadows as Master of Lodge Hikurangi, No. 140, on the 13th, and Bro.

Alex. Donaldson as Master of Lodge Waipu, No. 179, on the 14th. R.W. Bro. Alpe addressed the newly

installed Master in each case, and the Address to the Wardens was given in the case of Lodge Hikurangi by

W. Bro. Harold Roseveare, G.S.D., and in the other two Lodges by W. Bro. A. Addison, G.Swd.B. W. Bro.

E. D. Faber, P.G.S. (Lodge Ararangi, No. 297) also assisted at the several ceremonies.

W. Bro. H. Cadness, who was a foundation member of Lodge Onewa, No. 182, and also a P.M. of the Prince

of Wales Lodge, No. 1338, E.C., passed away this month, and both of these Lodges were represented at the

funeral of this most enthusiastic and popular member.

There was a large attendance at the Southern Cross Chapter, No. 88, on March 17th, when Ex. and P. Bro.

W. E. Carter was installed as M.W.S. with due ceremony.

W. Bro. W. C. Parrish and officers of Lodge Onewa, No. 182, passed a candidate at the regular meeting on

the 27th March. There was a particularly large attendance of visiting brethren from Lodge Takapuna, No.

102.

The death of Bro. H. Subritzky has removed from the rolls of Lodge United Service, No. 10, the name of its

oldest member. Bro. Subritzky, who was well known in the shipping world, had been a member continuously

since 1897. Masonic rites at the graveside were conducted by W. Bro. H. McAdam, assisted by many

brethren of the Lodge.

W. Bro. H. Camplin, W.M. of the Albion Lodge, No. 45, received a large number of visitors, including 35

from Lodge Onewa, No. 182, at the regular meeting on the 13th April.

W. Bro. T. R. Gray and officers of the Prince of Wales Lodge, No. 1338, E.C., raised two candidates at the

regular meeting on the 13th April. The W.M. welcomed back to his Lodge Bro. Lt.-Col. C. H. Sawyers,

D.S.O., who has had a long spell of service in the Middle East, and who during the refectory proceedings

gave a most interesting and entertaining account of some of his experiences on active service.

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TARANAKI NOTES.

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Lodge Moa Installation meeting took place just too late to record in last issue of the "Craftsman." W. Bro.

Porter was elected to the Chair for a second term, and so the proceedings were shortened slightly, although

no one appeared to get home any earlier. Both in the Temple and in the refectory everything passed off very

happily, and the tone of the Lodge seems to be all that could be desired. The attendance of G.L. officers was

excellent, as indeed it has been at all Installations for a long time past. The Prov.G.M., Dr. W. T. Simmons,

has at each recent Installation given an interesting and informative address, which has been much

appreciated.

At the Moa Installation three letters were read from brethren in Italy, Canada, and the Pacific. Each had

timed his letter to arrive in time for the meeting. Bro. Wellington was greatly impressed at a meeting he

attended at Edmonton, where 500 Mounted Police were present in uniform, bright red coats and black

breeches, with a wide silver stripe down the side. The work was a Second Degree and the ritual very much

the same as ours. Bro. Bracegirdle wrote an interesting letter from the Pacific quarter, but there were not any

Masonic matters to record. Bro. Nicholson, in his letter, gives a graphic account of Italian villages and

countryside.

There is considerable disappointment that V. Ill. Bro. Col. Sir Stephen Allen, 33°, will not be present at

Pukekura's annual meeting on April 22nd. Unfortunately, Waimarino Rose Croix Chapter Induction meeting

is on the same night and the G. Insp. Gen. will be at Raetihi.

The W.M.. officers and brethren of St. John's Lodge, No. 95, visited Lodge Manaia on April 18th. The work

was the First Degree.

Lodge Kaponga is to discuss changing the regular meeting night back to the fourth Monday.

For eight years Lodge Taranaki has printed items of interest to the brethren on the monthly notices, and your

correspondent gratefully acknowledges his indebtedness to the writer of these items.

Egmont R.A. Installation meeting passed off very happily, and the new officers should give a good account

of themselves. V.E. Comp. Burnip is 1st Prin., Ex. Comp. L. G. Kohn 2nd Prin., and Ex. Comp. Don

Douglas 3rd Prin. R.Ex. Comp. W. W. Thomson, G.Supt., was in charge and the work was done well up to

standard. W. Bro. R. Ashton was installed as W.M.M. by W.M.M. A. Ferguson.

