BACK TO NORMAL.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

E are glad to observe that, now that local emergency war conditions appear to have passed, as we

hope, for good, there is a general movement throughout the territory to resume normal hours for

Lodge meetings, and the appropriate dress traditional for so long on Masonic occasions among us. As all

brethren are aware, the state of emergency coinciding with the peril of raiding, bombing or invasion which

seemed imminent in this country a couple of years ago, led to material but, we hope, temporary alterations in

some of our customs. For the convenience of many brethren actively engaged in fire-watching, E.P.S. work,

or other forms of auxiliary national service, customary rules of costume were necessarily relaxed. It was

obviously impossible at that time for brethren, especially those living in suburban areas, as so many do, to

carry out their defence obligations, which rendered them liable to calls at odd and unpredictable evening

hours, and at the same time get home, dress for Lodge, and return to their city temples for meetings.

It therefore became the general practice for members to attend Lodge in ordinary business attire, and not in

formal dress. For similar reasons, Lodge meeting hours were in many instances temporarily altered to enable

brethren to go straight to Lodge from their places of work or business, and thus save time for national activi-

ties. These relaxations were wise and proper, and without them Lodge attendances would have suffered

badly during the period of emergency. Beyond being unavoidable for the time being in the national interest,

however, they had little to recommend them except convenience and the avoidance of some trouble. On this

account there was for a time a disquieting possibility that there would be some effort to make them

permanent after the emergency had passed. We are glad to note that this does not appear to be taking place,

and that the general sentiment is in favour of the restoration of our former traditional practices in respect to

hours of meeting and costume.

Any other course, we think, would be detrimental to the dignity and solemnity of our meetings, would reduce

them in impressiveness in the eyes of brethren and candidates, and might even react adversely on the

permanent interests of the Order. It is important to retain Lodge meetings on a level higher than that of

ordinary routine meetings for everyday purposes. Freemasonry is fundamentally a moral institution, but it is

also par excellence a ceremonial institution as well. While the formal and ceremonial aspect of our activities

is admittedly secondary, subordinate, and perhaps not essential, few would deny that the formality, dignity

and uniformity of our ceremonials conduce in a marked degree to add weight and impressiveness to our

moral teachings, and form a worthy background for the sublime truths that the Craft has to offer to its

members.

The solemnity of our ceremonies, we are told, demands a serious deportment. Formal costume forms an

appropriate background for such a deportment, and a fit setting for the reverence with which we should

approach the altar of the G.A.O.T.U. Formal attire is an outward and visible mark of respect and reverence.

This is a basic reason why for centuries people have worn their "Sunday clothes" to go to church. A lodge

meeting composed of members in business attire is a motley and variegated sight, and this is accentuated

when the costumes of the principal participants display a considerable variety of shades and styles. Apart

from the bizarre and undignified effect thus produced on the eye, and the consequent fall in impressiveness,

such a state of affairs means the loss of an important practical Masonic lesson.

In a Freemasons' Lodge all men are equal, meeting on the L . . . . , and parting on the S . . . .. This equality is

fittingly symbolised, not only by uniformity of regalia, grade by grade, but by uniformity of dress as well.

No brother who has pondered on the difference between a meeting of his Lodge in uniform evening dress,

and one in the variegated and often careless costumes of everyday life, could fail to be struck by the

difference in effect.

He might think the added convenience is worth the loss of dignity and effect; but we hope that such a view is

not general, and, as already suggested, we are glad to think that the trend of opinion is the other way.

Similar considerations, we suggest, apply to reversion to normal hours of meeting in the case of Lodges

which, during the national emergency, had altered their times of assemblage. Some Lodges, perhaps the

W

majority, have already reverted to their former evening hours. To arrange Lodge meetings on a hasty basis,

sandwiched in between other engagements, may have been necessitated by emergency conditions; but the

practice could hardly be justified on any other grounds. Such arrangements would be calculated to induce an

entirely wrong perspective as to the importance of Lodge meetings as compared with other engagements.

If a brother comes to view his Lodge meeting as a hastily snatched interlude introduced in intervals between

other engagements, he will almost inevitably, sooner or later, come to regard his Lodge work, and his Lodge

itself, as of secondary importance. Lodge meetings, we consider, should be regarded by the true Freemason

as second in importance to no engagement other than one involving the security of the country.

In times like these we think that brethren should be on their guard to preserve not only the traditional land-

marks, but also the traditional secondary customs, of our Order. These usages have descended to us from

those who built up the Craft before our time, and should not be modified or discarded without the gravest

necessity. Ceremonial of the quality we have created in the Craft is a fine thing in itself, apart from the noble

ideals which it enshrines; and we should be on the alert to maintain its quality, and not to modify Lodge

practices in a manner that may lower the beauty of our meetings or reduce the high standards of rendition

that now prevail among us.

————————

TRY AGAIN.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Happy is the man who never falters, fails or falls. Few have ever had that joyous experience. Some may

never fall from the heights, but most of us are weak and feeble, and we know the depths of mental and

spiritual degradation—as we know also the heights. Temptations come, we submit and are overwhelmed.

But, thanks to the source of Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty, sometimes we catch ourselves in time—and

then, when we do fall we rise up again—and keep on trying to arrive at the stature of moral manhood.

————————

CONSECRATION OF OPUNAKE ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER, No. 78.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

If enthusiasm and zeal are any indication there appears to be no doubt that the new Chapter consecrated at

Opunake on Saturday, 10th June, will be a success.

There were over 100 present and the ceremony was conducted by M.E. Comp. W. H. Sandford, I.P.G.Z.,

assisted by M.E. Comps. J. McAllister and R.W. McVilly, P.G.Z., R.E. Comps. W. Reynolds, G.H., and W.

W. Thompson, G.Supt., while R.E. Comp. H. D. Caplen, P.G.Supt., acted as Grand J.

V.E. Comp. R. Robson, P.G.O., officiated at the organ, Ex. Comp. E. Libeau acted as Trumpeter, and the

efficient work of the Grand Directors of Ceremonies, V.E. Comps. L. N. Ritchie and J. L. Campbell, was

freely commented upon.

At the conclusion of the Consecration Ceremony, M.E. Comp. J. McAllister delivered the following address

to the Chapter:—

"The address I am about to give you was prepared at the request of our late M.E. Comp. Moir, and I was not

aware until a day or two ago that death had claimed him and that we would today be mourning his loss. The

death of our M.E. First Grand Principal brings to me a sense of personal loss which I find impossible to

express in words. I not only respected him for his sterling worth but shared with others a warm fraternal

affection for him.

"I have chosen as the title of my address 'The Framework of a R.A. Chapter.'

"I purpose speaking of the material of which the framework is composed and where it can be found.

"Let us begin with a definition of Freemasonry; here is one I found recently in a Masonic Journal, which will

serve our purpose as an introduction—`Masonry is not a religion of dogmas, nor a creed, nor sect. It

formulates no ritual of life, nor asserts any principles of civil government; it concerns itself not with forms,

which change and perish, but with the growth, expansion, and development of the individual soul, believing

that here lies the true source of health and strength in society, and here abides that breathing, quickening

spirit that controls the life of man. Her high rewards lie, not in the material things of life, but in the

enrichment of that inner self, from which flows the strength to control passion, ennoble desire, and shape

life's actions to the service of a brother, and through him to all the children of man.'

"Bearing this wide definition in mind, let us proceed to gather the materials for the framing of a R.A.

Chapter. For this purpose there is no need to read through dusty volumes or spend years in study—the Craft

Ritual, the R.A. Ritual, including the Installation portions, will provide all we require.

"There is no need to go into the history of the R.A. Degree just here, but I would like to note that, when the

union took place in 1813 between the two rival G. Lodges of England, it was decided to define F.M. as

consisting of the three Craft degrees, including the R.A.

"Regarding the foundation of the order, every First Prin- binds himself to 'preserve that bond of union and

fraternal love which is the foundation of the whole Masonic structure.' This truth is essential for every

member of the Chapter to bear in mind, and may nothing happen to check or spoil that fraternal affection

which is the breath of life in a R.A. Chapter.

"The first prayer in the R.A. ritual shows how beautifully the R.A. carries on and dovetails into the Craft

work. It begins by affirming belief in the Almighty Architect, acknowledging Him as supreme and imploring

His aid on behalf of the King, the country and the Brethren, and asking that grace may be granted to us to

continue to confess the faith, be strengthened in hope and established in charity with all mankind. Here, then,

we have the three cardinal virtues as material for our building.

"In the Ex. Degree the hope is expressed that the great Masonic trinity, Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth

may always prevail among the members of the Lodge and that this bond of union may continue to strengthen

the Craft throughout the world.

"In the second prayer of this Degree (one of the most beautiful in the Ritual) there is a great confession, 'that

since sin has destroyed within us the first temple of purity and innocence, do Thou guide and assist us in

building a second temple of reformation, so that when the veil of this earthly tabernacle shall be drawn aside

we may be received into that sanctuary where Thou livest and reignest for ever.'

"In the R.A. Degree the candidate is reminded of the aim and intention of the degree, the acquisition of

wisdom and understanding, by searching out the great and glorious works of the Almighty, and promoting

His honour and glory.

"We gather from the teaching of our ritual that Faith, Hope, Love, Loyalty and Courage are five great pillars

in a R.A. Chapter. The faith that believes all things possible and can even remove mountains, immortal hope

that lights our path and saves us from despair, and love the greatest thing of all.

"We all recognise the wonder and the beauty of these three cardinal virtues, but do we appreciate fully the

value of loyalty and courage?

"Loyalty is essential—true loyalty which is truth in another form. We read of the glorious days of old when

knighthood was in flower and of legions of brave knights who went about redressing the wrongs of the

oppressed—taught us courtesy and the value of high ideals, and we know that though their swords now rust

in ruined castles and their tarnished armour hangs on crumbling walls, the story of their daring still serves as

vital inspiration. Knighthood is still in flower though knights no longer go riding by on prancing steed or

clad in shining armour. Knighthood is still in flower—'Nothing makes a man immortal so much as rendering

some service of eternal value.'

"Loyalty is a wonderful thing, loyalty to the Supreme Being, which is the headline of F.M., loyalty to our

homes, loyalty to our country, loyalty to our Chapter, which is essential to its success, and may that type of

loyalty which gives enthusiastic service and ungrudging sacrifice characterise the Comps. of Opunake

Chapter.

"A prominent overseas Mason, in paying a tribute to Comps. who had passed on, said, 'These good men and

true who have made Grand Chapter what it is, and who have made Capitulary Masonry the dignified, the

stimulating, the friendly thing it is today, throughout the world, have left you and me a heritage to guard, to

live up to, and to hand on, not only untarnished but enhanced, to those who shall take the working tools, the

banners and the robes from our hands.'

"Let us be loyal to that heritage.

"I would include Courage in the framework of a R.A. Chapter because I am convinced that the time we live

in has a distinct challenge to Masonry in the fact that one of the really great, grave problems it presents, is

one that has its only solution in the quality of the men who determine its social, political and economic life.

The manhood of tomorrow, whose decisions will make for a still more devastating war or a constructive

peace, is in the making today. It is our privilege to help determine his type. Our great task is that of forging

the bonds of union in a brotherhood spirit that will draw and hold men together whatever may come to pass.

Science, commerce, and education must be saturated with 'Peace on earth, good will toward men'

"There is a story that three men, stonecutters all, were busy at their work when a philosopher approached

them in quest of an insight into human nature. 'What are you doing?' he asked the three. 'I am cutting stone,'

the first replied dully. 'I am working for three florins a day,' replied the second; but the third man said, 'I am

building a Cathedral.' In the spirit of that third stonecutter, R.A.M. is summoned to build more than

cathedrals, for when the greatest of these shall have crumbled into dust, the spirits of just men—of men of

goodwill—shall continue to shine as the stars.

