A DISTINGUISHED FREEMASON.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

T is given to few members of the Craft to celebrate their jubilee in Freemasonry. That alone is a

distinction; but when the fifty years have been years of service the record is indeed one for pride. The

career of M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson has had, and continues to have, that honourable and truly Masonic

characteristic—service. To many young initiates in Freemaionry the advice is given: if you would get the

best out of Freemasonry, then you must put the best you have into it. The Masonic life of our brother who

was honoured in Auckland last month exemplifies the truth of this. • His record is in two parts: what he has

done and what he has been, and the second part is the natural corollary of the first. The offices he has held

have been the reward for past service, and he has made them the opportunity for further service. It is in every

way fitting that the memorial marking his year of jubilee should be in itself a crowning service to Auckland

Freemasonry—the redemption of debt on the Auckland Temple. It is doubly appropriate, for in the V.S.L. we

learn that the Jubilee year was the year for debt redemption.

On another page in this issue we print a report of the special meeting held in Auckland under the charter of

the Ara Lodge in celebration of M.W. Bro. Nicholson's Jubilee. It is to be noted that at that meeting the em-

phasis was laid, not principally upon the offices held, but upon the work accomplished. Only a few of the

services are mentioned in the report, though that list is sufficiently impressive; but brethren of New Zealand

generally, and Auckland particularly, know that the recorded part is the lesser part of the work done. M.W.

Bro. Nicholson has constituted 51 new Lodges; but he has also carefully watched over and guided every

Lodge within his jurisdiction. He has installed 1370 Worshipful Masters, and he has also advised, instructed

and assisted every ruler of the Craft who had occasion to seek counsel or aid.

The gathering that did M.W. Bro. Nicholson honour was one of the most notable in the annals of New

Zealand Freemasonry for its distinguished and representative character and enthusiastically congratulatory

tone. The memorial to Bro. Nicholson's service is a striking one, as is the career that it marks. But we think

that what Bro. Nicholson would most take pride in is that he has served and he has built; by service he has

made the name of Oliver Nicholson synonymous with Freemasonry throughout the Auckland province; and

Auckland Freemasonry, as far as such an Institution can be the work of one man, is a monument of his

building.

————————

Owing to the death of M.E. Comp. J. H. Moir, First Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch

Chapter of New Zealand, the combined meetings which were to have been held in the Hawkes Bay,

Ruapehu, Taranaki and Wellington Districts have been cancelled.

As the Depute Grand Principal, R.E. Comp. S. T. S. Martin, is laid aside with sickness, the Consecration of

Opunake Chapter, No. 78, on the 10th June will be conducted by M.E. Comp. W. H. Sandford, I.P.G.Z.

————————

AN OUTSTANDING PAST MASTERS' NIGHT

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

There is an impression, which may not be unfounded, that when Scots tackle a job they do it properly;

certainly the meeting of Lodge Island Bay, No. 243, on 4th April, assisted to deepen that impression. The

occasion was the customary Past Masters' night, and in order to do honour to W. Bro. Peter Mackenzie, who

had completed fifty years' service in the Craft, the Worshipful Master took the opportunity to hand him the

gavel to work the Third Degree.

Knowing our worthy brother, we were not surprised to welcome a large contingent of brither Scots, many of

whom paid the compliment of appearing in the national costume, which W. Bro. Mackenzie also was

wearing. Needless to say, the work, which was the alternate Scotch, our usual working, was carried out in an

exemplary manner, all the offices being occupied by Past Masters, and all the Charges, with one exception,

being given by Past Masters.

I

During the proceedings in the refectory the Secretary read several extracts from notes and correspondence

giving particulars of W. Bro. Mackenzie's Masonic career, the salient points being:—

Bro. Peter Mackenzie was initiated in February, 1894, in Lodge Partick St. Mary, Glasgow. Affiliated with

Lodge Mawhera, October 10, 1912. Invested as Steward in Nov., 1918; and installed as Worshipful Master

in 1922. His year of office was a busy and successful one. On account of being transferred, he secured his

demit in July, 1942.

His next activities were in connection with Lodge Awatea, Palmerston N., in the foundation of which W.

Bro. Mackenzie was one of the prime movers, and, but for being in the chair of K.S. in a Lodge in Nelson,

would have been the first Master. He was the first Director of Ceremonies and was installed Master in 1925.

W. Bro. Mackenzie became a member of Lodge Island Bay on 1st September, 1931. He was invested as D.

of C. in 1934, and as Chaplain in 1937, which office he has held continuously and still holds, having been re-

nominated this year.

In his reply to his toast, our worthy W. Bro. recounted many interesting things, an outstanding incident being

an account of shipwreck where they were marooned for many weeks whilst one of the boats went for help,

there being no radio in those days. During the days and weeks of waiting those who were Craftsmen

consoled themselves with Masonic discussion, and to that owed a preservation of their sense of values as

well as gratitude to the G.A.O.T.U.

The supper proceedings were typical of Scottish hospitality and nothing was lacking. The haggis and whisky

were piped in with suitable ceremony, the room being darkened so as to throw emphasis on an illuminated

St. Andrew's cross. That none should be overlooked, W. Bro. Mackenzie enjoined the stewards to "serve

sma' and serve a'. "A large birthday cake had been made and presented by Mrs. Mackenzie, and after the

ceremonial incision, was also served to all.

Items, both song and poem, were rendered by several brethren, but as the writer is unfamiliar with the Doric,

it is assumed from their reception that such items were much appreciated.

Felicitations and congratulations were showered on our much-beloved Peter, and the function concluded at

midnight with "Auld Lang Syne,"

————————

M.W. BRO. OLIVER NICHOLSON MASONIC JUBILEE

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Some seven hundred brethren assembled in the Auckland Masonic Temple under the charter of Ara Lodge,

No. 1, on Tuesday, May 9th, to join in honouring M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., on the occasion of

his Masonic Jubilee. Fifty-five Lodges were officially represented, and after the reception of the Worshipful

Masters by W. Bro. K. M. Graham, W.M. of the Ara Lodge, M.W. Bro, Nicholson was received as

Provincial G.M., and he in turn received R.W. Bros. A. T. Coppard, W. E. Hedditch, and D. B. Patterson, the

District and Provincial G Ms. of the Scottish, Irish and English Constitutions, with their respective officers.

R.W. Bro. Alfred Bullock. Provincial G.M. of the Waikato District, was received separately as a special

tribute to that District, which has been portion of M.W. Bro. Nicholson's territory until 1934.

The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Herbert G. Teagle, accompanied by 90 present and past Grand Officers, was

then received.

Among the distinguished brethren present were M.W. Bros. Maurice Thompson, Hon. Sir Alexander

Herdman, and C. L. MacDiarmid, P.G.Ms.; M.W. Bro. Colonel Sir Stephen Allen. P.Pro G.M.; R.W. Bros.

A. J. Pople, Deputy G.M., W. R. T. Leighton, and A. G. Graham, P.D.G.Ms., E. J. Guiness, P.Prov.G.M., F.

W. Herbert, C. E. Dutton, W. G. Mason. A. Burns. H. A. Lamb (Grand Secretary), G. H. Harle, R Hay and F.

G. Alpe, P.G.Ws., V.W. Bros. Rev. A. Mitchell, P G.C.. W. C. Rolfe and J. A. Gentles. P.G.Ts., F. a Mueller

and A. Burns, Jr.. P.G.Rs., C. N. Cathie. Pres. Bd. of G.P., N. B. Spencer. P.Pres.Bd. of G.P., H. Hatch,

Pres.Bd. of B., A. Bright. G.Lect.. L. Tustain. P.G,Lect., V. Kirk, G.D. of C., A. Howey Walker, W. C.

Finnis, S. Irwin Crookes, G. R. Hutchinson, Jr., and A. C. Hallett, P.G.D.Cs„ and others.

The Grand Master referred to the brilliant services rendered to the Craft by the guest of the evening, and

conveyed to him the congratulations and good wishes of all the brethren under the Grand Lodge of New

Zealand. M.W. Bro. Teagle then gave one of those inspiring addresses upon Masonic ideals for which he has

become well known. Upon concluding his exhortation he handed the gavel to the Deputy Grand Master.

R.W. Bro. Pople, after thanking the Ara Lodge for its kind invitation, summarised the services to the Craft of

M.W. Bro. Nicholson, which included the installation of 1370 Worshipful Masters (a world's record), the

constitution of 51 new Lodges, and the laying of the Foundation Stones of 10 Lodgerooms. He traversed the

steps taken first to ascertain the wishes of the Brethren, secondly to induce the Provincial G.M. to permit

action being taken to express in some tangible form the esteem and appreciation of the Brethren, and finally

to accomplish the desired achievement. A beautifully designed and printed brochure, embodying the

principal details of M.W. Bro. Nicholson's civil and Masonic career, had been published, of which he

presented the first copy to M.W. Bro. Nicholson. In addition sufficient funds had been received or promised

to pay £5600 off the mortgage on the Auckland Temple, the headquarters of the Craft in the District, and

debentures amounting to £380 had been surrendered. It was expected to receive at least £1000 from

negotiations pending which would take some time to finalise, which would leave only £900 required to pay

off the mortgage, and thus enable the Temple to be dedicated, and so be available for Masonic purposes for

all time and stand as a monument to those fifty years of devoted service rendered to Freemasonry by their

Prov.G.M.

M.W. Bro. Nicholson thanked all concerned for their tributes and their attendance. He especially thanked the

Grand Master and the distinguished Wellington brethren who had come so far to honour him, and the

distinguished representatives of the Sister Constitutions. He mentioned his decision to seek admission to the

Craft because of the membership of friends whom he admired and esteemed, and the impression made upon

him by its teachings. He had, he said, endeavoured to put into practice in his civil life the ideals of good

citizenship inculcated in our ceremonies. He expressed his thanks to the Great Architect for his good health

and other blessings which had enabled him to discharge his Masonic and other duties, and had left him after

fifty years of Masonic service still active in the work of the Craft.

Tributes were paid to M.W. Bro. Nicholson by the District Grand Masters of the Sister Constitutions, and W.

Bro. K. M. Graham expressed the pleasure of the Ara Lodge No. 1, in being able to do honour to its most

distinguished initiate. The minutes of the meeting of May 9th, 1894, were read by Bro. T. Spry, Secretary of

the Lodge.

Letters and telegrams of apology were received from other Provincial G.Ms., R.W. Bro. W. J. Jordan.

P.G.W. (London), and large numbers of other brethren. A very interesting letter was read from V.W. Bro.

Hon. E. R. Davis, P.G.T., containing interesting references to earlier days.

Greetings on behalf of visiting brethren under the New Zealand Constitution were tendered by W. Bro. J.

Allison, W.M. of the St. Andrew's Lodge, No. 8, and also by visiting W.Ms. of other, Constitutions.

A buffet supper was provided in the refectories, thus enabling the brethren to mingle and meet old and new

friends.

The committees responsible for the various arrangements were:—Executive: R.W. Bros. A. J. Pople (Chair-

man). W. G. Mason, R. Hay and F. G. Alpe, V.W. Bros, A. Burns, Jr., and V. Kirk, and W. Bros. H. R. A.

Vialoux and K. M. Graham. Finance: R.W. Bros. A. Graham (Chairman) and C. E Dutton, V.W. Bros. Hon.

E. R. Davis, J. A. Gentles, N. B. Spencer, and W. Bros. G. F. Lane and L. E. Utting. Literary: R.W. Bro. C.

A. Gribbin, V.W. Bros. A. Burns, Jr., and A. Howey Walker, and W. Bro. C. H. Putt. Refectory: R.W. Bro.

W. W. Wright, V.W. Bro. W. C. Finnis, W. Bros. L. Hammond, H. Nutt, J. Allison, V. Gladding, and Bro. J.

McGregor. V.W. Bro. J. A. Gentles was Treasurer of the Fund, and V.W. Bro. A. Burns, Jr., Secretary of the

Committees. The work of V.W. Bro. V. Kirk as G.D. of C. was made easier by the work of W. Bro. R.

Isaacs, D. of C. of the Lodge.