As there is in some quarters an idea that Masonry should take a part in outside affairs, the following

quotation seems apt:—"The moment Masonry leaves its lodge rooms to engage with the profane in any

movement, the moment it forsakes its great lights, that moment Masonry as we know it signs its death

warrant, becomes just another organisation.

"For Masonry, my brethren, is a vision—a vision of truth and love and hope. For to make the world better we

must make men better. That is Masonry's job. That is your job and my job as Masons and as citizens it is our

job to show the world by our behaviour in all our affairs with the outside world what Masonry can do for

men."

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HAWKES BAY NOTES.

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The regular convocation of Victoria Royal Arch Chapter, No. 4, was held in the Masonic Hall, Napier, on

28th March, when a twin Royal Arch Degree was the work of the evening. Heretaunga Chapter paid an

official visit, and at refectory proceedings the occasion to celebrate the 83rd birthday of V. Ex. Comp. J. B.

E. Hird, Scribe E. and P.Z., Heretaunga, was taken advantage of. A most enjoyable evening was spent by all.

At the last regular convocation of Heretaunga Chapter, No. 38, on 6th April, officers for the ensuing year,

1944-1945, were elected. V.Ex Comp. S. J. Jones, 1st Prin., expressed his very sincere thanks to officers and

companions for the support accorded him during his term of office, which had proved enjoyable and

interesting. V.Ex. Comp. Jones has done a great deal of visiting, and on each occasion has been accompanied

by goodly numbers of Companions of this Chapter.

Since last issue, your correspondent has been slightly indisposed, and with Easter holidays intervening, notes

from this district will therefore be somewhat restricted.

The Installation meeting of Bedford Lodge, No. 25, was well attended, particularly by brethren from Central

and Southern Hawkes Bay.

Travel restrictions in general and bad roads did not deter a good number of visitors at the Installation

meeting of Lodge Tauhara, No. 307. Even as late as Saturday morning brethren were endeavouring to

arrange cars and accommodation, proving the popularity of this particular function.

W. Bro. Ken. Johnson, P.M. Lodge Haeata, has been confined to hospital, but is now about again and

expects to resume duties in the near future. Best wishes, Ken, for continued good health!

R.W. Bro. J. J. Pickett is again up and about, and as usual attending rehearsals and regular meetings.

W. Bro. J. B. E. Hird recently celebrated his 83rd birthday, and brethren and companions extend very sincere

good wishes for many more years of good health. Congratulations are extended to Bro. G. H. Voyce, S.W.

Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, on his promotion from Otane to Postmaster, Waipawa.

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MANAWATU NOTES.

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The Installation meeting of Lodge Awatea took place on 25th March. Bro. W. W. Jones, S.W., was installed

by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M. Over 200 Grand Lodge officers, W. Brethren, and brethren were

present. The address to the W.M. was given by the Prov.G.M. The Wardens were invested and addressed by

W. Bros. W. J. Croucher and C. Hausmann respectively; W. Bro. W. P. Henderson, and V.W. Bro. W. A.

Waters, P.G.Lect., also assisted. Lodge Awatea should feel justly proud of the progress the Lodge has made.

Despite the fact that there are 26 members in the armed services, over half of whom are overseas, the

attendances at the monthly meetings continue to improve.

Lodge Oroua, Apiti, held their Installation on 11th April. A goodly number of Grand Lodge officers and

visitors were present. The Installing Master, W. Bro. W. McKay, P.G.S., carried out the. ceremony in his

usual efficient manner, assisted by W. Bros. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C., J. H. Cowan, A. Dobson, and G.

Pearle. The W. Master was addressed by W. Bro. C. Hausmann, P.G.D.C.; the Wardens by W. Bro. A. C.

Buist; and owing to the unavoidable absence of the Prov.G.M., W. Bro. P. W. Morris addressed the brethren.

Thursday, 13th April, saw the Installation of Bro. E. J. Hicken as W. Master of Lodge Manawatu

Kilwinning, No. 47. R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash was the Installing Master, and addressed the W.M. Bros. G. M.

Rennie, J.W., and W. E. Anderson, S.D., were invested as Senior and Junior Wardens by W. Bro. P. W.