"So far I have dealt with the unseen or spiritual, and I believe this is where the strength of our institution lies.

As in other connections the things that are seen are temporal, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

"And now, perhaps, it would not be out of place to give some practical advice to those who have pledged

themselves to support and carry on as successfully as it is possible, this new Chapter.

"If a member holds office in the Chapter, he should be regular in his attendance, he should be willing to

stretch a point when necessary to be on hand to take his part. Even the Comps. who do not hold office

should, out of common Masonic courtesy, be willing, at least on occasion, to sacrifice their own convenience

and comfort to minister to that cordial feeling that numbers give in the Chapter room. Let me remind you of

Kipling's lines :

" 'It ain't the guns nor armaments,

Nor the funds that we can pay,

But the close co-operation that makes us win the day.

It ain't the individual, nor the army as a whole,

But the everlastin' team work of every bloomin' soul.'

"Regarding ritual, may I point out the importance of beginning and maintaining a high standard. In a Chapter

which may not be favoured with visitors at every meeting, there is the temptation to think that the second

best will do. But, Comps., do aim at perfection and ever have the best in view!

"With respect to canvassing for members, the late M. Ex. Comp. H. J. Williams, in a history of the S.G.R.A.

Chapter of N.Z., in 1913, made a statement in this connection which sums up the position exactly. Here it is,

in part: 'If the solicitation is simply for the purpose of increasing numerical strength, then such solicitation is

most improper. If, on the other hand, it is desired to place before the more intelligent and "bright" members

of the "Blue" the privileges and advantages of the Capitular Craft and explain generally its objects and

lessons, without trenching on the domain of the unwritten parts, then such action is not only proper but

commendable. In this connection the R.A. has great possibilities if only proper discrimination is exercised by

its members.'

"In conclusion let me observe that it has been said, and I believe it is generally true, that a F.M. Lodge or

Chapter enriches the community life of the town or district where it is situated. May Opunake R.A. Chapter

be indeed an influence for good and an inspiring and uplifting force to all connected with it. To the Chapter I

would use the familiar benediction, 'May it become beautiful as the Temple, Peaceful as the Ark, and Sacred

as its most Holy Place.' May the individual Comps. be endowed with every good and perfect gift while

travelling the rugged path of life and finally be admitted within the veil of Heaven to the full enjoyment of

life eternal. S.M.I.B."

It is interesting to note that among the foundation members are three generations of Companion Young's

family, and from the great enthusiasm displayed by these Companions it is fitting that one of them, V.E.

Comp. F. J. Young, should have been installed as First Principal by R.E. Comp. W. W. Thomson, G.Supt.

R.E. Comp. W. Reynolds Grand H., installed the Second Principal, V.E. Comp. H. Shields, and R.E. Comp.

R. R. Tyrer, P.G.Supt, installed V.E. Comp. L. A. Young as Third Principal. R.E. Comp. F. J. Rea, Grand

Scribe E., installed V.E. Comp. L. A. Young as Worshipful Mark Master.

The Addresses to the Principals were delivered by M.E. Comp. R. W. McVilly, P.G.Z., V.E. Comps. C. R.

Honeyfield, P.G.D.C., and R. J. Watt, P.Z., and after the Officers had been invested by V.E. Comps. R. F.

Harkness, P.G.D.C., and A. Ferguson, P.Z., the Grand H. addressed them. M.E. Comp. R. W. McVilly

addressed the Companions and the Grand Superintendent of the District, R.E. Comp. W. W. Thomson, with

a few very appropriate' words, handed over to the newly-installed First Principal.

A most enjoyable and instructive time was held in the refectory, the various speeches being of a high

standard, and it was evident that the Chapter has started off with the goodwill of all.

————————

MASONIC JUBILEE OF W. BRO. C. H. JENKINS, P.G.D., P.D.D.G.M., D.G.Sec., P.M., 689.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

W. Bro. C. H. Jenkins first saw the light of Masonry in the Waitemata Lodge, No. 689, E.C., on 18th June,

1894, and the Waitemata Lodge is proud to pay tribute to its most outstanding son. From the outset of his

Masonic career he has always been seeking after knowledge, and has passed through nearly all the various

offices in almost every degree in Masonry.

In 1902 Bro. Jenkins was installed as Master, and the following year he installed his successor, and since that

date he has installed 155 Masters in various Craft Lodges; perhaps the most memorable being that of his own

son, Donald, in the Duke of Albany Lodge in 1943, which was the occasion of his 150th installation.

He has always laboured unceasingly for the good of his Mother Lodge, and from 1910 to 1918 and from

1921 to 1930 he filled the office of Secretary, following with that of Treasurer from 1930 to 1934. As a

Trustee he has done outstanding work, and fills many important positions; his trusteeships being those of

Waitemata Lodge, Princes Street Hall, and the C. C. McMillan Benevolent Fund.

Such loyalty was rewarded with the various District Grand Lodge offices of Pursuivant, Standard Bearer,

Asst. Director of Ceremonies, Junior Deacon, Senior Warden, President of the Board of General Purposes for

a period of 18 years, and finally that of Deputy District Grand Master on 3rd December, 1929. During his

occupancy of this position, he on several occasions acted as D.D.G.M. in Charge, and on the death of the

D.G.M., R.W. Bro. Sir Alfred Bankart, presided over the District until the appointment of R.W. Bro. C. T.

Major. In 1934 he was appointed District Grand Secretary, which office he still discharges with satisfaction

to the District and credit to himself.

On 25th October, 1922, the United Grand Lodge of England recognised his sterling worth by conferring the

Past Rank of Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, to be followed on the 19th July, 1939, with that of

Past Junior Grand Deacon.

He was exalted in the Auckland Chapter, No. 1336, on 25th May, 1905, and was installed as 1st Principal in

1910. Three Chapters—St. George, Te Awamutu, and Harmony—were assisted by Comp. Jenkins as a

Founder, and his work has been recognised by Grand Chapter by his appointment in 1931 to the Past Rank of

Assistant Grand Sojourner.

He is also a member of the St. Andrew Kilwinning Royal Arch Chapter; Scottish Royal, Select and Super

Excellent Master; Scottish Red Cross Council; Royal Order of Scotland; and Scottish Knight Templar.

In Mark Masonry, Bro. Jenkins reached his supreme achievement when, after having been advanced in

Union Lodge, No. 154, in 1903, and installed as Master in 1908, he was installed as District Grand Master in

1934. A natural adjunct to this degree was that of Ark Mariner, for in 1912 he was elevated in the Ararat

Lodge, achieving the position of C.N. in 1914. He was also a Founder of Wairua Ark Mariner Lodge, of

which he was appointed first P.C.N.

The Auckland District was in need of a Knight Templar Preceptory, so in 1928 Bro. Jenkins joined the Royal

Canterbury Preceptory, No. 246, so as to become a Founder and first 2nd Constable of Waitemata

Preceptory, No. 254. In 1932 he was installed as Preceptor and Prior, and has also held the position of

Provincial Grand 2nd Constable. The same year saw his installation as Knight Red Cross of Constantine,

N.Z. Conclave, No. 172, in the Order of Red Cross of Constantine.

The Order of the Secret Monitor is also grateful for his energetic work. In 1921 he was inducted in Aotearoa

Conclave, No. 44, to become a Founder and 1st Guide of Arawa Conclave, No. 55. In 1927 he was installed

as S.R., and at a later date as District Grand Chancellor; his Grand Ranks being, 1931 Grand Steward and

Grand Bow Bearer.

On 27th October, 1905, he was perfected in the Southern Cross Chapter, No. 88, A. and A.R., to become

M.W.S. in 1912. In this Chapter he was Treasurer for a period of 20 years, and in recognition of the many

services he has so willingly given, he was honoured in 1934 by having the thirtieth degree conferred upon

him.

As a student of Masonry Bro. Jenkins has always been outstanding, and his many talks upon Masonic

subjects are always appreciated. In 1907 he became a corresponding member of the Quatuor Coronati Lodge,

No. 2076, later to become its local secretary in 1912. He also is an associate member of the Leicester Lodge

of Research, No. 2429; Lodge of Research, Dublin, No. 200, and the United Masters Lodge, No. 167.

————————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

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

————

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND — 1943.

15 Lodges, 1049 members, a gain of 6.

68th Annual Communication held at Charlottetown, 23rd June, M.W. Bro. Emory H. McFarland, G.M.,

presiding.

Twenty-seven were initiated during the year, 6 affiliated and 2 reinstated.

In its report the Committee on Foreign Correspondence said:—"Freemasonry in many Lodges on

Continental Europe, for the moment, has virtually ceased to exist. The Volume of the Sacred Law no longer

shines upon their altars. The immoveable Jewels are buried beneath a pall of unrelieved darkness. The

moveable Jewels are locked up in the obscurity of the tomb. Yet, beneath the shadow of all this, we know a

smouldering ember still survives that some day shall be rekindled with a radiance of inextinguishable fire.

"Freemasonry the world over finds it is face to face with its hour of ultimate trial. Masons everywhere are

beginning to realise that if democracy is to exist we must all do our part, not only now, but in the post-war

world. When we discover that Masonry has been suppressed by dictatorial fiat wherever totalitarianism has

become temporarily supreme, we are only learning in our day what our Masonic ancestors found out

generations ago in theirs.

"In other parts of the Masonic world the scene is not so dark and menacing. In the British Dominions, in

Latin America, and in our sister country—the United States—the quarries of Masonry are crowded with busy

and ardent workers. This will continue until the end of time. When this struggle is over, Masonry shall

survive refined and purified as if by fire, never faltering, but trusting in the guidance of the Supreme Grand

Master of the Universe."

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. T. Arthur Dawson, North Tryon.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. L. A. McDougall, Charlottetown.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. John C. Matthews, P.G.D., Alberton.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: V.W. Bro. C. D. Morpeth, G.T., Wellington.

————

NEW BRUNSWICK-1943.

43 Lodges, 5127 members, a gain of 64.

76th Annual Communication held at Saint John, 26th

August, M.W. Bro. James S. Hoyt, G.M., presiding.

186 were initiated, 27 joined and 37 reinstated; 53 were suspended, 38 demitted, 4 withdrawn, and 93 died.

Grand Master : M.W. Bro. James S. Hoyt, St. John.

Grand Secretary: V.W. Bro. P. D. Magee, St. John.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Wm. S. Clawson, P.G.W., St. John.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Walter G. Mason, P.G.W., Auckland.

————

ALABAMA-1943.

406 Lodges, 33,462 members, a gain of 3640.

123rd Annual Communication held at Montgomery, 30th November and 1st December, M.W. Bro. W. E.

James, G.M., presiding.

2682 were raised, 825 affiliated, and 2346 reinstated, while 594 died, 563 demitted, 932 were suspended and

2 expelled.

The annual dues to Grand Lodge were raised from $1.50 per capita to $2 in order to pay off the indebtedness

of Grand Lodge.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Wm. E. James, Birmingham.

Grand Secretary: W. Bro. Guy T. Smith, Montgomery.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Howard E. Palmes, Mobile.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. F. F. Boustridge, Prov.G.M., Greymouth.

————

ILLINOIS-1943.

982 Lodges, 189,441 members, a gain of 1673.

104th Annual Communication held at Chicago 12th and 13th October, M.W. Bro. Karl J. Mohr, G.M.,

presiding.

