ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

SK and ye "shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you." These in-

junctions are familiar to the Freemason, in spirit at all events, from the moment of his first

association with the Craft, and even before that moment. He knows before he joins us that he must take that

initial step freely and voluntarily, "unbiassed by the improper solicitation of friends against his own

inclination." Very soon too he appreciates the significance of the last of these three injunctions, when he

observes the procedure by which our carefully guarded portals are opened to receive him. But what of the

remaining injunction: Ask and ye shall receive? What has a brother the right to ask from the Craft, and what

to receive?

In the first place, there is a full Measure of agreement that he is not entitled to ask or receive any worldly or

mercenary profit or advantage whatever, direct or indirect. He comes to us expressly "uninfluenced by

mercenary or other unworthy motive," and prompted by "a sincere wish to render himself more extensively

serviceable to his fellow-creatures." There is a lot of talk at the present time of service before self, service

rather than profit, and the like. These are noble and worthy ideals; but they are not novel, for the craft has

been teaching and practising them for centuries.

In Masonic life as we find it day by day, deviations from this principle are seldom if ever to be found. Very

few brethren, if any, we are convinced, join the Craft with any idea of material gain. Later in life, perhaps.

many of us might be hard put to it to say with exactitude what motives and causes actually brought us into

the light of Freemasonry: but the money-making or acquisitive instinct was certainly not among them. The

acquisitive instinct, though not usually ranking high among human attributes, is perhaps all right in its proper

sphere; but that sphere is certainly not the Craft.

Practically none of our brethren enter the Craft, or remain within its scope, for mercenary reasons, and

indeed it is astonishing how little attempt is made to employ Freemasonry for private advantage in any

manner whatever. This is partly due to the rigid observance of members generally. all through their Masonic

life, of the altruistic Masonic attitude so vividly impressed in the ceremony of initiation, partly to the

carefully selective process by which only high-grade men are admitted as initiates, and partly to the general

effect of Masonic teaching in promoting altruism in both theory and practice.

It is made clear to brethren when they join us that they may be called on to give, but that they will have no

right to receive, as far as monetary benefits are concerned. It is true that brethren who fall on evil days, and

their dependants, are taken care of by the Order, and it is also true that opinion throughout the Craft is

strongly in favour of the active practice of Masonic charity as it has been practised from time immemorial.

Charity is a definite Masonic virtue. It is not however a landmark of the Order. Indeed, no Lodge would

willingly admit .to membership a man who, it considered, would become dependent upon its charity.

Charity, important though it is, is only an ancillary consequence of relationships arising out of a system of

morals based on the ideas of the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man.

A member of the Order then cannot look to it for material gain or advancement, but he can look to it for cer-

tain intangible advantages, social. Intellectual, moral and spiritual, which are much more important than

worldly gain. By social advantages we do not refer to advancement in society, so-called, in the snobbish

sense of the word. Such considerations are totally irrelevant to the ideals of an Order wherein all men are

equal, meeting on the L— and parting on the S—. A brother can, however, expect from us valuable social

contacts, in the form of association with others of similar tastes, ideals and outlook.

As man is essentially a social animal, the environment furnished by Craft life, both inside the Lodge and at

the Festive Board, can be of the greatest value as a mental and social stimulant. Man cannot live a normal

life without social contacts, either sympathetic or antagonistic. The Craft furnishes a sympathetic

environment, with sufficient variation of outlook, temperament and occupation to be stimulating. Social

"A

contacts can either elevate or degrade, they can refine or debase. The immense value of Craft intercourse in

this direction is so frequently taken for granted that it fails to be appreciated at its true worth.

Apart from the value of its social contacts, Freemasonry can and does reward its members richly in their

mental life. On his initiation the candidate affirms that he is actuated by "a general desire of knowledge;" and

in the final charge of the First Degree he is enjoined not only "to endeavour to make a daily advancement in

masonic knowledge." but also to extend his search for knowledge into a wider sphere. This injunction is

repeated in the Final Charge in the Second Degree, which is mainly devoted to a symbolic exposition of the

importance of the liberal arts and sciences. While many brethren perhaps pay lip-service only to these

symbols of the intellectual side of life, the Craft does continuoussly uphold in the minds of its members the

importance of the things of the mind. Not only that, Masonry provides ample opportunities for those desiring

to extend their Masonic knowledge; while the work of the Lodges, and especially of the officers, is highly

stimulative of mental activity.

Morally and spiritually, however, the Craft has its richest gifts to offer. It will not tell a brother what church

he should attend, or what political party he should support; but it will impress upon him the basic moral

principles that underlie all useful effort in the higher fields of community life. It will teach him the value of

candour in a world full of insincerity, and of fortitude in a world lacking in moral courage. Above all, it will

teach him the urgent need and high importance of altruism and toleration in a sorely stricken world from

which these characteristic masonic virtues seem, for the time being, to have largely disappeared.

————————

"Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof" may well be said also of the good. The great leaders, religious

and otherwise, in civilisation throughout the ages have been the good sufficient unto their day, respectively.

Each was "the man of the hour" for the time and place and the people. But "time makes ancient good

uncouth," and civilisation progresses. Leaders come and go, and people follow and grow. The next in time

and place does the like, and so man climbs towards the heights upon the corpses of the leaders.

————————

"THE GOLDEN FLEECE AND ROMAN EAGLE"

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

" . . . more ancient than the Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle, more honourable than

the Star and Garter, or any other Order."

Just what was the Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle? And what are the Star and Garter? Thousands of the

members of the Craft repeat the words of the ritual with little thought of what they mean except that the

former were "ancient" and the latter "most honourable."

And the supposition is doubtless true, with probably some exceptions and explanations. There is some argu-

ment among our historians as to whether the Fleece referred to the Argonautic expedition in search of the

Golden Fleece, in which the mythical Jason played an important part, or whether the reference was to a

decoration of honour which appeared at a much later date. Coming, as it does, in its relationship with the

Roman Eagle, we are inclined to the belief that the reference is to traditions connected with ancient Greece

and Rome rather than to the later Order of the Fleece, which was established during the fourteenth century.

The Golden Fleece was the skin of a magical ram that had saved two children from death: it was said to be

located in a faraway land overseas, and protected by a fiery dragon. Its capture was supposed to have been

the most difficult and dangerous task that one could undertake, But Jason did the job, secured the Fleece, and

married Medea, daughter of King Pelias.

As for the Eagle—it has always been the symbol of antiquity; in most countries of the ancient world it was a

sacred emblem, symbolic of the sun, therefore a symbol of majesty and power. The Eagle is one of those

emblems found in many Masonic degrees. We have the double-headed eagle, Knight of the Eagle, Knight of

the Golden Fleece, the Red Eagle, the Red and Black Eagle, and even Knight of the American Eagle. The

Holy Roman Empire employed the double-headed eagle, later copied by Germany, Poland, and probably

other nations as a part of their heraldic design. Roman armies carried at their head various standards,

including long poles upon, which were placed this heraldic device, and in this way the Roman Eagles were

known to the then civilised world.

So much for the Grecian-Roman theories of origin. Now let us turn to the modern interpretation.

There is an "Order of the Golden Fleece." It is an Austro-Hungarian order, but there also exists a similar

order in Spain. It was founded by Philip le Bon, Duke of Burgundy and Count of Holland, January 10, 1429-

30, the day of his marriage to Princess Isabella of Portugal. Then it was called "Order of the Fleece" and

consisted of thirty-one members and the Grand Master, who was always the sovereign. Requisite was that

the recipient of the honour should be a gentleman-at-arms and without reproach.

The Pope always seemed to preserve a beneficent control over the order—and probably still does. As early

as 1516 Pope Leo X consented to an increase in the number of members, including the sovereign, to fifty-

two.

The Spanish-Dutch line of the House of Austria exercised control after Charles V came to the throne in 1556.

but in 1700 Emperor Charles VI and Philip V of Anjou. King of Spain, both made claims to it. Charles had

once lived in Spain, and when he went to Austria he took the archives of the Order with him. But Philip

declared himself as Grand Master and on one occasion made formal protest at the manner in which Emperor

Charles had taken over. The dispute became so strong that England, France and Holland intervened to

preserve harmony between the -sovereigns. Finally, it became tacitly recognised as the property of both

nations, and is now recognised as either the Austrian Order or the Spanish Order of the Golden Fleece.

The sovereign, under their regulations, has the right to name any number of knights not exceeding the pre-

scribed number; they are selected from the Catholic nobility: there are a few instances in which a Protestant

has been so honoured, but this requires a Papal sanction, which is not always forthcoming. Members are

required to go to the aid of their sovereign when he is in danger, a requirement that at the present day may be

honoured more in the breach than in the observance.

, A well-known writer says of its traditional origin :—

The Greek fable served Philip le Bon as a subject for the institution of this Order; and that the prince chose

the Golden Fleece of the Argonauts, because it typically commemorated the great revenue which he raised

by traffic and merchandising of wools. Another supposition attributes the Order to the prince's attachment to

a Lady of Bruges; while the writer is in favour of the religious origin, or that the duke instituted the Order in

honour of Gideon. But the letters patent make it clear that it was founded in honour of Isabella of Portugal

and dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the Apostle St. Andrew.

The first chapter of the Order was held in Flanders in 1430, we are told, at which time several nobles were

admitted. The badge is of gold, a ram's fleece being suspended by the middle from a firestone emitting lateral

flames, and again dependent from a steel enameled azure, bearing the legend: "Pretium laborum non vile."

There is a collar which is also worn by the knight; it is composed of alternate firestone, enflamme, and

double steels connected so as to form the letters "BB" for Bourgoyne. They were enjoined to wear the collar

constantly, but Charles V permitted a red ribbon except on official occasions. Worn also was a surcoat of

deep red velvet, lined with white taffeta, and a purple velvet mantel, with a white border and lined with white

satin, embroidered in gold with steels and firestones or flints. On the narrow white border the legend was

continuously repeated, "Je l'ay empris. " The cap was of purple velvet embroidered in gold with a small hood

attached, and the stockings were deep red, as were the shoes.

The knight was certainly dressed to go places in this garb!

Unquestionably the most distinguished of the Orders of Chivalry is that of "The Most Noble Order of the

Garter." conferred only in England and upon men who have merited the highest distinction of the Empire. It

ranks first among the English Orders of Nobility for its antiquity and the splendour of its trappings and cere-

monies.

It was founded by King Edward III, and the events which gave rise to its institution have been debatable

ones. Its distinguishing badge is not a badge or a medal, a collar or a sash, but a Garter. Ashmole, an English

authority, says the design was conceived in 1344 in imitation of the Round Table, with the idea of adorning

martial prowess. The actual date of origin is January 19, 1334, when the Order was said to have been placed

under the special protection of "God, the Virgin Mary, St. George of Cappadocia and St. Edward the

Confessor." With such protection the Order was bound to grow, and it did. There is perfect equality in the

Order, for it has but one class of membership; however, the king or sovereign of the Empire is always the

sovereign or head of the Order. As in the case of the Golden Fleece, to be admitted, one must be "a

gentleman of the blood and a knight without reproach." Knights companions are twenty-six in number,

exclusive of the sovereign, and wear the Mantle and Garter. Annually, on the eve of St. George's Day, they

assemble in the Chapel at Windsor Castle, where each has a stall. A chapter of the Order consists of the

sovereign and six knights. The original list of charter members was a distinguished one.

The Constitution has been altered on at least one occasion, when George III in 1805 fixed the membership at

twenty-five and the sovereign, exclusive of foreigners, and lineal descendants of George II. Later on,

provision was made for the admission of sovereigns and extra knights.

