RUNNING THE LODGE.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

ANY brethren, we are sure, will have read with interest and general approval the paper entitled "On

Any Lodge Night," read in the Research Lodge of Otago No. 161 by Wor. Bro, J. B. Thomson, S.W.,

and published in our issues of July and August last. In his shrewd and homely comments, and in plain

everyday speech, this experienced brother has placed his finger on a number of minor weaknesses in current

Lodge procedure which in the aggregate amount to a total of considerable importance. Some of the points

raised are matters upon which there is room for some difference of opinion, and all are problems that from

time to time have come up for discussion. It is significant perhaps that as regards faults in procedure, what

we now call first priority should have been given to the question of punctuality, and to a wise use of the time

available for Lodge purposes.

Stress is rightly, we think, laid upon punctual and prompt opening of the Lodge, and upon the avoidance of

waste of valuable time. Bro. Thomson is careful to avoid the error of identifying mere speed and haste with

the judicious use of the time available, which in any case is often all too short for the claims upon it. While

nothing is more exasperating than the frittering away of valuable time upon useless activities, or upon no

activities at all, it is also true that essential business must be carried out in a full and competent manner even

at the cost of time. In such a case, of course, no question of waste of time arises at all. It is a question for the

judgment and sagacity of the responsible officers of the Lodge.

In the matter of dealing with correspondence, for example, it does not appear to be necessary that every

communication should be read in full in open Lodge. Some correspondence, particularly such as has become

effete through lapse of time or is entirely formal, may be omitted altogether, some may be dealt with by

reference only, some may be summarised, and only those letters and other communications which in the

opinion of the W.M. and the Secretary are of sufficient importance should be read in full. This is a matter

that can be left to the judgment of the W.M. and the Secretary.

When it comes to the matter of minutes, there is perhaps not so much opportunity for saving time, and we

think it is questionable whether the extent of abbreviation suggested by Bro. Thomson would commend itself

to all Lodges, though he makes out a shrewd case for condensation. However that may be, there certainly do

occur cases where an over-conscientious secretary produces and reads minutes of unnecessary length,

perhaps embodying extracts from or summaries of speeches which are not really part of the minutes at all.

This particular waste of time can and should be avoided.

The paper also refers to delays incidental to the admission of visitors, a familiar and intractable problem that

has often been discussed in the past, and in regard to which no easy or acceptable solution appears to be in

sight. This matter is of special importance at installation meetings, and has risen out of the increase in the

number of Lodges and the amount of visiting that has characterised the development of the Craft in the last

few decades. Apart from admitting brethren, after vouching, in groups larger than individual Lodge groups,

there seems no available remedy; and this plan, at present, does not appear to find much favour. This

incidentally is not a matter on which Bro. Thomson's paper sheds any fresh light.

The problem of the wisest use of the time available for Lodge purposes is really of an intangible nature, in

that it is not very easy to diagnose the exact trouble, or suggest the appropriate remedy. The matter indeed

appears to be in part psychological and personal, depending on the temperament and habits of mind of the

W.M, and his two principal administrative officers, the Secretary and the Director of Ceremonies. These are

the officers whose activities are directly involved, and whose attention is continuously engaged, in the actual

conduct of operations.

It is perhaps inevitable, therefore, that in most cases they will find the actual procedure, whether long or

short, more interesting and less tedious than will those of the brethren whose role is more that of passive

spectators; and what is pleasurable activity to them may be more in the nature of boredom, or at the least,

much less interesting, to the rest of the members present. The W.M., in particular, appreciating the temporary

M

novelty of authority, power and consequence, will usually, and quite naturally and properly, enjoy the actual

working of the Lodge, and will not feel conscious of the passage of time.

When he is really "run in" to his work, and has acquired the "feel" of his office, his period in the chair will

normally be drawing to an end, and he will be followed by another W.M. whose psychology will be much

the same as his. Without being pedantic, we think that considerations such as this play a part in the

acceleration or delay of business, because the conduct of affairs depends so greatly on the manner in which

the W.M. gets through the business. If he is temperamentally alert and vigorous, and inclined to push things

through, business will be despatched promptly; if he does not possess these qualities, then there may be

exasperating delays.

It is in matters such as these that the selection of suitable brethren for the offices of Secretary and Director of

Ceremonies assumes importance. These officers can materally assist, or hinder, the smooth and prompt

despatch of both business and ceremonial work. It is therefore wise to retain such brethren in their respective

offices if they prove to have the necessary qualities and to remove them if they do not.

Bro. Thomson makes a number of other points in his useful and interesting paper, some of which we may

have occasion to touch upon at some future time; but he rightly lays stress on punctuality, which contributes

so much to the smooth working and morale of the Lodge. The price of quality is critical vigilance; and it is

not secured by complacent acquiescence in things as they are. Critical reviews of the type under

consideration, without exaggeration, and based not on impractical maxims of perfection but on reasonable

commonsense, are both helpful and constructive.

————————

THE GRAND LODGE OF NEW ZEALAND.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

We remind readers that the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge will be held in the Town Hall. Dunedin,

on Wednesday, 22nd instant, at 10 a.m.

The installation of His Excellency Wor. Bro. Sir Cyril Newall, P.M., will take place the same day at 7.15

p.m.

————————

Owing to sickness and shortage of staff we regret the unavoidable delay in this issue of the "Craftsman."

————————

SUPREME/ GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

A meeting of Supreme Committee was held in Dunedin on 4th October, R.E. Comp. T. O'Shea, Chairman,

presiding.

After the confirmation of minutes the Chairman reported the deaths of M.E. Comp. Dr. E. D. Dunn, P.G.Z.;

R.E. Comps. W. F. Irvine, P.G.H., M. Blair, A. W. Chapman and T. B. Salmon, P.G.J.'s, E. Senior, P.G.

Supt.; V.E. Comps. A. Taylor and A. G. Mackay, P.G. Supt. of Works. The usual tribute was paid to their

memory.

Jubilee Scholarship Fund: The report of the sub-committee was approved and adopted and the Grand

Registrar will move as follows:—

"That the regulations be amended by deleting. Clause 7 and substituting the following clause:—

"7. Each year as from the 1st. day of January, 1945, scholarships shall be open to the following individuals in

the following order of priority:

(a) Any child who is or has been an inmate of the Kirkpatrick Masonic Institute or the Papakura Masonic
Home for Boys or any other institution which Grand Chapter in Annual Convocation shall add to this

sub-clause.

(b) Any child of a deceased Royal Arch Mason who had at any time been a member of a Chapter holding
under Grand Chapter.

(c) Any child of a Royal Arch Mason who is a serviceman or a discharged serviceman within the
meaning of the Rehabilitation Act 1941 or any Act amending same and who at the time of the

application for a scholarship is a member of a Chapter holding under Grand Chapter.

(d) Any freemason who is a serviceman or discharged serviceman within the meaning of the
Rehabilitation Act, 1941, or any Act amending the same and who at the time of the application for a

scholarship is a member of a Chapter holding under Grand Chapter or a Lodge holding under the

Grand Lodge of New Zealand."

Installation Ritual: An endeavour is to be made to hold a meeting of the members of the sub-committee

during the Grand Lodge Communication in Dunedin this month.

The Depute Grand Principal reported that he had visited the Hauraki, Auckland, Nelson and Marlborough

and Ruapehu Districts and all the Chapters in the Wellington District.

The Grand Treasurer presented a statement of receipts and payments showing a credit balance of £214/18/4.

The action of the Executive Officers in investing another £100, making £300 in all, in the Victory Loan was

approved.

Grand Representatives: Companion Joseph H. McCarthy was appointed our representative near the Grand

Chapter of the State of New York on the recommendation of that Grand Body. It was decided to submit the

name of R.E. Comp. Jas. Armstead to the Grand Chapter of Wyoming (R.E. Comp. W. F. Irvine, decd.), the

name of R.E. Comp. W. Reynolds to the Grand Chapter of Ireland (M.E. Comp. E. D. Dunn, decd.) and the

name of R.E. Comp. A. E. Davies to the Grand 'Chapter of Florida (R.E. Comp. E. Senior, decd.) with a

recommendation that they be appointed their representatives near this Grand Chapter.

It was decided that the next Annual Convocation would be held in Auckland on Wednesday, 21st February,

1945.

It was decided to recommend to Grand Chapter that the Representation Levy for the year 1945 be 2/6.

Grand Officers 1945/1946: The following are the recommendations for Grand Officers :—First G.Princ.,

R.E. Comp. W. Reynolds; Depute G.Princ., R.E. Comp. W. J. Girling; Second G.Princ., R.E. Comp. J.

Armstead; Third Grand Princ., V.E. Comp A. Derbie; Chairman Sup. Com., R.E. Comp. T. O'Shea;

G.Treas., R.E. Comp. W. R. McKenzie; Grand Reg., R.E. Comp. R. C. Rutherford; G. Scribe N., V.E.

Comp. R. S. Bates; G.D's. of C. (6), V.E. Comps. T. Sauvarin, J. Noble, H. G. McDonald, K. Johnson, A. B.

Christensen, A. M. Ross; G.Chanc., V.E. Comp. C. R. Nottingham; 1st G. Soj., V.E. Comp. G. N.

McDiarmid; 2nd. G.Soj., V.E. Comp. J. Neilson; 3rd. G.Soj., V.E. Comp. W. K. Scrymgeour; G. Supts. of

Works, V.E. Comps. P. J. S. George and A. J. Henderson; G.Swd.B.'s, V.E. Comps. R. J. Watt and S. C.

Glew; G.St.B.'s, V.E. Comps. C. M. Sargisson and D. Parnell; G.Org., V.E. Comp. H. H. Watkins; Elective

members of Supreme Committee: V.E. Comps. G. H. C. Green, V. R. Anderson, C. G. Hedge, J. Mitchell, C.

O. G. Reid.

Grand Superintendents of Districts: North Auckland, V.E. Comp. S. L. Spanhake; Auckland, V.E. Comp.

T. G. Short; Hauraki, V.E. Comp. F. A. Pickett; Taranaki, V.E. Comp. J. L. Campbell; Hawke's Bay, R.E.

Comp. J. W. Elliott; Ruapehu, R.E. Comp. W. A. Waters; Wellington, M.E. Comp. R. W. McVilly; Nelson

and Marlborough, V.E. Comp. E. H. Thomson; Westland, R.E. Comp. H. Campbell; Canterbury, R.E. Comp.

F. N. Kerr; Otago, R.E. Comp. J. C. Seelye; Southland, R.E. Comp. G. H. Brown.

It was resolved that in future Government Stock be shown at face value in the balance sheet and the amount

released as well as the amount of £4/10/- received on conversion of 1946 Stock be credited to the Jubilee

Memorial Fund.

The Grand Scribe E. advised that he desired to be relieved of his duties after the next Annual Convocation

and it was resolved that a special meeting of the local members of the committee would be held to discuss

the position.

————————

FOUR FUNDAMENTALS OF GOD.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(W. THOMAS SMITH, 32°, Los Angeles, Calif.).

————

How many millions of years times a million it was the writer is not going to conjecture, but before time was

Creative Intelligence put into effect four fundamental laws or forces to assist in the creation, domination,

perpetuation and changing of one form of matter to another form of matter. These four forces have, every

minute since then, been constantly performing their duties and will continue to do so until time is no more.

At the present time we are pleased to designate these four forces as Electricity, the Subconscious Mind,

Gravitation and Magnetism. It is the first two of these we will now discuss. No one has yet been able to

explain them except as they affect matter.

The Subconscious Mind impregnates all living matter. Electricity impregnates all matter living or dead, but

is not so potent in dead matter.

The Subconscious Mind is the directing and planning force and is the most intelligent in all space.

Electricity is the motive force and the incipient force of all heat everywhere.

The Subconscious Mind makes and keeps a record of all the most important events of life and, if you desire

to recall some event that took place fifty years ago, you just impress upon the Subconscious Mind what is

wanted and proceed with your regular business, and if sufficiently impressed, the Subconscious Mind will,

within 24 hours, locate the information wanted and telegraph it to the Conscious Mind and you will

remember the details as clearly as if they had occurred two days prior.