Morris, P.A.G.D.C., and addressed by W. Bro. A. D. H. Worboys. W. Bros. W. P. Henderson, P.A.G.D.C.,

and V.W. Bro. W. A. Waters, P.G.Lect., also took part. There was a large attendance of Grand Lodge,

visitors and members, the lodge room being taxed to its capacity, and Lodge Manawatu Kilwinning once

again excelled in the entertainment of their visitors. Other W. brethren who assisted were H. R. Thorburn,

Asst.G.D.C., E. R. B. Holben, P.G.Swd.B., A. Clark, P.G.Std.B., C. L. Mowlem, V.W. Bro. D. H. Snell,

G.C., W. Bro. A. Kennedy and Bro. A. S. Guthrie.

A very pleasing and unusual incident took place at the last meeting of Manawatu Royal Arch Chapter, No.

11, when the V.Ex. First Principal, Len. Wood, extended congratulations to Ex. Comps. E. J. Hicken, 3rd

Principal J., and W. W. Jones, 1st Soj. Both of these Ex. Comps. are to be installed as W. Masters, the former

at Manawatu Kilwinning and the latter at Awatea within the coming month. The companions of this Chapter

are very pleased with the preferment of these two companions and wish each of them a very happy and

successful year of office.

It is with deep regret we learn of the death of Mrs. Powell, wife of W. Bro. Fred Powell, P.G.S., of Rangatira

Lodge. Members of the Craft, and particularly Grand Lodge officers, have often partaken of Mrs. Powell's

hospitality when passing through or going to Hunterville on their Masonic duties, and it came as a great

shock to hear of her death after a short illness. The sympathy of the brethren throughout the territory goes to

W. Bro. Fred Powell in his bereavement.

Quite a gloom was cast over our fraternity last week when we heard of the death by accident of James

Frederick Nash, elder son of Mrs. and Bro. J. L. Nash, and grandson of our Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash.

To lose such a good son and brilliant scholar at the early age of 23 is indeed a very severe blow to the parents

and grandparents, and all the brethren in the Ruapehu district extend their deepest sympathy to Mrs. Nash,

Bro. J. L. Nash, R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, W. Bro. N. A. Nash and Bro. J. H. Nash.

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SOUTHLAND NOTES.

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Deep regret is expressed throughout the Territory at the continued illness of R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M.,

who has been laid aside for several months. Our esteemed brother is, however, making steady progress.

The Installation of Bro. Alex. Gregory as Master of Lodge Harvey, No. 49, held on April 15th, was a most

happy and successful function. The ceremony was impressively conducted by R.W. Bro. E. C. Smith,

P.D.G.M., as Inst.O., with W. Bro. Hugh Paterson as G.D.C. The Wardens were invested and addressed by

R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule and R.W. Bro. James Manson, P.Prov.G.Ms., respectively. A feature of the meeting

was the address to the brethren by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M. There was a large attendance of

members and visitors, including a good representation of Grand Officers.

V.Ex. Comp. W. R. Allen, T.I.M., and officers of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3, conducted the

ceremonies of Royal, Select and Super Excellent Master at the quarterly meeting, held at Invercargill on 19th

April. One candidate was received and instructed into the mysteries of the Order in a most impressive

manner.

Sympathies are extended to W. Bro. G. J. Reed, P.A.G.D.C., who recently received advice of the death of his

brother on active service.

W. Bro. Smyth, Master, officers and a number of brethren of Lodge St. John, No. 94, recently journeyed to

Lodge Fortitude, No. 64 (Bluff), and conducted the ceremonial work of the evening. The Installation meeting

of this Lodge will be held this month, when Bro. J. O. Brown will be installed into the Chair of K.S.

Two E.As. of Lodge Southland were "passed" at the April meeting of Lodge Victoria, No. 147, by W. Bro.

C. Lange and his officers.

V.Ex. Comp. B. J. Perkins, Z., and officers of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, worked the degree

of Holy Royal Arch at the regular meeting last month.

Huiroa Royal Arch Chapter, No. 47, will be working at high pressure during the coming winter months.

Ex. and Perf. Bro. R. H. Waddell, M.W.S., and officers of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, will

conduct the ceremony of Perfection at the quarterly meeting, to be held this month.

Several members of Lodge Hercules (Otago District) were present at the recent Installation of Lodge Harvey,

No. 49. The Board of Installed Masters at this meeting numbered, over 50.

The Combined Social Committee has resumed operations for the present winter season.

Installation meetings will be held by Lodges Taringatura and Waikaka this month.

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OTAGO NOTES.