The badge is the Garter of dark blue, edged with gold, bearing the motto in golden letters, "Honi soit qui mal

y pense," with buckle and pendant of chased gold. It is worn on the left leg below the knee. The "George" is

an equestrian effigy of St. George encountering the dragon; it is in gold and is worn attached to the collar,

while a lesser "George" is pendant from a dark blue ribbon over the left shoulder at the left side. The collar is

of gold, of twenty-six pieces, alternately a double golden knot and a red and white enamelled heraldic rose,

each within a garter, lettered gold, and enameled azure. A knight also wears a Star of eight principal silvered

rays, charged in the centre with the Cross of St. George, encircled by the Garter.

Clothing consists of a dark blue velvet mantle lined with white taffeta. The hood is of crimson velvet, lined

with white taffeta. The doublet and the trunk hose are of white satin, and there are white stockings and shoes.

The hat is black velvet lined with white taffeta; a plume of white ostrich feathers with a tuft of black heron's

feathers is, in the centre, attached to the hat by a band of diamonds.

And this is the Order referred to in our Masonic ritual as "More honourable than the Star and Garter."

—"The Masonic Craftsman."

————————

THE POINT WITHIN THE CIRCLE.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(By Bro. S. H. Shepherd.)

————

Nearly all Masons know the significance of the point within the circle as given by the present-day ritualists,

but the average Mason does not know that it meant something different to people of antiquity, when it was

first used as a symbol. Its use neither with or without the parallel lines goes back to the ancient Hindus,

Egyptians and Greeks. There is difference of opinion regarding the origin of many symbols and to whether

the Egyptians borrowed from the Hindus or the reverse. It is also possible that neither borrowed. The fact

that they were found among the ancient races of about the same stage of culture would seem to indicate a

unity of thought in the human mind, and that their common environment had suggested the same symbol to

express the same thought. The symbol represents the sun, and it was probable that the observation of the

greatest agent in all nature was one of the first things that man began to seriously contemplate when he began

to ask why about abstract problems. The ancient world deified the forces of nature as they understood them,

and this symbol represented to them the supremest things they knew—the Lord of Light and Heat and Life.

Among the Hindus the point represented Deity, the circle the outermost rim of His influence, or the universe.

The point was composed of a sacred syllable of three letters placed in triangular form, which were

sometimes referred to as the sacred letters, "A.U.M."; and to show the reverence in which it was held by

them it was never , spoken except with the hand covering the mouth to modify the inflection.

With the Egyptians the point was placed between the first and last letters of their alphabet and denoted the

beginning and ending, or perhaps, more correctly, that there was neither beginning or ending, which they

indicated by the circle. They also combined the circle with the cross in a symbol known as the "Crux

Ansata," or Egyptian Cross, which was often carried before the rulers in State processions, and particularly

before the dead on funeral occasions, and at such times it was referred to as the "Sceptre of the lord of the

dead that never die," thus indicating a belief in a state of existence after physical death, and the practical

equivalent of the more modern saying, "Though I were dead, yet will I live."

In the earliest times the Egyptians represented the circle and parallel lines by their sacred serpent, which

signified time; or by three serpents, one in the form of a circle, or with his tail in his mouth, which they

called "ananta" (meaning eternity); this serpent circle was supported by the other two, erect as pillars on

either side; the one on the right hand was called wisdom, and that on the left hand was called power,

symbolising the power and wisdom of the Creator. In the "Crux Ansata" the cross signified life and the circle

signified eternity; together teaching "life for eternity," which we must concede was a very eloquent

symbolism for that early age.

Among the sun worshippers common to all of the early races, the point within the circle represented the

phallus, and was the greatest symbol of phallic worship. Food was the vital necessity—famine was common

and the rigor of their necessities induced them to revere the generative or vitalising, or perhaps, more

properly, the fecundating principle in nature. In the early legend, Phallus, the male principle (represented by

a column), was said to have been floated (borne up) by Lunette, the female principle (in the form of a

shallow bowl or saucer), "through a great deluge, and thereby became the seed of a new race." Among many

of the ancient peoples this figure of saving the principle of life by floating it over a great deluge to preserve

the seed of the races was very common.

In astronomical works the point within the circle has been used for centuries, and is still used to represent the

sun.

An early ritual, now put out of use, used this symbol as representing the circumambulation; the point was the

altar and the circle the course of the neophyte around it, and the parallel lines were the brethren.

Remains of circular temples have been found in all countries, from India to England, and many of those of

India compare favourably with the ones found in more artistic Greece. All the monuments of the Druids are

circular in shape, with a stone erected like an altar in the centre. Druidic temples were built for out of door

worship, usually near a great oak tree, and on high ground. In many instances they consisted of a circle of

great stones, with a larger or taller stone in the centre; occasionally there was a circular wall of loose stones

with a flat stone supported by rough stones at the corners. They were always of rough or unhewn stones, as

they held that "they must not be polluted by a metal tool"! (See Ex. 20:25.)

The Druids were in many ways like Masons in organisation; there was an Arch-Druid, corresponding to a

Grand Master; there were three degrees or grades in their ritual; their rites were communicated by mouth to

ear, and there was a general assembly, which met four times a year at the solstitial and equinoxial periods,

identical with the practice of the early Grand Lodge, and also the practice of several Grand Lodges of our

time. The circle represented the holy place, or sacred ground, and the central stone was a shrine; the covering

was the "clouded canopy"; they holding that it was profanation to worship with a roof between themselves

and the Omnipotent.

The meaning of all these ancient practices harks back to the sun worship of the ancients; not that they

worshipped either the sun, or phallus, or other symbol as an idol; but they saw not so clearly the Creator as

the created, and the created symbolised for them the Creator. All symbolism is an effort to more perfectly

visualise the great force, or power, or spirit back of it. In the Phallic mysteries there was no impure or

lascivious thought, but only the vitalising, fecundating power that had the meaning of life or death to them

and to all living things. In the sun or nature worship, the orb that gave them light and heat, and without

which there could be no life, they found something which suggested the more permanent life—a life that

should outrun all of this death and decay. How constant nature always is, and how like a benediction this

idea of immortality, even as represented in this symbol, has hung like a talisman upon the breast of hopeful

humanity. No time is so remote, no condition so savage that it failed to ignite at the touch of the Divine spark

and to flame up into a sustaining hope of a future state—a state in which the inequalities of this world will be

righted. Time and space cannot be comprehended by the human mind—but this symbol helps in our

endeavour.—"Masonic Tidings."

————————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

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

————

QUEBEC-1943.

94 Lodges, 13,565 members, a gain of 102.

73rd Annual Communication held at Montreal, 13th October, M.W. Bro. W. Carswell, G.M., presiding.

In the course of a reference to repeated suggestions during the past few years that the Masonic Order should

widen its scope and take a larger place in public affairs, the G.M. said: "It must be recognised that the

Masonic Order is in the last analysis a philosophy of life, and likely to appeal to the few rather than to the

many. Its contribution to the field of public service must necessarily be indirect rather than direct. Members

of the Order, as individuals, take a foremost place in positions of State, church, and those institutions

organised for the alleviation of suffering or the improvement of the status of humanity. The active efforts put

forward by members of the Craft in these directions carries with it an influence very much out of proportion

to the number contributing.

"There has been the feeling in certain quarters that the Order is getting out of date. The principles upon

which the Order rests are eternal and will never be out of date. As the members of the Order become more

conscious of the extent of their responsibility to carry out to the fullest extent the principles and teachings of

the Order, will their influence be felt both in their own community and in the country at large. Thus will they

truly help Masonry to fulfil its high destiny in the advance of civilisation."

The G.M.'s address was followed by an address by the Grand Chaplain, R.W. Bro. Rev. Arthur E. Coleman.

There were 445 initiations during the year, 53 affiliations and 58 restorations, while the deaths numbered

263, withdrawals 72, and suspensions 119.

Reports from the District Deputy G.Ms. occupy 22 pages.

In the course of a report on "Conservation of Human Resources" the Permanent Committee said:—"Based on

a survey of the Lodges in this Jurisdiction, which demonstrates that the larger Lodges experience the greater

percentage of loss by suspensions and demits, we believe it would be advisable to recommend that

membership should not increase unduly, and when a Lodge reaches a reasonable membership, then a new

Lodge should be formed. We feel that by so doing many more members could hold office, and thereby be

more interested and responsible for the success of the Lodge. Further, we believe that a Lodge membership

of 150, or less, enables the members to become more intimately acquainted and close friendships formed as a

logical foundation for a successful Lodge."

Thirteen brethren qualified for Veterans' Medals (50 years).

The Committee on Benevolence and Charity voted $1,725 to 12 applicants for assistance, and a donation of

$2.500 was made to the Canadian Red Cross Society.

Payments amounting to $500 were made for the maintenance of Masonic beds in various hospitals.

It was resolved to remit Grand Lodges in respect of brethren on "active service" in all cases where the

Lodges remitted all payment.

Owing to illness, the new Reviewer, M.W. Bro. J. D. McFadyen. P.G.M., was able to review the proceedings

of only half of the Grand Lodges, and New Zealand was not among them.

Grand Master:—M.W. Bro. W. Carswell. Montreal.

Grand Secretary: M.W. Bro. W. W. Williamson, P.G.M., Montreal.

Grand Representative of N.Z.:—W. Bro. John C. Mace, Brockville,

Grand Representative at N.Z.:—R.W. Bro, Thos. H. Williams, P.G.W., Christchurch.

————

IRELAND-1943.

No. of Lodges and members not shown.

St. John's Day Meeting, R.W. Bro. Raymond F. Brooke, Deputy G.M., presiding.

An occasional meeting of the Grand Lodge was held on September 17th to welcome and greet the Grand

Master, who had not been present at Grand Lodge for five years.

In concluding his address, the G.M. mentioned a fact known to some of them—that he had lost his Masonic

certificates—but he had got a Certificate appointing him Representative of the G.L. of England there, and he

hoped it would be sufficient in any case of difficulty in Ireland that he was a Mason in fairly good standing.

The Deputy G.M. described the meeting as the greatest gathering of Irish Freemasons that there had ever

been.

Among the deaths reported was that of R.W. Bro. Sir Charles B. Barrington, Bart., who was initiated in

1874, installed as W.M. in 1881, and was Provincial Grand Master of North Munster for nearly fifty years,

when he retired in 1942; dying at the age of 95.

Three new Warrants were issued during the year. £100 was voted to assist the brethren of Malta to re-rebuild

their Hall.

There were 106 pupils in the Masonic Female Orphan School and 106 in the Masonic Orphan Boys' School.

Annuities paid from the Victoria Jubilee Masonic Annuity Fund totalled £6763 in addition to which Special

Gratuities amounting to £510 were paid. The Committee of Charity disbursed £673 in grants.

Grand Master:—M.W. Bro. the Earl of Donoughmore, P.C., K.P.

Grand Secretary:—R.W. Bro. Henry C. Shellard, Dublin.

Grand Representative of N.Z.—R.W. Bro. T. J. C. Hamilton, Belfast.

Grand Representative at N.Z.:—M.W. Bro. Herbert G. Teagle, G.M., Wellington.

————

WEST VIRGINIA-1943.

164 Lodges, 29,833 members, a gain of 642.

79th Annual Communication held at Huntington, October 13th and 14th. M.W. Bro. John L. Schroder, G.M.,

presiding.

1084 brethren were raised during the year, 119 admitted, and 383 reinstated, while 306 were suspended

N.P.D.. 180 demitted, 1 stricken from roll, and 490 died.

There were 21 men, 16 women, 10 boys and 14 girls in the Masonic Home, and in addition 6 adults and 11

children were assisted outside the Home.

The Committee on Charity granted $2057 to 18 applicants. Service Awards were made to 37 brethren who

had completed fifty years' membership.

One Lodge which had been working under dispensation was granted a Charter.

The 109 pages of Reviews by M.W. Bro. Lewis N. Taverner, P.G.M., do not include N.Z.

Grand Master:—M.W. Bro. Harry E. Jackson, Milton. Grand Secretary:—M.W. Bro. I. Wade Coffman,

P.G.M., Charleston.