The function was an outstanding one, which will live long in the memories of all present, and was a fitting

climax to the fifty years of wonderful work performed by M.W. Bro. Nicholson. He has kindly offered to

autograph a copy of the brochure mentioned for each donor to the Fund, and copies will be available for

others interested later. The striking cover and the border of the frontispiece photograph were specially

designed by W. Bro. C. H. Putt.

————————

HOLY ROYAL ARCH KNIGHT TEMPLAR PRIEST.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

GRAND COLLEGE OF ENGLAND.

———

On Saturday, 20th May, at the Masonic Temple, St. Benedict Street, Auckland, the Constitution and Conse-

cration of the Auckland Tabernacle, No. 12, on the register of the Grand College of England, was carried out

by Very Ill. Knight Priest George Russell, P.H.P., Past Grand VII Pillar, assisted by members of the Order

Following the Consecration, Archibald Burns, Jr., was installed the first High Priest of the new Tabernacle

after which he appointed his officers—VII Pillar, James Armstead; VI Pillar, Norman B. Spencer; Treasurer.

A Herbert: Secretary. E. McDonald, and others. The whole ceremony was carried out most successfully. This

is the first Tabernacle to be opened in the City of Auckland and will no doubt prove a great attraction. Six

new candidates were proposed that evening.

————————

It is with regret that we have to announce the death of M.Em. Comp. A. A. Thomas, First Grand Principal

Elec of the Grand Chapter of Victoria, and M.E. Comp. Sig John Watson, First Grand Principal of the Grand

Chapter of Scotland.

————————

THE LATE M.W. BRO. J. H. K EESING. P.PRO G.M.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

TRIBUTE BY R.W. BRO. J. A. NASH. PROV.G.M., RUAPEHU DISTRICT.

———

The late M.W. Bro. Judah Henry Keesing had a long and honoured record of 65 years as a member of Lodge

St. Andrew Kilwinning. No. 79. This large gathering tonight of Freemasons is a fitting tribute to a great man

and Brother Mason. He held a number of offices in Grand Lodge, finally becoming Pro Grand Master in

1927.

In December, 1934, the Lodge celebrated his 50th anniversary as Worshipful Master, the gathering being

attended by the then Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Col. Essen. Our late Brother accomplished very fine work in

the Masonic sphere in this city and throughout New Zealand. He had a most kindly nature and to know him

was to love and admire him. He was a man of great knowledge and learning and possessed all the attributes

of a Mason and a gentleman.

We are all the poorer today by the passing of our M.W. Brother, but the great influence for good which he

exercised gives us confidence in saying that the work he so ably did will continue, and that our Order has

been sweetened and greatly enriched by what he did for us. He was lovable, but of all things in life he was

human, to him to live was to love, and he had a tremendous love in his heart for our beloved Craft and his

fellow-men. His life was an open book and every page a creditable one. Further, he was an upright, patriotic

citizen, and practised outside the Lodge those excellent precepts he was taught in it. Early residents of this

city inform me that for many years he took a keen interest in men who had fallen by the wayside, and when

the time came for them to return to civil life and go out again into the world, he would be waiting for them,

give them friendly advice, financial help,, and assist them to become useful citizens once again.

A great writer has said, "At the end of life we shall not be asked how much pleasure we had in it. but how

much service we gave; not how full it was of success, but how full it was of sacrifice; not how happy we

were, but how helpful we were; not how ambition was served, but how love was served." Our late Brother

fulfilled all these things and has left the world all the richer for his having lived in it, and we may well

rejoice over the contribution he made to Freemasonry.

Brethren, death has no dominion here, for service is spiritual and abiding, and we are made richer by the

inspiration inherited from him who has been called to the Supreme Lodge above, and as we look upon the

photograph in the programme of to-night's proceedings, we might well exclaim that the light upon his face

now shines from the windows of another world.

"With such a comrade, with such friends,

Through summer's sunshine, and winter's rain,

And then good-bye, but we shall meet again."

On such an occasion as this we should remember now and always that life is no idle dream, but a solid

reality, based upon eternity and encompassed by it, we should find out our task and stand to it, for the night

cometh when no man can work.

It has been truly said that "death is but a bend in the road of life, death is the gateway to a new life, and

though our bodies may be laid in' the grave, our personalities enter a new kind of life."

"There is no death, the stars go clown to rise upon some other shore,

And bright in heaven's jewelled crown they shine for ever more.

They are not dead, but have passed beyond the mists that bind us here

Into the new and larger life of that serener sphere.

And ever near us, though unseen, the dear immortal spirits tread,

For all the boundless universe is life—`there are no dead.' "

Our Brother has gone and has met the brethren who have passed on before, and there they will await the day

when all shall be gathered unto their fathers in the Celestial Lodge above; we shall not bid our brother a

permanent farewell, but we look forward to greeting him and others in the morning.

We have lost a good friend and brother whom the Great Architect has called from his earthly labours to

everlasting refreshment in the paradise of God.

I now unveil this tablet to the memory of a great man and a brother Mason the late M.W. Bro. Judah Henry

Keesing. Placed as it is, in the centre of the Honours Board, may it serve to remind those who follow that he

lived a true life, and may it also be an inspiration to them to try and emulate his work and deeds. May his

soul rest in peace with God the Father Eternal.

————————

OBITUARY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

R.W. BRO. G. E. CHARLTON, P.G.W.

———

The death occurred on 20th May of R.W. Bro. G. E. Charlton, P.G.W. of the G.L. of N.Z. and P.G.J. Grand

Chapter of N.Z. Our beloved brother was the founder of Lodge Tuatapere, No. 210, prior to which he was a

member of Lodge Orepuki. As a P.Z. of Wallace R.A. Chapter, No. 34, member of Southern Cross Royal

Arch Chapter and Cryptic Council, No. 3, Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter. No. 36, and Past Preceptor of the

Southland Preceptory of Knight Templars, our worthy brother contributed much to the development of the

Craft in its various branches. Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter were represented at the Lodge of Sorrow, held

at Tuatapere on 22nd May.

R.W. Bro. Charlton took a keen interest in all the activities of the district, being chairman at the official

opening of the Waiau bridge in 1915. He was a prominent member of the Order of Oddfellows. He was the

first President of the Tuatapere Bowling Club, and took a keen interest in Rugby football, being a member of

the Orepuki Club and later assisting in the administration of the game in the Western District. He was a

member of the Cemetery Trust and a lay-reader in the Anglican Church. Bro. Charlton is survived by his

wife, a son, Lex, who is serving overseas, and two daughters, Mrs. L. Guthrie (Tuatapere) and Mrs. J.

Chewings (Mossburn).

———

THE LATE W. BRO. W. M. HOGG, P.M.

By the death of W. Bro. W. M. Hogg, which took place at Dunedin on 17th April, the ranks of the P.Ms. of

Haeremai Lodge, No. 155, and Research Lodge, No. 161, have again been depleted and Freemasonry in

Otago has lost one of its most enthusiastic members.

W. Bro. Hogg was initiated in 1911. He served as Organist for a number of years, and in 1936 was installed

as Master of his Mother Lodge.

He was for a long period associated with Research Lodge of Otago, No. 161, and took the chair in 1936. His

easy manner of address and sincerity assisted in making him an interesting lecturer, and in all his Masonic

life he was willing to give unostentatiously of his best. The subjects of his lectures showed a leaning towards

the school of thought of the late Bro. Wilmshurst, of whose writings he was a great admirer.

Bro. Hogg was a member of the Celtic R.A. Chapter, No. 42, and the Cryptic Council attached to the

Chapter, and he attained the chair of 1st Principal in 1942.

One of our late brother's greatest interests was his membership of the Dunedin Rose Croix Chapter, No. 317,

in which he was perfected on the erection of the Chapter, and in which he occupied the office of 1st General

at the time of his death. The teachings of the degree were very real to him and it was one of his great regrets

that illness prevented him from fulfilling the duties of his office,

————————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

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

———

WASHINGTON

267 Lodges, 39,770 members, a gain of 944.

86th Annual Communication held at Wenatchee, 15th and 16th June, R. W. Bro. Don F. Kizer, Deputy G.M.,

presiding in the absence of the G.M., M.W. Bro. J. W. J. Stedman, at Washington. D.C., assisting the War

Food Administration.

1405 brethren were raised during the year, and 359 affiliated.

In the course of the G.M.'s address, read by the D.G.M., he said:—

"It is my feeling, after being able to observe its effect on those who have been honoured, and their friends,

that one of the finest things that this Grand Lodge did was to institute the custom of presenting Certificates to

those who had been members of a Lodge or had maintained membership in Lodges for fifty years. This,

together with the Button that is the visible sign of the presentation, has brought much joy to the hearts and

lives of the recipients and their friends. Whether or not a man has been privileged to serve his Brethren as an

officer, he has surely made a great contribution to the spirit of Masonry by having been a member for fifty

years."

As their names were called by the Assistant Grand Secretary, the Grand Representatives assembled West of

the Altar, and, on request of the Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Ford Q. Elvidge, Senior Grand Warden,

tendered them a welcome as f ollows:—

"Most Worshipful and Worshipful Brothers, it is a pleasure and a privilege, by direction of the Presiding

Officer of this Body, to welcome you, and each of you, as Grand Representatives of your several

Jurisdictions, at this, our 86th Annual Communications. Symbolically, you come from far and wide—you

come from the North, the South, the East and the West. Nothing could be better evidence of the universality

of Masonry and the fact that its philosophy and fundamental principles are not bounded by geographical

limitations. We know that Tolstoy, the Russian, was a Mason, that Voltaire, the Frenchman, was a Mason,

and we are not unmindful of the fact that Goethe, the German scholar, and Garibaldi, the Italian soldier and

statesman, were Masons. Our country is not engaged in a war against Masons, but rather against those who

are the oppressors of Masonry.

"When you return to or communicate with the several bodies whom you represent, ask them to join with us

in the endeavour, the hope, and the prayer that when this Annual Communication is held next year, that your

country, and ours, will not be clothed in the habiliments of war, but rather in the raiment of peace.

"I greet you and ask you to join in our deliberations for betterment of the human race."

In the course of a lengthy oration, entitled "Masonry in Action," W. Bro. Henry C. Heal, Grand Orator, said:

"Glancing through an old Encyclopaedia Britannica, it was published in 1891, I came to the item on

Freemasonry. It was interesting and for the most part contained information that I was already familiar with,

but towards the end of the article it had this to say, and I quote: 'As regards the future of Freemasonry, it is

impossible, at least for outsiders, to say much. The celebration of the brotherhood of man, and the cultivation

of universal goodwill in the abstract, seem rather indefinite objects for any society, in this unimaginative age.

There is, on the one hand, a tendency to degenerate into mere conviviality, while if schools, or asylums, or

other charities are supported, to that extent of course the society becomes local and even exclusive in its

character. In the meantime, Masonry is to blame for keeping afloat in the minds of its members many of the

most absolutely puerile ideas. A more accurate knowledge of its own singular and not undignified history

would tend more than anything else to give worth and elevation to its aims. No one now believes the stupid

slander that Freemasons are engaged in any definite conspiracy against the State, religion or social order.

There is, however, something in their fundamental principles, the fraternity of men and their indifference to

theological belief, and also in their recent movements, which perhaps justifies the suspicion, and even hatred,

with which they are regarded by the Ultramontane party. Masonry in each country, of course, takes its

colouring from the state of thought and feeling by which it is surrounded. But it cannot be disputed that the

Germans, Dutch, Belgian and French magazines of the Craft occasionally exhibit a tone which is not

favourable to Christianity regarded as a special revelation. The tendency of political opinions in such an

association is also necessarily democratic, and while it would be absurd to make the brotherhood answerable

for the opinions of Mazzini, or the outrages of the commune, and while the majority of brethren are loyal

subjects, and probably orthodox Christians (in the theological sense), the institution itself undoubtedly makes

for liberty in matters both civil and spiritual.' "

There were 61 men and 97 women in the Masonic Home, maintained at a cost of $79,579 (including

premiums on life insurance, and maintenance of property).