5881 were raised, 2378 reinstated, and 1399 admitted, while the losses were 2537 suspended, 4 expelled,

1756 de-, mitted, and 3664 died.

There were distinguished visitors present from 26 other United States and 2 Canadian Grand Lodges. The

unusually large delegation of visitors of Masonic distinction evoked prolonged applause, and the numbers

may be attributed to some extent to the personality of the Grand Master, who had travelled extensively

during his two years' reign.

M.W. Bro. Albert A. Schaefer, G.M. of Massachusetts, who replied on behalf of the visitors to the welcome

extended, was elected the first Honorary Past G.M. of Illinois. In the course of his speech he said that the

G.M. had whispered to him that a speech to be immortal did not need to be eternal.

M.W. Bro. Tim C. Wardley, G.M. of Canada (Ontario), replied for the Canadian visitors. At the conclusion

of Bro. Wardley's address. the Grand Master requested him to personally receive a second American Flag,

which he was informed was a gift from our Grand Lodge to the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of

Ontario, and carried with it the affection and esteem of the Master Masons of Illinois for their Canadian

brethren. Bro. Wardley received the American Flag as the Grand Lodge arose and sang "God Save the King.'

Bro. Wardley appropriately responded amid great applause.

By unanimous resolution the words "and possessing no maim or defect in his body that may render him

incapable of conforming to what the several Degrees respectively require of him" were deleted from the

Code. Their rule now reads: "Every candidate applying for the Degrees in Masonry must have the Senses of

a man, especially those of hearing, seeing and feeling; be a believer in God,' and capable of reading and

writing in English."

There were 112 men and 53 women (of whom 56 were in the Hospital) in the Illinois Masonic Home. In the

Orphans' Home at La Grange there were 43 boys and 43 girls.

The Committee on Service to the Armed Forces presented a lengthy report on the good work being done for

brethren and their relatives. Records had been supplied of 5500 members, and 20,500 sons, grandsons and

other relatives.

R.W. Bro. Dwight H. Green, Grand Orator, and Governor of Illinois, delivered the annual oration.

The 180 pages of Reviews, by M.W. Bro. Elmer E. Beach, P.G.M., include a very able summary of New

Zealand, 1942.

In his Foreword, M.W. Bro. Beach reprinted an article entitled "Axis Box Score Against Freemasonry," by

Bro. J. Fairbairn Smith, of the G.L. of Michigan. and Editor of the "Masonic World," summarising the

effects of the enemies' action against the Craft in the various countries of the world. "Aggression and

invasion eliminated 34 Grand Lodges having 2713 Lodges with a total membership in excess of 235,356."

Grand Master : M.W. Bro. Stuart E. Pierson, Carrollton.

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

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Oliver L. Underwood, Rock Island.

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

————————

OBITUARY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

V. ILL. BRO. GEORGE A. GRIBBIN, 33°.

————

New Zealand Freemasonry in general and the Auckland District in particular mourns the passing to the

Grand Lodge above of another of its beloved stalwarts in the person of Very Ill. Bro. George A. Gribbin,

33°, who went to receive his reward on 5th June.

R.W. Bro. Gribbin was the senior member of the Are Lodge, No. 348, I.C., which he joined on 1st August.

1887. He was installed as Worshipful Master in June, 1896, and again in June, 1898, and was in recent years

elected an Honorary Life Member. He was for some years Provincial Grand-Secretary of N.Z. under the Irish

Constitution, and was later honoured by the Grand Lodge of Ireland with the rank of Past Grand Deacon. He

celebrated his Jubilee as an Irish Freemason on 2nd August, 1937, at the 117th Anniversary Meeting of

Lodge Antiquity, No. 1, N.S.W.C., which Lodge, then the Australian Social Lodge, No. 260, I.C., issued on

September 5th, 1842, the dispensation under which the Ara Lodge first met—the first N.Z. Masonic

document. He was an honorary member of Lodge Orakei; No. 270, and Lodge Ararangi, No. 297.

He was long noted as a Masonic scholar, and in 1909 took a prominent part in the movement to form a

Research Lodge in Auckland. He was elected by the 124 Founders of The United Masters' Lodge, No. 167,

as their first Worshipful Master, and was installed into that office at the Constitution Meeting on 3rd

December, 1909. He subsequently served as Secretary for many years, and also for a period as Deputy

Master. He was Editor of the Lodge Transactions. He wrote numerous papers, but his most notable work in

Masonic literature was "'The History of the Ara Lodges," a volume of 237 pages, copiously illustrated with

photographs of leading members, published by him in 1909.

In the Grand Lodge of New Zealand he held the office of Grand Registrar in 1916 and 1917, and that of

Junior Grand Warden in 1922. He held the position of Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Victoria

near the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

He held the office of President of the Auckland Masonic Institute and Club for some years, and at the time of

his death was its Patron.

He was advanced to the Mark Degree, acknowledged as an Excellent Master, and exalted to the Royal Arch

degree, but took no active part in those degrees.

He was perfected as a Rose Croix Mason in the Southern Cross Chapter, No. 88, under the Supreme Council

of England, etc., in May, 1903, installed as M.W.S. in January, 1907, and subsequently served as Recorder

from January, 1908, to March, 1941, a period of over 33 years, during which he was the acknowledged

leader and the revered guiding spirit of that branch of Freemasonry in the Auckland District. He was

advanced to the 36° in 1913, received the 31° in London in 1923, was advanced to the 32° in 1936, and after

serving for a period as Deputy Grand Inspector General in charge of the Northern Division of N.Z., was

advanced to the 33° in 1942, receiving a cable from London notifying him of his final promotion on his 80th

birthday, 7th February, 1942.

R.W. Bro. Gribbin was the senior member of the legal profession in the Auckland Province, and if he had

lived another 22 days he would have celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of his admission to the profession (27th

June, 1884). He was an able practitioner, noted alike for his wise counsel and skilled draftsmanship.

One of his last tasks, and, we are sure, one which gave him as great pleasure as any he ever undertook, was

to write portion of the brochure published to commemorate the Masonic Jubilee of his old friend, legal

partner, and Masonic colleague, M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., and Provincial Grand Master of the

Auckland District.

Bro. W. E. Watson, of the Ponsonby Lodge, No. 54, and an Associate of The United Masters' Lodge, wrote

the following verses as a tribute to a Craftsman loved and esteemed by all who knew him for his kindness,

his toleration, his assiduity, his learning, both Masonic and general, and his eloquence. These verses were

printed in a biographical sketch published by the United Masters' Lodge in its Transactions, from which the

foregoing information has been taken.

"Behold an Israelite indeed

In whom was found no fault nor guile"—

Why, here in Holy Writ we find

Our brother's very name and style.

Entered, passed, and raised; working tools

Laid down: his earthly task is done,

With square and compass, line and rules

His seat in Higher Lodge is won.

With clean, pure hands and apron white,

He goes to that Grand Lodge above

Where jewels all are polished bright

And all is Harmony and Love.

Our proudest title now we give'

To him, who gave to others' need,

As polished ashlar he will live—

'Craftsman'—in steps, in word, in deed."

————

R.W. BRO. COL. J. H. MOIR, P.D.G.M.

When our late R.W. Bro. Col. J. H. Moir, P.D.G.M., was initiated into the Lodge of Otago, No. 844, at

Dunedin on the 1st June, 1892, few of the brethren present could have visualised what a long and illustrious

career in Freemasonry was then beginning. His ability was soon recognised and he was appointed Grand

Director of Ceremonies of the District Grand Lodge of Otago and Southland, E.C., in 1896, after having

previously held the office of Steward.

In 1902 he became W.M. of Lodge St. Thomas Kilwinning, No. 83, Kaitangata, and from that time onwards

he was destined to play an important part as a ruler of the Craft. His career in Craft Masonry is well

emphasised in the tribute paid to his memory by R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes, Prov.G.M. of Otago, at the

Installation Meeting of Lodge Koputai on 27th May, which we are now privileged to quote:

"Dtuing this week Grand Lodge has lost an officer in the person of R.W. Bro. J. H. Moir who served the

Craft assiduously and consistently over a long period of years in many and varied offices.

"Three times he was elected to the Master's Chair, at times in two cases when the Lodge was at a low ebb.

When the Service Lodge was formed he became its first Master, and the foundations which he laid there 22

years ago are evidenced today in the strong and virile Lodge that we know.

"He was first appointed to Grand Lodge rank in 1923, when he became Grand Director of Ceremonies, an

office which he enjoyed and did credit to. In 1927 he became Assistant Provincial Grand Master, and in 1928

he was appointed Provincial Grand Master, and held the office for four years. In 1936-7 he was President of

the Board of Benevolence, and in 1938 Deputy Grand Master. We were about to nominate him for the higher

office of Pro Grand Master, but the Great Architect has called him for higher service.

"Of our late brother we can say that he was one who was diligent in all his service; he took a broad and at the

same time, a long view. He held high principles, which he was not prepared to sacrifice for popularity. He

never drew on the strength of the future to cover the weakness of the present; in other words, he faced up to

the difficulties of the moment, preferring to do so rather than leave the solution to others who should follow.

"In his family life he aimed to do the best for those who looked for the guiding hand, seeking always to fit

them for the highest service he could inspire them to seek.

"He has gone to his reward, but he has left us a memory of good deeds that will remain for a long time

fragrant and refreshing, as we are reminded of his work amongst

The career of the late M.E. Comp. Moir in Capitular Freemasonry commenced when he was admitted a Mark

Master in the Mark Master Lodge held in the Kilwinning Otago Royal Arch Chapter, No. 116, Dunedin, on

the 23rd October, 1893, and it is interesting to note that the presiding W.M.M. was none other than our well-

beloved M.E Comp. R. W. McVilly, P.G.Z. After taking the degree of E.M. he was exalted to the degree of

the Most Holy Royal Arch on the 2nd November, 1893, and he became First Principal Zerubbabel of the

Chapter on the 16th July, 1900. On the foundation of Celtic Royal Arch Chapter, No. 42, he was one of the

foundation members. He was elected First Grand Sojourner in 1926 and served as Grand Superintendent of

Otago from 1929 to 1933. In 1934 he was elected Grand H. and was installed as First Grand Principal Z. on

the 15th March, 1944. He had also held the office of T.I.M. in the Cryptic Council attached to Celtic Royal

Arch Chapter, No. 42.

The zeal of our late M.E. Comp. for Royal Arch Freemasonry was an object lesson to every member of the

Most Holy Royal Arch. To those Companions who sought his advice he gave it freely and without stint, and

no Companion could ever have had cause to regret following his sage counsels. He brought to R.A.

Freemasonry the fervency and devotion he had always shown for the ideals of Craft Masonry. It was a

delight and a refreshment to be able to sit in the Chapter and hear his lucid delivery of charges and lectures,

and in some indefinable way he had the gift from time to time of bringing to the notice of his auditors some

point in the charge which had previously escaped them.

But the most extraordinary aspect of our late Companion's character was the way in which he resembled the

central figure of Tennyson's "Ulysses." Like Ulysses he had drunk delight of battle with his peers, if not on

the ringing plains of windy Troy at least virtually in sight of them. Climates, Councils and Governments he

had seen, and like the illustrious Greek he was himself not least but honoured of them all. Right to the end

the warrior spirit still stirred strongly within him, and for one of his temperament how dull it would have

been "to pause, to make an end to rust unburnished, not to shine in use." On his election to the chair of First

Grand Principal Z., although he had passed the allotted span, he too felt "Old age hath yet his honour and his

toil, Death closes all: but something ere the end, some noble work may yet be done," and he was diligently

preparing on the very eve of his death to voyage forth to further the cause of that Masonry he so dearly

loved. And yet though too his medical adviser had plainly stated that for him the lights had begun to twinkle

on the rocks, the long day waned, the slow moon climbed and the deep moaned round with many voices and

that the journey upon which he was about to set out might be his last, our Companion opposed to the

threatened stormclouds the same brave heart he had always shown in the face of difficulties and dangers. So

that even at the end the famous lines of Tennyson still rang true:

"Come my friends

'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.