Grand Representative of N.Z.:—W. Bro. Charles E. Carrigan, Moundsville.

Grand Representative at N.Z.:—R.W. Bro. James Manson, Prov.G.M., Invercargill.

————

INDIANA-1943.

540 Lodges, 112,158 members, a gain of 4916.

126th Annual Communication held at Indianopolis, May 25th and 26th, M.W. Bro. Clarence R. Martin,

G.M., presiding.

6779 members were on war service.

The Grand Lecturer during the year visited and inspected the records and ritualistic proficiency of 344

Lodges.

The Grand Master appended to his address the names of all members serving in the United States Forces, and

also of all brethren to whom the Grand Lodge Awards of Gold Medals for 50 years' membership were made,

with the date and place of presentation, and the names of the brethren making the various presentations.

The Reviews, by M.W. Bro. Elmer F. Gay, P.G.M., are printed in the "Indiana Freemason," that of N.Z.,

1941, appearing in the October, 1942, issue. As is his custom he publishes a table giving the number of

United States Lodges as 15,312, with 2.465,039 members, a net gain of 7039.

There were 1439 Canadian Lodges, with 165,351 members, a net loss of 1569.

In Indiana itself 7151 were initiated, 977 reinstated, and 817 affiliated, while 1865 died, 944 demitted, 753

were suspended N.P.D., and 4 for other causes, and 6 were expelled. Eighteen Lodges had fewer than 50

members, while five had over 1200, the two largest having 1732 and 1329 respectively.

There were 150 with between 50 and 100 members, and 215 with between 100 and 200 members. The age of

initiates ranged from 518 of 21 years, and 367 of 22 years, to 1 of 68, 2 of 69, 3 of 72, and 1 of 81. 42 per

cent. were in their twenties, 36 per cent. in their thirties, 16 per cent. in their forties, 5 per cent. in their

fifties, and less than 10 per cent. 60 or over.

Grand Master:—M.W. Bro. Lee Whitehall, Attica.

Grand Secretary:—M.W. Bro. Wm. H. Swintz, P.G.M., Indianopolis.

Grand Representative of N.Z.:—W. Bro. John W. Thornburgh. Indianopolis.

Grand Representative at N.Z.:—R.W. Bro. Harry L. Harston, P.D.G.M., Napier.

————————

THE PASSING OF AN OLD MASON.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

V.W. BRO. T. B. SALMON, P.G.D.C.

————

It is given to few Masons to attain to a record such as that to which death has set a period by the removal of

V.W. Bro. Thomas Benjamin Salmon, P G D.C. of Blenheim, whose Masonic career was a pattern and

model of loyalty and steadfastness. He was the oldest member of Wairau Lodge, No. 42; indeed, he was one

of the most venerable adherents of the Order anywhere; and in all his 62 years as a Mason his fidelity to the

ancient Landmarks of the Craft, to the customs of the Lodge and to the ideals of our Fraternity neither

wavered nor failed. He died at the fine old age of all but 87 years, yet it was only when health and strength

slipped from him towards the last that he ceased his regular attendance at meetings. Such sustained devotion

was an inspiration and an object lesson to all about him.

Quietness and simplicity of manner, graciousness and friendliness of demeanour were characteristics of a

nature and disposition which endeared him to everyone, and his tact and unvarying kindness set the seal on

his long association with his brethren. To the older members he was a staunch and well-tried friend. To the

younger generation of Freemasons he was a living link between a distant past and the present. Truly it may

be said of him that he was a pillar of the Order—a pillar of wisdom, strength and beauty. His wisdom was

evinced in his profound Masonic knowledge, and his advice was benignly given to every initiate and to every

aspiring officer who sought it. His strength was implicit in his long and enduring membership. He stood like

a venerable tree of the forest that has weathered many storms. His beauty of character was for all to share, in

a sunny nature and a fine quality of charity—charity of spirit and outlook as well as charity of a more

material and practical kind.

V.W. Bro. Salmon was initiated into Wairau Lodge on August 29th, 1882, and he was almost as old

Masonically as the Lodge itself. He was 62 years a Mason and the Lodge is 63. He was Wairau's second

Secretary, and eighth in its list of 59 Masters. Right from the outset he served the Lodge outstandingly. A

year after his initiation he became secretary—a token of his ability and enthusiasm; and subsequently he

filled almost every office. After two years as Secretary, he was elected S.W. In 1886 he became organist, and

after acting as auditor, substitute master and depute master he was elected Master in 1888. He became

treasurer in 1892, and held that position until 1895, when he transferred to Auckland. This resulted in a break

in his membership of Wairau Lodge, but upon his return to Blenheim he rejoined in 1918 and held office as

Chaplain and Deputy-Master. In 1928, in recognition of his long and eminent services to the Lodge he was

honoured with the rank of Past Grand Director of Ceremonies.

V.W. Bro. Salmon passed away at Blenheim on July 2nd, and a Lodge of Sorrow was held by Wairau Lodge

on July 4. when a Masonic funeral was held at the Omaha Cemetery, V.W. Bro. Salmon is survived by his

widow and by a son, Colonel C. W. Salmon, of Wellington.

————————

SUPREME GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

A meeting of Supreme Committee was held in Dunedin on 5th July. There were present : R.E. Comp T.

O'Shea, Chairman; M.E. Comps. E. Lane, E. C. Smith. P.G.Zs ; R.E. Comps. J. C. Seelye, G Supt., E.

Rackley, P.G.Supt., W. R. McKenzie, G.Treas., R. C. Rutherford, G.Reg.; V.E. Comps. C. G. Hedge, G. H

C. Green, C. O. G. Reid, A. M. Ross, P.Zs., and the Grand Scribe E.

The Chairman made feeling reference to the death of M.E. Comp. J. H. Moir, First Grand Principal, detailed

his various activities in the Craft, and informed the meeting that a suitable circular had been forwarded to

each Chapter and that a bereavement card had been sent to all Grand Chapters. He also referred to the loss

suffered by the Grand Chapter of Scotland in the death of their First Grand Principal, M.E. Comp. Sir John

Watson, and likewise to the loss sustained by the Grand Chapter of Victoria in the death of their First Grand

Principal Elect, M.E.M. Comp. A. A. Thomas. The Chairman made further reference to the loss suffered by

the Southland District in the death of R.E Comps. G. E. Charlton, P.G H., and E. Jackson. P.G Supt.

The Grand Treasurer presented a statement of receipts and payments, supported by a bank certificate,

showing a credit in the Bank Account of £121 9s. 6d., and informed the committee that £200 had been

invested in Inscribed Stock.

Grand Representatives: On the recommendation of the G.C. of Mississippi, Comp. W. Carl Seab was

appointed our Representative near there. On the recommendation of the G.C. of the State of Ohio, Comp. G.

Morrison was appointed our Representative near there. It was decided to submit the name of R.E. Comp. A.

F. Fisher to the G.C. of South Australia as their Representative near this Grand Chapter, and the name of

R.E. Comp. A. Burns. Jnr., to the Grand Chapter of Arkansas as their Representative near this Grand

Chapter.

The Grand Scribe E. reported that the Consecration of Opunake Chapter, No. 78, took place on Saturday,

10th June.

————————

WHY "THE SUBLIME DEGREE" OF A MASTER MASON
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The Third Degree is called "The Sublime Degree of a Master Mason" in reference to the exalted lessons that

it teaches of God and of a future life. This epithet is, however, comparatively modern. It is not to be found in

any of the Rituals of the last century. In the edition of the Constitutions published in Dublin in 1769, the

Master's Degree is spoken of as "the most Respectable"; and forty years ago the epithet "high and

honourable" was used in some of the Rituals in this country.

About the year 1870, Jeremy Cross, well-known. introduced it into his teachings. The word is now, however,

to be found in the modern English Lectures and is of universal use in the Rituals of the United States, where

the Degree is always called the "Sublime Degree of a Master Mason." The word "sublime" was the password

of the Master's Degree in the Adonhiram Rite because it was said to have been the surname of Hiram or

Adonhiram. The ordinary signification of the word, as referring to things of an exalted character, would

alone sufficiently account for the use of the epithet.

—"The New South Wales Freemason,"

————————

KIRKPATRICK MASONIC INSTITUTE.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

REPORT FOR YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1943.

———

In presenting the accounts of the Board for the year, the chairman, W. Bro. W. A. Armstrong comments as

follows:—

Accounts: The Income and Expenditure Account shows a surplus of £180 8s. 9d. after making the usual

reserve for depreciation and renewals. The reduction in the surplus, in spite of the reduced number of

children in the Institute, is accounted for by the fact that we received much less than usual from pensions

during the period. The liquid funds of the Board now stand at the very substantial figure of £2023 19s 10d.,

invested in Government Debentures, Local Body Debentures, Liberty Loans and National Savings Account.

Children: The admissions during 1943 were as follows—Janet Robertson, Christine Anderson, Mildred

Shirreffs, Valerie Blue, Sara Thurlow, Shirley and Francis Pottinger. Maxwell Macgregor. The following

child left the Institute—Christine Anderson.

Publicity: The small number of children to which the roll was reduced caused the Board so much concern

that a Publicity Campaign was undertaken, with the advice and assistance of W. Bro. J. M. A. Ilott, in order

to make the services offered by the Institute more widely known. This action resulted in immediate

applications for admission, and at the present time the Institute may be said to be full, with the expected

arrival of the twentieth child during the current week.

Appreciation: We have again to thank the Lodges, brethren and other kind people who show interest in the

Institute and entertain the children in their homes.

We have also to express our appreciation of the work done during the year by the staff. Miss Allison is at

present on sick leave, but we hope to welcome her back to the Institute fit and well at an early date. Mrs.

Challis is a tower of strength in her assistance to the Matron and in her ability to step into the breach during

Miss Allison's absence and carry on in such an eminently satisfactory manner.

I wish also to record my personal appreciation of the whole-hearted support which I have received at all

times from members of the Board.

In conclusion, I wish to thank the secretary, Mr. C. B. Hodgson, for his continued interest in the Institute.

Also members of his staff, particularly Miss Jones, who have assisted me in every possible way.

————————

PRESENTATION TO R.W. BRO. J. McALLISTER, P.D.G.M.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

BY W. BRO. DR. D. STEVEN, J.G.D., 19th JULY, 1944.

———

R W. Bro. McAllister, you have just listened to the charge given by W. Bro. Humphrey, to Bro. —— , on his

initiation. It is 38 years since you first heard that charge, delivered to yourself by the late W. Bro. H. J.

Hopkins, in this Temple.

Halt, while I call your attention to a retrospect of some of the events since that time. As a Freemason, you

accepted the V.S.L. as the unerring standard of truth and justice, and you regulated your life and actions by

the Divine precepts it contains Therein you learned the important duties you owed to God, to your neighbour,

and to yourself. Having learned those duties, you practised them.

As a citizen of the world, you have been exemplary in the discharge of your civil duties. You have taken an

active and a constructive part in municipal affairs, in temperance, in music, in your church, in education, and

in every other activity which was designed to help or uplift your fellow-citizens.

As an individual you have practised every domestic as well as public virtue. You have let prudence direct

you, temperance chasten you, fortitude support you, and justice be the guide of all your actions. You have

practised benevolence and charity.

You have so regulated your life and actions that to you the distressed has preferred his suit, to you the

burdened heart has poured forth its sorrow. Your hands have been guided by justice and your heart has been

expanded by benevolence.

Still, as a Freemason, you have had other activities. You have filled every office in this Lodge. You have

earned the highest compliment it can pay you, in that you have been its Wor. Master. You have earned the

approval of the other Lodges in Taranaki, and you have held the office of Provincial Grand Master. Finally

you have been appointed to be Deputy to the Grand Master himself. You have been a Credit to your Lodge

and an honour to the Craft.