The Committee on Masonic Research and Education reported that it had prepared four short lectures, to be

delivered not in the Lodge room, the first before Initiation, and the others after the various degrees.

Recognition was extended to the Grand Lodges of Tamaulipas (Mexico), Paraiba (Brazil), and Argentina.

M.W. Bro. Arthur W. Davis, P.G.M., opens his Review of New Zealand's Proceedings, 1941, with this

paragraph:—"Again we rejoice in the opportunity to announce a net gain in membership of 319 during the

year. We have observed that where Lodges are not large there are fewer lapses. This Jurisdiction has on an

average a little over 89 members. The English Lodges, being individually smaller in membership, do not

have the losses that the larger Lodges in the United States have." He concludes: "We have enjoyed perusing

the Proceedings of this fine Jurisdiction."

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Don F. Kizer, Spokane.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. Horace W. Tyler, P.G.M., Seattle.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. John H. Wilson, Port Angeles.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Charles Fla-veil, P.D.G.M., Christchurch.

————

IDAHO-1943.

80 Lodges, 9109 members, a gain of 162.

77th Annual Communication held at St. Maries, 21st and 22nd September, M.W. Bro. Lee Carlock, G.M.,

presiding. There were 338 initiations during the year, 61 brethren were affiliated and 125 reinstated.

During the year nine brethren were elected by their various Lodges to Honorary Fifty-year membership,

including New Zealand's Representatives (after 52 years). The Trustees of the Grand Lodge Relief Fund

reported the expenditure of $7406 on the relief of indigent Masons, their widows and orphans.

W. Bro. O. Le Roy Walter, Grand Orator, gave an address.

In the course of his report as Chairman of the Committee on Masonic Education, the Grand Secretary said:

"Brethren, as one of our great Masonic writers has said, 'There is no known way whereby, through a kind of

magic, we can find light in Masonry. If a man wishes to learn something of history, he studies it; so if a man

would learn Freemasonry he must study it. Initiation is no occult process whereby, without the exercise of

his own faculties, and minus the necessary acquisitions of knowledge, a man may be conducted into the full

glow of truth, Masonic or otherwise. Those who would become real Masons must work to that end—the light

does not come miraculously, but at the end of a toilsome way. There is a vast deal—far, far more than most

men dream—of knowledge and truth hidden away in our traditions, our history, our customs, our laws, and

above all in our incomparable ritual; but a man can no more become possessed of that treasure without

working for it, than he can come into an understanding of Greek without studying it. Masonic Research does

not mean a delving into the dustbins of antiquity for rare lore—it means a digging out of Masonry that which

there is now in it for truth, and for light. Masonry is not a system of mere degrees, for conferring degrees is

just a method employed to open the doors for further light."

The Grand Lodge was incorporated under the laws of Idaho.

In a Foreword to his Reviews, M.W. Bro. Jay Glover Eldridge, P.G.M., gave extracts from an account taken

from the Grand Lodge of Chile, of the closing ceremonies of the G.L. of Hamburg on June 30th, 1935. The

ritual specially prepared for the occasion in the presence of representatives of the Gestapo, included the

following passages:—

"Of ourselves, however, we do not desire to speak. That which we aspired to, that which we realised in

works on the altars of love of country and humanity, we place serenely and humbly in the hands of our

Creator, Who governs through all Eternity and Whose very substance is Truth and Justice . . .

"Not because we find ourselves weary of the labours of our Craft among the columns of Wisdom, Strength

and Beauty, but because our Government wishes it for the welfare of our people, we abandon in Thy Hands

the working tools with which we and our predecessors for Thy honour have worked during almost two

centuries in the construction of a spiritual edifice."

There is an appreciative Review of NZ, 1942.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. George E. Bacheller, Boise.

Grand Secretary : M.W. Bro. Clyde J. Rush, P.G.M., Boise.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: M.W. Bro. Bryon S. De Fenbach, P.G.M., Lewiston.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Dr. E. Dacre Dunn, P.Prov.G.M.

————

OHIO-1943.

622 Lodges, 183,058 members, a gain of 6466.

134th Annual Communication held at Columnus, 20th and 21st October, M.W. Bro. Harry E. Schramm,

G.M., presiding.

8528 Brethren were raised, 644 affiliated and 2568 reinstated.

After a roll call of Grand Representatives they were welcomed by the G.M. Replies were made by M.W.

Bro. Earle Stewart, New Zealand's Representative, and another.

In the course of his Address, the G.M. said: "Perhaps there has never been any question which has so

engrossed the thought of Masonry throughout the years as the interpretation of the rigid physical

qualifications required of candidates. It does seem strange that those qualifications, so essential in the days of

operative Masonry, should have been carried over in the transition to speculative Masonry. Then we became

active in the sphere of spiritual development, labour and thought, making use of the symbolisms operative

Masonry suggested. It may have been that such physical fitness was intended to symbolise that the candidate

must be possessed of that high character and integrity indispensable for the development and utilisation of

our inherent moral and spiritual virtues.

"At this particular time, when the world is forced to face and use the most inhuman and devastating inven-

tions the world has ever known, in order to preserve the national supremacy of nations which stand for

freedom, justice and liberty, which God ordained for all men, the question as to whether Masonry may

continue to maintain its interpretation of the requirement of the physical perfection of youth, has become an

overwhelming consideration.

"In the organisation of its armed forces, our Government is demanding physical perfection in our youth, and

must perforce expose it to dangers and hazards so appalling that escape seems almost impossible. There will

be found among those youths thousands who would have sought entrance within the portals of Masonry had

they not been called to a vicarious life for you and me. We surely dare not deny them a welcome to our

fellowship because they have been maimed in body in defence of our country and the protection of Masonry.

"In insisting on the physical perfection of youth as a requisite for candidates for the degrees, we are not

following the expressed declaration of Masonry that 'the internal and not external qualifications of a man are

what Masonry regards.' Let us remember also that our Great Light says, 'Man looketh on the outward

appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart'"

It was resolved that an amendment to the Constitution construing Charge IV of the Ancient Charges to

permit Lodges to determine whether a petitioner's physical condition will render him incapable of

performing his duties as a Mason and member of the Lodge be submitted to the Subordinate Lodges for

consideration.

Two brethren were presented with special lapel Emblems in recognition of over 75 years' membership, but

one died four days after its receipt, at the age of 99, after nearly 80 years' membership, and the other died

four months after his award, aged 97.

The G.L. was called from labour to refreshment to pay a tribute to Miss Burrows, who had served 50 years in

the G.L. office.

The Grand Lodge Library contains 20,000 copies of Proceedings of Grand Lodges, and 6000 books of

Masonic literature.

The Lodges contribued over $135,000 to Charity and Relief, including $88,516 to the Endowment Fund of

the Masonic Home.

There were 202 men, 173 women, 46 boys and 28 girls in the Ohio Masonic Home.

The Reviews by M.W. Bro. Earle Stewart include two pages devoted to New Zealand, 1942.

The Reviews and the Proceedings are both well indexed.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Alpheus A. Stevens, Cleveland,

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

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

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

————

TENNESSEE-1944.

385 Lodges, 39,776 members, a gain of 2265.

130th Annual Communication held at Nashville, 26th and 27th January, M.W. Bro. Arch. E. McClanahan,

G.M., presiding.

3062 were initiated, 455 affiliated, and 746 restored.

One 75-Year Lapel Button and 41 Fifty-year Certificates (making 642 up to date) were issued during the

year.

The Grand Master recommended that authority be given to issue dispensations to abridge the 28 day

minimum interval between degrees in the case of Brethren entering the Armed Forces, but on the

recommendation of the Jurisprudence Committee no change was made.

The Reviews by W. Bro. W. P. Douglas include a half-page devoted to New Zealand, 1942.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Burton F. Whitaker, Chattanoga.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. Thomas E. Doss, Nashville.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Roy B. Collier, Clarksville.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. John J. Pickett, P.G.W., Hastings.

————————

V.W. Bro. Ross Hepburn, Grand Lecturer, recently delivered Lectures as follows:—January, at Lodge

Tawera, No. 188, "The Symbolism of King Solomon's Temple," and at Lodge St. Augustine, No. 4, "The

Second Degree." February, at Avon Lodge, No. 185, "The Second Degree." March, at Lodge of Unanimity,

No. 3, "Masonic Customs in the Eighteenth Century," and at the Christchurch Lodge, No. 91, "Early

Masonic Customs." He has also contributed papers to several American Masonic journals, namely on "Royal

Arch Masonry in New Zealand," to the Royal Arch Mason, the Magazine issued by the General Grand Royal

Arch Chapter, and on "The Royal Arch Degree" and "The Mark Degree" to "The Square and Compass,"

Denver, Colorado.

————————

OCCULT LAW IN FREEMASONRY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(By the Rt. Rev. Lawrence W. Burt, Sydney.)

———

Historians and archaeologists, by industrious research into the past, see evidence of Masonic Signs and

Symbols used in civilisations long since buried and said to have flourished 600,000 years ago. Furthermore,

ceremonies strongly resembling those worked in some of the Higher Degrees of our Order are practised by

primitive races, remnants of religious rites and ceremonies of long ago, such as certain tribal ceremonies

performed by the Australian Aborigines, inherited from their Lemurian ancestors.

Such evidence serves to convince the unbiased student of the spiritual origin and significance of

Freemasonry "derived from the Ancient Mysteries once forming the heart of every great religion" as we are

told in a Mystic Charge of the First Degree.

From this standpoint the essence of Freemasonry may be regarded as of eternal verities, the outer form of

which may change, as from the Egyptian to the Jewish symbolism, whilst its high purposes remain an

immortal science of life ever guiding its initiates to the goal of human endeavour—the perfection of man.

Now the Ancient Mysteries of the past were divided into two sections—the higher and the lower, the greater

and the lesser Mysteries, and Freemasonry today is an unconscious witness to their existence in the past,

initiating its members into the lesser Mysteries which offer to them unlimited possibilities. Repeatedly in our

ceremonies, Freemasonry refers to the Greater Mysteries—the Grand Lodge Above, where, as here, the One

Great Architect rules. By living the high standard of Free-masonic ethics and morality, the individual

qualifies for initiation into the Greater Mysteries, into "that glorious Temple, eternal in the heavens of which

King Solomon's was but a symbol," sometimes called the Great White Brotherhood.

To those seeking entry into Freemasonry scant information is given, summed up in the definition that

Freemasonry is a pecular system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. Each candidate is

tested regarding his worthiness to be admitted to membership in our Ancient and Honourable Order and

submits his testament stating the purpose of his application. Of the first impressions made on the candidate

should be the highly moral and spiritual nature of the work to which he has obligated himself, and, further,

that his initiation has admitted him to a pathway of life leading to many stages of unknown mysteries. Each

progressive step taken is conferred as an increase of wages suggesting merit won by individual endeavour.

Rightly instructed, every neophyte should become increasingly aware of two main objects of his Masonic

duties. Firstly, there is the communal object, the regular attendance at Lodge meetings, which are convened

not merely to benefit the Brethren present, but, the Lodge being a reflector of the Grand Lodge above,

spiritual powers are evoked for the blessing and help of the surrounding community. By nobility of thought,

by lofty emotions, by concentrating on the words of the ritual and the spirit of the ceremony, each Brother is

an important factor in the efficiency and effectiveness of the outflow of Divine Grace.

Secondly, there is the personal object, the moulding and polishing of the rude material of the personal

character preparatory to attaining the goal of individual perfection. By setting before the neophyte lofty

ideals and noble virtues to be practised in daily life, Freemasonry leads us to a realisation of man's immortal

principle—his latent divinity—directing our attention to that bright and Morning Star, blazing the trail

leading to the goal of human perfection, the attainment of which alone brings peace and salvation to the

faithful and obedient among men. The path to that goal is trodden by each individual as he makes the ethics

and virtues taught in open Lodge living factors in his daily life. That Path of Holiness has many stages,

which are symbolised in our Masonic Art by the several Degrees, each with its special teaching and spiritual

values, each progressively symbolising a higher rung of the ladder of perfection reaching from the human to

the Divine as depicted on the First Degree Tracing Board.