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Dunedin brethren are beginning to talk about the forthcoming Grand Lodge Annual Communication, to be

held in their city. The Prov.G.M. expects to call a representative meeting shortly to discuss arrangements.

Manuherikia Lodge, No. 109, had visits from two V.W. Brethren at their March meeting, which were much

appreciated. V.W. Bro. J. Moss, P.G.Lec., gave an interesting application of the Traditional History and also

of the P.M.'s Jewel. V.W. Bro. W. A. Harlow, G.Chap., found time during his short furlough, to visit the

Lodge and spoke briefly to the brethren.

A highlight in the year's working of Service Lodge, No. 237, was the working of the Degree by Past Masters

of this Lodge. W. Bro. L. E. Rhodes occupied the chair and expressed appreciation of himself and P.Ms. for

the privilege, and the W.M., in returning thanks, congratulated the team upon maintaining the high standard

this Lodge is noted for, thus setting the pace, aim and goal for all incoming W. Masters and officers. A deal

of administrative work, including election of officers for the incoming year, left very little time for refectory

proceedings, but nevertheless the 77 brethren present did not mind the shortness there, as otherwise the

evening was a most profitable one.

The Installation of Research Lodge of Otago, No. 161, was very successful, the largest attendance for many

years paying a tribute to the outgoing W. Master (W. Bro. J. J. Griffiths, P.G.Lec.), who has undertaken two

years' splendid work for the Lodge. Under W. Bro. C. G. Hedge, P.G.P., this Lodge should make its

influence further felt during the ensuing year. The incoming W. Master endeavoured to point out some

present-day tendencies in our Craft, and exhorted brethren to beware of the subtle influences that are

appearing to undermine not only our beloved Craft, but humanity in general. No one can gainsay the fact that

the bulwarks and landmarks of the Order, its outstanding principles and its influence for good are as patent

now as ever, and perchance a little more thought, less care of self, and more attention to younger members

would have an influence for good.

R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes, Prov.G.M., presided over an excellent meeting of the Masters' Association in the

Savoy Lounge the evening following Research Lodge Installation. Matters relating to Grand Lodge

administration generally were fully discussed. These meetings appear to be fulfilling the purpose of the

Prov.G.M. of endeavouring to keep Masters posted of Grand Lodge activities and taking them into his

confidence in regard to various difficulties that beset a Prov.M.M. The next meeting is called for Thursday,

29th June, and would Lodges please note that Senior Wardens are also invited to be present with their

Masters.

A small team of Grand Lodge officers accompanied R.W. Bro. Dykes to the Installation of Strath Taieri

Lodge, No. 199, at Middlemarch. This Lodge is to be congratulated upon the slow but sure recovery it is

making from a difficult period. Although the brethren here have had little Degree work for several years past,

their enthusiasm has not waned—there is evidence of considerable interest in research matters. The W.

Master was reinvested for another term of office.

The Installation ceremony of Lodge Maori, No. 105, was conducted by M.W. Bro. W. Lisher and Grand

Lodge officers on Monday, March 6th. Contrary to expectations, there was a very large attendance of both

the members, and the Masters, P.Ms. and brethren from in and around Dunedin. Bro. Stan. Marshall was

installed in a very large Board of Installed Masters. With such an able team to assist him, the W. Master

should have a most successful year. A very happy hour was spent in the refectory where the reply of the W.

Master, while being perhaps one of the shortest on record, was very much to the point.

At the usual monthly meeting of Lodge Maori, No. 105, a large attendance of the brethren assembled to

assist the W. Master for his first night in the chair. Two candidates were initiated, the ceremony being

successfully carried out. The Lodge congratulated W. Bro. A. G. Thompson on attaining his 76th birthday. A

fine spirit was recently shown by the working bee arranged to paint the roof of the fine Temple with material

generously supplied by W. Bro. A. M. Ross, P.M.

At the request of the Prov.G.M. of Otago, the Installation of Karitane Lodge, No. 221, at Waikouaiti, was

carried out by V.W. Bro. J. S. Duncan, Asst.Prov.G.M. of Otago, assisted by many P.G. Lodge officers,

mostly from North Otago, which is the territory in charge of V.W. Bro. Duncan. W. Bro. D. Milne was

installed for the second time as Master of the Lodge. In the refectory a fine programme was presented,

enhanced by an orchestra from Oamaru under Bro. Sceats, and with Bro. MacMillan at the piano. It is said

that the gathering was a record one for Lodge Karitane, and it is to be hoped that this Lodge will have a

prosperous time after their rather difficult period lately.