Your ambitious feet have trod round after round of the ladder that leads to fame in our mystic circles. The

purple of the fraternity rests on your honoured shoulders. Yet in all the offices you have filled you have been

ever mindful that Humility is an essential qualification.

Knowing you as I do, I have no hesitation in saying to my brethren, "Mark the perfect man, and behold, the

upright." You stand here tonight as the teacher, the friend, and the brother to every member of this Lodge.

More than that, R.W. Brother, you stand as the example and the pattern for us all, the most humble, and the

most distinguished, Mason Lodge Stratford has ever produced.

On behalf of the Lodge, the Worshipful Master has asked me to present to you this Past Deputy Grand

Master's Jewel. May you wear it with pleasure, firstly because of its intrinsic beauty and symbolic meaning;

secondly because it is a token that you have served the office of Dep.G.M. with satisfaction to your Lodge,

and finally because it is an indication of the favour and esteem in which you are held by the brethren of this,

your mother Lodge. Brethren, be upstanding—

May God grant you health and strength, for many years, to wear this jewel, and to fulfil its implications, with

satisfaction to yourself and advantage to the Lodge.

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

Correspondence.
We welcome correspondence on Masonic subjects, but are not responsible for the views expressed. It must he clearly

understood that all letters must be couched in courteous and proper language, otherwise they will be at once declined.

The Editor distinctly reserves the right not to publish, or only publish part of, any letter he may consider inimical to the

best interests of the Craft.

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

(To the Editor.)

————

C/o New Zealand House, 415 Strand, London.

17/5/44.

Dear Sir,—I wonder would you care to include in your Wellington notes for next issue of "The Craftsman"

the intimation that I have arrived safely in London after a protracted voyage. I was just in time for the

installation meeting of New Zealand Lodge here Bro. H. R. Hull was installed as Master, with Bro. L.

Comrie (late of Auckland) Senior Warden and Bro. F. Sandford (High Commissioner's Office) as Junior

Warden. The D.C. was W. Bro. W. F. Narbey (Akaroa) and the I.P.M. W. Bro. E. S. Harston (Napier).

The Memorial Temple in London still stands intact and undamaged, notwithstanding the many rumours I

heard to the contrary whilst in New Zealand. The New Zealand Lodge still meets there regularly.

Fraternally yours,

M. E. Hankins, Mokoia Lodge, No. 213.

————————

YOUNG MASONS SHOULD BE PUT TO WORK
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(Clyde I. Rush. F'.G.M , Grand Secretary of Idaho. Chairman of the Committee on Masonic Education.)

———

The average young man who has just received his Third Degree knows very little about Masonry, but if

given the proper incentive he is generally willing and many times anxious to learn. If he receives no

encouragement and no help he becomes like a boy just out of college looking for his first job and being

rejected for lack of experience. The fundamental teachings may have been instilled in his mind, but in too

many cases the proper information and teaching are not forthcoming. The new brother is left to sit upon the

sidelines with nothing to do and with no encouragement to strive for improvement in his Masonic life. He

sadly wonders what it is all about; perhaps he has made a mistake and has over-estimated Masonry; he

wonders where are all those wonderful things that Masonry stands for. It is no wonder that so many new

members lose interest and become Masons in name only.

A few short years ago a brother raised in one of our Idaho lodges was told, "You will now be seated among

the brethren," and immediately forgotten by both Master and members. He attended lodge regularly but

received no attention. Finally after several months of this he went to the Master and a conversation

somewhat as follows took place: "How long must I be a Mason before I will be given something to do?"

Master: "What do you want to do?" "I would like to have a part in the work." "Do you know any of it?"

"Yes. I know all the lectures." The Master was very much interested at this and soon gave the young Mason a

chance to give a lecture. Needless to say, it was well given; he attracted attention to himself, was given an

appointive office by the next Master, and became Master of one of our larger Idaho lodges Now there is

nothing in this story for the lodge to brag about; it had raised and forgotten this young Mason, and he got

ahead only because he took the initiative and asserted himself.

Now if all Masons were like this young man there would not be so much of a problem, but, sad to say, they

are not; they come into the lodge filled with curiosity and eagerness, willing to learn, but expecting the lodge

to bring it to them; they want to know more about this new life, but do not know how to go about obtaining

it; they do not know exactly what to ask for or whom to ask. They want the curtain lifted and this new thing

revealed; they know they have entered upon an entirely new phase of life, they look to the officers and older

members to instruct them in the ritual, symbols, traditions, history, etc., of the Fraternity, and they are more

eager to learn at this time than they will be at any time thereafter—they have a desire for knowledge and

their minds are open and receptive to all the new truths our great Order has undertaken to impress upon

them.

Give these new members something to do, even if it is only to slice the bread for the sandwiches. Put them

on committees, give them questions to answer before the lodge that require research; get them on their feet

and make them feel that they are a part of the lodge. Welcome them each time they come to lodge and don't

ever leave them to sit alone and neglected.

Magnus Johnson said in an issue of the "New York Outlook": "Older Masons who are setting an example for

the younger members in the lodge should be concerned, not only for the present welfare of the lodge, but

also for its future, which lies in the hands of these young men. There is a tendency among the older

Craftsmen to go on running the lodge much as it always has been run, paying little heed to the views of the

newcomers and seldom asking them for advice. But if Masonry is to hold the place in the world which it

rightly deserves, the elders of the lodge must show greater interest in the young and upright Masons."

—"Iowa G.L. Bulletin,"

————————

DESTRUCTION OF LEARNING.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

An Address by Dr. Cloyd Heck Marvin. 33°, President of

The George Washington University, Washington, D.C.

———

If there were only one thing to keep us true to the trust that is imposed upon us as men and women dedicated

to learning, it is the story of the destruction of the libraries of Europe. The deliberate and diabolical nature of

the Nazis' crimes in burning the priceless library of the Royal Society of Naples and the University of

Naples, with its ancient archives, shocks the world of learning.

This destruction is organised, methodical vandalism. According to authentic reports, it required squads of

men, trucks with cans of gasoline and hand grenades to set the fires. To burn to ashes 200,000 books, the

blaze had to be kept going for three days, under German guard to prevent Italians from saving their treasures.

Perhaps no crime they have committed is a greater indictment of the Germans—not even their mass murder

of human bodies—than this attempted mass murder of human minds. It is aimed not only at the present

generation, but at future generations; not only at Italians, but at the whole civilised world. The accumulated

wealth of centuries of philosophic and scientific thinking so destroyed can never be replaced.

This is no exceptional case. It is the Nazi plan.

In Poland, the Germans completed the destruction of the University of Warsaw, after bombing it as a military

hospital and then pillaging it, by using its valuable books to light fires in the stoves. Almost every university

in Poland suffered a similar fate. The Nazis first looted, then destroyed what they did not want for

themselves.

In Czechoslovakia, from the University Library in Prague, thousands of volumes were thrown out of the

windows and then loaded by shovelfuls into trucks to be used in paper mills. The order there, too, was loot-

ing, burning and destruction.

From Smolensk's library thousands of volumes were sent up in flames by the Nazis.

While Poland, Czechoslovakia, Russia and now Italy have been victims of the most ruthless German

vandalism, other countries have suffered, too, particularly from looting.

The Burgundian manuscripts of the Bibliotheque Nationale, the pride of France, have been declared Frankish

and have been taken to the Prussian State Library.

The Library of the Netherlands Israelite Seminary in Amsterdam—before the invasion of Holland one of

Europe's outstanding schools of Jewish theology—is authentically reported to have been totally destroyed by

the Nazis.

The Geophysical Library at Copenhagen has been stripped and burned by war, with the loss of all Niels

Bohr's work—the geophysical data of Denmark for two centuries.

Behind these criminal acts is the clear intent of ruining or greatly impairing the future of some ten countries

in Europe—of wiping out the fruit of the civilised minds of some 5000 years.

By such acts the Nazis have indicted themselves before the learning of all time.—"The New Age."

————————

A person suffering from a sense of injustice done him by another, who goes to a mutual friend for sympathy

and moral support in the matter, is justly entitled from such friend to such instant and responsive sympathy

and support as the facts given by him on their face warrant. And if, instead of according such responsive

sympathy and support, the friend, merely because the offender "is absent and cannot speak for himself,"'

undertakes to excuse the offence by possibilities merely, which may be limitless having no probability

whatever in fact as an excuse from the given facts, he does not "meet the issue," and is a recreant and

unworthy friend of either offender or offended.

————————

"ON ANY LODGE NIGHT"
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

ADDRESS BY W. BRO. J. B. THOMSON.

———

(Continuation)

———

We have now covered in a cursory way the proceedings on any ordinary Lodge night, but there are two other

things to which I should like to refer.

The first is the question of visiting.

Let me say, at the outset, that I consider the right to visit other Lodges to be one of our most valuable

privileges and that it can and should be a pleasure and a source of profit.

Having said that, I wish also to say, and I measure my words, that I consider visiting as at present conducted

by the Masters of Lodges to be a disgrace to the Craft. The simple truth is that if a Brother takes the chair at

the present time he is expected, by his own Lodge, and by the other Lodges in the city, to be out on two.

three and four nights in every week. It is useless to say that he need not do this unless he likes. This is

technically true. but the moral pressure exists, and a Master who falls short in his visiting score knows that

his own Lodge will consider that he has let them down, and that his fellow-Masters will have some sort of

feeling that he has let them down also. This is so true that we have all heard worthy brethren say that they

could not take the chair because they could not do the required visiting. Yet they are regular in their

discharge of the duties of the Lodge of which they are members. It is not in the interests of the Craft that this

should be so. Nor is it in the interests of the Craft that a sitting Master should neglect his home, his family

and his business, and he must do all these things if he is to compete in this mad race of visiting.

I do not need to prove the truth of what I say to anyone who has been Master of a Lodge. For the benefit of

those who have not, I may say that I have heard a P.M. say that his year in the chair had cost him, he thought,

between £100 and £200 in neglected and undone work. I have also heard a Master say that he got to the stage

that he found himself nodding while working at his bench. Should these things happen in the name of

Freemasonry? I say that they should not. They will, however, continue until two things occur: Firstly, that

there should be a lead from authority that visiting on the present scale is to be discouraged, and this lead I am

glad to learn has recently been given by our Provincial Grand Master; and, secondly, that the brethren of

Lodges should understand what they are implicitly demanding from the Brother whom they place in the chair

of K.S. Let them get into their heads that on most nights when they sit down before a fire with a book, or go

to the pictures or some entertainment, their Master has probably rushed home, changed, and gone to a Lodge

meeting, not for pleasure, but because he feels he must. What should be a pleasure has become an irksome

duty. And Brethren themselves will not do what they cheerfully expect this Master to do, for it has become

almost the exception for a Master to be accompanied by any appreciable number of the members of his

Lodge.

In short, I look forward to the day when the retiring Master who boasts of 100 visits in the year must expect

rebuke instead of praise, and the sooner that day comes the better.

The second thing which I feel should be brought into the open for examination and discussion is the matter

of installation expenses and a matter incidental thereto—namely, the P.M.'s Jewel.

Do installations cost too much?

At first sight the question may not seem of general importance, but let us look at it for a moment. It would be

fair to take the expenses of an installation conducted as before the war, and on this basis a minimum

expenditure would be £20. The printing would run into about £8, the P.M.'s Jewel about £5/10/-. and extra

catering and incidentals would account for the balance. If a hall has to be hired one may add £4 or £5, but if

we take the low figure of £20 as a basis we are led to a rather horrible reflection.

There are over 300 Lodges under our Constitution, and they all have installations. We are, therefore,

spending over £6000 per annum in what one might describe as mere festivity. This is within measurable

distance of the whole sum which is disbursed in New Zealand annually for annuities to W.O. and A.M., and I

doubt if the comparison is creditable to the Craft.

I am not against installation ceremonies or the mild degree of jubilation associated with them, but they are

costing far too much.