Some persons are more successful than others in recalling past events, for the reason they better understand

how to impress their desire upon the Subconscious Mind.

When one talks over the telephone, the voice changes into electrical waves that go over the wires and, when

they strike the receiving telephone, they change back into sound or voice. A writer on electronics, in the

October number of "Science Digest," says the voice travels from Los Angeles to New York in one-fiftieth of

a second.

When a person speaks over the radio, the voice is changed into electrical waves that go in all directions and,

on striking the receiving radio, are changed back to voice. When heat leaves the sun, it is changed into

electrical impulses that travel through space so cold that if an airplane were sent to such a height, ice would

form on it and it would fall on account of weight. When these electrical impulses strike something they

cannot penetrate, they change back to heat. That is why it is cooler in the shade than when a person stands

where the electricity will strike him. It is electricity that keeps the body warm and the blood hot.

If a magnifying glass is held so the rays will pass through the glass and centre in a space of one-sixteenth of

an inch, they will quickly set wood on fire, When these rays strike an apple tree, a part of them enter the tree,

carrying with them gases from the air, and draw water from the earth and change several kinds of matter into

an apple. If a short distance away they strike a pear tree, they change the same things into a pear. If a little

distance from there they strike a peach tree, they change the same thing into a peach. If a short distance from

there they strike an orange tree, they change the same things into an orange. Just how they are able to change

the same matter into different things no one can understand. In fact we do not have the faintest knowledge as

to how they work in any case. A gentleman living in India has invented a machine that will magnify

electricity fifty times. He can attach it to a tree and with his hands feel the electrical forces as they

continually make the changes.

In 1939, a professor at Columbia University received from a scientific society the annual prize of 1,000

dollars for writing an article about something he had invented. The article was about a receiving radio he had

made by which he was able to change the electricity of a lead pencil, or any object held at the proper

position, into sound. This proves beyond any question that electricity impregnates all matter.

In the February, 1943, issue of "American Journal of Physics" is an eleven-page article, by Dr. R. T. Cox, of

New York University, entitled "Electric Fish." It seems that six years prior the aquarist of the New York

Aquarium had enlisted the University's aid in measuring the voltage in some kinds of fish. They had gathered

them from various parts of North and South America and, laying them on the floor, they stretched a wire

across the tails and prodded the fish with a cane. As they did that, they could measure the voltage of

electricity passing over the wire. While not always the same, at times the voltage was 200.

White settlers along the Amazon River have noticed that at times horses and cattle fording the river or people

swimming in it have suddenly died. It is not known whether the electricity in the fish killed them or just so

stunned them that they drowned. As these fish use this method of killing other fish to secure food to eat, it is

likely the electricity killed the people and animals.

Such orators as Daniel Webster, Patrick Henry or William Jennings Bryan have an unusual amount of

electricity and, as they speak, it seems as if one could almost see it flow from the eyes. Some speakers have

very little electricity. The common house cat has more for its size than any other animal which we usually

contact. The elephant has more than any animal we have been able to tame. That is because of its great size.

When the mother becomes pregnant, the Subconscious Mind and Electricity begin to build atom after atom

to that one in her and, in course of time, build it up to the proper condition. Then the Conscious Mind is, in

some way unknown to the writer, attached to matter and the child arrives before us. During this time the

Subconscious Mind has directed the forming of the different parts of the body and prepared it for the world.

Electricity has been the motive force and the two together have changed the food into the various parts of the

body, and have built the most marvellous machine in existence. Can you imagine any such intelligence in

space? He who says there is no God is to be pitied for his stupidity rather than condemned for his ignorance.

The scientists at Mt. Wilson have photographed two-thirds of all space and, at times, have left the camera

open for several days. From their estimation there are 75,000 stars in space for each of the two billion

inhabitants on this planet. These stars are all suns just like our sun. While distance prevents us from

knowing, it is most reasonable to presume that most of these suns have planets circling them, and the larger

ones have more planets circling them than circle our sun. It is also most reasonable to assume there are

millions of planets in space where life exists as it does on this planet. The same God that overlooks us

overlooks all of these planets and the many -stars or suns in space. These can only be operated by general

laws. It is therefore, proper for those who wish to know God best to try to understand the varied laws of

God.—"The New Age."

————————

A MESSAGE TO THE NEWLY INITIATED.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(From Lodge Patea Kilwinning)

————

After an address had been given to members of Lodge Patea Kilwinning by Bro. E. F. Hemingway members

asked that it be condensed with a view to giving each newly initiated brother a copy of it in order that he may

be fully seized with the aims and objects of the institution he had joined. Bro. Hemingway thereupon wrote

the following, which has been printed on card and in future a copy will be handed to each candidate admitted

to Lodge Patea Kilwinning after initiation.

The message which is in the nature of a "charge," being printed, will enable the newly initiated brother to

ponder at his leisure over the aims and objects of the institution that he has joined and being addressed to

him and signed by the W.M. adds a valuable personal interest to it:—

"Now that you have been initiated into our ancient Order it is only right that you should be given some

further details than those which you have already received in order that you may more fully realise the aims

and objects of the Craft.

To begin with it is as well to point out that you have not joined a club or a benefit institution but an Order

founded upon a rock:—the rock upon which the principles of Christianity are founded, namely, reverence for

the Supreme Being and brotherly love.

Masonry being thus founded, will, if you carry out its principles, help you to become a good citizen and an

asset to your country—one who fears God, loves the Brotherhood and honours the King. It is this type of

man that is most needed if the world is to be a better world in which peace and happiness are to reign in the

future.

You will I hope realise that from now onward the honour of the Craft is in your keeping, for according as

you act, so will the reputation of the Craft be either raised or lowered. It is a solemn responsibility that rests

upon your shoulders—a responsibility that you cannot escape from even if you would.

You must ever remember that when you enter the precincts of a Lodge you are on consecrated ground and

you should act accordingly whether you are in the Temple itself or in the refectory. It is because some

brethren are apt to forget this fact, through not having a right conception of the Craft that the following

warning is to be seen in the vestibule of some Lodges:—

"Before you tell that funny story

Remember

the reputation of the Lodge is in your keeping. The teller of a

doubtful tale loses the respect of his Brethren.

DON'T STEP DOWN."

You are asked to ever bear in mind that the pillars on which Masonry is founded are Brotherly Love, Relief,

and Truth. In other words, Masonry consists in giving and not looking for any gain other than the knowledge

that one has endeavoured to carry out one's duty to his God and to his fellow men, and has perhaps been able

to help a brother struggling by the way. Remember also that if you carry out the tenets of the Craft you will

have succeeded in gaining something that money cannot buy, namely, happiness—happiness in the

knowledge that, thanks to the teaching of the Craft you have been able to carry out the duties of a good

citizen and been a credit to your country and to the Craft.

Remember, too, that the ritual that you will hear from time to time is not mere verbiage, but that underlying

each Charge is a reminder of the object for which each Mason should strive, namely, the fitting of himself to

take his place in the presence of the Great Architect of the Universe when he shall have ceased from labour.

A brother who has been faithful to his vows will have no fear of the hereafter which, when compared with

this life is like the whole seashore compared with one tiny grain of sand.

Finally, my newly initiated brother, do not forget that from now onward you are a marked man, a member of

an Institution whose honour is now in your keeping. Your duty, therefore, is to show the world that there is

something in Freemasonry and that a man is all the better for having joined the Craft."

————————

THE TRACING BOARDS IN FREEMASONRY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(From a lecture by BRO. E. COOKE, of New South Wales.)

————

It was formerly the custom of Masters of Lodges to illustrate their lectures by diagrams in chalk or charcoal

upon the floor; and these were carefully obliterated at the close of the meeting to prevent any possible danger

of becoming the means of secrets being discovered. This method was sometimes found to be very

inconvenient, and gradually gave place to drawings either on cloth, or on canvas stretched upon frames; and,

as these were laid on the floor they sometimes went by the name of carpets or floor cloths. From these sprang

the present arrangement of the symbols in each degree, in a permanent form. The term "Tracing Board" may

not be so literally applicable to these as to the older kind; but the idea is the same.

In the explanatory lecture that is frequently given at the close of the initiation, the object of the Tracing

Board is described as "the better to enable brethren to carry on the structure with regularity and propriety."

The utility of such a collection of symbols may even be inferred from the definition of Masonry itself. The

estimation in which the Tracing Board should be held is shown by classifying it among the Jewels of

Freemasonry. This distinction has been conferred upon six of the emblems "on account of their moral

tendency which renders them Jewels of inestimable value"; and the term "immovable" has been given to the

Tracing Board and the Ashlars "because they lie open and immovable in the Lodge for the brethren to

moralise upon."

The term "Tracing Board" is used in our Ritual and Lectures in three different connections. There is:

i. the literal meaning as an implement used by operative masons;

ii. an allegorical application to the V.S.L.

iii. the ordinary application to the three separate Tracing Boards that are exhibited in the Lodge to
illustrate the three degrees.

The definition of the first kind of Tracing Board merely states that it is "for the Master to lay lines and draw

designs on." Some additional light is thrown upon the meaning by the description of the uses of the pencil

and compasses. This assists to form a general idea of what is referred to as the Tracing Board among

operative masons; although not sufficiently definite to identify it with any particular kind of drawing at

present in use in the building trade. The description might apply to the beautiful and complete designs of the

architect, to the working drawings of the builder, to any of the separate portions that may be placed in the

hands of the overseers, to the working details for the different classes of artificers, or even to any rough

sketches that may be made by a master or foreman to convey a correct idea to the craftsman as to any part of

the work. So also have the Tracing Boards in our Lodges varied from rough diagrams to the artistically

finished picture. Thus, both in operative and in speculative masonry, that which is called by the name of

Tracing Board may differ in completeness according to circumstances, though the object is always similar. If

one point is clearer than others, it is that among operative masons the Tracing Board was not merely to be

looked at, but was for practical use; and those for whose guidance it was especially intended were bound to

make themselves acquainted with the details.

The allegorical application to the V.S.L. is so beautifully described in the usual explanation that it is not

necessary to enlarge upon it.

Turning to the third kind of Tracing Board, in applying the teachings of operative masonry thereto it is

imperative to remember that the Tracing Boards are not put out in the Lodge with the mere object of being

looked at, but for practical instruction; and those for whose, guidance they were especially intended should

feel themselves bound to acquire a thorough acquaintance with their meaning. It may be objected that the

time allowed between each degree is too short for this purpose; and there is so much force in this objection

that the question naturally occurs whether it would not better conduce to the progress of true Masonry if in

this respect the example of operative masons were more closely copied. They would never entertain for one

moment the idea of permitting an apprentice to enter the ranks of craftsmen until he had served his time and

proved his practical knowledge; and a craftsman would not be employed as a master or overseer until it was

recognised that he was master of both the theory and practice of his profession. We, on the other hand, have

to be content in each case with replies to a few nominal test questions, which do not prove that the candidate

has any real knowledge of the principles of the science. It is doubtless assumed that the Freemason will make

greater progress after being raised than before; and, as he has been permitted to pass over the first two stages

so easily, there is all the more reason why he should seek to justify his title of Master Mason without loss of

time.

The adoption of a fixed form for the three Tracing Boards calls attention to another distinction between

operative and speculative masonry. The Tracing Board of the former necessarily changes with every new

building — the other constantly progresses on the same lines; the object of the one is to build for pecuniary

advantages without any personal interest in the structure when completed—the other is to build up a great

cause in whose triumphs we share, but a still more important distinction is that the intended structure,

referred to in the explanation of the Tracing Board, has especial application to Masonic work in our own

lives. This is most forcefully brought to the attention of every newly-initiated brother when he has taken the

obligation and entered upon the career of a Mason. In application of this it is evident that the perfection of

the parts must depend upon adherence to a settled plan, a complete knowledge of the details, and a due

appreciation of the intention of the architect. And, as the designs on the Tracing Board are "the better to

enable the brethren to carry on the intended structure with regularity and propriety," it follows that a

thorough knowledge of its meaning is one essential part of a Freemason's work. In other words, as the true

allegorical meaning of Freemasonry can be properly illustrated only by symbols, and as the symbols that

abound in our Lodges are of no use to us until we understand their meaning, it is evident that the Tracing

Boards, in which these symbols are collected together for convenience of explanation, are worthy of our

most attentive consideration.