Oamaru Lodge, No. 260, held its nreting on 5th April, when the Second Degree was worked, several P.Ms.

filling various chairs vacant both by death and by removals from the district, this Lodge having been

severely hit in this way. Bro. the Ven. Archdeacon J. R. Russell, P.G.C., was present. He is Chaplain of

Waitaki Lodge, No. 11, and being about to leave the district, special reference to this esteemed Rev. Bro.

was made in the after proceedings in the refectory.

At a large meeting of Lodge Waitaki, No. 11, on 12th April, the Third Degree was worked by Past Masters

in a highly creditable manner. Motions of sympathy were passed with the relatives of Bro. G. A. Campbell,

S.D. of the Lodge, who has been killed in action, and of Bro. Rev. W. Lawson Marsh, of Lodge Baghdad,

Mesopotamia, who met with a fatal accident recently. He was highly esteemed in the district and the

community suffers a serious loss by his passing. The meeting was attended by many visitors and official

visits of Lodges Oamaru-Kilwinning, No. 82, and Oamaru, No. 260. It was the last occasion on which Bro.

Chaplain Rev. J. D. Russell will be present. In the refectory a special toast was given to Bro. Russell, and in

reply the Rev. Bro. gave an excellent address, with many reminiscences and exhortations to the brethren to

be good churchmen as well as Freemasons, The passing to the Grand Lodge above of W. Bro. J. W. Oaten,

after a long illness, cast a gloom over Lodge of Waitaki, and no "fires" or musical items were given, except

an appropriate selection by the orchestra.

Waitaki-Kilwinning Royal Arch Chapter, No. 8, held its meeting on 22nd March, when a candidate was

advanced, with Ex. Comp. J. Y. Rushton as W.M.M. It was sad to learn that V.E. Comp. J. W. Oaten had

passed away, this Comp. having taken a very active part in the work of the Chapter. He was also noted for

his musical abilities, and the district is the poorer by his passing on.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

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The special headline news for the Waimak.-Hurunui group is the Cheviot Installation, which was a record for

attendance and organisation. R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov.G.M. of Canterbury, installed Bro. John

McPherson as Master, and he was assisted by a specially selected team of high grade officers, who were

piloted by the Prov. G.D.C., W. Bro. Rees, whose work put lustre into a picture of super and outstanding

ability. The Grand Lodge team was in charge of V.W. Bro. Charles Jones, and he had associated with him

W. Bros. P. R. Dunbar, A. C. Bretherton, and several other prominent brethren, and they were accorded the

usual "cheery Cheviot welcome." The visitors came from far and near, and among them was W. Bro. D. W.

Ross, Master of Southern Cross, No. 6, who, accompanied by W. Bro. Les. Gibbs and several others,

received a great and enthusiastic reception. The ladies as usual put on a first-class supper, and during the

refectory proceedings W. Bro. R. G. Archer, in a neat and suitable speech, presented Bro. Peter Jackson, who

is back on furlough from the Pacific, with a small present on the occasion of his wedding, from the Cheviot

brethren. Bro. Jackson suitably replied. "The Kaikoura Lodge Band," under the baton of W. Bro. Austin, put

on some good items. Bros. A. Burke and Guy Struthers sang songs, and Bro. Struthers presided at the piano.

Among the many visitors were W. Bro. Johnson, I.P.M. of No. 6, W. Bro. Jensen from Kaikoura, and W.

Bro. Jim Boag and other Amuri brethren, all personal friends of Bro. John McPherson, who thanked

everybody for their attendance and kindness.

W. Bro. Fred Childs, Secretary of Cheviot, has had a slight accident, but is about again and able to welcome

his son Maurice, who is just back from Fiji.

Tawera Lodge has made a start under its new Master, W. Bro. C. R. Tovey, and he had a good night and

conferred the Second Degree on two Crown candidates, assisted by his officers, and all the visitors enjoyed

watching such splendid work.

W. Bro. Inwood, after eight years' service as Secretary of Tawera, is now D.C., and the new Secretary is Bro.

R. C. Drummond, whose 'phone address is No. 12.

Ashley's new Master, W. Bro. E. D. Fleming, commenced his year by reading one of V.W. Bro. Cape-

Williamson's splendid lectures on the First Degree. Ashley has some work coming on.