There are three ways in which the cost can be reduced. The first is by cutting out the elaborate printed

programmes one used to see. They have gone since the war and should not be allowed to return. The second

is by serving a modest supper, and the third is by omitting the presentation of a P.M.'s Jewel, and reserving it

as a mark of esteem for brethren who have served the Lodge well as P.Ms. for a number of years. A

Secretary, a Chaplain, a Treasurer, or a D. of C. does not qualify for a jewel until he has given years of

service. Why should a P.M. get it in anticipation of service he frequently never renders?

If it be argued that the jewel is given in recognition of his services as Master, he already has recognition in

his title, and in his insignia. And as the practice of presenting it is almost universal, the jewel cannot mark

any particular excellence. It has become a meaningless and expensive piece of routine.

The economic virtue of my suggestion is not that it would postpone the giving of the jewel for a few years,

but that in a large number of cases the presentation, if postponed, would never be made at all. In short, the

Past Master, and he is not rare, who is seldom seen after his retirement from the chair would never get a

jewel.

Again, why do we spend such sums on these presentations? May I remind you that the jewels, according to

the B. of C., should be of silver—not gold—and this alteration reduces the cost by much more than half.

I venture to suggest that these reforms outlined above would, without hurting anybody, make some

thousands of pounds available each year for Masonic charity or other worthy objects.

Though I have spoken tonight in a manner wholly critical, and though I have not exhausted the list of things

which I could wish to criticise, I should be sorry to have given the impression that I think there is nothing

right with Freemasonry; a panegyric on the Craft would be easy enough to deliver. But an institution such as

Freemasonry is peculiarly liable on its journey through time to acquire customs, habits and usages which

may be good or bad. If we do not at times attempt some examination of what we are doing, we shall never be

able to decide which of our acquisitions are valuable, and which are useless lumber; and Freemasonry must

cast aside its encumbrances if it is to travel forward as it should. The subjects I have discussed tonight to my

mind represent encumbrances. If I am wrong. I shall be most happy to be convinced of this; but if you think I

am right, then we are failing in our duty to the Craft unless we do something about it.

————————

THE LIGHT THAT SHINES IN DARKNESS
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

James K. Remick, 32°, San Diego, Calif.
———

There would be little potency in philososphic Masonry were not the vital forces of Truth and Light present to

sustain it.

Throughout the ages, the Light has been omnipresent and visible to those with vision to behold it, but to the

unenlightened only darkness or faint shadow is actual to their perception. The Light ever shines in the

darkness, the unfailing Guide to the beholding brother, the darkness being only the temporary absence of

Light to the adolescent soul.

The Masonic symbolism of the spade, the coffin, and the grave would seem to imply an atmosphere of

darkness, yet therein is contained a shining Light of Truth and Wisdom. There is within the Egyptian

mysteries the record of the entity named Thoth, which has descended to us, strange as it may seem, in the

common deck of playing cards; we find the Masonic symbol of the spade preserved to us, not as an emblem

of darkness but of Light when creatively utilised.

It will be noted that the court cards of the spade suit have the faces turned from the pip, the remaining court

cards in the deck do not, and therein lies a lesson, however necromantic or imaginary it may seem to be. The

spade and its handle are a likeness of the spinal column within the human body, the blade depicting almost

exactly the shape of the sacrum bone at the base of the spine, where are situated the "roots of the Tree of

Life," and the potency for good or evil. When given over to excess or abuse, the force is downward and into

darkness; when turned upward and into the marvellous ganglia of the brain, and for the creative purpose of

Light, the spade then becomes an instrument of Light and radiance, and makes smooth and level the pathway

of Light away from the confines of the coffin and the darkness of the grave.

The pendulum of the chonometer of earthly experiencings swings from epochs of enlightenment and peace to

neutral, and on to periods of materialistic conflict, when the perfume from the Masonic censer is faint and

the candlelight of Truth and Love struggle to burn brightly within the shadows of ignorance and superstition.

But the Light maintains always and forever, and in each changing age claims more and more of the Children

of Light, the "Phree Messen," within the circle of radiance and joy. As he follows the shining Light he

sacrifices upon the mystic altar his negative desires and misdeeds; he divests himself of all baseness and

invests his individuality with constructive altruism and compassion for all mankind. He makes of his body

the worthy Temple of Holy Spirit and fits himself as a man to ascend the ladder or Jacob and visit within the

Holy Shrine and, after crossing the sandy wastes of suffering and abnegation, he hears the welcome words,

"Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of thy Lord."

The sharp scythe of the experiences of our own manufacture cuts down the unworthy and prunes back the

slothful and the recalcitrant to furnish better conditions for the efforts of those in whom the Light may shine,

but no living being is ever denied the opportunity, sometime, somewhere, to find the shining Light, and this

we all must certainly do.

"The flame shall not hurt thee,

I only design thy dross to consume

And thy gold to refine."

—"The New Age."

————————

Bacon should have added to his celebrated tripartite aphorism—"Reading maketh a full man, writing an

exact man, and speaking a ready man"—that "thinking maketh a profound man"; for without the exercise of

that faculty one cannot attain the heights or reach the depths of knowledge and wisdom and truth.

————————

AUCKLAND NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

It has become traditional with Lodge United Service, No. 10, that its Annual Installation meeting invariably

falls when the Auckland weather is at its worst, and this year's function was no exception. This however did

not prevent an unusually large attendance of members and visitors on the 28th June, when the S.W., Bro.

Charles Hunt, was installed as W.M.by the Prov.G.M. R.W.' Bro. A. J. Pople, D.G.M, addressed the WM.,

and the G.Swd.B., W. Bro. Alfred Addison, delivered the address to the Wardens. W. Bros. C. E. H. Putt and

G. A. Wooller, W.Ms. of Lodge Orakei, No. 270, and The Combined Forces Lodge, No. 284, carried out the

duties of presenting officers, and the evening was brought to a close by the honouring of the usual Masonic

toasts in the refectory. It may not be out of place to remind brethren that the new W.M. now conducts the

Auckland Notes for the "Craftsman," and would appreciate from Lodge Secretaries and other brethren any

items of interest for inclusion in the Notes.

Some time ago the hope was expressed in these notes that the many friends of W. 'Bro. C. E. Anderson,

P.G.P., would be delighted to see him back in his Lodge after his long illness. This hope has been gratified,

as this popular P.M. of Lodge United Service attended the Installation meeting, and is, we believe, on the

high road to complete recovery.

W. Bro. C. H. M. Wills, W.M. of Lodge Takapuna, No. 202, travelled to Waiuku on the 8th July with some

25 of his brethren, and placed under the charge of W. Bro. H. Lawrence (Lodge United Waiuku, No, 90) two

E.A.Fs. of the former Lodge, upon whom the local brethren then conferred the Second Degree. A most

enjoyable evening was spent by the visitors and their hosts, and it is hoped that circumstances may soon

permit these two Lodges to resume the annual interchange of visits which was once customary.

An interesting document in the possession of W. Bro. S. T. Carter, of Lodge Oriewa, No. 182, is a list sent to

him by his son (Bro. Geo. Carter, of the same Lodge, now serving overseas) of Lodges represented at a

Masonic gathering held somewhere in the Pacific. The list included the names of over 300 Lodges, from 44

American States, Australia, New Zealand, China, Canada, the Philippine Islands, Bermuda and the Canal

Zone.

An exceptionally well-attended and enjoyable meeting of Lodge Ponsonby No. 54, on the 6th July, brought

to a fitting conclusion a very happy year spent under the Mastership of W. Bro L. E. Bridgens, who during

his year of office has endeared himself to his brethren and has conducted the affairs of the Lodge in a most

pleasing manner. The ceremony of the installation of the new W.M., Bro. C. R. De Latour, was carried out

by the Prov.G.M., M.W Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., assisted by a large following of G.L. officers,

including the D.G M., R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, who addressed the W.M., and W Bro. Harold Roseveare;

S.G.D., who addressed the Wardens. W. Bro De Latour being duly installed, carried his new honours with

becoming modesty and dignity and inspired his brethren with confidence that his term of office will reach the

same high standard as those of so many able W.Ms. who have preceded him. Lodge Ponsonby is now old

enough to have acquired a character and tradition of its own, and it is very pleasing to the brethren to be

assured of a continuance on so high a plane. The evening was brought to a close with a most harmonious and

enjoyable hour in the refectory, which was honoured by the presence of G.L. officers and many sitting

Masters and their brethren. Altogether the brethren of Lodge Ponsonby may look back over the past year

with grateful pride, and forward to the ensuing one with pleasurable anticipation.

At the July meeting of Lodge Orakei, No, 270, the W.M., W. Bro. C. E. H. Putt, initiated two candidates, one

of whom is the son of W. Bro. Frank Tilley, P G.O., who is well known in the Winton and Invercargill

districts. It was generally regretted that travel difficulties prevented W. Bro. Tilley from attending his son's

initiation ceremony.

W. Bro. Geo. Wooller, of the Combined Forces' Lodge, No. 284, conducted the ceremony of raising at the

regular meeting on the 11th July. and the degree was carried out with the customary precision which is

associated with the work of this Lodge, which has a strong military and service tradition. It is interesting to

note that some fifty of the members of Combined Forces are on active service.

At the last meeting of his year of office, W. Bro. L. E. Utting, of the First Temple Lodge, No. 302, received

some 12 sitting Masters, who attended in token of their regard for this popular brother. The Second Degree

was worked, and later many tributes were paid to the work of the WM. in a heavy programme of visiting and

other activities during his year.

The Ara Cryptic Council held its Annual Installation gathering on the 29th June, when Comp. A. L. Nugent

was installed as T.I.M. with Comp. A. Williamson as D.M. and Comp. L. E. R. Wakeman as P.C.W. The

S.E,M.'s Degree was worked at the same meeting and a number of candidates were greeted. A most

successful year for the Council has just closed under V.Ill. Comp. T. G. Short in the chair.

On Tuesday, the 18th July. Bro. Bruce Craig, S.W. of the St. Andrew's Lodge, No. 8, was installed as W.M.

by the Prov.G.M., M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson, P.G.M., in the presence of a large gathering at St. Benedict's

Street. The W.M., who was presented by W. Bros. W. A. Shirley (W.M. Lodge Chevalier, No. 303) and G.

A. Wooller (W.M. The Combined Forces Lodge, No. 284), was addressed by the D.G.M „ R.W. Bro. A. J.

Pople, and the Wardens were addressed by W. Bro. Harry French, P.G.Swd.B., who was W.M. of the Lodge

in 1924, and is a familiar figure with all Auckland Freemasons. Among the large attendance of G.L. Officers

present was R.W. Bro. J. D. Webster, who has occupied the chair of the St. Andrew's Lodge more than once,

on the first occasion in 1896—truly a magnificent Masonic record.

A reference to Calendar Cards in the notes from a southern District in a recent number of the "Craftsman"

prompts a belated word of appreciation to R.W. Bro. Wilfred W. Wright, who has for some years in

Auckland been responsible for the annual issue of the "Masonic Calendar," which is of such great assistance

to all brethren, and particularly to W.Ms., who find the task of planning their Masonic activities lightened

very much indeed by this useful publication.

On the 7th July Lodge Kumeu, No. 279, conducted the ceremony of passing, and the W.M., W. Bro. W. A.

Wright, handed the gavel to W. Bro. E. G. Hilton, and the Degree was then worked by the P.Ms. of the

Lodge. Other brethren taking part were W. Bros. W. Copeland, R. Moore, F. W. Jeffers and J. Atkins.

The Masonic Boys' Home. Papakura. which, as is well known, is under the capable and popular management

of V.W. Bro. L. Tustain, P.G Lect., was officially visited on the 8th July by W. Bro. C. H. M. Wills, of

Lodge Takapuna, No. 202, who was accompanied by a large number of his brethren, The amenities, the

happy atmosphere, and the conduct of the Home were an eye-opener to the visitors, and it is hoped that many

other visits (Lodge Takapuna was, it is understood, the first official one by any Lodge) will be made by

Lodges. Any visitors at all will be cordially welcomed by V.W. Bro. Tustain, who is fervently convinced of

the great potentialities of the institution which have not yet been fully exploited.