If, when explaining the Tracing Boards, additional information were occasionally made use of, this might

often be of great advantage, and would not only prevent the danger of monotony, but also make the meaning

clearer. Not only so, but the additional light would tend to open new channels for thought; and if brethren

would follow up these they would be rewarded to an extent that they never anticipated. On the other hand,

when words are repeated without variation, one is apt to become so accustomed to them as even to become

unconscious of any error or contradiction.

Everything within the Lodge, and even the form of the room, has its symbolic meaning. The first Tracing

Board is designed to call attention to these, and therefore has a peculiar interest, not merely to the Entered

Apprentice, but also to Masons of all degrees. In the Lodge are to be seen the columns of different orders of

architecture, the Mosaic pavement, blazing star, the distinguishing jewels worn by the three principal

officers, the rough and perfect ashlars, the parallels, circle and point, the Bible with square and compasses.

All these find a place in the Tracing Board, as well as some others which cannot be represented in concrete

form, such as the allegorical ladder. However, all are symbolic, all require explanation, and their importance

is great. When the large number of symbols is taken into consideration, it must be admitted that the usual

explanation of the first Tracing Board is as brief and pithy as it could well be. The method of reasoning is

clear and forceful and full of suggestion; it is not perfect, for some emendation might be made with

advantage, and in some cases more information is wanted.

The symbols that lie open in the Lodge and apply to Masonry in general having been already absorbed by the

first Tracing Board, there is less scope for the second Board. Some of the emblems are valuable in calling

attention to the allusions to architecture and the liberal sciences in the second Lecture, while others refer

more particularly to events in sacred history.

The third Tracing Board contains symbols of a very different kind to either of the others, and opens up a new

field for investigation and contemplation. The meaning of some of these may readily be understood from a

consideration of the ceremonies; but others require careful thought and enquiry before their full intention can

be discovered. It is therefore remarkable that there should be no official explanation in either the ritual or the

lecture, except in one short paragraph which throws very little light upon any part of the meaning, and leaves

all the principal points in darkness.

The general conclusion is that, as the first Tracing Board contains a representation of a very large proportion

of our Masonic symbols, no one can have an intelligent knowledge of the principles of Freemasonry without

being acquainted with the meaning of these symbols; that, while the explanation of the second Tracing Board

has its peculiar merits, its bearing upon Masonic teaching is neither so great nor so important as the first and

third. With regard to the third Tracing Board, in the symbols employed and even in the inscriptions there is a

greater richness and beauty of meaning than is generally supposed.

—"Miscellanea Latomorum."

————————

MASONRY UNCONQUERED.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

(By W. BRO. THE REV. JOSEPH MOFFATT, B A.,

Past Assistant Grand Chaplain.)

————

Oration delivered at the Consecration of the Invictus Lodge, No. 5957, in London.

————

On these occasions, I like to take the opportunity not only of congratulating the Founders on attaining the

consummation of their labours in bringing this new Lodge into existence, but also of reminding them of the

responsibility that now rests upon them of setting it upon right lines. In particular, I would remind them of

the necessity for regarding the Lodge as something more than a new centre where they and their especial

friends in Masonry may meet for work and fellowship. It is that; but it is infinitely more than that, for this

Lodge will continue long after we, who are gathered here, are all gone and through its portals will pass

countless others who will carry the light and influence of Masonry far beyond its immediate circle. The trust,

therefore, that is committed to them is one of far-reaching consequences.

What I have to say to you today, Founders, in the few moments at my disposal will be best associated with

the name you have chosen for your Lodge — Invictus, Unconquered.

Most of us will be familiar with the little poem by W. E. Henley which bears this same title:

INVICTUS.

Out of the night that covers me•

Black as the pit from pole to pole.

I thank whatever gods there be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance,

I have not winced- nor cried aloud,

Under the bludgeonings of chance,

My head is bloody but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the Shade

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and will find me, unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll:

I am the master of my fate,

I am the captain of my soul.

Well might those words have been written by our Master Hiram Abiff himself, for they express that spirit of

undaunted courage in the maintenance of principle in the face of the "bludgeonings of chance" which should

characterise all true Masons.

An unconquerable loyalty to our Principles is, indeed, a matter of most vital importance in these strange and

tragic clays through which we are passing, and for this reason.

Ours is a generation which roundly declares that it does not believe in principles, but thinks that every man

is, and ought to be, free to express himself. Everything, we are told, is relative—relative to the individual and

to the circumstances in which he finds himself placed. Nothing is absolute. There are no fixed principles, but

only points of view, and, of course, my point of view is as good as yours.

You can trace this line of development in man's thought through various stages in the last thirty or forty

years. It appeared first in Art, where it became the fashion to declare that there is no such thing as absolute

beauty, but everything is relative to the artist himself. Hence the daubs of colour smeared on canvas

presented to us as pictures, and the hideous malformations in stone that claim to represent the art of

Sculpture. It passed into music where we are asked to accept as "the concord of sweet sounds" a cacaphony

of discords punctuated with a series of thumps and screeches. By way of explanation of these outrages upon

our senses of sight and hearing, we are told that they represent things as the artist or composer sees or hears

them; they are the expression of his point of view.

If this phase in human thought had stopped there, it would have done no more harm than that of consigning

the Art and Music of this generation to the museum of curiosities, or the limbo of forgotten things. But it did

not—indeed, could not—stop there. It was applied to ethical principles, and all morality was declared to be

relative. Nothing was absolutely right or absolutely wrong, but everything depended on the point of view and

on circumstances, of which every man was his own judge and therefore free to take his own line.

The serious consequences of this false doctrine were then revealed by the appearance in the dock of not a

few prominent figures in the business world to answer charges of dishonesty and corruption so extensive as

to threaten the stability of the whole credit system, and women of all classes coming before the police

magistrate on charges of petty theft and shop-lifting. So the canker spread, sapping the integrity of the people

and the moral life of the nation.

But worse was yet to come. It remained for this perverted teaching to complete its dread work in the field of

international relations. Following its dictates, the aggressors of Europe and the Far East jettisoned all

principles and showed the world what it means for a nation to give itself "self-expression." Treaties, Pacts of

Friendship, Pledged Words were only to be respected for so long as they helped to allay suspicion as to your

real intentions, or did not stand in the way of your ambitions. It was all very easy, for the restraints of Truth

and Honour had been got rid of and every government was free to do as it liked, and the dictator's point of

view was just as good as that of anyone else. The final consequences of this modern teaching are before our

eyes—nearly five years of the most appalling suffering and barbaric cruelty inflicted upon mankind that the

world has ever known.

But who is there, who has accepted this "non-absolute" philosophy, dare find any fault with the aggressor?

There is no standard, according to this theory of morals, by which to condemn their conduct. They have

merely, like the artist been "expressing" themselves. They have only been showing us things from their point

of view, which, they can claim, is as good as ours. Such is the hopeless, dismal scepticism, the abyss of

carnage and death, into which this philosophy of our false prophets has dragged us.

Against that tendency which has proved so disastrous, we Masons do and must take our stand, affirming our

faith in and our loyalty to, the eternal principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. The world is sick of

chaos. It has had enough of the jungle and is longing to come back to order and decency. But it can only do

so by submitting itself once again to the supremacy and restraint of those divinely-ordered principles. They

are simple, but they are adequate as a foundation upon which to build not only the individual life, but also

that City of God, that stable, well-ordered and peaceful society which is, I believe, the ultimate Plan and

Purpose of the Great Architect of the Universe Himself.

May this Lodge, by its very name, inspire its members to affirm and maintain the principles of Brotherly

Love, Relief and Truth from generation to generation.

—"The Freemasons' Chronicle,"

——–—————————————————————————————————————————

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

understood that at letters must be couched in courteous and proper language, otherwise they will he 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)

Sir,—With the approach of the Annual Communication, to be held in Dunedin on 22nd November, I have

been somewhat surprised that little or no interest has apparently been taken in the notice of motion to rescind

the decision made at last year's Communication to make the Offices of Grand Lodge permanently in

Wellington. This move was long overdue and although only carried by a small majority, it was evident that

some misconception of the proposals existed in the minds of many members. The fact that Communications

were still to be held in rotation in the various centres was not understood by some, while a further point was

that the Boards ("General Purposes" and "Benevolent") would still be located in rotation where the chief

executive officers of the Boards are resident, while a small branch office of Grand Lodge with an officer in

charge would be in such centre. Each district would thus have the same advantages as they now enjoy in

turn, while a permanent office of Grand Lodge would be established.

There would seem to be no disadvantages in the proposed change, now in fact supposed to be in being, but a

big advantage in having a permanent home for Grand Lodge. How many brethren in the past actually could

say off hand where Grand Lodge was located without looking up or inquiring?

It is to be hoped that the objection of those older brethren who fear any change may injure the Order, may be

overcome, and the decision of last year upheld and given a fair trial.—I am, sir,

P.M.

————————

FLYING BOMBS.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Extract from a letter dated London, 13th August,

which illustrates the morale and fortitude of the

people in England.

————

"Our chief worries for the past eight weeks have been flying bombs. We wondered whatever was happening

the first night they came over. We had an alert all night till 9 a.m. and we could not understand what had

gone wrong. We soon found out and it really seemed uncanny that these things had no pilot. For some weeks

we were hardly ever more than half an hour without an alert. They seemed to come in several directions or

lanes as the authorities described it. We could hear them coming like a swarm of bees and the noise grew

louder until it sounded like a swarm of old Ford cars, but they careered across the sky at about 400 miles per

hour. Then suddenly the engine stopped and in 5 seconds there was a terrific explosion. Sometimes they

glide for a distance after the engine stops and these are rather more upsetting, because if they are over a busy

thoroughfare it is impossible to hear them, and they might come screaming down on top of people before

they get a chance to take cover. We have been very lucky in our district; they come churning across the sky

towards us and either stop and fall just before reaching us, or else come over us and proceed some distance

before coming to earth. I must say we hold our breath at times and hope for the best. But in South London

the people have had a terrible time. Night after night and day after day these wretched things caused great

damage and casualties.

"Jack and Pamela had some narrow escapes in the city. One fell very near the office where Pamela is and

every window was blasted out. They just had time to shelter from the flying glass as it had glided over and

came screaming down without much warning. Jack had some good shakes, too. There were so many houses

damaged— 800,000 —that people were homeless and living in their shelters, but now a great many men

have been brought down from the north and are repairing those which are in condition to be repaired. One of

the girls Pamela works with was badly injured one night. She was staying with a friend (also in their office)

for company. They were in a double bed and they heard this doodle-bug coming and this girl just remembers

her friend saying: "Well, I generally get up and go out into the passage till they pass," when it hit the house.

She was dug out hours after but her friend was killed. This girl, among other injuries, had a broken leg, but

they were so rushed at the hospital that it was not set until three days later. She told Pamela they were just

bringing people in on stretchers and putting them on the floor and giving blood transfusions then and there. It

was a most trying time for the schools as Matric. and University entrance exams. were being held. Some of

these poor children sat at their desks trying to deal with exam. papers while these things crashed near enough

to make everything jump off their desks; others spent their time in shelters trying to cope with their papers.

Thousands and thousands have evacuated again and that is a colossal undertaking. I never know who to feel

sorryist for, the evacuee or the person who has to take them in. I liked the story I heard on the wireless a day

or so ago. There was an old lady who lived alone except for a faithful servant. The servant answered the door

one day to find an evacuation officer on the doorstep with two small children. She rushed upstairs and burst

into her mistress's room, saying: "Ma'm, Ma'm, you've got to have two babies and the man's at the door

now."

————————

OBITUARY.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

R.W BRO. ARTHUR STONEHAM, P. DEP. G.M.

————

Freemasonry has suffered a very great loss by the passing of R.W. Bro. Stoneham, which occurred on

Sunday afternoon, 1st October.

Bro. Stoneham had had indifferent health for some considerable time but was always of a cheerful

disposition and bore his infirmities with great fortitude.

He was born in Dunedin 75 years ago, and carried on his business as a manufacturing jeweller for many

years in that city, taking part in many of its activities, especially Freemasonry and military.