Southern Cross, No. 6, has a big programme of work which will keep W. Bro. D. W. Ross and his officers

busy for a long time. They will also be kept going full speed with their energetic Master on his visits far and

near, and he will get wonderful receptions.

Acacia and Amuri will both visit the Amberley Installation to see Bro. Arthur Burke installed as Master by

R.W. Bro. Purchase, D.G.M. of Canterbury, E.C.

W. Bro. McKeegan, Master of Amuri, has been retarded in his visiting programme owing to shortage of gas

in his tank and air in his tyres—but he will make it up during the year, he hopes.

Mairaki Lodge is getting ready for the Waimak.- Hurunui Group meeting, to be held on Saturday, August

5th, under their direction. It is rumoured that all the Christchurch Masters intend keeping the night free so as

to attend this great function.

The Mid-Canterbury group secretary, W. Bro. Bathurst, is oiling and greasing his group engines ready for

the big meeting at Rakaia.

Kaikoura Lodge is very proud to state that the new railway station is right opposite their lodge room. The

train runs right from Kaikoura to Blenheim and vice versa, so think of the possibilities for the future!

The North Group lodges are so busy that some of them may have to enlarge their buildings to cope with the

crowd.

Amuri Lodge has a full programme of three Seconds and three Thirds, and others coming on later, and

visitors to Hanmer should get in touch with the Secretary, W. Bro. Macdonald, who lives at Hanmer, and he

will arrange for them to visit Amuri.

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NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

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The outstanding event in this territory during the past month was the Installation of Lodge Havelock, No.

104, on Saturday, March 25th. The attendance totalled 120, of whom over 50 per cent. were P.Ms. Special

mention was made of the fact that every Lodge in the widely-scattered territory was represented, the

presence of members of the "1942" Masters' Association being in some measure responsible for this

complete coverage.

V.W. Bro. Mogridge, Asst.-Prov.G.M., presided most efficiently, and was ably supported by the Prov. G.M.,

R. W. Bro. Baird, Past Prov. G.Ms. R.W. Bros. Girling, Eckford, Ching and Rudd, R.W. Bros. Lucas.

P.G.W., and Thomson, G.J.W., V.W. Bros. Harlow, G.C., and Kirby, P.G.D.C., W. Bros. Whiteford,

Asst.G.D.C., Craighead and Black, Past Asst.G.D.Cs., Scantlebury, P.G.O., Ball, P.G.D., and other G.L.

Officers. The capacity of the lodgeroom was fully taxed, but nevertheless the whole ceremony was carried

out smoothly under the direction of W. Bro. Whiteford, who was officiating at his first Installation as

Director of Ceremonies. W. Bro. W. A. Adams, P.G.S., was duly installed as Master for the second occasion,

he having held the office in 1923-24, 21 years ago.

After the ceremony, members adjourned to the Havelock Town Hall to partake of a bountiful supper

arranged by Havelock members. The toast list was comprehensive, excellent speeches being delivered by

R.W. Bros. Baird and Thomson, V.W. Bro. Mogridge, the Worshipful Master, and W. Bros. Wratt, I.P.M.,

Ball, Stratford, and Kennington. Most favourable reference was made to the excellent services rendered to

the Lodge and Craft by W. Bro. Wratt during his two consecutive years as Master, and also to the consistent

service rendered over so long a period by W. Bro. Adams, and his accepting the Mastership a second time.

During the ceremony R.W. Bro. Rudd expressed his appreciation to the members for the presentation to him

of the Regalia of Past Prov. G M., and presented to the Lodge a framed photo of himself. The collection

amounted to £11/10/-.

There was a full attendance of the members of the "1942" Masters' Association and G.L. Association at a

general meeting held at Havelock at 4.30 p.m. on Saturday, March 25th, with the exception of V.W. Bro.

Daynes, P.G.C., who was indisposed. The President. W. Bro. Martin. presided. Business transacted referred

to membership, official visits. "Craftsman" notes and subscriptions, Masonic libraries, Lodge histories,

Masonic Diary, etc , etc. On the following day a most enjoyable time was spent with a launch trip round the

Pelorous Sounds, the fishing in particular being most successful. The next meeting of the Association is to be

held in Nelson on May 27th.