It is regretted that the name of R.W Bro. J. D. Webster, P.G.W., was inadvertently omitted from the list of

distinguished brethren present at the gathering held recently to celebrate the Masonic Jubilee of M.W. Bro.

Oliver Nicholson.

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HAWKE’S BAY NOTES.
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At the Installation meeting of Scinde Lodge, No. 5. On 20th June, Bro. Asa Swailes was installed into the

chair of K.S. by the Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. E.C. Hurdsfield, assisted by R.W. Bro. J. J. Pickett, P.G.W.,

V.W.Beo. E. E. Bott, P.G.Lect., as principal Grand Officers. Many other present and past Grand Officers

attended in goodly numbers to assist in the ceremony. There were approximately 65 at the Board of Installed

Masters, which, whilst not a record, indicates the continued progress Freemasonry enjoys in this district.

At the Installation meeting of Ruahine, No. 80, Woodville, in June, the Installing Master, R.W. Bro. E. C.

Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M., was assisted by many present and past Grand Officers. R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash,

Prov.G.M. Ruapehu District, paid an official visit and assisted in the ceremony. He was accompanied by

several Grand Officers from the Ruapehu District. There was a very large gathering, and the outstanding

feature of the evening was the address of the newly-installed Master in reply to his toast.

Accompanying the Prov.G M., R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield, at the Installation meeting of Heretaunga, No.

73, were four P.Prov.G.Ms.—R.W. Bros. T. Hobson, P.D.G.M.. C. H. Critchley, A. W. Parkinson and R. D.

B. Waugh—as well as many other past and present Grand Officers. The attendance numbered approximately

170, and there were 70 P.Ms. at the Board of Installed Masters.

The 1st Prin., V.Ex. Comp. W. A. Meads, of Heretaunga Chapter, No. 38, has a very busy year ahead of him,

with three candidates already on his list for degree work. This Chapter has certainly been very active and

continues to make progress.

Since our last notes were forwarded we regret to report the passing to the Grand Lodge above of Bro. G.

Mitchell, of Lodge Haeata. Our sympathies are extended to his family and to W. Bro. Tom Mitchell, P.M.,

and Bro. E. Mitchell, S.W., both of Lodge Haeata.

We regret to learn that W. Bro. Tom Mitchell has been an inmate of the Memorial Hospital, but understand

he has made satisfactory progress, and at time of writing has returned to his home. We extend best wishes for

a speedy and permanent recovery.

Bro. G. D. Robertson, Lodge Te Mata, is an inmate of the Memorial Hospital and we are glad to report is

doing splendidly and has hopes of returning to his home very soon.

Owing to further restrictions in benzine and travel generally, Lodge secretaries would greatly assist your

correspondent by forwarding items of interest for publication to Box 7, Havelock North.

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TARANAKI NOTES.
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The ProvG.M., R.W. Bro. W. T. Simmons, is still suffering from his accident last month, but expects soon to

be fit again and able to take up his duties as usual.

July 4th was the date of the Hawera Lodge Installation, and R.W. Bro. J. C. Barclay, P.Prov.G.M., put the

work through in good style. The newly-installed W.M., Bro. C. E. Whittington, is a popular and able Mason,

and there is every indication that his year of office will be a very successful one. He will have the assistance

of a fine team of officers, and the fraternal spirit manifest in the Lodge is all that could be desired. In

presenting the outgoing Master, W. Bro. A. G. Fraser, with his I.M. Certificate, the R.W. Installing Master

spoke of the fine work done in the Lodge during the past year. W. Bro. W. A. Sharp was presented with a

P.M.'s Jewel in recognition of his service to the Lodge. The refectory proceedings were well up to the usual

standard of the Hawera brethren.

The W.M. of Lodge Taranaki, accompanied by a number of brethren, visited Lodge Whangamomona on July

1st, Patea Kil on July 12th, and is to visit Ikaroa on the 25th. Not a bad record for one month these times.

Lodge Manaia had their annual Social Evening on July 7th and the yearly Church service will take place on

July 23rd at the Anglican Church.

The Master of Lodge Manaia, W. Bro. K. J. Murray, with some of his officers and brethren, visited Patea on

July 12th.

St. John's Lodge, No. 95, worked a double initiation on July 18th.

Lodge Stratford held an emergency meeting early in the month to initiate a soldier. W. Bro H. F. Vosseler

took the chair and the work went well. W. Bro. Lieut.-Col. W. P. P. Gordon gave a very interesting talk in

the refectory on his experiences both on land and on the hospital ship.

The Installation of Bro. L. L. Bellringer as Master of Mount Egmont Lodge, No. 948 of M.M.M. of England,

and the investiture of Wardens, Overseers, and officers took place on July 1st. On the same evening Ex.

Comps. Ferriday, Buttimore and Smale were installed 1st, 2nd and 3rd Prins. respectively Of Mt. Egmont

R.A. Chapter. No. 670, E.C.

It is with very great regret that the death of W. Bro. W. J. Marsh has to be recorded. A P.M. of Lodge

Taranaki, he was universally respected and esteemed. Quiet, earnest, and genial, he will be missed at

Masonic gatherings in Hawera. He was called to higher service on July 14th.

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RUAPEHU NOTES.
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Lodge Awatea is indeed very busy these days. and it is pleasing to note, in addition to the usual number of

initiates coming on, there are also several joining members linking up; in fact, at the June meeting, no fewer

than three joining members were balloted for, and it looks as though the W.M., W. Bro. W. W. Jones, will

have a record year so far as membership is concerned.

Judging by the smile on W. Bro. Hickin's face, Lodge Manawatu-Kilwinning must have had a most

successful Ladies' Night on the 13th July. Unfortunately, the writer could not be there, but the

complimentary references of those who did attend left no doubt that this was one of the best ladies' nights to

date. Congratulations, Ted!

The Masonic Temple, Feilding, was the scene of the Installation of Bro. E. B. Cook as W.M. of Feilding

Lodge, No. 41, on 10th July, the Installing Master. W. Bro. C. Hausmann P.G.D., delighting the brethern

with the efficient manner in which he discharged his duty. He was ably assisted by W. Bros. W. E. Carthew,

P.G.D., W. W. Andrews, P.G.S., G. J. Fitzpatrick. D. A. Fairweather, H. J. Dewe, H. H. Ferguson, and Bro.

A. S. Guthrie. The Address to the W.M. was delivered by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash Prov.G.M.; to the Wardens

by W. Bro. J. S. Tingey; and to the brethren by W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C. A happy time was spent in

the refectory.

Lodge Rongotea, No. 145, held its Installation on 12th July, when R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash installed Bro. L. A.

Hogg as Worshipful Master. The officiating officers in addition to our R.W. Bro. were : V.W. Bro. S. H.

Snell. W. Bros. H. R. Thorburn. A.G.D C., H. Brooker, P.G.B.B., J. M. Croucher. P.G.S., W J. Baylis,

P.G.S., and G. R B. Boswell, P.M. Addresses were delivered by the Prov.G.M , W. Bros. H. B. Thompson,

P.G.S., and W. J. Croucher, P.G.S. After the formal proceedings the brethren of Rongotea entertained the

visitors, and no effort was spared to make the Installation of VT. Bro. L. A. Hogg the success it deserved.

W. Bro. William Bracks is now the Worshipful Master of St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge, No. 79, Wanganui,

and judging by the attendance at his Installation, which took place on 13th July, there is no doubt that Bro.

Bill is in for a real good year; at least he has had a flying start, and his experience as a Past 1st Prin. in Royal

Arch will be of great benefit to him. The ceremonial was in the capable hands of V.W. Bro. F. C. Jannings,

P.G.Lect., who was the Installing Master, W. Bro. G. F. Lomas, D.C., while the various other offices were

filled by P.Ms. of the Lodge. W. Bros. H. M. Keesing, M. C. Bignell, and V.W. Bro. Jannings, P.G.Lect.,

delivered the addresses. Apologies for absence were received from the Prov.G.M. The Lodge extended its

renowned hospitality to the visitors.

The regular meeting of Lodge Manawatu Kilwinning was held on 13th July, when a candidate was initiated

into Freemasonry. The W.M., W. Bro. E. J. Hicken, occupied the chair, and the Degree was ably carried out

by the officers and P.Ms. The W.M. of Lodge Huia, W. Bro. A. Stableford, accompanied by P.Ms., officers

and brethren of Huia, were the official visitors and were cordially received. It is the intention of W. Bro.

Hicken to pay official visits to Huia and Manchester, and he is expecting a large number of brethren to

support him.

Rangitikei Lodge. No. 38, Bulls, held its regular meeting on 18th July. W. Bro. S. P. Powell, W.M., occupied

the chair, and the ceremony of raising was carried out. This Lodge must be situated in a very healthy climate,

or they know the secret of perpetual youth, because its not long since they had an initiate over 80 years of

age, and now they have just balloted for one 60 years old, and they have another one coming up who is only

71 years of age.

The last meeting night, 22nd July, was indeed a memorable one for Lodge Ruapehu, No. 128, the occasion

being an official visit by the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, M.W. Bro, H. J. Teagle, accompanied by

V.W. Bro. Morpeth, G.Treas.. V.W. Bro. C. H. Taylor, G.Reg., and W. Bro. C. H. Cathie, Pres.B, of G.P.

The address of the Most Worshipful the Grand Master was indeed an inspiration to all the brethren

assembled, and the explanation of the various duties of their particular offices held by the three V.W. Grand

Lodge officers was thoroughly appreciated. R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash. Prov.G.M. Ruapehu District, extended a

hearty welcome to M.W. Bro. Teagle, and the brethren, under the direction of W. Bro. H. Thorburn,

A.G.D.C., accorded the usual Masonic honours. The Lodgeroom was taxed to its capacity by the large

number of G.L. Officers, W. brethren and brethren. The proceedings will long be remembered by those who

had the privilege of attending. Incidentally, I understand that R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash has extended an invitation

to M.W. Bro. Teagle to conduct a consecration ceremony at Waverley early in October, and it is the wish of

the brethren throughout the district that this invitation be accepted. W. Bro. D. F. Gorrie, W.M. of Ruapehu,

is to be congratulated on the organisation and work carried out by the members of his Lodge, under his

direction, the able manner in which such a large number of visitors were entertained being a credit to No.

128.

At the last monthly meeting of Lodge Ngauruhoe, No. 205, held on May 16th, two brethren were raised to

the Degree of Master Masons. The W.M., W. Bro. C. H. Crighton, handed the gavel to W. Bro. St. Vincent

Nelson Ranger, and asked him to conduct the ceremony of raising his son and another candidate. There was

a good attendance, including visiting brethren from Waimarino. No. 175, Waiouru Masonic Association, and

other Lodges. W. Bro. Nelson Ranger conducted the ceremony very efficiently.