Push off, and sitting well in order smite

The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds

To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths

Of all the western stars until I die.

It may be that the gulfs will wash us down:

It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles,

And see the great Achilles, whom we knew.

Tho' much is taken, much abides; and tho'

We are not now that strength which in old days

Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;

One equal temper of heroic hearts,

Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will

To strive, to seek to find, and not to yield."

————

R.W. BRO. ANDREW NOBLE, PROV.G.M., SOUTHLAND.

After an illness extending over several months, the death occurred on 30th May of R.W. Bro. Anrdew Noble,

Prov.G.M., of Southland. Our late brother was made a Mason in Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, on 20th January,

1919. When Lodge Southland, No. 273, was established in 1924, Bro. Noble as a foundation member took

office, and in the year 1929 was installed as Master. In 1935 he was called to Grand Lodge office as

Asst.G.D.C., and in 1938 was appointed Prov.G.M., which office he held at the time of his death. He was

also a member of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3. As a member of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter,

No. 36, he rendered valued service, serving as M.W.Sov. in 1932. As a member of the Zealandia Consistory,

No. 10 (Dunedin), Ill. Bro. Noble served in the various offices, including that of Grand Commander. He was

also an enthusiastic member of the Southland Preceptory of Knights Templars, having held the office of Ven

Preceptor.

As Prov. Grand Master for the past six years, our late brother rendered excellent service in the cause of Craft

Masonry in the Southland District. His genial disposition, friendly and attractive personality, and qualities of

leadership won for him the esteem and affection of a large circle of friends and brethren. He was a man of

sound judgment, and his frank and honest opinions upon business and affairs in general were received with

the greatest respect by all with whom he came in contact. He was one of the leading business men of the city,

an enthusiastic Rotarian, and a Past Grand Master of the Loyal Orange Institution. During his long

connection with the Methodist Church in Invercargill he contributed much to its steady progress and

rendered devotional service. To his widow and relatives the sympathies of a wide circle of friends and

brethren are extended.

————

BRO. A. HENRY.

Another highly respected member of the community and a Freemason of many years' standing, in the person

of Bro. A. Henry, was recently called to the Grand Lodge above. Our late brother was a valued member of

Lodge Southland, No. 273, also of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3. For several months prior to

his death he was laid aside with illness, and his passing removes from our midst one who was loved by all

with whom he came in contact.

————

W. BRO. ED. JACKSON, P.G.D., P.G.SUPT., OF SOUTHLAND.

The death occurred recently at Invercargill of W. Bro. Ed. Jackson, P.G.D., one of the stalwart members of

Lodge St. John, No. 94, for many years past. He was a most enthusiastic Freemason, being associated with a

number of Masonic units in the Southland Territory. As a Past Master of Lodge St. John, No. 94, and in the

office of P.G.D., he contributed much to the well-being of Craft Masonry. He also rendered valuable work

with the Combined Soc,ial Committee over a long period of years. He was a keen member of Southern Cross

Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, having served in the various offices, including that of First Principal. Several

years ago he was honoured by being elected to the important office of Grand Supt. of Southland, which

office he held for two years. He was also a member of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3. For many

years prior to his death he was a keen member of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, passing through the

various chairs, including that of M.W.S. He was also a member of the Zealandia Consistory, No. 10

(Dunedin), of which unit he was recently nominated for the office of J.W. Our late brother was a man of

excellent character, ever ready to carry out any duties assigned to him, and one whose opinion was always

valued. By his passing the Craft as a whole and the community at large have lost one whose place will

indeed be hard to fill.

———————

"One by one we miss the voices

That we loved so much to hear,

One by one their kindly faces

Into the darkness disappear;

No one hears the door that opens

Through which they pass beyond recall,

Softer than the leaves of roses,

One by one our loved ones fall."

————————

THE LATE R.W. BRO. ANDREW NOBLE

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

TRIBUTE TO HIS MEMORY

————

A large congregation, including many members of the Craft, assembled in Central Methodist Church,

Invercargill, on Sunday, 4th June, to take part in a memorial service for the late R.W. Bro. Andrew Noble,

Prov.G.M., conducted by Bro. Rev. W. H. Greenslade, of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189.

In referring to our late brother, the clergyman said:

"By the passing of Andrew Noble this Church and community has lost one of its most sterling characters and

most refined souls. His was the type of personality that this particular age, with its love of the dramatic and

the sensational„ too frequently fails to worthily appreciate until it has `passed on.' Andrew Noble's qualities

were such that despite his retiring nature men saw to it that he reached certain eminences where 'his light

could not be hid'; but it was not as a leading light that most will remember him; rather will it be as 'the salt of

the earth.' There is one word which describes him, it is the word 'wholesome.' Andrew was a man who had a

something about him which had a refining and ennobling power; in his presence one wanted to be one's very

best. That gracious influence did not come by chance. It was something he had earned. When I ask men to

tell me what were the traits and qualities which gave him this power, I find that without, exception they

reply, 'Foremost, Andrew's absolute integrity of character.' Yes, his character was all of one piece. In

business, religious, social and home life, indeed in everything he entered, Andrew Noble was the same

Andrew Noble. Truth could never be twisted and principle could never be denied. Some eighteen months ago

he requested me to let him have a copy of a quotation I had made from this pulpit. 'I want to give it in my

Lodge,' he said, 'and if I could I would have it printed and a copy handed every young man in the city.' I give

that quotation of O. W. Holmes again tonight because I know of nothing which better describes the man

whose memory we come together to honour.

"'God give us men.

A time like this demands great hearts, strong minds and willing hands.

Men, whom the lust of office does not kill,

Men, whom the spoils of office cannot buy,

Men, who possess opinions and a will,

Men, who have honour and will not lie.

For while the rabble with their thumb-worn creeds,

Their large professions and their little deeds wrangle in selfish strife,

Lo! Freedom weeps, wrong rules the land, and waiting Justice sleeps.'

"And it was because Andrew Noble was the type of man who never in anything allowed self-interest to

determine his code of behaviour, never put the hope of personal success above the sincerity of his soul, that

men of all classes, creeds and outlooks—while differing from him in opinion at times—held him in highest

honour, and today mourn his passing.

"One is reminded again tonight of the words of Rudyard Kipling in his Rectorial address to St. Andrew's

College: 'A man may be festooned with the whole haberdashery of success, and go to his grave a castaway.

The one thing that lasts is character.' The one thing that matters is what a man is. Men themselves feel that to

be the truth as they lower their brothers' caskets into mother earth; and they wonder not, as they come away,

that the Great Master has set that and that alone as the standard by which everyone from prince to peasant is

to be judged.

"And if men honoured Andrew Noble for that integrity of character, they honoured him also for his bigness

of heart—his charity. It is high praise indeed when business associates relate that they never heard anyone

say anything against him, nor heard him say anything against anybody. Some of us repeat very frequently,

'May the grace of our Lord . . . be with us all.' What was that grace? Something which moderns call 'polish'?

Something effeminate? No! Surely it was among other things the grace of considerateness, the grace of

courtesy, and the grace of a broad charity. That grace was not wanting in this modern businessman'. A big

man he was—big in sympathy, broad in mind, with nothing small or petty in his make-up.

"Nor was this charity merely a passive grace. Many have benefacted through this man's generosity who, even

today, have not the slightest idea of the name of their benefactor. No good cause failed to receive this good

man's support. He was, as every man should be, God's steward and trustee, acting on the belief that he could

best help God by helping some of God's other children. There was something else about Andrew Noble

which must be mentioned: his reverence of spirit. He knew that the word `God' was only a word, but for him

that word represented the great unseen Reality. His reasoning had long since led him to know that since

'every house is builded by some man, He that builded all things is God,' and since that day he had come to

know other tokens of God of which cold reason alone knows nothing. His belief in God did not make him

sanctimonious (as some imagine such belief must do), but it did, for him, make life serious. Life had a

meaning, a purpose, and that meaning and purpose had been revealed to men in the Sacred Law of God.

"It was this belief, this faith, which bore the fruits of integrity of character and active charity, and led him to

give himself in every way he could to such causes, institutions and fellowships as existed to teach the law of

God and to lead men in the way everlasting.

" 'What more doth the Lord require of thee, O man, but to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy

God.' "

Andrew Noble was (1) a trustee, (2) a steward, and (3) a member of over 50 years' standing of Central

Methodist Church.

R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M., was present at the service, supported by a large number of brethren,

including many G.L. officers.

———————

The owner of a silver wristlet watch with leather

strap may obtain same on giving description to W.

Bro. A. S. Moulynox, 13 Angus Avenue,

Wellington, S.1. Phone 24-440.

————————

"ON ANY LODGE. NIGHT"

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

A Pager read in the Research Lodge of Otago,

No. 161, by W. Bro. J. B. Thomson, S.W.

I intend to talk to you tonight in a critical spirit

about a number of matters which for the most part

can be seen in any Lodge on any Lodge night. This

explains the title of my address, which at first sight may have appeared somewhat strange.

I expect that some of my remarks may not be greeted with universal approbation, but so far as I criticise

existìng institutions or practices I do so quite sincerely and as a result of opinions which have been formed

over a period of years. The most that I am prepared to concede is that in some cases, I may have used a half-

truth instead of the complete article, on the basis suggested by Stephen Leacock that a half-truth is like a

half-brick, it carries better in an argument.

The only other preliminary comment I would make is that to a great extent, and especially in my earlier com-

ments, I may appear to be stating the obvious; but obvious truths like other commonplace things are often the

most neglected in practice, and I do not apologise.

The first comment I make falls into this category, because I wish to say a word or two on punctuality and

waste of time generally. As the question of time will recur in these remarks, let me say at once that I am not

propounding a hypothesis that the work should be pushed through at speed and that the best Lodge is the one

which can shave any other Lodge's time for a degree by, say, 30 seconds. I am arguing for the proper use of

our limited time, and the prevention of wasted time, and my thesis is that minutes saved here and there by

speeding up things which can be speeded up, and by cutting out things which are unnecessary, adds up in the

course of an evening to something that is worth while.

Now nobody will deny that, if a meeting is called for a certain time, it should begin at that time, not 5, 10, or

20 minutes later. I say without hesitation that there is no justification or excuse for beginning a Lodge

meeting otherwise than with perfect punctuality, for at least three reasons.

Firstly, it can begin without impropriety if only seven members are present, and this is almost invariably the

case.

Secondly, no harm is done if brethren who come late are admitted at a convenient time after the Lodge is

opened, because the initial proceedings are usually only formal, yet may take a quarter of an hour or more.

Thirdly, the time available on any Lodge night is little enough to do all that has to be done, and it is surely an

act of complete folly to waste to no purpose even five minutes at the beginning which you may badly need at

the end.

The responsibility can be fixed on two officers, the Master and the D. of C. If the Master is present, he can

open his Lodge and should do so if he has six other brethren with him. It may be heresy, but as Master I

would not hesitate to open even if the brethren I placed in the chairs were incapable of assisting to open the

Lodge without continuous prompting, and as D. of C. I would not hesitate to open at the proper time with a

P.M. in the chair. Drastic steps of this kind should only be necessary once or twice.