Each rank or Degree in Freemasonry has its special regalia and symbols, but these outer decorations are no

guaranteee of individual attainment, rather do they represent opportunities offered to those who wear them.

The regalia worn by most of us is mainly the promise of future glory. In occult realities the character we

possess, and the life we live, is the mark of our Degree. Admission to Higher Degrees confers possibilities

which become genuine powers for those who translate their opportunities into living virtues in their daily

lives.

It may seem inconsistent for a Brother to wear the regalia of higher Degrees before he has risen to the

selfless splendour of a true Master Mason, or in some cases not to have attained the self-control required by

entered apprentices. Here we need to remember that the outer symbol of progress is the promise of the

qualities and powers that will in due time be developed as we grow to the fulness of the splendour of a

perfect man—the fulness of a Master Mason.

In the Greater Mysteries—in the Grand Lodge Above—each individual is assessed not by the regalia worn,

but by what he is in thought, word and deed towards his Brethren. In the Occult Lodge Above regalia and

decorations are superseded, for there each individual is known by the qualities he has developed which are

seen as scintillating colour of many hues in the aura of the soul.

It is the purpose of Freemasonry to lead its initiates along the Path of Holiness by developing soul qualities

and unfolding the powers of our latent divinity. Progress on that Path is a matter of immutable law, the Law

of Divine Justice which knows no shadow of turning. This Law is ever operating in the life of each

individual as Cause and Effect. Each Brother Mason is a pilgrim on the Path of Progress swinging a

pendulum to the right and to the left. The swings to the right, or positive side, are Causes set in motion by

thought, word and deed, whereas those to the left, or negative side, are the inevitable Effects from which

none can escape, for, as St. Paul said, whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap. There is no

favouritism in this path of true occult progress. Each advance made in Freemasonic Realities is the fruit of

right effort which none can deny us, whereas delay and disappointment are the result of neglected

opportunities.

Freemasonic instruction is mainly directed to lead the neophyte in righteous endeavour by enunciating the

virtues to be acquired at each rung of the ladder of spiritual evolution. In the Mark Degree, however, this

Occult law of Cause and Effect is dramatically emphasised, and the Mark Mason is taught that no useful

effort is ever lost, though its reward may be delayed, or his handiwork even rejected for a time; but the swing

of the pendulum inevitably brings to each the fruit of his labour. Furthermore, it teaches that all good deeds,

or work well wrought, form material used in building the Holy Temple, "that Temple not made with hands,

eternal in the heavens."

By this Law of Eternal Justice, of action and reaction, each individual is the maker of his own destiny, the

creator of glory or gloom to himself. Wise is the Freemason who recognises the operation of this Law by

ordering his conduct with justice and brotherly consideration to others. By its due observance he moves

forward with the stream of eternal progress, without which none can attain his immortal destiny, and join the

ranks of Just Men made perfect.

Now the three grand principles of the Order are Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Brotherly Love because it

is a silent recognition that all are children of the Most High, because Humanity is ONE, because

T.G.A.O.T.U. is Immanent in all His children, therefore is love the fulfilling of the law. To realise this

Oneness of life, this Divine Presence, is to gain a measure of Christ-consciousness and know that the Mystic

Christ dwells in the heart of each and all—"Christ in you the hope of glory." Such knowledge brings also the

realisation that no man liveth to himself alone, for all are parts of the whole, sparks from the One Divine

Fire.

Therefore is Relief the inevitable second grand principle, for we must grow from all-exclusive selfishness to

all-inclusive selflessness and know that when one suffers all suffer, and what injures the part injures the

whole.

The third grand principle, Truth, alludes not only to speech. It refers to the undeviating law of righteousnesss

that exists eternally everywhere. The immutability of Natural Law is our security of existence, and this grand

principle Truth refers to God Omnipotent, Omniscient and Omnipresent. HE, the indwelling Life, is Truth,

manifest in that law of righteousness to which all true Master Masons try and adjust their conduct. Spiritual

Law, like Natural Law, is universal in extent and inviolable in its operation. Therefore, by their deeds shall

ye know them, for by this Occult Law of Cause and Effect our deeds mould ourselves and shape our destiny.

The physical life of man is a training for the greater life of the soul, a journeying from the circumference of

the personality to that centre of Christ-consciousness (Brotherhood realised), from which a Master Mason

cannot err. In family life the first lessons of brotherhood are learnt by the privileges and responsibilities

shared from several angles by all members of the family unit. In Freemasonry the family spirit is extended to

include our Brethren the world over, teaching us to regard all Brethren with natural equality and mutual

dependence. A first warning indelibly impressed on the candidate at his initiation is the practice of charity to

any poor and distressed Brother. Later, every Freemason declares on oath to maintain a M.M.'s honour and

preserve it as his own. He pledges himself that he will not only refrain from injuring a Brother's reputation,

but that he will not knowingly suffer others to do so, but on the contrary he will boldly repel the slanderer of

his good name, for slander violates the first grand principle of the Order.

A great Master has said that gossip is one of the three sins against Love that work more harm than all else in

the world. Freemasonry seeks to impress upon its initiates the evil wrought by indulging in speech of an in-

jurious character. Much has been said and written concerning the alleged unforgivable sin against the Holy

Ghost. The work of the Holy Ghost is the fulfilment of the Plan of the G.A.O.T.U. for man, which is

perfection through creative evolution, and the greatest sin against the Holy Ghost, therefore, lies in

obstructing the spiritual progress of another.

The pendulum of Cause and Effect unerringly swings, bringing just retribution to those who gossip—and to

those who listen to gossip without defending g Brother's honour and preserving it as their own. By the long

arm of this occult law he who injures another most injures himself, though the result be long delayed. Hence

wise is he who honours his obligations and never fails to observe the F . . . P . . . of F . . .

Freemasonry is a way of life which develops the qualities of the soul, hence are we adjured to practise out of

Lodge those virtues we are taught in it. Within the Lodge itself special lessons are learnt such as self-

discipline with obedience to senior officers, and co-operation in the ceremonies. By progressing 'through the

various Lodge offices self-control, self-confidence and self-expression are acquired. Such training is every

Brother's due and should be shared by all. While it is contrary to tradition for a Brother to claim an office

because of past service it is nevertheless in the interests of justice and efficiency to progress through the

sequence of office and thus qualify for more responsible duties.

It is detrimental to the Lodge for senior Brethren to monopolise Lodge offices. Lodge work is a definite part

of soul-training, and once the experience of an office is gained, others should be allowed to benefit by its

lessons. The interests of a Lodge are not necessarily best guarded by appointing the most efficient senior

Brother to a particular office, excepting perhaps those of Orator and Master of Ceremonies. The training of

the greatest number of Brethren, whilst preserving harmony and concord by impartial consideration for the

welfare of each and all, should raise the Lodge work to its highest standard. Injustice to a Brother invariably

creates discord, and destroys the effectiveness of the occult or hidden work of the Lodge. In all matters of

personal consideration it is wise to take the long-range view of our Ancient and Honourable Order, realising

that the ceremonies in which we are privileged to participate have been performed throughout the ages, and

no Brother is indispensable. Therefore, in all cases of doubt and difficulty, let Brotherly Love be the

touchstone by which we try and adjust our conduct.

There can be nothing wrong in a Brother aspiring to occupy any high and important office, but those who

know the Occult Law in Freemasonry realise that the competitive methods employed in the outer world

should not obtain within the Order. In the recent Federal elections we saw how rival candidates sought to

gain their ends by opposing and deriding each other. That is the competitive way of the outer world, but

Freemasonry is based on Brotherhood, and mutual aid and co-operation is the rule in matters Freemasonic.

The outer world is still under the sway of the critical analytical mind, so prone to judge and condemn. Free-

masonry is a spiritual organisation in which the synthetic mind should predominate, the mind that looks for

pearls, and not flaws in another's character. It is the higher mind which seeks for unity, not separation.

Therefore, when aspiring to grbater heights of achievement, work with the occult law by loyally supporting

and co-operating with those placed in authority, and those who shoulder responsibility. Prove yourselves

with proficiency in your allotted tasks, remembering always that the harmony and efficiency of the whole is

of paramount importance, and this is dependent on the perfection of its several parts.

Apart from other considerations, discord causes serious leakages in the Hidden Lodge work—the reception

and distribution of power from on High—and a united channel is needed for that occult radiation.

In our Lodge work we need to observe a Master's words: "You must come out of your world into Ours."

When we enter this Temple, we should step out of the world of competition, separation and adverse

criticism, into Their world of Brotherly Love and work with united devotion.

Under the Occult Law of Compensation, the remedy of our difficulties, like the cause, lies in our own hands.

Hence, by united whole-hearted endeavour in our Free-masonic labours, with Brotherly Love and mutual

consideration for each and all alike, we shall regain much prestige and efficiency. Let us make Freemasonry

a living power in our daily lives, not a Brotherhood in name only, but a vital united body of Brethren each

spreading Brotherly Love by thought, word and deed.

Remember those lines by J. R. Lowell:

"Once to every man and nation comes the moment to decide,

In the strife with Truth and Falsehood for the good or evil side;

Some great cause, God's new Messiah, offering each the bloom or blight,

And the choice goes on forever 'twixt that darkness and that Light."

Never was humanity's need greater than it is today, for the forces of separation and destruction are rampant

throughout the world. Let every Lodge, therefore, be an outpost for the Powers of Light. In the world's

spiritual darkness Lodges should shine like high-powered beacons, leading mankind along the way to Unity

and Brotherhood, which alone can bring the desired peace and security. Now is the time to live our

Freemasonry as we have never lived it before to the glory of the G.A.O.T.U., and for the salvation of

mankind.

Finally, the Occult Law of Cause and Effect is well expressed in the following lines by an unknown

author:—

THE OCCULT LAW.

Your path may be clouded, uncertain your goal:

Move on, for the orbit is fixed for your soul;

And though it may lead into darkness of night,

The torch of the Builder shall give it new light.

You Were and You Will Be—know this while You Are;

Your spirit has travelled both long and afar.

It came from the Source, to the Source it returns;

The spark that was lighted eternally burns.

From body to body your spirit speeds on;

It seeks a new form when the old one is gone,

And the form that it finds is the fabric you wrought

On the loom of the mind, with the fibre of thought.

Somewhere on some planet, some time and somehow,

Your life will reflect all the thoughts of you now.

The law is unerring, no blood can atone;

The structure you rear you must live in alone.

You are your own devil, you are your own god;

You fashioned the path that your footsteps have trod.

And no one can save you from error or sin

Until you shall hark to the spirit within.

—"New South Wales Freemason."

————————

THE SWORD OF STATE.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The query and replies in "Miscellanea Latomorum" under the heading "A Forgotten Emblem" have excited

interest, and it is thought that this interest might be added to by printing an extract from a paper by the late

Bro. W. J. Chetwode Crawley on "The Masonic MSS. in the Bodleian Library," which appeared in "Ars

Quatuor Coronatorum," volume xi, in 1898. The extract refers to one of the MSS. of Dr. Richard Rawlinson,

in which is mentioned the Sword of State. To this is added a description of the Freemasons' Sword of State.

The Memorial of the St. Paul's Head Lodge as to the Right of its Grand Master to carry the Sword of

State at the Annual Grand Feasts.

The Memorial is addressed—

"To the Rt. Worshipful

Anthony Lord Viscount Montague, Grand Master.

Thos. Batson, Esq., Deputy Grand Master.

George Rooke, Esq. }Grand Wardens."

James Moore Smyth, Esq. }

The memorial goes on to claim that it is the right of the W.M. of St. Paul's Head Lodge to carry the Sword of

State. Bro. Moody had so carried it in 1732, and this, the Lodge says, is an invasion of their rights.

Bro. J. Jesse, Master, and 16 others sign; Richard Rawlinson, D.C.L., being fourteenth on the list.

The memorial is without date, but the circumstances fix it closely enough. The last occasion on which we

find "the Sword borne by the Master of the Lodge to which it belong'd" was the memorable Procession that

escorted Lord Kingston, the Grand Master, with the Duke of Norfolk, Grand Master elect, on his left hand,

into Grand Lodge on 29th January, 1729-30. "A Grand Feast indeed!" rapturously ejaculates our dazzled

Historian.