————————

WELLINGTON NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

The Installation meeting of Lodge Otari, No. 190, took place on 11th July, when Bro. William Walter

Tanner. S.W., was installed as Master by his father, W. Bro. Walter A. Tanner, P.M. There was a goodly

muster of brethren from city and suburban Lodges, and from as far afield as Otaki, also a contingent of

brethren from the R.N.Z A.F., of which the new Master is a member. M.W. Bro. G. Russell, P.G.M.. and

R.W. Bro. S. M. Stone, Prov.G M., were present, accompanied by G.L. Officers. The Master-elect was O. by

W. Bro. Emens, W.M., who then invited W. Bro. W. A. Tanner to take the Chair and install his son as

Master. After the B. of I.Ms. had concluded and the Lodge resumed, the ceremony continued, the following

officiating:—W. Bros. D. W. Debreceny, of Lodge Otaki, No. 72, R. L. Hunter, of the Coronation Lodge,

No, 127, and A. Morris. Lodge Karori, No. 247, together with R.W. Bro. S. M. Stone. W. Bros. R. B. Magee,

P.G.S., and J. T. Mair, G.Supt.W., R.W. Bro. J. H Jerram, I.S.O., P.Prov,G.M., and W. Bro. J. Dougal. After

the ceremony a happy hour was spent in the refectory, where the usual loyal toasts were honoured. In

responding for their Lodges, several W.Ms. remarked that the evening's work was rare, if not unique, in that

the newly-installed Master had been initiated, by his father, W. Bro. W. A. Tanner, at the close of his second

term as Master of Lodge Otari, in May, 1932, and he now had the privilege, twelve years later, of installing

his son, W. Bro. W. W. Tanner, into the Chair of K.S. When thanking the brethren present for their

attendance, the new W.M. said he knew that all the brethren would join with him in the earnest prayer that

before another Installation meeting the peace and harmony which actuates all true Masons would be

manifested throughout the whole world in a peace for which we all longed, and that we would soon have the

opportunity of welcoming back to their homes those brethren who have been serving overseas.

The Installation meeting of Hataitai, No. 285, was held on 21st June in the Taia Temple, Kilbirnie. Twenty-

three sitting Masters were present, many with a good following, to see Bro. the Rev. Walter Langston

installed. The ceremony was ably carried out by R.W. Bro Stanley M. Stone Prov.G.M., assisted by a large

contingent of Grand Lodge officers, as follows:—M.W. Bro. Geo. Russell. P.G.M., R.W. Bro. J. Rod,

P.G.W., V.W. Bro. C. H Taylor. G.R.. V.W. Bro. the Rev. H. R. Fell, G.Lec., and V.W Bro. W. S. Barr,

P.G.D.C. The newly-installed Master gave an interesting address in the Temple, which was listened to with

great attention, and also referred feelingly to the Lodge's loss in the death of W Bro. W. R. Jourdain. P.M.,

P.G.P., who had given 13 years' faithful service to the Lodge as Secretary. A presentation was made to the

I.P.M., W. Bro. A. J. Linney, of a P M.'s Jewel to commemorate his year as W.M. The officers invested

comprised :—S.W., Bro. E. J. Barry; J.W., Bro. R. S. Owen; Treas.. W. Bro. E. C. Smyth, P.M. (14th time);

Chap., W. Bro C. Lust; D.C., W. Bro. I. Baty, P.M.; Sec.. W. Bro. A. J. Linney, P.M.; S.D., Bro. R. H.

Williamson; J.D , Bro. R. N. Chatterton; I.G., Bro. N. O. Collingwood; S.S., Bro. W. Wilkinson; J.S., Bro.

M. Shapiro; Tyler, Bro. S. A. Matheson.

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SOUTHLAND NOTES.
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The Installation of W. Bro. A. Scott, P.G.B.B., as Master of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, was conducted at

Invercargill on July 18th by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, Prov.G.M., assisted by Grand Officers. There was a good

attendance of members and visitors. The various addresses were given as follows:—The Master, by the

Inst.O ; Wardens, by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M.; Brethren, by R.W. Bro. A. Derbie. P.Prov G.M. The

Wardens were invested by R.W. Bro. Jas. Manson, P.Prov.G.M.

Four candidates were passed at the July meeting of Lodge Southland, No. 273, by W. Bro. G. Barnes,

Master, and officers in an impressive manner.

Ven. Preceptor A. W G. McKee and officers of the Southland Preceptory will hold their quarterly meeting at

an early date this month.

The death occurred on July 16th of R.W Bro. Wm. F. Irvine P.G.W. and P.G Supt., one of the stalwart

members of the Craft in the Southland District. He was a most enthusiastic member of Southern Cross Royal

Arch Chapter, No. 3; Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3; a P.M.W.S. of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter,

No. 36; and Past Preceptor of the Southland Preceptory of Knights Templars A well-attended Lodge of

Sorrow was conducted by W. Butson, Master and officers of Lodge Southern Cross. No 9 assisted by R.W.

Bro. G. J. Yule. Prov.GM., in the Invercargill Temple, prior to proceeding to the Eastern Cemetery to pay a

last sad tribute of respect to departed merit.

Comp. Lieut -Col. Cockerill, a returned member of the N.Z. Expeditionary Force from the Middle East.

attended the June meeting of Southern Cross R.A. Chapter, No. 3. and entertained the companions at the

festive board with a number of most interesting experiences while abroad.

A number of officers and brethren of Lodge Harvey. No. 49 attended the July meeting of Lodge Mataura,

taking with them a candidate to be passed to the Second Degree.

Ex. and Pert Bro R. H. Waddell, M.W.S.. and officers of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter, No. 36, will perfect

a candidate at their quarterly meeting, to be held this month.

A meeting of the Southern Cross Cryptic Council. No. 3, held by dispensation at Gore on June 24th, attracted

a splendid attendance. Three candidates were received in a most impressive manner by V.Ex. Comp. W. R.

Allen, T.I.M., and officers.

The Installation of Master and the investiture of officers of Lodge Edendale, No. 289. was conducted on July

22nd by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, Prov.G.M., in the presence of a good attendance of members and visitors.

When conditions return to normal it is the intention of members of this Lodge to erect a Temple befitting the

requirements of this well-established district. The local Public Hall is at present being used for Masonic

purposes.

W Bro. Wm. Kelman, P.A.G.D.C., and Past Masters of Lodge Victoria, No. 147. worked the ceremony of

raising at their July meeting in a most impressive manner, fully in accordance with the highest traditions of

the Craft. The various chairs were occupied, also charges given, by W. Bro. Wm. Kelman, R.W. Bro. A.

Derbie, W. Bros. T. R. Pryde. G, G. Webb, R. A Lelly. C. J. McEachran, R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, W. Bros. E.

H. Smith. W. Torrance. R. Kelman, D. R. McKenzie, and T. A. Clark.

The Installation meeting of Lodge Aparima. No. 77 (Riverton), will be held this month.

Past Principals of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter No. 3, will work the Royal Arch Degree at their

August convocation. Last month the ceremony of acknowledgment was conducted by W. Ex. Master Lyon

and officers.

R.Ex. Comp Geo. H. Brown, Grand Supt. and Grand Chapter officers will conduct the installation of

Principals and the investiture of officers of Huiroa Royal Arch Chapter, No. 47, on August 5th.

Bro. A. A. Lind of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189. who recently returned from overseas, was welcomed at the

recent Installation meeting.

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OTAGO NOTES.
–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Grand Lodge Officers have been able to attend to their own Lodge affairs recently, as only one Installation

has appeared on the schedule, that of Ionic Lodge, No. 191, at which there was a good attendance. No

Installations are set down for August, although it is possible that the Consecration of a new Lodge may take

place, but the date has not yet been settled The Prov: G.M. (R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes) has been visiting Lodges

for their domestic meetings, and his presence has been appreciated.

Over forty brethren, representing all City Lodges, met in The Savoy on 20th July to hear from V.W. Bro.

Harry Hatch, Pres. B. of B. how the G.L. Benevolent Funds are administered. Our brother was in good form.

and it is felt that he left a very impressive message, one that should soften the very hardest heart—and we

have a few of this type unfortunately—in regard to our widows', orphans' and benevolence generally. Bro

Hatch also paid a visit to Oamaru-Kilwinning Lodge No. 82 the evening before, and our Oamaru brethren

were delighted with the enthusiasm shown, and to learn of the great work being undertaken by the Board. A

standard has evidently been set which it behoves Dunedin to live up to, and better, when the administrative

offices are situated in that city towards the end of this year, and for the next two years.

Word has been received that the prospects of holding the full Grand Lodge communication in November are

bright, and with this object in view committees are now being formed to carry out the local programme and

to see to the usual Otago hospitality towards our visiting brethren.

Enquiries are also in hand for suitable offices to accommodate the branch office of Grand Lodge, which will

be set up in Dunedin in accordance with the resolution passed last November, to open on 1st October.

A Masonic reading was given at the meeting of Lodge Oamaru-Kilwinning, No. 82, on 21st June, W. Bro. G.

Puttick being in the chair.

This Lodge, and the North Otago District generally. has suffered a great loss by the death of W. Bro. Donald

Miller, one of the best-known Masons and also a well-known citizen of Oamaru W. Bro. Miller was a very

old Mason and for over 30 years the D.C. of Lodge Oamaru-Kilwinning. For his funeral a Lodge of Sorrow

was formed at the Temple, and after a service had been held in the special Chapel in the town, the brethren

joined the procession and attended at the cemetery, where the Masonic service was read by W. Bro. D. H.

Scott., P.G.S. The brethren then returned to the Temple and the Lodge of Sorrow was closed.

Lodge Oamaru, No. 260, held its usual meeting on 5th July, when a reading was given by W. Bro.

Blackgrove. Nominations were received for offices for the forthcoming year. Notice was also received from

Lodge Oamaru-Kilwinning, No. 82. to the effect that it was withdrawing from the North Otago Board of

Enquiry.

On the 12th July, Lodge of Waitaki, No. 11, worked a Third Degree, W. Bro. Cameron being in the chair.

With a very good attendance.

The Waitaki-Kilwinning Royal Arch Chapter, No. 8. worked an Acknowledgement at its meeting on 28th

June, Ex, Comp. J. Watson being in the chair.

At Rose Croix Chapter. North Otago, No. 238, on 30th June, M.W.S. Bro. H J. Jenkins carried out the

ceremony of Perfection. There was an excellent attendance.

Little news has been received from some of the Lodges in the district, and it is hoped that they will forward

any items of interest. Kurow we understand, is doing well, though Lodge Ngapara is having rather a lean

time. Lodge Palmerston, No 26, will hold its Installation in August, when Bro. J. A. Galloway is to be

installed. It is to be hoped that petrol restrictions will not prevent a good muster at the function.

The Installation of Lodge Clinton. No. 183, on 5th May, was very successful, a large attendance of visitors

being present to pay tribute to the incoming Master (W. Bro. C. C. Stuart). The ceremony was conducted by

R.W. Bro. J. A. Sparrow. P.Prov.G.M., assisted by M.W. Bro. W. Lishner and G.L. Officers. Lodge Clinton

suffered a severe loss in the death of an old and respected brother, R W. Bro. W. McIndoe, P.G.W. He took

an active part in the working of the Lodge to within a year before his death. His dignified manner in

delivering a charge at a Degree working or when assisting G.L. at Installations was an inspiration to many

younger brethren who came under his influence.

The Lodge of Otago, No 7. held its July meeting on Saturday, 17th, instead of the usual second Wednesday,

to meet the convenience of Lodge Waikaka, 151, whose members travelled from Southland to return the visit

paid them by this Lodge last January. W. Bro. Harvey. W.M. of Lodge Waikaka, had the support of a good

number of his officers and brethren, and conducted the ceremonial work of "raising" two candidates. The

W.M. of Lodge Karitane. No. 221, and a large number of his brethren, were present.

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CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.
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V.W. Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn, G Lec., Secretary of the Masters' and Pastmasters' Lodge. No. 130, has agreed

to act as editor of the Christchurch Notes.

Ionic Lodge, No. 212, celebrated its twenty-first anniversary at its regular meeting on 22nd June last. V.W.

Bro. Dunstan, the first Master, occupied the chair and conferred the Second Degree. Two of the original

officers, W. Bros. Twyneham and Bennett assisted, and 47 members answered the roll call. Eight brethren

were absent on Active Service and 17 apologies were received, accounting for 72 members.

W. Bro. G. H. Battersby, Master of Civic Lodge, No. 157, presided at the regular meeting on July 4th, which

was his last night in the chair. There was a very large attendance of brethren and visitors. The First Degree

was worked and W. Bro. Battersby responded to his toast in the refectory in a very happy speech.