We will assume that we now have the Lodge opened—at the appointed time. Outside, visitors are beginning

to gather, and inside the minutes are being read and business despatched. Minutes are necessary and must

never be taken as read, but they need not be verbose. If they record the working of a degree I see no reason

why they should include, for example, a statement that the Lodge was duly passed and raised, or recite any

part of the perambulations of the candidate, or otherwise refer to details of the work. There is only one way

of initiating, passing or raising a candidate.

After the minutes comes the correspondence and other business. Why waste time by reading every letter in

full from the superscription to the signature? The body of a few letters should be read in full, some can be

summaried, and a mere reference to others should be sufficient. As to the other business, I doubt whether

anything of major importance should ever be dealt with at any ordinary regular meeting if a degree is to be

worked. If a matter likely to involve extensive discussion is to be brought up, visitors should be warned

accordingly. Is there any justifiation for advertising a Lodge to be open at 7.30, admitting visitors at about 9

o'clock, and then beginning a degree?

The admission of visitors, which comes next in order of time, is frequently the cause of delay, and for this

the visitors themselves have a responsibility. If they were ready and willing to be marshalled for admission,

and not so much inclined to get the last draw from their cigarettes, or to complete in every respect the

conversation of the moment, a very appreciable amount of time would be saved.

One final word on preliminary matters. There is absolutely no need for delay after the admission of the last

visitor. The candidate can and should be immediately ready and the alarm taken at once.

We now come to the proceedings within the Lodge, about which I do not propose to say much. However, as I

may hitherto have given the impression that speed is the first and only essential, I should say that our aim

now is dignity and impressiveness, neither of which is consistent with speed, and we should now expend in a

useful way some of the minutes we have previously saved.

It is a commonplace to say that degree working should be considered through the eyes of the candidate, but

this is a truism which is too much neglected. How often do we hear charges gabbled at such a pace that the

candidate can hardly be expected to get the words, let alone the sense? We cannot expect to have the work

done as a trained elocutionist would do it. Perhaps it is just as well that it should not be so done. But there are

two minimum requirements.

The first is good memorizing: I do not mean only that the officer can by taking a firm hold of himself and by

severe concentration get through a charge without prompting. This is my own usual state and it is not nearly

good enough. If you are dredging your memory, you cannot spare much effort for conveying the sense, and if

you do not get the sense over to the candidate you are wasting the time of everybody present. By good

memorizing I mean that the words come automatically and that the person delivering them is concentrating

on what they mean.

The second requirement is slow and clear diction. These things are absolutely essential, because without

them there isn't a hope of getting the candidate's intelligent interest.

These minimum requirements can be attained by almost anyone, though not without effort. I believe that if

an officer is not prepared to make this effort, the Lodge should in general not hesitate to take the usually

unpleasant step of dropping him.

There are, of course, cases where a brother who perhaps for physical reasons is a poor ritualist, is also an

admirable Mason, and entitled to any honour his Lodge can confer. His influence and example may well

outweigh his superficial deficiencies. But this is an exceptional case, and I repeat that having regard to the

purpose of our ritual, reasonable capability should as a rule be looked for, and it should be absolutely

essential to continuance in office that each officer should continually strive to give the best rendering of

which he is capable. This should also clearly be the spirit of the Lodge. If a Lodge will not take the trouble to

produce efficient ritual work, then that Lodge is on the down grade and it should realise it.

Although the ritual work should not be hurried, the time factor even here is not to be overlooked. One

sometimes hears vocal items during a degree. If well done these are effective. If indifferently done they are

actually detrimental, and they take time, particularly in the case of some items, which are far too long.

Unless the Master is satisfied that the item will be a worthy addition to the degree, and that he has time for it,

he should omit this addendum to the working. How often has one been irritated by an item of this sort

indifferently rendered when it is already obvious that a meeting is running late? Yet in some Lodges it seems

to be regarded as part of the ritual which must be put in.

The tracing board lectures being portion of the ritual which can be omitted without impropriety require

consideration from two angles.

There is the first, the domestic one. Even if a lecture has been arranged for, the Master should have the

courage to drop it if there is insufficient time.

But there is another aspect. Should the tracing board lectures be given in their present form at all? I doubt it.

Freemasonry is recovering from and has largely discarded the mass of fiction and imagination imposed upon

it after the formation of G.L. in 1717 by those learned divines who assisted to give the Craft its present form.

We are told that the Third Degree lecture as first printed in the New Zealand ritual has been omitted because

of its contents, but to omit this lecture and leave certain passages at least in the lectures (in the First and

Second Degrees) is, to my mind, straining at a gnat and swallowing a camel.

Should these two lectures not be overhauled to get rid of at least that portion of their content which is

historically pure rubbish? Would it not be better to deliver lectures which gave to the candidate something

which he is never officially given and which in an ordinary Lodge is quite difficult for him to obtain—

namely, some knowledge of the real history and development of the Craft? Once this has been acquired,

lectures on symbolism or so-called tradition might well be given, because they would be understood to be

such. But our present T.B. lectures are a highly dangerous combination of symbolism and history, real and

imaginary. There is a serious risk that the enquiring candidate, who learns, for example, that our traditional

history is purely imaginative and that the description of the doings of the f.c's. as given in the 2nd T.B.

Lecture is in the same category, may consider that the whole structure of f.m. is built on false premises and is

therefore worthless.

Matters of this sort are beyond the control of a Lodge, but I for one would be happy to see them considered

by those who are in a position to do so with authority and effect.

I shall say no more about the proceedings in the Temple, but I want to say a good deal about the proceedings

in the refectory.

The first, and most important thing, is that I believe it to be wrong to consider the refectory proceedings as

something of no consequence. An evening spent in a Masonic Lodge comprises two parts—one of labour

and profit in the Temple, the other of pleasure and refreshment in the refectory. The aim is surely to send the

brethren, members, visitors and initiates home feeling that their evening has been a satisfactory one in every

respect.

Now a good speech ends with a strong peroration, a good play with a strong final act, a good book with a

powerful or satisfying ending. The refectory proceedings are at the end of the evening and the impression

they leave affects disproportionately the general effect of the whole function. How much trouble is taken to

see that what is done in the refectory measures up to a satisfactory standard? In most Lodges, none.

There are two aspects to be considered; firstly, the musical side, and secondly the matter of speech-making.

On the musical side, I speak with some diffidence, but I think it wrong for the proceedings to be run on the

principle that the Master asks, after the Brethren are seated, "Brother So and So, can you give us an item?"

He could have asked before, and to ask in the refectory makes it clear at once that nothing has been pre-

arranged and that the proceedings are unorganised and are drifting along.

Then one has frequently heard the statement. "We have no talent in the Lodge, we can't do anything in the

musical line." This statement is probably untrue. The talent has not been located, and it is not encouraged or

disciplined. I feel that if a brother has any gift he should not resent being pressed into service in the

refectory, and the Master or the J.W. or the D of C., whoever may be made responsible, is failing in his duty

if he does not apply the necessary pressure.

Another thing which should not be overlooked is that the rehearsal which is necessary for anything of a

concerted nature is itself a valuable means of bringing brethren together and of cementing the bonds of good

fellowship. Even if the apparent results are disappointing or even distressing, the intangible results can be of

the greatest value to a Lodge.

The point I wish to make, in short, is that the purely social side of the proceedings in a sound Lodge Should

run as smoothly as the proceedings in the Temple; and it may very well take far more work to reach a

satisfactory refectory standard than to reach a similar standard in the Temple. But the result on the Lodge is

worth the effort.

I now come to the speeches, and I say at once that I entirely fail to understand the ordinary approach to this

important matter. There appear to be two well-established propositions :—

(a) That some people can make speeches and some can't.

(b) That anyone who can make speeches can do so without preparation or thought, as by turning on a tap.

Both of these propositions are almost wholly untrue. Most people can make an adequate speech if they try.

And few speakers, however good can make an adequate speech as an entirely impromptu effort. The moral is

twofold—that no one should be asked to speak without due notice, and that the people "who can't speak"

should be put on their feet, after due warning as already premised, and on instruction that they must prepare.

The first attempts may be bad, but the benefit will in due course become apparent, and one has the

satisfaction of seeing a brother develop those talents with which God has blessed him, as our ritual enjoins.

The usual last-minute requests to propose this, or reply to that, should be recognised as indicative of a badly

run Lodge.

Personally, I think that speeches should be cut to a minimum, simply on account of the difficulty of doing the

job decently when one is proposing or replying to the stereotyped toasts usually proposed, notably those to

the candidate or the visitors. The recent recommendation of Board of G.P. as to giving the candidate one

toast only is entirely beneficent, and makes the toast manageable, though I regret to observe that the

recommendation is frequently not given effect to or is observed only after apology and apparently with

regret. But what can one say of the visitors' toast? To my mind there is only one solution, to abandon it

altogether. How often can one hear this:—

"W.M. and Brethren, I thank you for the toast and the manner in which it was proposed and received. This is

the first (or last) occasion on which I have visited (or shall visit) this Lodge as Master of Lodge So and So."

(Or alternatively—"I have been here so often that I do not regard myself as a visitor.") "I was pleased to be

here tonight to see the Lodge work the 1° and initiate Bro. So-and-so. I congratulate the Lodge on receiving

such an excellent candidate, who I feel sure will be an acquisition to the Lodge. I congratulate the Lodge on

the excellent way in which it worked the degree. My Lodge will be working a 1st degree on Tuesday

fortnight, and I extend a cordial invitation to any Brother present and the candidate to be with us on that

occasion, when we shall return the hospitality which I have received this evening."

That wasn't a bad little speech when it was first made, but it has done duty now on many thousand occasions,

and it is a little hackneyed. Part of it is probably lies anyway and the rest has become pure platitude. Yet

what else can you say unless you are prepared to tell stories which are not likely to be new, or deliver a

minor lecture, which is not altogether in place.

I say drop the visitors' toast unless there is a visitor who really ought to have an opportunity of speaking. It

and these replies have become a form, and why waste time in hearing half a dozen or more speeches of the

type I have outlined. Frequently there is no time for these speeches, and if there is, let it be spent in

entertainment, or in conversation.

There is no point in filling in time in the refectory. If there is no entertainment or nothing in the way of toasts

which ought justifiably to be proposed, is there anything to be gained by keeping the brethren together in a

formal way? Would it not be better to take the Tyler's toast at the first opportunity, letting it be understood

that the object is to allow the brethren to move about and have some opportunity of free and easy

conversation if they want it. If they desire to get away they may do so without offence and without any

disturbance of the proceedings.

I have in the last few minutes failed to stress the time factor as much as I did earlier, but it is the time we can

save in the Temple and the refectory which is important now.

Under present conditions at least the Tyler's toast should be taken not later than 10 p.m, and preferably

earlier, This is easily possible where the first two degrees are being worked, and it is possible, though rather

more difficult, in the 3°. Suburban Lodges should always be particular to bear in mind that while their own

membership is probably largely local, they are not to assume that their visitors all have motor-cars or the

petrol to put in them, and that a journey from one suburb to another may take up to an hour.

(To be continued.)

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RECEPTION TO THE DEPUTE G.Z.

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The Regular Convocation of the Auckland Provincial R.A. Chapter, No.. 9, was held in the Masonic Temple,

St. Benedict Street. Auckland, on Wednesday, 21st June. There was an attendance of just under one hundred

members and visiting Companions, many of whom were present especially to do honour to the Depute G.Z.,

R. Ex. Comp. S. T. S. Martin, who was making an official visit to Auckland. Nine Chapters were

represented. The First Principal of the Chapter, V.Ex. Comp. A. E. Cashmere, presided. The G.Supt., R.Ex.