He rose from drummer boy to Lt. Colonel in the Otago Battalion and kept in close contact with his old

comrades up to the last. As a Freemason he became very prominent and was instrumental in forming Lodge

Oceanic No. 154 in Dunedin, and on leaving that city to settle in Gisborne in 1920 he at once made his name

in Masonic circles there, and in 1922 took the lead in forming Lodge Gisborne No. 233, being the first

Worshipful Master and afterwards held the office of Secretary for about 19 years, only relinquishing it on

account of his health about a year ago.

He attained Grand Lodge rank in 1909. Was Provincial Grand Master of the Otago District in 1912-13, and

in 1924 the degree of P.D.G.M. Honoris Causa was conferred on him.

He was a foundation member of the Gisborne Rotary Club where his advice and counsel was highly valued.

His charity knew no bounds save those of prudence and he was never known to refuse aid to any charitable

or deserving object.

As host and hostess in their home, his and Mrs. Stoneham's hospitality was unsurpassed and was greatly

enjoyed by a large number of friends, particularly amongst the Masonic fraternity.

Of his three sons, one was killed at Passchendale in the last war, one died in Gisborne in 1922, and the

surviving one, Bro. Dr. Garth Stoneham, is now a captain attached to the West African Forces.

————————

REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

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

————

MINNESOTA, 1944.

296 Lodges, 46,724 members, a gain of 448, the first since 1929.

91st Annual Communication held at St. Paul 19th and 20th January, M.W. Bro. Louis H. Colson, G.M.,

presiding.

"The National Colours and the Union Jack were presented by a Masonic Colour Guard from Square Post,

No. 203, of St. Paul, after which the National Anthem and `God Save the King' were rendered on the organ."

210 of the 296 Lodges were represented.

1420 brethren were raised, 446 affiliated, and 394 restored, while 458 withdrew, 476 were "stricken," and

851 died.

127 Fifty Year Buttons were presented during the year. There were 74 men, 109 women, and 18 married

couples in the Masonic Home.

The Grand Orator, W. Bro. Clinton M. Norton, delivered an address on "Good and Wholesome Instruction."

In June, 1943, Educational Lodge, No. 1001, the first Lodge for study and research in Minnesota, was

constituted at Duluth.

A Director of Masonic Service was appointed at a salary of 3000 dollars a year to assist the G.M., serve as a

liaison officer betwen the Masonic Home and the Lodges, serve as Executive Secretary of the Committee on

Masonic Service and Instruction, etc.

The 59 Grand Lodges whose proceedings were received by M.W. Bro. E. A. Montgomery, P.G.M.,

chairman, Committee on Foreign Correspondence, include N.Z., 1942.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Dick A. Mitchell, Mountain Iron.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. John H. Anderson, St. Paul.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Glynn McLaughlin, Fairment.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. J. L. Ching, P.Prov. G.M., Nelson.

————

CONNECTICUT, 1944.

129 Lodges, 34,498 members, a gain of 640.

156th Annual Communication held at Hartford, 2nd and 3rd. February, M.W. Bro. Carleton W. Tyler, G.M.,

presiding.

1595 were initiated, 60 affiliated, and 257 reinstated while 123 demitted, 347 were stricken from roll, 1

expelled, and 758 died.

Due to war conditions, fifty-year buttons were no longer available, but proper citations were being made by

the Grand Lodge.

There were 72 men and 117 women in the Masonic Home, 35 men and 79 women in the hospital, and 14

men, 14 women, 8 boys and 8 girls were being supported outside.

The 67 pages of Reviews by M.W. Bro. Winthrop Buck include one devoted to N.Z., 1942. Our learned

brother's comment that our custom of "holding the election and installation first, and the Grand Master's

address delivered last" draws attention to a fundamental difference between the American system and ours.

The report of our Board of General Purposes corresponds to an American Grand Master's address, as each is

a report on the past year's actions.

Grand Master : M.W. Bro. Winthrop Buck, P.G.M , Hartford.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Benjamin S. Coe. P.D.D., Waterbury.

Grand Representative at N.Z : R.W. Bro. Col. A. H. Herbert, D.S.O., P.G.W., Eketahuna.

————

LOUISIANA, 1944.

243 Lodges, 23,070 members, a gain of 1856.

133rd. Annual Communication held at New Orleans, 14th, 15th and 16th February, M.W. Bro. Benjamin Y.

Wolf, G.M., presiding.

218 of the 243 Lodges were represented.

The Grand Master classified the dispensations granted by him as follows:—

"1. To confer Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees on Entered Apprentice at one and the same

Communication.

2. To accept resignation of the Master of a Lodge, elect and install his successor; and to fill in the regular
manner all resulting vacancies.

3. To fill vacancies in Elective Lodge Offices caused by death or resignation of incumbent and all
resulting vacancies.

4. To waive the requirement of proficiency and confer one or two Degrees at one and the same
Communication.

5. To confer all three Degrees on candidates at one and the same Communication, having been duly and
legally elected in regular manner.

6. To hold Joint Installation of Officers with the Order of the Eastern Star or other Lodges. In such cases
I require that the Lodge in tiled session install the Master in the Oriental Chair, and also give the usual

procession in a tiled Lodge.

7. To open a Lodge of Sorrow.

8. To meet in another place after loss of Lodge Room.

9. To install officers after St. John's Day."

1588 brethren were raised, 313 affiliated, and 983 reinstated, while 355 died: 282 demitted, 37 were

"dropped," 280 suspended N.P.D., and 1 suspended U.M.C.

Owing to war conditions rentals from office space in the Masonic Temple owned by Grand Lodge increased

by $7907.

The average number of children in the Masonic Home was 34 and the cost per child, exclusive of

depreciation, was $815, as compared with $267 in 1935, $333 in 1938, $481 in 1941 and $739 in 1942. The

numbers however in those years were 90, 82, 49 and 41 respectively.

Recognition was extended to two Mexican Grand Lodges. The report of the Committee on Foreign

Correspondence (M.W. Bro. Edwin F. Gayle, P.G.M.) was limited to a six page survey, from which we

quote the following:—"I note from the proceedings of several of our Sister Jurisdictions, that they seriously

question the practice in Louisiana during recent years, of our Grand Masters in delivering radio addresses.

Some Jurisdictions seem to think that this is a departure from the established Masonic customs. We of

Louisiana are rather broad and progressive in our attitude, and in view of the fact that radio is something

very recent in human history, there was no opportunity for our ancient brethren to use the radio in

communicating with the Craft.

It has long been the practice in many jurisdictions for Grand Masters or other Masonic officials to deliver

public addresses and since the address is public, there is no reason why it should not be carried on the radio

as well as in the public press, as has often been the case."

A request was received from the Grand Lodges of Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay inviting Louisiana to join

in the First Inter-American Conference of Symbolic Freemasonry, action upon which request was deferred,

and a "Message to Universal Freemasonry" from those Grand Lodges is printed in full.

It was resolved "that physical qualifications for the Degrees in the Jurisdiction be and the same are hereby

defined as to require only that the candidate be able in a reasonable manner by the use of natural or artificial

members to give all the signs, grips and steps, be of sound mind; and self-supporting so as not to become a

financial burden on the fraternity."

M.W. Bro. Luther A. Smith, P.G.M., of Mississippi, delivered the Grand Oration, his subject being, "What

has Freemasonry accomplished in the world? And of what use is it in the present situation?"

A proposal to allow membership of more Lodges than one was not adopted.

Grand Master: M.W. Bro. W. S. Kingrey, Kinder.

Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. D. Peter Laguens, Jr., New Orleans.

Grand Representative: M.W. Bro. Dee A. Strickland, P.G.M., Monroe.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. E. J. Guiness, P.Prov.G.M., Wellington.

————

ARIZONA, 1944.

39 Lodges, 5882 members, a gain of 381.

62nd Annual Communication held at Phoenix, 12th and 13th April, M.W. Bro. Albert R. Buehman, G.M.,

presiding.

360 brethren were raised, 60 affiliated and 113 reinstated, while 34 demitted, 27 were suspended N.P.D., and

91 died.

In the course of his address the Grand Master said: If there is one answer to the inquiry, "What is wrong with

Masonry?" it must be found in our very own, our individual lack or refusal to assume a personal

responsibility to Masonry. If we would ask ourselves frequently "Am I my Brothers' keeper?" and then look

about us to see what we could do to brighten the lives of those around us, we would be doing Masonry a

service and this would bring us a little closer together in our effort to uplift humanity—we might attend a

brother's funeral, we might call on a sick brother, we might help a widow, give a kind word to the janitor or

newsboys—yes, in a hundred little ways make Masonry a part of our daily lives, ever remembering to be

tolerant, for George Washington and every Masonic leader since his time demanded as a basis of unity and

fellowship, freedom of thought and speech.

"We are travelling to a destiny that makes us all brothers,

No one can travel his way alone;

The things we put into the lives of others

Will come back into our own."

In reporting on the Grand Masters Conference held in Washington in February, 1944, the G.M. mentioned a

discussion on the advisability of electing a candidate for all three degrees at the same time or electing for

each degree separately. Very few jurisdictions vote separately on each degree (and all those who do so are

probably in the United States—Reviewer). At the banquet held during the Conference they had as guests

General Marshall and Admiral King, "our two foremost military men who are Masons—fine, upright,

outstanding men who inspire confidence and of whom the Fraternity can well be proud."

Two Fifty-Year Buttons were presented.

W. Bro. Fred Moore, Grand Orator, delivered an address on "Masonry in a Post War World."

Grand Master M.W. Bro. James C. Moloney, Phoenix.

Grand Secretary : V.W. Bro. Harry A. Drachman, Tucson.

Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Newell W. Stewart, Phoenix.

Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Thomas Hobson, P.D.G.M., Porangahau.

————————

FREEMASONRY AS AN INVESTMENT.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

It would be an immense advantage to the Craft if its members grasped more fully the fact that, whilst

Freemasonry, "founded on the purest principles of .piety and virtue," is a good investment, it only pays

interest on the amount we put into it, and its dividends are contingent on the service rendered to others. It is

lamentable that many who seek and secure admission into its fellowship are disappointed because they do

not immediately discover some tangible and spectacular advantage; and in consequence their interest in the

Order and all it stands for slackens and they drift from its activities and fellowship; others, while retaining a

nominal relationship to the Fraternity, never seem to emerge from Masonic babyhood, the result in their case

being that they never attain the recognised status of a good Mason. If such brethren at the outset of their

Masonic career could be prevailed upon to persist in an effort to understand Freemasonry and grasp its inner

meaning, their vision and outlook would be enlarged and broadened. Consequently, they would in due course

begin to realise that Freemasonry provides a wonderful mystic tie, a binding influence unknown to the outer

world, and possessing an adaptability to the needs, hopes, fears, weaknesses and aspirations of human nature

utterly beyond the conception of men who have never been gripped by its teaching.

Freemasonry is a bigger and more important fraternity than appears on the surface. Its most elementary

teaching is that of charity and toleration, and when such teaching takes possession of a man's soul it results in

the evolution of a new and better man. The story of intolerance among earlier generations of men is one of

the most tragic stories on record and men of wider vision and deeper faith are ashamed of it.

Happily, the philosophy of Freemasonry has survived the acid test of centuries, and to-day makes a stronger

appeal, specially to thoughtful and studious men, than during any previous era. A larger proportion of men

than ever in all ranks of society, varied in training and profession. are now looking for a fellowship exempt

from creedal or sectarian restrictions, in which they can find a response to the yearning of their complex

nature, and a satisfaction that makes them feel that it is worthy of their adherence and support.

In looking for a remunerative investment, a wise man takes into consideration not only what interest is

offered, but the soundness of the concern; whether its promise of good interest is the natural outcome of a

good foundation and of wise and prudent administration, or whether it is due to some fortuitous circumstance

lacking in reliability and trustworthiness, which may not survive the scrutiny and test awaiting it; in other

words, whether it gives evidence of financial soundness and solidarity. Hence, the wisdom of a careful study

by the prospective investor of every phase of the concern, in order to discover whether its professions and

assertions have a reliable foundation.