Following the example of Lord Kingston, the Duke of Norfolk signalised his year of office by presents to

Grand Lodge, including the Sword of State in use at the present day.

The following account of it is worth transcribing from Dr. Anderson:—

"The Old Trusty SWORD of GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS King of Sweden, that was wore next by his

Successor in War the brave BERNARD Duke of Sax-Weimar, with both their names on the Blade;

which the Grand Master had ordered Brother George Moody (the King's Sword-Cutler) to adorn

richly with the Arms of Norfolk in Silver on the Scabbard, in order to be the GRAND MASTER'S

SWORD of State for the future."

Consequent on this presentation, Grand Lodge deemed it right to appoint formally a Sword-bearer, and the

office was conferred on Bro. George Moody at the Assembly and Feast in Mercer's Hall, 27th March, 1731.

Bro. Moody was continued in office from time to time till 24th June, 1741, when it was resolved that the

Sword-bearer, no less than the Secretary and the Treasurer, should be a constituent member of Grand Lodge,

and a place immediately before the Grand Master in the Procession was confirmed to him. His service

continued till 18th April, 1745, when we find recorded the appointment of "Thomas Slaughter, the Sword-

bearer. Brother George Moody having declined the Acceptance of that Office on Account of the bad state

of his Health, and presented the Grand Lodge with a Jewel he had usually worn, for the use of the future

Sword-bearer."

Description of the Sword of State as

embellished by George Moody's handiwork.

The Sword borne before the Grand Master is the Sword of Gustavus Adolphus, and is very much in the same

condition as when it left the hands of Bro. George Moody, the King's Sword-Cutler.

The Sword of State is a weapon of admirable poise, four feet long from the point of the blade to the crown of

the hilt. The scabbard is of dark blue velvet, edged with gold bullion. The sheath cap, or chape, as Bro.

Moody would have termed it, is of silver gilt richly ornamented, and extending five inches towards the hilt.

Above the chape is a shield, embroidered in the metals and proper colours of the Masons' Arms. This shield

is succeeded by a Masonic scene, wrought in relief upon silver gilt, representing two Freemasons, duly

clothed with aprons and gauntlets, each wearing, suspended from the neck by a long ribbon, a Warden's

Jewel; the figures stand upon a chequered floor before a tree of six branches (five in foliage and one bare),

rising from a mound. The figure with the plumb-rule suspended from his neck is accompanied by a Sun in

Splendour, and the other figure, wearing the level, by the crescent Moon. Above this relievo is the coat

armour of the donor of the weapon, Thomas, Duke of Norfolk, beautifully embroidered in the metals and

colours, and surmounted by a ducal coronet, a marvel of embroidery, in which the jewels of the coronet are

minutely represented in coloured needlework. Immediately below the guard, or crosspiece, of the sheathed

sword, at the mouth of the scabbard, upon an oval medallion, within a fine example of relief work in silver

gilt, appear three dexter hands, clasped, one in pale and two in fess, having the initials, N.B., T.B., G.C. The

medallion bears the legend AMICITIA in chief, and the epigraph of the King's Master Cutler, Frater G.

Moody, Fecit., in base.

Upon the side of the scabbard opposite to that already described, the embroidered Masons' Arms are repeated

above the decorated chape. To this succeeds in relief metal work of silver gilt, another Masonic scene of a

Freemason clothed, as before, with apron and gauntlets, and having a pair of compasses similarly suspended

from the neck by a long ribbon. The figure stands upon a chequered floor before a tree of seven branches,

four in foliage and three bare, accompanied by the Sun in Splendour. To the left a Castle and Arch.

Immediately below the mouth of the scabbard upon an oval medallion within a highly decorated design in

metal work, is the inscription—

Ex DONO

Celsmi Potmi Nobmiq; p.pis

THOMAS DUCIS NORFOLCI, &c., &c., &c.

LATOMORUM ARCHIMAGISTRI

Rniq; Geo. II. P.P. 4°

A { L. 5730

{ D. 1730

The hilt, twelve inches in length, is surmounted by an orb, displaying the level, compass, and square. The

grip bears a highly ornamental spiral. In the centre of the guard or crosspiece is a richly wrought panel upon

which are represented other Masons' implements, the plumb-rule, maul, chisel, and trowel. From this centre

panel issues, on either side, part of a Corinthian column with capital and abacus, thus forming the crosspiece.

The whole is of silver gilt.

The blade itself measures two feet seven inches and a-half in length. It is inserted and rivetted between two

pieces of wrought steel two inches in length, attached to the guard or crosspiece. The widest part of the blade

is two inches, tapering to a point. The weapon is straight. Upon either side of the blade once appeared the

device of the smith who fashioned the sword, with an inscription, also on either side-

"HEINRICH. BINGER.

ME. FECIT. SULINGEE."

Sulingen, or Solingen, near Dusseldorf, has retained to our own day its renown for the manufacture of arms

and cutlery.

Only traces of this inscription are now to be observed, and those on one side only; some traces of the smith's

Device appear in the lower compartment. The Device is the sign of a Swan; the bird standing amid reeds,

with wings folded and neck depressed.

In the central compartment, on one side, in time past, stood a medallion portrait of Gustavus Adolphus, all

trace of which has disappeared from the blade. The legend surrounding the medallion is anything but clear:

"GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS, D.G. Suecorum GOTHRUM at Uandalorum, rex-magnus."

The repetition of the smith's Device on the opposite side of the blade shows, in the central compartment, a

medallion portrait of the Duke of Saxe-Weimar and a corresponding inscription still in part recognisable.

The form of the smith's Device, with the sign of the Swan, can still be made out; but of the medallion of

Gustavus on the other side no trace is left, and only the faintest indication of the lower part of the smith's

Device may be observed; nothing else is visible.

Grand Lodge Library is fortunate enough to possess a copy of a rare contemporary engraving by A. Nunzer

of Nuremberg; and also an engraving which appears to be the English parallel, or perhaps the original of

Nunzer's print, and from which several details can be restored. The inscription at font of the Grand Lodge

engraving is-

"The Sword of State

Of the most Ancient. and Honourable, Society

of Free and accepted Masons:

wch was Presented and Dedicated to their Use

for ever

By the most Noble Thos. Duke of Norfolk, Earl-Marshal

of England; &c.

in ye Year of Masonry 5730, when His Grace was Grand Master; It had been ye Sword of Adolphus the

valiant King of Sweden, & worn by him at ye Battle of Lutzen, & afterwards by his brave Successor in War,

Barnard Duke of Saxe-Weimar, with both their Names, Titles, & Pictures represented upon ye Blade as in

this Place.

—"Miscellanea Latomorum."

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

WANTED—A Set of Undress G.L. Regalia.

Please reply to

P.ASST. G.D.C.

C/o Secretary, Lodge Nelson,

P.O. Box 69 Nelson.

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AUCKLAND NOTES.

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The outstanding event of the month in Masonic circles in Auckland has been, of course, the celebration of

the Masonic Jubilee of the Prov.G.M., M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., of which event an extended

report appears elsewhere in this issue.

Monday, the 8th May, saw the Annual Installation Meeting of Lodge Arohanui, No. 264 when Bro. W. P.

Traill, S.W., was duly installed as W.M. by the Prov. G.M., M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson. The W.M. was

addressed by R.W. Bro. R. Hay, P.G.W., and W. Bro. A. Addison, G.Swd.B., addressed the Wardens. The

Prov. G.M., who was suffering from a heavy cold, excused himself from the refectory proceedings, and W.

Bro. J. J. B. Blakemore, P.G.O., represented Grand Lodge when the usual Masonic toasts were honoured.

The presenting officers were W. Bros. J. B. N. Allison and W. A. Shirley, W.Ms. of the St. Andrew's Lodge,

No. 8, and the Chevalier Lodge, No. 303, respectively.

The Annual Meeting of the St. James Lodge, No. 244, was held at Drury on the 1st May, and although travel

difficulties affected the attendance of visitors, a very happy function eventuated. The S.W., Bro. Raymond

James Crosby, was installed by the Prov. G.M., M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., and was subsequently

addressed by R.W. Bro. F. G. Alpe, P.G.W. The address to the Wardens was given by a P.M. of the Lodge.

W. Bro. P. E. Bradstreet, G.S.

A bumper meeting was presided over by W. Bro. M. C. Stapleton, W.M., at the monthly meeting of Lodge

Selwyn, No. 274, at St. Heliers on the 3rd May. The W.M. was honoured by the attendance of 14 sitting

W.Ms., and the 3° was worked in competent style. The accommodation was taxed to its limit, and the W.M.

can congratulate himself on a very successful meeting indeed.

The appointment to the post of Auckland City Coroner of W. Bro. Alper Addison, G.Swd.B., has brought

this popular officer many congratulations.

W. Bro. W. M. Keefe, W.M. of Lodge Titirangi, No. 204, conducted a First Degree at the regular meeting on

the 10th May, and a large number of sitting W.Ms. attended, including the W.Ms. of Lodges Combined

Forces and Arohanui, which normally meet on the same evening, but who were enabled to make the visit

consequent on a rearrangement of meetings owing to the Jubilee function in honour of the Prov. G.M. on the

9th May.

W. Bro. A. J. Fleet, W.M. of the Rongomau Lodge, No. 280, has proceeded overseas on Air Force duties,

and the P.Ms. of the Lodge are doing good work in representing the Lodge at Various meetings in and

around the city.

At the regular meeting of Lodge Franklin, No. 58, held at Pukekohe on the 8th May, W. Bro. Sutcliffe,

W.M., welcomed V.W. Bro. Albert Bright, G.Lect., who delivered an interesting and instructive address on

the First Degree. The G Lect. was accompanied by several brethren of his own Lodge, Titirangi, No. 204.

and a very pleasant evening was enjoyed by those present.

The Auckland Prov. R.A. Chapter, No. 9, is experiencing a heavy influx of candidates; and the 1st Principal,

V,Ex. Comp. L. E. Cashmore, and his associate officers are having a very full year. At the last regular

convocation three candidates were advanced by the W.M.M., Ex. Comp. T. Bailey.

V. Fr. H. W. Bullock, Preceptor of the De Molay Preceptory, Knights Templar (and I.P.M.W.S. Coronation

Rose Croix Chapter. No. 66), has returned to Auckland from Dunedin, and his many friends are delighted to

learn that he has made such a quick recovery from his recent serious operation. At the last meeting of the

Preceptory, the Past Preceptor, V. Fr. H. J. White presided.

The regular meeting of Lodge Chevalier, No. 303, was held on the 25th April, and W. Bro. W. A. Shirley,

W.M., conducted the Third Degree. Many visiting brethren attended and all four Constitutions were

represented by sitting Masters.

Congratulations are extended to Bro. T. W. M. Ashby, who holds office in Lodge Ara, No. 1, on his

appointment as Town Clerk to the City of Auckland.

The Annual Convocation of the Manukau R.A. Chapter, No. 59, was held at Onehunga on the 10th May, and

the G. Supt., R. Ex. Comp. F. W. Herbert, conducted the Installation and enthronement of the 1st Principal

Z., V. Ex. Comp. W. G. Bennett. His associate Principals are Ex Comps. Geo. Harrison and J. W. S.

Pennalligen.

The Installation of Lodge St. Andrew, No. 418, S C., was held with traditional ceremonial on the 24th April,

when the S.W., Bra. W. A. Wharram, was duly installed as R.W.M. by the R.W. Dist. G.M., N.I, of N.Z.,

Bro. A. T. Coppard. A large attendance of visitors from all Constitutions was present, and the opportunity

was taken of placing on record the energetic and outstanding services of the retiring R.W.M., Bro. R. L.

Wainhouse.

V. Ex. Comp. A. W. T. Hunt, P.G.Supt.Works, formerly of the Timaru Chapter, No. 15 (Lodge Corinthian,

No. 16), has affiliated with the Karangahape B.A. Chapter, No. 69, and was welcomed at the last

convocation by the 1st Principal Z., V. Ex. Comp. R. Wilson.