Comp. F. W. Herbert, received the distinguished guest, who was accompanied by a goodly number of Grand

Chapter officers. The usual salutations, address of welcome, and appropriate reply having been given, the

Excellent Degree was proceeded with, W. Bro. H. G. Montgomery, the W.E.M. conducting the ceremony,

assisted by the officers of the Lodge. R.W. Bro. A. C. Hallett and R.W. Bro. G. H. Harle also took part. In

the refectory, in response to the toast of Grand Chapter, R.Ex. Comp. Martin gave a most interesting address,

which was listened to with close attention. He appeared to be pleased with his reception, and the respect

shown to his high office; certainly the Companions present were impressed with his bearing and the sincerity

of his utterances. It was an interesting evening in the history of R.A. Masonry in Auckland.

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GLEANINGS

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(Frank L Hammer. 32', San Francisco, California.)

————

There is only one mind—the Universal. Our mind is the use we make of this Mind.

All power is within; there is none without.

The more highly evolved an individual, the more indivisualised he becomes.

Karma, Kismet, Nemesis, Fate, Retribution mean the same thing—the operation of the Law of Cause and

Effect.

The mind of God surveys all time.

That which is Divine in man has alone the power to recognise that which is Divine apart from him.

The "fall of man" represents the descent of Spirit into matter.

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NEWS FROM BELGIUM.

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Recent information regarding Freemasonry in Belgium is to the effect that M. Georges Pettre, Sovereign

Grand Commander of 'he Supreme Council of Belgium, was removed from his office as Mayor of St. Josse

Ten Nooden, which is a suburban town of Brussels, and that since then, though the information is not

verified, he has been assassinated by pro-German parties.

Other prominent Belgian Masons who have suffered the same fate are M. Engle, M. Sasse, General Latique,

M. Horrent and M. Boinem. All of these were recognised as Belgian patriots, and their patriotism cost them

their lives in retaliation for their support of the King of the country, whose conduct as a prisoner of the

Germans has won the admiration of the real people of the world. The King of Belgium has shown very

conclusively the stuff of which he is made by his continued avowed opposition to the invaders.

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BRETHREN IN WELLINGTON HOSPITALS

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

REPORT No. 9

————

The Brethren who are inmates of the various Hospitals in Wellington are as follows:—Lewisham Hospital:

Bro. H. Withington, Empire, No. 225. Ewart Hospital: Bro. Roland Hill, Pacific, No. 2; Bro. W. B. Swan,

Empire, No. 225; Bro. Lauchlan, Renown, No. 218. Public Hospital: Ward 3—Bro. T. E. Alexander,

Tutanekai, No. 156. Ward 5—Bro. T. McCristell, Wm. Ferguson Massey, No. 282. Ward 7—Bro. J.

Buchanan, St. Andrews, No. 32. Ward 8— Bro. T. A. Richmond, Hataitai. No 285. Ward 9—W. Bro. F. J.

Steinmuller, Ulster, No. 62; Bro. B. A. Fraser, Otaihape, No. 142; Bro. W. Porteous, Lower Hutt, No. 299.

The majority of these brethren are making excellent progress and Bro. T. A. Richmond hopes to be

discharged from hospital next week. They all send their fraternal greetings to their various Lodges.

The Committee would appreciate being informed of the name of brethren entering hospital so that they could

be visited by our representatives.

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AUCKLAND NOTES.

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The Installation Meeting of Lodge Auckland, No. 87, was held on 23rd May. and Bro. Frederick Brown,

S.W., was installed as W.M. by the Prov. G M., M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson, P.G.M The Address to the W.M.

was given by R.W. Bro. W. G. Mason, P.G.W., and that to the Wardens by W. Bro. C. C. Turner, P.G.P.

Both of these brethren are P.Ms, of the Lodge. The usual Masonic toasts were honoured in the refectory,

where the Prov. G M. made feeling reference to the loss to the Lodge by the deaths during the past year of

W. Bros. George Tutt, P.G.S., R. E. N. Matthews and Hugh McRae, one of the oldest members of the Lodge.

Incidentally, the late W. Bro. Matthews' son, Bro. J. E. Matthews, was invested as S W.

Owing to travel restrictions, country Lodges are nowadays under some handicap in the matter of visiting. For

this reason, the Installation Meeting of Lodge Tuakau, No. 278, the southernmost Lodge in the Auckland

Provincial Jurisdiction, held on the 1st June, was not attended as well as usual by City Lodges, but many

country members were present to see Bro. Joseph Fulton. S.W., elevated to the chair of K.S. The ceremony

was conducted by the M.W. Prov. G.M., the Master was addressed by R W. Bro. A. J. Pople, D.G.M., and

the Address to the Wardens was given by W. Bro. Dan Jamieson, P.G.D., a lifelong friend of the new W M.

Very happy refectory proceedings closed the evening, where traditional Tuakau hospitality was extended to

the visitors, and where R.W. Bro. C. E. Dutton. P.G.W., represented Grand Lodge.

May 29th witnessed the Installation Meeting of Lodge Onewa, No. 182, at Northcote, and a large assembly

of members and visitors were present to see the installation as W.M. of Bro. Harry Nightingale, S.W., who

has been a member of the Lodge for some 32 years and was one of its first initiates The Installation was

carried out by the M.W, Prov. G.M., and the Master was addressed by R.W. Bro. F. G. Alpe, P.G.W. W. Bro.

Alfred Addison, G Swd.B., addressed the Wardens. A contingent of visitors attended from Pukekohe (where

the W.M. was in business for many years) and was headed by W. Bro. Sutcliffe, W.M. of Lodge Franklin,

No. 58.

On 7th June, at the regular meeting of Lodge Arawhaiti, No. 267, W. Bro. S. P. McGuigan handed the gavel

to V.W. Bro Arch. Burns, Jr., P.G.R., and the P.Ms. then worked a Second Degree. The following W.

Brethren took part in the ceremony :—S.W., A. E. Clinkard; J.W., H. R. A. Vialoux, P.A.G.D.C ; S.D., W.

G. Webster; J.D., H. C. Duthie; I.G., M. Cumming; Chap., H. A. Steadman; D. of C E. P. Wright; S.E.C.. R.

King.

The Albion Lodge, No. 45, held its Installation ceremony at Devonport on 8th June, and Bro. Harrison

Douglas, S.W., was duly installed by the Prov. G.M., M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson. The Temple was filled to

capacity, and over 70 members of the Lodge were present. The Address to the Master was given by R.W.

Bro. A. J. Pople, D.G.M., and W. Bro. Alfred Addison, G.Swd.B., addressed the Wardens. The presenting

officers were W. Bros. C. H. M. Wills (Lodge Takapuna, No. 202) and H. Nightingale (Onewa, No. 182).

The Temple, St. Benedict Street, was taxed to capacity to accommodate the large attendance of members and

visitors who witnessed the installation of Bro. George Costin, S.W. to the chair of the Ara Lodge, No. 1, on

14th June. The M.W. Prov. G.M. conducted the ceremony, and R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, D.G.M., addressed the

W.M. The Wardens were addressed by W. Bro. Harold Roseveare, S.G.D. Many Australian brethren

attended the ceremony to do honour to the new W.M., who hails from the Commonwealth, and a very

successful function was concluded by the honouring of the usual toasts in the refectory. The M.W. Prov.

G.M. here took the opportunity of congratulating the Lodge on its contribution to the W.O. and A.M. Fund,

which had been announced earlier in the evening as the sum of £264.

Lodge Titirangi, No. 204, in accordance with its usual practice of having a P.Ms.' meeting at least once in

each year, arranged for the event to take place at its June meeting. Accordingly, in the presence of a large

gathering of visitors, the W.M., W. Bro. W. Keefe, handed over to Bro. A. Overington, who they conducted

a Third Degree, assisted by S.W., V.W. Bro. Albert Bright, G.Lec., and the following W. Brethren: F.

Howson as J.W.. J. Lupton as S.D., J. R. Clark as J.D., W. J. Hedges as I.G., C. A. Crum as D. of C., and W.

J. Tait as Chaplain. Other P.Ms. who took part in the ceremony were W. Bros. C. E. Fearon, A. J. Thom and

G. N. Oake.

On 15th June, at the regular meeting of Lodge Papatoetoe, the W.M., W. Bro. W. G. Hoyle. conducted a

Second Degree, which was later followed by a short address on the Degree by the G.Lect., V.W. Bro. Albert

Bright This Lodge is very popular with visiting brethren, and this meeting was no exception to the rule, as

six sitting Masters were present, all with a good following.

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TARANAKI NOTES.

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The event of the month in Taranaki was the Consecration of a new R.A. Chapter at Opunake. As this will

probably be the subject of a special report, the only thing that need be said here is that the function was an

outstanding success.

During the month there have been several emergency meetings, and the interest in the Craft is well sustained.

At the regular meeting of Ngamotu in June the father of the candidate to be initiated was to be in the chair,

and his grandfather was to take part in the ceremony.

Ngamotu is holding an emergency meeting to pass two brethren from distant Lodges prior to their going

overseas.

At the June meeting St. John's Lodge balloted for four candidates. With candidates at different stages, W.

Bro. Vause and his officers will have a busy season.

One of the best-known Masonic brethren in Taranaki, in the person of Bro. S. O. Spurdle, has been called to

the G.L. above. For nearly 50 years he was Tyler of Lodge Moa, and for more than half that time Janitor at

Inglewood for the Egmont R.A. Chapter—a great record. At the funeral the local brethren turned out in

strength, and but for the travel restrictions all Taranaki Lodges would have been represented.

Bro. M. Geever, a founder of Lodge Whanga, and well known in Central Taranaki, died suddenly at

Wanganui and was accorded a Masonic funeral at Stratford on 19th June.

The Taranaki Rose Croix Chapter held a successful meeting on 12th June, when a candidate was perfected.

Bro. Sgt.-Obs. Ian Cowie, R.N.Z.A.F., of Patea Kilwinning Lodge, No. 18, whilst in the States visited United

Service Lodge, No. 1118, New York City, at their regular meeting, the work being the First Degree. It was

truly a United Service Lodge, all the brethren with the exception of four, being in uniform In England he

visited Stanley Lodge, No. 1325, Liverpool, in which his father, Bro. D. Cowie, of Patea Kilwinning Lodge.

was initiated some forty-four years ago. It does not fall to the lot of many brethren to return to the Old Land

and have this privilege. Bro. Cowie received a true Masonic welcome. Owing to war conditions the Lodge

tyled at 5 p.m.

Lodge Patea Kil. initiated a candidate on June 14th and Bro. Mitchell gave an address in the refectory.

The Prov.G M., R.W. Bro. W. T. Simmons, had an unfortunate accident on June 10th. the day of the opening

of a new Chapter at Opunake. He was on the programme as one of the Consecrating Officers and also was to

have given the Address to the Officers. R. Ex. Comp. Dawson, of Whangarei, very ably acted as substitute.

On 3rd June, W. Bro. R. A. Bent, W.M., presiding, Bro. C. W. McGuinness, S.W., was installed Master of

Sir Donald McLean Lodge, No. 1646, E.C, by W. Bro. A. Chadwick, I.P.M. It was pleasing to see those

veteran P.Ms., W. Bros. W. T. Joll and H. Joll, the oldest Lodge members, taking part in the ceremony. R.W.