Freemasonry, possessing as it does great and invaluable privileges, is not expected to advertise itself but to

work quietly and unobstrusively, ever keeping before its members its lofty ideals and high principles,

stressing the "duties we owe to God, our neighbour and ourselves." The symbolism of the ritual and

throughout its ceremonial working is so intensely plain and practical that it cannot fail to make men realise

that if Freemasonry is not a reality, it is one of the biggest shams ever conceived.

It is a common experience that as a brother's knowledge of the inner meaning of Freemasonry increases, his

concern for the Craft strengthens and he becomes more and more interested in all for which it stands; he thus

covets increasingly a deeper insight into its principles and teaching until these become an integral part of his

daily life and character.

Freemasonry enforces Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, and of these Brotherly Love is the greatest

principle of all. It follows, therefore, that those who come under the spell of its ideals naturally and almost

unconsciously enforce Masonic principles in their business and professional concerns. They act as men who

play the game, and they play it so well that their square dealing impresses those whose social, business and

professional life bring them into contact, showing that they are better men for their alliance with a fraternity

of such high standard in character and conduct. Matthew Arnold once declared that "mere knowledge is cold

as an icicle, but once experienced and touched with noble feelings, truth becomes sweetness and light."

Freemasonry is a little leaven working in the world's meal, and though the results may be almost

imperceptible, they are observable by the discerning mind. Its reactions are on life in every phase. In putting

Brotherly Love in the forefront of its principles, it means that each man who comes into this great Fellowship

should become so imbued with it that he will be overflowing with love towards others. It is not, therefore, he

alone who gains, but others share in its benediction, for Brotherly Love takes on a thousand forms. When

genuinely cherished, it makes the individual life, the home and every relationship of life beautiful.

Centuries ago the question was asked and answered: "Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? He that

walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness and speaketh the truth in his heart." There you have the very

essence of Freemasonry. A man living on that high plane has attained to a high standard of life, and has

entered into the possession of a spirit that takes rigour out of toil and drudgery out of service, and is ever

leading him along the upward path, for the heart nourishes an immortal hope that no doubts can quench, no

argument destroy and no misfortune annihilate.

Seeing that men are made for one another—that our lives fit into one another—that fraternity is a necessity—

that character is largely a creation of fellowship — and that Brotherhood is one of the prime needs of the

World, there can be no question as to the value of Freemasonry. Those who have reached the top of the hill

and are now looking down on the sunset of life are increasingly impressed with all that Freemasonry teaches,

and have no hesitation in paying tribute to its value as an investment.

—"The Masonic Record,"

————————

LOOKING BACK.

–⸱––÷––÷––⸱–

Dr. James Anderson (1679-1739), author of the first "Book of the Constitutions."

————

(By the Editor of "The Freemasons Chronicle.")

————

Although called, by various Masonic historians in bygone days, the "Father of Masonic History," it is not a

little ironical paradox of fate, that so incomplete and meagre biographical details should have been left

recorded of Dr. James Anderson, and that his life and activities, before and even after his appearance in the

Masonic "firmament" should have been left the subject for conjectures and the piecing. together, as in

patchwork, of the various oddments of incidental and mostly purely accidental references to himself, as the

result of the devoted labours of many Masonic research workers of the past and present generations. Despite

the fact that his first "Book of the Constitutions," which was published in 1723, and the subsequent edition of

it, in 1738, are held to offer the only connected history of the origin of the Grand Lodge of England and of

the first six years of its existence (1717-1723), it has been shown that he took no part in the deliberations of

Grand Lodge, nor was present at any of its meetings between St. John's day (in harvest) 1724, and the

recurrence of that festival in 1731, when, on the last named date, his attendance was recorded in the Minutes

and the description appended to his name "Author of the Book of Constitutions." To this earlier absence has

been given the interpretation by some historian, rightly or wrongly, that he might have not been a Mason at

the time and only became one subsequently.

The date of his birth has not been definitely ascertained, and indeed, some considerable confusion would

appear to have arisen in regard to his identity in the minds of various noted compilers of dictionaries of

biography, and it has caused well-known Masonic writers to base wrongly their information on that of an

altogether different individual.

As far as can be ascertained, he was born in Aberdeen about 1679, the son of James Anderson, the Christian

name of whom he bore, and who was himself member of an Operative Lodge in Aberdeen, and is described

as "Glassier and Measson" (glazier and mason) and for many years down to 1724, he is recorded as clerk to

the. Lodge and compiled its Book of Marks. It may have been in that Lodge that the future author of the

Book of Constitutions first saw the Masonic light.

He is said to have been educated at Marischal College, Aberdeen, and first took Orders in his native town

after gaining an M.A. degree, and later having that of Doctor of Divinity conferred upon him, it is said, in

1731. He removed, later, to London, where as a Presbyterian Minister, he is said to have rallied a goodly

congregation of Scotsmen of whom there were many resident in the capital at the time, and in 1710, he is

found preaching in Glasshouse St., in Piccadilly, later removing to a near-by French Protestant Chapel, in

Swallow Street, the lease of which was purchased by his flock, and must be taken as evidence of his

popularity as a preacher. There, he remained until 1734, when, accompanied by part of his congregation, he

removed to Lisle Street, Leicester Square, in which fact may be read the indication of some cleavage among

his followers. This may have been due to political opinions he held, for he is reported to have been an ardent

supporter of the Hanoverian cause, which had many adherents among Scottish refugees in London from the

troublous times of the Jacobite risings.

According to one historian, several of his sermons were being published, a tribute to their eloquence, but on

the only extant copy of one printed in 1712 (eleven years before the first "Constitutions" appear from the

hand of an ill-humoured critic, across the title page, the written words : "A little prig of a Mass John." In

ihose days the word "prig" meant a coxcomb or lover of finery, while "Mass John" was probably a Scottish

version of his London nickname "The Presbyterian Bishop." Be that as it may, it certainly shows that he was

a well-known personality of the London life of those days. In one of his sermons, printed in 1723, the same

year in which the "Constitutions" were first published, he described himself as "Chaplain to the Earl of

Buchan," the latter, although not himself a Mason, being the father of a Grand Master of Scotland, in 1745,

in his eldest son.

Dr. Anderson's magunm opus would appear to have been his "Royal Genealogies," produced, it is said, at the

cost of 20 years' close study and application. At the end of his life, he is reputed, however, to have been

reduced to very slender circumstances, and experienced some great misfortune. On this point a rather

malicious comment from a contributor to the "Gentleman's Magazine" in 1783, under the semi-anonymity of

the initial "B," on biographical details of his brother Adam, may throw some light for he refers to him, as

'brother to the Rev. James Anderson, editor of the "Diplomata Scotiae" (a confusion of personalities again in

this instance) and "Royal Genealogies," many years since minister of the Scots Presbyterian Church in

Swallow Street, Piccadilly, and well-known in those days among the people of that persuasion in London, by

the name of Bishop Anderson, a learned but imprudent man, who lost a considerable part of his property in

the fatal year 1720," the latter reference being, of course, to the financial disaster of the "South Sea Bubble,"

the gigantic fraud foisted upon a credulous public by which thousands people were ruined.

Probably, by way of partially retrieving his means, were his "Royal Genealogies" published in 1732, and a

second edition in 1736, but the fact is at least evident that at the time of his being called upon to undertake

the compilation of the first "Book of Constitutions" in 1723, within but three years of being the victim of that

great financial disaster, he cannot have been otherwise than in much straitened circumstances, and the fact

may not be unconnected with his being given the task, in a remunerative capacity, and in view of his known

literary capabilities disclosed by his published Sermons. It is a point which does not seem to have been

touched upon by Masonic historians, but which may provide the explanation for his sudden "intrusion," the

term being used in no offensive sense, in Masonic affairs, although not having appeared previously among

those taking a leading part in the early activities of Grand Lodge.

As a recorder of history he has been shown, and already by early writers in his day, to have been very

unreliable, no doubt owing to imperfect knowledge of a subject gained from but a short acquaintance with all

its aspects and traditions, and his authority has been, since that time, frequently challenged by many better-

informed historians, and his statements have in the past misled many who had taken them as accurate.

Nevertheless, his work of co-ordination has proved a great step forward, and of fundamental value, having

been called in the first place, as he himself stated to "digest" the old Gothic constitutions and thus make

seeming order out of a chaos of differences. This was in 1721, and in the following year they were submitted

to a committee appointed by Grand Lodge, and to him and George Payne, Past Grand Master, must be given

the credit for the achievement resulting of a proper basis in the direction of affairs.

There seems to exist some mystery regarding his tenure as Junior Grand Warden, and it is complicated by the

rather inexplicable fact that each of the records as such in the minute-books of Grand Lodge has seemingly

been tampered with, possibly with a view to correction, although it is impossible not to entertain grave

suspicions as to the real intent. The late Bro. Songhurst, in a copy illustrating his contribution to A.Q.C.,X,

show that the entry in the minutes of 24th June, 1723, of Dr. Anderson as Gd. Warden, clearly shows the

words "who officiated for Mr. William Hawkins" to have been erased. Then, in a list of Grand Wardens in

1722, after the name of the said William Hawkins, there is inserted and in the handwriting of Dr. Anderson

himself, the words: "Who demitted and James Anderson, A.M., was chosen in his place," the initials A.M.,

incidentally, standing for Artium Magister or Master of Arts, to-day given in the reverse order of M.A.

The gravity of such an offence as that of altering official records, even though the intention of the perpetrator

might have been to rectify factual happenings, probably did not occur to him as grossly irregular as it would

be regarded to-day, especially taking into consideration the atmosphere of intrigue and loose dealings in

public affairs of these days. In seeking for a motive, one must naturally turn to the individual who alone

would be benefitted by such an action, and suspicion at once has been directed by historians on Dr. James

Anderson himself, whilst proffering the excuse for his act, that it is probable William Hawkins was the

officially appointed Warden and, in his absence, Anderson, having been called to act, considered himself

entitled to the description of Grand Warden and altered the record while in his possession.

Almost his last appearance at Grand Lodge, and in the company of his old friends Payne, Dr. Desaguliers

and Lambull, to all of whom the Craft owe such a great debt in regard to its early beginnings, was on 25th

January, 1738, when the second edition of the "Constitutions" he had been ordered to prepare four years

earlier, was "approved of."

(To be continued.)

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LODGE WAVERLEY-KILWINNING No. 311

CONSECRATION.

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Another Lodge has been added to the roll of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, Lodge Waverley-Kilwinning,

which was consecrated by the Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Herbert G. Teagle, on Friday, 13th October. There

was an attendance of over 200 from all parts of the Ruapehu district, Wellington, Hawkes Bay, and Taranaki,

47 Past and Present Grand Lodge officers being in attendance. The consecration was of a most impressive

nature, in which the M.W. the Grand Master was assisted by a number of Grand Lodge officers. The Grand

Chaplain V.W. Bro. S. H. Snell, delivered a very fine oration and the installation of W. Bro. S. F. Morris was

carried out by Prov. G.M. R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash. The exacting duties of Director of Ceremonies at both the

consecration and installation ceremonies was in the capable hands of W. Bro. H. R. Torburn A.G.D.C., who,

once again, proved to be the right man in the right place. At the conclusion of the ceremony the visitors were

entertained at a banquet provided by the wives of the members of the Lodge, the tables being beautifully

decorated. The Lodge has a membership of 36 and gifts of furniture, etc., has been showered upon the new

Lodge by Lodges and members of the Craft.

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AUCKLAND NOTES.

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The Installation Meeting of Lodge Selwyn No. 274 was held at St. Heliers on 4th October when Bro.

Raymond Clarke was installed as W.M. by the Prov. G.M. Although the weather was atrocious, the Temple

was filled to capacity, and the evening went off without a hitch. The presenting officers were W. Bros. F. A.

Foster (Titirangi No. 204) and T. Dean (Wairoa No. 55). The address to the W.M. was given by R.W. Bro. F.

G. Alpe, P.G.W. and W. Bro. Alfred Addison, G.Swd.B, addressed the Wardens.

A brief note in the last number mentioned the Annual Convocation of the Auckland Provincial R.A. Chapter

No. 9. It might be mentioned that this was the 52nd Annual Convocation, and that 63 Companions of the

Chapter were present. Among those present was M.Ex. Comp. J. D. Webster, P.G.Z., who joined in 1892 and

is still taking an active part in the Chapter's work.