At the regular meeting of Doric Lodge, No. 275. on July 13th, a Lecture was given by V W. Bro. Dr. Ross

Hepburn, G.Lec., on the Second Degree.

Lodge Riccarton held its regular meeting on July 18th, when the Master, W. Bro. R. T. Sladen, conferred the

Third Degree.

W. Bro. J. K. Haberfield, Master of Robert Burns Lodge, No 139, presided at the regular meeting on July

18th. There was a large attendance of members and visitors at this meeting, which was the Master's last

night. The large attendance was in part a tribute to the generous manner in which W. Bro. Haberfield has

assisted the Lodges in the District with vocal items during recent years.

Lodge Canterbury Kilwinning, No. 23, held its Installation meeting on July 20th, when Bro. S. E. Buchanan

was installed as Master by R W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov.G.M who conducted the ceremony assisted by

officers of Provincial Grand Lodge.

The Installation meeting of the Royal Canterbury Preceptory, No. 246, of Knights Templar was held on July

20th. when B.R. Kt. F J. Shanks was installed as Eminent Preceptor by E. Kt, J. J. Hurley. Provincial Sub-

Prior, for the South Island of New Zealand. Greetings were received from V. Et. Kt. Major W. G. Wray, M C

K.C.T., Provincial Prior for New Zealand.

The Canterbury Kilwinning Cryptic Council. No. 136 held its regular meeting recently. The Thrice

illustrious Master. T I. Comp. W. J. Elliott, conferred the Degree of Select Master on several candidates.

This was his last night in the chair, and the companions welcomed him back after several months' illness.

At the regular meeting of Lodge Concord. No. 39 (Papanui), an official visit was paid by the 1941-42 Group

of Postmasters in honour of W. Bro. C. H. V. Godfrey, of Lodge Concord, who was the first President of the

Group.

Lodge Cashmere No. 271, held a Foundation Members' night on June 22nd last, when W. Bro. C. J.

Morrison, the first Master of the Lodge, occupied the Chair and conducted the ceremony. The various chairs

were all occupied by Foundation members, most of whom are now Past Masters. There were 13 visiting

Lodges present.

W. Bro. Harry Fuller, of Southern Star Lodge. No. 256, who has been ill for some time, is now progressing

satisfactorily and is on the way to recovery.

The bi-monthly meeting of the Masters' and Pastmasters’ Lodge. No. 130, was held on July 19th. when V.W.

Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn. G.Lect., conducted a Question Evening. Seven questions of Masonic' interest were

answered, printed proof sheets of the answers being circulated among those present. There was a good

attendance and considerable discussion Questions and Answers have become a regular feature of the

Masters, and Pastmasters' Lodge during the last five years, and it is encouraging to see the interest taken in

this particular work by brethren in Canterbury. Nelson and Marlborough, and the West Coast, as well as

further afield.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.
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The Waimakariri-Hurunui Group is staging the biggest, brightest and best meeting they have ever held, and

Mairaki Lodge, under whose direction the meeting will be held, has done a magnificent job in arranging a

really attractive programme

W. Bro J. B. Struthers Master of Mairaki, and W. Bro. Appleby, Master of Ashley, assisted by W. Bros. C.

B. Forbes and Bro. Ted Blackett, have worked with great energy to perfect the arrangements. From little

acorns giant oaks do grow, and this year our attendance will have grown considerably. August 5th is the date.

Southern Cross, No. 6, had a really good meeting in July, and W. Bro. D. W. Ross, the energetic Master, and

his officers raised a candidate with great merit. As usual, W. Bro. Ross is getting in a lot of visits and is very

welcome wherever he goes.

V.W. Bro. Rev. E. Drake, 100 Chapter Street, has been appointed official hospital visitor. His phone is 23-

514

Ashley Lodge has quite a lengthy agenda sheet, and W. Bro. Appleby and his brethren will give visitors a

really good welcome.

Tawera Lodge is having a spell after a busy period, and W. Bro. C. R. Tovey, the Master, and his officers

will attend the Group meeting in force to help their neighbour Mairaki Lodge.

The visit of Brighton Lodge to Mairaki was a great success and W. Bro. Struthers and his officers raised a

Brighton brother, and they did the job well.

W. Bro. C. B. Forbes, Secretary of Mairaki, is at present very busy helping to get ready for the Waimak.-

Hurunui reunion.

Acacia had a splendid Past Masters' Night, when W. Bro. Angus Trumper occupied the chair and initiated his

son. He was ably assisted by W. Bros. H. Billens, R. Tucker, Alex. Fox, H. Coe. O. Johnson, W Whittington.

Dr. Page. C. McKeegan, W. A. Forrester, Lance McNaughton. H. Inch and others.

Sympathy is extended to W. Bro. and Mrs. Harry Saundercock in their recent trouble.

Bro. W. McKeegan, son of W. Bro. Charlie and Mrs. Mc-Keegan, who has been seriously wounded in Italy,

is progressing as well as possible, and our group sends best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. McKeegan.

Cheviot Lodge is getting along nicely. The Master, W. Bro. John McPherson, and his brethren, will attend

the August meeting at Amuri and raise a candidate for Amuri. Sister Lodges are invited to attend and see

Cheviot work the Scotch Third, and they can do it.

Kaikoura Lodge has a lengthy list and will be very busy shortly. The Master, W. Bro. Selby-Williams, will

be pleased to see visitors. The Kaikoura crayfish are plentiful.

Amuri Lodge had a successful night and raised a candidate with their usual vigour and efficiency. W. Bro.

Arthur Burke. Master of Amberley, accompanied by a car-load of his brethren, attended, and they enjoyed

the Amuri welcome.

Bro. Ray Davison, S.W. of Amuri, is on the sick list, but improving, and Bro. K. Dunbar, who was recently

slightly wounded in Italy, is about again—and he has done a great job "over there."

Ashley Chapter has some work on at present and will be glad to see the city Chapters come along and help

them.

R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Pray. Grand Master of Canterbury, is retiring this year. He has done a wonderful

job and shown what energy and attention can do. His successor will have an easy start, with everything left

in apple pie order. The Waimakariri-Hurunui Lodges wish him well for the future.

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NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH NOTES.
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The Installation meeting of Lodge Wairau. No. 42, took place at the Masonic Temple, Blenheim, on

Saturday, 24th June, in the presence of about 200 brethren. The Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. James Baird, presided,

supported by the following G.L. officers: R.W. Bros. Girling. Eckford, Nathan and Thomson, V.W. Bro.

Mogridge and W. Bros. Craighead and Morley. Bro. Francis Leslie Smith was duly installed as W.M. The

whole proceedings went most smoothly and satisfactorily under the guidance of the Asst.G.D.C., W. Bro.

Whiteford. The Prov.G.M.'s reference to the W.O. and A.M. Fund resulted during the collection by

contributions exceeding £14, which was supplemented by a further donation of £10 from the Lodge funds.

The retiring Master. W. Bro. J. Stewart, was presented with a handsome P.M.'s Jewel. The proceedings in the

refectory were of a bright and happy character, and the presence of a large number of brethren in uniform

was greatly appreciated.

In addition to the Installation meeting, Lodge Wairau, during June, held an Emergency Meeting, for the

purpose of working a Double Third, and also at 2 p.m. on the afternoon of the Installation worked a further

Third.

Lodge Victory, No. 40, under the direction of the new Master, W. Bro. George Stiles, held a splendid and

largely-attended meeting on July 13th, when three F.Cs. were "raised." The annual report and balance-sheet

for year ended May, 1944, were presented and approved, disclosing a sound financial position and a year of

steady progress under W. Bro. Percy Thomson. The attendances for the year showed a slight improvement

from the early war years of 1940, 1941 and 1942. there being a total attendance of 943, including 344 P.Ms.,

for the 12 meetings held; seven First, eight Second, and six Third Degrees were conferred,- and the annual

Christmas meeting and Children's Night were as successful as ever. R.W. Bro. Stiles is to be congratulated

upon a most informative and interesting report supplementing his newsy monthly notice.

Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, No. 106, held its last regular meeting under the direction of W. Bro. J. W.

Douglas on Tuesday, 11th July, seventeen Lodges being represented, including Lodges represented by the

Brethren Blue. The newly-installed Master of Lodge Wairau paid his first official visit, and there was also a

visit from Lodge Waitohi, although the Master was absent owing to indisposition. Two F.Cs. were "raised,"

one in the Air Force and the other in the Army, so it was really a good Combined Forces night. The meeting,

together with the refectory proceedings, was most enjoyable, but the Air Force members had to rush away to

catch their bus about 10.50, before the Visitors' Toast was taken, and thus was lost the usual interesting

responses received from many of these men. Some rearrangement would seem possible to enable the

Visitors' Toast to be taken earlier in the proceedings.

Lodge Nelson is to have its Past Masters' night on Wednesday, 19th July, when the W.M. has requested W.

Bro. J. A. Harley to take charge. A good team of P.Ms. has been selected, and an enjoyable evening is

anticipated. Lodge Motueka, one of whose E.As. is to be passed to the Second Degree, paying an official

visit. Included in the officers recommended for the ensuing year are five members recently returned from

overseas, and this has involved a complete reshuffle and a sacrifice by a number of members in an effort to

adhere as closely as possible to the Lodge's resolution to reinstate returned brethren as far as the Constitution

will allow.

Golden Bay Lodge, No. 2194, E.C. held its regular meeting on Saturday, 8th July, when Lodge St. Cuthbert's

paid an official visit and a double Third was worked. This Lodge is making good progress and has twelve

months' steady work ahead. The Lodge is mourning the loss of one of its younger brethren, Sergeant F. M.

Robertson, R N.Z.A.F., aged 24, who is a son of W. Bro. W. L. Robertson, a member of the Lodge.

Southern Star Lodge, No. 735, E,C., as expected, had a splendid meeting on Saturday, 24th June, the special

event being the official visit from their sister Lodge, Golden Bay, a remarkably large number of brethren

making the trip from Takaka to Nelson. W. Bro. Bensemann, of Golden Bay, and his officers conducted the

ceremony of the Third Degree with complete satisfaction to the members present., Apart from the special

meeting, Southern Star held their regular meeting on Tuesday, 27th June, when a candidate was initiated.

At the regular meeting of Waimea Lodge, held on Wednesday, 5th July, a member was "passed" to the

Second Degree, and two other members are awaiting advancement.

Lodge Motueka held its regular meeting on Wednesday, 28th June, two members being "passed." This Lodge

is looking forward to its visit to Lodge Nelson on 19th July, when another of its members will be "passed."

The Victory Royal Arch Chapter, No, 12, met on Thursday, 29th June, when three members were "Exalted."

V.E. Comp. J. W. Biddle presided. There was a good attendance of visitors, including members of Trafalgar

Chapter, led by M.E. Comp. W. A. Armstrong, First Principal, and of the Marlborough Chapter, led by the

First Principal, V.E. Comp. A. H. Harrison. The visit from the Marlborough Chapter was especially

appreciated, and is to be reciprocated by V.E. Comp. J. W. Biddle at an early date.

An Emergency Meeting of the Trafalgar Chapter was held on Tuesday, 11th July, the First Principal. M.E.

Comp. W. A. Armstrong, presiding. R.W. Mark Master R. P. Wells took charge for the purpose of working

the Mark Degree, the candidate being from Lodge Southern Star, son of a M.E. Companion. There was a

good attendance of visitors, including members of Victory Chapter, led by the First Principal, V.E. Comp. J.

W. Biddle, whilst another visitor whose presence was greatly appreciated was M.E. Comp. Eckford. P.G.Z.

N.Z. Constitution.

W. Bro. W. A. Armstrong was re-elected chairman of the Board of Governors of the Kirkpatrick Masonic

Institute.

We are pleased to be able to report that Miss Allison, Matron of the Kirkpatrick Institute, has now been able

to resume duties following her recent indisposition.

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