Bro J. W. Jack, Dist.G.M., and W. Bro. N. R. Bain, D.Dist.G.M., and officers of Dist. G Lodge, as well as

several Past Officers of the G. Lodge of N.Z., were present.

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HAWKES BAY NOTES.

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At the Installation Meeting of Rawhiti, No. 66, R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M. Ruapehu District, attended

and took an active part in the proceedings. Accompanying R.W. Bro. Nash were several Grand officers,

including the Grand Chaplain, V.W. Bro. S. H. Snell.

It is with deep regret we learn of the passing to the Grand Lodge above of W. Bro P. Ryan, of Bedford, No.

25. Our late Worshipful Brother took a very keen and active part in Masonic affairs and his passing will be

regretted by all. W. Bro. Ryan was a Past First Principal of Bedford Chapter and a member of Rose Croix.

The Installation Meeting of Victoria, No. 21, was held in the Masonic Hall on Tuesday, 6th June, when Bro.

J. B. Meachen was installed into the Chair of K.S. by the Prov. G.M., R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield, who was

accompanied by present and past Grand Officers.

We are pleased to report that Bros. J. Carmichael and Turtle, of Lodge Te Mata, No. 298, are out of hospital

and making satisfactory progress to normal health.

Bro. R. Spence is still confined to hospital, but brethren will be pleased to learn that he is making satisfactory

progress.

The Installation Meeting of Heretaunga, No. 73, is set down for July, and it is anticipated this will be well

attended.

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MANAWATU NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M. Ruapehu District, accompanied by many G L. Officers, has had quite a

busy month. In addition to conducting three Installations in this territory, they found time to attend the

Installation Meeting of Lodge Rawhiti, No. 66, Dannevirke.

On 22nd May Lodge Whanganui held its Installation, Bro. James Hutchinson, S.W., being installed by W.

Bro. C. W. Horn; P.G.St.B. The addresses were delivered as follows:—Master, R.W Bro. J. A. Nash;

Wardens, W. Bro. C. H. Robertson; Brethren, W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C. A large number of brethren

and visitors were present, and the members of Lodge Whanganui were, as usual, exceedingly generous in

their hospitality.

Bro. John Jamieson. S.W. of Lodge Manchester, No. 287, was installed as Worshipful Master on 30th May.

An exceptionally large number of brethren and visitors were present; in fact, it was one of the largest Boards

of Installed Masters your correspondent has seen. R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash was assisted by V.W. Bro. S. H.

Snell, G Chap., W. Bros. H. R. Thorburn, A.G.D.C., E. H. Brewer, P.A.G.D.C., H. Brooker. P.G B.B., W.

McKay, P.G.S., A. C. Buist, P.A.G.D.C., W. E. Carthew, P.G D.. and P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C. The Address

to the W.M. was given by W Bro. V. R. Lawrence. P.M., the Wardens were addressed by W. Bro. W. E.

Carthew, P.G.D., and the brethren by R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield. Prov.G.M. Hawkes Bay District The R.W.

Prov. G.M., Ruapehu, delivered a very fine address in his welcome speech to R.W. Bro. Hurdsfield, and it

was indeed a great pleasure to all those present to see two such eminent R.W. Brethren in attendance. It is

felt certain W. Bro. Jamieson will have a most enjoyable year of office, and, judging by the many

complimentary references to him, the same sentiments were professed by all those present.

The Ohakea Air Force Lodge. No. 309, held its Installation Meeting at the Masonic Temple, Church Street,

Palmerston, on Monday. 5th June. The Installing Master was R.W. Bro. J. A Nash. There was a large number

of brethren and visitors to do honour to Bro. Lancelot J. G. H. Baker, who was installed as Master. The

Address to the Master was delivered by W. Bro. W. A. Hampton, P.M., to the Wardens by W. Bro. Rev. F.

Hart, P.M., P G.S.B., I.C., and the brethren by V.W. Bro. W. A. Waters, P.G.Lect Amongst the other G.L.

officers taking part in the ceremony were W. Bros. H. R. Thorburn, A.G.D.C., W. P. Henderson, P.A.G.D C.,

H. Brooker, P.G.B.B., E. W. Sutton, G S., V.W. Bro. S. H. Snell, G. Chaplain, W. Carthew, P.G.D., A. C.

Buist, P.A.G.D C., P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C.

A thought has just struck the writer of these notes of the number of loyal and hard-working brethren and Past

Masters who have a very essential job to do at installations and have been giving this service year in and year

out for a long period, and are more or less taken for granted, yet what a difference there would be if these

particular stalwarts were unable to carry on their particular sobs. The brother one has in mind at the moment

is Bro. A. S. Guthrie, who is always there to act as Grand Trumpeter, a service he has rendered to the Lodges

throughout the Ruapehu district for many years past. "You never miss the water till the well runs dry" is an

old saying, and if by any chance Bro. Guthrie is not present at an installation, everyone immediately asks,

"Where's Stan?" There are others, too, who perform equally good service, and we never see their names in

print, and to all these other W. Brethren and Brethren your correspondent acknowledges your service and

sacrifice and offers you a big "Thank you" from the brethren in the district.

And now, to get on with the job, the writer will be very pleased if Lodge Secretaries would advise him of any

items of Masonic interest which can be included in these notes, and in particular I would like to receive

programmes of installation meetings or ordinary monthly notices, so that each lodge can be referred to in

these monthly notes. The address is L. Wood, 9 Kowhai Ave., Palmerston N.

————————

SOUTHLAND NOTES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The death at Invercargill on 30th May of R.W. Bro. Andrew Noble, Prov.G.M., came as a great blow to

members of the various units of the Craft throughout the Territory. Our late brother, who had been seriously

ill in Dunedin for several months, had made a slow but steady improvement, and had returned to his home in

Invercargill to recuperate when the call to the Grand Lodge above came with great suddenness.

On the day of the funeral, 1st June, a Lodge of Sorrow was held in the Masonic Temple, Invercargill, when

R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M., assisted by W. Bro. K. Smyth, I.P.M., and officers of Lodge St. John,

No. 94, presided over a large and representative attendance of Grand Lodge officers and members of Craft

Lodges throughout the Southland District. The Lodge of Sorrow being closed, brethren proceeded to the Leet

Street Methodist Church, where a short service was held prior to leaving for the Eastern Cemetery, where a

large assemblage of Freemasons and the general public paid their last sad tribute of respect. Grand Lodge

officers acted as pall-bearers at the graveside. The burial service was conducted by Bro. Rev. Greenslade, the

Masonic service being conducted by V.W. Bro. W. W. Powell, P.G.Chap. And so passed on a true friend, a

beloved brother, and an outstanding citizen.

R W. Bro. E. C. Smith, P.D.G.M., recently attended the Research Lodge of Otago, No. 161, and delivered an

interesting address entitled "Youth and Freemasonry."

R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M., has at the request of the Grand Master once again undertaken the duties

of Prov. Grand Master.

Ex. and Perf. Bro R. H. Waddell, M.W.Sov., Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, and his officers worked

the ceremony of Perfection at the recent quarterly meeting in a most dignified and impressive manner.

W. Bro. L. Foster and Past Masters of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, conducted the ceremony of "raising" at the

regular meeting last month. W. Bro. A. Scott, P.G.B.B., will be installed Master of this Lodge on 17th July.

V. Ex. Comp. W. R. Allen, T.I.M . and officers initiated a well-known member of Southern Cross Royal

Arch Chapter, No. 3, at the quarterly meeting, held on 21st June.

The Installation of Bro. D. J. Robertson as Master of Lodge Fortitude, No. 64, and the investiture of officers

was held on 17th June, in the presence of a large attendance of members and visitors. The Installing Officer

was R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, Prov.G.M., who was assisted by W. Bro. H. Paterson, A.G.D.C., R W. Bro. F. A.

Steans, Act.G.Chap., R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M. R.W. Bro. E.

C. Smith, P.D.G.M., addressed the brethren. The junior officers were invested by V.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell,

P.G.D.C., W. Bros. J. A. Cushen, H. J. J. Pierce. P.A.G.D.Cs., Jas. Stobo, P G.St.B., and G. M. Turnbull,

P.A.G.D.C.

Bro. J. T Bath, who has acted as chairman of the Combined Social Committee with marked distinction for a

number of years, has relinquished this office in favour of Bro. Haider.

T.I.M. and officers of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3, will work the degrees peculiar to this beautiful

unit in Masonry at a meeting to be held at Gore on July 8th.

Sympathies are extended to W. Bro. N. J. Brokenshire, P.M. Lodge Victoria, No. 147, in the death of his

wife. The widow of the late Bro. R. Roscow, of Lodge St. John, No. 94, also recently "passed on." Both in

their own particular spheres of activity contributed much to the well-being of the community.

Ex. Comp. F. J. Logan, W. M. Master, and officers conducted the ceremony of Advancement at the June

meeting of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3. V. Ex. Comp. B. J. Perkins, Z., and officers of this

Chapter paid an official visit to Wallace R.A. Chapter on 24th June, and worked the Royal Arch Degree.

R.Ex. Comp. G. H. Brown, Grand Supt., was present at this meeting, with several Grand officers,

The Installation of Master of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, in June, was carried out in a masterly manner by

the "veteran" member, R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M. (86 years of age), ably assisted by W. Bro. H. J. J.

Pierce, G.D.C., V.W. Bro. C. N. Cathie, Pres. Board of Gen. Purposes, was present at this meeting and

addressed the members at the festive board proceedings.

R.W. Bros. G. J. Yule, Prov.G.M., and Alex. Derbie, Chairman of Directors, Invercargill Freemasons' Hall

Co., attended the weekly function of the Combined Social Committee on 10th June and paid tribute to the

worth of the late W. Bro. Ed. Jackson, who had assisted at these dances for many years past.

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OTAGO NOTES.

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The Otago District has suffered another severe loss, and a further depletion of Grand Lodge officers, in the

passing of R.W. Bro. J. H. Moir, P.Dep.G.M., during the month. Our brother went to his long rest quietly in

his sleep, without any previous indication of ill-health. He attended Service Lodge, No. 237, the same night,

and his sudden death was a shock to the brethren. Further references to Bro. Moir's services to the Craft are

given elsewhere in this issue. This is the eighth G.L. officer to leave us during as many months, and the

ranks locally are thinning out considerably.

A great deal of interest is being taken in the nominations for Grand offices allotted to Otago District at the

end of this year, when the administrative section sets up for the next two years, and the Prov.G.M. will have

no light task in selecting his team from the talent offering. To enable the Pres. B. of Benevolence to meet the

Masters of Lodges the meeting of the Masters' Association called for 29th June has been postponed to July,

when the Prov.G.M. desires a full attendance of Lodge representatives.

The Prov.G.M. (R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes) was well supported for the Installation of Koputai Lodge, No. 239,

at Port Chalmers, and although the winter weather was not kind, a very successful ceremony was carried out.

Maori Lodge, No. 105, was officially visited by Waverley Lodge, No. 226, recently, the occasion being the

"passing" of two brethren, one of whom was the blood brother of the W. Master of the latter Lodge. Maori

Lodge is having a busy time at present, the calibre of candidates offering indicating prosperity for the Lodge.

A move is on foot to form a new Lodge in Dunedin from the great number of unattached brethren, who for

many and various reasons have not linked up with a Lodge in this city. A preliminary meeting accepted the

idea in principle, and a further meeting has been called to decide whether to go ahead with the proposal or

not.

R.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, P.Dep.G.M., gave a very interesting and instructive address at the recent meeting a

Research Lodge of Otago, No. 161, on "Youth and Freemasonry," which address it is hoped to repeat in the

"Craftsman" at an early date.