It is regrettable to have to record that by medical advice, the D.G.M., R.W. Bro. A. J. Pople, has had to

discontinue all Masonic activities for the time being owing to a recurrence of the illness which recently laid

him aside. It is hoped that he will again be able to take up his activities very soon, as no installation meeting

seems complete in this province without his genial presence.

W. Bro. W. A. Shirley, of Lodge Chevalier No. 303, presided over the last regular meeting of this year of

office on 26th September, and conducted the 3rd Degree. The W.M. can look back on a most successful year,

and he is to be congratulated on his energetic and happy conduct of his Lodge's affairs.

On 10th October Lodge Arohanui No. 264 initiated two candidates and the officers under the Gavel of the

W.M., W. Bro. W. P. Traill, did a most competent job of work. There was a substantial list of visiting

brethren, and the happy atmosphere both in the Lodge room and in the refectory was greatly appreciated by

those present.

The Lodge of Harmony No. 2180. E.C., held its installation meeting at the Temple, Otahuhu, on 11th

October, when the S.W., Bro. John Trenwith, was installed as W.M. by the District G.M., R.W. Bro. D. B.

Patterson. The new W.M. has many friends in the city and suburbs and the only complaint regarding the

evening was that it was extremely difficult to find elbow room. A P.M.'s Jewel was presented to the I.P.M.,

W. Bro. A. C. Boniface.

R.W. Bro. C. E. Dutton, P.G.W., who is now the Secretary of Lodge Ponsonby No 54, is a tower of strength

to that lodge and his friends, who are legion, will be glad to know that he retains his unfailing vigour in all

matters relating to the interests of Freemasonry in Auckland in general and of Lodge Ponsonby in particular.

Lodge United Service No. 10 conducted the 3° on 27th September. A large gathering of visitors and

members participated in an -enjoyable meeting. It was most pleasant to see W. Bro. C. E. Anderson, P.G.P.,

who has been ill for so long, once again taking part in the ceremony with some of his old spirit.

Bro. C. H. A. Kean, S.W., was installed as Master of Lodge Morningside No. 228 on the 19th October by the

Prov. G.M., M.W. Bro. O. Nicholson, P.G.M., at a meeting which filled the Temple. The address to the

W.M. was given by W. Bro. A. L. Nugent, P.G.P., a P.M. of the Lodge, and the G.Sw.Br. W. Bro. A.

Addison, addressed the Wardens. The Prov. G.M., on behalf of the Lodge, presented W. Bro. T. H. A.

Williams with a P.M.'s Jewel. The presenting officers were W. Bros. G. A. Wooller (Combined Forces No.

84) and F. Brown (Auckland No. 87).

Auckland brethren will learn with regret of the impending departure from the city of W. Bro. Archibald

Nugent P.G.P., who it is understood will take up his residence in Wellington preliminary to going overseas in

connection with his association with the artificial limb industry. W. Bro. Nugent has long been an active and

energetic P.M. of Lodge Morningside, has served as an officer of Grand Lodge, and as Master of the United

Masters Lodge, the Auckland Research Lodge. He will be greatly missed from Auckland Circles, and the

brethren of the Jurisdiction will join in wishing him the greatest success and happiness in his new sphere.

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HAWKES BAY NOTES.

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The 36th Annual Convocation of Rawhiti Royal Arch Chapter No. 30 was held at Dannevirke on Saturday,

2nd September, when R E. Comp J. W. Elliott, Grand Supt., installed V.E. Comp. W. McMillan as 1st

Principal. There was a very good attendance of Grand Chapter officers and visiting Companions.

When investing R.E. Comp. W. Dobson as Scribe E, the Grand Supt. spoke feelingly of the services rendered

to Freemasonry in general and Capitular Freemasonry in particular by R.E. Comp. Dobson, who had with

distinction filled the office of Scribe E. for 31 consecutive years—a great record, and Companions in this

district sincerely trust R.E. Comp. Dobson will continue with the good work.

The Annual Convocation of Gisborne R.A. Chapter No. 36 and enthronement of the 1st Principal was held

on Saturday, 23rd, when R.Ex. Comp. J. W. Elliott, Grand Supt., accompanied by Grand Chapter officers

journeyed to Gisborne for the occasion.

The regular monthly meeting of Heretaunga R.A. Chapter No. 38 was held on Thursday, 5th October, when

V.E. Comp. W. A. Meads, 1st Principal, presided and exalted a candidate.

The installation meeting of Lodge Te Mata No. 298 on 20th September will be remembered for many years,

it being the occasion of a record attendance, accommodation being taxed to the limit and temporary seating

had to be arranged in the Temple. R.W. Bro. E. C. Hurdsfield, Prov. G.M., accompanied by Grand Officers,

installed Bro. C. H. Goffin, S.W., as Worshipful Master. A very pleasant social hour was spent in the

Refectory and brought to a close a very memorable occasion for W. Bro. Goffin, who is held in very high

esteem throughout the district.

The installation of Bro. E. W. Mitchell, S.W., as Worshipful Master of Lodge Haeata No. 272 was conducted

on Monday, 25th September, by the Prov. G.M., who was accompanied by many Past and Present Grand

Officers. The attendance of visitors was very pleasing and further illustrates the support afforded the Prov.

G.M. and the interest taken in visiting by the brethren throughout the district. Hearty good wishes and

congratulations are extended to those who have gained Grand Lodge honours for the coming year.

Particularly pleased do the brethren of the district feel toward the elevation of V.W. Bro. E. E. Bott,

P.G.Lect., to the Office of Grand Chaplain. V.W. Bro. Bott has been a tower of strength in all branches of

Freemasonry and his willingness at all times to assist sitting masters with addresses when degree work is not

available is worthy of particular commendation. His easy manner of approach and lovable nature have a

great influence on the younger members of the Craft in the district. We all join in expressing the hope he will

continue to enjoy very many years of good health.

W. Bro. T. A. Heath, P.M. Lodge Tauhara, Taupo, "mine host" of Spa Hotel fame, is going into retirement at

the end of the month. Tom looks very well and says he feels o.k. We wish him many years of good health to

enjoy his more leisure hours and assure him the brethren will ever remember his hospitality, particularly at

Refectory proceedings after installations at Tauhara.

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TARANAKI NOTES.

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Masonic interest this month has been focused on the Waverley Kil. Consecration. As no doubt a full report

will be published there will be no need to give details in this column. It can be mentioned, however, that the

weather was atrocious and the crowd out of all proportions to the accommodation. The local brethren did the

best possible under the conditions and deserve credit for their efforts. The supper arrangements were

excellent and the M.W. the Grand Master paid a well-merited compliment to the ladies responsible for the

floral decorations.

R.W. Bro. J. C. Braclay conducted the installation ceremony at Ngamotu No. 48 on September 27th. There

was a good attendance and the work was well done and impressive W: Bro. H. N. Wolfe the new master, has

every reason to be satisfied with his installation gathering, the recollection of which will be a happy memory

to all who attended. Congratulations to the Senior and Junior Wardens, Bros. Aylward and Hay, on their

preferment.

Bro. G. G. B. Dixon, who quite recently undertook the secretaryship of Ngamotu, has been promoted and

transferred from New Plymouth and a presentation to him was made at the installation meeting. His

successor, W. Bro. A. R. Carley. was invested at the same meeting.

Lodge Te Henui. No. 281, held an emergency meeting on October 31st to raise a brother. At the regular

meeting on the 10th a brother was initiated and three ballots were taken.

A feature on the monthly summons of Mt. Egmont Lodge, 670 E.C. is a list of the P.M.'s who are to take part

in the work. It is interesting to compare the lists month by month. The W.M. of Lodge Hawera. W. Bro. C.

E. Whittington, announces his intention of visiting Lodge Taranaki on October 19th.

Lodge Manaia No. 286 entertained the W.M.. officers and brethren of Lodge Taranaki at the regular meeting

on October 10th.

Lodge Wha,ngamomona passed a candidate to the second degree for Lodge Stratford at the October meeting.

W. Bro. S. Watson, who has spent about three years in the Middle East, gave Lodge Ikaroa a talk on

"Masonry as I saw it in Egypt,"

The Prov. G. Master, R.W. Bro. W. T. Simmons, is reported to be steadily improving. The M.W., the G.

Master and others at the Waverley-Kil. consecration made very sympathetic reference to R.W. Bro.

Simmons's illness and all hoped he would have a speedy and complete recovery.

At the regular meeting of the Egmont R.A. Chapter on October 2nd a candidate was exalted.

Paritutu No. 5 R.A. installation took place on October 4th, when Ex. Comp. H. Round was enthroned as First

Prin. Z. There was a good attendance and the meeting passed, off well. V.E. Comp. R. Tippins has had a

good year and has done well. The new Z. is an ardent Freemason and lives up to his reputation of being keen

and thorough. This meeting was the last to be presided over by R.E. Comp. W. W. Thomson, who retires

from the office of G. Supt. at the end of the year.

R.E. Comp. Thomson has served the Craft and Capitular Masonry well and merits the respect and esteem of

the brethren and comps. He is held in affectionate regard by Masons of every constitution. Long may he be

spared to grace our meetings and raise a smile at the festive board.

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RUAPEHU NOTES.

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The Manawatu Royal Arch Chapter installation meeting was attended by a record number of Companions on

23rd September, when V.Ex. Comp. P. W. Morris was installed as First Principal Z. by R.Ex. Comp. W. A.

Waters, Grand Supt. Ruapehu district, Ex. Comp. E. J. Hicken as Second Principal by V.Ex. Comp. H. A.

Bayley, P.G.S., and Ex. Comp. W. W. Jones as Third Principal by V.Ex. Comp. P. C. Betts. V.Ex. Comp. N.

A. Nash, P.Z., installed V.Ex. Comp. Morris as W. Mark Master. Several Grand Chapter officers took part in

the ceremony, including V.Ex. Comps. R.G. T. Kingdon, G.D.C., V.Ex. Comp. H. Crump, P.G.Org. The

future of this chapter looks very bright indeed and all concerned are expecting a very happy and successful

year. Even with an exceptionally full programme ahead of him the W.M. of Lodge Awatea can still find

room to work a degree for a member of another lodge and it was indeed a pleasure for this lodge to pass an

initiate of Forester Lodge No. 116 Waimea West.

Lodge Te Awahou, Foxton, held its annual "Whitebait" Night last month. On this occasion the W.M. of

Lodge Manawatu Kil., W. Bro. E. J. Hicken, and his brethren were the official visitors and Grand Lodge,

under the direction of R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov. G.M., was also visiting officially. Of course there were

other visitors, too, and at least one P.M. had the pleasure of having a large sized "fritter" presented to him by

W. Bro. G. Smith, the mention of which brings the writer to the point of asking a question. Who were the

official visitors, Grand Lodge, Manawatu Kilwinning or the "other visitors"?

W. Bro. H. G. Stowers is now the master of Lodge Manga-te-Weka No. 178. On 2nd October he was

installed by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, assisted by W. Bro. H. L. Thorburn, A.G.D.C., and other Grand Lodge

officers. The Prov. G.M. also addressed the W.M. Wardens Bros. R. D. T. MacRae and L. G. P. Mahoney

were invested by W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C., and addressed by W. Bro. T. Pairman, P.A G.D.C. The

address to the brethren was delivered by V.Wor. Bro. S. H. Snell.

Feilding Lodge No. 41 has improved its notice paper and whoever is responsible for this is to be

congratulated. The W.M., Bro. E. B Cook, and all the members must feel proud of their 14 brethren serving

in the Armed Forces, half of whom are overseas. The members of No. 41 are not forgetting their service

brethren and already advance arrangements are under way for their return. May it be soon.

Working degrees for other lodges seems to be infectious. Wor. Bro. E. J. Hicken, of Lodge Manawatu

Kilwinning, has recently had a member of Lodge Havelock No. 104 among his candidates. It is always very

pleasing to see this willingness among lodges to assist each other and must be greatly appreciated by the

candidates concerned.