A notable absentee from the Prov. G.M.'s Jubilee meeting was R.W. Bro. Wilfrid W. Wright, P.G.W.,

P.Pres.Bd. Ben., who was unhappily taken ill the previous day. This was doubly unfortunate, as he had had

much to do with the organisation of the preliminaries to the function. It is cheering to report that R.W. Bro.

Wright is now almost fully recovered.

A large number of visiting brethren, including 10 sitting W.Ms., attended at Mt. Eden on the 18th May at the

regular meeting of Lodge Maungawhao, No. 168, when the W.M., W. Bro. A. R. Gallaugher, raised a

candidate. Over 60 members of Lodge Maungawhao were present, in addition to the visitors.

A very active and progressive Conclave in the Order of the Secret Monitor is Arawa, No. 55, and on May

2nd the S.R., W. Bro. C. H. Barker, presided over a very successful meeting, when a candidate was admitted

to the Order. The membership of this Conclave is steadily growing and candidates have not been lacking for

a long time past.

————————

HAWKES BAY NOTES.

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At the Installation meeting of Lodge Lion, No. 114, in April a rather unique and most interesting

presentation was made to the newly-installed Master, W. Bro. Ross Tait, by visiting members who were

members of a Shetland Society. A special contingent from Wellington Lodges represented the "Shetland

Brethren." An interesting item in the refectory (held at the Memorial Hall, Ormondville) was the

"Presentation of the working tools of the ancient Vikings." These tools, the ship (a wonderful piece of work

in carved totara), the anchor, the polar star, and the steer-oar were presented by the "Shetland Brethren," who

had come from Wellington for that purpose. Arrayed in ancient Viking costumes, carrying the swords and

shields, and wearing the helmets of the ancient Vikings, they were piped in by the McKenzie Brothers, from

Rawhiti, No. 66. Bro. Isbister, one of the Vikings, gave some additional items, which were well received.

The meeting was one which will live long in the memories of those privileged to be in attendance. In reply to

the Visitors' Toast, greetings were returned on behalf of some 18 Lodges represented.

The May regular meeting of Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, was held on Monday, 15th May, when the Third

Degree was set down as the evening's work.

At the regular meeting of Lodge Heretaunga, No. 73, on the 9th ultimo, the W.M., officers and brethren of

Lodge Te Mata paid an official visit.

At the last regular meeting of Lodge Te Mata, No. 298, on 17th May, the First Degree was worked, the

candidate being well known to many of the brethren in the district, The Installation meeting of Victoria, No.

2, is to be held on 6th June, and brethren are reminded to keep this date free.

July 20th is the date set down for the Installation meeting of Scinde Lodge, No. 5, and it is anticipated a good

gathering of visitors will be present.

Bro. G. Pott, of Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, is still attached to the Air Force, Fiji, and continues to keep in

constant touch with Masonic meetings in that area.

W. Bro. R. H. Ashby, of Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, home on leave from the Air Force, attended the last

regular meeting. Congratulations are offered to him on his promotion to L.A.C.

Bro. G. H. Voyce, S.W. Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, recently transferred from Otane to Postmaster, Waipawa,

has now taken up his residence at the latter place.

At the last regular meeting of Lodge Research, No. 305, it was "question evening," and V.W. Bro. E. C. Bott,

P.G. Lect., was asked to answer most of the written questions sent in. It proved a most interesting meet ng.

Bros. R. Spence and J. Carmichael, of Lodge Te Mata are both confined to hospital. We extend fraternal

greetings and best wishes for a speedy recovery to good health.

At the last regular meeting of Bedford Chapter, No. 39, opportunity was taken to invest E. Comp. J. H.

Herdman as 3rd Principal J. V.E. Comp. George Ellison, P.Z., was also in attendance. The degree of

W.M.M. was conferred upon him.

At the Annual Convocation of Heretaunga Chapter, No. 38, held on Saturday, 6th May, R.Ex. Comp. J. W

Elliott, Grand Supt., attended by past and present Grand Chapter officers, carried out the investiture and

enthronement of the officers for the ensuing year. Opportunity was taken by the Grand Supt. to invest V.E.

Comp. J. B. E. Hird as Grand Scribe N. A large attendance of members and visitors was present and spent a

most enjoyable social hour after official business had concluded.

————————

TARANAKI NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The past month has been a very busy one in this Masonic district.

Manaia Lodge held its Installation meeting on the 8th, and as usual it was well attended. The Prov. G.M.,

R.W. Bro. Dr. Simmons, was installing Master, and W. Bros Caplen and Guy filled the Wardens' chairs. The

Address to the W.M. was given by R.W. Bro. Barclay, P.Prov.G.M., and that to the brethren by W. Bro. D.

McCormick P.A.G.D.C.. The work was well divided up and most of the Lodges were represented. W. Bro.

K. J. Murray should be pleased with his installation into the Chair of K.S.

The May meeting of Ngamotu Lodge should be a notable one. The Past Masters are doing the work (Third

Degree) and W. Bro. H. Baily, an honoured veteran, is taking the chair.

On 10th May Patea Kil. initiated two candidates. Bro. E. F. Hemingway gave an address in the refectory.

Pates is fortunate in having a number of brethren who are capable and willing to give interesting and

instructive talks, and foremost amongst these is Bro. Hemingway.

W. Bro. W. M. Smale, W.M. of Egmont Lodge, No. 670, E.C., with his officers, visited De Burgh Adams

Lodge, No 446, I.C. on 17th May.

Lodge Hawera, No. 34, still has a full programme of work. One candidate was raised on 2nd May.

Lodge Ikaroa has issued a new edition of its by-laws, brought right up to date.

Lodge Moa, No. 110, is progressing well, the May notice showing candidates at different stages.

On the summons for the May meeting of St. John's Lodge, No. 95, there are four candidates (1st notice).

R.W. Bro. W. R. Rusden, P.J.G.W., is joining Lodge Te Henui, and should with his experience and

knowledge prove to be a very helpful member.

Lodge Whangamomona held an emergency meeting during the month to initiate a soldier.

Lodge Taranaki. No. 240, had a wonderful gathering for the Installation of Bro. J. C. Thomas, S.W., as

Master.

Bro. Thomas should have been installed last year, but has been serving in the Forces, and the officers of the

Lodge have shown a fine spirit in carrying on, cheerfully and willingly, for another year in the positions they

have occupied for the past twelve months, so that Bro. Thomas could fill the chair. The Prov. G.M.

conducted the ceremony, and he was supported by sixteen G.L. Officers, including a P.Dep.G.M. and a

P.Prov.G.M. The Temple was filled to capacity; indeed, the proceedings were held up while more seating

was procured from another hall. The work went well, the addresses being given to the W.M., the Wardens,

and the Brethren by R.W. Bro. Barclay, P.Prov.G.M., W. Bro. J. W. Harding, P.G.S., and V.W. Bro. G. D.

Falconer, P.G.Chap., respectively.

A feature of the Taranaki Lodge programme is a summary of the year's work by the I.P.M , and this year W.

Bro. McCormick had an interesting story to tell.

At the April meeting of Mt. Egmont Chapter, No. 670, E.C., P.Z. N. B. Bellringer gave an address, his

subject being "Am I a Mason?"

There was a very good turnout for the annual meeting of Turu Turu R.A. Chapter at Hawera. The G. Supt.,

Rt. Ex. Comp, W. W. Thomson, conducted the ceremony. Ex. Comp. J. Jeromson was installed a First Prin.,

Ex. Comp. S. R. Veitch as Second Prin., and Ex. Comp. Ure as Third :Prin. R E. Comp. H. D. Caplen

installed V.E. Comp. J. Jeromson as W.M.M. Among those taking part were M.E. Comp. McAllister, P.G.Z.,

and R.E. Comp. W. T. Simmons, P.Dep.G.Z. The highlight of the meeting was the beautiful rendering of the

Address to the Comps. by R.Ex. Comp. T. Richardson, P.G.H.

The M.W.S. of Pukekura Chapter of P.R. Croix installed his successor, Ex. and P. Bro. J. W. Gardner at the

April meeting. The beautiful ceremony was carried out with dignity and reverence, and the atmosphere was

all that ccould be desired. Those assisting Ex. and P. Bro. Jones were Bros. Lacey, Drury and McAllister, all

30°, and Bros. Diprose, Christopel, Everiss and A, Ferguson.

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MANAWATU NOTES.

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Lodge Rangitikei, No. 38, is always dying something of outstanding Masonic interest. At its April meeting

W. Bro. J. E. Walker, P.G.D., occupied the chair and initiated a candidate of 82 years of age. I have an idea

this must be a New Zealand record, and to follow up this unique event the following month the M.W. the

Grand Master and a party of G.L. Officers who were passing through Bulls were entertained to afternoon tea

in the Lodgeroom by the brethren of Rangitikei and their ladies, when .a very pleasant hour was spent. W.

Bro. J. E. Walker, P.G.D., on behalf of the Lodge, extended cordial and fraternal greetings. M.W. Bro.

Teagle shortly addressed the brethren, as did also R.W. Bro. Guiness and V.W. Bro. Hatch.

W. Bro. E. J. Hicken. W.M. of Lodge Manawatu Kilwinning, did a good job of work at his first meeting

since his installation. Two candidates were initiated, and the brethren. supported by a large number of

visitors, expressed their pleasure at the efficient manner in which the Degree was worked by the new set of

officers.

Last month was Past Masters' night at Lodge Manchester and was officially visited by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash.

Prov.G.M., and on behalf of the brethren of Manchester our R.W. Bro. presented a suit of regalia to W. Bro.

E. Brewer, P.A.G.D.C.

The Installation of Bro. W. Ogden as Master of Lodge Te Awahou, No, 133, Foxton, was conducted by R W.

Bro. J. A. Nash on Saturday, 13th May, when the Lodgeroom was taxed to capacity. W. Bro. H. R.

Thorburn, A G.D.C., was the director of ceremonies; the Wardens were invested by W. Bro. W. P.

Henderson, P.A.G.D.C., and addressed by W. Bro. Romley, P.G.C. W. Bros. C. Hau mann, P.G.D., P. W.

Morris, P.A.G.D.C., assisted. The Prov.G.M. addressed the Master in his usual eloquent manner. Incidentahy

this is the twenty-sixth occasion the R.W. Brother has conducted the ceremony of Installation in this Lodge.

Needless to say he was in receipt of many complimentary references concerning his long and active

association with the Lodge in Foxton.

To conduct four Initiations at his first meeting since his installation was the lot of W. Bro. W. W. Jones,

W.M. of Lodge Awatea, No. 258, and the capable manner in which he and all the officers conducted the

Degree was noteworthy. W. Bro. Jones, although small in stature, is a tiger for work, and the indications are

that not only the officers, but the Past Masters also, are going to be very busy during his term of office. Stick

to it, Wally!

The name of Nash ranks high among Freemasons in New Zealand, particularly in the Manawatu. At the last

meeting of Lodge Manawatu Kilwinning, another member of the family was initiated. The North-east

Charge was delivered by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, uncle of the candidate; the Working Tools by Bro. J. H.

Nash, S.W.; and the Final Charge by W. Bro. N. H. Nash, the two latter being brothers of the candidate.

The Manawatu Royal Arch Chapter, No. 11, continues to flourish. In April two brethren were advanced as

Mark Masters, and in May four were acknowledged as Excellent Masters. The attendances at Chapter

meetings continue to improve, and it is very gratifying to the 1st Principal, V. Ex. Comp. Len. Wood, to see

the interest being taken by the Past Zs.

————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

It is pleasing to report that R.W. Bro. A. Noble, Prov.G.M., is making good progress towards recovery from

his present illness and has returned to his home in Invercargill to recuperate.

The installation of Bro. L. W. Allison as Master of Lodge Taringatura, No. 100, on 13th May proved a happy

and successful function. A large attendance of members and visitors, including R.W. Bro. E. C. Smith,

P.D.G.M., and a good following of Grand Officers was present. The ceremony was ably conducted by R.W.

Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M., and W. Bro. H. Paterson, A.G.D.C. The Wardens were invested and addressed

by R.W. Bros. J. Manson and E. C. Smith, P.D.G.M., respectively. The Master was addressed by the Inst. O.

and the Brethren by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M. The Junior Officers were invested by R.W. Bro. W. F.

Irvine P.G.W., W. Bros. W. Kelman, G. J. Reed, P.A.G.D.C., W. T. Johnson, P.G.St.B., and Wm. Robison,

G.S.

A unique feature of this meeting was the investiture of Bros. G. Gillespie and R. F. Gillespie (brothers) as

Senior and Junior Wardens respectively.

Sympathies are extended to Bro. Brigadier James Hargest, who recently received an important appointment

with the British Army, in the death of his son on active service.

W. Bro. G. Barnes, Master, and officers of Lodge Southland, No. 273, conducted the ceremony of "raising"

at their regular meeting held last month. A unique feature was the fact that the candidates were two brothers

of the flesh, a somewhat rare occurrence.

Members of Lodge Waihopai, No, 189, in strong force, paid an official visit to Lodge Fortitude, No. 64

(Bluff), and conducted the ceremony of "passing." The work was carried out in an impressive manner by W.

Bro. Geo. Hoffman and his officers.

Mark Degree officers of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, worked the ceremony of Advancement

at the regular meeting, held on 24th May.

Ex. and Perf. Bro. R. H. Waddell, M.W.S., and officers of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 3, were

scheduled to conduct the ceremony of Perfection at their quarterly meeting, to be held on May 29th.

The outstanding meeting of the past month was the installation of Bro. J. O. Brown on 17th May as Master

of Lodge St. John, No. 94. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov. G.M., assisted by

W.-Bro. H. Paterson, Asst.G.D.C. The address to the Master was given by the Inst. Officer, the Wardens

being invested by W. Bro. J. S. Lipscombe, P.G.D., and addressed by W. Bro. Ed. Jackson, P.G.D. The

Address to the Brethren was given by M.W. Bro. T. M. Rankin, P.Prov.G.M. The investitures were

conducted by W. Bro. W. W. Robison, G.S., W. Bro. Helm, P.M., W. Bro. C. W. Wilson, P.G.Purs., W. Bro.

H. Moore, P.G.S., and W. Bro. Battin, P.M. W. Bro. K. H. Smyth, the retiring Master, was congratulated on

a highly successful year of office.

Officers and Companions of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, will visit Wallace Royal Arch

Chapter, No. 34, this month and conduct the ceremony of Holy Royal Arch.

W. Bro. F. Bonifant, P.G.Swd.B., at one time a most enthusiastic member of Lodge St. John, No. 94,

recently visited Invercargill and made contact with a number of members of the Craft.

Past Masters of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, with W. Bro. L. Foster in the chair, will work the ceremony of

"raising" at the regular meeting this month.

W. Bro. G. F. Hoffman, Master, officers and a party of brethren of this Lodge, about 50 all told, attended

Divine Service at the Central Methodist Church, Invercargill, on 21st May, when Bro. Rev. W. Greenslade

preached a most inspiring sermon entitled "The Builders."

Owing to transport difficulties, the Invercargill members of Zealandia Consistory, No. 10 (Dunedin), were

unable to attend the half-yearly meeting held on 20th May.

W. Bro. T. Elder, I.P.M. of Lodge Taringatura, No. 100, has removed to Gore.

The Installation of Master and Investiture of officers of Lodge Waikaka, No. 151, was conducted on 22nd

May by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M., assisted by Grand Lodge officers, in the presence of a good

attendance of members and visitors.

V. Preceptor, A. W. G. McKee and officers of the Southland Preceptory of Knight Templars will hold their

quarterly meeting on the 8th June.

Invercargill and Bluff members of the Craft will be pleased to learn that W. Bro. A. Coyte has made a good

recovery from his recent severe illness.

Members of Lodge Harvey, No. 49, in strong force attended Divine Service at the Holy Trinity Church

(Gore) on 21st May, when V.W. Bro. W. W. Powell, P.G. Chap., conducted a most impressive service.

The annual report and balance-sheet presented at the May meeting of Lodge Harvey indicated an

exceptionally sound position. The ceremony of Initiation was worked at this meeting.

The installation of Bro. G. E. O. Button as Master of Lodge Southern Cross. No. 9, will be conducted on 1st

June by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M. Officers and brethren of this Lodge attended Divine Service at St.

John's Anglican Church, Invercargill, on 21st May.

Lodge Fortitude, No. 64, the most southern Lodge in the Dominion, will hold its annual Installation meeting

on 17th June.

The ceremony of "raising" was conducted by W. Bro. A. W. G. McKee, Master, and officers of Lodge

Southern Cross, No. 9, at their regular meeting last month.

The working of the Excellent Degree engaged the attention of the Principals and officers of Wallace Royal

Arch Chapter, No. 34, at their regular monthly convocation last month.

————————

OTAGO NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

At the meeting of Oamaru Kilwinning Lodge, No. 82, on 19th April, a lecture on the First Tracing Board was

ably given by V.W. Bro. W. Miller, P.G.D.C. The matter of printing a ritual was considered and was referred

to a committee for report.

Oamaru Lodge, No. 260, had for its meeting on 3rd May a reading of a paper by W. Bro. Millen, the subject

being "Delays in meetings and suggestions for avoiding same." Considerable discussion took place and due

credit was given to the author of the paper.

The Installation meeting of Lodge of Waitaki, No. 11, was held on 10th May, when a large gathering of

brethren saw Bro. H. C. Cameron, Junior Warden, installed by V.W. Bro. J. S. Duncan, Asst. Prov.G.M. of

Otago, assisted by a large number of G. Lodge Officers, with V.W. Bro. G. S. M. Crawford, G.D.C., in

charge of proceedings.

W. Bro. Cameron has with him W. Bro. J. F. Johnstone as I.P.M. (a second term), Bro. G. J. Sceats and Bro.

T. W. C. Dimick as S.W. and J.W. respectively, and a good team of junior officers. Some excellent addresses

and good advice were offered at the refectory proceedings and great satisfaction was expressed at the large

attendance of visitors from a distance.

On 26th April Royal Arch Chapter Oamaru Kilwinning, No. 8, worked a Mark Master degree, with Ex,

Comp. J. Y. Rushton as W.M.M.

This district mourns the passing of two very enthusiastic and worthy members during the past few weeks.

The Clinton district will miss R.W. Bro. Mclndoe, P.S.G.W., who, although ailing for some time, had

continued his interest right to the last. Bro. Mclndoe was a P.M. of Clinton Lodge, No. 183, Grand Standard

Bearer in 1922, and was elected S.G.W. in 1933. W. Bro. W. M. Hogg, P.M. of Haeremai and Research

Lodges, was laid aside for a considerable period but failed to recover, and he will be greatly missed.

The next meeting of the Otago District Masters' Association is to be held in the Savoy Lounge on Thursday,

29th June, when the Prov.G.M. (R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes) is looking forward to a record attendance of Masters

and S.Ws. There are many matters of considerable importance to be discussed.

The highlight of Installations this year was that of Service Lodge, No. 237, on Anzac Day. The B.I.M. was

held at the unusual hour of 11 a.m. so as to enable R.W. Bro. G. Waldie, S.G.W., to be invested. Our

esteemed brother has been laid aside with a serious infliction since October last, and although he has made a

wonderful recovery, he is not yet fit enough to take part in ceremonial work. The Lodge brethren carried Bro.

Waldie to the Lodgeroom, where at the request of the Prov.G.M. R.W. Bro. J. H. Moir, P.D.G.M., invested

the new S.G.W. with a few very appropriate remarks. The Lodge was called off until 6 p.m., when the

remainder of the ceremonial work was proceeded with. A following of 29 present and past Grand Officers

accompanied R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes, Prov.G.M., who presided over more than 350 brethren.

Service Lodge in its inimitable style held a brief Anzac Service in the Lodgeroom, the readings being given

by members from the last and the present wars. The refectory proceedings were excellent and the Prov.G.M.

was in good form. No member could go away from such a meeting without feeling that their beloved Craft

was at its best that evening.

R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes was unable to be at the Installation of Clinton Lodge, No. 183, but our two stalwarts,

M.W. Bro. W. Lishner, P.G.M., and R.W. Bro. J. H. Sparrow, P.Prov.G.M., assisted by other G.L. officers,

looked after the District's interests that evening. Instead of holding the refectory proceedings in their own

township, the brethren travelled eight miles to Waiwera.

Two carloads accompanied the Prov.G.M. to Tapanui the following evening to install the W.M. of Hercules

Lodge, No. 36. Business unfortunately interfered with R.W. Bro. Dyke's attendance, but he managed to put

in a late appearance. The attendance of brethren at this installation was excellent, as it has been at almost all

similar ceremonies this year. The general feeling is that an improvement is taking place in attendances

generally.

Haeremai Lodge, No. 155, Installation was also a success in every respect. Brethren consider the new W.M.

showed a keen interest in his work, and this Lodge should have a very prosperous year ahead. The I.P.M. has

presided over this Lodge for two strenuous years with approbation.

W. Bro. Hayward and officers and brethren of Lodge Otago, No. 7, visited Lodge Morning Star. No, 192, on

2nd May, and worked the Second Degree.

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MID-CANTERBURY NOTES.

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Arrangements for the Annual Reunion of the Mid-Canterbury Group of Lodges were advanced another stage

on 17th May, when the president, W. Bro. Jack Allen, visited Thistle Lodge to confer with the secretary, W.

Bro. E. C. Bathurst.

A Lecture will be given at the Group meeting by W. Bro. Dr. Ross-Hepburn. Editor of the Transactions, at

the Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge, of Christchurch. The meeting has been arranged this year to take place

in South Rakaia Lodge, as being central and fairly easy of access to all who wish to attend during the

continued petrol restrictions.

We again hope to have present with us representatives from city Lodges, and also from the North Canterbury

Group.

The Secretary of the Waimak.-Hurunui Group, W. Bro. Hugh Billens, already has arrangements well forward

for that Group Meeting early in August, and it is expected that the Mid-Canterbury Group will again be

represented there.

Owing to its fairly close proximity to Christchurch, a good attendance of G.L. and Prov. G.L. officers is

expected at Rakaia, and South Rakaia Lodge is setting itself out to make the meeting one of the best.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

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The visit of Kaikoura Lodge to Amuri Lodge was one of the star attractions in our group.

W. Bro. Selby-Williams, Master of Kaikoura, and his officers passed a candidate for Amuri, and they made a

really good job of the work. They were thanked and entertained by W. Bro. Boag and the Amuri brethren,

and in return W. Bro. Williams said what a pleasure it had been to attend and also work in such a splendid

and friendly atmosphere.

W. Bro. H. R. Davison, of Amuri Lodge, recently got kicked by a horse and got hurt, but he is getting better

after undergoing a painful operation.

Cheviot and Acacia Lodges have been on tour recently, and W. Bros. McPherson and McKeegan, known as

the "Hurunui Macks," have had good receptions everywhere, and in return extend a welcome to all sister

Lodges to attend Cheviot and Acacia any time it is convenient.

W. Bros. F. Childs and A. Williamson, who have been on the sick list, are now out and about again.

W. Bro. Bruce Henderson, Prov. G.S. Warden of Canterbury and a member of Amuri Lodge, is doing a good

job in his Warden's position, and making a record of attendances and upholding the Great North Group.

Southern Cross, Ashley, Mairaki and Tawera Lodges are all busy and have work on hand, and welcome

visitors at all times.

Mairaki Lodge will be getting steam up shortly ready for the Waimakariri-Hurunui Group meeting, to be

held on Saturday, August 5th. Arrangements, place and particulars will be announced by the Group publicity

agent in good time, but it is necessary to keep the date well in view so as not to have any functions clashing

with it.

The Amberley Installation was a record function, and the new Master was thrilled to see a record attendance

of 103 personal friends in spite of heavy rain. R.W. Bro. Purchase, District G.M., and his officers did a

splendid job of work and received an enthusiastic reception. Lodges from north, south, east and west were all

out to give Arthur the great night he so richly deserved. The Town Hall, where the banquet was held, was

crowded, and the ladies were thanked for their assistance. Bro. Frank Scarr, of Acacia, acted as organist, and

items and speeches made everything go in top gear.