There was a large attendance of brethren at the combined Masonic Church Parade held at the Nelson

Cathedral, Sunday. April 2nd, the preacher being Chaplain Major F. V. Hart, recently returned from the

Middle East. Major Hart, we understand, is a P.M. of two Taranaki Lodges and also affiliated with the

Masonic Association in Egypt. He is a most fluent speaker and the subject of his sermon has created the wide

interest to which it is entitled. He painted a vivid word picture of the conditions under which our men are

fighting, working and living on the various war fronts where he has served. A comparison was drawn

between these conditions and those he found upon his return to New Zealand, and he urged a general uplift

in the moral standards and the will to work, so that those who are left behind may be worthy of the great

deeds being done by our men overseas, that when they return they may find a general improvement in the

standard of living and moral outlook.

Two candidates were initiated at the well-attended meeting of Lodge Motueka, No. 117, held March 22nd.

W. Bro. Harding presided and requested W. Bro. E. W. Stilwell, I.P.M., to work the Degree. The next

meeting, on April 26th, will be a P.M's. night, with Bro. Shaw Thomson, P.A.G.D.C., presiding. W. Bro.

Shaw Thomson, who joined Lodge Motueka in 1908, is leaving the district shortly to reside in Wellington,

and will be greatly missed.

Two F Cs. were "raised" at the meeting of Lodge Wairau on March 28th. There was an excellent attendance,

including an official visit from W. Bro. Percy Thomson, Master Lodge Victory, the visit being greatly

appreciated. An official visit is to be paid to Lodge Havelock on April 15th.

At the regular meeting of Lodge Forest, No. 116 held on April 12th, there was a good attendance, including

an official visit from Lodge Victory, W. Bro. Thomson being accompanied by a large number of his officers

and brethren. Lodge Forest is to pay a return visit to Lodge Nelson on April 19th, when one of their members

will be "passed" by Lodge Nelson.

The Prov.G.M., R.W. James Baird, paid an official visit to the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity's regular

meeting on April 11th, and he received a splendid welcome from the large attendance, including a good

representation from the Air Force, two members of which were "initiated." It was a Past Masters' night and

the "P.Ms." were right on the job and did excellent work. Official visits are to be paid to Lodge Awatere on

April 20th and to Lodge Wairau on April 25th.

There was another excellent attendance of over 90 members at the regular meeting of Lodge Victory, held

April 13th. The W.Ms. and brethren of Lodges Nelson, Waimea, Motueka and Forest were present, the visits

of Nelson and Waimea being official. There was also a good attendance of Southern Star brethren and

representatives of other Lodges. The Lodge was in mourning on account of their late Bro. Flight-Lt. V.

Allport, D.F.C., killed in action on March 26th last. A member was "raised" to the Third Degree, the work

being carried out efficiently, including the "Traditional History" and "Extended Secrets." given by the

Prov.G.M. "M.M." Certificates were presented to three members by R.W. Bro. Thomson, G.J.W. The W.M.

announced that the Installation would take place on Saturday, May 27th, when the Secretary, R.W. Bro.

Stiles, P.Prov.G.M., would install his son, Bro. George Stiles, S.W. An official visit is to be paid to Southern

Star Lodge on April 25th.

The regular monthly meeting of Lodge Murchison was held on April 11th, when a candidated was "initiated"

in the presence of a large attendance, including a high percentage of P.Ms., whose presence received

favourable reference in the refectory. W. Bro. McCaa, the W.M., has recovered from his recent indisposition,

and all members were pleased to see him looking fit and well.

The regular April meeting of Lodge Waimea, No. 266, took the form of a P.Ms.' night, W. Bro. Barton,

P.G.S., presiding and initiating his son. The Prov.G.M. was in attendance at his Mother Lodge and took one

of the Chairs for the working of the Degree. There was an official visit from Lodge Victory, also a number of

other visitors, in eluding the W.M. of Lodge Nelson, W. Bro. K. S. Farmer.

These notes were despatched just prior to the meeting of Lodge Nelsen on April 19th, when an official visit

was to be paid by Lodge Forest, one of whose members is to be "passed" to the Second Degree. The Lodge

will be in mourning on account of the late Bro. Kim Smith reported recently as having been killed in action.

At the last meeting of the Marlborough Chapter, the District Grand Superintendent, R.E. Comp. W. J.

Girling, was reinvested by M.E. Comp. C. A. Eckford, P.G.Z., and the G.D. of C., V.E. Comp. A. W.

Wanden, was invested by the D.G. Superintendent. Two members were "exalted."