Lodge Rangitikei No. 38, Bulls, has a new master. On 17th October, W. Bro. W. A. Sutherland was installed

by R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, assisted by the following Grand Lodge officers: W. Bros. J. E. Walker. P.G.D., C.

H. Thorby. P.G.S., Watt, P.G.D., H. R. Thorburn, A.G.D.C., and S. W. Oliver, G.S.; V.W. Bro. S. H. Snell,

G.Chap., and Bro. A. S. Guthrie. The work was done by the Prov. G.M., W. Bros. C. Hausmann, P G.D., R.

Bly, P.A.G.D.C., P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C., and W. J. Croucher, P.G.S. A very welcome visitor was R.W.

Bro. E Hurdsfield, Prov. G.M. Hawkes Bay district, accompanied by several G.L. officers from his territory.

At the October meeting of Lodge St. Andrew Kilwinning, No. 79; a large number of visitors from a daughter

lodge—Lodge Moutoa, No. 195, were paying an official visit. Both lodges joined in honouring W. Bro. P.

Mepham, P.G.O., by presenting him with a suit of undress regalia. V. Bro. F. C. Jannings, P.G.L., made the

presentation in recognition and appreciation of services as organist to the two lodges over a period of 25

years. In the refectory, V.W. Bro. F. Haywood, P.A.G.D.C., proposed the toast of the recipient in a very

happy and thoughtful speech.

The Annual Convocation of Oroua No. 49 was held on 31st October, when Ex. Comp. No McLennan was

enthroned as 1st Princ., Ex. Comp. C. Pearson, 2nd Princ., Ex. Comp. R. Burne as 3rd. Princ. V.Ex. Comp.

H. Robinson, of Oroua Chapter, was Principal Installing Officer. The Grand Supt., R.Ex. Comp. W. A.

Waters, was present and assisted. R.Ex. Comp. W. Dobson, P.G.H., V.E. Comps. P. C. Betts, P.Z., T. H.

Glen, H. C. Morgan and J. H. Mason also assisted in the ceremony. V.E. Comp. R. G. T. Kingdon, G.D.C,

officiated as D.C. and V.E. Comp. H. Crump, P.G.O., was at the organ. W. Bro. P. C. Betts was installed as

W.M.M. by W. Bro. D. A. Fairweather. A very pleasant social hour was spent in the refectory. Visiting

Companions from five Chapters were cordially welcomed, especially our dear Companion W. Dobson,

P.G.H.

Once again we have to express the sympathy of the brethren throughout the territory to a past G.L. officer

who has lost a son on active service. On this occasion we regret to announce the death of Pilot Officer Joe

Oliver, a member of Lodge Huia, and the eldest son of W. Bro. S. W. Oliver, P.G.S., of the same Lodge. We

extend to W. Bro. Oliver and Mrs. Oliver our sincere regret at the loss of their son on active service.

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SOUTHLAND NOTES.

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The installation of Bro. A. A. Wyeth as Master of Lodge Wallace, No. 129, on 17th October attracted a good

attendance of members and visitors, particularly from the Western District. The ceremony was conducted by

R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, Prov. G.M., ably supported by W. Bro. H. Paterson, Asst. G.D.C., and a large

following of Grand Lodge officers. The address to the master was given by the Inst. Officer. The Wardens

were invested by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steans, P.D.G.M., and addressed by R.W. Bro. S. C. K. Smith, P.G.W.; the

address to the brethren by R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G.M. The junior officers were invested by V.W. Bro.

J. D. Campbell, P.G.D.C., W. Bros. G. J. Reed, Asst. G.D.C., F. H. Hill, P.G.S. and J. Dixon, P.G.S. An

enjoyable banquet followed in the Otautau Town Hall. R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, Prov. G.M., has announced that

his successor in office will be V.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, P.G.D.C., of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189.

Congratulations are extended to our worthy brother on his promotion.

W. Bro. Knowles, Master of Lodge Winton, No. 108, assisted by his officers, worked the third degree in an

impressive manner at their October meeting. Members of Lodges Victoria No. 147 and Wallace No. 129

were present in strong force.

The Ceremony of Advancement (Mark Degree) was conducted at the regular convocation of Southern Cross

Royal Arch Chapter No. 3 last month.

The annual meeting of the Invercargill Freemasons Hall Company was arranged to be held on 30th October

when another successful year's working was to be recorded.

Delegates to the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge, to be held at Dunedin this month, are looking

forward to this important function with keen anticipation.

The installation of Lodge Winton, No. 108, to be held early this month, will complete the Craft installations

of the district for the present year.

The installation of Preceptor and investiture of officers of the Southland Preceptory of Knight Templars will

be held on November 9th.

Ex. and Perf. Bro. R. H. Waddell. M.W.S., and officers of Murihiku Rose Croix Chapter No. 36. will hold

their quarterly meeting on 30th November when the ceremony of Perfection will be conducted.

V.W. Bro. J. J. Griffiths, P.G.Lect., who has of recent years been resident in Dunedin, was present at the

recent installation of Lodge Mataura No. 174, and took part in the ceremony.

R.Ex. Comp. G. H. Brown, Grand Supt. and Grand Chapter officers attended the annual meeting of Wallace

Royal Arch Chapter, No. 34, on 21st October and conducted the ceremony of installation of Principals and

the investiture of officers. R.Ex. Comps. A. Scott, S. C. K. Smith, F. A. Steans and V.Ex. Comp. A. Dix,

G.D.C., assisted with the ceremony.

W. Bro. J. W. Aitken, who served as Master of Lodge Mataura, No. 174, in 1936, was again installed master

on 11th October by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, Prov. G.M., in the presence of a good attendance of members and

visitors. W. Bro. H. Paterson, Asst. G.D.C., carried out the duties of his office in an impressive manner. The

master was addressed by the Prov. G. Master. The Wardens were invested and addressed by R.W. Bro. S. C.

K. Smith, P.G.W., and Alex Derbie, P.Prov.G.M., respectively; address to brethren by R.W. Bro. Jas.

Manson, P.Prov.G.M.

W. Bro. H. P. Weston, G.Org., has rendered excellent service during the past year.

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OTAGO NOTES.

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Preparations are well in hand for the entertainment of delegates to the Annual Communication of Grand

Lodge to be held in Dunedin on 22nd instant, which will conclude with a ball in the Town Hall on Thursday

evening, 23rd November. Owing to the shortage of hotel staffs, the Accommodation Committee is

experiencing difficulty in placing all requests for accommodation, and there is every indication that private

billeting will have to be resorted to. The position can be eased if as many brethren as possible will endeavour

to arrange private house bookings. However, Dunedin will not let its visitors down, and although some

accommodation may not be up to what delegates desire, we can assure them of a warm welcome, and at least

a bed.

The installation of Otago Lodge No. 7 on 11th October was an outstanding success, W. Bro. C. J. Hayward

having the unusual present-day distinction of being invested for the third time as master of this lodge. On

behalf of the officers and brethren. R.W. Bro. J. G. Dykes, Prov. G.M., presented W. Bro. Hayward with a

regalia case as some small recognition of the services he has rendered the lodge.

Oceanic Lodge No. 154 was favoured by a visit of the Prov. G.M. (R.W. Bro. J., G. Dykes) on 18th. (This

lodge carries out its own installation) and a very successful function eventuated.

Roslyn Lodge No. 250, one of the smallest lodges in this city, held its installation on 19th October and the

new master (W. Bro. W. A. Tipping) is to be congratulated upon a year of office. R.W. Bro. J. A. Sparrow,

P.Prov. G.M., acted for the Prov. G.M., who was unable to attend.

A meeting of the Masters' Association was held on 2nd October when the Prov. G.M. outlined the work for

the Annual Convocation insofar as Dunedin is concerned. Many matters of importance to the district were

discussed, and several misunderstandings straightened out.

Two candidate were initiated at the September meeting of Lodge Oamaru Kilwinning No. 82 by W. Bro.

Puttick and his officers. There was a good attendance and the work was of a high order.

At their September meeting Lodge Ngapara No. 68 initiated the son of a late and highly respected P.M. of

Lodge Kurow. There was a good attendance, including visitors from Lodge of Waitaki No. 11 who had the

pleasure of witnessing a fine working of the 1st Degree.

A large gathering of brethren at Kurow witnessed the installation of Bro. A. H. Chapman on September 28th.

The ceremony was conducted by V.W. Bro. J. S. Duncan, Asst. Prov. G.M., who was assisted by a willing

band of G.L. officers. Numerous visitors were in attendance and as usual they were well entertained in the

refectory. Lodge of Waitaki No. 11 held its regular meeting on October 11th. The 2nd Tracing Board was

explained by W. Bro. H. J. Jenkins, P.G.S., and a very interesting and instructive paper on "The Apron" was

read by W. Bro. H. J. S. Grater, to whom the W.M. extended the thanks of the brethren. There were several

visitors present and a pleasant hour was spent in song and story at the festive board. Congratulations to W.

Bro. T. L. Corrigall, of Lodge Kurow, and W. Bro. H. J. S. Grater, of Lodge Waitaki, on their appointment to

G.L. office.

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CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.

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The Installation Meeting of Lodge Sumner No. 242 was held on 18th September when Bro. J. J. Barton.

S.W., was installed as master. The ceremony was conducted by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov. G.M.,

assisted by officers of Prov. G. Lodge and W. Bro. Alfred J. Jones, Prov. G.M.-elect, was present and was

officially welcomed.

At the regular meeting of Lodge St. Albans No. 2597 E.C. on 27th September a lecture was given by V.W.

Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn. Grand Lecturer, on "Rudyard Kipling and Freemasonry." There was a large

attendance to honour the Master, W. Bro. R. W. Rofe, on his last night in the chair.

Lodge Cashmere No. 271 had a large attendance on 28th September for the Master's last night, and W. Bro.

Noel Laver had a very successful meeting.

At the regular meeting of Civic Lodge No. 157 on 3rd. October, the Third Degree was worked by the Master,

Bro. G. G. Anderson.

Crown Lodge No. 138 held its regular meeting on 5th October when a candidate was initiated by the Master,

W. Bro. G. A. Cooper.

Lodge Riccarton No. 276 held its regular meeting on 17th October when the Master, W. Bro. R. T. Sladen,

worked the Second Degree.

On 18th October the bi-monthiy meeting of Prince of Wales R.A. Chapter was held when V.E. Comp. E. H.

B. Pearcy, I.P.Z., worked the Mark Degree with four candidates.

The Installation Meeting of Crown Royal Arch Chapter No. 56 was held on 16th October, when R.E. Comp.

F. N. Kerr, Grand Supt., conducted the ceremony assisted by Past and Present Grand Chapter Offices. Ex

Comp. F. Newsome was installed as Z. Ex Comp. W. G. King as H. and Ex. Comp. I. A. G. McCullough as

J.

The Installation Meeting of Lodge Cashmere No. 271 was held on 26th October when Bro. H. M. Minson,

S.W., was installed as Master by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov. G.M , assisted by officers of Prov. G.

Lodge. There was a large attendance of brethren.

Bro. Harold Cowell was installed as Master of St. Albans Lodge No. 2597 E.C. on 25th October, by R.W.

Bro. J. E. Purchase, Dist. G.M., assisted by officers of District Grand Lodge.

At the regular meeting of Robert Burns Lodge No. 139 on 17th October opportunity was taken to tender an

informal farewell to R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov. G. Master, who is retiring after six very strenuous

years of office most of which have been during the war period.

The annual meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Canterbury was held on October 28th when W. Bro.

Alfred James Jones, P.G.D., was installed as Provincial Grand Master for the ensuing three years. The

ceremony was performed by M.W. Bro. Herbert G. Teagle, Grand Master, assisted by V.W. Bro. Charles J.

Jones, G. Director of Ceremonies. The newly-elected officers of Prov. G. Lodge were invested for the

ensuing year. There was a very large attendance of brethren from all parts of the Canterbury Province to

honour the Grand Master, to farewell R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson and to welcome R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, his

successor as Prov. G.M.

Lodge Christchurch 91 held a very enjoyable Ladies' Night in the Social Hall of the Masonic Temple. There

was a record attendance. The committee did their work well, and with good music and catering the evening

was a great success. The usual monthly meeting was held on September 26th, W. Bro. Latham presiding.