The Christchurch Installation was a really good one, and Bro. William Latham, the new Master, had a

wonderful night and a record attendance. R.W. Bro. Thompson and his team of Prov. Grand Lodge did a

splendid job. Grand Lodge was represented by R.W. Bro. John Du Feu and a big crowd of Grand Lodge

officers. R.W. Bro. Purchase, District G.M., E.C., and his officers attended in force, and all present enjoyed

themselves inside and outside the Temple.

R.E. Comp. Fred Kerr. Superintendent of Canterbury R.A., is having a busy and happy time amongst his

Chapters.

V.E. Comp. C. R. Tovey, Z. of Ashley Chapter, is getting his Chapter into good shape and getting some

candidates, which will help to push this cheerful little Chapter along the path of prosperity. .

The half-yearly Communication of Prov. Grand Lodge was a good one. There was an excellent attendance

and it was pleasing to see Grand Lodge old-timers out in force. The mix and mingle supper took on well, and

everybody' had a really goodnight out.

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NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

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It is pleasing to report a general revival of interest in our official Masonic journal, the "Craftsman," and a

steady increase in the number of subscribers throughout the Territory is anticipated. Regular subscribers

appreciate to the full the Masonic literature provided each month with such discernment as to provoke

progressive Masonic thoughts and instruction. The article in the May issue on "Freemasonry and Education,"

by W. Bro. Martin, is a striking example of the educative value of our journal, and with similar contributions

appearing with each issue, it would seem that every present subscriber should feel it is his duty to enrol any

known non-subscribers who have a genuine desire for advancement in Masonic knowledge and

understanding.

The last meeting of Lodge Havelock was well attended, the W. Master and brethren of Lodge Wairau paying

an official visit, two Wairau brethren being "passed" by Lodge Havelock.

Lodge Awatere held the last meeting of their Masonic year on 20th April, when the Marlborough Lodge of

Unanimity paid an official visit, including two of their F.Cs., who were "passed" by Awatere. The

Installation took place on May 13th. The Master. W. Bro. L. F. Round, is leaving Seddon on transfer to

Otautau, and will probably make his presence felt at Lodge Wallace. He has been a splendid member and

Master of Lodge Awatere and will be greatly missed.

The regular monthly meeting of Golden Bay Lodge, Takaka, held Saturday, 22nd April, was the occasion for

the annual visit from the parent Nelson Lodge, Southern Star, No. 735, E.C. The W.M., W. Bro. N. L.

Bensemann, welcomed W. Bro. Noel Heath with his officers and brethren, and then handed over the "gavel"

to enable Southern Star to work the First Degree, two candidates being initiated. Later W. Bro. Heath was

congratulated upon the perfection of the working, and a very happy time was spent in the refectory. Other

visitors included W. Bro. Flowers, with a large number of his officers and brethren from Lodge St.

Cuthberts, Collingwood, also W. Bro. K. S. Farmer, W.M. of Lodge Nelson, accompanied by his I.P.M.

A discussion took place in the Lodge re the setting up of a Hospital Visiting Committee in Nelson to visit

members of the fraternity from both city and country Lodges who may be in hospital, and it was agreed to

circularise all District Lodges on the proposal, which was generally favoured by those present. Golden Bay

expects to pay a return visit to Southern Star during June.

Monday, 24th April, was the date of the regular meeting of Wairau Lodge, No. 42, when two E.As. were

"passed." Lodge Unanimity paid an official visit and worked the Degree in a highly satisfactory manner. In

view of the eve of Anzac Day, the occasion, during the refectory proceedings, was marked by the honouring

of a special toast, The Spirit of Anzac."

Anzac Night, 25th April, was the date for the regular monthly meeting of Southern Star Lodge, when a

member was "passed" to the Second Degree. The attendance was excellent, including an official visit from

Nelson and Waimea Lodges. "M.M." Certificates were presented to three members at the request of the

W.M. by W. Bro. J. Spence. W. Bro. Shand Smith, whose record of efficient and faithful service as Secretary

of the Lodge exceeds a period of twenty years, presented the Working Tools in a very impressive manner,

whilst his son, who is also a P.M. of the Lodge, delivered the Final Charge. W. Bro. A. Boyce acted as J.W.

and performed an important part of the ceremony. The work was carried out in a smooth and satisfactory

manner, and W. Bro. Heath and his officers are to be congratulated upon the high standard maintained. It

was reported that W. Bro. Heath, Senr., was making a splendid recovery following an operation in

Christchurch, and great appreciation was expressed of the wonderful visiting service carried out by members

of Christchurch Lodges during the period he was in hospital. The proceedings in the refectory were most

happy, many references being made to the excellent spirit of fraternal goodwill which exists in the Territory

between the members of the English and N.Z. Constitutions.

Waimea Lodge held its regular meeting on Wednesday, 3rd May, when a candidate was initiated. There was

a good attendance, including the W.Ms. of Lodges Nelson and Southern Star. No fewer than fourteen Lodges

were represented among the visitors to the regular monthly meeting of Marlborough Lodge Unanimity, held

9th May, including an official visit by Lodge Wairau. As usual, the Air Force was well represented, and two

candidates, both members of the Air Force, were initiated.

W. Bro. A. H. Harrison, I.P.M., has volunteered to take over the duties of Lodge Librarian, and is busy

indexing and reorganising the library. W. Bro. Harrison acknowledged with appreciation a very welcome

donation of Masonic books from R.W. Bro. Eckford, and further donations for the library will be welcomed.

Lodge Murchison also held its regular meeting on 9th May, when R.W. Bro. James Baird, Prov.G.M., paid

an official visit and received a very hearty welcome. The ceremony of initiation was carried out in a most

satisfactory manner. The question of a Lodge Library and the recording of the Lodge History was discussed,

and these matters are to receive further attention.

Past Masters' night was the special event at the meeting of Lodge Motueka, held 26th April, when amongst

other visitors the Prov. G.M. was in attendance, accompanied by the W.M. of Lodge Nelson, W. Bro. Shaw

Thomson, P.A.G.D.C., who is leaving the district shortly, assisted by an excellent team of P.Ms., carried out

the ceremony of "raising" with complete satisfaction to those present On behalf of the Lodge, the Prov. G.M.

presented to W. Bro. G. Budden, P.G.B.B., the regalia of his office.

The special meeting of Lodge Victory, held 11th May, was also a Past Masters' night, the ceremony of the

initiating of two candidates being in the capable hands of W. Bro. D. N. Bishop (Master 1938-39), who with

the assistance of a group of P.Ms. excelled in the working of the Degree. R.W. Bro. Baird, Prov.G.M., and R.

W. Bro. Thomson, G.J.W., assisted in the ceremony.

Victory Royal Arch Chapter, No. 12, held a regular Convocation on 27th April, when five members were

acknowledged. Official visits were paid by R.E. Comp. W. J. Girling, accompanied by V.E. Comp. A. W.

Wanden, G.D.C.; M.E. Comp. J. S. Spence, Depute G.S., S.C.; and the Trafalgar Chapter, headed by V.E.

Comp. W. A. Armstrong. A very helpful and instructive address was delivered in the refectory by R.E.

Comp. Girling.

The regular meeting of Lodge Nelson was held on 17th May, Waimea Lodge attending officially.

accompanied by one of their E.As., who was "passed" by Lodge Nelson.

There have been two installations in the Territory, namely, Lodge Waitohi, 22nd April, and Lodge Awatere,

13th May. The Asst.Prov.G.M., V.W. Bro. F. Mogridge, supported by W. Bro. C. G. Whiteford, Asst.

G.D.C., and W. Bro. Scantlebury, P.G.O.. presided over these, being assisted by the following G.L. Officers:

R.W. Bros. Girling, Eckford and Rudd, P.Prov.G.Ms.. R.W. Bro. Nathan, P.G.W., V.W. Bro. Harlow, G.C.

W. Bros. Mitchell and Cresswell, P.Asst.G.D.Cs. W. Bros. Renner, P.S.G.D., Carnahan, P.G.B.B., and

Adams (Master Lodge Havelock), Fleming, Evans and Hood, P.G.Ss. The sitting several Past Masters of the

various Lodges in the Marlborough Territory also assisted.

Kirkpatrick Masonic Institute: Your correspondent was pleased to learn from the Chairman of the Board of

Governors. W. Bro. W. A. Armstrong, that there are now no vacancies at the Institute, nineteen girls being in

residence, and one due to arrive very shortly. The girls are of a fine type and appear to be doing well, and

thoroughly happy. Last year they were all rather on the small side, but the admissions since January include

several older and bigger girls, who are able to attend College. Miss Allison, the Matron, has not enjoyed

good health for some time. In February she had to go to Christchurch to undergo treatment, and is now

getting on well. Mrs. Challis, the Sub-Matron, is Acting Matron during Miss Allison's absence.

The 63rd Installation of Lodge Victory took place on Saturday, 20th May, there being a record attendance of

240, fully taxing the capacity of the Temple. All Lodges in the Territory were represented, excepting Waitohi

and Awatere. The W.Ms. of Lodges Marlborough Unanimity, Murchison, Motueka, Nelson, Southern Star,

Forest, and Waimea were received. Then followed the reception of R.W. Bro. Baird, Prov.G.M.,

accompanied by G.L. Officers, including V.W. Bro. Mogridge, Asst.Prov.G.M. W. Bro. Armstrong, Past

D.G.M. Westland-Nelson District, E.C., with his G.L. Officers, was then received. The Installing Master,

R.W. Bro. Stiles, P.D.G.M., was announced, and he was received in due form, accompanied by five P.Prov.

G.Ms., namely, R.W. Bros. Girling, Eckford, Furness, Ching and Rudd, all of whom took part in the

subsequent service. R.W. Bro. Stiles, in acknowledging the greetings of the brethren, expressed his

appreciation of the wonderful attendance to witness the Installation of his son, Bro. Geo. Stiles. The Board

disclosed a record attendance of P.Ms. The following G.L. Officers assisted: R.W. Bros. Lucas, G.S.W.,

Thomson, G.J.W.; V.W. Bro. Harlow, G.C.; W. Bros. Whiteford, G.D.C., Renner. G.S.D., Craighead,

G.J.D., and Morley, G.I.G. The following P.Ms. and W.Ms. also assisted : V.W. Bro. Cockburn, P.G.Lec.,

W. Bros. Mitchell, P A.G.D.C., and W. Bros. Ibbotson, Heath (Southern Star), Jack (Waimea), Farmer

(Nelson), Shuttleworth (Forest), and Harding (Motueka). The ceremony throughout was most impressive,

and the new Master, by his recognised Masonic knowledge and training, coupled with his most appropriate

remarks, impressed the assembly. The collection amounted to £22, and W. Bro. Bishop rendered the vocal

solo "Thanks be to God." From the brethren of Lodge Victory, R.W. Bro. Stiles received two presentations to

mark the occasion and to express the appreciation of the Lodge and the Craft generally of his unfailing and

efficient services over so long a period. The presentations took the form of a framed photo in his regalia as

D.G.M. and a special V.S.L. which had been suitably inscribed with details of his Masonic career. R.W. Bro.

Rudd also took the opportunity of presenting to the three city Lodges a framed photo of himself, and

expressed his appreciation to all the Lodges who had participated in the presentation to him of Regalia as

P.D.G.M. In accepting this gift W. Bro. Stiles, on behalf of the associated city Lodges, thanked R.W. Bro.

Rudd.

The proceedings in the refectory were most cordial and a bountiful supper was served. The refectory had

been gaily decorated by the ladies, and an orchestra brightened the proceedings. The speeches, necessarily

brief owing to the late hour, were very much to the point. W. Bro. Thomson, in proposing the toast of the

W.M., said that really only four words were necessary—"Like father like son." R.W. Bro. Stiles, who is

nearly 80, but certainly does not look it, has set a wonderful example, which has inspired the numerous

brethren with whom he has come in contact, and we trust that both he and his son will be spared many years

to continue the good work amongst us.