On the 17th May the Third Degree was worked by Lodge Oamaru Kilwinning, No. 82, with W. Bro. G.

Puttick in the chair. An unusual visit was made to the Lodge by Lodge St. Augustine, No. 99, from Waimate,

mainly to do honour to W. Bro. H. C. Cameron on his first official visit as W.M. of Lodge of Waitaki, No.

11. Lodge St. Augustine is the mother Lodge of W. Bro. Cameron, and the brethren of this Lodge were

unable to attend his Installation as they meet on the same night.

Lodge Oamaru, No. 260, worked the Third Degree on 7th June, when the work was performed by the Past

Masters, with W. Bro. Watts in the chair. There were several visitors, among them being Bro. the Rev. S. J.

Cooper. P.G.C. This Rev. Bro. is the vicar of St. Luke's, Oamaru, succeeding Bro. Rev. Archdeacon J. D.

Russell, P.G.C. Bro. Cooper, in acknowledging the Visitors' Toast in the refectory, gave probably the

shortest reply on record, following the D.C.'s request for brevity. Referring to Bro. Russell's farewell a

month or two ago, an amusing incident occurred when he was presented by Lodge of Waitaki with a

travelling rug. A condition was imposed that he would not give this gift away, as this Rev. Bro. is well

known for his generosity. He accepted the condition, but naively added "unless of course he came across a

desperate case of poverty."

At the meeting of Lodge Waitaki, No. 11, on 14th June, W. Bro. H. C. Cameron was in the chair for the first

time and the Third Degree was worked. Some officers who were absent at the Installation were also invested

by W. Bro. H. S. Cox, P.G.S., and W. Bro. G. Puttick, G.S. Waitaki Kilwinning R.A. Chapter, No. 8, at its

meeting on 24th May worked the Excellent Degree.

A Council of Red Cross Knights and Royal Ark Mariner's Lodge was held on 31st May, under R.A. Chapter,

No. 8, when M.E. Chief Sir Knight H. J. Jenkins conferred the degrees on two Companions.

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MID-CANTERBURY NOTES.

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At the meeting of Thistle Lodge held on 21st June a double Third Degree was worked, the candidates being

two local police constables, when representatives of the police force attended from as far as Southbridge in

the North to Timaru in the South.

The usual large attendance was at Thistle meeting, and the Master, W. Bro. Dick Carter, and his officers

acquitted themselves in the usual Thistle manner.

Matters in connection with the Group Meeting are practically completed, and it is expected that a large

number will be in attendance at South Rakaia Lodge on Saturday, 29th July.

V.W. Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn, G.Lect., is giving an address at the meeting of the Group.

Our sister Group in North Canterbury is preparing for a big gathering at Mairaki Lodge in Cust on Saturday,

5th August, and Mr. Bro. Hugh Billens, in his own words, is "getting up steam" for the meeting.

Both Groups were represented at the meeting of United Forces Lodge in Christchurch on the occasion of

their annual reunion for men of the Forces.

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CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.

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At the meeting of the Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge. No. 130, in May last, a paper was read by W. Bro.

M. J. Barnett, Master Lodge Ionic, No. 212, on "Some Biblical Plants associated with Freemasonry." This

paper proved of absorbing interest arid was much appreciated by the large number of brethren present.

The Installation Meeting of Lodge Concord. No. 39, Papanui, was held in May last, when there was a large

attendance of members and visitors. The Master-elect, Bro. Ernest Wilson, was installed by R.W. Bro. C. S.

Thompson, Prov.G.M., who conducted the ceremony, assisted by officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of

Canterbury. Grand Lodge was represented by R.W.Bro. J. N. Du Feu, Past Deputy G.M., and the District

Grand Lodge by R.W. Bro. J. E. Purchase, District G.M.

Prince of Wales R.A. Chapter, No. 31, held its bi-monthly meeting on 21st June, which was the First

Principal's last night in the chair. V.E. Comp. E. H. B. Pearcy. Z., conducted the ceremony of Exaltation, and

the Mystical Lecture was given by V.E. Comp. Dr. J. D. Marks, P.Z. There was a good attendance of

Companions of Prince of Wales and sister Chapters.

Doric Lodge, No. 275, Sydenham, held its Installation meeting in June, when Bro. George E. Naylor was

installed as Master. There was a large attendance, including the father of the newly-installed Master. R.W.

Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov.G.M., conducted the ceremony, assisted by officers of Provincial Grand Lodge.

Grand Lodge was represented by R.W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu, Past Deputy G.M.

Lodge Riccarton, No. 276. held its monthly meeting on June 20th, when a Second Degree was worked by the

W.M , W. Bro. R. T. Sladen. There was a good attendance of members and visitors.

Lodge Shirley, No. 263, held its Installation meeting in May, when the Master-elect. Bro. E. R. McDonald,

was installed in the Chair by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov. G M. The officers of Provincial Grand Lodge

assisted in the ceremony, and R.W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu. Past Deputy G.M., represented Grand Lodge.

In May last the Excelsior Rose Croix Chapter, No. 78, held its quarterly meeting. E. and P. Bro. J. F. Justice,

M.W.S., occupied the Chair and conducted the ceremony of Perfection. There was a good attendance of both

Excelsior and Beckett Chapters. This was the M.W.S.'s last night in the Chair.

In March last the Royal Canterbury Preceptory of K's.T. held its quarterly meeting, the Eminent Preceptor,

E.Kt. Dr. Ross Hepburn being in the Chair. This was the Eminent Preceptor's last night in the Chair, and the

Installation will be held in July.

The St. Augustine Cryptic Council, No. 1. held its quarterly meeting in May last, when the Thrice Illustrious

Master, T. I. Comp. Dr. Ross Hepburn, conferred the Degree of Royal Master. Subsequently the T.I.M.-

Elect, Ill. Comp. F. N. Kerr, Grand Superintendent of Canterbury was installed as Thrice Illustrious Master

by T.I. Comp. J. A. Stables. P.T.LM. Cryptic Masonry continues to flourish in Christchurch and the

membership of St. Augustine's Council is increasing each year.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

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The big attraction in our Group is the Annual Conference and Reunion of the Waimakariri-Hurunui Group

meeting.

This year we will once again impose on the generosity of Ashley Lodge and hold the meeting in their

spacious temple and cosy refectory, under the direction of Mairaki Lodge. We are not centralising our group.

it is only a wartime measure, and we hope to be on the move next year.

This year Mairaki will be doing the catering and the heavy work, and it is hoped that all their Lodge

members will roll along and help us entertain and feed our visitors. Ashley, as usual, will help us in every

way they can, and with their super heating and lighting systems, brightness and warmth are assured. All we

want is a good crowd to attend and help us have a useful night, full of Masonry and pleasure, which in these

times is needed to put sunshine into the dark days and the sad times some of our members are passing

through. Therefore every Lodge in our group is asked to pull its weight and our city Masters are asked to

keep the date in their minds—Saturday, August 5th, 1944. in Ashley Lodge, Rangiora. The Group Masters

will meet at 7 p.m. and visitors will be admitted at 7.30 p.m.

Transport is left to the brethren to do the best they can, so please make own arrangements. One of our

troubles these times is transport, and now that the, train services are curtailed it makes it more difficult; but if

we can get all the Lodges congregated together on Saturday, 5th August, it means that visitors can come and

meet our Masters on the one night, and that will ease the "pressure on the petrol" and coal, and also give our

group a chance to meet you and entertain you.

We hope to have some good entertainers, including the Smiths and Hancox, also Lawry Campbell and Perce

Skinner and other star artists, and our group organist and pianist, W. Bro. Earl Wright hopes to be present.

Provincial Grand Lodge and Grand Lodge should attend in strong force, because they are so interested in our

meetings. The Mid-Canterbury Group are specially invited. We hope to send a carload down to Rakaia to the

Mid-Canterbury Group meeting.

W. Bros. Bathurst and Billens, the publicity agents of the Mid-Canterbury and North Waimak.-Hurunui

Groups, are full of Group business at present.

We congratulate W. Bro. Ernie Bathurst, who is now the Mayor of Ashburton, and he will do a good job of

work in that important office.

All the Lodges in our Group are getting work to do and welcome visitors

The Group has suffered two severe losses in the call away of W. Bro. Harry Talbot, of Mairaki Lodge, and

Bro. Percy Morse, of Amuri.

The Amuri Lodge staged a real good Past Masters' night and passed a brother for Thistle Lodge, and they did

the job very nicely and right up to Amuri standard.

The chair was occupied by W. Bro. Bruce Henderson. Prov.G.W., and he was assisted by W. Bros. J.

Gallilee, F. David, E. Macdonald, Ewart, Wright, Donald Manson. J. .1. Gallagher. James, Boag Peter

Dunbar, and several others. W. Bro. H. R. Davison was not able to attend, but he is home again and feeling

better after his severe accident.

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NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

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Throughout the Territory regular meetings have been held by all Lodges during the past month. Reports to

hand clearly indicate that attendances have been well maintained, and each meeting has marked per medium

of "Initiation," "Passing," or "Raising," a steady and progressive increase in Masonic membership and

qualifications.

The Provincial and Asst.Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Baird and V.W. Bro. Mogridge, have attended many

meetings, both officially and unofficially, their presence always contributing towards the success of the

functions.

W. Bro. J. G Wilkinson, member of the Board of Benevolence, attended the May meeting of the Board, held

in Wellington.

The Calendar Cards issued by the Prov. G.M. to all brethren in the Territory, through their respective

Lodges, have been acknowledged with a general appreciation of their value.

Lodge Forest paid an official visit to Lodge Motueka on 24th May, when a candidate was initiated. The Prov.

G.M. was in attendance, also the W.M. of Lodge Nelson. On behalf of the Lodge, W. Bro. Budden,

P.G.B.B., presented to W. Bro. Shaw Thomson, P.A.G.D.C., Regalia donated by the Lodge members.

Lodge Waitohi, at its meeting on 25th May. received an official visit from Wairau Lodge, headed by W.

Bros. Palk and Vercoe, and one of their members was "raised" to the Third Degree,

Lodge Wairau held its regular meeting on 23rd May, when there was a record attendance, over twenty

Lodges being represented. A member of the Air Force was initiated, and the attendance included a large

percentage of the Brethren in Blue.

Waimea Lodge, at its regular meeting, held 7th June, "raised" a member, and it has two other members

awaiting advancement.

Golden Bay Lodge brethren are looking forward to the official visit to be paid to Southern Star on 24th June.

This return visit will be a special event for the members of the E C., and no doubt Southern Star will have

many visitors for the occasion.

The regular meeting of Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity held 13th June was well attended, two candidates

being initiated. Bro. Tingey. of Wellington, and W. Bro. Bishop, of Victory Lodge, Nelson, contributed very

acceptable items in the refectory, whilst the new Master of the Ohaka Air Force Lodge gave a very

interesting review of his Lodge. An official visit to Havelock Lodge was made on 17th June, and Saturday,

22nd July, has been reserved for the Annual Ladies' Evening,

A regular meeting of the Marlborough Rose Croix Chapter No. 206 was held on 6th June and passed off in

the best spirit, the proceedings being carried out in the usual exemplary manner.

The Installation Ceremony of the Nelson Sovereign Chapter of Princes' Rose Croix, No. 35, S.C., held 19th

June, marked the 26th anniversary. There was a large attendance, including members of the Marlborough

Chapter, and Ex. and P. Bro. Percy Webley was duly installed as M.W.S.