The .ceremony of initiation was carried out.

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MID-CANTERBURY NOTES.

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The regular meeting of Thistle Lodge No. 113, held on 20th September, was Past-masters' night, the chair

being occupied by W. Bro. G. Chapman, who has just returned from service in the Middle East. Twenty-

three P.M.'s were present. The double initiation ceremony was impressively worked and an outstanding and

inspiring event of the evening was W. Bro. S. Rowntree's charge in the N.E. corner—old Scottish ritual. W.

Bro. Rowntree was initiated in Thistle Lodge over 52 years ago. The meeting was an unqualified success.

During the month visits were paid to Crown Lodge No. 138 and Erewhon Lodge No. 200.

The Installation meeting of Clifton Rose Croix Chapter No. 324 took place on Wednesday, 27th September,

when Ex. and Per. Bro. R. D. Cochrane was installed as M.W.S., the ceremony being conducted by V. Ill.

Bro. W. J. Girling, G.I.C., S.D. N.Z., assisted by Ill. Bros. Eckford and Rudd. During the evening Ill. Bro. E.

C. Bathurst was invested by V. Ill. Bro. Girling with the collar and jewel of the thirtieth degree. The meeting

was well attended and most successful.

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NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.

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Southern Cross, No. 6, will stage a special night for their popular Master, W. Bro. D. W. Ross, on November

2nd to celebrate his wonderfully successful year. All lodges will be heading for Kaiapoi that night and they

will hear the No. 6 Quartette in action and there will be many other attractions.

Will readers and others take notice that Southern Cross installation will take place on Thursday, 7th

December. Come out to Kaiapoi and welcome R.W. Bro. Alfred J. Jones and his officers from Provincial

Grand Lodge on their first visit to the Waimakariri-Hurunui Group.

Ashley Chapter has ended a very successful year and wishes to notify all chapters that they are expected to

attend the annual convocation at Rangiora in November. It is a treat too good to be missed and all

Companions are invited. It is expected that Grand Chapter and sister constitutions will turn out in force. The

red roses and strawberries will be in to add to the usual beautiful red decoration and Ashley Companions are

experts at decorating.

Ashley Lodge is getting in a lot of visits and getting plenty of visitors who travel under various means of

power. W. Bro. Appleby hopes to put on a special Christmas meeting in December as a celebration for the

support given him.

The visit of Riccarton Lodge to Mairaki was very successful. Riccarton raised a brother in its usual efficient

manner and Mairaki was able to sit and watch and enjoy the ceremony. The visitors were afterwards

entertained in the usual liberal manner.

Tawera initiated a candidate at its last meeting and W. Bro. C. R. Tovey and his officers were in first-class

form and visitors enjoyed the educational display of talent.

Kaikoura Lodge has a very busy agenda paper and the Master, W. Bro. Selby-Williams will be busy till the

end of his year in January. Visitors to Kaikoura at Christmas time should run along and visit the Lodge.

W. Bro. C. A. Jensen, secretary of Kaikoura Lodge, is not very well and we hope he will soon be better.

Cheviot 124—W. Bro. John McPherson, master of Cheviot, and his brethren visited the Amuri and Acacia

Lodges recently for the installations which they greatly enjoyed, their secretary, W. Bro. F. D. Childs, has

been back to Lodge and is getting stronger.

The new masters of Acacia and Amuri will try and make a joint visit to Cheviot in the near future.

W. Bro. R. R. Lochead is now staying at Gore Bay with W. Bro. Williamson and sends his kind regards to

everybody.

The Amuri Installation was a big, bright and beautiful function. The new Master, Bro. H. R. Davison, was

installed by R.W. Bro. Thompson assisted by an efficient team of Prov. and Grand Lodge officers, including

V.W. Bro. C. J. Jones, W. Bro. Frank Rees, and many others too numerous to mention. The Refectory

proceedings were very good; items were rendered by W. Bro. Burke, Master of Amberley Lodge, and Bro.

Firken, of Kaikoura. The Rev. Bro. Hart, C.F., from Taranaki, gave a very interesting and humorous talk

about some of his experiences overseas and elsewhere. The Amuri ladies, as usual, put on a splendid supper

and W. Bro. E. Macdonald was in charge of their Toast and thanked them for their efforts, and Mrs. H. R.

Davison. Jr., responded and said what a pleasure it was to be able to help.

The North Group Masters all hope to go down to Dunedin to the annual communication, and being of a very

friendly nature, they should be able to mix well down south. It will be necessary to book accommodation

early.

R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, Prov. G. Master of Canterbury, who has completed a very successful six years of

office and has carried out his duties well and truly thanks the Waimakariri Hurunui Lodges for their loyalty

and support and hopes to see them all quite often in the future.

R.W. Bro. Alfred J. Jones, our new Prov. Grand Master of Canterbury, will open his Grand Tour of North

Canterbury on December '7th at the Southern Cross installation. Anyone by the name of Jones should make

an effort to attend.

V.W. Bro. Charles Jones, G.D.C., has completed a busy year. He has visited most of the lodges and all of

them in our group. He has been a tower of strength in many ways, and our group thanks him.

R.W. Bro. John Du Feu and R.W. Bro. Chas. Flavel have recently sent very kind messages to our group, and

we thank these two Super Veterans for their good wishes, which are heartily reciprocated. "Lang may their

Lumbs Reek." Our group congratulate W. Bro. William Gibb on his very successful year at Sumner. Acacia

in particular send their good wishes and regret that Acacia and Sumner meeting nights clash.

W. Bro. H. R. Davison, senr., whose son was installed in Amuri Lodge as master, was himself installed just

25 years ago as master and has seldom missed a meeting.

The Acacia Installation was right up to standard. R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson installed Bro. Harry

Whittington as Master. There was a crowded attendance, including our Prov. Grand Secretary, R.W. Bro.

George Yemm. Grand Lodge was represented by V.W. Bros. Charles, J. Jones, H. B. Billens and Ewart

Wright. Bro. R. and Mrs. Prebble were in charge of the catering and it was wonderful. Everybody present

expressed pleasure at such a happy meeting. The Masters of Amuri, Cheviot, Ionic and Amberley were in

attendance.

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NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.

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During the period under review, five installations have taken place in the northern portion of the territory and

these are briefly reported as follows:—Bro. W. F. Murray Ott was duly installed as Master of Lodge Nelson

No. 288 on Wednesday, 20th September, by V.W. Bro. F. Mogridge, Asst. Prov. G.M. The Prov. G.M., R.W.

Bro. James Baird was appropriately received with his G.L. officers and assisted in the ceremony as also did

R.W. Bro. J. L. Ching, Past Prov. G.M., R W. Bro. E. H. Thomson, G.J.W., V.W. Bro. A. de T. Gould, P.G.

Lect. and W. Bro. R. A. Craighead. P. Asst. G.D.C. W. Bro. G. Palk, a P.M. of Wairau Lodge, carried out the

Investiture of the Wardens, whilst the Masters of Lodges Victory, Motueka, Waimea and Southern Star and

P.M.'s of the Lodge Nelson assisted in various portions of the ceremony, which was ably directed by W. Bro.

C. B. Whiteford, Asst. G.D.C. The proceedings, both in the Lodge and Refectory, were enjoyed by the large

attendance representative of all district lodges.

The 91st Installation ceremony of Southern Star Lodge No. 735 E.C. took place Tuesday, 17th October,

when Bro. C. R. Christall was duly installed as Worshipful Master by W. Bro. F. B. Lawn, D.D.G.M., in the

presence of a large attendance of brethren of both the English and N.Z. Constitutions. R.W. Bro. James

Baird, Prov. G.M.. accompanied by G.L. officers, was in attendance.

During the ceremony the D.D.G.M. was ably supported by W. Bros. W. A. Armstrong, P.D.D.G M., A. H.

Boyce, P.D.D.G.M., J. Perrin, P.D.G.D.C. (who gave the Address to the W.M.) and T. B. Carpenter,

D.G.D.C. The W.M.'s of the Nelson City Lodges Victory, Waimea and Nelson, assisted, whilst the

investiture of officers other than the Wardens was carried out in a most pleasing and efficient manner by W.

Bros. L. W. Lockyer, W.M., and C. Douthett, I.P.M., Phoenix Lodge, Westport.

Following the installation ceremony, Bro. Lawn, on behalf of the District G.L., requested Wor. Bro.

Armstrong to receive a set of D.G.L. regalia to be utilised by D.G.L. officers in the Nelson-Golden Bay

portion of the territory. This gift from D.G.L. was gratefully received. The subsequent proceedings were

most cordial, thus amplifying the excellent relations between the two Constitutions. General regret was

expressed on account of the absence of R.W. Bro. Jesse Steere, D.G.M. and W. Bro. R. J. Glen, P.D.D.G.M.,

owing to indisposition.

Golden Bay Lodge No. 2194 E.C. held its 58th installation on Saturday, 14th October, when Bro. Stanley

Taylor was duly installed as Worshipful Master by W. Bro. F. B. Lawn, D.D G.M. There was a large

attendance of visiting brethren from Nelson, Motueka and Takaka, together with the D.G.L. officers from the

West Coast. The board disclosed the fact that there was a record attendance of P.M.'s. R.W. Bro. Baird, Prov.

G.M., was in attendance accompanied by G.L. officers, and was received by the D.D.G.M. in due form, and

during the ceremony, addressed the Wardens. The D.D.G.M. was ably assisted during the ceremony by W.

Bros. W. A. Armstrong, A. H. Boyce, P.D.D.G M.'s, J. Perrin, P.D.G.D.C., and W. Bro. J. P. Cottier, whilst

the Working Tools were presented by the W.M.'s of Lodges Southern Star, Motueka and St. Cuthbert's. All

present thoroughly enjoyed the visit to Takaka and the fraternal spirit between the two Constitutions was still

further cemented.

The 52nd Anniversary of Victory R.A. Chapter No. 12 was marked by the installation on 7th October when

Ex. Comp. H. Pierce was installed as First Principal and Ex. Comps. E. D. Jack and P. S. McClaren were

installed as Second and Third Principals respectively by the Grand Supt. for Nelson and Marlborough. R.E.

Comp. W. J. Girling, assisted by M.E. Comp J. S. Spence. Deputy G. Supt., S.C., M.E. Comp. A. H. Boyce,

P.Z., Trafalgar Chapter No. 35 S.C., Past Grand Officers and Past Principals. V E. Comp. A. W. Wanden,

G.D.C., carried out his duties in a highly satisfactory manner.

There was quite a large attendance and the proceedings were most happy and cordial, including the

Refectory in which the special decorations were an added feature. The occasion was enhanced by the greatly

appreciated presence of R.E. Comp. S. T. S. Martin, Deputy Grand Z., who took part in the ceremony and

later delivered an inspiring address. The Deputy Grand Z. was received with appropriate honours with which

at his special request, R.E. Comp. R. W. Stiles, P.D.G.Z., was associated. M.E. Comp. C. A. Eckford.

P.G.Z., addressed the Companions and the investiture of other officers was in the capable hands of V.E.

Comps. P. Thomson, James Baird and H. G. Walker. A collection was taken for Grand Chapter "Jubilee

Fund" to provide scholarships at Kirkpatrick and Papakura Masonic Institutes

The 24th Installation of the Nelson Provincial Rose Croix Chapter No. 221 took place Tuesday, 19th

September, V. Ill. Bro. W. J. Girling, Grand Inspector General, S.D.N.L., presiding and Ill. Bro. E. H.

Thomson .officiating as D C. The presiding officer was assisted during the ceremony by the following: Ill.

Bros. C. A. Eckford, F. C. J. Cockburn, J. L. Ching, W. G. Rudd, P. Thomson R. A. Craighead. F. Mogridge

and E. L. Morley. The M.W.S. Elect was E. and P. Bro. H. Pierce, who was warmly congratulated upon his

well-deserved election.

Space will not permit further reports on regular meetings held throughout the territory and these will have to

be held over. This is our busiest period of installations, those to follow being St. Cuthbert's, 21st October;

Motueka, 25th October; Waimea, 4th November; Forest, 11th November, and Murchison, 9th December.